Category: Gaming

  • Lost Soul Aside Impressions: Performance Issues Before PS5 Reviews

    Lost Soul Aside Impressions: Performance Issues Before PS5 Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date and Lack of Previews: Lost Soul Aside is set to release on August 29th, but there are few hands-on previews available.

    2. Early Impressions and Performance Issues: An early player reported that graphics mode often drops below 30 fps, leading to stutters and blurry visuals.

    3. Improved Performance in Performance Mode: Switching to performance mode offers smoother gameplay targeting 60 fps, but texture quality remains inconsistent.

    4. Positive Combat Experience: The combat system is noted as engaging and less repetitive than Final Fantasy XVI, with improvements seen after initial gameplay.

    5. Development Background and Future Uncertainty: Originally a solo project by Yang Bing in 2014, its long development raises questions about readiness for release amidst the China Hero Project support.


    Despite the release date of Lost Soul Aside being set for August 29th, there has been a noticeable lack of hands-on previews. Developed by Ultizero Games, this title is part of Sony’s China Hero Project, aiming to spotlight games from Chinese developers. TwistedVoxel has come across some early impressions that raise a few concerns.

    Early Impressions from the Community

    A user on the official subreddit for the first-party PS5 game managed to get an early copy. Although some were doubtful, Liamkun11 shared enough images and videos to sway opinions. In graphics mode, the frame rates frequently dip below 30 fps. There are noticeable stutters, and the visuals appear blurrier than what many had anticipated.

    Performance Mode and Texture Quality

    On the bright side, the gameplay becomes significantly smoother when switching to performance mode, which targets 60 fps. Nevertheless, Liamkun11 points out that the texture quality remains inconsistent across both modes. Additionally, the movement of the camera and the walking animations can come off as clumsy.

    As this player spent additional time with Lost Soul Aside, his feelings about the game shifted to a more favorable view. Interestingly, performance seemed to get better after moving past the initial phases. The combat system stands out positively, with engaging battles that Liamkun11 describes as “less repetitive than Final Fantasy XVI.”

    Development and Future Expectations

    The action RPG started as a solo project by Yang Bing back in 2014. Sony recognized his work, integrating it into their mission to support Chinese developers. Even though it holds significance for the China Hero Project, many gamers are left wondering about the game as the release date draws near.

    It remains uncertain whether the long development cycle was sufficient, and we might not know until reviews for Lost Soul Aside are released. The PS5 game, published by PlayStation, is also set to arrive on PCs on August 29th, with system requirements already shared. Features such as DLSS 4 upscaling and frame generation may help stabilize frame rates for both desktops and laptops.

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  • Retroid Dual Screen Add-On Issues: Fix for Pocket 4 Pro Delayed

    Retroid Dual Screen Add-On Issues: Fix for Pocket 4 Pro Delayed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Retroid Dual Screen Add-On is incompatible with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro due to hardware-level issues.
    2. The Retroid Pocket 4 Pro uses a MediaTek processor, while other compatible models use Qualcomm processors, contributing to the incompatibility.
    3. Retroid plans to develop a fix involving a new DP video receiver chip, but it may take three to four months.
    4. Retroid will issue refunds automatically to customers who purchased the Dual Screen Add-On for the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
    5. Customer frustration has grown due to prior claims of compatibility and multiple shipping delays for the accessory.


    When Retroid made the announcement about the Retroid Dual Screen Add-On, a secondary display for compatible handhelds, it highlighted that the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro was one of the initial first-party handhelds to work with it. However, a recent update from the manufacturer has left owners of the 2023 Android device feeling disappointed.

    Compatibility Issues Revealed

    Retroid’s social media posts have disclosed that the Retroid Dual Screen Add-On does not work with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (which is priced at $174 on Amazon), contradicting previous claims and even a demonstration that showed the accessory functioning with the handheld.

    The manufacturer states that this incompatibility arises from a hardware-level problem, preventing the display’s receiver chip from aligning with MediaTek’s output clock jitter, leading to PCR errors.

