Category: Gaming

April 18, 2025
Nintendo Reverses VRR Support for Switch 2 in Docked Mode
Key Takeaways
1. Nintendo has launched the Switch 2, highlighting advanced features compared to its predecessor.
2. Confusion arose regarding Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support in docked mode, as information was removed from US and Canadian sites but remained on the UK site.
3. VRR support is confirmed for handheld mode across all official sites, enabled by Nvidia G-Sync and DisplayPort 1.4 compatibility.
4. The removal of docked VRR support may relate to the conversion process from DisplayPort to HDMI for display output.
5. Canadian retailers confirmed pre-orders for the Switch 2 will begin on April 23, 2025, with uncertain dates for the US market.
Nintendo has unveiled the Switch 2, a more advanced gaming handheld compared to its predecessor. When it was launched, the company emphasized the many features of the new console. The initial promotional content mentioned that it supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) when both docked and in handheld mode.
Confusion Over VRR Support
Recently, however, the information about VRR support while docked has been taken off the official websites for the US and Canada. Interestingly, the UK site still shows the original details, leading to some confusion among gamers. Without VRR support in docked mode, achieving a smooth gaming experience at 4K could become quite challenging.
Handheld Mode Support Remains
On a positive note, the Switch 2 still lists VRR support in handheld mode across all official sites. This feature is made possible due to its compatibility with Nvidia G-Sync and a native DisplayPort 1.4 connection.
There are theories suggesting that Nintendo may have retracted the VRR support for docked mode due to the necessary conversion from DisplayPort to HDMI for the dock’s display output. Nevertheless, the changes on the US and Canadian websites might just be a mistake, considering the device supports G-Sync (G-Sync compatible LG C3 Series 65-inch TV curr. $1,196.99 on Amazon).
Pre-order Information
In other news, Canadian retailers appear to have confirmed that pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 will begin on April 23, 2025. It’s still uncertain if this is also true for the US, but some retailers have indicated an earlier pre-order date than was previously expected.
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Tags: G-Sync, Nintendo Switch 2, VRR Support
April 18, 2025
Aokzoe A1X: New ROG Ally X Rival with Ryzen 9 HX and Discounts
Key Takeaways
1. Aokzoe has launched the A1X gaming handheld, featuring AMD Zen 5 and RDNA 3.5 APU technology.
2. The device includes a 72.7 Wh battery with 100 W charging, promising better endurance than competitors like ROG Ally X and Legion Go.
3. The A1X features a 1080p IPS display with a dynamic refresh rate of 120 Hz, 500 nits brightness, and full 100% sRGB color coverage.
4. It offers high specifications with up to 64 GB LPDDR5X RAM, M.2 2280 SSD, and advanced connectivity options including USB 4 and Micro SD 4.0.
5. The starting price for the Aokzoe A1X is $799, offering competitive pricing compared to other gaming handhelds.
Aokzoe has finally introduced its new gaming handheld, the A1X, after months of hints on social media. While other niche brands like Ayaneo, GPD, and OneXPlayer have already launched their AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 gaming devices, Aokzoe offers a unique combination of features with the A1X.
Impressive Battery and Display
For instance, Aokzoe pairs the AMD Zen 5 and RDNA 3.5-based APU with a robust 72.7 Wh battery that can handle 100 W charging. Early reviews suggest that the Aokzoe A1X will outperform the ROG Ally X and Legion Go (currently priced at $699 on Amazon) in terms of battery endurance, especially when compared to the similarly spec’d GPD Win 4 2025.
The A1X boasts a 1080p IPS screen that dynamically changes its refresh rate to 120 Hz thanks to VRR technology. This 8-inch landscape display not only supports 10-point multi-touch but also has a contrast ratio of 1,200:1 and a peak brightness of 500 nits, providing full coverage of the 100% sRGB color space.
