Category: Gaming

  • Square Enix Announces Mass Layoffs Following Generative AI Expansion

    Square Enix Announces Mass Layoffs Following Generative AI Expansion

    Key Takeaways

    1. Square Enix is laying off hundreds of employees in the UK and US, focusing on marketing and IT roles.
    2. The company aims to enhance efficiency in Q&A departments, targeting them for job cuts.
    3. Square Enix is partnering with the University of Tokyo to integrate generative AI into game development, aiming to automate 70% of Q&A processes by 2027.
    4. Concerns arise among employees about job security due to AI potentially replacing human roles.
    5. Previous layoffs in 2024 did not significantly impact the company’s financial performance, with mixed results in the latest financial statement.

    Square Enix has become the newest significant game publisher to reduce its workforce. Known for its Final Fantasy series, the company is letting go of hundreds of employees in both the UK and the US. This decision follows the firm’s commitment to increasingly adopt generative AI technology.

    Job Cuts Announced

    According to Video Games Chronicle, Square Enix president Takashi Kiryu talked about the job cuts during a global video call. While exact figures are not disclosed, it is estimated that as many as 140 workers in London may be losing their jobs. The layoffs will impact various positions across the company’s offices in Europe and the United States, particularly affecting roles in marketing and IT. The indie game division, known as the Collective, might face significant reductions as well.

    Focus on Q&A and Efficiency

    The report from VGC also highlights that Q&A departments are among the areas targeted for layoffs. This has raised concerns among gamers, especially in light of another recent announcement. The company’s latest financial report outlined efforts to make the Q&A process in game development more efficient.

    Square Enix is collaborating with the Matsuo-Iwasawa Laboratory at the University of Tokyo to boost its use of generative AI. Q&A plays a vital role in assessing a game’s user-friendliness, and AI technology is expected to streamline the challenging bug-testing tasks. By the close of 2027, the company aims to automate approximately 70% of these processes.

    Concerns About Job Security

    Workers are worried that AI’s integration will progressively replace human roles to increase profits. Xbox Gaming has made significant investments in this technology, launching projects like Muse, which they say are designed to support creators rather than replace them. Nonetheless, employees at King, the developer behind Candy Crush Saga, have reported that colleagues were laid off due to the implementation of such tools.

    Previously, Square Enix had also made cuts in Europe and North America back in 2024. These actions, however, did not significantly alter the company’s financial situation. In the latest financial statement, the results were mixed; while operating income rose by 6% compared to the same timeframe last year, net sales fell by 23.7%.

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  • ZSNES Lead Programmer Surprised by Emulator’s Popularity

    ZSNES Lead Programmer Surprised by Emulator’s Popularity

    Key Takeaways

    1. Emulators like Nesticles and ZSNES allowed PC users in the 90s to play classic games, with ZSNES standing out for its speed and efficiency.
    2. ZSKnight, the creator of ZSNES, began programming in assembly language at 16, aiming to improve the performance of existing emulators.
    3. ZSNES became one of the most popular emulators despite ZSKnight initially having low expectations for its success.
    4. ZSKnight received positive feedback from users and gained recognition in the gaming industry, leading to an opportunity to work with EA.
    5. After leaving major studios, ZSKnight launched his own game, Retro Endurance 8-bit, featuring 48 8-bit titles for local multiplayer.

    PC enthusiasts who were around in the 90s might recall a time when emulators allowed them to enjoy classic games on their computers. At that point, there were two main ways to do this: one could either use Nesticles, a free NES (Nintendo Entertainment System) emulator that provided access to games from the 80s and early 90s, or opt for ZSNES, which was a faster and more efficient emulator capable of handling newer games without trouble.

    A Nostalgic Era

    Emulators like these were available on public websites, during a time when the internet felt more secure, especially regarding digital takedown requests. One notable site was Zophar’s Domain, where Zophar had the chance to chat with ZSKnight about his experiences with emulators and beyond.

    After sharing a laugh about the different ways to pronounce the letter Z (Zee or Zed), ZSKnight shared how his journey started. “At 16, I dived into assembly language, and I found optimization really captivating—making everything run as quickly as possible,” ZSKnight explained. He revealed that he began the project because the leading emulator at the time was only running at 10 fps and had no sound, and he thought he could improve on that.

