Category: Gaming

  • Arc Raiders Datamine Reveals New Map, Bosses, and More

    Arc Raiders Datamine Reveals New Map, Bosses, and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Arc Raiders has gained popularity during its brief playtest, generating excitement for its upcoming features.
    2. A datamine revealed a new map called ‘The Blue Gate’ and confirmed four other maps, indicating ongoing development.
    3. New bosses and enemies are in the works, with codenames and HP stats suggesting their roles and strengths.
    4. Upcoming game modes include ‘HarvesterHunt’, ‘OutpostDefense’, ‘Reclaim’, ‘Salvage’, and ‘Siege’, hinting at diverse gameplay options.
    5. Additional details on character skills, loot, and game systems are available, but they may change before the final release.

    Arc Raiders has proven to be a great hit, despite being available for only a brief period during its playtest. This upcoming extraction shooter, crafted by Embark Studios using Unreal Engine 5, has generated a lot of buzz. Although the playtest offered limited gameplay experiences, a datamine of the game has revealed exciting details about future content, like new bosses, a fourth map, extra game modes, skills, and more.

    Insights from the Datamine

    Information shared on the Arc Raiders subreddit by user CoUsT indicates that game files contain hints about what the developers might be working on. It’s important to remember that this content is not final and may never reach the full release. Some of the values might also be incorrect or misinterpreted, so it’s wise to take this info lightly.

    New Map Discovery

    Among the findings, a new map titled ‘The Blue Gate’ has been identified. This map is one of the five confirmed, which also includes ‘PracticeRange’, ‘BuriedCity’, ‘Spaceport’, and ‘TheDam’. Notably, The Blue Gate has no Points of Interest (POIs) listed, implying that it is still under development. Additionally, other locations mentioned in the data include ‘DeathMatch’, ‘CombatValidation’, ‘MountainCompound’, and ‘Onboarding’ (which serves as a tutorial).

    Upcoming Bosses and Enemies

    Regarding bosses and enemies, there are codenames, abilities, and HP stats for anticipated new and existing foes in Arc Raiders. The codenames include Salt, Wasabi, Mustard, Fennel, Pepper, and Radish. Salt is characterized as having 20K HP, while Wasabi, thought to be the Queen, boasts 35K HP. Mustard is speculated to be the King with 60K HP, while the others are expected to be lesser enemies.

    Game Modes and Features

    There is also a mention of a “Pendulum System/Move,” which is thought to be related to movement or a new game mode. In terms of game modes, the data reveals ‘HarvesterHunt’, ‘OutpostDefense (with Elite waves, LastStandOrbital)’, ‘Reclaim’, ‘Salvage’, and ‘Siege (with Elite)’ as some of the modes currently present or on the horizon for Arc Raiders.

    Additional Information

    A wealth of information is available regarding character skills and abilities, loot, armors, inventory, audio, weather systems, and even a first-person camera. As previously noted, it’s crucial to approach this information cautiously, as the final version of the game may not include every detail mentioned.

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  • Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers

    Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo is sending out pre-order invitation emails to select gamers, but timing and availability remain unclear.
    2. Only a small number of players have reported receiving emails, indicating limited console availability ahead of the June 5th launch.
    3. Eligible buyers include Nintendo Switch Online subscribers with over 12 months of membership and 50+ hours of gameplay, but invitations are not guaranteed.
    4. Gamers who receive invitations have a 72-hour window to complete their purchases on Nintendo’s Store.
    5. Delivery options may lead to delays, with standard shipping taking 3-9 business days and expedited options still possibly arriving after the Switch 2’s release date.

    U.S. gamers were aware that Nintendo would dispatch emails to chosen players on May 8th, but the specific time for pre-ordering the Switch 2 was still unclear. Now, it seems that invitation emails are beginning to reach select gamers. Nevertheless, as has been the case during the pre-order phase, there is still a lot of confusion regarding the availability and shipping methods.

    Select Emails Rolling Out

    Currently, only a small group of users on the ResetEra forums and various subreddits have reported receiving an email. This pattern might suggest that Nintendo plans to keep sending invitations throughout the day, or it could mean that the number of consoles available is even lower than anticipated. Nintendo has already mentioned that there might not be enough handheld devices for every player by the Switch 2 launch on June 5th.

