Category: Gaming

  • Nintendo Event Leaks: Switch 2 Direct Focused on New Games

    Nintendo Event Leaks: Switch 2 Direct Focused on New Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Current Nintendo console users feel overlooked as attention shifts to Switch 2 updates, despite the excitement from the launch of Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition.
    2. Speculation about a potential event or announcement before the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2nd has emerged, fueled by comments from industry insiders.
    3. A Nintendo Direct focused on the current console seems unlikely, with speculation leaning towards an Indie World Showcase or Partner Showcase instead.
    4. There are rumors of unannounced Switch titles from Nintendo’s partners, indicating more content may be released before the Switch 2 launches.
    5. Backward compatibility of the new console is expected to benefit gamers, but fans may have to wait until summer for the Switch 2’s release.


    With the attention on Switch 2 updates, many current Nintendo console users feel overlooked. The launch of Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition has brought some excitement to what has been a fairly sparse release calendar. Still, there are whispers of an event happening before the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct on April 2nd. Andy Robinson, who is the Editor-in-Chief at Video Games Chronicles, sparked curiosity with a response he made on BlueSky.

    Speculation and Reactions

    It’s important for readers to not jump to swift conclusions about Robinson’s reaction to a quoted comment. Gaming enthusiast Stealth40k mentioned that it was smart of Nintendo to hold off on any presentations until after the Switch 2 Direct. In reply, Robinson shared a cryptic, confused emoji. While his response was unclear, other insiders are hinting at a possible announcement or event this week.

    Rumors of a Direct

    On Famiboards, a user named ninspider suggested that a Nintendo Direct could be happening this week. This user gained notice after posting some rough sketches of the Switch 2 and its dock. Additionally, a Chinese leaker who previously disclosed details about the June 2024 Direct made a similar statement. Moreover, gaming journalist Jeff Grubb didn’t guarantee an event, but he did mention that Nintendo’s partners have numerous unannounced Switch titles in the pipeline.

    Future Events and Expectations

    A Nintendo Direct centered solely on the current console seems unlikely. Even though people were predicting a showcase in February, nothing came to fruition. However, many are speculating about an Indie World Showcase or Partner Showcase occurring this week instead. These types of events are broadcasted through Nintendo’s official channels, focusing more on third-party titles.

    There are also chances that teasers for the official Switch 2 announcements might come soon. Regardless, the backward compatibility of the new console is likely to be advantageous for gamers. If the Switch 2 doesn’t launch until summer, Nintendo fans might find themselves waiting a few more months. As Grubb pointed out, a range of new Switch titles could be released before the highly anticipated new console hits the market.

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  • AAA Racing Game on Sale for $10.50 – Limited Time Offer!

    AAA Racing Game on Sale for $10.50 – Limited Time Offer!

    Key Takeaways

    1. F1 24, released on May 31, 2024, is the official game of the 2024 Formula 1 season, featuring current and historical tracks, teams, and drivers, along with the complete F2 championship.

    2. The updated career mode allows players to advance as an F2 talent, relive historic moments, or create a custom team, but notably lacks the story mode “Breaking Point.”

    3. F1 World mode offers single races, challenges, and online events, with car customization using parts earned during gameplay, though some players feel the driving experience is too arcade-like.

    4. The game received praise for its graphics and smooth operation, but criticism for its arcade-like driving feel, inconsistent AI, and reliance on an internet connection for much of F1 World.

    5. F1 24 has a 73% positive rating on Steam and a critic score of 72 on Metacritic, with significant discounts available, offering the game at $10.50 and the Champions Edition at $13.50 until March 27.


    F1 24, the newest racing simulation game from Codemasters and EA Sports, was released on May 31, 2024, for PC and consoles. This title is the official game of the 2024 Formula 1 season, providing an immersive and realistic racing experience featuring all current and historical tracks, teams, and drivers, including the complete F2 championship. Players can hop into a real F1 car and race as stars like Max Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton, or forge their own path as a newcomer. The updated career mode allows players to design their journey: rise through the ranks as an F2 talent, relive the historic moments of legends such as Michael Schumacher or Ayrton Senna, or create a custom team from scratch. However, a significant change is the absence of the story mode Breaking Point, which many gamers might find disappointing.

