Category: Gaming

  • 8BitDo Ultimate 2: New Limited Wireless Controller Launches Worldwide

    8BitDo Ultimate 2: New Limited Wireless Controller Launches Worldwide

    Key Takeaways

    1. The HSRx8BitDo partnership has released a limited edition controller, the Ultimate 2 Honkai: Star Rail Evernight edition, which upgrades the standard Ultimate 2 controller.
    2. This special edition features unique elements, including themed joystick caps, a glitter coaster, and temporary tattoos, distinguishing it from regular versions.
    3. The controller has a light purple design with flower silhouettes, and comes with a matching travel case.
    4. The Evernight edition is currently available for purchase on Amazon UK for £59.99, with pricing similar to the standard Ultimate 2 for Nintendo Switch.
    5. Shipping for the Honkai: Star Rail edition is set to begin on November 28 in the UK, a month after its US debut.

    8BitDo has broadened the reach of its new limited edition controller after its debut in the US last week. As mentioned earlier, the HSRx8BitDo partnership brings us an upgraded version of the Ultimate 2 wireless controller, not an entirely new device.

    Unique Features of the Evernight Edition

    The Ultimate 2 Honkai: Star Rail Evernight edition includes special features that are not available with the standard Ultimate 2. This is similar to the recent Wuchang: Fallen Feathers edition, which 8BitDo continues to offer worldwide, even though it is also marketed as a limited edition (curr. $64.99 on Amazon).

    Eye-Catching Design

    According to the teaser images released by 8BitDo, the Honkai: Star Rail Evernight edition showcases a soothing light purple design adorned with flower silhouettes, setting it apart from other Ultimate 2 controllers. Additionally, 8BitDo provides a travel case that matches the controller’s color scheme with every Honkai: Star Rail Evernight order. Furthermore, the new controller comes with themed joystick caps, a glitter coaster, and a set of temporary tattoos.

    Availability and Pricing

    At the moment, the Honkai: Star Rail – Evernight version of the Ultimate 2 can only be purchased on Amazon UK for £59.99. This pricing aligns with that of the Ultimate 2 for the Nintendo Switch and Switch 2. However, the Windows and Android version, which the Evernight edition is based on, is priced £10 lower. As of now, 8BitDo plans to start shipping the Honkai: Star Rail edition on November 28 in the UK, which is a month later than its release in the US.

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    8BitDo Ultimate 2: New Limited Wireless Controller Launches Worldwide8BitDo Ultimate 2: New Limited Wireless Controller Launches Worldwide

     

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  • Silent Hill F Review Score Leaked Before Game Release Date

    Silent Hill F Review Score Leaked Before Game Release Date

    Key Takeaways

    1. Silent Hill f embraces a distinct Japanese backdrop and introduces new gameplay elements as a spinoff title.
    2. The combat system is compared to souls-like games, which has received mixed reactions from fans.
    3. An early review scores the game 9.5/10, describing it as “genuinely spectacular.”
    4. The game is rated Mature 17+ due to gruesome content, but maintains an engaging storyline with significant journal entries.
    5. Silent Hill f offers replay value with a New Game Plus mode unlocked after the first playthrough.

    Diehard fans of Konami’s survival horror titles won’t need much persuading to give Silent Hill f a shot. However, being a spinoff, it takes some chances with its distinct Japanese backdrop. Additionally, the combat system appears to be similar to souls-like games, even if the creators don’t agree with that label. With the release date for Silent Hill f set for September 25th, a leaked review score suggests that the changes are advantageous to the gameplay.

    Surprising Discoveries

    Andy Robinson from Video Games Chronicle stumbled upon an unexpected Reddit post. A writer from DualShockers shared her thoughts on the Silent Hill subreddit. It’s not clear when the official review embargo will lift. Nevertheless, most gamers anticipated that reviews for Silent Hill F would surface once the 48-hour early access period began.

