Category: Gaming

  • The Alters: New Trailer for This War of Mine’s Spiritual Successor

    The Alters: New Trailer for This War of Mine’s Spiritual Successor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Premise: Players control Jan, who is stranded on a planet and must create alternate versions of himself called Alters to survive.

    2. Alters Concept: Alters are formed through Jan’s past choices, leading to different life outcomes and providing unique skills to aid in the journey.

    3. Emotional Management: Players must address the emotional health and individual needs of each Alter to progress in the game.

    4. Resource Collection: Similar to This War of Mine, players need to gather resources to escape from the planet before its destruction.

    5. Platform and Release: The Alters will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X, and PC, with an anticipated release later this year.

    The Alters is a new game coming from 11 bit Studios, known for their successful 2014 title, This War of Mine. Before the game’s release, a new trailer has been shared, showcasing additional details on how it draws inspiration from This War of Mine.

    Game Overview

    In the latest video, the publisher outlines the game’s premise, which features players stepping into the shoes of a character named Jan who finds himself stranded on an unfamiliar planet. To stay alive, players must create a team of alternate versions of Jan, known as Alters.

    The Concept of Alters

    These Alters emerge when players explore Jan’s past, making impactful choices that lead to different outcomes in his life. For instance, Jan might choose to attend college and become either a doctor or a botanist. Imagine it like Marvel’s Kang managing his multiversal counterparts, but here, these Jan variants originate from the same universe yet exist in different realities.

    Each Alter possesses unique skills that can assist Prime Jan in his journey. However, players must also address the individual needs of these Alters, including their emotional health, to ensure the mission advances. Similar to This War of Mine, players will need to collect resources to facilitate their escape from the planet, which faces destruction within a limited timeframe.

    Gameplay Dynamics

    With the planet’s looming destruction, the needs of the Alters, and the consequences of your choices, The Alters promises to offer an engaging experience. It is set to launch on PlayStation 5 (priced at $499 on Amazon), Xbox Series S/Series X, and PC via Epic, Steam, and GOG. Although the game doesn’t have a specific release date yet, it is anticipated to be available later this year.

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  • Streamline Game Development with Amazon GameLift Streams

    Streamline Game Development with Amazon GameLift Streams

    Key Takeaways

    1. Amazon has launched GameLift Streams to help game developers combat piracy and reduce large game installation issues.
    2. Game streaming enables players to enjoy high-demand games on low-spec devices without long download times.
    3. Developers can upload various game types to GameLift, allowing for easy global streaming without code changes.
    4. GameLift Streams supports up to 1080p at 60 fps and operates on NVIDIA T4 or A10G Tensor GPUs, with cost based on usage hours.
    5. The service is available in specific AWS Regions, with lower latency for players closer to the data centers.

    Amazon has introduced its new GameLift Streams game streaming service aimed at game developers. This service helps to combat piracy, removes the difficulties associated with large game installations, and allows players to enjoy high-demand games on low-spec devices.

    Challenges with Game Downloads

    Many gamers have to endure long waits for big downloads before they can start playing modern titles like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, which is over 100 GB in size. The increasing system requirements mean that players often have to invest in costly, high-performance graphics cards.

    The Advantages of Game Streaming

    Game streaming addresses these issues by transferring the demands to the cloud hosting provider, meaning gamers only need a basic computer or a smart TV to play. Notable cloud gaming services include Valve Steam, Nvidia GeForce Now, PlayStation Now, and Xbox Game Pass.

    Developer Benefits with GameLift

    Developers can now upload Windows games, Windows games configured for Proton (Valve Steam), and Linux titles to GameLift servers. After completing the basic server setup, these games can be streamed globally to players using any WebRTC-compatible web browser, supporting resolutions up to 1080p at 60 fps, without the need for code changes, making it easier for developers.

    The games operate on NVIDIA T4 or A10G Tensor GPUs. Developers are billed based on usage hours and total storage utilized. According to Amazon’s estimates, hosting around 2,000 users playing a lightweight game for half an hour daily could result in a monthly cost of about $20k.

    Availability of GameLift Streams

    GameLift Streams is currently available in AWS Regions such as US East (Ohio), US West (Oregon), Asia Pacific (Tokyo), and Europe (Frankfurt). Players located closer to these data centers will see reduced latency, while those farther away may experience higher latency that could be considered unacceptable.

