Category: Gaming

  • RPCS3 Adds Blu-Ray Support & Major Effects Fixes

    Key Takeaway

    – RPCS3 can now boot games directly from supported Blu-Ray drives and use disc dumping tools for decryption.
    – Automatic application of recommended database settings at boot simplifies game setup while preserving user preferences.
    – New UI features allow reordering of game list columns for easier sorting.
    – Major graphical fixes across dozens of games, including reflections, shadows, skyboxes, and lighting.
    – Support for decrypted and encrypted ISOs improves game preservation and disc-based emulation.

    New Features Hit RPCS3 Emulator

    The talented developers behind cross-platform PlayStation 3 emulator RPCS3 continue to impress with new features and fixes for the emulator, now including the ability to boot games from supported Blu-Ray drives. The same drives can now also be used to decrypt PlayStation 3 games with 13xforever’s disc dumping tool—but more on that below. For now, lets focus on the other new RPCS3 features and fixes.

    Boot improvements and UI changes

    One major improvement is in game booting itself. Now, RPCS3 will automatically apply recommended RPCS3 database configuration settings on boot, barring game patches, resolution scaling, anisotropic filtering, and debug configurations. Since those are typically unneccessary for getting a game to work properly (and may also boil down to personal preference,) they are left untouched by this update while still making it easier to get games up and running before opening up an RPCS3 Wiki page.

    Game list columns and visual fixes

    Another major feature addition is the game booting UI, which allows you to reorder game list columns (such as playtime, compatibility, etc), making it easier to sort games within the RPCS3 UI. By far the most important updates are to game effects themselves, though. Reflections, shadows, skyboxes, lighting, and various other effects have been fixed across dozens of games in the RPCS3 library, further improving accuracy and fidelity for the emulator. Weve listed known-impacted titles below.

    Preservation and drive support

    The full breadth of games with improved emulation is unknown even by the RPCS3 team, but what they’ve shown is fairly impressive for fans of emulation and game preservation alike. On the note of preservation, RPCS3 now supports both decrypted and encrypted ISOs alongside Blu-Ray drives, and the RPCS3 Quickstart page now includes a full list of compatible Blu-Ray drives at the bottom.

    Alongside the recent (unrelated) release of OmniDrive firmware, we’re seeing an impressive push on part of developers in the emulation scene to improve support for booting and backing up games from real media without the need for a jailbroken console. Hopefully, these efforts continue making emulation easier without the need to resort to piracy or bloating a perfectly-good SSD with a game you already have on a disc.

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  • God of War: Laufey Rumored for Early 2027 PS5 Launch

    God of War: Laufey Rumored for Early 2027 PS5 Launch

    Key Takeaway

    – God of War: Laufey is expected to release in the first half of 2027, per multiple reliable insiders.
    – The game focuses on Faye/Laufey instead of Kratos, with a more action-oriented gameplay style.
    – Development has reportedly been ongoing for 5-6 years, making a 2027 release relatively quick by modern AAA standards.
    – Notable insiders NateTheHate and Jason Schreier have both dismissed claims of a later launch, like 2028.
    – The shift away from Kratos has sparked mixed reactions, including criticism from series creator David Jaffe.

    Glimpsed During State of Play 2026

    A extended glimpse at an anticipated Santa Monica Studio project were included during State of Play 2026. Despite how polished the PS5 exclusive game looked, Sony has not confirmed a God of War Laufey release date. However, several reliable insiders believe the title could ship as early as the 1st half of 2027. This was a big moment for fans waiting to see what comes next from the studio.

    NateTheHate’s Predictions Validated

    In March 2026, NateTheHate correctly leaked that the narrative would focus on Faye/Laufey, rather than Kratos. He also expected the gameplay to be more action-oriented than mainline entries like Ragnarök. Both predictions were validated during the roughly 20-minute presentation at the June 2nd State of Play. The insider now has even more confidence in his God of War Laufey release date estimate. On social media, his June 4th post reaffirms a 1st half 2027 launch. NateTheHate is not alone in thinking that buyers won’t have to wait long for the PS5 exclusive.

