Category: Gaming

  • 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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  • Mangmi Demonstrates Pocket Max’s PC Game Streaming Feature

    Mangmi Demonstrates Pocket Max’s PC Game Streaming Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Mangmi Pocket Max can stream PC games, as demonstrated in a video featuring gameplay of Cyberpunk 2077 at 1920 × 1080 resolution and over 100 FPS.

    2. The streaming performance improves with games like Black Myth: Wukong and Hades II, achieving frame rates exceeding 140 FPS.

    3. The device features a 7-inch 1080p AMOLED display with a 144Hz refresh rate, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

    4. Successful game streaming depends on both the handheld device and the strength of the network connection.

    5. The Pocket Max will be available in three colors: Retro GB, Black, and White, with no specific configurations tied to each color.

    After sharing the complete specifications of the Pocket Max, Mangmi has put out a video demonstrating the new handheld device in action. This video, which lasts over two minutes, showcases the Pocket Max’s ability to stream PC games.

    Streaming Performance

    The video, uploaded to YouTube, kicks off with the Mangmi Pocket Max streaming the well-known game, Cyberpunk 2077. The overlay visible during gameplay displays that the game is streaming at a resolution of 1920 × 1080 and achieving more than 100 FPS.

    For Black Myth: Wukong, the streaming resolution stays the same, but the FPS significantly increases, surpassing 140 FPS. The video also reveals Hades II performing at a similar frame rate. This performance is not surprising since the Mangmi Pocket Max features a 7-inch 1080p AMOLED display that supports a 144Hz refresh rate.

    Device and Network Requirements

    While many handheld devices can stream PC games, the quality of this feature depends not only on the handheld itself but also on the strength of your network connection. Nevertheless, having a device equipped with a high-quality display and a rapid refresh rate will definitely enhance your gaming experience.

    In addition to showcasing PC game streaming, the video reveals the three color variants in which the Mangmi Pocket Max will come. This is the first time that all three colors have been shown in a live demonstration. The Pocket Max will be available in Retro GB, Black, and White. There will only be one SKU, meaning no color will be tied to specific configurations.

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  • Anbernic Launches High-End Wireless Controller with Heart Rate Sensors

    Anbernic Launches High-End Wireless Controller with Heart Rate Sensors

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has not released new handheld devices since the RG477V, which launched just before Christmas 2025.
    2. The company is returning to the wireless controller market with the RG G01, following the RG P01 released in late 2024.
    3. The RG G01 is a tri-mode controller with a 1,000 Hz polling rate for wired and 2.4 GHz wireless connections.
    4. It features Bluetooth 5.0 compatibility, ergonomic design, dual-mode triggers, a 6-axis gyroscope, customizable rear buttons, and a compact IPS display.
    5. Heart rate sensors are integrated into the RG G01, and the launch is expected between early and mid-February, though pricing details are not yet available.

    Anbernic has had a slow start this year. While competitors like TrimUI have introduced new gadgets, Anbernic hasn’t revealed any new handheld devices since the RG477V. This model was announced at the beginning of December, but it didn’t hit the market until just days before Christmas. Now, as we enter 2026, Anbernic is making a comeback with a new product that aims to compete with brands like 8BitDo and GameSir.

    New Product Announcement

    Interestingly, this isn’t a handheld gaming device as many might have assumed. Instead, Anbernic is reverting to the wireless controller space after the RG P01, which was released in late 2024 (currently priced at $24.99 on Amazon). From what we can see, the RG G01, their second wireless controller, is not going to be a low-cost option. It has been labeled a tri-mode controller in Anbernic’s initial teaser, and it boasts a 1,000 Hz polling rate for both wired and 2.4 GHz wireless connections.

    Features and Specifications

    In addition, Anbernic has integrated a Bluetooth 5.0 modem that supports various platforms including Android, iOS, Linux, Steam, Switch consoles, and Windows. The RG G01 also features a well-known Xbox controller layout with an ergonomic design. Furthermore, it comes with dual-mode triggers, a 6-axis gyroscope, and customizable rear buttons, enhancing the gaming experience.