High Specifications and Connectivity
Additionally, the Aokzoe A1X can come with up to 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM running at 7,500 MT/s and an M.2 2280 SSD. According to Aokzoe, the device includes capacitive joysticks and a 3-axis gyroscope. Furthermore, it features USB 4 and OCuLink connectivity, a Micro SD 4.0 card slot with speeds of up to 300 MB/s, and a USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1 port capable of 10 Gbps.
The Aokzoe A1X has a starting price of $799, featuring a Ryzen 7 8840U APU, 32 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD. In comparison, models with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 start at $1,059 with the same RAM configuration. Aokzoe also offers a single SKU with 64 GB of RAM for $1,299. Keep in mind that these prices are set to increase on April 18, with full details shown in the image below.
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Tags: Aokzoe A1X, gaming handheld, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370
April 18, 2025
Free Takeoff: Sci-Fi MMO Simulation Free for Limited Time
Key Takeaways
1. Star Citizen is an immersive space simulation and MMO game in Early Access since 2017, allowing players to pilot ships, trade, combat, and explore.
2. The game is exclusively online and funded through crowdfunding and in-game purchases, with no official release date yet, leading to low user ratings on Metacritic.
3. The latest alpha patch (version 4.1) introduced new gameplay features, including a mission called “Align and Mine” and the first fauna-based enemy, the Juvenile Valakkar.
4. A Free Fly Event will allow players to experience Star Citizen for free from April 17 to April 24, 2025, coinciding with the launch of Alpha Patch 4.1.
5. The cheapest starter package costs around $50, which includes the Aurora MR spaceship.
Star Citizen is an immersive space simulation game that also has MMO parts, and it has been in Early Access since 2017. Players assume the role of pilots navigating their spaceships in a vast universe, where there are many activities beyond mere flying. You can trade goods, participate in combat, and explore far-off planets. The game showcases a lively economy and blends thrilling space dogfights with ground skirmishes and social interactions at space stations.
Online-Only Experience
This sci-fi simulator is exclusively online and is funded through crowdfunding efforts. The developers also depend heavily on monetizing in-game purchases, including the sale of various ships, some of which can be quite costly. While the game is still undergoing development with regular alpha updates, a complete launch is still a long way off. Since Star Citizen isn’t officially released yet, there aren’t any professional reviews available. However, on Metacritic, about 110 users have given it a low score of 2.9, mainly due to their frustration regarding the prolonged development period and critiques of its monetization approach.
New Updates and Features
The latest alpha patch, version 4.1, was released at the end of March and introduced new gameplay features, including an exciting mission called “Align and Mine.” It also brought in the Juvenile Valakkar, a burrowing worm that serves as the first fauna-based enemy in the game. Additionally, the update introduced an NPC merchant named Wikelo, who sells unique items. On the technical front, improvements were made to collision physics, NPC animations, and facial generation. More than 130 bugs were fixed, and better Vulkan-Nvidia compatibility was added to enhance the overall gameplay experience.
Free Fly Event
The cheapest starter package for Star Citizen, which includes the Aurora MR spaceship, is priced around $50. To celebrate the launch of Alpha Patch 4.1, Cloud Imperium Games is hosting the first Free Fly Event of 2025, allowing players to experience the game for free. This event is set to begin on April 17. As per the fan site JoinStarCitizen, the free trial is anticipated to last until April 24, although this has not yet been officially verified. If you’re interested in participating, you can create an account on the developer’s official website, robertsspaceindustries.com.
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Tags: Aurora MR, Free Fly Event, Star Citizen
April 18, 2025
Last Free Giveaway on Epic Games Store for April 2025
Key Takeaways
1. The Epic Games Store is offering $100 worth of in-game items for Firestone Online Idle RPG and a $14.99 action-adventure game until April 24, 2025.
2. The final giveaway for April 2025 includes in-game loot for Albion Online and the free game Chuchel, valued at $14.99, from April 24 to May 01.
3. Albion Online is a free MMORPG known for its classless character system and player-driven economy in a medieval fantasy world.
4. Chuchel is a humorous point-and-click adventure game featuring a quirky protagonist on a quest to retrieve a cherry, with 30 episodic levels of puzzles.
