Category: Gaming

March 14, 2025
8BitDo Ultimate 2 Mobile Clip Now Available for Android Smartphones
Key Takeaways
1. The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller is priced at $59.99 and is designed for Windows and Android devices, with a mobile clip available for enhanced use on smartphones.
2. The 8BitDo Mobile Clip fits phones with widths between 49mm and 85mm, is made of aluminum and ABS plastic, and is adjustable for user preference, priced at $14.99.
3. The controller connects to Android via Bluetooth and to Windows either wirelessly or through a USB cable, featuring TMR joysticks for improved sensitivity and precision.
4. It includes a toggle switch for switching between linear hall effect triggers and non-linear tactile triggers, enhancing gameplay options.
5. The 8Speed feature provides a stable wireless connection with ultra-low latency of 1ms, along with customizable 6-axis motion control, a 1,000Hz polling rate, rumble vibration, and a 1,000mAh battery.
It has been several weeks since the announcement of the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller. This wireless controller is priced at $59.99 on Amazon and is tailored for Windows and Android devices. If you plan to use it with an Android smartphone, adding a mobile clip will enhance the experience. 8BitDo has launched a mobile clip specifically for the Ultimate 2 Controller, and it is currently available for purchase.
Mobile Clip Specifications
The 8BitDo Mobile Clip for the Ultimate 2 Controller fits phones with widths between 49mm and 85mm. It features a sturdy aluminum frame combined with ABS plastic, and the angle is adjustable to suit your preference. You can grab this mobile clip on Amazon for only $14.99.
Connectivity and Features
The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller connects to Android devices through Bluetooth, while it connects to Windows either wirelessly or via a USB cable. It is equipped with TMR joysticks that offer better sensitivity and precision compared to traditional hall effect joysticks. Additionally, there is a toggle switch that allows users to alternate between linear hall effect triggers and non-linear tactile triggers.
8BitDo’s latest controller comes with an innovative feature named 8Speed. This technology utilizes a unique wireless connection to ensure a stable link with an impressive ultra-low latency of just 1ms. Other notable features include customizable 6-axis motion control, a 1,000Hz polling rate, rumble vibration, and a battery capacity of 1,000mAh.
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Tags: 8BitDo Mobile Clip, 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller, Bluetooth Gaming Controller
March 14, 2025
Epic Games Store Offers Free Game and DLC Soundtrack Giveaway
Key Takeaways
1. The Epic Games Store has changed its free game offer from Them’s Fightin’ Herds to Mortal Shell.
2. Mortal Shell, inspired by the Dark Souls series, features unique gameplay mechanics but has received mixed reviews, particularly regarding its level design.
3. The free Mortal Shell offer is exclusive to PC, but the game is also available on other platforms like Amazon Luna, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
4. Epic Games includes a free downloadable content (DLC) pack called the Rotting Christ Pack, which adds an alternative soundtrack to Mortal Shell.
5. The Rotting Christ Pack has been well-received by fans, while another DLC, The Virtuous Cycle, offers additional features but is not free.
Earlier today, the Epic Games Store made a change to its free game offer for PC users. Previously, they were giving away Them’s Fightin’ Herds for no cost, following a discount on Mages of Mystralia just a week before. Now, the store has switched to providing Mortal Shell, a game that was released nearly five years ago and received mixed feedback from players.
Game Mechanics and Critiques
Mortal Shell draws clear inspiration from the Dark Souls series, featuring gameplay elements like character possession and a novel approach to shield mechanics. However, the game has faced criticism for its level design and the evident influence from Dark Souls. While this week’s free offer is exclusive to the PC version, Mortal Shell can also be found on platforms such as Amazon Luna, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch (currently priced at $295 for used copies on Amazon).
Additional Content Offered
Initially, it looked like Epic Games would enhance the Mortal Shell giveaway with a bundle for World of Warships. Instead, they have subtly included downloadable content (DLC) for Mortal Shell, which might be missed when players redeem the game. Specifically, Epic Games is providing the Rotting Christ Pack, which adds an alternative official soundtrack (OST) to the game.
It is important to note that this DLC is free, in contrast to The Virtuous Cycle, which introduces a Roguelike Mode and various in-game items. Despite that, the Rotting Christ Pack has been positively received by fans of Mortal Shell. Be sure to check out the video below to hear what the Rotting Christ Pack sounds like during one of Mortal Shell’s intense boss encounters.
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Tags: Epic Games Store, Mortal Shell, Rotting Christ Pack
March 14, 2025
Retroid Pocket Classic: Launch Price for Game Boy Color Clone Revealed
Key Takeaways
1. Launch Date and Pricing: The Pocket Classic will be available for purchase on March 18 at 01:30 UTC, initially priced at $119, with a launch discount bringing it to $114 for certain color options.
