Category: Gaming

  • Epic Games Store Announces Free Game Giveaway Plans for August 2025

    Epic Games Store Announces Free Game Giveaway Plans for August 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store is offering new game giveaways for PC gamers next week, featuring Make Way and Machinarium.
    2. Machinarium is priced at $19.99 and involves a robot protagonist saving his girlfriend from the Black Cap Brotherhood.
    3. Make Way is inspired by classic top-down racing games and has a Very Positive rating on Steam and an 83/100 score on Metacritic.
    4. Upcoming giveaways will start at 15:00 UTC on August 28, concluding the August 2025 free game promotions.
    5. Players can currently add Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge and Strange Horticulture to their Epic Games libraries.

    The Epic Games Store has just started a new set of giveaways for PC gamers. At the same time, it has put another game on sale for those playing on Android and iOS. Additionally, the store has disclosed which titles will be featured in its last PC giveaway for the month.

    Upcoming Giveaways

    As shown in the videos below, the giveaways for next week will focus on Make Way and Machinarium. For reference, Epic Games is selling Machinarium for $19.99. This game features a small robot as the protagonist, who must defeat the Black Cap Brotherhood to rescue his robot girlfriend. It is a beloved side-scrolling game that has won multiple awards.

    Game Highlights

    On the other hand, Make Way pays tribute to classic top-down racing games like the Micro Machines franchise, which includes the new Micro Machines World Series (currently priced at $2.95 on Amazon). Make Way has been nominated for several awards and holds a Very Positive rating on Steam, along with a score of 83/100 on Metacritic. Epic Games will launch its next giveaways at 15:00 UTC on August 28 to conclude its August 2025 free game promotions. In the meantime, players can add Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge and Strange Horticulture to their Epic Games libraries, with more details available separately.

    Conclusion

    Epic Games Store is actively engaging its community with these initiatives, making it an exciting time for gamers. Don’t miss out on these limited-time offers and be sure to check back for more updates on their upcoming titles!

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  • Battlefield 6 Open Beta: EA’s Best Insights and Learnings

    Battlefield 6 Open Beta: EA’s Best Insights and Learnings

    Key Takeaways

    1. The open beta for Battlefield 6 was very successful, leading to increased engagement and a rise in EA’s stock price.
    2. EA appreciated the community’s involvement, with players participating in over 420 million matches and streaming over 600,000 hours.
    3. Feedback from the beta will lead to weapon modifications, movement refinements, and adjustments to map access and glitches.
    4. The player count in the Rush game mode will be reduced to improve combat flow and maintain a tactical experience.
    5. Additional changes for player counts and playlists are planned, with updates to be shared in upcoming Battlefield Labs events.

    It’s clear that the open beta for Battlefield 6 was a huge hit. Many people lined up to experience the game, which also caused a rise in EA’s stock price. The company has now released additional information regarding the open beta weekends, along with valuable insights that will influence the final version of the game.

    Community Appreciation

    In a recent community update, EA expressed its gratitude to everyone who played, streamed, or watched Battlefield 6 during the open beta weekends. According to the statistics, players engaged in over 420 million matches, racking up more than 92.3 million hours of gameplay. The beta took place from August 9 to August 10, and again from August 14 to August 17. For streaming, the game garnered over 600,000 hours of live broadcasts and was viewed for more than 30 million hours.

    Feedback and Adjustments

    EA received a wealth of feedback from players and has shared some key insights. The publisher plans to implement weapon modifications, including changes to recoil and tap-fire settings. Additionally, movement mechanics will be refined to provide a more “balanced and traditional Battlefield experience.” This also encompasses fixing the excessive jump glitch that some gamers exploited.

    There were numerous videos showcasing players discovering ways to access rooftops on certain maps, which was not what the developers intended. Therefore, adjustments will be made to those maps too. For the Rush game mode, the standard player count will be reduced to “enhance the flow of combat and bring back the tactical, methodical experience that characterizes this mode.”

