Category: Gaming

May 12, 2025
Revolutionary FPS Game Now Just $4 on GOG – Huge Discount!
Key Takeaways
1. Revitalization of the Franchise: Doom 2016 successfully reinvigorated the series with a more intense gameplay experience and a memorable main character, the Doom Slayer.
2. Hellish Setting: The game is set on Mars during a demon invasion, featuring a storyline that can be ignored in favor of fast-paced action.
3. Diverse Arsenal: Players have access to a wide range of weapons, including iconic ones like the Super Shotgun and functional chainsaw, adding to the satisfaction of gameplay.
4. Distinctive Soundtrack: The soundtrack by Mick Gordon combines Djent, metal, and industrial music, enhancing the gaming experience and making it enjoyable for workouts.
5. Affordable Gaming: Doom 2016 is available for just $3.99 on GOG, making it an accessible entry point for new players ahead of the release of its sequel, Doom: The Dark Ages.
2004’s Doom 3 was seen as a big letdown because it attempted to juggle too many ideas at once and ended up failing badly. Learning from this, idSoftware went back to the basics and spent a whole thirteen years rethinking their approach. They returned in 2016 with Doom, which was a huge hit, unlike its earlier counterpart. Now, nearly nine years later, this game can be played on practically any PC made in the last ten years, and even on handheld devices like the Steam Deck.
Revitalizing the Franchise
Doom (often called Doom 2016) breathed new life into the series and cranked the intensity way up. The main character, once just a forgettable hero, transformed into the Doom Slayer, a fierce demon destroyer known for his extreme brutality. From the very start, you find yourself smashing an imp’s skull into a coffin, and the level of destruction only escalates from there.
A Hellish Setting
Set on Mars, Doom 2016 drops you into the middle of a hellish invasion. Your mission is to put a stop to this chaos, just like you’ve done in previous installments. Unlike earlier versions of Doom, this game actually has a bit of a storyline, but you can easily choose to ignore it. After all, there are demons to take down, and you can’t let story details slow you down.
A Diverse Arsenal
As with its predecessors, Doom 2016 features a broad array of weapons, including iconic ones like the Super Shotgun and BFG. The chainsaw is now a functional weapon in your arsenal, and using it to shred a demon before watching it burst into ammunition is incredibly satisfying.
A Distinctive Soundtrack
While Doom 2016 shines as a technical marvel with its high-speed action, what truly distinguishes the game is its soundtrack. Mick Gordon’s unique mix of Djent, metal, and industrial music enhances the experience of battling through hordes of hellish creatures. Plus, it doubles as excellent workout music. Seriously, give it a try.
Affordable Gaming
You can grab Doom 2016 on GOG for only $3.99. Although it has been cheaper on Steam in the past, it is currently at full price there. Now is a perfect opportunity to dive into Doom 2016 if you’re new to the series. With Doom: The Dark Ages set to launch on May 15 for PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Game Pass, you can experience the game that started it all before jumping into its sequel, Doom Eternal.
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Tags: Doom 2016, Mick Gordon, Steam Deck
May 12, 2025
Nintendo Today: Switch 2 Battery Life Could Improve with Stop Charging Feature
Key Takeaways
1. The Switch 2 features a 5220 mAh lithium-ion battery, promising 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime, but high-demand games may drain it quickly.
2. A new battery management feature allows users to stop charging around 90% to help maintain battery health and reduce degradation.
3. The original Switch experienced battery performance decline over time, causing frustration and leading to repairs; a battery-saving setting could have mitigated this.
4. The new feature will not inherently increase the Switch 2’s battery life, as demanding games may still consume power quickly due to improved performance specifications.
5. Limited hands-on testing makes it difficult to accurately assess the Switch 2’s playtime, but the new feature aims to enhance battery longevity.
Battery life is a key issue for any gaming handheld, especially when a device claims to deliver better performance. The specifications for the Switch 2 show that it will be powered by a 5220 mAh lithium-ion battery. It is promised to provide between 2 to 6.5 hours of playtime, but high-demand games could quickly drain its power. Fortunately, a video from Nintendo Today has unveiled a feature that might help in maintaining the health of the Switch 2 battery.
