Category: Gaming

  • UK Government Investigates Rockstar Games for Union Busting Claims

    UK Government Investigates Rockstar Games for Union Busting Claims

    Key Takeaways

    1. Take-Two Interactive and Rockstar Games are under investigation by the UK government for potential union-busting practices.
    2. Approximately 40 employees were laid off for allegedly discussing confidential information, which they dispute as union-related discussions.
    3. The UK Prime Minister supports workers’ rights to join trade unions and promises an investigation into the claims made by local MP Chris Murray.
    4. The release date for GTA VI has been delayed to November 19, 2026, with potential further delays depending on the investigation’s outcome.
    5. Ongoing employee controversies may impact future game releases and company operations.

    Take-Two Interactive and Rockstar Games are facing ongoing trouble with their employees, and things could be getting even worse. The UK government is stepping in to investigate claims of union-busting. Local MP Chris Murray (H/T IGN) raised this issue in a recent UK Parliament session. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer commented:

    “Every worker has the right to join a trade union, and we’re committed to enhancing workers’ rights and ensuring they don’t suffer unfair penalties for being part of a union. Our ministers will investigate the specific case that he [Murray] mentioned and will keep him posted.”

    Employee Layoffs and Controversy

    To recap, Rockstar dismissed approximately 40 employees for supposedly “distributing and discussing confidential information in a public forum,” a claim that employees and independent reports strongly dispute. People Make Games reported that these employees were talking about union issues in a private Discord chat.

    Game Delays and Future Implications

    The company asserts that the layoffs are unrelated to the second delay of GTA VI, which has now been pushed back to November 19, 2026. However, depending on the actions taken by the UK Government, we could see further delays, possibly extending the game’s release to 2027.

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  • 8BitDo Launches Colorful Bluetooth Controllers with Two Drawbacks

    8BitDo Launches Colorful Bluetooth Controllers with Two Drawbacks

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo has launched the updated wireless controller, 8BitDo 64 Classic Grey, priced at $44.99.
    2. The Classic Grey model will not ship until at least January 30, 2026, with other models shipping in February 2026.
    3. 8BitDo has not provided specific shipping dates for their new products, unlike competitors.
    4. The new controllers are compatible with Android, Windows, Switch, and Switch 2.
    5. 8BitDo offers limited quantities of the 8BitDo 64 Funtastic Limited Edition controllers in various colors, with all except Gold being translucent.

    8BitDo has started selling its newly updated wireless controller. Just to remind you, the company recently listed the 8BitDo 64 Classic Grey on Amazon. This Classic Grey model is priced at $44.99, but it won’t be shipping until at least January 30, 2026. Sadly, the other new products from the company will take even longer to reach customers.

    New Refresh Details

    Specifically, the latest batch of 8BitDo 64 refresh models won’t be leaving the warehouses until February 2026. Moreover, 8BitDo hasn’t shared any exact shipping dates yet, unlike Analogue, which seems to have guaranteed deliveries by Christmas for its Funtastic Limited Edition versions of the Analogue 3D. For your reference, the new controllers from 8BitDo work with Android, Windows, Switch, and Switch 2, not just the Analogue 3D.

    Availability and Colors

    Although these consoles are already out of stock, 8BitDo still has all the 8BitDo 64 Funtastic Limited Edition controllers available. So, you can still choose from the 8BitDo 64 in Clear, Jungle, Watermelon, Smoke, Ice, Fire, Gold, and Grape colors. Interestingly, every color except for Gold has a translucent finish. 8BitDo states that all colors are available in “highly limited quantities,” but they haven’t given any more details about this. You can visit the company’s website for further information.

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  • Sony Reveals Free Triple-A Games for PlayStation Plus Extra in Dec 2025

    Sony Reveals Free Triple-A Games for PlayStation Plus Extra in Dec 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Eight new games will be added to the PlayStation Plus catalog on December 16 for PS4 and PS5 subscribers.
    2. Key titles include Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Cat Quest III, Granblue Fantasy: Relink, and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty.
    3. Planet Coaster 2 will be available exclusively for PS5, while Soulcalibur III will be accessible on both PS4 and PS5.
    4. A PlayStation Plus Premium subscription is required to play the enhanced version of Soulcalibur III.
    5. A promo for a Sony Pictures Core Movie credit is available for those who purchase a 12-month PS Plus membership between December 11 and January 12.

    Earlier today, a leaker known as billbil_kun shared information about Sony’s upcoming update for the PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) catalog. At first, the leaker suggested that there would be three major games available for subscribers. However, Sony’s official statement provides more details than what billbil_kun originally mentioned.