    Future Changes

    More tweaks are also planned for player counts in Breakthrough mode and the various playlist options. All these updates and modifications will be highlighted in forthcoming Battlefield Labs events.

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    Battlefield 6 Open Beta: EA's Best Insights and Learnings

     

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  • Unknown Worlds Sues Founders Amid Krafton Lawsuit Saga

    Unknown Worlds Sues Founders Amid Krafton Lawsuit Saga

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unknown Worlds Entertainment is suing its co-founders for neglecting their roles and misusing sensitive company information.
    2. The lawsuit, filed on August 15, 2025, claims the founders’ disengagement harmed the development of Subnautica 2 and its release was rushed for financial gain.
    3. Accusations include the founders neglecting their responsibilities and causing significant delays in the game’s development.
    4. The founders are also accused of stealing confidential data before leaving the company, with large file downloads noted just before their access was cut off.
    5. The legal action follows the founders’ termination on July 1, 2025, after Krafton’s acquisition of Unknown Worlds in 2021.

    The team behind Subnautica, Unknown Worlds Entertainment, is taking legal action against its co-founders, Charlie Cleveland, Ted Gill, and Max McGuire. They claim that the founders neglected their roles, misused sensitive company information, and rushed the launch of Subnautica 2 for a big payout.

    Details of the Lawsuit

    The lawsuit spans 74 pages and was submitted to the Delaware Court of Chancery on August 15, 2025. It details how the founders’ disengagement negatively impacted the development of Subnautica 2 and jeopardized the integrity of the game series.

    This legal action occurs after the trio was let go on July 1, 2025, and is linked to Krafton’s acquisition of Unknown Worlds in 2021 for $500 million. There was also a possible additional $250 million if the studio met certain revenue goals by 2025.

    Allegations Against the Founders

    The lawsuit states that McGuire, Gill, and Cleveland were entitled to 90% of the $250 million, with their bonuses connected to the game’s successful development and release. However, their actions reportedly caused delays and limited progress.

    Further accusations in the suit claim that the executives “largely neglected” their responsibilities as creative and technical leads. Cleveland, for example, turned his attention to filmmaking by 2023, changing his LinkedIn to reflect a “part-time” status. By 2024, he had completely stepped down from all creative leadership roles, with internal complaints citing a lack of direction as early as 2022.

    Gill is criticized for not addressing the total abandonment of leadership in both creative and technical aspects, allowing the studio to drift aimlessly while knowing the ongoing problems at Unknown Worlds.

    Project Shifts and Delays

    It has been reported that McGuire focused on his passion project, Moonbreaker, a turn-based digital miniatures game that ultimately did not succeed commercially in February 2024. He ceased all technical participation in Subnautica 2.

    Due to their alleged actions, the development of Subnautica 2 fell years behind schedule. Internal reviews by Krafton in 2025 described the game’s current builds as “unready” and lacking essential gameplay features. Consequently, the game faced three delays, and its scope was downgraded from a fully-prepared Early Access to merely a digital sandbox.

    Misappropriation of Data

    In addition to these claims, Unknown Worlds accuses the founders of stealing confidential information as they departed from the studio. Between early June and July 2025, McGuire reportedly downloaded almost 100,000 files, including many related to Moonbreaker, while Cleveland downloaded about 72,000 files just eight minutes before his access was cut off.

    Gill had exported his entire company email account two times, which triggered alerts from the IT department. These downloads were the largest undertaken by each of the three founders since at least 2022.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket DS Approaches 100x Crowdfunding Success

    Ayaneo Pocket DS Approaches 100x Crowdfunding Success

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo’s Pocket DS campaign on Indiegogo raised over 4,888,000 HKD (about $625,549) in just 3 days, exceeding its goal by 9776%.

    2. The device features a custom Android 13 interface and is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 SoC, with dual displays including a 7-inch FHD OLED screen at 165Hz.

