Category: Gaming

February 11, 2024
Get Doki Doki Literature Club Plus & Lost Castle for free on Epic Games!
Epic Games has just launched its second batch of free games this month after giving away Infinifactory last week. Interestingly enough, this week Epic has given away two games instead of just one, which are Doki Doki Literature Club Plus and Lost Castle.
Doki Doki Literature Club Plus
Doki Doki Literature Club Plus is an expanded version of the original game that features 6 new Side Stories, 100+ unlockable images, and a bunch of other content. Launched back in 2017, Doki Doki Literature Club is a beloved psychological horror game that plays on the tropes of a dating SIM visual novel. You play as the main character, who reluctantly joins the Literature Club in search of a romantic interest. With every poem you write and every choice you make, you’ll charm your crush and begin to unfold the horrors of school romance. One thing to note is that the game comes with a Mature rating and deals with subjects like depression, self-harm, and suicide, among other things. So it is definitely not for everyone.
Lost Castle
Lost Castle is an action RPG beat’em up with roguelike elements and randomized dungeons. One of the key attractions of the game is that you can play it with up to 4 players in online or local co-op, making it perfect for game nights or playing with your friends over at Discord. The game Brimming with a host of hand-drawn, humorous characters and environments. You will get to battle enemy hordes, collect loot, and develop your own combat style with diverse characters, weapons, and abilities while uncovering the overarching story of the game.
Tags: Epic Games Store, Weekly Free Games
February 10, 2024
Announcement: AOC Unveils Agon Gaming Monitor Q27G4X with 180Hz Refresh Rate and 1440p Resolution
The AGON GAMING Q27G4X gaming monitor by AOC has been unveiled as a budget-friendly option with impressive specifications. This new gaming monitor features a 27-inch IPS display with a resolution of 1440p and a refresh rate of 180Hz. It is an updated version of the G4 GAMING monitor series, following the release of the AGON GAMING 24G4X and AGON GAMING 27G4X.
Features
The AGON GAMING Q27G4X offers a higher resolution compared to its predecessor, the AGON GAMING 27G4X, making it a high-end alternative. The AGON GAMING 27G4X has a native resolution of 1080p. Additionally, the Q27G4X boasts a refresh rate of 180Hz, with response times of 1ms GtG and 0.05ms MPRT respectively. The gaming monitor is VESA DisplayHDR 400 certified, delivering 8-bit image quality and up to 400 nits of peak brightness.
Connectivity and Design
The AOC AGON GAMING Q27G4X gaming monitor comes with a range of ports but does not support USB connectivity. It features DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 interfaces. The built-in speakers provide decent sound output. The monitor also includes VESA mounts for sturdy placement.
Pricing and Availability
The AOC gaming monitor is expected to be available in select markets, including the UK, later this month. Some key specifications of the model are yet to be revealed by the manufacturer, but these details are expected to be announced soon. The monitor is priced at £229.99 in the UK and €290 in the EU. It is anticipated that the AOC AGON GAMING Q27G4X will be listed on popular retail platforms like Amazon, where previous AGON GAMING monitors are already available.
Get AGON GAMING Q27G4X Monitor on Amazon
Tags: 1440p resolution, 180Hz Refresh Rate, AOC, Q27G4X gaming monitor
February 9, 2024
Lawsuit Filed by Genshin Impact Developers against Cheat Creators, Alleging Copyright Infringement and Seeking Damages
Genshin Impact, the popular open-world action RPG, has been plagued by cheaters who use unauthorized tools to gain an unfair advantage. Developer HoYoverse is taking a stand against these practices by suing cheat creators Joaquin Soarin and others in a Canadian court.
Legal Battle Begins: HoYoverse Takes Cheat Creators to Court
The lawsuit alleges that Soarin and his associates infringed HoYoverse’s copyright by creating and distributing cheating tools like Akebi GC, Acrepi, and Genshin XYZ. These tools offered various advantages, such as rapid in-game progress and bypassing purchase prompts, giving their users an edge over legitimate players.
