Category: Gaming

  • 8BitDo Unveils New Pro Controller at CES 2026

    8BitDo Unveils New Pro Controller at CES 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo will showcase a new controller at CES 2026 on January 5, 2026, at 8 AM PST.
    2. The new controller will feature a purple color and has similarities to the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless.
    3. Design elements include an LED ring around the thumbstick and a uniquely thick, patterned joystick cap.
    4. The controller will have a textured grip on both the front and back, differing from previous models.
    5. More details about the controller will be revealed soon, as the launch date approaches.

    Just like its competitor, GameSir, 8BitDo has made a announcement that it’ll be present at CES 2026. Not only will they display their current lineup, but they will also introduce a brand new controller.

    Unveiling the New Controller

    As per a post on their social media, the new controller is set to be revealed during the tech event on January 5, 2026, at 8 AM PST. The post includes a teaser image of the controller. From the image, we can see that it will come in purple, similar to the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless, which is currently priced at $47.99 on Amazon.

    Features and Design

    The teaser also shows an LED ring encircling the thumbstick, along with a uniquely thick and patterned joystick cap. Another notable feature is the textured grip on both the front and back of the controller, a departure from most 8BitDo models that typically have texture only on the underside.

    It’s tough to tell exactly which model this controller is, but it appears to be a completely new design rather than a special edition of an existing one.

    Anticipation Builds

    Fortunately, we only have a few weeks to wait until the controller is launched, so we should soon get all the details we need!

    8BitDo on X

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  • Hideo Kojima’s AI Game Plans: Future of Gaming in 5-10 Years

    Hideo Kojima’s AI Game Plans: Future of Gaming in 5-10 Years

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hideo Kojima is exploring ambitious game concepts, including gameplay in weightlessness and an AI-focused project.
    2. The weightless game concept lacks detailed mechanics but aims to offer unique floating gameplay experiences.
    3. The AI-centered project is designed to educate AI, helping it learn and adapt for future applications in various fields.
    4. Kojima views AI as a beneficial tool that can enhance game development by streamlining processes and allowing more creative focus.
    5. He draws parallels between AI and the initial skepticism surrounding smartphones, advocating for the positive use of technology to improve happiness.

    The mastermind behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, Hideo Kojima, is well-known for his innovative thinking and visionary ideas in gaming. Staying true to his reputation, he has unveiled some incredibly ambitious concepts for the future of games, including one that involves gameplay in weightlessness and another focused on teaching AI.

    Kojima’s Vision for the Future

    This intriguing information was shared during Kojima’s interview with Nikkei Xtrend. During his chat with the Japanese news outlet, he reflected on the various projects he hopes to explore following his work on the Xbox-exclusive horror game OD and the PlayStation-exclusive action-espionage game Physint.

    Kojima admitted that these ideas might seem extravagant at first glance. In the conversation, he expressed, “This might be a bit far-fetched, but I think I want to create a game that’s played in weightlessness and a game that brings joy to an AI.”

    Exploring New Gameplay Mechanics

    While Kojima didn’t elaborate on the technical aspects of the weightless game, many are left curious about what kind of floating mechanics he might be envisioning. He did, however, provide more insight into the AI-centered project, stating:

    Essentially, it would be a game designed to educate an AI. Presently, AI lacks a lot of knowledge, and I believe it needs to learn more. The game would serve as a teaching tool for AI to study. In five to ten years, I expect AI to enter various fields.

    Insights on AI and Technological Evolution

    At this point, it’s evident that Kojima holds nuanced views on AI, having discussed it multiple times this year. He perceives it as a beneficial tool that can streamline development processes, such as adapting to players’ unique playstyles or managing repetitive tasks, thus allowing humans to focus on the more creative elements of game development.

    Kojima also addressed the resistance against AI, drawing parallels between it and the initial skepticism surrounding smartphones when they first gained popularity. He remarked:

    When smartphones were introduced, a lot of people criticized them. Yet now, there are countless individuals who can’t imagine life without their smartphones. AI is similar. It’s crucial to utilize technology in a manner that enhances our happiness while keeping in mind the right path it should follow.

