Category: Gaming

  • Create a Playtime-Scaled Steam Library Collage with Web Tool

    Create a Playtime-Scaled Steam Library Collage with Web Tool

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new tool allows Steam users to create visual collages of their game libraries based on playtime, highlighting favorites prominently.
    2. Initial privacy concerns arose when the tool required users to link their Steam accounts or enter usernames, leading to discussions about transparency.
    3. An open-source alternative called playtime-panorama was created, allowing users to generate collages using publicly available Steam API data without privacy issues.
    4. The open-source version allows users to inspect and run the tool on their own systems, addressing privacy concerns effectively.
    5. Positive feedback has increased for the open-source tool, with many users sharing their collages online after their privacy worries were alleviated.


    A new tool has piqued the interest of the Steam community by turning users’ Steam libraries into custom collages. In these collages, the size of each game’s image reflects the amount of time spent playing it. This allows gamers to quickly identify which titles have consumed their hours, with favorites appearing prominently while lesser-played games are shown in smaller sizes.

    The Tool’s Introduction

    The initial version of this tool was announced on Reddit on October 23. Users were able to create visual posters based on their gaming time statistics. The creator designed it as a downloadable app for making these collages. Many users appreciated the stylish way to visualize their gaming habits, but soon concerns about privacy and sharing Steam account data arose—especially around entering usernames or linking accounts to third-party, closed-source tools. It’s easy to see why users were wary of tools that needed access to their Steam information without clear transparency. Discussions about an open-source and privacy-conscientious alternative emerged, particularly because Steam’s API could securely provide the necessary data.

    The Open-Source Solution

    In response to these concerns, another user on r/Steam created an open-source web app named playtime-panorama. This version can also be found on GitHub and allows anyone to create their own profile collage using publicly available Steam API data. By making the source code accessible, the developer tackled significant privacy issues—users can inspect, audit, or even run the tool on their own systems. The web version adjusts each game’s tile size based on playtime, utilizing dynamic CSS grids. Games with high playtime fill the collage, and a non-linear scaling approach prevents outliers from overshadowing the overall design, while smaller games still receive some recognition.

    Positive Feedback and Sharing

    With this open-source option, the feedback has been much more favorable. As of now, the tool is receiving a lot of positive attention on Reddit, with users feeling more comfortable engaging after their privacy worries were addressed. It’s logical, as those with valuable Steam inventories prefer to stay safe. Several members of r/Steam have begun posting their collages online—check out the thread here, and you can find the online collage generator linked here. Just make sure your Steam profile is set to public to use it.

     


     

  • GPD Unveils New Win Max Handheld with AMD Strix Halo APU

    GPD Unveils New Win Max Handheld with AMD Strix Halo APU

    Key Takeaways

    1. GPD launched the Win 5 handheld with high-performance specs, featuring the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 and Radeon 8060S graphics.
    2. The Win 5 may be joined by the GPD Win Max, which could also use the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU.
    3. The Win 5 has a new design, eliminating the sliding keyboard and lacking a built-in battery.
    4. The future design of the Win Max refresh is uncertain, but a larger display than the Win 5 is likely.
    5. There is no guarantee that the Ryzen AI Max+ 395-equipped Win Max will be released.


    GPD has unveiled its latest gaming handheld, the Win 5, which packs a punch with powerful specs. Users can opt for configurations that include the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, the highest-performance choice available in the Strix Halo series. This APU is complemented by the Radeon 8060S, which currently stands as AMD’s most advanced integrated graphics solution.

    More Handhelds on the Horizon

    Interestingly, GPD hinted that the Win 5 might not be the only device sporting the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. The company suggested that the GPD Win Max could also come equipped with the same powerful APU, much to the delight of those who felt let down by the Win 5’s features.

    A Shift in Design

    The GPD Win 5 showcases a new design, moving away from the sliding keyboard that characterized earlier generations. Notably, it lacks a built-in battery, which could be seen as a drawback for gamers who prefer portability (145 W Baseus small 20K power bank curr. $79.99 on Amazon).