    Engaging Modes and Features

    In addition to the traditional career mode, F1 24 includes F1 World, where players can engage in single races, challenges, or online events. This mode allows for car customization using parts and upgrades earned throughout gameplay. A standout innovation in the game is its new dynamic handling system, designed to provide a more authentic driving experience with updated physics and refined tire models. Nevertheless, some players feel that the driving still leans too heavily towards an arcade feel. If you’re searching for a racing simulation that emphasizes realism, alternatives like Assetto Corsa Competizione or iRacing might suit you better.

    Critical Reception

    The German site GamersGlobal.de reviewed F1 24, praising its well-rounded content offering. The game showcases stunning graphics, operates smoothly, and benefits from enhanced lighting and more lifelike character models. However, the somewhat arcade-like driving experience and inconsistent AI behavior received some negative feedback. Another drawback is that much of F1 World requires an internet connection, giving the game a live service vibe. This reliance on online play could become more problematic over time.

    Ratings and Discounts

    F1 24 has solid ratings on Steam, with around 73% positive feedback from about 11,000 players. On Metacritic, it garnered a respectable critic score of 72, while the user score stands at a mixed 4.7. The lower user rating reflects the absence of the story mode and the limited advancements compared to its predecessor.

    F1 24 is currently on Steam with an 85% discount, dropping the price from $70 to about $10.50. The Champions Edition, which includes two exclusive My Team icons (Juan Pablo Montoya and James Hunt), the F1 World Bumper Pack with resources and an XP boost, along with 18,000 PitCoin for customization, is also 85% off, lowering the price from $90 to just $13.50. These deals are available until March 27.

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  • Retro Games Unveils Full-Size Amiga Replica and Delay Reasons

    Retro Games Unveils Full-Size Amiga Replica and Delay Reasons

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retro Games Ltd. has launched several miniature versions of classic computer systems, including the C64 Mini and A500 Mini, but the A500 Mini’s gameplay is limited without a real keyboard.

    2. The A500 Maxi, a full-sized version of the A500 Mini, has been delayed due to ongoing legal issues between Hyperion Entertainment and Amiga parties.

    3. Retro Games Ltd. initially aimed to release the A500 Maxi in the first quarter of 2025 but will not meet that timeline due to the legal troubles.

    4. Support from partners Amiga and Cloanto is ongoing, but the release of the A500 Maxi will be postponed until legal matters are resolved.

    5. The company is also developing a new model called the A1200, which may replace or be sold alongside the A500, with more details expected to be shared soon.


    Retro Games Ltd. has launched a number of miniature versions of famous computer systems, including the C64 Mini, Vic20 Mini, C64 Maxi, Atari 400 Mini, and the A500, which is a mini version of the Amiga 500. However, the gameplay experience with the A500 was somewhat limited due to the absence of a real keyboard. This led the company to plan for an A500 Maxi, akin to the C64 Maxi and ZX Spectrum. This new model was expected to come out last year, but fans are still waiting with no updates.

    Delay Due to Legal Issues

    On their Facebook page, the company shared that the launch of the A500 Maxi is being pushed back because of ongoing legal troubles. The post states:

    “It has always been our goal to launch a full-sized version of THE A500 mini in the first quarter of 2025. Unfortunately, despite our team and partners working hard, we won’t be able to meet that timeline.”

    Sadly, the legal disagreements between Hyperion Entertainment and the Amiga parties are hindering the manufacturing process. Many in the “Amiga scene” may remember that Hyperion began legal actions against Amiga parties back in 2018, and in 2019, they attempted to block the release of THE A500 Mini, despite that being a “Hyperion Prohibited Action” per their 2009 Settlement Agreement.

    Support from Friends

    Our colleagues at Amiga and Cloanto, who have been with us during the development of THEC64, THEVIC20, and THE A500 mini, are working hard to resolve the situation quickly. Nonetheless, our manufacturing and retail partners have decided to delay the release of our full-sized machine until the legal matters are fully sorted out. We understand that these delays are disappointing and frustrating, but sadly, the situation is out of our hands.

