Category: Gaming

  • Epic Games Store Adds Free Rainbow Six Siege-Like Shooter

    Epic Games Store Adds Free Rainbow Six Siege-Like Shooter

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store is giving away in-game items for Idle Champions of the Forgotten Realms and Felix the Reaper for free from November 13 to November 20, 2025.
    2. The new addition to the giveaway lineup is Zero Hour, a tactical first-person shooter developed by Attrito and M7 Productions.
    3. Zero Hour has received over 16,000 reviews on Steam, with 78% being positive, giving it a “Mostly Positive” rating.
    4. The gameplay of Zero Hour focuses on online team-based multiplayer matches (5v5) and includes co-op PvE missions against AI opponents.
    5. Zero Hour, normally priced at $9.99, will be available for free starting November 13, increasing the total value of the giveaway to $56.97.

    In-game items for Idle Champions of the Forgotten Realms and Felix the Reaper are now being distributed for free through the Epic Games Store. When these titles were released, the platform declared its intention to offer two complimentary games from November 13 to November 20, 2025.

    New Addition to the Giveaway

    Recently, Epic Games Store announced a new addition to its free game lineup. The third game being offered is Zero Hour, a tactical first-person shooter crafted by the Bangladeshi developers Attrito and M7 Productions. This game made its debut on Steam in 2020, and it has garnered more than 16,000 reviews from players.

    Out of all the feedback, 78% has been positive, leading Zero Hour to achieve a “Mostly Positive” rating on Steam. The gameplay primarily focuses on a multiplayer mode that is online and team-based, featuring 5v5 matches. Many players have noted that this round-based experience is reminiscent of Rainbow Six Siege.

    Comparing Game Styles

    Some players may argue that Zero Hour feels more realistic compared to Rainbow Six Siege (Elite Edition for PS5 curr. $14.88 on Amazon), which tends to be more “arcadey.” On top of that, the upcoming free game also includes co-op PvE missions where players battle against AI opponents. However, since the AI enemies aren’t very challenging, this mode is often seen as the least interesting of the two.

    There are over 15 maps available in Zero Hour, all of which are imaginary settings inspired by actual places in Bangladesh. Players can also utilize more than 20 different weapons along with 15 pieces of utility gear.

    Pricing and Availability

    Zero Hour is normally priced at $9.99 when not on sale, but it will be offered for free starting November 13. With this addition, the total value of the games in the upcoming giveaway will reach $56.97. Be sure to watch the video below to find out more about this unexpected free game.

    Epic Games Store.

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  • Abxylute Reveals Specs for 3D One Handheld Gaming PC

    Abxylute Reveals Specs for 3D One Handheld Gaming PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 3D One handheld gaming PC features a 10.95-inch, 120 Hz, 2,560 x 1,600 3D LCD screen and a 180 Hz eye tracking camera for enhanced 3D visuals.
    2. It is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V CPU, 32 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, and a 1 TB SSD, running on Windows 11 Home.
    3. The device includes advanced connectivity options such as Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C, and Thunderbolt ports, along with a microSD card slot.
    4. The 3D One can run 3D games natively and can convert 2D games to 3D in real-time, with plans to evaluate 50 popular games by launch.
    5. Early backers can secure the 3D One for $1299 with a $150 deposit, receiving a $200 discount and a complimentary wireless game controller.

    Abxylute has revealed the final specifications for its new 3D One handheld gaming PC during an Ask Me Anything (AMA) on its Discord community. This exciting device is set to launch this November on Kickstarter.

    Specifications and Features

    The 3D One is based on the Tencent Sunday Dragon prototype that was presented earlier this year at CES 2025. This handheld gaming PC features a 10.95-inch, 120 Hz, 2,560 x 1,600 3D LCD screen, alongside a 180 Hz eye tracking camera that allows it to showcase 3D visuals for games, movies, and images.

    Powering the handheld is an 8C/8T Intel Core Ultra 7 258V CPU, combined with 32 GB of LPDDR5x RAM, and a 1 TB PCIe 4.0 2280 SSD that runs Windows 11 Home. The system offers three different power modes. In its maximum performance setting, the thermal design power (TDP) is set at 30 watts while being supported by a 50 Wh (nominal) lithium-ion battery.

    Connectivity and Usability

    The 3D One is equipped with Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 5.3, 2W stereo speakers, a 5 MP webcam, a 1 MP Windows Hello camera, a USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 port, a USB-C port, a Thunderbolt port, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and a microSD card slot.