    Impressive Feedback

    The reviewer notes that she has already completed the game’s storyline after getting an early copy. Most encouragingly, she intends to give the game a score of 9.5/10, describing it as “genuinely spectacular.”

    Some fans are not pleased with the new combat system’s likeness to souls-like games, such as Elden Ring. These often lengthy battles might overshadow the classic survival horror elements. Thankfully, while the fights are tough, they may not ruin the suspenseful vibe of the game.

    Mature Content

    According to the notes from the Silent Hill F review, the game’s Mature 17+ ESRB rating is justified. Gamers will face some gruesome scenes, though Konami gives a warning in advance. Despite the increased gore, the engaging storyline remains intact. The impressions emphasize the significance of journal entries and documents. Players may also discover extra replay value with the New Game Plus mode, which unlocks after the first playthrough.

    The leaked review concludes that Silent Hill f effectively puts a fresh twist on the franchise. Yet, the upcoming surge of reviews for the PC and console game might offer a variety of perspectives.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Game Key Cards Protect Gaming Industry, Says Ex-Capcom Dev

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game Key Cards Protect Gaming Industry, Says Ex-Capcom Dev

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Key Cards Purpose: Masakazu Sugimori argues that Game Key Cards are designed to protect the gaming industry, not to increase profits for Nintendo.

    2. Financial Stability of Nintendo: Nintendo has strong financial reserves of $13.72 billion, indicating they do not need to cut costs through new distribution methods.

    3. Critique of Physical vs. Digital: Sugimori challenges the belief that physical games are superior, stating that digital goods do not have a lifespan like physical items do.

    4. Government Archiving Issues: Japan’s National Diet Library will not archive Game Key Cards, emphasizing that they do not qualify as complete games on their own.

    5. Support for Traditional Cartridges: Nintendo reassured fans that first-party titles will still use traditional cartridges, with Game Key Cards being a more affordable option for third-party publishers.

    Former Capcom developer and seasoned game composer Masakazu Sugimori is standing up for Nintendo’s contentious Game Key Cards for the Switch 2. He argues that this new format is not about making more money for the company, but instead about safeguarding the gaming industry.

    Dismissing Accusations

    In a detailed post on X, Sugimori rejected the claims from fans who believe that the cards are simply physical vouchers. These vouchers require players to download the full game digitally, which some say cuts costs for Nintendo. Sugimori emphasizes that this is not a matter of corporate greed.

    Financial Stability

    It’s important to note that Nintendo is in a strong financial position, boasting cash reserves of $13.72 billion as of March 2025. Sugimori mentioned that the company isn’t in a position where it needs to “shave pennies” off the distribution of video games, considering its “insane” liquidity levels.

    Sugimori went on to explain that Game Key Cards are mainly focused on “protecting the gaming industry and the digital entertainment industry.” He claims that this format helps reduce the risks posed by piracy and the burden of excessive inventory storage for publishers.

    Addressing Criticism

    The ex-Capcom developer also tackled the concerns about how this format could negatively impact long-term game accessibility and preservation. He pointed out that “Physical things have a lifespan, and they eventually break. Digital goods, on the other hand, don’t have a lifespan.” This statement challenges the widely held view in the gaming community that physical games are superior to digital licenses, especially among preservation advocates.

    Since the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, Game Key Cards have stirred significant backlash in the gaming world. In July 2025, Nintendo even surveyed Japanese gamers about their feelings on digital-physical hybrids.

    Government Response

    Moreover, Japan’s National Diet Library declared in August 2025 that Game Key Cards cannot be included in its government-funded archiving program, which currently holds over 9,600 video games. The Library stated that “a key card on its own does not qualify as a game.”

    In light of the ongoing controversy, Nintendo reassured fans that first-party Switch 2 titles will keep using traditional cartridges that contain the full game data. Game Key Cards are meant to be a budget-friendly option for third-party publishers who may struggle to afford shipping games on their 64GB cartridges.