    With projects like OD being developed and Physint still in the early conceptual phase, Kojima continues to think big, reminding us why he remains one of the most significant figures in the video gaming world.

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  • Affordable Steam Machine with Modified PS5 APU Board by Bazzite

    Affordable Steam Machine with Modified PS5 APU Board by Bazzite

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ASRock BC-250 motherboard is a budget-friendly alternative to Steam Machines, particularly if purchased at a low price.
    2. This motherboard is part of ASRock’s “cryptomining rig” line and features a simplified version of the PS5 APU.
    3. YouTuber ETA Prime chose Bazzite over SteamOS for its flexibility, enabling significant performance tweaks to the system.
    4. Modifications included allocating 8 GB of unified GDDR6 RAM to the GPU and overclocking it, resulting in a 30% performance boost.
    5. The BC-250 can run games well for a $100 motherboard, though prices have risen to over $150 or even $200, still making it a viable option for 1080p gaming.

    YouTuber ETA Prime has recently gotten an ASRock BC-250 motherboard and demonstrated how it can serve as an inexpensive alternative to Steam Machines, provided the motherboard is purchased at an affordable price. This isn’t the first time this board has been discussed; initial reports about it date back to March 2022.

    Background on the BC-250

    As we mentioned before, ASRock marketed these boards as part of their “cryptomining rig.” These motherboards come with a simplified version of the PS5 APU, offering fewer CPU cores and a reduced GPU. Nevertheless, as shown by YouTuber Budget-Builds Official, it still offers a fair amount of gaming capability. ETA Prime has now revealed what this board can achieve with Bazzite installed.

    Choosing Bazzite Over SteamOS

    ETA Prime opted for Bazzite instead of the official SteamOS due to the former’s more lenient stance on hardware permissions. This flexibility allowed the YouTuber to implement necessary adjustments to transform it into a “$100 Steam Machine” alternative.

    One of the key modifications made was the VRAM allocation, with ETA assigning 8 GB from the 16 GB of unified GDDR6 RAM to the GPU. Additionally, the YouTuber has undervolted and overclocked the GPU from 1,500 MHz to 2,000 MHz. This alteration reportedly results in a 30% increase in performance.

    Impressive Gaming Performance

    The gaming capabilities are surprisingly good for a $100 motherboard. ETA tested five games, and the BC-250 managed to run them quite well.

    While these are commendable results for a $100 board, which can be combined with a $10 system fan and a 350 W PSU, the current pricing has changed since the release of these videos. On eBay, the price has risen to over $150, and on AliExpress, it can exceed $200. Even at the $200 mark, this setup could still be a reasonable choice if aiming for 1080p resolution and if the tweaks don’t pose a major issue.

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  • PlayStation Portal Streams PS5 Games in Sony Honda Afeela EV

    PlayStation Portal Streams PS5 Games in Sony Honda Afeela EV

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony and Honda are partnering to integrate mobile gaming options in the Afeela 1 electric vehicle, featuring PS Remote Play.
    2. The vehicle will use a larger display and the car’s speaker system for gaming, reducing the need for earbuds.
    3. A stable 15 Mbps internet connection is crucial for gaming, with the EV expected to support 5G cellular capabilities.
    4. The integration may require a PS4 or PS5 console at home, in contrast to the standalone PlayStation Portal device.
    5. The Afeela 1 is set to launch in California in mid-2026, with a premium price of $102,900.

    After the latest update to the PlayStation Portal, the handheld gaming device has seen a rise in its popularity. Now, Sony and Honda are teaming up to provide mobile gaming options for passengers in their forthcoming Afeela 1 electric vehicle. However, a significant new feature that would allow access to more PS4 and PS5 games might not be included.

