Category: All News

April 2, 2025
Monster-Slaying Sisters: Dark Hack-and-Slash on Steam Now $4
Key Takeaways
1. Dual Protagonists: Players control two sisters, Briar and Lute, with unique abilities linked by their bond as a Chimera, impacting gameplay and story.
2. Innovative Combat System: The game features a fast-paced combat system combining physical and magical attacks, requiring strategic decisions to defeat different types of enemies.
3. Mixed Reception: While praised for its combat and character dynamics, Soulstice received criticism for repetitive environments and camera issues, earning a 7 out of 10 from 4p.de.
4. Player Feedback: On Steam, 78% of nearly 1,400 reviews were positive, despite mixed scores on Metacritic (Metascore 68, User Score 6.1) largely due to camera frustrations.
5. Discounted Pricing: Soulstice is currently available on Steam for approximately $4 (90% off) until April 7, with a Deluxe Edition also on sale at a significant discount.
Soulstice follows the journey of two main characters instead of focusing on just one. Players take on the roles of Briar and Lute, who are sisters connected as a Chimera. Briar gains extraordinary strength from their bond, but Lute loses her physical body in the process. To protect the sacred kingdom of Keida, the sisters battle terrifying creatures while navigating a dark fantasy realm filled with decaying cities, haunting cathedrals, and ancient ruins.
Fast-Paced Combat System
At the core of Soulstice is an action-packed combat system that relies on strategic choices. Players must combine Briar’s melee abilities with the magical talents of her ghostly sister Lute to tackle various types of enemies. The game makes a clear separation between the ethereal and physical worlds: Wraiths, for example, can only be hurt when they are pulled into the material realm using a special aura, while Possessed enemies can exist in both realms, making them particularly hazardous if not handled quickly. This combat system has received acclaim from many gamers, often drawing comparisons to Devil May Cry for its stylish and satisfying gameplay mechanics.
Development and Reception
Soulstice was created by Reply Game Studios in collaboration with publisher Maximum Entertainment, launching in September 2022. Upon its release, the German online magazine 4p.de reviewed the hack-and-slash game, commending its intricate combat system and the engaging sister duo. However, the game faced some backlash due to its somewhat repetitive environments and clunky camera angles, which can hinder control during fast-paced battles. Despite these shortcomings, the game’s strong points were evident, and it earned a respectable score of 7 out of 10 from 4p.de.
Player Feedback and Pricing
Since launching, nearly 1,400 players have shared their thoughts on Soulstice on Steam, with 78% offering positive feedback. The game’s reception on Metacritic is a bit more cautious, holding a Metascore of 68 and a User Score of 6.1. Much of the mixed reviews focus on the camera system, which many find frustrating, especially in heated battles. In response, the developers made updates to the camera controls in December 2022, but the problem still gets mentioned frequently.
Soulstice is typically priced around $40 on Steam, but until April 7, it has a remarkable 90% discount, lowering the price to roughly $4. The Deluxe Edition, which comes with a digital artbook, soundtrack, and extra items, is also significantly reduced—now 82% off for just below $9. According to SteamDB, this is the lowest price offered since the Steam Spring Sale. Before that, smaller discounts were more common.
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Tags: Devil May Cry, Reply Game Studios, Soulstice
April 2, 2025
Benefits and Drawbacks of MicroSD Express for Nintendo Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features a 120Hz 1080p display and a dock with 4K HDR capability and an active fan.
2. It supports microSD Express technology, allowing for data rates up to 985 MB/s, improving loading times significantly.
3. Previous Nintendo Switch memory cards are not compatible with the Switch 2, necessitating new purchases.
4. The cost of new microSD Express memory cards is higher, with a 512GB card priced at least $99.
5. Increased game storage requirements may lead players to frequently delete games, although Nintendo’s cartridges allow play without upfront installation.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been officially revealed today. Notable upgrades include a 120Hz 1080p display, a dock with an active fan and 4K HDR capability, and enhanced multiplayer options. Among these improvements, the memory card reader stands out as a key feature. Unlike the original Nintendo Switch, which only supported UHS-I SD cards with speeds up to 104 MB/s, the Switch 2 now embraces microSD Express technology.
