Category: Gaming

  • Anno 117: Pax Romana Demo Launched but Faces Major Backlash

    Anno 117: Pax Romana Demo Launched but Faces Major Backlash

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anno 117: Pax Romana is set to launch on November 13, 2025, featuring improved visuals and new gameplay features.
    2. Players start in one of two distinct regions, Latium or Albion, impacting their military strategies and gameplay.
    3. The game reintroduces land-based troop combat and includes a new research tree for economic, civic, and military advancements.
    4. Initial reactions to the demo released on September 2 are mostly positive, but player reviews show only 44% favorable feedback.
    5. Major complaints from players include a confusing user interface, high system requirements, large installation size, and a frustrating 60-minute demo time limit.

    More than six years after players created their kingdoms in the industrial age with Anno 1800, Anno 117: Pax Romana brings them back to ancient Rome. Set to launch on November 13, 2025, Ubisoft’s new game not only boasts improved visuals but also adds several exciting gameplay features.

    Distinct Regions and Strategic Choices

    Anno 117 begins with two unique areas: Latium in the center and Albion in the north. At the start, players must make a choice about where to begin, a decision that significantly affects their strategies, especially regarding military tactics. This time, land-based troop combat returns, and a new research tree allows advancements in economic, civic, and military aspects.

    Mixed Reactions to the Demo

    The Anno 117 demo was released on Steam on September 2. While it includes only some of the new features, the initial reactions to the game overall have been quite positive. However, player reviews tell a different tale: only 44% of over 200 users gave favorable feedback. Major complaints include a confusing user interface, high system requirements, and an installation size exceeding 90 GB. The most significant issue, though, is not with the gameplay itself, but rather the frustrating 60-minute time limit for the demo. Many players believe this is too short to fully experience Ubisoft’s new city-builder.

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  • LG UltraGear OLED 45GX900A Gaming Monitor Launches with US Discount

    LG UltraGear OLED 45GX900A Gaming Monitor Launches with US Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. LG has launched the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A gaming monitor in Canada, Hong Kong, and the US, expanding its premium gaming monitor lineup.
    2. The monitor is currently discounted by $400 in the US, bringing its price to $1,299, but this offer is not available in Europe or the UK yet.
    3. In Europe, the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A is priced at €1,685 and £1,399 in the UK.
    4. Key specifications include a Gen 2 WOLED panel with 1440p resolution, 240 Hz refresh rate, and a 0.03 ms GtG response time.
    5. The monitor features a peak SDR brightness of 275 nits and includes a USB Type-C port with 65 W power delivery.

    LG has been busy releasing premium gaming monitors recently, wrapping up last month with the UltraWide 49U950A. Before that, the company introduced the UltraGear OLED models 27GX700A, 34GX900A, and 39GX900A. Now, as September begins, LG is expanding its reach with the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A in more regions.

    Availability and Pricing

    The UltraGear OLED 45GX900A made its debut in Canada, Hong Kong, and the US last month. Interestingly, LG is currently providing a $400 discount on this 45-inch gaming monitor in the US, bringing the price down to $1,299 on Amazon. However, this offer isn’t available yet in Europe or the UK, although the monitor can now be bought in both locations.

    Specifications and Features

    As of now, the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A is priced at €1,685 in the Eurozone and £1,399 in the UK. At this price point, LG includes a Gen 2 WOLED panel that features a 1440p resolution combined with a 240 Hz refresh rate. Moreover, the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A offers a super-fast 0.03 ms GtG response time, a peak SDR brightness of 275 nits, and a USB Type-C port capable of delivering 65 W. For further technical specifications, you can visit LG’s official website.

    Shopping Options

    You can find the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A listed on Amazon Germany and Amazon UK.

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    LG UltraGear OLED 45GX900A Gaming Monitor Launches with US Discount

     

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  • Rayman Remake and Rayman 4 Leaked as Ubisoft Revives Franchise

    Rayman Remake and Rayman 4 Leaked as Ubisoft Revives Franchise

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft is developing new Rayman games to celebrate the series’ 30th anniversary, but details remain sparse.
    2. A potential remake, referred to as Project Steambot, may launch in late 2026, though the specific game it will remake is still unclear.
    3. The long-awaited Rayman 4 is in early development, but its release could be delayed until 2030, depending on the success of the remake.
    4. The original Rayman game launched in 1995 and is known for its charming character and art style; fans are curious if the remake will keep the classic 2D design.
    5. Ubisoft is refocusing on its popular franchises due to financial issues, suggesting a return to other beloved titles alongside Rayman.

