Category: Gaming

  • Free Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Beta Extended with New Map Live

    Free Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Beta Extended with New Map Live

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is set to launch on November 14, 2025.

    2. Extended Beta Period: The free open beta has been extended to end on October 9, 2025, at 9 AM PT.

    3. New Map Introduction: A new map named Toshin, set in Japan, adds to the multiplayer experience, bringing the total to six maps in the beta.

    4. Zombie Mode Access: The zombie mode features one map, Vandorn Farm, during the free beta.

    5. 2XP Boosts Available: Players can benefit from ongoing 2XP and 2X Weapon XP boosts to level up faster in the beta.

    Activision and Treyarch are gearing up to release the newest installment in the Call of Duty franchise, titled Black Ops 7. Scheduled for launch on November 14, 2025, players now have the opportunity to dive into the multiplayer and zombie modes via a free open beta. Originally set to conclude on October 8, 2025, the beta period has been extended.

    Extended Beta Period

    In a recent announcement, Treyarch revealed that the free open beta for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will now wrap up on October 9, 2025, at 9 AM PT. This gives participants an additional 24 hours to enjoy the beta. Along with this update, the development team has also unveiled a brand-new map.

    New Map Details

    The new map, named Toshin, brings the total number of multiplayer maps in the free beta to six. Set in Japan, it provides players with a vibrant downtown shopping area filled with neon signs and Japanese ads to explore while battling each other.

    Zombie Mode and More

    For the zombie mode, players still have access to just one map in the free beta of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, which is Vandorn Farm. For those who haven’t joined the playtest yet, it’s available on Steam, Battle.net, PlayStation, and Xbox (Elite Series 2 Core wireless controller currently priced at $153 on Amazon). Additionally, new players can take advantage of the ongoing 2XP and 2X Weapon XP boosts, which help them level up more quickly and experiment with various attachments and Overclocks.

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  • Xbox Game Pass Remains Valuable Despite Price Increase, Says God of War Creator

    Xbox Game Pass Remains Valuable Despite Price Increase, Says God of War Creator

    Key Takeaways

    1. David Jaffe supports Xbox Game Pass Ultimate despite its new price of $29.99, arguing it remains financially beneficial.
    2. Jaffe believes he would spend nearly double on games without the subscription, highlighting cost savings.
    3. He prefers not to own physical games, valuing convenience over game ownership and preservation.
    4. Many negative comments on Jaffe’s video suggest he may not represent the average Game Pass user, as his financial situation differs.
    5. Microsoft fans are exploring alternatives due to price hikes, while Sony has also increased prices for PS5 and PlayStation Plus, but critics say it offers fewer AAA titles than Game Pass.

    Popular opinion seems to be turning against Microsoft due to the recent confirmation of a price hike for Xbox Game Pass. Yet, there are some notable figures who are speaking in favor of the subscription service. One such supporter is David Jaffe, who is famous for creating the God of War series. He has shared his reasons for staying subscribed to Game Pass Ultimate.

    Jaffe’s Perspective

    In a recent YouTube video, Jaffe states that even with the new price of $29.99 for the highest tier, it still makes sense financially for him. He goes through his library of Xbox Game Pass games and considers how much he would spend on games if he didn’t have a membership. With annual costs now reaching $360, he believes he would end up spending almost double that amount without the subscription.

    Game Ownership Discussion

    David Jaffe, who also played a significant role in developing Twisted Metal, doesn’t see much benefit in owning Xbox games outright. Supporters of game preservation point out that when you buy digital titles on Game Pass, you don’t really own them. Microsoft can remove games from the service with very little notice. However, Jaffe prefers not to clutter his space with physical game cases since he doesn’t often replay titles.

    Mixed Reactions

    It’s not surprising that many comments on Jaffe’s video are negative. Some gamers argue that he is not representative of the average Game Pass Ultimate user. With presumably a higher income, he might find the price increase more manageable. Additionally, as a streamer, he usually plays a lot of Xbox games but may not finish them all—a stark contrast to many players who struggle to finish multiple games each year to justify the costs.

    In light of the ongoing price hikes for consoles and Game Pass, a lot of Microsoft fans are looking for other options. However, it’s worth noting that Sony has also increased prices for the PS5 and raised rates for PlayStation Plus. The most expensive PlayStation Plus plan now costs $160 per year, but critics argue that it offers significantly fewer AAA titles compared to Game Pass.

