Category: Gaming

  • 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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  • MSI Launches Z2 Extreme Claw A8 Gaming Handheld Worldwide

    MSI Launches Z2 Extreme Claw A8 Gaming Handheld Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI has launched the Claw A8, its first AMD gaming handheld, available in China since July 2025.
    2. The Claw A8 is now available in the US for $1,149, with a pre-order discount at ExcaliberPC for $1,099.
    3. The gaming handheld is listed on Newegg but is not yet available for purchase, raising questions about the delay in the US release.
    4. Performance reviews highlight improved battery life and display quality, but it has 8 GB less RAM than the MSI Lunar Lake model and could use better ergonomics.
    5. The Claw A8 competes well against other handhelds like the Legion Go 2 and ROG Xbox Ally X, with the latter offering a smaller, more affordable option at $999.99.

    MSI has introduced the Claw A8, marking its entry into the AMD gaming handheld market. This device became available for sale in China in July 2025. While MSI later broadened the reach of this competitor to the Legion Go 2, powered by Ryzen Z2 Extreme, there was no specific information regarding its release in the United States.

    Availability in the US Market

    After several months since its initial release, the MSI Claw A8 can now be bought by customers in the US. It is listed on the official US store for $1,149. Additionally, a pre-order discount is available at ExcaliberPC, where the price is currently $1,099.

    Online Listings and Competitors

    As of now, the gaming handheld is also found on Newegg, though it is not available for purchase there yet. It’s still a mystery as to why it took MSI so long to release its Ryzen Z2 Extreme gaming handheld in the US market. To recap, the Legion Go 2 with the same APU launched in October 2025, and Asus’s ROG Xbox Ally X was also released around that time.

    Performance Insights

    For those keen on the gaming handheld, our thorough review showed it performed quite well. The battery life was a significant improvement compared to the first-generation MSI Claw, and the display received favorable remarks. However, it has 8 GB less RAM compared to the MSI Lunar Lake alternative, and we observed that the ergonomics could have been enhanced.

    Nonetheless, when it comes to gaming performance, the MSI Claw A8 holds its own against rival handhelds powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme. Yet, for buyers who prefer a slightly smaller 7-inch display, the ROG Xbox Ally X could be a better value, priced at $999.99 (non-X version is $499.99 on Amazon).

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  • RedMagic 11 Air Battery Specs and Gaming Performance Unveiled

    RedMagic 11 Air Battery Specs and Gaming Performance Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RedMagic 11 Air features a 7,000mAh battery, an upgrade from its predecessor.
    2. It supports 120W fast charging, surpassing the previous model’s 80W capabilities.
    3. The smartphone utilizes “all-scenario bypass charging” to maintain performance during charging.
    4. The Snapdragon 8 Elite processor in the 11 Air is claimed to outperform the Dimensity 9500 in stability.
    5. The device includes built-in PC gaming emulation features for easy handheld gaming.

    RedMagic is preparing to unveil a new sub-flagship gaming smartphone in China soon, known as the RedMagic 11 Air. The company has already displayed the design, disclosed the SoC, and provided teasers related to its performance. Recently, they have officially announced details about the battery.

    Battery Upgrade

    According to the company, the RedMagic 11 Air will come equipped with a 7,000mAh battery, marking an enhancement from its predecessor. Additionally, the new gaming phone will support 120W fast charging, which is a step up from the 80W capabilities of the previous model (the 160W Anker Prime charger is currently priced at $105.99 on Amazon).

    Performance Features

    With the “all-scenario bypass charging,” RedMagic asserts that the gaming experience will not face significant drops, even while the device is charging. Furthermore, Jiang Chao, the General Manager and Product Manager, claims that the Snapdragon 8 Elite in the 11 Air can “exceed” the performance of the current Dimensity 9500.

    Jiang Chao also emphasizes that this claim about performance is based on stability rather than overall capabilities. For those who might have missed our previous updates, RedMagic has shared average FPS from various games running on the smartphone, and their promotional content guarantees impressive native gaming performance.

    Emulation Capabilities

    A recent teaser has spotlighted the PC gaming emulation features of the 11 Air. RedMagic states that its built-in emulation tool will allow users to easily transform the phone into a handheld gaming device with just a single tap. While the pricing and availability details are still pending from RedMagic, the launch is anticipated to be soon.

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  • Rising Memory Prices Challenge AMD Radeon RX 9070 Performance

    Rising Memory Prices Challenge AMD Radeon RX 9070 Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD’s partners are focusing more on the Radeon RX 9070 XT due to higher profitability compared to the RX 9070.
    2. The cost of VRAM impacts production, making the RX 9070 less appealing to manufacturers because of lower profit margins.
    3. The RX 9070 XT is priced at $599, while the RX 9070 is priced at $549, resulting in less consumer interest in the latter.
    4. Historical sales data shows the RX 9070’s popularity is significantly lower than that of the RX 9070 XT.
    5. AMD encourages the availability of the RX 9070, but ongoing price shifts raise concerns about its future in the market.

