Category: Gaming

  • Microsoft’s Xbox 360 Backward Compatibility Plans for New Consoles

    Microsoft’s Xbox 360 Backward Compatibility Plans for New Consoles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft halted the Xbox backward compatibility program in 2021, but Xbox Series S and X still support previous Xbox games.
    2. There are efforts to make legacy Xbox games compatible with new systems like the ROG Xbox Ally handheld and Windows PCs.
    3. Microsoft is reportedly developing its own in-house emulator for Xbox games, rather than using the Xbox 360 emulator.
    4. The upcoming Xbox console may have custom hardware designed for better compatibility, potentially using technology from AMD.
    5. Licensing issues could complicate the re-release of older games, even as Microsoft expresses optimism about celebrating Xbox’s legacy.


    Many gamers were upset when the Xbox backward compatibility program stopped in 2021. The Series S and X still allow players to enjoy Xbox One, Xbox 360, and older games. However, the ROG Xbox Ally handheld and upcoming consoles are facing more challenges. A trusted leaker suggests that Microsoft is looking for ways to make console-locked games available on these new systems.

    Hints from ResetEra

    NateTheHate2 shared insights about Microsoft’s plans on the ResetEra forums. In response to another user, he mentioned, “There exists a hope to make legacy Xbox (OG and Xbox 360) games BC on ROG and Windows. Whether they succeed is the unknown; but there is an effort being made.” However, he was uncertain about how many Xbox games could actually be made compatible.

    Rumors and Developments

    There have been several speculations on how Microsoft might handle this issue. Back in June, Xenia dismissed claims that the company would use its well-known Xbox 360 emulator. The developers insisted that Microsoft is developing its own in-house solution. Later, Jez Corden from Windows Central hinted at the potential for an official emulator that could bring inaccessible Xbox games to Windows PCs and handheld devices.

    Future Console Insights

    Corden also predicted that the anticipated new Xbox console would feature custom hardware to address compatibility challenges. Reports suggest that Microsoft and AMD are collaborating on a system using the Magnus APU. Nonetheless, many analysts think it might be a hybrid of PC and console, relying heavily on Windows. It remains unclear how engineers will manage the extensive back catalog without the use of software emulation.

    Cautious Optimism

    Company leaders have been careful in their remarks about backward compatibility. Recently, on a BBC podcast discussing the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, Jason Ronald, the Vice President of Xbox Gaming Devices and Ecosystem, responded to a question regarding this feature. He reassured listeners that Microsoft aims to “celebrate the great legacy and the history that we have with Xbox…” As for the 25th anniversary of Xbox in 2026, Ronald added, “I can’t confirm or deny what you’re asking, but stay tuned. We have a lot of exciting things to share next year.”

    Some fans interpret Ronald’s comments as a hopeful indication. However, licensing complications present another challenge to bringing forgotten titles back. If physical discs aren’t an option, the original publishers Microsoft had contracts with may no longer be in business.

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  • Asus ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 Update: Shipments Resumed

    Asus ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 Update: Shipments Resumed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has halted the delivery of the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 due to quality control issues.
    2. The company acknowledged a delay but stated it is for enhancing product quality and customer satisfaction.
    3. Asus confirmed there is no product recall and plans to resume shipments shortly.
    4. Existing customers who received their GPUs before the launch can continue using them without issues.
    5. The ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 is a high-end graphics card priced at around $4,000, with a limited production of only 1,000 units.


    Several news sources shared last week that Asus has halted the delivery of the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090. A retailer in Sweden told a customer that Asus is looking into some quality control problems with the graphics card. The Taiwanese firm has now given more details regarding this matter.

    Delay Acknowledged

    Asus Germany confirmed that there is indeed a delay. However, they mentioned that the shipments were paused to enhance the product quality and overall customer satisfaction. They will soon resume sending stock to retailers.

    Statement from Asus

    In the words of Asus’ PR executive, Christian Wefers, “There is no product recall for the ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090. We proactively adjusted the original timeline to allow additional time for product improvements and to ensure an optimal customer experience. The products will arrive at our partners within the next few days. Availability may vary by region.”

