Category: Gaming

  • GameStop Faces Accusations Over Silent Hill Steelbook Pre-Orders

    GameStop Faces Accusations Over Silent Hill Steelbook Pre-Orders

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited Steelbook Supply: GameStop had very few Steelbooks available for customers who pre-ordered Silent Hill f, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

    2. Customer Frustration: Many fans reported being left without their Steelbook bonuses, despite pre-ordering months in advance, accusing retailers and Konami of poor organization.

    3. Reports of Insufficient Stock: Numerous complaints indicated that stores received far fewer Steelbooks than needed, with some stores getting none at all despite high pre-order numbers.

    4. Online Pickup Requirement: Customers who preordered online were required to pick up the Steelbook in person, as other retailers did not offer the physical bonus.

    5. Scalpers Taking Advantage: Scalpers exploited the shortage, selling Steelbooks on eBay for inflated prices, ranging from $90 to $120, without including the game disc.

    Customers in the U.S. who were excited about Silent Hill f have taken to the internet to express their discontent over GameStop’s very limited supply of the promised Steelbook pre-order bonus. Many fans who placed their orders months earlier are now left without the bonus while scalpers on eBay are selling the Steelbook for outrageous prices.

    Release Date and Availability

    Silent Hill f officially launched on September 25, 2025, but a few copies were available as early as September 20. Fans and collectors eager to own a piece of Silent Hill’s legacy pre-ordered the game mainly for its haunting yet attractive Steelbook case, which was offered exclusively in the U.S. through select retailers like GameStop and Amazon in the U.K.

    Customer Frustration

    However, as the game began shipping out last week, many posts appeared online showing that stores had very few Steelbooks in stock. This situation led players to accuse both Konami and retailers of misleading advertising and poor organization. One particularly upset customer detailed their experience on Reddit, stating they had “preordered from GameStop months ago and went today, just an hour after opening, and they’ve run out of all four Steelbooks they had in stock. All four. I called every GameStop in a 50-mile radius and NONE other stores received ANY shipment of Steelbooks at all.”

    Another user echoed this sentiment, saying, “Everyone is getting the shaft. Stores that even got allocation were at like 10% or less compared to the original pre-order number.”

    Reports of Limited Stock

    Beyond Reddit, similar complaints have been shared on X, where users explained that stores had only two or three Steelbooks available, despite the high demand. To add to the chaos, a GameStop employee anonymously confirmed the situation, saying, “I work at GameStop. We got a total of nine Steelbooks… for 30+ preorders.” It gets worse, as one store with 25 pre-orders reportedly received no Steelbook units at all.

    As if that wasn’t enough, customers who preordered online were expected to pick up the Steelbook in person, since neither Best Buy nor Amazon U.S. offered the physical Steelbook bonus.

    Scalpers Capitalizing on the Shortage

    To make matters worse, scalpers quickly took advantage of the shortage, listing untouched Silent Hill f Steelbooks for prices ranging from $90 to $120, all without a disc included in the sale.

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  • Capcom’s Pragmata Director Explains Indefinite Delay Reasons

    Capcom’s Pragmata Director Explains Indefinite Delay Reasons

    Key Takeaways

    1. The game’s unique hacking mechanics led to significant development delays due to extensive trial and error.
    2. Balancing dual mechanics of hacking and shooting has also contributed to the extended development time.
    3. Careful design decisions were necessary to optimize screen space for hacking features during intense battles.
    4. Pragmata’s release was originally planned for 2022, pushed to 2023, and is now set for 2026.
    5. Early reveals of the game have motivated development and generated excitement among fans.

    In a recent conversation at the Tokyo Game Show 2025, Cho Yonghee, the director of Pragmata, discussed the various challenges that led to the game’s indefinite delay in 2023. The new Shelter trailer was also showcased during this event.

    Development Challenges

    Yonghee shared insights into the difficulties faced in Pragmata’s development during an interview with TheGamer. He pointed out that the primary factor contributing to the delay was the game’s unique hacking mechanics, which consumed a significant amount of the development team’s time at Capcom. He mentioned, “It’s a big reason for the delay. There was so much trial and error and back and forth just to see what could land and what works best.” Producer Naoto Oyama elaborated on this by discussing the dual mechanics involved in the game’s combat and puzzle-solving, explaining, “Having the two mechanics, Diana’s hacking and Hugh’s shooting, has been one of the causes for us to put more time into that game. We took our time to balance it all out.”