5. Epic Games Store continues to update its offerings to keep them fresh and exciting for users.
The free section of the Epic Games Store has been updated, allowing users to obtain $100 worth of in-game items for Firestone Online Idle RPG along with an action-adventure game priced at $14.99. This offer is valid until April 24, 2025.
Upcoming Giveaways
With this latest update, Epic Games Store has also announced its final giveaway for April 2025. From April 24 to May 01, players can grab in-game loot for Albion Online and the adventure game Chuchel, which is free and has a value of $14.99. While there isn’t any information on the worth of the in-game items this time around, it’s known that next week’s free game holds a price tag of $14.99.
Details on Albion Online
Epic Games Store provides a list of items available for Albion Online. According to the description, players will receive several exciting rewards. Albion Online itself is a free MMORPG renowned for its classless character system. Set in a medieval fantasy world, it features a player-driven economy shaped by trading, crafting, and gathering resources. Another impressive aspect of the game is its expansive map, where players can participate in both PvP and PvE battles.
About Chuchel
Chuchel, the free game coming next week on Epic Games Store, is a humorous point-and-click adventure created by the makers of Botanicula. Players step into the shoes of a quirky protagonist resembling a dustball, embarking on a quest to retrieve a cherished cherry. The game consists of 30 short episodic levels filled with creative puzzles and mini-games. You can check out both titles by watching the videos provided below.
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Tags: Albion Online, Chuchel, Epic Games Store
April 18, 2025
GTA 6 Leak: Trailer 2 and Game Launch Release Dates Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Detective Seeds, a known leaker, hinted at a possible GTA 6 launch date with the phrase “Remember remember the middle of November,” referencing V for Vendetta.
2. He suggested a new trailer for the game might be released at the end of May, aligning with previous announcements from Take-Two about a 2025 release.
3. Take-Two has confirmed a target release for GTA 6 in 2025, with a focus on a fall launch.
4. The gaming community is skeptical of Detective Seeds due to his past inaccuracies, leading to trust issues regarding his claims.
5. Despite skepticism, some in the community acknowledge that his latest hints could still hold some truth.
As excitement for Grand Theft Auto 6 builds, a puzzling message from a well-known figure has reignited speculation. The leaker, who goes by the name Detective Seeds, shared an enigmatic note on X on April 11, stating simply: “Remember remember the middle of November.” This phrase, inspired by the movie V for Vendetta, is interpreted by some as a clue regarding the game’s possible launch date. Detective Seeds is known for his activity on X and YouTube, where he previously stirred interest with claims about an Oblivion remake. However, those claims were proven wrong, making many in the gaming community skeptical of his future posts.
Trailer Timing Predictions
When questioned about when the next trailer might come, Detective Seeds mentioned briefly: “end of May.” He didn’t provide any evidence or additional information, but this statement aligns with earlier announcements. Publisher Take-Two has repeatedly confirmed a target release for GTA 6 in 2025, with the latest mention coming in March, indicating a specific aim for “fall.” Insiders from GTA VI O’Clock have also pointed out that Rockstar usually releases a second trailer approximately six months before the game’s launch. Should this trend continue, a trailer in May followed by a November release would fit perfectly.
Community Reactions and Trust Issues
Doubt about Detective Seeds’ reliability is particularly pronounced in a German conversation on the subreddit r/GamingLeaksAndRumours. Numerous users in the discussion raised concerns about his credibility, criticizing his ambiguous remarks that often seem to make sense after the fact. Comments range from “Who is this anyway?” to direct calls for others to block or disregard him in the future. Despite the largely negative sentiment, the chance that his latest assertions could be valid cannot be entirely ruled out.
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Tags: Detective Seeds, GTA 6, Rockstar Games
April 18, 2025
BCI Helps Frontal Lobe Epilepsy Patient Play Black Myth: Wukong
Key Takeaways
1. Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) connect the human brain to computers to assist those with movement disabilities.