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  • RTX 5050 Specs Leak: Bigger Bus & Higher TDP vs RTX 4050

    RTX 5050 Specs Leak: Bigger Bus & Higher TDP vs RTX 4050

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RTX 3050 was the last x50 class GPU for desktops, with Nvidia now limiting the RTX 4050 to laptops.
    2. The upcoming RTX 5050 will be a budget-friendly GPU priced under $300, confirmed through an ECC filing.
    3. The RTX 5050 features a GB207-300 GPU with 2,560 CUDA cores, 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, and a 128-bit bus.
    4. It has a TDP of 130 W, identical to the RTX 3050 and slightly higher than the RTX 4060.
    5. Performance of the RTX 5050 is expected to be better than the mobile RTX 4050, potentially approaching RTX 4060 levels, but without an increase in CUDA cores, significant gains may be limited.

    The RTX 3050 was the last GPU in the x50 class to be released for desktops, as Nvidia decided to limit the RTX 4050 to laptops only. This decision was quite strange, especially since there wasn’t a desktop RTX 40 model priced under $300, with the RTX 4060 launching at $299. Consequently, those looking for budget-friendly options had no choice but to look for older models like the RTX 30 or RX 6000 series.

    Introduction of the RTX 5050

    In a change of pace, Nvidia is set to offer gamers a budget-friendly option with the RTX 5050, which will be priced under $300. The confirmation of this GPU’s existence came from an ECC filing. Additionally, some specifications and pricing details have also been revealed. Thanks to leaker kopite7kimi on X, we now have some important information regarding the RTX 5050’s specs.

    Specifications Overview

    From the very beginning, it’s evident that the RTX 5050 is aimed at budget-conscious gamers, so there’s not much in the way of pleasant surprises. The card is expected to feature a GB207-300 GPU that includes 2,560 CUDA cores. This setup is matched with a 128-bit bus and 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM. Unfortunately, the leaker did not provide any details about clock speeds.

    The RTX 5050 is said to have a TDP of 130 W, which is the same as the desktop RTX 3050 and 15 W higher than the RTX 4060 (which is available on Amazon). Interestingly, this TDP is actually 5 W lower than the figure recently reported by Wccftech.

    Performance Expectations

    Since there is no desktop RTX 4050 for comparison, we’ll have to look at the mobile version of the RTX 4050 to make some educated guesses about performance.

    Initially, both GPUs share the same CUDA core count, but the RTX 5050 has a wider memory bus (128-bit compared to 96-bit). Furthermore, the RTX 5050 is likely to have a maximum TDP that is 15 W higher. While the number of CUDA cores may be identical, Nvidia can leverage this extra power to enhance the clock speeds of the RTX 5050 significantly compared to the RTX 4050’s boost clock, which can reach 2,370 MHz.

    In light of this information, we can anticipate that the RTX 5050 will offer a noticeable, though not extraordinary, performance improvement over the RTX 4050 mobile GPU. In the best-case scenario, it may even get close to the RTX 4060, which is about 25% faster than the RTX 4050 laptop in our tests. Nonetheless, without an increase in CUDA cores, such an outcome seems improbable.

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  • Top-Rated Souls-Like Games 50% Off on Steam – Limited Time Offer

    Top-Rated Souls-Like Games 50% Off on Steam – Limited Time Offer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Current Discount: Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is available at a 50% discount on Steam for a limited time.

    2. Gameplay Style: The game combines stealth, exploration, and skill-based sword fighting without character creation or RPG skill trees.

    3. Combat Mechanics: Sekiro features a unique posture system, focusing on breaking enemy stances instead of just depleting health.

    4. Strategic Depth: Players must master timing for deflects and counters to manage posture and avoid critical strikes.

    5. Engaging Story: Set in late 1500s Sengoku Japan, the game includes diverse enemies and memorable boss encounters.

    The highly praised souls-like action title, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, is currently available at a 50% discount on Steam for a short period. Created by FromSoftware, players take on the role of a shinobi whose mission is to save his lord.

    Engaging Gameplay

    The gameplay blends stealth, exploration, and intense sword fighting that requires skill. Unlike other souls games, there are no options for character creation or RPG skill trees to modify. Upgrades to your gear are restricted to your prosthetic arm, which can be enhanced with different tools to reveal new capabilities.

    Unique Combat Mechanics

    Sekiro stands out because of its posture system in battles. Rather than just lowering an enemy’s health, the focus is on breaking their posture. Each time you hit an enemy, a gauge appears above their head, indicating how close you are to breaking their stance.

