Category: Gaming

  • Insider Leaks Steam Machine Price, Safer Steam Deck Value

    Insider Leaks Steam Machine Price, Safer Steam Deck Value

    Key Takeaway

    – Steam Deck prices increased (OLED 1TB at $949; LCD 512GB at $789) due to component shortages and AI-influenced DDR5 RAM/SSDs.
    – Insider Brad Lynch suggests the forthcoming Steam Machine will cost above MSRP and potentially well over $1,000 for at least one variant.
    – Predictions have shifted toward a high-end price reality, with earlier ranges ($600 or less to $1,200+) now leaning to the higher end.

    Overview of Restock and Price Increase

    After months of low supply, Valve finally restocked its gaming handheld. Unfortunately, a severe Steam Deck price increase accompanied the new units. As fears grow over what the Steam Machine may cost on its release date, a reliable insider has provided a sobering hint. The situation feels like a sudden twist in a long-running story, where fans hoped for stable pricing but are met with higher expectations and cautious optimism.

    Insider Input and Price Speculation

    On social media, Brad Lynch, the source of many Valve leaks, commented on the Steam Deck news. He explained that he was given a Steam Machine price estimate about 2 months ago. Although he doesn’t reveal a specific number, gamers can expect it to be higher than the MSRP of the SteamOS handhelds. The chatter points toward a premium tier that could impact how buyers view the lineup at launch.

    Current Pricing Trends for Steam Deck Variants

    The gaming giant’s storefront now lists $949 for the Steam Deck OLED 1TB, up from $649. Meanwhile, the LCD 512GB alternative is no longer so appealing at $789, previously costing $549. With storage and memory prices at record levels, the company blamed component shortages for the changes. The upcoming console challenger also uses DDR5 RAM and SSDs impacted by the AI boom. It’s a response from Valve that mirrors broader market pressures and supply chain constraints that many tech firms are facing today.

    Portents for the Steam Machine

    Unsurprisingly, considering its superior specs, Lynch suggests that the Steam Machine will be more expensive. That could send the MSRP of at least one variation well above $1000. A recent datamine pointed to a similar figure, which was largely dismissed at the time. Before the latest leak, predictions varied from $600 or less to $1200 or higher. It now seems that the latter scenario is realistic. The narrative has shifted toward a premium handheld that targets power users and long-term enthusiasts who want top-tier performance on the go.

    Industry Comparisons and Revenue Strategies

    Some fans may hope that Valve will subsidize its compact Linux system. When the Xbox Series X and PS5 launched, it’s believed that Microsoft and Sony lost money on the hardware. The goal was to solidify a user base before potentially earning profits later in their lifecycles. In the meantime, they relied on game sales, accessories, and subscriptions for revenue. The idea of loss-leaders isn’t new in gaming hardware, yet Valve’s approach could differ due to its software ecosystem and platform strategy.

    What Analysts Are Saying

    Based on earlier guidance, it’s unlikely that Valve is taking the same approach. Analysts have also speculated that the manufacturer pays more for components than competitors. Gamers will only know the Steam Machine price with certainty when they hear an official release date update. The ongoing speculation mixes market dynamics with long-term expectations for how Valve might monetize hardware alongside its vast game catalog and Steam services.

     

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • OneXPlayer 3 Global Launch June 2026: Intel Arc G3 Extreme & 144Hz OLED

    OneXPlayer 3 Global Launch June 2026: Intel Arc G3 Extreme & 144Hz OLED

    Key Takeaway

    – OneXPlayer launches Arc G3-based handheld (first to do so) with detachable controllers and built-in touchpad on the controller connector.
    – OneXPlayer 3 scheduled to launch on Indiegogo in mid-to-late June 2026, with a built-in battery and laptop-mode kickstand plus detachable keyboard accessory.
    – Pricing for OneXPlayer 3 and MSI’s Arc G3/Claw 8 EX alternatives are not yet disclosed; MSI reportedly aiming up to €1,599 in the Eurozone.

    OneXPlayer Announces Arc G3 Series Handheld

    OneXPlayer has become the first company to officially launch an Arc G3 series gaming handheld. To recap, details about the so-called Claw 8 EX emerged towards the end of last month powered by the Arc G3 Extreme. Reportedly, MSI may price its next gaming handheld for up to €1,599 in the Eurozone. The message here is that a new tier of portable gaming is coming, with design elements that aim to rival other high-end devices in the market, and pricing that hints at premium positioning.

