Category: Gaming

  • ROG Xbox Ally Price Leak at Asus Store Sparks Xbox Handheld Debate

    ROG Xbox Ally Price Leak at Asus Store Sparks Xbox Handheld Debate

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus Store suggests the ROG Xbox Ally X will cost €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally will be priced at €899.
    2. U.S. pricing remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from $499 to $799, potentially higher due to tariffs.
    3. Microsoft announced a Holiday 2025 launch for the ROG Xbox Ally series, with possible earlier availability in October.
    4. The new handhelds resemble the Asus ROG Ally series and feature 7-inch 1080p/120Hz displays, lacking OLED screens.
    5. Industry skepticism exists regarding the handhelds, with concerns about limited exclusive titles and competition from devices like the Nintendo Switch 2 and Steam Deck.

    After the leaker eXtas1s disclosed the prices for the upcoming Xbox handheld options in June, evidence has emerged that backs up his statements. The Asus Store by MacMan, an official Spanish partner for the handheld gaming PC maker, reveals information when you type “Xbox Ally” into the search feature. If this store is accurate, the cost for the ROG Xbox Ally X will be €599, while the ROG Xbox Ally comes in at a higher €899.

    Pricing Uncertainty in the U.S.

    The pricing for the U.S. market remains unclear, though eXtas1s has proposed $499 and $799 as potential prices. Other experts have predicted that the systems might be a bit pricier due to tariff uncertainties. Microsoft has announced a Holiday 2025 launch for the ROG Xbox Ally series, but Jez Corden from Windows Central believes that an October release could be on the table.

    Official Announcement

    Microsoft officially introduced the devices during its Xbox Games Showcase on June 8. Instead of launching a brand-new console, the Xbox handheld products resemble the existing Asus ROG Ally series. Gamers can look forward to the same 7-inch 1080p/120Hz displays, as Asus opted not to use more expensive OLED screens. However, in addition to an Xbox control layout, Microsoft guarantees grips designed for better comfort.

    Skepticism Among Gamers

    Many gamers and industry insiders express doubts regarding these new devices. Former Microsoft Executive Laura Fryer sees the handhelds as a strategy for the company to move away from hardware. Fryer emphasizes that the ROG Xbox Ally options do not offer the straightforwardness typical of traditional consoles. Furthermore, with a shift towards a cross-platform model, there will be limited exclusive Xbox titles to attract buyers.

    To draw in a broader audience, Microsoft plans to roll out a full-screen interface that provides access to various marketplaces. Still, the prices of the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X could determine their success. The potentially less expensive Nintendo Switch 2, which supports more AAA games, is a tempting alternative for console gamers. Meanwhile, the market for handheld gaming PCs is competitive, featuring the Steam Deck and several Windows-based options.

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    ROG Xbox Ally Price Leak at Asus Store Sparks Xbox Handheld Debate

     

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  • Forza Horizon 5 PS5 Sales Revealed by Ex-Xbox Employee’s LinkedIn

    Forza Horizon 5 PS5 Sales Revealed by Ex-Xbox Employee’s LinkedIn

    Key Takeaways

    1. Forza Horizon 5 launched on PS5 on April 29, marking its first appearance outside Xbox and PC.
    2. The game sold two million copies on PS5 within one month of its release.
    3. The sales achievement was credited to cross-platform features developed by a former Turn 10 Studios designer.
    4. Turn 10 Studios has undergone significant layoffs, reducing its workforce by half and shifting focus to the Forza Horizon series.
    5. Reports indicate that the Forza Motorsport series may be discontinued, with a new Forza Horizon entry expected next year.

    Earlier this year, Xbox shared that Forza Horizon 5 would be coming to the PS5, almost four years after its debut on Xbox and PC. The game officially appeared on PlayStation 5 on April 29, marking the first Forza title to be offered on a platform outside of Xbox and PC. Recently, a LinkedIn post by an Xbox worker has shown how well the game performed on PlayStation.

