Category: Gaming

  • Xanite Offers Xbox Gaming on Android but Falls Short

    Xanite Offers Xbox Gaming on Android but Falls Short

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xanite aims to enable classic Xbox and Xbox 360 gaming on mobile devices but currently lacks real emulation functionality.
    2. The app includes features for optimizing performance on low-end devices, but users find it to be insufficient and merely a themed interface.
    3. The initial APK version (V0.1) is unsigned, leading to installation issues on most devices, especially those running Android 14 or 15.
    4. Legal concerns exist regarding the inclusion of copyright-protected materials, such as the Xbox BIOS, in the emulator app.
    5. Xemu is recommended as a better alternative for Android gamers, as it is a more established emulator that can run games effectively.


    The Android game emulation scene is making some progress, with emulators like Winlator and PCSX-UI-Android stepping up the game. Recently, Xanite has been introduced, claiming to bring native Xbox gaming to mobile devices, with developers labeling it as a “next-gen” emulator for smartphones.

    Promises of Xbox and Xbox 360 Games

    This app seeks to enable users to play classic Xbox and Xbox 360 titles on their phones. The Android emulator is said to have the ability to automatically recognize the device’s hardware and optimize settings for the best emulation performance (AYN Odin 2 curr. $379.04 on Amazon).

    Features for Low-End Devices

    For those with lower-end phones, there’s an alleged performance scaling feature that allows users to reduce resolution and other settings manually. However, while these features sound appealing, users who have explored the app find it to be an empty shell. Essentially, there’s no actual emulation code, just a themed interface resembling Xbox, lacking any real functionality.

    Installation Issues and Legal Concerns

    It’s important to mention that the initial APK released, V0.1, is unsigned. As a result, the Xbox emulator for Android won’t install on most devices without modifications. Additionally, users on Reddit who managed to install it reported that it fails to work on devices running Android 15 or Android 14.

    There’s also a concern about the presence of copyright-protected materials, such as the Xbox BIOS. Including such components in an emulator app often creates legal issues and risks.

    Better Alternatives for Gamers

    At this point, Android gamers might be better off using Xemu, a more established Xbox emulator for Windows, through Winlator. While performance may not reach expectations, it’s still capable of running games, which is something Xanite currently struggles to achieve.

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  • Battlefield 6 Leak Reveals Single-Player Mode and Campaign Violence

    Battlefield 6 Leak Reveals Single-Player Mode and Campaign Violence

    Key Takeaways

    1. Focused Narrative: The story centers on a conflict between NATO and Pax Armada, featuring a singular U.S. Marine and squad members in combat scenarios.

    2. Combat Mechanics: Emphasis on close-quarters combat with a mix of pistols, rifles, and turret-equipped vehicles.

    3. Mature Content: Rated Mature 18 by IMDA, indicating graphic violence, explicit language, and intense battle scenes.

    4. Single-Player Campaign: EA aims to include a single-player mode in response to past complaints, with AI-controlled enemies featured in training scenarios.

    5. Cinematic Cutscenes: The game will include cinematic cutscenes between missions to enhance the storytelling experience.


    The Battlefield 6 playtest has revealed a number of secrets about its multiplayer aspects. However, not much is known yet regarding its single-player campaign. Recently discovered by Twisted Voxel, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) in Singapore has added a new entry for the game. With this additional info, the site verifies what EA has previously disclosed about the game’s story. The IMDA also rates Battlefield 6 as Mature 18, indicating the level of violence that players might encounter.

    A Focused Narrative

    The plot revolves around a conflict between NATO and Pax Armada, a private military group. Unlike Battlefield 1 or Battlefield 5, which showcase diverse characters, the current description hints at a concentration on a singular U.S. Marine, or perhaps just one unit. Other squad members will accompany this soldier in combat scenarios across various locations. Cinematic cutscenes will be included between missions to help move the story along.