    Pricing Uncertainty and Launch Timeline

    For the time being, OneXPlayer has not revealed how much its alternative will cost. However, it has confirmed that the OneXPlayer 3 is scheduled to launch on Indiegogo ‘in mid-to-late June 2026’. The schedule suggests a crowdfunding phase that could influence early access and regional availability, while the stated window hints at a summer release pace that fans have been eagerly awaiting.

    Hardware Specs Ahead of the Reveal

    Additionally, the company has outlined the following hardware specifications ahead of time: For reference, the OneXPlayer 3 has a built-in battery, unlike the recent OneXFly Apex (curr. $2,899 on Amazon). The new handheld supports detachable controllers to rival the Legion Go. Incidentally, the same is true for the OneXPlayer X2 Mini Pro, global launch details for which we have covered separately.

    Controller and Design Highlights

    Likewise, the OneXPlayer 3’s controller connector features a built-in touchpad too. As the picture below shows, OneXPlayer has also included a Nintendo Switch-like kickstand to use the device in laptop mode with a detachable keyboard accessory. Please see the company’s Indiegogo campaign page for more details. The overall emphasis here is on modularity and flexible use cases, pushing the handheld beyond traditional portable gaming into more laptop-like versatility.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • GTA 6 Release Date Confidence Falls Take-Two Stock Decline

    GTA 6 Release Date Confidence Falls Take-Two Stock Decline

    Key Takeaway

    – Investor enthusiasm for GTA 6 pre-orders faded after initial hype, with a notable selloff following the May 21 earnings call and May 27 price decline.
    – Take-Two projects around $8 billion in next fiscal year, a forecast seen as conservative by analysts and observers.
    – Market expectations for GTA 6 remain high (potentially record-breaking sales), but pricing, timing, and pre-order mechanics (no price/reservation yet) contribute to skepticism.
    – Broader gaming economics—rising console and PC costs and potential eco­nomic constraints—could temper near-term adoption despite a large install base.
    – Overall sentiment remains cautiously optimistic long-term, with analysts noting strong upside potential if GTA 6 meets ambitious demand.

    Ahead of the publisher’s May 21st earnings call, Take-Two Interactive stock rallied

    Ahead of the publisher’s May 21st earnings call, Take-Two Interactive stock rallied. Investors particularly saw a sharp rise after a leak suggested GTA 6 pre-orders would start on May 18th. However, that momentum didn’t continue, even once CEO Strauss Zelnick reaffirmed its November release date. The market jitters stayed for a bit as the rumor mill churned with cautious optimism and then cooled once the official data came in.

    Best Buy email surfaces and stock movement

    With the Best Buy email surfacing on May 13th, the stock closed at its highest price since January 2026 the next day. Rising by as much as 10%, the value of Take-Two surged by $2 billion. Once skepticism grew over the pre-order timing, shareholders’ enthusiasm cooled. Still, it wasn’t until the company’s fiscal report on May 21st that a noticeable selloff began. Cautious investors weighed the implications of the upcoming earnings and potential future guidance.

    May 27th open and additional speculation

    On May 27th, the stock opened at 11.5% below its May 14th peak. Part of the explanation may be that Rockstar Games didn’t set a price or allow buyers to reserve its title. An anticipated third trailer has also yet to premiere. Although Zelnick didn’t announce another GTA 6 release date delay, the industry has seen little progress since the second video premiered in May 2025. Market watchers debated whether delays or marketing pacing would impact demand.

    doubts about shipping on time and fiscal outlooks

    Some holders likely have lingering doubts that the game will ship on time. During the earnings call, the Take-Two CEO also quoted figures that didn’t align with expectations. The publisher is confident that the company will earn approximately $8 billion in its next fiscal year, but that is under most estimates. Investopia explained why observers considered it a conservative forecast. Analysts were split on whether this guidance would prove too cautious or simply reflective of prudent planning.

