Category: Gaming

  • GOG Promotes DRM-Free Games with AI Images, Faces Artist Backlash

    GOG Promotes DRM-Free Games with AI Images, Faces Artist Backlash

    Key Takeaways

    1. GOG store has built a fanbase by opposing DRM limitations, but new use of generative AI is causing concerns among some fans.
    2. A promotional image for GOG’s New Year Sale was identified as fully created by AI, raising doubts about the quality and authenticity of the art.
    3. An artist from GOG expressed worries about the acceptance of AI art and mentioned a reduction in the graphics team size.
    4. Some gamers believe that using AI art is not a viable solution, especially given the store’s financial struggles and recent sale back to a co-founder.
    5. Customer reactions include strong opposition to AI-generated content, with some users pledging to stop purchasing from GOG if they continue to use AI tools.

    By opposing DRM limitations, the GOG store has built a strong fanbase. Nevertheless, some fans are raising doubts about its new use of generative AI. GamingOnLinux spotted a discussion on Reddit where gamers analyzed a banner for a New Year Sale. They found signs that the image was created by AI, which led an artist from the site to voice their disapproval.

    Concerns About the Art

    The most questionable part of the promotional image is the fading console in the bottom right corner, which looks like an SNES. Additionally, some viewers observed that the gamer depicted isn’t looking at the TV. However, it’s possible he’s gazing at the fireworks outside the windows instead.

    Generative AI tools, when left unchecked, can create distorted images or arrange items in illogical ways. To clear up any confusion, a member of the GOG team responded to the situation. In a forum post, KosmicznaPluskwa, who identifies as an artist for the store, stated, “OK, so to clear the air, current sale banner is fully AI. Not my work. This is all I can say on this.”

    A Voice of Concern

    Although KosmicznaPluskwa is not an official spokesperson for GOG, they felt it was important to share their thoughts. The creator raised worries about the growing acceptance of AI art in society. They also mentioned that the team responsible for creating graphics for the site has been reduced in size.

    Certain gamers view the New Year promotional debate as a way to save money. The store is said to make enough income to stay afloat, but has faced a significant decline in net profits since 2023. Recently, CD Projekt sold the marketplace back to co-founder Michał Kiciński for a mere $25.2 million, which is just a tiny part of what Steam is probably worth.

    Buyer Reactions

    Despite the financial struggles, many customers feel that turning to AI art isn’t the solution. A Reddit user named dragon-mon declared, “As long as GOG is using generative AI images or coding, I will never buy another game from their site.”

    Critics highlight that the retailer set up a well-supported Patreon account to help with game preservation initiatives. Yet, it seems the company lacks the means to promote its DRM-free games without relying on AI tools.

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  • Lenovo Launches Intel Panther Lake Gaming Laptop with 165Hz OLED

    Lenovo Launches Intel Panther Lake Gaming Laptop with 165Hz OLED

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Legion 5i Gen 11 launched in Europe, replacing the previous Arrow Lake HX versions, with availability in North America set for April.
    2. It features Panther Lake-H processors and a downgrade in graphics from GeForce RTX 5070 to GeForce RTX 5060.
    3. The laptop includes a 15.3-inch OLED display with 1600p resolution, 1,000 nits brightness, 165 Hz refresh rate, and a 16:10 aspect ratio.
    4. Pricing starts at £1,650 in the UK and €1,729 in the Eurozone, excluding the operating system and power supply.
    5. Multiple configurations are available, with prices going up to £2,209 (~$3,049.99) and €2,339 (~$2,795) for higher specs, including advanced processors and additional RAM.

    Lenovo has quietly launched the Legion 5i Gen 11 in Europe after announcing that it would be available in North America this coming April. This new model replaces the previous Arrow Lake HX-based versions, which are currently priced at $1,765 on Amazon. The Legion 5i Gen 11 now features the Panther Lake-H processors but downgrades the graphics card from a GeForce RTX 5070 to a GeForce RTX 5060.