    3. It includes a strong 8,000mAh battery with USB-C support, a “PC-grade turbo fan,” and a durable CNC-milled metal top-plate available in three colors.

    4. The basic version starts at 3,132 HKD (around $399) with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, while a more advanced version with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage costs about $439.

    5. The Pocket DMG variant, resembling a Game Boy and featuring an OLED display, is priced at $579.99 on Amazon.

    Who has the desire to enjoy emulated PC games on a gadget that resembles the classic Nintendo DS? It seems that 1,092 fans of clamshell handhelds do, as shown by the rapid success of Ayaneo’s new Pocket-series campaign on Indiegogo.

    Impressive Funding in Days

    This new device has been on the crowdfunding site for just 3 days but has already raised more than 4,888,000 Hong Kong dollars (HKD, or about $625,549). This amount is significantly higher than its initial goal of HKD 50,000 (around $6,399), surpassing it by approximately 9776%.

    Powerful Specs and Features

    The Pocket DS is set to introduce an “exclusive” user interface based on Android 13, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 SoC. This software is designed to enhance the experience with the device’s dual displays, including a primary 7-inch FHD OLED screen that boasts a refresh rate of 165Hz.

    Additionally, it could improve upon its Nintendo counterpart by featuring an 8,000mAh battery with USB-C support, a “PC-grade turbo fan,” and a top-plate crafted from CNC-milled metal available in black, yellow, or retro gray finishes.

    Pricing and Variants Available

    The Pocket DS begins at a price of $3,132 HKD (roughly $399 or €344) on its crowdfunding page for the basic version, which comes with 8GB of RAM and only 128GB of internal storage.

    A more advanced 12GB/256GB Early Bird unit is currently available for about $439 or €378, while the Pocket DMG, which resembles a Game Boy and features an OLED display, is priced at $579.99 on Amazon.

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  • Dune: Awakening 10-Hour Free Trial on Steam with Progress Carryover

    Dune: Awakening 10-Hour Free Trial on Steam with Progress Carryover

    Key Takeaways

    1. Funcom has launched a free, 10-hour trial for Dune: Awakening on Steam, available until August 24, 2025.
    2. Players can explore most of Hagga Basin, with the trial timer only counting during active gameplay.
    3. Characters created in the trial will be on special Free Trial servers and will interact only with other trial players.
    4. Progress like character level, journey progress, skills, and backpack contents will carry over if players purchase the full game, but bases and vehicles have restrictions.
    5. Funcom will release a free expansion (Chapter 2) and a paid DLC (The Lost Harvest) on September 10, 2023.

    Funcom has launched a free, 10-hour trial for its survival MMO Dune: Awakening on Steam. This offer is available until August 24, 2025, letting players download the game and explore a large part of Hagga Basin without needing to purchase it.

    Details of the Trial

    According to Funcom’s announcement on Steam, the Dune: Awakening Free Trial is live now. Players can grab the game on Steam and enjoy 10 hours of gameplay, with the timer only counting down when they’re actively playing.

    Characters created during the trial will be placed on special Free Trial servers, where they will only interact with other trial players, as mentioned in the Funcom Free Trial FAQ. The trial allows access to most of Hagga Basin, though some areas like Harko Village, Arrakeen, and the Deep Desert are off-limits. Players can build bases and explore, and if they decide to buy the full version later, some progress will carry over with certain restrictions. Funcom assures that character level, journey progress, skills, and backpack contents will be saved, but bases, vehicles, and over 10,000 Solaris will not carry over. However, players can keep their bases if they are blueprinted, and vehicles can be restored using a backup tool.

    Upcoming Releases

    This free trial coincides with Gamescom week, where Funcom has also revealed two new releases. A free expansion called Chapter 2 and a DLC titled The Lost Harvest, which costs $12.99 USD, are set to launch on September 10. To accompany this announcement, Funcom released an official trailer that highlights the new features and content from both updates.

    Additional Information

    For more details, players can check out the Steam announcement and the Funcom FAQ. The upcoming update on September 10 is something fans are eagerly looking forward to.

