Category: Gaming

  • PlayStation Teases New Merch for Astro Bot, The Last of Us, and More

    PlayStation Teases New Merch for Astro Bot, The Last of Us, and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation has announced a limited edition controller and new products inspired by popular games like Astro Bot and The Last of Us.
    2. An Astro Bot Lunch Box, designed to look like Astro Bot’s head, features a unique lenticular face that changes expressions.
    3. A mini backpack inspired by Ellie’s from The Last of Us will be available, including a wing pin and a space shuttle pin.
    4. A PlayStation-themed baseball jersey will be released, showcasing the PlayStation logo and the word “PlayStation” in Katakana.
    5. Additional items include Twisted Metal Meltz figures and monogram backpack clips inspired by various iconic PlayStation characters, with availability at Walmart and select stores in the US.

    PlayStation has recently revealed an exciting limited edition controller that will hit the market shortly. Along with this announcement, they shared a sneak peek at some new products inspired by beloved games like Astro Bot and The Last of Us.

    Upcoming Unique Items

    One of the standout items set to be unveiled is an Astro Bot Lunch Box. This charming blue lunch box is designed to resemble the head of Astro Bot, complete with an antenna. A particularly intriguing feature is its lenticular face, which shifts expressions depending on how you move it.

    Collector’s Backpack

    In addition to the lunch box, fans of PlayStation can look forward to acquiring a mini backpack inspired by Ellie’s own from The Last of Us. Crafted from light blue canvas and brown leather, it includes a wing pin and a pin shaped like a space shuttle. This isn’t the first backpack inspired by The Last of Us, as there was a replica of Ellie’s backpack released in September 2023 for The Last of Us Day.

    Stylish Jersey and More

    Alongside the Astro Bot Lunch Box and Ellie Backpack, a PlayStation-themed baseball jersey will also be available. This jersey features a blue color with white accents and displays the iconic PlayStation logo on the front, along with the word “PlayStation” written in Katakana. The back showcases a large PlayStation logo beneath the word “PlayStation”.

    In addition to these items, PlayStation shared an image of Twisted Metal Meltz figures, showcasing characters and vehicles from the popular vehicular combat game. Furthermore, they will introduce a number of monogram backpack clips inspired by characters from iconic titles including Astro Bot, The Last of Us, God of War, Horizon, Ghost of Yotei, and Sly Cooper.

    Currently, PlayStation has not disclosed the release dates or pricing for these exciting products. However, they did mention that they will be available in the US at Walmart and select other stores.

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  • Fans Excited About the New Stardew Valley App Release

    Fans Excited About the New Stardew Valley App Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gunther’s Library is a free app for Android that helps players track their progress in Stardew Valley, launched on October 3, 2025.
    2. The app requires Android version 12.0 or higher and offers a premium upgrade for $5.99, which includes additional features.
    3. Currently, there is no iOS version planned due to hardware limitations, but the developer hopes to release it for Apple devices in the future.
    4. Key features include an item database, guides for game paths, villager gift preferences, and organized collection lists.
    5. The app has received positive feedback from the gaming community for its user-friendly design and helpful tools, with many players stating they rely on it while playing.

    A passionate fan of Stardew Valley, known as BlueCaret, has introduced Gunther’s Library, a free app for Android users that assists gamers in monitoring their progress in ConcernedApe’s cherished farming simulator. The app was launched on October 3, 2025, and is already a hit on the Google Play Store, achieving over 5,000 downloads.

    App Requirements and Availability

    Gunther’s Library needs Android version 12.0 or above and is available for free in its basic form. For users looking for more features, there is a premium upgrade offered through a one-time in-app purchase. Unfortunately for iPhone users, there is no iOS version planned at this time. The developer has mentioned that he lacks the necessary Mac hardware to release the app on the App Store but remains hopeful for a future launch on Apple devices. He is also seeking voluntary support on his Buy Me a Coffee page to assist in making this a reality.