    Impressive Sales Figures

    A tweet from Zuby_Tech revealed that Forza Horizon 5 for the PS5 sold a remarkable two million copies within just one month. This information was sourced from the LinkedIn profile of Harrison Bolin, a former game designer at Turn 10 Studios, which is part of Microsoft Game Studios. Sadly, Bolin was part of a recent layoff that affected multiple employees at Xbox.

    In his profile, the designer mentioned that he/she was responsible for creating the cross-platform features that enabled Forza Horizon 5 for the PS5 (available on Amazon for $499) to reach two million sales in just one month. This is a striking achievement for a game that has been out for several years on Xbox. While current total sales figures are unknown, it is likely that they have surpassed two million units, given that it has been over two months since the game’s release on the PS5.

    Turn 10 Studios in Transition

    The recent layoffs at Xbox have significantly impacted Turn 10 Studios, primarily known for the Forza Motorsport series. The studio has seen a reduction of half its workforce and is now primarily focused on supporting the Forza Horizon series. Moreover, reports suggest that the Forza Motorsport series has been discontinued, leaving the open-world Forza Horizon series, which is developed by Playground Games. A new entry in the Forza Horizon series is anticipated to be released next year.

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  • Nintendo’s Donkey Kong Bananaza: Gameplay Over Performance Focus

    Nintendo’s Donkey Kong Bananaza: Gameplay Over Performance Focus

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Issues: The game may experience performance drops during intense moments, particularly with many explosions.

    2. Focus on Fun: The main goal of Donkey Kong Bananza is to provide a fun and engaging experience, even with some performance challenges.

    3. Enhancing Gameplay: The team has added hit stops and slow motion effects to make impactful moments feel more powerful, despite potential lag.

    4. Hardware Demands: The voxel-based technology requires significant power from the Nintendo Switch 2, which can lead to performance dips during large-scale changes.

    5. Development History: Donkey Kong Bananza has been in development since 2017 and will build on sandbox-style level design and gameplay inspired by Super Mario Odyssey, with a release date of July 17, 2025.

    In a recent chat with La Vanguardia, Kazuya Takahashi, the Director of Donkey Kong Bananza, shared some insights about the game’s performance. He mentioned, “We are aware that in some moments with a lot of explosions, the performance may drop a little.” This shows they know there are some issues.

    Focus on Fun

    Takahashi made it clear that the primary goal of the game is to provide a fun and engaging experience. The key feature of Donkey Kong Bananza is its big, destructible environments, but this comes with some performance challenges.

    Enhancing Impactful Moments

    To help reduce any rough gameplay, the team has added hit stops and slow motion effects. These elements are designed to make certain moments seem more powerful. Takahashi explained, “Some visual effects like slow motion are intentional to emphasize impacts.” This approach aims to enhance the player’s experience despite potential lag.

    The game utilizes voxel-based technology to create its destructible settings. Takahashi acknowledged, “voxel-based destruction can cause performance dips during large-scale changes.” This means that while the technology can create amazing visuals, it can also strain the hardware.

    Hardware Demands

    Voxel-based tech requires a lot from the hardware, especially from a portable device like the Nintendo Switch 2, which is powered by a custom Nvidia Tegra T239 SoC that also features AI-sharpening tech. This means that the game might not always run perfectly smoothly.

    Despite these performance issues, Takahashi stressed that Nintendo is prioritizing the fun of gameplay over smooth performance: “We prioritize gameplay satisfaction over perfect performance in those moments.” This indicates a commitment to player enjoyment.

    Early feedback from players and previews supports this idea. Donkey Kong Bananza typically runs well on the Nintendo Switch 2, although the frame rate can drop during explosive scenes or when the environment is being destroyed.

    Donkey Kong Bananza has been in the works since 2017, right after Super Mario Odyssey was launched. Initially, it was being developed for the Original Switch, but with the confirmation of the Nintendo Switch 2, the Super Mario Odyssey crew switched to voxel-based tech for this new title.

