Category: Gaming

  • Intel Panther Lake: Revolutionizing Handheld Gaming Experience

    Intel Panther Lake: Revolutionizing Handheld Gaming Experience

    Key Takeaways

    1. Panther Lake is Intel’s first mobile CPU using the 18A manufacturing process, aimed at competing with TSMC’s advanced 2nm technology.
    2. The Panther Lake chips may feature 12 Xe3 graphics cores, a 50% increase compared to the Lunar Lake series, promising enhanced graphics performance.
    3. The improved integrated GPU (iGPU) is expected to greatly enhance gaming experiences, particularly for handheld devices.
    4. Panther Lake is anticipated to support AI upscaling, potentially providing superior gaming performance compared to current handhelds.
    5. The release of Panther Lake is expected in late 2025, with potential delays pushing notebook launches to 2026.


    Panther Lake is the upcoming mobile CPU from Intel, marking a significant step as the first chip utilizing the company’s 18A manufacturing process. This development is crucial for Intel, as it aims to demonstrate its competitiveness against TSMC, which is known for its advanced 2nm processes. Although real-world performance metrics are not yet available, recent leaks suggest that the improved integrated GPU (iGPU) in the Panther Lake chips could greatly enhance graphics capabilities, making them ideal for gaming handhelds.

    Leaked Information

    The details come from a supposed shipping manifest shared by the user X86 is dead&back on X. According to the document, some Panther Lake chips are equipped with 12 Xe3 graphics cores. In contrast, the Lunar Lake series only has eight Xe2 cores. This means that Panther Lake offers a 50% increase in cores, and since Xe3 cores are enhancements over the Xe2, each core is expected to deliver better performance.

    Gaming Potential

    If properly integrated into handheld devices, this could result in remarkable gaming experiences. Additionally, at Computex 2025, Intel showcased its Panther Lake chips, demonstrating their ability to render graphics in real-time and run AI applications. This suggests that the iGPU may have support for AI upscaling, a feature that appears to be exclusive to the Panther Lake series for now. A handheld powered by a Panther Lake chip with a robust iGPU and AI-upscaling capabilities could theoretically achieve gaming performance that surpasses what current generation handhelds can provide.

    Panther Lake is expected to be released in the latter half of 2025. However, earlier reports indicated that the launch of Panther Lake notebooks has been pushed to 2026 due to delays in mass production, moving from early September 2025 to mid-Q4 2025. Nevertheless, this still aligns with Intel’s original timeline for production in the second half of 2025.

    Conclusion

    The information comes from the NBD database, as noted by the user X86 is dead&back on X, and was also referenced by Tom’s Hardware.

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  • Ayaneo Next 2 Handheld Gaming Console Unveils AMD’s Top Laptop Chip

    Ayaneo Next 2 Handheld Gaming Console Unveils AMD’s Top Laptop Chip

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD’s Ryzen AI Max series (Strix Halo) is debuting in handheld devices, starting with GPD’s Win 5 and Ayaneo’s Next 2.
    2. The Ayaneo Next 2 will feature a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chip and up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM.
    3. Key specs like storage and screen size are not yet revealed, but it will include multiple ports such as USB-A, HDMI, and Ethernet.
    4. The release date for the Ayaneo Next 2 is uncertain, and it may be available later this year at a high price point.
    5. The Strix Halo chip’s power may exceed typical handheld gaming needs, targeting a niche market rather than average consumers.


    AMD’s latest and greatest laptop processors, known as the AMD Ryzen AI Max series (Strix Halo), have been found in many mini-PCs but surprisingly few laptops in recent months. Now, these chips are making their debut in handheld devices, with GPD being the first to launch its Win 5. Following closely behind, Ayaneo has jumped into the competition with its new device: the Next 2.

    A Glimpse of the Future

    Although it won’t be available right away, Ayaneo has showcased the Next 2 during a live stream event. This handheld will be powered by a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chip, and with eight LPDDR5X memory modules, it could possibly come with either 64 GB or even 128 GB of RAM. The device features two large fans coupled with substantial heatsinks, which will need to work hard to manage the heat from the Strix Halo chip.