    When you break an enemy’s posture, they become vulnerable, allowing you to finish them off or inflict significant damage. Mikiri counters provide an additional strategy, enabling you to counter thrust attacks and inflict heavy damage on enemy posture meters. You can also deflect incoming attacks by hitting the guard button at just the right moment.

    Strategy and Storyline

    This intricate dance of knowing when to deflect or counter attacks is at the heart of Sekiro’s combat, balanced by managing your own posture gauge. If you block too many hits, you risk exposure to critical strikes. You can lessen this risk by executing perfect deflects that don’t harm your posture, but timing is crucial and they can be tough to achieve.

    The game is intricately woven together with a captivating story set in late 1500s Sengoku Japan. Players will encounter a variety of enemies, both large and small, and, of course, it wouldn’t be a souls-like game without some of the most memorable boss encounters in the genre.

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  • Get 90% Off Middle-earth: The Shadow Bundle on Steam Now!

    Get 90% Off Middle-earth: The Shadow Bundle on Steam Now!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Monolith Productions has launched their final project, the Middle-earth duology, now available for a 90% discount on Steam.
    2. The games feature an innovative Nemesis system that creates rivalries with enemies based on player interactions.
    3. Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor, released in 2014, follows Talion’s quest for revenge, blending original storytelling with Tolkien’s lore.
    4. The sequel, Middle-earth: Shadow of War, enhances the Nemesis system by incorporating allies and adaptive enemy AI for dynamic combat.
    5. The bundle includes both games, offering engaging narratives and large-scale battles, available at a limited-time discount until March 13th.

    Monolith Productions has released their final project, the Middle-earth duology, now available for a whopping 90% discount on Steam. This bundle includes two open-world and action-adventure games, each inspired by The Lord of the Rings series. They feature a self-contained narrative and showcase the praised Nemesis system.

    Shadow of Mordor Overview

    Released in 2014, Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor presents an original story rooted in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Legendarium, a set of unpublished tales from The Lord of the Rings world. Players take on the role of Talion, a ranger who merges his spirit with the wraith of Celebrimbor. Together, they share a goal: to seek revenge for the loss of their loved ones.

    Unique Gameplay Features

    At first glance, the game might appear to be just another open-world experience, but its standout feature is the innovative Nemesis system, which Warner Bros. has patented due to its brilliance. This system monitors enemies that players encounter, establishing rivalries with those who manage to defeat the player or survive their confrontations.

    Enemies promoted within their ranks reward Talion with runes that can enhance his weapons, providing additional advantages in combat. Conversely, if these foes manage to kill the player, they become more formidable. Each enemy has specific strengths and weaknesses that can be taken advantage of.

    Shadow of War and Its Developments

    The follow-up, Middle-earth: Shadow of War, came out in 2017 and took the Nemesis system to the next level by including Talion’s allies. This leads to a dynamic combat experience where players can’t always tell who is an ally. The enemy AI adapts by observing the player’s tactics and developing strategies to counter them, encouraging players to try different approaches.

    Both titles deliver a captivating narrative and a lively combat system that culminates in breathtaking large-scale battles, making them a joy to play. You can snatch the bundle for 90% off until March 13th.

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  • ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCDMG: 27″ 240Hz 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor

    ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCDMG: 27″ 240Hz 4K QD-OLED Gaming Monitor

    Key Takeaways

    1. Display Specifications: The Asus ROG Strix OLED XG27UCDMG features a 26.5-inch 4K QD-OLED display with a resolution of 3840×2160, 240Hz refresh rate, and a 0.03ms GTG response time for clear images and fluid motion.

    2. Color and Contrast: The monitor achieves 99% DCI-P3 color coverage, 145% sRGB, and holds VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black certification, ensuring excellent color accuracy and contrast.

    3. Burn-in Prevention: It includes an OLED Care Pro feature with a Neo proximity sensor to reduce burn-in, alongside OLED Anti-Flicker 2.0 to maintain steady brightness levels and minimize flickering.

    4. Connectivity and Gaming Features: The monitor offers extensive connectivity options, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, and a USB hub. It also features gaming tools like GamePlus, GameVisual, Shadow Boost, and ELMB to enhance the gaming experience.

    5. Design and Certification: The monitor is VESA AdaptiveSync certified with low blue light technology, features a versatile adjustable stand, and is currently priced at 6,499 yuan (~$899) in China, with no confirmed release date for other regions.

