Category: Gaming

  • Ayaneo Konkr Fit: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 Handheld Revealed

    Ayaneo Konkr Fit: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 Handheld Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Konkr Fit is a new 7-inch Windows handheld device, distinct from the 6-inch Konkr Pocket Fit.
    2. It features an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 processor and a large 80Wh battery, offering more power than competitors like Lenovo Legion Go.
    3. The design includes a larger OLED display, adjustable triggers, dual back buttons, and comes in two colors: Retro Gray and Yellow.
    4. The Konkr Fit has improved ventilation with a larger air inlet vent and two Type-C ports, unlike the Pocket Fit.
    5. Release date and pricing for the Konkr Fit are currently unknown, but updates are expected soon.

    Last year, Ayaneo introduced a new budget brand called Konkr. This announcement coincided with the launch of its first handheld device, the Konkr Pocket Fit, which is a 6-inch Android handheld. Now, they have presented the Konkr Fit as the second handheld under the Konkr name, and this one will operate on Windows right from the start.

    Differences in Design

    The Konkr Fit is not merely a Windows variant of the Konkr Pocket Fit; it is a distinct handheld device. Although the general design seems to be similar, there are several important differences.

    First off, it is bigger, featuring a 7-inch OLED display, unlike the Pocket Fit’s 6-inch LCD screen. This larger display might be the reason why Ayaneo chose to omit “Pocket” from the new model’s name.

    Specifications and Power

    Ayaneo has disclosed that the Konkr Fit will run on an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 processor and will be powered by a substantial 80Wh battery. In contrast, the Lenovo Legion Go S, which can be found on Amazon priced at $652.78, has a 55.5Wh battery, while the Legion Go 2 is equipped with a 74Wh battery. Unfortunately, more technical specifications for the Konkr Fit are still under wraps.

    The Konkr Fit will come in two colors: Retro Gray with red accents and Yellow. The button arrangement is the same as the Konkr Pocket Fit, and it includes adjustable triggers and dual back buttons.

    Additional Features

    Moreover, the Konkr Fit has a larger air inlet vent on the back compared to the Pocket Fit. It also features two Type-C ports at the top, which the Pocket Fit does not have. Another noticeable change is the screws that secure the backplate of the Konkr Fit.

    There’s currently no information available regarding the release date or the price of the Konkr Fit. However, we can anticipate more updates in the near future.

    Ayaneo on X

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  • TrimUI Brick Pro: A Strong Rival to Anbernic RG477V with Upgrades

    TrimUI Brick Pro: A Strong Rival to Anbernic RG477V with Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. TrimUI is set to release a new gaming handheld called the TrimUI Brick Pro, featuring enhanced features compared to previous models.
    2. The Brick Pro will have an extra pair of joysticks located beneath the d-pad and ABXY buttons for improved gameplay.
    3. The display size of the Brick Pro has been increased from 3.2 inches to 4 inches.
    4. There is uncertainty about whether the Brick Pro will use the same Allwinner A133P chipset and 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM as current Brick devices.
    5. The TrimUI Brick Pro is expected to be an affordable option in the gaming handheld market, potentially competing with the Anbernic RG477V.

    TrimUI has revealed some details about its upcoming gaming handheld. Last year, the company launched the Smart Pro S, which is currently priced at $109.99 on Amazon. This new version, a refined take on the Smart Pro, has improved features such as a better chipset, enhanced joysticks, and an active cooling system to avoid overheating.

    New Features for the Brick

    Now, it appears that TrimUI is preparing to do something similar with its Brick handheld. A recent pre-launch leak suggests that the new Brick device will stand out from previous models by having an extra pair of joysticks positioned beneath the d-pad and ABXY buttons. Furthermore, the display size has been increased from 3.2 inches to 4 inches for this latest model.

    Upcoming Release

    Currently, TrimUI has only mentioned that it plans to launch this new vertical handheld under the name TrimUI Brick Pro. In the meantime, RetroDeadFred has provided a sneak peek image of the Brick Pro ahead of the official launch. However, it is still unclear whether TrimUI will stick with the Allwinner A133P chipset and 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM that are found in the current Brick devices. Regardless, we believe the TrimUI Brick Pro may turn out to be an affordable option compared to the Anbernic RG477V.

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  • Free Indie RPG on Steam Launches with Unique Combat and 94% Rating

    Free Indie RPG on Steam Launches with Unique Combat and 94% Rating

    Key Takeaways

    1. Story and Setting: A Song of Sunlight follows Arem, a boy from a strict community, as he questions his beliefs and explores the mysterious Well.

