Category: Gaming

  • Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box: Gigabyte Launches Thunderbolt 5 eGPU

    Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box: Gigabyte Launches Thunderbolt 5 eGPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gigabyte has re-launched the Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box featuring a GeForce RTX 5060 Ti GPU with 16 GB memory.
    2. The Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box is the only Thunderbolt 5-compatible eGPU option equipped with a desktop-class GPU.
    3. It includes three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and a compact design (243 x 117 x 48 mm).
    4. Additional features include RGB lighting, USB Power Delivery 3.0, and Gigabyte’s Windforce cooling system.
    5. Pricing and availability details are not disclosed despite the official launch, while a more powerful Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box is available at a higher price.


    Almost two weeks ago, Gigabyte introduced its new eGPU solution. Now, the company is saying they have re-launched the same product, which they are continuing to promote as the Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box.

    Product Specifications

    As the name indicates, the Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box features a GeForce RTX 5060 Ti GPU from Nvidia’s Blackwell generation. In particular, they have chosen the 16 GB version (currently $509.99 on Amazon), which outperforms the 8 GB model regarding Frame Generation and 1% low FPS performance.

    Market Competition

    As mentioned before, the Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box is part of a growing list of Thunderbolt 5-compatible eGPU options, alongside the Aoostar EG01, Peladn Link S-3, and Razer Core X V2. However, it’s the only one equipped with a desktop-class GPU. Gigabyte complements this with three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports and Gigabit Ethernet in a compact housing of 243 x 117 x 48 mm.

    Additional Features

    In addition, the Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box includes RGB lighting, USB Power Delivery 3.0 charging support, and Gigabyte’s Windforce cooling system. It reportedly offers a FPS boost over a gaming laptop with a GeForce RTX 5080, partly due to the minimal performance drop that Thunderbolt 5 causes. Strangely, Gigabyte has not disclosed pricing or availability yet, even though today marks its official launch. On the other hand, the more powerful Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box is already available in some regions, but at a steep starting price.

    Gigabyte through VideoCardz.

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  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Trailer Released with 18 Multiplayer Maps

    Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Trailer Released with 18 Multiplayer Maps

    Key Takeaways

    1. Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 is available on Amazon for $23.03, a 44% discount.
    2. Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will be released in less than two months, with a multiplayer trailer already released.
    3. Three remastered maps from Black Ops 2 will be included in Black Ops 7.
    4. A new game mode called Overload will feature 6 vs. 6 respawn competition with zone control mechanics.
    5. Pre-orders grant exclusive early beta access starting October 2, with the open beta following for three days before the official launch on November 14.


    While fans of Call of Duty: Black Ops 2 who are longing for the game can purchase the refreshed Xbox 360 edition on Amazon for only $23.03, thanks to a 44% discount, they may also opt to wait for the soon-to-be-released Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Activision has recently announced that three of the 18 maps in the new game will be remastered versions of the classic Black Ops 2 maps.

    Upcoming Release Details

    Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is scheduled to be released in less than two months, and the multiplayer trailer released today brings gamers closer to the open beta next month. A third official trailer focusing on the Zombies mode of Black Ops 7 is anticipated to drop on September 24. The latest trailer, which is the second for this upcoming entry in the Call of Duty series, features a variety of action-packed moments including explosions, executions, airstrikes, collaterals, and showcases the initial launch maps, the new Overclock system, weapons, field upgrades, and more.

    Game Modes and Features

    The game will offer a mix of classic and beloved modes like Team Deathmatch, Domination, Kill Confirmed, Search and Destroy, Gunfight, Hardpoint, Control, along with a new mode called Overload. This Overload mode is a 6 vs. 6 respawn competition where teams try to control enemy zones by using a device that spawns on the map, which must be carried to the enemy zones. In essence, it’s a fresh take on the traditional capture the flag gameplay.

    For those who pre-order the game, exclusive early beta access will be available starting October 2. After three days of early beta testing, the open beta phase will commence and continue for an additional three days. The official launch date for the game has been set for November 14.

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  • Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box: Thunderbolt 5, Minimal Performance Loss

    Gigabyte Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box: Thunderbolt 5, Minimal Performance Loss

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gigabyte has launched the Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box, but details on pricing and availability are not yet released.
    2. The Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box is now available for pre-order in the UK, having been first unveiled in May.
    3. The Aorus RTX 5090 features a water-cooled GeForce RTX 5090 GPU and has dimensions of 302 x 189 x 172 mm, weighing 5.4 kg.
    4. It includes an 850 W power supply and is priced at £2,999.99 in the UK, which covers VAT and shipping.
    5. Shipments for the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box are scheduled to start on September 30, with other regions’ pricing and availability still to be announced.


