Category: Gaming

  • Anbernic RG477M Receives New OTA Update

    Anbernic RG477M Receives New OTA Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG477M has received a software update to version 1.30, enhancing its performance.
    2. Users can now customize fan settings in high-performance mode with three options: “Auto,” “Cool,” and “Strong.”
    3. The update introduces support for motion controllers, allowing users to add a “Sensor Rotation” tile in the Quick Settings menu.
    4. Customizing settings involves dragging the Sensor Rotation tile in the Quick Settings menu for easy access.
    5. To update the device, users need to check for updates in the FOTA application, download, install, and restart the device.

    The Anbernic RG477M, a handheld gaming device running on Android, made its debut in August. Now, Anbernic has begun to release a fresh software update that boosts the device’s performance. This update upgrades the RG477M to software version 1.30 and is provided as an OTA, allowing users to easily upgrade without needing to sideload anything manually.

    New Features Included

    The changelog indicates that this update introduces the capability for users to modify fan settings while the device is in high-performance mode. Users can select from three options: “Auto,” “Cool,” and “Strong” for fan speed once high-performance mode is turned on.

    Additionally, this update adds support for motion controllers, known as the sensor rotation switch. After the update is installed, Anbernic RG477M owners (currently priced at $299.99 on Amazon) will have the option to place a “Sensor Rotation” tile in the Quick Settings menu.

    How to Customize Your Settings

    To add the new feature, swipe down to access the Quick Settings menu and click on the pencil icon in the corner. Press and hold the Sensor Rotation tile, then drag it to your preferred spot in the Quick Settings menu. Once you’ve finished editing, tap the tile to activate the feature. When enabled, motion control can be used in games that support this functionality.

    Moreover, the changelog reveals that the update includes various fixes for the device, optimizes the user experience, and enhances compatibility with apps.

    Steps to Update Your Device

    To get the latest updates, open the FOTA update application and tap on “Check version.” Download the update and wait for it to finish. Once the download is complete, click on the circle to install the update and restart your device when it’s finished.

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  • New Lord of the Rings Game Set to Compete with Hogwarts Legacy

    New Lord of the Rings Game Set to Compete with Hogwarts Legacy

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lord of the Rings gaming franchise has both strong potential and significant risks, as evidenced by the success of Shadow of War and the failure of Gollum.
    2. Embracer Group now holds the rights to create Lord of the Rings games and is developing a new title, potentially backed by a $100 million investment from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office.
    3. The upcoming game is expected to be a third-person action game, similar in style to Hogwarts Legacy, but details about the plot and release date are still undisclosed.
    4. Fan reactions are mixed, with excitement for a grand action RPG but skepticism due to past failures like Gollum and concerns over Embracer’s involvement and funding sources.
    5. The identity of the leading studio for the new project will be crucial in determining fan reception and expectations for the game.

    In the realm of gaming, the Lord of the Rings franchise is viewed as a blessing and a curse. Titles like Middle-earth: Shadow of War have demonstrated the brand’s great potential, bringing in impressive sales and generating buzz among fans. However, when a game doesn’t do justice to its original narrative, public opinion can turn very quickly. A notable case is The Lord of the Rings: Gollum, which had a rough start and caused the developer, Daedalic Entertainment, to stop making games in-house. It’s been nearly eight years since Shadow of War was launched, and fans are craving new experiences in Middle-earth.

    New Developments

    Since 2022, the rights to create Lord of the Rings games have belonged to the Embracer Group. As per reports from Insider Gaming, the company is currently developing a new version of Tolkien’s universe. Up to now, the project has been funded from within, but the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) is reportedly ready to become the main financial backer, investing approximately $100 million. Although the agreement is not yet signed, unnamed sources indicate it could finalize within days. In addition to some undisclosed studios, the team at Revenge is also said to be engaged in the development.

    Game Expectations

    The upcoming title is anticipated to be a third-person action game, with a similar scope and feel to Hogwarts Legacy, which has been one of the top licensed games in recent memory. Nevertheless, specifics about the game’s location, plot, or release date are still under wraps. Both the Embracer Group and Revenge have refrained from commenting, following their guideline of not addressing rumors.