    The game is slated for release on July 17, 2025, and will expand on sandbox-style level design, 3D platforming, and gameplay elements inspired by Super Mario Odyssey.

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  • Square Enix Developing Dragon Quest VII Remake for 2026 Release

    Square Enix Developing Dragon Quest VII Remake for 2026 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Square Enix is developing a complete remake of Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past, with a release expected in 2026.
    2. The remake will feature significant gameplay and structural changes, moving beyond just HD enhancements.
    3. Bloomberg Journalist Jason Schreier has hinted at the authenticity of the remake project, indicating Square Enix’s intent to remake more Dragon Quest games.
    4. The Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake achieved over 2 million sales within a month, highlighting the franchise’s strong performance in the market.
    5. The anticipated launch of the Dragon Quest VII Remake may fall between the releases of Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D Remake in October 2025 and Dragon Quest XII: Flames of Fate.

    Square Enix is revisiting its cherished Dragon Quest series, with reports indicating that the company is in the process of creating a complete remake of Dragon Quest VII: Fragments of the Forgotten Past. The release for this remake is anticipated in 2026. This information comes from MP1st, which claims to have accessed “internal documents” outlining Square Enix’s future endeavors.

    New Direction for Dragon Quest

    This new project represents a more ambitious approach than the company’s current trend of Dragon Quest HD-2D Remakes. The Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D Remakes are set to launch on October 30, 2025, but Dragon Quest VII is said to be a total “remake” rather than just an “HD remake” or a remaster.

    The report suggests that the game will explore more profound gameplay and structural modifications, rather than merely enhancing the resolution and refining textures.

    Confirmation from Sources

    Adding weight to these claims, Bloomberg Journalist Jason Schreier has subtly indicated the project’s authenticity. On ResetEra, Schreier stated, “I think it’s safe to say that Square wants to remake as many DQ games as possible for modern platforms. I didn’t say there’s no remake!”

    Square Enix is on a mission to revive the Dragon Quest franchise. The company achieved remarkable success with the Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, which sold over 2 million copies within a month of its release in November 2024.

    Sales Success in Japan

    Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake quickly became the top-selling game in Japan just a week after its launch, with a total of 821,770 units sold on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch combined.

    Originally released on the PlayStation in Japan in August 2000, Dragon Quest VII became a massive hit, selling 4.06 million copies. Creator Yuji Horii explained that the shift from cartridges to CD-ROM provided much more space to develop a DQ title with an expansive scope.

    Horii remarked, “We went overboard and made too much game.” To illustrate, the documentation for Dragon Quest VII on the PS1 was so extensive that producer Noriyoshi Fujimoto commented it was “from this wall to the other.”

    Anticipated Release Window

    There is speculation that the Dragon Quest VII Remake could launch sometime between the release of Dragon Quest I and II HD-2D Remake in October 2025 and the arrival of Dragon Quest XII: Flames of Fate, which was first announced in May 2021.

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  • Nintendo Secures Copyright for Donkey Kong Movie Ahead of Bananza

    Nintendo Secures Copyright for Donkey Kong Movie Ahead of Bananza

    Key Takeaways

    1. A copyright filing for an “Untitled Donkey Kong Project” suggests a Donkey Kong film is in development by Nintendo and Universal Pictures.
    2. Anticipation is growing for the Nintendo franchise, highlighted by the upcoming release of Donkey Kong Bananza on July 17th and new attractions at Super Nintendo World.
    3. Seth Rogen will reprise his role as Donkey Kong from The Super Mario Bros. Movie in the upcoming film.
    4. Nintendo is exploring more film adaptations, with fans hoping to see franchises like Metroid Prime and Star Fox on screen.
    5. Details about the film remain scarce, but supporting characters like Diddy Kong and Cranky Kong may appear, and Pauline could contribute to the soundtrack.