    Combat Mechanics and Gameplay

    As some testers have observed during the Battlefield 6 playtest, there’s a significant focus on close-quarters combat. The IMDA has confirmed these direct confrontations, which might worry gamers who prefer larger maps. Players will have access to pistols, but they can also engage enemies from afar using rifles and turret-equipped vehicles.

    Content Warnings and Reception

    It’s no surprise that EA’s new shooter may not be suitable for younger audiences. Players should prepare for explicit language and blood-soaked battlefields. One notably graphic moment features a severed thumb. The ESRB in North America and PEGI in Europe have not yet listed the game on their platforms.

    One of the many complaints regarding Battlefield 2042 was the absence of a single-player mode. EA is looking to appeal to a broader audience with the release of Battlefield 6 on October 10. The AI intelligence of computer-controlled foes might influence players’ desire to finish the campaign. During the playtest, gamers have already had the chance to battle against AI enemies in training scenarios.

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  • 8BitDo Launches New Wireless Xbox Controllers in More Markets

    8BitDo Launches New Wireless Xbox Controllers in More Markets

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo’s limited edition 3-mode controller for Xbox celebrates the 40th anniversary of Rare.
    2. The controller is priced at $89.99, which is $20 more than the regular Ultimate 3-mode controller.
    3. It features wireless connectivity for Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles and is compatible with Apple and Android devices via Bluetooth.
    4. The controller is available for order on Amazon UK for £69.99 but will ship on October 31, six weeks later than North America.
    5. This limited edition item is a great opportunity for fans of Rare or those in need of a new controller.


    8BitDo has made its limited edition 3-mode controller for Xbox more widely available. This controller was officially unveiled a week ago following a last-minute leak and is designed to honor the 40th anniversary of Rare, a British game developer that is now part of Xbox Game Studios.

    Pricing and Features

    As mentioned last week, you can order this controller on Amazon for $89.99, which is $20 more than the regular Ultimate 3-mode controller for Xbox. This price increase comes with the addition of wireless connectivity for Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles through a 2.4 GHz USB dongle that is included. Additionally, this new controller is compatible with Apple and Android devices via Bluetooth.

    Availability in the UK

    In a tweet, 8BitDo announced that the Ultimate 3-mode Controller – Rare 40th Anniversary Edition is now up for order on Amazon UK. As of now, you can get the controller in the UK for £69.99. Unfortunately, it won’t start shipping in the UK until October 31, which is about six weeks after units are expected to reach those who pre-ordered the controller in North America.

    Conclusion

    So, if you’re a fan of Rare or just want a new controller, this might be a great chance for you to grab this limited edition item. Don’t forget to check it out on Amazon if you’re interested!

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  • GPD Win 5: New Videos Reveal Surprise Pricing for Gaming Handheld

    GPD Win 5: New Videos Reveal Surprise Pricing for Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. GPD revealed the Win 5 gaming handheld at ChinaJoy 2025, showcasing its powerful features.
    2. The Win 5 supports Biwin’s Mini SSDs, allowing for up to 2 TB of storage expansion.
    3. Users can change the batteries of the Win 5 without powering down the device.
    4. The Win 5 maintains a thermal design power of 55 W, keeping performance high with over 100 FPS in AAA games.
    5. GPD hinted that the Win 5 will be priced below $2,000, making it more affordable than the Asus ROG Flow Z13.


    GPD keeps hinting at its upcoming gaming handheld release after it was fully revealed earlier this month at ChinaJoy 2025 in Shanghai. Just to recap, the company posted two in-depth videos from the event on social media. While the GPD Win 5 is clearly the most powerful gaming handheld introduced so far, alongside the Ayaneo Next II, some fans have voiced their frustration over various design decisions.

    New Info on the Win 5

    Since the event, GPD has been slowly sharing more details about the Win 5 on its social media platforms. For example, the handheld supports Biwin’s Mini SSDs, allowing for 2 TB of storage expansion via PCIe Gen4 x2 and the NVMe 1.4 protocol. Additionally, GPD demonstrated that users can change the Win 5’s batteries without needing to power down the device.