Speed Improvements
The main benefit of this upgrade is the speed increase. The slowest SD Express standard uses PCIe 3.0 x1, allowing for data rates of up to 985 MB/s. This can drastically reduce loading times for games. However, there are two major drawbacks for those looking to buy the Nintendo Switch 2. Firstly, memory cards from the previous Nintendo Switch cannot be transferred to the new device. Secondly, expanding storage for the new console is going to be more expensive.
Pricing Details
To illustrate, a 512 GB UHS-I memory card that works with the original Switch is available for $39 on Amazon. Conversely, the same brand sells a 256GB microSD Express card for $59, while a 512GB version will set you back at least $99.
Game Storage Concerns
Given that it’s likely Nintendo Switch 2 games will require more storage owing to the console’s superior resolution and graphics, the high prices for memory cards could compel players to frequently delete games to make room for new ones. However, it’s worth noting that Nintendo’s game cartridges allow users to purchase and play games without needing to install them upfront, unlike the PlayStation 5 and other competitors.
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Tags: gaming storage, microSD Express, Nintendo Switch 2
April 2, 2025
Sony Xperia 1 VII First Render Images and Spring 2025 Launch Rumors
Key Takeaways
1. The new Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones details were revealed, alongside updates on the Xperia 1 VII set to launch in 2025.
2. The Xperia 1 VII has minor size adjustments compared to its predecessor, being slightly shorter, wider, and thicker.
3. Key design features include a protruding camera housing, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a dedicated camera shutter button, and a power button with a fingerprint scanner.
4. The Xperia 1 VII will maintain its wide bezels for front-facing stereo speakers and is expected to cost $1,399 in the U.S.
5. Upcoming upgrades may include a 70-200 mm periscope telephoto camera and a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, though additional camera sensor details remain unclear.
Earlier today, new information about Sony’s highly awaited WH-1000XM6 headphones surfaced online. In collaboration with XpertPick, OnLeaks has provided detailed images related to another eagerly awaited product from Sony set to launch in 2025.
Subtle Changes in the New Model
At a first look, there seems to be very little difference between the Xperia 1 VI (currently priced at $994.99 on Amazon) and its successor, the Xperia 1 VII. Reports indicate that the new model is 0.1 mm shorter and approximately 0.5 mm wider than the Xperia 1 VI. Furthermore, the Xperia 1 VII is expected to be 0.3 mm thicker than last year’s version, measuring at 8.5 mm, not counting the camera housing.
Design Features and Functionality
According to OnLeaks and XpertPick, the camera housing extends about 2.5 mm from the back panel of the device, a detail that recent leaks from third-party cases seem to confirm. Additionally, the phone will feature a 3.5 mm headphone jack positioned at the top, along with a dedicated camera shutter button and a power button that includes a capacitive fingerprint scanner. The Xperia 1 VII is also likely to keep Sony’s card tray design, which allows for easy access without needing any tools.
Upcoming Release and Upgrades
Moreover, the Xperia 1 VII continues with its wide top and bottom bezels, accommodating front-facing stereo speakers. Reports suggest that this year’s Xperia 1 will be released next month, starting at $1,399 in the United States. There are whispers about the inclusion of a 70-200 mm periscope telephoto camera along with the expected upgrade to a Snapdragon 8 Elite, but it is still unclear whether any additional camera sensors will be incorporated into these enhancements.