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  • PlayStation Plus October Games Release Date: Alan Wake 2 Included

    PlayStation Plus October Games Release Date: Alan Wake 2 Included

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony announced the free PS Plus games for October, available starting October 7.
    2. The games are expected to be live by 2 AM PDT (5 AM EDT, 10 AM BST).
    3. This month’s game lineup includes Alan Wake 2, Goat Simulator 3, and Cocoon.
    4. Goat Simulator 3 and Cocoon are available on both PS5 and PS4; Alan Wake 2 is exclusive to PS5.
    5. September PS Plus titles will be removed at 1 AM PDT on October 7, so players should download them before then.

    Sony has officially announced the free games for PlayStation Plus subscribers that will be available in October. Although the list was revealed on October 2, the games are set to be accessible starting today, October 7.

    Expected Release Time

    While there isn’t a specific time given by Sony for when the games will be released, they are expected to be live by 2 AM PDT. This means it will be 5 AM EDT and 10 AM BST. This timing is usual for PS Plus game releases, with Sony typically unveiling the list on the first Wednesday of the month and launching the games the following Tuesday.

    This Month’s Game Lineup

    As previously mentioned, the PS Plus games for this month include Alan Wake 2, Goat Simulator 3, and Cocoon. Each of these titles comes with a substantial amount of content, ensuring that players have plenty to engage with throughout the month. It’s worth noting, however, that Goat Simulator 3 and Cocoon can be played on both PS5 and PS4, while Alan Wake 2 is exclusive to the PS5.

    Important Reminder

    Additionally, keep in mind that at 1 AM PDT, just one hour before the new games become available, the September PS Plus titles—Stardew Valley, Psychonauts 2, and Viewfinder—will be removed from the service. So, be sure to grab them for your library before they disappear.

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  • TCL 27R94 4K Mini-LED Monitor: 1,600 Nits & 165Hz Refresh Rate

    TCL 27R94 4K Mini-LED Monitor: 1,600 Nits & 165Hz Refresh Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TCL 27R94 is a 27-inch gaming monitor with a refresh rate of up to 165Hz, supporting FreeSync Premium and G-Sync to reduce screen tearing.
    2. It features a 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels) and has a fast 1ms response time for smooth gaming visuals.
    3. The monitor uses a mini-LED backlight for high-contrast visuals and has DisplayHDR 1400 certification, with a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and 2,304 dimming zones.
    4. Connectivity options include HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB Type-C ports, with the USB-C port supporting video signals and power delivery up to 90 watts.
    5. The monitor supports multi-device operation with a USB hub and KVM switch, allowing picture-in-picture mode and is VESA-compatible with an adjustable stand.

    The company TCL produces both televisions and monitors, which includes options for gamers. They’ve introduced a new display called the TCL 27R94, but as of now, there’s no official price listed.

    Gaming Features

    This monitor is tailored for gamers, featuring a 27-inch screen with a refresh rate that can reach up to 165Hz. It supports both FreeSync Premium and G-Sync to help prevent problems like screen tearing. With a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, it offers stunning 4K visuals, which means you’ll need a strong gaming PC or laptop to make the most of it. The response time is noted to be just 1ms when measuring gray-to-gray.

    Display Quality

    TCL’s latest gaming monitor is equipped with a mini-LED backlight, which allows for precise control and is expected to deliver excellent high-contrast visuals. The TCL 27R94 boasts DisplayHDR 1400 certification, and it has an impressive 2,304 dimming zones. Most notably, the brand claims a peak brightness of 1,600 nits, though this does not pertain to the brightness across the entire screen.

    Connectivity Options

    For connections, the 27-inch 4K monitor includes HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB Type-C ports. The USB-C port can carry video signals and supply power to connected devices up to 90 watts. It also has a USB hub and KVM switch, allowing you to operate multiple devices with a single keyboard and mouse. The display supports showing two inputs simultaneously or using picture-in-picture (PbP/PiB) mode. Additionally, it is VESA-compatible, while the included stand can be adjusted for convenience.

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    TCL 27R94 4K Mini-LED Monitor: 1,600 Nits & 165Hz Refresh Rate

     

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  • Battlefield 6 Day One Patch: 200+ Fixes and Improvements Confirmed

    Battlefield 6 Day One Patch: 200+ Fixes and Improvements Confirmed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Players logged 92 million hours during the Open Beta, with over 500,000 players on Steam in one day.
    2. EA conducted over 30 Battlefield Labs sessions to gather player insights for game refinement.
    3. All launch maps will be accessible across playlists from day one, offering diverse gameplay options.
    4. A day-one patch will include more than 200 adjustments to fix bugs and improve game balance.
    5. Battlefield 6 is set to launch on October 10, with preloading available now for eager players.

