Category: Gaming

  • Helldivers 2 Into The Unjust Update Expands PC Size to 140GB

    Helldivers 2 Into The Unjust Update Expands PC Size to 140GB

    Key Takeaways

    1. Increasing File Size: Helldivers 2’s file size has grown to over 140GB on PC after the “Into The Unjust” update, causing frustration among players.

    2. Community Backlash: Players are expressing their anger on platforms like Reddit and Steam, noting performance issues and bugs, while console versions remain smaller and more stable.

    3. Developer Acknowledgment: Arrowhead Game Studios’ CEO has recognized the issues and stated that they are prioritizing the concerns but have no specific timeline for fixes.

    4. Technical Issues: The file size increase is attributed to duplicate assets in the PC version, with players citing that technical challenges have not been adequately addressed in updates.

    5. Ongoing Success: Despite the criticisms, Helldivers 2 remains popular, achieving nearly one million sales within the first six days on Xbox Series S|X and maintaining a high player count.

    Helldivers 2 players have been feeling more and more annoyed in recent days due to the increasing size of the game on PC. After the “Into The Unjust” update, the game’s file size has now gone over 140GB on PC.

    Community Reactions

    Fans have expressed their anger on platforms like Reddit and Steam, noting that the latest patch is a big reason for the growing file size. They pointed out that while the PC version is over 140GB, the console versions are much smaller.

    In addition to the file size, players are also facing worse performance, new bugs, and stability issues. This has created a split among the fanbase. Some players are calling the storage requirements and the increasing bugs “beyond ridiculous,” whereas console users, like those on PlayStation and Xbox, are still having fun with the game.

    Developer Response

    In light of these concerns, Arrowhead Game Studios’ CEO Shams Jorjani has responded to the various problems affecting the game after the recent update. On the Helldivers 2 Official Discord server, he acknowledged the issues when asked about the game’s file size, stating, “We have escalated the priority of this. But I can’t tell you when it will be addressed.”

    Arrowhead Game Studios is known for quickly addressing community feedback. Still, there is no specific timeline for when the file size will be dealt with. Naturally, the performance issues and bugs will be fixed in future patches.

    File Size Growth

    For context, Helldivers 2 originally launched with a file size of 25GB. After updates, it has grown to just over 35GB on PS5 and around 36GB on Xbox Series S|X. Players believe that the increase in file size is due to duplicate assets in the PC version of Helldivers 2.

    As per the players, unique assets in the game amount to about 30.39GB, but certain files like a 2K normal map for rocky terrain are duplicated up to 128 times, taking an extra 2GB of space. Jorjani mentioned that the “technical debt is crippling” and that the studio hasn’t met the goals they set with the latest update.

    Continued Success

    Despite the troubles, Helldivers 2 continues to be a huge success, showing its importance as it moves into 2025. After its release on the Xbox Series S|X on August 26, 2025, the game quickly became the top paid title on the platform, racking up nearly one million sales in just the first six days and boasting a concurrent player count of 500,000 active Helldivers.

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  • Hollow Knight: Silksong Modders Fix Double Damage Issues

    Hollow Knight: Silksong Modders Fix Double Damage Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gameplay Difficulty: Hollow Knight: Silksong features a challenging early gameplay experience, with enemies dealing double damage, which frustrates many players.

    2. Community Response: The modding community quickly created modifications to reduce the game’s difficulty, allowing players to enjoy the game more comfortably.

    3. Notable Mod: The “No Double Damage” mod, created by Baiker, reduces enemy damage to one mask, addressing player concerns about the harsh difficulty.

    4. Installation Steps: To install mods, players must download the BepInEx framework and place the mod files into the plugins folder within the game directory.

    5. Additional Mod Features: Mods like Synthlight’s “Always Have Compass” enable players to use essential tools without sacrificing inventory space, enhancing the gameplay experience.

    Just a few days after the highly anticipated release of Hollow Knight: Silksong on September 4, 2025, the modding community wasted no time tackling one of the game’s most frustrating aspects—double-damage. This feature has upset some casual players who find it overly challenging.