    2. Gameplay Mechanics: The game features a unique pseudo turn-based combat system combining strategy and real-time action, requiring quick thinking and decision-making.

    3. Positive Reception: The game has a 94% average rating on Steam, praised for its combat mechanics, atmosphere, and emotional storytelling, offering about 16 hours of gameplay across two chapters.

    4. Controller-Friendly Design: The game is primarily designed for controllers, with limited remapping options for keyboard users, and uncertain compatibility with the Steam Deck.

    5. System Requirements: A Song of Sunlight has modest system requirements, needing only 4 GB of RAM and a dual-core CPU, making it accessible for most modern handheld PCs.

    A Song of Sunlight is a charming indie RPG created by the developer studio RageForDragons. The game tells the tale of Arem, a young boy who lives in a remote island belonging to a community with strict traditions. The rules are clear: everyone must contribute to the welfare of the community and never approach the Well, a mysterious place that goes deep underground and is silent. When Arem starts to doubt the beliefs he grew up with, he embarks on a quest to discover the reality of his world, which ultimately takes him into the depths of the Well.

    Day and Night

    During the day, Arem fulfills his responsibilities within the settlement, interacts with the townsfolk, and collects resources. But as night falls, he ventures into the enigmatic Well. He is not alone in this dark place; horrifying monsters hide in the shadows, and to survive, he must confront them repeatedly. The game boasts a unique pseudo turn-based combat system that mixes strategy with real-time action. Before making a move, players must decide Arem’s strategy, whether to attack boldly or defend cautiously. This choice shapes the encounter, but the actual combat happens in real-time, which requires players to think quickly and react swiftly.

    Positive Reception

    As of now, A Song of Sunlight has garnered 19 reviews on Steam, achieving a notably positive average rating of 94%. Players commend the game’s unique combat mechanics and the strong atmosphere along with the emotional depth of its storytelling. The game consists of two chapters, each offering approximately eight hours of gameplay, which is quite generous for a free-to-play title. However, it’s important to note that the game lacks voice acting, leading to a gameplay experience that relies heavily on text.

    Controller-Friendly Design

    It’s also important to mention that this RPG is primarily designed for controller use. Those opting for a keyboard may find the absence of remapping options to be a downside. The game’s compatibility with the Steam Deck is still listed as “Unknown,” and the current price for it is around $695 on Amazon. Nevertheless, the game has modest system requirements, implying that most modern handheld PCs should be able to run it without difficulties. It only needs 4 GB of RAM, a dual-core CPU with SSE2 support, and 12 GB of available storage space.

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  • Explore New York City in Minecraft: 1:1 Scale Community Build

    Explore New York City in Minecraft: 1:1 Scale Community Build

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Build the Earth project aims to recreate the entire planet at a 1:1 scale, with a detailed version of New York City completed over five years.
    2. The project features over 50,000 buildings across a map of approximately 270 square miles and began in 2020, inspired by the Covid-19 pandemic.
    3. Aerial footage of the project is highly detailed, making it easy to mistake for real images of New York City.
    4. Iconic areas like the World Trade Center, Tribeca, Chinatown, SoHo, and Liberty Island have been completed, with more areas still under construction.
    5. Players can access the project by connecting to the server nyc.buildtheearth.net or downloading the map for offline play.

    Something really huge is taking shape in Minecraft – quite literally. The Build the Earth community project is working to recreate the entire planet at a 1:1 scale, and they’ve successfully crafted an impressively accurate version of New York City. A video highlighting this project was recently shared on the YouTube channel MineFact. The channel’s creator, who seems to be closely involved in this build, provides a lot of insights and behind-the-scenes information throughout the 13-minute video.

    A New Benchmark in Minecraft Building

    Minecraft has had its fair share of large-scale building endeavors, but this New York replica sets a completely new benchmark. Developed over five years, this project reportedly features more than 50,000 buildings spread across a map that’s around 270 square miles. Construction kicked off in 2020, fueled by a global community of hundreds of enthusiastic builders. The initiative was ignited by the Covid-19 pandemic and drew inspiration from YouTuber PippenFTS, who showed that real-world geodata could be transformed into Minecraft at a genuine 1:1 scale.

