Category: Gaming

  • Detroit: Become Human Hits 1M Steam Sales in Winter Sale

    Detroit: Become Human Hits 1M Steam Sales in Winter Sale

    Key Takeaways

    1. Detroit: Become Human sold nearly one million copies on Steam during the Winter Sale, showcasing sustained demand years after its release.
    2. The game was offered at a 90% discount, reducing its price from $39.99 to $3.99 for the first time ever.
    3. Approximately 993,000 copies were sold during the sale, contributing to over seven million total copies sold on Steam.
    4. The game’s total revenue from Steam has surpassed $150 million, and it achieved a new all-time peak in player count recently.
    5. Detroit: Become Human is a narrative-driven adventure game that emphasizes player choices, leading to multiple endings and high replayability, with 94% of over 45,000 reviews being positive.

    Detroit: Become Human had a remarkable performance on Steam, selling close to one million copies during the recent holiday season. This demonstrates that the game maintains a solid demand even years after its launch. The increase in sales occurred during Steam’s Winter Sale, which took place from December 18 to January 5. Notably, the game was offered at a 90% discount, reducing its price from $39.99 to merely $3.99 for the first time ever.

    Impressive Sales Numbers

    As reported by Alinea Analytics, approximately 993,000 copies of the game were sold on Steam during the Winter Sale period. This figure is quite impressive for a game that has been out for over seven years.

    Despite the low pricing, the overall revenue generated during this time was rather limited. Nevertheless, these sales contributed to the game surpassing seven million copies sold on the platform, and its total revenue from Steam has now exceeded $150 million. Additionally, just two days ago, it achieved a new all-time peak in player count on Steam.

    A Unique Gaming Experience

    For those who haven’t tried it yet, Detroit: Become Human is a narrative-driven adventure game developed by Quantic Dream. The game emphasizes player decisions, where every choice influences the storyline, characters, and the ultimate outcome. With multiple endings available, even minor decisions can lead to significant long-term effects, which adds to its replayability. Currently, it boasts over 45,000 reviews on Steam, with 94% of them being favorable.

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  • Affordable Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop with Nvidia RTX 5060 and AMD CPU

    Affordable Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop with Nvidia RTX 5060 and AMD CPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful APU: The Lenovo LOQ 15APH11 is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 250, featuring eight Zen 4 cores and 16 threads.
    2. Generous RAM and Storage: It includes 32 GB of DDR5 RAM at 5,600 MT/s and 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 storage.
    3. Advanced Cooling: The laptop utilizes Hyperchamber Cooling technology for optimal temperature management during gaming.
    4. High-Quality Display: It features a 15.3-inch IPS display with a 180 Hz refresh rate, 400 nits brightness, and 100% sRGB coverage.
    5. Affordable Price: The starting price is $1,299, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers.

    The Lenovo LOQ 15APH11 is one of the latest gaming laptops introduced by the company at CES 2026. It offers a budget-friendly option powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 250, which is essentially a renamed version of the Ryzen 7 8840U, a robust APU from the Hawk Point series.

    Specifications and Performance

    This AMD APU includes eight Zen 4 cores and 16 threads. Lenovo has combined it with 32 GB of DDR5 RAM operating at 5,600 MT/s and 2 TB of PCIe Gen 4 storage. When it comes to graphics, the laptop can be configured with up to the Nvidia RTX 5060 Laptop GPU.

    Cooling and Display Features

    Lenovo emphasizes that this budget gaming laptop is equipped with Hyperchamber Cooling technology. This system is designed to maintain optimal temperatures for critical components during heavy use by improving airflow and directing hot air away from the laptop.

    On the display front, the Lenovo LOQ 15APH11 boasts a 15.3-inch screen with a refresh rate of 180 Hz. This IPS display also offers a brightness rating of 400 nits, supports Nvidia G-Sync, and provides 100% sRGB coverage. The selection of ports is adequate, and it includes the following:

    For connectivity, the gaming laptop supports Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 6. Other notable features include a dual-speaker configuration, a QHD webcam with an E-Shutter, and a 60 WHr battery. The starting price for the LOQ 15APH11 is $1,299, with Lenovo stating that it will be available for purchase starting in April 2026.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the Lenovo LOQ 15APH11 presents a compelling choice for gamers on a budget, combining solid performance with features that enhance the gaming experience.

