Category: Gaming

  • Xbox Game Pass Adds 3 New Titles, Featuring 2 AAA Games

    Xbox Game Pass Adds 3 New Titles, Featuring 2 AAA Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Pass subscribers received three new games between June 24 and 26, including a notable real-time strategy title, and additional content for Call of Duty: WWII was introduced at the end of the month.
    2. Call of Duty: WWII focuses on classic “boots-on-the-ground” gameplay, featuring historically accurate firearms and a strong emphasis on teamwork, with no automatic health regeneration.
    3. Little Nightmares II is a horror-themed puzzle-platformer that follows Mono and Six in a disturbing world, utilizing 2.5D mechanics and requiring stealth and cooperation to navigate challenges.
    4. Rise of the Tomb Raider sees Lara Croft exploring Siberia for the hidden city of Kitezh, featuring a mix of combat, survival elements, and a crafting system to enhance gameplay.
    5. Each game offers unique gameplay experiences, from intense shooting action in Call of Duty: WWII to eerie exploration in Little Nightmares II and adventurous survival in Rise of the Tomb Raider.


    Between June 24 and 26, gamers who subscribe to Game Pass got a treat with three new games, including a well-known real-time strategy franchise. To wrap up the month, Call of Duty: WWII introduces fresh content for shooting game enthusiasts. On July 1, both Little Nightmares II and Rise of the Tomb Raider will be added to the collection.

    Call of Duty: WWII Overview

    Call of Duty: WWII, which is the 14th main title in the franchise, made its debut on November 3, 2017. The single-player campaign transports players to the Western Front during World War II, allowing you to step into the shoes of Ronald “Red” Daniels, a young soldier from the U.S. 1st Infantry Division. The narrative covers major events from the D-Day landings in Normandy to the liberation of Paris and the ultimate confrontation at the Rhine, showcasing critical moments of the war from the perspective of an ordinary frontline soldier.

    Gameplay Experience

    In Call of Duty: WWII, the gameplay shifts away from the advanced technology seen in Advanced Warfare and Infinite Warfare, bringing back the classic “boots-on-the-ground” style of combat. You run, slide, and take cover behind various obstacles like sandbags and barricades—no jetpacks or wall-running involved, just raw, realistic action. The game features genuine World War II firearms such as the M1 Garand, MP-40, and Thompson, providing a satisfying and impactful shooting experience. Unlike many modern shooters, health does not automatically regenerate. Instead, you must depend on your squad—requesting bandages from medics, collecting ammo from teammates, or receiving cover fire when needed. This fosters a strong sense of teamwork. The multiplayer mode introduces a division system that influences your gameplay, along with objective-based modes like “War,” where players must build bridges or escort tanks. For those looking for a more sinister challenge, the survival mode Nazi Zombies provides a tough and chaotic experience.

    Little Nightmares II Details

    Little Nightmares II is an eerie puzzle-platformer with significant horror elements, recognized for its disturbing ambiance and cinematic presentation. You take on the role of Mono, a young boy with a paper bag on his head, who awakens in a bizarre world full of grotesque adult monsters. Together with Six—the girl in the yellow raincoat from the original game—you traverse from a decaying forest cabin through a nightmarish school and into the neon-lit Pale City, ultimately reaching the Signal Tower, whose haunting radio waves distort reality. The narrative unfolds without any spoken words, crafting a poignant story about manipulation and loss, with the evolving bond between Mono and Six at its heart.

    Navigating the Dark World

    In Little Nightmares II, you explore the unsettling environment through classic 2.5D side-scrolling mechanics, climbing, sneaking, and solving various puzzles. The challenges often depend on physics, timing, and cooperation—Six may hold a ladder steady while Mono lifts her to a higher ledge. Encounters with foes like the insane teacher or the unsettling surgeon require stealth and caution, as direct confrontations usually end poorly. Occasionally, Mono can defend himself using objects found in the environment, such as hammers, to break barriers or fend off enemies like porcelain children. Although the checkpoint system is reasonable, every encounter remains tense—one misstep can result in having to restart.

