Category: Gaming

  • Tenku Luna: New Japanese Handheld with Dual USB4 and 120Hz Display

    Tenku Luna: New Japanese Handheld with Dual USB4 and 120Hz Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The gaming handheld market is growing rapidly, with Anbernic leading the way through frequent new releases like the RG557.
    2. A new Japanese brand, Tenku, is entering the market with its model, the Tenku Luna, which is set to launch soon.
    3. The Tenku Luna features a 7-inch display with 1080p resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, similar to Asus gaming handhelds.
    4. It is equipped with the older Ryzen 7 7840U processor, despite AMD having newer models available.
    5. Unique features of the Tenku Luna include a 50 Wh battery and two USB4 ports, with pricing and availability to be announced on May 17.

    The gaming handheld market has seen a significant influx of devices in recent years. Anbernic has played a key role in this growth, thanks to its continuous stream of new releases, culminating with the RG557 (curr. $339.99 on Amazon) launched last month. Nonetheless, other brands are still attempting to break into this competitive arena.

    A New Japanese Brand Enters

    In this context, a fresh model, touted as the first from a Japanese manufacturer, is set to hit the market shortly. The Tenku Luna is scheduled for a full launch later this week; however, it seems to offer very little innovation. It appears that Tenku has taken inspiration from the Asus ROG Ally, rather than trying to forge its own path.

    Specifications and Features

    For instance, the Tenku Luna boasts a 7-inch display with 1080p resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, mirroring the specs of Asus’ gaming handhelds. Interestingly, Tenku has chosen to equip their device with the older Ryzen 7 7840U, which AMD has since replaced with the Ryzen 7 8840U, moving on to even newer models like the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.

    What Makes It Unique?

    However, the Tenku Luna isn’t just a clone of the ROG Ally. The device features a 50 Wh battery and two USB4 ports—one located on the top and another on the bottom of the device. At this moment, specific pricing and availability details are still not revealed; Tenku plans to disclose all this information on May 17 at 02:00 UTC.

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    Tenku Luna: New Japanese Handheld with Dual USB4 and 120Hz DisplayTenku Luna: New Japanese Handheld with Dual USB4 and 120Hz Display

     

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Ace: New Portable Gaming Handheld for Switch Emulation

    Ayaneo Pocket Ace: New Portable Gaming Handheld for Switch Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayaneo Pocket Ace is available for pre-order on Indiegogo for around $339, excluding import taxes and duties.
    2. Droix is offering the Pocket Ace through its websites in the UK and US, with shipping starting on July 11.
    3. The base model features slower flash storage but uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chip.
    4. All versions of the Pocket Ace have a 6,000 mAh battery and a 4.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels.
    5. Droix provides better customer support and warranty options compared to crowdfunding platforms.

    The Ayaneo Pocket Ace has recently been launched on the crowdfunding site Indiegogo, and it can be ordered for around $339. Those familiar with handheld gaming devices know that this price does not include import taxes and duties, which many companies try to navigate with varying levels of success.

    Alternative Purchasing Options

    For individuals who are hesitant or prefer not to use crowdfunding platforms, there are third-party retailers like Droix that provide better customer support and warranty choices. In this regard, Droix has begun selling the Pocket Ace through its websites in the UK and US, with shipments expected to start this summer. Currently, Droix aims to kick off shipping for the Pocket Ace on July 11, at the following price points:

    Specifications and Features

    The base model comes with slower flash storage, but it uses the same Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chip found in the bigger Pocket S (currently priced at $589.99 on Amazon) and has a 6,000 mAh battery like the other models. Additionally, all versions boast a 4.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels and a peak brightness of 550 nits. For more details, you can check out the product listings on Droix’s UK and US websites.

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  • PlayStation Portal Handheld Gets Praise as Strong Seller by Sony CEO

    PlayStation Portal Handheld Gets Praise as Strong Seller by Sony CEO

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation Portal is a specialized accessory for PS Remote Play, not a standalone console, but it’s reportedly selling well despite initial doubts.
    2. Sony’s gaming console sales, including the PS5, are declining, while the portable gaming market is growing, contributing to the Portal’s appeal.
    3. Approximately 980,000 PlayStation Portals are estimated to have been sold among PS5 owners by the end of 2024, showing higher-than-expected demand.
    4. The Portal could generate more revenue for Sony, especially as the PS6 release is not expected until 2027 or 2028.
    5. Future developments may include a PS6 handheld that runs PS5 games natively, enhancing Sony’s presence in the portable gaming market.