    Processor Differences

    Of the three Retroid handhelds that were initially said to be compatible with the Dual Screen Add-On, the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro is the sole device powered by MediaTek processors, specifically the Dimensity 1100. The other two models, the Retroid Pocket 5 and the Retroid Pocket Mini/Mini V2, utilize Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 processor.

    Retroid announced that its research and development team is currently working on a fix that would involve an updated DP video receiver chip suitable for MediaTek processors. However, they estimate that the development process for this solution could take around three to four months.

    Refund Process Implemented

    Given the situation, Retroid has decided to issue refunds to those who purchased the Retroid Dual Screen Add-On along with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. According to their post, customers won’t need to take any action since the customer service team will handle the refund directly to the original payment methods.

    The announcement has sparked frustration among customers who had ordered the accessory, which has already experienced two shipping delays. Some users feel that Retroid has not been truthful and failed to adequately test the device’s compatibility with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.

    While Retroid claims that a solution is in the works, it remains uncertain whether they will find it worthwhile to see this solution through to completion, which may entail launching a third version of the accessory for devices powered by MediaTek, or if they will simply discontinue support for MediaTek devices altogether. Ultimately, only time will reveal the company’s final decision.

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  • Gamers Nexus Faces Copyright Strike After Nvidia AI GPU Video

    Gamers Nexus Faces Copyright Strike After Nvidia AI GPU Video

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gamers Nexus is facing a copyright claim from Bloomberg related to a video on Nvidia AI GPU smuggling into China, citing fair use for including a short clip of President Trump.
    2. The channel anticipated backlash after exposing unauthorized GPU shipments, highlighting national security concerns that led to an export ban, later lifted.
    3. Editor-in-Chief Stephen Burke argues that the included segment qualifies as fair use, and YouTube accepted their counter-claim against the copyright strike.
    4. The motivations behind Bloomberg’s claim are unclear, but Gamers Nexus speculates it may relate to competition for views and Bloomberg’s ties to Nvidia and China.
    5. Legal experts believe Bloomberg’s case against Gamers Nexus is weak, and YouTube can terminate a channel after three copyright strikes within 90 days.


    Known for its straightforward and reliable reporting on PC hardware, Gamers Nexus often finds itself in the middle of disputes. The latest controversy involves a copyright claim made by Bloomberg against the well-known YouTube channel. This issue arises from a short clip in a video that examined the smuggling of Nvidia AI GPUs into China. Gamers Nexus included a segment of President Trump discussing the matter from Bloomberg, but they assert it is protected under fair use.

    Backlash Anticipated

    The channel anticipated backlash after exposing unauthorized GPU shipments. The U.S. blocked exports in April, worried that China might use the H20 Nvidia GPU chip in a way that jeopardizes national security. Although the ban was later lifted, President Trump’s remarks about the situation were featured in the Gamers Nexus piece. Since the footage was sourced from Bloomberg, they believed they were justified in asserting copyright infringement.

    Fair Use Defense

    Editor-in-Chief Stephen Burke maintains that the segment, being just a small part of an extensive video, should be considered fair use. The channel also added its own voice-over to the widely circulated appearance by the U.S. President. YouTube accepted Gamers Nexus’s counter-claim regarding the copyright strike. Consequently, Bloomberg now has the option to pursue a lawsuit, or else the AI GPU smuggling video may be available again within ten days.

    Speculations on Motivation

    The reasons behind Bloomberg’s actions remain ambiguous, but Burke has his speculations. The global media entity also reported on the illegal Nvidia GPU shipments. Nevertheless, their video did not garner the same level of interest, with feedback indicating it lacked any substantial reporting. Viewership for the Bloomberg video dropped significantly after the competing piece was released. Even if it’s just for ten days, Bloomberg’s video could gain from a resurgence in views.

    Gamers Nexus also assumes that Bloomberg’s connections to both Nvidia and China played a role in the claim. The outlet frequently endorses Nvidia items through sponsored content on its platform. Moreover, Bloomberg has a strong foothold in China, and critics have accused the organization of silencing stories that are unfavorable to the Chinese government.

