Category: Gaming

May 14, 2025
R50S: Affordable Retro Gaming Handheld for PlayStation Portal Fans
Key Takeaways
1. Game Console has released the R50S, mimicking the PlayStation Portal, following the SJGAM M25.
2. The R50S features a 4-inch screen with 800 x 600 resolution, while the M25 has a 4.3-inch screen with 480 x 272 resolution.
3. Both devices use the same Rockchip RK3226 processor and 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM, leading to potential performance issues for the R50S.
4. The R50S maintains a 3,000 mAh battery, promising several hours of gaming.
5. The R50S is priced at $66.66 for a 64 GB MicroSD card and $69.99 for a 128 GB card, making it cheaper than the M25 at $87.99.
The company Game Console has come back with another imitation gaming handheld, launching its closest version of a Powkiddy V20 just last month. Now, they have chosen to mimic the PlayStation Portal, nearly one year after the SJGAM M25 was introduced.
Similarities and Differences
At first glance, the R50S and M25 look quite alike. However, Game Console has made some important modifications, such as adding a better display resolution. To summarize, the M25 has a 480 x 272-pixel screen that measures 4.3 inches diagonally. In contrast, the R50S has a smaller 4-inch screen but boasts an 800 x 600-pixel native resolution.
Performance Issues
Sadly, the company hasn’t improved performance to match the additional pixels that the R50S will display. Instead, Game Console seems to have stuck with the Rockchip RK3226 and 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM, which will probably lead to poorer performance compared to what the M25 provides.
Battery Life and Pricing
The device also keeps the 3,000 mAh battery, which should allow for several hours of gaming before needing to be recharged. It’s possible to say that the performance downgrade is mirrored in the R50S’ pricing. While the M25 was sold at $87.99, the R50S is available for $66.66 with a 64 GB MicroSD card or $69.99 with a pre-loaded 128 GB card. For further details, check out the R50S product listing.
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Tags: Game Console R50S, Powkiddy V20, SJGAM M25
May 14, 2025
PS5 Shipments Hit 77.8 Million; Software and Services Soar in FY2024
Key Takeaways
1. Global PS5 shipments reached 77.8 million units as of March 31, 2025, with a decline in fourth-quarter shipments.
2. Total PS5 shipments for FY2024 were 18.5 million, down from 20.8 million in FY2023, indicating a slowdown in hardware sales.
3. The Game & Network Services division showed strong performance in software and digital content, despite hardware sales decline.
4. Growth in digital sector revenue and subscriptions helped mitigate losses from declining console sales.
5. The PS5 lineup has evolved with slimmer models released in 2023 and a new PS5 Pro introduced in 2024.
In the recent financial update, Sony announced that global shipments of the PlayStation 5 have reached 77.8 million units as of March 31, 2025. This total includes 2.8 million units shipped in the fourth quarter of FY2024 (from January to March 2025), which is a decrease from 4.5 million units during the same quarter last year. For the entire fiscal year, PS5 shipments totaled 18.5 million, showing a drop from 20.8 million in FY2023, suggesting a slowdown in the momentum of hardware sales.
Strong Performance Despite Decline
Even with the decline in console sales, the Game & Network Services (G&NS) division at Sony has performed well in terms of software, services, and digital content offerings. This segment has managed to hold its ground, showcasing resilience in a challenging market.
The highlights from Sony’s complete FY2024 Q4 supplemental report indicate that while hardware shipments have faced a downturn, the growth in the platform’s digital sector and ongoing revenue from subscriptions and add-on content have helped mitigate those losses. Additionally, Sony’s focus on software, live services, and digital sales highlights the maturing phase of the console’s lifecycle and a more robust effort towards achieving long-term profitability.
Changes in the PS5 Lineup
The PlayStation 5 (currently priced at $759.69 on Amazon) was released in 2020, marking the most significant console launch ever. In 2023, the original console models were upgraded to slimmer versions, and just recently, in 2024, a PS5 Pro with enhanced specifications was introduced.
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Tags: PlayStation 5, PS5 Pro, sony
May 14, 2025
MediaTek Dimensity 9400e: Flagship Chipset for Budget Phones
Key Takeaways
1. MediaTek launched the Dimensity 9400e chipset, targeting sub-premium devices, alongside the Dimensity 9400 and 9400+.
2. The Dimensity 9400e is built on TSMC’s 4nm process and features a 4+4 core setup with Cortex-X4 and Cortex-A720 cores.