    When the PlayStation Portal first launched, it got some flak for being a specialized product focused on PS Remote Play. Instead of being a standalone console, it was introduced as an accessory that streamed games from the PS5. Despite the initial doubts, Sony’s President and CEO Hiroki Totoki recently hinted that it’s selling well. As the gaming company continues to enhance the Portal, it will stay a key focus for them.

    Difficult to Classify

    The PlayStation Portal remote player doesn’t actually run games from its own storage, making it hard to define. Unfortunately, Sony hasn’t shared exact revenue figures like they do for their regular consoles. They did announce that the PS5 has sold 77.8 million units, but it’s clear that sales growth has slowed. Data from Circana shows that console sales from Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft are on the decline. However, the portable gaming market is on the rise, which might be why the Portal is appealing to some.

    Rising Popularity

    Circana has also been keeping an eye on U.S. statistics that indicate the Portal’s increasing appeal. By the end of 2024, the company reported that four percent of PS5 owners have bought the device. With 24.54 million PS5s sold that same year, this suggests that around 980,000 Portals have likely been purchased by gamers. Although most PlayStation users don’t own the accessory, it has surpassed the expectations of analyst Mat Piscatella.

    The PlayStation Portal could bring in more revenue for Sony in the coming years. The PS6 might not hit the market until 2027 or 2028. Plus, the handheld is starting to make a name for itself in the cloud gaming space. Currently in beta, PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers can stream select games from the service’s library without needing a PS5. Still, the Portal remains a comfortable way to enjoy console gaming anywhere at home.

    Future Prospects

    Given current market trends, Sony might also focus on launching the speculated PS6 gaming handheld. This portable console is expected to run PS5 games natively, although with some performance trade-offs.

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  • Mortal Kombat 1 Definitive Edition for $70: All DLCs & Movie Skins

    Mortal Kombat 1 Definitive Edition for $70: All DLCs & Movie Skins

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition includes the base game, Khaos Reigns Expansion, Kombat Packs, pre-order bonuses, and various skins and unlocks.
    2. The game will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with prices set at $69.99 (PS5, Xbox, PC) and $59.99 (Nintendo Switch).
    3. PC players can purchase the game through the Epic Game Store and Steam; a physical version has not been confirmed.
    4. An upgrade option for existing players costs $59.99, leading to complaints about its high price and lack of future support for the original game.
    5. The release of the Definitive Edition marks the end of support for the original Mortal Kombat 1, which launched in September 2023.

    NetherRealm Studios has revealed the Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition. This updated edition of the well-known fighting game will be available for consoles and PC, making it a smart buy for anyone who hasn’t played it yet.

    What’s Included

    Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition comes with the base game, the Khaos Reigns Expansion Story Content, Kombat Pack 1 and Kombat Pack 2, the Shang Tsung pre-order bonus, six kameo fighters, five skins inspired by the Mortal Kombat 2 movie, the Tournament Liu Kang Skin, six Premier Skins, a 1250 Dragon Krystal Pack, and the Kameo Unlock Pack along with an instant unlock for Havik.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can find Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition on platforms like Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5 (listed on Amazon for $499), Nintendo Switch, and PC. The game is priced at $69.99 across all platforms, except for the Nintendo Switch where it’s priced at $59.99 on the eShop. For PC players, the game will be available on both the Epic Game Store and Steam. However, NetherRealm Studios hasn’t confirmed if there will be a physical version, so don’t expect one anytime soon.

    Upgrade Options

    There’s also an upgrade option for players who already own the base game (only on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC), but it costs $59.99, which many consider quite steep. Fans are upset not just about the high price, but also that the release of the definitive edition signifies the end of support for the game that launched in September 2023, which was supposed to receive a new story expansion.

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  • Nobara 42: Enhanced SteamOS Alternative with New Features

    Nobara 42: Enhanced SteamOS Alternative with New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nobara 42 replaces Firefox with Brave as the default web browser, implementing policies to limit certain features criticized by the FOSS community.
    2. A new Flatpak store called Flatpost is introduced to manage Flatpak applications and permissions, enhancing software installation usability.
    3. The distribution includes a new driver manager for easy switching between various GPU drivers, including Nvidia options.
    4. Nobara has transitioned to a rolling release model, providing regular updates, and it comes with pre-installed desktop environments KDE 6.3.4 and Gnome 48.
    5. Nobara Linux aims to be user-friendly and ready to use out of the box, with features like a handheld/HTPC mode for devices like the Lenovo Legion Go.