    Only a handful of third-party publishers have utilized full-game cartridges, including the day-one launch of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Daemon x Machina Titanic Scion, the upcoming Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection, and Yooka-Replaylee, among others.

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  • Free Mod for The Witcher 3 Adds Exciting New Features

    Free Mod for The Witcher 3 Adds Exciting New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Popularity of The Witcher 3: Released in 2015, the game gained a large fan base due to its engaging story and expansive world.

    2. Mod Overview: The mod titled “Let There Be Light” took over 400 hours to create and introduces a side story where Geralt returns to the Seven Cats Inn.

    3. New Content: The mod features new challenges, characters, cinematics, and multiple alternative endings, with voice acting performed by the creator and their partner.

    4. Gameplay Limitations: Players may encounter bugs, and the quality of facial expressions is not optimal, along with a potential lack of storytelling depth compared to the original game.

    5. Requirements: To play the mod, players must be at least level 20, have the next-gen version of the game, and own the Blood and Wine and Hearts of Stone DLC.

    Released in 2015, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has gained massive popularity owing to its captivating narrative and an expansive world brimming with surprises. Over the years, this title from CD Projekt RED has attracted numerous fans who eagerly engage in various projects. One such endeavor comes from Nikita Burkhan, who has created a comprehensive mod packed with numerous new features.

    Let There Be Light

    The mod is called Let There Be Light, and it took over 400 hours to complete. It delves into a side story where Geralt must return to the Seven Cats Inn, allowing players to experience a unique narrative with fresh plotlines. But there is more than that, as it also includes several additional features.

    New Challenges and Characters

    Players will encounter new dangerous foes, alongside the opportunity to meet fresh characters and witness various cinematics. It’s important to highlight that the mod features multiple alternative endings, and the voice acting was entirely performed by Nikita and his partner, later improved through artificial intelligence.

    Some Limitations to Note

    Even though this mod required countless hours of effort, it does come with some drawbacks. Players may encounter bugs during their gameplay, and the quality of facial expressions leaves much to be desired.

    Moreover, if you appreciated the storytelling of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, you might find this mod lacking in depth. To experience this mod, players must be at least level 20, possess the next-gen version, and have the Blood and Wine and Hearts of Stone DLC.

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  • Free Upgrade for Stardew Valley on Nintendo Switch 2 for Owners

    Free Upgrade for Stardew Valley on Nintendo Switch 2 for Owners

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free upgrade for Stardew Valley on Switch 2 for existing owners, except in Japan where it will have a minimal cost.
    2. New Switch 2 version includes mouse support with JoyCon 2 and four-player split-screen co-op via GameShare.
    3. Patch 1.7 for Stardew Valley is in development, with no details yet, confirming ConcernedApe’s continued focus on the game.
    4. Stardew Valley has sold over 30 million copies, generating around $450 million in revenue.
    5. The Switch 2 upgrade is set to launch this fall, with no specific release date announced.

    The Nintendo Direct event that took place on September 12, 2025, delivered great news for current fans of Stardew Valley, thanks to its developer, Eric Barone, known as ConcernedApe on X.

    Free Upgrade for Switch Owners

    ConcernedApe, who works alone on the game, announced that the upgrade to Stardew Valley for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be free for those who already have it on the original Switch.

    In a subsequent message on X, he provided important information regarding the accessibility of the Stardew Valley Switch 2 Edition for current players:

    “This will be a free upgrade for those who own Stardew Valley on the Switch, except in Japan, where legally it has to cost something, so it will cost the minimum possible amount.”

    This means that players who already own the game on Switch can get the improved version without any cost. Additionally, ConcernedApe confirmed that the new Switch 2 version will include mouse support with the JoyCon 2, making the gameplay experience more similar to PC. The game will also feature four-player split-screen co-op through the GameShare function of Switch 2, needing only one copy of the title.