    Design Decisions

    Additionally, the team spent considerable time making the right design choices, particularly in determining how to effectively use screen space for hacking features during intense battles against Pragmata’s humanoid robots and drones.

    Pragmata was first revealed in 2020 at Sony’s PS5 Future of Gaming showcase, generating significant excitement with its enigmatic trailer featuring Diano and Hugh in a space setting.

    Release Timeline

    Originally, the game was scheduled for a 2022 release on PlayStation 5, but it was later pushed to 2023. Subsequently, during a Capcom digital event, Pragmata was indefinitely delayed, with the company stating it “must further postpone the release of Pragmata” because “it needs more time.”

    For fans eager to play, the game has been officially set for a 2026 release across PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S|X. Despite the lengthy wait and multiple delays, Yonghee does not regret revealing details about Pragmata early on, seeing it as a way to advance the game’s development. He commented, “Putting the game out there so early served as motivation for us. If we didn’t put that trailer out back then, Pragmata might not be the same game it is today.”

    Oyama also remarked on the organic excitement generated by the game’s announcement, noting, “Whenever there was a digital showcase, people were always expecting Pragmata.”

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  • Rockstar Co-Founder: Bully 2 Canceled Due to Bandwidth Issues

    Rockstar Co-Founder: Bully 2 Canceled Due to Bandwidth Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dan Houser discussed the lack of resources as the reason for not creating a sequel to Bully, despite fan interest.
    2. Rockstar prioritizes major franchises like Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption over smaller projects like Bully.
    3. Managing multiple high-pressure projects has been a challenge for Houser, both at Rockstar and his new studio, Absurd Ventures.
    4. After leaving Rockstar, Houser founded Absurd Ventures and is working on a graphic novel titled American Caper and a novel called A Better Paradise.
    5. Houser remains optimistic about Grand Theft Auto VI, which is set to release on May 26, 2026, but is not involved in its development.

    During the Los Angeles Comic Con 2025, Dan Houser, who is one of the founders of Rockstar Games, talked openly about the fans’ requests for a sequel to Bully in a revealing interview. He explained that a follow-up to Bully never happened because the studio lacked the necessary resources.

    Reflecting on Bully’s Success

    In an interview with Ryan McCaffrey from IGN on September 27, Houser reminisced about the success of Bully, which was released in 2006. The game provided a satirical look at high school life through the character of a rebellious student named Jimmy Hopkins. When asked why Rockstar didn’t revisit the Bully universe despite the ongoing interest from fans, Houser simply said, “I think it was just bandwidth problems. You know, with a small creative lead team and a limited senior leadership, you can’t tackle all the projects you wish.”

    Prioritizing Major Franchises

    Rockstar has been under immense pressure to meet high expectations since the massive success of titles like Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption. These major franchises have taken priority over smaller projects, such as a potential Bully sequel.

    Houser shared that managing several high-pressure projects with limited direction has been challenging. He also drew comparisons to his current work at Absurd Ventures, saying, “And as we’re structured at (Houser’s current studio) Absurd Ventures, we’re working on two projects with a relatively small team, and it’s a real struggle to figure out how to keep both moving forward.”

    New Ventures After Rockstar

    After leaving Rockstar in 2020, a company he started with his brother Sam in 1998, Houser channeled his experiences into a new venture called Absurd Ventures in 2021. This new studio is currently developing a 12-issue crime-fic graphic novel titled American Caper, which is set to launch on November 12, 2025. Additionally, a novel called A Better Paradise, which started as a podcast, will be released soon after.

    In the meantime, Rockstar is focusing intensely on what could be one of the largest game releases ever. Grand Theft Auto VI is expected to hit the shelves on May 26, 2026, for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X, with a PC version coming later.

    Looking Ahead

    Although Houser is not part of the GTA VI development team, he remains hopeful for the game’s success. He remarked, “So I think the world’s probably had enough GTA from me. There’s always new stories to tell. It’s not going to be a narrative I crafted or characters I developed. I believe it’ll be thrilling. I’m sure the game will be fantastic.”

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  • Asus TUF Gaming A16: Enhanced 165Hz Display & Upgradeable RAM

    Asus TUF Gaming A16: Enhanced 165Hz Display & Upgradeable RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The TUF Gaming A16 features a familiar design with a plastic body and aluminum lid, suitable for professional settings.
    2. Upgrades include two SO-DIMM slots for RAM expansion and two SSD slots (M.2-2280, PCIe 4.0) for better maintenance options.
    3. The display has improved to a WQHD panel with a resolution of 165 Hz and G-Sync capability.
    4. The matte IPS display offers excellent image quality, full sRGB coverage, and avoids PWM flickering.
    5. While not as visually striking as OLED displays, the TUF Gaming A16’s display provides high refresh rates and quick response times for gamers.

