Category: Gaming

  • Analogue 3D Delayed Again; 8BitDo N64 Controller Still in July

    Analogue 3D Delayed Again; 8BitDo N64 Controller Still in July

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Analogue 3D, a modern take on the N64, was first revealed in October 2024 and took four years to develop.
    2. Shipping has been delayed multiple times, with the new expected start in late August due to unexpected tariff increases.
    3. Pre-order customers will not face additional charges due to the delay, and full refunds are available for those wishing to cancel.
    4. The current price of the Analogue 3D is $249.99, and a price increase may occur before general sales begin.
    5. A separate purchase of the 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller, priced at $39.99, is required as it is not included with the console.


    The Analogue 3D was first revealed in October 2024, designed as a fresh take on the classic N64 console. According to Analogue, this console is a fully compatible version of the N64 and took four years to develop. Initially, pre-orders were set for October 21, with shipping expected to begin in the first quarter of 2025. Unfortunately, the shipping did not occur as anticipated, leading to a delay until July. Now, Analogue has announced yet another postponement.

    New Shipping Date Announced

    In a post on its X account, Analogue has revealed that the Analogue 3D will now start shipping in late August. The company cites unexpected tariff increases that occurred last week as the reason for this delay. However, customers who pre-ordered will not incur any extra charges, as Analogue will absorb the cost difference. Additionally, those wishing to cancel their pre-orders can receive full refunds.

    Future Price Increase Possible

    There is a possibility that the console’s price may increase once it becomes available for general sales. Currently, it is priced at $249.99, which includes the console, a 16GB SD card, an HDMI cable, a USB cable, and a USB-C power supply. The Analogue 3D is offered in Black and White, but it does not include a controller.

    Controller Purchase Required

    If you need a controller, you must separately order the 8BitDo 64 Bluetooth Controller, which has been designed specifically for the Analogue 3D. This controller is available for pre-order on Amazon at a price of $39.99, and fortunately, its release date of July 30 remains unchanged. It is also compatible with Nintendo Switch, Windows, and Android devices, providing versatility while you await the arrival of the Analogue 3D.

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  • July 2025’s Final Free Game on Epic Games Store Revealed

    July 2025’s Final Free Game on Epic Games Store Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store is currently offering two free games until July 17, with a highly acclaimed game available starting July 24.
    2. The final free game of July will be Legion TD 2, available from July 24 to July 31 at 15:00 UTC.
    3. Legion TD 2 features both single-player and multiplayer modes, including 4v4 and 2v2 matchmaking and cross-platform play.
    4. The game includes a campaign mode with up to 20 hours of PvE content and weekly challenges for players.
    5. Legion TD 2 is usually priced at $24.99 and has a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, with over 11,000 reviews.


    Epic Games Store is offering two free games right now, and on July 17, they will give away a highly acclaimed title at no cost. This second-to-last giveaway runs until July 24, after which the well-known leaker MeguminShiro has mentioned that an indie game with good reviews will be the next free offering.

    Upcoming Free Game

    According to MeguminShiro, the last free game on the Epic Games Store for July 2025 will be Legion TD 2. This final giveaway will begin on July 24 and conclude on July 31, ending at 15:00 UTC.

    Legion TD 2, which launched in 2017, combines single-player and multiplayer tower defense gameplay with strong elements of an autobattler. It takes significant inspiration from its mod in Warcraft III, yet the original game has evolved from that mod into a more sophisticated title with in-depth strategy and team-based play.

    Multiplayer Mode and Features

    In terms of multiplayer, this game that will soon be free on the Epic Games Store supports both 4v4 and 2v2 matchmaking, as well as cross-platform play. Additionally, Legion TD 2 features a campaign mode that can be played solo or cooperatively, providing players with up to 20 hours of PvE content.

    To maintain an engaging experience, the developers introduce weekly challenges. Players can also practice against AI opponents with different difficulty levels. There are over 100 unique fighters available, and players can select from 8 different legions. The game’s strategic complexity is mainly found in how players choose and position these fighters.

    Pricing and Reviews

    Legion TD 2 typically retails for $24.99 when not on sale, and it has received a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, with more than 11,000 player reviews. For additional information about this upcoming free game on the Epic Games Store, check out the video below.