     

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  • 007 First Light System Needs 32GB RAM for 1080p Gaming

    007 First Light System Needs 32GB RAM for 1080p Gaming

    Key Takeaways

    1. High RAM Requirement: To achieve 60fps at 1080p, players will need 32GB of RAM, which raises concerns about memory costs.

    2. Minimum vs. Recommended Specs: Minimum specifications allow for 30fps with an Intel Core i5 9500K or AMD Ryzen 5 3500 and 16GB of RAM, but recommended settings require significant hardware upgrades.

    3. Financial Burden: Upgrading to meet the recommended specs, including an additional 16GB of DDR5 RAM costing over $200, adds financial strain on gamers.

    4. VRAM Issues: The recommended specs call for 12GB of VRAM, while popular GPUs like the Nvidia RTX 3060 Ti only offer 8GB, potentially causing gameplay stutters.

    5. Mixed Reactions: Opinions on the game’s graphics vary, with complaints about blurriness despite some impressive visuals, and hopes for improvements by the revised release date of May 27th.

    Facing high memory costs, many gamers are hesitatent to upgrade their PC specs. This gets tricky when a highly awaited AAA game needs more power. IO Interactive has disclosed the system requirements for 007 First Light, and the recommended settings are causing some worry. The minimum requirements are not too bad, but to keep 60fps at 1080p, players will need 32GB of RAM.

    Minimum Specifications

    For full HD graphics, a gaming rig should have at least an Intel Core i5 9500K or AMD Ryzen 5 3500 processor. A lower-end graphics card like the Nvidia GTX 1660, paired with 16GB of RAM, is expected to be enough. However, this setup will only achieve 30fps, which is okay for a game that has open-world features.

    Recommended System Demands

    What’s causing more backlash is the significant upgrade in hardware needed to meet the recommended 007 First Light system requirements. The most critical point is that only setups with 32GB of RAM can deliver 60fps graphics. The issue is, if you don’t have a suitable computer, an additional 16GB of DDR5 RAM can cost over $200. Building a new PC from the ground up is becoming a heavier financial load.

    VRAM Concerns

    Another concerning part of the recommended specs is the mention of 12GB of VRAM. Interestingly, an Nvidia RTX 3060 Ti comes with only 8GB of GDDR6. Gamers with the latest RTX 5060 may also face stutters during gameplay.

    If players are okay with guiding James Bond through his missions at 30fps, there isn’t much to stress about. However, the developers haven’t clarified the power needed for higher resolutions. First Light might have to depend on DLSS upscaling to reach decent performance at 1440p or 4K.

    Varied Opinions

    Reactions to the State of Play trailer differ on whether the graphics are worth the high memory prices. Luxurious mansions look great, but excessive blurriness is a frequent complaint. After IO Interactive pushed back the 007 First Light release date to May 27th, fans are hopeful for sharper visuals in the final product.

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  • Xbox Game Pass January 2026 Lineup: Star Wars Outlaws & More

    Xbox Game Pass January 2026 Lineup: Star Wars Outlaws & More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft announced new Xbox Game Pass offerings for January 2026, featuring popular games.
    2. Star Wars Outlaws and Resident Evil Village are among the exciting new additions this month.
    3. Brews & Bastards and Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition are now available for Game Pass users.
    4. These games can be played on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and via cloud gaming on handheld devices.
    5. Titles like Flintlock The Siege of Dawn and The Grinch Christmas Adventures will be removed from Game Pass on January 15.

    Microsoft has made a formal announcement regarding the initial Xbox Game Pass offerings for 2026, starting the year off with an impressive list of new games. The recent update reveals that a number of well-loved games will be added to the service this month, such as Star Wars Outlaws and Resident Evil Village, providing subscribers with exciting options.

    New Additions Available Today

    As of today, Game Pass Ultimate, Game Pass Premium, and PC Game Pass users can enjoy Brews & Bastards and Little Nightmares Enhanced Edition. Both games are playable on PC and Xbox Series X|S, as well as via cloud gaming, which is also accessible on handheld devices. Below is the complete schedule for the Xbox Game Pass January 2026 lineup:

    Upcoming Changes to the Library

    Furthermore, Microsoft has announced that on January 15, titles like Flintlock The Siege of Dawn, Neon White, Road 96, The Ascent, and The Grinch Christmas Adventures will be removed from the Game Pass library.