    Display and Specifications

    The Gen 11 model comes equipped with a 15.3-inch OLED screen that boasts a resolution of 1600p and a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. It also supports a refresh rate of 165 Hz and has a 16:10 aspect ratio. Users will benefit from Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, an 80 Wh battery, DDR5-5600 RAM, and M.2 2242 storage. Furthermore, it is powered by either Core Ultra 7 356H or Core Ultra 9 386H processors.

    Pricing and Configurations

    In the UK, the Legion 5i Gen 11 starts at £1,650 (~$2,278), and in the Eurozone, it begins at €1,729 (~$2,065). Important to note, these prices don’t include an operating system or the 245 W power supply. The base model comes with a Core Ultra 7 356H processor, GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, 16 GB of RAM, a 1 TB SSD, and a single-zone RGB keyboard.

    Additional Options

    Similar to the Legion 5a Gen 11, the Legion 5i Gen 11 is available in several configurations. As of now, the Intel-based gaming laptop can reach a price of up to £2,209 (~$3,049.99) and €2,339 (~$2,795) when equipped with the Core Ultra 9 386H, 32 GB RAM, a 24-zone RGB keyboard, a 245 W power supply, and a Windows 11 Pro license. For further information, be sure to check out our launch article.

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  • Affordable Modular Gaming Handheld Pocket 1 Now Available

    Affordable Modular Gaming Handheld Pocket 1 Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Miniloong Pocket 1 is a budget gaming handheld that aims to stand out from similar devices like the Abxylute E1 and Powkiddy X55.
    2. It features 1 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, a 4,000 mAh battery with 7.5 W wired charging, 8 GB of eMMC storage, two microSD card slots, and a mini HDMI port.
    3. The device has a 960 x 720 pixel IPS display with a 4:3 aspect ratio and a peak brightness of 450 nits.
    4. Unique design elements include hot-swappable face plates and two interchangeable d-pad designs for customization.
    5. The Pocket 1 will launch in China on January 29 and is available for about $83 on AliExpress, with no international release details announced yet.

    The Miniloong Pocket 1 has emerged as a surprising new budget gaming handheld that stands out from the crowd. At first glance, the Pocket 1 seems like just another Rockchip RK3566 device, similar to the Abxylute E1, GameMT E6 Plus, and Powkiddy X55 (curr. $118 on Amazon). However, Miniloong aims to set its product apart in a significant way.

    Specs and Features

    Miniloong has outfitted the Pocket 1 with 1 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and a 4,000 mAh battery, which supports 7.5 W wired charging. Moreover, it includes 8 GB of eMMC flash storage, along with two microSD card slots and a mini HDMI port for connecting to external displays. Alternatively, users can enjoy games on the device’s internal IPS display, which has a resolution of 960 x 720 pixels, a 4:3 aspect ratio, and a peak brightness of 450 nits.

    Unique Design

    According to Miniloong, the Pocket 1 distinguishes itself in two main aspects. First, the handheld features hot-swappable face plates that attach magnetically. Second, it provides two interchangeable d-pad designs, allowing players to customize their experience easily.

    The Miniloong Pocket 1 is set to officially launch in China on January 29 at 10:00 local time. It has already appeared on AliExpress, where it can be purchased for approximately $83 in white and retro colors. There has been no announcement regarding its availability outside of China at this time.

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  • Sony PS2 Games Could Soon Run Natively on Windows

    Sony PS2 Games Could Soon Run Natively on Windows

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony PlayStation 2 remains the best-selling gaming console of all time, with 160 million units sold and a library of over 4,000 titles.
    2. Only the early “fat” models of the PS3 support official backwards compatibility for PS2 games; PS4 and PS5 do not support PS2 game disks.
    3. Emulators like PCSX2 can run many PS2 games on PCs, but users often struggle to find legally acquired game ISOs and BIOS files.
    4. A new tool called “PS2Recomp” is being developed to help create native PC versions of PS2 games by converting PS2 code to C++.
    5. PS2Recomp aims to enhance access to PS2 games and contribute to the preservation of gaming history in an era where older games are harder to find and play.