    Exciting Features Announced

    Sony Honda Mobility has revealed that their innovative vehicle will incorporate PS Remote Play. The PlayStation Portal enhances the car’s infotainment system with a display mounted on the seat. By utilizing the EV’s speaker system, users may find that they don’t need earbuds for clear sound.

    According to the press release, a stable 15 Mbps internet connection is essential to minimize buffering issues. Gamers can choose to use Wi-Fi when it’s available, but the Afeela 1 EV is expected to come with 5G cellular capabilities.

    Debating the Advantages

    It’s up for discussion whether the pre-installed PlayStation Portal will be more beneficial than carrying the handheld device. Sony has not provided exact details, but the display seen in the photo seems to be larger than the 8-inch LCD screen of the device itself. Additionally, players will be able to use a DualSense controller in a more comfortable position while sitting.

    The main downside of this integration is that it might require a PS4 or PS5 console at home to function. In contrast, the standalone device can now play bought PS5 games on its own. Moreover, cloud streaming through PlayStation Plus Premium allows access to a wider range of games. Sony Honda Mobility hasn’t indicated whether the Afeela 1 EV will be capable of these features post-launch.

    Challenges in the Market

    Previous efforts to integrate high-end gaming in electric vehicles have not been successful, with Tesla being a notable example due to its unsuccessful Steam app. Meanwhile, as console sales decline, Microsoft, in partnership with LG, aims to roll out Xbox Game Pass in various vehicles.

    For PlayStation enthusiasts excited about the Afeela 1, the car is expected to launch in California around the middle of 2026. The premium version will be priced at $102,900, with a more affordable trim expected to come out the following year.

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  • MSI Unveils 1440p QD-OLED Monitor with 240Hz and USB-C

    MSI Unveils 1440p QD-OLED Monitor with 240Hz and USB-C

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI has launched the MAG 272QP QD-OLED X24 gaming monitor in North America, priced competitively at $499.99.
    2. The monitor features a maximum brightness of 400 nits in HDR and 200 nits in SDR, covering 99% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum.
    3. It offers a native resolution of 2560 x 1440, a 240 Hz refresh rate, and a rapid response time of 0.03 ms (GtG).
    4. Enhanced connectivity includes dual HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort input, and a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alt Mode and 15 W Power Delivery.
    5. The monitor comes with a fully adjustable stand, a three-year OLED warranty, and features to help reduce the risk of burn-in.

    MSI has introduced a new Gen 3 QD-OLED gaming monitor in North America. The MAG 272QP QD-OLED X24 shares many specifications with the previously launched MAG 274QP QD-OLED X24 from two weeks ago, but it comes with improved connectivity options. Notably, MSI has set a competitive price for both monitors at $499.99, which could attract gamers on a budget looking to explore OLED technology.

    Price Adjustments for Performance

    To maintain a lower price point, MSI has made some compromises. The MAG 272QP QD-OLED X24 reaches a maximum brightness of 400 nits in HDR and 200 nits in SDR. While this should suffice for average setups, other OLED monitors on the market can achieve higher brightness levels for a more dynamic HDR experience. Nevertheless, this monitor still provides the typical OLED advantages, showcasing vibrant colors and excellent contrast. It covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum and holds the DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification.

    Display Capabilities

    Similar to the MAG 274QP QD-OLED X24, the new model boasts a native resolution of 2560 x 1440, combined with a 240 Hz refresh rate. MSI also notes a swift response time of 0.03 ms (GtG) and ClearMR 13000 certification aimed at reducing motion blur and enhancing clarity for fast-paced gaming sessions. Additionally, there’s a specific mode designed for gamers using the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S.

    Enhanced Connectivity Features

    Where the MAG 272QP QD-OLED X24 really differentiates itself is in its connectivity options. Alongside dual HDMI 2.1 ports and a DisplayPort input, MSI has included an additional USB-C port with DisplayPort Alt Mode and 15 W Power Delivery, simplifying the connection process for a work laptop or other USB-C devices. Additional features consist of a fully adjustable stand, a three-year OLED warranty, and upgraded care features to help minimize the risk of burn-in.