    Existing Customers Not Affected

    Asus also reassured that customers who got their GPUs before the official launch can keep using their devices without any issues.

    The ROG Matrix GeForce RTX 5090 stands out as one of the most costly versions of the card, priced at around $4,000. It features four cooling fans and can consume up to 800 watts when used with Asus’ Advanced BTF motherboard and a 12V-2×6 power supply. Only 1,000 units are being made worldwide, making it a truly collectible GPU.

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  • New Free Banjo-Kazooie Game: What You Need to Know

    New Free Banjo-Kazooie Game: What You Need to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fan Project: “Banjo-Kazooie: Mumbomania” is a fan game created in Media Molecule’s Dreams platform by Eupholace and 1Collaborator.
    2. Nostalgic Experience: The game features vibrant environments, fun platforming, and references to the classic N64 games.
    3. New Features: Mumbomania includes fresh transformations and game mechanics to enhance gameplay.
    4. PlayStation Requirement: Players need a PlayStation 4 or 5 and a copy of Dreams to access Mumbomania.
    5. Uncertain Future: There are no confirmed plans for an official new Banjo-Kazooie game from Rare, making Mumbomania a nostalgic alternative for fans.


    Amidst the ongoing quiet from Rare about a new title for Banjo and Kazooie, creators Eupholace and 1Collaborator have developed a fan project called Banjo-Kazooie: Mumbomania, which is crafted with care inside Dreams, Media Molecule’s platform for user-generated games. The level captures everything you would expect from Banjo-Kazooie: vibrant, colorful environments, fun platforming elements, and nostalgic references to the N64 classics. There are also some exciting new twists to keep things interesting, such as fresh transformations and game mechanics.

    Requirements to Play

    Since it was created within Dreams, there is a small catch: you’ll need either a PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5 along with a copy of Dreams to experience it. However, if you already own those, you can dive in right away and experience the old-school charm of Rare, brought back to life by fans who clearly long for Banjo and Kazooie just like the rest of us do.

    Future of Banjo and Kazooie

    Will we ever witness an official comeback? Currently, there are no confirmed plans for a new Banjo-Kazooie game in the works from Rare or its parent company. Yet, for the time being, Mumbomania serves as a delightful and nostalgic stop that shows the duo still has plenty of energy left in them.

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  • Abxylute E1 Retro Game Console: Android & Linux, 3.5″ LCD

    Abxylute E1 Retro Game Console: Android & Linux, 3.5″ LCD

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Abxylute E1 handheld gaming console features a dual operating system, allowing users to switch between Android and Linux.
    2. It is powered by a Rockchip RK3566 CPU, Mali-G52 MP2 GPU, and has 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM, supporting microSD storage up to 512 GB.
    3. The console has a 640 x 480 IPS LCD display, dual 1-watt speakers, and two carbon-film analog joysticks for enhanced gaming control.
    4. It includes a 3,000 mAh battery for up to 5 hours of gaming, with a quick 2-hour recharge time, and offers HDMI and USB-C connectivity options.
    5. The E1 is priced at $69 and is available for purchase on Abxylute’s website, with details on other products like the upcoming Abxylute 3D One tablet gaming PC.


    Abxylute has introduced its E1 handheld gaming console, which features a dual operating system. This device is crafted for playing retro games both offline and via online streaming.

    Specs and Features

    The E1 is equipped with a Rockchip RK3566 CPU and a Mali-G52 MP2 GPU. It comes with 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and supports microSD card storage of up to 512 GB. The console boasts a 640 x 480 IPS LCD display that is non-touch and fully laminated. For sound, it includes dual 1-watt speakers and two carbon-film analog joysticks for enhanced control.

    Operating Systems

    This handheld device allows users to dual-boot between Android and Linux. The Linux version comes with retro console emulators already installed, while the Android side opens up access to modern console emulators and various online game streaming platforms.

