Category: Gaming

April 1, 2025
Jagex Unveils New Survival Game in the RuneScape Universe
Key Takeaways
1. Dragonwilds is a new open-world survival game set in the Runescape universe, focusing on base building and familiar skills like cooking and mining.
2. Unlike Runescape, Dragonwilds will be a co-op game for up to four players, emphasizing skill leveling and a rewarding progression system.
3. A new team of industry experts is developing Dragonwilds to ensure it feels authentic to the Runescape universe and appeals to both fans and new players.
4. Players will aim to defeat the Dragon Queen by gathering resources, building structures, and enhancing their skills in the newly introduced region of Ashenfall.
5. Jagex plans to use community feedback to shape game updates after its Early Access launch on Steam in the Spring.
Jagex, the creator of the popular MMO Runescape, has revealed a new game called Dragonwilds. This game will be an open-world survival spin-off that takes place in the same universe. Players can look forward to encountering familiar monsters, engaging in skills like cooking and mining, as well as participating in survival elements like base building.
A Different Kind of Game
The developers clarified that Dragonwilds won’t be an MMO; instead, it will be a co-op game for four players. The game will focus on what made Runescape engaging—leveling up skills and having a rewarding progression system that values time and dedication.
Team Behind the Game
Jon Bellamy, the CEO of Jagex, shared with GamesRadar (through Yahoo Tech) that they have created “a brand new team comprised of industry experts” to ensure Dragonwilds feels like a natural part of the Runescape universe. The game is designed for both “our biggest fans and completely new players.”
The Adventure Awaits
The goal in Dragonwilds is to defeat the Dragon Queen. To achieve this, players will need to gather resources, build structures, and work on improving their skills to assist in their journey. The setting is Ashenfall, a fresh area in Gielinor, located on an unexplored continent enveloped by Anima.
The game boasts two regions and up to five distinct biomes to discover, with the possibility of adding more after the launch during Early Access. While it’s not set in the exact same spot as Runescape, players can expect to find some recognizable landmarks and foes, albeit altered by Anima, which is a magical element within the Runescape world.
Community Engagement
Similar to Old-school Runescape (OSRS), Jagex has committed to a community-focused feedback system. This will help shape the game’s updates once it becomes available on Steam Early Access in the Spring.
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Tags: Dragonwilds, Jagex, Runescape
April 1, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2: Expectations for the Most Anticipated Console
Key Takeaways
1. The original Nintendo Switch is one of the top-selling consoles ever made.
2. Nintendo is hinting at a new generation model, generating excitement among fans.
3. The Nintendo Switch 2 will feature improved hardware for better gaming performance.
4. It is expected to include a custom Nvidia Tegra chipset for enhanced graphics.
5. Upgrades will lead to higher resolutions, improved textures, and smoother gameplay.
The original Nintendo Switch is among the top-selling consoles ever made. After the company hinted at a new generation model, fans are really excited for what comes next. With so many leaks and rumors floating around, it can be hard to keep track, so here’s a thorough summary of what we know about the Nintendo Switch 2.
Upgrades in Hardware and Gaming Experience
When it launched, the Nintendo Switch was criticized for its somewhat weak hardware. However, Nintendo’s exclusive games, like The Legend of Zelda, were well-optimized, showcasing some of the most stunning art styles in gaming, despite the hardware limitations. The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to improve on this with enhanced internal components that will allow games to perform much better.
According to earlier reports, the new handheld device will come equipped with a custom Nvidia Tegra chipset, potentially rivaling the performance seen in the Xbox One or PlayStation 4. This upgrade will enable gaming at higher resolutions, improved textures, and more sophisticated lighting effects. Gamers can also expect a smoother gameplay experience thanks to increased RAM and storage, which is a significant advantage for players.
Tags: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Nvidia Tegra
April 1, 2025
8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Xbox Controller in Jade Colorway
Key Takeaways
1. 8BitDo offers a variety of Xbox-licensed items including controllers, arcade sticks, media remotes, and a keyboard and mouse.
2. The new Jade version of the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller features a green translucent finish reminiscent of the classic Xbox console.
3. Pre-orders for the Jade controller are available on Amazon for $69.99, with an official release on May 15, 2025.
4. The controller is compatible with Xbox consoles, Windows PCs, and both Android and Apple devices.
5. Key features include Hall Effect joysticks, back paddle buttons, an audio jack, and a 500mAh battery offering up to 20 hours of gameplay.
8BitDo has a range of Xbox-licensed items including controllers, arcade sticks, media remotes, and even a keyboard and mouse. One standout product is the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox. Initially released in Black and White, they’ve now introduced a new color called Jade.