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Tags: sony, WH-1000XM6, Xperia 1 VII
April 2, 2025
DJI Mavic 4 Pro Unveiled with Innovative RC Pro 2 Controller
Key Takeaways
1. Jasper Ellens has gained an edge by revealing Mavic 4 Pro leaks ahead of competitors.
2. Igor Bogdanov shared images of the Mavic 4 Pro and its launch accessories.
3. The Mavic 4 Pro will be priced at around $2,250 in the US and €2,099 in Europe.
4. The Fly More Combo will include at least two Intelligent Flight batteries, each estimated at $180.
5. The new RC Pro 2 controller features a 7-inch display, a scroll wheel, and full-sized HDMI output.
In recent days, Jasper Ellens has successfully outpaced many of his competitors by disclosing new Mavic 4 Pro leaks before others have seemingly acquired the same info. Not wanting to fall behind, Igor Bogdanov has also shared several images that showcase not only the new drone but also its associated launch accessories.
Impressive Launch Details
In a post on X, Bogdanov suggests that the three images below show what to expect from each of the Mavic 4 Pro’s three launch SKUs. To recap, the Mavic 3 Pro (currently priced at $2,199 on Amazon) is said to have a successor that will cost at least $2,250 or €2,099 in Europe, and £1,879 in the UK. For these prices, it appears that DJI plans to include the Mavic 4 Pro with its current RC 2 controller.
Combo Options and Pricing
Meanwhile, upgrading to the Fly More Combo should come with at least two Intelligent Flight batteries. If previous rumors are correct, then each battery is expected to sell for around $180 when bought separately. Lastly, the so-called Creator Combo will include DJI’s new RC Pro 2 remote controller.
Exciting Features of the RC Pro 2
As per Jasper Ellens, the RC Pro 2 comes equipped with a 7-inch display and a unique scroll wheen located beneath its left joystick. This new controller also features a full-sized HDMI output, which is a departure from previous DJI remote controllers. To sum it up, the Mavic 4 Pro is expected to be launched later this month at the following prices:
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Tags: DJI, Mavic 4 Pro, RC Pro 2
April 2, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Camera Launches as $50 Accessory for Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is a new wired accessory designed for the Switch 2, sold separately.
2. It features a USB-C connector for easy connection to the Switch 2 and comes with a stand.
3. The camera can be used as a webcam for the GameChat feature, allowing players to overlay their video during gameplay.
4. It supports up to 4 players for local co-op games and is essential for certain minigames like Bowser Live.
5. The Switch 2 Camera will be available on June 5th for $49.99, with no current support for third-party cameras.
Other than the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, Nintendo also revealed a brand new accessory, the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, designed for the Switch 2. This accessory, which will be sold separately, serves not just as a communication tool but is also necessary for playing certain minigames.
Camera Details
The Switch 2 Camera is a wired device that comes on a stand. It is available in black and includes a matching cable with a USB-C connector that fits into the USB-C port of the Switch 2. When using the GameChat feature, the camera can function as a webcam. In this mode, players can appear as an overlay on their game or simply show the camera feed. Additionally, it can display each player’s face during multiplayer gaming sessions.
Multiplayer Functionality
Nintendo mentioned that the Switch 2 Camera can support up to 4 players in local co-op games like Mario Party. It also has functionality for engaging in minigames, such as Bowser Live, which enhances the gaming experience.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Camera is set to hit the market on June 5th, coinciding with the release of the Switch 2, and it will retail for $49.99. At the time of this writing, there’s no information regarding any support for third-party cameras with the Switch 2.
Tags: Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, video game accessory
April 2, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Game-Key Cards Merge Digital and Physical Media
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has launched with a focus on third-party titles and remakes of Switch exclusives.
2. Nintendo has introduced Game-Key Cards, which resemble traditional cartridges but require internet downloading to access games.
3. Game-Key Cards do not contain game data, functioning instead as a signal for console downloads.
4. Nintendo has provided markings to differentiate Game-Key Cards from standard cartridges, but confusion may still arise for users.
5. The future release of games as Game-Key Cards raises concerns about the preservation of physical media and the need for an internet connection.