    Despite these setbacks, Retro Games has reassured fans that they are still developing a full-size successor to the A500. Interestingly, it seems this will not be an Amiga 500 but rather an Amiga 1200 model, which will be named the A1200. It remains unclear whether the A500 will be replaced by this new model or if both will be sold simultaneously. Retro Games Ltd. plans to share more information regarding features, software, and the release date soon. Thus, Amiga fans can still look forward to a genuine replica that allows them to enjoy their beloved classics on modern displays.

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  • Abxylute Reveals Kickstarter Date and Deals for One Pro Handheld

    Abxylute Reveals Kickstarter Date and Deals for One Pro Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. Abxylute will launch the One Pro gaming handheld on Kickstarter on March 27, 2025, with funding open until April 30, 2025.
    2. The standard retail price is $249, but early bird pricing of $199 will be available, especially for current Abyxlute One owners.
    3. The One Pro enhances support for local Android games, emulators, and game streaming services, improving remote play capabilities.
    4. Technical specs include Android 13, MT8370 CPU, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB ROM, a 7-inch touchscreen, and a 5,200 mAh battery lasting up to eight hours.
    5. The device features capacitive digital joysticks, weighs 430 g, and has dimensions of 250 x 115 x 30 mm.


    Abxylute is set to launch its One Pro gaming handheld on Kickstarter starting March 27, 2025, at 8:00 am PST, as revealed in early announcements on their Discord channel. This fundraising effort for the enhanced Android device will continue until April 30. The One Pro has a standard retail price of $249, but a limited early bird offer of $199 will be accessible to some. Those who currently own the original Abyxlute One handheld will be able to take advantage of this special pricing without any restrictions. Shipping for the units is planned for May.

    Enhanced Gaming Experience

    The One Pro is crafted to better support local Android games, various game emulators like AtherSX2, Dolphin, Drastic, and PPSSPP, and game streaming services such as GeForce Now. It also enhances remote play capabilities compared to the earlier model by the company. An unofficial YouTube clip displays the device running God of War at a smooth 60 fps on the PPSSPP and Paper Mario on the Dolphin emulator.

    Technical Specs

    According to initial specs, the One Pro will operate on Android 13 powered by a MT8370 CPU, featuring 4 GB of LPDD4 RAM and 64 GB of ROM. It boasts a 7.0-inch touchscreen with a 16:9 aspect ratio, delivering a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels and a refresh rate of 60 Hz. Wireless connectivity is managed through the 802.11ac 2T2R MU-MIMO Wi-Fi module. The handheld is equipped with dual speakers, dual microphones, a gyroscope, a headphone jack, and support for video output.

    Control and Design

    The device features full-sized, capacitive digital joysticks, which are said to offer enhanced accuracy without the electromagnetic interference typical of Hall controllers.

    The weight of the handheld is 430 g (15.2 oz.), with dimensions of 250 x 115 x 30 mm (9.8 x 4.5 x 1.2 in.). It contains a 5,200 mAh battery, which is anticipated to provide power for the handheld for as long as eight hours.

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  • Game of Thrones RPG Early Access Release Date Announced

    Game of Thrones RPG Early Access Release Date Announced

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free-to-Play Model: Game of Thrones: Kingsroad will be free for all players upon official launch, with early access available for purchase starting March 26, 2025.

    2. Early Access Editions: Three different paid early access editions offer unique in-game currencies, cosmetics, and additional content, with the Ultimate Edition featuring premium battle passes and extra equipment.

    3. Co-op PvE Experience: The game combines third-person action with cooperative player vs. environment (PvE) gameplay, allowing players to engage in large boss fights and explore the world of Westeros.

    4. Cross-Platform Play: Kingsroad supports cross-platform play, enabling mobile and PC gamers to team up for real-time cooperative missions.

    5. Player Feedback Focus: The early access phase aims to gather player feedback to improve gameplay before the full free-to-play launch, reflecting a trend in the gaming industry.