    Features of Gunther’s Library

    This app created by BlueCaret allows players to conveniently keep track of their in-game progress using their smartphones. It includes a full item database, guides for both the Community Center and Joja paths, detailed gift preferences for every villager, as well as well-organized collection lists. The premium version, available for a one-time payment of $5.99, provides extra tools like a perfection tracker, note-taking features, a calendar, to-do lists, and support for handling multiple farms.

    BlueCaret has shared that the inspiration for the app arose from his annoyance with having to switch between multiple wiki tabs while gaming. After two years in development, the outcome is a comprehensive companion app that is not only beneficial but also aesthetically pleasing. The response from the Reddit community has been overwhelmingly positive, with many users commending its user-friendly design, seamless operation, and thoughtful features. Comments from players include phrases like “I can’t play without this app any more” and “I’m reinstalling Stardew Valley just because of this app.”

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    Fans Excited About the New Stardew Valley App ReleaseFans Excited About the New Stardew Valley App ReleaseFans Excited About the New Stardew Valley App Release

     

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  • Nintendo’s Mysterious Short Film: Game, Movie, or Something Else?

    Nintendo’s Mysterious Short Film: Game, Movie, or Something Else?

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo released an animated short film titled “Close to You” on October 7, 2025, with no prior announcement, creating buzz among fans.
    2. The film tells a heartwarming story of a mother and her child, featuring toys coming to life and culminating in an emotional embrace.
    3. The lack of description and disabled comments on the video are believed to be intentional strategies to generate speculation and interest.
    4. Fans speculate that the film may relate to the Pikmin series, pointing to music similarities and potential hidden references, like a Red Pikmin.
    5. Other theories connect the film to franchises like Super Mario Galaxy, with humorous interpretations and ideas circulating online.

    On October 7, 2025, Nintendo shared an animated short film called Close to You on YouTube. Lasting just shy of four minutes, this emotionally impactful piece was released with no prior warning. The lack of a description and the choice to turn off comments appear to be intentional strategies to stir interest among fans. Consequently, there’s a lot of speculation about what the film might be suggesting.

    Heartwarming Story

    The film unfolds the tale of a mother and her little one. When a knock comes at the door and the mother goes outside, the child’s toys spring to life. Elated, the infant drops its pacifier, which then gains a life of its own. It drifts upwards, landing in the mobile hanging above the crib, which encourages the child to take its first steps. Just as the toddler starts to wobble, the mother comes back and catches it in her arms. The short concludes with a heartfelt embrace, paired with soft piano music that enhances the emotional atmosphere.

    Speculation and Theories

    Is it a new game? An animated film? The true meaning of the video remains a mystery. However, it has already sparked lively discussions on Reddit. The leading theory at the moment leans towards Pikmin. Numerous fans have noticed that the music and general vibe closely resemble what we hear and see in the Pikmin series. Some fans even claim they spotted a red dot beneath the bed around 1:40 – which they believe signals a Red Pikmin. Given that Pikmin are said to be unseen by humans according to the lore, this aligns nicely with what’s portrayed in the film. The hypotheses range from a new Pikmin game or short to a full animated project from Nintendo Pictures, potentially in a Pixar-like style.

    Comparing to Other Franchises

    Some fans draw parallels to Super Mario Galaxy, theorizing that the baby could be Baby Rosalina, pointing to the gentle color scheme and the strong mother-child dynamic as hints. Nevertheless, this theory faces skepticism, as there isn’t much solid evidence backing it. Other more outlandish ideas include a Metroid memory flashback featuring Baby Samus or the video being a trial for the Academy Awards. Naturally, the internet has also added its humor with running gags such as “Smash Bros. reveal” and the playful name Nintenbabies.