2. A Chinese BCI, developed by Brain Tiger Technology and others, allowed a patient to play complex games after only 20 hours of training.
3. The BCI features a 256-channel flexible interface, enabling the patient to control a cursor at 4.07 bits per second almost immediately.
4. The trial successfully identified and removed the source of the patient’s epilepsy without causing functional impairment.
5. Brain Tiger Technology plans to conduct more clinical trials later this year, showing promise for future advancements in BCI technology.
Brain-computer Interface (BCI) is a system that connects the human brain to a computer, aiming to help those who have lost their ability to move. One notable example is Elon Musk’s Neuralink, but there are other technologies available as well. A recent report highlights a significant advancement in a Chinese BCI during its clinical trial phase, allowing a patient to engage in complex games like Black Myth: Wukong.
Breakthroughs in BCI Technology
According to a translation from IT Home, Brain Tiger Technology, along with the Tianqiao Brain Science Institute (TCCI) and researchers from the Shanghai Institute of Microsystem and Information Technology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, have achieved new heights in BCI technology. The BCI, which utilizes the XessOS brain-computer operating system created by Brain Tiger Technology, was implanted in a 19-year-old with right frontal lobe epilepsy. After nearly 20 hours of training, the patient demonstrated the ability to play complex games such as Honor of Kings and Black Myth: Wukong.
Remarkable Achievements in Control
The patient was able to execute precise brain control operations, tracked in real-time by the research team through local field potential signals (LFP). This particular BCI features a 256-channel flexible interface, showing that the subject could control a cursor at a rate of 4.07 bits per second (BPS) in under 20 hours (specifically, 19.87 hours). The report mentions that Neuralink managed to reach 4.6 BPS, but this was after 60 hours of training. Recently, Neuralink has claimed that Noland Arbaugh, the first person to receive the implant, has achieved a speed of over nine BPS since the chip was implanted in January 2024.
Positive Outcomes and Future Plans
Moreover, the IT Home report reveals that the patient remained in stable condition throughout the trial; doctors utilized the BCI to identify the source of the epileptic lesion and successfully performed surgery to remove it, resulting in no functional impairment after recovery. The team at Brain Tiger Technology is optimistic about conducting similar clinical trials later this year.
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Tags: BCI, Brain Tiger Technology, Neuralink
April 18, 2025
Valve Should Avoid Steam Deck 2 to Compete with Nintendo Switch 2
Key Takeaways
1. Performance Comparison: The Nintendo Switch 2 may have advantages over the Steam Deck, particularly highlighted by demos like Cyberpunk 2077.
2. Poll Results: Approximately 80% of gamers believe Valve should focus on developing a significantly upgraded Steam Deck 2.
3. Switch 2 Specs: The Switch 2 is expected to feature a larger, higher-resolution screen and a powerful Nvidia Tegra T239 processor for better performance.
4. Software Differences: The Switch 2 offers exclusive Nintendo titles that are not available on the Steam Deck, but its game library is smaller compared to Steam’s extensive collection.
5. Usage Trends: Many Steam Deck owners currently use it as a secondary device and are not eager to switch to the Nintendo Switch 2.
One of the hot topics right now is how the performance of the Nintendo Switch 2 stacks up against the Steam Deck. Demos like Cyberpunk 2077 have indicated that the specs of the Switch 2 might have certain advantages. This could mean that Valve is feeling more pressured to update their popular handheld device. A recent poll by PC Guide asked gamers if they believe the company should accelerate the development of the Steam Deck 2. The results show that most buyers are fine with waiting for a more substantial upgrade.
Poll Findings
About 80% of those who participated in the poll think that Valve should prioritize creating a Steam Deck 2 that represents a significant upgrade. This view aligns with what the manufacturer is planning. While there are no specifics available about the upcoming handheld, Valve hasn’t dismissed the idea of launching a new device in the future. Back in late 2024, SteamOS Designer Pierre-Loup Griffais mentioned that the company aims for a much faster and more efficient processor. Battery life remains a major concern, as the current market options aren’t living up to expectations.