    The TUF Gaming laptops from Asus offer a midrange gaming experience, and we recently took a look at the latest TUF Gaming A16 model. This version maintains the same familiar design as last year’s model, featuring a plastic body with an aluminum lid. The quality of the chassis is decent, and we appreciate how well the hinge operates. While it lacks flashy lights, this minimalist design allows the TUF Gaming A16 to fit into more professional settings without issue.

    Internal Improvements

    There have been several upgrades inside the chassis. One significant problem with the prior model was the soldered RAM, which seemed unnecessary for a large gaming laptop. Asus addressed this concern in the 2025 iteration, now providing two SO-DIMM slots, making it much easier to enhance the RAM. Alongside this, the device is equipped with two SSD slots (M.2-2280, PCIe 4.0), offering excellent maintenance options.

    Enhanced Display

    The display has also seen improvements. The earlier version we reviewed came with a rather average 1080p screen, but this model boasts a WQHD panel with a resolution of 165 Hz and G-Sync capability. The matte IPS display delivers commendable image quality, and the factory calibration is quite impressive. With full sRGB coverage, editing photos and videos is a breeze. While it may not match the visual appeal of OLED displays, it compensates for this by avoiding PWM flickering. Combining G-Sync with high refresh rates and quick response times, the IPS display serves as a solid option for gamers.

    Asus TUF Gaming A16: Enhanced 165Hz Display & Upgradeable RAMAsus TUF Gaming A16: Enhanced 165Hz Display & Upgradeable RAM

     

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  • Dawn of War IV Trailer Revealed: Fans Demand Key Features

    Dawn of War IV Trailer Revealed: Fans Demand Key Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Return to RTS Roots: Dawn of War IV marks a return to traditional real-time strategy gameplay, set on the battle-scarred planet Kronus after Dark Crusade.

    2. Story and Factions: The game features a narrative co-written by John French, focusing on the Blood Ravens Space Marines and Adeptus Mechanicus fighting Orks and an ancient Necron threat. Four factions will be available at launch.

    3. Extensive Campaign: The campaign will be the largest in the series, with over 70 missions and CGI intros, offering both solo and co-op play options.

    4. Gameplay Mechanics: Emphasis on base construction, large-scale strategies, and a new Sync Kill system for melee combat. Additional modes include Skirmishes, multiplayer options, and the return of the Last Stand co-op mode.

    5. Fan Feedback: Fans expressed excitement and suggestions, including requests for the return of the original Space Marine voice texture and comments on the game’s visuals, as it is available for wishlisting on Steam for a 2026 release.

    A fresh in-engine trailer for Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV has been showcased during the PC Gaming Show: Tokyo Direct. According to the publisher Deep Silver and the developer King Art Games, this game signifies a return to the traditional RTS roots and takes players back to the battle-scarred planet Kronus, years after the events of Dark Crusade.

    Storyline and Factions

    The narrative is said to be co-penned by Black Library author John French and centers around the Blood Ravens Space Marines along with their Adeptus Mechanicus allies as they engage in conflict with Ork forces, only to face an ancient threat from the Necrons. Upon release, four factions are expected: Space Marines, Orks, Necrons, and the Adeptus Mechanicus, which is making its debut in the Dawn of War series. Each faction is reported to come with distinct Commanders, buildings, units, and gameplay mechanics.

    Campaign and Gameplay Features

    The developers mention that Dawn of War IV will feature the biggest campaign in the franchise’s history, boasting over 70 missions linked to specific storylines for each faction. Alongside this, CGI intros and animated cutscenes are promised, with the option to play campaigns solo or in co-op mode.

    Gameplay is said to emphasize base construction, large-scale strategies, and a renewed Sync Kill system to enhance melee combat visually. Extra modes are expected to include adjustable Skirmishes, 1v1, 2v2, and 3v3 multiplayer options, alongside the return of the Last Stand co-op mode. Players will also have the chance to customize their armies using a Painter tool or by employing existing Warhammer 40,000 factions.

    Fan Reactions

    Fans have shared their thoughts: one of the most highly upvoted comments on YouTube urged the developers to “bring back the metallic ‘vox’ texture for the Space Marine voices,” while another remarked that the game “looks great so far,” but felt the Space Marine and Necron voice lines could be more impactful. Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War IV is currently available for wishlisting on Steam, ahead of its 2026 release.

