Category: Gaming

  • Ayaneo 3 Teased as New Flagship Handheld Console Concept

    Ayaneo 3 Teased as New Flagship Handheld Console Concept

    Ayaneo has been quite active this month, though not as much as Anbernic. To give you some background, the company started October by hinting at a new flagship gaming handheld for the first time. After that, they updated their AM01 and AM02 mini-PCs, and they finally released the much-anticipated AG01 Starship Graphics Dock.

    Focus on the Ayaneo 3

    Now, Ayaneo is back in the spotlight with the Ayaneo 3, which they stylize as the AYANEO 3 and tout as their first ‘Code: REVO’ item. Sadly, there isn’t much information available about this device yet. However, the company has shared some design features through a brief video on both YouTube and X (previously known as Twitter).

    Design and Features

    The Ayaneo 3 seems to have a layout similar to other well-known gaming handhelds, such as the Asus ROG Ally (currently priced at $399.99 on Amazon). So, it looks like Ayaneo’s upcoming ‘flagship’ device will include an Xbox control setup, along with what seems to be a couple of rear-mounted macro buttons. At this point, it’s unclear whether Ayaneo will choose AMD Strix Point or Intel Lunar Lake processors. Given the frequency of their teasers this month, we can expect Ayaneo to share more details about the Ayaneo 3 soon.

    Tags: , ,
  • Overclocked Nintendo Switch Shows Better Performance in Tests

    Overclocked Nintendo Switch Shows Better Performance in Tests

    The Nintendo Switch has been around for more than seven years, and the company has not yet made an official announcement about its successor. Although a new version of the gaming handheld is expected to be revealed within this fiscal year, early speculations suggest that it may not be particularly powerful.

    Comparing Generations

    The original Switch’s hardware now feels quite outdated, especially when put next to modern gaming handhelds such as the ROG Ally and Legion Go, currently priced at $499 on Amazon. Nevertheless, the Nvidia Tegra X1 chip inside it still has the capacity to deliver a better experience. In previous tests where it was overclocked, YouTuber Naga demonstrated that the SoC could enhance gaming performance with just a little extra effort.

    Overclocking Results

    Naga has recently conducted another round of tests with the highly overclocked Nintendo Switch. In the complete overclocked setup, the YouTuber increased the CPU clock speed to 2,805 MHz, the GPU to 1,420 MHz, and memory to 3,200 MHz. By comparison, the stock configurations run at 2,397 MHz for the CPU, 1,228 MHz for the GPU, and 2,133 MHz for memory.

    It’s also important to mention that Naga upgraded the RAM from 4 GB to 8 GB. Furthermore, the tests were performed on the OLED version of the console, but similar results would be expected from a non-OLED Switch as both share the same internal hardware.

    Performance Metrics

    When it comes to performance gains, the stock version of the gaming handheld scored 374 in single-core and 1,098 in multi-core benchmarks on Geekbench 6. With the overclocked settings, the scores increased to 446 and 1,409, respectively. In Glmark2, the stock version achieved 3,115 points, while the fully overclocked version reached 4,723 points.

    Additionally, Naga tested GravityMark, obtaining a score of 5,170 for the overclocked Switch, compared to 3,770 for the stock model. The overclocking also resulted in significantly higher scores in Cuda95 and Membench relative to the stock configuration.

    Emulation Performance

    An intriguing detail shared in the video is the overclocked Switch’s ability to emulate GameCube games using the Dolphin emulator. Naga focused on testing Mario Kart, where the stock model runs at around 30 FPS. However, with the overclocking, the handheld can maintain around 60 FPS. For more information, you can check out the video linked below.

    Naga on YouTube (video embedded above) via: Wccftech

    Tags: , ,
  • New Super Mario Bros. Demake for Game Boy Color with Yoshi

    New Super Mario Bros. Demake for Game Boy Color with Yoshi

    A familiar classic returns.

    A developer known as Mico27 has recently introduced a port or "demake" of the classic Super Mario Bros. designed for the Game Boy Color. It’s important to highlight that this project is quite distinct from Nintendo’s own version, Super Mario Bros. Deluxe, which hit the shelves in 1999. In contrast to Nintendo’s adaptation, Mico27’s creation showcases smaller graphics tailored for the Game Boy Color’s screen and is packed with additional content.

    Super Mario Bros. Mini Unveiled

    The project is named Super Mario Bros. Mini. It includes the complete original game from 1985, resized to suit the smaller display of the Game Boy Color. All eight worlds are included, along with every enemy, block, coin, and all the other familiar elements players would anticipate.