3. It includes advanced features like Adaptive Gaming Technology (MAGT 2.0), Frame Rate Converter (MFRC 2.0+), and support for AI models through the NeuroPilot SDK.
4. The chipset offers high connectivity speeds, achieving sub-6GHz 4CC-CA downloads of up to 7 Gbps and Wi-Fi 7 speeds of 7.3 Gbps.
5. The Dimensity 9400e is closely related to the previous Dimensity 9300+ and shares similarities with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.
MediaTek has unveiled its latest chipset, the Dimensity 9400e. This new addition joins the Dimensity 9400 and Dimensity 9400+ in MediaTek’s top-tier lineup for the year. However, it is designed specifically for sub-premium devices, with some expected to launch later this month.
Technical Specifications
The Dimensity 9400e stands out from its siblings as it is manufactured using TSMC’s 4nm process. It boasts a unique 4+4 core setup, which includes four Cortex-X4 cores (one running at 3.4 GHz and three at 2.85 GHz) and four Cortex-A720 cores that can reach speeds of up to 2.0 GHz. On the graphics side, it features ARM’s Immortalis-G720 MP12.
Additional Features
Among the additional features of the Dimensity 9400e are MediaTek’s Adaptive Gaming Technology (MAGT 2.0), MediaTek Frame Rate Converter (MFRC 2.0+), and the latest NeuroPilot SDK for running DeepSeek-R1-Distill LLM models directly on devices. These advancements promise improved gaming and AI capabilities. In terms of connectivity, the Dimensity 9400e is reported to achieve sub-6GHz 4CC-CA download speeds of up to 7 Gbps and Wi-Fi 7 speeds up to 7.3 Gbps.
Comparison with Previous Models
The Dimensity 9400e is closely related to last year’s Dimensity 9300+, which powered the Xiaomi 14T Pro (available on Amazon). Its relationship with the Dimensity 9400 and Dimensity 9400+ parallels that of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. Both chipsets have the same core configuration, Immortalis GPU, and similar network specifications.
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Tags: Dimensity 9400e, Gaming Performance, MediaTek
May 14, 2025
Infinix GT 30 Pro: Built-in Shoulder Triggers and Cyber Lighting
Key Takeaways
1. Infinix GT 30 Pro gaming phone launching globally later this month with significant design and control upgrades.
2. Integrated shoulder triggers provide quick and precise response times for competitive gaming without external accessories.
3. Players can remap in-game actions to triggers and may have access to macro functions for complex combos.
4. The phone features a futuristic cyber-mechanical back design with advanced lighting effects responding to various interactions.
5. Infinix will also introduce additional GT Verse products, including a tablet, earbuds, and a power bank alongside the phone.
Infinix is set to launch the Infinix GT 30 Pro gaming phone later this month for the worldwide market. This device will feature significant upgrades in design and controls to enhance the gaming experience. Keep reading to discover more about the Infinix GT 30 Pro.
Innovative Shoulder Triggers with Cyber Lighting
One of the standout features of the GT 30 Pro is its innovative shoulder trigger system. Rather than depending on external accessories, Infinix has integrated capacitive touch triggers right into the phone’s frame. These triggers are built to provide quick and precise response times during gaming, making them perfect for competitive play in FPS or MOBA games.
Advanced Control with Mechanical Light Waves
Gamers will have the ability to remap various in-game actions like aiming, shooting, or jumping to these triggers for a more sophisticated control experience. Reports suggest that there may also be macro functions, enabling players to execute complex combos with just a single tap. Notably, these triggers could also have additional uses outside of gaming, such as launching certain apps, changing music, or taking pictures.
A Futuristic Design Approach
On the design side, the GT 30 Pro is rumored to feature a cyber-mechanical back with a sleek finish and an advanced lighting system. Dubbed Mechanical Light Waves, this lighting feature is anticipated to support over 20 different effects and respond to 14 various real-world interactions—like phone calls, game wins, charging status, and music playback.
Infinix may present three unique color themes, with options ranging from subtle designs in soft tones to vibrant RGB setups aimed at hardcore gamers. These aspects suggest a revamped GT experience that combines aesthetics with practicality, specifically designed for gaming fans.
The Infinix GT 30 Pro is scheduled to launch globally this month. Alongside this phone, the company will also introduce a variety of GT Verse products, including the Infinix XPad GT tablet, GT Buds earbuds, ZClip earbuds, and GT power bank.