    With only a few days remaining until the release of Battlefield 6, the developers have released a significant community update to increase anticipation. This comprehensive update, posted on EA’s official site, outlines the game’s progression since its extensive Open Beta period.

    Impressive Beta Engagement

    To kick things off, EA revealed that players logged a staggering 92 million hours during the Open Beta. This number is not surprising, as the game attracted over 500,000 players on Steam in just one day. Moreover, there were more than 30 Battlefield Labs sessions conducted with players, and the insights gained from these tests have been invaluable in refining the game ahead of its official launch.

    Enhancements for Launch

    As for the full release, EA has implemented various tweaks and upgrades to playlists and menus. Starting from day one, all launch maps will be accessible across playlists, giving players the freedom to choose their desired map. Additionally, gamers can expect a diverse range of playlist options, including single-mode playlists and closed weapon experiences, among others.

    Day-One Patch Details

    The developers have also announced a day-one patch for the game, which will include more than 200 adjustments. This update aims to address bugs and implement critical balance modifications to ensure that every player enjoys a seamless experience.

    In any event, Battlefield 6 is set to launch on October 10 across all platforms. For those eager to jump into the action right at launch, you can preload the game now and prepare the files ahead of time.

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  • Microsoft Cancels Xbox Handheld Due to AMD Sales Demand

    Microsoft Cancels Xbox Handheld Due to AMD Sales Demand

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft initially planned to create its own dedicated Xbox handheld but abandoned the project due to high demands from AMD.
    2. AMD required Microsoft to commit to producing at least 10 million units for a custom system-on-chip (SoC), which Microsoft deemed too risky.
    3. Industry reactions include skepticism, with some experts rejecting the claims about the scrapped handheld project.
    4. Microsoft is now focusing on a collaboration with Asus for the ROG Xbox Ally, launching on October 16, 2025.
    5. The upcoming ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X will feature advanced specifications, raising questions about Microsoft’s long-term strategy in the handheld gaming market.

    Microsoft’s entry into the handheld gaming market might have looked quite different based on some recent rumors. Instead of the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X, insider KeplerL2 has disclosed that Microsoft originally aimed to create its own dedicated Xbox handheld.

    The Scrapped Handheld

    Sadly, this unannounced Xbox handheld was supposedly abandoned during its planning stage because of strict demands from AMD. KeplerL2, known for a strong history in hardware manufacturing discussions, mentioned that Microsoft was in negotiations with AMD to create a custom system-on-chip (SoC) for this device.

    A Risky Commitment

    However, the collaboration fell apart when AMD required Microsoft to commit to producing at least 10 million units to cover the expenses of research and development. This request was deemed too risky by Microsoft, especially considering the moderate sales figures of portable consoles like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch.

    KeplerL2 shared in a comprehensive post on NeoGAF:

    > “From what I understand, the handheld was called off because AMD wanted a promise of 10M+ units to make a dedicated SoC, and seeing how Steam Deck managed to sell 5 million units while ASUS ROG/Lenovo Legion only moved 1–2 million, Microsoft didn’t want to take that chance.”

    Industry Reactions

    This insider information has stirred up some discussion among industry experts, particularly Jez Corden, an editor at Windows Central and Xbox reporter, who rejected this assertion on X in response to KeplerL2’s leak, saying, “this isn’t even slightly true, btw.”

    Nonetheless, this denial seems to match with Microsoft’s recent statement about investing in next-gen hardware, including working with AMD on future consoles. Microsoft has openly reiterated its commitment to first-party Xbox hardware, backed by comments from both President Sarah Bond and AMD CEO Lisa Su.

    Future Collaborations

    As we know, Microsoft has shifted its focus to a collaboration with Asus, leading to the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally, a rebranded version of the ROG Ally X tailored for Xbox Game Pass and Windows gaming. The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are set to launch on October 16, 2025, and they will boast an enhanced AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM, a 7-inch 120Hz 1080p display, and 1TB of SSD storage.

    With the launch of the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X on the horizon, and some fortunate users already receiving their pre-orders, experts in the industry are left wondering if this partnership represents a long-term strategy for Microsoft in the handheld gaming space or just a temporary measure in light of changing focuses.