    Update on Patch 1.7

    Moreover, ConcernedApe mentioned that the 1.7 update for Stardew Valley is in the works, putting to rest any speculation that he might take a break from the game to focus on his new project, Haunted Chocolatier.

    Details about patch 1.7 are still not clear. However, the game has seen several expansions, including the March 2024 update that introduced fresh festivals, quests, and modding support.

    ConcernedApe has always prioritized the Stardew Valley community, and the free upgrade for Switch 2 users is a testament to this commitment. This decision also reflects the game’s success, having made around $450 million with over 30 million copies sold across various platforms, including 7.9 million on the original Nintendo Switch.

    Anticipated Release and Other Announcements

    The Switch 2 upgrade for Stardew Valley is set to launch this fall, but no specific release date has been announced by either Nintendo or ConcernedApe yet.

    In addition, Nintendo revealed the upcoming re-release of Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 on the Switch 2, promising an enhanced user interface that allows players to switch between motion and gamepad controls.

    In related news, for those interested in another co-op game while saving on Stardew Valley, Super Mario Bros. Wonder is making a comeback with an expansion called Meetup in Bellabel Park, where players can enjoy party games with friends or others online.

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  • Venom Game Cancelled After 2023 Insomniac Breach Report

    Venom Game Cancelled After 2023 Insomniac Breach Report

    Key Takeaways

    1. Data Leak Reveals Game Details: A significant data leak exposed 1.7 terabytes of documents about Insomniac’s Venom game, including concept art, plot outlines, and a projected release window in 2025.

    2. Development Stage: The game is in pre-production, featuring a darker version of Venom and exploring Eddie Brock’s transformation into the character within Insomniac’s Spider-verse.

    3. Progress Confirmed: The combat system, traversal mechanics, story, and motion capture with Tony Todd as Venom have been completed, according to insider information.

    4. Cancellation Concerns: There are fears that the game’s limited scope and the leak might lead to its cancellation, similar to the lack of updates on Wolverine.

    5. Delays and Future Speculations: Despite rumors of cancellation, other leaks suggest the game has been delayed to 2026, with potential announcements at a State of Play event in late September 2025.

    The much-anticipated Marvel’s Venom game for PS5, which is being created by Insomniac, was disclosed after a significant data leak in late 2023. This breach exposed about 1.7 terabytes of confidential documents from the studio, unveiling initial information about the Venom spin-off, including concept art, plot outlines, and a projected release window in 2025.

    Game Development Stage

    According to the leaked files, the game was still in its pre-production phase, with Venom depicted as a darker and more savage version of Spider-Man. The narrative may delve into Eddie Brock taking on the role of Venom within Insomniac’s Spider-verse.

    As of September 2025, no official announcements have been made about the game, leaving enthusiasts curious about Insomniac’s direction. The most recent official news came from That REDACTED Guy, who discussed Venom on September 9.

    Insights from the Leak

    In a response to Insomniac’s plans for the game, he mentioned, “Venom is intriguing from what I’ve heard. The combat system is finished, the traversal mechanics are done, the story is pretty much set, and even motion capture and lines from Tony Todd have been recorded.”

    This effectively confirms prior leaks indicating that Tony Todd, who voiced Venom in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, was selected for motion capture work for the legendary villain.

    Possible Cancellation?

    Nonetheless, REDACTED warned that the game’s relatively limited scope could be “small enough where, due to the breach, it might have been canceled.” This suggests that the leak of sensitive material could have led PlayStation and Insomniac Games to quietly abandon the project to prevent further risks of an unofficial playable version surfacing.

    This situation is similar to the silence surrounding Wolverine, as the last update regarding the character was precisely four years ago on September 10, 2021.

    Contradicting Rumors

    However, various leaks offer a different perspective, with rumors from July 2025 suggesting that the Venom game hasn’t been scrapped but simply delayed. Its launch has reportedly been postponed from 2025 to 2026 due to adjustments in the pipeline at Insomniac following the leak and the studio’s acquisition by Sony in 2021.