    The leak has ignited a vibrant discussion on Reddit. Numerous fans express their thrill, wishing for a grand action RPG akin to Shadow of War. The parallels drawn to Hogwarts Legacy have further piqued interest, with one user simply stating: “You have my attention.” Others, however, are more skeptical, particularly criticizing Embracer’s involvement. Many blame the company for the Gollum debacle and worry about another error. Concerns have also been raised regarding potential funding from the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, with some users referring to the investment as “blood money” and even calling for a boycott.

    What’s Next?

    It is still uncertain when additional information regarding the new Lord of the Rings game will be disclosed. Nevertheless, the Insider Gaming report has already generated considerable excitement within the fan base. A significant element that will likely shape fan hopes is which studio will lead the project—a factor that could heavily influence whether the game is welcomed with enthusiasm or apprehension.

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  • Absolute Real-Time Strategy Game at 65% Off – Best Price Ever

    Absolute Real-Time Strategy Game at 65% Off – Best Price Ever

    Key Takeaways

    1. Age of Empires IV, released in 2021, is the first new game in the series since 2005, developed by Relic Entertainment.
    2. The game features four historical campaigns and ten unique civilizations, enhancing strategic gameplay and historical narratives.
    3. A major free update, the Anniversary Edition, released on October 25, 2022, added two civilizations, new maps, and various gameplay improvements.
    4. While the game stays true to its real-time strategy roots, some players criticized its graphics and lack of certain features, yet it received generally positive reviews.
    5. Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition is priced around $40 on Steam but is currently available for $14 due to a 65% discount, and it is compatible with the Steam Deck.

    Age of Empires is a timeless real-time strategy series that captivated players in the late 1990s. Despite a few remastered versions, there hadn’t been a true new game since 2005. This changed in 2021 with the release of Age of Empires IV, crafted by Relic Entertainment, known for other RTS favorites like Company of Heroes and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War. The anticipation for this fourth game was significant, and it did not disappoint.

    A Blend of History and Strategy

    Age of Empires IV enhances the features of earlier games with a compelling mix of historical narrative and strategic complexity. Players can experience four campaigns that highlight pivotal events from the Middle Ages, such as The Rise of the Normans, The Hundred Years’ War, The Mongol Empire, and The Rise of Muscovy. The German gaming magazine PCGames acknowledged this in their review, stating that the campaigns are both tough and informative, boosted by documentary-style cutscenes that animate history. With ten unique civilizations, including the English, Chinese, and Abbasids, the game provides vast strategic options. Each faction has its own special abilities; for example, the Mongols can create mobile bases, while the Delhi Sultanate benefits from free research upgrades.

    Major Free Update

    On October 25, 2022, the Anniversary Edition of Age of Empires IV was released as a significant free update. This version introduced an abundance of new features and enhancements, adding two more civilizations—the Ottomans and the Malians—along with fresh maps, challenges, master-level missions, and improvements to language support and the interface. This edition has now taken the place of the original version and serves as the default for players.

    Gameplay and Reception

    The gameplay of Age of Empires IV remains faithful to its real-time strategy origins: gather resources, construct your base, and command your armies in conflicts. PCGames mentioned that it closely resembles the gameplay of Age of Empires II, which is likely to please long-time fans of the franchise. Nevertheless, the game faced some backlash. Some players found the graphics to be a bit outdated, and useful features like auto-scouting and a global production overview were absent. Players also expressed a desire for more innovation, such as a diplomacy system. Despite these issues, the game received a warm welcome overall. On Steam, approximately 85,000 users have reviewed it, with 84% giving it a thumbs up. Critics on Metacritic rated it at 86, while the User Score stands at 8.6. PCGames rated it 8 out of 10, and GameStar scored it 87 out of 100, labeling it an “absolute real-time strategy hit.”