New Color Release
The Jade version of the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox features a green translucent finish that brings back memories of the classic transparent green Xbox console. This isn’t the first time we’ve seen this color from 8BitDo, as both the 8BitDo Retro Keyboard and Mouse are also offered in this hue.
Pre-Order Details
You can pre-order the new Jade color on Amazon for $69.99, with the official release set for May 15, 2025. For Amazon Prime members, the black and white versions are currently available at a special price of $46.89.
Compatibility and Features
Although the 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller for Xbox is made for Xbox consoles, it’s versatile enough to work with various platforms. You can connect it to Xbox consoles using a wired USB cable, to Windows PCs via a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, and to both Android and Apple devices using Bluetooth.
The controller is equipped with Hall Effect joysticks and triggers, two back paddle buttons, an audio jack, and a microphone mute button. Inside, it houses a 500mAh battery, which can deliver up to 20 hours of gameplay on a single charge.
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Tags: 8BitDo Ultimate 3-mode Controller, Jade, Xbox
April 1, 2025
Nvidia 572.XX Drivers Cause RTX 3000 & 4000 GPU Instability
Key Takeaways
1. Nvidia’s new RTX 5000 series drivers (572.XX) are causing significant issues for older GPU generations (RTX 4000 and RTX 3000).
2. Game developers are recommending users with older GPUs revert to driver version 566.36 to avoid crashes and instability.
3. Users of RTX 5000 GPUs cannot revert to older, more stable drivers, leading to frustrations with their new hardware.
4. The RTX 5000 series is not free from instability issues, with reports of crashes, freezes, and performance drops.
5. Nvidia appears to be prioritizing its compute and server divisions over the gaming market, impacting driver support and stability.
Nvidia has been relatively smooth sailing with its gaming GPU drivers for a while now. Fans of Team Green often boast about the better driver stability compared to AMD’s offerings, but things have gotten a bit more complicated for Nvidia since the launch of the new RTX 5000 series. Generally, GPU manufacturers support the latest 3-4 generations, but the drivers (572.XX) that brought support for the new RTX 5000 cards are causing significant issues for older generation GPUs. As a result, game developers have started suggesting users revert to older drivers to avoid these instability problems.
Issues Across Generations
The RTX 5000 series isn’t immune to instability either; however, the previous generation RTX 4000 and RTX 3000 cards are experiencing more frequent crashes, freezes, artifacting, and frame drops with the 572.XX drivers. Users with older Nvidia GPUs have been voicing their concerns over various games in recent months, leading developers of inZoi and The First Berserker: Khazan to recommend using driver version 566.36 for RTX 4000 and RTX 3000 cards. Reports from Mpr_reviews on X indicate that the 566.xx drivers resolve most issues for these older cards, but this workaround comes at the cost of some DLSS features that are necessary for the latest Nvidia applications.
Limited Options for New Users
Sadly, owners of RTX 5000 GPUs are stuck with the latest driver versions as they cannot revert to previous ones to enhance stability, since only the new 572.XX drivers are compatible with their newer cards. Even though Nvidia has been rolling out new driver updates more frequently, the problems surrounding the RTX 5000 series, including supply and hardware challenges for both desktops and laptops, clearly signal that Team Green is not as focused on the gaming market as it once was. Instead, their compute and server divisions have been central to the surge in AI advancements over the last few years.
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Tags: driver issues, gaming GPUs, Nvidia RTX 5000
April 1, 2025
CRKD Launches Neo S Linkin Park Fortnite Controller with Hall Effect Sticks
Key Takeaways
1. CRKD has launched the Neo S Linkin Park 5-Fret Fortnite Festival Edition wireless gaming controller, inspired by Linkin Park’s instruments.
2. The controller features drift-proof Hall effect thumbsticks, built-in motion controls, and adjustable triggers for enhanced gameplay.
3. It includes five action buttons designed to mimic guitar frets and offers customization options through the CRKD companion app.
4. The Neo S is compatible with various devices, including Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile phones, tablets, and smart TVs, with both Bluetooth and wired connectivity.
5. The controller is available for pre-order at $59.99/€69.99/£59.99, with shipping expected to start in May.
CRKD has introduced the Neo S Linkin Park 5-Fret Fortnite Festival Edition wireless gaming controller on a global scale. This new controller showcases artwork that draws inspiration from the instruments of Linkin Park featured in the Fortnite festival. It is designed specifically for use with Fortnite Festival and other rhythm-based games, following the recent launch of CRKD’s Gibson Les Paul guitar controllers.