    There are speculations that Wolverine, Venom, Saros, and a new God of War Game might appear at a State of Play event expected in late September 2025.

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  • New Super Mario Galaxy 2 for Switch: Price Justified by Graphics

    New Super Mario Galaxy 2 for Switch: Price Justified by Graphics

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many fans are unhappy with the $70 pricing for the Super Mario Galaxy bundle, which includes Super Mario Galaxy 2, as individual games cost $40 each.
    2. Critics feel the price points are too high, especially since the original game was included in the 2020 Super Mario 3D All-Stars package.
    3. The new versions feature enhancements like an updated user interface and options for non-motion controls, with Switch 2 owners receiving a free 4K upgrade patch.
    4. Community discussions reveal that the remastered games include improved textures and details, making them more than just basic ports.
    5. Despite enhancements, some gamers may still hesitate to purchase due to the availability of other full-priced titles showcased during the Nintendo Direct.

    Many fans were not happy with the pricing of the newly announced Super Mario Galaxy versions during the most recent Nintendo Direct. Set to be released on October 2nd, buyers can grab the Switch game bundled with Super Mario Galaxy 2. The bundle costs $70, while each game is available for $40 separately. Critics have expressed that these price points are too high. Nonetheless, side-by-side screenshots indicate that these games are more than just basic ports.

    Frustration Over Past Versions

    Disappointed gamers have noted that the original galactic platformer was included in the Super Mario 3D All-Stars package back in 2020. The latest edition comes with enhancements such as an updated user interface and options for those who prefer not to use motion controls. Owners of the Switch 2 will benefit the most, receiving a complimentary 4K upgrade patch. However, Nintendo hasn’t shared much information regarding the visual enhancements.

    Community Reactions

    Users on the Switch 2 subreddit and various social media platforms have been analyzing the Nintendo Direct trailer closely. One player even uncovered additional details about the textures in the updated Super Mario Galaxy version. Comparing images side by side shows that Nintendo has improved more than just the appearance of flat mud, grass, or stone; gamers can observe distinct patterns on the surfaces now.

    Attention to Detail

    Further comparisons reveal that developers have focused on enhancing 3D objects as well. In a cinematic scene, Princess Peach’s eyes appear significantly more realistic. While exploring different planets, it might also be easier to spot objects that are farther away.

    The 2020 re-release of the 2007 Wii game was a standard port with few enhancements. Plus, fans will get Super Mario Galaxy 2, which hasn’t been available on Switch consoles until now. Still, these new remasters might not attract all buyers. The Nintendo Direct also showcased full-priced Switch 2 titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and downloadable content for new games that could strain budgets.

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    New Super Mario Galaxy 2 for Switch: Price Justified by Graphics

     

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  • Hideo Kojima Calls His Endless Creativity a Blessing and a Curse

    Hideo Kojima Calls His Endless Creativity a Blessing and a Curse

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hideo Kojima views his continuous flow of creative ideas as a “disease,” allowing him to imagine freely, even during everyday interactions.
    2. After leaving Konami Productions in 2015, Kojima founded Kojima Productions and developed his new game, Death Stranding, marking a significant career transition.
    3. Kojima’s work has often foresaw future trends, as seen in Metal Gear Solid 2’s themes about the internet and AI, which became relevant years later.
    4. The release of Death Stranding in 2019 resonated with global experiences of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing Kojima’s ability to connect through gaming.
    5. Kojima is actively working on Death Stranding 3 and collaborating with A24 on a live-action film and anime spin-off, indicating his ongoing creative endeavors.

    In a recent conversation with Man of Many, renowned video game designer Hideo Kojima shared insights into his creative journey, comparing it to an unending affliction. Now at 62 years old, the mastermind behind beloved series like Metal Gear and Death Stranding explained how ideas continuously invade his thoughts, no matter where he is.