    New Features and Additions

    Moreover, Super Mario Bros. Mini introduces several new features. A standout addition is the level select option, allowing players to choose which world and level they wish to begin at. This can be activated by pressing the B button on the title screen. As players browse through the available levels, they’ll discover an extra 8 worlds to explore, totaling 16 in all. Furthermore, there are new bosses from Super Mario Land (the first Super Mario game for the Game Boy) and a fresh power-up: Yoshi.

    Yoshi, Mario’s ancient companion, acts similarly to a short-range fire flower. Although the dinosaur cannot eat enemies in this version, its tongue can be quite deadly.

    Unique Aspects of the Game

    There are several unique aspects to this title. For instance, only one projectile (be it a fireball or Bullet Bill) can be displayed on the screen at a time. The controls seem a bit more rigid compared to the original NES game, and the music tends to cut off frequently to accommodate sound effects. Nevertheless, Super Mario Bros. Mini is a fascinating and true-to-form port that feels well-suited for the Game Boy Color.

    The ROM file size is a substantial 2048 KB, which is comparable to other Game Boy Color hits like Pokemon Crystal and Wario Land 3. You can obtain a ROM to play on original hardware from here.

    Consider purchasing a renewed Atomic Purple Game Boy Color from Amazon.

    You can find Mico27’s work on itch.io.

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • Realme GT 7 Pro Teased: Thermal Management & Gaming Features Before Launch

    Realme GT 7 Pro Teased: Thermal Management & Gaming Features Before Launch

    Realme is set to unveil its new flagship gaming smartphone, the GT 7 Pro, on November 4th, 2024. Before the launch, the company has shared some of its exciting features, including an advanced cooling system, AI Assistant Master 2.0, and the Sky Communication System 2.0.

    Performance and Cooling Features

    The GT 7 Pro is powered by the impressive Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset. This high-performance processor delivers smooth and quick responses, making it capable of handling intense gaming and multitasking seamlessly. To support this powerful processor, Realme has added a strong 11,480mm² tempered double VC heat dissipation unit. This sophisticated cooling system effectively manages heat, avoiding thermal throttling and keeping performance levels high, even during long gaming periods.

    Enhancements for Gaming Experience

    Realme has introduced various innovative features, such as AI Assistant Master 2.0, which provides smart assistance by offering real-time strategy tips, lane skills, and winning predictions. This AI assistant can guide gamers in making better choices and enhancing their overall gameplay experience.

    The Sky Communication System 2.0 boosts network connectivity, ensuring smooth gaming even in tough situations. This system improves network performance by up to 32.6% in subways, 22.7% in high-speed trains, and 16.2% in basements. Furthermore, the device maintains a stable connection even in extremely weak signal conditions, minimizing game interruptions and ensuring fluid gameplay.

    Additional Features

    The GT 7 Pro boasts a 6.78-inch Samsung Eco² AMOLED display with a 1.5K resolution, reaching 2000 nits peak brightness and a color depth of 1073.74 million colors, providing stunning visuals for gaming and multimedia. For photography enthusiasts, it features a triple camera arrangement, including a 50MP IMX906 main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide camera, and a 50MP IMX882 periscope telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. There’s a 16MP front camera for selfies as well.

    With a massive 6500mAh battery and 120W wired fast charging, the GT 7 Pro ensures quick recharges. It will also have an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor for secure access and an IP68/69 rating for dust and water resistance. The phone comes in three stylish colors—Mars Exploration Edition (Orange), Star Trace Titanium (Black/Dark Gray), and Light Domain White, merging elegance with durability.

    In other news, a recent leak indicates the starting price of the Realme GT 7 Pro will be around 3,999 yuan (about $560), potentially positioning it as one of the most budget-friendly smartphones featuring the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • ViewSonic VX2563-HD-PRO: 24.5″ FHD Gaming Monitor, 300Hz HDR10

    ViewSonic VX2563-HD-PRO: 24.5″ FHD Gaming Monitor, 300Hz HDR10

    ViewSonic has launched the VX2563-HD-PRO, a 24.5-inch gaming monitor designed with features that appeal to competitive players. This monitor offers a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 and is equipped with an IPS panel, which provides wide viewing angles of 178 degrees both horizontally and vertically. With a refresh rate of up to 300Hz and an impressive 1ms response time, it aims to minimize motion blur and ghosting for a smoother gaming experience.

    Visual Performance

    The visual quality of the VX2563-HD-PRO is enhanced by its 99% sRGB color coverage, ensuring accurate color display. Also, the contrast ratios are quite impressive, boasting a static contrast of 1000:1 and a dynamic contrast ratio of 80,000,000:1, enhancing depth, particularly in darker visuals. It also supports HDR10, as well as AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync features to help eliminate screen tearing.

