Category: Gaming

  • Nvidia GeForce NOW Holiday Sale: 50% Off with New Game Arrivals

    Nvidia GeForce NOW Holiday Sale: 50% Off with New Game Arrivals

    Key Takeaways

    1. Discount available until December 30 for Performance and Ultimate tiers, with shorter wait times and longer gaming sessions for higher membership levels.
    2. December update allows Battle.net single sign-on for easier access to games like Overwatch 2 and Diablo IV.
    3. GeForce NOW library adding popular titles like Hogwarts Legacy and initial Activision games for Ubisoft+ Premium subscribers.
    4. Nvidia will launch 30 new titles by the end of December, including games like Marvel Cosmic Invasion and Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2.
    5. Nvidia’s ambitious expansion plans show a strong commitment to enhancing their gaming platform.

    The discount lasts until December 30 and is available for the Performance and Ultimate tiers while supplies last. Higher membership levels provide shorter wait times and extended gaming sessions. These passes grant access to over 2,000 extra GeForce RTX hardware Install-to-Play games.

    December Update Enhancements

    In the December update, gamers can use Battle.net single sign-on across all compatible devices. After linking their accounts, players can instantly dive into games like Overwatch 2 and Diablo IV without the hassle of logging in multiple times.

    New Additions to the Gaming Library

    The GeForce NOW library is set to welcome Hogwarts Legacy, a top favorite among PC gamers in 2023. Subscribers to Ubisoft+ Premium will also have access to the initial set of Activision games. This collection features titles like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy, and Spyro Reignited Trilogy. Nvidia has promised to include more Activision games soon.

    Nvidia is set to launch 30 new titles before December ends. These include Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Everdream Village, Octopath Traveler 0, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, Powerwash Simulator 2, Routine, Dome Keeper, Witchfire, and Jurassic World Evolution 3, available through the Epic Game Store.

    Nvidia’s expansion plans are ambitious, indicating a commitment to enhancing their gaming platform.

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  • Pre-Order Lego Retro Gaming Console Set for Under $20

    Pre-Order Lego Retro Gaming Console Set for Under $20

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lego has launched the Creator 31380 3-in-1 Retro Gaming Console Set, which offers three builds in one kit.
    2. The main design is a replica of retro gaming handhelds, featuring two movable joysticks and buttons, along with three ‘game cartridges.’
    3. The set can also be reconfigured into a gaming arcade cabinet or a vintage desktop computer.
    4. It is priced at $19.99 in the US and £17.99 in the UK, with pre-orders available on Lego’s website.
    5. Expected shipping for pre-orders will start on January 1, 2026, and the set will not function like a handheld gaming device.

    Lego has introduced a fresh gaming handheld Creator set following the summer launch of the Lego Game Boy (curr. $59.95 on Amazon). This time, the brand has not focused on any specific gaming device. Instead, the Creator 31380 3-in-1 Retro Gaming Console Set offers a trio of builds to create within one kit.

    A Unique Design

    The main build is a replica of affordable retro gaming handhelds. As shown in the images above and below, this design is reminiscent of gadgets like the Anbernic RG505 but with a more pronounced style. According to Lego, the handheld comes with two movable joysticks and buttons each, along with a selection of three ‘game cartridges’ that can be inserted into its 1:1-style display.

    Additional Builds

    Alternatively, the 268-piece set can be reconfigured into a small gaming arcade cabinet or a vintage desktop computer. The Retro Gaming Console set is available for pre-order on Lego’s website and retails for $19.99 in the US and £17.99 in the UK, among other locations. Currently, pre-orders are expected to ship starting January 1, 2026. Sadly, there are no indications that this set will evolve into a functional handheld like the recent BrickBoy crowdfunding project for the Lego Game Boy.

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  • New DualSense PS5 Controller with Better Battery Life Bundled with PS5 Pro and Slim

    New DualSense PS5 Controller with Better Battery Life Bundled with PS5 Pro and Slim

    Key Takeaways

    1. An updated DualSense controller (CFI-ZCT2W) is being shipped with the PS5 Pro model and PS5 Slim in Europe, potentially offering improved battery life.
    2. The new DualSense V2 controller is included with the PS5 Pro model (CFI-7121) and has limited edition versions like the gold Ghost of Yōtei.
    3. The new controller design uses the BDM-060 board but has removed the secondary microphone, which may affect background noise cancellation.
    4. Battery life remains a concern for gamers, with no current option for easily replaceable batteries, although a future DualSense V3 may address this.
    5. Sony has revised the cooling system in the PS5 Slim to prevent liquid-metal leaks and reduce overheating issues seen in earlier models.