    Sales forecasts and industry expectations

    Nearly all analysts believe that the the title will achieve sales records. Discussed at IGN, DFC Intelligence expects pre-orders to generate over $1 billion in pre-order revenue. Some of the loftiest projections anticipate 40 million copies sold in the game’s first year on the market. Given those eye-popping numbers, Zelnick seemed to downplay its potential. The tension between bold forecasts and measured language framed the conversation about GTA 6’s first-year impact.

    market dynamics and long-term outlook

    Take-Two has shown restraint with its previous financial outlooks. Regardless, other investors are aware of how gaming has become a more costly form of entertainment. Faced with storage and memory shortages, Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo all increased the price of their consoles. Even when the GTA 6 release date on Windows arrives, gaming PCs may remain unaffordable. The mix of hardware costs and subscription services shapes the broader market trajectory for major publishers.

    overall sentiment and final outlook

    A challenging economy could limit adoption, but a large Xbox and PS5 install base exists. Most analysts have optimistic long-term projections for the Take-Two Interactive stock. The tale remains a blend of big potential and near-term uncertainty as the company prepares for earnings, marketers gauge demand, and fans await the next trailer and solid release timing. The near-term path hinges on guidance, pricing clarity, and continued investor confidence.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Steam Deal: One of the Best City-Building Simulators at Its Lowest Price

    Steam Deal: One of the Best City-Building Simulators at Its Lowest Price

    Key Takeaway

    – Tropico 6 offers expanded archipelagos, bridge building, and the novelty of placing world-famous monuments on your island, all while balancing political power and development.
    – It’s praised for freedom of play, presentation, and content, though it’s not considered highly challenging even on harder difficulties.
    – Current pricing: Steam has a 70% discount (~$12, lowest price to date), making it a strong entry point ahead of Tropico 7.

    Overview of Tropico Series and Latest Steam Deal

    The Tropico series has long been one of the best-known city-building and dictator simulations. Instead of medieval towns or realistic metropolises, the games revolve around a Caribbean island nation ruled by players as “El Presidente.” The still-current latest installment in the series is now available on Steam with a 70% discount for around $12 instead of $40, which, according to SteamDB, matches its lowest price to date. For city-building fans, this could be a good opportunity to prepare for Tropico 7, which is expected to launch sometime this year.

    Gameplay Evolution in Tropico 6

    In Tropico 6, players guide their tropical island nation through several historical eras, from the colonial period to the modern age. Compared with its predecessors, new features include larger archipelagos made up of multiple islands, bridge building and, for the first time, the option to steal world-famous monuments such as the Eiffel Tower or the Statue of Liberty and place them on your own island. As usual, the focus is not only on building up the island nation itself, but also on managing the political power structure behind it.

    Reception and Critical Takes

    German gaming magazine GameStar awarded the sixth installment in the city-building strategy series 81 out of 100 points, praising above all its freedom of play, strong presentation and substantial amount of content. Anyone looking for a serious challenge, however, is unlikely to find it here. According to GameStar, Tropico 6 is rarely truly demanding, even on higher difficulty settings, but nevertheless offers a successful mix of city building and politics. Windows Central even wrote in its review that it is “One of the best city-building simulators, ever.”

    Community Feedback and Performance

    The roughly 29,000 Steam reviews are 87% positive. On Metacritic, it holds a Metascore of 78 and a User Score of 6.8. Steam Deck compatibility is listed as “Playable.” Thanks to controller support, the game should also be reasonably playable on the handheld.

    Important Note on Pricing Information

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not responsible for price changes carried out by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this item was available at the time of writing and may be subject to time restrictions and/or limited unit availability.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Crankboy Brings Full-Speed GB Emulation to Playdate for $10

    Crankboy Brings Full-Speed GB Emulation to Playdate for $10

    Key Takeaway

    – Crankboy brings a functional Game Boy emulator to Playdate for $10, with four pre-installed homebrew games and the ability to run ROM hacks and other titles via the Crankboy app.
    – It’s notable but pricey: the $10 price plus a Playdate (and potentially refurbished unit) makes the total cost comparable to or higher than buying a standalone Game Boy.
    – The developers, Sodium and Stonerl, achieved snappy performance on the Playdate by slimming the core to about 2KB and leveraging the device’s tightly coupled memory, plus targeted audio tweaks for stability.

    Playdate maker Panic has now officially added “Crankboy” to its Catalogue, letting owners use the quirky yellow handheld to revisit classic Game Boy titles, including four homebrew games included with Crankboy.

    Pricing and availability

    The Crankboy Game Boy emulator for the Playdate isn’t free: it costs $10, which is a tad expensive given the Playdate’s unique but limited platform and the fact that the device itself is already $229. Users can, however, still snag a refurbished unit for as low as $179. This would still cost nearly as much as purchasing a standalone, renewed Game Boy on Amazon.

