Category: All News

  • Crimson Desert Performance Remains Strong Despite Denuvo Addition

    Crimson Desert Performance Remains Strong Despite Denuvo Addition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crimson Desert is set to launch on March 19 and aims to be one of the largest open-world games ever created.
    2. Pearl Abyss has confirmed that the game will include Denuvo, a controversial DRM technology.
    3. The studio claims that Denuvo will not negatively impact the game’s performance, based on shared performance metrics.
    4. Previous concerns about Denuvo’s impact on frame rates (up to 30FPS drops) may not apply to Crimson Desert.
    5. Pre-orders for the disc version of Crimson Desert are available for PlayStation 5 on Amazon US.

    Promising to be one of the largest open-world games ever created, Crimson Desert is set to launch on March 19. The production studio, Pearl Abyss, recently confirmed that Denuvo will be included in the game. While this news has sparked a lot of criticism, the company’s official comments could help ease some concerns.

    No Negative Impact on Performance

    As noted by Paul Tassi on X, Pearl Abyss insists that including Denuvo has not harmed the game’s performance. All performance metrics shared so far have been obtained from versions of the game that use Denuvo.

    The benchmark videos and performance specifications that we provided were made with the same Denuvo implementation that will be in the final release. This includes the performance videos produced by Digital Foundry. It’s essential that the experiences of reviewers and benchmarkers align with what final consumers will encounter.

    – Pearl Abyss, as mentioned by Paul Tassi

    Denuvo’s Mixed Reputation

    Denuvo is well-known for being a DRM that is hard to crack, but it also has a bad reputation for hurting performance. To be specific, some tests have revealed that certain games can experience frame rate drops of up to 30FPS when the DRM is activated. Luckily, it seems that Crimson Desert might escape this particular issue.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Xbox 25th Anniversary: Retro Games Return in 2026 with New Features

    Xbox 25th Anniversary: Retro Games Return in 2026 with New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox is celebrating its 25th anniversary with plans to revive classic games in 2026, led by a dedicated team of developers focused on retro gaming.
    2. The game-preservation team aims to modernize older titles while keeping their original essence, enhancing them with features like backward compatibility, Auto HDR, and FPS Boost.
    3. Specific details about which classic games will be re-released or how they will be transformed remain undisclosed.
    4. Xbox emphasizes the importance of preserving games for new generations, allowing younger players to experience timeless classics in fresh ways.
    5. The announcement aligns with Xbox’s next-generation ambitions, highlighted by their Project Helix initiative.

    Xbox is marking its 25th anniversary with exciting hints that some classic and beloved games from its past will be returning in 2026. This revival is credited to a small yet passionate group of developers who are dedicated to keeping retro gaming alive. This announcement comes at a time when Xbox is also unveiling its next-generation ambitions with Project Helix.

    Behind the Scenes Efforts

    In a recent interview at the Game Developers Conference, Jason Ronald, Xbox’s vice president of next-gen initiatives, shared insights into their game-preservation efforts. He mentioned, “The game-preservation team has been working very hard in the background for a number of years. As part of our 25th anniversary later this year, they will release some iconic games from the past that will now be playable in entirely new ways. This shows our commitment to game preservation and to enabling these games to be played by the next generation of players in ways that are very familiar to them.”

    Lack of Specifics

    Sadly, Ronald didn’t provide details about which retro Xbox games would be getting re-releases or what those “entirely new ways” would entail. However, he did elaborate on how Xbox plans to modernize older titles while keeping their original essence intact. As seen with the backward compatibility features on the Xbox Series S|X, many games have benefitted from automatic HDR and improved frame rates. It’s anticipated that Xbox will maintain this trend with the forthcoming retro game releases as well.

    Innovative Features

    Ronald added, “Not only do we want to preserve those games, but we also want to take advantage of the latest technology to enable them to be played in entirely new ways. I think about features like Auto HDR as an example—being able to put HDR on top of a game that was created before HDR even existed. It feels entirely new. It feels very fresh.” He also mentioned FPS Boost, which enhances games that were designed for lower frame rates to run at much higher rates, creating a remaster-like experience for players.

    In closing, Ronald shared his personal connection to these games: “I have so many personal stories of games that maybe my son has played, and it’s like the game came out before he was ever born. Yes, it might be an old game for me. It’s a brand-new game for him. I fundamentally believe that great games are timeless.”