    Challenges in Gameplay

    Team Cherry has returned with its meticulously crafted Metroidvania game, which features complex and precise gameplay. However, the game’s early difficulty level is quite harsh, with enemies able to deal double damage right from the start. This can make it very tough for newcomers and even experienced players.

    The game has a file size of 8 GB on PC, and modders have swiftly adjusted the settings to lower the difficulty in Hollow Knight: Silksong. The initial set of mods available on Nexus Mods focuses on easing the steep difficulty curve, allowing both new and returning players to better enjoy Hornet’s adventure through Pharloom.

    Modding Solutions

    One notable mod, the “No Double Damage” mod created by Baiker, appeared on Nexus Mods on September 5, just a day after the game launched. This modification addresses the issue that many players have been vocal about.

    In the game, numerous enemies and bosses can inflict damage equivalent to two masks per hit, making the experience quite brutal, especially for those just starting out when health upgrades are scarce. Baiker mentions, “This mod modifies damage taken from enemies to be one mask. Hazards may still deal two hit damage.”

    Installation Process

    To get this mod up and running, players first need to download the BepInEx framework version 5.4.23.3. After launching the game once and then exiting back to the desktop, a BepInEx folder will appear, which contains a plugins folder.

    Next, it’s a simple process to download the mod DLL file and extract it into the plugins folder within the Hollow Knight: Silksong installation directory. However, some players still feel the game is overly punishing, with suggestions that environmental damage should also be reduced to just 1 health chip.

    Additionally, players are required to equip a Compass, similar to the original Hollow Knight, which takes up a valuable tool slot. Modder Synthlight has also introduced a fix that allows players to “Always Have Compass” and “Always Have Magnet” around the same time, enabling users to keep these features without giving up inventory slots for other items like the Magnetite brooch.

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  • Oblivion Remastered Patch Causes Performance Issues and Stutters

    Oblivion Remastered Patch Causes Performance Issues and Stutters

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Issues: Oblivion Remastered has significant performance troubles, including frame rate drops and crashes, leading to negative reviews from players.

    2. Declining Reviews: While it maintains an 80% Very Positive rating overall, 61% of recent reviews on Steam are unfavorable.

    3. Ineffective Patch Updates: The 1.2 update aimed to fix crashes and frame rate issues, but many players report that performance has worsened since the patch.

    4. Developer Response: Bethesda has only released two major patches since the game’s launch on April 22nd, raising concerns among fans about the developers’ urgency to address the issues.

    5. Engine Compatibility Problems: The use of two game engines (Unreal Engine 5 and a modified Gamebryo engine) may be contributing to the game’s poor performance and optimization problems.

    When Bethesda surprise launched the RPG, Oblivion Remastered, some performance troubles dampened the excitement. A member from Digital Foundry even described it as “one of the worst running games he has ever tested.” Sadly, frame rate drops and crashes have become more frequent since the update on July 16th, version 1.2.

    Declining Reviews

    According to TheGamer, a wave of negative reviews has hit Steam recently. Among English reviews, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered still maintains an 80% Very Positive rating. However, it’s important to note that 61% of the reviews in the last month have leaned unfavorable for Bethesda.

    Patch Performance

    The patch notes for the 1.2 update claim to address several issues related to crashes and unstable frame rates. Despite this, many Steam users argue that performance has actually worsened. One player observed that the game used to run at 50-75 fps before the patch, but now, in urban areas, it has dropped to just 30 fps. Others have shared that the gameplay becomes increasingly choppy, leading to forced reboots.

    Developer Concerns

    The frustration among Oblivion fans is partly due to Bethesda’s seeming lack of urgency. With continuous complaints, there have only been two major patches since its release on April 22nd. Some fans speculate that the developers, Virtuos, might be unable to fix the issues without a total revamp of the game.

    The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered relies on two game engines, which could be a factor in the poor performance and optimization. The often-criticized Unreal Engine 5 offers a significant upgrade in textures and lighting but is paired with a modified Gamebryo engine from the 2006 version that handles game logic. When these two systems clash, it can lead to stuttering and major failures.