    Fans have been eagerly waiting for updates on new Rayman games to mark the 30th anniversary of the beloved platformer series. Although a video from Ubisoft confirmed that new projects are in development, the lack of detailed information left many fans feeling let down. Recently, Insider Gaming has revealed additional insights about the upcoming Rayman games.

    Potential Remake on the Horizon

    The first title that might be released is a remake of a classic Rayman game. Tom Henderson was the first to bring this title to attention back in October 2024, referring to it as Project Steambot. However, it remains uncertain which specific Rayman game it will honor or if it will incorporate elements from various games. Henderson mentioned that Steambot has made notable advancements, aiming for a launch in late 2026.

    Exciting Possibilities for Rayman 4

    Moreover, fans might finally see the long-awaited Rayman 4. However, its development is still in the early phases, and its future could be jeopardized if the Rayman remake doesn’t meet expectations. Gamers may need to exercise patience, as the sequel to Rayman 3: Hoodlum Havoc from 2003 might not appear until 2030. There have been several rumored fourth installments that never came to fruition, including one that began back in 2005.

    A Look Back at Rayman’s Journey

    The Rayman franchise kicked off in 1995 with its original release, which was a launch title for the PlayStation. It quickly gained popularity due to its endearing main character, vibrant art design, and challenging gameplay. One important question for fans is whether the remake of the original game will maintain its classic 2D style. The series transitioned to 3D graphics before returning to its roots with Rayman Origins and Rayman Legends.

    Due to financial difficulties, Ubisoft announced in early 2025 that it would concentrate on its well-known franchises. As per Henderson, players can anticipate Ubisoft revisiting titles such as Assassin’s Creed Black Flag, Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell, and Prince of Persia.

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  • GPD Win 5 Launches Early with Global Crowdfunding Campaign

    GPD Win 5 Launches Early with Global Crowdfunding Campaign

    Key Takeaways

    1. GPD is developing a battery extension cable for the Win 5 based on fan feedback.
    2. The release date for the Win 5 has been moved up to approximately September, ahead of the originally planned October launch.
    3. Users can register for updates and discounts on a new Indiegogo campaign page for the Win 5.
    4. The Win 5 will be available worldwide through Indiegogo, similar to previous GPD products.
    5. The expected starting price for the Win 5 is CNY 9,999 (~$1,401), featuring an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU and 32 GB of RAM.

    Earlier today, we shared news about GPD looking into a battery extension cable for the Win 5, responding to feedback from its fans regarding the handheld’s design. The company has now given more information on when the new gaming handheld will be ready for pre-order.

    Launch Timeline Clarified

    To summarize, GPD had earlier mentioned that the Win 5 wouldn’t be ready until October. However, it appears that the company has successfully moved up the release date by roughly a month. In a post on X, GPD stated that the Win 5 is merely ‘coming soon’, and users can now register for updates and launch discounts on a new Indiegogo campaign page.

    Crowdfunding Details

    Putting aside some ambiguity, GPD has confirmed that the Win 5 will be available worldwide through the same crowdfunding site they used for the MicroPC 2 and Win Mini 2025 (curr. $1,459 on Amazon). Moreover, GPD has mentioned that the Win 5 is expected to hit Indiegogo at the ‘end of this month’. Allegedly, GPD’s upcoming handheld will have a starting price of CNY 9,999 (~$1,401), featuring an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU and 32 GB of RAM.

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    GPD Win 5 Launches Early with Global Crowdfunding Campaign

     

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  • LG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US Discount

    LG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. LG has launched the 34-inch UltraGear OLED 34GX900A gaming monitor in Europe and the UK after its debut in other regions.
    2. The monitor is priced at $796.99 in the US after a $500 discount from the original price of $1,299.99.
    3. In the UK, the price for the same monitor is £999.99, while it costs €1,299 in the Eurozone.
    4. Amazon will not have the monitor available in France or Germany until 2027.
    5. Alternate is offering the UltraGear OLED 34GX900A at a reduced price of €1,219 in the Eurozone.

    LG has just launched its new 34-inch OLED gaming monitor in Europe and the UK, following its debut in other regions last month. To summarize, the UltraGear OLED 34GX900A was unveiled around the same time as the UltraGear OLED 39GX900A and the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A. Interestingly, the latter is also now accessible in the same fresh markets along with the smaller UltraGear OLED 34GX900A.

    Major Discounts in the US

    In the US, the release of the UltraGear OLED 34GX900A corresponds with a significant price cut. LG has slashed $500 off the original price of $1,299.99. Currently, Amazon is offering an even greater deal, reducing the price to $796.99 for this model. Sadly, neither LG nor Amazon has provided any information about when this price drop will finish.