HoYoverse Fights for Game Balance and Reputation
HoYoverse claims that these cheats not only harm the game’s balance and competitive integrity but also damage their reputation and finances. The company invests heavily in detecting and banning cheaters, as well as developing patches to counter their exploits. This lawsuit seeks to recover over $50,000 in damages from Soarin and the other defendants.
A More Aggressive Approach
This isn’t the first time HoYoverse has taken action against cheaters. In the past, they’ve implemented stricter anti-cheat measures and issued waves of bans. However, this lawsuit signifies a more aggressive approach, targeting the creators of these tools directly.
Implications for Intellectual Property Rights in Gaming
The case raises important questions about intellectual property rights in the gaming industry. While players generally accept certain limitations on modding and customization, creating and distributing tools that grant unfair advantages through copyright infringement is a different matter.
Potential Impact on the Gaming Landscape
This lawsuit could have broader implications for the online gaming landscape. If HoYoverse prevails, it could set a precedent for other developers to pursue similar legal action against cheat creators. This could deter future attempts to develop and distribute unauthorized cheating tools, promoting a fairer and more enjoyable gaming experience for everyone.
It’s worth noting that legal outcomes can be unpredictable, and this case is still ongoing. However, the message from HoYoverse is clear: they will not tolerate cheaters and are willing to take legal action to protect their intellectual property and the integrity of their game.
Tags: Copyright Infringement, Genshin Impact
February 8, 2024
New Additions to Xbox Game Pass for February: Resident Evil 3 & Madden NFL 24 Arriving This Month
The Xbox Game Pass library is expanding with a range of new games that will appeal to a variety of gaming preferences. From mythical adventures to survival horror and strategic simulations, there’s something for everyone.
New Games Available Now
Subscribers can now access “Anuchard,” a game where players are tasked with reviving a fallen kingdom using the magical Audros Bell. Engage in battles and solve puzzles to reclaim the kingdom’s skyward glory.
Upcoming Releases
On February 7, “Train Sim World 4” will be available, offering a realistic train simulation experience with extensive customization options and detailed routes across the UK, Austria, and the USA.
Following closely on February 8, “Madden NFL 24” will launch, providing early access and exclusive content for football simulation enthusiasts who are EA Play members.
On February 13, “Resident Evil 3” will immerse players in the survival horror experience of Jill Valentine’s escape from Raccoon City and the terrifying Nemesis.
Rejoining the Game Pass on February 14 is “Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night,” a Metroidvania-style action RPG adventure.
For puzzle game fans, “A Little To The Left” arrives on February 15, offering engaging puzzles that turn daily messes into fun challenges.
Combining cooking action with roguelite progression, “PlateUp!” presents an innovative culinary challenge for players.
Launching on February 20, “Return to Grace” offers a visually striking ’60s retro sci-fi world for players to explore in a first-person narrative adventure.
Additional Updates
In addition to the new game releases, the update also includes DLC and game updates for various titles. “Sea of Thieves: Season 11” introduces new content, and “Mighty Doom,” “F1 23,” “The Sims 4,” and “Smite” offer Ultimate Perks for subscribers.
Games Leaving the Game Pass
Subscribers should take note that “Galactic Civilizations III” and “Opus: Echo of Starsong” will be leaving the Game Pass on February 15. This is the final opportunity to play these titles before they are removed from the library.
Image Gallery:
Tags: Madden NFL 24, Resident Evil 3, Xbox Game Pass
February 8, 2024
Unveiling the ASUS ROG Falchion RX 65% Keyboard Globally with Pre-Lubed RX Red and Blue Switches
After launching the ROG Falchion RX keyboard in China last month, ASUS has now made the keyboard available in global markets. This wireless gaming keyboard features a compact 65% design and is equipped with ROG RX low-profile optical switches.
Tri-Mode Connectivity and Added Features
The ROG Falchion RX keyboard supports a tri-mode connection that includes ROG SpeedNova wireless technology, Bluetooth, and wired USB connectivity. This allows users to connect the keyboard to their devices in multiple ways, providing flexibility and convenience.
One of the notable features of the keyboard is its protective cover, which helps to keep it safe from dust and dirt when not in use. Additionally, the keyboard is compatible with MacOS, ensuring that users with Apple devices can also enjoy its benefits.
