Category: All News

May 9, 2025
Doom: Dark Ages PS5 and Xbox Discs Need Huge Downloads
Key Takeaways
1. Physical copies of Doom: The Dark Ages have minimal data storage, requiring substantial downloads for console players.
2. The Xbox version contains only 324 MB, while the PS5 version has just 85 MB on the disc.
3. Players need a good internet connection to download most of the game, which can be challenging for those with limited bandwidth.
4. The trend of physical copies requiring online downloads raises concerns about game preservation and the future of physical media.
5. Xbox users are more accustomed to needing an internet connection for installations compared to PS5 users, affecting gameplay experience.
Shooter enthusiasts might be facing a disappointing revelation regarding the release date of Doom: The Dark Ages. While physical copies are offered for both Xbox and PS5, the discs contain very little data. Players on consoles will need to download almost all of the game’s content before they can experience the much-anticipated title from Bethesda.
Disc Content Details
Those who got their hands on the game early shared that the Xbox version holds just 324 MB of files. In contrast, the PS5 version has even less, with only 85 MB of data stored. As a result, players have to deal with a significant download, which can be a hassle for those with limited internet bandwidth. For digital versions on PS5, Doom: The Dark Ages has a total file size of around 85 GB. Given that Ultra HD Blu-ray discs can hold up to 100 GB, the data should technically fit on the discs. However, Xbox Series X faces a setback, as its Blu-ray discs can only accommodate 50 GB.
Online Connectivity Concerns
Xbox users are generally more used to needing an internet connection to access new titles. Many Series X discs require an online connection for installation and activation. Conversely, this is not as common for PS5 games. These often need updates to the latest versions for unlocking multiplayer options. Nonetheless, single-player games like Doom: The Dark Ages may still operate without a constant online connection.
The Debate on Physical vs. Digital
Many frustrated gamers lament the trend of new releases that feel like digital downloads in disguise as physical copies. While players can still sell or trade these games since they aren’t linked to online accounts, advocates for game preservation express concerns about the long-term viability of servers.
PlayStation users tend to point fingers at Microsoft for the growing trend of installations that require internet access. Doom: The Dark Ages adds to a list of first-party Xbox games that have appeared on the competing PS5. Meanwhile, with the introduction of data-less Game-Key Cards by the Switch 2, the future of physical media seems uncertain.
Full reviews for Doom: The Dark Ages have been posted by Notebookcheck. You can also find a video showcasing laptop performance and gameplay impressions below:
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Tags: Doom: The Dark Ages, PS5, Xbox Series X
May 9, 2025
New Casio x Undefeated Watch Launches in US, European Release Confirmed
Key Takeaways
1. The Casio G-Shock x Undefeated DWE5600UD-1 watch is now available in the US for $230.
2. The watch features a green LCD display, durable black carbon and resin case, and Undefeated branding.
3. It includes three interchangeable resin straps: semi-transparent black, Storm Camo, and opaque Tiger Camo.
4. Key features include a stopwatch, countdown timer, hourly time signals, multifunctional alarm, and water resistance up to 20 ATM.
5. A European launch is planned, with prices set at £209 in the UK and €269 in France, but the release date is still uncertain.
The Casio G-Shock x Undefeated DWE5600UD-1 watch has just been released in the United States. This particular model was revealed earlier in May, showcasing a design that embodies the style of the Los Angeles-based clothing brand.
Availability and Pricing in the US
In the US, the Casio G-Shock DWE5600UD-1 watch is now available for purchase at undefeated.com and in all Undefeated Chapter Stores. It is priced at $230, matching the retail price of the previous G-Shock x J Balvin DWE5600JB-1A9 watch. The watch will be offered through the Casio online store and at the G-Shock Soho store starting May 16th.
European Launch Details
Casio has also announced that the Undefeated x G-Shock collaboration watch will be launched in Europe, where it is referred to as the DWE-5600UD-1. In the UK, the price will be £209, while in European countries like France, it is set at €269. The exact date for the release in this region remains uncertain, but interested buyers can sign up for email notifications regarding the launch.