    Specs Still Under Wraps

    While details like storage capacity and screen size remain undisclosed, a photograph of the board indicates the inclusion of a full-sized SD card slot. Additionally, it shows that there will be two USB-A ports, two RJ-45 Ethernet connectors, an HDMI port, and a DP 1.4 port. It’s important to note that this is likely just a prototype, and the final version will likely be more refined.

    Sadly, there’s no official release date for the Ayaneo Next 2, and given its current development status, we might not see it on the market until much later this year. Moreover, it’s expected to be on the pricier side, potentially costing as much as a standard gaming laptop. However, it’s worth mentioning that this device isn’t aimed at the average consumer since the Strix Halo is almost too powerful for typical handheld usage.

    Ayaneo’s foray into the handheld gaming world is definitely something to keep an eye on, despite the uncertainty surrounding its launch.

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  • AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT Tops Budget GPU Poll, RTX 5060 Ti Trails

    AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT Tops Budget GPU Poll, RTX 5060 Ti Trails

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT is the most popular budget gaming GPU among gamers, according to a survey by TechPowerUp.
    2. The RX 9060 XT has an MSRP of $349 and offers great value despite its ray-tracing performance limitations.
    3. The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 Ti, priced at $429, provides better performance but received significantly fewer votes in the survey.
    4. The Intel Arc B580, priced at $250, ranked third in the survey, indicating interest in more affordable options.
    5. Gaming GPUs with only 8 GB of VRAM are losing popularity, struggling to attract votes in the survey.


    It can be said that the era of truly affordable gaming GPUs is fading away. Nevertheless, there is clear evidence that both AMD and Nvidia have some quite commendable options in the so-called budget category of gaming GPUs in 2025. That being said, a recent survey appears to show which GPU is a favorite among gamers, particularly when it comes to price and performance.

    AMD Takes the Lead

    Not surprisingly, the AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT emerged as the winner in the survey titled “Which GPU would you buy?” by a large margin. This poll, conducted by the well-regarded publication TechPowerUp, collected over 16,000 responses. The RX 9060 XT secured first place with more than 8,500 votes, while the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 Ti followed in second place with just 3,500 votes. It’s worth mentioning that the 5060 Ti offers significantly better performance compared to the RX 9060 XT, as supported by our card review.

    Pricing and Performance

    With an official MSRP of $349, the Radeon RX 9060 XT certainly delivers impressive value for its cost. However, ray-tracing performance continues to be a significant downside for Team Red, but its traditional rasterization performance makes the card appealing, especially in comparison to the $429 RTX 5060 Ti (16 GB). Additionally, the $250 Intel Arc B580 gaming GPU made a notable entrance earlier and ranked third in the survey with over 1,700 votes.

    The Struggles of 8 GB GPUs

    Fortunately, gaming GPUs with only 8 GB of VRAM had a tough time attracting a significant number of votes. For example, the 8 GB versions of the AMD RX 9060 XT and the 5060 Ti each barely managed to exceed the 3% threshold. The Nvidia RTX 5050 (8 GB), priced comparably to the Arc B580 (12 GB), also performed poorly, indicating that 8 GB of VRAM is simply becoming obsolete in 2025.

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  • Get Game Master Sandbox with VR Support Free on August 1

    Get Game Master Sandbox with VR Support Free on August 1

    Key Takeaways

    1. Target Audience: Dungeon Full Dive – Game Master Edition is designed for fans of traditional pen-and-paper RPGs looking to transition to a digital format.

    2. VR and Desktop Modes: The game features complete VR support and a conventional desktop mode, enhancing immersion for players using headsets like the Meta Quest 3S.

    3. Custom Campaigns: The Game Master Edition allows for personalized campaigns, map creation, and player invitations, while the Player Edition is free for participants.

    4. Gameplay Limitations: Players must manually manage game mechanics, such as initiative and combat, leading to critiques about its cumbersome gameplay and user interface.

    5. Pricing and Future: The Game Master Edition is currently priced at $50 but will be free starting August 1, due to TxK Gaming Studios closing down after unsuccessful funding attempts.