Comparing Specs
The specifications of the Switch 2 feature a bigger, higher-resolution screen compared to both the Steam Deck and its OLED version. The rumored Nvidia Tegra T239 processor is expected to deliver better frame rates, particularly with upscaling. Despite this, Valve’s SteamOS has made its way onto newer devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S. Gamers can anticipate more powerful third-party SteamOS alternatives while they wait for the possibility of a Steam Deck 2.
Software Differences
The differences in software between the two systems are also quite significant. The Switch 2 has Nintendo exclusives like Mario Kart World that aren’t accessible on the Steam Deck. Additionally, Nintendo’s handheld is set to support popular PC and console games that were too demanding for the original Switch. However, its game library still falls short when compared to the Steam marketplace, which boasts over 100,000 titles. On the flip side, not every game on Steam is verified for the Steam Deck, which could pose challenges for gamers interested in cutting-edge graphics.
Currently, many owners of SteamOS use the Steam Deck as a secondary gaming device instead of their main console. At this point, they don’t seem eager to change this setup for the Switch 2.
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Tags: Cyberpunk 2077, Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck 2
April 18, 2025
Endorfy Liv: Ultra-Light Wireless Gaming Mouse with Docking Station
Key Takeaways
1. Endorfy has introduced five new mouse models, including Liv Plus Wireless, Liv Wireless Onyx White, Liv Wireless, Liv Onyx White, and standard LIV, priced from €35 to €89.
2. The Liv and Liv Onyx White models feature a lightweight design (1.9 ounces) with a honeycomb pattern and a PixArt PAW3311 sensor supporting up to 12,000 DPI.
3. Users can customize the polling rate of the Liv and Liv Onyx White models up to 1,000Hz using Endorfy’s software, and both models include RGB lighting and Kailh GM 4.0 micro switches.
4. The Liv Wireless model offers Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connectivity options, while sharing similar features with the base Liv model, priced at €49.
5. The Liv Plus Wireless, priced at €89, features the advanced PixArt PAW3395 sensor with up to 26,000 DPI, Kailh GM 8.0 switches, RGB lighting, and includes an RGB dock.
Endorfy may not be a household name when it comes to gaming gear, but they do have a broad selection of products. They’ve recently added five new mouse models to their collection. The new arrivals are the Liv Plus Wireless Onyx White, Liv Wireless Onyx White, Liv Wireless, Liv Onyx White, and the standard LIV, with prices ranging from €35 to €89. Unfortunately, U.S. pricing details haven’t been disclosed yet.
Simple Yet Effective Design
The Liv and Liv Onyx White models are quite straightforward in design, featuring a honeycomb pattern that helps keep the weight down to just 1.9 ounces. These versions are equipped with the PixArt PAW3311 sensor, which can achieve resolutions of up to 12,000 DPI. Users can tweak the polling rate through Endorfy’s software, maxing it out at 1,000Hz. Additionally, they come with RGB lighting and Kailh GM 4.0 micro switches included.
Wireless Connectivity Options
Similar to the base Liv model, the Liv Wireless also comes in the Onyx White color. This gaming mouse shares the same sensor, side buttons, honeycomb design, and RGB features. The main difference is in its connectivity, as it can connect via Bluetooth or 2.4GHz. The price for this model is set at €49.
High-End Features in the Liv Plus
The Liv Plus Wireless in Onyx White is another exciting offering, featuring the advanced PixArt PAW3395 sensor that supports resolutions up to 26,000 DPI. It also has Kailh GM 8.0 switches and RGB lighting, making it the most premium model in the lineup. This top-tier variant includes an RGB dock and is priced at €89.
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Tags: Endorfy, Gaming Mice, Liv Plus Wireless
April 18, 2025
Optoma ZK810TST: Powerful 4K Laser Projector with 7,200 Lumens
Key Takeaways
1. The Optoma ZK810TST is a high-end 4K projector priced just under $15,000, offering impressive brightness with 8,500 lumens and 7,200 ANSI lumens.