    In the past few months, tear downs of an updated PS5 Pro model have uncovered a new version of the DualSense controller. Modyfikator89 shared that the accessory named CFI-ZCT2W is being shipped with several consoles across Europe. The modder suggests that this new PS5 controller might provide the improved battery life that fans have been wanting.

    New DualSense V2 Bundles

    Modyfikator89 further clarified that consumers can discover the updated DualSense V2 included with the PS5 Pro model CFI-7121. This system started shipping to European nations in September 2025. Additionally, the controller has been seen with the PS5 Slim CFI-2116 revision as well.

    There are also limited edition DualSense controllers like the gold Ghost of Yōtei version that feature the new hardware setup. For those looking to get their hands on this peripheral, the CFI-ZCT2W label should be visible on the box.

    Changes in Controller Design

    While taking apart the PS5 controller, Modyfikator89 found that it utilizes the BDM-060 board. Although he thinks the device works more efficiently, not all adjustments are good. To increase battery life, Sony eliminated the secondary microphone. This could hinder the controller’s ability to block out background noise, but gamers have yet to see any testing on this.

    Battery life has been a frequent issue raised by PlayStation fans since the PS5 launch. Sometimes, players might find themselves needing to recharge the controller after just six hours of use. Unlike many Xbox controllers, users can’t easily change the batteries when they run out. Still, there are rumors about a future DualSense V3 that might offer this option.

    Upcoming Features and Changes

    Sadly, there’s no indication that the new PS5 controller will feature Hall effect or TMR analog sticks. Stick drift, which can occur as parts wear down, has also been a big concern for serious gamers.

    Sony has been making some quiet yet significant adjustments to its consoles. Modyfikator89 noted a revised cooling system in the PS5 Slim CFI-2116 that takes inspiration from the design of the PS5 Pro. The aim of these changes is to avoid the notorious liquid-metal leak that led to higher temperatures in previous consoles.

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  • Dark Craft: New MMO Combines Dark Souls and Minecraft Elements

    Dark Craft: New MMO Combines Dark Souls and Minecraft Elements

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dark Craft combines Souls-like action gameplay with a Minecraft-like art style in a new MMORPG by Take Top Entertainment.
    2. The game world is a dynamic dark-fantasy realm that evolves continuously, featuring tactical combat, PvE, and PvP elements.
    3. A high-risk loot system rewards victors while punishing defeated players, and a Game Master system allows developers to influence live gameplay.
    4. Dark Craft will be free-to-play with microtransactions, raising concerns about potential pay-to-win mechanics.
    5. An Early Access launch is expected around late 2026 or 2027, with players able to wishlist the game on Steam.

    With the release of Dark Craft, Kazakh studio Take Top Entertainment has rolled out a new MMORPG that combines two popular universes: the tough, Souls-like action reminiscent of Dark Souls and a sharp, Minecraft-like art style. The game was officially revealed on December 2, and you can check out the announcement trailer on YouTube.

    Game World and Features

    The developers describe Dark Craft as a bleak dark-fantasy realm filled with ruins, temples, forests, and deserted villages. The game world is crafted to progress on its own, evolving continuously whether players are logged in or not. The gameplay focuses on a tactical combat system that draws inspiration from Souls-like mechanics, integrating both PvE and PvP aspects. The loot system operates on a high-risk basis – victors gain rewards, while those who are defeated lose their gathered items. A unique aspect of the game is the Game Master system, permitting developers to directly influence live gameplay. They can assume the role of a world boss, initiate random events, or unleash surprise enemy waves to keep gamers alert.

    Free-to-Play Model

    Dark Craft will be released as a free-to-play game and will feature microtransactions. While this approach increases accessibility for players, it has sparked worries about possible pay-to-win dynamics – especially since Take Top Entertainment has previously only created mobile games. This new title is the studio’s first significant MMORPG for PC.

    The cinematic trailer has garnered positive feedback on YouTube for its visual flair, yet numerous viewers remain wary due to the absence of gameplay clips. Even with this skepticism, the fundamental concept of merging Minecraft-like aesthetics with Dark Souls-inspired mechanics in an MMO environment has sparked real enthusiasm.