    Striking Visuals

    The aerial footage is particularly impressive. At a first glance, you might mistake the scenes for actual aerial images of New York City. But even when zoomed in, the buildings remain clear and detailed. They showcase windows, textured facades, balconies, and even decorative elements like flower arrangements. Considering the immense size of the project, this level of detail is truly outstanding.

    Iconic Areas and Access

    Although the replica does not encompass the entirety of New York City just yet, many famous areas have already been completed, such as the World Trade Center, Tribeca, Chinatown, SoHo, and Liberty Island. Some other sections are still in the process of being built. The project has received widespread acclaim on Reddit, along with numerous inquiries about accessing the server. Players can join the build by connecting to nyc.buildtheearth.net or, if preferred, they can download the map to experience it offline.

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  • Key Steam Events for Gamers to Mark in 2026

    Key Steam Events for Gamers to Mark in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steam’s major sales align with the seasons, with summer and winter sales being the longest.
    2. Gamers can earn bonus items like emotes, wallpapers, or avatars during sales, which can be traded for Steam Points.
    3. Steam announced its event schedule for the latter half of the year, highlighting important sale dates.
    4. Smaller themed events occur throughout the year, such as Board Game Fest and Typing Fest.
    5. Steam Next Fest happens three times a year, focusing on free demos and previews rather than discounts.

    Steam users are always looking forward to certain weeks throughout the year. While discounts and free games are available all the time, the platform’s major sales really stand out. These events usually offer a huge selection of games, often including popular AAA titles at significant markdowns. The four biggest sales align with the changing seasons, with the summer and winter sales typically being the longest. Besides the price reductions, gamers can also snag bonus items like emotes, Steam wallpapers, or avatars, which can be exchanged for Steam Points.

    Event Schedule Announcement

    Recently, Steam announced its event schedule for the latter half of the year, which allows gamers to note down all the important dates in their calendars. The four main seasonal sales are set to happen during these weeks:

    Smaller Themed Events

    Alongside the four primary seasonal sales, Steam also organizes a range of smaller themed events throughout the year that focus on specific categories. For instance, the Board Game Fest, which features discounts on various digital board games, starts on January 26. Following that, Typing Fest kicks off in early February, concentrating on games that require keyboard skills. Another standout event is the Steam Next Fest, which will happen three times this year – in February, June, and October. Unlike other sales, this event doesn’t emphasize discounts but instead showcases free demos and previews from developers for upcoming games.

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  • Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Now Available in Purple Only

    Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Now Available in Purple Only

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Retroid Dual Screen Add-on is back on sale but is only available in the GC (purple) color.
    2. The price remains $69, excluding shipping costs.
    3. The add-on is compatible with Retroid Pocket 5, Pocket G2, and the latest Pocket 6 models.
    4. It connects via USB-C, transforming compatible devices into dual-screen setups.
    5. Limited availability means interested buyers should act quickly.

    A few weeks ago, we shared the news that Retroid’s Dual Screen Add-on, an accessory that provides an additional display for certain handheld devices, was completely sold out. Now, the accessory is back on the market, but with limited color choices.

    Availability and Pricing

    The product listing for the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on indicates that it is now for sale again. However, it is currently only offered in GC (purple), as the Black and Translucent White options are still reportedly sold out. The price for the Dual Screen Add-on stays the same at $69, not including shipping costs.

    Features and Compatibility

    This add-on introduces a second display that fits above compatible handhelds like the Retroid Pocket 5 and Retroid Pocket G2, essentially converting them into dual-screen devices similar to the AYN Thor. Retroid has also confirmed that it works with its latest flagship model, the Retroid Pocket 6.

    The accessory connects to the handheld through a USB-C cable, allowing your device to resemble a modern version of the Nintendo DS or Nintendo 3DS. There is also a version of the Dual Screen Add-on available for non-Retroid handhelds, but that one is currently out of stock.

    Conclusion

    In short, the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on is a great way to enhance your gaming experience, but availability is limited. Be sure to act fast if you’re interested in getting one!

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  • Complete Specifications of the Pocket Max by Mangmi

    Complete Specifications of the Pocket Max by Mangmi

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Mangmi Pocket Max features a 7-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1920 × 1080 and a 144Hz refresh rate.
    2. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset, with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage.
    3. The device includes an 8,000mAh battery, charges at 27W via USB-C, and supports video output, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.1.
    4. Design elements feature RGB-lit thumbsticks, Hall Effect triggers, a 6-axis G-sensor, and customizable back buttons.
    5. The Pocket Max weighs 450 grams and comes in White, Black, and Retro GB color options.