    Performance and Pricing Insights

    Moreover, GPD confirmed that the Win 5 can maintain a thermal design power (TDP) of 55 W, keeping the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU around 70°C while achieving over 100 FPS in modern AAA games. In a separate note, the company hinted that the Win 5 could be priced more affordably than many anticipate. In response to a comment on YouTube, GPD mentioned that the Win 5 will be “much cheaper than the Z13,” suggesting it will be less costly than Asus’ latest ROG Flow Z13, which is currently priced at $2,299.99 on Amazon.

    Right now, that device starts at $2,099, featuring the Ryzen AI Max 390. Therefore, one can expect the Win 5 to be priced under the ROG Flow Z13, likely below $2,000. GPD plans to launch the Win 5 in October.

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  • Steam DMCA Abuse: Valve Fails to Address Growing Problem

    Steam DMCA Abuse: Valve Fails to Address Growing Problem

    Key Takeaways

    1. Creators and community members on Steam Workshop are calling for Valve to improve its handling of DMCA issues after significant mod takedowns.

    2. The Hearts of Iron IV modding community faced a notable DMCA dispute that resulted in the permanent removal of a popular mod, even after a mutual agreement was reached between the parties involved.

    3. The current DMCA process on Steam Workshop allows excessive power to the claimant, making it easy for false claims to lead to content removals without consequences.

    4. The system requires accused creators to prove their innocence, which can lead to unjust outcomes if the claimant does not retract their complaint.

    5. Several popular mods are currently facing takedown notices, highlighting a growing concern about the misuse of DMCA claims across various games.


    A rising number of creators and community members on Steam Workshop are urging Valve to revamp its handling of DMCA issues following a series of significant takedowns affecting popular mods in various games. This controversy has gained traction on Reddit, where a user named r/Destory-God put together a post detailing how harmful DMCA claims are being misused to remove content, even when disputes have been settled.

    The Hearts of Iron IV Case

    One of the prominent examples discussed involves the modding community for Hearts of Iron IV. Two mods, The Fire Rises (TFR) and Loong Rising of Darkness (LROD), found themselves at odds due to internal team disagreements. This prompted TFR’s developers to file a DMCA complaint against LROD. Although both parties eventually reached a mutual agreement, the initial claim was never retracted. Consequently, LROD faced permanent removal from the platform.

    Ongoing DMCA Conflicts

    The situation escalated, with TFR becoming a target of DMCA claims itself shortly after. Modders have expressed concerns that the current Workshop system grants excessive authority to the claimant. When a DMCA notice is filed, Valve notifies the creator being accused, who must then provide evidence of their innocence. This evidence is reviewed by the claimant, who can choose whether to retract the report. If the claimant does not withdraw their claim, the content stays down, and after a month, the developer’s account risks suspension.

    The original poster and several commentators concur that this system is highly susceptible to exploitation. Even outright false claims can result in removals without any repercussions for the person making the accusation. This issue extends beyond just Valve, as many platforms handle DMCA disputes in a similarly biased manner.

    Current Takedown Notices

    At this moment, several popular mods are facing takedown notices, including xdReanimsBase for Left 4 Dead 2, Stormdark UI for Terraria, PropHunt for Garry’s Mod, UI Overhaul Dynamic for Stellaris, and even Perfect Wallpaper for Wallpaper Engine.

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  • Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090D V2 Pricing Surprises Gamers

    Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090D V2 Pricing Surprises Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia is releasing the GeForce RTX 5090D V2, a scaled-back version of the original GeForce RTX 5090D.
    2. The RTX 5090D V2 will have 24 GB of GDDR7 VRAM, operating at 28 Gbps, with a 384-bit memory bus for lower bandwidth.
    3. It will feature the GB202-240 GPU setup, with 21,760 CUDA cores and a 575 W TDP, similar to previous models.
    4. The RTX 5090D V2 will be priced around CNY 16,499 (approximately $2,296), despite its reduced specifications.
    5. Initial retail listings indicate availability in China later this week, with prices from CNY 20,699 to CNY 24,999 ($2,881 to $3,480) from AIB partners.