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Vivo X500 Series Leak Unveils New Chipset Strategy Details

    Vivo X500 Series Leak Unveils New Chipset Strategy Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo X300 series was launched in October 2025, featuring the X300 and X300 Pro with MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 chipset.
    2. Upcoming Vivo X500 series is expected to use new MediaTek chipsets: Dimensity 9600 and Dimensity 9600 Pro.
    3. The regular X500 may come with the Dimensity 9600, while the X500 Pro is likely to feature the Dimensity 9600 Pro.
    4. The Vivo X500 series is anticipated to have improved battery life, potentially up to 7,000mAh.
    5. No official announcement for the Vivo X500 series has been made, so the current information is speculative.

    The Vivo X300 series made its debut in October 2025, which includes the regular X300 and the X300 Pro. Both of these smartphones are powered by the Dimensity 9500, a top-tier chipset from MediaTek. Recently, a leak has revealed information about the processors that might be used in the upcoming Vivo X500 flagship series.

    New Chipsets on the Horizon

    As per the tipster Smart Pikachu on Weibo, MediaTek is set to unveil two new chipsets in its next flagship Dimensity series: the basic Dimensity 9600 and the Dimensity 9600 Pro. The insider suggests that the Vivo X500 series will be the first to incorporate these new chipsets. The regular X500 is likely to feature the Dimensity 9600, while the more advanced X500 Pro might come with the Dimensity 9600 Pro. Furthermore, it is expected that the Vivo X500 series will also see a significant improvement in battery life, possibly reaching a capacity of around 7,000mAh. Additionally, Oppo is rumored to be adopting the Dimensity 9600 chipset for its upcoming Find X10 series.

    Take Caution with Rumors

    Currently, there has been no official announcement regarding the Vivo X500 series, so this information should be taken with a grain of salt. In related news, Qualcomm is reportedly developing two tiers in its next flagship chipset lineup. The successor to the OnePlus 15, which is currently priced at $899 on Amazon, is rumored to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Pro.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Lightweight Open-Source 3D-Printed Drone Reaches 67 MPH

    Lightweight Open-Source 3D-Printed Drone Reaches 67 MPH

    Key Takeaways

    1. Max Imagination created a custom drone named ESP-Blast that can exceed speeds of 108 km/h (67 mph) using an affordable ESP32 microcontroller.
    2. The project was inspired by DIY drone teams Benjamin Bigg and the Bells, who have been competing to create the fastest RC quadcopters.
    3. Max collaborated with Benjamin to combine their expertise in building high-speed drones for this project.
    4. The drone’s components cost around $155, including propellers, a microcontroller, and a GPS unit, with the frame 3D-printed from durable PETG material.
    5. The ESP-Blast weighs 136 grams, has a flight time of about five minutes with a 450 mAh battery, and Max plans to enhance its speed in future versions.

    In a fresh video on YouTube, DIY engineer and creator Max Imagination unveiled his newest invention — a small, custom-made drone that can reach speeds exceeding 108 km/h (67 mph). This remarkable drone was assembled using the affordable yet robust ESP32 microcontroller.

    Inspiring Collaborations

    Max states that he drew motivation for this project from two DIY drone teams: Benjamin Bigg on one end, and the Bells — Luke and Maximo Bell — on the other. Over the past few months, these teams have consistently outdone each other in achieving the fastest RC quadcopters, with the latest drone surpassing previous records.

    Collaboration and Expertise

    For this endeavor, Max — who is famous for his impressive electronic projects and for sharing tutorials and 3D models — teamed up with Benjamin to leverage his knowledge in high-speed drones.

    Building the ESP-Blast

    Max invested around $155 on the necessary parts, which included propellers, a microcontroller, ESCs, a barometer, a GPS unit, and more. The frame of the drone was 3D-printed using an Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus 3D Printer (currently priced at $349.99 on Amazon) and made with durable PETG material.

    After going through assembly, tests, crashes, and repairs, the compact drone — affectionately named ESP-Blast — reached speeds well above 100 km/h. It features a 450 mAh battery that enables it to fly for about five minutes and weighs only 136 grams. Max has plans for future versions to further enhance the drone’s speed.

    Tags: , ,
  • Co-op Zombie Shooter Launches on Steam with Mostly Positive Reviews

    Co-op Zombie Shooter Launches on Steam with Mostly Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Delay for Development: John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando was initially set for a 2024 release but was pushed back for additional development time.

    2. Positive Reception on Steam: The game launched with a Mostly Positive rating on Steam, with about 76% of over 1,500 user reviews being favorable.

    3. Impressive Player Engagement: Toxic Commando achieved 14,288 concurrent players on Steam within the first 24 hours, outpacing the peak count of World War Z.

    4. Cooperative Gameplay Focus: The game emphasizes four-player cooperative gameplay, allowing players to revive teammates, share ammo, and work together against hordes of infected enemies.

