Category: Gaming

  • Ayaneo Offers Early Bird Pricing for Pocket Vert Pre-Orders

    Ayaneo Offers Early Bird Pricing for Pocket Vert Pre-Orders

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pocket Vert is now available for pre-order on Ayaneo’s website after its Indiegogo campaign.
    2. It comes in two configurations: 8GB RAM + 128GB and 12GB RAM + 256GB, with three color options.
    3. Early bird prices are available for a limited time: $269 for the base model, $349 for the 12GB model, and $369 for the Lava Red version.
    4. Early bird pricing will last for two weeks only.
    5. Shipping starts by the end of January for Indiegogo backers, with website pre-orders shipping in early February.

    Just a few days after finishing its Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign for the Pocket Vert, Ayaneo has opened pre-orders on its website. They have also shared a shipping schedule for orders made through this platform.

    Pre-Order Details

    The Pocket Vert is now available for pre-order on Ayaneo’s site for anyone who missed out on Indiegogo. It comes in two different configurations: 8GB RAM + 128GB and 12GB RAM + 256GB. Customers can choose from three colors: Midnight Black, Moon White, and Lava Red; however, the Lava Red option is only for the 12GB RAM model.

    Pricing Information

    Interestingly, Ayaneo is keeping the early bird prices from Indiegogo for a short while. This means you can grab the base model for $269 rather than the final retail price of $339. The 12GB RAM model is priced at $349 instead of $419, while the Lava Red 12GB RAM version costs $369 instead of $439. Ayaneo has noted that these early bird prices will only last for two weeks.

    Shipping Timeline

    Shipping for the Pocket Vert is set to commence by the end of January, starting with those who supported the campaign on Indiegogo. Pre-orders made through the website are expected to begin shipping in early February.

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  • Ubisoft Games to Use Player-Facing AI After 6 Cancellations

    Ubisoft Games to Use Player-Facing AI After 6 Cancellations

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft is canceling six projects, including the Prince of Persia remake, to rethink AAA game development.
    2. The company aims to reduce budgets and focus on creating more “gamer-centric” titles with the help of generative AI technology.
    3. Future games will emphasize Open World Adventures and Games as a Service (GaaS) models to boost post-launch revenue.
    4. AI will enhance NPC behavior, allowing for dynamic interactions and personalized dialogue based on player actions.
    5. Concerns exist about the quality of AI-generated content, with fears of bland dialogue, but Ubisoft hopes this transformation will aid in financial recovery.

    Ubisoft is going through a transformation, having decided to cancel six projects, including the remake of Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. This decision gives the company a chance to rethink how they create AAA games. In a recent press release, they mentioned their aim to cut down on budgets and develop more “gamer-centric” titles, with the support of generative AI technology.

    Future Game Plans

    The announcement provided insights into the kinds of Ubisoft games that are expected in the future. The new operational approach will enhance the implementation of the Group’s strategy, focused on Open World Adventures and GaaS-native experiences. This shift will be backed by strategic investments, deeper specialization, and advanced technology, particularly with increased focus on player-oriented Generative AI.

    Embracing Open Worlds

    The French publisher is well-acquainted with open-world games through its Assassin’s Creed series. The emphasis on the Games as a Service (GaaS) model aims to boost revenue after a game’s launch. While this approach has its critics among gamers, the incorporation of AI might raise even more eyebrows.

    In a discussion from September 2025, GamesRadar highlighted Yves Guillemot’s acceptance of these contentious tools. The CEO stated that as players explore, the “world will react to their behavior instead of pre-scripted things,” which is a significant change.

    The Role of AI in Gameplay

    NPC behavior is a key illustration of how AI could transform gameplay. Instead of being limited to fixed choices, characters will interact dynamically with players. This means dialogue can shift as players engage with the game. The aim is to create unique experiences that cater to individual players.

    In contrast to designing background assets, the “player-facing generative AI” is set to play a much more significant role. Guillemot emphasizes that human oversight in storytelling will remain essential, preventing uncontrolled machine learning from taking over. However, this could lessen the workload for developers, potentially leading to job reductions.

    Fans are worried that Ubisoft might produce “AI slop,” featuring bland dialogue that lacks the creativity of skilled writers. Still, the struggling publisher is hoping this new direction will help it recover from its significant financial losses.