    Earlier today, Gigabyte has officially introduced its Aorus RTX 5060 Ti AI Box after giving a sneak peek of the eGPU a few weeks back. Sadly, the company has not disclosed any information regarding the pricing or when it will be available. However, it turns out that the more robust Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box is already available for pre-order in the UK.

    A Closer Look at the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box

    To summarize, the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box was first unveiled in May, showcasing a design that resembles both the GeForce RTX 4090 and its predecessor, the GeForce RTX 3080 (current price: $1,552.99 on Amazon). This latest variant from Gigabyte is equipped with a water-cooled GeForce RTX 5090 desktop GPU, and it comes with several ports packed into its dimensions of 302 x 189 x 172 mm and weighing 5.4 kg:

    Additional Features and Pricing

    Moreover, Gigabyte provides an 850 W power supply with the unit. Presently, the Aorus RTX 5090 AI Box is available in the UK for £2,999.99, which includes VAT and shipping costs. According to Scan UK, the shipments are set to commence on September 30. As for other regions, pricing and availability details are still unknown at this point. For more information about the RTX 5090 and its Thunderbolt 5-compatible eGPU, please visit Gigabyte’s official website.

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  • Exciting Extraction Shooter Playtest Announced as Pre-Orders Open

    Exciting Extraction Shooter Playtest Announced as Pre-Orders Open

    Key Takeaways

    1. Arc Raiders is set to launch on October 30, following favorable playtest feedback on visuals and gameplay.
    2. A Server Slam Open Test will take place from October 17 to October 19, allowing all players to participate.
    3. Pre-orders are available on Steam, Epic Games Store, and PlayStation Store, with the Microsoft Store to offer pre-orders soon.
    4. The Standard Edition is priced at $40 and the Deluxe Edition at $60, which includes exclusive items and bonuses.
    5. Arc Raiders has transitioned from a free-to-play cooperative shooter to a PvPvE extraction shooter, with successful private testing results.


    The extraction shooter genre has become increasingly populated, yet Arc Raiders, based on recent playtests in May, has shown it can really make a mark. Most players who tried the game offered favorable comments not only about the visuals and shooting mechanics but also about the gameplay features. The game is set to launch on October 30, and even though it was thought that there would be no further playtests, developer Embark Studios is giving everyone another opportunity to experience it, and pre-orders are now available.

    Pre-Order Details

    Arc Raiders can be pre-ordered on Steam, the Epic Games Store, and the PlayStation Store, while the Microsoft Store will have pre-orders available soon. Before the official launch on October 30, there’s a three-day Server Slam Open Test scheduled from October 17 to October 19. This time, all players can join in, with access given gradually starting on day one. This approach will help the studio evaluate server performance and manage traffic. Importantly, any progress made during this test will not transfer to the official launch.

    Pricing and Exclusive Bundles

    The Standard Edition of Arc Raiders is priced at $40, while the Deluxe Edition costs $60. The Deluxe Edition includes the exclusive Astro Bundle, 2,400 Raider Tokens, the Scrappy Cowboy skin, and additional items. Those who pre-order will receive the Lucky Duck Bundle, which features an exclusive Hatchling Backpack and a Golden Rubber Duck Backpack Charm.

    Initially revealed in 2021, Arc Raiders started as a free-to-play third-person cooperative shooter. However, in 2023, the game evolved into a PvPvE extraction shooter, prompting Embark Studios to commence private testing. The first public playtest occurred in October 2024, followed by another in April of this year. These tests were quite successful, with players logging over 17 million hours in just six days.

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  • AMD Strix Halo Handheld: 86 FPS in Returnal at 1080p, 42W

    AMD Strix Halo Handheld: 86 FPS in Returnal at 1080p, 42W

    Key Takeaways

    1. The GPD Win 5 features a powerful AMD Ryzen AI Max APU, enhancing its gaming performance significantly compared to previous models.
    2. The highest-spec version tested achieved impressive frame rates in GPU-intensive games, outperforming the previous AMD Strix Point Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 model.
    3. The design of the GPD Win 5 is reminiscent of the PlayStation Vita, featuring a well-thought-out control layout that combines various ergonomic influences.
    4. The external battery design improves weight distribution and is easier to replace, making it a practical choice over sealed battery systems in other devices.
    5. Initial reviews of the GPD Win 5 are positive, highlighting its performance, design, and ergonomics as key strengths.