    YouTube has the power to terminate a channel if it receives three copyright strikes within a span of 90 days. Nevertheless, legal experts consulted during Gamers Nexus’s response believe that Bloomberg’s case is weak.

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  • Final Fantasy XIV Director: Gamers Don’t Need PS6 or Next-Gen Xbox

    Final Fantasy XIV Director: Gamers Don’t Need PS6 or Next-Gen Xbox

    Key Takeaways

    1. New hardware for the next generation of consoles is in development, expected to enhance performance significantly.
    2. Naoki Yoshida believes there may not be a strong need for new consoles, as current models (PS5, Xbox Series X, Switch 2) satisfy gamers.
    3. The high cost of new consoles is a growing concern, with potential prices reaching $1,000 for future Xbox models.
    4. Despite concerns, Yoshida acknowledges the advantages of new hardware for game development and optimization.
    5. Final Fantasy XIV is likely to be optimized for upcoming consoles, expanding its reach to a larger audience.


    The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series were launched in 2020, and now, just five years later, there are indications that new hardware for the next generation is in the works. These upcoming consoles are anticipated to deliver major performance enhancements compared to the existing models. Despite this, Naoki Yoshida (Yoshi-P), the director of Final Fantasy XIV, a game that debuted in 2010, feels that gamers might not truly need these new consoles.

    Yoshida’s Insights on Future Consoles

    In a conversation with Feed4Gamers, Yoshida discussed the future of Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail. When the topic of next-gen consoles and the possibility of Final Fantasy XIV being available on the PS6 and the next Xbox came up, he remarked, “But when I look at things from a gamer’s perspective, I feel that there’s no real need to make new hardware, because I think right now people are happy with the Xbox Series X, the PS5 or the Switch 2.” He further expressed, “And honestly, from a gamer’s perspective as well, hardware is just expensive to buy.”

    Concerns About Pricing

    The price point is certainly a growing worry, especially with reports suggesting that a future Xbox could potentially be priced at $1,000 or higher. On the other hand, the PS6 is not expected to see such a drastic price jump.

    Yoshida does acknowledge the advancements in power with these consoles. The current PS5 and Xbox Series models are robust, making it much simpler to port games. In that sense, new hardware is seen as a positive development. Moreover, when these new consoles eventually release, it’s likely that Final Fantasy XIV will be optimized for them as well, as Yoshida noted, since it offers a fresh way to connect with a broader audience.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Dev Kits Scarce, Delaying Third-Party Games

    Nintendo Switch 2 Dev Kits Scarce, Delaying Third-Party Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Limited third-party support for the Switch 2, with few developers presenting games at Gamescom 2025.
    2. Developers are frustrated by Nintendo’s reluctance to provide development kits, pushing them to create games for the original Switch instead.
    3. Backward compatibility is a feature, but not all games run smoothly, and many players want titles that fully utilize the Switch 2’s capabilities.
    4. Analysts are confused by Nintendo’s unclear strategy regarding game approvals for the Switch 2, leading to a lack of major third-party titles.
    5. Despite fewer third-party games, the Switch 2 is selling well due to popular first-party titles and a rich selection of older games, which may influence Nintendo’s release strategy.


    Gamescom 2025 might have been a great opportunity for showcasing third-party support for the Switch 2. While Team Cherry’s Hollow Knight: Silksong was available for play on the device, other developers had very little to present. Digital Foundry has pointed out that even months after the console’s release, the development kits necessary for making games for the Switch 2 are still hard to find.

    Developer Frustration

    John Linneman mentioned that many game studios are eager to support the handheld. Sadly, Nintendo has not been very helpful. Rather than sending out dev kits, the company is pushing some developers to create games for the original Switch. At Gamescom, numerous creators expressed their dissatisfaction in private conversations.

    Compatibility Issues

    The backward compatibility feature of the new console has been a plus, but not every game operates smoothly. A lot of gamers prefer a version that fully utilizes the enhanced specifications of the Switch 2. In a video by Digital Foundry, Oliver Mackenzie highlights the limited number of third-party releases specifically for the Switch 2.