    The Sony PlayStation 2 is still recognized as the top-selling gaming console ever, with a whopping 160 million units sold. It has a unique significance for gamers all over the globe. Unfortunately, only the earlier “fat” models of the PS3 offered official backwards compatibility for PS2 games. This means that players cannot enjoy PS2 games on either the PS4 or PS5 directly from the disk, which is a significant drawback since the PS2 boasts a library of over 4,000 titles.

    Emulators to the Rescue

    Fortunately, numerous emulators are accessible online that can run a large number of PS2 games without major problems. One popular option, PCSX2, claims to support more than 99% of the PS2 game library. However, many individuals might not have access to legally acquired PS2 game ISOs and BIOS files, which are needed to run these games on a PC. Additionally, the quality can vary; not every game functions perfectly or looks great when emulated.

    A New Development Tool

    A developer from Brazil is working on addressing these challenges with a new tool called “PS2Recomp.” This tool will allow users and developers to create native PC versions of PS2 titles.

    In simple terms, PS2Recomp transforms PS2 game code into C++ code. The PS2 was driven by a RISC processor known as the “Emotion Engine,” which used the MIPS R5900 instruction set. PS2Recomp takes these MIPS R5900 commands and recompiles them into C++ code that can run on contemporary platforms like Windows, Linux, Android, and others.

    Exciting Future for PS2 Games

    Basically, PS2Recomp gives developers and users the ability to make versions of PS2 games that can operate natively on today’s operating systems. While still being developed, PS2Recomp represents a promising and thrilling advancement. Not only will it allow gamers to access their PS2 library, but it will also contribute to the preservation of games. In a time when companies are making it increasingly difficult to find and play older games, emulators and initiatives like PS2Recomp are becoming essential for maintaining gaming history.

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  • February 2026 PlayStation Plus Free Games Announced

    February 2026 PlayStation Plus Free Games Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. February 2026 Free Games: Sony will offer four new titles for PlayStation Plus subscribers across all membership tiers (Premium, Extra, and Essential).

    2. Main Title – Undisputed: A realistic boxing game for PS5 that focuses on strategy, movement, timing, and stamina management.

    3. Subnautica: Below Zero: A survival adventure for PS5 and PS4, set on an alien world where players gather resources and uncover a narrative about their sister.

    4. Ultros: A unique action game for PS5 and PS4 featuring exploration and melee combat in a cyclical alien universe with a checkpoint restart mechanic.

    5. Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown: A PS4 aerial combat game where players pilot fighter jets in thrilling dogfights, available starting February 3 until March 2.

    Sony has shared the lineup of free games for PlayStation Plus subscribers for February 2026, allowing gamers to add four new titles to their collection next month. All three membership tiers—Premium, Extra, and Essential—will have access to these games.

    Exciting Main Title

    The standout game this month is Undisputed (for PS5), which had been hinted at before the official announcement. This boxing game emphasizes realism and strategic thinking rather than mere button-mashing. Players must focus on their movement, timing, and stamina management. It’s crucial to decide when to strike, when to defend, and how to outsmart your opponent in the ring.

    Additional Titles to Explore

    Next up is Subnautica: Below Zero (for PS5 and PS4), a survival adventure set on a frigid alien world. In this game, players dive into underwater landscapes, gather resources, and construct bases to survive. The narrative revolves around discovering the fate of your sister while encountering perilous creatures and enduring extreme weather conditions.

    Unique Gameplay Experience

    The third title included is Ultros (for PS5 and PS4), a vibrant and unusual action game that takes place in a cyclical alien universe. It combines exploration with melee combat, where timing and accuracy are extremely important. The game features a looping mechanic, allowing players to restart from certain checkpoints while retaining progress that aids in unlocking new routes and skills.