    Leaks that go back a few years have hinted at a Donkey Kong film being created. Recently, a copyright filing involving Nintendo and Universal Pictures popped up on a public records site. This U.S.-based resource noted that the copyright was registered on June 6th with the title “Untitled Donkey Kong Project; Motion Picture.” Nintendo’s President, Shuntaro Furukawa, has hinted recently that more Nintendo films are coming soon.

    Rising Excitement for Nintendo

    As the release date of July 17th for Donkey Kong Bananza gets closer, excitement for the Nintendo franchise is growing. But the Switch 2 game isn’t the only new attraction with the beloved gorilla. Super Nintendo World in Universal Japan opened Donkey Kong Country in 2024, featuring a thrilling roller-coaster ride. Additionally, the Mine Cart Madness ride also made its debut at Florida’s Epic Universe this year.

    Rumors and Expectations

    Back in 2021, whispers about the now copyrighted movie started to circulate. It has been confirmed that Seth Rogen, who already voiced Donkey Kong in The Super Mario Bros. Movie, will reprise the role in his own Nintendo film. Since then, fans have also heard about a sequel to Mario Bros. and a live-action Zelda film, which are expected to release in 2026-27.

    During an investor meeting in June, Shuntaro Furukawa emphasized that the company aims to reach a wider audience. Fans are now speculating about which other Nintendo franchises might appear on the big screen. Some fans hope to see Metroid Prime and Star Fox adapted into films.

    Mystery Surrounding the Project

    At the moment, aside from Seth Rogen’s involvement, not much is known about the upcoming entry in Nintendo’s film series. Supporting characters like Diddy Kong and Cranky Kong could play roles in the movie. Given Pauline’s significant presence in Donkey Kong Bananza, she might also help out with the movie’s soundtrack.

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    Nintendo Secures Copyright for Donkey Kong Movie Ahead of Bananza
  • Krafton Confirms Legitimate Document Leak for Subnautica 2

    Krafton Confirms Legitimate Document Leak for Subnautica 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Krafton confirmed the authenticity of a leaked internal document discussing Subnautica 2’s development issues.
    2. The document revealed that the game lacks essential features and biomes, leading to delays and the removal of founding members from Unknown Worlds.
    3. A narrative delay reduced the game’s gameplay by about 6 hours, prompting a re-evaluation of the release schedule.
    4. Krafton emphasized the importance of meeting quality standards and indicated that the push for more content caused the delay, not a rush for an early release.
    5. The situation has resulted in legal action from former leaders of Unknown Worlds against Krafton, with mixed reactions from fans regarding the game’s delay and development management.

    Krafton has confirmed that a leaked internal document is authentic in a discussion with PC Gamer. This document was shared on the Subnautica subreddit, amid ongoing issues with the previous leaders of Unknown Worlds.

    Details on the Document

    The document reveals that the publisher intended to add more content and enhance the game before its Early Access launch. This led to a delay and the removal of founding members from Unknown Worlds. The internal presentation from May 2025 indicated that Subnautica 2 “lacks the newness and amount expected from a sequel.” Another slide pointed out that essential features were missing to achieve the Early Access launch goals. The report highlighted that the game was short two biomes, one leviathan, one vehicle, and a game mode that was ultimately cut.

    Changes to the Narrative

    Additionally, Krafton’s internal document mentioned that one narrative had been delayed, resulting in a reduction of roughly 6 hours of gameplay. Krafton explained, “The current target content volume has been decreased or modified across different aspects like biomes, creatures, equipment progression, and features,” which led to a “re-evaluation of the release schedule and roadmap.”

    The publisher clarified that the internal presentation was just part of their usual target review process, done together with their creative studio, to ensure the project met Krafton’s quality standards.

    Fallout and Reactions

    Krafton’s acknowledgment of the internal document adds complexity to the situation between Unknown Worlds’ Charlie Cleveland, Ted Gill, Max McGuire, and the publisher. The former leaders were let go due to the delays.