    Netmarble’s eagerly awaited free-to-play RPG, Game of Thrones: Kingsroad, is set to offer paid early access starting on March 26th, ahead of its complete free-to-play launch. This game takes place in the world of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire and will be available on several platforms, including PC through Steam and mobile devices.

    Early Access Options

    As previously noted, the game will be free for all players. However, those who wish to dive in sooner can opt for paid early access. There are three different editions available for this early access. Here’s how the tiers break down –

    Each tier provides early access, in-game currencies like Iron Bank Marks and Copper, along with unique cosmetics such as outfits, mounts, and emoji sets. The Ultimate Edition includes premium battle passes, extra mounts, and additional equipment. Kingsroad aims to deliver a rich co-op PvE experience, combining third-person action with large boss fights, reminiscent of Monster Hunter. Players will have the chance to explore Westeros, confront mythical beings like dragons, and meet well-known characters such as Jon Snow and Cersei Lannister. The game also focuses on cross-platform play, enabling gamers on mobile and PC to join forces in real-time cooperative missions.

    Industry Trends

    The choice to introduce Kingsroad as a paid early access title aligns with a growing trend in the gaming sector, where developers implement early access programs to collect player feedback and refine the gameplay before the official launch. Netmarble has reassured fans that the final free-to-play version will be open to everyone, with the early access stage intended to reward loyal players with unique content.

    For those interested, Game of Thrones: Kingsroad is currently open for pre-registration on Google Play. Additionally, PC gamers can expect early access to be available via Steam starting March 26, 2025.

  • Assassin’s Creed Shadows Hits 2 Million Players, Ubisoft Confirms

    Assassin’s Creed Shadows Hits 2 Million Players, Ubisoft Confirms

    Key Takeaways

    1. Assassin’s Creed Shadows reached 2 million players within two days of launch, surpassing previous titles like Origins and Odyssey.
    2. The game hit 1 million players in less than 24 hours and is available via direct purchase and Ubisoft+ subscriptions.
    3. Shadows is a top-seller on Steam, with a peak of 61,809 concurrent players, showcasing its strong performance on the platform.
    4. The game has a peak of 60,263 players in a 24-hour period and dominates the popular releases section on Steam DB.
    5. Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with Standard, Deluxe, and Limited editions offered.


    Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the newest addition to Ubisoft’s popular series, has quickly amassed 2 million players within just two days of its launch on March 20th. According to Ubisoft’s announcement, this achievement exceeds the initial performance of previous titles like Assassin’s Creed Origins and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. It’s not really a shocker considering AC Shadows hit the 1 million player milestone in less than 24 hours after it became available.

    Celebrating Success

    To commemorate this success, the company expressed gratitude on social media, acknowledging fans for joining the adventure in Feudal Japan. While specific sales numbers remain undisclosed, the count of 2 million players includes various forms of access, like direct purchases and subscriptions via Ubisoft+, their premium service. It’s important to mention that neither Origins nor Odyssey were available on Ubisoft+, which provides day-one access to new games for Xbox and PC users but not for PlayStation. Additionally, Shadows has made a strong comeback on Steam, where it has become a top-seller, reaching a peak of 61,809 concurrent players and entering the ranks of the most-played games on the platform.

    Popularity Metrics

    Currently, Assassin’s Creed Shadows boasts a peak of 60,263 players within a 24-hour window and dominates the ‘popular releases’ section on Steam DB. This impressive beginning highlights the lasting appeal of the Assassin’s Creed franchise, which has sold more than 200 million copies worldwide. Despite facing some controversies, Shadows is showing signs of being a financial triumph at this stage.

    Availability and Editions

    As gamers delve into the world of Feudal Japan, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is poised to break new records for the franchise. If you’re keen on trying it out, the game is available on PlayStation 5 (curr. $69.99 on Amazon), Xbox Series X|S (curr. $89.99 on Amazon), and PC (curr. $69.99 on Amazon). You can choose from Standard, Deluxe, and Limited editions, depending on your preference.

