Category: Gaming

  • Sugar Cubes N97 Elite: New Gaming Handheld with Nokia Design

    Sugar Cubes N97 Elite: New Gaming Handheld with Nokia Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The N97 Elite is a gaming handheld inspired by the classic Nokia N97, featuring a sliding design.
    2. It is powered by the Snapdragon 855+ processor, which is somewhat outdated but still capable of running most emulators.
    3. The device includes 12 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage.
    4. The 4.7-inch screen can slide up and tilt, revealing game controllers instead of the original keyboard.
    5. The N97 Elite is priced at CNY 1,499 (approximately $205) and is currently available for shipping within China.

    Sugar Cubes has launched a new gaming handheld called the N97 Elite. The name might ring a bell because its design is inspired by the classic Nokia N97, known for its unique sliding feature. Even though the sliding design is not particularly rare among handhelds, it does bring back some fond memories for fans of the original phone.

    Specifications Overview

    Even though Sugar Cubes has crafted the N97 Elite as a tribute to the Nokia N97, the specifications are somewhat outdated. The top-tier version of the N97 Elite is equipped with the Snapdragon 855+, a high-end chip from 2019. While it may not be the leading mobile processor today, it remains competent enough to run most emulators without much trouble.

    Features of the N97 Elite

    This SoC is complemented by 12 GB of RAM and offers 512 GB of internal storage. The handheld features a 4.7-inch screen that can slide up and tilt for a better viewing experience. When the screen is pushed up, it unveils the game controllers, which take the place of the original keyboard found on the Nokia N97. There’s a D-pad included, but it’s worth noting that the device lacks analog sticks (8BitDo Ultimate 2C Hall effect controller curr. $25.99 on Amazon), likely due to its compact size.

    It seems Sugar Cubes has been sharing images of the device prototypes on Chinese social media since late last year, and the N97 Elite is currently available for shipping within China. There hasn’t been any announcement regarding its availability in other countries, but the price tag for this gaming handheld is set at CNY 1,499, which roughly translates to about $205.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • 1988 Murder Mystery Game Gets Positive Reviews on Steam

    1988 Murder Mystery Game Gets Positive Reviews on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Concept: The Roottrees Are Dead combines mystery with logic puzzles, providing a rewarding experience as players unravel the story.

    2. Development Background: Created by Robin Ward during the 2023 Global Game Jam, the game features updates like new illustrations, an improved interface, and an original soundtrack.

    3. Narrative Setting: Set in 1988, the story revolves around the Roottree sisters’ tragic air crash, leaving behind a billion-dollar estate to be divided among complex family ties.

    4. Investigation Mechanic: Players must investigate the family tree using a dial-up modem to locate surviving relatives and distribute the inherited wealth.

    5. Gameplay Features: As players progress, they encounter increasingly challenging evidence and plot twists, with a bonus family tree available in the Steam version after completing the main campaign.

    If the Mind Place in Alan Wake 2 intrigued you but didn’t quite hit the mark, then The Roottrees Are Dead might just be the game you’re looking for. This game blends mystery with brain-teasing logic puzzles, giving you that satisfying feeling of accomplishment as you unravel the next part of the story.

    Game Background

    Created by Robin Ward for the 2023 Global Game Jam, this game has seen some fresh updates. It features new illustrations, an updated interface, and an original score that adds depth to the experience.

    Storyline and Setting

    The narrative takes place in 1988, where the Roottree sisters and their parents tragically perish in an air crash. This leaves behind an estate valued at over a billion dollars. Now, the task is to distribute this wealth among the remaining family members, but thanks to some complex family ties established by their great-great-grandfather, this task is not as simple as it seems.

    You’ll need to investigate the family tree in order to locate surviving relatives and share the fortune. How will you do this? By using your good old dial-up modem! You’ll be turning the internet upside-down as you search for those long-lost family members.