    Future of the Win Max

    As for the anticipated Win Max refresh, it remains uncertain if it will adopt a new design or stick with the old one, but a larger display than the Win 5 is quite probable. For reference, the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 variant has a 10.1-inch screen.

    While GPD has been vague about the specifics, there’s always a chance that the Ryzen AI Max+ 395-equipped Win Max may never come to fruition.


     

  • Counter-Strike 2 Patch Costs $2B+ in Skin Market, Knives Craftable

    Counter-Strike 2 Patch Costs $2B+ in Skin Market, Knives Craftable

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve has introduced a patch for Counter-Strike 2 that changes the skin trading system, allowing players to trade multiple items for a knife or gloves.
    2. The total skin market cap dropped from approximately $6 billion to around $4.27 billion within a day, losing nearly $2 billion in value.
    3. The prices of rare items, especially knives and gloves, have decreased significantly (40%–60%) due to increased crafting ease, while red skins have gained value.
    4. The update is seen as a way to correct an inflation bubble in the skin market, making high-tier items less rare and more accessible.
    5. This change may increase trading activity on the Steam marketplace, benefiting Valve financially by encouraging more in-game transactions.


    Valve, the firm behind the leading PC gaming platform, has quietly introduced a patch for Counter-Strike 2 that significantly alters the game’s multi-billion-dollar skin marketplace. This update allows players to trade five StatTrak™ Covert items for a single StatTrak™ knife, or swap five regular Covert items for one regular knife or a pair of gloves from the available collections.

    Rapid Market Changes

    The effects of this update were immediate and severe. The tracking platform PriceEmpire recorded a rapid decrease in the total skin market cap, plummeting from approximately $6 billion to around $4.27 billion within a day. This represents a loss of nearly $2 billion in market value, disappearing almost instantly.

    Impact on Rare Items

    Rare items, especially knives and gloves that were previously hard to obtain through trade-ups, suffered the most. Many sought-after knives that were once valued at several thousand dollars have seen their prices drop by 40%–60% as the ease of crafting them has increased. Conversely, the red skins used in trade-up contracts have skyrocketed in value, as they have now become the new “currency” for creating high-tier items.

    Economic Implications

    The reasoning behind this change is straightforward: by allowing players to create knives and gloves from previously lower-value items, Valve has reduced the rarity of its top-tier items and initiated a necessary re-evaluation of the overall market. Some traders believe this move corrects a long-term inflation bubble within the skin market, while others see it as a threat to the value for those who invested for the long haul. A comment on the r/CS2 subreddit encapsulates this sentiment: “I got burned a bit … but honestly, this is a good move for the game’s future … it’s now easier for people to get the skins they desire.”

    Business Benefits for Valve

    From a business angle, this update could boost activity on the Steam marketplace. With lower price points for sought-after skins, more players may become involved in trading, leading to an increase in transactions from which Valve can profit in-game, instead of missing out on off-platform trades. As one Reddit user remarked: “Valve just executed a brilliant strategy in platform capitalism.”

    While Valve has not yet officially addressed the market consequences, the effects are already becoming apparent. Whether you’re a collector or simply after your first knife, this update has transformed the landscape overnight and carries significant implications for what many traders once viewed as appreciating digital assets.

  • GDC Director Criticizes Epic Games, Sony, and Unity for Skipping Event

    GDC Director Criticizes Epic Games, Sony, and Unity for Skipping Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Major industry players like Unity, Epic Games, and Sony are reducing their presence at GDC, causing concern about their commitment to developer relationships.
    2. Mark DeLoura emphasizes the importance of being present at GDC to connect with independent developers who lack insider connections.
    3. DeLoura questions the rationale behind companies opting out of GDC, highlighting that conferences are meant for meeting new people and fostering connections.
    4. GDC plans to rebrand as the “GDC Festival of Gaming” in 2026 to promote industry unity and enhance attendee engagement.
    5. The 2026 event will introduce simplified ticket options, starting at $199 for a new “Festival Pass.”