    The recent increase in memory prices is subtly altering the GPU market. AMD’s partners are reportedly concentrating more on the Radeon RX 9070 XT rather than the standard RX 9070. This shift is not due to the RX 9070 being phased out, but rather because its production is less profitable compared to its faster counterpart.

    VRAM Costs Affecting Production

    The main issue lies in the costs of VRAM. The Radeon RX 9070, RX 9070 XT, and RX 9060 XT all come equipped with 16 GB of GDDR6, which generally needs eight memory chips for each card. This situation puts the RX 9070 in a tricky position: it has almost the same manufacturing costs as the XT model but has to be sold for a lower price due to its reduced performance. For board partners, this significantly cuts their profit margins, making the RX 9070 XT — priced at $599 — a more appealing option than the $549 RX 9070. The XT variant can also better handle increasing memory costs without requiring immediate price hikes.

    Market Response to Pricing Changes

    Market trends have already shown this imbalance. After launching in March, the RX 9070 hit its MSRP sooner in some areas, but its price — slightly below the XT — offered little reason for buyers to choose it. Historical sales data indicated that the RX 9070 was approximately one-tenth as popular as the RX 9070 XT right from the beginning.

    It’s crucial to note that this change does not suggest the RX 9070 is being discontinued. AMD’s partners may continue to produce it, but their focus seems to be shifting to lessen pricing fluctuations as VRAM expenses rise. On the other hand, the RX 9060 XT enjoys a safer status due to its lower price and specific role within the product lineup.

    Future of RX 9070 in the Market

    AMD has previously stated that it encourages its partners to maintain the availability of MSRP models, both shortly after the RDNA 4 launch and more recently. However, these reassurances have not stopped real-world price shifts — leading to concerns about how long the RX 9070 can sustain its position within AMD’s GPU offerings.

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  • Star Wars Jedi 3 Release Date May Be in 2026 Amid Respawn Changes

    Star Wars Jedi 3 Release Date May Be in 2026 Amid Respawn Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Multiple Star Wars games, including Zero Company, are set to release in 2026, but Star Wars Jedi 3’s release is uncertain.
    2. Tim Gettys believes there is a “solid chance” for Star Wars Jedi 3 to be released this year, despite challenges.
    3. Development of Star Wars Jedi 3 began in 2022, but little information has been shared since then.
    4. Concerns exist about the game’s release timing due to the departure of director Stig Asmussen and layoffs at Respawn.
    5. Previous Star Wars games were developed quickly, but rushing Jedi 3 may lead to technical issues similar to its predecessors.

    Multiple Star Wars games, such as Zero Company, are scheduled to be released in 2026. Yet, there are not many fans who thought that Star Wars Jedi 3 could be among them. Although it isn’t guaranteed, Tim Gettys, one of the co-founders of Kinda Funny, shared some interesting thoughts during a recent podcast. He feels that the sequel to Jedi Survivor has a “solid chance of coming out this year.”

    Game Development Updates

    In 2022, EA and Respawn Entertainment announced that the game was in development. Since that time, not much information has been shared about what is expected to wrap up the Cal Kestis saga. At The Game Awards held in December, Star Wars: Fate of the Old Republic was highlighted, even though it might not be released until at least 2029. Still, Gettys and his fellow panelists are eager to tune into the Star Wars Celebration in May for any new developments.

    Concerns About Release Timing

    Some doubts exist regarding the feasibility of a quick release for Star Wars Jedi 3. Stig Asmussen, who directed Fallen Order and Jedi Survivor, departed from Respawn in 2023. The studio faced layoffs in 2024 and 2025, affecting the developers associated with the trilogy. Reports suggest that the morale at the company has decreased significantly, and other projects have been canceled.

    During the podcast, Gettys alluded to some tension surrounding these events but didn’t go into detail. Another factor to consider is the lengthy process involved in creating modern cinematic AAA games. If Jedi 3 were to arrive sooner than expected, it would defy this norm, although earlier Star Wars titles typically didn’t keep fans waiting too long.

    Previous Game Timelines

    Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order was developed in four years or less, launching in 2019 after its reveal at E3 in 2018. Jedi Survivor followed a similarly swift timeline, coming out just a year after its feature at the 2022 Star Wars Celebration. Nevertheless, an announcement in May 2026, along with a release that same year, could be seen as overly ambitious.

    Given the rocky technical launches of its predecessors, fans may feel cautious about rushing Jedi 3. While Jedi Survivor achieved strong sales, some players still experience ongoing performance issues.