    Nintendo

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  • AOC Agon U32G4U: 4K Gaming Monitor with 450 Nits & 320Hz

    AOC Agon U32G4U: 4K Gaming Monitor with 450 Nits & 320Hz

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AOC Agon U32G4U features a 32-inch 4K display with options for 4K at 160Hz or 1080p at 320Hz.
    2. It has an IPS display with a 0.5ms response time and supports Adaptive Sync to reduce screen tearing.
    3. The monitor reaches a brightness of 450 nits but lacks local dimming, which may affect HDR performance.
    4. Connectivity includes two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, four USB-A ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, but no USB-C.
    5. The monitor will be available in mid-October for €459 and comes with a three-year warranty.

    The AOC Agon U32G4U is presented as a more advanced option compared to the AG325QZN, which has a selling price of €389 in Europe. Specifically, AOC has swapped the 240Hz QHD display for a new 32-inch 4K display. This upgraded screen permits gamers to choose between 4K at 160Hz or 1080p at 320Hz.

    Display Features

    In addition, the IPS display boasts a response time of 0.5ms, and it supports Adaptive Sync, which should help eliminate screen tearing. While AOC hasn’t shared any official details on color accuracy, the brightness is notably high for this price range, with the monitor capable of reaching 450 nits across the entire panel. Nevertheless, it lacks local dimming, suggesting that the 4K gaming monitor might not deliver exceptional HDR performance. On the bright side, the surface features an anti-glare coating.

    Connectivity and Adjustability

    The 4K display comes with two HDMI 2.1 ports and one DisplayPort 1.4, but it does not include USB-C. However, AOC has provided four USB-A ports and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The stand is adjustable in height by 5.1 inches and can tilt, while the pivot feature allows the screen to rotate into portrait mode. Users can modify settings directly through the AOC G-Menu Windows application, which means they won’t have to struggle with the on-screen menu.

    Availability and Price

    The AOC Agon U32G4U is set to release in mid-October with a suggested retail price of €459 in Europe. Both HDMI and DisplayPort cables are included in the packaging, and AOC offers a three-year warranty for the product. For more information about this 4K gaming monitor, you can visit the brand’s official website. Please keep in mind that this product may not be available in the US market.

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    AOC Agon U32G4U: 4K Gaming Monitor with 450 Nits & 320HzAOC Agon U32G4U: 4K Gaming Monitor with 450 Nits & 320HzAOC Agon U32G4U: 4K Gaming Monitor with 450 Nits & 320Hz

     

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  • AMD Engineer Confirms New Xbox Hardware in Development

    AMD Engineer Confirms New Xbox Hardware in Development

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft reaffirms its commitment to developing future first-party Xbox consoles despite cancellation rumors.
    2. AMD is collaborating with Microsoft on the Magnus APU, which may influence the design of upcoming Xbox devices.
    3. Future Xbox hardware could be a PC-console hybrid running Windows 11, similar to the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld.
    4. Market excitement for the new console may be low, especially without exclusive titles to draw gamers away from competitors.
    5. Microsoft may not produce a single new Xbox system in large volumes, focusing on adaptable hardware instead.

    A new report about the possible cancellation of the next-gen Xbox console has led Microsoft to clarify its position. The company emphasized its ongoing commitment to creating future first-party consoles under the Xbox brand. Additionally, a recent leak from an AMD engineer regarding the progress of the Magnus APU development might provide some comfort to gamers. However, it is still unclear if any device that uses this chip will look like a traditional console.

    AMD’s Insights

    This latest information comes from a video by Moore’s Law is Dead, featuring insights from an AMD source. The engineer stated that AMD is still collaborating with Microsoft on hardware that incorporates the Magnus APU. There are rumors suggesting that due to existing agreements with AMD, it would be too expensive for Microsoft to back out of launching a new Xbox console at this stage.

    The Future of Xbox

    The exact appearance of Xbox devices using this chip remains uncertain. The AMD employee mentioned that the hardware was initially referred to as an “Xbox project.” However, it might evolve into a PC-console hybrid that operates on Windows 11 or a newer operating system. Similar to the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld, it would support Game Pass and a vast library of games.