    Recap of New Additions

    To summarize, earlier this month, the PS Plus catalog welcomed Red Dead Redemption, Skate Story, and Lego Horizon Adventures (currently priced at $19 on Amazon). Now, Sony has announced that eight new games will be accessible to players without additional fees later this month, though there are a few conditions. Specifically, Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Cat Quest III, Granblue Fantasy: Relink, and Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty will be included starting December 16 for both PlayStation 4 (PS4) and PlayStation 5 (PS5). Additionally, Paw Patrol: Grand Prix and Paw Patrol World will also be part of this offering.

    Details on Game Availability

    On a different note, Planet Coaster 2 will also be available from that same date, but exclusively for the PS5. In contrast, Soulcalibur III will be open to both PS4 and PS5 users. To enjoy this enhanced version of the classic PS2 game, one needs to have a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription. Interestingly, if you buy a 12-month PS Plus membership on the PS5 between December 11 and January 12, you’ll also receive a promo for a Sony Pictures Core Movie credit. For more information, check out the PlayStation Blog.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the lineup for the upcoming PS Plus update has exciting titles and some special offers for subscribers. Take note of the dates and requirements to make the most out of these gaming opportunities!

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  • Why You Should Stop Retrobrighting Your Sega Dreamcast Console

    Why You Should Stop Retrobrighting Your Sega Dreamcast Console

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retrobrighting, a popular method for restoring yellowing consoles, can accelerate deterioration over time.
    2. Shelby Jueden’s 10-year investigation revealed that restored consoles showed more yellowing than untouched ones.
    3. The yellowing of consoles is caused by multiple factors, including heat, oxygen, and certain plastics used in the 1980s and 1990s.
    4. Hydrogen peroxide in retrobrighting only reverses color but does not prevent plastic breakdown, potentially causing more damage.
    5. Collectors are now exploring gentler restoration methods, such as vinyl dyes and sanding, as alternatives to retrobrighting.

    A 10-year investigation into the restoration of yellowing retro video game consoles has come to a conclusion: using Retrobrighting on vintage consoles actually speeds up their deterioration over time, making this method a bit risky.

    This insight comes from Shelby Jueden, a retro tech YouTuber known as Tech Tangents. In a recent video, he shared that he began treating consoles like the Sega Dreamcast with hydrogen peroxide and sun exposure back in 2015.

    Shelby aimed to bring the Dreamcast back to its original cream color. However, he discovered that these restoration efforts led to increased yellowing, which became more noticeable compared to consoles that were left untouched after a decade.

    The Process Explained

    In his video titled “Retrobright Damages Plastic – 10 Year Test,” he explained how he took apart the Sega Dreamcast and utilized the classic retrobrighting method. He applied hydrogen peroxide to the top and bottom sections of the console, excluding the lid, and then exposed these parts to UV light.

    While the retrobrighting process did lighten the discoloration of the Dreamcast, which seemed like a quick success, Shelby later found that the lid remained in perfect condition, contrasting sharply with the retro-brightened parts of the console.

    Shelby remarked in the video, “Retrobrighting degraded the plastic more and caused more yellowing than if it had just been left alone.”

    Factors in Yellowing

    He elaborated that yellowing is not just caused by UV light but is the result of several elements, including heat, oxygen, and brominated flame retardants used in ABS plastic from the 1980s and 1990s.

    To clarify, hydrogen peroxide only reverses photo-oxidation by breaking down chromophores; it doesn’t prevent polymer breakdown, which could make the restoration process more damaging to the console over time.

    Shelby’s findings aren’t just a fluke. Although some retro collectors praise this technique for its immediate effects, it isn’t reliable, as the whitening tends to be uneven. Jueden summed it up by saying, “The answer is retrobrighting doesn’t work. The plastic still yellows, and you can end up with it looking worse than if you just left it alone. Entropy wins sadly.”

    New Approaches to Restoration

    Many retro collectors have started to use gentler methods instead of retrobrighting, such as vinyl dyes and hydrocarbon-based solvents, which help reduce yellowing without creating peroxides, or even sanding down the consoles. Ultimately, yellowing in consoles is unavoidable, and the passage of time must be acknowledged.

