Category: Gaming

September 26, 2025

Forza Horizon 6 Confirmed for Japan, Set to Release in 2026

Key Takeaways

1. Forza Horizon 6 is officially unveiled, featuring a logo with Mt. Fuji and set in Japan, scheduled for release in 2026.
2. The announcement follows months of rumors and leaks about the game’s Japanese setting and vehicle lineup.
3. Fans are excited about Japan’s vibrant streets and scenic roads, but gameplay details and map organization are still unknown.
4. Xbox will present at the Tokyo Game Show on September 25, where a full trailer is expected.
5. Players are encouraged to add Forza Horizon 6 to their wishlist on Xbox and PC.

Forza Horizon 6 has now moved past the stage of mere speculation. The game was officially unveiled on the @forzahorizonofficial Instagram account, showcasing the Horizon 6 logo with the stunning backdrop of Mt. Fuji. The promotional materials, which seem to have been released earlier than planned, confirm that the game will be set in Japan and is scheduled for a release in 2026. The brief video encourages fans to add the game to their wishlist on both Xbox and PC.

Leaks and Revelations

This announcement comes after many months of rumors and leaks suggesting that Japan would be the game’s setting. Earlier this year, an Australian car importer posted – then quickly removed – photos of a Playground Games developer working on scanning a Japanese kei car, hinting at a new Japanese vehicle lineup. Additionally, Windows Central reported earlier about a reveal linked to the Tokyo Game Show, based on internal documents. Today’s confirmed post supports these previous leaks, providing the first official insights.

Fan Expectations

Many fans of Forza have been eager for Japan to be featured as a location in the Horizon series, owing to its vibrant city streets, picturesque coastal roads, and twisty mountain paths (which are famous for drifting). However, aside from the setting and the projected release date, Playground Games has yet to unveil any gameplay specifics or how they plan to organize the map.

Upcoming Events

Xbox is set to make an appearance at the Tokyo Game Show on September 25, where a full trailer is anticipated to be revealed. Until then, the spotlight remains on what new elements Horizon 6 may bring from earlier versions.

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Tags: Xbox
September 26, 2025

Quixant Launches IQON3 Silent Mini PCs with AMD Ryzen PRO 8000

Key Takeaways

1. Quixant specializes in advanced hardware platforms for casino gaming, sports betting, and retro arcade markets, including kiosk and cabinet solutions.
2. The latest IQON3 mini PCs feature AMD Ryzen PRO 8000 APUs with integrated Radeon 7X0M iGPU and a unique rugged, passively-cooled chassis.
3. IQON3 models support up to 64 GB of RAM and offer various storage options, including M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD and multiple CFast and SATA3 slots.
4. The port configuration includes modern and traditional serial ports, with multiple USB connections and PCIe slots tailored for gaming cabinets.
5. Additional features include HD audio 7.1, NVRAM, TPM 2.0 security, and a metal case with physical security enhancements.

Quixant is all about providing cutting-edge hardware platforms aimed at the casino gaming, sports betting, and retro arcade markets. Their offerings include kiosk and cabinet solutions, along with compact PCs like the IQON series that fit easily into cabinets. The newest members of this series, the IQON3 mini PCs, utilize AMD’s Ryzen PRO 8000 APUs equipped with integrated Radeon 7X0M iGPU. They also feature a unique rugged, passively-cooled chassis that sports a distinctive orange color.

Specifications and Features

The IQON3 models can accommodate up to 64 GB of RAM via two DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM slots. For storage, these devices boast the typical M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD slot, along with 2 CFast 2.0 slots, 2 SATA3 slots, and as much as 128 Kb of user EEPROM.

The port setup is specifically designed for the gaming cabinet sector, incorporating both contemporary and a range of traditional serial ports. For the modern ports, there are 4x USB-A 3.2, 4x USB 2.0, plus additional internal extensions for more USB-A 3.2 and USB 2.0 connections, and 2 USB 2.0 headers. Additionally, the system includes 2 PCIe slots for GbE NICs. The serial communications consist of 6 ports that support SAS, JCM, RS485, and RS232, as well as 1 SPI header, 1 I2C interface, and 2 iButton interfaces.