    5. Advanced Combat Mechanics: Utilizing Saber’s Swarm Engine, the game can display large groups of zombies on screen, and offers a wide array of weapons, grenades, and semi-open maps with vehicles.

    John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando was first revealed in June 2023 and was initially slated for a 2024 release. However, the developers decided to push the launch back to give more time for development. After much anticipation, the game finally became available on all platforms yesterday, and the initial responses from players seem quite positive.

    Positive Reception on Steam

    Currently, Toxic Commando has a Mostly Positive rating on Steam, which is a great start for a new title. As of now, it has over 1,500 user reviews, with about 76% being favorable. Many players are commending the missions, the combat mechanics, and the extensive array of weapons offered in the game. Some users are even asserting that it surpasses other zombie shooters like Back 4 Blood, Killing Floor 3, and the Zombies mode in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7.

    Strong Player Engagement

    The early player numbers are impressive as well. Data from SteamDB indicates that the game had 14,288 concurrent players on Steam in its first 24 hours, nearly double the peak player count of World War Z on Steam.

    Gameplay and Features

    Toxic Commando emphasizes four-player cooperative gameplay. Gamers can join forces with friends or connect with others online to battle massive hordes of infected foes. Cooperation is crucial for survival; players can revive fallen teammates, share ammo, and shield one another while navigating through missions where enemies attack from various angles.

    The combat revolves around large groups of zombies. Utilizing Saber’s Swarm Engine, the game can display hundreds or even thousands of infected enemies on screen simultaneously, similar to the technology seen in World War Z and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.

    Additionally, players are provided with a broad selection of weapons, grenades, and unique abilities. The game also features semi-open maps with vehicles scattered throughout. Some of these vehicles come equipped with heavy weaponry or special tools, while others simply facilitate faster movement through zombie-infested areas.

    Tags: , ,
  • Insider Reveals Project Helix Console May Block Steam, Support Xbox Exclusives

    Insider Reveals Project Helix Console May Block Steam, Support Xbox Exclusives

    Key Takeaways

    1. Project Helix is debated as either a Windows PC-like device or a traditional console, with developers leaning towards it being a console after GDC 2026.

    2. Microsoft’s Game Development Kit (GDK) will likely prioritize compatibility with Project Helix over Windows, allowing for potential Xbox exclusive titles.

    3. Developers are more optimistic about Project Helix following recent discussions, with expectations for a familiar user interface similar to the Series X|S.

    4. There’s uncertainty regarding third-party marketplace support, as Microsoft has not confirmed the involvement of Steam or other platforms for Project Helix.

    5. Microsoft may create a unique storefront for Project Helix to attract competitors, potentially offering better revenue splits than Steam to reduce its visibility.

    Gamers are still having arguments about how to classify Project Helix. Some experts think it will be like a Windows PC. However, after GDC 2026, the leaker known as Moore’s Law Is Dead talked to developers who see it more as a regular console. There is a chance for Xbox exclusive titles, and Microsoft might exclude platforms such as Steam.

    GDK and Compatibility

    As Microsoft’s Game Development Kit (GDK) continues to grow, insiders believe it will focus on the new Xbox console. Developers would first make sure their games work with the AMD Magnus-powered Helix before they consider compatibility with Windows. Most games would probably support both formats after some extra work. With further effort, they could optimize for handheld devices and cloud streaming services.

    The GDK may allow Xbox exclusive games to be restricted to this new hardware. In his recent video, Moore’s Law Is Dead also mentioned how developers were once nervous about this strategy. However, following GDC, they seemed “more excited today than they did a week ago.”

    The Nature of Project Helix

    From these talks, the YouTuber concluded that Project Helix is “still going to kind of be a console.” Some gamers thought that like the ROG Xbox Ally, players would have the option to boot into Windows and access a full-screen Xbox app. In reality, the new Xbox console might feature a user interface that feels more familiar to those who own Series X|S.

    Moore’s Law Is Dead also provided information regarding third-party marketplace support. It has been expected that there will be a version of Windows, along with Steam and the Epic Games Store. However, he notes that Microsoft hasn’t confirmed whether Valve will play a part in Helix.

    Potential Storefront Competition

    One option could be that a special storefront for Project Helix would selectively bring in competitors. Since Valve usually takes a 30% share of revenue, a better profit split might attract other companies. Even if Steam is available in a Windows PC setup, Microsoft could try to lessen its visibility.

    As other analysts have suggested, the Steam Machine might be the biggest competitor for the upcoming Xbox console. Aware of this, Microsoft is championing a GDK that enables games to reach a wider audience than Valve.