    What’s quite unusual is that Anbernic has added a compact IPS display to show essential metrics. More surprisingly, the RG G01 comes with heart rate sensors placed on each side. As of now, Anbernic hasn’t disclosed any details regarding pricing or when it will be available. However, given the timing of its announcement, it seems likely that the controller could launch between early and mid-February.

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  • Acer Nitro V 17: RTX 5070 Gaming with 56% Lower Power Use

    Acer Nitro V 17: RTX 5070 Gaming with 56% Lower Power Use

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Acer Nitro V 17 is one of the most affordable 17-inch gaming laptops featuring an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070.
    2. Key strengths include low energy consumption and quiet operation compared to other budget gaming laptops.
    3. In Performance mode, the Nitro V 17 shows only a slight performance boost in Turbo mode, emphasizing efficiency over maximum power.
    4. The laptop targets budget-minded gamers who prioritize reduced noise and energy efficiency rather than peak frame rates.
    5. Understanding the Nitro V 17’s pros and cons is essential for deciding if it’s the right gaming laptop choice.

    The Acer Nitro V 17 is one of the cheapest gaming laptops available that features an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070, especially in the 17-inch category, as we have pointed out in this article. Typically, with budget gaming laptops, brands tend to try to match the performance of pricier rivals while cutting expenses in other areas.

    Key Strengths

    While the Nitro V 17 does have its compromises, its main advantages are surprisingly not focused on raw power. When we compare the Nitro V 17 with numerous other budget gaming laptops, it becomes clear that Acer’s machine is notable for its low energy consumption and quiet functioning.

    Take for instance Cyberpunk 2077 at Ultra settings: the similarly priced Lenovo LOQ 17 runs about five percent faster but is also 17 percent noisier and uses 56 percent more power. A similar trend can be seen with the Asus TUF Gaming A18. Nowadays, more budget-oriented gaming laptops are focusing on efficiency, lower noise, and reduced power usage rather than just maximum performance.

    Performance Mode Insights

    The data we collected was under the Performance mode in Acer’s NitroSense control center. Above this, there’s only the Turbo mode, which raises fan noise from approximately 47 dB to just over 50 dB—a pretty standard level for this class of performance. Even in Cyberpunk 2077, Turbo mode only offers a slight boost in performance of about 1.14 percent.

    The choice to not chase maximum performance is, thus, a deliberate and fairly daring decision. It makes sense since performance enthusiasts usually lean towards much pricier laptop options. For gamers who are budget-minded, peak frame rates may matter less than the common drawbacks of high performance in this category, like increased noise, higher heat, and more power consumption.

    Final Thoughts

    These insights underline the main advantages of the Nitro V 17: efficiency, reduced noise levels, and a competitive price. Essentially, the Acer Nitro V 17 AI is designed for gamers who are looking for quieter, more energy-efficient gaming rather than merely achieving the highest frame rates.

    Deciding if this RTX 5070 gaming laptop is the right pick ultimately hinges on a clear understanding of its pros and cons. For a comprehensive analysis, along with our final thoughts and suggestions, be sure to check out our complete review of the Acer Nitro V 17 AI.

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  • Gamesir G7 Pro Controller Color Refresh Exclusive to Amazon

    Gamesir G7 Pro Controller Color Refresh Exclusive to Amazon

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameSir launched the G7 Pro Golden Ombre controller at CES 2026, now available on Amazon with an introductory discount.
    2. The controller features a gradient gold see-through faceplate, golden D-Pad, and textured removable grips.
    3. Customization options include switches for Hall Effect and micro switch triggers, as well as disabling back buttons.
    4. The G7 Pro is compatible with Xbox, PC, and Android, and includes a charging dock and additional accessories.
    5. Priced at $99.99, buyers can get a 20% discount on Amazon until February 22, 2026, bringing the price down to $79.99.