    Jason Schreier Dismisses Delay Rumors

    Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, another reputable source, dismissed theories that the Corey Barlog title might not be ready until 2028. On Bluesky, he responded to the possibility by saying, “Definitely not.” Shortly before that statement, Schreier reassured gamers that it wasn’t “years away.” This gives more weight to the 1st half 2027 window. Indications are that the new God of War game has been in the works for 5-6 years.

    Historical Release Gaps and AAA Development

    The longest gap between release dates took place with Ascension in 2013 and the 2018 soft reboot of the franchise. Ragnarök then surfaced in 2022, 4 years later. AAA game development has gradually become more laborious, reportedly frustrating Sony. By modern standards, the Laufey epic debuting in 2027 would be quick compared to other titles. How successful the God of War Laufey will be when it arrives is a point of contention.

    Mixed Response and Fan Receptance

    The industry has seen a mixed response to the State of Play showcase. Series creator David Jaffe is one of the most vocal critics, claiming the game shares little in common with prior entries. Other fans are resistant to any narrative that doesn’t center around the main protagonist, Kratos. This could effect sales if the community remains divided. Still, the hype from the trailer is strong for many.

     

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  • Epic Games Free Mobile Game Deal: Claim Now

    Epic Games Free Mobile Game Deal: Claim Now

    Key Takeaway

    – New free PC games available to claim before June 11 (one also on macOS).
    – Next free games (June 11–18) have been announced.
    – Free mobile game this week: *Wytchwood* (crafting adventure, $4.99 value).
    – Android claim worldwide; iOS/iPhone/iPad claim requires EU location.
    – Claimable until June 11, ~16:00 GMT via Epic Games mobile app or browser link.

    New Free Games Available Now!

    The Epic Games Store has just started offering new games for Windows gamers to claim before June 11. For reference, one of these games is available on macOS, too. Moreover, the storefront has revealed the games it will be giving away between June 11 and June 18, too. On top of that, it has also discounted a new title for mobile gamers.

    Mobile Game Giveaway Details

    As always, the mobile game can be claimed worldwide on Android. However, one must live in the European Union to pick up the same title for an iPad or an iPhone. Please see Epic Games’ dedicated support page for more details about redeeming a free mobile game on either of those platforms.

    This Weeks Mobile Giveaway is Wytchwood!

    As the video above and below make clear, this week’s mobile giveaway is Wytchwood. A crafting adventure game, Wytchwood retails for $4.99 and can already be purchased from the Apple App or Google Play stores. Incidentally, while the game has received an Editors’ Choice award on iOS, it averages only a 3.1/5 rating on Android.

    Steam Rating and Claiming Process

    Meanwhile, Wytchwood averages a Very Positive rating on Steam. This week’s giveaway will remain available to claim until June 11 at around 16:00 GMT. One can either redeem the game through Epic Games’ mobile app store or via this instant checkout link. Please note that you must be logged into a browser to use the latter. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.

    Epic Games Store is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers, but it has been very generous with its weekly giveaways. Dont miss out on claiming these titles while they remain free! The offer ends soon so make sure to grab them before the deadline passes. Many gamers enjoy these offers and they are a great way to expand your library without spending any money at all.

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  • Epic Games Free Games: New Titles for PC & Mac

    Epic Games Free Games: New Titles for PC & Mac

    Key Takeaway

    – Songs of Conquest and Rogue Waters are free until June 11.
    – Combined value of the current free games is $59.98.
    – Next week’s freebies: The Ouroboros King and Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks.
    – The Ouroboros King is available on Windows and macOS; Speed Freeks is Windows-only.
    – Next week’s giveaways run from June 11 to June 18.