The Nintendo Switch 2 is here at last, after a long wait filled with wild rumors, speculations, and some wishful thinking. The games available at launch lean heavily towards third-party titles, with numerous Switch exclusives being remade for this new device. Additionally, Nintendo has introduced a (somewhat) fresh type of game that could annoy fans of physical media.
Understanding Game-Key Cards
On Nintendo’s official site, a support article outlines what Game-Key Cards are. They look like traditional game cartridges, but they don’t actually contain any game data. Instead, they function like a signal to your console, prompting it to download the game from the internet. Once downloaded, you can play the game without being online.
This concept is a bit of an upgraded (or downgraded) take on physical game releases that included a download code in the packaging. Fortunately, Nintendo has made it clear how to tell the difference between standard games and Game-Key Cards by adding clear markings on the underside. However, this could lead to confusion, as not everyone reads the small print and may wonder why their brand-new cartridge won’t work without an internet link.
Future of Game-Key Cards
Currently, it’s unclear how many games for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be released as Game-Key Cards. Ideally, the number should be none, since this contradicts the fundamental purpose of physical media, which is to play games without needing an internet connection. Having a game locked behind DRM goes against the preservation of gaming, a concern that Nintendo seems to have overlooked for many years, if not longer.
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Tags: Game-Key Cards, Nintendo Switch 2, physical media
April 2, 2025
Another Ryzen 9 9950X3D Failure on ASRock X870 Motherboard
Key Takeaways
1. A Reddit user reported their AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D CPU was damaged after a few weeks of use with an ASRock motherboard.
2. The user observed abnormal signs of damage, including a bulge and discoloration on the CPU and motherboard, despite not overclocking or undervolting.
3. ASRock has received multiple reports of CPU damage linked to their motherboards and is investigating the issues.
4. The company released a BIOS update (version 3.20) aimed at resolving boot failure problems for Ryzen 9000 series CPUs.
5. Despite ongoing concerns, some users have had success with MSI motherboards, though similar issues have been reported with them as well.
The troubling trend of failed Ryzen 9000 series CPUs keeps on going as another Ryzen 9 9950X3D has met a unfortunate fate. A user from Reddit shared a detailed account on the platform, explaining how their recently bought CPU ended up dead. Once again, an ASRock motherboard was involved with the 9950X3D. This incident came just days after the company released an update concerning damaged CPUs and boot failure problems, as well as how they were handled and resolved.
A Redditor’s Tale
On March 31, user ‘I_fliu’ posted on the pcmasterrace subreddit, mentioning that their AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D CPU, which they bought around three weeks ago from Micro Center, was “fried.” They paired it with the ASRock X870 RS Pro Wifi motherboard. The BIOS had been updated to the latest version, and the CPU was cooled using an AIO. The user observed that the idle temperatures for the CPU hovered between 50 and 58 degrees Celsius, occasionally dipping to 45 degrees. At first, everything seemed fine during the initial boot and gaming, but after several hours of playing on a 4K OLED monitor, the user returned to find the system powered off, with only an M.2 light illuminated.
Investigation Reveals Issues
Upon inspecting the CPU, the user noticed a small bulge in one of the contact points along with some discoloration in another area. The ASRock motherboard did not have any bent pins, but there was some discoloration present. They confirmed that the CPU was neither overclocked nor undervolted, and PMO was turned off.
In response to this post, another user recounted a similar situation involving a Ryzen 7 9800X3D and an ASRock X870e RS Pro Wifi motherboard.
Ongoing Concerns with ASRock
There have been numerous reports of damaged CPUs associated with ASRock motherboards. The company has looked into some of these issues by acquiring several motherboards for detailed examination. They discovered that in instances where CPU damage was reported, everything was within specifications for the motherboard, and after cleaning some debris from the socket, the motherboard worked properly again. Regarding the no boot problems, ASRock indicated that the BIOS 3.20 update resolved these concerns for Ryzen 9000 series CPUs.