    The GPD Win 5 is likely one of the most awaited handheld gaming devices for 2025. This excitement is well-deserved. It boasts one of the strongest APU series available, the AMD Ryzen AI Max, and its design will probably remind you of the well-liked PlayStation Vita.

    Hype vs Reality

    So, how accurate is the excitement surrounding the GPD Win 5? YouTuber The Phawx recently tested the device, giving us a preview of the design and performance of the upcoming AMD Strix Halo gaming handheld.

    The version of the GPD Win 5 that The Phawx tested was the highest-spec model, featuring an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 64 GB of RAM, and a 4 TB SSD, with a price tag of $2,268. They also mentioned that they plan to evaluate the base model soon, which is powered by the AMD Ryzen AI Max 385 and retails for $1,599.

    Performance Insights

    In their tests, The Phawx showcased how significant the Strix Halo’s improvements are compared to AMD’s previous top model, the Strix Point Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. Even when both devices were limited to a similar power draw of around 42 W, the GPD Win 5 consistently outperformed in GPU-intensive games. For instance, in God of War: Ragnarok, the HX 370 device produced about 69 FPS, while the Win 5 achieved a stable 80 FPS at the same wattage.

    In Space Marine 2, both devices were relatively close in performance. The HX 370 averaged around 78 FPS, whereas the Win 5 reached 90 FPS. This was one of the rare instances where the performance gap narrowed, as the game isn’t solely reliant on the GPU, but Strix Halo still managed to perform better when pressured. The most notable difference was in Returnal, where the HX 370 struggled at just 43 FPS, while the Win 5 cruised at 86 FPS, essentially doubling the performance.

    Ergonomics and Design

    When it comes to ergonomics and design, The Phawx found the GPD Win 5 reminiscent of the PS Vita. They described the controls as a blend of various influences, merging the precision of the Vita’s famed D-pad with Xbox-style face buttons and PSP-like bumpers.

    They noted that the thumbsticks are concave and textured, featuring programming that enhances precision compared to typical handhelds. The triggers were likened to an Xbox Series controller, while the bumpers clicked with the sharp feedback reminiscent of a PSP. In their opinion, this combination makes the Win 5’s control layout one of the best among handheld devices today.

    The Phawx also discussed the external battery design. While they initially thought it might feel awkward, they found it actually helps with weight distribution when attached, making the device feel balanced and less tiring to use. Without the battery, they commented that the Win 5 feels “comically light,” but they preferred to keep the battery attached at all times.

    They further pointed out that an external battery has practical benefits, being easier to replace and allowing for spare batteries compared to sealed designs found in competing devices.

    Conclusion

    Overall, initial feedback on the GPD Win 5 has been positive. For more detailed insights, the YouTuber offers an extensive review in their video, which I suggest you watch. The link is provided below.

    The Phawx via YouTube

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  • Gaming Habits of Gamers Over 30: What Changes Occur

    Gaming Habits of Gamers Over 30: What Changes Occur

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gamers over 30 are reflecting on how their gaming habits have changed due to increased responsibilities like work and family.
    2. Many players now prioritize quality over quantity, choosing games they truly enjoy instead of grinding through less satisfying experiences.
    3. Time constraints have made long gaming sessions less feasible, leading to a preference for shorter, more meaningful gameplay.
    4. There is a greater acceptance of using cheats and walkthroughs, as players value their time more than achieving 100% completion.
    5. Despite these changes, gamers express a mindful and thoughtful approach to gaming, using it as a way to relax and find balance in their busy lives.


    Whether it was the Atari 2600, the C64, or the NES, lots of people over 30 and 40 grew up playing games, and now they’re talking about how their gaming habits have changed. In a popular Reddit thread called “Gamers 30+, what has changed in your gaming habits compared to when you were younger?”, users are reflecting on this transformation. While late-night gaming sessions in front of CRT screens used to be the norm, many now find it hard to squeeze in time for their beloved hobby – but this change might not be all bad.