Tags: Gaming Phone, Infinix GT 30 Pro, Mechanical Light Waves
May 14, 2025
Keychron K8 HE: Hall-Effect Gaming Keyboard with Flexible Layout
Key Takeaways
1. The Keychron K8 HE features Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Nebula switches for excellent stability and minimal wobble.
2. It adopts a traditional TKL layout, making it familiar for gamers, with customizable function rows and a dedicated navigation cluster.
3. The keyboard supports deep software customization through the Keychron Launcher web app, allowing for macros.
4. It offers tri-mode connectivity (Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and USB-C), with a 1,000 Hz polling rate for optimal gaming performance.
5. The K8 HE is priced at $129.99 for the Standard Edition and $139.99 for the Special Edition, currently available on the Keychron website.
We took a look at the Keychron K4 HE, a wireless Hall-effect gaming keyboard, and we loved its beautiful Cherry wood details, great customizability, and comfy typing experience. Now, Keychron has introduced the K8 HE, which brings all those same great features to the popular TKL (tenkeyless) design.
Impressive Features
Similar to the Keychron K4 HE (currently priced at $144.99 on Amazon), the K8 HE is equipped with Gateron Double-Rail Magnetic Nebula switches, providing excellent stability for the keycaps with nearly no wobble. Moreover, the K8 HE Special Edition showcases the same OSA-profile double-shot PBT keycaps, while the Standard Edition has shine-through Cherry-profile keycaps that let the north-facing RGB backlighting glow brightly.
Traditional Layout
Unlike the K4 HE, the K8 HE adopts a more classic TKL layout that many gamers will recognize. The navigation cluster is positioned above the arrow keys, just to the right of the main alpha keys, and the function row is divided into groups of four keys. The K8 HE also includes the same aluminum plate material and allows deep software customization through the Keychron Launcher web app, making it one of the few Hall-effect gaming keyboards that can support macros, unlike the Wooting 80HE and Iqunix EZ63.
Connectivity Options
The K8 HE offers tri-mode connectivity, which includes Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and USB-C wired options, and the 2.4 GHz mode comes with a quick 1,000 Hz polling rate for optimal gaming performance. Additionally, the K8 HE has a dedicated macOS mode, featuring a hardware switch to toggle between operating systems, and it includes extra macOS keycaps in the package to ensure a seamless experience.
Currently, the Keychron K8 HE is only available on the Keychron website, priced at $129.99 for the Standard Edition or $139.99 for the Special Edition, but it is expected to be listed on Amazon in the future.
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Tags: Hall Effect Switches, Keychron K8 HE, TKL gaming keyboard
May 14, 2025
Tim Sweeney: Epic Games Launcher Clunky but Offers Unique Benefits
Key Takeaways
1. Epic Games launcher struggles with navigation and speed compared to Steam, affecting user experience.
2. Content delivery network location impacts loading times and resource usage for Epic Games Store.
3. Sweeney is optimistic about cross-platform functionalities as a future advantage for Epic Games.
4. Epic engages users with free AAA games and attracts new developers with better revenue shares.
5. Despite improvements, slow performance remains a challenge for users exploring new titles.
The Epic Games launcher has had a hard time keeping up with Valve’s Steam marketplace in terms of popularity. While Steam offers an unrivaled variety of games, many users find the Epic option somewhat annoying. In a recent podcast with Lex Fridman, CEO Tim Sweeney made some unexpected remarks about this situation. He acknowledged that, despite the company’s attempts, the Epic launcher is not as smooth to navigate as its competitors. Still, he highlighted the software’s benefits across multiple platforms and is hopeful for its future development.
Navigation Challenges
Sweeney pointed out that one major problem affecting the launcher is the location of content delivery networks. If users are situated far from the nearest server, it takes longer to load store pages and download content. Even when the launcher is accessed from an ideal spot, it seems to use more system resources compared to Steam. The design of the Epic Games Store is more modern, featuring bigger graphics that can strain lower-end computers.
Future Outlook
Despite these issues, Sweeney remains optimistic about the future of the marketplace. He pointed out that while Steam’s user base is predominantly on PCs, Epic Games has rolled out cross-platform functionalities. Games like Fortnite and Rocket League enable users to carry over their progress and purchases to Xbox, PlayStation, and mobile devices. Sweeney thinks this will become a major advantage in the coming years. Additionally, Microsoft is also making efforts to merge platform boundaries, which could help both Epic and Steam thrive with a new Windows-based Xbox console that expands access to their games.