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  • Italian Financial Police Seize 30+ Gaming Handhelds from YouTuber

    Italian Financial Police Seize 30+ Gaming Handhelds from YouTuber

    Key Takeaways

    1. Once Were Nerd, an Italian YouTube channel focused on retro gaming, is under investigation for potential copyright violations related to gaming handhelds.
    2. The Guardia di Finanza executed a search warrant, seizing over 30 handheld devices linked to unlicensed retro games.
    3. The investigation includes the examination of the YouTuber’s smartphone, which was held for more than a month.
    4. Potential consequences for Once Were Nerd include a fine of up to €15,000 and possible permanent suspension from YouTube.
    5. The situation could impact the testing of retro handheld devices, especially those that come pre-loaded with ROM files, while legal options exist for purchasing devices without games.


    Italian YouTube channel Once Were Nerd focuses on retro gaming and has also evaluated gaming handhelds like the Miyoo Mini Plus. This situation might turn out to be quite costly for Once Were Nerd, as the Guardia di Finanza (Italian financial police) are currently looking into a potential breach of Italian copyright laws. Back in April, six officers executed a search warrant and took over 30 handheld gaming devices, primarily from brands like Anbernic, Powkiddy, and TrimUI.

    Investigation Focus

    The selection of these specific brands isn’t random, since these gaming handhelds frequently include a variety of ROM files for unlicensed retro games. The police held the YouTuber’s smartphone for more than a month to copy all of the information stored on it. The investigation is still in progress; depending on what they find, the case might either be dismissed or lead to charges, resulting in a court hearing.

    Potential Consequences

    Once Were Nerd has stated that he could face a fine reaching €15,000 (approximately $17,427) and a permanent suspension from his YouTube channel, which currently has 222 videos and 48,200 subscribers. Once Were Nerd thinks that Nintendo may have tipped off the police about the channel, though there’s no proof of that so far. This situation could have significant consequences for the testing of retro handheld devices, particularly if they come pre-loaded with ROM files. Nonetheless, many handhelds can also be bought without any games installed, allowing users to utilize only legal copies of their own game cartridges.

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  • Anbernic RG34XX and RG35XX Run Nintendo GameCube Games with Firmware

    Anbernic RG34XX and RG35XX Run Nintendo GameCube Games with Firmware

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic has launched the new RG477M handheld with a CNC casing, marking its return to retro gaming devices.
    2. The frequent releases of similar products by Anbernic have fostered a strong community of developers.
    3. The Mustard OS (muOS) Discord has enabled GameCube games to run on Allwinner H700 devices, like the RG34XX SP.
    4. muOS Pixie, a modified version of muOS, enhances playability for some GameCube games, but not the entire library.
    5. Certain games, like Pac-Man World Rally, can be too demanding for the Allwinner H700, limiting performance on RG34XX and RG35XX devices.


    Anbernic is back at it with their retro gaming handhelds, after taking a little time off early this year. The company has recently given us a sneak peek at the anticipated RG477M, which features a CNC casing. While some people view Anbernic’s frequent releases of similar products as a downside, it has actually helped build a strong community of developers.

    GameCube on Allwinner H700

    Members of the Mustard OS (muOS) Discord have successfully gotten GameCube titles to work on devices powered by Allwinner H700, like the RG34XX SP (currently priced at $88.99 on Amazon). For some background, the Allwinner H700 generally struggles with games from consoles newer than the fifth generation, and even those can be a challenge in certain instances.

    muOS Pixie and Playability

    Despite these limitations, a modified version of muOS named muOS Pixie includes enough enhancements to allow a good number of GameCube games to run in a playable manner. However, it’s important to note that you won’t be able to play the entire GameCube library on RG34XX or RG35XX devices right away. For instance, games like Pac-Man World Rally tend to push the Allwinner H700 beyond its limits. For additional details, check out Retro Tech Dad’s video below, and refer to Retro Handhelds’ guide for installing muOS Pixie on your RG34XX or RG35XX device.