    Future Release Information

    Currently, there’s no specific release date set for Dark Craft. However, an Early Access launch around late 2026 or sometime in 2027 appears plausible. In the meantime, players can already put the game on their wishlist on Steam.

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  • Pokémon Pokopia: Post-Apocalyptic Fan Theory Leaks Confirmed

    Pokémon Pokopia: Post-Apocalyptic Fan Theory Leaks Confirmed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pokémon Pokopia is set in a post-apocalyptic version of Kanto, with hints of a catastrophic event affecting human civilization.
    2. The game features a human character that is actually a Ditto in disguise, adding a unique twist to gameplay.
    3. Recent leaks describe the transformed Kanto regions, highlighting areas like Fuchsia as a “dried up fieldland” and Viridian as a “burning forest of ash.”
    4. Some game areas will only be accessible later through downloadable content (DLC), which has received mixed reactions from fans.
    5. Despite mixed feelings, many fans are excited about the bold creative direction of the game, appreciating its alternate universe concept.

    Pokémon Pokopia is a charming game set within the Pokémon world, which we initially reported on in late October. There are still not many details available—particularly about the version intended for the Nintendo Switch 2—leading to a lot of speculation among fans. One of the most talked-about theories suggests that Pokopia is situated in a post-apocalyptic version of Kanto.

    Game Insights

    So far, glimpses of Pokémon Pokopia have unveiled a Ditto, desolate islands, and a landscape that appears to be abandoned by humanity. While players take on the role of a human character, it’s actually a Ditto that has morphed into one. Many fans view these aspects as strong indicators of a catastrophic event that either wiped out or forced human civilization to relocate. Recently, new details have emerged that seem to bolster this theory even further.

    Recent Developments

    Leaker CentroLeaks recently posted a map on X that supposedly illustrates a ruined version of the Kanto region in Pokémon Pokopia. According to translated descriptions, Fuchsia is now characterized as a “dried up and unfertilized fieldland,” Viridian has changed into a “never-ending, burning forest of ash,” and Pewter is described as an “abandoned mine covered by rocks.” Insider Gaming has picked up this leak, lending more credence to the post-apocalyptic narrative. However, neither Nintendo nor The Pokémon Company has officially validated this setting.

    Fan Reactions

    From the leak, it appears that additional areas in Pokémon Pokopia will only become accessible later through downloadable content (DLC) – a detail that hasn’t been well-received by some fans. Sarcastic remarks like “Thank god they finally nuked Kanto” have surfaced, but many others find the idea quite bold and refreshing. The notion of an alternate universe has sparked genuine excitement, with fans applauding this creative direction, even though similar themes have manifested in titles like Ultra Sun & Moon or Pokémon Legends: Z-A.

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  • Battlefield 6 Winter Offensive Update Released Amid Community Critique

    Battlefield 6 Winter Offensive Update Released Amid Community Critique

    Key Takeaways

    1. Audio Improvements: Enhanced prioritization of combat sounds, especially footsteps, and resolved bugs affecting sound playback.

    2. Balance Adjustments: Changes to capture zones and vehicle access in Rush and Breakthrough modes to create a more balanced gameplay experience.

    3. Netcode Fixes: Improved bullet trajectories and hit registration, addressing long-standing accuracy issues and bugs related to object visibility.

    4. Visibility Enhancements: Updates to effects and animations to improve enemy visibility in dimly lit areas, with further lighting improvements planned.

    5. Weapon Handling Updates: Adjustments to recoil, attachments, and first-shot precision for a more consistent shooting experience.

    Winter Offensive is set to kick off on December 9, bringing along a fresh event map and a temporary game mode, plus some of the biggest balance and technical enhancements so far. Key updates include a revamped audio system, adjustments to Breakthrough and Rush modes, and improvements to weapons, netcode, and lighting. Here’s a brief summary:

    Audio Improvements

    We’ve discussed in the past the significant audio problems that have affected Battlefield 6 since Season 1 began. With the arrival of Winter Offensive, it appears the developers have listened to player feedback. Important combat sounds, especially footsteps, will now receive better prioritization, enhancing both clarity and direction. Furthermore, various bugs that prevented some sounds from playing have also been resolved.

    Balance Adjustments

    Rush and Breakthrough modes have been plagued by balance issues on specific maps, often leading to matches that are heavily skewed. To remedy this, the developers are modifying capture zones and changing vehicle access to create a more balanced gameplay experience. In the Rush mode, several M-COM station placements have been reworked to enhance flow and fairness.