Competitive Landscape
Generally, Steam still boasts a much larger user base compared to the Epic Games launcher. However, Epic keeps users engaged by offering free games, often including AAA titles, which dissuades them from uninstalling the application. Furthermore, the marketplace is becoming more attractive to new developers, especially after recent updates. These game creators will now benefit from a larger share of the revenue generated by the Epic Games Store. Nevertheless, the slow performance continues to be a hurdle for gamers eager to explore new titles.
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Tags: cross-platform gaming, Epic Games, Steam
May 14, 2025
Kaiju No. 8 Game Reaches 100K Pre-Registrations Before Launch
Key Takeaways
1. Kaiju No. 8: The Game has surpassed 100,000 pre-registrations worldwide following the release of its second official trailer on April 25, 2025.
2. The game is a turn-based RPG featuring cinematic monster battles, a unique storyline, and full voice acting from the original cast.
3. Main characters Kafka Hibino and Mina Ashiro will be voiced by Masaya Fukunishi and Asami Seto, respectively, who return from the anime and manga series.
4. Players who pre-register will receive bonus Credits at launch, with additional rewards based on the number of sign-ups.
5. The game is set to launch around August 31, 2025, coinciding with the second season of the anime in July 2025, and will support cross-platform play and multiple languages.
Kaiju No. 8: The Game has reached over 100,000 pre-registrations worldwide, as reported by Anime Corner on May 1, 2025. This achievement comes after the game’s second official trailer was released on April 25.
Trailer Insights
The trailer, which is in Japanese and lacks English subtitles, gives a clear visual presentation of the gameplay. For those interested in translated news and trailers, they can follow the English Twitter account @kj8_TheGame_EN.
Game Features
This new title is a turn-based RPG with confirmed cross-platform capabilities for iOS, Android, and PC through Steam, as noted by Gematsu. Drawing from the well-known anime and manga series, it includes cinematic monster battles, a unique storyline, and full voice acting by the original cast. Players will step into the shoes of the Japan Anti-Kaiju Defense Force, engaging in exciting anime-style battles while utilizing high-quality 3D models and animated cutscenes, as seen in the official trailer.
Voice Cast and Updates
Masaya Fukunishi and Asami Seto return as Kafka Hibino and Mina Ashiro, the main characters of the series, in this game version. Their participation was confirmed in a thorough report by Anime Corner. Teaser videos and updates are frequently shared through @KaijuNo8_O and the English-language game account @kj8_TheGame_EN.
Players who pre-register will receive bonus Credits when the game launches, with more rewards becoming available as more people sign up. While an official release date hasn’t been announced yet, the App Store lists August 31, 2025, as a tentative launch date.
Release Timing
The launch of the game is set to coincide with the anime’s second season, which is slated to debut in July 2025, according to Hypebeast.
Kaiju No. 8: The Game supports cross-platform play on iOS, Android, and PC via Steam, and it will also feature multi-language support, including English, French, Japanese, Korean, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese, aiming for a wide international audience.
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Tags: @kj8_TheGame_EN, Kaiju No. 8, turn-based RPG
May 14, 2025
Konami’s Suikoden Live: STAR LEAP and Switch 2 Release News
Key Takeaways
1. Suikoden Live broadcast returns on May 15, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. PT / 10:00 a.m. ET / 23:00 JST.
2. Fans can watch the stream on Konami’s official YouTube channel.
3. The broadcast will feature a remastered collection of Suikoden I and II.
4. Suikoden I focuses on a young hero fighting against imperial oppression.
5. Suikoden II explores themes of friendship and betrayal during a war.
Konami has revealed that its Suikoden Live broadcast will be returning on May 15, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. PT / 10:00 a.m. ET / 23:00 JST. Fans of the series can watch the stream on Konami’s official YouTube channel, where the company is set to unveil new content aimed at both longtime fans and those new to the Suikoden series.
Broadcast Highlights
According to the official announcement, the broadcast will feature three primary segments. The remastered collection will look back at two highly praised titles. Suikoden I tells the story of a young hero standing up against imperial oppression. On the other hand, Suikoden II delves into themes of friendship and betrayal set against the backdrop of war between the Highland Kingdom and the City-States of Jowstown.
What to Expect
The broadcast on May 15 is anticipated to be a significant event in the ongoing journey of Suikoden. As previously noted, fans can join in by visiting the official YouTube channel at 7 AM PT / 10 AM ET / 23:00 JST to catch all the latest announcements.