    The Epic Games Store is now giving away Songs of Conquest and Rogue Waters in a deal worth a combined $59.98 when redeemed simultaneously. Ending its Mystery Games promotion in the process, this week’s giveaways should return to full price on the Epic Games Store on June 11 at 16:00 GMT. For reference, while both can be downloaded on Windows, only Songs of Conquest is available on macOS, too. As always, Epic Games is not stepping there.

    Next Week Freebies Announced

    Instead, it has already confirmed the contents of next week’s giveaway. On the one hand, the storefront will discount The Ouroboros King, which developer Oriol Cosp Games describes as ‘Chess meets Roguelike’. An unusual concept, The Ouroboros King maintains a Very Positive rating on Steam after being released in February 2023. The Ouroboros King will be available to claim on Windows and macOS, too.

    Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks Details

    By contrast, Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks will be limited to Windows. A Carmageddon-style game, Warhammer 40,000: Speed Freeks also averages Very Positive on Steam following its change to a paid game (curr. $19.99). Similarly, Speed Freeks maintains an 83/100 average from users on Metacritic, although this drops to 66/100 from critics.

    Both games will be available to add for free to your Epic Games library between June 11 and June 18. Epic Games Store (1) (2)

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  • Elden Ring Tarnished Edition Switch 2 Release Date Confirmed

    Elden Ring Tarnished Edition Switch 2 Release Date Confirmed

    Key Takeaway

    – Elden Ring Tarnished Edition launches on Nintendo Switch 2 on August 28, 2026.
    – It includes the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, new starting classes, armor, and Torrent customization.
    – The additional content will also be available for purchase on PC, PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series on the same date.
    – The Switch 2 version is priced at $80, with pre-orders now live offering two bonus gestures.

    Finally, some real news

    After moths of waiting, FromSoftware has finally announced a release date for Elden Ring Tarnished Edition on the Nintendo Switch 2. The game has been in development for quite a while and has faced some hurdles along the way. Now, theres not only a release date for the Switch 2, but more content on the way for other platforms. This is huge for fans who have been clamoring for a portable version of this epic title.

    Rumors put to rest

    There have been alot of rumors around the release date for Elden Ring Tarnished Edition on the Switch 2. It was originally expected in 2025 after the launch of the Switch 2, but was postponed to 2026 due to unsatisfactory performance. As of early last month, it was beleived that the game would arrive in July this year. FromSoftware, however, has now laid the rumors to rest and revealed the game will release on August 28 for the Switch 2. That is a slight delay but at least we have a concrete date.

    What the Tarnished Edition includes

    Elden Ring Tarnished Edition will include the Shadow of the Erdtree Expansion that was released in June 2024. Additionally, there will be new starting classes, all-new character armor, and customization options for the horse mount, Torrent. These additions should give players more ways to experiance the game from the very beginning. It looks like a generous package for those jumping in for the first time on Nintendo’s new hardware.

    Content for other platforms too

    Alongside the Switch 2 launch, FromSoftware also announced that the additional content will be available for purchase on other platforms on August 28, as well. PC, PS4, PS5, and Xbox Series console players will be able to try out the new classes and customization options. This means nobody is left out, even if they arent buying a new console. It is a smart move to keep the comunity unified.

    Pricing and pre-order details

    The game is priced at $80 on the Switch 2 and pre-orders are now live. Those who pre-order will recieve two bonus gestures. Pricing for the additional content on other platforms is unclear at this point. It remains to be seen wether the PC and console pricing will match the Switch 2 version or be lower. Fans will have to stay tuned for more specifics.

    • Elden Ring Tarnished Edition releases August 28 for Nintendo Switch 2
    • Includes Shadow of the Erdtree expansion
    • New starting classes, armor, and Torrent customization
    • Additional content also available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S on same date
    • Switch 2 price: $80
    • Pre-order bonus: Two gesture items
    • Pricing for other platforms still unknown


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  • ModRetro M64: N64 Emulation Launch Date Announced

    ModRetro M64: N64 Emulation Launch Date Announced

    Key Takeaway

    – ModRetro M64 uses FPGA-based hardware for accurate retro gaming, not software emulation.
    – Ships July 28 at $229 retail, with a $30 early bird discount.
    – Launch lineup includes four titles; over 240 original game cartridges are compatible.
    – Features USB-C, microSD support, and four Nintendo 64-style controller ports.
    – ModRetro Trident Controller ($90) uses TMR joystick tech and Bluetooth for multi-device use.