2. Higher Specs for More Options: A premium version with 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage will be available at a higher price, starting at $124 or $129 after the launch discount.
3. Color and Configuration Options: The Classic 6 and Retro colors come with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage, while the higher-spec version will be offered in five additional colors.
4. Market Positioning: The Pocket Classic aims to fill the gap between budget devices and high-end handhelds, competing with models like the Anbernic RG40XX V and Ayaneo Pocket DMG.
5. Display and Battery Features: It features a 3.92-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 pixels, 500 nits brightness, a 5,000 mAh battery, and supports 27 W wired charging, powered by a ‘Qualcomm 4 nm’ chipset.
Retroid has at last shared details about the launch of the Pocket Classic after teasing its fans for several weeks. To summarize, the company released more specifications for its upcoming vertical gaming handheld earlier this week, having revealed important display details just a few days before.
Launch Date and Pricing
The Pocket Classic is set to be available for purchase starting at 01:30 UTC on March 18. Additionally, Retroid has announced that while the gaming device will retail for $119, there will be a $5 discount at launch, bringing the price down to $114. However, this introductory pricing is limited to the Classic 6 and Retro colors, which will come equipped with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage.
Higher Specs for More Options
On the other hand, a pricier version with 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage will only be available in five other color choices. As shown in the image below, this version will cost at least $124, or $129 after the $5 launch discount ends. It’s worth noting that Classic 6 and Retro will also be offered in the 6 GB RAM/128 GB storage configurations.
Market Positioning
In conclusion, the Pocket Classic aims to bridge the gap between lower-end devices, like the Anbernic RG40XX V (currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon), and premium vertical handhelds such as the Ayaneo Pocket DMG. In brief, the Pocket Classic will feature a 3.92-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 pixels and a brightness of 500 nits, all in a 5:4 aspect ratio. Retroid has also packed in a 5,000 mAh battery that supports 27 W wired charging and boasts a ‘Qualcomm 4 nm’ chipset. Strangely, the company has yet to provide any detailed information regarding the chipset.
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Tags: AMOLED display, gaming handheld, Retroid Pocket Classic
March 14, 2025
PowerWash Simulator 2: Possible Switch 2 Release Before April Direct
Key Takeaways
1. Release Announcement: PowerWash Simulator 2 will be launched in 2025 for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, but not for the Nintendo Switch.
2. Speculations for Switch 2: While there is no official confirmation for a Switch 2 version, hints suggest it may be in the works, especially with the upcoming Nintendo Direct event.
3. No Specific Release Window: A specific release window for PowerWash Simulator 2 has not been provided, and it is expected to arrive late in 2025.
4. New Features: The sequel will include a new single-player campaign, various locations to clean, and a home base for players to personalize.
5. Potential for Cross-Progression: PowerWash Simulator 2 may allow cross-progression, enabling players to continue their careers on the go, particularly with the Switch 2.
Virtual cleaners were delighted to hear the news about PowerWash Simulator 2 today. FuturLab announced that the game will be released in 2025 for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles. Unfortunately for Nintendo enthusiasts, there was no mention of the Switch in the announcement.
Speculations About Switch 2
Initially, Eurogamer reported that PowerWash Simulator 2 might be heading to the Switch 2. However, FuturLab later stated that there’s no official confirmation for a Switch release. Yet, there are several indications that a Switch 2 version is likely to happen.
It makes sense that FuturLab is holding back on announcing a version for the new handheld. The next Nintendo Direct is scheduled for April 2nd, where players are hoping to get pricing details and a release date for the Switch 2. FuturLab also mentioned that more updates about PowerWash Simulator 2 would come out in April, possibly after the Nintendo event. Moreover, they shared an FAQ expressing their eagerness to release a title for the Switch 2.
Release Window Uncertainty
Players have not been given a specific release window for PowerWash Simulator 2 on any platform. However, leaks about the Switch 2 suggest that Nintendo has already sent nearly 400,000 units of the console to the U.S. With the system now finalized, this could support theories of a summer release date for the Switch 2. PowerWash Simulator 2, on the other hand, will not be available until late in 2025, meaning Nintendo fans may need to wait.
The original PowerWash Simulator got a fair but not outstanding critical response. Nevertheless, players loved the game, making it one of the top-rated titles on Steam. The gameplay is unexpectedly rich, featuring a quirky storyline that unfolds as players tackle increasingly difficult tasks.