    Pricing and Compatibility

    Typically, Age of Empires IV: Anniversary Edition is priced around $40 on Steam, but it’s currently available for 65% off until October 6, dropping the cost to about $14—this is the lowest price recorded, according to SteamDB. For those interested in playing on a handheld device, this offer is even more enticing: Steam indicates that the game is compatible with the Steam Deck, which is priced at $420 on Amazon.

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    Absolute Real-Time Strategy Game at 65% Off - Best Price EverAbsolute Real-Time Strategy Game at 65% Off - Best Price Ever

     

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  • RedMagic to Launch RTX 5090 Gaming Laptop and Snapdragon 8 Elite Phone

    RedMagic to Launch RTX 5090 Gaming Laptop and Snapdragon 8 Elite Phone

    Key Takeaways

    1. RedMagic will launch the gaming smartphone RedMagic 11 Pro with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 on October 17, 2025, in China.
    2. The company is also set to reveal a new gaming laptop, the RedMagic Titan 16 Pro 2026, featuring Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU and Nvidia RTX 5090 Laptop GPU.
    3. The gaming laptop is expected to handle games at 1440p resolution with maximum settings smoothly.
    4. It’s unclear if the RedMagic Titan 16 Pro 2026 will have different configurations, as the previous model did not.
    5. The design of the new laptop will likely remain similar to the last generation, which had a 16-inch display and allowed RAM and storage upgrades, but improvements in cooling are anticipated.

    RedMagic is preparing to introduce its latest gaming smartphone, the RedMagic 11 Pro, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. This device will officially launch in China on October 17, 2025. However, there’s more to look forward to at the event, as the company has also hinted at a new gaming laptop that will be revealed on the same day in the Chinese market.

    New Gaming Laptop Details

    The upcoming gaming laptop is anticipated to be released globally as the RedMagic Titan 16 Pro 2026. It will incorporate a high-performance CPU from Intel’s Arrow Lake series. More specifically, RedMagic has confirmed that it will feature the Core Ultra 9 275HX, boasting a configuration of 24 cores alongside a 4-core Arc iGPU.

    Additionally, the Intel processor will be combined with the Nvidia RTX 5090 Laptop GPU, which is currently the leading choice for mobile gaming. This powerful setup is expected to ensure that the new RedMagic gaming laptop can handle all games at a 1440p resolution with maximum visual settings without any hiccups.

    Configuration Possibilities

    It’s not yet clear if the RedMagic Titan 16 Pro 2026 will come in different configurations, as the previous generation didn’t offer any alternatives in the global market. Speaking of the last-gen model, it features a 16-inch display, and it seems this will remain unchanged in the new system.

    On top of that, the earlier gaming laptop from RedMagic had a stylish design and allowed for RAM and storage upgrades (2 TB Samsung 990 Pro SSD currently priced at $159.99 on Amazon). Nonetheless, we found that the cooling system left something to be desired, which we hope the company has addressed in the forthcoming RTX 5090 laptop.

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    RedMagic to Launch RTX 5090 Gaming Laptop and Snapdragon 8 Elite Phone

     

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  • Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock: 4K Ultra Cyberpunk 2077 at 90 FPS

    Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock: 4K Ultra Cyberpunk 2077 at 90 FPS

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Razer Core X V2 enclosure features a Thunderbolt 5 port and supports high-powered GPUs, including the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090, with a price of $349.
    2. YouTuber ETA PRIME tested the eGPU dock with both an Asus ROG Strix Scar G18 laptop and a smaller MSI Claw A8 handheld gaming PC.
    3. In Cyberpunk 2077, the RTX 5090 in the eGPU dock achieved 90 FPS compared to 52 FPS in the laptop version, showcasing significant performance differences.
    4. Performance in Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered was nearly identical between the laptop and eGPU setups, indicating game-specific performance variability.
    5. Connecting the eGPU to the MSI Claw A8 resulted in 70-80 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077, which increased to 276 FPS with Nvidia DLSS Frame Generation enabled.