    The Game Developers Conference (GDC) has expressed concerns that major players in the industry not attending the event are sending a message to developers that they “don’t care” about building relationships within the community. This insight comes from Mark DeLoura, the event’s executive director of innovation and growth.

    Notable Absences

    In a recent talk with The Game Business, DeLoura pointed out the significant gaps at GDC 2025, which is set to take place from March 17-21 at San Francisco’s Moscone Center. Prominent companies like Unity and Epic Games have reduced their participation, while Sony Interactive Entertainment has opted not to have a presence on the expo floor at all.

    DeLoura, who has a history with Sony and started their first booth at GDC 25 years ago, expressed his dismay:

    “As an attendee, I felt let down not to see Unity and Unreal represented. My past with Sony makes it even more disappointing not to see them at the event. There are so many developers present; it’s essential to have a welcoming front.”

    Importance of Connection

    He also pointed out that while these companies organize their own events, like Epic’s Unrea Fest and Unity’s Unite conferences to cover topics protected by NDAs, not participating in GDC could mean missing valuable opportunities to engage with independent developers who may not have insider connections.

    DeLoura remarked:

    “Naturally, these companies will host their own gatherings to nurture their communities and share sensitive information. However, if you’re not present at GDC with an open door, how will you connect with independent developers who don’t already know someone at your company?”

    A Call for Understanding

    Questioning the rationale behind these decisions, he asked:

    “Isn’t the goal of conferences to meet new people? If you’ve chosen not to engage with new connections, I find it hard to grasp this mindset. Sure, there are expenses and other factors, but developers can sense the vibe. If you’re not there, or if you seem indifferent, how can they be certain you care about them? That’s the part I truly struggle with.”

    In light of these concerns, GDC is gearing up for major changes in 2026, planning to rebrand as the “GDC Festival of Gaming” to enhance industry unity.

    Looking Ahead

    Scheduled for March 9–13, 2026, this 37-year-old event will unveil new, simplified ticket options, with prices starting at $199 for a new “Festival Pass.”

    In a statement on October 23, DeLoura said, “During this period of significant change, we can either erect walls or create bridges, and the GDC Festival of Gaming is focused on building those bridges.”

     

  • Battlefield 6 Battle Royale ‘RedSec’ Launch Expected Next Week

    Battlefield 6 Battle Royale ‘RedSec’ Launch Expected Next Week

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rumored Launch of RedSec: Battlefield 6 may soon introduce a new battle royale mode called “RedSec,” with speculation about its release as early as next week.

    2. Details from Datamines: Leaked data, including maps and event scripts, suggests that RedSec is integrated into the current game build, making the rumor more credible.

    3. Unique Gameplay Features: RedSec is expected to leverage Battlefield’s strengths, featuring large destructible environments, vehicle gameplay, and mission-style tasks beyond just last-team-standing scenarios.

    4. Strategic Timing for DICE: A surprise launch could capitalize on current player interest and excitement, but it also poses risks like server issues and player dissatisfaction if not executed well.

    5. Cautious Optimism: While the rumors seem credible, the success of RedSec will depend on its stability and enjoyment at launch, potentially altering Battlefield 6’s lifecycle.


    Prepare for chaos to take over in the upcoming battlefield maps if the rumors turn out to be true. As reported by ModernWarzone, InsiderGamingIG, and several dataminers on X, Battlefield 6 could introduce its new battle royale mode named “RedSec” as soon as next week. This unexpected launch might catch players off guard and change the game’s direction.

    Details Surrounding RedSec

    Although RedSec has not been officially confirmed, and EA or DICE haven’t shared any comments, the details from the leak are quite specific. The data that has been found includes maps, UI text, and event scripts labeled “RedSec,” suggesting this feature is already integrated into the current game build. This level of detail isn’t new, as datamines have often predicted major updates accurately. However, the presence of map layout and objective scripts makes this rumor seem even more believable.