    Conclusion

    Using two engines may have allowed Bethesda to push the remaster out quickly. Regardless of the reasoning, many Steam users feel that the original game’s charm has faded.

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  • New Action RPG Hits Steam with 30% Launch Discount and 450+ Reviews

    New Action RPG Hits Steam with 30% Launch Discount and 450+ Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Gameplay Experience: Dark Hunting Ground avoids typical fantasy clichés, offering players freedom to explore and hunt monsters in a stylish environment.

    2. Deep Mechanics and Customization: Players can create diverse hunter builds using the “dark tree” progression system, encouraging experimentation and learning from mistakes.

    3. Strategic Encounters: Levels are designed for tactical gameplay, with each monster encounter feeling unique and engaging, enhancing the survival experience.

    4. Positive Early Reception: Launching with a 30% discount at $9.09, early reviews praise the game’s flexibility and replayability, appealing to players tired of grind-heavy games.

    5. Ongoing Development: The game was in early access for ten months, with continuous updates and community feedback, indicating a commitment to improving player experience.

    Steam has recently released its latest indie title, Dark Hunting Ground, which became available on September 6. This game is already capturing the attention of many ARPG fans. It cleverly avoids the usual overdone fantasy clichés and gives players the freedom to explore, experiment, and hunt monsters in a stylish yet simple environment.

    Engaging Gameplay

    There’s no guidance or flashy cutscenes here to slow things down. Dark Hunting Ground focuses on deep mechanics: players can create their own hunter builds using a vast array of skills, weapons, and modifiers. This system is known as the “dark tree” progression, designed for extensive experimentation. Early players have found that the true excitement lies in trying different combinations, learning from mistakes, and improving as they hunt. The game offers a quick-paced cycle of trial and error rather than dragging through endless waves of weak enemies.

    Tactical Encounters

    The game features sparse but purposeful levels, where every encounter is strategic and engaging. The atmosphere is quite intense, with legendary monsters ready to hunt, and players have remarked that each run feels like a unique survival experiment.

    Dark Hunting Ground didn’t pop up on Steam out of nowhere; it underwent a thorough ten months in early access, initially allowing players to join in November 2024. Throughout this pre-launch period, the developer BingX consistently rolled out updates, including new content and solicited feedback from early players.

    Positive Reception

    With a 30% launch discount and a reasonable price of $9.09, early reviews on Steam are very optimistic. Conversations in the community highlight the impressive flexibility in building characters, and a content roadmap suggests more updates are on the way. While translation adjustments and usability enhancements are still being worked on, the core gameplay is receiving a lot of accolades from players, especially those who are fatigued with overly complicated grindfests and are craving a more approachable and replayable experience.

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    New Action RPG Hits Steam with 30% Launch Discount and 450+ ReviewsNew Action RPG Hits Steam with 30% Launch Discount and 450+ Reviews

     

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  • Anbernic RG476H: Portable Handheld for PS2 & Wii Games Previews

    Anbernic RG476H: Portable Handheld for PS2 & Wii Games Previews

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG476H gaming handheld can emulate systems like Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, and Nintendo Wii.
    2. It may feature either the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 or Unisoc T820 chipset, similar to other recent models.
    3. The device has a 4.7-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,280 x 960 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate.
    4. The display offers a peak brightness of 500 nits and a contrast ratio of 1,200:1, sourced from BOE.
    5. The RG476H will be priced globally at $174.99 and will compete with devices like the Ayaneo Pocket AIR Mini and Retroid Pocket 5.

    Anbernic has released more information about its upcoming gaming handheld following last week’s announcement. The company previously showcased the device’s design and color options in a brief video. Now, they have provided further details with a new video, which we have included below.

    Emulation Capabilities

    The video highlights several systems that the RG476H can emulate, including Dreamcast, PlayStation 2, and Nintendo Wii. Historically, Anbernic tends to reuse chipsets from its recent models, such as the RG Slide, RG477M, or RG557 (currently priced at $299 on Amazon). Therefore, it is quite possible that the RG476H will include either the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 or the Unisoc T820 chipset.