    Netcode Fixes

    A common annoyance in Battlefield 6 is the feeling of hitting a shot that the game doesn’t register. These netcode problems have been a frequent source of frustration. With Winter Offensive, EA and DICE aim to improve bullet trajectories, especially for shots taken during zoom transitions, to fix long-standing accuracy issues. The update also focuses on large-scale battles in confined spaces, seeking to make hit registration more reliable. Additionally, a bug that caused destroyed objects to appear intact for some players has been addressed.

    Visibility Enhancements

    Players have often complained about enemy visibility, particularly in dimly lit areas. With Winter Offensive, changes to effects and animations are intended to make it easier to spot opponents. The developers have also hinted at more extensive lighting improvements in future patches, specifically to better the transitions between dark indoor settings and bright outdoor areas.

    Weapon Handling Updates

    EA and DICE recognize that weapon handling and reliability are crucial for the ongoing development of Battlefield 6. In Winter Offensive, updates to recoil, attachments, and first-shot precision aim to provide a more consistent and trustworthy shooting experience.

    REDSEC Mode Changes

    The REDSEC battle royale mode is set to undergo a rework, focusing on the strength and availability of armored vehicles. More information is expected in a forthcoming blog post, scheduled for release in the first week of December.

    Community Reactions

    Despite a variety of improvements, the community’s response to Winter Offensive has been mostly negative. While many players appreciate the balance adjustments and technical fixes, they continue to point out the lack of essential features like a full server browser, platoon systems, and admin tools. Some feel that, even though progress is evident, the updates seem more like superficial fixes rather than tackling the game’s deeper issues.

    In conclusion, the developers have reiterated their dedication to expanding Battlefield 6, emphasizing community feedback. However, it’s still uncertain if this will include some of the long-requested features such as dedicated servers.

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  • Youtuber Confirms Team Fortress 2 Source 2 Port in Valve Datamine

    Youtuber Confirms Team Fortress 2 Source 2 Port in Valve Datamine

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tyler McVicker suggests that Valve is likely working on porting Team Fortress 2 to the Source 2 Engine, which may lead to a remaster or a sequel (Team Fortress 3).

    2. New code insights from a recent Counter-Strike 2 update indicate the transfer of Team Fortress 2 content, including a specific mechanic called ‘func_respawnroomvisualizer.’

    3. McVicker claims that the presence of multiplayer-related entities exclusive to Team Fortress 2 confirms that a team at Valve is actively working on this project.

    4. Players have hopes for enhancements in a potential remaster or sequel, such as ray-traced graphics and new weapons, but McVicker advises caution due to Valve’s history of secrecy.

    5. The excitement for Team Fortress 2’s future comes amid other Valve titles being ported to Source 2, but speculation should be approached carefully given Valve’s unpredictable nature.

    A prominent investigator and dataminer for Valve, Tyler “Hype Merchant” McVicker, has suggested that a new datamine serves as “effectively confirmation” that Valve is working on bringing Team Fortress 2 to the Source 2 Engine. He mentions that Valve could either be remastering Team Fortress 2 like they did with Counter-Strike 2 or they might be developing a sequel, which could be called Team Fortress 3.

    New Code Insights

    In his recent YouTube video titled “An Actual New Team Fortress? Maybe?”, McVicker analyzed the code from a Counter-Strike 2 update released on October 14. He highlighted the addition of new lines in the Source 1 import strings, which help transfer content from Valve’s older engine to Source 2. A specific mechanic he pointed out that is being brought over is ‘func_respawnroomvisualizer.’

    This particular mechanic is significant because it’s a distinct TF2 entity that creates barriers to protect spawn rooms from enemy attacks. In the video, McVicker confidently claimed, “This seemingly confirms that TF is referring to Team Fortress, and it’s also revealing that they are porting Team Fortress 2 maps into Source 2.”

    Uncertain Future

    He went on to say, “With most multiplayer-related entities that are exclusive to Team Fortress 2 now being taken advantage of, this is effectively direct confirmation that yes, there’s a team at Valve that is working for some reason working on porting Team Fortress 2 into Source 2.”

    However, like numerous gamers and industry analysts, McVicker is uncertain about what Valve intends to do with these ported TF2 features. He raised the question, “Are they trying to do a CS2 thing, where they almost remaster Team Fortress 2, or is this a sequel?”