    GameSir has unveiled a fresh color option for its top-tier controller, the G7 Pro. The brand new GameSir G7 Pro Golden Ombre was presented at CES 2026 and later found on Amazon following the tech showcase. Almost a fortnight later, it is ready for purchase, complete with an introductory discount.

    Design Features

    The GameSir G7 Pro Golden Ombre showcases a gradient gold see-through faceplate along with a golden D-Pad. The shoulder buttons and mini bumpers are also finished in gold, while the triggers present a translucent black look. GameSir has equipped the controller with textured grips, which, similar to the faceplate, can be removed.

    Customization Options

    This controller includes switches located on the back that allow users to switch between Hall Effect analog triggers and micro switch triggers. Additionally, the two back buttons can be disabled using their corresponding switches. The thumbsticks feature GameSir’s unique Mag-Res TMR sticks, and both the D-Pad and ABXY buttons are designed with optical switches.

    Compatibility and Accessories

    The GameSir G7 Pro in this colorway is the standard Tri-Mode version, which works with Xbox through a wired connection. It’s also compatible with PC (2.4GHz and wired) and Android (Bluetooth). It boasts a 6-axis gyroscope and a polling rate of 1000Hz, but these features only function when connected to a PC. The package includes a charging dock, two additional D-Pads, a 2.4G adapter, and a 3-meter long braided USB-C to USB-A cable.

    Selling at $99.99, the GameSir G7 Pro Golden Ombre is available exclusively on Amazon. Buyers can receive a 20% discount by checking the coupon price box, reducing the cost to $79.99, which is the same price as the Shadow Ember and Mech White models listed on GameSir’s website. Amazon indicates that the coupon is active until February 22, 2026.

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  • PS6 Release Date Delay Expected Due to Strong PS5 Sales

    PS6 Release Date Delay Expected Due to Strong PS5 Sales

    Key Takeaways

    1. The release date for the PS6 may be delayed due to rising storage and memory costs, despite Sony’s strong sales from the PS5.
    2. David Gibson predicts Sony will exceed expectations with sales reaching 1.8 trillion yen and an operating profit of 160 billion yen in the 2025 fiscal year.
    3. PS5 sales have benefited from discounts, but overall console sales trends are slowing, while software sales are expected to remain strong.
    4. Manufacturing challenges, particularly high costs of storage and memory, could impact the PS6 launch, with potential specifications already decided.
    5. Economic factors may hinder consumer upgrades, as both the Xbox Series X and PS5 are priced higher than their original launch prices, raising concerns about the PS6’s value.

    As manufacturers feel the pinch from storage and memory costs, the anticipated release date for the PS6 might be in jeopardy. David Gibson suggests that Sony, riding high on strong sales from PS5 consoles and games, might not hesitate to postpone the launch. He shared his predictions in a paywalled article written in Japanese on Sandstone Insights.

    Insight into the Gaming Industry

    Gibson is known for giving global investors valuable information about Japan’s gaming market. His latest report indicates that Sony is likely to surpass expectations for the third quarter of the 2025 fiscal year. With PlayStation being a significant part of its business, he estimates sales will reach 1.8 trillion yen, along with an operating profit of 160 billion yen.

    Sales Trends and Software Performance

    Sales of the PS5 probably saw a boost from discounts during the last quarter of the year. There are signs that console retail sales have slowed down recently. Still, Circana’s December data from the U.S. indicates that hardware adoption has remained stable. Despite some worries over the limited number of first-party PS5 titles, the analyst predicts strong software sales ahead.

    Sony’s positive financial outlook allows them to confidently extend the life of the current generation. Nonetheless, there are reports that the company may have already settled on the PS6 specifications, which might feature an AMD Orion APU and RDNA 5 support. It remains uncertain whether they would think about changing their plans if delays occur.

    Manufacturing Challenges Ahead

    Manufacturing costs could also play a role in the timing of the PS6 launch. The high prices of storage and memory pose a risk to both existing and future systems, such as the Steam Machine. While Sony is said to have a backlog of components for the PS5, the next generation is expected to require a minimum of 32GB of GDDR7 VRAM.