    This PC can run 3D games natively and also has the capability to convert 2D game visuals into 3D in real-time using its software. Each game’s engine must be reviewed individually to properly activate the 3D effect, with plans to have 50 popular games evaluated by the time of launch.

    Additional Features and Pricing

    For movies and other media, simply pressing the 3D button on the device enables AI-powered 2D-to-3D auto-conversion. The 3D display software will receive updates post-launch to add more game titles.

    While the Thunderbolt port allows for eGPU support, the company has mentioned that 2D graphics conversion from the eGPU into 3D is currently not feasible but is being researched.

    Abxylute is providing VIPs who make a $150 deposit before the official campaign an opportunity to get the 3D One for $1299, which is a $200 discount from the $1499 Kickstarter price. Additionally, they will receive a complimentary Abxylute C6 wireless game controller.

    Though exact figures have yet to be confirmed, it’s expected that around 80 units will be sent out this year in the first batch, while the remaining units will be delivered in a second batch in the early months of 2026. For those interested, they can sign up here.

    All details related to the Kickstarter project are subject to changes without prior notice, so potential backers should keep this in mind.

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    Abxylute Reveals Specs for 3D One Handheld Gaming PC

     

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  • Nintendo Shares Positive Update for Switch 2 Amid Rising Costs

    Nintendo Shares Positive Update for Switch 2 Amid Rising Costs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo assures buyers that prices for the Switch 2 will remain stable despite rising component costs.
    2. President Shuntaro Furukawa states that cost reductions in production are being sought to manage profitability.
    3. The retail price for the Switch 2 is expected to stay at $449, barring any major tariff changes or unforeseen issues.
    4. Software development costs are increasing, making it harder for Nintendo to introduce new game titles at a good pace.
    5. Sales of the Switch 2 have been strong, with 10.36 million units sold and a raised sales forecast from 15 million to 19 million units.

    During these rough economic times, Nintendo has brought a bit of relief to buyers, at least for now. In a recent Q&A with shareholders, the company suggested that those wanting to buy the Switch 2 need not fret over rising prices. This news comes as other console makers have raised costs for both their hardware and software.

    Component Costs Explained

    When asked about the rising costs of components, including memory modules that could affect the profitability of the Switch 2, President Shuntaro Furukawa assured that Nintendo will manage to keep profits in check for now. To offset the increasing costs of components, the company expects “areas where cost reduction may be achieved for the Nintendo Switch 2 through ongoing mass production efforts.”

    Prices Expected to Remain Steady

    Since Nintendo appears to be discovering ways to lower production costs, the retail price for the console should remain stable at $449 on Amazon. However, Furukawa also noted that this stability hinges on no major changes in tariff expectations or other unforeseen circumstances.

    While the company hasn’t explicitly confirmed that pricing for the Switch 2 will stay stable, it hasn’t suggested that the increasing component costs will be passed on to customers. They did mention that introducing new game titles at a “good pace” is more difficult because software development costs are rising and timelines are extending.

    Strong Sales Numbers

    It seems the Switch 2’s success has put Nintendo in a good spot. The company recently reported sales figures of 10.36 million Switch 2 consoles from June 5 to September 30. The sales forecast has been raised from 15 million to 19 million units, making it even more popular than the original Switch.

    Nintendo shareholder Q and A

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  • Ex-Rockstar Employee Exposes Union Busting and HR Tactics

    Ex-Rockstar Employee Exposes Union Busting and HR Tactics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Over 30 staff members were terminated at Rockstar, with claims of leaking sensitive information and serious misconduct, while dismissed employees allege union-busting tactics.
    2. The terminations were abrupt, with staff receiving short meetings or phone calls with no substantial proof or documentation for their dismissal.
    3. The union at Rockstar had recently grown to around 200 members, making them eligible for formal recognition; over 34 of these union members were terminated.
    4. The dismissals affected various roles, including team leads and artists, with some employees on leave, risking their work VISAs.
    5. Remaining employees report low morale and fear for job security, feeling deflated and distrustful after the sudden layoffs.

    Following the unexpected termination of over 30 staff members and the postponement of GTA 6, new insights have emerged about the internal situation at Rockstar. While the company asserts that the dismissals were due to leaking sensitive information and serious misconduct, the dismissed workers are labeling it as a union-busting strategy. A current member of the team has now voiced that this indeed was a move against the union, along with additional information.