    Final Free Title

    Lastly, players can enjoy Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown (for PS4), an exhilarating aerial combat experience where you pilot fighter jets in extensive battles. You can navigate in all directions and engage in thrilling dogfights against opponents.

    Sony has announced that all four games will be available on the service starting Tuesday, February 3, and will stay accessible until March 2. Gamers also have until February 2 to claim January’s free games, which feature Need for Speed Unbound, Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed, and Core Keeper.

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  • Ugreen LinkStation eGPU Dock Launches with USB4 and 850W PSU

    Ugreen LinkStation eGPU Dock Launches with USB4 and 850W PSU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ugreen’s LinkStation eGPU dock offers both USB-C and OCuLink connections, with notable performance features.
    2. It connects via a 40 Gbps USB4 interface and supports Thunderbolt 4 and 3, alongside a high-speed 64 Gbps OCuLink option.
    3. The dock includes an integrated 850 W 80 Plus Gold power supply, making it easy to use with high-performance GPUs.
    4. It has a semi-open aluminum design for better airflow but lacks M.2 slot and Ethernet port compared to competitors.
    5. The Ugreen LinkStation eGPU dock is priced at $449.99 and supports GPUs up to 370 mm in length and four slots in thickness.

    Ugreen has introduced the LinkStation eGPU dock in the United States. This enclosure first appeared in China towards the end of last year and stands out as one of the few options that provide both USB-C and OCuLink connections, albeit with some limitations.

    Connectivity Options

    The LinkStation interfaces with laptops and handheld consoles through a 40 Gbps USB4 connection, which is also compatible with Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 3. For those seeking peak performance, it offers OCuLink with an impressive 64 Gbps PCIe 4.0 x4 bandwidth, making it particularly suitable for mini PCs such as the Minisforum X1 Pro-470.

    Power Supply and GPU Support

    A significant feature is the integrated 850 W 80 Plus Gold power supply, allowing users to only need to provide a graphics card. In contrast, the newly launched Minisforum DEG2 eGPU Dock (currently priced at $254.99 on Amazon) features OCuLink and a quicker 80 Gbps Thunderbolt 5 port, but lacks a built-in power supply. Nevertheless, with 12V-2×6 and PCIe 8-pin connectors, the LinkStation can easily support high-performance GPUs like the RTX 5090, RTX 4090, and RTX 4080, accommodating cards up to 370 mm in length and four slots in thickness.

    Design and Limitations

    The enclosure is designed with a semi-open aluminum chassis to enhance airflow and includes a low-RPM ATX 3.1 PSU fan. However, in contrast to the Minisforum DEG2, it does not feature an M.2 slot or an Ethernet port. Connectivity options are restricted to OCuLink and USB4, with the latter capable of delivering up to 100 W of power to the host device. The Ugreen LinkStation eGPU dock is currently available on Amazon for $449.99.

     

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  • Steam Deck Verified Program Surpasses 25,000 Playable Games

    Steam Deck Verified Program Surpasses 25,000 Playable Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve’s Steam Deck Verified program helps gamers navigate the extensive Steam library, with over 31,000 games categorized for the handheld device.

    2. More than 25,000 games are marked as Verified or Playable, indicating their compatibility with the Steam Deck.

    3. Verified games may not always perform perfectly, as some require manual adjustments for optimal play.

    4. Games labeled as Unsupported can still be playable on the Steam Deck, highlighting the complexity of game compatibility.

    5. Valve remains committed to supporting the Steam Deck, suggesting ongoing improvements even as they prepare for future releases like the Steam Deck 2.

    Valve has rolled out the Steam Deck Verified to help gamers sift through the extensive Steam library. Despite some shortcomings, this system sets a standard for what the handheld gaming device can manage effectively.

    Ongoing Support for Steam Deck

    Nearly four years post the launch of the Steam Deck, Valve appears to be keeping the program in good shape. According to information from SteamDB, there are more than 31,000 Steam games that have been officially classified for the handheld. This figure represents about 19% of all games available on the platform.