    Gameplay Experience

    As you uncover more connections and figure out where everyone fits on the family tree, you’ll find that new pieces of evidence become harder to find, and the plot will take unexpected turns. Additionally, the Steam version offers a bonus family tree to complete once you finish the main campaign. The Roottrees Are Dead has received overwhelmingly positive feedback on Steam.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • AMD RDNA 4 GPU with 32GB VRAM vs RTX 5090: What to Know

    AMD RDNA 4 GPU with 32GB VRAM vs RTX 5090: What to Know

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Radeon RX 9070 XT will be the leading RDNA 4 GPU with 16 GB of VRAM.
    2. AMD is planning to release another high-performance RDNA 4 GPU in early 2025, potentially featuring up to 32 GB of VRAM.
    3. This new GPU may compete against the RTX 5090 and could be tailored for gaming or data center use.
    4. The memory bus for the upcoming GPU is likely to be 256-bit or 512-bit, with 512-bit being less probable.
    5. The new GPU may be a higher binned version of the Navi 44 GPU, possibly with AI enhancements.

    So far, AMD’s marketing materials indicate that the Radeon RX 9070 XT will be the leading RDNA 4 GPU of this generation, featuring 16 GB of VRAM. A more advanced model equipped with a Navi 4c GPU was cancelled for various reasons. Nevertheless, Team Red seems to have another surprise, if a rumor from Chiphell holds true.

    Upcoming High-End GPU

    It seems that the company is preparing to introduce another high-performance RDNA 4 GPU in the first half of 2025. The exact VRAM amount is still undecided, but it might reach up to 32 GB. This new GPU is expected to rival AMD’s competition against the RTX 5090 this generation. However, there are questions about whether this will be a gaming GPU or one aimed at data centers, which could genuinely benefit from the additional video memory. Likely, it will come with a hefty price tag, unlike the RX 9070 XT.

    Memory Bus Specifications

    The mention of 32 GB of VRAM suggests that the memory bus for this GPU will either be 256-bit or 512-bit. So far, there hasn’t been any news about AMD developing a GPU with the latter. Thus, it’s quite probable that it’ll be a higher binned version of the Navi 44 GPU, potentially with some AI enhancements as well. If it comes out under the Radeon brand, there could be a chance to play some games on it—though not particularly well, but still playable.

    Source:
    Link

    AMD RDNA 4 GPU with 32GB VRAM vs RTX 5090: What to Know

     

    Tags: , ,
  • New Free Xcom-like Strategy RPG Soars on Steam with Positive Reviews

    New Free Xcom-like Strategy RPG Soars on Steam with Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Successful Launch: Girls’ Frontline 2: Exilium debuted globally on February 11, 2025, receiving “Very Positive” reviews and climbing the Steam rankings.

    2. Engaging Storyline: The game continues the narrative a decade after the original, featuring the Commander and Tactical Dolls in a plot filled with hidden agendas and evolving loyalties.

    3. Innovative Gameplay: Exilium offers turn-based tactical combat with a 3D element, allowing dynamic cover and destructible environments, along with customizable weapon loadouts.

    4. User-Friendly Experience: The game features streamlined daily tasks, a gentle learning curve, and reasonable system requirements, enhancing accessibility for players.

    5. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Exilium can be played on PC (Steam) and mobile (Android and iOS), making it a versatile option for gamers.

    The strategy RPG genre has long had a loyal following. Fans who appreciate strategic complexity blended with engaging narratives are naturally drawn to this type of game. Now, Girls’ Frontline 2: Exilium is making its mark, and it’s getting off to a solid start. Since it was globally released on February 11, 2025, the game has been rising in the Steam rankings with “Very Positive” reviews, attracting both veterans of the series and new players alike. Prior to its full launch, Exilium underwent several closed beta tests, including a global beta in November 2024 and earlier phases in China that started in 2021.