    What to Expect From RedSec

    The hints from the assets suggest that RedSec will focus on Battlefield’s strengths instead of mimicking other battle royale games. Players should anticipate large, destructible environments, vehicle gameplay, and mission-style tasks that encourage teams to engage in more than just last-team-standing battles. The name itself implies a military or counterintelligence theme, which may connect to the game’s larger storyline or seasonal narratives.

    Timing and Risks for DICE

    This timing aligns well with DICE’s strategies. Battlefield 6 has already had a wild first week, with spikes in player interest during seasonal updates. A surprise launch, supported by a limited-time event or rewards, could take advantage of the current player traffic to create excitement, while also allowing developers to test the mode with actual players and adapt quickly based on their feedback instead of relying on long beta tests.

    However, shadow drops come with their share of risks. Releasing without a comprehensive marketing strategy and proper server preparations could result in instability, matchmaking issues, or players feeling that the product is incomplete. If RedSec is launched in a rough state, the backlash could be immediate; on the other hand, a well-executed surprise could be monumental.

    As with all rumors and leaks, it’s wise to be cautious, though this one appears to be quite credible. If RedSec does indeed make a surprise appearance next week, it would be a daring move by DICE, potentially altering Battlefield 6’s lifecycle and competing with other battle royales. But its success will depend on the mode being stable and enjoyable at launch. Here’s hoping for a more chaotic Battlefield 6 experience if these rumors and leaks are validated.

     

  • Pokémon Legends: Z-A Hits 5.8M Sales in One Week, Switch 2 Leads

    Pokémon Legends: Z-A Hits 5.8M Sales in One Week, Switch 2 Leads

    Key Takeaways

    1. Pokémon Legends: Z-A sold 5.8 million units in its first week, making it the fifth highest launch in the franchise.
    2. Approximately half of the sales were from the new Nintendo Switch 2, which launched on the same day as the game.
    3. The game needs to sell an additional 200,000 units to cover its production budget of $13 million.
    4. In Japan, it sold 1.485 million units, while it leads physical sales charts in the UK, with 51% on Switch 2.
    5. User ratings are low, with a score of 4.6 out of 10, reflecting player dissatisfaction over graphics and gameplay.


    Pokémon Legends: Z-A has made a notable impact in sales within just a week of its launch. In its first four days, the game moved 5.8 million units on the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, which was released on October 16, 2025.

    Official Announcement by Pokémon Company

    In a press release, the Pokémon Company shared:

    “We are excited to inform you that our Nintendo Switch 2/Nintendo Switch title ‘Pokemon Legends: Z-A’, which launched globally on Thursday, October 16, 2025, has achieved worldwide sales of 5.8 million units in its first week, with roughly half of those units being played on the Nintendo Switch 2.”

    Performance in the Franchise

    The solid sales performance of Pokémon Legends: Z-A places it as the fifth highest in first-week sales for the Pokémon franchise. However, these numbers were somewhat expected, given the brand’s strong sales history. Insider reports suggest that the game needs to sell an additional 200,000 units to cover its production budget of $13 million or 2 billion Yen.

    Sales tracker Pierre485 on X reported that the top four launches in Pokémon history are held by Pokémon Scarlet & Violet, which sold 10 million in just three days; Pokémon Legends Arceus at 6.5 million in its first week; Pokémon Sword and Shield with 6 million during its opening weekend; and Pokémon Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl, which also earned 6 million in three days.

    Regional Sales Insights

    In Japan, Pokémon Legends: Z-A has excelled in sales, moving 1.485 million units, with 872,552 on the original Switch and 615,905 on the Nintendo Switch 2. In the UK, the game leads physical sales charts, with 51% of total sales on the Switch 2. Nevertheless, its launch figures are about 40% lower than those of Pokémon Legends: Arceus, which debuted on January 28, 2022.