    Dungeon Full Dive – Game Master Edition is a creation from the indie game studio Txk Gaming Studios, targeting enthusiasts of traditional pen-and-paper RPGs who wish to transition their gameplay to a digital format. It was launched in Early Access on October 18, 2023, and is exclusively available for the Windows platform. What really makes it stand out is its complete VR support in addition to a conventional desktop mode. By using a headset such as the Meta Quest 3S, which is priced around $450 on Amazon, players can dive into the game from their character’s viewpoint, enhancing the immersive experience.

    Custom Campaigns and Accessibility

    Dungeon Full Dive serves as a venue for personalized pen-and-paper campaigns, whether you’re engaging in Dungeons & Dragons or another gaming system. The Game Master Edition is the premium version that permits GMs to craft sessions, develop intricate 3D environments, and invite players. The “Player Edition” allows others to join these sessions for free. With its integrated editor, game masters can create maps, position miniatures, and maneuver the camera at will. The worldbuilder has received acclaim for its imaginative possibilities and adaptability. Nevertheless, reviews point out certain drawbacks—such as the limited assortment of enemies, items, and miniatures, along with the absence of support for importing custom assets.

    Gameplay Dynamics and User Feedback

    The gameplay in Dungeon Full Dive primarily serves as a visual and immersive tool rather than a fully automated gaming experience. Players must manage initiative, dice rolls, hit points, and combat manually. This is viewed as a significant shortcoming by many, as features like inventory management and automated combat systems are lacking, leading to a somewhat cumbersome game session. The user interface has also been critiqued, particularly by those not using VR. Some players find the controls to be clumsy, mentioning the absence of tutorials and an interface that seems counterintuitive and hard to work with.

    Due to these critiques, the game has garnered a mixed rating of 55% on Steam, with feedback from only 77 reviews. In the end, Dungeon Full Dive is still quite a way from being a fully realized virtual tabletop experience. However, for gamers who appreciate narrative and immersion, it provides a delightful and distinct adventure—and it will soon be entirely free.

    Pricing Changes and Future Developments

    Currently, the Game Master Edition of Dungeon Full Dive is priced at around $50 on Steam, but starting on August 1, it will be available for free download. The motive behind this shift is less than cheerful: TxK Gaming Studios is closing down. Despite their extensive attempts to secure funding, the team was unable to sustain the studio. Although development is coming to an end, the servers will stay active for the time being, with no immediate plans to shut them down.

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  • Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Super Release Date Sooner Than Expected

    Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 Super Release Date Sooner Than Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia may launch the GeForce RTX 50 Super GPUs in Q4 2025, earlier than expected.
    2. This would be the first time Nvidia releases standard and Super GPUs in the same year.
    3. Three new graphics cards are rumored: RTX 5080 Super (24 GB GDDR7 VRAM), RTX 5070 Ti Super (24 GB GDDR7 VRAM), and RTX 5070 Super (18 GB GDDR7 VRAM, 6,400 CUDA cores).
    4. The main upgrade in the RTX 50 Super series appears to be increased VRAM compared to the RTX 40 Super series.
    5. AMD is planning mid-cycle updates for RDNA 4, but details are currently limited.


    A flood of leaks has disclosed a lot of details regarding Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 Super GPUs. The general agreement was that these would debut at CES 2026, a year after their regular counterparts. However, Tweaktown has received information from its sources indicating that this launch may come sooner.

    Possible Earlier Launch

    It seems Nvidia plans to release the RTX 50 Super GPUs in Q4 2025. If this is accurate, it would mark the first instance in recent times where Nvidia introduces both standard GPUs and their Super versions within the same year. This could be unfortunate for those who purchased new GPUs earlier this year, but those who decided to wait might enjoy benefits like increased VRAM for a slightly higher cost, even though the actual performance differences could be much more significant.

    Graphics Card Details

    Currently, evidence of three graphics cards has surfaced: the RTX 5080 Super with 24 GB GDDR7 VRAM, the RTX 5070 Ti Super also featuring 24 GB GDDR7 VRAM, and the RTX 5070 Super that has 18 GB GDDR7 VRAM and 6,400 CUDA cores. In contrast to the previous RTX 40 Super series, the only enhancement here is the VRAM. It remains unclear if the RTX 5060 series will also see a Super refresh.