    The Birth of ZSNES

    “I wrote everything in pure assembly—before the Windows version, there wasn’t even one line of C code,” he mentioned. “It’s incredibly optimized. Initially, I just wanted a Super Nintendo emulator that could run at full speed on my computer, but honestly, I didn’t expect to achieve that,” he added, showing some humility. Surprisingly, his emulator turned into one of the most used and popular ones, even though he had no idea it would gain such fame.

    ZSKnight often received emails from grateful users, getting around a couple dozen each day, and he reflected: “I started to get a sense that it was becoming quite popular, but I really had no clue how far it had reached.” Around that time, a representative from a publisher contacted him and “kind of asked me, ‘Hey, want to join EA?’” As he worked with EA, he began to realize the significance of his contributions to his colleagues. “I thought, ‘Of course.’ I showed up, and everyone interviewing me knew me as zsKnight. It was my first day in the office, and all these people were familiar with me and eager for me to join. One person even told me, ‘I’m here because of you.’ I thought, ‘Wow, that’s so cool.’”

    New Ventures

    After his tenure in major studios, ZSKnight created his own game called Retro Endurance 8-bit. This game features a collection of 48 8-bit titles that can be enjoyed in local multiplayer mode and various gaming styles, currently available in early access for $3.99.

     

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  • Mid-November 2025 Epic Games Store Free Games: Award-Winning Titles

    Mid-November 2025 Epic Games Store Free Games: Award-Winning Titles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store has added two free games: Felix the Reaper and in-game items for Idle Champions of the Forgotten Realms, available until November 13, 2025.
    2. Upcoming free games include ScourgeBringer, a fast-paced roguelite platformer, available from November 13 to November 20, 2023.
    3. ScourgeBringer normally costs $16.99 and features sci-fi graphics, skillful combat mechanics, but players find it challenging at times.
    4. Songs of Silence, a 4X turn-based strategy game, will also be free from November 13 to November 20, 2023, and typically costs $29.99.
    5. Songs of Silence offers tactical depth with 13 hero classes and 100 randomized maps, though its combat system may feel unintuitive to some players.

    Epic Games Store has just added two new free games for PC users: Felix the Reaper and some in-game items for Idle Champions of the Forgotten Realms. These freebies will be up for grabs until November 13, 2025, with an expiration time of 16:00 UTC. After this date, the store will introduce two additional free games, which have recently been announced.

    Upcoming Free Titles

    Interestingly, both of the new free games coming to the Epic Games Store are highly acclaimed. One of them is ScourgeBringer, a fast-paced title from 2020. Created by E-Studio and Flying Oak Games, this roguelite platformer takes place in a post-apocalyptic setting.

    Players can navigate through a constantly shifting structure known as the ScourgeBringer. This dungeon-like monolithic environment is packed with enemies and ancient technology. Many have praised its sci-fi graphics and skillful combat mechanics, earning it several awards. Plus, it offers compatible controller support (8BitDo Ultimate 2C currently priced at $23.99 on Amazon). However, some players have remarked that it can be quite difficult at times, and the level design may sometimes lack creativity.

    Pricing and Availability

    Normally retailing at $16.99, ScourgeBringer will be free on the Epic Games Store from November 13 to November 20. The second freebie is Songs of Silence, which launched in 2024 and, like ScourgeBringer, has received multiple accolades.

    Songs of Silence is a 4X turn-based strategy game that includes real-time tactical combat. Players take on the role of Queen Lorelai and her followers, leading a total of three factions. The game features 13 hero classes and 100 randomized skirmish maps, with players appreciating its tactical depth and rich lore. That said, it’s important to mention that the combat system can feel a bit unintuitive at times.

    Conclusion

    Songs of Silence typically costs $29.99 and will also be available for free on the Epic Games Store during the same time period mentioned earlier. For more details on these upcoming free games, check out the videos below.