    Inside Information from Employees

    According to GTA Forums, a current Rockstar employee, who preferred to stay anonymous due to fear of “retaliation from the company,” has engaged in the online discussions to address some of the misinformation circulating. The terminations were conducted in a very quick manner, with five-minute meetings in HR that began with “Hey, are you free for a quick chat?” for those on-site, while remote workers received a mere two-minute phone call.

    The affected individuals were simply informed that they were being let go for “gross misconduct” related to their activities on Discord. No solid proof or documentation was provided. One of the employees, as mentioned by the anonymous source, even experienced a panic attack upon hearing the news, and HR ended the call abruptly.

    Union Membership and Terminations

    The post indicates that the union had grown to about 200 members just one week prior, making them eligible for formal recognition and negotiations with management. The Discord group involved included both employees and union members from the IWGB, totaling 250 participants. Rockstar terminated more than 34 of these members. Although this still keeps them above the 10% threshold necessary for recognition, the focus has now shifted to challenging the unjust terminations and seeking to reinstate those who were fired.

    Among those dismissed were team leads, high-ranking artists, animators, QA testers, designers, producers, and programmers. Some were on sick leave, paternity leave, or recovering from surgery. A few of them might even risk losing their UK work VISAs. The poster argues this is a blatant instance of union busting since every individual who was terminated was a member of the union.

    Fear Among Remaining Employees

    Moreover, those who continue to work at Rockstar are now anxious about their job security. “The morale in the studio is at its lowest. Instead of feeling excited about what’s coming in the next year, we feel completely deflated, and our trust in each other has been severely damaged,” they noted.

    The employee who provided this information has reportedly verified their identity as a genuine Rockstar worker with a forum admin, who has confirmed this assertion.

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  • Fallout 4 Mod: Explore New Locations Outside the USA

    Fallout 4 Mod: Explore New Locations Outside the USA

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fallout: London is a mod that transports players to a post-apocalyptic version of London, expanding the Fallout 4 universe.
    2. The mod introduces new factions, characters, and a unique environment, offering fresh storytelling and challenges.
    3. Players will encounter different creatures since the FEV virus did not reach London, making the experience distinct from Fallout 4.
    4. The mod is available for free on the Overwolf Appstore and GOG.com, but has a large installation size of 34 GB.
    5. It is exclusively for PC and requires Fallout 4 version 1.10.163.0 for compatibility.

    While Fallout 4 is getting new free content soon, there is a section of players who hope future games in the series will be set outside the U.S. In the meantime, several modders have released a mod that transports players to a city beyond American borders.

    Explore a New City

    Called Fallout: London, this mod immerses players in a post-apocalyptic version of London. It stays true to the Fallout 4 universe but introduces fresh elements.

    You’ll discover new factions along with various characters that bring exciting stories to life. Of course, players can explore a completely new environment and encounter fierce creatures that will pose a real challenge. There’s a wide array of weapons available to you, and you can also craft them using materials you find along your journey.

    A Different Kind of Challenge

    However, don’t expect to see the same mutant monsters as in Fallout 4, since the FEV virus didn’t make it to London. This experience feels distinct, almost like a downloadable content (DLC) pack for the main game.

    If you’re eager to dive into this new world, you can grab the mod for free on the Overwolf Appstore and GOG.com. Just a heads up, it’s quite large at 34 GB for installation, so be prepared.

    Requirements for Installation

    Moreover, this mod is exclusively available for PC, and you must have Fallout 4 version 1.10.163.0. This ensures that you won’t run into any compatibility issues when starting the game.

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  • LG UltraGear 37800A: New 37-Inch 4K Gaming Monitor with USB-C

    LG UltraGear 37800A: New 37-Inch 4K Gaming Monitor with USB-C

    Key Takeaways

    1. LG has launched the UltraGear 37G800A gaming monitor, featuring a VA panel and available for purchase in the US and Europe.
    2. The monitor boasts 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160), 165 Hz refresh rate, 1 ms GtG response time, and a contrast ratio of 4,000:1.
    3. It is certified with VESA DisplayHDR 600, offering peak brightness of at least 600 nits and 95% DCI-P3 color coverage.
    4. Connectivity options include DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, USB Type-C with 65 W Power Delivery, and additional USB ports.
    5. The price is $799.99 in the US and €749 in Europe, with availability through Amazon, B&H Photo Video, and LG.

