Category: Gaming

  • GPD Win 5 Gets Internal Battery and Detachable Legion Go-Style Controllers

    GPD Win 5 Gets Internal Battery and Detachable Legion Go-Style Controllers

    Key Takeaways

    1. GPD has launched the Win 5 with design updates that have received mixed reactions from fans, especially regarding the external battery feature.
    2. Modder PureDIY has created two modified versions of the Win 5, one removing the external battery for a more portable design with a 45 Wh battery.
    3. The first modified version has a thicker chassis and shorter battery life but includes a vent strip and a non-OEM display while keeping the dual-fan system.
    4. The second modified version retains the original 85 Wh external battery and transforms the device into a tablet-like form when controllers are detached.
    5. PureDIY’s modified versions are not currently available for retail purchase, but a video showcasing them can be found on Bilibili.

    GPD has launched the Win 5, featuring notable design updates compared to the previous model. Some of these changes have not been favored by all fans, particularly the external battery feature. Recently, a modder named PureDIY has unveiled a modified version of this gaming handheld that many users may find appealing.

    New Battery Design

    The modder, known as PureDIY, presented two different versions of the mod. One version completely removes the external battery design and instead includes a 45 Wh battery. This modification enhances portability, yet it results in a thicker chassis compared to the original model and also decreases the overall battery life.

    In addition to the new battery, this mod introduces a vent strip at the bottom and features a non-OEM display, while maintaining the original’s dual-fan system. The controllers are now detachable, reminiscent of Lenovo’s Legion Go 2. According to PureDIY, with the internal battery and attached controllers, the entire package weighs approximately 917 grams.

    Retaining Original Features

    The second version retains the detachable controllers but keeps the same 85 Wh external battery found in the original GPD Win 5. The clear benefit of this modified design is that it transforms the device into a more tablet-like form when the controllers are removed, making it comparable to the OneXPlayer Super X, albeit in a smaller size.

    Talking about the detachable controllers, they are equipped with their own batteries, allowing for wireless functionality even when separated (Xbox Elite Series 2 Core currently priced at $119 on Amazon). The modded versions feature Joy-Con-style rails, which enable the Win 5 to charge the controllers while they are attached.

    Availability of Mods

    Despite GPD seemingly endorsing these modifications, none are currently available for retail purchase. For a closer look at the modded Win 5 versions, check out PureDIY’s video on Bilibili linked below.

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  • Razer Boomslang: Legendary Gaming Mouse Returns in Limited Release

    Razer Boomslang: Legendary Gaming Mouse Returns in Limited Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Razer is reintroducing the Boomslang mouse to celebrate its 20th anniversary, maintaining its original design while enhancing performance.
    2. The Boomslang 20th Anniversary Edition features leather click buttons, a snake-head design, and a semi-transparent casing.
    3. Upgrades include Razer’s Gen 4 Optical switches, a Gen 2 Focus Pro 45K optical sensor, wireless charging, Chroma RGB lighting, and eight customizable controls.
    4. The product will be limited to 1,337 units worldwide, creating a sense of exclusivity.
    5. Interested buyers can sign up on Razer’s website for alerts, with sales occurring exclusively on Razer.com and select RazerStores.

    Razer first unveiled the Boomslang back in 1999 as the very first gaming mouse designed specifically for gamers, and it was a captivating device at that time. Its design stands out from the usual modern gaming mice, which often focus on comfort as much as on performance. Now, to mark its 20th year, Razer is reintroducing the Boomslang with several significant enhancements while still preserving its original look.

    Celebrating a Milestone

    This year, Razer is celebrating two decades in the business, and to honor this milestone, they have announced the Boomslang 20th Anniversary Edition. This special version brings back the leather left and right clicks, the distinctive snake-head design, alongside a semi-transparent casing. In terms of upgrades, it features Razer’s Gen 4 Optical switches and the Gen 2 Focus Pro 45K optical sensor.

    New Features and Functionality

    Additionally, the Boomslang includes wireless charging capabilities, Chroma RGB lighting, and eight easily accessible controls. The package also comes with the Razer Mouse Dock Pro, which supports HyperPolling at rates of up to 8,000 Hz.

    Limited Availability

    However, the availability of this product is going to be limited, as Razer plans to sell only 1,337 units worldwide. There is no specific release date announced yet, but interested buyers can sign up on Razer’s website to be alerted when it becomes available. It will be sold exclusively on Razer.com and in select RazerStores.