    In the United States, the MSI MAG 272QP QD-OLED X24 is priced at $499.99 and can be found on Amazon, Newegg, and the MSI online store. In Canada, it is listed at CAD $799.99, although it is currently available for CAD $549.99 on Newegg and CAD $499.99 on Amazon.

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  • Indie Games Generated 25% of Steam’s Revenue in 2025

    Indie Games Generated 25% of Steam’s Revenue in 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Indie games contributed 25% of Steam’s total revenue in 2025, amounting to approximately $4.5 billion.
    2. Steam’s overall revenue increased to $17.7 billion in 2025, a 15% rise from the previous year.
    3. Around 20,000 games were released on Steam in 2025, but only about 300 made over $1 million.
    4. The top five indie games of 2025 generated over $500 million in total revenue, with Schedule I leading at $151 million.
    5. Other notable indie titles, such as Rematch and Dispatch, also performed well and contributed significantly to overall revenue.

    Indie games have always been a significant part of Steam, but in 2025, they took it to another level. For those unfamiliar, indie games are typically developed by small teams or even individuals. These developers usually operate without the support of major publishers or hefty budgets. Over time, many indie titles have achieved remarkable success, and 2025 further demonstrated the strength of this sector.

    Revenue Insights

    A report from Alinea Analytics reveals that indie games made up 25% of Steam’s overall revenue in 2025. This year, Steam’s revenue reached approximately $17.7 billion, a 15% increase from the $15.4 billion earned in 2024. Out of that total, indie games contributed about $4.5 billion.

    Market Competition

    The report also emphasizes how competitive Steam has become. In 2025, around 20,000 games were released on the platform. However, only about 300 of these titles earned over $1 million. This indicates a significant imbalance in the market.

    What’s truly remarkable is the financial success of the top indie games this year. The five leading new indie titles of 2025 generated more than $500 million in total revenue. Schedule I topped the list with $151 million, closely followed by R.E.P.O. with $147 million. PEAK made $87 million, while Hollow Knight: Silksong brought in $75 million. Escape from Duckov rounded out the top five with $53 million. Collectively, these five games represented around 3% of Steam’s yearly revenue.

    Other Noteworthy Titles

    In addition, many other indie games showed strong performance. Games like Rematch, Dispatch, RV There Yet?, and Megabonk also contributed significantly to the overall revenue.

    Alinea Analytics’ findings highlight the ongoing success and growth of indie games on Steam, reinforcing their crucial role in the gaming industry.

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  • Sega Dreamcast Browser Support Ends with Google’s New Update

    Sega Dreamcast Browser Support Ends with Google’s New Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has officially discontinued support for the Sega Dreamcast web browser, PlanetWeb 3.0, marking the end of its 25-year run.
    2. PlanetWeb 3.0 was the only way for Dreamcast users to access the internet since its introduction in 2001, following Sega’s own discontinuation of official online services.
    3. Retro gaming communities had been keeping PlanetWeb 3.0 alive through private servers, but Google’s update rendered it useless.
    4. The discontinuation of PlanetWeb 3.0 highlights the challenges faced by outdated browsers and hardware due to modern web standards.
    5. FrogFind, a new search engine for older hardware, offers a way for retro gamers to explore the internet on the Dreamcast, preserving the nostalgia of the console.

    The Sega Dreamcast web browser, PlanetWeb 3.0, has officially met its end as Google has stopped supporting this outdated software that had been around for more than 25 years. This news has led many gamers who cherish retro gaming to bid farewell to another element of the Dreamcast’s online history.

    A Brief History of PlanetWeb 3.0

    PlanetWeb 3.0 was introduced in 2001, serving as the sole option for Dreamcast users to access the internet on Sega’s final home console, which debuted in 1998. Long ago, Sega itself discontinued the official online services for the Dreamcast.