    The Magnus APU features Zen 6 CPU cores and RDNA 5 GPU architecture. Its modular design means that various manufacturers and different device types could utilize this adaptable chip. Microsoft might choose to create a product that resembles a PC as much as it does a Series X or S.

    Market Concerns

    Even with better gaming performance, the console market may not be excited about this development. Microsoft is optimistic that its redesigned full-screen UI will enhance navigation on Windows devices for gaming. Nonetheless, the experience might not be as seamless as that found in Xbox Series X menus. Additionally, without exclusive titles, the next-gen Xbox could offer less motivation for gamers to choose it over a PlayStation 6.

    It is clear that Microsoft has not abandoned its ambitions for gaming hardware in some capacity. However, Moore’s Law is Dead speculates that the company might not produce a single system in large volumes.

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  • Assassin’s Creed Mirage: Free Valley of Memory DLC Features Explained

    Assassin’s Creed Mirage: Free Valley of Memory DLC Features Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. The free story expansion “Valley of Memory” for Assassin’s Creed Mirage will launch on November 18, celebrating the game’s second anniversary with six additional hours of gameplay.

    2. Players will explore the 9th-century Arabian city of Al-Ula, following Basim as he searches for his presumed lost father amidst new challenges and historical settings.

    3. The expansion features new locations such as Elephant Rock and Hegra necropolis, along with a music feature where players can play the Oud after completing parkour challenges.

    4. Gameplay improvements include replayable Black Box missions, enhanced parkour mechanics, and a new Engineer 2 Skill in Basim’s skill tree for tool modifications.

    5. The DLC is developed by multiple Ubisoft teams and is free for all players who own Assassin’s Creed Mirage, available on various platforms including PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and more.

    Ubisoft has made it official: the free story expansion for Assassin’s Creed Mirage, titled Valley of Memory, will launch on November 18. This release celebrates the game’s second anniversary and promises an extra six hours of gameplay and narrative.

    Expansion Details Revealed

    The first details regarding the DLC were shared earlier in August. Set before the game’s conclusion, players follow Basim as he hears rumors suggesting that his father, who he thought was lost, might still be alive in the Arabian city of Al-Ula.

    Florian Salomez, the director of Valley of Memory, discussed the project in a recent developer diary during the reveal event. He stated, “The main challenge is to recreate the area as it would have been in the ninth century. You have a thriving civilization on one side, and on the other, an ancient wilderness. Just like Baghdad’s golden age, much of the documentation about this incredibly rich setting has been lost over time.

    As always with the Assassin’s Creed series, we aim to make sure that the setting and time period truly stand out. The recreation process is quite unique, blending both artistic and historical elements.”

    New Challenges Await

    When Basim arrives in the valley, he discovers it menaced by “Robbers” and finds no sign of his father, leading to a new chapter set in the 9th century. The expansion introduces fresh areas and points of interest, including the historic town of Al-Ula, Elephant Rock, Al-Farid Tomb, Musa ibn Musayr fortress, Valley of Stones, and the Hegra necropolis.

    A new feature lets Basim play the Oud at select locations after gathering music sheets through various parkour challenges, echoing the Haiku spots from Ghost of Tsushima. Besides the storyline, Valley of Memory will also provide significant enhancements to Al-Ula and Baghdad.

    Gameplay Improvements

    All Black Box missions and contracts will be replayable after completion and can be accessed via the Animus Sequences section of the objective board. The parkour mechanics have also seen improvements, allowing players to manually toggle jumping for access to previously unreachable free-running paths.

    Moreover, the expansion includes a new Engineer 2 Skill in Basim’s skill tree, enabling players to equip all Level 1 tool modifications, along with a Level 3 upgrade for every tool available.

