Category: Gaming

  • Retroid Pocket 6 Shipping Delayed Due to OLED Calibration Issues

    Retroid Pocket 6 Shipping Delayed Due to OLED Calibration Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid Pocket 6 shipping is delayed due to OLED screen calibration issues, but early pre-orders are being shipped.
    2. Approximately 100 units of the black version have been shipped, with plans to release more advanced models soon.
    3. Manufacturing challenges stem from the factory’s inexperience with OLED technology, leading to a slow calibration process.
    4. Retroid has invested in a new system to improve OLED panel calibration efficiency and is prioritizing the black edition for shipment.
    5. Future shipping dates for lower-spec models, like the 8GB variant, remain unannounced, and first batch pre-orders are sold out.

    Retroid has announced a delay in the shipping of its Pocket 6 handheld due to issues with the calibration and demura process of the OLED screens. However, they are already shipping a limited number of early pre-orders.

    Initial Batch Details

    At this moment, around 100 units of the black version, featuring joysticks on top, have been shipped as part of the first batch. The company’s goal is to expand the shipping of more advanced models, including the one with 12GB and sticks on top.

    Retroid has shared multiple updates on its Discord server, clarifying the situation and assuring customers that they are actively working on fixing the OLED issues as quickly as they can.

    Challenges in Manufacturing

    This delay is not unexpected, given the challenges involved in calibrating custom OLED screens for devices like the Retroid Pocket 6. Reports suggest that the factory responsible for manufacturing the device lacks experience with OLED technology, which has contributed to the holdup. Each panel reportedly takes approximately ten minutes to process.

    To tackle this problem, Retroid has apparently invested in a new system that can calibrate up to 12 OLED panels at once, potentially increasing productivity tenfold. In addition, the black edition of the Retroid Pocket 6 is being prioritized for shipment, and it will come in both joystick and directional pad configurations. The company is optimistic about ramping up production for the colorful Retroid Pocket 6 lineup in the near future.

    Future Shipping Plans

    However, not all versions of the Retroid Pocket 6 will be shipped early. The shipping dates for the 8GB variant with a directional pad on top remain unannounced, suggesting that this lower-spec model will be delivered at a later time.

    Retroid has taken user feedback into consideration and decided to offer multiple controller layouts. While the company’s progress has been significant since the official announcement, it has also caused several challenges in the production process.

    If you’re looking to purchase a Retroid Pocket 6, you might want to hurry: the first batch is already sold out, the second-batch pre-orders have begun, and shipping is expected in early March 2026.

    For now, Retroid is attempting to meet the high demand, and checking their Discord server is the best way to stay updated with the latest information.

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  • ZOTAC Cancels RTX 50 Series Orders, Relists at Higher Prices

    ZOTAC Cancels RTX 50 Series Orders, Relists at Higher Prices

    Key Takeaways

    1. ZOTAC faces backlash for allegedly canceling RTX 50 series GPU orders and relisting them at higher prices.
    2. Customers received cancellation emails citing a “system error,” despite prior order confirmations.
    3. Price increases for the RTX 5090 range were significant, with some models rising by several hundred dollars.
    4. The ZOTAC Store website is under maintenance, leaving customers without updates on the situation.
    5. Corsair responded to similar criticism by offering 40% discount coupons to affected customers.

    ZOTAC is facing significant criticism at the moment after allegations emerged that the company canceled orders for the RTX 50 series GPUs only to relist them later at much higher prices. This situation echoes what Corsair experienced a few weeks ago, as they too were criticized for reportedly canceling DDR5 RAM orders before relisting them at inflated prices.

    Cancellation Emails Sent

    According to a user on Reddit, numerous customers who ordered RTX 50 series cards received cancellation emails from ZOTAC, despite their orders being confirmed without any issues just a day prior. The emails stated that the cancellations were due to a “system error” and reassured customers that full refunds would be issued to their original payment methods. Customers were also informed that they could reorder the cards once the issue was resolved.