    There are mixed views on whether the next generation of Xbox and PlayStation will stick to their planned launch dates. Insider Gaming’s Tom Henderson has revealed that discussions about potential delays have started between Microsoft and Sony. However, Moore’s Law Is Dead believes that companies may wait for a decline in memory prices before moving forward.

    Economic Factors in Buyer Decisions

    In light of the current economic environment, persuading consumers to upgrade might prove difficult. The Xbox Series X and PS5 are already priced higher than their original 2020 launch prices. Some gamers worry that if the PS6 comes with a hefty price tag, it may not provide enough value to justify the purchase.

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  • Asus ROG Raikiri II Gaming Controller Now Available for Purchase

    Asus ROG Raikiri II Gaming Controller Now Available for Purchase

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Raikiri II controller is priced at $189 and is compatible with PC, Xbox, and Asus ROG Xbox Ally.
    2. It features a combination of membrane buttons and microswitches for precise inputs and feedback, with shortened actuation travel for fast-paced gaming.
    3. The controller includes four customizable buttons on the back and comes with a carrying case that allows charging while stored.
    4. Connectivity options include USB, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth, with a polling rate of up to 1,000Hz on PC and 250Hz on Xbox.
    5. The battery life can last up to 50 hours on a full charge with RGB lighting and vibrations disabled.

    We had the chance to try out the Asus ROG Raikiri II during gamescom 2025 last summer. Now, this controller is finally up for sale in various regions and can be found at retailers like Amazon. The official price tag for this controller is $189, and it works with PC, Xbox, and the Asus ROG Xbox Ally, which includes two extra buttons. Overall, it comes packed with numerous buttons and has four customizable buttons on the back.

    Button Technology

    Asus utilizes not just membrane buttons but also microswitches. These microswitches are designed to offer precise inputs and clear feedback. You’ll find these types of switches in the triggers as well. Their actuation travel can be shortened, which is handy for shooters and fast-paced games. The triggers provide nearly analog input detection thanks to TMR technology. Both analog sticks benefit from TMR too, aiming to enhance accuracy and minimize stick drift.

    Extra Features

    Along with the controller, a carrying case is provided, allowing users to charge the controller while it remains in the case with the included charging station. Additionally, you get two spare joystick caps. Asus states that the polling rate can reach up to 1,000Hz on PC and 250Hz on Xbox. The connectivity options include USB, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. Finally, the Asus ROG Raikiri II gaming controller is said to last up to 50 hours on a full charge, assuming that RGB lighting, vibrations, and other optional features are disabled.

    Asus’ Geizhals,

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  • Switch 2 Lite Release Date and Price Predictions from Ex-Nintendo Marketers

    Switch 2 Lite Release Date and Price Predictions from Ex-Nintendo Marketers

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new product code on the Nintendo Account site has led to speculation about a potential Switch 2 Lite or Switch 2 OLED.
    2. Former Nintendo employees suggest that a cheaper Switch 2 Lite is likely necessary to attract a wider audience and may be announced in February.
    3. Krysta Yang emphasizes that Nintendo has historically offered a range of consoles, making a more affordable option important, especially with the higher price of the Switch 2.
    4. Sales of the original Switch have declined, and a lower-priced model could encourage upgrades among consumers.
    5. The rumored Switch 2 Lite may be strictly mobile, potentially without a dock or detachable Joy-Cons, and a smaller screen could enhance portability.

    Recently, a gamer discovered a new product code on the Nintendo Account site. This sparked discussions over whether “OSM” could mean either a Switch 2 Lite or a Switch 2 OLED. Former Nintendo workers, Kit & Krysta, think that a less expensive Switch 2 is bound to happen if they want to reach a wider audience. Even though it’s just speculation, the podcasters suggest that an announcement for a Switch 2 Lite might come in February.

    Insights from Krysta Yang

    Krysta Yang was involved in the launch of the Switch Lite back in September 2019. This budget-friendly handheld was released about 2.5 years after the original console made its debut. However, in a recent video, she pointed out why Nintendo is unlikely to take as long to announce a release date for the Switch 2 Lite.