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  • Nvidia RTX 5080 Modded into Skateboard Rides Surprisingly Well

    Nvidia RTX 5080 Modded into Skateboard Rides Surprisingly Well

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RTX 5080 has been humorously transformed into a skateboard, showcasing creativity and oddity in tech culture.
    2. The video of the skateboard creation was shared on the r/pcmasterrace subreddit, where a user rides the GPU while walking their dog.
    3. It’s unclear if the RTX 5080 was still functional after being modified into a skateboard, raising questions about its usability.
    4. The RTX 5080 is an expensive graphics card, priced at $1,745, making this skateboard a costly and impractical choice.
    5. The Nvidia RTX 5090 is nearing its End of Life (EOL), with dwindling availability and expected price increases for remaining units.

    The RTX 5080 is an impressive GPU that seems to double as a skateboard. Yes, you read that right! Someone actually crafted a skateboard using an RTX 5080. The video showing this odd transformation is both amusing and a bit worrying, especially considering how pricey that GPU is.

    Unusual Skateboard Creation

    In a brief video shared in the r/pcmasterrace subreddit by a user named ashleysaidwhat, we see an individual, likely the poster, riding the RTX 5080 like a skateboard. They’ve managed to attach skateboard trucks to an Asus Astral RTX 5080 GPU. The card’s length allows the rider to place both feet comfortably on it. While riding, they are also taking their dog for a walk, who appears just as bewildered as the viewers.

    GPU Functionality in Question

    The user did not clarify whether the graphics card was still operational before it was transformed into this makeshift skateboard. One can only hope it was functional since the Astral RTX 5080 is priced at $1,745, making it quite an expensive skateboard with poor ergonomics. It’s possible that it’s merely the CPU cooler fixed to a skateboard deck with trucks attached, but that remains unclear until the poster provides more information. The original post simply mentions, “She’s a 5080 Astral but looks like a 5090, and she rides like a TUF.”

    The Future of High-End GPUs

    In related news, it has recently come to light that the Nvidia RTX 5090 has “effectively” reached its End of Life (EOL), and the availability of the Founders Edition and other MSRP models is reportedly dwindling. Eventually, this GPU will be discontinued, and the remaining units on the market are expected to skyrocket in price.

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  • Dan Houser’s Favorite: Arthur Morgan vs. Niko Bellic

    Dan Houser’s Favorite: Arthur Morgan vs. Niko Bellic

    Key Takeaways

    1. Niko Bellic and Arthur Morgan are two iconic characters created by Rockstar Games, each with unique narratives and struggles.

    2. Arthur Morgan is favored by Dan Houser for being a well-rounded character with a complex personal journey.

    3. Dan Houser highlighted Arthur’s relationships and character depth, noting how these elements enhance his story.

    4. Although other characters like Trevor and Carl Johnson are impactful, Houser specifically prefers Arthur and Niko.

    5. The podcast with Lex Fridman provides further insights into Houser’s thoughts on these characters.

    When discussing the characters made by Rockstar Games that have impacted millions of gamers globally, two names frequently come up: Niko Bellić and Arthur Morgan. Choosing between these two main figures is tough, but Dan Houser recently shared his thoughts on the matter.

    Different Stories, Different Struggles

    It’s essential to note that these characters are unique, each with their individual narratives and struggles. Arthur Morgan has faced many betrayals and is caught between logic and optimism. In contrast, Niko Bellic’s tale is much darker, as he navigates a series of challenges that often take unexpected turns.

    Dan Houser’s Preference

    However, Dan Houser seems to lean towards one character in particular. In a recent podcast with Lex Fridman, he expressed his fondness for Arthur Morgan, saying:

    “I think he’s the best lead character. The lead characters are different from the side characters, and I think he’s the most rounded and works the best.”

    He also took a moment to mention Niko Bellić, the lead of GTA IV, marking him as one of his favorites alongside Arthur Morgan. He went on to highlight that Arthur’s character is the most fleshed out when it comes to his personal journey:

    “The way that all the features worked into Arthur’s character, I thought that was really… He was really rounded, he worked in lots of different ways really well. I loved his flawed relationship with his old girlfriend, things like that. The bits that turned up around him.”

    Lasting Impressions

    While there have been other characters that have also made a significant impact on players, like Trevor from GTA V or Carl Johnson from Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, Dan Houser has clearly stated who his favorites are.