Features and Design
The Neo S boasts Hall effect thumbsticks, which are claimed to be drift-proof, according to CRKD. Additionally, it includes built-in motion controls and adjustable triggers. In terms of design, the controller has a shape reminiscent of a classic NES gamepad with smooth edges, making it comfortable to hold. In terms of layout, it resembles an Xbox controller, although the thumbsticks will not be aligned at the same height.
Customization and Compatibility
At the bottom of the controller, there are five action buttons, which CRKD states mimic the frets of a guitar. You can also customize various aspects of the controller, including button remapping and adjusting trigger sensitivity and vibration through the CRKD companion app. The Neo S is versatile, compatible with devices ranging from Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile phones to tablets and smart TVs. It offers wireless connectivity via Bluetooth, but a wired connection is also an option.
Pricing and Availability
Right now, the CRKD Neo S Linkin Park 5-Fret Fortnite Festival Edition wireless gaming controller is up for pre-order on CRKD’s official website at a price of $59.99/€69.99/£59.99. As for when it will be available, it is anticipated to begin shipping in May of this year.
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Tags: CRKD Neo S, Linkin Park Controller, Wireless Gaming Controller
April 1, 2025
Nintendo Delays Switch 2 Dev Kits to Prevent Leaks for Developers
Key Takeaways
1. Launch Timeline: Nintendo plans a three-phase launch for the Switch 2, starting with first-party titles, followed by third-party games from October to November.
2. Development Kit Shortage: Many developers, especially smaller ones, are struggling to obtain development kits for the Switch 2, which are essential for game creation.
3. Pressure on Developers: The delay in receiving development kits may impact developers aiming to release titles for the Switch 2 in 2025, as they have less time to prepare.
4. Leaks and Speculations: Despite Nintendo’s efforts to keep details private, there have been numerous leaks about the Switch 2, including a private demonstration at GamesCom 2023.
5. Upcoming Events: Nintendo is hosting Switch 2 Experience events in April, allowing attendees to try the console before its expected June launch.
Gamers aren’t the only ones eager for more details on the Switch 2. While rumors have hinted at a possible June launch, many developers are still waiting on development kits. In a recent podcast by Digital Foundry, John Linneman shared his experiences with various studios at the Game Developers Conference. He confirmed that these dev kits are hard to come by, particularly for smaller and medium-sized developers.
Launch Plans Revealed
Tom Henderson from Insider Gaming recently disclosed that Nintendo has a three-phase plan for the Switch 2’s launch. The focus will be on first-party titles initially, and then from October to November, third-party studios will take the center stage. Henderson noted that these developers might not receive their dev kits until June, which matches Linneman’s observations. Major partners like EA and Bandai Namco are believed to be exceptions to this rule.
Challenges for Developers
Many gamers find it puzzling that studios are being denied vital tools until the console is officially launched. Development kits, which are quite different from the retail consoles, are crucial for coding and debugging. Nintendo’s strategy to prioritize first-party games does give publishers some extra time. However, the delay in providing these resources puts pressure on companies that aim to release Switch 2 titles in 2025.
Leaks and Speculations
Despite Nintendo trying hard to keep things under wraps, leaks about the Switch 2 have become quite common. Reports suggest that the company showcased the console during a private demonstration at GamesCom 2023. With multiple patent filings, many gamers were not shocked by Nintendo’s announcement video back in January. Some expected features include detachable magnetic Joy-Con controllers.
If the Switch 2 indeed launches in June, it seems Nintendo has little faith in smaller developers to keep anything secret. It might also suggest that the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd will not reveal all the specs of the Switch 2. Meanwhile, Nintendo is organizing a series of Switch 2 Experience events in April, where attendees will get a chance to try out the console firsthand. It won’t be long before analysts start to examine the system’s inner workings.
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Tags: Digital Foundry, Nintendo, Switch 2
March 31, 2025
Free Battle Royale: Toy Soldiers Turn Playroom into Warzone
Key Takeaways
1. Battle Royale Experience: Mini Royale features a thrilling battle royale format where players drop from a zeppelin and compete to be the last toy soldier standing, using various weapons and power-ups.
2. Diverse Game Modes: The game includes multiple modes, such as classic deathmatch and the unique “Color Conquest,” with hints of more modes coming in the future.
3. Player Reception: While many players enjoy the imaginative setting and rapid gameplay, the game has received mixed reviews on Steam, with concerns over cheating affecting the experience.
4. Audio and Gameplay Issues: Players have criticized the game’s audio design and shooting mechanics, describing them as clunky and unresponsive, impacting overall enjoyment.
5. Development and Support: Mini Royale is in Early Access, allowing players to support its development through the optional Supporter Pack, which offers cosmetic items at a discounted price.