    Storyline and Characters

    Created by Sunborn Information Co., Ltd., Exilium continues the tale a decade after the original Girls’ Frontline. It follows the Commander, who has left Griffin & Kryuger to navigate life in hazardous areas. What begins as simple bounty hunts quickly evolves into a larger narrative filled with hidden plots and changing loyalties. Throughout the journey, the Commander collaborates with Tactical Dolls (T-Dolls), each with their own backgrounds and special skills to enhance the team.

    Combat and Gameplay Mechanics

    The game maintains its turn-based tactical combat but introduces a 3D element. Players can utilize dynamic cover, break through destructible environments, and customize weapons with a 360-degree view. Whether using handguns, shotguns, or machine guns, every loadout can be adapted to fit various strategies. Beyond combat, the Dormitory system allows players to engage with their T-Dolls, unlocking special content along the way.

    Overall Experience

    While Exilium features some suggestive character designs, it primarily emphasizes strategic gameplay and narrative-driven missions. Initial reviews highlight the streamlined daily tasks, which are quick to finish and don’t feel burdensome. The learning curve is gentle, according to some feedback. System requirements are also quite reasonable, recommending 8GB RAM and a GTX 750 or Radeon HD 7790 GPU. However, a Sunborn ID is necessary to play, as well as agreeing to the game’s EULA during installation.

    Another impressive aspect of the game is its cross-platform compatibility. Girls’ Frontline 2: Exilium can be played on both PC (via Steam) and mobile platforms (Android and iOS). Given its tactical depth, captivating storylines, and appealing visuals, this game is poised to become one of the standout free-to-play titles of 2025.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • RTX 5070 Ti Pricing in Europe: 400 EUR Markup Hurts Value

    RTX 5070 Ti Pricing in Europe: 400 EUR Markup Hurts Value

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and 5070 are set to release on February 20, but recent retailer leaks have raised concerns about their pricing.
    2. Leaked prices for the RTX 5070 Ti range from €1,149.99 to €1,199.99, significantly higher than the official MSRP of €884.
    3. The high pricing may be due to increased demand exceeding supply, with the RTX 5070 Ti expected to offer a 5–10% performance boost over the RTX 4070 Ti Super.
    4. The RTX 5070 series may face similar price hikes and supply issues that have affected the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 models, which are hard to find in stores.
    5. Observations about the pricing and supply situation have been noted by industry sources, including Tomasz Gawronski and VideoCardz.

    The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and 5070 have been highly anticipated, with their arrival at stores expected on February 20. However, recent leaks from retailers have dampened the excitement a bit.

    Pricing Details Leak

    Several retail leaks from France and Austria suggest that the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti could be priced as high as €1,199.99. While the official European MSRP for the RTX 5070 Ti is set at €884 in both Austria and France, the leaked listings show a price of €1,149.99 from a French retailer and €1,199.99 from MediaMarkt in Austria (according to VideoCardz).

    Supply and Demand Impact

    The high prices might be a result of anticipated demand outpacing the available supply, something we have previously mentioned. Currently, it appears that the RTX 5070 Ti may deliver a performance increase of around 5–10% when compared to the RTX 4070 Ti Super, making it just a bit quicker than the AMD Radeon RX 7900XT, which retails for approximately $749.99 at Best Buy.

    Market Comparison

    At this pace, it seems that the RTX 5070 and 5070 Ti could experience the same price hikes and supply issues that have plagued the already released GeForce RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 graphics cards. These models have been nearly impossible to find since their debut, except in some prebuilt PCs.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • GTA 6 Nears Completion: Game Now Fully Playable

    GTA 6 Nears Completion: Game Now Fully Playable

    Key Takeaways

    1. GTA 6 is set to release in 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, though concerns about sticking to this timeline remain in the gaming community.
    2. Former Rockstar employee Mike York confirmed that GTA 6 is fully playable and in the final testing phase, focusing on bug fixes.
    3. The development team is prioritizing a seamless gameplay experience by thoroughly testing various scenarios due to the unpredictable nature of player behavior in GTA.
    4. York believes that while new features may still be added, the game is progressing well enough to keep the 2025 launch on track.
    5. Limited updates from official channels have not dampened excitement, as the first trailer released on December 5, 2023, continues to fuel anticipation.