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  • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s Ending Explained by Lead Writer

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s Ending Explained by Lead Writer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has gained global popularity due to its captivating soundtrack and emotional endings.
    2. There are no definitive good or bad endings; both endings are intentionally crafted to evoke different emotions.
    3. Each player’s decisions significantly impact character outcomes and the overall narrative.
    4. The game encourages players to explore multiple perspectives, acknowledging that both sides have valid concerns.
    5. Player choices shape the journey, leading to unique experiences and unexpected story developments.

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has become a phenomenal game, making a strong impact on millions globally. This success is largely due to its captivating soundtrack that enchants players with stunning melodies, along with its unforgettable conclusion. The lead writer emphasizes that there are no definitive right or wrong endings in the game.

    No Good or Bad Endings

    In a recent chat with Lits Play, Jennifer Svedberg-Yen, who is the lead writer for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, addressed the swirling rumors online about the existence of a good and bad ending. She stated, “I inform everyone that there is no right ending, no canon ending, and no official Sandfall ending. Both endings exist for a purpose; we included them both for a reason, and they were crafted in a specific manner. Neither is flawless. Each one is emotional in its own way. They both contain moments that make you feel happy and wish for a joyful conclusion for these characters, yet each carries its own price. It mirrors reality; often, someone’s happiness comes with a cost, and perfection is rare.”

    Choices and Their Consequences

    This means that every decision impacts the characters significantly. Furthermore, at Sandfall Interactive, there were extensive discussions about a clash between good and evil. Svedberg-Yen clarified that this idea was turned down to allow players to grasp both perspectives better: “In this case, we aimed to highlight that both sides have care for one another, leading to their differing views on how to proceed. They are concerned about each other and their futures. The player has the freedom to determine what they believe is the right ending based on their viewpoint.”

    Player Choices Shape the Journey

    Consequently, each ending reflects the choices made by players throughout their journey in this one-of-a-kind world. This could shed light on some unexpected turns in the story.

    GamesRadar.

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  • Genshin Impact Update Makes Pixel 10 Series Nearly Unplayable

    Genshin Impact Update Makes Pixel 10 Series Nearly Unplayable

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google’s Tensor chips are not aimed at competing with high-end Qualcomm and MediaTek products, leading to potential disappointment for gamers.
    2. Genshin Impact’s updated minimum requirements exclude devices with PowerVR GPUs, affecting older Apple A series chips and the Pixel 10 series.
    3. Performance of Genshin Impact on the Pixel 10 is subpar, with reports of lag and unresponsiveness from users.
    4. Issues seem to stem from PowerVR GPU drivers rather than the game itself, with performance varying by location within the game.
    5. Google has not provided a timeline for resolving these performance issues, leaving users uncertain.

    Google has consistently maintained that its Tensor chips are not designed to rival the high-end products from Qualcomm and MediaTek. Consequently, players looking to enjoy high-quality games may find themselves disappointed. Genshin Impact, recognized as one of the most demanding games available, is struggling to perform well on Google’s latest smartphones.

    New Device Requirements

    An update on the Genshin Impact website outlines the new minimum requirements for devices. For Android users, it clearly mentions “non Power VR GPU,” which points out several older Apple A series chips, such as the Apple A10X, some basic MediaTek devices like the Helio G35, and notably, the Pixel 10 series that runs on the Tensor G5 with a PowerVR GPU.

    Performance Issues

    Although Genshin Impact can technically operate on the Pixel 10, the experience is far from satisfactory. Gamers on platforms like X and Reddit have shared videos showing that the game is nearly unplayable on the Pixel 10 Pro XL due to lag and an unresponsive touchscreen. However, one player mentioned that the lag only occurs in specific areas, suggesting the game runs better in other parts.

    In any case, this seems to be a problem related to PowerVR GPU drivers rather than Genshin Impact itself. The PowerVR DXT-48 in the Tensor G5 is capable of handling most games, albeit with some compromises on visual quality. Google has not yet addressed this issue, leaving users unsure of when a resolution might be available.

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  • Walmart Xbox & Switch 2 Games as Console Appeal Declines

    Walmart Xbox & Switch 2 Games as Console Appeal Declines

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retailers like Walmart are reducing the visibility of Xbox consoles and games in favor of Switch 2 titles, reflecting a shift in consumer interest.
    2. Customers have observed that Xbox games are being moved to lower shelves, while titles for new systems are taking prime display space.
    3. The holiday season outlook for Xbox is bleak, with its exclusion from Walmart’s Christmas catalog and significant discounts on consoles at Sam’s Club.
    4. Competing retailers like Costco are also eliminating Xbox products, indicating a broader trend away from Microsoft’s gaming offerings.
    5. Despite concerns over Xbox’s future and recent price hikes, Microsoft maintains that it is not halting production of the Series X|S and continues to pursue its hardware ambitions.