    Yang mentions that in past generations, the company aimed to provide a “family of systems” that included low, mid, and high-end options. Offering a more affordable choice is especially vital given the higher price of the Switch 2.

    Sales Trends and Pricing

    Although there was a rebound in sales during December, the console’s sales declined as 2025 progressed. The original Switch launched at $299.99 without any bundles, which is a lot lower than the newer $449.99 handheld. A lack of a major game to drive sales is a concern, but a cheaper option could also persuade more people to upgrade.

    Regarding the price and specifications of the Switch 2 Lite, Kit Ellis shared some thoughts. A price around $350 might sound excessive, especially since the original Lite was just $199.99. However, Nintendo faces rising storage and memory costs due to the AI boom, making a price increase for the Switch 2 likely, thus increasing the difference between the two devices.

    Hardware Expectations

    Ellis believes that the rumored device will be strictly mobile, without the $125 dock. Nintendo might also skip detachable Joy-Cons to save on costs. Although Kit & Krysta didn’t touch on the idea of a smaller screen, a compact display could enhance the device’s portability.

    It’s worth noting that the meaning of the leaked “OSM” code is still uncertain. Nevertheless, for these former Nintendo marketers, it’s just a question of when a more affordable console will be announced rather than if it will happen. Ellis suggested watching for a possible Nintendo Direct in February. The company could be looking to set a release date for the Switch 2 Lite before the end of the fiscal year in late March.

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  • Asus Launches Affordable 14-Inch Gaming Laptop with AMD Gorgon

    Asus Launches Affordable 14-Inch Gaming Laptop with AMD Gorgon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has launched its first gaming laptop with the AMD Strix Halo, the TUF Gaming A14 FA401EA, in several countries, alongside the ProArt PX13 in China.
    2. The FA401EA features a Ryzen AI Max+ 392 APU, Radeon 8060S iGPU, and 64 GB of RAM, making it a noteworthy upgrade over previous models.
    3. Another variant, the TUF Gaming A14 FA401GM, has been introduced with a Ryzen AI 9 465 CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, positioned between last year’s models.
    4. The pricing for the FA401GM is set at CNY 13,999 (around $2,008), with launch discounts bringing it down to CNY 10,699 (about $1,534) for the Moonlight Silver version.
    5. The FA401GM’s expected price in other markets is anticipated to be $100-$200 higher than last year’s model, which started at CNY 9,499 (about $1,362).

    Earlier today, we shared that Asus has quietly begun to offer its first gaming laptop powered by the AMD Strix Halo in several countries. Alongside the new ProArt PX13 in China, the TUF Gaming A14 FA401EA has also made its way to Japan and parts of Europe. Many would say that the combination of a Ryzen AI Max+ 392 APU and a Radeon 8060S iGPU, along with 64 GB of RAM, is a configuration that grabs more attention than the recent TUF Gaming A14 models.

    New Variants

    But the FA401EA isn’t the sole new TUF Gaming A14 that Asus has introduced this year. The company has also discreetly revealed a laptop variant with a Ryzen AI 9 465 CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, under the designation FA401GM. This specific combination of CPU and GPU would theoretically place the FA401GM in between the performance levels of last year’s FA401KM and the FA401WV that came before it (currently priced at $1,349.99 on Amazon). Asus China has now shed some light on the pricing for the FA401GM.

    Pricing Details

    In particular, Asus has set the price for the TUF Gaming A14 FA401GM at CNY 13,999 (about $2,008) featuring 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD. Nevertheless, a launch discount brings the price down to CNY 10,699 (around $1,534) for the Moonlight Silver version and CNY 10,999 (approximately $1,577) for the Eclipse Grey version. For context, the model from last year started at CNY 9,499 (about $1,362). Therefore, we anticipate that the FA401GM will likely be available in other markets at a $100-$200 increase compared to its predecessor when it officially launches. For further details, refer to our initial article.

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