    Reflecting on Shifts

    Reddit user u/Common_Caramel_4078 started the discussion with, “For me thinking about the games instead of playing it.” The exact meaning isn’t super clear, but it could mean he now appreciates story and themes more rather than just chasing after high scores or spending hours grinding. The most popular comment by u/SH4KE_W3LL brings up another point: “No patience for games I don’t thoroughly enjoy” – indicating how valuable free time becomes when life gets busier.

    Time Constraints Play a Role

    Time constraints are often mentioned as a big reason for changes, with work, family, and everyday responsibilities taking up most of the day, leaving little room for long gaming sessions. Huge open worlds, competitive online matches, or MMOs can start to feel more like chores than enjoyment. Many gamers over 30 are now more selective about the games they play, preferring high-quality single-player experiences that don’t waste their time. Where players used to invest hours grinding for achievements or going for 100% completion, nowadays, the story or an easy mode is usually sufficient. Cheating has become more accepted too. As u/Demurrzbz stated: “I don’t feel bad for using walkthroughs and cheats. I value my time more.”

    A Mindful Approach to Gaming

    The lively responses to the thread indicate that gamers over 30 are actively thinking about how their gaming habits have evolved. However, the tone isn’t one of defeat. Instead, many express a more thoughtful approach to gaming, using it as a means to relax and create balance in their busy lives. Overall, while gaming sessions may be shorter, they often carry more significance. If you want to share your own perspective, feel free to join the conversation in the comments.

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  • Blizzard’s Ex-President Links Xbox Price Hike to Profit Decline

    Blizzard’s Ex-President Links Xbox Price Hike to Profit Decline

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mike Ybarra criticizes Microsoft’s Xbox price hikes, arguing they are unjustified by tariffs and aimed at compensating for poor sales and profits.
    2. Microsoft has increased prices for Xbox Series X and S consoles, with standard versions rising by $50 and S versions by $20, shocking many consumers.
    3. Ybarra highlights the lack of tariff changes as a reason for price increases, but responses indicate that Microsoft may not have fully considered all implications.
    4. Critics, including some Reddit users, argue that companies exploit tariffs and that economic conditions don’t always justify price hikes, which ultimately burden consumers.
    5. Despite a 22% drop in hardware revenue, Microsoft Gaming reported overall growth, indicating a shift in focus away from specific console sales, while potential PlayStation price increases may follow.


    Mike Ybarra has always been open about his thoughts on Microsoft’s gaming division. The previous president of Blizzard asserts that the price hikes for the Xbox aren’t justified by tariffs. Instead, he argues that Microsoft is merely trying to make up for sluggish console sales and lower profits.

    Price Increases Announced

    Recently, Microsoft announced another round of price increases after raising the MSRPs of gaming consoles and accessories back in May. Effective from October 3rd, the standard and digital versions of the Xbox Series X will see a $50 increase in price. The Series S will also experience a smaller price bump of $20. Although these latest hikes are limited to the U.S., charging $599.99 to $649.99 for older hardware has left many consumers in shock.

    Ybarra’s Social Media Defense

    On social media, Ybarra attempted to emphasize his point by highlighting the pattern of Xbox price increases. He noted that without any tariff rate changes, there is no valid reason to increase prices for consumers further. However, some responses pointed out that the situation is fluid. Microsoft might not have fully considered all implications when they made adjustments back in May.

    Mixed Reactions to Comments

    The ex-executive from Blizzard and Microsoft is receiving criticism for his statements. Nevertheless, some users on Reddit feel that companies take advantage of tariffs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were accusations against manufacturers for overstating supply chain issues. While consumers ultimately bear the burden of increased costs, the economic conditions do not always justify these price hikes.

    Balancing Perspectives

    A well-rounded response to Ybarra takes into account both the declining profits of Xbox consoles and the issue of tariffs. In its most recent quarterly report, Microsoft Gaming showed overall growth. However, hardware revenue dropped by 22% compared to the previous year. With a shift towards a multi-platform approach, it seems the company is no longer focusing on Series X and S sales. Yet, with another price increase for Xbox, they hope to mitigate some of these losses.

    Potential PlayStation Response

    Regardless of whether it makes sense, the PlayStation may follow suit in the U.S. It has already raised PS5 MSRPs in Europe and Japan two times in the last three years.