Features of the G-Shock DWE5600UD-1
The G-Shock DWE5600UD-1 is a digital timepiece featuring a green LCD display and a durable black carbon and resin case. The Undefeated logo is prominently featured throughout the design, including on the vibrant red and white LED backlight. This model offers customization options with three interchangeable resin straps: semi-transparent black, Storm Camo, and an opaque Tiger Camo variant. Its features include a stopwatch accurate to 1/100th of a second, a countdown timer with a 24-hour range, hourly time signals, and a multifunctional alarm. Additionally, it is water-resistant up to 20 ATM, and the battery life is estimated to last for five years.
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Tags: digital watch, G-Shock DWE5600UD-1, Undefeated collaboration
May 9, 2025
Leaked Sony Xperia 1 VII Images Reveal Design and Specs
Key Takeaways
1. The Sony Xperia 1 VII will be officially announced on May 13 and will feature a design similar to its predecessor with a flat display and thicker bezels.
2. It will have a triple camera setup in partnership with Zeiss, including a significantly larger ultrawide-angle lens sensor.
3. The device will feature dual front-facing stereo speakers with a 10% improvement in sound quality and will support Hi-Res Audio.
4. It is expected to have a 5,000 mAh battery, promising up to two days of usage, with potentially improved charging capabilities.
5. The Xperia 1 VII will receive four OS updates and six years of security updates, an upgrade from the previous model’s three OS updates and four years of security updates.
The Sony Xperia 1 VII is set to be officially announced on May 13, but ahead of its launch, some marketing images from Japan have leaked, providing hints about its specifications. This new flagship device from Sony is anticipated to arrive in three color options, keeping a design similar to its predecessor that features a flat display, thicker bezels, and an audio jack.
Specifications and Features
The leaked images, obtained by Android Headlines, reveal various specifications for the upcoming Xperia 1 VII. The phone will continue with a triple camera setup in partnership with Zeiss, and notably, the ultrawide-angle lens will include a sensor that’s 2.1 times larger than what was found in the earlier version. To compare, the Xperia 1 VI (Buy on Amazon) has a 12 MP ultrawide camera with a 1/2.5-inch sensor. The return of the audio jack is also confirmed, and the device will support Hi-Res Audio in both wired and wireless formats, including LDAC and DSEE Ultimate.
Audio Experience Upgrade
When it comes to sound, the dual front-facing stereo speakers have been enhanced, offering a 10% improvement in mids compared to the previous model. Additionally, the Xperia 1 VII is said to be powered by a robust 5,000 mAh battery, promising a two-day lifespan. The Xperia 1 VI also features a 5,000 mAh battery with 30W wired and 15W wireless charging capabilities, so it’s reasonable to expect the Xperia 1 VII will match or exceed these specifications.
Design and Support
In terms of design, this new phone is likely to be available in black, green, and purple. The layout will keep a clean left side, while all buttons, including volume, power, and the camera button, are positioned on the right side, similar to the earlier model. Sony has confirmed that the Xperia 1 VII will be driven by its Alpha camera series and Walkman technology.
The leaked marketing visuals also indicate that this upcoming phone will receive four OS updates along with six years of security updates. To put it in perspective, the Xperia 1 VI is set to receive three OS updates and four years of security updates, making this change a significant improvement.
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Tags: audio features, smartphone specifications, Sony Xperia 1 VII
May 9, 2025
Slime Farming Game on Steam: 120K Positive Reviews Under $5
Key Takeaways
1. Unique Gameplay Mechanics: Players collect and breed vibrant slimes instead of traditional farm animals, utilizing their Plorts as currency.
2. Diverse Slime Characteristics: Each slime has unique traits and abilities, encouraging strategic management and exploration of the game world.
3. Mixed Reviews: While praised for visuals and gameplay, some reviews noted a small world size and repetitive tasks, impacting long-term engagement.
4. Positive Reception: The game scored 8/10 from GamezGeneration and has favorable ratings on Metacritic and Steam, with over 97% positive reviews.
5. Current Pricing: Slime Rancher is currently on sale for under $5, a 75% discount, with a free demo available for potential players.