    Rise of the Tomb Raider Synopsis

    Rise of the Tomb Raider, the eleventh main installment in the Tomb Raider series and the second chapter of the reboot trilogy that started in 2013, was launched on November 10, 2015. This time, Lara Croft ventures into the icy wilderness of Siberia in search of the fabled city of Kitezh, believed to be hidden beneath the ice. She aims to discover the “Divine Source”—a legendary artifact thought to bestow eternal life. Throughout her journey, Lara battles fierce snowstorms, menacing wildlife, and the merciless secret organization Trinity, which seeks the same power. To endure, she wields a diverse range of weapons: pistols, shotguns, and assault rifles for open combat, along with bows and climbing axes for stealthy or close-range attacks.

    Game Mechanics and Features

    The game combines open-world hubs with light survival elements, receiving acclaim from critics for its immersive depiction of the Siberian landscape. In addition to intense firefights, Lara explores hidden tombs, tackles challenging climbing sequences, and solves physics-based puzzles. A comprehensive crafting system enhances the gameplay experience. By collecting resources, players can upgrade weapons, create ammunition, and craft vital gear—all of which improve Lara’s chances of surviving in the harsh, frozen environment.

    Source:
    Link

  • Action Pi: Retro Gaming Handheld with Linux Launching in July

    Action Pi: Retro Gaming Handheld with Linux Launching in July

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Helegaly Action Pi retro gaming handheld will be available for purchase starting July 5th at a budget-friendly price of $59.99.
    2. It is powered by an Allwinner A527 ARM SoC with 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and a Mali G57 GPU, offering decent performance for gaming.
    3. The device features a 4.02-inch IPS display with a resolution of 960 x 720, providing vibrant colors and high pixel density.
    4. It includes a 5,000 mAh battery for long usage, dual USB-C ports, mini HDMI, microSD, audio jack, and supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.
    5. The base model comes with 16 GB of EMMC storage and includes a 64 GB microSD card, with a 128 GB microSD option available for an additional $5.


    Helegaly has introduced its Action Pi retro gaming handheld earlier this year. This device runs on the Linux-based Batocera operating system and comes with quite capable internals. The company has now announced that the Action Pi will be available for purchase starting the 5th of July, with a price that is quite budget-friendly.

    Hardware Features

    At the core of the Action Pi is the Allwinner A527 ARM SoC. This is the same chip used in the Cubie A5E SBC and offers decent performance due to its octa-core architecture, which features Cortex-A55 cores running at speeds of up to 2 GHz alongside 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM. For graphics, it utilizes a Mali G57 integrated GPU.

    Display Quality

    The display is one of the key features of any good handheld. The Action Pi comes with a 4.02-inch IPS screen that has a resolution of 960 x 720, providing an impressive pixel density nearing 300 PPI and vibrant color representation, as noted by Retro Dodo.

    The device also includes a standard set of physical buttons and Hall-effect joysticks. According to reviews, the joysticks perform fairly well, although the L1/R1 trigger buttons are said to be somewhat “narrow,” as also reported by Retro Dodo.

    Battery and Connectivity

    The Action Pi is powered by a 5,000 mAh battery, which should provide several days of use on a single charge, thanks to its efficient internals. It offers a variety of ports, including dual USB-C, mini HDMI, microSD, and an audio jack. For wireless connectivity, it supports both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The base model, which includes 16 GB of EMMC storage and comes with a 64 GB microSD card, is priced at $59.99, while the 128 GB microSD option is just $5 more.

    Source:
    Link

  • Free on Steam: Sega JRPG Spin-off Hits #1 on Charts

    Free on Steam: Sega JRPG Spin-off Hits #1 on Charts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Persona 5: The Phantom X (P5X) is a new game developed by Black Wings Game Studio, in collaboration with Atlus and Sega, launched on June 25-26, 2023.
    2. P5X features a different story set in an alternate world, with a new main character named “Wonder” and a plot involving corrupted wishes and a group of Phantom Thieves.
    3. The gameplay retains classic Persona elements, including school life, part-time jobs, and turn-based battles, alongside a gacha system for acquiring new allies and personas.
    4. The game has received mixed reviews on Steam, praised for its design and combat but criticized for aggressive monetization and mobile-focused user interface.
    5. P5X is free to play with optional microtransactions, contrasting with the $60 price of Persona 5, making it appealing to JRPG fans.