Audio and Additional Features

On the audio front, the IQON3 includes a standard HD audio 7.1 controller and features 4-Ohm stereo amplified outputs that deliver 15 W per channel.

Some other notable attributes feature 4 MB of protected NVRAM, compatibility with 6 LED strips, TPM 2.0 for security, and a unique electronic serial number for digital protection. Physical security is enhanced with a metal case that has a keylock, active monitoring for any changes to write protection, and a hardware AES256 engine.

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September 25, 2025

GPD Win 5 Launches Worldwide with AMD Ryzen AI 9 Max+ and 64GB RAM

Key Takeaways

1. The GPD Win 5 is larger and heavier than the PlayStation Vita, measuring 267 x 111 x 24.21 mm and weighing 940 g with an external battery.
2. It features powerful APUs, offering options between Ryzen AI Max 385 and Ryzen AI Max+ 395, with the latter providing about 20% better GPU performance.
3. Every model includes a 7-inch, 1080p, 120 Hz IPS display and various connectivity options, including USB 4 and Mini SSD slot.
4. The GPD Win 5 starts at $1,448 for the base model and goes up to $2,120 for higher configurations, with additional external battery options available.
5. GPD plans to ship the devices to Indiegogo backers by November 2025.

The GPD Win 5 represents GPD’s newest effort in developing a Windows gaming handheld inspired by the PlayStation Vita. However, the GPD Win 5 is considerably larger than any PlayStation Vita, measuring 267 x 111 x 24.21 mm and weighing 940 g when the external battery is included. In comparison, the GPD Win 5 is also significantly bulkier than its predecessor, the GPD Win 4, which is currently available with AMD’s Strix Point architecture for about $1,489 on Amazon.

Enhanced Performance

This added size has allowed GPD to equip the Win 5 with much stronger APUs than those in the GPD Win 4. At its launch, users can choose between the Ryzen AI Max 385 or the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, which come with Radeon 8050S and Radeon 8060S integrated graphics processors, respectively. Benchmark results show that there is minimal difference between the two APUs in CPU-intensive tasks. However, the Radeon 8060S outperforms the Radeon 8050S by roughly 20% in GPU tests and gaming performance.

Impressive Graphics

Despite this, the Radeon 8050S significantly outclasses the Radeon 780M and Radeon 890M found in many well-known gaming handhelds. Furthermore, every GPD Win 5 model comes equipped with a 7-inch, 1080p, 120 Hz IPS display, plus an M.2 2280 slot, USB 4, a Mini SSD slot, and Hall effect triggers.

Additionally, GPD provides an 80 Wh external battery pack with every purchase. Users can also buy extra batteries for $93 each, and the Win 5 can be powered directly from a wall outlet using USB4 or its unique 180 W charging port. By doing so, the weight of the handheld is reduced to a more manageable 590 g.

Pricing and Availability

The GPD Win 5 is priced starting at $1,448, which includes a Ryzen AI Max 385, 32 GB of RAM, and 1 TB of storage on Indiegogo. Alternatively, GPD has two models featuring the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with either 32 GB or 64 GB of RAM available for around $1,650 and $2,120, respectively. Unfortunately, a model with 128 GB of RAM is not yet offered. GPD aims to start shipping to Indiegogo backers by November 2025.

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Tags: GPD Win 5, Ryzen AI Max, Windows gaming handheld
September 25, 2025

Xbox Game Pass Ends September with Exciting New Titles

Key Takeaways

1. New Game Release: Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light will be available on Xbox Game Pass on September 30, adding to the library of games for subscribers.
2. Gameplay Features: The game combines isometric action-adventure with co-op gameplay, allowing players to switch between Lara Croft and Totec to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.
3. Positive Reviews: The game has received strong acclaim, with 91% favorable reviews on Steam and a Metascore of 85 on Metacritic.
4. Upcoming Titles: Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato will launch on October 7 as a Day One release on Game Pass, featuring a narrative adventure with Latin American influences.
5. Game Pass Expansion: Three new titles will be added to Xbox Game Pass Core on October 1, enhancing the value of the budget-friendly subscription tier.