    Exploring Retro Gaming Options

    There is several ways to approach retro gaming, ranging from using a virtually identical (though not uncontroversial) hardware architecture like the Plaion NeoGeo AES+ to complete software emulation using an inexpensive handheld gaming console and potentially copyrighted images. The ModRetro M64 definitely falls into the former category and, as is not uncommon for such devices, utilises FPGAs. This FPGA-based architecture is intended to provide accurate emulation.

    ModRetro M64 Release and Pricing Details

    We have previously reported on the ModRetro M64, and now the manufacturer has announced its release date. The console is slated to ship starting July 28 and the retail price is listed at $229, but there is also an early bird discount of $30. At launch, there will be four titles, namely Xeno Crisis, Buck Bumble, Extreme-G Turbo Fusion and Xibalba 64. In addition, over 240 titles should work without issue; original game cartridges can simply be inserted.

    Modern Features and Controller Details

    Modern features includes USB-C and microSD support. On the front, there is four controller ports familiar from the Nintendo 64. Speaking of controllers, the ModRetro Trident Controller will also launch on July 28 for a price of $90. This controller also combines a classic design with modern features, but utilises TMR technology for the joystick and can connect to devices other than the M64 via Bluetooth.

    ModRetro, Retro Dodo


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  • PS5 price hike slashes UK sales as Xbox gains from exclusive game

    PS5 price hike slashes UK sales as Xbox gains from exclusive game

    Key Takeaway

    – PS5 sales dropped 50% in May due to a £90 price increase.
    – Xbox nearly matched PS5 sales, outsold by only 400 units in the UK.
    – Forza Horizon 6 drove a 12% monthly improvement for Xbox.
    – The Xbox Series X is now £70 cheaper than the standard PS5.
    – Microsoft may reconsider its cross-platform strategy amid the sales shift.

    UK Retail Data Shows PlayStation Sales Plummet

    May retail data in the UK confirms that PlayStation suffered a steep drop in console sales. The latest PS5 price increase contributed to a 50% decline compared to the prior month. Meanwhile, as Microsoft nearly catches Sony on the charts, Xbox fans are crediting an exclusive game for the turnaround.

    Christopher Dring Teases the Numbers

    Christopher Dring of The Game Business teased the numbers on social media. While the higher MSRP for PlayStation consoles took effect in early April, not all stores reacted immediately. Still, as buyers rushed to claim units, the more affordable existing supply ran out by May.

    Xbox Sales Resurgence a Surprise

    Many gamers find the resurgence in Xbox console sales the most newsworthy development. Dring noted that for the month, the PS5 “only outsold Xbox Series S/X by 400 units”. Thats particularly surprising, considering the system is often out of stock or not sold at some UK retailers.

    PS5 Price Hike Details

    On April 2nd, the PS5 price increase introduced a £90 rise for digital and disc versions, as well as the PS5 Pro. With the memory shortage wreaking havoc, the update came after an earlier upward adjustment in April 2025. The Xbox Series X 1TB with optical drive is now £70 cheaper than its standard PS5 rival.

    Exclusive Game Credited for Gains

    Even though Microsoft has implemented similar increases, its hardware now looks more tempting. However, in May, an Xbox exclusive game could be largely responsible for the manufacturer’s gains. Dring revealed that Forza Horizon 6 played a major role in the 12% monthly improvement.