    The Valley of Memory DLC was made possible through a partnership between Ubisoft and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. Developed by teams from Ubisoft Bordeaux, Ubisoft Paris, with contributions from Ubisoft Bucharest, Da Nang, and Montpellier, this expansion is free for all players who own Assassin’s Creed Mirage. The game is available on platforms like Ubisoft+, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series S|X, Xbox One, Amazon Luna, iOS, and PC.

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  • iPhone 4s Mod Turns It into a PlayStation Emulator Handheld

    iPhone 4s Mod Turns It into a PlayStation Emulator Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. An iPhone 4s was transformed into a retro gaming device using jailbreak, emulation, and custom parts.
    2. The device runs RetroArch after being downgraded to iOS 6.1.3 for better performance on older hardware.
    3. It features a custom metal casing with laser-engraved designs and PS Vita-style controls for improved accuracy.
    4. Internal modifications include additional battery wiring and Bluetooth circuitry, though it may have some input delay.
    5. Converting iPhones for gaming is rare due to technical challenges compared to modifying open-platform devices.

    A recent post on r/SBCGaming highlights an interesting project that transforms an iPhone 4s into a handheld retro gaming device using jailbreak, emulation, and custom parts. The iPhone 4s, which is almost 14 years old now, was chosen for its size, construction, and screen quality. The phone was downgraded to iOS 6.1.3 and jailbroken to operate RetroArch, an emulator frontend capable of supporting systems up to the Sony PlayStation. This choice was made to enhance performance compared to newer iOS versions on older Apple hardware.

    Custom Features and Controls

    This build showcases a unique metal casing adorned with laser-engraved Kirby designs, along with PS Vita-style tactile controls and a Bluetooth keyboard PCB for button interfacing. The PS Vita controls were specifically selected for enhanced accuracy, addressing concerns often noted with standard tactile switches. The Bluetooth PCB simplifies integration without needing extensive electronic modifications on the iPhone itself, yet some input delay is anticipated in comparison to a direct-wired setup.

    Unique Modifications

    Teardown images (shown above) display the internal modifications, showing the extra battery wiring and Bluetooth circuitry necessary for the physical buttons. The creator mentions that, although this iPhone-based device should be seen more as a collectible and isn’t as effective or user-friendly as dedicated handhelds like those in the Miyoo Mini series, it still offers a unique and functional method to enjoy retro games. Additional devices featured in the post include a custom Kirby GKD Pixel 2 (currently priced at $89.99 on Amazon), a compact “hot dog” shaped handheld, and a Pikachu-themed Sugarcube Jelly Star 2s.

    The Challenges of Conversion

    Such conversions of iPhones are fairly uncommon due to the technical challenges involved in jailbreaking and dismantling proprietary devices, especially when compared to modifying open-platform gadgets or specialized retro handhelds.

     

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  • New Life-Sim RPG with Automation Launches on Steam with 25% Off

    New Life-Sim RPG with Automation Launches on Steam with 25% Off

    Key Takeaways

    1. Little Rocket Lab is a relaxing automation and life simulation game, available on Steam and Xbox since October 7, 2025.
    2. Players take on the role of Morgan, an engineer, to construct a rocket ship in her hometown, focusing on resource collection and factory automation.
    3. The game features a laid-back gameplay style with no timers, failure conditions, or combat, promoting creativity and community improvement.
    4. It boasts soft, painterly graphics, emoji-enhanced dialogue, and a soothing soundtrack, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
    5. Priced at $14.99 with a 25% launch discount, the game offers a demo and full controller support, and is available through Xbox Game Pass.

    Little Rocket Lab, created by Teenage Astronauts and released by No More Robots, is now live on Steam and Xbox as of October 7, 2025. For those who love relaxing automation gameplay mixed with community-focused life simulation elements, this game could be just what you’re looking for.