    The Persona series has been an interesting mix of turn-based JRPGs and the daily lives of Japanese students since it started in 1996. Originally a part of the Shin Megami Tensei franchise, it was created by Atlus, which has been owned by Sega since 2013. Persona 5, which came out in 2017, really put the series in the spotlight. Now, there’s a new game called Persona 5: The Phantom X (or P5X) that was developed by Black Wings Game Studio with help from Atlus and Sega. This game launched on June 25 and 26, depending on where you are. You can play it on PC through Steam, as well as on iOS and Android. A cool feature is that your game progress syncs between PC and mobile.

    A New Adventure Awaits

    P5X isn’t exactly a sequel; it tells a different story in an alternate world. The main character, who goes by the codename “Wonder,” wakes up after a scary nightmare in a dark version of Tokyo. He’s joined by Lufel, a wise owl, and Igor, a character familiar to long-time fans, along with his new helper Merope. As they dig deeper, they discover a creepy plot: someone is taking people’s wishes and turning the shared unconscious, called “Mementos,” into a wasteland. To fight back, Wonder gathers a new crew of Phantom Thieves to solve the mystery. They aim to heal corrupted hearts by stealing the “treasures” of the villains, helping to restore the city’s hope.

    Gameplay Elements

    When it comes to gameplay, The Phantom X follows the classic Persona style we know and love. You’ll spend your days in school, taking part-time jobs, or hanging out with friends, referred to as Synergy Links here. These activities not only improve your stats but also grant helpful bonuses for battles. At night, you and your team will enter palaces or the endlessly twisting Mementos, where you’ll face off in traditional turn-based battles. You can gain new allies and monsters (called personas) using a gacha system. The game includes optional microtransactions: you can buy in-game currency to get more gacha pulls or recover stamina, which limits your exploration time in dungeons. While P5X is free to play, players who don’t spend money will need to take breaks because of stamina limits. Even though it doesn’t strictly fall into the pay-to-win category, many players criticize this monetization strategy.

    Mixed Reviews on Steam

    Persona 5: The Phantom X has been praised on Steam for its faithful design, enjoyable combat, and smooth gameplay. However, player opinions are a bit divided. While many reviews commend its authenticity and how well it’s made, they also point out issues with aggressive monetization, including expensive microtransactions and frequent prompts to buy. The user interface has been noted as being too focused on mobile use, and there are complaints about the lack of proper controller support.

    Because of these reasons, the game has received mixed feedback on Steam, where it has around 1,900 reviews with a 72% positive score. It remains at the top of the “Trending Free” list, making it an attractive, no-cost option for JRPG fans and Persona lovers. For comparison, Persona 5 is priced at about $60 on Steam, though it’s currently discounted to around $24 (‑60%) until July 10. In contrast, P5X is free to start, but has optional purchases within the game.

    Source:
    Link

  • FBC Firebreak Reaches 1 Million Players Amid Mixed Reviews

    FBC Firebreak Reaches 1 Million Players Amid Mixed Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Milestone Achievement: FBC: Firebreak reached over one million players within a week of launch, largely due to availability on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus.

    2. Shift in Focus: The game marks Remedy’s departure from single-player experiences, connecting to their previous titles and set in the Remedy Connected Universe.

    3. Player Engagement Issues: Despite the player count, many gamers report a lack of content and confusing systems, with some completing the game in just a couple of days.

    4. Critical Feedback: Players and critics have noted issues such as poor tutorials and matchmaking problems, leading to a “Mixed” review score on Steam.

    5. Community Concerns: There is debate over how player numbers are counted, with many speculating that most players are using subscription services rather than making direct purchases.


    Remedy Entertainment’s first foray into multiplayer gaming with FBC: Firebreak has been quite the rollercoaster. Just a week after its launch on June 17, the game has welcomed over one million players across all platforms.

    In a post on their X account, Remedy expressed gratitude to all the ‘Firebreakers’ and promised upcoming content and improvements. While reaching a million players is a notable feat, the journey to get there has had its share of challenges.

    A Shift from Single-Player

    FBC: Firebreak marks a significant change from Remedy’s traditional single-player titles like Control and Alan Wake. Set six years after the events of Control, it connects to the Remedy Connected Universe as players explore the enigmatic Oldest House.