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  • Intel Unveils Panther Lake Handhelds with Acer, GPD, MSI, More

    Intel Unveils Panther Lake Handhelds with Acer, GPD, MSI, More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel’s Panther Lake generation offers a range of processors for ultrabooks, gaming, and creator laptops.
    2. AMD’s Legion Go 2 and Legion Go S were showcased at CES 2025, highlighting AMD’s competition in the handheld gaming market.
    3. Intel is collaborating with multiple OEM partners to develop a handheld gaming platform based on Panther Lake architecture.
    4. Details about the Panther Lake handheld platform will be revealed later this year, with no immediate availability expected.
    5. Panther Lake is projected to provide over 75% enhanced graphics performance compared to current models, indicating a significant leap in lightweight computing and gaming.

    Intel’s new Panther Lake generation is here, offering a variety of processors that cater to everything from slim ultrabooks to powerful creator and gaming laptops. During CES 2026, Intel also hinted at the future of Panther Lake gaming handhelds.

    AMD’s Competition

    For background, the AMD-driven Legion Go 2 and the more affordable Legion Go S (curr. $646 on Amazon) made an appearance at CES 2025, following the Lunar Lake-based Claw 7 AI+ and Claw 8 AI+. While the latter has seen some visual updates for CES 2026, MSI has not yet shared plans for a genuine next generation.

    Intel’s Collaborations

    Intel has announced that a number of OEM partners are joining forces to develop ‘a complete handheld gaming platform’ centered around the Panther Lake architecture. Sadly, Intel could only disclose that more details about this platform will be shared ‘later this year’, making it seem unlikely that handhelds based on Panther Lake will be available in the near future.

    Still, Intel’s announcement was highlighted by the mention of brands like Acer, GPD, Microsoft, MSI, and OneXPlayer. This suggests that a larger number of OEMs are likely to embrace Panther Lake compared to Lunar Lake, which is expected to provide over 75% enhanced graphics performance at 25 W compared to the Arc 140V found in the Core Ultra 9 288V.

    Intel’s new chips could be a game changer in the world of lightweight computing and gaming.

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  • Corsair Galleon 100 SD Keyboard with Built-in Stream Deck Review

    Corsair Galleon 100 SD Keyboard with Built-in Stream Deck Review

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Corsair Galleon 100 SD features a built-in Elgato Stream Deck with 12 customizable keys, two dials, and a 5-inch display.
    2. Pre-orders are available now, with shipping starting on January 29, 2026.
    3. The keyboard has a full-size layout without a number pad, using that space for the Stream Deck.
    4. It includes pre-lubed MLX Pulse linear switches, a hot-swappable PCB, and six layers of sound dampening for a better typing experience.
    5. Priced at $349.99, the Galleon 100 SD offers unique features that may set it apart from other gaming keyboards in the same price range.

    If you thought gaming keyboards couldn’t get any more flashy, Corsair is here to surprise you with the Galleon 100 SD, packed with a built-in Elgato Stream Deck. This new keyboard goes beyond the Vanguard 96 Pro (curr: $229.99 at Amazon), which only has virtual Stream Deck support. The Galleon 100 SD boasts real Stream Deck hardware, featuring 12 customizable keys, each equipped with its own LED display, plus two dials and a 5-inch 720 x 1,280 screen.

    Pre-Order Information

    Corsair is displaying the Galleon 100 SD at CES 2026, but you can get your hands on it by pre-ordering today. However, it won’t be shipped until January 29. The LCD keys, dials, and screen can be fully adjusted for various applications and games such as Discord, Spotify, OBS Studio, and more. It also supports plugins from the Elgato Marketplace, similar to the standalone Stream Deck.

    Keyboard Features

    Regarding its overall design, the Galleon 100 SD has a full-size layout but omits the number pad, which is swapped out for the Stream Deck. It features pre-lubed MLX Pulse linear switches on a hot-swappable PCB, combined with a gasket mount design and six layers of sound dampening to ensure a comfortable typing experience and better sound quality. Additionally, it offers an 8,000 Hz polling rate and Flash Tap SOCD for smoother counter strafing in shooter games.

    Pricing and Availability

    Priced at $349.99, the Galleon 100 SD is on the pricier side of gaming keyboards. Nevertheless, the integrated Elgato Stream Deck may provide it with a competitive advantage against other keyboards in the same price bracket. You can find pre-orders available on the Corsair website, with shipping expected to start between January 29 and February 1.