    Display Features

    Additionally, Anbernic has confirmed that the RG476H will feature a 4.7-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,280 x 960 pixels, a refresh rate of 120 Hz, a peak brightness of 500 nits, and a contrast ratio of 1,200:1. This custom panel, sourced from BOE, is already used in the RG477M and RG Slide. While those models target specific market segments, the RG476H will face competition from devices like the Ayaneo Pocket AIR Mini and the Retroid Pocket 5, among others. As reported by Retro Dodo, Anbernic has stated that the RG476H will be available for a global price of $174.99.

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  • Nintendo Stops Repair Services for New 2DS XL and 3DS Family

    Nintendo Stops Repair Services for New 2DS XL and 3DS Family

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has discontinued repair services for the New Nintendo 2DS XL, marking the end of support for the entire Nintendo 3DS series as of September 4, 2025.
    2. The New Nintendo 2DS XL was the last model in the 3DS series, which has sold over 75 million units since its launch in 2011.
    3. The discontinuation of repairs is due to a lack of available replacement parts, making it challenging for fans to maintain their devices.
    4. Previously, Nintendo had stopped repair services for earlier 3DS models, with the original 3DS and 3DS XL in 2021 and the New 3DS and 2DS in 2024.
    5. The closure of repair services follows the shutdown of the 3DS eShop in March 2023 and termination of online services in April 2024, limiting access to digital games and features for 3DS users.

    Nintendo has announced that it will no longer provide repair services for the New Nintendo 2DS XL, which means that support for the entire Nintendo 3DS series has officially come to an end. This news was shared on September 4, 2025, as the company works to phase out repair assistance for this cherished handheld device, first introduced in 2011.

    Repair Services Discontinued

    The New Nintendo 2DS XL, which was the last model in the 3DS series, has had its repair services halted due to a lack of available replacement parts. In a statement released on X, Nintendo said:

    “We have run out of parts needed for repairs, and as a result, we have discontinued repair services for the New Nintendo 2DS XL as of September 4, 2025. Repairs for all other Nintendo 3DS series systems have also been discontinued.”

    With the closure of repair services, it signals the end of an era for one of Nintendo’s most adored handheld devices, as the company shifts focus to its leading handheld console, the Nintendo Switch 2.

    The 3DS Family Legacy

    The Nintendo 3DS family includes several models such as the original 3DS, 3DS XL, 2DS, New 3DS, New 3DS XL, and New 2DS XL. Since its launch in 2011, the 3DS has sold over 75 million units globally by June 30, 2025.

    Released in 2017, the 2DS XL represented the last significant hardware update, featuring a clamshell design and lacking stereoscopic 3D, while still being compatible with the full Nintendo 3DS game library. This includes popular titles like Pokémon Sun and Moon, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds, Mario Kart 7, and Super Mario 3D Land.

    Challenges for Fans

    Previously, Nintendo had ceased repair services for the original 3DS and 3DS XL in 2021, followed by the New 3DS and 2DS in August and March 2024, respectively. Now, with the New 2DS XL repairs ending as of September 4, 2025, fans face a new set of challenges.

    Many enthusiasts and collectors still enjoy playing their 3DS systems, but finding replacement parts like batteries, buttons, and screens has become more difficult over time. Although the 3DS models were generally known for their durability, the New 2DS XL faced hinge problems, leading many users to seek help from third-party repair shops.

    This announcement follows the winding down of the 3DS eShop in March 2023, which removed the ability for players to download digital games. Additionally, online services were terminated in April 2024, preventing users from accessing multiplayer and network features. As a result, players who still possess a 3DS may lose access to a variety of digitally exclusive games once they are removed from their handheld devices.

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  • Build Your Own Lego Star Wars Death Star for $1,000

    Build Your Own Lego Star Wars Death Star for $1,000

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lego Star Wars Death Star – Ultimate Collectors Series (75419) is the most expensive Lego set ever, priced at $999.99 in the U.S., £899.99 in the UK, and €999.99 in Europe.