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  • Anbernic Unveils Gyro and Mic Features for New Nintendo DS Handheld

    Anbernic Unveils Gyro and Mic Features for New Nintendo DS Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic announced the RG DS gaming handheld with no prior notice, and shipments will begin in December 2025.
    2. The RG DS features dual-screen functionality, allowing separate or combined use for Nintendo DS game emulation.
    3. Stylus input support is confirmed, along with emulation for games requiring gyro or microphone controls.
    4. The device can run the Nintendo 3DS comic app for reading comics on its dual displays.
    5. The RG DS combines 4-inch screens from the RG40XX series with a Rockchip RK3568 chipset and a 4,000 mAh battery, priced under $100.

    Earlier this week, Anbernic unveiled its RG DS gaming handheld to the world, following a series of last-minute leaks. The announcement came without any prior notice, and Anbernic has made it clear that shipments won’t start until December. According to the company, they plan to dispatch RG DS pre-orders “in sequence before December 15, 2025.”

    Dual-Screen Features

    In the meantime, Anbernic has released a video showcasing the unique dual-screen functionality of the RG DS. The video, which is embedded below, illustrates that users can operate each screen separately or use both screens together to emulate a single Nintendo DS game. While support for stylus input has been confirmed, Anbernic has also announced that the RG DS can emulate DS games that need gyro or microphone controls as well.

    Additional Compatibility

    Furthermore, the RG DS is able to run the Nintendo 3DS comic app, allowing users to read comics on its two displays. Essentially, the RG DS merges the 4-inch screens from the RG40XX series, including models like the RG40XX H (currently priced at $73 on Amazon), with a Rockchip RK3568 chipset and a 4,000 mAh battery. For more information about Anbernic’s new gaming handheld priced under $100, please refer to our original launch article and the videos provided below.

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  • PS3 Slim Pro Mod with Noctua Fans Runs Under 30 dB: Reddit Reactions

    PS3 Slim Pro Mod with Noctua Fans Runs Under 30 dB: Reddit Reactions

    Key Takeaways

    1. Introduction of PS3 Slim Pro: A Reddit user created a hand-made PS3 Slim Pro with improved cooling and a custom shell for quieter operation.

    2. Cooling System and Performance: The mod features dual Dell server heatsinks and Noctua fans, achieving temperatures around 51 °C while playing games, significantly lower than the original PS3.

    3. Community Praise: The project received admiration from the Reddit community for its craftsmanship and cooling efficiency, showcasing the creator’s skills in building the custom enclosure.

    4. Budget-Friendly Project: The creator highlighted that the DIY project was cost-effective, with parts totaling around $35, emphasizing patience as a key factor in the build.

    5. Mixed Reactions: While many praised the design and performance, some users preferred the original PS3 look, leading to discussions about aesthetics versus functionality.

    In the past few months, it seems like PlayStation consoles have become a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. Following Zac Builds’ water-cooled “PS3 Pro” that could run Gran Turismo 6 at 60 FPS and Not From Concentrate’s Tiny PS5 Redux, which compacted the PS5 into a 6-litre aluminum shell, another creator has emerged with a fascinating blend of both generations.

    Introduction of the PS3 Slim Pro

    Reddit user Fun-Equivalent-7785 has introduced a hand-made PS3 Slim Pro, which is a complete overhaul of the 2009 system, featuring enhanced thermal management and a custom shell that aims to operate more quietly and at cooler temperatures than the original hardware.

    The adventure began with a post in the r/PS3 subreddit called “PS3 Slim Pro Project.” The initial image presented a detailed view of a Dell server heatsink affixed to the PlayStation 3 motherboard.

    Showcasing the Finished Product

    After two days, the same Redditor presented their finished creation, revealing the actual appearance of the PS3 Slim Pro. Dressed in a matte silver-grey with black details and a special “30th Anniversary” PlayStation logo, the console boasted two large Dell server heatsinks, dual 60 mm Noctua fans, and components that were undervolted and overclocked. While playing The Last of Us, it maintained temperatures around 51 °C on both the RSX and Cell chips after three hours, functioning nearly silently, as mentioned in the post.