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  • Steam Ends Support for Windows 10 32-Bit by 2026

    Steam Ends Support for Windows 10 32-Bit by 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steam will stop supporting Windows 10 32-bit on January 1, 2026, marking the end of over twenty years of support for 32-bit operating systems.
    2. As of August 2025, Windows 10 32-bit usage is only 0.01%, while 64-bit versions dominate with Windows 11 at 60.39% and Windows 10 at 35.08%.
    3. Existing Steam installations on 32-bit systems will still work temporarily, but will not receive updates or support for new security issues.
    4. Valve’s decision is driven by technical limitations, focusing future versions of Steam on 64-bit systems for better performance and security.
    5. Users on Windows 10 32-bit are encouraged to upgrade to a 64-bit version or consider alternatives like Linux or dedicated gaming devices before the support cutoff.


    Valve has announced the final date for supporting Steam on 32-bit operating systems, marking the close of a significant chapter in PC gaming history that has lasted over twenty years. Beginning on January 1, 2026, Steam will discontinue support for Windows 10 32-bit, which is the last 32-bit OS version the platform has been backing.

    Current Usage Statistics

    According to Steam’s Hardware Survey from August 2025, Windows 10 32-bit represents only 0.01% of all surveyed computers. In comparison, Windows 11 64-bit takes the lead with 60.39% usage, while Windows 10 64-bit comprises 35.08% of the market share. With Steam boasting a vast user base of 132 million active users as of June 2024, this change could still impact thousands of gamers across the globe.

    Transition Details

    The shift won’t happen overnight or cause immediate chaos. Existing Steam installations on Windows 10 32-bit systems will continue to work “for the near term,” but they will become outdated. There won’t be any new updates, including security fixes that defend against emerging vulnerabilities and malware. Additionally, Steam Support will cease to provide help for problems arising on these older systems.

    Valve cites technical limitations as the reason for this decision. The company stated, “Core features in Steam rely on system drivers and other libraries that are not supported on 32-bit versions of Windows.” From now on, future versions of Steam will only focus on 64-bit Windows systems, enabling Valve to take advantage of modern system capabilities without being held back by older technology.

    Ongoing Modernization Efforts

    This decision is part of Valve’s ongoing effort to modernize the platforms that Steam supports. Earlier, in January 2024, the company stopped supporting Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 due to similar technical and security issues. At that time, these older operating systems represented around 0.89% of Steam’s user base.

    It’s crucial to note that ending 32-bit OS support will not impact game compatibility. Players using 64-bit versions of Windows 10 or Windows 11 can continue to enjoy their entire collection of 32-bit games without any problems. Contemporary 64-bit Windows systems have strong compatibility layers for older 32-bit applications, ensuring that classic games can still be played.

    Recommendations for Users

    For the few users still on Windows 10 32-bit, there are various alternatives available. Valve highly advises upgrading to a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or Windows 11 before the January cutoff. For hardware that cannot run Windows 11, options include switching to Linux distributions compatible with Steam or looking into dedicated gaming devices like the Steam Deck.

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  • Xbox Console Prices Increase in October with Second Hike

    Xbox Console Prices Increase in October with Second Hike

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is increasing Xbox console prices for the second time in 2025, effective October 3, with hikes between $20 to $70 per model.
    2. The standard Xbox Series X will rise to $649.99 and the Xbox Series S to $399.99; the Galaxy Black Special Edition will increase to $799.99.
    3. Gamers have until October 2 to purchase consoles at the current prices from retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart.
    4. The price increases are attributed to tariff pressures on electronic components, with tariffs ranging from 10% to 40% impacting costs.
    5. Microsoft aims to ease consumer burden by keeping prices stable for controllers and headsets, while the increases apply only to the US market for now.


    Microsoft has decided to increase the prices of Xbox consoles for the second time in 2025, with the hikes ranging from $20 to $70 per model, effective from October 3. This increase follows a previous price rise in May, summing up to a total of $150 added to some consoles within just six months.

    Pricing Changes Affecting Consoles

    The new price changes will impact all current-generation Xbox consoles, and this is only for the United States. The standard Xbox Series X will rise to $649.99 from its previous price of $599.99, whereas the entry-level Xbox Series S will see an increase to $399.99 from $379.99. Additionally, the premium Galaxy Black Special Edition will experience a substantial $70 hike, bringing its cost up to $799.99.

    Last Chance for Current Pricing

    For gamers in the US, the opportunity to buy consoles at the old prices is about to end. Retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are still selling at the current prices, but this will only last until October 2.