    The Numbers Game

    However, hitting the one million milestone comes with a twist. A large part of this player influx is due to the game’s availability on Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus’s Extra tier. It’s likely that many players are jumping in for a brief experience rather than fully committing to the game.

    This assumption is backed by data from SteamDB, which indicates that FBC: Firebreak had only 78 players online at the time of this writing, with a peak of 169 over the past 24 hours. This is a significant decrease from the all-time high of 1,992 players recorded just ten days ago. Currently, the game holds a “Mixed” review score on Steam with 1,511 user assessments, of which 65.69% are positive.

    Critic Feedback and Player Experience

    For many critics and gamers, engaging with the game has felt akin to taking on a second job. The absence of helpful tutorials, confusing progression systems, and matchmaking problems have drawn much criticism. Some players have reported completing the game’s content in just a day or two, which leaves them little motivation to join another raid.

    While the concept of an FPS within the chaotic Remedy Connected Universe is appealing, the actual execution has left some players divided. Remedy has acknowledged the feedback and has already addressed several issues with patches. The studio has promised to introduce balance updates along with new in-game elements, such as weapons, locations, and missions, later this year.

    Community Reactions

    The announcement of the million-player mark has ignited discussions within the gaming community. Many are questioning whether Remedy is counting unique logins, downloads, or active players. There’s speculation that a minimal portion of the player base consists of direct purchases, whereas a larger segment is exploring the game through services like Xbox Game Pass or PlayStation Plus.

    FBC: Firebreak appears to be grappling with a typical case of “early access syndrome.” Remedy is in the process of taking player feedback into account and preparing their next patch for the game. The pressing question remains: can the studio execute a turnaround before the gaming community’s patience runs out?

    Source:
    Link

  • Black Ops 7 Leaked Screenshots: New Game Modes and Gear Revealed

    Black Ops 7 Leaked Screenshots: New Game Modes and Gear Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Black Ops 7 was revealed at the Xbox Showcase with a cinematic teaser but little information was provided initially.
    2. Screenshots from the Xbox Call of Duty app accidentally leaked details about new game modes and equipment.
    3. The Overload game mode involves two teams of six players delivering EMP devices to gain points, while Skirmish features traditional 20v20 gameplay.
    4. Players will have wingsuits for faster movement, similar to those in Battlefield 2042.
    5. The game will not include jetpacks, but will feature an advanced omnimovement mechanic instead.


    The latest addition to the Call of Duty: Black Ops series, titled Black Ops 7, was revealed during the Xbox Showcase earlier this month. A three-minute teaser provided a glimpse of cinematic scenes depicting the environment of Black Ops 7, but no concrete information about the game was disclosed. Recently, however, some new insights have emerged through what appears to be official screenshots that highlight new game modes and equipment.

    Accidental Leak Reveals Screenshots

    According to a post by CharlieIntel on XCancel, the Xbox Call of Duty app mistakenly displayed some screenshots pertaining to Black Ops 7. These images seem to originate from a closed internal playtest (CIP) where chosen players are expected to give their feedback. Among the images, there are indications of a new Overload game mode and a Skirmish feature that accommodates 20v20 players.

    Game Modes Explained

    In the Overload game mode, two teams, each consisting of six players, must deliver EMP devices to the opposing team’s headquarters to gain points. The Skirmish mode follows a more traditional approach, involving two teams of 20 players. Players will also have access to wingsuits, likely resembling those in Battlefield 2042, which will enable faster movement across the expansive maps.

    Jetpack Speculation

    One of the screenshots features a character equipped with what appears to be a jetpack. Fans speculate this might actually be a boost pack instead of a true jetpack, as Activision has confirmed that Black Ops 7 won’t include jetpacks. Instead, the game will introduce a more advanced version of omnimovement, a gameplay mechanic first seen in Black Ops 6 and later incorporated into Warzone.

    Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 currently lacks a specific release date, but it will be accessible on Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC. It will also be available through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass on the day of its launch.

    CharlieIntel provided this information on XCancel, along with insights from Insider Gaming.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Xiaomi Launches Affordable Redmi GamePad with Customizable Design

    Xiaomi Launches Affordable Redmi GamePad with Customizable Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Growing Trend: More Android smartphone and tablet manufacturers are introducing telescopic controllers as accessories for enhanced gaming experiences.