Sleek Design and Advanced Switches
The ROG Falchion RX Low Profile features a sleek and slim design, making it aesthetically pleasing and easy to carry around. Despite its compact size, the keyboard still manages to incorporate arrow and navigation keys within its frame, ensuring that users have all the necessary keys at their disposal.
The keyboard utilizes pre-lubed RX Red and Blue switches, which are known for their reliability and performance. These switches provide consistent and smooth keystrokes, minimizing any delay or inconsistencies. The centralized lighting further enhances the overall typing experience.
Interactive Touch Panel and Noise Reduction
The ROG Falchion RX Low Profile keyboard comes with an interactive touch panel that adds an extra layer of functionality. Users can easily adjust media playback, volume, and lighting settings with just a few taps on the touch panel, making it convenient and user-friendly.
To ensure a quieter typing experience, the keyboard is equipped with a two-layer integrated silicone foam. This helps to reduce typing noise and eliminate any echo, allowing users to work or play without disturbing others around them.
Versatile Connectivity Options
Connectivity is a standout feature of the ROG Falchion RX Low Profile keyboard. It offers users the ability to connect via Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless through the ROG SpeedNova technology, or a wired USB connection. This versatility allows users to connect the keyboard to a wide range of devices, including laptops, desktops, and smartphones.
The keyboard also comes with an Omni Receiver, which facilitates the connection of compatible keyboards and mice. This enhances the overall setup experience and ensures that users can easily connect their devices without any hassle.
Pricing and Availability
Pricing and availability details for the global market have not been announced yet. However, in China, the ROG Falchion RX keyboard is priced at 1299 yuan ($182) for the red switch model and 1399 yuan ($196) for the blue switch model. It is expected that ASUS will reveal the pricing and availability details for other markets soon.
Tags: ASUS, Keyboard, ROG Falchion RX
February 8, 2024
Pre-Orders Now Available for Ayaneo Pocket S Handheld Android Console Featuring Snapdragon G3x Gen 2
Ayaneo, the renowned brand in gaming handheld consoles, has officially opened pre-orders for its latest device, the Ayaneo Pocket S Android Console. Ayaneo revealed the full specifications and features of the forthcoming Ayaneo Pocket S retro gaming handheld console a few days ago. The handheld gaming console is now available for pre-order for a down payment of 1599 Yuan (~$225). The amount will be adjusted in the final product pricing, and if any outstanding amount remains, it will be repaid to the customer. The high-end Android handheld console offers some exciting hardware specifications and features.
Ayaneo Pocket S HandHeld Gaming Console Features
Ayaneo Pocket S Android Console comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 SoC and Adreno A32 GPU, which clocks up to 1GHz. It is a significant improvement over the Adreno 740 GPU, which clocks at 680 MHz and is present in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2. In comparison with the first-gen Snapdragon G3x, the new chipset offers a 30% improvement in CPU and a 100% GPU enhancement. The chipset can pull TDP up to 15W. To offer continuous performance and dissipate heat, the console features a large-area VC thermal plater.
Memory and Storage
It would come in up to 16GB RAM variants, and we expect another 8GB RAM and 12GB RAM versions too. There will be 1 TB of storage. Details about the storage variants are not yet confirmed; however, the company only confirmed the 16GB RAM + 1TB storage variant while announcing the features. There could be an external storage expansion slot too.
Display and Controls
It features a 6-inch IPS mirror display with 490 PPI pixel density, 120% sRGB color gamut volume, and 400 nits of brightness. In controls, it bundles an RGB Hall Sensor, Linear Hall Triggers, a D-Pad, and other gaming buttons. For haptics, it supports triple-mode vibration and SoundTAPMagic, dual-X acis linear motors, and a 6-axis gyroscope.
Design and Software
Ayaneo Pocket S measures 14mm in thickness and 300–400 g in weight. It is built with high-end design materials, including a matte all-metal CNC middle frame. There’s also a biomimetic design for heat dissipation. Further, the software enhancements improve the overall experience. It will be available in black and white color options.