    Asus has unveiled a new gaming monitor, the ROG Strix OLED XG27UCDMG, which boasts a 26.5-inch 4K QD-OLED display aimed at serious gamers who value high refresh rates and quick response times. This premium monitor features a resolution of 3840×2160 and a refresh rate of 240Hz, ensuring both clear images and fluid motion. With a rapid 0.03ms GTG response time, it helps minimize motion blur. Additionally, it is compatible with G-Sync and FreeSync Premium Pro, providing variable refresh rate capabilities.

    Impressive Color and Contrast

    The fourth-generation QD-OLED panel, produced by Samsung, achieves 99% coverage of the DCI-P3 color spectrum and 145% of sRGB, alongside VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black certification for outstanding contrast. To prevent burn-in, Asus includes an OLED Care Pro feature with a Neo proximity sensor that dims the screen when it’s not in use. To further enhance the viewing experience, OLED Anti-Flicker 2.0 aims to keep brightness levels steady while reducing flickering.

    Connectivity and Features

    Connectivity options on the monitor include two HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4 (DSC), and a USB-C port that supports 90W power delivery. There’s also a USB hub with three USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, which enhances connectivity options.

    For gamers, the monitor includes several features such as GamePlus, which provides tools like crosshairs and timers for assistance during gameplay. Furthermore, GameVisual offers preset display modes that optimize settings like color and brightness for various game genres. Shadow Boost helps improve visibility in darker scenes, while ELMB (Extreme Low Motion Blur) reduces ghosting. The DisplayWidget Center allows users to make on-screen adjustments easily, and a KVM switch provides smooth transitions between connected devices.

    Certification and Design

    This monitor is certified as a VESA AdaptiveSync Display with a 240Hz refresh rate and has TÜV-certified low blue light technology. Asus has also incorporated a custom heat sink into the design. The stand is versatile, allowing for height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments, and is compatible with VESA mounts (100x100mm).

    As of now, the monitor has only been launched in China, with a price tag of 6,499 yuan (~$899) listed on JD.com according to IT Home. Its availability in other regions has not yet been confirmed.

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    ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCDMG: 27ASUS ROG Strix XG27UCDMG: 27
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  • RX 9070 XT Price Drops Boosts Sales, Outperforming Nvidia

    RX 9070 XT Price Drops Boosts Sales, Outperforming Nvidia

    Key Takeaways

    1. Early sales data shows the AMD Radeon RX 9070 series is popular, but sales at MSRP fell short of expectations.
    2. In the UK, the RX 9070 XT models are top sellers on Amazon, indicating strong demand for RDNA 4 graphics cards among gamers.
    3. Amazon’s best-seller lists show similar trends in Germany, with the RX 9070 series rising in popularity, while Nvidia remains strong in the US market.
    4. Despite higher-than-expected prices for the RX 9070 XT, AMD GPUs still offer better value compared to Nvidia’s RTX 5070 Ti.
    5. Upcoming competition in the entry-level market is anticipated with the expected launch of Nvidia’s RTX 5050 and RTX 5060 cards.

    Days after the AMD Radeon RX 9070 series hit the market, the tech world is exploring early sales data. Although the number of GPUs sold at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) fell short of expectations, it hasn’t stopped gamers from buying. Retailers are indicating that AMD’s ample supply is already running low. The RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT are leading Amazon’s best-selling GPU list, particularly in Europe.

    UK Market Trends

    In the UK, RDNA 4 graphics cards are quickly becoming the top choice for gamers. Two Sapphire Pulse RX 9070 XT models are leading the charts on Amazon UK, surpassing the Gigabyte Radeon RX 9070 XT. Among the top ten, the MSI Inspire 3X OC RTX 5080 stands out as the only Nvidia RTX 50 series card. These rankings support claims from Overclockers UK, which reported selling 5,000 RX 9070 series GPUs on March 6.

    German and US Sales

    On Amazon’s German platform, the situation appears similar, with the Asus Prime RX 9070 leading in sales. Meanwhile, the MSI Ventus 3X OC RTX 5070 Ti still holds the top spot in the United States. However, the RX 9070 series competitors are making their way up the rankings.

    Amazon’s best-seller lists are updated hourly and tend to favor newer products. Best Buy might focus on total sales numbers, as Nvidia GPUs continue to be the more sought-after options. Nonetheless, if AMD can keep restocking the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT, the green team will need to ramp up production to keep pace.

    Pricing and Competition

    The excitement around the RX 9070 launch decreased when retailers announced the GPU prices. Without a reference card from AMD to compare against, manufacturers set the RX 9070 XT prices above the $599 MSRP. Still, AMD GPUs present a solid value, especially with the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti priced at $749.99 in a similar situation.