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  • Arc Raiders Winter Update: New Features and Challenges Ahead

    Arc Raiders Winter Update: New Features and Challenges Ahead

    Key Takeaways

    1. Arc Raiders, developed by Embark Studio, is praised for enhancing the extraction shooter genre.
    2. The winter update is set to launch on December 16, featuring aesthetic changes, possible new maps, and new challenges.
    3. Speculation includes new gameplay mechanics, such as freezing to death and the need for shelter and warmth.
    4. An Expedition reset will occur on December 22, requiring players to start anew and wipe their progress.
    5. Players can register for the Expedition starting December 17, but must sign up before the reset to participate.

    Embark Studio is raising the bar for extraction shooters with their hit game, Arc Raiders. The game has received a lot of praise from players, and the developers are dedicated to enhancing the gaming experience by introducing new content. Recently, they shared that the much-anticipated winter update is on its way, which might include fresh ways for raiders to meet their demise above ground.

    Exciting Update Announcement

    Players have been eagerly waiting for information, and Embark has finally revealed the release date for the winter update. Set to launch on December 16, this update will feature aesthetic changes to current maps, possible new maps and tools, and perhaps new challenges to lose your loot. Fans are buzzing about what’s next, with some speculating that freezing to death in the cold may be a new danger. This could bring in mechanics like seeking shelter and warmth into the gameplay of Arc Raiders.

    Expedition Reset Details

    Shortly after announcing the Expedition reset, it was revealed there will be a voluntary wipe and reset on December 22 within the Expedition system. Players will have to part with nearly everything they’ve earned during their countless raids. This is a common practice in extraction shooters, preventing a few players from dominating the game due to a fully developed skill tree and top-tier items. Players can register for the Expedition starting December 17, but once the sign-up period ends on December 22, they will have to begin anew.

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  • Activision Slows New Releases After Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Struggles

    Activision Slows New Releases After Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Struggles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Poor Retail Performance: Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 struggled in retail, facing tough competition from games like Battlefield 6 and Arc Raiders.

    2. Release Schedule Changes: Activision will stop doing back-to-back releases of Modern Warfare or Black Ops titles to improve quality and fan satisfaction.

    3. Acknowledgment of Fan Feedback: The company recognizes the need to address player concerns about repetitive gameplay while still standing by their game.

    4. Future of the Franchise: There may be longer intervals between releases, with development teams focusing on providing unique experiences each year.

    5. Continued Support for Black Ops 7: Activision plans to offer ongoing support, including a free trial for multiplayer modes and a commitment to regular new content updates.

    In several areas, Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 has seen a surprisingly bad performance in retail. Following its launch, it found it hard to hold up against competitors like Battlefield 6 and Arc Raiders. After not living up to its expectations, Activision is altering how it schedules releases for Call of Duty titles. A recent blog entry states that the publisher will “no longer do back-to-back releases of Modern Warfare or Black Ops games.”

    Acknowledging Fan Feedback

    In light of feedback regarding repetitive gameplay, the communication carries an apologetic yet not completely surrendering tone. While the studio stands behind the game, the company recognizes that fan opinions are what truly count.

    Activision used to release multiple Call of Duty games within the same calendar year. However, this frequency has recently slowed down as the company shifted to a live-service model with the free-to-play Warzone. Nevertheless, most years still saw the launch of either a new Call of Duty: Modern Warfare or Black Ops installment.

    Future Plans for the Franchise

    It remains uncertain how the publisher will manage its shooter sub-franchises in the future. There is still a chance for an annual release schedule, but it appears that longer intervals between launches may become more common. The various development teams are working towards “providing an absolutely unique experience each and every year.” Fans will need to stay tuned for further news on how innovations might shape the games.

    Despite the recent announcements, support for Black Ops 7 will persist for the time being. Gamers who are not swayed by the mediocre reviews will soon have the opportunity to experience the multiplayer modes for free. A free trial is set to take place next week, during which players can earn double XP for their participation. Activision is also committed to delivering a constant stream of new content after Season 01, which they labeled as one of their largest updates to date.

    Industry Comparisons

    Interestingly, EA had considered adopting an annual release schedule for Battlefield at one time. With the declining sales of Black Ops 7, they might rethink that strategy. The time gap between Battlefield 2042 and Battlefield 6 was sufficient to generate excitement and meet expectations.