    Nobara Linux is a gaming-centered Linux distribution built on Fedora. Its main developer, GloriousEggroll, is also known for creating Proton-GE, a modified version of Valve’s Proton compatibility layer. On May 13, GloriousEggroll shared the news about Nobara 42, which is an update to Nobara 41 that includes several important modifications to the default setup, software, and drivers.

    Significant Changes in Browsing

    One major update in Nobara 42 is the shift from Firefox to Brave as the default web browser. This decision was made due to a video issue found in the current version of Firefox and other browsers that rely on it. With the switch to Brave, the Nobara team has put in place a special policy that turns off certain Brave features often criticized by the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) community, such as Brave Rewards, Brave Wallet, Brave VPN, and AI Chat. Additionally, Tor is turned off by default and the DNS Over HTTPS setting is set to automatic. These adjustments aim to create a less intrusive Brave browsing experience, but users can easily change or remove the policy file if they want to revert to the original settings, as noted in the update log.

    New Features to Enhance Usability

    Along with the new default browser, GE has introduced Flatpost, their own Flatpak store that can manage Flatpak applications and repositories, including permission management—something usually found in apps like Flatseal or Warehouse. Flatpost comes pre-enabled in Nobara 42, and Flatpaks are the recommended method for software installation. However, users still have the option to use app images or install other app stores if they prefer to.

    Under-the-Hood Improvements

    Nobara 42 also includes some less visible upgrades, particularly a new driver manager that allows users to switch between various GPU drivers easily. This includes both open-source and closed-source versions of Nvidia’s drivers, and users can select from production, beta, or new feature versions.

    As of Nobara 41, the Nobara Project has transitioned to a rolling release model, ensuring that updates are provided more regularly and promptly. Nobara 42 comes with two desktop environments pre-installed: KDE 6.3.4 and Gnome 48. There are multiple ISOs available for different scenarios, including versions with Nvidia drivers already installed and an HTPC ISO designed to mimic SteamOS. The Nvidia driver at the time of Nobara 42’s release is 570.144, while the Mesa version stands at 25.1.0, and the Kernel is the latest stable version, 6.14.6.

    A User-Friendly Distribution

    Nobara Linux is designed to be a straightforward, user-friendly distribution that is mostly ready to use straight out of the box. The updates in Nobara 42 seem to advance this aim, particularly with the new store and enhanced driver management features. Additionally, it includes a handy handheld/HTPC mode, making it a solid alternative to Windows for devices like the Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon).

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    Nobara 42: Enhanced SteamOS Alternative with New Features
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 May Feature 5nm Chip for Enhanced Performance

    Nintendo Switch 2 May Feature 5nm Chip for Enhanced Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nvidia Tegra T239 chip for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 uses standard Arm CPU cores and an Ampere-based GPU, manufactured on Samsung’s older 8 nm process.
    2. Nintendo opted for the more affordable 8 nm manufacturing process instead of the advanced 5 nm, which may lead to long-term performance drawbacks.
    3. The pricing strategy for the Switch 2 could hinge on its cost-saving chip decision, with a potential price point of $349 instead of $449.
    4. Future collaborations between Nintendo and Samsung could involve a performance-enhanced version of the Switch 2, possibly an OLED model.
    5. Nintendo’s choice of chip manufacturing may influence other companies like AMD to consider Samsung nodes, though AMD currently has a strong partnership with TSMC.

    An earlier leak provided a detailed view of the Nvidia Tegra T239 chip that powers the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. This chip incorporates standard Arm CPU cores and features a GPU based on Nvidia’s Ampere architecture. Additionally, it has been confirmed that the chip will be produced using Samsung Foundry’s older 8 nm (8N) process. A recent article from South Korean news source Chosun offers more insights into Nintendo’s future.

    Nintendo’s Chip Decisions

    According to prior leaks, the Tegra T239 for the Nintendo Switch 2 was originally intended to be manufactured on Samsung’s more advanced 5 nm process. However, Nintendo chose to go with the DUV-based 8 nm node since it was more affordable. Utilizing the established technology for Nvidia Ampere (RTX 30 series) also made GPU design easier. Nevertheless, if the recent performance simulations for the Switch 2 hold true, the cost-saving decision may have some long-term drawbacks for Nintendo. This choice could be justified if the Switch 2 were priced at $349 instead of $449.

    Future Collaborations

    The report mentions that Nintendo might work with Samsung again down the line. The previously discussed 5 nm node could potentially be utilized for a “performance-enhanced version of the Switch 2.” This upgraded model might be an OLED edition that brings much-needed additional power. By current gaming console standards, the Tegra T239 is already lagging behind, and this gap is likely to widen as future games will require more robust hardware.