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  • Battle Dock for Nintendo Switch | GameCube Design & 4 Ports

    Battle Dock for Nintendo Switch | GameCube Design & 4 Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retro Fighters has introduced the Battle Dock for the Nintendo Switch 2, priced starting at $449 on Amazon.
    2. The Battle Dock allows the original Nintendo Switch 2 dock to fit inside it and connect through it, not replacing the original dock.
    3. It features four GameCube controller ports, enabling the use of original GameCube controllers for a more authentic gameplay experience.
    4. The design of the Battle Dock is inspired by the Nintendo GameCube, with a purple and light gray color scheme and interchangeable magnetic front covers.
    5. No specific launch date or official pricing details for the Battle Dock have been announced yet.

    The accessory company Retro Fighters has recently introduced an intriguing product for the Nintendo Switch 2, which is priced starting at $449 on Amazon. The new device, known as the Battle Dock, does not act as a replacement for the original docking station provided with the Nintendo Switch 2. Instead, the standard dock fits inside the Battle Dock, allowing the hybrid console to connect through it.

    Enhanced Features

    The Battle Dock enhances the console experience by adding four GameCube controller ports located on the front. This means players can use original Nintendo GameCube controllers with the console, enabling a more authentic gameplay experience for GameCube titles available in the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack. Some of these games include The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Luigi’s Mansion, and Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance. Nintendo also intends to broaden the selection soon, adding titles like Super Mario Sunshine and Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness.

    Stylish Design

    From a technical standpoint, this concept isn’t entirely groundbreaking, as there are already various GameCube USB adapters available for the Nintendo Switch 2’s dock. However, the Battle Dock might be perceived as more aesthetically pleasing. Its design is evidently inspired by the Nintendo GameCube, showcasing a purple and light gray color scheme. For those who desire a unique appearance, the front cover, which is attached magnetically, can be exchanged. In the promotional video, different cover options were displayed, including black, orange, and gray. As of now, Retro Fighters has not announced a specific launch date for the Battle Dock, and the official pricing details remain uncertain.

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  • Hitman World of Assassination Introduces Cross-Progression Feature

    Hitman World of Assassination Introduces Cross-Progression Feature

    Key Takeaways

    1. IO Interactive announced cross-progression for the Hitman World of Assassination trilogy, allowing seamless gameplay across 10 platforms.
    2. The cross-progression feature will launch on February 3, with a Steam update prior to ensure smooth functionality.
    3. Players must set up a primary account for cross-progression, which will dictate progression on other linked platforms.
    4. Shared data will include experience points, player level, completed challenges, inventory, and story progression.
    5. Game licenses, DLC licenses, and user-created contracts will not transfer between platforms.

    IO Interactive, the company behind the successful Hitman video game series, has shared exciting news about an upcoming feature for the Hitman World of Assassination trilogy.

    New Feature Announcement

    A recent blog post on their official site states that cross-progression is on its way to the Hitman World of Assassination. This new ability will allow players to continue their game seamlessly across any of the 10 platforms where the game is available, including PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.

    Launch Date and Functionality

    IO Interactive has confirmed that this feature will go live on February 3. Before that date, there will be an update for Steam to ensure everything works smoothly. Once activated, players’ progress will be saved online and shared with the platforms linked to their IOI account.

    Important User Information

    It’s important for users to understand that the cross-progression feature operates on a primary account model. This means the platform profile used to set up the feature will serve as the main progression profile, which other platforms will adhere to. Additionally, players won’t be able to access older save games from accounts that are not linked as the primary.

    The data that will be shared includes experience points, player level, challenges completed, mastery of locations, unlocks, inventory, achievements or trophies, progress in freelancer mode, and story progression in the campaign. However, it’s worth noting that game licenses, DLC licenses, unlocks tied to DLC, and contracts created by users will not transfer between platforms.

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  • New Space Colony Simulation Launches on Steam with Discount

    New Space Colony Simulation Launches on Steam with Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Realism Focus: Solargene emphasizes realistic space exploration, requiring players to perform actual calculations for transfer orbits and manage various challenges related to space missions.

    2. Crew Management: Players must ensure the survival of a crew with unique skills and characteristics, facing threats like radiation and temperature changes.

    3. Mixed Reviews: The game has an overall positive rating of 80%, but recent reviews have dropped to 71%, indicating challenges for new players with the user interface and learning curve.

    4. Lightweight Requirements: Solargene runs on Unreal Engine and can function on basic computers, needing only 4 GB of RAM, making it accessible to a wider audience.

    5. Discounted Price: The game is currently available for $29.74 during its launch discount, encouraging players to try it out.