Battery Management Feature
In the clip shared by Nintendo Today, a user is seen activating a setting called “Stop charging around 90%.” When connected to a USB-C cable, viewers can observe the battery indicator slowly climbing up to 88% before it halts. Lithium-ion batteries tend to wear out quicker when they are fully charged because of excessive electrochemical reactions. To minimize this degradation, it’s advisable to keep rechargeable devices at 80% or below. This strategy is similar to the safety measures that smartphones use, which were highlighted in the video about the Switch 2.
Past Issues with Battery Performance
Many players using the original 2017 Switch have noticed a decline in battery performance over time. This decline has frustrated users to the point where they have opted to send their consoles in for repairs. Had the first Switch included a battery-saving setting, it could have reduced the number of replacement devices needed. Nevertheless, not many gamers are keen on keeping an eye on their handhelds to stop charging at a specific percentage.
Sadly, this new feature will not inherently increase the battery life of the Switch 2. When compared to its predecessor, it is expected that games will demonstrate a wider range of performance. With a 1080p display and a refresh rate that goes up to 120Hz, some games are likely to consume the battery power of the Switch 2 more quickly than others. Steam Deck users face a similar challenge, as demanding titles can necessitate recharging in less than two hours.
Testing Limitations
The limited-time hands-on sessions make it hard for testers to accurately gauge the playtime of the Switch 2. Regardless, gamers will have access to a new feature to help maintain their battery’s longevity.
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Tags: battery health, Nintendo, Switch 2
May 12, 2025
Pre-Order the World’s First 500Hz OLED Monitor Now
Key Takeaways
1. The Samsung Odyssey OLED G6 is the first gaming monitor with a 500Hz refresh rate and a response time of 0.03ms.
2. It features a 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) QD-OLED panel with a peak brightness of 1000 nits and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification.
3. The monitor is Pantone certified, reproducing over 2100 colors and supporting Nvidia G-SYNC and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro for smooth gameplay.
4. Samsung has included a dynamic cooling system and thermal modulation to prevent burn-in from static images.
5. The monitor is currently available for pre-order in Southeast Asian countries, with a wider global release planned later this year.
The very first OLED gaming monitor boasting a 500Hz refresh rate is ready for pre-order. Samsung has started accepting orders for the Odyssey OLED G6 in various Southeast Asian countries. The monitor is priced at SGD 1,488 (€1,024 or £864.27).
Display Features
This 27-inch G60SF screen showcases a 500Hz refresh rate and a response time of just 0.03ms (GTG), along with a QHD (2560 x 1440) QD-OLED panel. It carries the VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification at a 10% Average Picture Level (APL), reaching a brightness of 1000 nits and a minimum brightness of 800 nits. Samsung claims that performance was measured at 3% APL with HDR activated, with peak brightness set to “High”.
Color and Compatibility
The panel holds Pantone certification, allowing it to reproduce over 2100 colors, including 110 distinct skin tones from the Pantone library. Additionally, it supports Nvidia’s G-SYNC and AMD’s FreeSync Premium Pro, ensuring smooth gameplay across various platforms.
To combat potential burn-ins, Samsung has equipped the monitor with a dynamic cooling system designed to disperse heat, along with a thermal modulation system that adjusts brightness automatically. The monitor can also recognize static images, such as logos or taskbars, and can lower brightness dynamically to prevent burn-in issues.
Visual Performance
With a peak brightness of 1000 nits, the Odyssey OLED G6 employs glare-free technology, minimizing reflections on its surface. Samsung asserts that this monitor “provides vibrant, realistic visuals that immerse gamers in worlds exactly as developers envisioned.”
Initially, the monitor will be launched in Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia, with plans for a wider global release later this year.
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Tags: 500Hz gaming monitor, QD-OLED Display, Samsung Odyssey OLED G6
May 12, 2025
MSI Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition Returns for Global Release
Key Takeaways
1. The MSI Claw 8 AI+ and Polar Tempest Edition are hard to find since their launches, with the Polar Tempest Edition recently reintroduced.