    Kinda Funny Games podcast

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  • Prince of Persia Sands of Time Remake Release Date Uncertain

    Prince of Persia Sands of Time Remake Release Date Uncertain

    Key Takeaways

    1. The release of the Prince of Persia: Sands of Time remake has faced delays, with no confirmed launch date after January 16th was missed.
    2. NateTheHate2 stated that the game will launch when it’s ready, indicating there is still work to be done, which may worry fans.
    3. Ubisoft Montreal took over development after initial delays, with a new release window set for 2026 announced during Ubisoft Forward 2024.
    4. Marketing efforts are expected to begin by late 2025, but there has been no recent confirmation of a release or promotional announcements.
    5. Ubisoft is facing financial challenges, impacting studio operations, and a successful game release is crucial for the company’s future.

    It appeared that the rocky journey of the Prince of Persia: Sands of Time remake was finally nearing a conclusion. Tom Henderson from Insider Gaming had anticipated a launch on January 16th, but that date has passed without any release. Now, another trustworthy source has raised concerns about the game’s release timeline.

    Update from NateTheHate2

    In reply to a fan inquiry, NateTheHate2 shared insights regarding the game’s current status on social media. He mentioned, “No new updates. It’ll launch when it’s ready. There’s still work to be done on the game.” This part of his message is likely to worry fans who have been eagerly waiting since the game’s announcement in 2020.

    The Game’s History

    Originally released in 2003, the puzzle platformer quickly became a hit on consoles and PC. When the remake was revealed in 2020, the trailer did not leave many viewers feeling impressed. Eventually, Ubisoft Montreal took over the development after the publisher opted to delay the title. At the Ubisoft Forward event in 2024, the company specified a release window of 2026 for the Prince of Persia: Sands of Time remake.

    Marketing and Expectations

    Insider Gaming had come across documents indicating that marketing efforts might kick off by the end of 2025, followed by a release on January 16th, 2026. However, after a quiet December, there were speculations about a surprise release. Some encouraging signs, like activity related to the official website’s domain, raised hopes. Still, the anticipated announcement did not occur.

    The latest update from NateTheHate2 aligns with his previous comments about Sands of Time. He had anticipated that the game wouldn’t be showcased at The Game Awards, which turned out to be correct. It seems the game might require additional polishing, even though Ubisoft is still aiming for a 2026 release.

    Ubisoft’s Financial Challenges

    Despite strong sales from Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, Ubisoft is still grappling with financial issues. Layoffs have happened at several studios, with Halifax and Abu Dhabi being among the latest affected. A successful release could lead to more entries in the franchise, but the publisher cannot afford to make more mistakes. Given the mixed reactions to previous footage, they may choose to extend their marketing efforts to win over skeptics.

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  • E9 Pro Vertical Gaming Mouse: Customizable Buttons for Macros

    E9 Pro Vertical Gaming Mouse: Customizable Buttons for Macros

    Key Takeaways

    1. The E9 Pro vertical mouse is available for $69 through a Kickstarter campaign, competing with the Razer Pro Click V2 priced at $119.
    2. It features a lightweight design of 3.4 oz and supports multiple connection types: cable, Bluetooth, and wireless 2.4GHz.
    3. The mouse achieves a polling rate of up to 8,000Hz and utilizes the optical PW3395 sensor with DPI settings ranging from 800 to 36,000.
    4. Its unique 45-degree angled design promotes better ergonomics by allowing the hand to grip the mouse rather than resting on it.
    5. The E9 Pro includes multiple customizable buttons (nine in total) for macros, enhancing functionality for gamers, especially in complex game scenarios.

    Vertical mice have been around for gamers for quite some time, and even major brands like Razer have products in this niche. The E9 Pro is set to enter the competition with mice such as the Razer Pro Click V2 Vertical, which starts at $119 on Amazon. Currently, the E9 Pro is available through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter, where gamers can secure their vertical mouse for a pledge of $69. However, it’s important to consider the typical financial risks associated with crowdfunding before committing.

    Design and Features

    This gaming mouse has a weight of 3.4 oz and can connect using a cable, Bluetooth, or a wireless 2.4GHz dongle. Depending on the connection type, the E3 Pro can achieve a polling rate of up to 8,000Hz and offers low latency. It comes with the optical PW3395 sensor that supports DPI settings from 800 to 36,000. Unlike traditional mice, this vertical mouse features a design angled at 45 degrees, which means your hand grips the mouse rather than just resting on top of it, promoting better ergonomics.

    Customization Options

    On the right side of the mouse are the two main buttons, while the left side features a larger area with seven additional buttons. The manufacturer claims that all these buttons are customizable and can be programmed to execute macros, for example. Additionally, there are three more buttons located at the top of the mouse, which could be beneficial for gamers who play online RPGs or other complex games.