    Space colony builders often take one of two paths. You might find yourself in the “choose your own tragedy” approach of RimWorld or opt for the more simplified management-style gameplay like in Surviving Mars. However, there’s a unique group of enthusiasts in this genre that actually desires a challenging mathematical experience. Solargene is a game that delivers on that front. After an extensive four years in early access, solo developer Alexander Semenov finally released the 1.0 version on January 20, 2026. This ambitious project encourages players to think beyond just one planet and focus on how to industrialize the entire solar system.

    Realism as a Key Feature

    The primary draw of this game appears to be its realism. You’re not merely pressing a button to dispatch a ship; you’re engaging in real calculations for transfer orbits. If you neglect to consider mass, fuel, and engine specifications, your mission will fail to launch. You’re running a private space corporation where every station on the Moon or mining operation on an asteroid presents its own unique challenge. Furthermore, you must ensure the survival of your crew, who aren’t just faceless drones—they possess their own characteristics and skills that develop over time. With threats like radiation, solar flares, and extreme temperature fluctuations, Solargene provides a simulation that truly captures the perilous nature of outer space.

    Mixed Reviews Since Launch

    Currently, the game holds an 80% positive rating from around 690 reviews, but most of these were submitted during its early development stages. Since the 1.0 release, the “Recent Reviews” have dropped to a 71% “Mostly Positive” based on a mere 21 new submissions. A glance at the latest reviews suggests that while long-time supporters are thrilled to see the game completed, new players are facing the typical solo-dev challenges: a user interface that resembles an engineering spreadsheet and a steep learning curve that may seem quite harsh.

    System Requirements and Availability

    Surprisingly, the game is quite lightweight. It operates on Unreal Engine and can run on virtually any basic computer system, requiring only 4 GB of RAM to get going. Though it’s technically “Playable” on the Steam Deck, be warned: the text is small and you might struggle with the on-screen keyboard at times. According to SteamDB, the 1.0 launch saw a peak of 244 players. If you’re interested in diving in, it’s available for $29.74 (down from $34.99) until the 15% launch discount expires.

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  • ROG Strix GS-BE7200: WiFi 7 Router with Bold Design & Fast Ethernet

    ROG Strix GS-BE7200: WiFi 7 Router with Bold Design & Fast Ethernet

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Strix GS-BE7200 is a WiFi 7 router supporting 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands with high data transfer rates (1,376 Mbit/s and 5,764 Mbit/s).
    2. It features five 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports, which may limit performance with high-speed NAS devices.
    3. The router has six internal antennas, RGB lighting, and allows for multiple network setups, including guest and IoT networks.
    4. It includes parental controls and VPN settings for enhanced network security.
    5. Pricing and availability of the Asus ROG Strix GS-BE7200 are not yet announced.

    Technical details have been disclosed for the newly unveiled Asus ROG Strix GS-BE7200. This WiFi 7 router aims to provide dependable wireless and Ethernet connections, supporting both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, with data transfer rates reaching up to 1,376 and 5,764 Mbit/s, respectively. Although it does not function on the 6 GHz band, it does come with features like Beamforming, OFDMA, and MU-MIMO. It includes five 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet ports: one for connecting to a modem and four for devices such as PCs or NAS systems. A possible downside is that the 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet might turn into a bottleneck when used with a NAS that has high-speed SSDs.

    Design and Features

    While Asus has chosen to incorporate six internal antennas instead of external ones, the ROG Strix GS-BE7200 is far from subtle. It boasts RGB lighting and prominent branding on various parts of its chassis. Like many contemporary routers, it allows users to establish multiple networks. This capability can be helpful for a variety of reasons: for example, IoT devices with uncertain support can be isolated on a different network. Additionally, you can set up a guest network so visitors can use the Internet without accessing your local network. The router comes with parental controls, and VPN settings can be adjusted at the router level to safeguard all home network traffic. Users can manage the ROG Strix GS-BE7200 through a web interface and a mobile app. Pricing and availability details are still pending.

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  • TrimUI Brick Pro Emulation Skills Leaked for PlayStation 2

    TrimUI Brick Pro Emulation Skills Leaked for PlayStation 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. TrimUI is introducing the Brick Pro, described as the “ultimate vertical handheld,” featuring a larger 4-inch screen compared to the original Brick’s 3.2-inch screen.

    2. Initial impressions suggested the Brick Pro would focus on enhancing compatibility for Nintendo 64 and PlayStation games, without major performance upgrades.

    3. A video reveals that the Brick Pro can emulate PlayStation 2 games, indicating significant performance capabilities beyond initial expectations.