2. MSI has created a dedicated product page for the Polar Tempest Edition, marking its official return after being removed from retailers.
3. The Polar Tempest Edition is set to launch in the U.S. on July 15, featuring upgraded specs like 2 TB of storage and a new model name.
4. The pricing for the Polar Tempest Edition remains at $999 in the U.S., while it has been listed at €1,107 on Amazon Germany.
5. The new version is expected to arrive in Europe this summer, with no current listings in other countries.
The MSI Claw 8 AI+ continues to be hard to find for many people, even though it was officially introduced towards the end of last year. The Polar Tempest Edition of this handheld is even harder to catch, as it was launched in early April but was quickly taken down from MSI’s website and also from retailer Excalibur PC.
Official Return of Polar Tempest Edition
Now, the Polar Tempest Edition seems to be back with what looks like an official launch. In the past, MSI only had links to buy this version through other retailers. However, the company has now set up a specific product page for the Polar Tempest Edition, which wasn’t available just a month ago.
Release Date and Specs
MSI is expected to launch the Polar Tempest Edition on July 15 in the United States, featuring white front panels and offering 2 TB of storage, which is an upgrade from the original Sandstorm model. The pricing is still set at $999, and the model name has been updated from Polar Tempest Edition-071US to Polar Tempest Edition-084US.
Availability in Europe
Interestingly, this new version has been spotted on Amazon Germany with a listing price of €1,107. Currently, there are no similar listings in other countries. Nevertheless, Amazon Germany indicates that the Polar Tempest Edition is likely to arrive in Europe this summer. For more details, you can check our earlier review of the Claw 8 AI+, where we share our opinions on MSI’s first 8-inch gaming handheld, which is a strong competitor to the Lenovo Legion Go S in terms of size. (curr. $623 on Amazon).
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Tags: Excaliber PC, MSI Claw 8 AI+, Polar Tempest Edition
May 12, 2025
Sega Dreamcast VMU Pro Launches with Upgrades and 8-Bit Emulation
Key Takeaways
1. Dreamware Enterprises launched the VM2 as an upgraded version of the original Visual Memory Unit (VMU) for the Sega Dreamcast.
2. The VM2 features improvements like a better resolution display, MicroSD card storage expansion, and a larger battery.
3. 8BitMods is developing the VMU Pro, which aims to take VMU enhancements further.
4. The VMU Pro will have the capability to emulate games from 8-bit era consoles and includes a 16-bit IPS display and Wi-Fi connectivity.
5. Pre-orders for the VMU Pro will begin on May 15, with complete details expected to be revealed at that time.
A few years ago, Dreamware Enterprises launched the VM2, which is an upgraded version of the Visual Memory Unit (VMU) designed for the Sega Dreamcast. This new version was promoted as a “complete reproduction and enhancement” of the original VMU, featuring improvements such as a better resolution display, the ability to expand storage with a MicroSD card, and a larger battery.
New Innovations in VMU
But the VM2 isn’t the only new take on the Dreamcast’s well-known accessory. As seen in the tweet embedded below, 8BitMods has been hinting at the upcoming VMU Pro since the beginning of 2023. While the VM2 aimed to enhance the VMU, the VMU Pro is set to take it even further.
Features of the VMU Pro
According to information from 8BitMods, the VMU Pro has the capability to emulate games from the 8-bit era, including classics from consoles such as the Game Boy, NES, and Master System. It is equipped with a 16-bit IPS display and is also expected to provide Wi-Fi connectivity along with “unlimited storage.” Pre-orders for the VMU Pro are set to begin on May 15; it is hoped that the company will also disclose complete details about this new Dreamcast accessory at that time.
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Tags: Dreamware Enterprises, Sega Dreamcast, VMU Pro
May 12, 2025
Lenovo Legion Y700 Gaming Tablet Launches Worldwide at $599
Key Takeaways
1. The Lenovo Legion Y700 4th generation gaming tablet was launched in China on May 8, 2025, with an international release expected but not yet confirmed.