  • HP Open to Developing SteamOS Handheld Gaming Device

    HP Open to Developing SteamOS Handheld Gaming Device

    Key Takeaways

    1. HP is not entering the handheld gaming PC market due to limitations with the Windows operating system.
    2. Josephine Tan, HP’s Senior Vice President, expressed frustration with the current Windows experience in handheld devices.
    3. HP is open to the idea of creating a handheld device that runs on Valve’s SteamOS, which has gained popularity.
    4. The likelihood of HP launching a SteamOS handheld is low, as Lenovo is currently the only partner for SteamOS devices.
    5. Microsoft is working on improving the Windows experience for handheld PCs, leading companies to wait for better software before considering new partnerships.


    While several major PC brands like Lenovo, Asus, and MSI have jumped into the world of handheld gaming PCs, HP is still on the sidelines. In a recent chat, they shared their reasons for not unveiling their own device, and what it might take to change that.

    Windows Limitations

    In an interview with XDA, Josephine Tan, the Senior Vice President and Division President of Gaming Solutions at HP, explained that the main reason for HP’s absence in the handheld gaming PC market is due to the current limitations of Windows. During the recent HP Amplify event, she mentioned, “If you look at Windows, I struggle with the experience myself.” She noted that Windows lacks the smooth experience of just turning on a handheld and picking up where you left off, unlike the Nintendo Switch.

    Exploring SteamOS

    When asked if HP would consider creating a gaming handheld that runs on Valve’s SteamOS, Tan seemed receptive to the idea. This isn’t too surprising, given how well the Steam Deck has performed in the handheld gaming sector, largely due to its user-friendly software. Currently, the Steam Deck is the only handheld available with SteamOS, but this is set to change soon with Lenovo’s Legion Go S (SteamOS version) already up for pre-order.

    Future Possibilities

    However, the likelihood of HP launching a handheld that uses SteamOS appears low. Valve disclosed earlier this year that Lenovo was the sole partner to produce a SteamOS device. This suggests that, even with the benefits of SteamOS, not all manufacturers are keen to adopt it. Even Lenovo has indicated that its upcoming Legion Go 2 will operate on Windows instead of SteamOS.

    Additionally, Microsoft is actively working to enhance the Windows experience on handheld PCs. This means that companies might be biding their time, hoping for an improved software experience rather than pursuing a new partnership with Valve.

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  • Moon Studios Goes Indie: Exciting Updates Ahead for Gamers

    Moon Studios Goes Indie: Exciting Updates Ahead for Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Breach expansion doubles the game’s world size with new areas and enemy types, along with new weapon options like gauntlets and wands.
    2. A new infection-cleansing mechanic increases difficulty and enhances replayability, leading to intense boss fights and rewards like Masterwork gear.
    3. Improvements to housing, storage, and fast travel systems enhance the overall player experience.
    4. The update includes a hardcore permadeath mode, updated consumable mechanics, and over 11,000 performance enhancements.
    5. Future plans prioritize implementing co-op play and expanding the game’s long-term vision.


    Moon Studios is ready to release The Breach on April 30th, which is their most ambitious update to date. This large expansion will double the size of the game world by adding new areas, along with introducing new enemy types and weapon options like gauntlets and wands. These new weapons will allow players to perform exciting attacks such as drop-kicks and explosive spells. Moreover, existing biomes will be enhanced, bringing fresh content to the areas players already know.

    New Features and Enhancements

    The replayability of the game is significantly improved with a new infection-cleansing mechanic, which raises the difficulty of enemies and leads to intense boss fights. Players will be rewarded with powerful new items, including Masterwork gear and expanded enchantments that enhance character customization options. Also, improvements have been made to housing, storage, and fast travel systems to enhance the overall experience.