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Tags: Konami, live broadcast, Suikoden
May 14, 2025
Anbernic RG34XX SP Design Leak: GBA SP Inspired Lookalike
Key Takeaways
1. Anbernic is launching the RG34XX SP handheld gaming device soon, following the RG557 release.
2. The RG34XX SP’s design is compared to the Miyoo Flip or Flip V2 instead of the RG35XX SP.
3. The device will use the Allwinner H700 chipset, not the anticipated new chipset between RK3566 and T618.
4. The RG34XX SP is expected to deliver a gaming experience similar to the RG35XX SP with 2 GB of RAM.
5. Initial plans for a joystick-less design for the RG34XX SP seem to have been abandoned, leading to thicker bezels in the retail version.
Anbernic is set to begin selling its RG34XX SP later this week. This new clamshell gaming handheld comes less than a month after the RG557. Its design is often compared to the Miyoo Flip or Flip V2, rather than the RG35XX SP, which is currently priced at $76.99 on Amazon.
Chipset Expectations
There were early indications that the RG34XX SP would be the first device to feature a new chipset from Anbernic, intended to perform between the Rockchip RK3566 and Unisoc Tiger T618. However, those expectations didn’t materialize, as Anbernic opted to stick with the Allwinner H700 chipset once again.
Gaming Experience
With the Allwinner H700 chipset and 2 GB of RAM, the RG34XX SP is expected to provide a gaming experience similar to that of the RG35XX SP. It appears that Anbernic may have had plans to create the RG34XX SP with a design more akin to the RG35XX SP initially.
If the design leak shown below is correct, Anbernic was thinking of releasing the RG34XX SP without joysticks. This design would likely have made the device shorter, which could also explain the unusually thick bezels seen on the retail versions of the RG34XX SP. Sadly, it appears that the joystick-less RG34XX SP will probably never be released, even with the RG35XX SP’s popularity.
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Tags: Allwinner H700, Anbernic, RG34XX SP
May 14, 2025
Best Buy Announces Late-Night Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order Sales
Key Takeaways
1. Best Buy will sell the Switch 2 starting June 5th at midnight EST, but supplies will be limited.
2. Pre-order sales began on April 24th but faced issues with website crashes and missed sales times, frustrating many gamers.
3. Nintendo has reportedly sent a large shipment of handhelds made in Vietnam to the US, possibly increasing stock availability.
4. Concerns exist about chaos on release day, with Best Buy managing queues for pickups and new purchases, but the collectible item promise is uncertain.
5. Other retailers like Walmart may also have limited stock available on June 5th, along with games and accessories.
Gamers who were let down by the pre-order chances for the Switch 2 now have a fresh glimmer of optimism. After mixed messages just a day prior, Best Buy has reconfirmed that consoles will be up for grabs on June 5th. The stores in the US will start selling them around midnight EST, but there will only be a small number of these handheld devices. Additionally, those who buy a console on the release date will receive a free collectible item.
Pre-order Sales and Frustrations
Following a slight delay due to tariff announcements, the pre-order sales for the Switch 2 kicked off on April 24th. Many gamers faced frustration as websites crashed under the heavy traffic. Best Buy also missed the scheduled time for sales, leaving buyers stuck in digital waiting rooms only to find out the items were sold out. Since that time, other retailers like Walmart have occasionally restocked the console, but supplies are still tight, leading to eBay scalpers putting the system up for sale at much higher prices.
Nintendo’s Supply Strategy
In anticipation of tariffs, it’s said that Nintendo sent a large shipment of handhelds made in Vietnam to the US earlier in the year. Now, it appears that either those units are still available or Nintendo has increased their stock. Customers at Best Buy can line up before the doors open on June 5th to try and get their hands on the sought-after handheld. Gamers who have already placed their orders can collect them at the same time.
Concerns About the Release Day
Some buyers have expressed worries about the potential chaos on the Switch 2’s release day. Best Buy is expected to manage queues to distinguish between pickups and new purchases. However, it remains uncertain whether all customers will get the promised collectible. A previous rumor hinted that the collectible might be a gold coin.
For those who are willing to face the crowds, there will also be a variety of Switch 2 games and accessories available. As of now, other retailers have not disclosed their plans, but Walmart could potentially have some consoles in stock on June 5th.
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Tags: Best Buy, pre-order sales, Switch 2