    Price Increases Noticed

    Shortly after these cancellations, ZOTAC began re-listing its GPUs, but with much higher price tags. Reports indicate that the prices across its RTX 5090 range increased by several hundred dollars. For instance, some models reportedly rose from about $2,299 to $2,799, others from $2,399 to $2,899, and another from $2,449 to nearly $2,999. The RTX 5080 model also experienced an increase of around $250.

    Uncertain Store Status

    Complicating things further, the ZOTAC Store website is currently undergoing maintenance. As of now, there is no definitive information regarding when the store will be operational again or if ZOTAC will officially address the mounting criticism. Meanwhile, Corsair provided 40% discount coupons to customers after their DDR5 RAM orders were cancelled. It remains to be seen how ZOTAC will navigate this situation.

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  • Free Weekend Games for Xbox Game Pass Members: Play These 4 Titles

    Free Weekend Games for Xbox Game Pass Members: Play These 4 Titles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Four games are available for free this weekend for Xbox Game Pass subscribers as part of the Free Play Days initiative.
    2. The available games include Sherlock Holmes Chapter One, South Park: Snow Day, This War of Mine: Final Cut, and Cult of the Lamb.
    3. All games are playable by Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential members until January 25.
    4. Each game offers a unique experience, from detective work and co-op adventures to survival management and cult-building.
    5. After the free weekend, players can purchase the games at reduced prices.

    If you’re subscribed to Xbox Game Pass, there’s something special for you this weekend. Microsoft has shared that four games are available to play for free as part of their Free Play Days initiative. Unlike titles that are added to the Game Pass library permanently, these games are only accessible until tomorrow, January 25, so it’s a unique opportunity to give them a shot.

    Available Games This Weekend

    The four games you can try out this weekend include Sherlock Holmes Chapter One, South Park: Snow Day, This War of Mine: Final Cut, and Cult of the Lamb. All these games are playable by Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential members.

    Dive into Sherlock Holmes

    In Sherlock Holmes Chapter One, you take on the role of a younger Sherlock before he became the iconic detective we know. Set on a beautiful Mediterranean island, Sherlock is back to investigate the mysterious death of his mother. You’ll get to explore the town, collect clues, interrogate suspects, and solve various mysteries.

    A Snowy Adventure Awaits

    In South Park: Snow Day, the vibe shifts completely. You control the New Kid and join forces with Cartman, Stan, Kyle, and Kenny. The storyline centers around a snow day that escalates into a thrilling adventure. The game offers up to four-player co-op, allowing you to battle through snowy streets while enjoying the series’ signature humor in a fully 3D environment.

    A Heavy Experience in This War of Mine

    This War of Mine: Final Cut provides a more serious and emotional gameplay experience. Instead of being soldiers, you’ll manage civilians trying to survive in a city under attack. You’ll have to control resources like food, medicine, and shelter while facing difficult decisions. The Final Cut version comes with all updates and expansions, making it the most comprehensive edition of the game.

    Cult of the Lamb: A Unique Mix

    Lastly, there’s Cult of the Lamb, which combines charming graphics with darker themes. You start a cult, gather followers, and create a settlement while venturing into perilous dungeons to battle foes. The game features a mix of base-building, action combat, and roguelike gameplay.

    The exciting part is that all four games are currently being offered at reduced prices. So, after the free weekend is over, you can continue your gaming journey by purchasing them at a lower cost.

    Microsoft

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  • New Action-RPG Satire Game Launches on Steam with Discount

    New Action-RPG Satire Game Launches on Steam with Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Details: Escape from Ever After was released on January 23, 2026, after six years of development, and it is available on Steam with a 20% launch discount.

    2. Gameplay Features: The game features a 2.5D paper aesthetic inspired by the original Paper Mario series, incorporating “timed-hit” action commands for battles and exploration in a corporate headquarters hub.

    3. Storyline: Players control Flynt Buckler, a hero who discovers that fairytale lands have been turned into labor hubs by a corporation called Ever After Inc.

    4. Initial Reception: The game has received positive reviews, especially for its soundtrack, but has faced criticism for technical issues and lack of localization in certain languages.