    Hardcore Mode and Future Plans

    In addition to all these new features, The Breach will feature a hardcore permadeath mode, updated consumable mechanics, and over 11,000 performance enhancements. The update also includes a new soundtrack by Gareth Coker, the composer for Ori and the Blind Forest, setting the stage for even more exciting developments. One major goal for the team is to implement co-op play, which they now consider a top priority. Moon Studios is committed to their fans and promises that The Breach is just the start of their long-term vision for No Rest for the Wicked.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Ace: Exciting Updates on Powerful Retro Handheld

    Ayaneo Pocket Ace: Exciting Updates on Powerful Retro Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo has teased a new device, the Pocket Ace, but the Pocket S2 announcement has overshadowed it.
    2. The Pocket S2 will feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipset and is more powerful than the Pocket S and Pocket Evo.
    3. The Pocket Ace will have a horizontal screen size between 4 to 6 inches and a battery capacity over 5,000 mAh.
    4. Specific details about the Pocket Ace, including battery watt-hour capacity and design, remain undisclosed.
    5. The Pocket Ace reportedly scores over 1.5 million on AnTuTu V10, indicating the potential presence of a high-end chipset.


    Little over a week has gone by since Ayaneo started teasing a new device in its Pocket gaming handheld line. However, the reveal of the Pocket Ace was quickly eclipsed by the Pocket S2, which is likely to be one of the first devices to feature Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 chipset.

    Technical Details of Pocket S2

    Up to now, Ayaneo has disclosed many important technical specifications regarding the Pocket S2, making it more potent than the current Pocket S and Pocket Evo (currently $540 on Amazon). In contrast, the company is being much more secretive about the Pocket Ace, which seems to be a smaller and more nostalgic option compared to the Pocket S2.

    Features of the Pocket Ace

    For instance, Ayaneo has suggested that the Pocket Ace will come with a horizontal screen that ranges from 4 to 6 inches diagonally. They have also confirmed that the device will have a battery with a capacity exceeding 5,000 mAh. Sadly, we are still unable to determine the battery’s watt-hour capacity, which is usually more common to reference than its milliamp-hour (mAh) counterpart.

    Remaining Mysteries

    Very little else is known about the Pocket Ace at this moment. Reportedly, the device scores over 1.5 million on AnTuTu V10 and 3,800 on 3DMark, hinting at the presence of a top-tier chipset like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or an older variant. The design of the Pocket Ace is still a riddle as well, along with when Ayaneo plans to launch its new Android gaming handheld.

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  • Existential Crisis Game with Intense Storyline Now 60% Off on Steam

    Existential Crisis Game with Intense Storyline Now 60% Off on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rare Gem: NieR:Automata is a unique game that stands out in its generation, offering an experience unlike any other despite some PC flaws.

    2. Memorable Characters: The game features many unforgettable characters, including the well-known 2B, and combines different gameplay styles like hack-and-slash and bullet hell.

    3. Unique Storyline: Set in a dystopian Earth, players control an Android fighting against robots, with a storyline that includes 26 different endings crafted by director Yoko Taro.

    4. Haunting Soundtrack: The game’s eerie soundtrack enhances the overall experience and is a key element of its appeal.

    5. Discount and DLC: NieR:Automata is currently available on Steam at a 60% discount, including its only DLC, “3C3C1D119440927,” which adds new content and challenges.


    Games like NieR:Automata are rare gems that appear only once every generation. While its PC version has some flaws, the rest of the game offers an experience unlike any other. If you haven’t checked out NieR:Automata yet, it’s available on Steam at a 60% discount right now!

    Memorable Characters

    You may have spotted 2B, the main character of NieR:Automata, in various games such as Fortnite, Genshin Impact, and most recently, Stellar Blade. But 2B is just a small part of the whole experience, as the game is packed with many unforgettable characters. Generally, NieR:Automata is a hack-and-slash title, but it frequently shifts to bullet hell and 2D gameplay as well.

    A Unique Storyline

    In NieR:Automata, you find yourself in a dystopian Earth where humanity has been gone for thousands of years. Nature has taken over most urban areas, and you, playing as an Android, must defeat robots, which serve as the main enemies in the game. The story, crafted by the unique game director Yoko Taro, is unlike anything you’ve encountered, featuring 26 different endings to explore.

    Haunting Soundtrack and DLC

    Coupled with its eerie soundtrack, NieR:Automata is truly a game you shouldn’t miss. The previously mentioned discount also applies to the game’s only DLC titled “3C3C1D119440927”. This DLC offers new cosmetics, additional side content, and even the chance to battle the CEOs of Square Enix and Platinum Games.

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