    Gameplay Overview

    In this game, players step into the shoes of Morgan, an aspiring engineer who heads back to her small-town of St. Ambroise to finish her family’s dream—constructing a rocket ship in their old backyard launch silo. The story offers a mix of resource collection, factory automation, and engaging with a variety of human and robot characters in the community. Players will need to set up drills, furnaces, conveyors, assemblers, and automated bots to gather materials and create intricate rocket components. Some machines require input via well-planned conveyor lines, challenging players to design and optimize their setups for better efficiency.

    Unique Features

    What sets Little Rocket Lab apart from established games like Factorio or Satisfactory is its laid-back tempo and positive influence on the community. There are no timers to stress over, no failure conditions, and no combat dangers. Players can complete side quests, fix equipment, and help improve the town, with every repair or crafted item visibly benefiting the residents. In essence, the game promotes creativity and experimentation, allowing players to deconstruct and reconstruct systems without harsh penalties.

    Visuals and Compatibility

    On the design front, Little Rocket Lab showcases soft, painterly graphics with gentle bloom effects and vibrant colors. Dialogue and quest interactions are enhanced with emoji bubbles, while the soundtrack features mellow guitar and lo-fi beats, creating a soothing ambiance during extended gameplay sessions.

    The game supports Steam Deck (currently $639 on Amazon) and full controller functionality from day one. It has been translated into six languages and offers immediate access through Xbox Game Pass. With its balanced blend of automation, town-building, and storytelling, Little Rocket Lab is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the genre. It’s priced at $14.99 on Steam, which includes a 25% discount for its launch. A demo is also available for those interested in trying the game before making a purchase.

    Steam, SteamDB

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    New Life-Sim RPG with Automation Launches on Steam with 25% OffNew Life-Sim RPG with Automation Launches on Steam with 25% Off

     

  • 8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller Under $20 on Amazon Prime

    8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller Under $20 on Amazon Prime

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lowest Price Alert: The 8BitDo Ultimate 2C controller is currently priced at $19.63 for Prime members, a 35% discount from its regular price of $29.99.

    2. Compatibility and Features: It supports Windows 10+ and Android 9.0+, featuring Hall Effect joysticks, a 1000Hz polling rate, remappable bumpers, and multiple connection types (Bluetooth, 2.4G, wired).

    3. Positive Customer Feedback: Reviewers praise its value, build quality, and low latency, noting performance comparable to more expensive controllers.

    4. Pricing History: The current Prime price is the lowest ever, with previous prices rarely dropping below $24.99 on Amazon.

    5. Limited Time Offer: The discounted price is exclusive to Amazon Prime members, and availability may be limited.

    The 8BitDo Ultimate 2C wireless controller, designed for Windows PCs and Android devices, has just seen its lowest price ever on Amazon thanks to the latest Prime Day offers. Prime members can snag it for just $19.63, which is a 35% reduction from the usual price of $29.99. If you’re not a Prime subscriber, you can still get it for $22.99, which is below the previous average prices on Amazon and from third-party sellers, which were around $28.00, based on camelcamelcamel price tracking.

    Features and Compatibility

    Since its release, this controller has garnered great popularity due to its impressive hardware and affordability. It boasts Hall Effect joysticks and triggers, along with a 1000Hz polling rate that minimizes input lag. Plus, it features remappable L4/R4 bumpers. The controller is versatile with support for Bluetooth, 2.4G, and wired connections, making it compatible with Windows 10+ and Android 9.0+ systems. Notable extras include metal joystick rings for durability, a D-pad that is light yet responsive, and turbo functionality for quick input repeating. The package comes with a wireless dongle and is available in various colors like mint, peach, green, and purple; however, only the green variant enjoys the major discount.