New Features in PowerWash Simulator 2
For PowerWash Simulator 2, FuturLab is looking to introduce a new single-player campaign with various locations to clean. Additionally, gamers will have a home base to recharge and personalize. The first simulator allowed cross-play among some platforms but lacked cross-progression. Given how addictive the game is, the Switch 2 could permit career progression, even when players are on the go.
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Tags: FuturLab, Nintendo Switch 2, PowerWash Simulator 2
March 13, 2025
Red Dead Redemption 2 on macOS: CrossOver 25 New Features
Key Takeaways
1. Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit helps developers move Windows games to macOS, but many AAA titles remain exclusive to Windows.
2. Wine is a free program that allows Mac users to run Windows applications and games.
3. CrossOver, built on Wine, offers a user-friendly interface and serves as a launcher for Windows games without needing technical skills.
4. CrossOver 25 includes over 5,000 enhancements, improved launch speed for Steam, and support for Epic Games Store and GOG Galaxy.
5. CrossOver 25 supports popular games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and costs $74 for a year of updates or $494 for lifetime updates.
Apple’s Game Porting Toolkit provides a fairly easy method for developers to transition Windows games to macOS. Yet, many AAA games are still exclusive to Microsoft’s operating system. On the other hand, Wine is a free and open-source program that enables Mac users to run Windows applications and games on their Apple devices.
The New CrossOver Software
CrossOver is a newer application built on Wine. Though it’s not free, it claims to offer a much more user-friendly interface along with several handy features. For instance, CrossOver can act as a launcher for Windows games, eliminating the need for any technical expertise. With just one click, users can dive into their game library and play thousands of Windows titles. There’s also a compatibility database that currently lists over 20,800 officially supported games and applications.
Latest Updates in CrossOver 25
The most recent version, CrossOver 25, reportedly brings over 5,000 total enhancements. Notably, the Windows version of Steam now launches much quicker, and both the Epic Games Store and GOG Galaxy are now officially supported. CrossOver 25 also automatically chooses the best settings for various games. It has added support for popular titles like Red Dead Redemption 2, Dragon’s Dogma 2, The Last of Us Part I, and Age of Wonders 4, which can now run on Macs with ARM chipsets.
CrossOver 25 is currently accessible on CodeWeavers’ official site. The license for this version is priced at $74, which includes a full year of updates. Alternatively, Mac gamers who wish to receive lifetime updates can purchase CrossOver Life for $494.
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Tags: Apple, CrossOver 25, Wine
March 13, 2025
New Free Game on Epic Games Store – Limited Time Offer
Key Takeaways
1. Them’s Fightin’ Herds is available for free on the Epic Games Store until today at 16:00 UTC, reduced from $19.99.
2. The upcoming free game is Mortal Shell, an action role-playing game priced at $29.99, redeemable only on Windows.
3. System requirements for Mortal Shell include an AMD Radeon RX Vega 56 or Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070, 16 GB of RAM, and a recent AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i7 processor.
4. Mortal Shell has an average critic score of 76/100 on Metacritic, with a lower user score of 63/100, and 64% of critics on OpenCritic recommend it.
5. An Anniversary Party Favor bundle for World of Warships will also be available for free starting today, including various in-game items and credits, claimable until March 31.
Throughout this week, the Epic Games Store has been offering Them’s Fightin’ Herds for free, reducing its price from $19.99 to $0.00 as part of its program for free games on PC. This deal will conclude today at 16:00 UTC, but there is another upcoming free game deal priced at $29.99.
New Free Game Announcement
The latest addition to the store is Mortal Shell, an action role-playing game provided by Playstack that is available on Windows, Amazon Luna, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch (currently priced at $295.24 on Amazon). As usual, Epic Games’ new free title can only be redeemed on Windows.
System Requirements and Ratings
Playstack suggests that players should have an AMD Radeon RX Vega 56 or an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070, along with 16 GB of RAM and a more recent AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i7 processor to enjoy Mortal Shell. At present, the game holds an average score of 76/100 from critics on Metacritic, while users have given it a lower score of 63/100. In a similar vein, only 64% of critics on OpenCritic recommend Mortal Shell.
Mortal Shell will also come with the Anniversary Party Favor bundle for World of Warships, which will be available for free starting today at 16:00 UTC. This bundle, however, can be claimed until March 31. Epic Games states that the Anniversary Party Favor bundle includes 444,444 credits, 44,444 Elite Commander XP, and various other in-game items.