2. The base model (12 GB RAM, 256 GB storage) is priced at $599, while the higher-end version (16 GB RAM, 512 GB storage) costs $699.
3. Key upgrades include a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, a higher resolution display (3040×1904 pixels), improved brightness (600 nits), and a larger battery (7,600 mAh).
4. Additional features include a 165 Hz refresh rate, a TF card slot, support for bypass charging, and 68 W fast charging.
5. Importing the tablet may involve warranty differences and a user experience tailored to the Chinese market, potentially affecting functionality for global users.
The Lenovo Legion Y700 4th generation gaming tablet was introduced in China on May 8, 2025. It is anticipated to be released internationally under the name Legion Tab Gen 4, but the company has not yet provided information regarding its global launch. For those interested in purchasing it now, the device can be pre-ordered through Giztop.
Pricing and Availability
According to Giztop, the Snapdragon 8 Elite gaming tablet is set to ship on May 21. The base model, featuring 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage, is priced at $599. Meanwhile, the higher-end version, equipped with 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, comes in at $699.
This pricing isn’t too shabby for a gaming tablet that, at the moment, is only officially for sale in China. To give you some context, the starting price for the Legion Y700 4th generation in China is CNY 3,299, which translates to about $456. The top-tier configuration is priced at CNY 3,799, approximately $525.
Features and Upgrades
The Legion Y700 4th generation boasts several enhancements compared to its predecessor. In addition to the Snapdragon 8 Elite, it offers a better display with a higher resolution of 3040×1904 pixels, an upgrade from the previous 2560×1600 pixels. The brightness has also improved, going from 500 nits to 600 nits.
Moreover, there’s a battery improvement, as this new Lenovo gaming tablet is equipped with a 7,600 mAh battery, compared to the 6,500 mAh found in the older model. Other notable features include a 165 Hz refresh rate, a TF card slot (currently, a 512 GB SanDisk Ultra microSDXC is available for $34.99 on Amazon), support for bypass charging, and 68 W fast charging capabilities.
Considerations for Importing
When it comes to importing this gaming tablet from China, there are several aspects to keep in mind. For instance, while Giztop seems to offer a reasonable warranty policy, the process may differ from claiming an official warranty. Additionally, the Android 15 skin on this Chinese Legion Y700 4th gen will include features and apps specific to China, and some options that run well on global devices may not operate as intended.
Tags: Gaming Tablet, Lenovo Legion Y700, Snapdragon 8 Elite
May 12, 2025
MSI Claw A2HM: New 7-Inch Gaming Handheld and Ryzen Z2 Rumors
Key Takeaways
1. MSI is rumored to be developing a gaming handheld with AMD Ryzen, despite previously favoring Intel chips.
2. The unnamed Claw variant might be equipped with a Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme based on recent hints.
3. MSI has not confirmed the switch to AMD APUs and is currently refreshing the existing Claw 8 AI+ model.
4. The new Claw A2HM variant appears to be an update of the Claw 7, featuring a 7-inch display, but processor details remain unclear.
5. MSI’s naming system is confusing, as the A2HM model number corresponds to both AMD and Intel processors used in different devices.
Rumors have been floating around for quite some time about MSI potentially releasing a gaming handheld powered by AMD Ryzen, even though the company seems to prefer Intel chips. To summarize, an X account known for sharing info about AMD and MSI tweeted back in January that MSI was working on a Ryzen Z2 option. Recently, there have been hints that this unnamed Claw variant might actually come equipped with a Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme.
MSI’s Current Focus
MSI has yet to officially comment on the possibility of switching to AMD APUs for its gaming handhelds. Instead, the company is refreshing the existing Claw 8 AI+ with a new Polar Tempest Edition. A leaker known as @94G8LA has now found mentions of an unreleased Claw ‘A2HM’ variant on MSI’s spare parts websites.
Details about A2HM
Interestingly, the A2HM appears to be yet another update of the Claw 7 (currently priced at $519 on Amazon), instead of the more sought-after Claw 8. While it is clear that the A2HM features a 7-inch display, it’s still unclear which processor MSI has selected. According to VideoCardz, the absence of any AI+ branding implies that this processor might have a low-powered NPU or possibly none at all.