    A few months back, Razer introduced the Core X V2 enclosure featuring a Thunderbolt 5 port, and it’s currently priced at $349 on Amazon. It supports 140 W PD charging, which is pretty neat. What makes this eGPU dock special is its capacity to hold an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 or a comparable AMD graphics card. In simple terms, there’s plenty of room inside this enclosure. It also has a 120 mm fan that adjusts its speed automatically based on usage, plus built-in ventilation holes for better airflow.

    Unique Testing Approaches

    Recently, YouTuber ETA PRIME decided to test the Razer Core X V2 in an interesting way. Initially, the eGPU dock was used with an Asus ROG Strix Scar G18 laptop. Then, it was connected to a smaller handheld gaming PC, the MSI Claw A8. While the Scar G18 is a logical choice for the eGPU dock, given its 18-inch size, Intel Core i9 processor, and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090, the MSI Claw A8 presents a fascinating alternative due to its compactness and lesser power.

    Performance Comparisons

    In the first test, ETA PRIME connected the eGPU dock to an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 GPU and compared its performance with the RTX 5090 found in the laptop. It’s important to note that this was done via the Thunderbolt 5 port on the Scar G18.

    While playing Cyberpunk 2077, the differences between the two setups became quite clear. At 4K Ultra settings without DLSS, the RTX 5090 in the laptop managed 52 FPS, while the RTX 5090 through the eGPU dock hit 90 FPS. The total graphics power (TGP) was also notably different; the laptop version consumed about 170 W, whereas the Razer eGPU dock drew approximately 460 W.

    Game-Specific Performance

    However, when running Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, both the laptop and desktop 5090 performed similarly, with the laptop scoring 83 FPS and the desktop scoring 84 FPS at 4K Very High settings, again without DLSS.

    In the case of Borderlands 4, the laptop RTX 5090 achieved around 40 FPS, while the desktop 5090 connected via eGPU managed between 45–50 FPS at 4K Ultra settings without DLSS. The reason for these performance discrepancies in the two games remains uncertain, and the YouTuber did not clarify this in the video.

    Testing with Handheld Gaming

    Next, they connected the Razer Core X V2 to the MSI Claw A8 and tested Cyberpunk 2077 using USB 4. With limited bandwidth, the RTX 5090 delivered between 70-80 FPS, occasionally dropping below 70 FPS during explosive scenes.

    After that, they enabled Nvidia DLSS Frame Generation, which increased the average frame rate to as high as 276 FPS. The YouTuber noted that playing the game this way felt quite ‘smooth.’

    ETA PRIME also recently conducted a similar experiment where they connected an eGPU through OCuLink to a handheld gaming device. If you’re interested, you can find more information about that here.

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    Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock: 4K Ultra Cyberpunk 2077 at 90 FPS

     

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  • Microsoft Rewards Can’t Be Used for Xbox Game Pass Anymore

    Microsoft Rewards Can’t Be Used for Xbox Game Pass Anymore

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft Rewards will no longer allow points to be redeemed for Xbox Game Pass subscriptions starting October 1st.
    2. Users will need to purchase Xbox gift cards, which require more points than before (e.g., $20 gift card costs 19,000 points versus 12,000 points for one month of Game Pass Ultimate).
    3. Earning Microsoft Rewards points has become more difficult, with longer wait times and fewer opportunities to accumulate points.
    4. There are concerns about potential price increases for Xbox Game Pass tiers, with hints of rising costs based on recent source code findings.
    5. Microsoft plans a large sales event in October, likely featuring discounts on Xbox gift cards, but many gamers feel disappointed by the reduced value of their saved points.

    The Microsoft Rewards program is slowly becoming less rewarding for its users. Recently, a new letdown has emerged: members will soon be unable to use their points to get Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. While Microsoft hasn’t formally announced this yet, numerous gamers have seen the same message on their rewards dashboards.

    Changes Coming Soon

    This alteration is set to start on October 1st, and Microsoft is advising players to buy Xbox gift cards instead. These cards can then be used to help cover the costs of Game Pass. Sadly, many gamers will find that they need to use more points to pay for their subscriptions. For instance, according to one Reddit user, a $20 gift card costs 19,000 points. In contrast, it used to be possible to redeem just 12,000 points for one month of Game Pass Ultimate.