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  • Activists Launch Boycott Against Nintendo Switch 2 for High Prices

    Activists Launch Boycott Against Nintendo Switch 2 for High Prices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rising Game Prices: Activists criticize the increasing retail prices of first-party Switch 2 games, with some games reaching $80, leading to backlash from gamers.

    2. Misleading Game-Key Cards: There are concerns about deceptive marketing related to Game-Key Cards, which mislead consumers into believing they own a physical game, despite requiring internet access for installation.

    3. High Accessory Costs and Joy-Con Issues: The organization highlights the high prices of accessories and the persistent Joy-Con stick drift problem as additional concerns for consumers.

    4. Marketing Criticism: Gaming Consumer Rights accuses Nintendo of misleading marketing strategies regarding the availability of the Switch 2, suggesting consumers were led to believe it would be scarce.

    5. Protests and Boycott Efforts: The group has organized demonstrations, such as at New York Comic Con, to raise awareness of their concerns, claiming they have impacted Switch 2 sales and emphasizing the need for game preservation.

    Facing the drop in physical media and rising prices, a growing number of activists are coming together to protest. According to Screen Rant, the newest boycott is led by Gaming Consumer Rights, focusing on the Switch 2. Among their various complaints are the steep prices of some Switch 2 games and Nintendo’s involvement with Game-Key Cards.

    Issues with Nintendo’s Pricing

    The website of Gaming Consumer Rights lists a variety of concerns regarding Nintendo. One major issue is the increasing retail prices of first-party Switch 2 games. While other companies have experimented with $80 games, Nintendo took a leap with Mario Kart World. Some gamers have pushed back against the $70 Super Mario Galaxy 1+2 bundle, labeling it another unnecessary full-price re-release.

    Misleading Marketing Tactics

    The organization also points to the controversial Game-Key Cards as an example of what it believes is deceptive marketing. They claim that customers are misled into thinking they possess a physical version of a Switch 2 game. However, these versions require an internet connection to install the games, which could restrict access in the future.

    Additional Concerns

    Gaming Consumer Rights has also highlighted the high cost of accessories and the Joy-Con 2 stick drift issue. Furthermore, they criticize the marketing strategies surrounding the Switch 2 launch, stating that Nintendo misled consumers into thinking that the handheld would be hard to find.

    Supporters of the boycott argue that the Switch 2 is being unfairly targeted for practices common across the entire industry. High-priced remakes and remasters are not exclusive to Nintendo. Additionally, while the original Switch saw a price increase, the Switch 2 has not faced the same price rises as the PS5 and Xbox systems.

    Planned Demonstrations

    The organization has organized protests at events like the New York Comic Con on October 11th. Although some skeptics doubt the effectiveness of these protests, Gaming Consumer Rights believes they are making strides. They assert that sales of the Switch 2 have dropped due to the issues they raise. The group also references initiatives like Stop Killing Games to illustrate that consumers share their concerns about game preservation.

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  • PS5 Slim Teardown: Design Changes, Performance Tests & Storage Review

    PS5 Slim Teardown: Design Changes, Performance Tests & Storage Review

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has released a new PS5 Slim model (CFI-210) in Europe with reduced storage from 1 TB to 825 GB to avoid price hikes.
    2. The PS5 Slim features an all-matte finish, replacing the shiny parts to reduce visible scratches.
    3. The new model is lighter at 2433 grams, due to a thinner steel plate, but the reason for the remaining weight difference is unclear.
    4. Performance tests show the PS5 Slim operates at similar power consumption with slightly elevated temperatures and a quieter fan.
    5. A new PS5 Pro model (CFI-7121) has also emerged, but further teardowns are needed to understand the changes.

    Recently, gamers were caught off guard to find out that Sony has started shipping a new PS5 Slim in Europe. The CFI-210 model aims to prevent additional price hikes by reducing the storage from 1 TB to 825 GB. However, it was only after a teardown by Austin Evans that fans learned about other changes made by Sony. Although some design modifications were noted, they didn’t seem to appease the critics.

    Design Changes

    One alteration that some fans might like is the move to an all-matte finish. The initial PS5 Slim had shiny parts on its side panels and the black trim around the ports. Now, owners could potentially avoid those unsightly scratches that come with normal usage.