    GTA 6 is considered by many to be the most eagerly awaited video game ever. Since the release of its first trailer on December 5, 2023, updates from official channels have been limited. However, the GTA 6 website has confirmed that the game will be available in 2025 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. Despite this, there are still doubts in the gaming community about whether Rockstar Games can stick to this timeline. Yet, a former Rockstar employee believes that a 2025 launch is quite plausible.

    Insights from a Former Developer

    Mike York, who previously worked with Rockstar on titles like GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2, provided some information about the development of GTA 6 during an interview with Kiwi Talkz, which has since been removed. This has sparked various discussions on Reddit. York mentioned that the game is currently fully playable and has reached its final testing phase. Even though the content is complete, a game as expansive as GTA 6 is probably filled with hidden bugs, and fixing these issues has become the main focus.

    The ex-Rockstar developer emphasized that the team is concentrating on finding and resolving bugs to ensure a seamless experience upon launch.

    Development Challenges

    “They’re likely still adding some new features here and there, but I would think the game is playable now, and many individuals are testing it thoroughly,” he said. When comparing the final testing phase of GTA 6 to a more straightforward action RPG like The Witcher 3, York pointed out that player behavior in GTA is significantly more unpredictable. This unpredictability necessitates a lot of testing across various scenarios to guarantee a smooth gameplay experience. Although this process may take time, York’s comments indicate that development is progressing well, keeping the 2025 launch on track.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Realme GT7 Pro Racing Edition: Elite Chipset & 6000 Nits Display

    Realme GT7 Pro Racing Edition: Elite Chipset & 6000 Nits Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. Official Reveal Date: The GT7 Pro Racing Edition will be revealed on February 13th, 2025, at 10 AM CST.

    2. Premium Build Quality: It features a high-quality design with a metal frame and glass body, emphasizing both performance and aesthetics.

    3. Color Variants: Two unique color options will be available, allowing customization to suit personal styles.

    4. Gaming Focus: The device is aimed at the gaming and power user market, creating anticipation for its capabilities.

    5. Rumors and Speculation: Further details on specifications and features are expected at the official launch, heightening interest among fans.

    Realme has announced that the GT7 Pro Racing Edition will be officially revealed on February 13th, 2025, at 10 AM CST. This upcoming gaming phone has sparked interest, and we’ll look at what Realme has disclosed about it, along with some intriguing rumors that have surfaced.

    Premium Build Quality

    The GT7 Pro Racing Edition boasts a high-quality design, featuring a metal frame and glass body similar to its predecessor, the GT7 Pro. This attention to detail highlights Realme’s dedication to crafting a device that not only performs well but also looks good.

    Color Variants

    Customers will have the option to choose from two unique color variants for the GT7 Pro Racing Edition. This variety allows users to pick a style that best suits their personal taste, enhancing the overall appeal of the device.

    Anticipation and Speculation

    The GT7 Pro Racing Edition is gearing up to be a strong competitor in the gaming and power user market. However, we will have to wait until the official launch to confirm all the specifications and features that have been rumored. The anticipation is building, and fans are eager to see how this device will perform compared to its rivals.

    Source:
    Link

    Realme GT7 Pro Racing Edition: Elite Chipset & 6000 Nits Display

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Switch 2 Rumors: Single “Oh” Ignites First-Party Title Speculation

    Switch 2 Rumors: Single “Oh” Ignites First-Party Title Speculation

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has announced a new console to follow the Switch, likely releasing around June 2025, with a rumored price between $350 and $399.
    2. Expected launch titles include Mario Kart 9 and potentially a new Super Smash Bros. game, hinted at by series creator Masahiro Sakurai.
    3. Sakurai’s brief comment on social media has sparked speculation about a new Super Smash Bros. installment being ready for the Switch 2.
    4. Fan discussions are lively, with hopes for new characters in the next Super Smash Bros. game, while some doubt a new title could arrive until 2028.
    5. More details and confirmations are anticipated during the upcoming Nintendo Direct event scheduled for April 2, 2025.