    Connectivity and Design

    For connections, this monitor offers two HDMI 2.0 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4, and an audio-out jack. Its ergonomic design allows for a forward tilt of up to 5 degrees and a backward tilt of 15 degrees, but it does not include height adjustment or swivel capabilities, which are often found in pricier gaming monitors. Moreover, the VX2563-HD-PRO includes a VESA mount option (100 x 100mm) for mounting on walls or monitor arms.

    Weight and Appeal

    Weighing just 2.8 kg without the stand, this gaming monitor is lightweight for its class. With its collection of features and sleek design, the VX2563-HD-PRO is sure to attract gamers who value performance and aesthetics, assuming that Full HD gaming meets their requirements.

    Viewsonic China’s

    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • Path of Exile 2 Early Access Delayed to December Release

    Path of Exile 2 Early Access Delayed to December Release

    Path of Exile 2, the eagerly awaited action RPG from Grinding Gear Games, is set to enter early access in December, pushing back its original November 14 date. Game director Jonathan Rogers shared this news with fans on Path of Exile’s official YouTube channel.

    Apologies and New Date

    Rogers expressed his regret, saying he was “really sorry about this one,” while revealing the new early access date of December 6. He mentioned that while the game was progressing well, “service side infrastructure work” has unexpectedly caused the delay in the November launch.

    The Reason Behind the Delay

    The complications appear to arise from the commitment to making microtransactions functional between Path of Exile 1 and 2. According to Rogers, to achieve this, the team must “integrate the account systems for not only PoE 1 and 2 but console realms as well.”

    Challenges of Legacy Data

    The team faces the task of migrating accounts that have been around for eleven years across both titles and ensuring that “the old data is backwards compatible” with the new systems they have developed for this task. When dealing with data that is this old, it’s likely there are several “skeletons in the closet.”

    Rogers emphasized the team’s desire to keep their promise and to make sure “nobody loses anything they paid for.” Consequently, the game will now debut in early access on December 6, 2024.

    Image Source: Path of Exile 2 Steam page

    Tags: , ,
  • AMD’s Exciting CES 2025 Lineup Leaked: What to Expect

    AMD’s Exciting CES 2025 Lineup Leaked: What to Expect

    CES 2025 is looking to be an exciting event for those who love hardware. We can expect to see new CPUs from Intel like the Arrow Lake for desktops and laptops, along with Battlemage GPUs and Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 series graphics cards. Nevertheless, the AMD presentation is what many are eagerly awaiting, especially if a recent leak from a Chinese forum turns out to be correct. AMD is set to reveal a wide range of products at the event, including:

    Product Availability

    It’s important to note that not every item showcased will be ready for sale right away. The Ryzen 9 9900 and 9950X3D, specifically, may not be on store shelves for a while. Releasing them too soon could hurt sales of the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, which is set to launch just weeks before. Still, AMD isn’t rushing to release their top-tier X3D chips, since Intel’s Arrow Lake doesn’t seem to pose any real threat to AMD in the gaming sector.

    AMD vs. Nvidia

    The Radeon RX 8000 RDNA 4 GPUs are expected to come out around the same time as Nvidia’s offerings. Even though AMD won’t have something like an RTX 5090 or RTX 5080 this time, the mid-range market will still be competitive with options like the Radeon RX 8700 XT and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070. Interestingly, there’s no mention of RDNA 4 laptops, which suggests that AMD plans to introduce them later in 2025.

    Future Launches

    AMD is also preparing business-oriented SKUs such as Kraken Point and Strix Halo. While there’s proof of at least one Asus tablet utilizing Kraken Point, it’s likely intended for high-end workstations. Fire Range is AMD’s response to Arrow Lake-HX, which is expected to launch around the same time. Both of these will likely support gaming laptops in 2025, but a recent rumor suggests we may not see many of them in action.

    This brings us to the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, Ryzen Z2, and a puzzling product called Ryzen Z2G. The exact nature of the third SKU is uncertain; it could be a mistranslation or a lower-spec version of the Ryzen Z2. Regardless, these processors are set to power handheld gaming consoles coming out in 2025 and maybe even in 2026. Unfortunately, it seems the Steam Deck 2 might not be part of this lineup, as Valve does not intend to rush its release.

    @Olrak29_ on X

    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • Key Specs of RedMagic 10 Ultra with Snapdragon 8 Elite Leaked

    Key Specs of RedMagic 10 Ultra with Snapdragon 8 Elite Leaked

    RedMagic is preparing to unveil a new series of gaming smartphones, known as the RedMagic 10 series. A well-known leaker, Digital Chat Station, has indicated that this series will include two models, with the Ultra version expected to have a 7-inch display. This size would make it one of the biggest smartphones to utilize the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.