    Weight Reduction

    Austin Evans confirmed that the new PS5 Slim Digital weighs 2433 grams, down from 2556 grams of the older model. The reduction in storage doesn’t seem to explain the 123-gram difference in weight. To find out more, the content creator took the console apart.

    Upon inspection, he found that the steel plate that protects the motherboard is thinner, which contributes to the lighter weight. The reason for the remaining weight difference remains unclear. Nevertheless, Evans noted that the heat pipes in the CFI-210 model have a different orientation. Additionally, the updated motherboard has fewer VRMs but surprisingly more NAND modules for a smaller SSD.

    Performance Insights

    Evans tested the power consumption and thermal performance of the latest PS5 Slim Digital and found nothing unexpected. The system doesn’t use more power and only operates at a slightly elevated temperature. Gamers might also notice that the large internal fan operates more quietly.

    While appreciating some smart design adjustments, the only downside mentioned by the reviewer is the reduced storage capacity. As games continue to grow in size, new PlayStation users may have to make tough choices or consider adding an expansion SSD. If Sony can’t prevent another price increase for the digital version, it will only heighten user frustrations.

    New Model Alert

    In addition, a new PS5 Pro version has surfaced in Europe, identified by the model number CFI-7121. It uses the same size drive, and only another teardown might reveal the reasons behind the changes to Sony’s flagship console.

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  • RedMagic 11 Pro Launching Soon with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    RedMagic 11 Pro Launching Soon with Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Date: The RedMagic 11 Pro will be unveiled on October 17, 2025, in China.
    2. Processor: It will feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor for enhanced performance.
    3. Cooling System: The phone will introduce a “Feng Shui dual cooling” system, combining water cooling with active cooling for better gaming performance.
    4. Battery Life: The device is expected to have a battery over 8,000 mAh and may support 200 W charging capabilities.
    5. Additional Features: It will include an under-display selfie camera, an in-display 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, and a potential IP68 water-resistant rating.

    RedMagic is preparing to unveil its latest gaming smartphone, the 11 Pro, which is set to incorporate the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor. Although the company hasn’t provided extensive information about this new flagship, it has confirmed that the launch will take place on October 17, 2025, in China.

    Innovative Cooling System

    Additionally, RedMagic has announced that the 11 Pro will introduce a water-cooled cooling system, a first for its gaming phones. This system, dubbed “Feng Shui dual cooling,” implies that water cooling will be complemented with an active cooling solution, allowing the phone to deliver “unlimited power” during intense gaming sessions.

    Enhanced Battery Life

    In terms of specifications, the general manager of RedMagic mentioned that the device will boast a substantial battery, likely surpassing the 8,000 mAh threshold. This marks a significant improvement compared to the 7,050 mAh battery found in the RedMagic 10 Pro. The charging capabilities may also see enhancements, with the possibility of utilizing a 200 W Anker Prime desktop charger, currently priced at $55.99 on Amazon.

    Additional Features

    Moreover, the RedMagic 11 Pro will maintain its under-display selfie camera and include an in-display 3D ultrasonic fingerprint sensor. As teased by the general manager, the phone is expected to come with a robust water-resistant rating, potentially IP68. With the launch date already announced, further details about the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 gaming phone are anticipated to be revealed by the company shortly.

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  • Konami Faces Player Backlash Over Silent Hill f Steam Glitch

    Konami Faces Player Backlash Over Silent Hill f Steam Glitch

    Key Takeaways

    1. A bug in the Steam version of Silent Hill f allowed Standard Edition owners to access pre-order bonuses and Deluxe content, which will be removed in a future patch.
    2. Players are frustrated with Konami’s decision to take back the content and are asking to keep it due to dissatisfaction with the PC version’s performance.
    3. The affected bonus items include a digital artbook, digital soundtrack, costumes, and an Item Pack, which are part of the $10 Deluxe upgrade.
    4. Silent Hill f has received mixed reviews; while praised for its narrative, players are reporting performance issues like stuttering and frame rate limits on both PC and PlayStation consoles.
    5. Many GameStop locations ran low on promised Steelbook cases for pre-orders, leading to scalpers selling them online at inflated prices.

    Konami has recently revealed that a bug in the Steam version of Silent Hill f unintentionally allowed owners of the Standard Edition to access pre-order bonuses and Deluxe content. They announced that this content would be taken down in a future patch. This decision has sparked frustration among fans, who are pleading with Konami to “let us keep it” due to disappointment regarding the PC version of the game.