    Invited Buyers Share Their Emails

    Lucky participants who received invites from Nintendo have shared the content of their emails. There’s nothing particularly surprising in the communication, as gamers have a window of 72 hours to complete their purchases. Before the pre-order period kicked off, Nintendo made it clear which buyers would be eligible. The company favors Nintendo Switch Online subscribers who have been registered for over 12 months and logged 50+ hours of gameplay. However, even those who meet these criteria are not guaranteed an invitation to purchase the console from Nintendo’s Store.

    Delivery Options and Expectations

    On social media, retail tracker Wario64 suggested that gamers waiting for their emails should visit Nintendo’s website. Any gamer who gets selected by Nintendo might be able to finalize their order right away.

    An unexpected downside for buyers relates to the delivery choices. The standard free shipping option estimates delivery in 3-9 business days. Depending on when the order is dispatched, the console might not arrive until after the Switch 2 release date. Even the expedited shipping options provide estimated delivery times of 2-3 days. While the Switch 2 pre-order frenzy has caused issues for retailers like Best Buy and GameStop, players still hope to receive their consoles on June 5th.

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    Nintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. GamersNintendo Begins Sending Switch 2 Pre-Order Invitations to U.S. Gamers

     

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  • Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 Gaming Tablet Benchmark Results Revealed

    Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 Gaming Tablet Benchmark Results Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo will launch the Y700 4th generation gaming tablet in China on May 8, 2025, known globally as the Legion Tab Gen 4.
    2. The tablet maintains a temperature of 40.5° C or less during 120 minutes of gaming, ensuring a comfortable experience.
    3. It averages 60 FPS on a popular 3D turn-based mobile game at very high settings, consuming about 9.5 W of power.
    4. On a popular MOBA game, it achieves 120 FPS with extreme graphics quality, drawing an average of 8.9 W in 30 minutes.
    5. Pricing details are not yet available, but the previous model was priced at approximately $400 in China and $499.99 globally.

    Lenovo is set to unveil its latest gaming tablet, the Y700 4th generation, in China today, May 8, 2025. This device is expected to be known as the Legion Tab Gen 4 when it hits the global market. While Lenovo has not yet provided details about the international release, they have shared some benchmark results.

    Impressive Performance Metrics

    According to these benchmark results, Lenovo claims that the Legion Tab Gen 4 can deliver a seamless gaming experience without excessive heat. Specifically, the tablet is said to maintain a temperature of 40.5° C or less during a 120-minute gaming session.

    Gaming Experience

    Although Lenovo refrained from mentioning the exact games used for benchmarking, they did assert that the tablet averages 60 FPS on a “popular 3D turn-based mobile game” at “very high” visual settings. The average power consumption during this session is reported to be around 9.5 W.

    Further Benchmarks

    In another benchmark, on a “popular MOBA mobile game,” the tablet reportedly achieves an average of 120 FPS with “extreme” graphics quality. The average power draw in this 30-minute session is claimed to be 8.9 W. Finally, on a “renowned battle royale game,” the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 supposedly manages an average FPS of 119.9 over a 30-minute gameplay session, with a power draw of about 8 W.

    As of now, Lenovo has not disclosed the starting price for the Snapdragon 8 Elite gaming tablet. However, the previous model was priced at CNY 2,899, which is approximately $400, and it retailed outside China for $499.99 (256 GB currently priced at $489.99 on Lenovo’s website).

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    Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 Gaming Tablet Benchmark Results RevealedLenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 Gaming Tablet Benchmark Results RevealedLenovo Legion Tab Gen 4 Gaming Tablet Benchmark Results Revealed
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  • DualSense Wireless Controller Death Stranding 2 Limited Edition Revealed

    DualSense Wireless Controller Death Stranding 2 Limited Edition Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has announced a limited edition DualSense controller for Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, designed in collaboration with Kojima Productions.
    2. The controller features a black color with the Drawbridge insignia and motto in bright orange, along with special markings and the game’s title engraved on the back.
    3. Pre-orders for the controller will start on May 22, 2025, at a price of $84.99 in the US and similar prices in Europe, the UK, and Japan.
    4. The DualSense wireless controller will launch on June 26, 2025, coinciding with the game’s release date.
    5. Death Stranding 2: On The Beach will be a PS5 exclusive at launch, with potential future releases on PC and Xbox.

    It has kind of become a common thing for popular games to have a special edition controller, and the newest game to follow this trend is Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding 2: On The Beach. Sony’s PlayStation has revealed the DualSense wireless controller – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Limited Edition, just before the game is set to launch on June 26, 2025.