    The post received even more admiration from the r/PS3 community, where users praised both the cooling system and the skill displayed in the handmade case. One user, HoloKola_, remarked, “Props to you, I can’t even imagine how you did the shell, it looks perfect.” The builder, Fun-Equivalent-7785, responded that the casing was entirely handcrafted using parts from another PS3 Slim, which were cut, trimmed, glued, sanded, and spray-painted into their final form.

    Feedback and Further Improvements

    Another commenter noted, “Looks great. I wish I were as skilled as you with this kind of stuff,” to which the modder replied that the project was budget-friendly and mainly required patience, stating that the heatsinks cost about $5, and the vents and shell totaled around $30.

    Days later, the creator posted another update, revealing even better temperatures from their modified PS3, which, when tested without a case and with the same cooling setup, reached 38 °C on the CPU and 40 °C on the GPU.

    Shortly after, they shared another post indicating that with the case in place, the PS3 Slim Pro recorded noticeably higher temperatures, hitting around 52 °C on both the CPU and GPU.

    On November 6, 2025, the creator finally showed off their complete build. Centered around Sony’s PlayStation 3 CECH-2504 C0 motherboard, the mod utilizes two Dell server heatsinks and dual 60 mm Noctua fans connected through the PS3’s PWM controller for automatic fan speed adjustments. Both the Cell and RSX chips are undervolted by -100 mV to lower heat, and the RSX is slightly overclocked to 600 MHz core / 875 MHz memory. The cooling solution is enhanced with thermal pads, gel, and Honeywell PTM7950 TIM to cover the VRMs, NAND memory, and PSU area.

    Community Reactions

    The custom handmade enclosure, crafted without the use of 3D printing, has airflow openings designed to reduce turbulence. At approximately 30 dB, the console is much quieter than the standard PS3, based on the creator’s measurements. Storage has been upgraded to a 1 TB Samsung 850 Pro SSD, with radiators mounted on the original clamps for a neat, factory-like finish.

    Reddit users applauded the craftsmanship and sound performance of the build. One user, Maximum-Neat4532, commented, “Bro, this is so beautiful,” to which the creator simply replied, “Thx bro.” Another user, Dario-Argento, expressed a desire to pay for such a creation, prompting the modder to state that they only build for personal enjoyment: “I’m an enthusiast… maybe someday.”

    Others chimed in with humor and nostalgia, with user RhinoxMenace joking, “NOOOO BUT THE SONY ENGINEERS KNOW BETTER… that’s why the PS4 sounded like a jet engine after three months of use — because experts,” which garnered many upvotes and a laughing response from the creator. Meanwhile, MiaowMinx noted that “a PS4 should only sound like a jet engine if it needs to be opened up and cleaned.”

    Nonetheless, not everyone approved of the new PS3 case design featuring the grilles, as some preferred the original look. In response, the creator pointed out that the temperatures were much improved, which was the reason for the design change.

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    PS3 Slim Pro Mod with Noctua Fans Runs Under 30 dB: Reddit ReactionsPS3 Slim Pro Mod with Noctua Fans Runs Under 30 dB: Reddit ReactionsPS3 Slim Pro Mod with Noctua Fans Runs Under 30 dB: Reddit ReactionsPS3 Slim Pro Mod with Noctua Fans Runs Under 30 dB: Reddit Reactions

     

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  • Free-to-Play MMO with Memory NPCs Tops Steam Before Launch

    Free-to-Play MMO with Memory NPCs Tops Steam Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dynamic NPC System: Characters remember player actions, influencing future interactions, such as discounts or bans based on reputation.

    2. Player Freedom in Combat: Players can customize their combat styles with hundreds of skills, promoting unique builds and quick, tactical gameplay.

    3. Cross-Platform Availability: The game is accessible on PC, Android, and iOS, featuring cross-play, ray tracing support, and synchronized saves.

    4. Mobile Influence on UI: The user interface, particularly in the PC version, shows signs of its mobile origins, leading to some awkwardness in design.

    5. No Pay-to-Win Elements: Developers emphasize a fair play experience without pay-to-win mechanics, though long-term player engagement remains uncertain.

    Sword of Justice was made by the Chinese team ZhuRong and is inspired by the book of the same name from author Wen Ruian. Initially created by NetEase Games, the goal of this project is to recreate the classic MMO experience without any pay-to-win elements – at least that’s what the developers say.