    2. The set contains 9,023 pieces, surpassing the Millennium Falcon set, and features a detailed diorama of scenes from Star Wars: A New Hope and Return of the Jedi.

    3. It includes 38 minifigures, including iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Darth Vader.

    4. Community reactions to the high price have been mixed, with some fans mocking the cost and expressing disappointment over the limited-time Gift With Purchase TIE Fighter.

    5. Early access for Lego Insiders begins on October 1, 2025, with general sales starting on October 4, 2025, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of Lego’s Star Wars line.

    Lego has introduced its most costly and ambitious set ever, called the Lego Star Wars Death Star – Ultimate Collectors Series (75419). This set is priced at $999.99 in the U.S., £899.99 in the UK, and €999.99 in Europe, making it the highest-priced Lego set available so far.

    Impressive Specifications

    The Lego Star Wars Death Star boasts an impressive 9,023 pieces, exceeding the famous Millennium Falcon set, which was sold for $849.99 and contained 7,541 pieces. The Death Star has dimensions of 20.6 inches in height, 18.9 inches in width, and a depth of 15.9 inches.

    This set presents a cross-sectional diorama of the Galactic Empire’s battle station, showcasing scenes from Star Wars: A New Hope and Return of the Jedi. It includes the trash compactor, Emperor Palpatine’s throne room, Princess Leia’s cell, and the tractor beam control unit. Notably, the Death Star comes with 38 minifigures, featuring characters like Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Darth Vader, Princess Leia, Emperor Palpatine, and a group of Stormtroopers.

    Community Reactions

    The pricing of the Lego Death Star has ignited a discussion within both the Lego and Star Wars fandoms, with some mocking the $999.99 price tag. Additionally, the 40771 TIE Fighter with Imperial Hangar Rack is being offered as a Gift With Purchase (GWP) from October 1 to October 7, 2025.

    Nonetheless, fans are disappointed with the limited-time GWP TIE Fighter, with some stating it resembles a downloadable content (DLC) or a pre-order incentive. Many users believe that the TIE Fighter Lego set should be bundled with the Death Star.

    Availability and Special Offers

    The Lego Death Star set will be accessible for Lego Insiders for early access starting October 1, 2025, on Lego.com/Star-Wars and select Lego Stores, with general sales commencing on October 4, 2025. Furthermore, Lego Insiders can redeem 6,500 points for one of the 5,000 limited-edition posters.

    This release marks Lego’s 25th anniversary of producing Star Wars sets. However, the $1000 price has sparked discussions online, especially in light of the current economic challenges, including increasing tariffs in the U.S. The scale of the new Death Star Lego set has impressed many, with some calling it a “Collector’s dream.” Yet, certain fans have raised concerns about the set’s value due to its exclusivity and high cost.

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  • Tetsuya Nomura Confirms Kingdom Hearts 4 and FF Remake Part 3 Progress

    Tetsuya Nomura Confirms Kingdom Hearts 4 and FF Remake Part 3 Progress

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tetsuya Nomura assured fans that development of Final Fantasy VII Remake Part 3 and Kingdom Hearts 4 is progressing smoothly and on schedule.

    2. An announcement date for Final Fantasy Remake Part 3 has been set, likely coinciding with the second anniversary of Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis on September 7, 2025.

    3. Speculations suggest that the trilogy for Final Fantasy VII Remake could release as early as 2024, with a potential late 2028 launch.

    4. Nomura confirmed that significant progress is being made on Kingdom Hearts 4, easing concerns over the long wait for updates since its announcement in April 2022.

    5. Fans anticipate further reveals and trailers for both games at upcoming events such as the Tokyo Game Show 2025 or The Game Awards in December.

    In a recent livestream centered on Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis, Tetsuya Nomura, the director from Square Enix, provided comforting news regarding Final Fantasy VII Remake Part 3 and Kingdom Hearts 4, which has not seen an update in over three years.

    Smooth Progress

    Nomura, who is deeply involved in both franchises, assured fans that the development of Kingdom Hearts 4 and Final Fantasy Remake Part 3 is going well and is on schedule, easing worries about potential delays.