    5. System Requirements: Escape from Ever After runs on Unreal Engine, requires only 4 GB of RAM, and is playable on Steam Deck, though some text may be hard to read on the handheld display.

    After almost six years of hard work, Sleepy Castle Studio and HypeTrain Digital have finally launched Escape from Ever After on January 23, 2026. This game first gained some attention with its Onboarding prologue back in 2024, and it has now made its way to Steam, offering a 20% discount at launch. The game aims to stand alongside classic turn-based RPGs with a clear focus on satire. Players take on the role of Flynt Buckler, a hero from storybooks, who learns that his dragon enemy has been swapped out for middle managers. A real-world corporation, Ever After Inc., has turned fairytale lands into places for cheap labor.

    Gameplay and Mechanics

    The gameplay pays tribute to the beloved original Paper Mario series, featuring a 2.5D paper aesthetic and “timed-hit” action commands. To succeed in battles, players must actively hit buttons for extra damage and perform “flawless blocks” during defense. Beyond battles, players can explore the corporate headquarters hub where they can style their own office, chat with coworkers, and recruit other employees to fight against the board of directors.

    Initial Reception

    Though just released, the game has received very positive reviews so far, especially for its “jazzy, big-band soundtrack.” However, similar to other recent game launches, the 1.0 version of Escape from Ever After isn’t without its flaws. According to early feedback from Steam users, there are some “Day 1” technical issues, such as inconsistent parry timings and occasional softlocks in side quests. Additionally, there’s a lack of localization for certain languages, particularly French, which has left some players in the community hub feeling dissatisfied.

    System Requirements

    Escape from Ever After runs on Unreal Engine and is relatively easy to access. It requires only 4 GB of RAM and a basic GPU to run smoothly. For Steam Deck players, the experience is somewhat mixed: while the game is completely playable and performs decently, some in-game text can appear small and challenging to read on the handheld display. Despite these minor issues, the overall opinion is that Escape from Ever After effectively utilizes its storytelling, backed by sharp writing. The game is available for $19.99 after applying the 20% launch discount.

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  • AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D: 5.6 GHz Zen 5 Gaming CPU Priced at $499

    AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D: 5.6 GHz Zen 5 Gaming CPU Priced at $499

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D is priced at $499 and will be available starting January 29, 2026.
    2. It features an octa-core Zen 5 architecture and 3D V-Cache technology for improved performance over the Ryzen 7 9700X.
    3. The CPU has a higher boost clock of 5.6GHz, surpassing the 9800X3D’s 5.2GHz and competing closely with the 9700X’s 5.5GHz.
    4. The 9850X3D is aimed at dedicated gamers, with a price increase over previous models, targeting those seeking top gaming performance.
    5. It includes a 2-core Radeon graphics chip that operates at 2.2GHz, matching the speed of its Zen 5 counterparts.

    AMD has introduced its only gaming-focused CPU during CES 2026, the Ryzen 7 9850X3D, which now has a confirmed price and a release date set for late January.

    Pricing and Availability

    The AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D is priced at $499, which is slightly higher than its predecessor. It will be available starting January 29, 2026. Retailers like Amazon are already promoting the product, although it has reportedly sold out at times.

    Specifications and Performance

    This new CPU features an octa-core Zen 5 architecture and utilizes AMD’s unique 3D V-Cache technology, which significantly boosts performance compared to the Ryzen 7 9700X. While it’s not a completely new design, it closely resembles the previous top model, the Ryzen 7 9800X3D.

    In contrast to the 9800X3D, which has a 5.2GHz boost speed (while the 9700X reaches 5.5GHz), the 9850X3D stands out with a higher boost clock of 5.6GHz, offering the best of both worlds in CPU performance.

    Considerations for Gamers

    Despite its $30 higher price compared to the 9800X3D and a $140 increase over the 9700X, the 9850X3D may only attract dedicated gamers in 2026, especially since the 9700X is often available for around $300 from many sellers.