    Nvidia can find some solace in knowing that AMD lacks a competitor for the limited RTX 5090. The next showdown seems to be on the horizon, focused on entry-level graphics cards, as the RTX 5050 and RTX 5060 are expected to debut in the coming months.

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    RX 9070 XT Price Drops Boosts Sales, Outperforming NvidiaRX 9070 XT Price Drops Boosts Sales, Outperforming Nvidia
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  • New Xbox Console Expected; Doubts on Call of Duty 2026 Dev Kit

    New Xbox Console Expected; Doubts on Call of Duty 2026 Dev Kit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Phil Spencer reassures gamers that Microsoft is still committed to console development despite challenges faced by the Series X.
    2. The upcoming Xbox is speculated to function like a PC, making it easier for developers to create games without specialized hardware.
    3. There are mixed reactions among gamers regarding the idea of a TV-friendly PC console, with concerns about ease of use compared to traditional consoles.
    4. Compatibility with a wide range of PC games could reduce the need for traditional consoles, but user-friendly navigation remains crucial for popularity.
    5. Predictions suggest the new Xbox console may not launch until 2027, and backward compatibility with Xbox-exclusive games is a concern for gamers.

    Gamers are buzzing with ideas about what a new Xbox console might be like. Despite the Series X facing some hurdles, Phil Spencer reassures that Microsoft is still in the game when it comes to console development. While there is chatter about a potential handheld device, an insider from the industry describes the upcoming Xbox as a PC that works well with TVs.

    Speculations on Development Kits

    On the Xbox Two Podcast, Jez Corden discussed rumors about a new Call of Duty game being tested on a development kit for the next Xbox console. Although Corden expressed skepticism about the existence of such a kit, he emphasized how easy this new system would be to develop for. The console would operate like a Windows PC, lacking any specialized software or hardware. Thus, it seems more likely that developers for Call of Duty 2026 have a spec sheet rather than an actual prototype.

    Reactions to the Next Gaming System

    Corden suggests that Microsoft’s forthcoming gaming device will be a TV-friendly PC. This idea has led to mixed reactions from gamers. Many components are being shrunk down, apart from the Nvidia RTX 50-series and AMD RX 9070-series GPUs. It’s feasible to create a compact PC that fits nicely into a living room. Still, systems like the Series X or PS5 offer a more straightforward gaming experience for users.

    A console powered by Windows could bring compatibility with a vast array of PC games. With both Microsoft and Sony releasing titles for the platform, the necessity for a traditional console could lessen. However, not every gamer prefers to manage hardware and fiddle with settings. The ease of navigation with a controller will also play a significant role in how popular the console becomes.

    Historical Context and Future Predictions

    Many Reddit users have brought up the downfall of Valve’s Steam Machine in response to Corden’s forecasts. However, that mini PC was based on the Linux-oriented Steam OS, unlike Windows. Although there is a vast library on Steam, the flexibility that comes with PCs using Microsoft’s software is what most gamers tend to favor.

    Corden predicts that a new Xbox console won’t emerge until 2027. Gamers are worried about backward compatibility with Xbox-exclusive games, an issue Microsoft must address before making any official announcements.

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    New Xbox Console Expected; Doubts on Call of Duty 2026 Dev Kit

     

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  • Top Indie Steam Deck Games Up to 85% Off in Limited Sale

    Top Indie Steam Deck Games Up to 85% Off in Limited Sale

    Key Takeaways

    1. Many highly-rated games are on sale at reduced prices on Steam.
    2. Discounts include popular action, adventure, and indie games.
    3. Some indie titles are marked down by as much as 85%.
    4. The sale is a limited-time event, providing a chance to buy games at lower costs.
    5. Prices and deals may change, and Notebookcheck is not responsible for those changes.

    Many highly-rated games are currently available at reduced prices on Steam. This special sale includes discounts on popular action, adventure, and various other genres. When it comes to indie games, there are a number of titles that have been marked down by as much as 85%. A few notable mentions include:

    Important Note

    Please keep in mind that Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for any changes in pricing made by retailers. The prices or deals mentioned in this article were correct at the time of writing and might be limited by time and/or stock availability.

    Steam Sales

    The current Steam sale is a great opportunity for gamers to score some of the best titles at a fraction of their original cost. Whether you’re looking for action-packed adventures or charming indie experiences, there’s something for everyone in this limited-time event.

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