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  • Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Reveal: Hidden Video Surfaces

    Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Reveal: Hidden Video Surfaces

    Key Takeaways

    1. Speculation is rising that Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 may be announced at The Game Awards due to activity on the Square Enix YouTube channel.
    2. Game Director Naoki Hamaguchi has indicated that development on Part 3 is progressing quickly, with revamped gameplay nearly complete.
    3. The Game Awards is viewed as a prime venue for major announcements, especially since past installments of the trilogy have received significant exposure there.
    4. There is speculation about a hidden video on the Square Enix YouTube channel, but it could be related to Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade rather than Part 3.
    5. While fans are hopeful for a Final Fantasy 9 remake, current focus is more on the upcoming Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3, especially after reports of potential delays for other projects.

    Final Fantasy enthusiasts are eagerly looking for any indication that the beloved series will make an appearance at The Game Awards. The excitement has grown after an observant gamer noticed some activity on the Square Enix YouTube channel. This has led to speculation that a hidden video could be unveiling Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3. Game Director Naoki Hamaguchi has hinted that the finale of the trilogy is making swift progress.

    YouTube Playlist Insights

    The YouTube playlist features trailers that highlight major updates to the popular RPG franchise. The most recent addition was a video for the Final Fantasy 14: Dawntrail expansion, which was uploaded in 2024. It is common for publishers to prepare content beforehand and keep it unlisted until the official announcements. However, gamers have previously encountered similar private entries from Rockstar that did not lead to a new GTA 6 trailer.

    Anticipation for Part 3

    Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 is likely the most anticipated project from Square Enix to be showcased at The Game Awards. In an interview with YouTuber Julien Chièze in October, Hamaguchi shared encouraging news. He mentioned that the revamped gameplay is nearly finished, stating that the “new experience the game will offer is almost complete.” Though development is still happening, the director is optimistic about sharing more details “soon,” which could also reveal the game’s title.

    Comments on The Game Awards

    During the interview, Hamaguchi also discussed Geoff Keighley’s event. He acknowledged that The Game Awards has become the leading event since the discontinuation of E3. Regarding Part 3, the Square Enix veteran noted, “It would be a good place for this kind of announcement, yes…”

    Past entries of the trilogy have had significant exposure during the event. In 2023, a new trailer for Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth premiered before the title won the Most Anticipated Game award.

    Speculation on Hidden Videos

    Some fans might think that the hidden video could be promoting Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade. Players on Switch 2 and PC will be able to enjoy the game starting January 22, 2026. However, the Square Enix YouTube playlist does not show any previously announced ports.

    Even though hope is dwindling, fans are still keenly wishing for a Final Fantasy 9 remake. Yet, after NateTheHate2 mentioned in October that the project might be stalled, a trailer for Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 appears to be more plausible.

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  • Anbernic RG477V Retro Gaming Handheld Launching Soon Worldwide

    Anbernic RG477V Retro Gaming Handheld Launching Soon Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RG477V is expected to have delayed shipping, likely not before 2026, despite possible pre-orders later this month.
    2. It features a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset and a 4.7-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1,280 x 960 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    3. The device includes a 5,500 mAh battery that supports 27 W fast charging and a microSD card slot for up to 2 TB storage.
    4. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 6E, along with dual Hall effect joysticks for enhanced gaming experience.
    5. The RG477V will come in two RAM/storage configurations (8 GB/128 GB and 12 GB/256 GB) and will be pre-installed with Android 14.

    Anbernic is slowly sharing more information about the RG477V as we get closer to Christmas. Right now, it’s still uncertain when people will be able to order the device. However, it looks pretty unlikely that RG477V units will start shipping before 2026, even if pre-orders open later this month.

    Specifications Revealed

    In the meantime, Anbernic has confirmed all key specs of the RG477V. The details were revealed at the end of a new teaser video, and the hardware features components already seen in the recent RG477M (currently priced at $299 on Amazon). For example, the RG477V is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset and boasts a 4.7-inch IPS display. This display has a resolution of 1,280 x 960 pixels, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, and can reach a peak brightness of 500 nits.

    Gaming Experience

    Even though 120 Hz is higher than what many retro games require, this refresh rate allows for Black Frame Insertion (BFI) which helps to lessen motion blur while keeping a smooth 60 Hz gaming experience. Additionally, the RG477V comes with a 5,500 mAh battery that supports 27 W fast charging, along with a microSD card slot that can accommodate cards up to 2 TB.

    Connectivity and Variants

    Moreover, Anbernic has added dual Hall effect joysticks and a modem that provides Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 6E connectivity. The RG477V will be offered in two color choices, with configurations of 8 GB RAM/128 GB storage or 12 GB RAM/256 GB storage. All versions will come pre-installed with Android 14, but there’s no guarantee that Android 15, 16, or any future major OS updates will be provided. For more information, please check the video above.