    Although the livestream primarily focused on Ever Crisis, it turned into an opportunity to touch on these two brief updates, which user Aitaikimochi shared on X.

    Announcement Date Confirmed

    When discussing Final Fantasy Remake Part 3, Nomura revealed that Square Enix has already picked a date for the game’s announcement. He recalled previous remarks from his colleague Toriyama, who hinted that news about the game might coincide with the second anniversary of Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis, which launched on September 7, 2023.

    Nomura stated (in translation):

    “So, about Final Fantasy Remake Part 3, Toriyama mentioned that we will have news around the second anniversary of Final Fantasy VII Ever Crisis. We’re making excellent progress on the game, but I can’t share more right now.

    We’ve already set a date for the announcement, and we plan to stick to it. So, please don’t worry and just wait a bit longer.”

    Release Timeline Speculations

    Reports indicate that the trilogy could see a release timeline starting as soon as 2024, with a possible late 2028 launch. However, Nomura’s comments hint that the game might arrive on PlayStation consoles sooner than anticipated.

    Nomura also briefly addressed Kingdom Hearts 4, the sequel that was announced in April 2022 during the series’ 20th anniversary. It’s been over three years since the initial announcement, with very few updates in that time.

    While he didn’t delve into specific upcoming announcements, he reassured fans that development is on track. His translated statement noted:

    “On that note, I’ve seen many comments inquiring about Kingdom Hearts 4. We’re making significant progress and everything is on schedule. So, please stay tuned for more info on that.”

    Future Reveals Awaited

    Industry analysts and fans speculate that both games could receive additional trailers at the Tokyo Game Show 2025 or during The Game Awards in December.

    In conclusion, the Final Fantasy Ever Crisis Livestream, as reported by Aitaikimochi on X, provided a glimmer of hope for fans eagerly awaiting news on these beloved franchises.

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  • Affordable Windows Mini PC with RTX 4000 Plays Cyberpunk 2077 at 120 FPS

    Affordable Windows Mini PC with RTX 4000 Plays Cyberpunk 2077 at 120 FPS

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Yohris mini PC combines a Mac Mini-like design with gaming performance comparable to a Windows PC, priced around $510.
    2. It features an Intel Core i7-13620H processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, 512GB SSD, and 16GB DDR5 RAM, with customization options available.
    3. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2, and upgrades for RAM and SSD are easy to perform by removing four screws.
    4. Performance metrics show solid results with Geekbench scores slightly below average but higher 3DMark scores for the RTX 4050 compared to benchmarks.
    5. The mini PC delivers good gaming performance, running titles like Forza Horizon 5 and Cyberpunk 2077 smoothly, but VRAM limits may affect ultra settings in some games.

    The Yohris mini PC offers an Apple Mac Mini-like design combined with gaming performance similar to a Windows PC, all priced at about $510. This device was recently highlighted in a video by the well-known YouTuber ETA PRIME.

    Specifications

    The mini gaming PC, resembling the Mac mini, features an Intel Core i7-13620H processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card with 6 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, 512GB SSD, and 16 GB of DDR5 RAM. Users can customize their Yohris mini PC, opting for up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM and a maximum storage of 2 TB SSD directly from the manufacturer.

    Connectivity and Upgrades

    In terms of connectivity, this mini gaming machine comes equipped with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. It’s important to note that it uses components typically found in laptops. However, upgrading it is straightforward; simply remove four screws to access the internals, allowing for RAM and SSD upgrades. The Yohris mini PC includes one available M.2 slot by default, which is a common feature in most Windows laptops.

    Performance Metrics

    When it comes to its performance, the Yohris mini gaming PC achieved a Geekbench 6 score of 2,500 for single-core and 10,724 for multi-core performance with the Core i7-13620H. As per data from Notebookcheck, these scores are a bit lower than the average scores, which are 2,568 for single-core and 11,687 for multi-core tests.

    In the 3DMark Time Spy benchmark, the RTX 4050 recorded an overall score of 8,659, with a graphics score of 8,300. These results exceed Notebookcheck’s internal averages, which position the RTX 4050 at 7,980 overall and 7,751 for graphics performance.