    The Efforts to Keep It Alive

    Despite the challenges, passionate retro gaming communities managed to keep PlanetWeb 3.0 functioning through private servers and inventive solutions. Sadly, a recent update from Google has made PlanetWeb 3.0 useless, effectively cutting off internet access for Sega Dreamcast users.

    This information was shared by Dreamcast Live, a fan-operated site focused on the Sega Dreamcast. In a post on X, they mentioned, “Sad news, guys. Google has stopped support for Dreamcast web browsers.”

    The Wider Impact of Google’s Update

    The discontinuation of support for PlanetWeb 3.0 is not simply a unique case. Google’s latest changes have impacted several outdated browsers and old hardware that cannot keep up with modern web standards, including complex CSS, encryption needs, and heavy JavaScript.

    The Sega Dreamcast is now 27 years old, serving as a reminder of how quickly technology ages. Nevertheless, it’s quite remarkable that PlanetWeb 3.0 was able to last as long as it did, given the limitations of the hardware it relied on.

    A New Hope for Retro Gamers

    For those who want to fire up their Dreamcast and explore the internet, FrogFind offers a glimmer of hope. Developed by retro enthusiast and YouTuber Action Retro, FrogFind is a search engine that caters to older hardware and dial-up-era services by sourcing results from DuckDuckGo and converting them into text-based HTML.

    Many might wonder why anyone would want to surf the web on a console that’s 27 years old in 2025. The answer lies in the nostalgia and charm of revisiting simpler times when the internet was free from the clutter of ads and videos. Even though Google has pulled web support for the Sega Dreamcast, retro fans always manage to find alternatives like FrogFind to keep the essence of classic consoles alive.

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  • Stardew Valley 1.7: ConcernedApe Reveals New Content Insights

    Stardew Valley 1.7: ConcernedApe Reveals New Content Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. Stardew Valley’s last major update was patch 1.6, and fans have been eagerly awaiting new content.
    2. The upcoming update, version 1.7, will enhance social features and introduce a new farm type.
    3. ConcernedApe hinted that there will be many more surprises in the 1.7 update.
    4. The ongoing development of Stardew Valley continues despite Barone’s work on his next game, Haunted Chocolatier.
    5. A release date for update 1.7 has not yet been announced, so players need to be patient.

    It has been over a year since Stardew Valley got its last big update, which was patch 1.6. During this time, fans have been waiting for new content and have been quick to reach out directly to the game’s creator, Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, on X. He is well-known for his close ties with the player community and often replies to these inquiries, and he has done so again recently.

    Exciting Update Details Revealed

    In answer to a fan seeking a preview, ConcernedApe disclosed the first specific information about Stardew Valley 1.7. This upcoming update will enhance the game’s social features, adding more character interactions and new social aspects—something fans have been wanting for several years. Barone also mentioned that a new farm type will be introduced with this update. He pointed out that major updates typically include a new farm, and version 1.7 will follow this tradition.

    More Surprises Ahead

    To fans’ excitement, ConcernedApe stated that the improved social features and the new farm type are just a portion of what is in store. He hinted that there is “lots more” on the horizon, although he didn’t provide any additional specifics. The ongoing development of Stardew Valley, even after so many years since its launch, is quite uncommon—especially since Barone is also busy working on his next game, Haunted Chocolatier. However, a release date for update 1.7 has yet to be announced, so players may need to exercise a bit more patience.

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  • Steam Frame vs Other VR Headsets: YouTuber’s First Impressions

    Steam Frame vs Other VR Headsets: YouTuber’s First Impressions

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Steam Frame VR headset features impressive eye-tracking with foveated rendering for enhanced visual quality.
    2. It has a lighter weight, better ergonomics, and higher resolution compared to the Valve Index.
    3. The headset offers a more open platform and integrated eye tracking, making it a strong competitor against the Meta Quest 3.
    4. Competing headsets like Apple’s Vision Pro and Bigscreen Beyond 2 have their strengths but lack in comfort or have high prices and external dependencies.
    5. The PSVR2 is a cost-effective choice but feels more conventional due to its wired setup and basic ergonomics.