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  • Nintendo Opens Virtual Boy Pre-Orders for Switch Online Members Only

    Nintendo Opens Virtual Boy Pre-Orders for Switch Online Members Only

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has started pre-orders for the revived Virtual Boy accessory for the Switch and Switch 2.
    2. The standard Virtual Boy is priced at $99.99 and requires a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership.
    3. An affordable Cardboard model of the Virtual Boy will be available for $24.99, releasing on February 17, 2026.
    4. Both versions of the Virtual Boy require the Switch or Switch 2 for use and are not compatible with the Nintendo Switch Lite.
    5. The package includes a stand, attachments for both devices, an eye shade, and a lens cover.

    Following a statement made in September, Nintendo has started to take pre-orders for the revived Virtual Boy accessory. This gadget is a replica of the original Virtual Boy that was launched back in 1995. Often referred to as one of Nintendo’s flops, the company has decided to reintroduce it for the Switch and Switch 2 handheld devices.

    Pricing Details

    The Virtual Boy is available for $99.99 and can only be bought by individuals who hold a paid membership for Nintendo Switch Online. Additionally, users will need to have an active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion pack membership to access and play any classic games that work with this device. Included with the Virtual Boy are a stand, attachments for both the Switch and Switch 2, an eye shade, and a lens cover.

    Affordable Option

    Nintendo is also offering the Virtual Boy (Cardboard model) at a much lower price of $24.99. Similar to the standard Virtual Boy, this cardboard version will be released on February 17, 2026.

    To utilize either version of the Virtual Boy, just insert your Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 (which can be found on Amazon for $499) into the model (note that Nintendo Switch Lite is not compatible) and enjoy a supported game with Joy-Con or Joy-Con 2 controllers.

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  • Asus Unveils 5K ROG Strix Gaming Monitor with 300Hz Refresh Rate

    Asus Unveils 5K ROG Strix Gaming Monitor with 300Hz Refresh Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Strix XG27JCG monitor can switch between 5K 180Hz and QHD 180Hz modes, with the higher refresh rate available in overclocked mode.
    2. It features a 27-inch Fast IPS panel with 600 nits brightness for HDR and 97% DCI-P3 color coverage.
    3. The monitor has a fast response time of 0.3 ms (GTG) and supports AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync, ensuring tear-free visuals.
    4. It includes multiple ports, an ergonomic stand, and AI-driven gaming options, along with VESA compatibility.
    5. Pricing and availability details are still pending, with potential announcements expected at CES 2026.

    A brand new gaming monitor has been found on the official Asus site, known as the ROG Strix XG27JCG. This model is capable of switching between 5K 180Hz and QHD 180Hz modes. It’s worth noting that the higher refresh rate of 5120×2880 pixels is only available in overclocked mode, but it still stands out as an impressive figure.

    Display Features

    The monitor boasts a 27-inch Fast IPS panel, claiming a brightness level of 600 nits for HDR. Asus asserts that it can deliver vibrant colors with a DCI-P3 coverage of 97%.

    Gaming Experience

    With a rated response time of 0.3 ms for GTG, the ROG Strix XG27JCG aims to provide a swift gaming experience in both QHD and 5K settings. It supports AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync, and when combined with ELMB Sync technology, it guarantees visuals free from tearing.

    Additional Information

    As a top-tier gaming monitor, Asus has included a wide range of ports, such as:

    The dual-mode ROG Strix XG27JCG also features a stylish design with an ergonomic stand, a variety of AI-driven gaming options, and compatibility with VESA. There hasn’t been any announcement regarding pricing and availability, but Asus may reveal these details at CES 2026.

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  • Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 RTX 5060 Laptop Now 34% Off List Price

    Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 RTX 5060 Laptop Now 34% Off List Price

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 gaming laptop is available for a record-low price of $849.99 after a $450 discount.
    2. It features a powerful RTX 5060 GPU, a 14-core Core i7-13650HX CPU, 16 GB of DDR5 RAM, and 512 GB of PCIe Gen 4 storage.
    3. The laptop has a 15.6-inch IPS screen with a 144 Hz refresh rate and is capable of handling AAA games at 1080p with stable performance.
    4. Real-world tests show it can run Cyberpunk 2077 at over 90 FPS at 1080p with high settings, outperforming previous models.
    5. While there are some drawbacks like single-channel RAM and shorter battery life, the laptop offers upgrade options for memory and storage.