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  • Cyberpunk 2077 Update 2.3: FSR 3.1, Photo Mode, FSR 4 Coming

    Cyberpunk 2077 Update 2.3: FSR 3.1, Photo Mode, FSR 4 Coming

    Key Takeaways

    1. Update 2.3 is the final update for Cyberpunk 2077, launching on July 17, and introduces support for AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 3.1 and frame generation.
    2. New content includes four vehicles (three cars and one bike), new quests, and enhanced vehicle customization options.
    3. A new auto drive feature allows players to relax while their car navigates, with a cinematic camera view available.
    4. The photo mode will receive upgrades, enabling players to adjust lighting, NPCs, poses, weather, and add stickers and effects.
    5. Full patch notes will be released on the official website, with updates for Switch 2 and Mac coming later without a specific timeline.


    Finally, CD Projekt Red has announced the new, and what they claim to be the last update for Cyberpunk 2077. Update 2.3 introduces various features and enhancements to the game, such as support for AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 3.1 and frame generation. Additionally, players can look forward to new quests and vehicles to unlock, as well as fresh methods for navigating Night City. This update will be accessible on most platforms starting tomorrow, July 17.

    New Features and Collaborations

    The details of this update were revealed during the recent REDstreams livestream (linked below), where the developers showcased the new features and content coming to Cyberpunk 2077. One of the highlights is the support for FSR3.1 along with frame generation. Moreover, the team has collaborated with AMD for the implementation of FSR4, which is expected to be available later this year. Players will also receive Intel XeSS 2.0 with XeSS frame generation since the developers aim to incorporate all the latest technologies.

    Exciting New Content

    In terms of new content, four vehicles are being added – three cars and one bike – alongside new quests to unlock them. Vehicle customization has been enhanced, offering new paint options and the ability to customize bikes as well. A new auto drive feature has also been introduced, allowing players to relax while their car navigates to the chosen destination, all while obeying traffic laws.

    This auto drive function includes a new cinematic camera that enables players to take in the scenery instead of being confined to a first-person or third-person perspective. This cinematic view can also be utilized with the new taxi system, where players can summon a Delamain taxi, sit in the back with Johnny Silverhand, and arrive at their chosen location.

    Upgrades to Photo Mode

    Cyberpunk 2077’s photo mode is set to receive enhancements too, allowing players to adjust lighting, NPCs, and their poses, modify weather, and add stickers and effects, among other creative options.

    As of now, the complete patch notes have yet to be released, but the official website is expected to be updated later today, July 16. The update, as mentioned before, will be made available for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series consoles on July 17. The updates for Switch 2 and Mac will come at a later date, but no specific timeline has been provided.

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  • Donkey Kong Bananza Review: FSR 1 vs. DLSS and Frame Rate Issues

    Donkey Kong Bananza Review: FSR 1 vs. DLSS and Frame Rate Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Donkey Kong Bananza shows progress in the 3D platforming genre but does not fully utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2.
    2. The game uses older FSR 1 upscaling technology, resulting in softer graphics compared to newer technologies like DLSS.
    3. Handheld mode offers better performance with a stable resolution of 1080p, while docked mode struggles to maintain 1200p and often drops in resolution.
    4. Performance issues arise from double-buffered vsync, leading to noticeable stutters and frame rate drops, especially during boss battles.
    5. Despite technical flaws, the game’s character and map designs are well-received, with impressive destructible physics enhancing player engagement.


    Digital Foundry has released its review focused on the performance of Donkey Kong Bananza. While the site acknowledges that the Switch 2 title marks progress within the 3D platforming genre, it also points out some technical issues. John Linneman indicates that the game does not fully take advantage of the enhanced specifications of the Switch 2.

    Critiques on Graphics

    A lot of the feedback highlights the use of the older FSR 1, which is less effective than the newer DLSS upscaling technology. The vibrant above-ground and underground settings are filled with intricate details. However, Linneman feels that the visuals would benefit from clearer graphics if a more modern upscaler had been used. The combination of FSR and the SMAA post-process anti-aliasing leads to images that may appear softer than what some players anticipated.

    Handheld vs. Docked Performance

    Interestingly, Digital Foundry found that Donkey Kong Bananza performs better in handheld mode. When docked, the game only reaches a maximum resolution of 1200p, but it frequently drops below that level. Naturally, these visual flaws become more apparent on larger screens.