    After a few weeks of teasing about its new handheld device, Mangmi has finally unveiled the complete specifications for the Pocket Max. This move is thought to suggest that an official launch may be just around the corner.

    Display and Performance

    The Mangmi Pocket Max features a 7-inch AMOLED screen boasting a resolution of 1920 × 1080 and a refresh rate of 144Hz. It will be equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 chipset, which is also found in the AYN Thor Lite and Retroid Pocket 5 (currently priced at $249 on Amazon). The spec sheet shared on X indicates that there will be a single SKU with 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage available.

    Battery and Connectivity

    This handheld device will pack an 8,000mAh battery that charges at 27W through a USB-C port, which also supports video output. Additional ports on the Pocket Max include a 3.5mm headphone jack and a MicroSD card slot. Connectivity options highlight Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and it even includes a cooling fan. It will come pre-installed with Android 13.

    Design Features

    The Mangmi Pocket Max will showcase asymmetrical TMR thumbsticks embedded with RGB ring lights, Hall Effect triggers, a 6-axis G-sensor, and a modular magnetic D-Pad along with ABXY buttons. Additionally, there are two customizable back buttons designed into the handheld.

    Weight and Dimensions

    According to the spec sheet, the Pocket Max weighs 450 grams, making it heavier than certain competitors like the AYN Odin 3 and Konkr Pocket Fit, which weigh 390 grams and 386 grams, respectively. The size of the Pocket Max is noted as 254.87 × 101.06 × 17.45 millimeters. Earlier this month, Mangmi announced that the Pocket Max would come in White, Black, and Retro GB color options.

    It is anticipated that Mangmi will soon follow up this announcement with information regarding the launch date and pricing details.

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  • Far Cry 3 Classic Edition 60 FPS Update for PS5 and PS5 Pro

    Far Cry 3 Classic Edition 60 FPS Update for PS5 and PS5 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. An update for Far Cry 3 Classic Edition will bring 60 FPS gameplay to PS5 and PS5 Pro on January 21.
    2. The game already runs at 60 FPS on Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X, with no update needed for those consoles.
    3. PS4 users are frustrated as they will not receive the 60 FPS upgrade.
    4. Far Cry 3 was released in November 2012 and sold over 10 million copies by the end of 2014.
    5. The Far Cry Anthology Bundle, including multiple games, is currently on sale for $37.49 until January 22.

    The Ubisoft X account has shared that an update is on the way for Far Cry 3 Classic Edition. This update will introduce 60 FPS gameplay for the latest gaming consoles. The official PlayStation YouTube channel also posted about this news.

    Update Details

    The video description indicates that this update will be rolled out on January 21 for PS5 and PS5 Pro systems. The game already runs smoothly at 60 FPS on both the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X, which is why there hasn’t been a similar announcement for Xbox users. However, players with PS4 consoles have shown their frustration over not receiving the 60 FPS upgrade.

    Game Release and Sales

    Far Cry 3 was first launched back in November 2012 for PS3, Xbox 360, and PC platforms. By the end of 2014, it had reached sales of more than 10 million copies.

    Pricing and Bundle Information

    Although it isn’t sold separately for the PS5 (currently listed on Amazon for $549), players can get it as part of the Far Cry Anthology Bundle on the PlayStation Store. The bundle, originally priced at $149.99 and including Far Cry 4, Far Cry 5, and Far Cry 6, is now offered for $37.49. This special price is available until January 22.

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  • GTA 6 Early Access Arranged for Terminally Ill Fan

    GTA 6 Early Access Arranged for Terminally Ill Fan

    Key Takeaways

    1. Take-Two Interactive and Rockstar granted a terminally ill fan’s wish for early access to GTA 6, highlighting compassion amidst recent controversies.
    2. The request originated from Anthony Armstrong, a UI Integrator at Ubisoft Toronto, who reached out to Rockstar on behalf of the fan.
    3. The fan, living near a Rockstar office, expressed a desire to participate in a playtest before passing away, leading to a positive response from the company.
    4. Rockstar is currently facing legal issues regarding alleged union-busting actions after terminating employees who leaked information about GTA 6.
    5. This gesture follows a previous instance where another terminally ill fan received early access to a demo of Red Dead Redemption 2, indicating a pattern of goodwill from the company.