    Thermal Management

    During a stress test performed by the YouTuber, the CPU package power spiked momentarily to 82 W before stabilizing at 45 W, while the RTX 4050 TGP stayed below the typical 80 W limit. Overall, the thermal management seemed to favor the GPU over the CPU in this mini PC.

    The Core i7-13620H maintained an average temperature of 73 °C during 1440p gaming and briefly reached 96 °C under stress, suggesting temporary thermal throttling, according to ETA PRIME. Conversely, the RTX 4050 averaged 64 °C, with a peak temperature of 75 °C, indicating better thermal headroom.

    Gaming Performance

    In terms of gaming, Forza Horizon 5 ran smoothly at 1440p High settings without DLSS, achieving well over 100 FPS. Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p High settings with DLSS Quality was playable, and enabling frame generation boosted the average frame rate above 120 FPS. Hogwarts Legacy at 1080p Medium with DLSS Balanced averaged around 80 FPS, while Marvel Rivals at 1080p High with DLSS Quality maintained about 108 FPS. God of War Ragnarök also performed well at 1080p High with DLSS Balanced, but Ultra settings in many games were limited by the VRAM capacity.

    ETA PRIME pointed out that the $510 price tag can vary, and customers might face extra taxes or import fees based on their location.

    Affordable Windows Mini PC with RTX 4000 Plays Cyberpunk 2077 at 120 FPS

     

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  • Subnautica 2 Playtest Revealed Before 2026 Early Access Release

    Subnautica 2 Playtest Revealed Before 2026 Early Access Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Playtest Information: Subnautica 2 has a closed playtest with 280 players participating, revealing its testing stage.

    2. Development Status: The playtest began on July 19, 2025, and the latest update was on August 26, 2025, indicating ongoing development despite corporate issues.

    3. Community Reactions: Mixed reactions from the community, with some envious of beta testers and concerns about more players possibly testing the game internally.

    4. Concerns Over Development: Ongoing worries about the game’s development due to a lack of recent updates and leadership changes at Unknown Worlds Entertainment.

    5. Launch Prospects: Despite mixed feelings, the playtest data suggests progress toward an early access launch in 2026, and it remains the most wishlisted game on Steam.

    Subnautica enthusiasts on the internet have reportedly uncovered official playtest information for the much-awaited sequel on SteamDB. The Subnautica 2 Playtest (App ID 1962780) indicated that 280 players took part four months ago, giving the first solid look into the game’s testing stage.

    Details of the Playtest

    The SteamDB entry provides some insight into the testing program. Initially, the playtest was launched on July 19, 2025. However, as shown in the screenshot, the latest update was made on August 26, 2025, showing that development work is still ongoing despite some corporate upheaval affecting the project. As it stands, the app is currently not visible to the public, which is common for closed beta testing initiatives.

    Community Reactions

    A Reddit user found this playtest information and shared it on the platform. Interestingly, reactions from the community have been quite mixed. Many Redditors showed envy towards the beta testers, with one remarking, “You’re telling me 280 people have played SN2?!” A knowledgeable member of the community pointed out that this number merely reflects the “public playtest pool,” hinting that even more players might have tried the game through internal testing.

    Ongoing Concerns

    Nonetheless, this discovery arrives amid ongoing questions about the game’s prospects. One tester mentioned that there hasn’t been “a new build for a while now,” with the last update coming before significant leadership changes at Unknown Worlds Entertainment. This situation has raised some worries among community members regarding the continuity of development.

    The corporate turmoil involving publisher Krafton has evidently influenced the community’s feelings. While some players are still enthusiastic about the game, others have voiced hesitation in backing the project, with one fan expressing they’re “not excited for it anymore after all that the Publisher has done.”

    Progress Toward Launch

    Even with the mixed feelings, the playtest data indicates that development for Subnautica 2 is moving forward toward its early access launch in 2026. It also continues to be the most wishlisted game on Steam. Regardless, it will take some time before fans catch their first underwater glimpse of the sequel.

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