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  • Trademarks Reveal Game Awards Statue for New Divinity Game

    Trademarks Reveal Game Awards Statue for New Divinity Game

    Key Takeaways

    1. Geoff Keighley’s hint about a demonic statue has sparked theories regarding a new game in the Divinity series.
    2. Three trademark filings related to “Divinity” have been discovered, showcasing logos and artwork connected to the franchise.
    3. There are expectations for an official announcement from Larian Studios during The Game Awards on December 8th.
    4. A PEGI rating for Divinity: Original Sin 2 – Definitive Edition suggests potential upcoming releases for PlayStation and Xbox consoles.
    5. The Divinity series remains popular, especially after the success of Baldur’s Gate 3, with fans appreciating its tactical gameplay.

    Ever since Geoff Keighley hinted at a mysterious demonic statue, gamers have been buzzing with theories about what it could mean. Many insiders have shot down popular speculations about a possible expansion for Diablo 4 or even a new God of War installment. Recent evidence, however, strongly suggests that this artwork could actually herald a new game in the Divinity series. MP1st has uncovered several new trademarks that are likely related to the upcoming Larian Studios title.

    Exciting Trademarks Discovered

    Three trademark filings from Europe showcase a logo and art that fans of the CRPG genre will recognize. Each document is labeled “Divinity” and is associated with the same applicant. When one graphic is placed over the enigmatic statue, the similarities become hard to miss. While there are slight variations in the designs compared to previously released games, the essence remains.

    Awaiting Official Announcements

    Some skeptics are choosing to hold their breath until the announcements during The Game Awards wrap up. Nonetheless, there are other indicators that Larian Studios is gearing up to reveal a new Divinity installment. On December 8th, a leaker known as eXtas1s shared an image from the series, though he didn’t offer any context. His track record for accurate predictions has been hit or miss, however.

    Consoles Get More Divinity Action

    With the possibility of Divinity 3 on the horizon, Larian seems to be looking out for console players as well. In 2024, a PEGI rating for Divinity: Original Sin 2 – Definitive Edition popped up for PlayStation and Xbox. Additionally, the dataminer PlayStation Game Size has recently found signs of this title appearing on the PSN service. Such activity usually signals that news about a release could be coming soon.

    The Game Awards is set to feature several big franchises, like Tomb Raider, which could take up a lot of time. Still, Larian Studios might ease the anticipation for a new CRPG by reintroducing older games to fresh audiences. Although the PS4 and Xbox versions of Original Sin 2 are already out, they weren’t optimized for the newest consoles.

    Divinity’s Legacy

    Given the success of Baldur’s Gate 3, it can be easy to forget how well-loved the Divinity series is. Notably, Divinity: Original Sin II released in 2017 sold over 7 million copies and received widespread acclaim. Some gamers prefer the tactical freedom that Divinity provides compared to the stricter rules of Dungeons & Dragons found in BG. After several spin-offs were scrapped, it looks like the developers may have finally cracked the code for a successful sequel.

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  • God of War Surprise Expected at The Game Awards 2025

    God of War Surprise Expected at The Game Awards 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Game Awards 2025 is happening on December 11, featuring various game showcases.
    2. There is speculation about a new Tomb Raider title and a potential Star Wars announcement.
    3. Rumors suggest that the next God of War game could be set in Egypt, focusing on Egyptian gods and myths.
    4. An insider shared an image of Kratos’ skull and tattoo, sparking excitement among God of War fans.
    5. Any God of War reveal at the event remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from a new game to a series or side project.

    This Thursday, December 11, The Game Awards 2025 is set to happen, bringing with it the usual showcase of various games. Recently, a lot of buzz has surrounded the event, with speculation about a new Tomb Raider title and something related to Star Wars. However, an insider recently shared a post on X that has caught the attention of God of War enthusiasts.

    Rumors About a New Setting

    While there’s no official word on when the next installment of God of War will be revealed, chatter has been growing over the past months. Some fans are suggesting that the story could be set in Egypt, presenting an opportunity for players to battle the Egyptian gods and explore numerous myths from that area. Amid the quiet from Santa Monica Studio, @elesnicho shared an intriguing image on X.

    Intriguing Image Shared

    In the shared image, fans quickly recognized a familiar sight: the skull of Kratos along with a portion of his iconic red tattoo. This visual has led many to speculate that the franchise may have a presence at The Game Awards 2025.