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  • Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Uncertain for Kickstarter Backers

    Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Uncertain for Kickstarter Backers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Team Cherry will not release review copies of Hollow Knight: Silksong until September 4th, prioritizing backers’ experiences first.
    2. Silksong was originally a reward for backers of the original Hollow Knight, linked to a stretch goal rather than a new Kickstarter campaign.
    3. Backers who contributed at least $10 AUD will receive a game code for their chosen platform, though the exact timing is still unclear.
    4. The lack of early reviews may cause concern for potential buyers, but there is significant media buzz and anticipation for the game.
    5. A playable demo of Silksong will be showcased at Gamescom 2025, receiving positive feedback from testers.

    Kickstarter backers have been waiting what feels like forever for the release date of Hollow Knight: Silksong. To show appreciation for their support, Team Cherry won’t be giving out review copies until September 4th. Instead, the backers will get the chance to be among the first to experience this Metroidvania game. Jason Schreier from Bloomberg announced the news about Silksong on social media.

    Surprising Connections

    It might seem odd that after the success of Hollow Knight, Silksong is linked to Kickstarter. When the 2,158 backers started pledging their support in 2014, they had no clue about the excitement that would ensue. Silksong wasn’t part of a new campaign; rather, it was a reward for hitting the $56,000 stretch goal for the original game, which was meant for DLC.

    Key Details for Donors

    The exact timing of when backers will get Hollow Knight: Silksong is still unknown, but the developers have finally updated their supporters after six long years. As promised, anyone who contributed at least $10 AUD will be receiving a code for the game on the platform they chose. These players can look forward to hearing from Team Cherry soon regarding further information.

    Concerns Over Reviews

    For some potential buyers, the absence of early Silksong reviews might raise concerns. It’s a common practice for publishers to provide advanced copies to websites and magazines. However, there has been plenty of media buzz leading up to the September 4th Hollow Knight: Silksong release. Additionally, Gamescom 2025 will showcase a playable demo that has received positive feedback from testers.

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    Hollow Knight: Silksong Release Date Uncertain for Kickstarter Backers

     

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  • Abxylute Unveils 3D One Handheld Gaming PC with Detachable Controllers

    Abxylute Unveils 3D One Handheld Gaming PC with Detachable Controllers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Innovative 3D Display Technology: The 3D One uses Tencent Games’ 3D display technology with eye-tracking for accurate 3D visuals.

    2. Game Optimization: Abxylute has optimized the top fifty Steam games for enhanced 3D experiences and can add depth to any content using AI.

    3. Multiple Modes of Operation: The device can be used in handheld mode with detachable controllers or in detached mode with a kickstand for versatile gaming.

    4. Optional Laptop Functionality: The 3D One can be paired with an optional keyboard, allowing it to function as a laptop.

    5. Expected Launch Date: The 3D One is anticipated to launch in late September or early October 2025.

    Abxylute has given a sneak peek of its new 3D One PC gaming handheld that offers true 3D gaming experiences without the need for glasses.

    Advanced Display Technology

    The 3D One utilizes Tencent Games’ innovative 3D display technology, which was first showcased in an 11-inch handheld device called the Sunday Dragon at CES 2025. This device incorporates an eye-tracking camera that ensures the 3D visuals are accurately presented to the user. This technology is quite similar to what Acer has been using for a long time in its SpatialLabs products, like a certain 3D model that can be found on Amazon.

    Game Optimization and AI Features

    Abxylute claims to have fine-tuned the top fifty games available on Steam for enhanced 3D gaming, although the specific titles have yet to be revealed. Additionally, the 3D One can instantly add depth to any game, image, or video via its built-in AI depth processing engine, as stated by the company.

    Versatile Modes of Use

    The 3D One offers multiple modes of operation. When in handheld mode, players can attach two controllers to the sides of the device, allowing for gameplay similar to a Nintendo Switch. These controllers feature standard sticks, buttons, triggers, and touchpads. In detached mode, a kickstand located on the back of the tablet allows it to stand on a flat surface, while users can engage in wireless gaming either as two separate controllers or combined as one.