    Analyst Confusion

    Analysts are puzzled about why Nintendo hasn’t been more supportive to developers. The gaming giant appears to have no clear strategy for which Switch 2 games it decides to approve. Gamers can discover a mix of indie games, but several major publishers have yet to release titles for this system.

    Despite having fewer third-party games for the Switch 2 than many expected, the handheld is still achieving remarkable sales. Popular first-party Nintendo titles like Mario Kart World and Donkey Kong Bananza have attracted buyers. Additionally, players have a rich selection of older games to pick from. This might lead the company to think there’s no hurry to release more titles.

    Another idea is that Nintendo may be trying to avoid having all Switch 2 Edition games come out at the same time. By holding off on approving dev kits, they can make sure there are no empty spots in the console’s release timeline through 2026.

    The worries of some fans could be unfounded when reflecting on the early days of the original Switch. Third-party support was also minimal at the beginning of that handheld’s lifecycle. On the flip side, a major draw for the Switch 2 is its capacity to handle more demanding games.

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  • Free DLC Announced for Assassin’s Creed Mirage Coming Soon

    Free DLC Announced for Assassin’s Creed Mirage Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. A free DLC for Assassin’s Creed Mirage is set to be released before the end of the year, adding new gameplay features.
    2. The game received a mixed reception at launch, disappointing many fans and impacting Ubisoft’s financial position.
    3. There are rumors of a partnership between Ubisoft and the Public Investment Fund, hinted at by the upcoming DLC.
    4. The DLC will include a new main quest and side missions, set in 9th-century AlUla, featuring the character Basim.
    5. While additional gameplay enhancements are planned, no specific details or release date for the DLC have been announced yet.


    While everyone is focusing on the ongoing saga of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, something unexpected happened with an older title. A free DLC is set to come out for Assassin’s Creed Mirage before the year wraps up, and players can look forward to new gameplay features.

    A Mixed Reception

    It’s important to mention that this game didn’t get a warm welcome when it launched two years ago. Many fans felt let down by the gameplay choices and the storyline. Because of this, Ubisoft found itself in a tricky financial position.

    Rumors of Revival

    Yet, even if this installment didn’t win over the fans, it’s not finished. There have been whispers on social media for months about a partnership between Ubisoft and the Public Investment Fund. Although there hasn’t been any official confirmation, the upcoming DLC seems to hint at this collaboration.

    What’s Coming in the DLC?

    This expansion will feature a fresh main quest along with several side missions, similar to what players experienced in the original game. The narrative is set in AlUla during the 9th century, and you will play as Basim.

    Ubisoft has mentioned that additional features are on the way, as they plan to enhance the gameplay. These improvements will be incorporated into both the base game and the DLC. However, while this sounds encouraging and might help players reconnect with the game, no further details have been disclosed.

    Currently, this DLC is expected to launch before the year’s end, but an exact release date hasn’t been specified. Thus, the situation remains unclear regarding both the release timing and the gameplay enhancements the French studio has hinted at. Players will need to be patient for more updates to learn about the specifics.

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  • New Diablo-Style Survival ARPG Launches on Steam, Early Access Aug 25

    New Diablo-Style Survival ARPG Launches on Steam, Early Access Aug 25

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Launch: Beyond the Map is releasing in early access on Steam on August 25, 2025, developed by Glitch Goblins.

    2. Gameplay Features: The game is a survival action RPG with procedurally generated worlds, base building, and a classless character progression system.

    3. Community-Driven Development: The early access phase will last 1-2 years and will be shaped by community feedback, with plans for new content and features.

    4. Single-Player and Compatibility: Players can enjoy a single-player mode with Steam Cloud and Family Sharing, though Steam Deck compatibility is currently unknown.

    5. System Requirements: The game requires a 64-bit Windows 10/11 PC with specific hardware, including a minimum of 16 GB RAM and a GeForce GTX 1650.


    Beyond the Map is making its debut on Steam early access today, August 25, 2025. This game, developed by the indie team Glitch Goblins, is a survival action RPG that features a procedurally generated world, base building, and a unique classless character progression system. The developers have announced that the early access phase will be community-driven and is expected to continue for about one to two years. An exciting roadmap is also in place, promising to introduce new biomes, enemies, cooperative play, customization options, and additional narrative content over time.