Imagine toy soldiers from a beloved animated movie battling their way through a child’s room – that’s the essence of Mini Royale. In this multiplayer shooter, you take on the role of a little green soldier navigating giant play areas, using building blocks as shields and crayons for barriers. Staying true to its name, Mini Royale infuses the chaos of battle royale games like Fortnite into a tiny universe.
The Thrill of Battle
Each game round kicks off with a thrilling drop from a zeppelin, alongside 49 other competitors. Once you land, the goal is to survive. Search the arena for weapons and power-ups as you strive to be the last toy soldier left. Mini Royale offers a well-known arsenal, including shotguns, machine guns, sniper rifles, and grenades. A grapple gun enhances your mobility, allowing you to zip around the map and, when combined with a parachute, enables surprise assaults from above.
Diverse Game Modes
In addition to the Battle Royale mode, Mini Royale offers a classic deathmatch and a unique mode called “Color Conquest.” In this mode, players team up in groups of four, and when a player gets eliminated, they change to the color of the team that defeated them – until only one hue is left. The developers have hinted that more game modes are coming soon.
Player Reception and Critiques
Many players have embraced Mini Royale, with its imaginative setting being a standout feature. The combination of nostalgia from Toy Story and exciting shooting action results in a fresh experience. The game’s rapid gameplay has received compliments, providing a welcome shift from other battle royale games like PUBG and Call of Duty: Warzone. However, its reception on Steam has been mixed, with only 64% of around 700 reviews being positive. Shortly after its release, numerous players noted cheating issues that detrimentally affected the overall gaming experience.
Sound and Gameplay Feedback
The audio design in Mini Royale is lacking – identifying footsteps, gunfire, and their locations is often difficult. The shooting mechanics have also faced backlash, with some gamers describing it as “clunky” due to poor balance and unresponsive feedback on hits. Even though the game is free to play, its monetization strategy has caused dissatisfaction. The costly Battle Pass and high-priced skins clash with the presently limited content. Nevertheless, Mini Royale continues to draw in a robust player community. Since its launch, it has regularly seen over 5,000 players online at the same time and currently leads in Steam’s “Trending Free” section.
Development and Support Options
Mini Royale was created by IndigoBlue and launched into Early Access on Steam on March 27, 2025. This indicates the game is still being developed but is available for players. Those who want to support the creators can buy the optional Supporter Pack, which contains special cosmetic items like a vibrant glider, a camouflage cape, emotes, and weapon tags. The Supporter Pack usually costs $14.99 but is currently on sale at a 20% discount – about $12 – until April 10.
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Tags: Battle Royale, Mini Royale, Toy Story
March 31, 2025
Switch 2 Launch Could Feature One of the Best RPGs Ever
Key Takeaways
1. The announcement of the Switch 2 is expected at the Nintendo Direct on April 2, with high anticipation for pricing, release date, and launch titles.
2. Mario Kart 9 is nearly confirmed, and there are rumors about a remake of Final Fantasy IX and a new Super Smash Bros. spin-off.
3. Elden Ring, released in February 2022 and praised as one of the greatest games, may be getting a port for the Nintendo Switch 2.
4. A Spanish YouTuber, eXtas1s, claims that a port of Elden Ring is in development, although the source of this information is not disclosed.
5. The Switch 2 is expected to use Nvidia’s T239 processor, which should allow it to run Elden Ring smoothly with good graphics.
With the forthcoming announcement of the Switch 2 anticipated at the Nintendo Direct on April 2, excitement is building as people await details about its pricing, release date, and launch titles. Speculation is high regarding the games that may be available on Nintendo’s new platform. Mario Kart 9 seems nearly confirmed, and there are whispers about a remake of Final Fantasy IX, along with a fresh spin-off of Super Smash Bros. Now, the idea of a port for the highly praised action RPG Elden Ring has also been brought up.
About Elden Ring
Elden Ring, crafted by the Japanese team FromSoftware, debuted in February 2022 and is often regarded as the spiritual successor to the Dark Souls franchise. Similar to its predecessors, it focuses on demanding combat where timing and quick reflexes are crucial. Among enthusiasts of this genre, Elden Ring is viewed as one of the greatest games ever created. It received a remarkable score of 96 from critics on Metacritic, while the User Score is 8.2, which is somewhat lower due to some technical glitches at its launch.
The Rumor Mill
Spanish YouTuber eXtas1s has claimed that a port of Elden Ring is currently being developed for the Nintendo Switch 2. He made this announcement during a recent video around the 20-minute mark, although he did not disclose his source. Nevertheless, this rumor doesn’t appear to be too far-fetched. The Switch 2 is anticipated to incorporate Nvidia’s T239 processor, which should offer the capability to run Elden Ring smoothly with good graphics. eXtas1s has established himself as a trustworthy figure in the gaming community, having accurately forecasted other announcements previously. He also alluded to the possibility of ports for Tekken 8 and Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero being in the pipeline.