    Customer Reviews and Performance

    The 8BitDo Ultimate 2C has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback from both consumers and reviewers, praised for its features and pricing. Critics from PC Gamer and specialized controller reviewers highlight its exceptional value, often comparing its build quality and Hall Effect joysticks to more expensive models. The latency performance is described as outstanding, with both wireless and wired modes delivering sub-6ms response times, competing with controllers that are much pricier. Nevertheless, opinions on the d-pad are mixed; some fighting game enthusiasts appreciate its smoothness, while players of retro platformers occasionally report unintended diagonal inputs.

    Pricing History and Availability

    Historically, the prices on Amazon seldom fell below $24.99, making today’s Prime price the first to approach the $20 level. New units from third-party sellers have not been listed for less, and today’s $22.99 price also undercuts the previous high of $29.99 seen in the last year. While used units may offer lower prices, they often lack a manufacturer warranty and the reliability of brand new products. If you have Amazon Prime, shipping is free, and expedited delivery is available for those who qualify. Remember, this deal is exclusively for Amazon Prime members, and these prices might not last long.

    8BitDo Ultimate 2C Wireless Controller Under $20 on Amazon Prime

     

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  • Bungie’s Marathon Delayed: NDA Playtest with Solo Queue & Chat

    Bungie’s Marathon Delayed: NDA Playtest with Solo Queue & Chat

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bungie has restarted the extraction shooter Marathon with a closed technical test running from October 22 to October 28, allowing public participation for the first time since its delay.
    2. Registration for the playtest is open until October 16, and a limited number of players from North America and Europe on PS5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC will be selected, with participants required to sign a non-disclosure agreement.
    3. The playtest will feature three maps, five customizable runner shells, proximity chat, improved combat pacing, solo queue options, and enhanced visual storytelling.
    4. Bungie aims to gather player feedback during the test to refine the game, and there is no guarantee that past alpha testers will be selected for this round.
    5. Following the technical test, Bungie plans to provide a public update on Marathon’s development and may discuss changes to its original 2026 launch timeline amid ongoing challenges with its primary IP, Destiny 2.

    Bungie has restarted its extraction shooter Marathon, which was delayed indefinitely, with a closed technical test set to run from October 22 at 10 am PT to October 28 at 10 am PT. This marks the first chance for the public to try the game since the announcement of the delay.

    How to Join the Test

    Gamers can register for the test, and a limited number of players from North America and Europe on PS5, Xbox Series S|X, and PC via Steam will be chosen to take part in this closed playtest.

    The sign-up for Marathon’s playtest will be open until October 16. Participants must agree to a non-disclosure agreement, meaning they cannot share any gameplay videos or feedback online, since the version they will be playing is an early work-in-progress.

    Selection Process and Community Input

    Bungie has also clarified that past participation in alpha testing won’t guarantee players’ selection for this round. The test aims to gather player feedback to help refine the game based on what the community has suggested since Marathon was unveiled in May 2023.

    The playtest will include three unique maps, five customizable runner shells, proximity chat, improved combat pacing, the option to queue solo, and enhanced visual storytelling to fully engage players in the world of Tau Ceti IV.

    Future Plans and Development Challenges

    In a recent post, Bungie stated, “The Technical Test is a work in progress and will only include a portion of what’s planned for Marathon’s full release, focused on player experience.” After the technical test, the studio intends to share a detailed public update on the game’s development and possibly discuss changes to its 2026 launch timeline.

    Marathon has had a rocky development process since it was first announced. The studio pushed the game back indefinitely in June 2025 after receiving “passionate” but mostly negative responses from fans regarding initial trailers and gameplay previews, with many players drawing comparisons to Sony’s unsuccessful live-service title, Concord.

    Furthermore, Bungie is facing difficulties with its primary IP, as Destiny 2’s Edge of Fate expansion has replaced the seasonal update model. The player count for the game has dropped to a record low of 16,067 on SteamDB.

    This decline is attributed to the Edge of Fate expansion and the game’s restrictions in countries like Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan. Some players who have spent over 2,000 hours in Destiny 2 have even sought refunds for all downloadable content on Steam, and Valve has willingly complied with these requests.

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