    Nintendo has announced a new console to follow the Switch, which is currently priced at $299 on Amazon. However, not many details have been shared yet. Key questions still linger: When will the Switch 2 be released, what will its price be, and which games can players expect at launch? The new device is likely not arriving until at least June 2025. A recent rumor hints at a price point between $350 and $399.

    Anticipated Titles

    Fans are almost guaranteed to see Mario Kart 9 hit the shelves soon after the Switch 2 is released. There’s also a glimmer of hope that Super Smash Bros. may be ready as well, promising thrilling matchups with iconic characters. This excitement stems from a post on X by Masahiro Sakurai, the creator of Super Smash Bros., who simply wrote “Oh!” in a mysterious two-letter message.

    Hints from the Creator

    As the long-time director of the Super Smash Bros. franchise, Sakurai likely has valuable knowledge about what’s happening behind the scenes. Although he doesn’t officially represent Nintendo, his brief comment from February 5 has been interpreted by many as a sign that a new installment in the beloved fighting game series could be coming to the Switch 2, possibly even at launch. This wouldn’t be shocking, as a new Super Smash Bros. title could significantly boost interest in Nintendo’s latest console.

    Fan Reactions and Speculations

    Conversations on X are buzzing with excitement. Hopeful fans are convinced that development is progressing well and are guessing about potential new characters, like Shadow the Hedgehog or those from Astral Chain. On the flip side, some are doubtful, suggesting that a new game might not appear until 2028. The truth behind these speculations may come to light during the upcoming Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2, 2025.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • 27-Inch AOC Monitor: 2K, 180Hz, QD-Mini LED Under $250

    27-Inch AOC Monitor: 2K, 180Hz, QD-Mini LED Under $250

    Key Takeaways

    1. Display Quality: The AOC Q27G41XMN features a 27-inch Fast VA panel with 2560×1440 (2K QHD) resolution, 180Hz refresh rate, and 1ms GTG response time for sharp images and smooth gameplay.

    2. Advanced Technology: It includes QD-Mini LED technology with 4608 LED lights across 1152 dimming zones for enhanced contrast and color vibrancy, covering 100% of sRGB and 97% of DCI-P3.

    3. User Comfort Features: The monitor is designed for prolonged use with DC dimming, low blue light modes, and anti-glare protection to reduce eye strain during gaming sessions.

    4. Gaming Enhancements: It offers smart gaming features like dynamic assist crosshair, sniper scope magnifier, customizable Game Mode settings, and shadow enhancement for improved visibility.

    5. Connectivity and Build: The monitor includes HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and has an adjustable stand with a VESA mount compatibility, weighing 6.35kg with the stand.

    AOC has unveiled its latest 27-inch Q27G41XMN gaming monitor in China. The device is priced at 1,599 yuan ($218) and can now be found on JD.com. Let’s take a look at the main specifications.

    AOC Q27G41XMN Features

    This monitor features a 27-inch Fast VA panel with a 2560×1440 (2K QHD) resolution, which provides sharp images and strong contrast. It boasts an impressive refresh rate of 180Hz, allowing for smooth visuals and less motion blur. With a quick 1ms GTG response time, it reduces ghosting and enhances clarity during action-packed gameplay. The panel offers a high static contrast ratio of 5000:1, greatly enhancing image depth and detail.

    Advanced Technology

    Loaded with QD-Mini LED technology, it includes 4608 precision-controlled LED lights across 1152 dimming zones. This results in improved contrast, richer colors, and deeper blacks. Additionally, it features a quantum dot nano-coating that enhances color vibrancy, covering 100% of the sRGB color space and 97% of DCI-P3. Factory calibration to DeltaE<2 ensures that users get pro-grade accuracy right when they set it up.