    Forza Horizon 6 Debut

    Following its May 19th release date, the journalist previously disclosed a strong start for the open-world racer. In the UK, it debuted in 2nd place in physical sales behind LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight. That may not seem impressive, but Microsoft’s first-party titles struggle in these rankings. Starfield was the last contender to crack the top 5 in 2023.

    Future Xbox Exclusives

    Some fans believe that more Xbox exclusives would further capitalize on the PS5 price increase. CEO Asha Sharma has hinted that the company was reconsidering its cross-platform approach. For now, Forza Horizon 6 is still expected to launch on PlayStation later in 2026.

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  • Steam Machine Import Data Hints at Summer Game Fest 2026 Reveal

    Key Takeaway

    – April shipments with 42 packages but lower weight (~12,500 kg) likely not Steam Decks
    – May 18 shipments matched the Steam Deck pattern (42 packages, ~14,535 kg), leading to a May 27 restock
    – Steam Controller ruled out as candidate due to different listing and weight
    – Remaining possibilities for April shipments: Steam Machine or Steam Frame (Valve VR headset)
    – Community expects potential Steam Machine unveiling around June 5 at Summer Game Fest 2026

    Valve’s Shipping Data Sparks New Speculation

    Valve shipping data has been fueling speculation for weeks now. Hardware imports discovered in May led many fans to believe that the Steam Machine’s release might be imminent. Disappointment followed after the Steam Deck OLED restock: “Too bad, the containers were apparently just Steam Decks,” became the prevailing assumption in the community. However, one Reddit user’s analysis now challenges that view – and is giving fans fresh hope.

    Patterns in the Data

    According to u/FelipeRSTV, previous Steam Deck imports followed a fairly clear pattern: “Game Console”, 42 packages and roughly 14,000 kilograms in weight. The post cites shipments weighing 14,720, 14,537 and 14,666 kilograms as examples. In April, however, Valve got additional shipments with the same 42-package count but a noticeably lower weight of around 12,500 to 12,600 kilograms. When two shipments matching the old pattern appeared again on May 18 – 42 packages and around 14,535 kilograms each – the Steam Deck restock followed on May 27.

    What Could Be in Those Boxes

    For u/FelipeRSTV, this suggests that the April shipments were not Steam Decks. The Steam Controller is also unlikely to be the explanation: in the data, it is reportedly listed as a “Wireless PC Controller”, with 40 packages and a weight of exactly 12,970 kilograms. That leaves two possible candidates: the Steam Machine or the Steam Frame. Both Valve’s living-room gaming PC and its VR headset are expected later this year, but neither has a specific launch date yet.

    Community Reactions

    On Reddit, some users praise the detective work, though the overall tone remains rather tongue-in-cheek. One user jokes that the community is now rummaging through “Valve’s underwear drawer” just to find any hint of the Steam Machine. Another takes a more positive view, writing that the hardware shipments were the “friends” made along the way to the Steam Machine. Still, the community appears to believe that a Steam Machine launch is close. In another Reddit thread, many users assume that the system could be unveiled on June 5 as part of Summer Game Fest 2026.

    Specifications and Speculation

    • Previous Steam Deck imports: 42 packages, ~14,000 kg
    • April shipments: 42 packages, ~12,500-12,600 kg
    • Steam Controller listed as: “Wireless PC Controller”, 40 packages, 12,970 kg
    • Possible candidates: Steam Machine or Steam Frame
    • Expected launch window: later this year, no specific date
    • Potential unveiling: June 5 during Summer Game Fest 2026
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  • Deal: Commandos-Style Guerrilla Game Reborn at $4.50 on Steam

    Key Takeaway

    – Currently 85% off ($4.49) on Steam, matching its historical low price from April.
    – Gameplay blends stealth and open combat, reminiscent of *Commandos* and *Desperados III*.
    – Features squad-based tactics with distractions, traps, and character-specific abilities.
    – Between missions, players manage a camp, treat fighters, gather supplies, and send teams on operations.
    – Received an 80/100 from GameStar; 81% positive Steam reviews; rated “Playable” on Steam Deck.