    Included games

    Once you purchase Crankboy from the Playdate Catalogue, you get four pre-installed homebrew games: Life’s Too Short GB by Pixel Ghost, Dashosaur by Sleeping Panda, GBBS95 by Beatscribe, and Lo-Fi by Beatscribe, a music album built inside the Crankboy emulator but actually intended for your Playdate.

    How to use

    Playdate owners can download ROM hacks and other homebrew games directly within the Crankboy app. If you’re looking to play some classic retro Game Boy titles like Pokémon Red and Blue, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, Metroid II: Return of Samus, or Wario Land: Super Mario Land 3, that’s entirely possible as well.

    Technical notes

    The catch is that you’ll have to legally dump your own Game Boy cartridges and use the Crankboy Manager tool to import your games onto your Playdate and into the Crankboy emulator.

    Development and performance

    The developers behind the project, known as Sodium and Stonerl, poured months of effort into making Crankboy run at full speed and feel snappy on the Playdate’s modest hardware. When hype around the Playdate was at an all-time high, people wondered whether it could ever run emulators, but skeptics figured it was too underpowered to handle even lightweight Game Boy games. However, the two developers managed to prove them wrong. In an earlier interview with ReadOnlyMemo, developer Sodium said:

    “A lot of people were speculating that the Playdate is too underpowered to be able to run a Game Boy emulator. But it turns out not to be true. The trouble is that until recently, most people were not aware of what exactly the performance bottleneck on the emulator was. The real bottleneck was the size of the cache.”

    To bypass this limitation, the two developers decided to slim the emulator’s core code to a mere 2 kilobytes, using the device’s tightly coupled memory (TCM) so that data and code remain in place between frames rather than being copied in and out.

    Stonerl also had to make specific audio tweaks because certain sound channels could lead to frame drops, which, of course, is a no-go for a $10 Game Boy emulator on a niche $229 gaming handheld with a crank.

    Ultimately, you can play Game Boy titles with 44.1 kHz audio, support for multiple save slots per game, and plenty of tweaks for retro gamers, such as widescreen support.

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • Call of Duty Nintendo Switch 2 Debut Reported Confirmed

    Call of Duty Nintendo Switch 2 Debut Reported Confirmed

    Key Takeaway

    – NateTheHate corroborates that Modern Warfare 4 will be the first Call of Duty game on Nintendo Switch 2.
    – Timing aligns with prior hints that a Switch 2 CoD release was imminent, despite delays and kit access concerns.
    – No official confirmation yet from Microsoft or Activision; leaks and credible teasers (billbil-kun cover art) add weight to the rumor.

    Overview

    Reliable gaming insider NateTheHate has just added more weight to the growing body of evidence around Call of Duty on Nintendo Switch 2 (curr $449 on Amazon). In a comment on the r/GamingLeaksAndRumours subreddit, he has affirmed that the rumoured Modern Warfare 4 will be the first CoD title on the platform. When a commenter suggested as much, NateTheHate, who regularly monitors the subreddit, replied with a simple “Yes.”

    Context and Timing

    The timing makes sense, considering everything that’s been pointing in this direction for months. Windows Central’s Jez Corden stated last December that “the first CoD Switch version is nearly done and launching in a few months.” He later clarified that 2026 was the safer bet for a release window. The delay had previously been attributed to Nintendo being selective about which studios initially received Switch 2 dev kits. Most likely, this left Activision without the tools it needed to get started.

    Leaks and Rumors

    The MW4 name itself surfaced this week via billbil-kun, a credible leaker who posted a heavily blurred cover art for an unnamed Activision game alongside the Korean character “사” — the Sino-Korean word for four. The community immediately read that as a Modern Warfare 4 confirmation.

    Company Commitments

    Microsoft committed to bringing CoD to Nintendo platforms as part of its Activision Blizzard acquisition. Granted, this makes the long absence from Switch 2 something of an awkward gap in that promise. A Sledgehammer Games job listing seeking a Senior Technical Artist with “AAA mobile or Switch experience” had already dropped crumbs regarding something in the pipeline.

    Official Confirmation Status

    Neither Microsoft nor Activision has officially confirmed MW4 or its platform lineup. But with billbil-kun’s cover art and NateTheHate’s confirmation landing within the same thread, it’s becoming kind of hard to dismiss.