    While Black Friday and Cyber Monday have passed, there are still many deals on gaming laptops available on the internet. For example, Best Buy has reduced the price of the Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 gaming laptop with an RTX 5060 to a record-low price of $849.99. This is a significant drop of $450, making the Lenovo LOQ 15IRX10 a great choice if you’re looking for a dependable laptop for 1080p gaming.

    Specifications and Features

    The Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 (2025) combines a powerful RTX 5060 laptop GPU with a 14-core Core i7-13650HX CPU, 16 GB of DDR5 RAM, and 512 GB of PCIe Gen 4 storage. It also includes a 60 Wh battery, along with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 to complete its internal features.

    Design and Usability

    On the outside, the Lenovo LOQ 15 retains the simple design from last year, featuring a 15.6-inch IPS screen with a 144 Hz refresh rate, a full-sized backlit keyboard, a spacious trackpad, and a 1080p webcam. The chassis comes in Luna Grey and provides a decent selection of ports:

    According to the specifications, the Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 appears capable of handling even the most challenging AAA games at 1080p. We are glad to report that the laptop performs well in practical tests. Our review of the Lenovo LOQ 15 15AHP10 with an RTX 5060 and Ryzen 7 250 showed that the laptop has many strong points, including stable performance for both the CPU and GPU.

    Real-World Performance

    For instance, our LOQ 15AHP10 test unit successfully ran Cyberpunk 2077 at over 90 FPS at 1080p with high settings. Given that the Core i7-13650HX is more robust than the Ryzen 7 250, games that rely heavily on the CPU should run even smoother on the LOQ 15IRX10 compared to our review unit.

    We also appreciated the input devices and the color-accurate display of the laptop. However, our main complaints were the single-channel RAM, noisy fans, and shorter battery life. The good news is that the Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 has an extra M.2 slot for DDR5 memory and another slot for additional storage. Unfortunately, it may be challenging to find DDR5 memory sticks at a reasonable price, as the memory market has become quite competitive.

    In conclusion, the Lenovo LOQ 15 Gen 10 gaming laptop with an RTX 5060 for just $849.99 is a fantastic deal. In a market where GPU prices are expected to rise significantly, purchasing a gaming laptop is one of the few sensible options left for gamers.

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  • Sega and Sonic Launch Retro Mechanical Keyboards in New Sizes

    Sega and Sonic Launch Retro Mechanical Keyboards in New Sizes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Summit 65+: High-end keyboard with Dreamcast-inspired design, CNC aluminum exterior, and stainless steel backing, priced at $299.95.

    2. Silent Typing Experience: The Summit 65+ features a five-layer Dampening Plus system for quiet and stable typing.

    3. Basecamp 65HE: Gaming-focused keyboard utilizing Hall Effect technology for fast and precise responses.

    4. Basecamp 96+: Compact 96% layout with classic Sonic design, features Dampening Plus technology and TTC Neptune switches, priced at $189.95.

    5. Basecamp 75+: Available in two designs, priced at $169.95, includes Dampening Plus technology and TTC Neptune switches.

    The Sonic the Hedgehog-themed keyboards have a new line-up that includes the Summit 65+, which Higround presents as a high-end option featuring a Dreamcast-inspired design. This keyboard flaunts a high-quality CNC aluminum exterior and a shiny stainless steel backing.

    Silent and Solid Typing

    According to Higround, the Summit 65+ is designed to provide a quiet, stable, and robust typing experience with its innovative Dampening Plus five-layer system. The retail price for this model is $299.95.

    Speed and Precision

    Following this is the Basecamp 65HE, which draws inspiration from speed and aims to deliver precise and quick responses. It incorporates Higround’s Hall Effect technology, which is hinted at in the name. This model is aimed at gamers who are looking for top-notch performance from their keyboards.

    Classic Sonic Vibes

    The Basecamp 96+ takes its design cues from the classic Sonic aesthetic, catering to dedicated users who love the Blue Blur. Despite its compact 96 percent layout, it does not compromise on functionality. Higround claims this model offers an exceptional sound profile, thanks to its Dampening Plus technology and TTC Neptune switches. The price for the Basecamp 96+ is $189.95.

    Additional Offerings

    Lastly, the Basecamp 75+ is priced at $169.95 and comes in two designs: Escape from the City and Sonic CD. Both versions boast a 75 percent layout, Dampening Plus technology, and TTC Neptune switches.

    Higround also has a Basecamp 75+ keycap set available for $69.95, along with four XL Control Mousepads priced at $49.95.

    This marks the second collaboration between Higround and Sega. The accessories will launch on the company’s website on December 12, with some models also available at Best Buy and Micro Center.

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