    As the second title in the Pokémon Legends series after Arceus, Pokémon Legends: Z-A has experienced mixed feedback from players, even with its commercial success. The critics gave it a score of 79 out of 100 on Metacritic; however, user ratings tell a different story.

    User Ratings and Community Reaction

    Pokémon Legends: Z-A has a user score of 4.6, categorized as “Generally Unfavorable,” based on 2,553 reviews. Many players have pointed out the game’s unsatisfactory graphics, lack of exploration, and a “flat” representation of Lumiose City.

    A significant number of Pokémon enthusiasts resorted to review-bombing the game shortly after its release, expressing their frustration with Game Freak’s supposed unwillingness to bring fresh ideas to the Pokémon series.

     

  • GameStop Claims Console Wars Are Over with Satirical Win

    GameStop Claims Console Wars Are Over with Satirical Win

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameStop playfully declared the “Console Wars” are over, referencing the shift in gaming culture.
    2. The introduction of crossplay and subscription models has made console choice more about convenience than brand loyalty.
    3. The post aimed to engage the gaming community, sparking interaction and nostalgia for past rivalries.
    4. Gamers responded with humor, memes, and discussions, reflecting a more relaxed attitude towards console competition.
    5. GameStop’s statement cleverly reinforces its role as a hub for gamers while generating buzz on social media.


    GameStop recently made a playful statement on X, declaring that the Console Wars are done and dusted. This cheeky post seems to have resonated well, as it recalls the intense rivalries and playful taunts from the early 2000s video game culture. The highlight of the post is that Halo, the game that originally fueled the fierce loyalty for Xbox, is making its way to PlayStation. GameStop clearly enjoyed poking fun at everyone involved for a moment.

    A Nod to Gaming History

    This playful jab from GameStop serves as a reminder of how things have changed in the gaming world. Back in the day, exclusive titles like Halo could really influence consumer choices, making a console feel mandatory, and companies used this competitive edge to boost sales. Nowadays, with features like crossplay, simultaneous releases, and various subscription models, picking a console has shifted focus to ecosystem convenience rather than brand loyalty.

    Engaging the Audience

    GameStop’s post isn’t a formal truce among the usual gaming rivals; rather, it’s a fun interaction aimed at its audience. The retailer understands its customers well and knows how to provoke a reaction. With its sales spanning multiple platforms, it’s clear that GameStop is keen on sparking dialogues within the gaming community.

    By reintroducing midnight launches, exclusive merchandise, and in-store competitions, GameStop is reminding everyone of the old rituals associated with buying games and the social interactions that come with gaming, beyond just online chats. Claiming that the “Console Wars” have ended is a clever tactic to engage fans and generate buzz while reinforcing the idea that their stores remain a hub for gamers of all backgrounds.

    Nostalgia for Gamers

    For those who experienced the fervor of the original console rivalries, GameStop’s post hit home. That time was characterized by passionate debates, animated forums filled with memes, and endless discussions about which controller was superior. While those debates continue today, they now exist alongside a more practical approach: gamers are looking for friends online, the best versions of their games, and subscription services that offer flexibility in how and where to play.

    The gaming community responded with a flurry of memes, jokes, and some proud declarations from die-hard fans on both sides. GameStop has successfully sparked a little meme fest at the expense of those who take the console wars too seriously on social media, and the community has joined in with enthusiasm. This post demonstrates that while the idea of console wars still exists, many find humor in how trivial they may become moving forward.

    In conclusion, GameStop’s proclamation is laced with irony, yet it rings true in a sideways way, which could be beneficial for a retailer that has been seeing quite a few social media wins lately. For those upset about Halo’s recent availability on PlayStation, it may be the perfect opportunity to snag the last platform-exclusive version of the game before it’s all sold out.