    Glitch After Launch

    The glitch came to light shortly after the game launched on September 25, 2025. Just one day later, Konami tweeted from Silent Hill’s X account:

    “We’re looking into a problem with the Steam version of Silent Hill f where bonus and pre-order content not included in the purchased edition is temporarily available. A patch will be released soon. We appreciate your ongoing support.”

    Content Details

    The items affected by the glitch include Silent Hill f’s digital artbook, digital soundtrack, a Pink Rabbit costume, and White Sailor School Uniform for Hinako, plus an Omamori Peony, and an Item Pack that contains Shriveled Abura-age, Divine Water, and a First Aid Kit. The Digital Deluxe content is priced at an additional $10 on top of the Standard Edition’s $70 cost.

    Many players are not happy about this turn of events, with many calling on Konami to address the technical issues on PC. They expressed their dissatisfaction regarding Silent Hill f’s stuttering problems across different PC configurations and the 30 FPS limit during cutscenes, which disrupts immersion for those using more powerful hardware.

    Mixed Reception

    Silent Hill f has received praise for its narrative and atmosphere, drawing good comparisons to the Silent Hill 2 Remake. However, owners of PlayStation consoles have also reported experiencing stuttering issues. Players have noted that the PS5 Pro exhibits more artifacting and shimmering due to Sony’s PSSR upscaling, compared to the base PS5 version that uses dynamic upscaling.

    For those who pre-ordered the physical version of the game in the U.S. via GameStop, a Steelbook case was promised, which customers had to collect in-store. However, many Silent Hill fans have reported online that a lot of GameStop locations had very few Steelbooks in stock, with some completely out of inventory, despite many pre-orders. Meanwhile, scalpers are selling Silent Hill f Steelbooks on eBay for roughly $100.

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  • New PS6 Handheld Price Closer to Switch 2 than ROG Xbox Ally

    New PS6 Handheld Price Closer to Switch 2 than ROG Xbox Ally

    Key Takeaways

    1. The rumored price for the PS6 handheld, called Canis, is around $500, making it competitive with Nintendo’s Switch 2 priced at $450.
    2. The ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are significantly more expensive, priced at $599.99 and $999.99, respectively.
    3. Sony may keep costs lower for the Canis due to a more efficient System on Chip (SoC), allowing for cheaper components.
    4. The Canis is expected to run PS4, PS5, and PS6 games in handheld mode after updates, utilizing advanced AMD technology for better performance.
    5. The design and display technology of the PS6 handheld will greatly influence its price, with a non-OLED screen being key to staying close to the $500 mark.

    With console prices going up, many gamers are worried about how expensive the future PS6 handheld might be. The new ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are among the latest systems that are more expensive than many expected. Insider KeplerL2 has indicated that, even with strong performance, Sony’s rumored Canis could be priced at around $500.

    Competitive Pricing

    According to KeplerL2, this price point for the PS6 handheld would make it competitive with the Switch 2. Nintendo’s console is priced at $450 without a game included. Similar to the first Switch, Nintendo might also increase the price of the Switch 2 before the Canis is released. While Windows 11 handhelds target a different crowd, the ROG Xbox Ally comes in at $599.99, and the ROG Xbox Ally X is priced at $999.99.

    Cost Efficiency

    When discussing the new PlayStation handheld, the insider shared insights on why it could be more affordable. On the ResetEra forums, KeplerL2 stated that the ROG Xbox Ally is a “low volume device made and sold by Asus at a profit.” He believes that Sony can manage to keep prices lower due to a more efficient System on Chip (SoC), allowing for cheaper components.

    Even at a price of $500, the Canis is expected to run PS4, PS5, and PS6 games, but only in handheld mode and after receiving updates. Its APU is said to allocate four AMD Zen 6C cores for gaming and two lower-power Zen 6 cores for the operating system. Furthermore, the GPU will utilize RDNA 5 technology, which is still being developed. This means gamers can look forward to better ray-tracing performance and improved frame rates.

    Design and Performance

    If the information from Moore’s Law is Dead holds true, the PlayStation handheld and Switch 2 will likely share a hybrid design. When docked, the GPU could increase its clock speeds from 1.2 GHz to 1.6 GHz.

    As KeplerL2 points out, the kind of display technology chosen will significantly impact the price of the PS6 handheld. Only a non-OLED screen would keep the costs close to $500. Gamers have seen Nintendo with the Switch 2 and Asus with the ROG Xbox Ally make similar compromises in their designs.

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    New PS6 Handheld Price Closer to Switch 2 than ROG Xbox Ally

     

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