    LG has unveiled a brand new UltraGear gaming monitor, just under two months after the debut of the UltraGear OLED 27GX704A and UltraGear OLED 32GX850A. This time, the company has consistently utilized a variety of WOLED panel generations in many of its gaming monitors this year. But the UltraGear 37G800A is different, as it is now available for purchase in the US and other regions like Europe.

    Specifications Overview

    The UltraGear 37G800A features a VA panel, providing 178º viewing angles, 1 ms GtG response times, and an impressive contrast ratio of 4,000:1. Additionally, this monitor showcases 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160) on its 37-inch display, offering a pixel density of 120 PPI and a refresh rate of 165 Hz. It also comes with VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification, ensuring a peak brightness of at least 600 nits alongside 95% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space.

    Connectivity Features

    To reduce image tearing, the monitor is equipped with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and can be connected via its DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, or USB Type-C ports, which also support 65 W Power Delivery and DisplayPort Alt Mode. The image below illustrates that LG has included three additional USB ports and a 4-pole headphone jack. Alternatively, users can opt for the built-in speakers instead of relying on external audio devices. You can currently buy the LG UltraGear 37G800A for $799.99 from Amazon or LG, with B&H Photo Video expected to offer it soon. In comparison, the same monitor will be priced at €749 in the Eurozone as well.

    Availability

    You can find the LG UltraGear 37G800A at Amazon US, B&H Photo Video, LG US, and MediaMarkt Belgium.

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    LG UltraGear 37800A: New 37-Inch 4K Gaming Monitor with USB-C

     

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  • Powerful $1,699 Gaming Handheld: Steam Deck, Switch 2 & 3D Display

    Powerful $1,699 Gaming Handheld: Steam Deck, Switch 2 & 3D Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Abxylute 3D One is the first glasses-free 3D handheld gaming PC, combining features of the Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch 2, and a Windows gaming tablet.
    2. Priced at $1,699, it has a 10.95-inch 120 Hz display, runs games like Cyberpunk 2077 at approximately 90 FPS, and is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor with an Arc 140V GPU.
    3. Unique features include a detachable keyboard, modular controllers, and a front camera system for eye and face tracking to create a 3D depth effect.
    4. It has a high-resolution display (2560×600), 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory, a 1 TB SSD, and offers various performance modes and a 3D Game Mod Manager for compatible titles.
    5. In benchmarking tests, it scored well in single-core and multi-core performance and showed impressive gaming capabilities with titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and GTA V Enhanced Edition.

    YouTuber ETA PRIME has revealed what they claim is the first ever glasses-free 3D handheld gaming PC, known as the Abxylute 3D One. This device merges the controller setup of the Steam Deck with dual touchpads and the modularity of the Nintendo Switch 2, along with the flexibility of a Windows gaming tablet, all into a single hybrid unit.

    Pricing and Specs

    With a price tag of $1,699, this large 10.95-inch handheld boasts a 120 Hz 3D display and is said to run Cyberpunk 2077 at approximately 90 FPS in early tests. It’s powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor and an Arc 140V GPU that comes with XeSS frame generation technology, the same chip used in the MSI Claw 8 AI+ (which is currently listed on Amazon for $1,199).

    The YouTuber describes the Abxylute 3D One as one of 2025’s most daring handheld devices, featuring a detachable keyboard, modular controllers, and a 3D LTPS display that can switch between 2D and 3D modes.

    Unique Features

    This handheld employs a front camera system for eye and face tracking, creating a 3D depth effect. While 3D gaming on handhelds isn’t new, this is the first time such technology is integrated into a full Windows gaming tablet and handheld hybrid.

    The YouTuber likens the detachable controllers to those seen on OneXPlayer and Legion Go systems, noting that the built-in trackpads work surprisingly well for navigating Windows. The removable keyboard folio transforms the device into a compact laptop with a kickstand, and a controller bridge enables gamepad-style play when docked. Despite its larger size, the device is reportedly comfortable to hold, featuring rounded grips, linear triggers, and responsive vibrations.

    Display and Performance

    The Abxylute 3D One is equipped with a 10.95-inch LTPS display that has a resolution of 2560×600, a 120 Hz refresh rate, and claims to achieve 480 nits brightness with full sRGB coverage. Its glasses-free 3D effect likely depends on a depth-sensing camera that tracks facial position, indicated by a green dot when users are in the best viewing area. It has 32 GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 1 TB SSD that can be expanded via microSD, along with two Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB 3.2 port, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and a hardware toggle for 3D. The YouTuber tried to demonstrate this effect in their video, but the 3D experience is only available when looking directly at the handheld’s screen.