    • u/KekanKok on r/GamingLeaksAndRumours
    • u/Loose_Society9485 on r/GamingLeaksAndRumours
    • @billbil-kun on X/Twitter


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Forza Horizon Devs Tease First AAA Project Ahead of State of Play

    Forza Horizon Devs Tease First AAA Project Ahead of State of Play

    Key Takeaway

    – Maverick Games, formed in 2022 by ex-Forza Horizon developers, is developing a first AAA, narrative-led open-world driving game.
    – The reveal is scheduled for June 2, ahead of a State of Play event.
    – The project aims for a story-focused experience in an open world, potentially aligning with tonal elements seen in Need for Speed titles.

    Opening note about the new open-world racing project

    When it comes to open-world racing games, Playground Games has solid experience with the genre. With the sixth instalment in the Forza Horizon series becoming the biggest in the franchise, a team of developers who worked on past titles is now gearing up to reveal their first open-world racing game. Not a lot is known about the title, but the reveal is coming up soon.

    Origins of the new studio and its leadership

    Maverick Games was formed in 2022 by Mike Brown, who worked as the Creative Director for Forza Horizon 5. The studio consists of some other former Forza Horizon developers, and they have been working on their first game, a AAA “narrative-led driving experience” in an open world setting. Taking to X, the studio teased that the reveal is happening on June 2, hours before the State of Play event goes live.

    Funding and corporate background

    Maverick Games was originally funded by Amazon but went independent after the tech giant made significant changes to its games business.

    What we know about the game’s design and focus

    As for the game itself, it’s quite a mystery, as there have been no leaks or rumors around it. It is going to be an open-world game that is being written by Jamie Brittian. With the “narrative-led driving experience” setting, it could have a deeper focus on the storyline like some Need for Speed titles of the past. Even though Forza Horizon 6 also has an overarching story, the focus is more on the variety of races.

    Maverick Games on X, Maverick Games on YouTube, The Game Business

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • FIFA Heroes Delayed to June 22 After May Window Missed

    FIFA Heroes Delayed to June 22 After May Window Missed

    Key Takeaway

    – The game’s global launch was postponed twice, with a new date set for June 22, 2026, after missing the May window.
    – June 22 places the release during the World Cup group stage, increasing competition for attention with live football.
    – Android soft launch remains unchanged in Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines; console timelines remain unannounced.

    ENVER Studio and Solace Games delay FIFA Heroes launch again

    ENVER Studio and Solace Games committed to a May 2026 global launch for FIFA Heroes on April 23. The May window is now dead by the developers’ own hand. ENVER Studio has confirmed a new global launch date of June 22, 2026, marking the game’s second missed window since its original April 28 release date. The shifting dates have left fans waiting and uncertain about when the game will reach players across platforms.

    Original plan versus new timing

    FIFA Heroes was originally set for April 28 on iOS and Android. Days before that date arrived, ENVER and Solace moved it to May with no explanation. The April 23 announcement framed the new window as timed to arrive ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which kicks off June 11 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. No specific date in May was given. This change created confusion among potential players who had been tracking the release for months.

    Current launch status across platforms

    The game remains in soft launch on Android in Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines. That status has not changed. Console versions for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox were already on a separate, unannounced timeline before the May commitment was even made. The fragmented rollout strategy complicates expectations for a unified global release and points to ongoing development adjustments by the publishers.

    Rationale and timing considerations

    ENVER and Solace built their entire launch strategy around the World Cup. A pre-tournament release was supposed to give FIFA Heroes the best possible conditions: a global football audience primed before the first match was played. That window is gone. June 22 drops the game into day 12 of the tournament, deep in the World Cup group stage, which runs through June 27. The decision to target the group stage has sparked discussions about competition with live football and how it may affect player engagement and retention in those early days of competition.

    What’s known and what remains unclear

    Launching during the group stage means competing directly with live football for the attention of the audience, and the game was designed to capture. ENVER and Solace have confirmed June 22 as the new date, but have not explained why May was missed for the second time. The lack of clear reasoning leaves players speculating about internal delays, certification hurdles, and strategic re-evaluations that may have driven the shift between windows.

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,
  • Dragon Quest XI S Switch 2 Has No Upgrade or Save Transfer Path

    Dragon Quest XI S Switch 2 Has No Upgrade or Save Transfer Path

    Key Takeaway

    – No save transfers between Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, and no upgrade path from Switch to Switch 2, prompting potential restart for some players.
    – Definitive Edition adds 3D graphics toggle and extra content, with performance mode vs graphics mode options.
    – Physical Game-Key Cards issue: likely downloads will dominate the file size, raising concerns among cartridge supporters.