    2. Xiaomi’s Launch: Xiaomi has released the Redmi GamePad to complement the Redmi K Pad and Redmi K80 Ultra, showcasing a design similar to popular gaming controllers.

    3. Unique Features: The Redmi GamePad includes four extendable grips for secure attachment and allows its sections to be used together or separately.

    4. Customizable Joysticks: The controller features replaceable Hall effect joysticks with three different stick heights, enhancing user comfort and control.

    5. Battery and Purchase Details: The Redmi GamePad offers up to 10 hours of battery life and is available for CNY 499 (around $70), but international availability is currently unknown.


    An increasing number of Android smartphone and tablet makers are now providing telescopic controllers as additional accessories. For example, last month, RedMagic launched the Shadow Blade 3 Controller alongside their Gaming Tablet 3 Pro. Similarly, Lenovo introduced the G9 and G9 Pro to enhance their newest Legion Y700 tablet, aiming to turn it into an Android gaming handheld, with varying success.

    Xiaomi’s New Release

    Recently, Xiaomi has unveiled the Redmi GamePad to go with the Redmi K Pad and the Redmi K80 Ultra, which were both introduced just yesterday. As shown in the images below, the design of the Redmi GamePad is more akin to the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller (curr. $49.99 on Amazon) and similar products rather than those made by Lenovo or RedMagic. Nevertheless, Xiaomi’s controller packs a few unique features.

    Unique Features of the GamePad

    For instance, the Redmi GamePad has four extendable grips that allow it to be securely attached to a tablet or a larger smartphone. Additionally, its left and right sections can be utilized together or separately, which should help resolve the challenges that come with attaching telescoping controllers to wider devices.

    Moreover, Xiaomi asserts that the default Hall effect joysticks on the controller can be replaced with three different stick heights. The Redmi GamePad also features RGB lighting, micro switches, and a removable d-pad, along with an impressive battery life of up to 10 hours from its combined 600 mAh battery capacity. Currently, you can purchase the Redmi GamePad from Xiaomi’s website or the Youpin store for CNY 499 (around $70). Unfortunately, there’s still no information on when it might be available internationally.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Switch 2 Owners Can Use Amiibos Without Unboxing: New Hack

    Switch 2 Owners Can Use Amiibos Without Unboxing: New Hack

    Key Takeaways

    1. Users can now scan Amiibos without opening the packaging, preserving collector’s items.
    2. The Switch 2’s NFC reader can read chips inside many sealed Amiibo packages, a change from older models.
    3. Newer Amiibo releases do not have NFC blocking tags, benefiting serious collectors.
    4. Counterfeiting remains a significant issue in the Amiibo market, with fake products still being sold.
    5. Nintendo has taken legal action against counterfeiters, winning a lawsuit for over $7 million.


    Switch 2 users have found a neat trick that lets them scan Amiibos without having to tear open the packaging. This means no more sacrificing the pristine look of a collector’s box just to get some in-game goodies.

    New Scanning Method

    Before this discovery, if you wanted to use an Amiibo, you had to break the factory seal. However, as confirmed by Reddit user u/sputnikk in the r/switch2 subreddit, the Switch 2’s NFC reader can actually read the chips inside many sealed Amiibo packages. This is a big win for collectors who want to maintain the condition of their items while still enjoying the benefits of Amiibo scanning.

    Collector’s Delight

    Nintendo had previously used NFC blocking tags in older Amiibo models, but these are not found in newer releases. This change is fantastic for serious collectors who can now obtain in-game items without damaging their valuable “in-box” collectibles. Some users on Reddit humorously suggested taking their Switch 2s to stores to scan Amiibos right off the shelves, without purchasing them. While this is harmless—since most Amiibos can only be scanned once per day—it could impact retail sales.

    Sales and Counterfeits

    By September 2016, Nintendo had sold over 36 million Amiibos, and that number jumped to more than 77 million by September 2022. A lot of this success comes from releasing Amiibos that tie in with new game launches. However, the Amiibo market has faced issues with fake products and hacks, including the cloning of NFC tags, which let people imitate Amiibo data. Some counterfeiters have even gone as far as making fake Amiibos.