    Moore’s Law Is Dead YouTube

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Affordable New Casio Digital Watches Available in the US

    Affordable New Casio Digital Watches Available in the US

    Key Takeaways

    1. Casio launched two new W221H watches in the US, previously available in Japan since February 2026.
    2. The watches are priced at $45.95 each and can be purchased from Casio’s online shop in the US.
    3. The W221H-1AV has a black design, while the W221H-8AV features a cream case and strap with a dark gray dial.
    4. Key features include world time for 48 cities, stopwatch, countdown timer, multi-function alarms, and a 10-year battery life.
    5. There is no confirmation on the release of these models in European countries like the UK and Germany.

    Casio has introduced two fresh W221H watches in the United States. These digital timepieces were first launched in Japan back in February 2026, where they are referred to as the W-221H-1AJF and the W-221H-8AJF.

    Availability and Pricing

    You can now purchase the Casio W221H watches from the brand’s online shop in the US. Both models, the W221H-1AV and the W221H-8AV, are priced at $45.95 each. The W221H-1AV showcases a black dial, a black resin case, and a matching strap, all complemented by a dark gray metallic resin bezel. The W221H-8AV sports a similar look but features a cream resin case and strap, paired with a dark gray dial. Each variant comes with a square-shaped LCD that has a standard light background.

    Features and Specifications

    The W221 model from Casio includes world time functionality, allowing users to select from 48 different cities. It also comes equipped with useful features such as an accurate stopwatch, countdown timer, hourly time signals, and three multi-function alarms. Additionally, the display can be lit up with an amber LED backlight when needed. Casio claims that these watches are designed to last approximately 10 years on a CR2032 battery and are rated for water resistance up to 50 meters.

    European Release Uncertainty

    It remains unclear if or when the Casio W221H-1AV and W221H-8AV will be made available in European nations like the UK and Germany.

    Casio’

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • New Study Reveals Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Contains Alcohol

    New Study Reveals Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Contains Alcohol

    Key Takeaways

    1. Comet 3I/ATLAS is an interstellar comet that originated from a different planetary system, unlike most comets in our solar system.
    2. When comets approach the Sun, their icy exterior warms up, creating a coma as gases escape into space.
    3. Advanced technology, such as the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), was used to observe and identify molecular compositions in comets.
    4. Comet 3I/ATLAS has a unique chemical makeup, with significantly higher levels of methanol compared to hydrogen cyanide, indicating it formed under different conditions.
    5. The study of gas emissions from the comet, including extended outgassing, helps scientists understand the chemistry of other solar systems compared to our own.

    Most of the comets we examine originated in the early solar system. In contrast, Comet 3I/ATLAS is unique because it was created in a different planetary system and drifted into ours, classifying it as an interstellar comet. When a comet approaches the Sun, the heat warms its icy exterior, turning the ice into gas that escapes into space. This process creates a luminous cloud around the comet, known as a coma.

    Observations Made with Advanced Technology

    The Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), which includes many radio telescopes, was used by astronomers to conduct these observations. They detected spectral fingerprints of certain molecules at specific wavelengths and were able to identify them. The molecules that were measured include methanol and hydrogen cyanide, both of which are commonly found in comets. Typically, the ratio of methanol to hydrogen cyanide in other comets is considerably lower. However, Comet 3I/ATLAS shows an astonishing 70–120 times more methanol than hydrogen cyanide, making it one of the richest in methanol ever studied. This strange chemical makeup indicates that this comet must have formed under distinct physical conditions.

    Gases Escaping the Comet

    ALMA also examined how various gases escape from the comet. Hydrogen cyanide is emitted directly from the comet’s nucleus. In contrast, methanol is released from both the nucleus and tiny icy particles in the coma, which behave like mini-comets. Solid methanol ice sublimates into gas, which leads to additional molecule release in a process referred to as extended outgassing. This finding has enabled scientists to delve deeper into the chemistry of other solar systems and make comparisons to our own.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Satellite Launches Impact Earth’s Atmosphere and Ozone Layer

    Satellite Launches Impact Earth’s Atmosphere and Ozone Layer

    Key Takeaways

    1. The number of satellite launches has surged, with thousands of satellites now in orbit for various global services.
    2. Satellites typically operate for 5 to 15 years before being deorbited through a process called atmospheric reentry.
    3. The burning of satellites during reentry releases harmful pollutants, including metal particles and black carbon soot, contributing to atmospheric pollution.
    4. The emitted chemicals can damage the ozone layer and affect the Earth’s atmosphere, raising concerns about environmental impact.
    5. Scientists advocate for recycling materials from deorbited satellites and initiatives like the European Space Agency’s ClearSpace-1 mission aim to address space debris sustainably.