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Tags: Epic Games Store, Mortal Shell, Them’s Fightin’ Herds
March 13, 2025
Ayaneo Pocket Ace: Powerful Gaming Handheld with Retro Style
Key Takeaways
1. Ayaneo recently launched the Pocket Micro Classic, a simpler version of the Pocket Micro, at a price $10 lower.
2. The Pocket Micro Classic lacks joysticks compared to its predecessor.
3. Ayaneo introduced the premium Ayaneo 3, aimed to compete with the OneXFly F1 Pro, priced at $1,149.99.
4. Teasers for the upcoming Pocket Ace suggest it will run on Android and feature an ARM chipset.
5. The Pocket Ace is expected to offer high performance, a nostalgic design, and an ideal size, though details are still limited.
Hardly any time has passed since Ayaneo launched another gaming handheld device. To summarize, the company began selling the Pocket Micro Classic just last week at a price slightly lower than the Pocket Micro.
Simplified Features
As we mentioned previously, the Pocket Micro Classic offers a stripped-down version of the Pocket Micro by eliminating its joysticks, but it only comes with a $10 price cut. Before this, Ayaneo introduced the Ayaneo 3, its latest premium gaming handheld aimed to compete with the OneXFly F1 Pro, which is currently priced at $1,149.99 on Amazon.
Teasing the Pocket Ace
Now, Ayaneo has started dropping teasers about the upcoming Pocket Ace, though it hasn’t disclosed any visuals of the device yet. Instead, the company has provided some clues about what to expect when the Pocket Ace finally makes its debut. Firstly, being part of the Pocket series indicates that it will operate on Android rather than Windows.
Performance Expectations
This means that the Pocket Ace will include an ARM chipset instead of an x86-based one. While there are no further specifics confirmed by the company, they have suggested that the Pocket Ace will offer ‘top-tier performance’. Additionally, Ayaneo has stated that the device will possess a horizontal design, a nostalgic look, and be of an ‘ideal size’. Currently, no more details about the Ayaneo Pocket Ace have been shared.
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Tags: AYANEO 3, Ayaneo Pocket Ace, gaming handheld
March 13, 2025
PS5 Astro Bot Bundle Available at Retailers – Great Deal Alert!
Key Takeaways
1. Sony launched new PS5 bundles featuring the Astro Bot platformer, available in digital and disc formats.
2. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition Astro Bot Bundle is priced at $399.99, and the disc version at $449.99, both offering a $50 discount.
3. Purchasers receive a download voucher for Astro Bot instead of a physical game disc.
4. The PS5 Slim Astro Bot Bundle does not include a unique design, special edition controller, or vertical stand.
5. Previous pricing for the PS5 Digital Edition was $379.99, with Astro Bot priced at $59.99, making the bundle a good deal.
Sony revealed fresh PS5 bundles earlier this week, featuring the highly praised Astro Bot platformer. The console is now available at various retailers in both digital and disc formats. Although the PS5’s price has not officially dropped, these new bundles provide a chance for customers to save some cash. The PS5 Slim Digital Edition Astro Bot Bundle is priced at $399.99 at Best Buy, while the disc version comes in at $449.99. This represents a significant discount of $50 from the original retail price of both consoles.
Game Access and Features
As is common with many modern console bundles, purchasers won’t get a physical game disc, even with the disc version. Instead, Sony has chosen to include a voucher for downloading Astro Bot from the PlayStation store. Unlike Astro’s Playroom, which is also part of the bundle, Astro Bot is much more than just a tech demo. It highlights the enhanced haptic feedback of the DualSense controller and features smartly crafted levels.
Console Design and Accessories
With the gaming industry shifting towards a digital future, it’s reassuring to see Sony continue to offer new versions of the disc-based PS5. However, the PS5 Slim Astro Bot Bundle lacks a unique design and doesn’t include the special edition Astro Bot controller. Additionally, buyers will not receive a vertical stand, as Sony has decided to eliminate that accessory with the slimmer models. Both the digital and disc versions come with one controller and 1 TB of storage.
Pricing Comparisons
The PS5 Digital Edition was previously available for $379.99 in December, and a similar deal might attract more buyers. Nevertheless, Astro Bot is priced at $59.99, making this new PS5 bundle offer a worthwhile option to think about. Furthermore, with the struggling Xbox Series X not readily available in certain areas, Sony has little reason to lower its prices in comparison to its Microsoft competitor.
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Tags: Astro Bot, PS5 Bundle, sony
March 13, 2025
Classic Fighting Game 87% Off: Now $3.89 on Steam
Key Takeaways
1. Massive Discount: Ultra Street Fighter IV is on sale for 87% off, reducing the price from $29.99 to $3.89 until March 24.
2. Expanded Roster: The game features 44 playable characters and introduces new gameplay mechanics, enhancing the overall experience.