This isn’t the first case of a damaged 9950X3D CPU linked to an ASRock motherboard, and owners of Ryzen 9000 series CPUs with certain ASRock motherboards are growing cautious about their setups. However, some users mentioned that their MSI Tomahawk motherboards have been functioning well with Ryzen 9000 series CPUs, although there have been similar problems reported with those as well.
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Tags: ASRock X870 RS Pro Wifi, CPU damage, Ryzen 9 9950X3D
April 2, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Game Lineup Features Overpriced Titles
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo charges high prices for older games on the Switch, often much more than on rival platforms.
2. Upcoming titles for the Switch 2 include popular games like Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, and Hogwarts Legacy.
3. Game prices for the Switch 2 may start at €69.99 ($75) and go up to €89.99 ($98) for physical copies.
4. The original Switch, launched in 2017, faces competition from other handheld devices that offer better deals on games.
5. Owning a Switch 2 and its games could be expensive, especially considering Nintendo’s pricing history.
Nintendo has long been known for selling older games on its aging Switch console at prices that are often much higher than those on rival platforms. For instance, Nintendo still asks $59.99 for Skyrim, a game that came out 14 years ago and is sometimes available for as low as $3.99 during Steam sales. Other titles on the Nintendo eShop also command high prices, such as L.A. Noire at $49.99 and Wolfenstein II at $39.99. Even the recently launched, yet older, Red Dead Redemption carries a $10 extra cost when purchased from the eShop.
Upcoming Titles
With the conclusion of the Nintendo Direct event, we got a glimpse of some new games set to launch with or soon after the Switch 2’s release in June. The lineup includes popular titles like Elden Ring, Hitman World of Assassins, Hogwarts Legacy, Yakuza 0, Cyberpunk 2077, and the Final Fantasy VII remake.
Game Pricing Insights
The pricing for games on the Switch 2 appears to be quite uncertain. However, if we trust the prices from the Spanish eShop, we might be looking at a starting price of €69.99 ($75) that can go up to €89.99 ($98) for a physical copy. Even if older games are offered at some discount, shelling out that much for Cyberpunk, which often sees sales at $23.99, feels somewhat absurd. While a direct currency conversion might not accurately reflect a game’s true price, any tariffs under the current administration are unlikely to lead to lower prices.
The original Switch debuted in 2017, essentially as the only handheld capable of running a variety of high-quality games. Now, however, the market is flooded with handhelds from companies like MSI, Asus, and Valve, which allow gamers to buy titles from nearly every digital store.
Value Comparison
It must be said that many of the games previewed during the Switch 2 Direct event look impressive, and a mix of both new and classic titles will be available at launch. Still, with the console priced at $449, the Asus ROG Ally offers a better deal at just $50 more (currently on Amazon), plus you would save a lot on the games.
In the end, considering Nintendo’s track record with pricing and the likely costs of games, owning a Switch 2 and acquiring its games could turn out to be quite a pricey endeavor.
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Tags: Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, Nintendo Switch 2
April 2, 2025
Mario Kart World Revealed in Switch 2 Direct with Gameplay Teases
Key Takeaways
1. The new Mario Kart installment is titled Mario Kart World and features gameplay on and off traditional racing tracks.
2. New gameplay mechanics include characters changing outfits, executing multiple tricks, and grinding on rails, reminiscent of Sonic Racing games.
3. The game will feature 24 racers per race, with a mix of confirmed and unconfirmed characters, including Hammer Bro and Charging Chuck.
4. Two new game modes are introduced: an open-world driving mode for discovering optimized routes and a Knockout Mode that eliminates players who fall below a certain rank.
5. New vehicle types and design elements, such as a jet ski and wings attached to vehicles, are hinted at in the trailer, replacing traditional gliders.
The Nintendo Switch 2 Direct has just aired, revealing the title of the new installment in the Mario Kart series. The sequel is named Mario Kart World. This upcoming game will include gameplay that takes place both off the traditional racing tracks and on them, although many details remain unclear even after the presentation. Fortunately, there is another broadcast scheduled for two weeks after the Switch 2 Direct, specifically a Mario Kart World Direct, which aims to provide additional information beyond what was initially shared.