    The counterfeit problem is nothing new; low-quality, unlicensed Amiibos and accessories have been sold on platforms like Amazon. In October 2023, Nintendo took action against some of these counterfeiters and won a lawsuit, getting awarded $7,030,158 from two sellers. Still, counterfeit Amiibos and cards are available on sites like eBay, which is a continuing worry for many collectors. Nintendo introduced Amiibos in November 2014, and they serve as interactive action figures that unlock new content, equipment, and game modes in Nintendo titles. Initially designed for the Wii U, the Amiibo craze is still very much alive today.

    Source:
    Link

  • Nintendo Switch Online Bans Lead to Legal Action in Brazil

    Nintendo Switch Online Bans Lead to Legal Action in Brazil

    Key Takeaways

    1. Procon-SP, a Brazilian consumer protection agency, has filed a complaint against Nintendo over permanent bans on the Switch 2, claiming they are unfair under Brazilian law.

    2. A gamer was permanently banned for an inappropriate username, but it was revealed they were involved in piracy, suggesting unauthorized software usage may lead to bans.

    3. Users of the Mig flash cartridge have faced access issues to Nintendo Switch Online, raising concerns that legitimate buyers might also be unfairly restricted.

    4. The updated End User License Agreement (EULA) gives Nintendo more authority to ban consoles, but Procon-SP argues these measures are excessively harsh and violate gamers’ rights.

    5. Legal action against Nintendo in Brazil is in early stages, with Procon-SP awaiting an official response while Nintendo recently hired lawyers in the country.


    Instances of permanent bans on the Switch 2 from Nintendo Switch Online might result in lawsuits. In Brazil, Procon-SP, a consumer protection agency, has lodged a complaint against the gaming giant. The agency contends that these bans imposed on Nintendo users are unfair according to Brazilian law.

    Gamer’s Dilemma

    Recently, a gamer reported that their Switch 2 was barred from online services because of an inappropriate username. After reaching out to Nintendo support, they were told that the ban would last forever. However, it later came to light that this user was often involved in piracy groups. This suggests that attempting to use unauthorized software might actually be the reason for the punishment.

    Flash Cartridges and Online Access

    Owners of consoles using the Mig flash cartridge to play games found themselves unable to connect to Nintendo Switch Online. Procon-SP is concerned that gamers who buy Switch 2 games legitimately might also face unnecessary restrictions.

    Prior to the release of the Switch 2, Nintendo updated its End User License Agreement (EULA). The revised terms gave the company more power to ban consoles from its services. Nevertheless, Procon-SP argues that these measures are excessively harsh and violate the rights of Brazilian gamers.

    Limited Options for Gamers

    The complaint from the consumer protection group highlights the limited options available to gamers when faced with bans. Nintendo does not have legal representation in Brazil, which forced the agency to reach out to the company in the United States. They are warning consumers not to support manufacturers that lack a legal presence in their country.

    While many Nintendo fans may not condone piracy, these bans create challenges for the resale market of Switch 2 consoles. Buyers might be unaware of a second-hand console’s restricted capabilities before they make a purchase. As the console increasingly depends on Nintendo Switch Online, gamers could lose access to digital games that they own. Because these bans are linked to the hardware, access to NSO accounts with good standing could also be jeopardized.

    Legal Proceedings Ahead

    Any possible legal action against Nintendo in Brazil is still in early stages. The company has recently brought on lawyers in the country, but Procon-SP is still waiting for an official reply.

    Source:
    Link


  • RTX 5050 FurMark Leak Reveals Slower Performance than RX 6000

    RTX 5050 FurMark Leak Reveals Slower Performance than RX 6000

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia’s RTX 5050 is a budget-friendly graphics card priced at $249, outperforming the older RTX 3050 but underperforming compared to the RTX 4060 and AMD’s RX 6000 series mobile GPUs.

    2. In benchmark tests, the RTX 5050 scored 1,978 in FurMark at 4K resolution and could boost up to 2.94 GHz, but still fell short of the AMD Radeon RX 6600M and Nvidia’s RTX 2060.

    3. The RTX 5050’s performance concerns arise as it is priced only $50 less than the RTX 5060, which offers better specifications like a higher CUDA core count and newer GDDR7 memory.

    4. Testing for the RTX 5050 used an older Intel Core i7-9700 CPU, which may have affected the benchmark results, and the FurMark test focused more on cooling than true GPU performance.