    After various price hikes for Xbox, a number of retailers have started to phase out Microsoft’s consoles and games. Walmart, a leading retailer in the U.S., has been changing its Xbox displays to highlight Switch 2 games instead. While the situation varies depending on the location, customers are noticing a decline in Xbox’s visibility.

    Surprising Changes in Stores

    Recently, The Gaming Dude posted an eye-opening photo on social media. Titles for Switch 2, such as Mario Kart World and Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, are now occupying spaces where Xbox games used to be prominently displayed. These new games are now crammed together on the lower shelves of the Walmart case. While Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is still accessible on both platforms, players find the contrast of red and green colors to be quite unsettling.

    The Bigger Picture

    It’s hard to tell exactly how many stores are pushing Xbox to the sidelines in their entertainment sections. However, shoppers have shared similar observations from different parts of the U.S. One customer mentioned that movies seem to be taking precedence in at least one store. Meanwhile, overseas, some shops are opting to showcase different electronics rather than Xbox titles.

    Holiday Outlook and Discounts

    The upcoming holiday season isn’t looking much better for Xbox, as it has been excluded from Walmart’s Christmas catalog. Sam’s Club, which is part of the same company, appears eager to eliminate any Microsoft Gaming items. Even after a price rise for the Series X and S, the warehouse chain is providing significant discounts on these consoles. Its rival, Costco, has also declared that it will no longer carry the gaming systems. For now, Microsoft may have to depend on the Asus ROG Xbox Ally to attract customers looking for new devices.

    With the Game Pass subscription costing $29.99 for its Ultimate tier, there’s less motivation for gamers to stick with the brand. Nevertheless, Microsoft has not announced any halt in production of the Xbox Series X|S. As mentioned by Pure Xbox, the company responded to recent rumors regarding the cancellation of future Xbox consoles. They assert that they haven’t given up on their hardware ambitions, but many remain doubtful.

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  • Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Now Available

    Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box is now available in the US for $2,999.99 and offers impressive overall performance.
    2. It delivers approximately 27.2% lower performance compared to a native Nvidia RTX 5090 in a gaming desktop.
    3. Synthetic tests show the eGPU is around 15.2% slower than a desktop Nvidia RTX 5090 due to Thunderbolt 5 connection limitations.
    4. OCuLink could potentially enhance performance by providing a more efficient direct link, avoiding bottlenecks from the Thunderbolt 5 controller.
    5. The Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box features additional ports, including one HDMI 2.1b and three DisplayPort 2.1b, along with a built-in PSU and custom liquid cooling.

    Gigabyte has recently introduced the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box in the UK, and now, the Thunderbolt 5 external GPU is also available in the US market. You can find it on Newegg for a price of $2,999.99. While this is quite a steep cost for an external GPU, our tests showed that it delivers fairly impressive overall performance.

    Performance Insights

    In our examination, we discovered that the Thunderbolt 5 eGPU operates at about 27.2% lower performance compared to a native Nvidia RTX 5090 in a gaming desktop (the MSI Suprim RTX 5090 is currently priced at $2,699.99 on Amazon). This performance level indicates that the Gigabyte Aorus AI Box is roughly 6% slower than a standard desktop RTX 4090.

    Testing Results

    When we conducted synthetic tests, we observed that the Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box is around 15.2% slower than a desktop Nvidia RTX 5090. These performance reductions can be attributed to the restrictions set by the Thunderbolt 5 connection, even though it is rated for a bidirectional bandwidth of 80 Gbps.

    It’s possible that the performance could have been slightly better if the eGPU used OCuLink. A recent comparison video by YouTuber Try Some Tech highlighted that Thunderbolt 5 necessitates that signals go through an intermediate controller, resulting in a bottleneck.

    Connectivity Options

    On the flip side, OCuLink can establish a direct link, which allows for more efficient communication between the host system and the eGPU, reducing interference. Thus, even with a 64 Gbps bandwidth rating, OCuLink can leverage its rated capacity more effectively.

    Returning to the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box, for those who might’ve missed our earlier coverage of the launch, this Thunderbolt 5 eGPU includes extra ports at the back. Specifically, it comes with one HDMI 2.1b and three DisplayPort 2.1b ports. Additionally, the Thunderbolt 5 eGPU is equipped with a built-in PSU and a custom liquid cooling solution, all neatly packed in a sleek and relatively compact design.

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