    Earning Points is Tougher

    There are various ways for gamers to earn Microsoft Rewards, like completing quests in Xbox Game Pass titles. However, many fans feel that their hard work is going unnoticed. It now takes longer to gather points, and the chances to earn them have decreased.

    Rising Prices on the Horizon?

    In addition to these changes, there are worries about possible price hikes for Xbox Game Pass tiers. The last increase happened in July 2024. Although Microsoft hasn’t confirmed any upcoming increases for 2025, there have been hints of more bad news. In June, Better xCloud discovered source code suggesting that subscription prices might go up. Xbox consoles have already seen a significant price rise, and the services linked to them could follow suit.

    With the recent updates to the Microsoft Rewards program, many gamers are looking for discounts on Xbox gift cards. In October, Microsoft is planning a large sales event that will probably feature Xbox cards. Still, players who have saved points are noticing that there are fewer appealing ways to use them.

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  • PlayStation 30th Anniversary: £245 Collector’s Book & Reebok Sneakers

    PlayStation 30th Anniversary: £245 Collector’s Book & Reebok Sneakers

    Key Takeaways

    1. September 29, 2025, marks the 30th anniversary of PlayStation’s debut in North America and Europe, prompting a celebration by Sony.
    2. Sony is releasing a 400-page hardcover photography book titled “PlayStation: First 30 Years,” featuring prototypes, concept art, and historical insights.
    3. The photography book will be available in two editions: a standard edition for £95 and a deluxe edition for £245, limited to 1,994 copies.
    4. Sony is collaborating with Reebok to launch a collection of three region-specific sneakers inspired by PlayStation’s launch markets from 1994-1995.
    5. The anniversary celebration includes limited-edition PS5 consoles and DualSense controllers in retro gray colors, alongside the sneaker collection debuting in October.

    September 29, 2025, will be a special date as it marks 30 years since PlayStation made its debut in North America and Europe, as well as other regions outside Japan. To celebrate this milestone, Sony is releasing a variety of nostalgic products that honor the first three decades of PlayStation.

    A Special Photography Book

    At the forefront of this celebration is Sony’s “PlayStation: First 30 Years,” a stunning 400-page hardcover photography book that promises a “400-page visual journey through PlayStation history,” according to the official PlayStation blog.

    The book is being produced in partnership with the well-known publisher Read-Only Memory, who is famous for their detailed works on everything from Sega systems to Zelda stories. The upcoming book is expected to showcase never-before-seen prototypes, concept art, and behind-the-scenes insights into the brand’s journey from the bulky gray PS1 to the sleek PS5 of today.

    Collector’s Edition Details

    Printed on matte art stock for that premium feel, the photography book comes in two editions. The standard edition is priced at £95, while the deluxe edition, which includes a presentation box and exclusive prints, is limited to 1,994 copies and costs £245.

    Pre-orders for the 30th anniversary photography book are now available on Read-Only Memory’s online store, with global shipping expected in spring 2026. Sony states that this book is “sure to become a coveted collector’s item.”

    Sneakers in Celebration

    In addition to the art book, Sony has collaborated with Reebok to launch a collection of three region-specific sneakers that celebrate the PlayStation’s 1994-1995 launch markets. Drawing inspiration from iconic Reebok styles of the 90s, the collection includes the InstaPump Fury 94 for Japan, the Pump Omni Zone II for the United States, and the Workout Plus for the UK.

    These PlayStation anniversary sneakers will feature subtle logos, gray scale textures, controller designs, and more on the side panels and outsoles of the shoes.

    While the exact pricing for the PlayStation’s 30th anniversary sneaker collection is still unknown, the collection is anticipated to debut in October and will come in unique limited edition packaging that reflects the original design of the console.

    This sneaker collection is part of Sony’s larger 30th anniversary PS5 lineup, which includes limited-edition consoles and DualSense controllers in retro gray colors.