    Game Categories on Steam Deck

    Of the over 31,000 games that have been categorized, more than 25,000 are labeled as either Verified or Playable. To clarify, the Verified label indicates that the game will perform seamlessly on the handheld device (the upgraded JSAUX dock for this device is currently priced at $32.79 on Amazon), without the need for any adjustments. On the other hand, the Playable tag signifies that while the game is compatible, some manual configurations may be necessary.

    Not All Verified Games Perform Perfectly

    Nonetheless, not every game marked as Steam Deck Verified works as smoothly as Valve suggests. Titles like Baldur’s Gate 3, Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, and Hellblade 2 carry the Verified label, but they still need some manual adjustments for an optimal experience. Furthermore, just because a game is labeled Unsupported by Valve doesn’t imply that it cannot run on the handheld device.

    A number of games with the Steam Deck Unsupported tag are actually playable, like Silent Hill 2. In defense of Valve, the company has stated that it judges each game for the handheld based on a rigorous set of criteria, which explains why certain titles receive the Unsupported label despite being technically playable.

    In any case, this ongoing enhancement of the program clearly demonstrates Valve’s dedication to supporting its product, and it will be fascinating to see if the company continues this trend when the Steam Deck 2 is released.

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  • Ubisoft Suspends Employee Over Controversial LinkedIn Post

    Ubisoft Suspends Employee Over Controversial LinkedIn Post

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft’s reputation as a friendly workplace is under scrutiny due to a recent in-office policy change.
    2. Employee David Michaud-Cromp criticized the new five-day in-office requirement on LinkedIn, questioning the company’s claims of valuing collaboration.
    3. Michaud-Cromp was suspended for three days without pay for allegedly violating the “duty of loyalty” after his comments.
    4. Many LinkedIn users supported Michaud-Cromp, accusing Ubisoft of suppressing dissent instead of fostering open dialogue.
    5. The situation raises potential legal concerns for Ubisoft, as some commenters noted the company must prove reputational damage to justify the suspension.

    Ubisoft’s reputation for being a friendly workplace isn’t exactly stellar. A recent situation highlighted this when the French game developer instituted a five-day in-office requirement during an internal reshuffle. Following this decision, an employee openly criticized the return-to-office policy and was reportedly suspended not long after.

    Employee’s Reaction

    David Michaud-Cromp, who works as a level designer at Ubisoft Montreal, expressed his concerns about the new in-office rules on LinkedIn. He pointed out that the company’s claims of “believing in collaboration” seemed misleading. Michaud-Cromp stated, “C’mon, we’re not completely stupid… we very well know why you want to go back to five days in the office.”

    Suspension and Backlash

    While Michaud-Cromp’s remarks might have seemed straightforward, they were not hurtful or slanderous, yet Ubisoft clearly took issue with them. Just a few days after his post, he updated his LinkedIn to announce that he had been suspended without pay for three days. Insider Gaming reported that the official reason was an alleged violation of the “duty of loyalty,” which is a labor law that requires workers to be loyal to their employer.

    Support from the Community

    In the comments on LinkedIn, many users expressed support for the suspended worker. Several accused Ubisoft of trying to suppress dissent instead of having an open conversation with employees. Michaud-Cromp’s perspective on the actual motives behind the return-to-office decision was echoed by many. Some commenters even raised potential legal issues, suggesting that Ubisoft would need to prove real reputational damage to justify such a suspension. As of now, the company has not released any public comments. Michaud-Cromp mentioned in a later post that he wouldn’t provide further remarks on the situation.

    LinkedIn

    Image source: Ubisoft

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  • GTA 6 Fans Use Drones and Fake IDs to Sneak Peek Gameplay

    GTA 6 Fans Use Drones and Fake IDs to Sneak Peek Gameplay

    Key Takeaways

    1. High anticipation for GTA 6 has led some fans to take extreme measures to see the game early.
    2. Rumors suggest that GTA 6 may not have a physical disc release to prevent leaks.
    3. Reece Reilly believes a digital-only release will help Rockstar maintain control over the launch.
    4. Physical discs are considered risky due to potential theft and insider leaks.
    5. Reports of fans attempting unauthorized access to Rockstar offices show the intense excitement for GTA 6.