    Nvidia is about to introduce an updated version of the GeForce RTX 5090D soon. This new model, known as the GeForce RTX 5090D V2, is actually a scaled-back variant of the earlier GeForce RTX 5090. Unlike its predecessor, the original GeForce RTX 5090D shared the same core components as the standard GeForce RTX 5090, which is currently priced at $2,399 on Amazon.

    Specifications Overview

    Recent leaks indicate that the GeForce RTX 5090D V2 will feature a reduction to 24 GB of VRAM. However, this VRAM will still utilize GDDR7 technology, operating at 28 Gbps. Nvidia seems to be restricting the memory bus to 384-bit, leading to a lower memory bandwidth compared to the 1,792 GB/s available in other RTX 5090 models.

    GPU Configuration Details

    Moreover, the GeForce RTX 5090D V2 is expected to come with the GB202-240 GPU setup, which is a step down from the GB202-250 and GB202-300 configurations found in the GeForce RTX 5090D and the GeForce RTX 5090, respectively. Nevertheless, it appears that the 21,760 CUDA cores, 2,375 5th-generation Tensor cores, and a 575 W TDP from the previous models will still be present.

    Market Availability and Pricing

    In summary, the GeForce RTX 5090D V2 is set to be a lesser version of the existing GeForce RTX 5090 and GeForce RTX 5090D. Despite this, initial retail listings suggest that the new variant will be available in China later this week, with a price range between CNY 20,699 and CNY 24,999 (approximately $2,881 to $3,480) from add-in board (AIB) partners like Colorful. Interestingly, Nvidia aims to price the V2 at the same CNY 16,499 (around $2,296) MSRP as the original GeForce RTX 5090D, despite the technical distinctions that set the two apart.

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  • Battlefield 6: A 50-Year-Old Gamer’s Evolving Gaming Tastes

    Battlefield 6: A 50-Year-Old Gamer’s Evolving Gaming Tastes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gaming preferences can change over time, similar to shifts in favorite foods or hobbies.
    2. Many older gamers experience stress and anxiety with fast-paced multiplayer shooters as they age.
    3. Players often shift towards single-player or co-op games, reminiscing about past multiplayer experiences that were slower and more strategic.
    4. Life priorities and responsibilities can affect gaming enjoyment, making competitive games less appealing.
    5. Despite evolving preferences, the love for gaming remains, highlighting its adaptability as a lifelong hobby.


    Just like how people can change their favorite foods or hobbies, their gaming preferences can also shift as time goes on. This is a hot topic that has sparked many discussions on Reddit. One player, who is 50 years old, mentioned that after playing Battlefield 6, he noticed a significant change in his gaming tastes.

    Changing Preferences

    The person who started the thread mentioned that he used to invest thousands of hours into games like Bad Company 2, Battlefield 3, 4, and 1, but now he finds little joy in multiplayer shooters. Instead of having fun, he experiences stress and anxiety when playing. He reflected, “Maybe it’s because I have exponentially more responsibility now, or simply because I’m old and tired.” He couldn’t even manage to play Battlefield 6 for 10 hours. He humorously noted that his wife referred to this shift as “old man mode,” comparing it to a “sensitive marinara” sauce meant for more delicate gamers.

    Shared Experiences

    With over 2,500 comments on Reddit, many users echoed similar sentiments. Fast-paced PvP shooters appear to lose their charm as players age, leading them to favor single-player or co-op games instead. People often reminisce about how multiplayer games from the past were slower and required more strategy and teamwork compared to today’s offerings.