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  • LG UltraGear OLED 27GX704A Monitor Global Release and Pricing

    LG UltraGear OLED 27GX704A Monitor Global Release and Pricing

    Key Takeaways

    1. LG is rapidly launching new OLED gaming monitors under its UltraGear OLED line, including the UltraGear OLED 32GX850A and UltraGear OLED 27GX700A.
    2. The UltraGear OLED 27GX700A features advanced Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel technology, known as a 4th Generation WOLED panel.
    3. The UltraGear OLED 27GX704A, released in Japan, uses older 2nd Generation WOLED technology, despite its model name.
    4. The UltraGear OLED 27GX704A has a native resolution of 1440p, a refresh rate of 240 Hz, and peak brightness of 1,300 nits in HDR mode, but lacks USB Type-C support.
    5. The pricing for the UltraGear OLED 27GX704A is set at $799.99, only $50 less than the more advanced UltraGear OLED 27GX700A, with no specific release date announced yet.

    LG has recently been launching OLED gaming monitors at a really fast pace under its UltraGear OLED line. Just last week, they introduced the UltraGear OLED 32GX850A in regions like China, Hong Kong, and the Netherlands. Before that, LG made the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A available in the US, which is currently priced at $849 on Amazon.

    New Technology Insights

    As we discussed earlier, the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A showcases LG Display’s cutting-edge Primary RGB Tandem OLED panel tech. This type of panel is generally known as a 4th Generation WOLED panel. In addition to this, LG also listed the UltraGear OLED 27GX704A in Japan earlier this month.

    Confusion with Model Names

    It’s worth noting that the UltraGear OLED 27GX704A, despite its model name, uses LG Display’s previous 2nd Generation WOLED technology. As mentioned previously, this monitor provides a native resolution of 1440p on its 27-inch display, boasting a refresh rate of 240 Hz and a peak brightness of 275 nits in SDR mode. When HDR mode is activated, brightness can peak at 1,300 nits in small areas.

    Pricing and Connectivity

    According to Amazon US, LG plans to sell the UltraGear OLED 27GX704A in the US for $799.99, which is just $50 less than the more advanced UltraGear OLED 27GX700A. Additionally, the UltraGear OLED 27GX704A does not come with USB Type-C support. As shown in the image above, the monitor includes DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.1, USB Type-B, and USB Type-A ports. Unfortunately, there is still no specific release date available at this point.

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    LG UltraGear OLED 27GX704A Monitor Global Release and PricingLG UltraGear OLED 27GX704A Monitor Global Release and Pricing

     

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  • Retailer annonce baisse permanente du prix de la Switch 2

    Retailer annonce baisse permanente du prix de la Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Leclerc is offering a discount on the Switch 2, selling the Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle for €469 instead of €499.
    2. The price reduction may be due to competition among retailers, using loss leaders to attract customers.
    3. Discounts on the Switch 2 are rare in North America, while European markets see more frequent price drops.
    4. Signs of declining sales for the Switch 2 in some EU countries, with the PS5 regaining the top console sales position.
    5. Nintendo plans to release highly anticipated first-party games for the Switch 2 during the holiday season, indicating confidence in the console’s future.

    As shoppers notice rising prices on rival consoles, a French retailer is set to offer a discount on the Switch 2. On October 16th, the Leclerc chain intends to sell the Pokémon Legends: Z-A bundle for €469, down from the standard €499 MSRP. The well-known leaker billbil-kun claims that the store will also make permanent price cuts on additional bundles.

    Retail Competition and Discounts

    Gamers are currently speculating whether the price reduction on the Switch 2 is a result of fierce competition among retailers. Large stores like Leclerc frequently utilize sales on popular products to draw in customers. While they might not gain much from console sales directly, shoppers could end up buying other, more profitable items. These products, which are sold at a loss to entice customers, are known as loss leaders.