New Gameplay Features
In the trailer, some intriguing elements were showcased, like characters changing outfits and possibly executing multiple tricks in a row. Right from the start of the clips, a notable feature was introduced: several characters appeared to be grinding on rails and jumping onto walls for tricks. This level of dynamic play is something we haven’t quite seen before in Mario Kart. It seems the developers at Nintendo could be drawing inspiration from the Sonic Racing games, as the wall driving and multiple air tricks resemble mechanics found in those titles. While specifics on how everything functions are still unclear, viewers can check out the teaser image and full trailer linked below.
Character Roster and Game Modes
Mario Kart World will host 24 racers in each race, featuring a mix of both confirmed and yet-to-be-confirmed characters. The trailer displayed a wide array of characters, including some lesser-known ones like Hammer Bro and Charging Chuck. Additionally, two new modes are set to debut in Mario Kart World. One is an open-world driving mode for each track, allowing players to discover optimized routes for their races. The other is Knockout Mode, where players race through different tracks while trying to maintain a leading position. Checkpoints will indicate a player’s rank, and if they fall below the required ranking, they’ll be eliminated from the race.
Vehicles and More Surprises
Fans might spot several unconfirmed vehicle types in the trailer, such as a jet ski featured in the thumbnail and Rosalina on a snowmobile during the scenes. Moreover, there’s a new design element with wings attached to vehicles as they soar through the air, replacing the gliders that have been a staple since Mario Kart 7.
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Tags: Mario Kart World, Nintendo Switch 2, Sonic Racing
April 2, 2025
AirPods Max Lossless Audio Update Bug: Coming Soon on Apple Site
Key Takeaways
1. AirPods Max users expected lossless and ultra-low-latency audio with the latest firmware update, but a bug disrupted the process.
2. The iOS 18.4 update was released on March 31, allowing iPhone users to access new features, but AirPods Max users faced difficulties.
3. The update promised high-quality audio for music, movies, and games, as well as reduced latency for better performance.
4. The firmware update for USB-C AirPods Max is now listed as ‘coming soon’ on Apple’s support page.
5. There is currently no information on when the issue will be resolved or the cause of the failed update.
AirPods Max users were looking forward to enjoying lossless and ultra-low-latency audio with the latest firmware update, but it seems like things didn’t go as planned. A mysterious bug has popped up, disrupting the update process, and there’s currently no solution in sight. This feature was announced about a week ago and was intended to be included with the iOS 18.4 update. While iPhone models have successfully received the new features, the AirPods Max functionality is still listed as ‘coming soon.’
Update Release Date
The iOS 18.4 update was released on March 31. Users could easily update their phones to the latest version, however, AirPods Max users with USB-C faced difficulties in accessing the new features meant for their headphones. A software bug has hindered the update for these users, preventing them from enjoying lossless and ultra-low-latency audio, as noted by MacRumors.
Features Announced
Per the official announcement, those who own USB-C AirPods Max headphones were supposed to “enjoy the highest-quality audio across music, movies, and games, while music creators can experience significant enhancements to songwriting, beat making, production, and mixing.” The update also promised to reduce latency, making it comparable to the built-in speakers on Mac, iPad, and iPhone.
The feature update, designated with build number 7E99, has now been categorized as ‘coming soon’ on Apple’s support page. “When used with an iPhone, iPad, or Mac running iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS Sequoia 15.4 or later, AirPods Max with USB-C and firmware update 7E99 enable lossless audio and ultra-low latency audio for the ultimate listening experience and even greater performance for music production, content creation, and gaming. Coming soon,” the support page states.
Current Situation
At this moment, there’s no update on when the problem will be resolved or the reasons behind the failed update. Apple and MacRumors are currently silent on the matter.
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Tags: AirPods Max, iOS 18.4, lossless audio