    Fans had speculated that the developers needed extra time for polishing, while Krafton was pushing for a 2025 release, which included a provisional bonus of $250 million. However, the internal documentation seems to indicate otherwise, showing Krafton was actually looking for more content, causing the delay rather than rushing the development.

    Last week, Cleveland, who co-founded Unknown Worlds, claimed that the game was ready for Early Access. In contrast, Krafton accused the former leadership of feeling “a deep sense of betrayal and neglecting their responsibilities.” They also accused Cleveland of concentrating on a “personal film project” instead of focusing on Subnautica 2. Following these events, Cleveland, McGuire, and Gill have filed a lawsuit against Krafton, but details remain undisclosed.

    Reactions to this situation have been varied. Some fans back Krafton’s decision to delay the game for a better Early Access experience. Meanwhile, others in the gaming community have criticized Krafton for their handling of titles like The Callisto Protocol, PUBG, and Inzoi.

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  • New Steam Leak Reveals Sleek UI Overhaul and Tile Design

    New Steam Leak Reveals Sleek UI Overhaul and Tile Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Steam Store page is getting a major redesign, featuring a refreshed user interface and improved functionality.
    2. Enhanced navigation will allow users quicker access to sections like new releases and free-to-play games.
    3. The updated layout will improve visibility of wishlists and highlight when games are on sale, helping users find deals.
    4. Currently, Steam users can claim four free games, including Ultimate Zombie Defense and others until mid-July.
    5. Valve aims to create a more user-friendly storefront to enhance engagement and retention, following a significant UI update in June 2023.

    A major update to the Steam Store page has been revealed, featuring a refreshed user interface and enhanced functionality for the digital marketplace. The information was posted on the Steam subreddit by insiders xPaw and LambdaGeneration, displaying visuals of a more efficient layout.

    Enhanced Navigation

    The redesign that was leaked indicates that users will have quicker access to various sections of the Steam Store, including new releases, free-to-play games, and other titles. These modifications could simplify the process for users looking to find new and popular games.

    Wishlist and Promotions

    Another aspect of the new layout is the improved accessibility and visibility of a user’s wishlist, emphasizing when those games are on sale. This aligns with Steam’s ongoing goal of helping users discover the best deals and promotions while browsing their store. Additionally, the new UI offers quick links for purchasing gift cards and accessing the points shop.

    This leak comes shortly after the conclusion of Steam’s largest annual event, the Steam Summer Sale, which finished on July 10. During this time, users enjoyed substantial discounts on some of the most sought-after games. Moreover, Steam has consistently provided numerous free games over the years on its platform.

    Free Games Available Now

    Currently, Steam users can claim four free games. The top-down 4-player co-op game, Ultimate Zombie Defense, which has a user score of 83%, is available for free until July 15. Additionally, players can add Slitherine’s titles: the tactical space strategy game Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock, the turn-based tactics game Field of Glory 2: Medieval, and Fantasy General 2 to their libraries at no cost until July 17.

    To enhance user engagement and retention, Valve is focused on creating a more user-friendly storefront, enabling users to track discounts and discover games with ease. The last significant update to the Steam client UI was implemented in June 2023. As this leak spreads online, it remains uncertain when Valve will officially launch this UI update or introduce further enhancements in a final version.

    Valve’s online storefront made its debut on September 12, 2003. In 2023, the company reported having 132 million active users. Recent SteamDB statistics show that Steam maintained an impressive 30 million concurrent users in March. As of now, Steam has listed a total of 142,339 games on its platform.

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  • 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller Now Supports Apple Devices

    8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller Now Supports Apple Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller is now compatible with Apple devices, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and visionOS.
    2. The controller likely connects to Apple devices via Bluetooth, while it connects to Windows using USB or a wireless adapter and to Android via Bluetooth.
    3. It features an Xbox-style layout, customizable back buttons, Hall Effect triggers, RGB lights, six-axis motion control, and a charging dock.
    4. Color options include Black, Purple, White, Green, and a limited edition called Wuchang: Fallen Feathers.
    5. The controller is priced at $59.99 on Amazon and $45.99 directly from the 8BitDo eShop.