Xbox Game Pass subscribers got four fresh titles recently. Unless Microsoft pulls a surprise on fans with an unexpected release, it looks like things will be quiet for a bit, with new games expected around October 7. However, there’s one more game coming soon: Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light, which is set to arrive on September 30. First launched in 2010, this game is a cool addition to wrap up the month, featuring the famous archaeologist’s adventures.

Gameplay Mechanics

Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light is an isometric action-adventure that mixes classic Tomb Raider features with fast-paced, arcade-like co-op gameplay. Players can take on the roles of Lara Croft or the Mayan warrior Totec as they battle the demon Xolotl, who has come back after centuries to threaten the world. Lara uses her agility and weapons, while Totec can throw spears to create platforms or use his shield to help Lara get across gaps. When playing solo, you can switch between the two characters freely to solve puzzles and tackle challenges.

Positive Reception

The gameplay in Lara Croft and the Guardian of Light blends puzzles, combat, and platforming. Battles happen in real time, often with waves of enemies keeping things exciting. Players can also find collectible artifacts and upgrades that enhance abilities and give it replay value. The game has been positively received on Steam, boasting 91% favorable reviews from over 4,500 users. On Metacritic, it has a commendable Metascore of 85 and a User Score of 8.1.

Upcoming Releases

Microsoft has announced that Sopa: Tale of the Stolen Potato will be available on Game Pass as a Day One release starting October 7. This narrative adventure invites players to discover a magical world influenced by Latin American culture. Additionally, three new titles will be added on October 1 for Xbox Game Pass Core, the budget-friendly tier that costs around $10, giving access to a curated library of roughly 25 games.

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Tags: Xbox Game Pass
September 25, 2025

Free on Steam: New Indie Game Launches with 100% Positive Reviews

Key Takeaways

1. Players control Mastema, a fallen angel trying to destroy the Tower of Babel to return to paradise in a dystopian city inspired by ancient Greece.
2. The game features immersive simulation design, allowing for various approaches to challenges, including stealth, combat, and creative problem-solving.
3. The vibrant environment reacts dynamically to player choices, with a one-hit kill system adding high stakes to gameplay.
4. Aphasie is praised for its unique visual style and eerie soundscapes, though criticized for its short playtime and lack of guidance.
5. Despite a small player base, the game has received positive reviews and is free to play on Steam, making it appealing for indie game fans.

In Aphasie, you step into the shoes of Mastema, the fallen angel of destruction, who is striving to find his way back to paradise. His adventure unfolds in a strange, dystopian city that draws heavy inspiration from ancient Greece. The main objective is to reach and destroy the Tower of Babel, which will reopen the gates to heaven. The gameplay involves stealth, combat, and discovering hidden secrets throughout his journey.

Gameplay Mechanics

Aphasie takes inspiration from immersive simulation design, granting players total freedom to approach each challenge. You can confront foes directly with weapons and magic, sneak past them, or cleverly use your tools and skills to bypass obstacles. For instance, a spear functions not only as a weapon but can also act as a platform to get over barriers. The environment feels vibrant, with citizens and guards responding dynamically to the player’s choices and to one another. Players can create diversions or even recruit temporary allies. A one-hit kill system keeps the stakes high, as a single wrong move could end your game.

Visuals and Reception

In addition to its open-ended gameplay, the Steam community has lauded Aphasie for its unique visual aesthetic – featuring 2D characters that resemble paper navigating a minimalist 3D landscape – as well as its eerie soundscapes. However, it has faced some criticism for its short playtime, often under an hour, the harsh one-hit kill mechanic, and a lack of guidance on its complex systems. Despite these issues, the response has been mostly positive, with all 14 reviews on Steam giving it a thumbs up.

Player Engagement

As per SteamDB, Aphasie has only seen a peak of five players concurrently so far. Nevertheless, the enthusiastic reviews indicate it has the potential to become a hidden treasure for fans of innovative indie titles. Even though the gameplay duration is brief, it’s definitely worth checking out – especially since it’s completely free on Steam.