    Furthermore, akin to a Surface Pro or OneXPlayer tablet PC, the 3D One can be equipped with an optional keyboard for laptop functionality. When no keyboard or controllers are connected, it operates like a standard tablet.

    The launch of the Abxylute 3D One is anticipated for late September or early October 2025.

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    Abxylute Unveils 3D One Handheld Gaming PC with Detachable ControllersAbxylute Unveils 3D One Handheld Gaming PC with Detachable Controllers

     

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  • AYN Thor Price, Colors, and Grip Case Details Revealed

    AYN Thor Price, Colors, and Grip Case Details Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AYN Thor will offer two processor options: Snapdragon 865 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, with differing prices.
    2. Early bird prices start at $249 for the base model (Snapdragon 865) and $299 for the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 version.
    3. Additional configurations include a 12GB RAM/256GB storage option priced at $349 and a 16GB RAM/1TB storage option priced at $429.
    4. The AYN Thor will be available in three colors: Black, Rainbow (White), and Clear Purple, with button colors subject to community feedback.
    5. The device will feature a TPU Grip for enhanced comfort during gaming sessions.

    Another day brings more updates about the AYN Thor. After the previous day’s details on its processor and display specifications, the company has now disclosed the prices for the upcoming dual-screen gaming handheld along with the available color choices.

    Processor Variants and Pricing

    AYN has previously announced that the Thor will come in two processor options — one featuring the Snapdragon 865 and another utilizing the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, much like the AYN Odin 2 (which offers a 12+256GB model on Amazon for $379). Thus, it’s expected that the price will differ depending on the processor chosen.

    The AYN Thor will start at an early bird price of $249 (with a retail price of $259) for the base model that includes a Snapdragon 865 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. There is also a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 version available with the same RAM and storage, priced at $299 during the early bird phase, with a final retail price of $309.

    Additional Options and Features

    Furthermore, there will be an option featuring 12GB RAM and 256GB of storage, utilizing the same processor, priced at $349 (retail price of $359). The highest tier will be the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 version with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, retailing for $429 (final price of $459).

    Along with the pricing details, AYN has announced that the AYN Thor will come in three colors: Black, Rainbow (White), and Clear Purple. The renders of these colors indicate that the Rainbow version features colored ABXY buttons; however, AYN mentions that the final button colors will be determined by community feedback.

    Comfort and Ergonomics

    The AYN Thor will also come equipped with a TPU Grip designed for a more comfortable gaming experience. It remains unclear whether this grip will be available in colors that correspond with the handheld or if it will only come in black, as shown in the image above.

    AYN has been making strides in the gaming handheld market, and these details provide an interesting glimpse into what consumers can expect from the AYN Thor.

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  • Lenovo Legion Go Laptop Enclosure: 400% Battery Boost & 4 USB Ports

    Lenovo Legion Go Laptop Enclosure: 400% Battery Boost & 4 USB Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Legion Go has been creatively modified into a clamshell design, ideal for arcade emulators.
    2. The modder’s design includes a 3D-printed case with enhanced battery capacity and extra USB ports.
    3. The new design allows for easy detachment of the Legion Go and maintains access to its original buttons.
    4. The battery upgrade incorporates 190 Wh using 15 18650 Li-ion cells, potentially increasing total capacity to nearly 240 Wh.
    5. The larger battery could extend gaming time to up to eight hours, depending on the game and usage.

    Since the release of the Lenovo Legion Go, many users have been experimenting with creative ways to utilize this impressive gaming handheld. One notable instance recently emerged, where the device was transformed into a clamshell gaming setup, seemingly ideal for running arcade emulators. The latest innovator to modify the Legion Go has dramatically boosted the battery life by approximately 400%.