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  • New Grand Strategy Game on Steam: 35% Off & Great Reviews

    New Grand Strategy Game on Steam: 35% Off & Great Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Terra Invicta version 1.0 was officially released on January 5, 2026, after an early access phase that began in September 2022.
    2. The update includes two scenario expansions and a new “Realistic” combat mode, enhancing gameplay for both new and returning players.
    3. Developers addressed late-game lag issues by improving AI resource management and ship-pathing, resulting in faster turn-processing times.
    4. The game has received a positive reception, holding an 82% lifetime rating on Steam, with a recent 88% rating post-launch.
    5. Terra Invicta is priced at $25.99, with a 35% discount available during its launch period.

    Pavonis Interactive along with publisher Hooded Horse has officially released Terra Invicta version 1.0 on January 5, 2026, moving past its early access phase. This launch comes after a development journey that started with its early access debut on Steam in September 2022. The new 1.0 version is now available on various platforms including Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store (also accessible via PC Game Pass).

    New Expansions and Features

    The 1.0 update brings two significant scenario expansions aimed at refreshing the game environment and giving newcomers better entry points to the gameplay.

    Additionally, the update features a “Realistic” combat mode that enforces stricter fuel usage during high-speed maneuvers and modifies ship dimensions to match real-world scales. Gamers can still opt for the original combat settings, which are now labeled as “Cinematic.”

    Improvements and Optimizations

    Developers have taken into account the late-game lag complaints that arose during the early access phase. They have enhanced the AI’s resource management and ship-pathing to speed up turn-processing times, especially during extensive campaigns. Furthermore, the game has earned Steam Deck Verified status, ensuring optimized UI clarity and controller settings suitable for the handheld device’s 1280 x 800 display.

    The game revolves around seven unique factions, each with distinct victory conditions, adding depth to its strategy.

    Positive Reception and Pricing

    At the time of the 1.0 launch, Terra Invicta enjoys a lifetime rating of 82% Positive on Steam, based on over 7,300 reviews. Recent feedback from the last 30 days shows an improved 88% Positive rating, which is also reflected in the reviews from the first day after the full release.

    Currently, Terra Invicta is available for $25.99, which includes a 35% discount for its launch period.

    Steam, SteamDB

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  • GameSir & Hyperkin Release X5 Alteron: Modular Mobile Controller

    GameSir & Hyperkin Release X5 Alteron: Modular Mobile Controller

    Key Takeaways

    1. Customizable Design: The X5 Alteron allows users to swap out modules for analog sticks, D-Pads, and buttons, offering enhanced customization for mobile gamers.

    2. Nintendo Focus: The controller includes a module for the Switch 2 and mimics the N64 layout, catering especially to Nintendo fans, despite potential latency issues.

    3. Versatile Gaming Options: It supports various gaming styles, with attachments like a mini fight pad for brawlers and a trackpad for FPS precision.

    4. Innovative Technology: The controller features capacitive thumbsticks to prevent stick drift and Hall effect technology in triggers for improved accuracy and durability.

    5. CES 2026 Showcase: The X5 Alteron is being showcased at CES 2026, but pricing and release date details have yet to be announced.

    With the collaboration of GameSir and HyperKin, the X5 Alteron has been created as a special mobile controller. This device caters to both current and nostalgic gamers, allowing them to adapt the controller for various gaming needs. The Bluetooth controller is designed to fit smartphones and larger handheld gaming devices, such as the Switch 2.

    Enhanced Customization Features

    GameSir’s previous models, like the G8 Plus, allowed users to change thumbstick caps. However, the X5 Alteron elevates this idea by letting users swap out the modules that hold the analog sticks, D-Pads, and buttons. This level of customization is a significant step forward for mobile gamers.

    A Game-Changer for Nintendo Fans

    Nintendo enthusiasts might find the new controller particularly exciting. A module specifically for the Switch 2 is included, while other parts mimic the control layout of the N64. Although this improves the experience for emulated Nintendo Switch Online games, users might experience some latency due to the wireless connection. Nevertheless, the creators assure that Bluetooth 5.2 will keep any delays to a minimum.

    Versatility for All Types of Gamers

    The X5 Alteron shows clear influence from Hyperkin’s history in retro gaming. However, it also meets the needs of modern players who enjoy fighting games and shooters. Users can attach a mini fight pad to one side for brawling games, or opt for a trackpad to achieve mouse-like accuracy in FPS games.

    The new collaboration also draws inspiration from high-end gaming equipment. The triggers use Hall effect technology, which enhances both precision and lifespan. Additionally, back paddles are likely to be remappable, offering quick access to frequently used inputs.