    Industry Impact

    It appears that Nintendo’s collaboration could prompt other handheld chip manufacturers, like AMD, to consider Samsung nodes for their future products. However, this is not expected to happen anytime soon, as AMD maintains a strong partnership with TSMC and has managed to secure valuable fabrication space on the highly sought-after N2X node for its Zen 6 architecture.

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  • Valve Confirms No Steam Data Breach, Accounts Remain Secure

    Valve Confirms No Steam Data Breach, Accounts Remain Secure

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve investigated rumors of a data breach involving 89 million Steam accounts and found that the leaked data only included older one-time codes and phone numbers, with no links to account details or personal information.

    2. The company assured users that the leaked older text messages cannot compromise account security, and users will be notified if any changes are made to their account via SMS.

    3. Users do not need to change passwords or phone numbers, but Valve recommends setting up an authenticator for added security.

    4. The initial breach report originated from a LinkedIn profile claiming a dataset for sale on the dark web, but Valve clarified it does not use Twilio for authentication, despite claims of 2FA logs being involved.

    5. Valve has not confirmed the source of the leak or how the 2FA logs ended up on the dark web, as Twilio denied any breach.

    No, your Steam account hasn’t been compromised. Valve has addressed the latest rumors and leaks concerning a data breach that allegedly involves over 89 million accounts available for purchase on the dark web.

    Company’s Findings

    Valve took a look at the leaked data and discovered it only included “older text messages that had one-time codes valid for only 15 minutes, along with the phone numbers they were sent to.”

    More crucially, the company stated, “The leaked information did not link the phone numbers to any Steam account, nor did it contain password details, payment information, or other personal data.”

    Security Assurance

    The company emphasized that older text messages “cannot be used to compromise the security of your Steam account.” Additionally, they noted that “whenever a code is utilized to alter your Steam email or password via SMS, you will receive a notification via email and/or secure messages on Steam.”

    You don’t need to change your passwords or phone numbers, but it’s always smart to set up an authenticator for extra security. For more details on how to set up and activate Steam Guard, check out the guidance on Steam’s support website.

    Origin of the Report

    The initial report about the hack can be traced back to a LinkedIn profile, Underdark.ai, which asserted that a malicious actor named Machine1337 had uploaded a dataset containing 89 million Steam user accounts on the dark web.

    According to the report, these accounts were being sold for $5000 (€4463.50 or £3766) and required buyers to have a Telegram account to complete the transaction. The report also mentioned internal vendor data in the leak, suggesting there might be some admin access involved.

    Updates and Clarifications

    The report has been revised to indicate that the leak included “real-time 2FA SMS logs routed through Twilio.” Interestingly, Twilio has denied any breach, and Valve clarified that it does not use Twilio for authentication services.

    Currently, Valve has not yet confirmed the origin of the leak or how the two-factor authentication (2FA) logs made their way onto the dark web.

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  • RTX 5080 Super/Ti with 24GB VRAM Coming Soon, RTX 5090D Update

    RTX 5080 Super/Ti with 24GB VRAM Coming Soon, RTX 5090D Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia launched the RTX 50 series Blackwell GPUs, initially featuring four models: RTX 5090, RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, and RTX 5070, with the RTX 5060 Ti added later.
    2. A new model, rumored to be the RTX 5080 Super or Ti, is expected to launch by the end of the year, featuring 24 GB of VRAM.
    3. The RTX 5080 Super/Ti may replace the banned RTX 5090D in China, which had been suspended from sales due to regulations.
    4. The replacement for the RTX 5090D is predicted to have 14,080 CUDA cores and a 384-bit memory bus, down from the RTX 5090’s specifications.
    5. The RTX 5090D and RTX 5090 differed mainly in AI inference performance limits, affecting its market availability.

    Back in January, Nvidia introduced the latest RTX 50 series Blackwell GPUs. Initially, there were four models: the RTX 5090, RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, and RTX 5070. Over the months that followed, the lineup grew with the addition of the RTX 5060 Ti, and now the anticipated RTX 5060 is on the way. According to a recent leak, Nvidia plans to introduce another model by the end of this year, which is rumored to be the RTX 5080 Super or Ti.

    Leak Details From Baidu

    The new information reportedly comes from Baidu forums, as reported by Wccftech. It suggests that the RTX 5080 Super or RTX 5080 Ti is set to launch before the year ends. This new GPU is expected to feature 24 GB of VRAM, representing a significant enhancement from the 16 GB found in the standard RTX 5080. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain if this new GPU will serve as a replacement for the banned RTX 5090D in China.