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Tags: free-to-play, indie game
September 25, 2025

Forza Horizon 6: Explore Japan’s Dynamic Seasons and Setting

Key Takeaways

1. Forza Horizon 6 will be set in Japan, fulfilling long-time fan requests.
2. The game is expected to launch next year, but no specific release date has been announced.
3. Seasonal variations will return, impacting visuals and gameplay significantly.
4. The developers used insights from the Hot Wheels DLC to recreate Tokyo’s elevated roadways.
5. More details about Forza Horizon 6 are anticipated in early 2026, with a potential showcase on January 27.

Microsoft recently revealed a sneak peek of Forza Horizon 6 during their event at the Tokyo Game Show. The game will take place in Japan, which aligns with earlier leaks. It is expected to be launched next year, although no specific release date has been announced yet. Playground Games, the team behind the game, has provided insight into their decision to set the game in Japan and the return of seasonal variations.

Insights from the Developers

The Art Director, Don Arceta, along with Cultural Consultant Kyoko Yamashita, discussed the reasons for selecting Japan as the backdrop for Forza Horizon 6. Arceta mentioned that they aimed to fulfill the requests of fans who have long desired this setting. “Japan has such a unique culture – from cars, to music, to fashion – that make it perfect for the next Horizon setting,” he stated. The team believes they can now accurately represent Japan, thanks to lessons learned from previous Horizon titles and advancements in technology.

Incorporating New Features

Additionally, the Hot Wheels DLC for Forza Horizon 5 was instrumental in helping the developers recreate the elevated roadways of Tokyo in Forza Horizon 6. This experience has allowed the team to innovate and refine their approach to the new game.

Forza Horizon 5 was set in a stylized version of Mexico and featured all four seasons, showcasing how these seasonal changes affected both visuals and gameplay. The next installment will also include these changes, which will significantly influence the gaming experience. “For Japan, seasonal changes have a dramatic impact on the landscape and playable world, but also hold a deeper cultural meaning for the country and its culture,” Arceta elaborated. These changes will not only alter the game’s aesthetics, but also introduce more nuanced shifts in tone, background sounds, and activities within the gameplay.

Future Announcements

More details about Forza Horizon 6 are expected to be revealed in early 2026. However, there are speculations that Microsoft’s hour-long showcase on January 27 could also include some information regarding the game.

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Tags: Forza Horizon 6, Tokyo Game Show
September 25, 2025

PS5 Pro Launching in Europe at Same Price as New PS5 Storage Model

Key Takeaways

1. A new, lower-storage version of the PS5 Digital Edition has been released in Europe to avoid price hikes.
2. The upgraded PS5 Pro, with model number CFI-7121, is expected to launch in Europe on September 30th, 2024, with a possible later release in other regions.
3. The PS5 Pro will feature a standard storage option of 2TB, but its design may remain similar to previous models, with potential energy efficiency improvements.
4. The PS5 Pro’s pricing will stay at €799.99, unlike the increased price of $749.99 for U.S. gamers, maintaining affordability for European consumers.
5. The PS5 Pro has faced criticism for lacking significant performance upgrades, leading to concerns about consistent game support and consumer acceptance of its price.

To prevent another price hike for the PS5, a new version of the digital console with reduced storage has recently appeared in Europe. Now, trusted leaker billbil-kun has shared that an upgraded PS5 Pro is also on the horizon. While major changes to the specifications are unlikely, the pricing will stay at €799.99.

Release Date Expectations

Billbil-kun anticipates that the PS5 Pro, identified by model number CFI-7121, will hit store shelves as early as September 30th. Similar to the refreshed PS5 Digital Edition, Sony’s most powerful console will first launch in Europe. However, it’s possible that it could be released in other regions later on.

Specifications and Design

With the price of the PS5 Pro remaining the same, it will come with a standard storage option of 2TB. Its design may not differ much from the previous models, although some gamers have expressed a desire for a thinner look. This raises the question of what adjustments, if any, Sony has made to the console.