Slime Rancher offers a unique twist on farming games by immersing players in a colorful, imaginative universe from a first-person perspective. You take on the role of Beatrix LeBeau, a young rancher eager to create her home on the remote planet called the Far, Far Range. Instead of caring for traditional farm animals like cows or pigs, you gather vibrant slimes, breed them, and collect their valuable Plorts, which serve as the game’s quirky currency.
Slime Variety and Gameplay
Each slime features distinct characteristics, preferences, and abilities—some can explode, while others can teleport or merge into more lucrative Largo Slimes. By managing your pens wisely, feeding them strategically, and utilizing helpful upgrades, you can optimize your ranch to increase Plort output. The expansive world invites players to explore hidden treasures, navigate puzzle-filled locations, and discover new slime species.
Mixed Reviews from GamezGeneration
The German gaming site GamezGeneration.de reviewed Slime Rancher, commending its delightful visuals, calming soundtrack, and consistent technical performance. The gameplay was also noted for its enjoyable blend of catching slimes, breeding, upgrading gear, managing the ranch, and exploring the open world. However, the review highlighted some shortcomings. The game’s world was viewed as relatively small, and the limited interactions with NPCs—restricted to email communication—detracted from the depth of the experience. Furthermore, the editors observed that many tasks began to feel repetitive over time, potentially diminishing long-term engagement.
Despite these issues, Slime Rancher received a respectable score of 8 out of 10 from GamezGeneration. On Metacritic, critics awarded it a Metascore of 81, while user reviews rated it at 8.1. The reception on Steam has been even more positive, with over 120,000 reviews, 97% of which are favorable.
Current Pricing and Deals
Initially launched in 2017, Slime Rancher typically retails for around $20. Currently, however, it is available at a 75% discount, reducing the price to under $5. This promotion lasts until May 19. If you are hesitant, there’s also a free demo available for you to try. It’s worth noting that such discounts are common; according to SteamDB, the game was last priced this low in early March during the Visual Novel Fest.
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Tags: Beatrix LeBeau, farming simulation, Slime Rancher
May 9, 2025
Nvidia GB10 Superchip Shows Promise in Early Benchmark Tests
Key Takeaways
1. Asus and Dell have launched devices using Nvidia’s GB10 Grace Blackwell ARM chipset, following Nvidia’s Project DIGITS AI supercomputer announcement.
2. The GB10 chipset has shown varying benchmark results on Geekbench, labeled as ARMv8 despite using ARMv9 cores.
3. Performance metrics for the GB10 are inconsistent; it competes with top ARM and x86 processors but should be viewed cautiously.
4. The GB10’s Cortex-X925 cores can reach clock speeds of 3.9 GHz, but details on Cortex-X725 performance are lacking.
5. Nvidia may introduce N1 and N1X alternatives for desktops and laptops at Computex 2025 later this month.
Almost two months have gone since Asus and Dell introduced the first devices that use Nvidia’s GB10 Grace Blackwell ARM chipset. Prior to this, Nvidia showcased the Project DIGITS AI supercomputer at CES 2025, which it claimed would launch this month at a price of about $2,999.
Benchmark Findings
The so-called ‘superchip’ that supports these three devices has recently shown up on Geekbench with four different benchmark results. It’s important to mention that there are some peculiarities in these results. For instance, Geekbench labels the GB10 as an ARMv8 chipset, even though its ARM Cortex-X725 and Cortex-X925 CPU cores utilize the newer ARMv9 instruction set.
Performance Insights
Moreover, performance metrics are quite inconsistent at this point. To put it simply, we shouldn’t focus too much on these numbers, even though single-core performance competes with top-tier ARM and x86 processors. For context, Apple’s latest M4 generation chipsets are the leaders in this area, especially the M4 Max found in devices like the MacBook Pro 16, currently priced at $3,517 on Amazon.
Geekbench notes that the GB10’s Cortex-X925 cores can clock in at 3.9 GHz. Sadly, there are no details regarding the performance of the Cortex-X725 cores. Even though the GB10 is designed for workstation use, there are hints that Nvidia might be heading to Computex 2025 later this month with N1 and N1X alternatives targeting desktops and laptops.