    HDR1000 certification and a peak brightness of 1200 nits make HDR content truly pop. The inclusion of Adaptive Sync (FreeSync) helps prevent frame drops and screen tearing, while DSC (Display Stream Compression) makes sure that 2K resolution and 180Hz refresh rates work perfectly together through a single connection—without sacrificing image quality.

    User Comfort and Gaming Features

    For those long gaming sessions, this monitor is designed with eye comfort in mind. DC dimming helps eliminate screen flicker, and there’s a low blue light mode with four presets for media, web browsing, office tasks, and reading. It also has built-in anti-glare protection to make viewing easier on the eyes.

    Gamers will appreciate the smart FPS features, like a dynamic assist crosshair and a sniper scope magnifier with three levels of zoom for accurate targeting. The Game Mode settings let users customize visual profiles for various genres, and a real-time FPS counter shows the refresh rate for performance monitoring. It also includes shadow enhancement that helps reveal details in darker scenes, improving visibility of hidden enemies.

    Connectivity and Build Quality

    On the connectivity front, the monitor includes HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, and an audio output. It’s VESA 100×100mm compatible and features an adjustable stand that tilts from -5° to 23°. Weighing 6.35kg with the stand (5.38kg without), it is suitable for both gaming and creative tasks.

    27-Inch AOC Monitor: 2K, 180Hz, QD-Mini LED Under $25027-Inch AOC Monitor: 2K, 180Hz, QD-Mini LED Under $250
    Tags: , ,
  • Legendary Vampire Saga Makes Epic AAA Comeback

    Legendary Vampire Saga Makes Epic AAA Comeback

    Key Takeaways

    1. Castlevania has been a significant part of gaming history since its launch in 1986, known for tough combat and exploration.
    2. Symphony of the Night (1997) is a key entry in the Metroidvania genre, influencing future games.
    3. The series took a new direction with Lords of Shadow, but mixed reviews for its sequel left fans wanting more.
    4. Rumors suggest Konami plans to announce a new AAA Castlevania game in 2025, according to gaming journalist Daniel Camilo.
    5. Community reactions are mixed, with skepticism about the rumors but strong enthusiasm for a new title and gameplay ideas.

    The Castlevania series holds a significant place in the annals of gaming history. Ever since its launch in 1986, gamers have taken on Dracula and his army of monsters. Renowned for its tough combat, platforming challenges, and exploration elements, the series stands out with its often non-linear level designs. Players can unlock new abilities that allow access to areas that were previously unreachable.

    The Impact of Symphony of the Night

    Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, released in 1997, is often hailed as a pivotal entry in the Metroidvania genre, sharing this honor with Metroid. In the 2000s and early 2010s, the series ventured into a new direction with Lords of Shadow. However, the mixed reviews for Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 in 2014 left fans longing for a new game. Meanwhile, Netflix’s successful adaptations have kept the franchise in the public eye, and whispers of a AAA Castlevania comeback might culminate in 2025.

    Rumors of a New Game

    Gaming journalist Daniel Camilo reports that Konami intends to reveal a new AAA Castlevania title in 2025. Camilo, who writes for GamesIndustry.biz, mentions “various reliable sources” and expresses that he is “pretty sure” about this news. In recent times, Konami has brought back several beloved franchises like Silent Hill and Metal Gear Solid, so a return of Castlevania seems like the next sensible move.

    Community Reactions

    On Reddit, discussions about a possible AAA remake of Castlevania have sparked a variety of responses. A number of users are doubtful about Camilo’s assertions since he lacks a history as a leaker and hasn’t shared specific sources. Nevertheless, the enthusiasm for a new Castlevania title is palpable. Fans are already throwing around ideas for gameplay, with suggestions ranging from 3D action-adventures to a revival of the classic Metroidvania format.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,