    In Partisans 1941, players take on the role of Alexey Zorin, a Red Army officer who escapes from a German prison camp and forms a resistance group behind enemy lines. Together with his partisans, he sabotages supply routes, rescues allies and carries out risky operations against the occupying forces. On Steam, the tactics game from Alter Games currently costs $4.49 instead of $29.99 thanks to an 85% discount. According to SteamDB, this matches the game’s recurring low-price mark, which was last reached in mid-April.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Inspiration

    Gameplay-wise, Partisans 1941 strongly recalls the classic Commandos series, while also drawing inspiration from modern genre representatives such as Desperados III and Shadow Tactics. Enemy soldiers follow patrol routes, have visible fields of view and react differently depending on the situation. Players carefully position their squad, use distractions, set traps and eliminate enemies as quietly as possible. Compared with many similar games, however, Partisans 1941 puts slightly more emphasis on open combat. Firefights occur more often and can be prepared with mines, ambushes and character-specific abilities. Between missions, players manage their partisan camp, treat wounded fighters, gather food, improve equipment and send teams on additional operations.

    Critical Reception and Scores

    In its review, German gaming magazine GameStar praised the open mission design, which allows for a wide range of approaches. The successful mix of stealth and combat, as well as the varied cast of characters, was also well received. Criticism mainly focused on the dated visuals, limited map variety and missing quality-of-life features. Even so, the editorial team awarded the game a solid score of 80 out of 100.

    On Metacritic, Partisans 1941 has a Metascore of 74 and a User Score of 7.1. Steam users are somewhat more positive: 81% of more than 8,600 user reviews are favorable. The game is also rated as “Playable” on the Steam Deck.

    Important Notes on Pricing

    Disclaimer: The publisher is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.

    Steam


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  • Xbox Elite Series 2 Core: 2 New Amazon Colors on Sale

    Xbox Elite Series 2 Core: 2 New Amazon Colors on Sale

    Key Takeaway

    – Two new Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller colors (Robot White & Soft Melon) are now available on Amazon.
    – Both new colors are currently on sale for $134.99 (down from $149.99).
    – The controllers are available to buy now, unlike Best Buy exclusives releasing June 8.
    – Key features include adjustable-tension thumbsticks, trigger locks, and paddles.

    New Xbox Controller Colors Hit Amazon

    Just a few days after we reported that the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller is getting three new colors that are exclusive to Best Buy, two new colours have appeared on Amazon. And the best part is that they are on sale right now, which is pretty exciting.

    Robot White and Soft Melon Variants

    So, the fresh color options are Robot White and Soft Melon. The former looks much like the standard white version, but instead of black thumbsticks, white shoulder buttons, and a black Xbox button, the Robot White version has white thumbsticks, ash-grey shoulder buttons, and a white Xbox button instead. The Soft Melon variant has a gold faceplate and underside, with matching thumbsticks, D-pad, and ABXY buttons. The shoulder buttons are a different shade of gold and don’t have the matte finish of the faceplate. However, just like the other colors, the rubberized grips are black all over.

    Pricing and Availability Details

    It costs $149.99 normally for the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller, but Amazon currently has it on sale for $134.99, and that includes these brand new colors which is a good deal. The controllers are also available to buy now, unlike the Best Buy ones that will be released on June 8, so you can get them sooner if you want.

    Key Specifications

    The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller differs from the standard version in a number of ways. It has adjustable-tension thumbsticks for better aiming, 3-step trigger locks for faster firing, built-in hardware profiles for custom layouts, paddles on the back for extra buttons, and a non-removable battery that lasts a long time. These features make it a premium choice for serious gamers who want more control over there gameplay.

    • Color options: Robot White and Soft Melon
    • Regular price: $149.99
    • Sale price: $134.99 on Amazon
    • Features: adjustable-tension thumbsticks, 3-step trigger locks, built-in profiles, paddles, non-removable battery
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