Other Ayaneo Devices
Ayaneo is known for its gaming handheld consoles and mini PCs. It recently launched the Ayaneo FLIP handheld, which comes with an AMD Ryxen 8840U CPU, 64GB of RAM, and 2TB of storage. The company also introduced the Ayaneo AM02 Retro Mini PC, which ships with a 4-inch touch display for $499. Its predecessor, the Ayaneo Retro Mini PC AM01, was made available on Indiegogo in November 2023.
Tags: Android, Ayaneo Pocket S, handheld console, pre-orders
February 8, 2024
Leaked: Gameplay and Kit of Chiori in Genshin Impact 4.5
Genshin Impact fans are eagerly anticipating Chiori, an upcoming 5-star Geo character generating significant interest. Chiori promises to bring a fresh gameplay experience with off-field damage abilities, enhanced mobility, and a unique combat style. While scheduled for the 4.5 update, recent leaks have already revealed her gameplay animations and skillset, further fueling excitement within the community.
Chiori’s Gameplay and Abilities
Chiori wears an elegant Inazuman outfit and excels in Geo damage using twin blades. Her exclusive weapon, Urakugo Sensai, enhances her off-field damage, making her valuable in Mono-Geo teams.
Chiori’s standout feature is her elemental skill, “Fluttering Hasode,” which summons little dolls to attack enemies, scaling their damage based on both ATK and DEF stats.
Versatility and Team Role
Chiori’s versatility shines through her ability to fulfill the “flex” role within teams, adeptly serving as a healer, shield provider, or off-field damage dealer. This adaptability, paired with her off-field prowess, renders her a compelling choice for a variety of team configurations. Yet, whispers from the leaks suggest a possible caveat: Chiori might achieve her peak performance only when paired with another Geo character on the team.
Design and Visuals
Her design has also struck a chord with the community, from her hairpin to her dress, each element symbolizing love and weaving deeper into the game’s expansive lore and character narratives. Chiori’s battle animations have equally won admiration for their beauty and the intricate visual effects that accompany her movements.
4.5 Update and Exciting Improvements
Anticipated to be part of the Genshin Impact 4.5 update, Chiori will join a line-up of celebrated characters including Kazuha, Itto, Albedo, and Neuvillette, alongside traditional four-star character reruns and engaging game events, promising a rich content experience for the players.
The upcoming update scheduled for 13 March 2024 also promises exciting improvements, including a new highest-quality graphic setting, a Training Guide feature to optimize character performance, and an intuitive quest navigation system. Additionally, players can look forward to petting cats in the Serenitea Pot.
Tags: 4.5 leak, Chiori, Genshin Impact
February 8, 2024
HONOR & Gameloft Collaborate to Enhance Asphalt 9: Legends on Magic V2 RSR PORSCHE DESIGN smartphone
HONOR has partnered with Gameloft to enhance the gaming experience on foldable smartphones, specifically the HONOR Magic V2 RSR PORSCHE DESIGN smartphone set to launch at MWC 2024. This collaboration brings an optimized version of Asphalt 9: Legends, specially tailored for the unique displays of foldable devices. It is the first game to offer 120 FPS gameplay at a higher resolution on foldable smartphones, aiming to deliver an improved gaming experience.
HONOR and Gameloft Collaboration
Fei Fang, President of HONOR’s Product Line, expressed that this collaboration with Gameloft aims to enhance the gaming experience on HONOR’s foldable devices. By joining forces, they can leverage Gameloft’s game development expertise with HONOR’s foldable hardware innovation.
Henry Pan, Vice President of Global Business Development OEM at Gameloft, highlighted that this partnership intends to address the market gap for advanced gaming experiences on foldable smartphones, which were previously limited by design constraints.
Optimized Asphalt 9: Legends for Foldable Phones
HONOR claims that the optimized version of Asphalt 9: Legends takes full advantage of the larger screens and advanced hardware of foldable phones, providing gamers with fluid and high-definition visuals, quick response times, and an immersive gaming environment. Technological advancements, such as shader replacement and GPU-based edge reconstruction, further enhance the game’s performance on the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR.
Release and Compatibility
The release of Asphalt 9: Legends is expected in February 2024 on Google Play for the HONOR Magic V2 Series. The game will also be compatible with the globally available HONOR Magic V2, which is offered in Purple and Black with 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. Further details regarding the global release and pricing of the PORSCHE DESIGN HONOR Magic V2 RSR will be provided soon.