    Dragon Quest XI Switch 2 Version Announced

    Dragon Quest XI is seeing yet another iteration, with Square Enix announcing a Switch 2 version. Players can expect optimized graphics, but with no save transfers, some Switch owners will have to restart their adventures. Further frustrating fans is the lack of a discounted upgrade path for the new Game-Key Card release.

    Definitive Edition Details and Release

    Square Enix revealed Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition during the RPG franchise’s 40th anniversary stream. With a September 24th release date and $39.99 price, pre-orders are now available.

    What’s New on Switch 2

    The Switch 2 game is essentially the same title that debuted on the Switch in 2019. Featuring a 3D graphics toggle and additional content, the S version was already an improvement over the 2017-2018 PS4, 3DS, and PC ports. The Definitive Edition does allow players to choose between a higher frame rate performance mode and a graphics mode.

    Fan Reactions and Save Transfer Woes

    Despite the new options, followers have reason to feel disappointed. On social media, Wario64 shared that the game’s Japanese site ruled out save transfers between console generations. English speakers then discovered the disclaimer on the Switch page, “There are no plans to sell an upgrade pack to upgrade the Nintendo Switch version to the Nintendo Switch 2 version.”

    Playtime and Value Considerations

    For full playthroughs of Dragon Quest XI S, gamers would often devote 100 hours or more. Veteran players have to decide if the marginal enhancements are worth the added cost and time investment.

    Publisher Strategy and Comparisons

    So far, the publisher has taken a mixed approach to Nintendo’s latest handheld. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake and Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles both offered free upgrades for Switch owners. On the other hand, Octopath Traveler 0 shipped without the same perk.

    Physical Media and Game-Key Cards

    Game-Key Cards remain another contentious issue for physical media supporters. It’s likely that the title is more than compact enough to fit on a cartridge. Yet it will depend on downloads for the bulk of its files.

    Critical Reception and Future Prospects

    Critics are labeling the Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes of an Elusive Age – Definitive Edition Switch 2 version as greedy. Nevertheless, Square Enix is confident that the turn-based RPG can find a larger audience on its September 24th release date.


    Sources

    Tags: , , , ,
  • Why Illegal ROMs Appear on the Lenovo G02 Game Boy-Style Handheld

    Why Illegal ROMs Appear on the Lenovo G02 Game Boy-Style Handheld

    Key Takeaway

    – Lenovo confirms the G02 exists and is produced under a regional brand license for China, not part of Lenovo’s official global lineup.
    – Lenovo disclaims responsibility for ROMs and pre-installed games, stating third-party retailers may add software or content without Lenovo’s control.
    – The alleged pre-installed ROMs have led to embarrassment and skepticism, with retailers on platforms like AliExpress implicated; the device is no longer available there.

    Overview

    The G02 is a gaming handheld in a Game Boy-style format and designed for emulation – unlike the Legion Go. At first, it was unclear whether the device actually came from Lenovo or whether a third-party manufacturer had simply copied the Chinese company’s branding. According to reports, the G02 is said to ship with pre-installed ROM collections, including Nintendo games, which would be highly questionable from a legal perspective. Lenovo has since commented on the matter. According to the company, the handheld does indeed come from Lenovo.

    Origin and Licensing

    Speaking to Retro Dodo, Lenovo confirmed that the G02 is not a fake, but was produced under a regional brand license for the Chinese market. Accordingly, the device is not part of Lenovo’s official global portfolio. However, Lenovo rejects responsibility for the ROM allegations: neither Lenovo nor authorized licensees offer devices with memory cards or pre-installed games. Lenovo told Retro Dodo that it has no control over third-party retailers that add software or content. In short, the illegal ROMs must have found their way onto the handhelds through retailers.

    Reception and Community

    In the Reddit community, this explanation has received a lukewarm response. Many users are mocking Lenovo, saying the company apparently merely contributed its name, after which an OEM built a cheap white-label device and retailers on AliExpress added ROM collections as usual. All in all, then, this is not a major scandal, but still a rather embarrassing showing for Lenovo. The Lenovo G02 is currently no longer available on AliExpress or Alibaba. The reasons for this remain unclear.

     

    Sources
    Tags: , , , ,