    Nonetheless, it’s important to note that these remain mere speculations at this point, which could enhance the element of surprise. If God of War does make an appearance at the event, there’s no clear indication of what it might be for. While fans are eager for a new game, it’s also possible that it could relate to the upcoming series or even a side project. In short, the mystery continues to unfold.

    @elesnicho on X

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  • R36H Pro Max: Affordable Retro Handheld for PS & N64 Emulation

    R36H Pro Max: Affordable Retro Handheld for PS & N64 Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new R36H Pro Max model features a 4.2-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,024 × 768 pixels.
    2. It is powered by the Rockchip RK3326 with four ARM Cortex-A35 CPU cores and a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, allowing for game emulation.
    3. The device includes 1 GB of DDR3L RAM and runs on ArkOS 2.0, a compatible version of Ubuntu for gaming handhelds.
    4. It has a 3,500 mAh battery and Wi-Fi capabilities for local multiplayer gaming and updates.
    5. The R36H Pro Max is priced around $48 on AliExpress and comes in black, white, and translucent purple color options.

    Game Console has quietly launched a new model in its R36 series, following the debut of the standard R36H earlier this year, which is currently priced at $57.50 on Amazon. This new model is called the R36H Pro Max, and it features a 4.2-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,024 × 768 pixels.

    Internal Specifications

    The device is powered by the familiar Rockchip RK3326, which includes four ARM Cortex-A35 CPU cores. Alongside 1 GB of DDR3L RAM, the RK3326 comes with a Mali-G31 MP2 GPU, enabling it to emulate games from PlayStation, Dreamcast, and select Nintendo 64 titles. To facilitate this, Game Console has included ArkOS 2.0, a version of Ubuntu that is compatible with several Anbernic and Powkiddy gaming handhelds.

    Battery and Connectivity Features

    In addition, the R36H Pro Max is equipped with a 3,500 mAh battery and Wi-Fi capabilities for local multiplayer gaming and over-the-air updates. You can currently find the R36H Pro Max on AliExpress priced at around $48, which includes a 64 GB microSD card, not accounting for any potential discounts. As of now, the device is available in black, white, and translucent purple color choices. For more information, check out AliExpress.

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  • Gamer Scores $3,000 PC for Only $600 with $880 in DDR5 RAM

    Gamer Scores $3,000 PC for Only $600 with $880 in DDR5 RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gamers have faced challenges due to supply chain issues leading to high GPU prices.
    2. A Reddit user found a gaming PC for $600, which is significantly below market value.
    3. The gaming PC’s components, including 64 GB DDR5 memory and an RTX 4070 Ti, are currently priced much higher individually.
    4. Building a similar gaming PC today would cost around $3,000, highlighting the value of the deal.
    5. There is skepticism about the authenticity of the story, as it could be exaggerated on Reddit.

    Gamers have faced big challenges over the past few years. This all began with the supply chain issues in the early 2020s, which led to skyrocketing prices for gaming GPUs, worsened by miners and scalpers. As of now, GPU prices remain extremely high, and memory prices have also increased greatly due to the huge demand from AI companies.

    A Lucky Find

    Interestingly, a Reddit user seems to have struck gold, based on their recent post. In a pawn shop in Portugal, u/uneektnt (allegedly) snagged a gaming PC for only $600. Although this may not seem very exciting at first glance, the deal becomes quite remarkable when we examine the gaming PC’s specifications, which are listed below:

    It’s important to mention that the current prices for both GPU and memory are absolutely outrageous, making this deal even more appealing. For example, the 64 GB DDR5 kit alone would set someone back about $880, which makes the entire system cheaper than just the memory. Additionally, the Core i9-14900KF is priced around $420, and the RTX 4070 Ti Super, seemingly a Zotac model, goes for over $1,200 right now (early December 2025).

    The True Value

    If you were to build a similar system today, it would easily run you about $3,000. Sure, items from pawn shops tend to be cheaper than brand new products, but an 80% discount is simply astonishing. It’s quite possible that the shop owner doesn’t know the current market value of the components in the PC. If this is true, then u/uneektnt was definitely in the right place at the right time.

    Of course, since this is Reddit, there’s a chance that this story could turn out to be just a tall tale later on.