    Pricing in the UK and Eurozone

    In the UK, LG is selling the same 34-inch, 1440p, and 240 Hz gaming monitor for £999.99. From what we can see, the UltraGear OLED 34GX900A has a €1,299 price tag in the Eurozone. It is worth mentioning that Amazon indicates this monitor won’t be available in France or Germany until the year 2027. Nevertheless, Alternate is already offering the UltraGear OLED 34GX900A at a reduced price of €1,219. For more technical specifics about LG’s latest 34-inch OLED gaming monitor and how it stacks up against the company’s existing monitors, check out our launch article on the UltraGear OLED 34GX900A.

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    LG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US DiscountLG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US DiscountLG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US DiscountLG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US DiscountLG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US DiscountLG Expands UltraGear OLED 34GX900A Sales with US Discount

     

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  • AYN Launches Odin 3 in 3 Colors + Community Choice for 4th Color

    AYN Launches Odin 3 in 3 Colors + Community Choice for 4th Color

    Key Takeaways

    1. AYN’s new Odin 3 handheld will be available in four colors: Black, White, Rainbow, and a community-chosen color.
    2. The Rainbow option features an off-white design with gray thumbsticks and colorful ABXY buttons.
    3. The community is voting for the fourth color, with options of Clear Blue and Clear Purple, currently leaning towards Clear Purple.
    4. The Odin 3 boasts a 6-inch 120Hz FHD AMOLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a strong 8,000mAh battery.
    5. Pricing details are not yet available, but it may be higher than the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to start below $399.

    AYN has recently disclosed some color choices for their new Odin 3 handheld, following their earlier announcements about its design and processor specifics. The handheld will come in four vibrant colors, with one color determined by the official AYN community.

    Color Variants of Odin 3

    So far, AYN has shown off the handheld in a sleek Black color. Besides this, it will also be offered in a crisp White that has matching buttons. The third option, named Rainbow, features an off-white shade combined with gray thumbsticks and D-pad, along with colorful ABXY buttons in red, yellow, green, and blue.

    Community Choice for Fourth Color

    For the fourth color, AYN is letting the community decide through a poll on their official forums (Discord and QQ). The options are either Clear Blue or Clear Purple, both showcasing a see-through design. Currently, 51% of the voters on Discord have selected Clear Purple, while 49% prefer Clear Blue. The voting will last for 24 hours, and the final color decision will be announced tomorrow, September 3.

    Specifications Recap

    To summarize, the Odin 3 features a 6-inch 120Hz FHD AMOLED display, powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and a robust 8,000mAh battery. This Android-based handheld is equipped with asymmetrical thumbsticks that have RGB lighting, dual back buttons, front-facing speakers, an audio jack, a MicroSD card slot, and a USB-C port. Its dimensions are reported as 224.8 x 87.5 x 16.6 mm, and it weighs approximately 390 grams.

    There’s currently no pricing information available, but it’s yet to be revealed if it will be more affordable than the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to start below $399 and is rumored to run on the same Snapdragon 8 Elite chip. Unlike the Konkr Fit Elite, which boasts a 144Hz 1080p LCD, the Odin 3’s 120Hz 1080p OLED display might drive the price higher.

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  • New Xbox Special Edition Controllers Leaked, Preorders in September

    New Xbox Special Edition Controllers Leaked, Preorders in September

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox is launching a new “Breaker” series of special-edition gamepads with three models: Heartbreaker, Stormbreaker, and Icebreaker.
    2. Each gamepad will be priced at 79.99 euros/dollars and 74.99 pounds, with a global release scheduled for September 9 and preorders starting around September 3.
    3. The designs feature unique patterns, with Heartbreaker in vibrant colors, Stormbreaker in a sleek mix of white and grey, and Icebreaker in deep blue and turquoise.
    4. The controllers will be available at major retailers like the Microsoft Store, Amazon, Fnac, and Micromania, with pricing similar to recent limited editions.
    5. An official announcement is expected in the first week of September, and early preorders are recommended to avoid price increases.

    Xbox is rumored to be launching a new series of special-edition gamepads called the “Breaker” series, with three models expected in early September. This information comes from a leak shared by @billbil-kun on Dealabs Magazine. The series will feature three variants: Heartbreaker, Stormbreaker, and Icebreaker. Each model is expected to be priced at 79.99 euros or dollars and 74.99 pounds. The global release is set for September 9, with preorders starting around September 3.