    Gameplay Overview

    On its Steam page, Beyond the Map creates a captivating environment where players must construct bases, craft equipment, and engage in combat to enhance their loadouts and venture into more challenging territories, all showcased from an isometric viewpoint. The story kicks off with a shipwreck near the uncharted seas, placing players into lands teeming with hostile biomes and resources waiting to be uncovered.

    Early Access Details

    The early access version of the game is set to launch on Steam, with the store page confirming August 25, 2025, as the expected release date. It features standard platform information like supported languages and various feature tags. The current build includes a working combat system, procedurally generated biomes, and a variety of enemies. The developers are actively refining balance, performance, and expanding content, as noted in their early access announcement on Steam. Players can enjoy single-player mode with Steam Cloud and Family Sharing functionalities. However, the Steam Deck compatibility status remains “unknown.” The game will support 13 languages for interface and subtitles upon launch.

    System Requirements

    For minimum system requirements, players will need a 64-bit Windows 10/11 PC equipped with a 4-core CPU, 16 GB RAM, and a GeForce GTX 1650, along with 10 GB of storage and DirectX 11. Recommended specifications include an 8-core CPU and an RTX 3060, while still maintaining the same RAM and storage needs, which are considered quite high for a survival ARPG.

    Beyond the Map has attracted over 3,144 followers on Steam and continues to update its development blog with regular patches, the latest being version 0.1.12 released in August 2025. If you’re a fan of Diablo-style ARPG combat blended with survival crafting elements, this game could definitely be worth checking out.

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  • Ayaneo Konkr Pocket Fit Launches at Lower Price than Expected

    Ayaneo Konkr Pocket Fit Launches at Lower Price than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. The starting price for the Konkr Pocket Fit is now under $329, lower than the previously stated price of less than $369.
    2. The Konkr Pocket Fit is part of Ayaneo’s budget-friendly handheld line, aimed at attracting more buyers compared to higher-priced models.
    3. The price drop helps differentiate the Konkr Pocket Fit from the Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to feature a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.
    4. The Konkr Pocket Fit will feature a 6-inch 1080p display with a 144Hz refresh rate and run on the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3.
    5. Additional features include Hall Effect joysticks and triggers with dual-mode trigger locks, an 8,000mAh battery, and availability in three colors.


    Ayaneo has shared new pricing information for its upcoming handheld device, the Konkr Pocket Fit. In a recent livestream, the company announced a price that is even lower than what was previously stated.

    Pocket Fit and Pocket Fit Elite

    The Pocket Fit is one of two new handhelds from Ayaneo’s Konkr brand, with the second being the Pocket Fit Elite. Originally, Ayaneo disclosed that the starting price for the Pocket Fit Elite would be under $399. Furthermore, the starting price for the Pocket Fit was set at less than $369. However, during their livestream on August 23, the company surprised everyone by announcing the new starting price for the Pocket Fit at under $329.

    Reasons for the Price Drop

    While a reduced price is certainly a positive change, there are a couple of reasons to consider why this might have happened. The Konkr brand is intended to be Ayaneo’s line of more budget-friendly handhelds. While $369 is reasonable compared to Ayaneo’s other models like the Pocket S2, which begins at $499, a further reduction is likely to attract more hesitant buyers.

    Moreover, the price cut on the Pocket Fit allows for a clearer distinction in pricing between the Konkr Pocket Fit and the Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, which is expected to feature the Snapdragon 8 Elite processor.

    Specifications and Features

    For less than $329, the Konkr Pocket Fit will boast a 6-inch 1080p display with a refresh rate of 144Hz. It will run on the Snapdragon G3 Gen 3, offering peak performance of 20W. However, details regarding RAM and storage options have not been released yet. The handheld will also come equipped with Hall Effect joysticks and triggers, featuring dual-mode trigger locks, which Ayaneo claims to be the first of its kind on an Android handheld. Finally, the Konkr Pocket Fit will have a battery capacity of 8,000mAh and will be available in three different colors.