    Specifications and Expected Changes

    Speaking of the RTX 5090D, its replacement is predicted to have a reduced count of 14,080 CUDA cores, which is considerably less than the RTX 5090’s 21,760. Additionally, it will likely utilize a 384-bit memory bus in place of the 512-bit bus seen in the regular RTX 5090. As previously noted, the VRAM will also decrease to 24 GB, compared to the 32 GB of the RTX 5090.

    This reduction is a result of new regulations that led to the RTX 5090D being prohibited in China with its existing specifications. While there has been no official announcement, sources indicate that sales of the RTX 5090D have been suspended in the country. It was comparable to the RTX 5090 in terms of hardware, with the primary difference being a hardware-imposed limit on AI inference performance for the RTX 5090D.

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  • Minecraft Introduces Craftable Saddles After 15 Years

    Minecraft Introduces Craftable Saddles After 15 Years

    Key Takeaways

    1. Saddles in Minecraft can now be crafted using three pieces of leather and one iron ingot.
    2. Previously, saddles were only obtainable through chance methods like finding them in chests or as mob drops.
    3. The update makes it easier for players to tame mounts by allowing them to craft their own saddles.
    4. Snapshot 25w20a is available for Java Edition and Bedrock Preview players, excluding Android users.
    5. The update includes mechanical adjustments and visual upgrades in preparation for Minecraft’s upcoming summer update and aligns with the launch of the live-action movie.

    More than 15 years since they first appeared, saddles in Minecraft can now be crafted. The newest Snapshot 25w20a update from Mojang enables players to create this rare item using just three pieces of leather and one iron ingot, resources that are much easier to find in the Overworld.

    Changes to Saddle Acquisition

    Previously, players could only get saddles through chance. They were found in chests in dungeons, as drops from mobs, or via fishing and trading. Thanks to this update, players can craft their own saddles after collecting just one piece of leather, making it much easier to tame mounts.

    Snapshot Highlights

    Some key features of Snapshot 25w20a include its availability for Java Edition users and Bedrock Preview players, with the exception of Android players. Mojang is continually improving the game with mechanical adjustments, such as recent enhancements to leashes and ranged combat, along with visual upgrades in preparation for Minecraft’s upcoming summer update.

    Snapshot 25w20a also aligns with the digital launch of the Minecraft live-action movie, which seeks to take advantage of the renewed interest in the game.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Trailer Shows Hogwarts Legacy Graphics Upgrade

    Nintendo Switch 2 Trailer Shows Hogwarts Legacy Graphics Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upgrade fee of $9.99 for selected titles to Nintendo Switch 2, including Civilization VII and Hogwarts Legacy.
    2. Nintendo Switch 2 offers ten times the graphics performance compared to the original Switch.
    3. Enhanced graphics include improved resolution and lifelike lighting, as seen in the Hogwarts Legacy trailer.
    4. Hogwarts Legacy runs at 1,440p on TV and 1,080p in handheld mode, with Nvidia DLSS, edge smoothing, and HDR support.
    5. Players with a Hogwarts Legacy cartridge can upgrade to the new version for $10 after activating the option in-game.

    A variety of titles are available for an upgrade fee of $9.99 to the new edition on the Nintendo Switch 2. The Nintendo eShop has also listed Civilization VII as an upgrade pack priced at $9.99, and Hogwarts Legacy can also be upgraded to the new version for the same amount, according to a report by Video Games Chronicle. Nvidia claims that the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers ten times the graphics performance compared to the first version of the Switch, highlighting a notable difference in graphics quality.

    Enhanced Graphics Performance

    This improvement is evident in the Hogwarts Legacy trailer shown below, showcasing everything from improved resolution to much more lifelike lighting. It’s important to note that the enhancements extend beyond just the graphics; the Nintendo Switch 2 version finally allows for the expansive open world that players have come to expect from the PS5 and PC editions. This means that loading screens when entering or exiting Hogwarts and various buildings have been removed entirely.

    Resolution and Support Details

    The developers have confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy will operate on the Nintendo Switch 2 at a resolution of 1,440p on TV, and 1,080p in handheld mode, both featuring Nvidia DLSS, edge smoothing, and HDR support. Additionally, the game allows for mouse mode functionality with the Joy-Con. The developers have also mentioned that players who already have Hogwarts Legacy on a game cartridge can upgrade to the new version for $10, but they must first activate this option in-game before they can purchase the upgrade through the eShop and download the new version.

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