    For instance, someone who used to spend entire nights playing Counter-Strike two decades ago might now enjoy a few calming hours in Stardew Valley. This change is likely due to a shift in life priorities, which makes competitive gaming less appealing than before. Additionally, it’s possible that as people age, their resilience diminishes, making multiplayer shooters feel more stressful than enjoyable. Slower reaction times can also contribute to a decline in skill. In the end, while gaming preferences may evolve, the love for the activity itself remains. Gaming is a versatile hobby that can adapt to various life circumstances and can be a companion throughout life.

    Conclusion

    Ultimately, the discussions on Reddit reveal a common thread: gaming evolves with us. Whether one finds joy in fast-paced action or prefers the tranquility of single-player experiences, the essence of gaming continues to provide enjoyment.

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  • LG Launches UltraGear OLED 27GX700A Gaming Monitor with Upgrades

    LG Launches UltraGear OLED 27GX700A Gaming Monitor with Upgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. LG has launched three new UltraGear OLED gaming monitors (34GX900A, 39GX900A, 45GX900A) as part of the GX9 series globally, along with a fourth model (27GX700A) specifically for the Chinese market.
    2. The UltraGear OLED 27GX700A features a 4th Gen WOLED panel, offering improved brightness and energy efficiency over the 3rd Gen WOLED panels used in previous models.
    3. The monitor can reach a typical peak brightness of 335 nits, a 21% increase over earlier models, and can achieve up to 1,500 nits in HDR content.
    4. It supports a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 pixels, a refresh rate of 280 Hz, a response time of 0.03 ms, and 99.5% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space.
    5. The UltraGear OLED 27GX700A is priced at CNY 4,599 (around $640), but is currently not available for orders in Hong Kong.


    LG has recently introduced a set of three new UltraGear OLED gaming monitors globally. Interestingly, they’ve now been seen adding a fourth model to the lineup specifically for the Chinese market. Just to summarize, the company unveiled the UltraGear OLED 34GX900A, 39GX900A, and 45GX900A last week as part of its GX9 series.

    New Addition to the Series

    Now, LG is bringing out the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A, about a month after its initial reveal in China. This monitor is part of the GX7 series, but it features a more advanced WOLED panel compared to LG’s latest GX9 gaming monitors. Notably, the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A is the first gaming monitor to utilize a 4th Gen WOLED panel, which has several benefits over the older 3rd Gen WOLED found in models like the UltraGear OLED 27GX790A (currently priced at $746.99 on Amazon).

    Impressive Specifications

    As LG explains in a product listing for Hong Kong, the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A uses a 4-stack RGB design, allowing it to achieve much higher brightness levels compared to earlier WOLED panels while also using less energy. On one side, LG states that the monitor can reach a typical peak brightness of 335 nits, which is a 21% increase over the 3rd Gen WOLED panels. On the flip side, the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A can hit up to 1,500 nits in small areas when displaying HDR content.

    Furthermore, the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A supports a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 pixels with an impressive refresh rate of 280 Hz, along with a 0.03 ms GtG response time and 99.5% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space. It also includes an adjustable stand and modern connectivity options like HDMI 2.1. At this moment, the price for the UltraGear OLED 27GX700A is CNY 4,599 (around $640). There’s currently no information available on pricing for other regions, and the new gaming monitor is not yet open for orders in Hong Kong, even though it’s listed on LG’s website.

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  • Asus ROG Strix XG32UCWMG: New 480 Hz OLED Gaming Monitor

    Asus ROG Strix XG32UCWMG: New 480 Hz OLED Gaming Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG is now available for purchase, following its earlier announcement alongside the XG32UCWG model.
    2. The monitor features a 32-inch 4K WOLED display with a default refresh rate of 240 Hz, which can increase to 480 Hz at 1080p resolution.
    3. It includes advanced features such as a Neo Proximity Sensor, KVM switch, custom heatsink, and OLED Care Pro technologies to reduce burn-in risks.
    4. The new TrueBlack Glossy coating minimizes ambient reflections and offers a shinier finish compared to previous models.
    5. The current price of the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG is €1,199 in the Eurozone, making it €100 more expensive than the XG32UCWG.