    Battery and Connectivity

    According to the company, the E1 is powered by a 3,000 mAh lithium battery that allows for up to 5 hours of gaming and can be fully recharged in just 2 hours. Users can connect it to TVs using its HDMI port, attach accessories like storage devices and controllers via the USB-C (OTG) port, and plug in headphones through the 3.5 mm headphone jack.

    The E1 is available for an MSRP of $69 and can be purchased directly from Abxylute’s website for immediate shipping. Interested customers can also explore more of Abxylute’s handheld devices on their Amazon store, and get details about the soon-to-be-released Abxylute 3D One tablet gaming PC, which features a genuine stereoscopic display.

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  • Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth Cost Twice as Much as FF16

    Final Fantasy 7 Remake and Rebirth Cost Twice as Much as FF16

    Key Takeaways

    1. Final Fantasy 16 did not meet sales expectations and is considered a weaker addition to the series by some fans.
    2. The development cost for Final Fantasy 16 was approximately $58 million, significantly lower than Final Fantasy 7 Remake ($134 million) and Rebirth ($119 million).
    3. Concerns about Square Enix’s spending have been raised, with claims that some titles were produced at costs not justified by their revenue.
    4. Producer Naoki Yoshida effectively managed the development of Final Fantasy 16, achieving reasonable costs despite delays and a small team.
    5. Square Enix plans to reduce expenses in the future, including potential workforce cuts, as they work on Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3.


    Many fans of Square Enix believe that Final Fantasy 16 was not a strong addition to the iconic RPG series. The company itself has acknowledged that the game fell short of its sales expectations. Insights from a significant investor reveal that the costs for developing this title were much lower compared to Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade and Rebirth. Some players argue that these figures support claims that the 16th game lacks richness and refinement.

    Concerns About Spending

    3D Investment Partners released a set of slides highlighting what they consider to be the company’s unwise expenditures. Together with other investors, this firm aims to “engage in constructive dialogue with SQEX HD to boost its corporate value.” The report indicates that numerous Square Enix titles were produced at prices that did not align with the income they brought in.

    Cost Comparisons

    One chart indicates that Final Fantasy 16 required approximately $58 million for its production. In contrast, Final Fantasy 7 Remake cost about $134 million, and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth came in at $119 million. According to Reddit user HexenVexen, even after adjusting for the economic situations at the time of their releases, the gaps in costs are still significant.

    Production Insights

    It seems that producer Naoki Yoshida played a key role in effectively bringing the last mainline Final Fantasy game to life. Interviews have shown that he began with a small team and established clear goals. While the game did face delays, its overall costs were quite reasonable when compared to other high-budget RPGs.

    From a financial perspective, Final Fantasy 16 might now be viewed as a wiser investment. However, some gamers feel that it doesn’t provide the same expansive experience as other titles in the series. Notably, the open-world elements in Rebirth allowed players more freedom to explore. In contrast, Remake was primarily set in Midgar. The lengthy development period and meticulous attention to detail might explain why it surpassed the $130 million threshold.

    Future Directions

    Square Enix has already vowed to cut back on expenses, with AI technologies potentially leading to workforce reductions. The next installment, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3, is currently under development, with Naoki Hamaguchi returning as the game director. It seems improbable that he will alter his strategy. Still, only time will reveal if Hamaguchi will look for ways to save when he wraps up the remake trilogy.

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  • Durable 22g 3D Printed Gaming Mouse with Updated Materials

    Durable 22g 3D Printed Gaming Mouse with Updated Materials

    Key Takeaways

    1. Optimum created the Zer0mouse Blade as a personal project to design the lightest gaming mouse, weighing only 22 grams.
    2. The mouse is made from Formlabs’s Tough 2000 resin V2, enhancing durability and rigidity through a single-piece 3D-printed design.
    3. Design changes optimize the trigger mechanisms for a fingertip grip, improving the feel and performance for niche users.
    4. The Zer0mouse Blade is priced at $179.99 and lacks customizable side buttons, differentiating it from competitors.
    5. Compared to the Corsair Sabre V2, the Zer0mouse Blade is 71% lighter, but it is slightly heavier than the G-Wolves Fenrir mouse at 20.4 grams.