    The buzz surrounding GTA 6 is incredibly high, with some fans apparently taking extreme measures to catch a glimpse of the game ahead of its official release. Anticipated to be the largest game launch of 2026, new reports indicate that a select few fans may have overstepped significant boundaries.

    Rumors of No Physical Release

    A recent rumor has emerged suggesting that a physical disc version of GTA 6 may not be available at launch, primarily to avoid any potential leaks. Shortly thereafter, Reece “Kiwi Talkz” Reilly, a prominent interviewer of game developers, expressed his strong belief in the validity of this rumor and shared insights on why Rockstar might opt for a digital-only release.

    Reilly stated that the scale of GTA 6 is vastly different from that of GTA 5. He is convinced that it will be the largest launch in the history of entertainment, not solely gaming. Due to this, Rockstar risks much more if any information gets out prematurely.

    Risks of Physical Discs

    He pointed out that physical discs pose one of the greatest risks, noting that there are numerous Rockstar fans who would not hesitate to break into stores or production facilities to steal copies. Furthermore, he mentioned that individuals “on the inside” could also leak critical information. With a digital-only approach, the company maintains significantly greater control over the timing and method of the game’s release.

    Reilly also mentioned that over the years, he’s heard stories directly from Rockstar developers about fans attempting to gain unauthorized access to their offices. Some fans reportedly used fake identification to enter, while others allegedly flew drones near office windows to try and capture early footage or images of the game. This highlights just how intense the excitement around GTA 6 truly is.

    Reece “Kiwi Talkz” Reilly via X

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  • Arc Raiders Ban System Faces Backlash and Criticism

    Arc Raiders Ban System Faces Backlash and Criticism

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Headwinds update for ARC Raiders includes seven new quests, two new augments, and changes to the “Buried City” map, along with minor gameplay adjustments and additional lore.
    2. A new progressive ban system has been introduced, with three levels of penalties based on offense severity, ranging from a 30-day ban for first-time offenders to a permanent ban after three violations.
    3. The community has reacted negatively to the new ban system, feeling the penalties are too lenient and calling for harsher consequences, such as permanent bans for first-time offenders.
    4. Players have expressed their views on platforms like Reddit, with many advocating for stricter measures in comparison to other games with tougher penalties.
    5. Embark has not provided an official response to community concerns about the ban system, leaving players uncertain about potential future changes.

    The Headwinds update is part of four planned content releases for ARC Raiders that will take place until April 2026. This update includes seven new quests, two new augments, additional lore, minor changes to gameplay, and new elements on the “Buried City” map, which now features flocks of birds. In addition to this content, the patch also brings modifications to the game’s anti-cheat system, a change that has mostly been met with negative comments from the player community.

    Progressive Ban System

    This new update brings a progressive ban system with three levels that escalate based on the severity of the offense. Although Embark hasn’t specified what behaviors will lead to punishment in the patch notes, it’s likely that the system targets serious issues like cheating or exploiting. First-time offenders will face a 30-day ban, which extends to 60 days for a second offense. A permanent ban will only be applied after a player violates the fair play rules for the third time.

    Community Reaction

    The ARC Raiders community has expressed dissatisfaction with the newly introduced ban system. Many players on Reddit argue that the consequences are too lenient, referring to them as merely a “slap on the wrist.” There is significant support for tougher penalties, with some calling for permanent bans for first-time offenders, often referencing stricter games like Escape from Tarkov. While a few users back Embark’s stance, citing the potential for false bans, the general opinion leans heavily towards advocating for more severe measures. As of now, Embark hasn’t released an official statement, leaving players uncertain about possible future changes.

    Embark

    Image source: Embark Media Kit

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