Naming Confusion
MSI’s naming system adds to the confusion. For example, the ‘A2HM’ model number is used to represent AMD Ryzen 200 and Intel Arrow Lake-H processors found in the Venture A17 and Summit 16, respectively. Interestingly, MSI submitted the Claw A2HM to the Japan Audio Society a couple of months ago to get Hi-Res Audio certification. Hence, it seems unlikely that the A2HM has been mistakenly added to MSI’s spare parts catalog. Sadly, there is still no information on when MSI will launch another Claw gaming handheld, nor if it will be available globally.
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Tags: AMD Ryzen, gaming handheld, MSI Claw A2HM
May 12, 2025
Codename Watari: New Switch 2 Exclusive Game Leaked
Key Takeaways
1. Arc System Works is developing a new fighting game for the Nintendo Switch 2, codenamed “Watari,” with a release date of November 25, 2025.
2. The game is using Unreal Engine 5.4, indicating a strong focus on visual quality.
3. There is uncertainty about whether Watari is an entirely new title or a port of an existing game, with speculation about potential crossovers with Nintendo characters.
4. The game may be officially revealed at the Summer Game Fest in June 2025, aligning with the Switch 2’s launch.
5. The release date and details are still subject to change, as the game has not yet been officially announced.
According to a source known for sharing reliable game information, X0X_LEAK, Arc System Works is working on a brand new fighting game specifically for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. The leaker mentioned in a post on X that this game, which has not yet been announced, is set for release on November 25, 2025. This date is just about five months after the anticipated launch of the Switch 2 on June 5. However, it’s important to note that the release date may still be subject to change.
Game Development and Technology
The game is currently being developed under the codename “Watari” and is utilizing Unreal Engine 5.4, which suggests that players can expect a visually impressive experience. Although the leaker hasn’t specified the exact genre yet, the fact that Arc System Works is behind the project strongly indicates it will be a fighting game. This company has been a significant force in the 2D fighting game community, having released popular titles like Guilty Gear Strive, Persona 4 Arena, and Dragon Ball FighterZ, the last of which is available for purchase on Amazon for $353.
Speculation on the Game’s Nature
There is still some uncertainty regarding whether Watari will be an entirely new fighting game or something more recognizable. Even though the leaker refers to it as a “new game,” users on Reddit have noted that “Watari” translates to “crossing” in Japanese, leading to speculation that it might be a port. Ideas range from a version of Guilty Gear Strive or DNF Duel optimized for the Switch, to more ambitious dreams of a crossover fighting game featuring beloved Nintendo characters, possibly from series like Fire Emblem or Xenoblade.
Potential Reveal and Future Expectations
Insider Gaming has reported that Watari could be officially unveiled as soon as the Summer Game Fest in June 2025. A reveal at this event would be a strategic move, aligning perfectly with the planned fall release and enhancing the launch lineup for the Switch 2.
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Tags: Arc System Works, Nintendo Switch 2, Watari
May 12, 2025
US Distributor Sells Mig Flash Backup Tool for Unreleased Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. The Mig Flash was initially perceived as a prank, primarily appearing in YouTube videos, but is now being shipped and allows users to back up and pirate Nintendo Switch games.
2. It serves a dual purpose: enabling users to back up and play their own games while also facilitating piracy, though some believe mod chips are more effective for illegal use.
3. The product is shrouded in suspicion, with frequently changing official URLs and a lack of reliable information on its compatibility with future Nintendo consoles.
4. Nintendo actively monitors and blacklists modified consoles, and recent changes to their EULA suggest that modified Switch 2 units may be bricked, especially in regions with weak consumer protection.
5. Nintendo’s strong anti-piracy stance indicates that even if the Mig Flash supports the Switch 2, it will likely face significant repercussions from the company.
The Mig Flash was initially thought to be a prank, showing up mainly in YouTube videos rather than being accessible to the general public. Nevertheless, despite some customers reporting delivery times of up to two months, it seems that the product is indeed being shipped and allows users to back up and pirate Nintendo Switch games (available on Amazon).