    Hopes and Expectations

    Many players are wishing for either a remaster or a sequel of Team Fortress with enhancements like ray-traced Unusual hats, Australium weapons, and a new Golden Frying Pan. Nevertheless, McVicker advised caution, pointing out that the first hint about the TF project was only revealed this year, and Valve’s history suggests they rarely go beyond the number two.

    This recent surge of optimism comes amidst Valve’s wide array of titles ported to Source 2, including Dota 2, CS2, and the ongoing playtesting of Deadlock. There are also fluctuating levels of excitement in the gaming community regarding the potential announcement of Half-Life 3 in late 2025. Still, all speculation should be approached carefully, as Valve is known for being secretive.

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  • Slower PS5 and Switch 2 Sales Expected in 2026 Due to Memory Shortage

    Slower PS5 and Switch 2 Sales Expected in 2026 Due to Memory Shortage

    Key Takeaways

    1. Buyers are currently benefiting from discounts on PS5 consoles and occasional savings on the Switch 2, but these promotions may disappear by 2026 due to rising memory costs.
    2. Memory costs make up a significant portion of the prices for consoles, with approximately 35% for PS5 and Xbox, and 21-23% for the Switch 2, affecting profitability for manufacturers.
    3. Nintendo’s Switch 2 may struggle to maintain its price stability as production costs rise, particularly due to increases in NAND flash memory prices.
    4. The semiconductor crisis of 2021 impacted console production, leading to reduced sales forecasts for both Sony and Nintendo.
    5. Future predictions indicate a potential stagnation in the console market before the release of PS6 and the next Xbox, with a forecasted 4.4% decline in shipments.

    Buyers are currently enjoying attractive discounts on PS5 consoles this holiday season, along with occasional savings on the Switch 2. Nonetheless, a report from TrendForce warns that similar promotions may not be present in 2026. The rising costs of memory could contribute to a 4.4% drop in console shipments when compared to the previous year.

    Memory Market Impacts

    Initially, TrendForce anticipated a decline of 3.5% before memory producers shifted focus to meet the demands of growing AI data centers. Their updated findings highlight that console makers usually absorb losses on hardware sales. Yet, memory constitutes about 21-23% of the Switch 2’s price, while it accounts for roughly 35% of the PS5 and Xbox systems. Revenue from software and subscriptions alone likely won’t be sufficient to counter these financial hurdles.

    Challenges for Nintendo

    Nintendo’s handheld device may already find it hard to keep its current MSRP stable. Up to now, the Switch 2 has escaped the price hikes that the PS5 has experienced due to inventory issues. However, the original Switch and its accessories haven’t fared as well. In addition to concerns regarding system memory, the rising costs of NAND flash could result in higher production expenses for cartridges.

    TrendForce predicts that even fleeting discounts may become a rarity in 2026. While Nintendo and Sony may have stockpiled memory resources, this is only a temporary fix. Price increases could hinder demand, negatively impacting sales of the Switch 2 and PS5. The report also references past shortages in components that contributed to a slowdown in console adoption.

    Past Supply Crises

    The semiconductor crisis in 2021 severely affected hardware for both Nintendo and PlayStation. Sony had to revise its PS5 production target down from 16 million to 15 million units. This situation also compelled Nintendo to adjust its 2022 sales expectations in anticipation of disappointing holiday sales.

    Consumers are facing surprisingly high retail prices for DDR5 memory. With the AI sector dominating the supply chains, experts speculate that these components will continue to be pricey until at least 2028. While a 4.4% decline in shipments may not appear alarming, the outlook for 2027 could be grimmer. TrendForce cautions that the market might enter a “period of stagnation” just before the release of the PS6 and the next Xbox console.

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  • GTA 6 Release Date Likely Before Elder Scrolls 6, Says Todd Howard

    GTA 6 Release Date Likely Before Elder Scrolls 6, Says Todd Howard

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Elder Scrolls 6 is unlikely to appear at The Game Awards, as confirmed by a Bloomberg journalist.
    2. Todd Howard stated that GTA 6 will be released before The Elder Scrolls 6, expressing support for GTA 6’s timely release.
    3. Rockstar Games has a confirmed release date for GTA 6, set for November 19th, 2026, but fans remain skeptical about this date.
    4. The Elder Scrolls 6 was announced in 2018, but Howard indicated that it is still years away, potentially not releasing until 2027 or 2028.
    5. Bethesda aims to finish Starfield before focusing on The Elder Scrolls 6, and while surprise releases are possible, hopes for a reveal at The Game Awards have been dashed.