    Innovative Design Elements

    Instead of using Hall effect technology for thumbsticks, the X5 Alteron comes with capacitive thumbsticks. This design choice helps avoid mechanical wear, which can lead to stick drift—a common problem in many controllers.

    Much like other GameSir controllers, the X5 Alteron features a telescopic arm that supports both Apple and Android smartphones, along with some tablets. However, the company’s app has faced criticism for its user-friendliness, which may limit how versatile the modular accessory can be.

    Upcoming Events and Expectations

    At CES 2026, attendees are trying out the X5 Alteron at various events held at the convention. As of now, the two companies have not announced any details regarding pricing or a specific release date.

     

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  • Ayn Thor Lite: Affordable Retro Handheld with Dual AMOLED Display

    Ayn Thor Lite: Affordable Retro Handheld with Dual AMOLED Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayn Thor Lite is available for pre-order at a price of $249, with shipment expected in mid-January.
    2. The Lite model features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 processor, which is less powerful than the Base model’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, but suitable for typical usage like retro gaming.
    3. It has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage, and is $50 cheaper than the Base version.
    4. The device includes dual AMOLED displays with resolutions of 1,080 x 1,920 and 1,080 x 1,240, and runs on Android 13.
    5. The Ayn Thor Lite weighs 380 grams, has a 6000 mAh battery, supports WiFi 6, and features Hall-effect joysticks for improved control.

    The Ayn Thor has been presented before, but it’s now available for pre-order once again, featuring the budget-friendly Lite version priced at $249. The arrival of this second batch is expected to start in mid-January, so those looking to purchase will need to be patient and should thoroughly review the shipping conditions ahead of time, since prices may vary for buyers based on their locations (click here to check Ayn’s shipping policy).

    Lite Model Details

    The Lite variant is lower than the Base model in both features and cost. It shares the same storage capacity with the Base model but is equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 instead of the more powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. This leads to reduced performance, though it shouldn’t be a significant issue for typical usage, particularly for playing retro games. The Lite model is $50 cheaper than the Base version. It has 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of internal storage. Unlike some competitors in the retro handheld market, Ayn does not provide memory cards loaded with ROMs that might infringe on copyright laws.

    Display and Specifications

    This handheld device sports dual AMOLED displays with resolutions of 1,080 x 1,920 and 1,080 x 1,240, measuring 6 inches and 3.92 inches diagonally. The System on Chip (SoC) is actively cooled and operates on Android 13. Weighing in at 380 grams and with a thickness of 25.6 millimeters, the Ayn Thor Lite is powered by a 6000 mAh battery and can output video through USB-C. It supports WiFi 6, and the control scheme includes Hall-effect joysticks for better precision.

    Ayn via Retro Handhelds

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  • Powerful Gaming Handheld with 128GB RAM Now Available for Pre-Order

    Powerful Gaming Handheld with 128GB RAM Now Available for Pre-Order

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OneXplayer OneXfly Apex handheld is available for pre-order starting at $1,699, with shipping expected on February 10.
    2. The basic model features an AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 processor, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD, while an upgraded model with better specs costs $1,958.
    3. The premium model can be enhanced to include an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, 128 GB of RAM, and a 2 TB SSD.
    4. A unique feature is the replaceable 85 Wh battery, allowing for convenient charging while traveling.
    5. The device has a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and supports VRR, weighing approximately 699 grams plus the battery.

    Following a very successful crowdfunding effort, the OneXplayer OneXfly Apex handheld is now ready for pre-order straight from the maker, starting at a price of $1,699. The expected shipping date is February 10, so interested buyers should check the shipping terms ahead of time. At this price point, consumers will get the basic model featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 processor, which does not include water cooling. The upgraded model costs $1,958 and includes the necessary Frost Bay unit. Water cooling can be utilized in certain situations.

    Specifications and Upgrades

    The regular model is equipped with 32 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD. For an extra fee, these specifications can be enhanced, reaching up to the premium model that features an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, 128 GB of RAM, and a 2 TB SSD.

    Unique Features

    One standout element is the replaceable 85 Wh battery, meaning charging while traveling doesn’t always require a power bank. The device boasts a resolution of 1,920 x 1,200, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and supports VRR. The standard version weighs about 699 grams, plus around 380 grams for the battery, while the water-cooled versions add an extra 70 grams. More information can be found on the product’s webpage.

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