    A World of Conflict

    In this MMO, players find themselves in a realm filled with battles and secrets, heavily influenced by Chinese myths. One of its remarkable aspects is the dynamic NPC system, where characters remember players’ actions and react in response. If you aid a merchant during an attack, he may later recognize you by name and offer you a discount. Entire communities react similarly: if you misbehave often, you might be banned from certain houses or even get attacked by guards, while building a good reputation can open up new storylines. This memory-based interaction system is a defining quality of the game and a significant reason for its increasing popularity, especially in China.

    Emphasizing Player Freedom

    Sword of Justice focuses heavily on giving players freedom in how they fight. Instead of sticking to traditional MMO classes or set roles, players can fully tailor their combat style. With hundreds of skills available, the game promotes tactical and unique builds. Combat is quick, emphasizing parries and precise timing. Rather than using a tab-targeting system, the developers chose a more dynamic style, reminiscent of what gamers may find in New World or Black Desert Online.

    Cross-Platform Availability

    Besides being on PC, Sword of Justice will also be available on Android and iOS. On the technical front, this MMORPG shines with its cross-play capabilities, ray tracing support, and synchronized saves across different platforms. However, its mobile origins are particularly evident in the user interface. Players have mentioned that the UI in the PC version can feel a bit awkward and seems specifically designed for touchscreen interaction – an area that still needs some work.

    Even though Sword of Justice will officially release on November 7, players can already start preloading the game and create their characters. This early access has propelled it to the top of Steam’s “Free and Trending” section, earning an impressive average rating of 86% from over 150 reviews. The developers keep stressing that there are no pay-to-win mechanics – but whether the MMO can keep players engaged over time is yet to be determined. The servers are set to launch on November 7 at 10:30 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.

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    Free-to-Play MMO with Memory NPCs Tops Steam Before LaunchFree-to-Play MMO with Memory NPCs Tops Steam Before Launch

     

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  • DDR5 and DDR4 RAM Prices Soar: Up 2x from Record Lows

    DDR5 and DDR4 RAM Prices Soar: Up 2x from Record Lows

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ongoing GPU Shortages: The PC gaming market is still struggling to recover from GPU shortages caused by the COVID pandemic, compounded by increased focus on AI technology by major chipmakers.

    2. High Prices for PC Components: Prices for high-end GPUs and desktop memory have surged, making it difficult for budget-conscious gamers to find affordable parts.

    3. Memory Price Increases: Both DDR4 and DDR5 memory prices have skyrocketed, with some popular kits experiencing price jumps of 2x or more compared to their lowest prices in recent months.

    4. Future Price Predictions: Forecasts indicate that memory prices may continue to rise, with potential increases expected by late 2025, and significant reductions not anticipated until 2027.

    5. Sales Opportunities: Gamers looking to build or upgrade their PCs should watch for discounts during major sales events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday, as these may offer the best chances to find reasonably priced RAM kits.

    It seems that PC gaming hasn’t quite recovered since the GPU shortages caused by the COVID pandemic. Once those supply issues started to settle, the arrival of ChatGPT in late 2022 kicked off a race in AI technology. Now, chipmakers like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel, as well as memory manufacturers such as Samsung, SK Hynix, and Micron, are mainly focused on fulfilling the needs of AI companies.

    Impact on PC Gamers

    While it’s understandable that these companies want to profit from the booming AI market, it creates a tough situation for PC gamers who are looking for budget-friendly parts. We’re not only facing high prices for top-tier GPUs like the RTX 5090, but also losing access to reasonably priced desktop memory.

    Memory Price Surge

    Due to a significant shortage and high demand from AI data centers, the cost of both DDR5 and DDR4 memory has increased drastically in recent weeks. A look at the top ten best-selling memory kits on Amazon revealed that nearly every kit has experienced a price jump of 2x or more compared to their lowest prices.

    Take, for example, the most popular memory kit on Amazon: the 32 GB DDR5-5600 from Crucial. It’s currently priced at $161.99, which is a staggering 2.75 times higher than its lowest price of $65.99 from November 2023 (via camelcamelcamel).