    In handheld mode, the game maintains a stable resolution of 1080p. The Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), which doesn’t work when docked, could help in keeping the gameplay smooth. Unfortunately, similar to other Switch 2 titles, the VRR feature fails to function at 40 fps or lower. This issue arises in Donkey Kong Bananza, particularly during boss battles and certain animations, which heavily impact the frame rates.

    Performance Hiccups

    Linneman also attributes some performance issues to double-buffered vsync, which causes noticeable stutters. Instead of having smaller dips below 60 fps, the game often displays visuals at just 30 fps.

    Fortunately, these graphical drawbacks did not spoil the overall experience for Linneman. Looking at its Metacritic score, many reviews of Donkey Kong Bananza praise the character and map designs as delightful. Additionally, the destructible physics are impressive, enhancing the players’ connection to the game’s virtual environment. Nonetheless, since development began on the original console, not all of the enhanced features of the Switch 2 are fully showcased.

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  • Azeron’s Ergonomic Game Pad: Hall-Effect Joysticks & Switches

    Azeron’s Ergonomic Game Pad: Hall-Effect Joysticks & Switches

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Azeron Keyzen is a one-handed gaming pad featuring 28 reprogrammable mechanical keys for enhanced ergonomics and comfort.
    2. It offers extensive customization options, including different palm rests, switch types, joystick tops, and color choices for keycaps and casing.
    3. Users can remap keys and create macros using a dedicated software utility for Windows, supporting multiple profiles.
    4. The Keyzen has adjustable components, including the length and angle of key switch holders and joystick movement range.
    5. It is available for both left- and right-handed users, with pricing at €185 for the standard model and €195 for the right-handed version.


    Azeron has gained recognition for its Cyborg gaming keypad, which prioritizes ergonomic design and adaptability. Responding to numerous requests from the community and a few well-made DIY modifications aimed at replicating its features, Azeron has now introduced a new game pad model equipped with mechanical key switches, replacing the mouse switches found in the Cyborg. Like its predecessors, the Cyborg and Cyborg II (currently priced at $240 on Amazon), the Keyzen is a wired-only device, lacking Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz connection options.

    Features of the Keyzen

    The Azeron Keyzen is a one-handed gaming pad that boasts 28 reprogrammable mechanical keys arranged in key wells to enhance reachability, comfort, and overall ergonomics. Additionally, it incorporates several thumb buttons and a Hall-effect joystick conveniently positioned for thumb access. Users can customize the entire setup using a software utility designed exclusively for Windows, which allows remapping of keys to mouse, keyboard, and controller inputs, as well as the creation of macros, layers, and up to six on-board profiles for added functionality.

    Customization Options

    Focusing on ergonomics, the Keyzen provides extensive customization options—both through the initial configuration and on-device adjustments later on. Buyers can choose between a flat or curved palm rest—or both—and can select from linear, tactile, and clicky switch types. The package also includes three different joystick tops to help users find their perfect configuration. The online configurator allows for a variety of color choices, letting users personalize everything from the wrist rest and case to individual keycaps and joystick shades. The Keyzen utilizes DSA profile keycaps, which have a consistent shape, allowing for easy repositioning without compromising aesthetics or feel.

    Adjustability Features

    The “fingers” that hold the key switches are highly adjustable, featuring screws on the base that let users modify the length and angle of each finger individually. In addition, a restrictor ring is included to control the movement range of the joysticks. Much of this customization in both visual design and ergonomics is made possible by the 3D printing process used for the Keyzen. It’s available for both left- and right-handed users (right-handed users operate the Keyzen with their left hand, and vice versa), with the right-handed model costing €10 more at €195 without accessories. The standard Keyzen is priced at €185 ($216 when converted). It comes with necessary tools for adjustments and a detachable USB-C-to-A cable.

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  • New Silent Hill Projects in Development by Konami, Leaks Reveal

    New Silent Hill Projects in Development by Konami, Leaks Reveal

    Key Takeaways

    1. Konami has exciting plans for the Silent Hill franchise, including multiple game releases in the coming years.
    2. The recent launch of the Silent Hill 2 remake has pleased fans, with the new title Silent Hill f set to release this fall.
    3. A source claims Konami aims to release one Silent Hill game each year, starting from late 2026 or early 2027.
    4. There are concerns about the development teams’ capacity to maintain this pace due to heavy workloads and budget constraints.
    5. Konami is determined to deliver high-quality games consistently, keeping fans engaged without long waits.