    Collaboration with Kojima Productions

    Sony mentioned that they collaborated closely with Kojima Productions to create the controller. The controller features a black color and includes the Drawbridge insignia and motto in a bright orange shade. This design can be found on the touchpad of the controller. Additionally, there are special markings on the handles, and the back of the controller has the game’s title engraved on it.

    Pre-Order and Pricing Details

    The DualSense wireless controller – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Limited Edition will be available for pre-order starting May 22 at 10 AM local time. The price is set at $84.99 in the US, €84.99 in Europe, £74.99 in the UK, and ¥12,480 in Japan. The controller will launch on June 26, 2025, coinciding with the release of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach.

    Exclusivity on PS5

    Death Stranding 2: On The Beach will be a PS5 exclusive (which is also available on Amazon for $499) at its release, but similar to the first game, we can anticipate it will eventually come to PC and Xbox as well.

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  • New Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store for a Limited Time

    New Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store for a Limited Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. Deadtime Defenders is receiving ‘Positive’ feedback on Steam while in Early Access.
    2. Touch Type Tale has an average of ‘Very Positive’ reviews on Steam.
    3. Touch Type Tale won the Best Expert Game award at the 2023 German Computer Game Awards.
    4. Touch Type Tale also received the Innovation prize from the 2023 German Developer Award.
    5. Prices and deals mentioned are subject to change and may vary due to time limits or stock availability.

    As it currently is, Deadtime Defenders is getting ‘Positive’ feedback on Steam even though it is still in Early Access. At the same time, Touch Type Tale has an average of Very Positive reviews on that same platform. Additionally, that game won the Best Expert Game award at the German Computer Game Awards in 2023, and it also nabbed the Innovation prize from the German Developer Award in the same year. For more info, check out the listings on Epic Games’ store.

    Important Note

    Notebookcheck cannot be held liable for any price changes made by sellers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this piece was valid at the time of writing and could be affected by time limits or limited stock availability.

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  • Anbernic Reveals Key Specs for New Miyoo Flip Rival RG34XX SP

    Anbernic Reveals Key Specs for New Miyoo Flip Rival RG34XX SP

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic’s RG34XX SP features a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.
    2. The device is powered by the Allwinner H700 quad-core processor and has 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM for improved performance.
    3. It includes Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity options.
    4. The RG34XX SP has a 3,300 mAh battery that can last up to 6 hours on a single charge.
    5. Anbernic has emphasized the sturdiness of the RG34XX SP’s hinge design, contrasting it with issues faced by the Miyoo Flip.

    Anbernic has released more information about the RG34XX SP, just three days after presenting its new alternative to the Miyoo Flip (currently priced at $74.99 on Amazon). At first, Anbernic concentrated on the design of its latest portable device, while also sharing some details such as a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.

    New Specifications Confirmed

    The company has now revealed that this 3:2 display will be powered by the Allwinner H700, a quad-core processor that Anbernic has frequently used over the past year. This suggests that the RG34XX SP offers performance similar to the current RG35XX SP. However, the increase from 1 GB to 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM is likely to yield a noticeable performance boost in specific scenarios.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    Other features like Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi remain available, along with a 3,300 mAh battery that Anbernic says can last up to 6 hours on a single charge. It appears that Anbernic has subtly criticized Miyoo, whose clamshell device still faces hinge problems despite a version 2 update. While not overtly stated, Anbernic has taken the unusual approach of highlighting the RG34XX SP’s hinge design and its sturdiness. For complete specifications, take a look at the video linked below.

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  • Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099

    Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aurora 16 is a mid-range gaming laptop from Dell’s Alienware line, priced 35% lower than the Aurora 16X due to fewer features.
    2. It comes with base specs including an Intel Core 5 210H processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics, 8 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage, starting at €1,099 (approximately $1,245).
    3. Upgrade options are available for a Core 9 270H processor and GeForce RTX 5070 graphics card, but the RTX 5070 is limited to 85 W TGP in the Aurora 16.
    4. The laptop features a 300 nit, 120 Hz display and has an option for a larger 96 Wh battery.
    5. Release date for the Aurora 16 in the Eurozone is set for May 27, with complete pricing and availability details yet to be confirmed.