    Sales Patterns in Different Markets

    In North America, discounts on the new Nintendo handheld are a rare sight, and price drops on Switch 2 games are even less common. However, some European regions offer more chances for savings. Billbil-kun believes that the French retailer will also reduce the price of the Mario Kart World bundle for the Switch 2. Initially priced as high as €90, the kart racing game quickly saw its price decrease in various countries, including Germany, due to competition.

    Signs of Slowing Sales

    Even if the Leclerc’s Switch 2 discount isn’t an indication of serious issues, there are signs of declining sales in certain EU countries. According to Vandal Radio in Spain, the PS5 has reclaimed the top position in console sales as of August. The podcasters also pointed out weak sales of third-party Switch 2 games, which might help explain this unexpected development. Game-Key Cards that depend on downloads have drawn criticism from players regarding these titles.

    The Nintendo handheld experienced remarkable sales when it first launched in France, surpassing the previous record held by the PS5. It’s doubtful that the gaming giant is worried about the console’s future. Beginning with Pokémon Legends: Z-A, the company plans to roll out a lineup of highly anticipated first-party games for the Switch 2 during the holiday season.

    Billbil-kun’s X account

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  • Xbox Consoles Declared Dead by Ex-Microsoft Executive After PS5 Success

    Xbox Consoles Declared Dead by Ex-Microsoft Executive After PS5 Success

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox hardware sales are declining, with some retailers ceasing to stock consoles amid price hikes and a lack of exclusive titles.
    2. Mike Ybarra criticized Microsoft’s strategy and labeled Xbox consoles as “dead,” while praising Sony’s successful PS5 sales.
    3. Retailers are responding to market challenges by reducing prices to clear Xbox inventory, despite Microsoft’s price increases.
    4. Ybarra suggests Microsoft may need to shift focus to multi-platform publishing rather than solely relying on Xbox consoles.
    5. The future of Xbox Series X|S remains uncertain, but supporters highlight its extensive game library and ongoing first-party title releases.

    The outlook for current Xbox hardware isn’t looking good, as some stores have begun to stop selling the consoles. With another price hike and a lack of exclusive titles, it’s increasingly challenging to attract customers. Mike Ybarra, the former president of Blizzard, has been vocal about Microsoft’s puzzling strategic choices. His claim that Xbox consoles are “dead” may be the most severe thing he has said so far.

    Ybarra’s Comments on PS5 Success

    Ybarra made his remarks after praising Sony for achieving another notable milestone in PS5 sales. At $136 billion, Sony executive Hideaki Nishino celebrated this generation of PlayStation as the most triumphant one yet. Ybarra added sarcastically, “But hey, the console market isn’t a successful business. It is if you do it right.”

    Retailer Actions and Responses

    A reader who feels Ybarra is biased prompted him to respond, “Your console is dead.” Although Microsoft hasn’t declared an end to the Xbox Series X or Series S, some Costco locations have recently stopped stocking these consoles. In spite of the price increases, other retailers are slashing prices to clear out their inventory.

    Shifting Focus and Market Challenges

    Ybarra has suggested that Microsoft might want to pivot towards multi-platform publishing instead of concentrating solely on Xbox consoles. He aligns with other market analysts who find the “This is an Xbox” campaign to be confusing. There are doubts among critics regarding whether traditional console gamers will take to smart TVs or Windows 11 handhelds, like the ROG Xbox Ally.

    Price Increases and Gamers’ Opinions

    The former Blizzard president also has strong opinions about the recent price hikes for Xbox. He believes these increases stem from Microsoft’s inability to make a profit on hardware sales. Like his previous comment about Xbox consoles being “dead,” many gamers disagree with this view. Microsoft, similar to Sony, has pointed to tough economic conditions as the reason for the higher MSRPs.

    The Future of Xbox Series X|S

    Only time will reveal how much longer the Xbox Series X|S will be available for purchase. Supporters are eager to highlight that the consoles still have a vast library of games. Microsoft continues to roll out first-party titles for the platform. Sony might also consider bringing more previously exclusive PlayStation games, apart from Helldivers 2, to its struggling competitor.

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