    AMD’s Plans

    Meanwhile, AMD has some mid-cycle updates in the works for RDNA 4, but not much is known about them as of now. Earlier this year, there were discussions about a 32 GB Radeon RX 9070 XTX, which were quickly dismissed, but nothing has materialized from that conversation as of yet.

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  • God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn Not Coming to Xbox, Insider Says

    God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn Not Coming to Xbox, Insider Says

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony’s job listing has led to speculation about more major titles being available on Xbox and Nintendo platforms.
    2. Industry insider Shinobi602 suggests that Sony’s potential multiplatform approach will mostly involve smaller games and live service projects, not major franchises.
    3. There is a possibility that Sony may relax exclusivity rules for certain types of games, particularly Games-as-a-Service (GaaS) titles and minor spin-offs.
    4. Microsoft is also pursuing a multiplatform strategy, with several Xbox games already released on PlayStation consoles.
    5. Despite exploring multiplatform publishing, Sony remains committed to its exclusives and emphasizes quality and brand recognition in its approach.


    A recent job listing from Sony Interactive Entertainment has sparked rumors that more major titles from Sony may soon be available on Xbox and Nintendo platforms. However, a well-known insider in the PlayStation community suggests that fans of Xbox shouldn’t expect to see God of War on the Series X or S any time soon.

    Job Openings and Speculations

    The announcement of Helldivers 2 for Xbox Series consoles, along with a job posting for a Senior Director of Multiplatform & Account Management, led many online to speculate that Sony exclusives may be on their way to Xbox and PC.

    Yet, industry insider Shinobi602 has tried to temper the enthusiasm, indicating that these job listings likely refer to smaller games and live service projects, rather than Sony’s major franchises.

    Insights from the Insider

    In a discussion on ResetEra, Shinobi602 concurred with a user who suggested that Sony could be relaxing its strict exclusivity rules, but this would apply mainly to particular types of games. The insider believes this change is probably relevant to Games-as-a-Service (GaaS) titles and minor spin-offs that could potentially be launched on Xbox or Nintendo Switch. Shinobi supported this viewpoint.

    At the same time, Microsoft is actively pursuing its own multiplatform approach. Games like Forza Horizon 5 and Hi-Fi Rush have been released on PlayStation consoles, and Gears of War: Reloaded is set to debut on PS5 on August 26, 2025.

    Sony’s Stance on Exclusivity

    Even though Sony is moving towards multiplatform publishing, it doesn’t mean they are abandoning exclusives altogether. During the 2025 Fireside Chat, PlayStation leader Hideaki Nishino reiterated that PlayStation hardware remains a key focus for the company. Meanwhile, Hermen Hulst, head of Worldwide Studios, highlighted that Sony will take a careful approach, emphasizing quality and brand recognition while branching out to new platforms to connect with wider audiences.

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  • New LOTR-Inspired Life Sim Game Launching Soon on Steam

    New LOTR-Inspired Life Sim Game Launching Soon on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Life Simulation Focus: Tales of the Shire emphasizes the daily life of Hobbits, including activities like fishing, gardening, and cooking, rather than combat or epic adventures.

    2. Community and Customization: Players can customize their Hobbit characters and homes while building friendships in a beautifully designed Shire environment.

    3. Casual Gameplay Style: The game features a slower pace and minimal guidance, reflecting the community spirit found in Tolkien’s works, with no jump button and simple navigation.

    4. Mixed Reception: Initial reviews highlight the game’s relaxing nature but note that gameplay may feel simpler and repetitive compared to other life simulation games.

    5. Technical Issues and No Multiplayer: Players have reported technical problems and performance lags, and the game lacks multiplayer features and voice acting for iconic characters.