Geekbench via @9550pro, Hardware Luxx – Image credit.
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Tags: ASUS, Dell, Nvidia GB10
May 9, 2025
Stardew Valley Sequel News: Will the Farming Sim Return?
Key Takeaways
1. Stardew Valley was released in 2016 and has received regular updates from developer Eric Barone (ConcernedApe).
2. Fans are hopeful for a sequel, as Barone hinted at the possibility of Stardew Valley 2 during a podcast, but no concrete plans exist yet.
3. Barone originally intended to focus on his new game, Haunted Chocolatier, but ended up creating update 1.6 for Stardew Valley.
4. Future updates for Stardew Valley may come unexpectedly, as Barone has a history of revealing new content without prior notice.
5. Haunted Chocolatier is still in development and expected to release within the next five years, while a potential sequel remains uncertain and likely distant.
Stardew Valley made its debut in 2016, which means it’s almost been ten years since its release. Developer Eric Barone, who is more commonly known as ConcernedApe, has continually breathed life into the delightful pixelated farming simulation through regular updates. These updates have introduced features such as multiplayer modes, new areas, and unique events like the “Green Rain.” Despite this ongoing support, fans have become increasingly hungry for a sequel, and now, there’s finally a glimmer of hope. For the very first time, Barone has discussed the potential for Stardew Valley 2. In the May 5, 2025 episode of the TigerBelly podcast (starting at minute 43), he hinted that a sequel could possibly materialize, although nothing is finalized yet.
No Concrete Plans Yet
Even with the tease during the podcast, Barone emphasizes that there are no definitive plans for Stardew Valley 2. The sequel is not officially in the works, but for the first time, it seems like it might be a possibility. ConcernedApe is keeping his options open, as always. After the launch of the 1.5 update, he initially aimed to concentrate solely on Haunted Chocolatier – however, he ended up creating update 1.6, which delayed his new project.
Surprising Updates Ahead
Future updates for Stardew Valley could still come as a surprise, as Barone has a history of unveiling new content with little warning. Meanwhile, Haunted Chocolatier is still under development and is expected to be released within the next five years. Barone is also eager to ensure that he is not solely associated with Stardew Valley 2. Should he choose to chase a sequel, it’s probably still quite distant in the future.
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Tags: ConcernedApe, Haunted Chocolatier, Stardew Valley
May 9, 2025
Arizona Court Accepts AI Video Testimony from Deceased Victim
Key Takeaways
1. An Arizona court allowed an AI-generated video statement of a deceased victim, Christopher Pelkey, to be shown during a sentencing hearing for his killer, Gabriel Horcasitas.
2. The avatar was created by Pelkey’s sister, Stacey Wales, using image generation, voice cloning, and AI scripting tools, and it delivered a victim impact statement.
3. The video included a disclaimer about its AI origin and featured actual footage of Pelkey, addressing Horcasitas and expressing the family’s feelings about their loss.
4. Arizona law permits victim impact statements in various formats, and there were no objections to the inclusion of the AI video during the sentencing.
5. Judge Todd Lang imposed the maximum sentence of 10.5 years, acknowledging the emotional impact of the AI-generated statement on the case.
In a groundbreaking event for the U.S. legal system, an Arizona court has allowed an AI-created video statement of a deceased victim to be shown during a sentencing hearing. The video, which showcased a digital version of Christopher Pelkey, who lost his life in a 2021 road rage incident, was presented when Gabriel Horcasitas was being sentenced for his death.
Creation of the Avatar
The avatar was crafted by Pelkey’s sister, Stacey Wales, with assistance from her husband. They utilized a mix of image generation, voice cloning, and generative AI scripting tools. The resulting video displayed a digitally animated Pelkey delivering a victim impact statement directed at both the court and Horcasitas. This video was part of the family’s narrative during the sentencing phase.
Presentation and Reactions
The video began with a disclaimer indicating its AI origin and included actual footage of Pelkey from his life before returning to the avatar. In the video, the AI version addressed Horcasitas directly, conveying the family’s feelings about their loss and the impact of the past three and a half years on their lives.