    The launcher for the Abxylute 3D One includes options for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, fan boost, and several performance modes: Quiet, Balanced, and High Performance. Its integrated 3D Game Mod Manager features compatible games like Hogwarts Legacy, Skyrim Special Edition, Sniper Elite 4, and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, with some capable of running in 3D without extra optimization. The current software version offers limited mod management features, but updates are expected to enhance its capabilities.

    Benchmark and Gaming Performance

    In Geekbench 6, the Abxylute 3D One achieved scores of 2,675 for single-core performance and 10,355 for multi-core, which is consistent with other devices using the Core Ultra 7258V. The 3DMark Time Spy test yielded a total score of 4,459, suggesting impressive performance for an integrated GPU. This performance can be compared to another similarly potent APU, the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, used in devices like the Asus ROG Xbox Ally X, Lenovo Legion Go 2, and MSI Claw A8.

    In practical gaming tests, Cyberpunk 2077 averages around 90 FPS at 1200p Medium settings with XeSS Frame Generation turned on, while Forza Horizon 5 reaches mid-80s FPS at 20 W. GTA V Enhanced Edition even surpasses 90 FPS at 1200p High settings without upscaling.

    The Abxylute 3D One is being marketed as a unique yet powerful handheld, combining Steam Deck-style controls, Switch-like modularity, and the flexibility of a Windows gaming tablet. Though its glasses-free 3D mode might not be for everyone, it showcases an innovative design that can handle demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 smoothly using Intel’s XeSS technology.

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    Powerful $1,699 Gaming Handheld: Steam Deck, Switch 2 & 3D DisplayPowerful $1,699 Gaming Handheld: Steam Deck, Switch 2 & 3D Display

     

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  • Sony’s PlayStation Plus Free AAA Game Plan for November 2025 Revealed

    Sony’s PlayStation Plus Free AAA Game Plan for November 2025 Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is offering EA Sports WRC 24, Totally Accurate Battle Simulator, and Stray for PS Plus subscribers this month.
    2. More free games are expected to be announced before the month ends, according to leaker billbil_kun.
    3. Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) will be available for PS Plus Extra, Deluxe, or Premium subscribers this month.
    4. GTA V is likely to stay free for subscribers until around May 2026, following Sony’s usual discount patterns.
    5. GTA V can be played on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

    A few weeks ago, Sony shared its PlayStation Plus (PS Plus) games lineup for this month. As we mentioned earlier, the company is providing EA Sports WRC 24, Totally Accurate Battle Simulator, and Stray (currently priced at $22.75 on Amazon) for subscribers of PS Plus Essential, Extra, Deluxe, or Premium tiers.

    Upcoming Free Games

    According to a source known as billbil_kun, Sony is set to introduce another round of free games before the month concludes. Sadly, the leaker hasn’t revealed the complete details of what the company has planned for the future. Nevertheless, billbil_kun suggests that several major titles might be added alongside EA Sports WRC 24, Totally Accurate Battle Simulator, and Stray.

    Additional Titles for Subscribers

    At present, the leaker indicates that PS Plus subscribers, excluding those on Sony’s Essential tier, will receive Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) in addition to the games already available for free this month. Based on previous patterns from last November and December, GTA V is likely to remain free for PS Plus Extra, Deluxe, or Premium subscribers until around May 2026, since Sony usually offers discounts on games for a period of 6 months. Currently, the game should be playable on both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, rather than being limited to just the latest console from Sony.

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  • Ayaneo Next II Unveiled as Top Windows Gaming Handheld

    Ayaneo Next II Unveiled as Top Windows Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayaneo Next II has been redesigned with AMD Ryzen 7000 series APUs and a dedicated graphics solution.
    2. Ergonomic improvements include a newly positioned d-pad, round trackpads, added shoulder buttons, and customizable buttons.
    3. The device features TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and an 8-way floating d-pad, with a screen size of at least 8 inches.
    4. No release date or pricing information has been provided for the Next II, but it may offer Ryzen AI Max 385 and Ryzen AI Max+ 395 variants.
    5. The Next II is positioned as a successor to the Kun handheld, following its initial showcase before the introduction of the 8.4-inch device.