    A Bloomberg journalist recently ruled out any chance of The Elder Scrolls 6 making an appearance at The Game Awards. Fans of the beloved RPG series faced more disheartening news in a recent article from Power Unlimited. Game director Todd Howard informed the Dutch magazine that the release date for GTA 6 will come before we see the Bethesda game.

    Todd Howard’s Comments

    The publication caught up with Howard at an event celebrating the second season of the Fallout series. When asked which game would be released first—GTA 6, The Elder Scrolls 6, or Fallout 5—Howard expressed, “I’m rooting for Grand Theft Auto 6.” He further clarified that he does not expect any more delays for GTA 6.

    The Current Situation

    This information isn’t shocking since only the Rockstar Games title has a confirmed release date. However, after several letdowns, not every fan is confident that November 19th, 2026, will be a date for celebration.

    Rockstar has been famously secretive about updates, with GTA 6 trailers emerging only after long stretches of silence. Recent layoffs over allegations of leaks may hint at some disorganization within the studio.

    The Elder Scrolls 6 Update

    On the other hand, Todd Howard has been more open about The Elder Scrolls 6’s development status. Even though the game was announced at the 2018 E3, he told GQ in November that it is “still a long way off.” He urged players to be patient, stating, “I don’t want fans to feel anxious.” One of the reasons for the lengthy development time is Bethesda’s choice to finish Starfield first.

    At this point, it appears that The Elder Scrolls 6 may not be released until at least 2027 or 2028. Still, Bethesda has shown a tendency for surprise releases, similar to what they did with Oblivion Remastered. The Game Awards would have been a great opportunity for a reveal, but unfortunately, despite host Geoff Keighley’s hints at a mythical statue, Howard has dashed those hopes.

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  • Customer Receives Rocks Instead of RTX 5080, No Retailer Solution

    Customer Receives Rocks Instead of RTX 5080, No Retailer Solution

    Key Takeaways

    1. A customer ordered a high-end Nvidia GPU from Best Buy but received rocks instead of the actual product.
    2. Best Buy initially promised a replacement but later stated they would not issue a refund or replacement for the order.
    3. The incident highlights a growing trend of GPU and CPU scams where customers receive incorrect or defective items.
    4. Customers are advised to consider filing chargebacks with their credit card companies for fraudulent transactions.
    5. Previous similar scams included receiving unrelated items like backpacks, rice, and defective components in place of ordered hardware.

    Another day brings yet another GPU scam. The most recent troubling incident involves a customer who decided to purchase a new top-tier Nvidia GPU from Best Buy. Instead of receiving the actual GPU, they got sent rocks, and now the retailer claims there is nothing they can do about it. This incident adds to the growing list of GPU and CPU scams, where customers have received incorrect products or dead-on-arrival cards, but this case seems to be particularly bizarre.

    Details of the Incident

    The unfortunate story was shared by a user named GnarDead on the pcmasterrace subreddit. They placed an order for a $1,200 Asus TUF Gaming RTX 5080 at their local Best Buy on November 25 and got it delivered on November 28. Upon opening the oddly handled package, which lacked any standard brown box, they discovered rocks instead of a shiny new GPU. Images posted by the user showed that the rocks were stuffed into the GPU cutout, wrapped in plastic and bubble wrap.

    Best Buy’s Response

    Even more disheartening is that Best Buy seems to have distanced itself from the issue. The user quickly filed a complaint, and Best Buy initially replied saying a replacement was being sent. However, on December 2, the user got another message stating that after looking into the matter, Best Buy would not be issuing a replacement or refund.

    Sympathy has poured in from commenters who suggested that the user should attempt to initiate a chargeback through their credit card company. Since the original poster hasn’t replied, it remains unknown whether they managed to take this step or if they even made the purchase using a credit card.

    A Growing Problem

    This incident adds to a troubling record of scams within the GPU and CPU market. Just last June, one user received their RTX 5090 GPU order only to find crossbody backpacks packed inside the box, while another received rice, macaroni, and an old, random GPU. Additionally, a different user bought an RTX 5090 for $2,000, only to later discover that the GPU core and GDDR7 memory chips were missing. More recently, a reviewer ordered a Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU from Amazon but ended up with an AMD FX 4100 that had a sticker slapped on top. Thankfully, most of these customers managed to get replacements or refunds, and hopefully, GnarDead will find a way to recover their money too.

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