    Optimum, a well-known tech YouTuber famous for his thorough reviews of Hall effect gaming keyboards and wireless gaming mice, has been working on creating the lightest gaming mouse possible while maintaining strength and durability. Initially, the first designs were just a personal hobby aimed at making the perfect gaming mouse for his own use, but this effort eventually led to the creation of the Zer0mouse. The Zer0mouse Blade is a 3D-printed modification of a Finalmouse Falcon Module that features a minimal skeletal structure rather than a solid casing, allowing it to weigh only 22 grams. In a recent YouTube video, Optimum discusses how a combination of strategic design changes and a shift in materials have produced a mouse that maintains the same weight but offers much better rigidity.

    Material Innovations

    As per the video, the latest version of the Zer0mouse is crafted from Formlabs’s Tough 2000 resin V2, a cutting-edge proprietary resin from the leading 3D printing company, which mimics the properties of injection-moulded ABS. Optimum states that the new resin and design modifications enhance the new Zer0mouse Blade’s resistance to forces exerted during use and potential drops. This sturdiness is showcased in the video through slow-motion footage of the mouse being dropped onto concrete. The updated mouse still utilizes the Finalmouse Falcon Module, but it now features an added cover for the battery compartment. The increased toughness and rigidity of the new design stem from it being printed as a single piece, rather than two parts assembled afterward.

    Optimized Performance

    Optimum has further refined the design of the trigger mechanisms to better suit fingertip grip, aligning the hinge and trigger placement so that the switch feels lighter further back on the buttons, in contrast to where it feels heaviest on typical mass-produced gaming mice. The objective is to ensure that the Zer0mouse is tailored for a specific niche use rather than aiming for broad market appeal.

    Comparative Pricing

    When comparing commercially available gaming mice, the closest rival to the Zer0mouse Blade is the new Corsair Sabre V2 (currently $99.99 on Amazon), which weighs 36 grams. While this is lighter than many gaming mice, such as the Keychron M7 8K we reviewed recently, it is still 71% heavier than the Zer0mouse Blade. However, the Zer0mouse Blade does come with some drawbacks. It is priced at $179.99 and only includes left and right click buttons along with a scroll wheel, lacking any customizable side buttons. Additionally, it is slightly heavier than the G-Wolves Fenrir mouse, which is another ultra-light fingertip option that comes in at an impressive 20.4 grams (excluding skates).

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  • Capcom to Launch New Mega Man Games and Revive Devil May Cry

    Capcom to Launch New Mega Man Games and Revive Devil May Cry

    Key Takeaways

    1. Capcom’s COO, Haruhiro Tsujimoto, hints at the possibility of a new Mega Man game, potentially Mega Man 12, in the future.
    2. Capcom plans to revitalize franchises like Mega Man, Devil May Cry, and Ace Attorney with new releases, remakes, and ports for newer consoles.
    3. There is no specific information on upcoming titles, but fans are hoping for a sequel to Mega Man 11, released in 2018.
    4. The potential development of Devil May Cry 6 is still on the table, despite the departure of its director from Capcom.
    5. The Ace Attorney series, having sold over 13 million copies, may see a new installment, as its last main entry was released in 2016.


    As one of Capcom’s most beloved franchises, many fans are left wondering why the last main Mega Man game was released in 2018. Despite several compilations appearing, they haven’t truly met the expectations of those who love action platformers. In the recent 2025 Capcom Integrated Report, COO Haruhiro Tsujimoto offers a glimmer of hope that Mega Man 12 could be on the horizon.

    New Horizons for Mega Man

    Rockman Corner notes that the publisher had previously seemed less optimistic about a new installment. Tsujimoto mentioned that franchises like Resident Evil, Street Fighter, and Monster Hunter remain critical components of their lineup. However, he also indicated that they would seek ways to bring back Mega Man, Devil May Cry, and Ace Attorney into the spotlight.

    The COO made it clear that “new releases, remakes, and ports” for these three Capcom franchises are in the pipeline. With iconic titles like Mega Man, the plan is to evolve these into “core IPs” by launching versions for newer consoles. Naturally, the ultimate aim is to boost operating profits by introducing more high-profile titles every year.