    Tales of the Shire: A The Lord of The Rings Game is making its debut on Steam and other platforms today, July 29. If you don’t know the concept, it is a life simulation game created by Wētā Workshop Game Studio, which is famous for its amazing visual effects in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings and Hobbit movies. Published by Private Division, Tales of the Shire lets players experience life as a Hobbit in Bywater.

    Daily Life of a Hobbit

    The game focuses on everyday activities such as fishing, gardening, gathering ingredients, cooking, decorating, and building friendships with other Hobbits. Players have a wide range of customization options for their character and their home, all set in beautifully designed versions of the Shire. The central storyline involves organizing a big festival to help the village achieve official status.

    A Different Approach

    Wētā Workshop has made it clear that they are not aiming for epic adventures or combat scenarios. Instead, they want to reflect the slower pace and sense of community found in Tolkien’s works. There’s no jump button, minimal guidance, and players navigate using simple bird indicators. The game adopts a charming, storybook aesthetic, featuring vibrant meadows, rolling hills, and enchanting Hobbit homes.

    Release Journey

    Tales of the Shire has not gone through any early access phases. It experienced several delays in its release date but always aimed for a full launch across all platforms. A few content creators and members of the press got early access to preview builds or limited parts of the game for promotional activities.

    Reception and Gameplay

    Initial reviews describe the game as relaxing, cozy, and faithful to its setting, but they also mention that the core gameplay feels simpler compared to popular life sims like Animal Crossing or Stardew Valley. Some tasks may become repetitive, and the story or progression feels limited. There have been reports of technical issues and performance lags on certain platforms, and there is no voice acting for any iconic Tolkien characters. Fans of co-op gameplay will be disappointed as there are no multiplayer features.

    Tales of the Shire is available today on PC, Switch (currently $299 on Amazon), Playstation, and Xbox. It will likely appeal to those seeking a stress-free, Hobbit-themed simulator with rich world-building. However, it appears that this game is not aimed at players looking for more depth or action within this genre.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket DS Launch: A Strong Competitor to Retroid Pocket Flip 2

    Ayaneo Pocket DS Launch: A Strong Competitor to Retroid Pocket Flip 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo has launched the Pocket DS, an ARM-powered handheld gaming device, along with a new sub-brand for affordable gaming options.
    2. The Pocket DS features a CNC-made casing and a larger secondary display compared to last year’s Flip DS.
    3. It has a unique controller arrangement, distinguishing it from competitors like the Retroid Pocket Flip 2.
    4. The device includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, allowing it to run cooler and quieter than x86-based devices.
    5. The Pocket DS is in mass production and will be showcased at ChinaJoy 2025 in Shanghai from August 1 to August 4.


    Ayaneo has just unveiled the Pocket DS, which seems to be the product they hinted at last week. Interestingly, the company also introduced several other devices today, including a new sub-brand focused on providing more affordable gaming handhelds. First mentioned in the spring, the Pocket DS is essentially an ARM-powered version of the Flip 1S DS that Ayaneo launched worldwide earlier this month.

    Design and Features

    In terms of design, the Pocket DS features a CNC-made casing and boasts a significantly larger secondary display compared to last year’s Flip DS. However, it does have a unique controller arrangement that sets it apart from competitors like the Retroid Pocket Flip 2 (currently priced at $269 on Amazon). The addition of a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset is expected to enable the Pocket DS to operate cooler and quieter than its x86-based competitors.

    Availability and Future Plans

    As of now, Ayaneo has confirmed that the Pocket DS is already in mass production, which means it should hit the market sooner rather than later. The CEO of Ayaneo mentioned that more information regarding the Pocket DS will be shared tomorrow. Additionally, the device is set to be showcased next month at ChinaJoy 2025 in Shanghai, taking place from August 1 to August 4. For further insights, check out the video below.

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  • Ayaneo Launches Pocket Fit Handheld and Budget Konkr Brand

    Ayaneo Launches Pocket Fit Handheld and Budget Konkr Brand

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo introduced a new sub-brand called Konkr, focusing on better price-to-performance ratios.
    2. The first product under the Konkr brand is the Konkr Pocket Fit, with a launch timeline described as ‘soon’.
    3. The Konkr Pocket Fit features a curved design, bezelless display, and multiple shoulder buttons.
    4. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, promising flagship performance, and has a 6-inch display with a 144 Hz refresh rate.
    5. A larger 7-inch model is planned, which will include an 80 Wh battery, but no details about the Konkr Fit’s appearance were shared.