    The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller was revealed earlier this year as 8BitDo’s premier controller. Initially, it was said to only work with Windows and Android devices. However, 8BitDo has now confirmed that the 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller is officially compatible with Apple devices.

    Announcement on Social Media

    This update was shared on X by the official account of 8BitDo. The post stated that the Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller is now fully supported by Apple. This means users can now utilize the controller with Apple devices, which encompasses those operating on iOS, iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and visionOS.

    Connection Methods

    Although the announcement didn’t specify how it connects to Apple devices, it is likely through Bluetooth. The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless Controller can connect to Windows devices using a wired USB connection or the provided 2.4GHz USB-C wireless adapter, while it connects to Android devices via Bluetooth.

    Features and Design

    The 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Controller features an Xbox-style layout, TMR joysticks, Hall Effect triggers that allow mode switching, customizable back buttons, and extra R4 and L4 shoulder buttons. It also has customizable RGB lights surrounding the joysticks, six-axis motion control, a macro button, and a turbo button. Additionally, it comes with a charging dock.

    In terms of color options, the controller is available in Black, Purple, White, Green, and a limited edition called Wuchang: Fallen Feathers. The price is $59.99 on Amazon, but it can be bought for $45.99 directly from the 8BitDo eShop.

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  • Donkey Kong Bananza Physical Copies for Nintendo Switch 2 on eBay

    Donkey Kong Bananza Physical Copies for Nintendo Switch 2 on eBay

    Key Takeaways

    1. An eBay seller is offering 15 copies of “Donkey Kong Bananza” ahead of its official release on July 17, with prices reaching nearly $100.
    2. The source of the seller’s copies is unclear, but it is speculated they may have acquired them from a retail store with early shipments.
    3. Buyers face potential shipping concerns, as late arrivals may make inflated prices seem unworthy; the seller offers two-day shipping.
    4. There are questions about whether the game can be played before the release date, as it uses a regular cartridge, but Nintendo’s console banning policies may deter early play.
    5. Some gamers are critiquing Nintendo’s limited first-party game selection for the Switch 2, although “Donkey Kong Bananza” may hold them over until other titles are released.

    Most gamers probably won’t get their hands on Donkey Kong Bananza until it officially comes out on July 17. Yet, an eBay seller has somehow managed to snag 15 copies of this 3D platformer, putting them up for sale on the site. Fans are shelling out more than the suggested retail price for the Switch 2 game, with some transactions nearing $100. Numerous images of the packaging have popped up on the Switch 2 subreddit.

    Mystery of the Seller’s Source

    It’s not really known how this seller got their hands on Nintendo’s highly awaited first-party title. The review embargo lifts on July 16, so it’s likely that journalists might have gotten early access to the game. However, given the number of copies available, it seems more probable that the seller sourced them from a retail store that has already received their shipment.

    Shipping Concerns for Buyers

    One major problem buyers are facing due to the Switch 2 leak is shipping times. If the game doesn’t show up before the official release date of Donkey Kong Bananza, then paying those inflated prices might not seem worth it. Aware of this potential issue, the eBay seller has promised a two-day shipping option along with priority processing.

    Early Playability Questions

    There’s also the question of whether gamers can actually play the game before July 17. Since it comes on a regular cartridge instead of a Game-Key Card, it should theoretically be playable. The back of the retail case does mention online connectivity needs, but similar warnings appear on other Switch 2 titles that work fine offline. Gamers have managed to play Nintendo games early in the past, but the company’s strict console banning policies might make players think twice.

    When Donkey Kong Bananza becomes widely available, players will get to smash through various underground levels. With destructible and throwable items, gameplay should be more diverse as Donkey Kong and Pauline take on the villains from VoidCo.

    Nintendo’s Game Library Critique

    Some gamers have voiced their concerns over Nintendo’s limited selection of first-party games for the Switch 2. The new Kong adventure may keep players entertained until titles like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Kirby Air Riders are released.