    The Creative Affliction

    Kojima described his imaginative condition as a type of disease, saying:

    “It’s almost like a disease. I’m imagining things all the time. Even when I’m talking to my family. In my head, I’m in a totally different world.”

    He expressed gratitude for his profession, remarking, “A lot of people don’t understand that, but I’m glad I have this job, because I’m free to imagine whenever I want.”

    A New Beginning

    It’s been ten years since Kojima left Konami Productions and his Metal Gear series on September 1, marking a fresh start in his career. He founded Kojima Productions and began developing his recent intellectual property, Death Stranding.

    His career has always blended boundless creativity with complex narratives, featuring groundbreaking mechanics. The Metal Gear series first launched in 1987, just a year after Kojima joined Konami. He remained with the franchise until 2015, culminating in the release of Metal Gear Solid: The Phantom Pain, a game that transformed stealth gameplay in the expansive settings of Afghanistan and Angola-Zaire.

    Visionary Concepts

    One of his most notable works, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty from 2001, ominously predicted the rise of the internet and the associated risks of AI, themes that were ahead of their time and foreshadowed the eventual internet boom and the emergence of Artificial Intelligence in public and commercial sectors.

    Even post-Kojima, the Metal Gear series continues to thrive, as demonstrated by the upcoming 2025 remake of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, which received rave reviews despite Kojima’s absence from the project. Interestingly, the developers at Konami sought his input on the remaster.

    Embracing Change

    Kojima’s creative spirit led him into his new phase after leaving Konami, with the release of Death Stranding in 2019. This game centered on mending a broken world, reflecting the feelings of isolation experienced during the pandemic shortly after its launch.

    Reflecting on that period, Kojima said, “I created a game about connections, and then COVID-19 came in and everyone was isolated. We all experienced it at once, and we’ve overcome it. So, I think we’re a little stronger.”

    The pandemic almost led him to give up, as he described, “It had gotten to a point where I almost gave up. But I came back, and I feel like I reconnected with myself through this project.”

    Future Endeavors

    Looking forward, Kojima’s creative juices are still flowing, as he has already started to conceptualize Death Stranding 3, with hopes of passing the torch to someone else. Additionally, A24 is in the process of producing a live-action Death Stranding film under the direction of Michael Sarnoski, expected to release in 2027, along with an anime spin-off set in the same universe currently in development.

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  • Nintendo Amiibo Expands: New Kirby, Mario Galaxy, Metroid Prime 4 Figures

    Nintendo Amiibo Expands: New Kirby, Mario Galaxy, Metroid Prime 4 Figures

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo launched a new collection of larger, more expensive Amiibo figures during a special Nintendo Direct event celebrating Mario’s 40th anniversary.
    2. The new Kirby Air Riders Amiibo are priced at $50 each and feature interchangeable riders and machines, with a game releasing on November 20, 2025.
    3. Super Mario Galaxy Amiibo cost $40 each, are larger than standard Amiibo, and will provide in-game bonuses when used with the upcoming remastered games.
    4. Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Amiibo figures range from $30 to $40, with specific in-game rewards yet to be revealed before the game’s release on December 4, 2025.
    5. Amiibo prices have increased significantly from their original launch price of $15, reflecting their new premium features and sizes.

    Nintendo has introduced an exciting new collection of Amiibo figures, which are larger and more expensive, during its longest Nintendo Direct event ever on Friday, September 12, 2025. This extensive broadcast lasted for one hour and highlighted 40 upcoming games in celebration of Mario’s 40th anniversary.

    Updates on Existing Projects

    In addition, Nintendo shared news about previously announced projects like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Kirby Air Riders, and remastered versions of Super Mario Galaxy 1 and 2, along with related Amiibo releases.

    The latest Amiibo figures have moved into the premium price range, costing more than the usual $20 to $30 that fans have come to expect in the US, where these figures originally launched a decade ago at $15 each.