    The Aurora 16 has been unveiled today as one of two new mid-range gaming laptops by Dell under its Alienware line. While the Aurora 16 and Aurora 16X share a similar appearance, the Aurora 16 has fewer features, allowing it to be sold at a price that is 35% lower. For example, this model uses a plastic casing and lacks RGB backlit keys, which are present in the Aurora 16X.

    Specifications and Performance

    Many gamers may find the base specs of the Aurora 16 lacking. Dell states that this model is equipped with an Intel Core 5 210H processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card, 8 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage. Additionally, it features a 300 nit, 120 Hz display and a 60 Wh battery, all for a starting price of €1,099 (approximately $1,245). As a point of comparison, other laptops with the GeForce RTX 3050, such as the HP Victus 15 or Asus TUF A15 (currently priced at $658 on Amazon), can be found for under $700.

    Upgrade Options

    However, the Aurora 16 does offer the option to upgrade to a Core 9 270H and a GeForce RTX 5070. This upgrade could make it more competitive with the Aurora 16X. That said, Dell limits the GeForce RTX 5070 to an 85 W TGP in the Aurora 16, whereas the Aurora 16X allows for 115 W with an additional 15 W Dynamic Boost.

    The Aurora 16 also has the option to come with a larger 96 Wh battery. All versions include dual USB Type-A and USB Type-C ports, as well as HDMI 2.1 and Ethernet ports. The release date for the Aurora 16 in the Eurozone is set for May 27, although Dell has yet to confirm complete pricing and availability details.

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    Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099

     

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  • Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

    Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is working on a new Xbox console that may run on the Windows operating system, focusing on game preservation.
    2. A job listing for a Principal Software Engineer highlights the need for developing scalable emulation solutions for legacy games.
    3. Microsoft has begun releasing past exclusive games on other platforms like the PS5 and may do so for the upcoming Switch 2.
    4. Xbox games are becoming more accessible on modern Windows PCs, but some titles remain exclusive to older consoles.
    5. AI may be used to improve backward compatibility, emphasizing the importance of preserving older Xbox games.

    Microsoft is keen on making sure that its vast collection of Xbox games can still be enjoyed in the years to come. There are talks that the company is working on a new Xbox console that would operate on the Windows operating system. However, Microsoft might encounter challenges in bringing older classics to its new hardware and possibly to other systems. Recently, a job listing was made public for a Principal Software Engineer, aimed at enhancing the game preservation team.

    Some Key Responsibilities

    The role involves creating “scalable emulation solutions” and “emulating legacy games on modern platforms.” The engineer would also be tasked with ensuring game assets are protected from piracy, theft, and other forms of tampering. Sadly, the job posting does not specify which existing or future consoles or platforms these emulated games might be available on.

    Expanding Game Availability

    Microsoft has already started releasing previous exclusives on the PS5, and there are signs that it might extend this to the upcoming Switch 2. Even though sales of the Series X have been on the decline, Microsoft has not given up on its plans to launch a new Xbox console. Project Kennan is a rumored device made by Asus that could include Xbox controls. This handheld device is expected to be based on Windows and will likely offer a full-screen Xbox user interface.

    The Future of Xbox Gaming

    Modern Windows PCs can access a lot of the Xbox games that are available on the Series X, Series S, and now the PS5. However, certain games are still locked to Microsoft’s current and older consoles. Jez Corden from Windows Central reports that Xbox systems will adjust to utilize the Win32 API. The Series X currently supports a development environment that is somewhat similar, but some games coded for Xbox ERA are still restricted.

    The Principal Software Engineer might direct their focus toward older Xbox titles that require more effort to emulate. Phil Spencer has also mentioned that AI could play a role in enhancing backward compatibility. In any case, preserving games will be essential for Microsoft’s Play Anywhere initiative.

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    Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

     

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  • Discounted Tough Platformer with Nostalgic Art Style on Steam

    Discounted Tough Platformer with Nostalgic Art Style on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cuphead became a major hit in 2017 due to its challenging gameplay and unique cartoon-style graphics, receiving over 160,000 positive reviews on Steam.
    2. Players can choose to play as Cuphead or Mugman, who must recover their souls by defeating various bosses after losing them to the Devil.
    3. Gameplay includes boss battles, aircraft segments, and running challenges, with bosses having multiple phases and attack patterns.
    4. The game features two difficulty levels: Simple (easier, no soul rewards) and Regular (more challenging), allowing players to choose their experience.
    5. Cuphead is currently on sale for $13.99 on Steam, which is the lowest price since its release, while the DLC, The Delicious Last Course, costs $18.89.