A Dual-Purpose Tool
This device is advertised as a way for users to back up and play their own games on a single cartridge, eliminating the hassle of carrying multiple game cartridges. However, it can also be used for purposes that cross into illegal territory. Some argue that a mod chip is a more effective method for piracy, even though the Mig Flash has its legitimate uses.
Suspicion Surrounds the Product
The Mig Flash is wrapped in a cloud of doubt. Its “official” URLs change frequently, possibly due to Nintendo’s efforts to take them down. With various resellers and pages on AliExpress, buying a Mig Flash feels like a gamble at best.
Recently, one reseller, claiming to be the top US distributor, has stated that the Mig Flash V2 will work with the upcoming Switch 2. Whether migflashunited actually has insider info or is just spreading lies to boost sales is still unclear. A check against AliExpress and what seems to be the official Mig Flash site reveals no similar information, and there’s no clarity on whether this “compatibility” means that it will only work with Switch 1 titles on Switch 2 hardware, if it’s just the size that fits, or if it actually allows piracy of Switch 2 games.
Nintendo’s Position on Piracy
Nintendo is known to blacklist consoles from online play if they detect modifications, and with the recent changes to their EULA, there’s a strong possibility that any Switch 2s running such modifications will be bricked. This is particularly true in the US and other regions where consumer protection is weak. Notably, this warning is missing from the European EULA.
In any case, Nintendo has been very clear about its stance on piracy, emulation, and anything that affects its profit. Even if the Mig Flash does eventually support the Switch 2, the likelihood that Nintendo will allow it to operate without repercussions is very low.
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Tags: Mig Flash, Nintendo Switch, piracy
May 12, 2025
GTA 4 PS5 and Xbox Series X Port May Launch by End of 2025
Key Takeaways
1. GTA 4 is not currently available on PS4 or PS5, but it may be ported to these consoles by the end of 2025.
2. The rumor about the GTA 4 port comes from Tez2, a source known for predicting Rockstar Games news, but it remains unconfirmed.
3. Rockstar Games faced criticism for shutting down the Liberty City Preservation Project, which could indicate plans for a standalone GTA 4 port.
4. Players on Xbox Series X can experience 60 fps in GTA 4, but the game has graphical issues that require mods on PC for a smoother experience.
5. There are rumors of a potential port for Max Payne 3 following the GTA 4 release, possibly as a Definitive Edition combining all three games in the series.
With the rise of remakes and remasters, a lot of classic games are now easy to find on today’s consoles. Sadly, even though GTA 4 got a lot of praise from critics, it’s not available on the PS4 or PS5. On the other hand, players using Xbox Series X and S can enjoy backward compatibility, but there are some issues with it. According to a new rumor, there might be a port of GTA 4 for current consoles by the end of 2025.
Rumors and Predictions
The information about Grand Theft Auto IV comes from Tez2, who has successfully predicted Rockstar Games news before using data mining. However, he isn’t always right, so fans are waiting for something official. Still, he mentions a source within Rockstar Games who “hinted at the IV port.” If the game comes out soon, it could help ease the letdown from the delay of the GTA 6 release. But it seems that Take-Two Interactive won’t release the GTA 4 port too close to May 2026.
Development Controversies
Rockstar Games faced backlash when it shut down the Liberty City Preservation Project. This mod brought the GTA IV-inspired NYC environment into GTA 5, including operational subways. Tez2 believes that Rockstar was preparing the ground for its own standalone GTA 4 port for PS5 and Xbox Series X.
Players can experience 60 fps on Xbox Series X while playing Grand Theft Auto IV, but this version has some graphical issues that can make missions tricky. Many players find they need mods and adjustments on the Steam PC version to avoid technical problems. It doesn’t look like Rockstar will give the game a fancy remaster like Oblivion, but fans hope for a more polished experience on PS5 and Xbox consoles.
Possible Future Ports
Tez2 also leaked that a port for Max Payne 3 might come after the updated GTA 4. There’s a chance that gamers could get a Definitive Edition that combines all three games from the third-person shooter series.
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Tags: GTA 4, PS5, Rockstar Games