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Tags: Elden Ring, Nvidia T239, Switch 2
March 31, 2025
Mixed Reactions to The Last of Us PS5 Special Edition Release
Key Takeaways
1. A new game in The Last of Us series is set to release for the PS5, with a special edition priced at $109.99 and pre-orders starting in the next two months.
2. The Last of Us Remastered and The Last of Us Part I have been released on PS4 and PS5, respectively, with a remastered edition of The Last of Us Part II expected in 2024 and a PC version on April 3rd.
3. Speculations suggest Sony may offer a bundle of remastered versions of both games, but gamers are feeling fatigued with the frequent remasters and accessories.
4. The HBO series has gained significant viewership, yet some fans are tired of the constant releases related to the franchise.
5. Naughty Dog is currently focused on a project called Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, indicating that The Last of Us Part III is likely years away.
With the second season of The Last of Us set to debut on April 13th, Sony is keen to take advantage of the excitement. A well-known leaker, billbil-kun, has discovered that another game in The Last of Us series is coming for the PS5. While many specifics remain unknown, it appears that a special edition will be released in physical format. According to billbil-kun, the game will be priced at $109.99, with pre-orders expected to start within the next two months.
Previous Releases and Future Expectations
The Last of Us Remastered first came out on the PS4 back in 2014, followed by a remake for the PS5 called The Last of Us Part I in 2022. After the sequel, The Last of Us Part II, launched in 2020, a remastered edition appeared in 2024. PC players can anticipate a Windows version arriving soon on April 3rd. Given that both games in the franchise have garnered significant attention from Sony, fans are curious about what a new PS5 release might bring to the table.
Community Speculations
Some users on Reddit are speculating that Sony may offer a bundle of remastered versions for both The Last of Us games together. If not, there seem to be limited avenues for Naughty Dog to enhance the previous iterations. Gamers have already enjoyed new gameplay modes, improved mechanics, and stunning visual upgrades.
While the HBO series of The Last of Us has drawn record numbers of viewers, some gamers are feeling tired of the franchise. New remastered editions and various accessories have been consistently released. Recently, Sony unveiled a Limited Edition PS5 DualSense controller that honors the series. The anticipated The Last of Us PS5 Special Edition package might feature collectibles to attract hesitant buyers.
Ongoing Developments
Since the original The Last of Us launched in 2013, Naughty Dog has only produced one sequel, alongside multiple remasters and remakes. With the developer currently focused on a project called Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, it seems that The Last of Us Part III is still years away. Nevertheless, as reboots of other successful franchises continue to thrive, Sony doesn’t appear to be in a hurry to expedite the development of a new game.
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Tags: Naughty Dog, PS5, The Last of Us
March 31, 2025
Minisforum Launches New Wireless Game Controller with Discount
Key Takeaways
1. Minisforum is known for its mini-PCs, like the UM880 Plus, priced at $519.
2. The company has expanded its product range to include a TB4-01 docking station and DEG1 OCuLink eGPU dock.
3. Minisforum launched a new wireless game controller, the MGP01, available only on their webshop.
4. The MGP01 features Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity, with a battery life of up to 22 hours.
5. The controller includes Hall effect joysticks, RGB lighting, and is currently priced at $39, down from $49.
Minisforum is recognized primarily for its mini-PC offerings, like the recent UM880 Plus, which hit the market this month (currently priced at $519 on Amazon). Over the past few years, the company has also explored various other product types, including their TB4-01 docking station and the DEG1 OCuLink eGPU dock, among others.
New Wireless Game Controller
Recently, Minisforum has ventured into the realm of wireless game controllers with the introduction of the MGP01. Right now, it’s only available on their webshop, featuring an Xbox-style layout and design influenced by Cyberpunk. According to the information from Minisforum, the controller provides Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz, and wired connectivity options, with a battery life of up to 22 hours thanks to its 1,000 mAh battery.
Features and Design
The MGP01 is equipped with Hall effect joysticks and triggers, an 8-way d-pad, gyroscope controls, and macro buttons positioned at the back. Additionally, it comes with RGB lighting that shines from behind the joysticks, d-pad, ABXY buttons, and two side cutouts. Presently, the Minisforum MGP01 is priced at $39, reflecting a $10 discount from its original $49 MSRP. For additional information, it’s best to check Minisforum’s website.
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Tags: MGP01, Mini-PC, Minisforum