    Ayaneo has just finished its Strategic Sharing Session, where it introduced a new product roadmap. As mentioned last week, there was an expectation that a new device would be unveiled today. However, this was not the case. Instead, Ayaneo announced an entirely new sub-brand known as Konkr, along with other product reveals.

    New Sub-Brand Announcement

    According to the CEO of the company, Konkr aims to offer a better price-to-performance ratio compared to current Ayaneo products. However, Ayaneo has not yet disclosed the price for its first Konkr gaming handheld. Additionally, the launch timeline for the initial Konkr devices has only been described as ‘soon’, with the first one being the Konkr Pocket Fit.

    Design and Features

    As seen in the images provided, the Konkr Pocket Fit keeps Ayaneo’s familiar design elements found in other Pocket-branded gaming devices, such as the recent Pocket Evo, which is currently priced at $524.95 on Amazon. The Pocket Fit features a distinctly curved design and a bezelless display, along with three sets of shoulder buttons and two buttons located on the rear.

    Ayaneo has yet to specify the chipset that powers the Pocket Fit. However, it has mentioned that the device uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, promising ‘flagship performance’. Furthermore, this device boasts a 6-inch display with a refresh rate of 144 Hz. There are plans for a larger 7-inch model that will also feature an 80 Wh battery. Unfortunately, the company chose not to disclose what the Konkr Fit looks like during the product sharing session today.

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  • Ubisoft Teases New Assassin’s Creed Game and Possible Black Flag Remake

    Ubisoft Teases New Assassin’s Creed Game and Possible Black Flag Remake

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new Assassin’s Creed title may be announced soon, as a dataminer found a listing in the PlayStation database.
    2. There are possibilities for a remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, potentially launching in November 2025.
    3. The remake is expected to use the Anvil engine with improved combat mechanics and enhancements.
    4. Hints from livestreams suggest a connection to Assassin’s Creed Invictus, a multiplayer game inspired by Fall Guys.
    5. Ubisoft is shifting its focus to established franchises due to financial issues, indicating several upcoming Assassin’s Creed games, including Hexe.


    Despite many whispers, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows was the last installment revealed by Ubisoft. However, things could change soon as a dataminer has discovered a new listing in the PlayStation backend.

    Potential New Game

    PlayStation Game Size often shares findings from the database on social channels. The code in question isn’t for downloadable content, like Claws of Awaji, which is set to drop on September 16th. Instead, there’s a high chance a new Assassin’s Creed title might be announced shortly.

    Exciting Remake Possibilities

    The dataminer mentioned the eagerly awaited remake of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag when seeking more information. The game, released in 2013, is known for its focus on naval warfare and piracy, making it quite memorable. Insider Gaming disclosed in October 2024 that the remake could debut as soon as November 2025.

    A game designer’s online profile, found by MP1st, suggests that the upcoming title might utilize the well-known Anvil engine. Yet, this updated version of Black Flag would bring more polished combat mechanics and additional enhancements.

    Clues From Livestreams

    Another hint came from a March 2025 Pure Arts livestream, which showcased statues celebrating the series. Edward Kenney, a key character from Black Flag, was noticeably missing from a lineup of figures. One of the hosts hinted that the absence was due to the protagonist’s involvement in a different project.

    The leaked database might also connect to Assassin’s Creed Invictus, a multiplayer game inspired by Fall Guys. The title was first mentioned in a 2022 interview with Ubisoft’s Marc-Alexis Cote.

    Ubisoft’s Strategic Shift

    Ubisoft’s financial issues led to a partnership with Tencent to invest in its major intellectual properties. As part of a new strategy, the publisher aims to focus on its established franchises rather than new AAA releases. The PlayStation Game Size leak could be the first sign of several upcoming Assassin’s Creed games, including Hexe, which could be the next mainline entry.

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