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  • Epic Games Store Fans Solve Mystery Game Giveaway Clue

    Epic Games Store Fans Solve Mystery Game Giveaway Clue

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store is offering two free games for PC and macOS until Thursday, with one available on Android and iOS.
    2. Epic Games has revived its Mystery Game promotion as the holiday season approaches.
    3. A leaker suggested that the Mystery Game might be “Lords of the Fallen,” an action RPG released in 2023.
    4. Community theories include “Saros,” a PS5 exclusive, and “Divinity Original Sin 3” as potential Mystery Game options.
    5. The Mystery Game is expected to be revealed during The Game Awards on December 11 at 13:00 UTC.

    The Epic Games Store is currently offering two games for free on PC and macOS. This deal will last until Thursday, and one of these games is also accessible for gamers on Android and iOS. As the holiday season approaches, Epic Games has revived its Mystery Game promotion strategy.

    Possible Mystery Game Reveal

    A leaker known as u/MeguminShiro suggested yesterday that the Mystery Game might be Lords of the Fallen (curr. $29.97 on Amazon), which is an action RPG released by Deck13 and CI Games in 2023, serving as a follow-up to the 2014 title of the same name. Following this, the Epic Games Store posted a puzzling teaser on X, which we have included below.

    Theories from the Community

    From this teaser, several users on Reddit and X have speculated that the first Mystery Game from Epic could be Saros. Developed by the same team behind Returnal and set to be published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, Saros is presently a PS5 exclusive. However, given the success of Returnal, it seems likely that Saros will also come to PC.

    As God of War and Lords of the Fallen 2 have been eliminated as possibilities, Divinity Original Sin 3 has emerged as another potential option at this time. Epic is expected to unveil its Mystery Game during The Game Awards, which will take place on December 11 at 13:00 UTC. This means that their initial holiday giveaway might actually turn out to be a brand new release.

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  • Asgard Launches Affordable 256 GB DDR5-5600 RAM Kit in China

    Asgard Launches Affordable 256 GB DDR5-5600 RAM Kit in China

    Key Takeaways

    1. RAM prices are currently very high due to increased demand from AI companies, with forecasts suggesting prices may not return to normal until 2028.
    2. Asgard, a Chinese memory manufacturer, has introduced high-capacity memory kits, including a 256 GB kit priced at about $2,400.
    3. The 256 GB kit features four 64 GB DDR5-6000 modules and is more expensive than the top consumer gaming GPU, the GeForce RTX 5090.
    4. Asgard also offers a more affordable 192 GB kit for $1,125, but both products are only available in China.
    5. For buyers outside China, alternatives like the G Skill Trident Z5 32 GB DDR5-6000 kit are available for around $360.

    With the skyrocketing costs of RAM, gamers looking to assemble a new gaming setup are encountering challenges they have probably never dealt with before. Unfortunately, things are not expected to get better shortly, as large AI companies have nearly consumed almost every DRAM supply chain available. Some forecasts even suggest that RAM prices may not return to reasonable levels until 2028.

    New Offerings from Asgard

    Asgard, a memory manufacturer based in China, recently showcased its newest products via social media—a pair of high-capacity memory kits. The more expensive of the two is the Valkyrie II Racing Car Limited Edition, a 256 GB kit that comes with a staggering price tag of 17,000 Yuan, which is about $2,400. This is not a mistake; the official cost of this 256 GB memory kit is actually higher than that of the most powerful consumer gaming GPU available, the GeForce RTX 5090.

    Specifications Breakdown

    The kit includes four 64 GB DDR5-6000 modules that use 4 GB M-die ICs from SK Hynix along with a 10-layer PCB. For those who may not have as deep of pockets, Asgard has also introduced the Thor Black Gold Limited Edition 192 GB kit, featuring four 48 GB DDR5-6000 modules with 3 GB M-die ICs from SK Hynix, also built on a 10-layer PCB. This option is much more affordable at $1,125.

    However, for potential buyers outside of China who are lured by these seemingly reasonable prices, it’s essential to manage your expectations. Asgard does not distribute its products beyond China, which is a bit of a letdown. For those in the United States, a good alternative might be the G Skill Trident Z5 32 GB DDR5-6000 kit, currently listed for $360 on Amazon.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, while the memory market is facing tough times, Asgard’s new products showcase some impressive technology. Yet, the limitations on availability may hinder many from taking advantage of these high-capacity kits.

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