    The AMD Ryzen 7 9850X3D maintains the same base clock of 4.7GHz as the 9800X3D. Essentially, it’s a more finely-tuned version of the same processor, designed for enthusiasts who demand top performance in gaming or want to maximize FPS in competitive games like Valorant, CS2, and Overwatch.

    Additionally, the 9850X3D features a 2-core Radeon graphics chip that operates at 2.2GHz, matching the clock speed of its Zen 5 counterparts.

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  • Ubisoft Employees Plan Mass Quit Ahead of Layoffs After Game Cancellations

    Ubisoft Employees Plan Mass Quit Ahead of Layoffs After Game Cancellations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft has canceled six more games and anticipates further layoffs, leading to rising employee frustrations.
    2. Employees are openly criticizing upper management through internal communication channels, a rare occurrence in game studios.
    3. Many developers are actively seeking new job opportunities and planning to leave Ubisoft, anticipating significant talent loss.
    4. Since September 2022, Ubisoft has laid off over 3,500 employees and plans to cut an additional 2,400 jobs by March 2028, creating job instability among remaining staff.
    5. Changes in workplace policies, such as mandatory in-office work five days a week, are contributing to employee dissatisfaction and impacting their family lives.

    After six more Ubisoft games have been cancelled and with more layoffs on the horizon, frustrations are rising. Tom Henderson from Insider Gaming has shared that employees are openly voicing their discontent with the leadership. Many developers, rather than waiting for the next wave of job cuts, are getting ready to leave the company.

    Internal Communication Issues

    In a post on his social media, Henderson noted that “Ubisoft’s internal communication channels are full of workers criticizing upper management and demanding changes.” He pointed out that such direct criticism, which is likely visible to upper executives, is uncommon in game studios.

    Exploring New Opportunities

    Some employees are looking into new job opportunities, while others are speeding up their planned departures. Even though they still have jobs at Ubisoft, many are particularly active on LinkedIn, searching for new positions. Henderson predicts that “Ubisoft is going to see a significant loss of talent, even without the upcoming layoffs.”

    Restructuring Concerns

    Henderson also commented soon after the company’s latest restructuring plans became known. Since September 2022, Ubisoft has already laid off over 3,500 employees, shrinking its workforce to below 17,100. He anticipates that around 2,400 additional job cuts will happen by March 2028.

    Recently, Ubisoft has closed studios in both Stockholm and Halifax and reduced staff in Abu Dhabi. The developers who remain are surely feeling the strain of job instability. Furthermore, many of the games they have poured years of work into will never be released. For example, the remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time has been in development since 2020.

    Commuting Changes

    Workplace policies could also be a reason behind the growing discontent. As part of its cost-reduction efforts, Ubisoft is requiring employees to commute to the office five days a week. Even if some can work remotely on a limited basis, this shift can significantly impact their family lives.

    As Ubisoft’s stock continues to drop, the future of the publisher is more uncertain than ever. Both investors and the remaining staff have doubts about the company’s strategy to save an additional €200 million. This move might not resolve the leadership issues that have troubled the company through its challenging times.

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  • Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Upgrade Price Sparks Criticism

    Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 Upgrade Price Sparks Criticism

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo is releasing the Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 upgrade pack on March 26th, featuring new content and 4K visuals for $19.99.
    2. The upgrade includes Bellabel Park, new mini-games, boss courses, and playable characters like Rosalina and Luma, focusing on multiplayer and co-op gameplay.
    3. Community reactions are mixed, with many players feeling the $20 price for multiplayer DLC is too high and that similar updates should be free with Nintendo Switch Online.
    4. Many gamers express a desire for a lower-priced option without extra content, as the total cost for the upgrade can reach $79.99 for those who bought the original Switch version.
    5. Fans are hoping for a new 3D Mario game announcement, feeling that the upcoming upgrade does not offer enough fresh content for the new handheld.

    Nintendo is bringing back another older game with the Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 upgrade pack. Set to be released on March 26th, gamers can look forward to new content and improved 4K visuals. Still, the $19.99 cost has upset some players who hoped for a more budget-friendly update.