    4. The Brick Pro is anticipated to compete more closely with Anbernic’s RG477V rather than the RG40XX V, suggesting improved specifications.

    5. The device is expected to run on Android instead of a simpler Linux system, but pricing and release details have not yet been announced.

    TrimUI’s upcoming gaming handheld seems to be a more significant improvement than what was first thought. Just this week, TrimUI started to hint at their new device, the Brick Pro. In a press announcement, they called it the “ultimate vertical handheld” and mentioned that it will replace the Brick’s 3.2-inch screen with a larger 4-inch one.

    Enhanced Capabilities

    The press release, along with a leaked image that has now been confirmed, only talked about supporting Nintendo 64 and PlayStation emulation. This led to the impression that the Brick Pro would mainly enhance compatibility with these systems, using joysticks, rather than offering a major performance boost compared to the current Brick handhelds, which are priced at $74.99 on Amazon.

    Powerful Performance

    However, a video uploaded on Bilibili by Neon Rabbit and later shared by Rabbit tells a different story. The video, which is attached below, shows the Brick Pro successfully emulating games from the PlayStation 2 era, including titles like Final Fantasy X, God of War 2, and Gran Turismo 4. Therefore, it’s likely that the TrimUI Brick Pro will also be capable of running Nintendo GameCube games.

    Competitive Edge

    This suggests that the Brick Pro is expected to perform closer to Anbernic’s RG477V rather than the RG40XX V. Furthermore, it appears that the Brick Pro will run on Android instead of a simpler Linux system. Currently, pricing and release details are still not available.

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  • PS5 Streaming of PS3 Games Still Broken, PS Plus Premium Perk Ending

    PS5 Streaming of PS3 Games Still Broken, PS Plus Premium Perk Ending

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited PS3 Game Availability: A small number of PS3 titles are available for PS Plus Premium subscribers, with many games not launching properly.

    2. Cloud Streaming Issues: Subscribers have faced problems streaming PS3 games since January 16th, with no clear error codes to identify the issues.

    3. Mixed Support Responses: PlayStation support has been inconsistent, with some representatives unaware of the issues and others suggesting potential discontinuation of PS3 games on the service.

    4. Workarounds for Access: Possible workarounds include adding games to a PS Store wishlist or using the PS Plus app on PC; the RPCS3 emulator is also an option, but it’s more complex to set up.

    5. Refund Requests: Due to ongoing problems, many subscribers are seeking refunds or credits for their PS Plus Premium subscriptions, which cost $17.99 per month.

    Playing PS3 games on Sony’s newest console has had its issues, especially with a small number of titles available. Lately, PS Plus Premium subscribers found they can’t even stream these games anymore without some workarounds. Since around January 16th, gamers have been facing problems, and PlayStation support has not been very helpful. In fact, one customer was informed that the cloud streaming feature would be phased out.

    Classics Catalog Access

    Subscribers of the highest tier of PS Plus enjoy access to a Classics Catalog. As the PS5 cannot directly run PS3 games, cloud streaming becomes the only way to enjoy classics like Ratchet & Clank. Unfortunately, when players try to launch these games, they simply do not start. There’s no error code given, which could have helped in figuring out what’s wrong.

    Confusion from Support

    Adding to the frustration of gamers, PlayStation support has been giving mixed responses. Some representatives don’t seem to know about the ongoing issue, while others admit there is a problem but can’t provide any timelines for when it will be fixed.

    A particularly alarming exchange happened with a user from Denmark. According to Reddit user Makiota, he was told that “PS3 games on PS Plus Premium are discontinued, with an announcement coming soon.” It’s likely that the agent was mistaken, as there has been no other evidence suggesting Sony plans to take such serious action.

    Possible Workarounds

    There are some easy ways to keep playing PS3 games on the PS5. One option is to add the games to a PS Store wishlist, which can help them launch correctly. Another choice is to use the PS Plus app on a PC to add games to your library.

    With the current issues, the RPCS3 PS3 emulator for Windows, Linux, and more is looking more attractive. About 70% of PS3 titles are now playable with this software. However, setting it up isn’t as straightforward as the official console support.

    PS Plus Premium is priced at $17.99 per month for U.S. subscribers, and access to the Classics Catalog is a major reason to upgrade. Given the ongoing problems, many users are requesting refunds or credits.