    The ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG is now ready for purchase after making its first appearance in spring, alongside the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG. As we previously discussed, the latter model was released in China at the end of last month. Soon after, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG made its way to Europe, where it is still priced at €1,099.

    Pricing Details

    Now, those in the Eurozone can acquire the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG for just a bit more than its sibling, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG. To put it into perspective, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG features a 32-inch 4K WOLED display manufactured by LG Display. With a default refresh rate of 240 Hz, this monitor can ramp up to 480 Hz if the resolution is lowered to 1080p.

    Technical Features

    Moreover, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG comes equipped with a Neo Proximity Sensor, a KVM switch, and a custom heatsink, along with OLED Care Pro technologies designed to reduce the risk of OLED burn-in. A key highlight is its TrueBlack Glossy coating, which it shares with the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG. This new glossy finish is claimed to be even shinier than previous glossy WOLED gaming monitors, like the ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM (currently $1,199.99 on Amazon). TrueBlack Glossy is reported to offer a zero-haze effect while minimizing ambient reflections by over a third compared to older glossy WOLED displays.

    Availability

    At present, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG can be found at retailers such as Computer Universe and Digitec. As of now, this new monitor is listed at €1,199 (~$1,393) in the Eurozone, making it €100 pricier than the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG. On the other hand, Digitec has it priced at CHF 1,113 (~$1,372), which translates to approximately €1,181 based on current exchange rates. Additionally, Asus is anticipated to launch the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG in the US before summer wraps up for a price of $949.

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  • Switch 2 Dev Kit Requirements and DLSS 3.1 Specs Leaked

    Switch 2 Dev Kit Requirements and DLSS 3.1 Specs Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. Slow rollout of development kits for the Switch 2 is causing delays in new third-party games.
    2. Developers must meet specific requirements, including using features like DLSS 3.1 upscaling, to receive dev kits.
    3. Nintendo favors working with established partners and has a strict approval process for game ideas.
    4. Unauthorized access to dev kits is being restricted, requiring strong proposals from developers.
    5. Recent Nintendo events have raised hopes for improved third-party support despite a challenging selection process.


    Some insiders are pointing fingers at the slow rollout of development kits for the delay in new third-party games for the Switch 2. Developers require these important tools to build, fine-tune, and test their games on the console. A post on LinkedIn by a Nintendo collaborator has revealed how selectively the company hands out these resources. As LynxByte Games indicates, studios must adhere to certain essential specifications for the Switch 2, which include DLSS 3.1 upscaling.

    The Approval Process

    Doctre81, a YouTuber, brought attention to the approval process for dev kits. Just because a game runs well on the original Switch, it doesn’t mean it will get the green light for the Switch 2. Nintendo tends to favor working with developers they already have partnerships with.

    When developers pitch their ideas to Nintendo, they need to clarify how their project will utilize the advanced specs of the Switch 2. This includes features like 4K graphics at 60 fps and, when docked, 1440p with enhanced refresh rates. Providing C button support on controllers, a mouse mode, and GameShare options are additional ways to catch Nintendo’s interest. Studios are expected to leverage some, but not all, of these features to receive a dev kit.

    Stricter Controls

    Nintendo is making efforts to plug any gaps that might allow developers to gain unauthorized access to dev kits. To get their games on the Switch 2, parties need to present a strong case to the manufacturer.

    Another intriguing point from LynxByte Games relates to Nvidia’s upscaling tech. Analysts had speculated that the handheld might be using an older version of DLSS. However, just because DLSS 3.1 is in play, it doesn’t assure that frame generation will be a feature that enhances frame rates. Regardless, the Switch 2 could roll out more advanced features as Nintendo continues to refine the system.

    Future Prospects

    The latest Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase and Indie World events have sparked optimism among gamers for increased third-party support. Developers might feel lucky to have made it through a surprisingly tough selection process.

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