    New Features Await

    Switch owners who buy the upgrade will be able to explore Bellabel Park, which includes fresh mini-games and challenging boss courses. Additionally, Rosalina and her companion Luma are joining the roster as playable characters. However, many of these new features focus on multiplayer or co-op gameplay, which may not be what all fans of 2D platformers desire.

    Community Reactions

    A social media post from Wario64 about the Super Mario Bros. Wonder Switch 2 upgrade sparked various responses. One popular comment states, “I ain’t spending $20 for multiplayer DLC, come on man. This should be free with online.” Nintendo Switch Online has provided similar updates for older games, especially for classic titles.

    Price Concerns

    While some customers recognize the value of the pack, many would rather see a lower-priced option that doesn’t include the extra content. Typically, Nintendo enhances these games to make them run like they were designed for the Switch 2. The listing mentions 4K/60fps gameplay but lacks information on other technical upgrades. Many solo gamers might wish these enhancements were complimentary, with the DLC available for separate purchase.

    For those who previously spent $59.99 on the Switch version, the total cost for the upgrade now reaches $79.99. This price has led to similar complaints from critics of the $69.99 Super Mario Galaxy 1+2 re-release. Notably, only the second game was excluded from the 2020 Super Mario 3D All-Stars collection on the Switch. Critics argue that players are effectively paying for the same game twice, as neither version is a complete remake.

    Looking Forward

    Some fans believe that the latest handheld from Nintendo lacks a significant new title. Instead of revisiting Super Mario Bros. Wonder, they are eagerly waiting for a Nintendo Direct that might showcase a new 3D Mario game.

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  • Gigabyte Unveils 1440p 240Hz Gaming Monitor with RealBlack WOLED

    Gigabyte Unveils 1440p 240Hz Gaming Monitor with RealBlack WOLED

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Gigabyte GO27Q24G features a 27-inch QHD display with a 240 Hz refresh rate and a ‘RealBlack Glossy’ MLA+ WOLED screen for better contrast and colors.
    2. It includes HyperNits, an upgraded HDR mode that boosts brightness by up to 30% while preserving highlight details, with settings for high and medium increases.
    3. The monitor has a resolution of 2560 x 1440, a 0.03 ms response time, and supports full G-Sync and FreeSync compatibility.
    4. It holds a DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification and covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum.
    5. Connectivity options include two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, a headphone jack, and a USB-C port, with an adjustable stand.

    Gigabyte has quietly introduced the GO27Q24G gaming monitor, featuring a 27-inch QHD display with a refresh rate of 240 Hz. This model shares many specifications with the previously released GO27Q24 from last year. However, unlike its predecessor, which utilized a matte QD-OLED panel, the GO27Q24G boasts a ‘RealBlack Glossy’ MLA+ WOLED screen, promising enhanced contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors.

    Enhanced Brightness Features

    In addition to its glossy finish, the Gigabyte GO27Q24G brings forth HyperNits, an upgraded HDR mode crafted to achieve higher brightness levels. The monitor has a native brightness rating of 275 nits at full screen (APL 100%) and can reach up to 1,300 nits in HDR (APL 1.5%). When using the HDR Peak 1300 setting, users can activate HyperNits to increase brightness by as much as 30% without losing highlight details. There are two settings available: HyperNits High for a 30% increase and HyperNits Medium, which gives a more conservative 20% boost suitable for dimly lit environments.

    Specifications and Connectivity

    The monitor features a resolution of 2560 x 1440, a native refresh rate of 240 Hz, and a lightning-fast 0.03 ms response time. While it lacks dual-mode support, it does come equipped with full G-Sync and FreeSync compatibility. The display holds a certification under the DisplayHDR True Black 400 tier and covers an impressive 99% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum. For connectivity options, it mirrors the setup of the GO27Q24, including two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, a headphone jack, and a USB-C port with 15 W charging capability. It also includes a stand that can be fully adjusted.

    The GO27Q24G is now available on Gigabyte’s website, though details regarding pricing and availability are yet to be announced.