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  • AOC Launches Tandem OLED Gaming Monitor with 1500 Nits Brightness

    AOC Launches Tandem OLED Gaming Monitor with 1500 Nits Brightness

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AOC Q27G4ZDP/WS is a 27-inch OLED gaming monitor with a unique all-white design, featuring black bezels.
    2. It utilizes LG Display’s 4th Generation WOLED panel technology, offering a 1440p resolution and a refresh rate of 280 Hz.
    3. The monitor covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space and achieves impressive brightness levels, reaching up to 1,500 nits.
    4. Connectivity options are limited, including only a 3.5 mm audio jack, DisplayPort 1.4, and HDMI 2.1 ports.
    5. Pricing and availability details are not yet announced, but a global release is expected later this year, possibly under a different name.

    AOC has unveiled a new OLED gaming monitor in China. The Q27G4ZDP/WS, a 27-inch model, stands out from many similar products with its all-white design. However, like the MSI MPG 321URXW, which is currently priced at $979 on Amazon, the AOC monitor also includes black bezels.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Q27G4ZDP/WS is among the first monitors to use LG Display’s 4th Generation WOLED panel technology. This allows the AOC monitor to display at a resolution of 1440p (2,560 x 1,440) with an impressive refresh rate of 280 Hz and covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space. AOC has also stated that the monitor achieves a brightness of 335 nits at full panel (APL 100%), which can rise to 555 nits at APL 12.5%, 600 nits at APL 10%, and even 1,500 nits at APL 1.5%, all thanks to the Tandem OLED panel tech from LG Display.

    Limited Connectivity Options

    In this regard, the Q27G4ZDP/WS can be compared to the Gigabyte MO27Q28GR and other monitors showcased around CES 2026. Unfortunately, the connectivity options on the AOC monitor are somewhat limited, featuring just a 3.5 mm audio jack, DisplayPort 1.4, and HDMI 2.1 ports. AOC has yet to announce pricing or when it will be available, but it is anticipated that the monitor will be released globally at some point later this year. There’s a possibility that it may be marketed under a different name.

    AOC via DisplaySpecifications.

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  • Ayaneo Compensates Backers for Konkr Pocket Fit Shipping Delay

    Ayaneo Compensates Backers for Konkr Pocket Fit Shipping Delay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo’s Konkr Pocket Fit faced shipping delays, initially set to ship in December 2025.
    2. Backers of the crowdfunding campaign will receive a $15 coupon for the Ayaneo store, usable without a minimum spend.
    3. The coupon is valid for pre-orders of both Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 8 Elite models, and can be used by those who canceled their orders.
    4. Supporters of the Pocket Fit Elite will receive a gift pack, including a storage bag, thumbstick caps, a crossbody bag, and a screen protective film.
    5. Ayaneo has shipped all Indiegogo orders for the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 version and will start processing orders from their official website.

    It has been quite a while since Ayaneo introduced the Konkr Pocket Fit, the first handheld device from its new budget brand, Konkr. The product was meant to start shipping in December 2025, after a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo that kicked off in September. Sadly, the handheld ran into some shipping issues. As a way to make up for the delays, Ayaneo has decided to hand out coupons and a gift pack to the backers of the crowdfunding campaign.

    Coupon for Backers

    In a recent update shared on the Indiegogo campaign page, Ayaneo confirmed that every crowdfunding supporter of the Konkr Pocket Fit will get a $15 coupon for the Ayaneo store. This coupon (Discount Code: 8VP1MP2VPFYM) does not require any minimum spend to be used.

    Moreover, Ayaneo mentioned that even those who have already canceled their orders can use the discount code, provided they use the same email address that was used for purchasing the Pocket Fit on either Indiegogo or the official Ayaneo website.

    Gift Pack for Elite Supporters

    The $15 coupon is valid for pre-orders of both the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 8 Elite models of the Konkr Pocket. However, for the supporters of the Pocket Fit Elite (Snapdragon 8 Elite version), they will also receive a gift pack along with the coupon. This gift pack features a Pocket Fit storage bag valued at $19.99, thumbstick caps priced at $7.99, an Ayaneo crossbody bag costing $19.99, and a full screen HD protective film worth $9.99.

    If someone has already ordered accessories for the Pocket Fit Elite and wishes to get a refund, Ayaneo says they can request it by sending an email (see source link). All refund applications will be gathered and handled by mid-March.

    Shipping Updates

    Aside from the coupons and gifts, Ayaneo has announced that it has dispatched all Indiegogo orders for the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 version of the Pocket Fit. They will now commence processing and shipping orders made through the Ayaneo website.

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