A plausible reason could be that the company has sourced less expensive components that don’t affect the overall performance. Alternatively, the new console might be designed to be more energy-efficient, even with its upgraded GPU. Recently, Sony added a power-saving feature to the PS5 to help achieve this goal.

Pricing Comparisons

In contrast to other PS5 versions in Europe, the price of the PS5 Pro has not increased since its launch in November 2024. Unfortunately, gamers in the U.S. faced a $50 price bump, raising it to $749.99. The CFI-7121 model is expected to not stretch wallets further while still keeping the features intact.

The PS5 Pro has also faced criticism for not providing significant benefits over its less expensive counterparts. Without a performance upgrade, games like Borderlands 4 have difficulty maintaining smooth graphics. Other titles, such as Silent Hill f, show flickering issues due to PSSR upscaling. If there isn’t consistent support for the console, consumers may hesitate to accept any price raises.

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Tags: PS5 Pro, sony
September 25, 2025

Arrowhead CEO aims for Helldivers 2 to be a forever game like RuneScape

Key Takeaways

1. No plans for Helldivers 3; focus remains on improving Helldivers 2.
2. The CEO likens their vision for Helldivers 2 to the long-term evolution of RuneScape.
3. The team aims for Helldivers 2 to be a “forever game,” enhancing it over time.
4. Ongoing performance issues, particularly on PC, are being addressed with updates.
5. The development team is committed to the game’s long-term growth and sustainability.

If you’re a devoted Helldivers 2 player hoping for a follow-up, it seems you might be in for a long wait. The CEO of Arrowhead has disclosed that there are currently no plans for a sequel, as their main attention is directed towards enhancing the existing game.

No Sequel in Sight

A player inquired on the official Discord server of the game about whether Helldivers 3 would be a logical next step following Helldivers 2. Shams Jorjani, the CEO of Arrowhead Game Studios, responded by stating that the team is not considering a sequel at this time. His focus remains solely on Helldivers 2, and he likened his vision for the game to that of RuneScape, a well-established MMO that has continued to evolve over the years.

Jorjani mentioned, “we have no plans for hd3 – just hd2 for as long as it can go. think runescape.”

Aiming for Longevity

He elaborated that both he and the directors aspire for Helldivers 2 to become a “forever game,” which means they prefer to enhance it over time instead of diverting their attention to a sequel. Nonetheless, Jorjani acknowledged that there’s still quite a bit of work ahead if they wish to realize their ambitions.

“Myself and the directors agree we would love this to be a forever game.” He added, “Assuming we get a grip on the performance and dev practices we can keep expanding it for a long time. PlayStation is super supportive.”

Ongoing Challenges

Since the launch of the game, players have voiced concerns about performance problems, particularly on PC. Although the developers have rolled out multiple updates to address these issues, the game still has room for improvement. Nevertheless, it’s encouraging to see that the Helldivers 2 team is dedicated to its ongoing development and aims to sustain it for many years to come.

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Tags: Arrowhead Game Studios, Helldivers 2, Runescape
September 25, 2025

Epic Games Store Reveals October 2025 Free Games Lineup

Key Takeaways

1. Epic Games Store is offering Jorel’s Brother, The Most Important Game of the Galaxy, and Eastern Exorcist as free games from September 25 to October 02, 2025.

2. Starting October 02, players can expect in-game content worth $100 for Firestone Online Idle RPG and Nightingale.

3. Nightingale, a survival-crafting game with a steampunk aesthetic, features both first-person and third-person perspectives and supports up to six players in co-op mode.

4. Firestone Online Idle RPG is a free-to-play game where players engage in continuous auto-battles against orc armies and the undead, with daily and weekly missions.

5. The total value of the upcoming giveaway on Epic Games Store is estimated to be around $130.

Epic Games Store is currently offering Jorel’s Brother and The Most Important Game of the Galaxy along with Eastern Exorcist as free games. These PC titles will be available from September 25 until October 02, 2025, expiring at 15:00 UTC. Following this period, the selection of free games will change again, and the store has shared what to expect for the next week.