    In 2017, Cuphead made a huge impact in the gaming community. What seemed like a simple cartoon-style platformer quickly became known as one of the most challenging games released that year. It received rave reviews from both players and critics, and to date, it boasts over 160,000 positive reviews on Steam.

    Characters and Storyline

    In Cuphead, you can take on the role of either Cuphead or his brother, Mugman, who reside on Inkwell Isle. The game offers both solo and cooperative play options. After losing their souls to the Devil due to gambling, the brothers must retrieve the souls of other debtors. Players navigate through various regions, facing off against enemies and collecting their souls.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Most levels feature confrontations with bosses (or multiple bosses) in an arena setting, while other segments involve piloting an aircraft, which comes with its own unique controls. Additionally, there are sections where players run through areas, eliminating any foes encountered. As previously mentioned, Cuphead is challenging, and it often takes several attempts to complete a level. Boss battles typically consist of multiple phases, each introducing new attack patterns and combos.

    Difficulty Settings and Pricing

    Cuphead offers two difficulty levels: Simple and Regular. As the names indicate, Simple is the more forgiving option. However, completing a level on Simple does not reward players with a soul, which is the main goal of the game. This mode is designed for players to get accustomed to the level before transitioning to Regular. Alternatively, players can choose to jump straight into the fray.

    At the moment, Cuphead is available at a 30% discount on Steam, reducing its price to $13.99. According to SteamDB’s price tracker, this is the lowest price since its release. While it frequently goes on sale, it usually does not drop below 30% because it remains a highly regarded game. If you’re interested in the DLC, The Delicious Last Course, it will cost you $18.89.

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  • PS5 Powers Every Frame of GTA 6 Trailer 2, Says Rockstar

    PS5 Powers Every Frame of GTA 6 Trailer 2, Says Rockstar

    Key Takeaways

    1. Trailer 2 for GTA VI received over 1 million likes within an hour and has now reached 5 million likes.
    2. The trailer showcases a mix of real-time gameplay and in-game cutscenes, highlighting the game’s visual achievements.
    3. Some minor aliasing issues were noted, which may not affect performance on the more powerful PS5 Pro.
    4. GTA VI is expected to launch at 30 FPS, with no 60 FPS option likely available at release.
    5. GTA VI may not be compatible with the rumored Nintendo Switch 2, and other handheld devices may struggle to run the game efficiently.

    Rockstar Games has recently unveiled Trailer 2 for GTA VI, which quickly gained traction, amassing over 1 million likes within just an hour of its upload. As of now, the total likes have soared to 5 million. This trailer isn’t only a successful reveal; it also provides a closer look at Grand Theft Auto 6. Rockstar confirmed that the entire footage was recorded on a PlayStation 5 and not the PS5 Pro.

    Gameplay and Cutscenes

    In a statement shared on X, Rockstar Games mentioned that Trailer 2 features a blend of real-time gameplay and in-game cutscenes. The seamless transition between these two elements is a significant accomplishment for the game. Returning to the point about the PS5 capturing the new trailer, many YouTubers have scrutinized the video, with most of them praising the game’s environment, special effects like explosions, and particularly the intricate details of the characters.

    Performance Insights

    However, as noted by Digital Foundry, some specifics and minor aliasing issues detract from the overall visual quality of the trailer. It’s suggested that these concerns may not be present on the PlayStation 5 Pro, which has superior hardware compared to the standard PS5.

    Digital Foundry also mentioned that GTA 6 is likely to be limited to 30 FPS at launch, even on the PS5 Pro. This assumption doesn’t stem solely from the impressive visuals of Grand Theft Auto VI, but rather from Rockstar’s pattern of releasing significant titles without a 60 FPS option at launch.

    Console Compatibility

    Regarding the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 version, Digital Foundry believes that GTA VI is “too big” for the system. Analysts speculate that devices like the Steam Deck or even the ROG Ally X and Legion Go (currently priced at $599.99 on Best Buy) might struggle to run Grand Theft Auto 6. Nevertheless, Rockstar Games has not disclosed any plans for supporting handheld gaming devices. It’s possible the developers are already taking steps to optimize the game for better performance on lower-spec systems.

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