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  • OneXPlayer Strix Halo Super X: Gaming Performance Demos

    OneXPlayer Strix Halo Super X: Gaming Performance Demos

    Key Takeaways

    1. OneXPlayer has introduced a new gaming handheld called the Super X, aimed to compete with the Asus ROG Flow Z13.
    2. The Super X features a variety of ports, although it lacks an OCuLink port found in the OneXPlayer X1 Pro.
    3. The device is powered by the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 with Radeon 8060S iGPU, offering performance comparable to the RTX 4070 Laptop.
    4. Performance demos show the Super X running games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Stellar Blade at around 80 FPS and 100 FPS, respectively.
    5. The Kickstarter campaign for the Super X is set to launch at the end of September 2025.


    OneXPlayer has recently revealed a new gaming handheld called the Super X, which seems to be a slightly improved rival to the Asus ROG Flow Z13. Although an official release date is still pending, the company has provided comprehensive details about this convertible tablet.

    Port Configuration

    Among the new information shared, the port setup stands out, indicating that the OneXPlayer Super X will offer an extensive range of ports despite its compact size as a gaming device. Specifically, the convertible tablet is confirmed to include the following ports:

    In contrast to the OneXPlayer X1 Pro (which is available on Amazon), the Super X does not feature an OCuLink port. However, this is not a major concern since the Super X is equipped with the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, boasting the Radeon 8060S iGPU. Our analysis suggests that this integrated RDNA 3.5 graphics matches the performance of the RTX 4070 Laptop, and the company claims that the device can operate the APU at a TDP of 120 W.

    Performance Demos

    The firm has also released some performance demonstrations for the OneXPlayer Super X. In these demos, the Strix Halo gaming handheld is shown running Cyberpunk 2077 and Stellar Blade at approximately 80 FPS and 100 FPS, respectively. Additionally, Expedition 33 and Forza Horizon 3 have been evaluated on the device, showcasing that it maintains over 100 FPS in both games.

    Upcoming Launch

    Regarding its launch, the company has stated that the Kickstarter campaign for the Super X is set to begin at the end of September 2025. For further information about this new AMD Strix Halo gaming tablet, please refer to our earlier coverage and the videos linked below.

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  • CachyOS 250824 Launches with Automated Btrfs Boot Environments

    CachyOS 250824 Launches with Automated Btrfs Boot Environments

    Key Takeaways

    1. CachyOS 250824 introduces a new packages.cachyos.org dashboard for detailed package version tracking, with a focus on gaming performance.
    2. The default kernel has changed to linux-cachyos-lts for stability, with the LTS kernel included in the ISO installation medium.
    3. The online installer now offers a new desktop choice: the Niri window manager.
    4. Bootable snapshots in GRUB are now automatically enabled using Btrfs, enhancing functionality.
    5. Improvements for Nvidia GPU users include S0ix sleep support on compatible hardware, along with overall performance enhancements.


    While the new CachyOS release, named 250824, debuted yesterday, it brings notable changes that are worth mentioning. Alongside the update, a new service has been launched, called the packages.cachyos.org dashboard. This tool aims to give a detailed look at the current versions of all packages utilized in this Arch-based distribution, particularly emphasizing gaming performance. You can clearly see the PKGBUILD source for each package, and the packages can be sorted by architecture, repository, package name, update time, and other criteria. Both the desktop and handheld versions of this distribution have received updates.

    Kernel Changes

    Because of recent issues linked to the latest stable kernel, CachyOS now includes the linux-cachyos-lts kernel by default as a backup option. Moreover, the ISO installation medium now features the LTS kernel rather than the latest stable version, which was the previous norm. The online installer has added a new desktop choice: the Niri window manager.

    Improvements in Functionality

    CachyOS 250824 also introduces automatically enabled bootable snapshots in GRUB using Btrfs, mirroring the functionality that Limine already provides. For those using Nvidia GPUs, S0ix sleep is now available on compatible hardware. Additionally, there are numerous enhancements under the hood, making this latest CachyOS release quicker and more reliable than the last one.

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