    Speculations on Upcoming Titles

    Regrettably, the report doesn’t specify which games are on the way. As Mega Man 11 is now seven years old, a traditional sequel has become a frequent wish among fans. The publisher might also opt to remake the first three games, which originated from the NES period.

    Devil May Cry fans have also been eagerly awaiting updates on a possible sixth installment. Much like Mega Man 11, Devil May Cry 5 was released in 2018. The game’s director, Hideaki Itsuno, had been focusing mainly on Dragon’s Dogma 2. Even though he has departed from Capcom, the company hasn’t ruled out the idea of developing a Devil May Cry 6.

    Ace Attorney’s Future

    With Ace Attorney games selling over 13 million copies, it seems increasingly probable that the series of visual novels will see a new installment. The last main entry in this courtroom drama franchise was the 2016 title, Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney − Spirit of Justice.

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  • Analogue 3D Funtastic Limited Editions Now Available for $299.99

    Analogue 3D Funtastic Limited Editions Now Available for $299.99

    Key Takeaways

    1. Analogue has launched the 3D Funtastic Limited Editions to match the new limited edition consoles, inspired by original N64 colors.
    2. The controllers come in 8 vibrant colors and will be available starting December 10 at 8 AM PST.
    3. Each Funtastic Limited Edition is priced at $299.99 and does not include a controller, following a recent price increase due to tariffs.
    4. Shipping for the Funtastic Limited Editions will start on December 10, with delivery promised before December 25.
    5. Standard versions of the Analogue 3D console will also be restocked on December 10, but customers cannot purchase both editions together for Christmas delivery.


    Just as 8BitDo revealed their 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller Funtastic Limited Editions, Analogue has also introduced their own version called the Analogue 3D Funtastic Limited Editions. The hues of these controllers are designed to match the new limited edition consoles, which echo the original colors of the N64 models.

    Release Details

    The Analogue 3D Funtastic Limited Editions come in 8 vibrant colors that will be available starting December 10 at 8 AM PST. Each console includes cables and SD cards that are color coordinated. However, similar to the 8BitDo controllers, these editions will be priced higher than the regular versions.

    Pricing Information

    Analogue states that the Funtastic Limited Editions will be priced at $299.99 each. Like the Black and White versions of the Analogue 3D console, these will not include a controller. Last month, Analogue had to raise the price of the Analogue 3D console from $249.99 to $269.99 because of tariffs.

    Shipping Updates

    Fortunately, Analogue has confirmed that the release of the Funtastic Limited Editions will not be delayed, unlike the situation with 8BitDo. According to a post on X, the shipping for these limited editions will commence on December 10, with a promise of delivery before December 25.

    Analogue also mentioned that they will be restocking the standard versions on December 10. But they added a note that customers can’t buy both the standard and Limited Editions together if they want Christmas delivery. It’s recommended for those interested in both to get the limited editions first.

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  • LG Unveils 1440p Tandem OLED Monitor with 720Hz and DP 2.1

    LG Unveils 1440p Tandem OLED Monitor with 720Hz and DP 2.1

    Key Takeaways

    1. The LG UltraGear 27GX790B-B features a 4th-generation Primary RGB Tandem WOLED panel with a native resolution of 2560 x 1440 and a refresh rate of 540 Hz, capable of reaching 720 Hz at 720p resolution.
    2. It offers a rapid 0.02 ms response time and holds the ClearMR 21000 certification for excellent motion clarity, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming.
    3. The monitor achieves up to 335 nits brightness in SDR and 1,500 nits in HDR, meeting DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification and covering 99.5% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum.
    4. It includes HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, a USB-C port, two USB-A ports, and a headphone jack, supporting high refresh rates and providing versatile connectivity options.
    5. The UltraGear 27GX790B-B features an adjustable stand, sleek design, and RGB lighting on the back, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.