     

  • Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Release Date Teased, Switch 2 Issues

    Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 Release Date Teased, Switch 2 Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Naoki Hamaguchi reassured fans that the Final Fantasy 7 Remake series is not canceled and is progressing well.
    2. The release date for Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 is expected to be “in the not too far future.”
    3. Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will launch on Xbox and Switch 2 on January 22, 2026, with Rebirth rumored to follow before the end of 2026.
    4. Development for different platforms is handled by multiple teams, with challenges specific to the Switch 2, particularly in optimizing lighting and rendering.
    5. Hamaguchi aims for the games on Switch 2 to achieve high framerates while maintaining visual quality, with Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth presenting significant challenges due to its open-world design.


    Naoki Hamaguchi has been actively engaging with the media lately, especially concerning Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3. During a panel at the MCM London Comic Con on October 24th, he shared insights about the game’s release date. In addition, he had an extensive conversation with Video Games Chronicle where he talked about the challenges of creating a Switch 2 port.

    Addressing Fan Concerns

    At the convention, Hamaguchi faced an unexpected inquiry about the future of the remake series. According to reports from Games Radar and the Dashing David channel, a fan asked if the rumors regarding the series’ cancellation held any truth. Since there weren’t any reliable sources to support such worries, the director assured everyone by saying, “That is absolutely not happening, it is going ahead”.

    Reassurances About Development

    The seasoned Square Enix director calmed the crowd by confirming that the development of the game is progressing smoothly. He mentioned that he planned to head back to his hotel room after the panel to assess the latest updates on the project. Hamaguchi also indicated that the release date for Final Fantasy 7 Remake Part 3 is “in the not too far future”.

    Release Plans and Platform Details

    When it is ready, the final installment of the remake trilogy will be available on various platforms. Initially, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will launch on Xbox and Switch 2 on January 22nd, 2026. Following that, there are rumors that Rebirth could be released on these systems before the end of 2026. Although Part 3 may take a bit longer to arrive, its development is already well underway. In his talk with Video Games Chronicle, Hamaguchi elaborated on how Square Enix is managing this extensive project.

    Technical Challenges Ahead

    The work on the remakes is split among several teams that focus on ports for each individual platform. Despite the enhanced specifications, Hamaguchi is aware of the technical challenges that come with developing for the Switch 2. He points out that his experience as an engineer and programmer helps him tackle these issues. One of the main resource-heavy elements he mentions is lighting. On Nintendo’s handheld, he figured out ways to optimize the rendering of shadows and post-effects.

    High Expectations for Performance

    Hamaguchi anticipates that the games for Switch 2 will provide the best framerates without sacrificing visual quality. He believes that Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth could be the ultimate challenge for the console, as it features a lot of open-world environments.

  • Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition: All DLCs and 150+ Add-Ons Included

    Fallout 4 Anniversary Edition: All DLCs and 150+ Add-Ons Included

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bethesda announced the Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition to celebrate the game’s 10th anniversary, similar to Skyrim’s Anniversary Edition.
    2. The Anniversary Edition includes the base game, all six DLCs, and over 150 Creation Club add-ons, featuring new weapons and outfits.
    3. A new in-game Creations menu will help players easily find and enjoy modder content.
    4. The release date is set for November 10, 2025, with a planned Nintendo Switch 2 version in 2026 and an “Anniversary Upgrade” option for current owners.
    5. The Fallout: New Vegas: 15th Anniversary Bundle was also announced, priced at $154.99, featuring a digital download and various collector’s items.


    Bethesda Game Studios marked a decade of Fallout 4 by announcing the Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition during their Fallout Day event held on October 23. This edition is being referred to as the “Skyrim treatment” for the iconic post-apocalyptic RPG that has captivated fans for ten years.

    What’s Included?