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  • Anbernic Silent Downgrade Uncovered for Clamshell Handheld Gaming

    Anbernic Silent Downgrade Uncovered for Clamshell Handheld Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic increased the RG34XX SP’s RAM to 2 GB for better 3D game emulation, but this option is no longer available.
    2. The current RG34XX SP model is listed with only 1 GB of RAM on Anbernic’s website.
    3. Anbernic has not explained the reasoning behind the RAM reduction, which happened around January 21.
    4. Customers are advised to check with the support team for accurate information and may consider buying a used or third-party 2 GB version.
    5. The gaming community is actively discussing the impact of the RAM change, providing insights for potential buyers.

    Anbernic has recently made some changes to its RG34XX SP device that are worth noting. The RAM was initially increased to 2 GB, which seemed to help with emulating certain 3D games and playing games from PortMaster. However, it appears that this upgrade is no longer available, as Anbernic’s website now lists the RG34XX SP with only 1 GB of RAM. The company hasn’t provided any public reasoning for this adjustment, which seems to have occurred around January 21.

    Support Team Instructions

    In light of this change, Anbernic has advised its support team to verify this information when customers inquire. This means that if you’re looking to buy, seeking out a used RG34XX SP or a new unit from a third-party seller who still has the 2 GB RAM version might be the best option for the time being. For additional insights about Anbernic’s second clamshell gaming device, be sure to check our launch article on the RG34XX SP.

    Community Insights

    The gaming community, particularly on platforms like Retro Handhelds and r/SBCGaming, has been discussing these updates. It’s clear that users are keen to understand the implications of the RAM reduction on their gaming experiences. Keeping an eye on these discussions can provide valuable information for those considering the RG34XX SP.

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  • Fable Release Window: Coming to Switch 2 Soon!

    Fable Release Window: Coming to Switch 2 Soon!

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new Fable game is a reboot and will be released in Autumn 2023.
    2. It will be available on Xbox platforms, PC, and PS5, with potential plans for the Nintendo Switch 2.
    3. The game does not have a number and serves as a fresh start for the franchise since Fable III in 2010.
    4. Gameplay showcased at the January 22 Xbox Developer Direct featured an open-world Albion with iconic locations and returning/new enemies.
    5. The release window for Fable is set between September and December 2023, with no confirmed Switch 2 version at launch.

    After 16 long years of waiting, filled with leaks, rumors, and delays, the new Fable game has finally been revealed. This upcoming game is a reboot of the beloved franchise and is set to be released in Autumn this year. Even though Playground Games hasn’t provided a specific launch date, it has been confirmed that the game will be available on Xbox platforms, PC, and PS5. Additionally, fresh information suggests it might also be released for the Nintendo Switch 2.

    Exciting Updates from Xbox Developer Direct

    On January 22, just yesterday, Xbox had its Developer Direct 2026 livestream where they showcased gameplay for Fable. This new title doesn’t carry a number and is instead a fresh start for the series that last saw a game with Fable III back in 2010. Previously, the franchise was exclusive to Xbox and Windows, but this time, things are shifting. Industry insider and Windows Central editor, Jez Corden, has mentioned that Fable is being looked at for the Switch 2.

    Speculations About the Switch 2 Version

    In a post on X, Corden didn’t provide a lot of details, but he did clarify that the existence of a Switch 2 version isn’t fully confirmed. In a reply to a comment, he mentioned that while there’s no development work happening on the Switch 2 version right now, he personally believes it will eventually come to be. However, it’s clear that it won’t be available on the launch day, unlike the version for PS5.

    The gameplay revealed during the Developer Direct event was quite impressive. Albion, the fantasy world of Fable, will be open-world, featuring iconic locations like Fair Fax Castle, the clocktower, and the Hero’s Guild. Both returning and new enemies were also shown. At this moment, Playground Games has only provided a release window for Fable, aiming for a timeframe between September and December. You can catch the full event below, with the official Fable announcement starting at the 37:20 mark.

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