3. Positive Player Feedback: Steam reviews are “Very Positive,” praising the combo system and competitive gameplay, despite some online matchmaking issues.
4. System Compatibility: The game runs on most modern PCs, requiring only a dual-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and a DirectX 9-compliant GPU.
5. Multiplayer Options: Ultra Street Fighter IV offers both local and online multiplayer modes, including ranked and casual matches, appealing to both casual and competitive gamers.
Capcom’s Ultra Street Fighter IV is now on sale on Steam, with an incredible 87% price cut, reducing its cost from $29.99 to only $3.89. This fantastic deal is part of the Capcom Spring Sale, giving gamers a unique opportunity to snag this classic title at its lowest price in two years. This offer is valid until March 24.
Game Features
Launched back in 2014, Ultra Street Fighter IV enhances the gameplay of earlier versions and adds a total of 44 playable characters to the roster. Upon its release, the game brought new balance tweaks, better online matchmaking, and additional features like Red Focus Attacks and Ultra Combo Double, which introduced more strategy to the battles. Over time, it has become a favorite among casual and competitive gamers alike, with many still viewing it as one of the greatest installments in the Street Fighter series.
Player Feedback
The latest reviews on Steam are “Very Positive,” with long-time supporters commending the game for its intricate combo system, gratifying mechanics, and its competitive aspect. However, some players have highlighted a significant issue – the online matchmaking can be a bit unpredictable, with occasional connection problems. Nonetheless, the game remains strong for offline experiences, particularly in local multiplayer or arcade mode.
System Requirements
In terms of performance, Ultra Street Fighter IV is compatible with most modern PCs, needing just a dual-core processor, 2GB of RAM, and a DirectX 9-compliant GPU. It features both local and online multiplayer options, including ranked and casual matches, making it a solid choice for those wanting to revisit the classic days of 2D fighting games.
If you’re interested in adding this legendary fighter to your gaming library, the current deal is active on Steam and will last until March 24.
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Tags: Capcom, Steam Sale, Ultra Street Fighter IV
March 13, 2025
DLSS 4 Launches in 100+ Games; Neural Shaders Arrive in April
Key Takeaways
1. Nvidia’s DLSS 4 has launched and is the fastest adopted gaming technology, available in over a hundred games and applications.
2. A comprehensive list of supported games includes popular titles like Cyberpunk 2077, God of War Ragnarok, and Star Wars Outlaws, with new additions expected weekly.
3. DLSS 4 utilizes Multi Frame Generation to create up to three extra frames per traditional frame, improving performance, particularly in single-player games.
4. Fast-paced shooters may experience input lag and visual glitches due to the generated “fake” frames, limiting the benefits of DLSS 4.
5. Nvidia’s upcoming Neural Shader technology will enhance DirectX API support, improving image quality and performance through neural rendering techniques.
Nvidia’s Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) 4 has been launched and is now found in over a hundred games and applications. The company claims it is the “fastest adopted Nvidia gaming technology ever.” This upscaling API was first revealed in January, and the number of games that support it has been increasing, with more on the way. Moreover, Nvidia has indicated that it will introduce Neural Shader technology for DirectX API in April.
Supported Games List
Nvidia provided a comprehensive list of games that support DLSS 4, featuring well-known titles like Cyberpunk 2077, God of War Ragnarok, and Star Wars Outlaws, along with others like THE FINALS, Ghostrunner 2, and Ready or Not. Some new releases like FragPunk and Avowed are also included. This list is expected to grow as new games add support for DLSS 4 weekly. All these games utilize DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, an AI-powered technology capable of generating up to three extra frames for each traditionally rendered frame.
Performance Considerations
Despite the potential for a significant boost in FPS, not every game benefits from this technology. Fast-paced shooters that demand high precision and low latency could suffer from issues because the “fake” frames might lead to input lag, varying frame times, and visual glitches. In contrast, single-player campaign games would see a notable improvement from frame generation.
Neural Shader Technology
Additionally, Nvidia revealed more information regarding its Neural Shader technology and its support for DirectX. This technology is already part of the Nvidia RTX toolkit but will soon extend its compatibility to DirectX API. Neural rendering, which Nvidia describes as the next phase of computer graphics, employs small neural networks to create textures, materials, lighting, and other elements that enhance both image quality and game performance. Nvidia is collaborating with Microsoft to integrate this technology into the DirectX 12 Agility development kit, set to launch next month.
DLSS 4 is compatible with RTX 50, 40, 30, and 20 series GPUs, although Multi Frame Generation is officially restricted to the RTX 50 series cards only.
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Tags: DLSS 4, Neural Shader, Nvidia RTX 50