    Pricing and Features

    At the forefront are the Kirby Air Riders Amiibo, which are priced at $50 each, making them among the costliest in Nintendo’s collection. There are dual-pack options available, one featuring Kirby riding a Warp Star and the other with Bandana Waddle Dee on a Winged Star machine, both allowing for interchangeable riders and machines that connect easily.

    This feature also applies to the Kirby Air Riders game, slated for release on November 20, 2025, where players can scan their unique combinations to create custom Rides and Air Ride Machines in the game. These figures can be trained as Figure Players, gaining experience levels through continued use. Pre-orders for these sets are already available, with both Amiibo figures bringing the total to $100.

    Super Mario Galaxy Amiibo

    Close in price are the new Super Mario Galaxy Amiibo, each costing $40. Nintendo has stated they are “larger than the standard size” to explain the higher price. The collection includes Mario flying through space with his starry friend, as well as Rosalina and Lumas. These Amiibo are anticipated to stand at least 13.6 cm tall, similar to the XL-sized Detective Pikachu released years ago.

    Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are set to launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on October 2, 2025. By tapping the Mario and Luma Amiibos, players will receive a Life Mushroom for extra health points, while tapping the Rosalina and Lumas Amiibo grants a 1-Up Mushroom.

    Metroid Prime 4: Beyond Amiibo

    Completing the new Amiibo series are three figures from Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, priced between $30 and $40, with the Samus and Vi-O-La figure taking the spotlight. The other two Amiibo consist of a standard Samus and Sylux, both tagged at $30 each.

    Nintendo has yet to disclose the specific in-game rewards associated with the Metroid Amiibos, but further details will likely emerge as Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is set to release on December 4, 2025.

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  • Steam Deck Borderlands 4 Performance: 40 FPS, Input Lag Issues

    Steam Deck Borderlands 4 Performance: 40 FPS, Input Lag Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Randy Pitchford, Gearbox’s CEO, faced backlash over comments about Borderlands 4’s physical edition on Switch 2 requiring an internet download for full content access.
    2. The game is experiencing performance issues on PC and other platforms, which Pitchford has acknowledged.
    3. Testing on the Steam Deck showed poor performance, with frame rates struggling to stay above 20 FPS at 800p resolution.
    4. Enabling frame generation improved performance to nearly 30 FPS, but introduced severe input latency, making gameplay difficult.
    5. ETA PRIME recommended waiting for future patches before playing Borderlands 4 on the Steam Deck due to the current unsatisfactory experience.

    Borderlands 4 has faced a lot of drama since it was first announced, mainly because of remarks made by Gearbox’s CEO, Randy Pitchford. Recently, another issue arose when he mentioned that the physical edition of Borderlands 4 for the Switch 2 won’t be fully available on the cartridge and will need an internet download to access all the content. With the game’s release, it is once again encountering performance problems, something Pitchford has openly recognized.

    Performance Testing on the Steam Deck

    Randy’s comments were mostly about the performance on PC, but popular YouTuber ETA PRIME decided to test Borderlands 4 on the Steam Deck, a well-known handheld console, to see how it performs.

    At first glance, the results were not good. Running the game at 800p resolution with FSR set to Performance, it struggled to keep even 20 FPS, often fluctuating between 18 and 22 FPS. The particle effects made things worse, causing significant slowdowns, and aiming at this framerate was nearly impossible.

    Frame Generation Issues

    In the middle of the video, the YouTuber switched to a game capture device, effectively streaming the game at 720p. By enabling frame generation, the performance improved to nearly 30 FPS, but it came with a major downside: severe input latency, making the gameplay feel sluggish and hard to control. Even when the Steam Deck’s GPU clock speed was increased to 1600 MHz, the game continued to struggle with input lag and stuttering, though it did manage to reach around 40 FPS.

    ETA PRIME concluded that although Borderlands 4 technically works on the Steam Deck, playing it in its current state is not enjoyable. They suggested that unless future patches bring improvements, players eager to experience the game on Valve’s handheld might want to wait a bit longer.

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