    Innovative Design

    The modder, known as u/MysteriousAlarm897 on Reddit, shared their creation on r/LegionGo. They presented a 3D-printed clamshell design that accommodates the Legion Go in the upper section, along with a slim keyboard, enhanced battery capacity, and extra USB ports in the lower half. This design is not only well thought out but also offers ample ventilation and maintains access to the original buttons, thanks to cut-outs on the back, sides, and top. The device is held securely in place by clips, and there are no visible tangled cables, with the only interruptions to the sleek black exterior being two Allen-head bolts that connect the top and bottom sections.

    Enhanced Functionality

    The new case design allows for the easy detachment of the Legion Go using clips located on both sides of the device. Additionally, it grants access to the built-in USB type-C port on the top of the Legion Go, while also providing two extra USB-C ports and two USB type-A ports on the left side of the bottom casing.

    Impressive Battery Upgrade

    While the modder hasn’t provided any building instructions — despite numerous requests in the comments — they claim to have incorporated 190 Wh of battery capacity into the Legion Go using 15 18650 Li-ion cells, all housed under what appears to be a Lenovo Multi-Device Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard (curr. $39.99 on Amazon). If accurate, this would bring the total battery capacity of the Legion Go Laptop to just under 240 Wh, which is five times greater than the built-in battery of the original Legion Go.

    In our assessment of the Legion Go (curr. $749.99 on Lenovo US), we determined that the handheld’s average power draw during gaming sessions is around 42.6 W, providing roughly 97 minutes of gameplay. Based on this, if we apply the new larger battery, it could potentially offer up to eight hours of gaming away from a power source. This duration would likely extend further when playing less intensive games or performing basic tasks. However, the modder has yet to confirm the actual battery life achieved.

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  • Impact of Language Filters on Japanese Steam Game Reviews

    Impact of Language Filters on Japanese Steam Game Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve allows users to see Steam reviews in multiple languages, helping to identify issues with translations and regional feedback.
    2. Japanese gamers express concerns that this change may lead to fewer game releases on Steam for their country.
    3. Cultural differences lead to Japanese players providing more negative reviews, which may misrepresent their overall enjoyment of games.
    4. Japanese players interpret rating scales differently, meaning a mediocre score can be viewed less negatively than in Western cultures.
    5. Publishers acknowledge the negative trend in Japanese reviews but continue to offer Japanese language options, as understanding these reviews could benefit their marketing strategies.

    Valve has started letting users see Steam reviews in certain languages. Now, gamers can understand if bad translations affect how players feel in different regions. This also helps publishers understand how various demographics respond to their games. However, some users in Japan are concerned that this change might mean fewer games on Steam for their country.

    Concerns from Japanese Gamers

    Automaton pointed out a social media post from a Japanese streamer that outlines these worries from gamers. People in Japan often leave more negative reviews compared to players who speak other languages. Shinjisan talks about cultural differences, suggesting that Japanese consumers are more likely to share critical feedback. This could create a misleading belief that most gamers in Japan are not enjoying a certain game.

    Differences in Rating Perspectives

    Moreover, Japanese players interpret rating scales differently than many Western gamers. For them, a mediocre score doesn’t carry the same weight of negativity. A 2021 analysis of Steam reviews, although not an official study, looked at 262 titles. It found that while 17% of reviews globally were negative, a staggering 45% of those came from Japanese players.

    Publisher Insights and Reactions

    The Automaton article also mentions discussions with publishers regarding their thoughts on the Japanese market. Most of them recognized that reviews from Japan tend to be unusually negative. However, this didn’t change their plans to offer titles with Japanese language options.

    Despite some reassurances from developers, concerns among Valve’s Japanese audience remain. Still, the new language features might provide unexpected advantages for publishers. For many Steam games, Japanese reviews often get overshadowed by those in English, Chinese, and Russian. If customers focus only on reviews in these languages, excluding the lower Japanese ratings could lead to a better overall score.

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    Impact of Language Filters on Japanese Steam Game Reviews

     

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