Under Arizona law, victim impact statements can be shared in different formats, and there were no objections to the AI video being included. The family made it clear that they authored the content, which wasn’t meant to be interpreted as Pelkey’s own words.
Legal Insights
Jessica Gattuso, the attorney for the family, mentioned that Arizona’s victim rights laws allowed the family to choose how to present their statement. “I didn’t see any issues with the AI and there was no objection,” she remarked.
Judge Todd Lang, who oversaw the case, recognized the emotional weight of the video during the sentencing. He imposed the maximum sentence of 10.5 years, in line with the family’s wishes.
Stacey Wales explained that the video was made using Stable Diffusion with LoRA (Low-Rank Adaptation) for generating images, and a different AI model to mimic Pelkey’s voice. She described the project as a way to help the court grasp the profound effect her brother’s death had on their family.
Horcasitas was convicted in March 2025 and received his sentence this month. This case represents the first documented instance of a U.S. court accepting an AI-generated avatar to symbolize a deceased victim during sentencing.
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Tags: AI-generated video, Stable Diffusion, victim impact statement
May 9, 2025
Radeon RX 9060 XT Cards Appear Early on Amazon at High Prices
Key Takeaways
1. AMD will reveal the Radeon RX 9060 XT on May 21, but some partner cards have already been listed on Amazon with unexpected prices.
2. The RX 9060 XT 8GB model is priced at $450, and the 16GB version is $520, which is higher than its competitor, the RTX 5060 Ti.
3. The RX 9060 XT pricing is alarmingly close to the more powerful Radeon RX 9070, which has an MSRP of $549.
4. The RX 9060 XT features a 128-bit memory interface, PCIe 5.0 x8 bandwidth, and 2,048 Compute Units (CUs), which is a 42% decrease from the RX 9070.
5. The Amazon listings for the RX 9060 XT have been taken down, but descriptions and pre-order options were briefly available.
AMD is set to reveal the Radeon RX 9060 XT on May 21, but it appears that some partner cards have been prematurely listed on Amazon. These listings not only include certain specifications but also the price, which may not be what many were hoping for. This more affordable GPU is actually priced higher than its rival, the RTX 5060 Ti, and is alarmingly close to its more potent counterpart, the Radeon RX 9070.
Pricing Details
The Amazon listing, first noticed by Videocardz, features an XFX Swift AMD Radeon RX 9060XT OC Gaming Edition with 8GB and a RX 9060XT OC Triple Fan Gaming Edition boasting 16GB of VRAM. What’s unexpected is the price for the 8GB model, which stands at $450, while the 16GB version costs $520. Although these models are factory overclocked compared to AMD’s reference specs, the prices still seem a little steep.
Competitor Comparison
In comparison, the direct rival from the Green Team, the RTX 5060 Ti, retails for $379 for the 8GB version and $429 for the 16GB variant. Even if the actual market price for partner cards is slightly higher, it remains lower than the listed prices for the RX 9060 XT. Additionally, the Radeon RX 9070 has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $549, while the RX 9070 XT is at $599. This pricing places the XFX RX 9060 XT uncomfortably close to the RX 9070, which has double the specs. Many had anticipated that the RX 9060 XT would be priced between $329 and $379, but that clearly is not the scenario.
Specifications Overview
The RX 9060 XT is rumored to feature a 128-bit memory interface and PCIe 5.0 x8 bandwidth instead of the more common PCIe 5.0 x16. It is said to come equipped with 2,048 Compute Units (CUs), representing a 42% decrease from the existing Radeon RX 9070. Since there is only a 16GB version of the RX 9070, the fact that the 16GB variant of the 9060 XT is only $30 cheaper is not encouraging news for Team Red’s fans.
While the complete listings for both cards on Amazon have been taken down, the brief descriptions and pricing are still available (as of this writing), along with a pre-order option. According to the XFX website, the Swift series of Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT cards feature triple fan coolers and come in black and white color options.
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Tags: Radeon RX 9060 XT, RTX 5060 Ti, XFX
May 9, 2025
Uperfect to Launch $2,000 Foldable OLED Monitor in 2026
Key Takeaways
1. Uperfect is developing a foldable OLED display monitor called the Uperfect Omega, expected to release in 2026 or later.