Upcoming Free Content

The new free games section will introduce in-game content valued at $100 for Firestone Online Idle RPG and Nightingale starting October 02. Out of these, Nightingale is a survival-crafting game that was launched in 2024. It takes place in a gaslamp fantasy setting, drawing inspiration from the Victorian era.

Nightingale features a steampunk aesthetic and feedback from players indicates there are some light RPG elements. The storyline revolves around a catastrophic event that drives interdimensional travelers to look for safety.

Gameplay Features

Players can experience both first-person and third-person perspectives, and the game allows up to six players to participate in co-op mode. On Steam, Nightingale is priced at $29.99 and has received a “Mostly Positive” rating based on approximately 10,000 reviews. However, some users have mentioned that the co-op mode isn’t very polished, and since it’s in early access, players might encounter bugs.

On the other hand, Firestone Online Idle RPG is a free-to-play game that debuted in 2019. This idle RPG immerses players in the fantasy realm of Alandria, where orc armies and the undead create turmoil. The gameplay primarily revolves around continuous auto-battles against these foes, allowing progress to occur even when players are not online.

Game Mechanics

The game offers a variety of character classes, and the developers keep things engaging by introducing daily and weekly missions. Additionally, there is a PvP arena where players can compete against each other. During the giveaway period, Epic Games Store will provide the following in-game items for free:

These items are estimated to be worth $100, which brings the total value of the upcoming Epic Games Store giveaway to around $130. Be sure to check out the videos below for more insights on these free titles.

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Tags: Epic Games Store, Firestone Online Idle RPG
September 25, 2025

Glorious Launches InfinitePlay Swappable Battery Model O3, D3 Wireless

Key Takeaways

1. Glorious has expanded its product line with the high-end Model O3 and D3 mice, available in both wired and wireless versions.
2. The wireless versions feature a swappable battery system called InfinitePlay, with two batteries included and an extra Guardian battery for extended use.
3. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 71 hours with a 2.4 GHz connection and up to 130 hours via Bluetooth.
4. The mice use the BAMF 3.0 30K optical sensor and offer 8K polling, with six programmable buttons; the wireless models weigh 66g (O3) and 69g (D3).
5. The Model O3 and D3 Wireless retail for $160, while the wired versions cost $70, available in black and white colors.

Following the wallet-friendly Model O Eternal mouse, Glorious has broadened its range, now aiming at the high-end market. The successors to the Model O2 and D2 series are now available, showcasing some notable updates in both design and features. The Glorious Model O3 and D3, known as V3 mice, come in both wired and wireless options.

Innovative Wireless Features

The wireless versions are particularly exciting as they introduce a swappable battery system called InfinitePlay. True to its lineage, the Model O3 Wireless is ambidextrous, while the Model D3 Wireless is designed with ergonomics in mind, both equipped with InfinitePlay. Each mouse includes two swappable batteries, plus there’s an extra Guardian battery that can provide power for over 10 hours. This ensures there’s no downtime when replacing batteries.

Impressive Battery Life

Regarding battery performance, these mice can last up to 71 hours using a 2.4 GHz connection and up to 130 hours when connected via Bluetooth. It’s not clear if the 71 hours refers to the total duration with both batteries or just the runtime of a single battery.

Enhanced Performance

The Wireless V3 mice are built with the BAMF 3.0 30K optical sensor and feature 8K polling thanks to the multifunctional wireless base. This base not only links the mouse to the computer but also charges the extra battery. Each mouse has six programmable buttons, with the O3 Wireless weighing 66 grams and the D3 Wireless at 69 grams.

The wired versions are even lighter, weighing in at 54 grams and 57 grams respectively. However, they are limited to 1,000 Hz polling but use the same sensor and switches.

Pricing and Availability

The Glorious Model O3 Wireless and D3 Wireless retail for $160 according to the official site, while the wired versions are priced at $70. They are available in both black and white colors. Although you can find all the mice on the Glorious website and Amazon, the pricing for the wireless models on Amazon appears to be inconsistent.

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Tags: Glorious Model O3