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    Donkey Kong Bananza Physical Copies for Nintendo Switch 2 on eBay
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  • GALAX GeForce RTX 5090D HOF OC LAB Listed on eBay for $5,500

    GALAX GeForce RTX 5090D HOF OC LAB Listed on eBay for $5,500

    Key Takeaways

    1. Exclusive Availability: The GeForce RTX 5090D HOF OC LAB edition is exclusive to China and designed to meet U.S. export regulations, making it a rare find outside the region.

    2. High Price Tag: Prices for the RTX 5090D on eBay have reached around $5,500, significantly higher than the regular RTX 5090’s price, which is typically up to $3,000.

    3. Impact of Supply Shortage: The discontinuation of the RTX 5090D’s production by NVIDIA due to stricter export rules has led to a scarcity, driving up prices and creating a collectible status.

    4. Overclocking Capabilities: The HOF OC LAB edition supports extreme overclocking with a power draw potential of up to 2,000 watts, achieving impressive benchmark scores and GPU frequencies.

    5. AI Performance Limitations: The RTX 5090D has reduced AI workload capabilities compared to the standard RTX 5090, adhering to export guidelines, which diminishes its performance in AI tasks.

    GALAX’s GeForce RTX 5090D HOF OC LAB edition has been spotted on eBay with prices hitting around $5,500, making it one of the priciest GB202-based NVIDIA GPUs ever sold.

    Exclusive Graphics Card

    This 5090D model is exclusive to China, designed to fit U.S. export rules. The HOF edition, which is a high-end version, is priced much higher than the main RTX 5090. The regular versions of the RTX 5090 usually cost up to $3,000 at many US stores, even though Nvidia’s suggested retail price for the Founder’s Edition is $2000.

    Surprising Price Point

    The high cost of this GPU is quite shocking, especially since the RTX 5090D is merely a slightly downgraded version of the RTX 5090 in terms of AI workload capability. This could be linked to the limited supply in China, which elevates the GPU to a sort of ‘collectible’ status.

    Market Changes

    The shortage and rising prices for the RTX 5090D began after NVIDIA stopped producing the card in Q2 2025, due to stricter U.S. export rules. They decided to cease all exports of the RTX 5090D to China. Meanwhile, already placed orders were “temporarily canceled,” while Chinese industry insiders claimed that the RTX 5090D series was “actually done and the graphics cards wouldn’t be available in the second quarter.”

    Power and Performance

    The halt on exports led to scarcity, particularly for the limited GALAX HOF OC LAB edition, which has a dual 16-pin power connector setup that lets it draw a theoretical 1200 watts. Special BIOS updates allow users to increase this power limit for extreme overclocking, pushing the power draw to as high as 2,000 watts.

    The HOF OC LAB edition has set numerous records, with overclocking fans reaching GPU frequencies of 3,650 MHz using liquid nitrogen. In benchmarks like 3D Mark Port Royal, it scored a record 47,469 points, while it achieved 38,327 points in Uniengine Superposition and a record time of 39.434 seconds in GPUPI v3.3.

    High-End Features

    The premium price of the HOF OC LAB is backed by a 38-phase VRM setup, with 28 phases dedicated to the GPU itself. The GPU is constructed on a 12-layer PCB and shares the same memory specs as the standard RTX 5090, featuring 32 GB of GDDR7 memory running at 28 Gbps.

    In terms of AI performance, the RTX 5090D variant falls short compared to the base RTX 5090, with a reduction from 3,352 to 2,375 AI TOPs, a decrease of 29.15%. This limitation was put in place to adhere to U.S. export guidelines.

    Conclusion

    The current price of the RTX 5090D GALAX’s HOF OC LAB edition highlights not just how expensive high-end overclocking cards can become, but also illustrates how global political factors can impact gamers, enthusiasts, and those who don’t use AI performance.

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