    5. There are concerns that partner companies may price the RTX 5050 above its MSRP, potentially aligning closer to the RTX 5060’s price point.


    Nvidia recently introduced its budget-friendly RTX 5050 desktop graphics card, priced at $249. They showcased its performance against the older RTX 3050 and the more recent RTX 4060. While the RTX 5050 clearly outshines the RTX 30 series, it does fall short compared to the RTX 40 series in terms of raw power. A recent leak from a third-party benchmark, however, suggests that it also lags behind AMD’s RX 6000 series mobile GPUs as well as Nvidia’s own RTX 20 series.

    Benchmark Results

    Screenshots provided by Richard Huynh through GPU Magick reveal the FurMark benchmark results at 4K resolution. The Palit RTX 5050, using an older OpenGL driver, managed to score 1,978 and could boost up to 2,940 MHz (or 2.94 GHz). According to Nvidia’s specifications, the RTX 5050 has a boost clock of 2.57 GHz, making the FurMark results quite impressive. Unfortunately, the score still places it below the AMD Radeon RX 6600M laptop GPU and the desktop RTX 2060, which is not ideal.

    Performance Comparison

    It’s worth mentioning that the RTX 3050, which Nvidia uses as a benchmark for the RTX 5050, performed significantly worse in the FurMark score database. The lower performance compared to the AMD laptop GPU from two generations back and the Nvidia desktop GPU from three generations ago raises concerns for the RTX 5050, especially since it is priced only $50 less than the RTX 5060.

    Testing Conditions

    Additionally, the FurMark test for the RTX 5050 was conducted using an older Intel Core i7-9700 CPU, which lacks support for PCIe Gen 4. Moreover, the 4K benchmark was primarily designed to evaluate cooling rather than the true performance of a GPU. Given this context, the thermal results appear somewhat misleading since the GPU reportedly reached a maximum core temperature of only 39 degrees Celsius under full load.

    While the FurMark leak may not be entirely reliable, it does bring up important questions regarding the RTX 5050’s overall value. Even though this card is the most affordable option in the RTX 50 series, partner companies are likely to set prices above the MSRP, inching closer to the RTX 5060’s price, which boasts a significantly higher CUDA core count along with newer GDDR7 memory.

    Source:
    Link


  • Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR: Key Upgrades from PG32UCDM

    Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR: Key Upgrades from PG32UCDM

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR features a 32-inch Gen 3 QD-OLED panel with 4K resolution at 240 Hz and a 0.03 ms GtG response time.
    2. It includes an 80 Gbps DisplayPort 2.1 port, allowing 4K at 240 Hz without Display Stream Compression (DSC).
    3. The monitor has new features like the Neo Proximity Sensor and OLED Care Pro to reduce panel burn-in risks.
    4. It is currently available only in China, priced at CNY 8,499 (approximately $1,185).
    5. The expected US price for the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR is around $1,299, similar to previous model pricing.


    Asus has quietly unveiled the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR after it was listed on their global site earlier this month. Currently, the company is only offering the monitor in China. Nevertheless, the pricing sheds light on what the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR might cost in other regions.

    Key Features

    To summarize, Asus has designed the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR around a Gen 3 QD-OLED panel made by Samsung. The panel measures 32 inches diagonally and delivers 4K resolution at 240 Hz with a 0.03 ms GtG response time and a maximum brightness of 250 nits. In this regard, the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR is the same as the previous model, the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM, which is currently priced at $1,199.99 on Amazon.

    Distinguishing Factors

    However, Asus has set the new model apart from the previous one in three significant ways, as we talked about last month during Computex 2025. Briefly, the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR comes with an 80 Gbps capable DisplayPort 2.1 port (UHBR20), which the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM does not have. This means the monitor can handle 4K at 240 Hz without needing to use Display Stream Compression (DSC).

    Advanced Technology

    Additionally, Asus has incorporated its Neo Proximity Sensor and OLED Care Pro features to minimize the risk of panel burn-in. The ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR is being sold for CNY 8,499 (approximately $1,185) in China through JD.com. For context, this price is the same as what Asus initially set for the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM in China. Thus, earlier estimates that the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDMR would hit the US market for $1,299 appear to be accurate at this time.

    Source:
    Link