Tags: Asphalt 9, Gameloft, honor
February 7, 2024
Introducing the Anbernic RG556 Gaming Handheld: Featuring a 5.48″ AMOLED Display, Priced at $174.99
The Anbernic RG556 gaming handheld has been unveiled. The new model is seen as a rival to the Retroid Pocket 4 gaming handheld and comes with some decent features. It is a relatively powerful gaming handheld and comes with hall effect triggers, joysticks, as well as a gyroscope.
Launch Details and Design
The launch details for the Anbernic RG556 are coming on the heels of the revelation of the PS2 emulation and Android gaming performance levels. The RG556 was the subject of a recent leak but Anbernic confirmed that the model will not be available in a white colorway but rather black and translucent blue options. The earlier leak had pointed to a glossy white finish for the RG556. The new gaming handheld features either 128GB or 256GB MicroSD card options.
The Anbernic RG556 is equipped with a 5.48-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It has a Unisoc T820 chipset with 8GB LPDDR4x RAM. The new Anbernic gaming handheld comes with a 5,500mAh battery and weighs 331g. It has dimensions of 223 x 90 x 15mm. The Anbernic RG556 features hall effect triggers, hall effect joysticks, and a six-axis gyroscope for a solid compact gaming experience. The handheld will compete against the Retroid Pocket 4 and bear similarities in many aspects. The Retroid Pocket 4 is however slightly more powerful than the Anbernic RG556.
Features and Connectivity
The RG556 gaming handheld runs on Android 13 and can connect to an external display via its single USB-C port. The USB-C port also serves as the charging port for the handheld and for connecting an external display using the DisplayPort Alt Mode protocol.
Pricing & Availability
The Anbernic RG556 is being sold at $174.99 for the barebones model and up to $204.99 for the top MicroSD card option. The earliest deliveries of the new gaming handheld will be around March 5, 2024.
Tags: AMOLED screens, Anbernic RG556, gaming handheld
February 6, 2024
Unveiling of Orange Pi Neo Handheld Gaming Console with Ryzen 7 7840U
The Orange Pi Neo, a gaming handheld, has been quietly unveiled by Orange Pi at the FOSDEM event in Brussels. The device is set to be released in late 2024 and was showcased by the Manjaro Linux team.
Orange Pi Neo Specifications:
The Neo stands out with its slim design, measuring 259 mm in length, 107 mm in width, and 19.9 mm in thickness. It features a 7-inch FHD+ LCD screen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200, offering a 16:10 aspect ratio, 500 nits of peak brightness, and a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth, vivid visuals.
Powerful Performance
Under the hood, the Orange Pi Neo is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor, positioning it competitively with other gaming handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go, which also utilize AMD (Ryzen Z1 Extreme) architecture.
Precise Inputs and Storage Options
The Neo features a traditional D-pad and “YXBA” button layout for fans of retro and modern gaming. It also includes twin hall-effect sticks and linear triggers with RGB lighting, providing precise and responsive input options tailored to the demands of contemporary gaming.
The handheld runs on Windows 11 and supports advanced specifications, including the choice of 16GB or 32GB LPDDR5 RAM. It offers storage options ranging from 512GB to 2TB via PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD.
Immersive Audio and Ergonomic Design
The audio setup of the Orange Pi Neo includes 2x 1W dual panoramic speakers and supports Bluetooth 5.3. It also features a 50Whr battery, a standard PD-65W GaN power adapter, and an ergonomic grip for comfortable gaming.
Cooling and Connectivity
The Neo incorporates dual 6-axis gyroscopes and offers various I/O ports, including USB 4.0 Type-C and a headphone jack. In terms of cooling, it comes with a turbo large fan, dual copper pipes, aluminum alloy cooling fans, extra-large air vents, and a custom cooling design.
Sleek Design and Color Options
The Orange Pi Neo is available in White or Black colors and is constructed using materials like plastic, glass, and magnesium aluminum alloy. The design is sleek with no exposed screws and includes a 2.5D toughened glass cover.
Tags: AMD Ryzen 7 7840U APU, gaming handheld, Orange Pi Neo