    The horror series that has made its mark on gaming history, Silent Hill, appears to have a promising future. A leaker has suggested that Konami is planning big things for the next few years, which should make fans very happy.

    Exciting Releases Ahead

    At this moment, fans are in a good place with the recent launch of the Silent Hill 2 remake, letting them enjoy many hours of excitement. And that’s not all; this fall, the highly anticipated Silent Hill f, set in Japan, will be available on Xbox Series, PS5, and PC globally. However, this franchise isn’t alone, as Resident Evil is also gearing up for its own releases, including Resident Evil 9 Requiem, expected to be out in February 2026.

    Future Plans for Silent Hill

    According to a source known as Dusk Golem, who uses the name AestheticGamer, Konami has a bunch of plans for its franchise. He claims that the studio aims to release about one game each year. This information is sure to excite fans, who are likely looking forward to announcements leading up to the end of the year after the upcoming title is launched.

    The next installment might be expected by late 2026 or early 2027. However, there’s a good chance the studio might struggle to maintain this pace consistently, as the teams could become quickly worn out by such a demanding schedule. With stiff competition, there’s little time to stall, and projects are being developed at a fast rate. Unfortunately, this often results in the development teams facing heavy workloads, along with possible budget constraints.

    Determination to Deliver

    Still, Konami appears committed to trying to keep this pace, aiming for an average of one game annually. This could be a treat for fans, as they won’t have to endure long waits to feel that excitement again, provided that the games maintain high quality and the teams can manage the workload effectively.

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  • PS5 Pro May 2026 Update Rumored to Add 60 FPS for GTA 6

    PS5 Pro May 2026 Update Rumored to Add 60 FPS for GTA 6

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rumors suggest a significant software upgrade for the PlayStation 5 Pro may align with the release of Grand Theft Auto VI in May 2026.
    2. Speculation exists about a potential 60 FPS update for GTA 6, although official confirmation on frame rates and resolution is lacking.
    3. Previous Rockstar titles have mostly launched capped at 30 FPS, with trailer footage for GTA 6 also appearing to run at this rate.
    4. Mark Cerny’s insights indicate that AMD’s RDNA 5 architecture could enhance the PS5 Pro’s graphics performance, potentially including features like FSR 4.
    5. The anticipated May 2026 update could boost PS5 Pro appeal, addressing concerns over minimal differences in gameplay compared to the standard PS5.


    A fresh rumor suggests that Sony might be gearing up for a significant software upgrade for the PlayStation 5 Pro, possibly aligning with the release of Grand Theft Auto VI. This information was shared by user @DetectiveSeeds on X (previously known as Twitter), who cites an unnamed PlayStation engineer as the source. The anticipated performance update for the PS5 Pro is reportedly slated for May 2026.

    Speculations Around 60 FPS for GTA 6

    In the comments section, many users began to speculate about a possible 60 FPS update for GTA 6, suggesting that the new PS5 Pro update could allow Sony’s console to run one of the most awaited games, GTA 6, at 60 FPS.

    It’s important to mention that no official sources, including Rockstar or 2K, have verified the specific resolution and frame rate for GTA 6 yet. The idea of GTA 6 running at a capped 30 FPS mainly comes from two main points.

    Previous Games and Trailer Insights

    Firstly, several of Rockstar’s recent titles, like GTA IV, GTA V, Red Dead Redemption, and Red Dead Redemption 2 have launched with a cap at 30 FPS, although not necessarily in that order of release. Secondly, the second trailer for GTA 6 appears to be running on a base PS5 at what seems to be 30 FPS. Digital Foundry has confirmed that this footage runs at around 1440p resolution with ray tracing enabled and is indeed locked at 30 FPS.