    Exciting Features of the RedMagic 10 Ultra

    Recent updates from Digital Chat Station reveal more about the RedMagic 10 Ultra. In addition to its large display, the new gaming phone is rumored to include a substantial battery. Specifically, it’s claimed that it will contain two batteries, each with a capacity of 3,450 mAh, leading to a total battery capacity of over 7,000 mAh.

    When compared to the RedMagic 9S Pro, which has a 6,500 mAh battery, the new model should provide improved performance. The 9S Pro can deliver up to three hours of uninterrupted gaming and over 15 hours of video playback at 1080p. With the increased battery size and the efficiency of the Snapdragon 8 Elite, the upcoming flagship is expected to provide longer usage times.

    Fast Charging Capabilities

    Additionally, Digital Chat Station has mentioned that the RedMagic 10 Ultra will support fast charging at 100W (the 140W Anker 737 power bank is currently priced at $109 on Amazon). This represents an advancement from the 9S Pro, which had an 80W charging capability and was marketed to go from 0% to 100% in just 35 minutes.

    Moreover, the leaker noted that the new gaming device will come with a flat display and, like previous models, it’s anticipated to include an under-display selfie camera. While pricing details remain unclear, more information about the RedMagic 10 series is expected to emerge soon from the company.

    Digital Chat Station shared this information on Weibo (translated from Chinese).

    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • Budget Game Console R46S Launches to Compete with Powkiddy and Anbernic

    Budget Game Console R46S Launches to Compete with Powkiddy and Anbernic

    Powkiddy kick-started the 1:1 gaming handheld trend with the RGB30 (curr. $125.99 on Amazon) last year. Although it rolled out the RGB20SX, which is designed vertically, just a few months later, it has allowed competitors like Anbernic to introduce their own horizontal options, challenging the RGB30. Anbernic launched the RG Cube in the spring and recently offered the RG CubeXX as a more affordable choice. Additionally, Z-Pocket Game has been selling the ZPG A1 Unicorn in larger quantities throughout the summer.

    New Budget-Friendly Option

    Now, a new white-label device has emerged that is priced much lower than its better-known rivals. This device, known as the Game Console R46S, can be found on platforms like AliExpress for just over $55. It is no surprise that it features the same budget chipset that powers the Powkiddy RGB20 Pro and ZPG GKD Bubble.

    Specifications and Features

    The Game Console R46S is equipped with the Rockchip RK3566, along with 1 GB of DDR4 RAM and a 4,000 mAh battery. It also supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 4 connectivity, as well as dual MicroSD card slots and a mini HDMI port for connecting to an external monitor or television. The standout feature is its 4-inch IPS screen, which delivers a resolution of 720 x 720 pixels in a 1:1 aspect ratio.

    According to RetroHandhelds, the Game Console R46S is capable of emulating games from up to sixth generation home consoles and a few PlayStation Portable titles. The device is currently available with 64 GB and 128 GB MicroSD cards, priced at $56.29 and $59.62, respectively. As of now, the Game Console R46S is offered in solid white, translucent black, translucent orange, and translucent purple color options.

    AliExpress via RetroHandhelds.

    Image 1
    Image 1
    Tags: , ,
  • DIY Gaming Handheld Built from Framework Laptop Motherboard

    DIY Gaming Handheld Built from Framework Laptop Motherboard

    DIY gaming handhelds are gaining traction in the gaming community. Recently, a modder took the original Xbox and turned it into a working handheld console. Now, another modder named Beth Le has crafted a handheld device using a Framework motherboard. It’s worth noting that Beth isn’t the first to venture into this realm; TommyB made a similar device back in March of this year.

    A More Refined Design

    Beth Le’s creation stands out as it appears more sophisticated than TommyB’s Framework gaming handheld. Known as the Beth Deck, it is reportedly easy to assemble. According to Beth, you can put the entire device together in just 15 minutes, adhering to Framework’s fundamental idea of simplicity.

    Hardware Specifications

    In terms of hardware, the Beth Deck utilizes a 13-inch laptop mainboard. Framework offers several options on its website, with the 11th Gen Core i7 1165G7 currently priced at $299. If you want to build a device that competes with the ROG Ally or Legion Go, which is currently $499 on Amazon, consider opting for an AMD 7040 series board.

    This DIY gaming handheld is powered by the 13-inch Framework battery, ensuring that the battery life is similar to that of a laptop. Other components include an 8-inch touchscreen and a USB-C dongle with various ports. For the controller buttons, Beth has repurposed a mobile gaming controller.

    Potential Issues and Solutions

    You will also need some 3D-printed components, which Beth has made available on the project page. While the project seems promising, like many DIY endeavors, it does have some shortcomings. One notable issue is that the battery within the handheld can overheat due to insufficient airflow in that area of the casing. However, Beth has mentioned that this problem will be addressed in the next revision of the project.

    Tags: , ,