2. It features short-throw capabilities with a projection ratio of 0.65:1 to 0.75:1, adjustable zoom, and keystone correction options.
3. The projector supports multiple connectivity options, including three HDMI 2.0 ports, an HDMI output, RJ45, HDBaseT, and RS232.
4. A dedicated gaming mode reduces latency, making it suitable for fast-paced gaming experiences.
5. Weighing 31.5 lbs and measuring approximately 19 x 16 x 7 inches, it includes built-in speakers, a remote control, and has a power consumption of up to 530 watts.
The Optoma ZK810TST is a powerful new 4K projector, now priced at just below $15,000 at B&H Photo Video. For most average users, less expensive projectors are usually enough. However, the ZK810TST shines with its impressive brightness for a laser projector. The company claims it has 8,500 lumens and 7,200 ANSI lumens. This suggests that the Optoma projector is capable of performing well even in rooms that aren’t completely dark. It features DLP technology and boasts a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels.
Short-Throw Features
Moreover, it is designed as a short-throw projector, with a projection ratio ranging from 0.65:1 to 0.75:1, alongside a zoom lens that can be adjusted. The projection distance varies between 2.3 and 54.5 feet, and the zoom can be modified by a small motor. Keystone correction is available, as well as both horizontal and vertical lens shift options. The projector is equipped with three HDMI 2.0 ports and an additional HDMI 2.0 output, and it can also support 3D glasses. Plus, it includes an RJ45 connection, HDBaseT, and RS232 port.
Gaming Mode and Specifications
Furthermore, Optoma highlights a gaming mode that reduces latency, making it ideal for fast-paced games. However, this new 4K laser projector weighs an impressive 31.5 lbs and measures approximately 19 x 16 x 7 inches. It has a power consumption of up to 530 watts. The ZK810TST holds an IP5X certification and incorporates two built-in speakers, each with a power output of 10 watts. Lastly, it comes with a remote control in the package, making it a quite premium projector.
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Tags: 4K Projector, Optoma ZK810TST, Short-Throw Projector
April 18, 2025
Retroid Pocket Mini Display Swap: Official Video Review
Key Takeaways
1. The Retroid Pocket Mini faced issues with initial units being shipped in incorrect colors.
2. The Android 13 update caused significant problems, leading users to recommend staying on Android 10.
3. The device’s display specifications were misleading, as it was not equipped with a 3.7-inch and 960p display as claimed.
4. Fixing hardware issues requires a complicated disassembly and reassembly process, with users needing to install a new front shell.
5. Retroid does not offer a warranty for damage that may occur during the repair process, increasing the risk for users.
The introduction of the Pocket Mini hasn’t unfolded as Retroid had hoped. At first glance, this device seemed like a fantastic choice for gamers who wanted a small retro gaming handheld with more capabilities than the Anbernic RG40XX H (currently priced at $84.99 on Amazon). To sum up, the Retroid Pocket Mini features a vibrant AMOLED display paired with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset, enabling it to emulate nearly any game you can think of.
Issues with Early Units
However, problems arose when the company began shipping some initial units in a different color than what was shown on its official site. After this mix-up, the eagerly awaited Android 13 update caused significant issues, prompting current users to advise others to stick with Android 10. Furthermore, it was revealed that Retroid misled fans into thinking the Pocket Mini had a 3.7-inch and 960p display, which was not accurate at all.
Complicated Hardware Solutions
Now, it appears that Retroid’s only fix for the hardware issues necessitates a complicated disassembly and reassembly process. To summarize, the company announced recently that they would be providing a new Pocket Mini front shell that comes with the 3.92-inch and 1080p AMOLED display found in the Pocket Classic. However, the installation of this new shell is anything but straightforward. From the video shared below, we suggest taking extreme care while executing such a fragile task. This concern is magnified by Retroid’s apparent lack of warranty if someone messes up the repair, which is quite likely given the multitude of delicate ribbon cables involved.
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Tags: Android 13 upgrade, Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, Retroid Pocket Mini