    Right now, Xbox consoles can be found on Amazon at these prices –

    Reasons Behind the Price Increases

    Microsoft has said these adjustments are due to “changes in the macroeconomic environment,” which analysts believe are related to tariff pressures on costs. Recent trade policies have imposed tariffs between 10% to 40% on multiple electronic components made in China, Vietnam, and India. Moreover, gaming consoles do not enjoy the exemptions that smartphones and computer parts receive, making them more susceptible to the highest tariff impacts.

    This new pricing strategy aligns Microsoft with rivals Sony and Nintendo, both of whom have recently increased their prices too. Sony raised the price of its PlayStation 5 consoles by around $50 in August, while Nintendo followed suit by raising Switch console and accessory prices after the announcement of the Switch 2.

    The company is trying to ease the burden on consumers by keeping the prices for controllers and headsets stable, while restricting these increases to the US market only. For now, international prices remain unaffected, although Microsoft had previously raised prices globally during the May adjustments.

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  • New 3D Action Roguelike Game: 2,500 Reviews & 15% Launch Discount

    New 3D Action Roguelike Game: 2,500 Reviews & 15% Launch Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gameplay Variety: Megabonk features over 70 items, more than 20 unique characters, and around 240 in-game quests, providing extensive gameplay variety and experimentation.

    2. Unique Mechanics: The game combines auto-shooting and upgrade loops found in other titles with 3D movement and direct combat, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.

    3. Quirky Tone: Megabonk has a humorous and quirky style, featuring unusual characters and items, which enhances the overall gameplay experience.

    4. Accessibility: The game has low system requirements and supports multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux/SteamOS, and the Steam Deck, making it accessible to a wide audience.

    5. Positive Reception: Upon launch, Megabonk received positive reviews and peaked at 18,000 concurrent players, though it currently lacks multiplayer features.


    Megabonk hit Steam on September 18, 2025, brought to us by the solo developer vedinad. The game is an action roguelike survival title that presents a familiar concept. It features random maps, enemy waves, bosses, loot, character unlocks, and upgrades. However, the way it combines mechanics, pacing, and style makes it feel like more than just another typical game in this genre.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Players begin with limited resources – just one character, a basic weapon, and little power. As you battle through enemy hordes, you gain experience, unlocking items, weapons, tomes, and new abilities. With over 70 items and more than 20 characters to discover, each offering unique traits, there’s plenty of variety. Additionally, the game has about 240 in-game quests, allowing for ongoing experimentation.

    Unique Style

    What sets Megabonk apart is its blend of gameplay styles. It incorporates the auto-shooting mechanics and addictive upgrade loop found in Vampire Survivors but does so in a 3D environment that allows for more movement, verticality, and direct combat interaction. You’re not just an observer; you’re actively darting, bonking, dodging, and chasing. It also takes cues from Risk of Rain 2’s open-map layout, scaling challenges, and spatial awareness while facing numerous enemies. Critics have dubbed it “Vampire Survivors on steroids,” which is fitting: with its loot flashes, chaotic enemy swarms, and the rewarding feeling of perfectly upgrading your build.

    Quirky Tone

    The game has a distinctively quirky tone. Featuring skeletons on skateboards, sunglasses-wearing monkeys, strange weapons, bizarre power-ups, and flashy loot effects, it’s evident that Megabonk isn’t aiming for a serious or dark atmosphere. This unique personality shines through, and many previews suggest that its humor enhances the overall gameplay experience.

    Megabonk is also quite accessible in terms of system requirements. It doesn’t require a high-end gaming setup. The minimum specs are user-friendly (2 GB RAM, decent graphics), and it supports both Windows and Linux/SteamOS. Moreover, it is verified for the Steam Deck (currently priced at $752 on Amazon), and there is controller support available.

    Pricing and Reception

    During the launch phase, a 15% discount was offered until October 2, bringing the price down to $8.49, which is fair for the content provided. Reviews have been largely positive, with an early peak of around 18,000 concurrent players. Word-of-mouth marketing has played a significant role, especially as many streamers are showcasing the game. However, a current drawback is the absence of multiplayer or co-op features, as it is strictly single-player for the time being. The developer noted that multiplayer wasn’t part of the original design, meaning adding it later would necessitate extensive rebalancing and rewriting.

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