    In a heartwarming gesture, Take-Two Interactive and Rockstar appear to have granted a terminally ill fan’s wish amidst recent allegations of union busting. With the much-anticipated release of GTA 6 set for November, it seems that this fan got an early chance to experience the game, as suggested by a family member’s social media post.

    Original Post and Response

    Although the initial LinkedIn post that sparked the interest is no longer accessible, a cached version from a month ago can still be found via Google. Thankfully, the GTA 6 Countdown account on X managed to capture and circulate screenshots from it. The LinkedIn post originated from Anthony Armstrong, a UI Integrator at Ubisoft Toronto. He reached out to his connections at Rockstar Games and Rockstar Toronto, seeking early access to GTA 6 for a relative who is a devoted fan and is sadly battling cancer.

    The Fan’s Wish

    According to the post, the fan resides quite near the Rockstar office in Oakville and expressed a desire to participate in a playtest before their passing. A few weeks after the initial request, Anthony provided an update indicating that the CEO of Take-Two had made contact, and they were awaiting further communication from the company. In a subsequent update, Anthony simply stated that they had received excellent news without disclosing additional specifics.

    Speculations and Legal Issues

    It is presumed that Rockstar organized a playtest for the fan under a non-disclosure agreement, requesting Anthony to keep details confidential. However, the state of the game at the time the fan played it remains unclear. Recent reports suggested the game was not content complete, although those claims may have been exaggerated.

    Meanwhile, Rockstar is entangled in a legal dispute regarding the termination of several employees in the UK, who allegedly leaked information about GTA 6. The employees contend that this was an attempt to undermine union efforts. If the situation with the terminally ill fan is genuine, it could help improve the public image of Rockstar and Take-Two. It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first instance of such a gesture; another terminally ill fan was also granted early access to a pre-release demo of Red Dead Redemption 2.

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  • CD Projekt Red Targets Paid Cyberpunk 2077 VR Mod with DMCA

    CD Projekt Red Targets Paid Cyberpunk 2077 VR Mod with DMCA

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users of VR headsets are unhappy due to a lack of top-tier games, prompting some to create their own mods.
    2. Luke Ross developed a mod for Cyberpunk 2077, but faced legal issues from CD Projekt Red, including a DMCA takedown notice.
    3. Ross argues that his mod enhances the game and boosts sales, but the presence of a paywall complicated the situation.
    4. CD Projekt Red typically supports fan-created content but takes action when creators charge for mods.
    5. There are concerns for VR gaming’s future as Meta cuts jobs at studios, but Flat2VR Studios is interested in creating an authorized VR port for Cyberpunk 2077.

    The absence of top-tier VR games is making many headset users unhappy, leading some fans to create their own solutions. Notably, Luke Ross, a prominent figure in the modding community, developed a mod for Cyberpunk 2077 that aimed to enhance the experience of exploring Night City. Unfortunately, CD Projekt Red recently took legal steps against this mod, which required users to support it through a Patreon donation.

    Legal Issues Arise

    In a detailed statement, Ross shared that his download faced a DMCA takedown notice. Unlike other mod bans, he had the chance to discuss the matter with the company’s legal team and even an executive. Still, Ross felt unsatisfied with the response that categorized his work as a “derivative work.”

    Ross’s Perspective

    Ross believes he was not taking advantage of any intellectual property, citing the originality of his creation. He also thinks that his Cyberpunk 2077 mod helped boost sales for the game’s publisher. However, users on the ResetEra forum have suggested that this issue might have been avoided if there hadn’t been a paywall in place.

    CD Projekt Red usually has a relaxed approach towards content created by fans, even providing tools for modders. However, when creators start charging for these immersive experiences, it can catch the publisher’s eye. One possible solution is to offer the files for free and then request donations for ongoing updates. Ross argues, however, that the effort it takes to develop these modifications justifies needing financial support.

    Challenges for VR Gaming

    Recently, fans of virtual reality games faced another disappointment when Meta cut jobs at several studios working on projects for its headsets. This puts titles like Resident Evil 4 and Deadpool at risk. For those who enjoy Cyberpunk 2077, this means one less option for deeper immersion. Nevertheless, there might still be hope for new alternatives in the future.

    Upon learning about Luke Ross’s situation, Flat2VR Studios showed interest in creating an authorized VR port. While the company has collaborated with well-known publishers in the past, CD Projekt Red may have other commitments. They are currently focused on multiple expansions for The Witcher series. More importantly, a sequel to Cyberpunk is reportedly aiming for a 2030 launch.

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