    Unique Designs

    The design for these gamepads is said to embrace stylish, glass-like or leaf-like patterns, moving away from standard solid colors. The Heartbreaker variant showcases vibrant purples and pinks along with turquoise highlights. Meanwhile, Stormbreaker features a sleek mix of white, grey, and black, similar to the Arctic Camo design. Lastly, Icebreaker presents a gradient of deep blue and turquoise. According to sources, there’s also a possibility that the Breaker series could be customizable through Xbox Design Lab.

    Retail Availability

    The leak emphasizes that these controllers will be available through regular retail channels such as the Microsoft Store and major partners like Amazon, Fnac, and Micromania, similar to past special editions. Pricing will align with other recent limited controllers, which tend to be slightly higher than standard colors but lower than premium options like the Elite Series 2 Core, which currently retails for $154 on Amazon.

    Anticipated Release

    Although the source did not provide final images due to legal constraints, the new color schemes give a clear idea of what to expect from the controllers. It’s likely that the materials and finishes will be consistent with previous special-edition controllers, reflecting Xbox’s ongoing manufacturing standards.

    If this leak is accurate, we should anticipate an official announcement in the first week of September, followed closely by preorders and the actual release on September 9. As with any limited editions, it’s wise to place early orders to steer clear of price hikes after launch.

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  • MSI MAG 272QP X50: 500 Hz OLED Monitor Price Difference US vs UK

    MSI MAG 272QP X50: 500 Hz OLED Monitor Price Difference US vs UK

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI has introduced two new gaming monitors featuring Samsung’s 500 Hz QD-OLED panel: the MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 and the MAG 272QP X50.
    2. The MAG 272QP X50 is priced at $749.99 in the US and £416.62 in the UK, highlighting a 79% price difference.
    3. The monitor is set to launch in the US on September 5, 2023, while the MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 will be available later this year.
    4. The MAG 272QP X50 offers impressive specs, including a 1440p resolution, 500 Hz refresh rate, and a 0.03 ms GtG response time.
    5. It is available for purchase at various retailers, including Best Buy, MSI US, Newegg in the US, and AWD-IT in the UK.

    MSI has revealed two new gaming monitors that utilize Samsung Display’s impressive 500 Hz QD-OLED panel. To summarize, the MPG 271QR QD-OLED X50 is expected to be available worldwide later this year. In contrast, the MAG 272QP X50 might be arriving in just a few days.

    Retail Listings and Pricing

    MSI has shared links to several retailer listings for the MAG 272QP X50 in both the UK and the US. As of now, this new gaming monitor is priced at $749.99 MSRP in the US, not including taxes. On the other hand, AWD-IT has it listed for £416.62 (around $417) in the UK, which climbs to £499.95 (about $669) once you add the 20% VAT.

    Price Discrepancies

    This means that the MAG 272QP X50 is actually 79% more expensive in the US than in the UK. Still, MSI’s latest monitor is a bargain compared to the Samsung Odyssey OLED G60SF, which is currently selling for $999.99 on Amazon. It looks like MSI plans to officially launch the MAG 272QP X50 in the US on September 5. For those interested, the MAG 272QP X50 boasts some impressive specifications: a 1440p resolution, a 500 Hz refresh rate, and a lightning-fast 0.03 ms GtG response time.

    Availability

    You can find the MAG 272QP X50 at various retailers such as AWD-IT in the UK, as well as Best Buy, MSI US, and Newegg in the US.

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    MSI MAG 272QP X50: 500 Hz OLED Monitor Price Difference US vs UKMSI MAG 272QP X50: 500 Hz OLED Monitor Price Difference US vs UK

     

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  • LEGO to Release Three Pokémon Sets in 2026

    LEGO to Release Three Pokémon Sets in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. LEGO is collaborating with the Pokémon brand, announcing three new sets.
    2. The sets are expected to be released on February 27, 2026, for Insiders and in March 2026 for the general public.
    3. The first set contains 587 pieces priced at $59.99, the second has 2,050 pieces for $199.99, and the third set features 6,838 pieces at $649.99.
    4. A video on the official LEGO site hints at Pikachu’s presence in one of the sets.
    5. More details about the sets, including pricing and piece counts, are anticipated soon.

    LEGO is always bringing fresh products to its fans, and after announcing a set based on a classic film from 1971, the Danish brand seems to be looking at other franchises and worlds. A collaboration with the Pokémon brand is set to launch soon, which is sure to thrill fans.

    Exciting Leak on Reddit

    The news was shared on the subreddit LegoLeak by user CarterBricks04. This time, it’s not just one set being revealed, but three! He mentioned that these sets might be released on February 27, 2026, for Insiders and in March 2026 for everyone else.