    The number of satellites sent into space has increased significantly in the last few years. Mega-constellations, which are extensive networks of satellites working collectively, are being launched to offer worldwide internet, communication, navigation, and Earth observation services.

    Surge in Satellite Launches

    Every year, there are hundreds of launches, with thousands of satellites now positioned in orbit. These satellites typically function for 5 to 15 years before they are deorbited. The deorbiting process guides them back into the Earth’s atmosphere, where they heat up to extreme temperatures, burn, and eventually disintegrate. This whole process is known as atmospheric reentry.

    Environmental Concerns

    Recent studies have revealed that the material that burns during this process leads to atmospheric pollution. Metal particles and various chemical compounds are emitted into the middle atmosphere. Satellites are made with significant amounts of aluminum, which creates alumina particles when it burns and can linger in the middle atmosphere for extended periods. Rocket engines that burn hydrocarbon fuels also generate black carbon soot. Additionally, unusual metals like copper and lithium have been found.

    Moving Towards Sustainability

    The chemicals released can have an impact on different sections of the Earth’s atmosphere, causing damage to the ozone layer, heating the stratosphere, and altering the polar atmosphere. There’s also a risk of debris crashing down to Earth.

    To combat this issue, scientists have suggested that instead of incinerating satellites, the materials from deorbited satellites should be recycled and utilized again to minimize waste. The European Space Agency is working on the ClearSpace-1 mission, which aims to capture space debris and safely remove it. The materials recovered from this process can also be valuable, potentially creating new streams of income. Humanity now faces a choice: continue with current methods or develop a sustainable circular space environment.

    Phys.org

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Invincible vs Skips PC Open Beta and Upcoming Fighting Games

    Invincible vs Skips PC Open Beta and Upcoming Fighting Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date and Open Beta: Invincible VS is set to release on April 30th, with an open beta from April 9th to April 11th, but only for consoles.

    2. PC Beta Exclusion: The decision to exclude PC from the open beta has disappointed many gamers, with no clear explanation provided.

    3. Piracy Concerns: Open betas on PC are often cracked and played offline, leading to piracy and unfair advantages in competitive play.

    4. Impact on Competitive Scene: Many fighting game tournaments use consoles, so the absence of a PC beta may not significantly affect the competitive community in the short term.

    5. Future Implications for PC Support: The decision raises concerns that more fighting games may avoid PC releases due to piracy and data-mining issues, despite the advantages that the platform offers.

    Invincible VS, a fighting game linked to Amazon’s Invincible series on Prime Video, is scheduled to be released across multiple platforms on April 30th. However, the open beta will take place from April 9th to April 11th, but it will only be available on consoles. This is disappointing news for gamers on PC, and there has been no clear reason provided for this decision. Those familiar with the fighting game scene understand the reasons behind it.

    The Problem with Open Betas on PC

    To put it simply, when open betas and test versions are made available on PC, they often get cracked and played offline long before the official game launch. This not only leads to piracy of the final product but also disrupts the competitive environment. Players can gain an unfair advantage by accessing a pre-release version. For instance, during the Tekken 8 Closed Network Test, several competitive players used cracked versions, as did some in Street Fighter 6. These are two of the biggest fighting games of this generation, both with competitive scenes worth millions, which suffer from integrity issues because of this.

    Impact on the PC Community

    Fortunately, legitimate PC gamers may not face significant issues from a slight two-week postponement. Since consoles are typically the standard for tournaments in the fighting game community, many players may still have access to consoles to join the Open Beta, maybe even during tournament brackets if Offline VS is allowed. Some beta versions are primarily for testing network performance—this was the case for Tekken 8’s Closed Network Test, although cracks eventually allowed offline gameplay.

    Concerns for the Future

    Looking ahead, though, the decision raises some alarm for PC gamers who enjoy fighting games. Although PC is often seen as the superior platform for these games—thanks to features like high refresh rates, G-Sync, and reduced input lag—developers have a history of struggling with PC support. Concerns about data-miners may lead more fighting games to bypass PC altogether until the official release. However, enhancing cross-play functionality has shown to increase sales and engagement across different platforms, which might encourage some developers to take a different route.

    Another notable licensed fighting game coming this year, Avatar Legends, has been quite accommodating to PC players, even having its Closed Global Alpha exclusively on Steam. Thus, it seems that not all developers are overly concerned about potential issues on PC, but those who are genuinely worried about content leaks or cheating might resort to stricter measures.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,