2. The Omega will be available in two sizes: a 22-inch model (16 inches when folded) and a 17.3-inch model (12.5 inches when folded), both with a thin body of 7mm.
3. The 22-inch model features a resolution of 2800 x 1600, 120Hz refresh rate, 16:10 aspect ratio, and 500 nits brightness, while the 17.3-inch model has a resolution of 2560 x 1920 and a 4:3 aspect ratio.
4. Both monitors will include built-in speakers, a 178° viewing angle, a blue light filter, a magnetic stand, dual USB-C ports, a Mini HDMI port, and a headphone jack.
5. Pricing for the Omega is set at $1,999.99 for the 17.3-inch model and $2,499.99 for the 22-inch model, making it Uperfect’s most expensive monitor to date.
There are already smartphones and laptops that can fold, but if you’re looking for a foldable OLED display monitor, Uperfect is working on one that won’t be ready until 2026 or later. This brand is known for its portable monitors, and the upcoming product is called the Uperfect Omega.
Details of the Omega Monitor
The Uperfect Omega is a portable monitor featuring a flexible OLED touch display, and it’s still in development. It will come in two sizes: a 22-inch version that measures 16 inches when folded and a 17.3-inch version that folds down to 12.5 inches. Both sizes will have a thin body of just 7mm.
The larger 22-inch model will boast a resolution of 2800 x 1600, a refresh rate of 120Hz, and a 16:10 aspect ratio, with a brightness level reaching up to 500 nits. It will consume around 16 watts of power. The smaller 17.3-inch model will have a resolution of 2560 x 1920 and a 4:3 aspect ratio, using about 14 watts of energy.
Features to Expect
Regardless of size, these monitors will come with built-in speakers, a 178° viewing angle, a blue light filter, and a magnetic stand that allows for both portrait and landscape modes. They will also feature dual USB-C ports, a Mini HDMI port, and a headphone jack. Uperfect claims that the monitors are compatible with a wide range of devices like computers, smartphones, game consoles, tablets, and Blu-Ray players.
For pricing, Uperfect is setting the 17.3-inch model at $1,999.99, while the 22-inch version will be priced at $2,499.99. This makes the Omega the most costly monitor from Uperfect so far, especially compared to other products like the Delta Mega, a 23.8-inch dual-screen monitor that retails for $664.99 on Amazon.
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Tags: foldable monitor, portable OLED display, Uperfect Omega
May 9, 2025
Epic Games Store Mystery Game Giveaways Decoded by Fans
Key Takeaways
1. Epic Games Store is offering new giveaways valued at nearly $30 for two PC games and a $10 discount for mobile users.
2. Next week’s promotions include the return of the Mystery Game promotion with two titles from the ‘MEGA Sale vault.’
3. Speculation surrounds potential games for next week, including Neon Abyss and TripleSix.
4. Happy Game is also a popular guess for one of the upcoming free titles.
5. Epic Games teased the upcoming promotions on Twitter, sparking fan theories.
The Epic Games Store started a fresh round of giveaways yesterday for both PC and mobile users. This week, the giveaways are valued at nearly $30 for two games on PC. On the mobile side, there’s an additional discount of $10 available for users on Android and iOS.
Upcoming Promotions
At this moment, Epic has not disclosed which games will be on sale next week. Instead, they have opted to reintroduce their Mystery Game promotion. Currently, it’s confirmed that two titles from their ‘MEGA Sale vault’ will be made available next Thursday. Additionally, a mysterious teaser has been shared on Twitter, sparking speculation among fans.
Speculations and Theories
Some players are guessing that one of the games might be Neon Abyss (current price $53 on Amazon), especially since a sequel is set to debut as an Early Access title this summer. On the other hand, other users think the store might be unlocking TripleSix next week, a psychological horror game that was released earlier this year. Another popular guess for the second game is Happy Game, created by the same studio behind titles like Botanicula and Chuchel, which Epic Games has also recently given away for free. For more information, check out Epic Games’ teaser animation below.
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Tags: Epic Games Store, Mystery Game, Neon Abyss