    In a recent chat, Mark Cerny mentioned that AMD’s RDNA 5 architecture, which was developed in partnership with Sony, has engineering enhancements aimed at future PlayStation systems. He confirmed that this work is already influencing the graphics pipeline for the PS5 Pro, with features like FSR 4 and PSSR designed as upgrades that can be easily implemented.

    Potential Performance Boost for PS5 Pro

    Cerny’s remarks, although not naming any specific update, strongly suggest that Sony is preparing for a notable performance boost for the PS5 Pro, which could arrive just in time for significant releases like GTA 6.

    On Reddit, r/PlayStation users expressed a mix of excitement and caution about the rumored FSR 4 support for the PS5 Pro. One user expressed hope for a “GTA 6 60 FPS mode specifically on Pro,” while another cautioned that expecting a stable 60 FPS might not be realistic due to the CPU similarities with the base PS5. A more technical user commented, “Frame generation is crucial. If they can reach 40 FPS natively, they might be able to generate around 60 FPS.”

    Industry-Wide Impact

    Another intriguing point made by Cerny is that his work isn’t just restricted to PlayStation technology; it could also influence the broader industry. While it’s purely speculative at this stage, it might suggest that similar performance enhancements from this project could benefit future Xbox consoles too.

    If the rumor about the May 2026 update is true, it could make the PS5 Pro much more appealing. The console has received a rather lukewarm response so far, with players noticing minimal differences in gameplay compared to the standard PS5. This update, if accurate, could give Sony a fresh opportunity. However, one can only hope that Sony’s ambition to make games like Helldivers available across PC, PS5, and Xbox is the only aspect it emulates from Microsoft.

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  • Popular Anti-Cheat Game Joins Compatible Steam Deck Titles

    Popular Anti-Cheat Game Joins Compatible Steam Deck Titles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Windows games with kernel-level anti-cheat systems, like Apex Legends and Fortnite, face compatibility issues on the Steam Deck.
    2. Umamusume: Pretty Derby is a recent title that runs well on the Steam Deck, despite minor issues preventing a verified rating.
    3. Proton 9.0-4 has improved support for Windows games on SteamOS and Linux, but many competitive games remain unplayable due to anti-cheat concerns.
    4. The Linux gaming market is growing, partly due to the Steam Deck’s popularity and Valve’s support.
    5. SteamOS is now available on other handheld devices, suggesting a bright future for Linux gaming as anti-cheat issues may improve.


    One big problem for Steam Deck users is the issue with Windows games that employ kernel-level anti-cheat systems. Games like Apex Legends, Fortnite, and EA Sports FC are just some of the popular titles that these players cannot access. However, there have been recent updates that give Linux users a glimmer of hope for more compatible games on the Steam Deck. The newest title featuring anti-cheat technology that works on this handheld is Umamusume: Pretty Derby.

    Testing Umamusume: Pretty Derby

    GamingOnLinux has recently put Umamusume: Pretty Derby to the test, and it uses a protection method called CrackProof. This unique game, developed in Japan, revolves around training anime jockeys for horse racing. The site has confirmed that it runs smoothly on the handheld gaming PC. Although it is marked as playable on the Steam Deck, a few minor issues keep it from getting a verified rating. Additionally, GamingOnLinux successfully launched the game on a desktop Linux system using Kubuntu 25.04.

    Proton 9.0-4 and its Impact

    Since its launch in December 2024, Proton 9.0-4 has significantly enhanced support for Windows games on both SteamOS and Linux. Nevertheless, many competitive and multiplayer games that use kernel-level anti-cheat systems remain unplayable. Developers might be reluctant to implement their protections on the operating system due to concerns about possible vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, some critics say that these companies simply lack the motivation to make the necessary changes.

    The Growing Linux Gaming Market

    In the past, game publishers claimed that Linux gaming made up a small portion of the market. However, support for this efficient open-source operating system has been on the rise. The Steam Deck has played a major role in this shift, thanks to Valve’s extensive marketplace.

    Another reason some Windows games are not verified for the Steam Deck is their demanding system requirements. On a different note, SteamOS is now available for other handheld gaming PC options, like the Lenovo Legion Go S. Even if Valve does not introduce a new device, it’s likely that other companies will launch powerful alternatives. With anti-cheat technologies becoming less of an issue, the future for Linux gaming appears more promising.

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