    LG is introducing a new OLED gaming monitor featuring its 4th-generation Primary RGB Tandem WOLED panel. This panel was first seen in models with 280 Hz like the UltraGear 27GX700A-B and Gigabyte MO27Q28G, but LG is now upgrading to a 540 Hz version that can even reach 720 Hz. The newly announced UltraGear 27GX790B-B in China is set to rival the Asus ROG Swift OLED PG27AQWP-W when it hits the US market.

    Monitor Specs

    The UltraGear 27GX790B-B comes with a native resolution of 2560 x 1440 and a refresh rate of 540 Hz. If you lower the resolution to 720p, you can achieve 720 Hz, which could be attractive to esports enthusiasts looking for every possible competitive edge. Even at its native resolution, this monitor outpaces recent QD-OLED models like the Samsung Odyssey OLED G60SF (currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon), which maxes out at 500 Hz. It boasts a 0.02 ms response time and holds the ClearMR 21000 certification, ensuring excellent motion clarity for fast-moving visuals.

    Brightness and Color Accuracy

    The UltraGear 27GX790B-B shines brighter than its predecessors, reaching up to 335 nits in SDR and 1,500 nits in HDR at a 1.5% window. It meets the DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification and covers 99.5% of the DCI-P3 color spectrum, a slight improvement over the 99% coverage of 3rd Gen WOLED panels. TFT Central points out that the new four-stack panel design also enhances text clarity, making this monitor a solid choice for both gaming and productivity tasks.

    Connectivity Options

    In terms of connections, the UltraGear 27GX790B-B includes HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1, allowing it to achieve its peak refresh rate without needing DSC. Additionally, LG has added a USB-C port, two USB-A ports, and a headphone jack for convenience. The monitor features an adjustable stand and a sleek design with RGB lighting on the back, adding a stylish touch to any setup.

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  • AMD RDNA 4 GPU Prices Surge Again Due to Memory Supply Issues

    AMD RDNA 4 GPU Prices Surge Again Due to Memory Supply Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD and Nvidia may stop producing lower-end and mid-range graphics cards due to rising memory prices.
    2. AMD plans to increase prices by $10 for every 8 GB of GDDR VRAM in the RDNA 4 series.
    3. Retailers have adjusted prices to reflect a return to higher pricing seen during past stock shortages.
    4. Current MSRPs for RDNA 4 GPUs are lower, making it a good time to consider purchasing an AMD Radeon card.
    5. No specific price hikes for Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 GPUs have been mentioned, but increased costs for GDDR memory are expected to affect pricing.


    Ever since the prices of memory shot up dramatically, it was anticipated that desktop gaming GPUs would experience significant impacts. There have been claims that AMD and Nvidia might stop producing their lower-end and mid-range desktop graphics cards due to the financial constraints in this sector. Recently, rumors have spread that AMD plans to raise prices by $10 for every 8 GB of GDDR VRAM.

    Revised Pricing for RDNA 4

    This supposed price hike for the RDNA 4 series will change the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) for the existing RDNA 4 models. When comparing these prices to current DDR5 kit prices, the increase seems relatively modest and should not greatly affect consumers. However, according to Moore’s Law Is Dead, the actual price rise for RDNA 4 RX 9000 GPUs, such as the RX 9070 XT, might be considerably higher.

    Retailer Adjustments

    Sources indicate that retailers have already adjusted their internal prices, and the outlook appears grim. Essentially, it seems the RDNA 4 graphics cards will revert to the pricing seen back in 2025 when stock shortages were prevalent, where the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT were sold for significantly higher than their original MSRPs.

    Expected Retail Prices

    Following the price increase due to memory inflation, MLID anticipates that RDNA 4 graphics cards will be sold at:

    When you look at these figures, the current MSRPs for the RDNA 4 GPUs mentioned above are much lower. Thus, if you’ve been deliberating on purchasing an AMD Radeon card, now might be an excellent opportunity to do so.

    MLID doesn’t mention any price hikes for Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 GPUs. Although Nvidia will likely pass the increased costs of GDDR memory onto customers, it remains unclear how much more Team Green will require for GPUs like the RTX 5070.

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