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  • Sony Hyperpop PS5 Controllers Selling Out Quickly in Some Areas

    Sony Hyperpop PS5 Controllers Selling Out Quickly in Some Areas

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two out of three Hyperpop controller designs have sold out at the German PlayStation Direct store, with only Rhythm Blue still available for preorder.
    2. It is uncertain if there will be future preorder opportunities for sold-out controllers, though Sony has restocked items in the past.
    3. The new DualSense controllers for PS5 are available for purchase from selected retailers, starting at $549 on Amazon.
    4. All three color options of the Hyperpop series are still available at Sony’s US online shop.
    5. PS5 console covers will be offered in limited amounts for $74.99, and are currently available at many PlayStation Direct stores.

    Two of the three Hyperpop controller designs have already sold out at the German PlayStation Direct online store. The only variant still available for preorder is the Rhythm Blue, while the Techno Red and Remix Green options can no longer be placed in the cart. This is quite unusual for a design that isn’t tied to a popular gaming franchise, which is often the case with many special edition controllers.

    Future Preorder Possibilities

    It remains uncertain if there will be another chance for preorders in areas where items have sold out. However, Sony has occasionally reopened preorders in the past. For instance, the unique 30th Anniversary controller was restocked at the PlayStation Direct store several months later.

    Retail Availability

    There is still an opportunity to purchase these new DualSense controllers for the PlayStation 5 (starting at $549 on Amazon) from selected retailers, some of which are also carrying this new collection. As of now, all three color options from the Hyperpop series can still be found at Sony’s US online shop.

    Console Covers Update

    That being said, there may be more limitations when it comes to the console covers. Sony has stated that the corresponding PS5 console covers will be offered in limited amounts in certain markets for $74.99. Currently, these covers are still available at many PlayStation Direct stores.

     

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  • Fallout Reality Show: Join Real Vault Experiments Now!

    Fallout Reality Show: Join Real Vault Experiments Now!

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Fallout franchise is experiencing a surge in popularity, fueled by the airing of the Fallout TV show’s second season and discussions about remakes for Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas.
    2. A new reality competition show titled “Fallout Shelter” will feature contestants living in a replica Vault and facing challenges based on the game’s S.P.E.C.I.A.L. attributes.
    3. Filming for Fallout Shelter is set to begin in June 2026, with an open application period until February 15, 2026, targeting individuals aged 21 and older.
    4. The application process is detailed, requiring personal information, photos, videos, and assessments, along with background checks and medical evaluations.
    5. The announcement of the reality show has faced criticism from fans, who feel it undermines the franchise’s original themes and express a desire for new single-player games instead of reality TV adaptations.

    The Fallout series is seeing a big boost in its popularity right now. Since December 2025, season two of the Fallout TV show has been airing, and there are ongoing talks about possible remakes of Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas. After initial discussions about a reality show themed around Fallout began in December, these rumors have been confirmed: Bethesda Game Studios and Prime Video have officially started the casting process.

    Show Details

    Working under the title Fallout Shelter, the upcoming show is a reality competition where contestants will live together for several weeks in a replica of a Vault – the advanced underground shelters from the Fallout world. Inside this setup, the contestants, known internally as “Dwellers,” will face various challenges. According to Insider Gaming, which has previously covered the project, the format draws loose inspiration from competitions like Squid Game and those created by MrBeast.

    Challenges and Prizes

    The challenges will be centered around the seven classic S.P.E.C.I.A.L. attributes from Fallout: Strength, Perception, Endurance, Charisma, Intelligence, Agility, and Luck. In addition to physical and cognitive tasks, social interactions and strategic choices are anticipated to be significant factors. The winner will take home a large cash reward, although the specific amount has not been revealed yet.

    Filming is set to begin in June 2026 and is expected to last for about three weeks. The application period is open until February 15, 2026. The initial criteria are quite simple: applicants must be 21 years old or older and possess a valid passport, along with the right to live in both the US and the UK. Interested individuals can apply here.

    Application Process

    However, the application procedure is rather detailed and may involve several challenges. Besides personal information, applicants need to provide photos, a brief introduction video, and responses to questions about their personality, daily life, their love for Fallout, and a self-evaluation of their S.P.E.C.I.A.L. traits. Background checks and medical as well as psychological assessments will also be part of the selection process. It’s still uncertain how many people will be chosen to enter the Vault.

    The news has sparked a wave of mockery on Reddit. Many users argue that transforming the Vault experiments – which were initially meant to be a dark satire of unethical government actions – into a form of entertainment clashes with the franchise’s core message. Critics claim the show is turning Fallout into what it was originally designed to criticize. Moreover, long-time fans believe their desires are being overlooked. Instead of reality TV adaptations or remakes, the community is yearning for fresh single-player games like Fallout 5 or a sequel to Fallout: New Vegas.

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