    Well-known tech YouTuber Linus Sebastian had the chance to visit Valve’s headquarters to experience the Steam Frame, the company’s latest VR headset. This headset aims to impress with features like cross-platform support, integrated eye tracking, and a completely wireless setup. For more in-depth specifications, check our previous report. Although Linus only had about two hours to test it, he was able to gather initial thoughts and make comparisons to existing models.

    Eye-Tracking Innovation

    Linus highlighted the Steam Frame’s impressive eye-tracking capabilities as one of its most notable aspects. Thanks to foveated rendering, the parts of the display that users are looking at become clearer, enhancing visual quality where it really counts. He also complimented the headset’s balanced design and its open platform, which he sees as significant advantages. However, he did express concern about the LCD screens, which he believes do not provide the best black levels.

    Comparison with Other Models

    When looking at the Valve Index, the Steam Frame really shines with its lighter weight, superior ergonomics, and higher resolution, as well as utilizing inside-out tracking with wide-angle cameras. Linus mentioned that the audio quality should be comparable to that of the Index, though he still has a few doubts. In a comparison with the Meta Quest 3, known for its excellent value, he pointed out that the Steam Frame offers a more open platform, is lighter, and includes eye tracking, which are significant benefits.

    Competing Headsets

    Apple’s Vision Pro excels in display quality, passthrough capabilities, and hand tracking but doesn’t match up when it comes to comfort and gaming appeal. The Bigscreen Beyond 2 remains superior to the Steam Frame in terms of weight and micro-OLED image quality, but it has its own downsides—no built-in sound, a hefty price tag, and reliance on external base stations. On the other hand, the PSVR2 is considered a good choice for its cost, but its wired setup, Fresnel lenses, and basic ergonomics make it seem more conventional and less high-tech overall.

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  • New Action-Adventure Sports RPG Gets 1000+ Positive Reviews on Steam

    New Action-Adventure Sports RPG Gets 1000+ Positive Reviews on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    Skate Story is a fresh role-playing game centered on skating that launched on Steam on December 8, 2025. This premium indie title comes from solo developer Sam Eng and is published by Devolver Digital. It is available for a price of around US$19.99, making it a mid-range PC release, unlike many free-to-play games.

    Unique Gameplay Concept

    At first glance, Skate Story may appear to be just another sports game. However, it actually resembles a surreal action adventure, built around precise skating mechanics and an engaging narrative. You take on the role of a delicate demon made of glass and pain, tasked by the Devil to skate through the ash-filled Emptylands, reach the Moon, and consume it to earn your freedom. Although this premise may seem bizarre, the gameplay revolves around mastering weight transfer, speed control, ollies, kickflips, and grinds, all while navigating a neon-lit underworld that feels more like an art piece than a real city.

    Positive Reception

    The initial response from PC gamers has been quite favorable. Skate Story holds an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating on Steam, with about 96% of user reviews recommending it. This is an impressive score for a new skate game that demands skill. Top reviews highlight the fluid, immersive controls, “magical” worldbuilding, and the way the sound and music enhance the skating experience. While there’s limited criticism, it often focuses on concerns about long-term replayability and the game’s linear format, rather than any significant technical flaws. Many players have expressed a desire for a chapter selection feature to replay specific areas independently.

    A New Era of Skating Games

    Players are embracing Skate Story as part of the latest wave of innovative skate titles, distancing it from classic Tony Hawk games. The Verge’s review describes it as “one of the most unique skateboarding games of the decade,” praising its striking, dreamlike visuals and solid trick mechanics. In terms of comparisons, it balances somewhere between the meditative flow and soundtrack-focused style of Sayonara Wild Hearts and the indie approach to skating found in titles like OlliOlli World and Skate City.

    For those who appreciate this type of aesthetic, Skate Story is rapidly emerging as a noteworthy game to keep an eye on. Additionally, the game supports full controller use on PC and has been verified for Steam Deck (currently priced at $850 on Amazon for the 1TB/OLED model) as well.

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