    Pricing and Piece Counts

    The first set will have 587 pieces and will be priced at $59.99. The second set is much bigger, featuring 2,050 pieces and costing $199.99. The third set is the largest, with a whopping 6,838 pieces and a price tag of $649.99.

    There’s also a video on the official LEGO site that showcases lightning bolts and Pikachu’s tail constructed with bricks. While no further details about this are provided, it’s likely that Pikachu will appear in one of these three sets.

    Anticipating More Details

    We will need to wait for more information about the prices of these sets and the specific number of pieces included. In the meantime, other sets might catch your eye, like The Death Star from Star Wars, which boasts 9,023 pieces and 38 mini-figures, or a set inspired by a beloved childhood movie that has been available since September 1st.

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  • TCL Launches Thunderbird Q9 QD-Mini 240Hz Gaming Monitor

    TCL Launches Thunderbird Q9 QD-Mini 240Hz Gaming Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. TCL’s latest gaming monitor, the Thunderbird Q9, features a 34-inch QD-Mini LED curved display with a 240 Hz refresh rate, priced at 3,999 yuan (about $560) in China.

    2. The Q9 offers WQHD resolution (3440 × 1440), a 1500R curvature, and supports AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync for smooth gaming experiences.

    3. It utilizes Mini LED backlighting with 2,304 local dimming zones, achieving a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and VESA DisplayHDR 1400 certification, along with high color accuracy.

    4. The monitor includes multiple connectivity options, such as HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C with 90W reverse charging, and KVM capabilities for managing two computers with one set of peripherals.

    5. The Thunderbirds Q9 competes with models like LG’s UltraGear OLED 45GX900A, which has a higher price point and features like a Gen 2 WOLED panel and an ultra-fast response time.

    TCL has been making significant strides in the gaming monitor arena this year, introducing models like the high-refresh Thunderbird F6, the adaptable 32-inch 4K Thunderbird 32U8, and the impressive 57-inch 57R94 ultrawide. Their newest offering is the Thunderbird Q9, a 34-inch QD-Mini LED gaming monitor that combines a curved ultrawide screen with sophisticated backlighting and a 240 Hz refresh rate. This monitor is currently priced at 3,999 yuan in China, which is roughly $560, and early purchasers will get a free mechanical arm.

    Monitor Specifications

    The Thunderbird Q9 showcases a 34-inch, 21:9 curved display boasting a WQHD resolution of 3440 × 1440 and a curvature of 1500R. It employs CSOT’s Apex Fast HVA panel technology to deliver a refresh rate of 240Hz and a quick 1ms GTG response time. To ensure smooth gaming experiences without visual flaws, the display supports both AMD FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync technologies.

    Backlighting and Color Performance

    The backlight system of the Q9 utilizes Mini LED technology with 2,304 local dimming zones, achieving a static contrast ratio of 4000:1 and a dynamic contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. It can reach a peak brightness of 1,600 nits and has earned VESA DisplayHDR 1400 certification. In terms of color accuracy, it covers 98% of the DCI-P3 color space and 100% of sRGB, with factory calibration guaranteeing a color accuracy of ΔE<2. The Q9 also has TÜV Rheinland certifications for reduced blue light and flicker-free performance.

    Design and Connectivity Features

    The physical design and connectivity options of the monitor are robust, featuring two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, and a USB-C port that enables 90W reverse charging. Additionally, it includes two USB-A ports, a USB-B uplink for KVM capabilities, and a headphone jack. The KVM switch allows users to manage two different computers using the same peripherals. The ergonomic stand is adjustable for tilt, swivel, height, and rotation, and the monitor supports VESA wall mounts.

    Design highlights feature built-in dual 3W speakers, a “Dancing Light” RGB system on the rear, and a concealed headphone hook. The monitor weighs 10.3kg with the stand and measures 806.6mm in width and 360mm in height without it. Included in the package are HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, and USB-B to USB-A cables. The Thunderbird Q9 enters a competitive market alongside new releases from other brands. For example, LG has recently unveiled the UltraGear OLED 45GX900A gaming monitor.

    Competition Overview

    This LG model features a Gen 2 WOLED panel, providing a 1440p resolution and a rapid 240 Hz refresh rate. The UltraGear OLED boasts an incredibly fast 0.03 ms GtG response time, 275 nits of peak SDR brightness, and a USB Type-C port that supports 65W power delivery. However, the UltraGear OLED is on the pricier side, with the 45-inch model retailing for $1299 and the 35-inch version priced at $799.

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