    The Ayaneo Next II has seen another makeover since it first hit the scene more than three and a half years ago. It was first hinted at with AMD Ryzen 6000 and Intel Alder Lake chips, but Ayaneo revamped the device in early 2023 to include Ryzen 7000 series APUs and a dedicated graphics solution. After being put on hold for a while, the Next II made a comeback during the summer, this time featuring AMD’s latest and more robust Strix Halo architecture while retaining its original look.

    Redesigned Features

    Now, the Next II has returned with its second significant redesign. This updated version is much closer to what was shown in 2023, bringing several ergonomic improvements. These include a newly positioned d-pad, round trackpads, and added shoulder buttons. In addition, the back of the handheld now has adjustable trigger switches and customizable buttons, similar to Lenovo’s recent Legion Go S, which is currently priced at $694 on Amazon.

    Specs and Shipping Details

    Ayaneo has confirmed that the Next II will come equipped with TMR joysticks, Hall effect triggers, and an 8-way floating d-pad. It also boasts what the company refers to as a “customized top-tier screen.” Although specific display details haven’t been disclosed yet, Ayaneo previously stated that the screen would measure at least 8 inches. This suggests that the Next II serves as a natural successor to the Kun, even if it was showcased before Ayaneo introduced its 8.4-inch handheld.

    Availability and Pricing

    Regrettably, Ayaneo has not provided any information regarding the release date for the Next II. The company keeps insisting that the handheld is on its way, but there’s still no pricing information available. If we take the GPD Win 5 or OneXPlayer OneXFly Apex as reference points, it’s likely that Ayaneo will offer the Next II in Ryzen AI Max 385 and Ryzen AI Max+ 395 variants, with options for RAM ranging between 32 GB and 128 GB.

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  • Everyday Office Life Transformed into Real-Life RPG Experience

    Everyday Office Life Transformed into Real-Life RPG Experience

    Key Takeaways

    1. Long-Term Commitment: Obsidian Entertainment aims to create a workplace culture that encourages employees to stay for ten or twenty years.

    2. Gamified Onboarding: New hires choose from three character classes (warrior, wizard, rogue) during onboarding, earning themed rewards that reflect their class over time.

    3. Rewards as Identity Markers: The physical rewards serve as symbols of identity and belonging, reinforcing a sense of community among employees.

    4. Logistical Complexity: The implementation of the gamified reward system involves significant planning, but its symbolic value is considered worthwhile.

    5. Long-Term Vision: Obsidian has a 100-year plan focused on fostering a culture that resonates with employees, encouraging them to remain with the company.

    Most updates from the gaming world often focus on negativity, like job cuts, overwork, or bad treatment of employees. However, this time, Obsidian Entertainment, a studio based in the US, is making news for positive reasons. They have transformed the typical workday into a sort of “real-life RPG.” In a chat with The Game Business, Marcus Morgan (VP of Operations) and Justin Britch (VP of Development) discussed how this system functions and what motivated them.

    Embracing Long-Term Commitment

    “We hope this is a place where people want to stay for ten or even twenty years,” Britch states. Their aim is to create a workplace culture that promotes lasting dedication. To achieve this, Obsidian has adopted a strategy that aligns with its origins: gamification inspired by traditional role-playing games.

    Class Selection and Rewards

    During the formal onboarding process, new hires select one of three classes – warrior, wizard, or rogue. Over the subsequent years, they earn physical rewards that reflect their chosen class. For instance, a warrior might gain a shield, axe, or helmet, while a wizard could gather themed items like a cloak or a wand.

    The rewards are specially crafted and intended to be more than mere fun additions – they act as visible markers of identity and belonging. After two decades, seasoned employees can “multiclass,” opting for a second class and unlocking additional rewards. “If you wanted to experience all three classes,” Britch chuckles, “you’d need to stick around for about 60 years.”

    Logistical Challenges and Symbolic Value

    Marcus Morgan acknowledges that this system is logistically complex – creating, producing, and distributing the items requires meticulous planning. Nevertheless, the symbolic significance makes the effort worthwhile. “Our roots are in Dungeons & Dragons. We all view ourselves as Dungeon Masters,” Morgan shares. For perspective, many of Obsidian’s founders came from Black Isle Studios, the famous team behind titles like Baldur’s Gate, Icewind Dale, and Planescape: Torment – games that were intricately linked to Dungeons & Dragons rulebooks.

    Shaping the workplace like a role-playing game seems like a natural fit for Obsidian’s identity. This distinctive reward system is part of a larger, long-term vision – one that the studio describes as a 100-year plan. “We want people to remain for a long time because they resonate with our culture,” Morgan elaborates.

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