    DDR4 Kits Also Affected

    DDR4 kits are feeling the impact of this wild pricing trend as well. The 32 GB (2×16) Corsair Vengeance DDR4-3200, which was priced at just $47.99 in May 2025, is now selling for $119.99, marking a jaw-dropping 2.5 times increase.

    The situation is similar for what used to be budget-friendly 16 GB kits. For instance, the 16 GB (2×8) Crucial DDR5-4800, which once cost as little as $39.99 in July 2023, has jumped to $77.99—almost a 2x raise.

    Future Outlook

    So, where does this leave the average consumer? Unfortunately, in a difficult position, as industry forecasts suggest that conditions could deteriorate further by late 2025.

    In response to the surging demand driven by AI, companies involved in memory packaging and testing are also planning to increase their prices by double digits. These hikes are expected to take effect by the end of 2025 or early 2026. Sadly, Winbond Electronics, a Taiwanese memory manufacturer, has indicated that DDR4 and DDR5 prices may not decrease until 2027.

    It appears that the pricing issues for DDR5 and DDR4 memory will worsen before they improve in 2027. If you’re in the process of building a gaming PC or thinking about starting one, keep your eyes peeled for potential discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These sales might just be your best chance to find a RAM kit without a significant markup.

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    DDR5 and DDR4 RAM Prices Soar: Up 2x from Record LowsDDR5 and DDR4 RAM Prices Soar: Up 2x from Record Lows

     

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  • Rockstar Games Employees Fired for Leaks Amid GTA 6 Delay

    Rockstar Games Employees Fired for Leaks Amid GTA 6 Delay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rockstar Games fired up to 40 employees due to alleged “gross misconduct” related to leaking sensitive information.
    2. The Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) claims the firings were an attempt to undermine union efforts, while Rockstar maintains it was due to policy violations.
    3. Terminated employees reportedly used a Discord server to express workplace concerns, which Rockstar claims led to additional leaks.
    4. IWGB President Alex Marshall accuses Rockstar of union-busting, suggesting that the firings could delay the release of GTA 6.
    5. Gamers have criticized Rockstar’s response, noting the company’s strict non-disclosure agreements and previous legal actions against leakers.

    On Friday, October 31st, it was revealed that Rockstar Games had let go of up to 40 workers. The studio behind GTA 6 cited “gross misconduct” as the reason for their dismissal. In response, the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) claimed that the actual aim was to undermine the union’s efforts. After some backlash, Rockstar clarified that the firings were due to employees leaking sensitive information.

    Follow-Up Reports

    Jason Schreier, who initially broke the news, continued the story with a new report from Bloomberg. A spokesperson from Rockstar commented, “Last week, we took action against a small number of individuals who were found to be distributing and discussing confidential information in a public forum, a violation of our company policies”. The studio refutes claims that it was trying to hinder the formation of a union.

    Discord Concerns

    Reports suggest that the terminated employees had joined a Discord server to voice their workplace worries. Rockstar alleges that they were also leaking company secrets during these discussions. IWGB President Alex Marshall challenges this narrative, stating that there were no public members in the chat, aside from labor organizers.

    Marshall firmly believes that the studio is engaging in union busting, potentially jeopardizing its projects in the process. He mentions that the mass firings could delay the release of GTA 6: “Management are showing they don’t care about delays to GTA VI, and that they’re prioritizing union-busting by targeting the very people who make the game”.

    Gamers Respond

    Gamers have once again criticized Rockstar’s statements, pointing out that recent leaks regarding GTA 6 have been minimal. Nevertheless, the company has a history of being overly cautious about such incidents. Game Rant has noted that employees are required to sign exceptionally strict non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Other sources highlight strict security measures in the offices and keeping small teams apart to limit exposure to sensitive information.

    The subsidiary of Take-Two Interactive has not shied away from punishing those accused of leaking information. In 2022, hacker Arion Kurtaj leaked 90 video clips from an early version of GTA 6. Rockstar collaborated with law enforcement in his prosecution, claiming it cost them $5 million.

    Given the ongoing accusations of worker mistreatment, Rockstar’s latest comments are unlikely to persuade skeptics.

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