    The Anniversary Edition combines the base game with all six official DLCs, which are Automatron, Far Harbor, Nuka-World, Wasteland Workshop, Contraptions Workshop, and Vault-Tec Workshop. Additionally, it features over 150 Creation Club add-ons. These add-ons introduce unique weapons, power armor, different Pip-Boy skins, new outfits, and even various breeds of the Dogmeat companion.

    There will also be a new in-game Creations menu that aims to make it easier to find, download, and enjoy content contributed by modders, similar to how Skyrim’s Anniversary Edition worked with its Creation Club feature.

    Release and Pricing Details

    The Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition is set to release on November 10, 2025, for platforms including PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S|X. There are also reports of a Nintendo Switch 2 version planned for sometime in 2026.

    While the pricing details for the Anniversary Edition have not yet been disclosed, there will be an “Anniversary Upgrade” option available for current owners across all platforms. This includes subscribers of Game Pass and PS Plus, who can separately access the additional DLC and Creations Club content.

    New Vegas Bundle Announcement

    Though Fallout 5 was not announced, Todd Howard hinted at more unannounced Fallout projects. The broadcast did introduce the Fallout: New Vegas: 15th Anniversary Bundle, which is a special collector’s edition aimed at PC enthusiasts and collectors.

    This bundle comes at a price of $154.99 USD and features a digital download code for Fallout: New Vegas Ultimate Edition, which includes the base game alongside six expansions: Dead Money, Honest Hearts, Old World Blues, Lonesome Road, Gun Runner’s Arsenal, and Courier’s Stash.

    Collector’s Items

    The collector’s edition is presented in a retro-style box that contains physical items, such as an 8-inch PVC statue of Victor the Securitron, a 1.5-inch Vault Boy enamel pin, a set of 7×7 cardstock Doc Mitchell’s psych evaluation cards, a woven iron-on Mojave Express Patch, and a patch representing the New California Republic.

    Preorders have already started at the Bethesda Gear Store and the International Gear Store, but shipping is not expected to commence until June 2026.

  • New Anbernic RG DS vs Nintendo DSi Dual-Screen Comparison Images

    New Anbernic RG DS vs Nintendo DSi Dual-Screen Comparison Images

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic’s RG DS will emulate Nintendo DS and 3DS games, with stylus compatibility hinted at.
    2. The release date for the RG DS is still unknown, but pre-orders may start soon based on past patterns.
    3. The RG DS measures 161 mm wide, making it wider than the Nintendo DSi.
    4. In height, the RG DS is comparable to the Nintendo DSi XL, but slightly larger when opened.
    5. Anbernic plans to sell the RG DS for under $100, although many technical details are still undisclosed.


    Around a week ago, Anbernic revealed some gameplay clips of its upcoming gaming handheld. Marketed as an alternative to the Nintendo DS, the footage showcased the Anbernic RG DS’s capability to emulate not only Nintendo DS games but also more demanding Nintendo 3DS titles. Moreover, Anbernic hinted at stylus compatibility for both types of games.

    Release Date Mystery

    At this moment, Anbernic is keeping fans guessing about when their first dual-screen handheld will be available. Historically, Anbernic has tended to start pre-orders before the month wraps up, just like they did with the RG476H and RG477M (current price $299.99 on Amazon), among others. Although there hasn’t been any official word about the RG DS on Anbernic’s global social media, keen-eyed Reddit users have spotted new teasers on Anbernic’s QQ channel.

    Size Comparisons

    The teasers released primarily focus on the RG DS’s size in relation to older Nintendo DS models. Officially, Anbernic has confirmed that the RG DS is 161 mm wide. This means that it is significantly wider than the Nintendo DSi, which measures only 137 mm across.

    When looking at it, the RG DS appears to be comparable in height to the Nintendo DSi XL, sharing the same 161 mm width. Even though it seems to be around 210–212 mm when opened, the RG DS sacrifices 4-inch screens for a slight 0.2-inch difference compared to the DSi XL’s dual displays. While many technical details remain undisclosed, Anbernic has previously indicated that the RG DS will retail for under $100.