Category: Gaming

  • Sony Unveils Ghost of Yotei PS5 Limited Edition Console and Gear

    Sony Unveils Ghost of Yotei PS5 Limited Edition Console and Gear

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony announced the Ghost of Yotei, a new AAA game, during the State of Play event.
    2. A limited edition PS5 console and accessories themed around the game were revealed, featuring a black and gold design with Mount Yotei engraving.
    3. The limited edition bundle includes a custom DualSense Wireless Controller and a full game voucher with pre-order digital items.
    4. Consumers can buy the DualSense controller and console covers separately for existing PS5 and PS5 Pro models.
    5. Pricing details are not yet available, but pre-orders will start soon, with an official release date set for October 2, 2025.


    At the recent State of Play event, Sony unveiled its highly anticipated AAA title, Ghost of Yotei. Alongside the game, they revealed a limited edition console and accessories themed around it. This announcement features two distinct versions of the PS5 Console – the Ghost of Yotei Limited Edition, custom DualSense Wireless Controllers, and specially designed console covers for both the PS5 and PS5 Pro.

    Limited Edition Design

    The PS5 Ghost of Yotei Limited Edition comes in a striking black and gold finish, with both versions showcasing the stunning Mount Yotei engraved on the surface. Each limited edition console will also include a matching DualSense Wireless Controller Ghost of Yotei Edition, which features a sleek brushed design.

    Purchasing Options

    Consumers can opt to purchase a Ghost of Yotei Limited Edition PS5 Console bundle in either black or gold. This bundle consists of a unique console, a special edition DualSense wireless controller, and a full game voucher for Ghost of Yotei, which includes pre-order digital items (an in-game mask and an Atsu + seven Yotei Six Avatar set).

    For those who own a PS5 or PS5 Pro (currently available on Amazon for $699), they can buy the DualSense Wireless Controller Ghost of Yotei Limited Edition in either black or gold. Additionally, a console cover will be offered for both the PS5 and PS5 Pro. The PS5 cover will be compatible with the CFI-2000 model group, also known as PS5 Slim, regardless of whether it has a disc drive or not.

    Pricing and Availability

    While PlayStation has yet to announce the prices for the limited edition consoles, controllers, and PS5 covers, pre-orders are expected to start soon ahead of the official release date on October 2, 2025.

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  • Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Game Costs Exceed $50 Million

    Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Game Costs Exceed $50 Million

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft includes all first-party titles on Game Pass at launch and adds popular third-party games, enhancing subscriber value.
    2. The cost to acquire games for Game Pass ranges from $50,000 to over $50 million, indicating significant financial investment.
    3. Despite high costs, Game Pass is reportedly still profitable for Microsoft.
    4. The increasing expenses of developing AAA games pose challenges for sustaining current acquisition rates.
    5. Microsoft may need to consider raising subscription prices or focusing on indie/AA games to manage costs and meet financial goals.


    Ever since Xbox Game Pass started, many have been trying to guess how much money Microsoft spends to keep the service filled with great games. All first-party titles from Microsoft are now available on Game Pass on their release day, and the company has also been bringing in big third-party games like Expedition 33 right at launch.

    Great for Subscribers

    The inclusion of highly expected third-party games is beneficial for Game Pass, providing subscribers with popular content. However, it raises serious concerns about how sustainable this approach is. Just how much is Microsoft really paying to ensure major game launches for Game Pass? Can they keep this up in the long term?

    A Surprising Discovery

    A sharp-eyed user on X, Timur222, spotted something intriguing about the costs of Xbox Game Pass games in the LinkedIn profile of Iain MacIntyre, a recently dismissed Senior Business Development Manager at Microsoft. He noted that MacIntyre “negotiated over 500 deals ranging from $50,000 to more than $50 million, securing both indie hits and AAA titles for Game Pass.”

    Thus, it seems that Microsoft shells out between $50k and a staggering $50m or even more to acquire games for Game Pass. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that the service is draining Microsoft’s finances, as it is reportedly still making money.

    Future Uncertainties

    The range of costs per title suggests the challenges of maintaining the current speed of acquisitions in the future. Developing AAA games is notoriously pricey and has only gotten more expensive in recent years. With the average AAA title now taking several years to finish and costing tens of millions, if not hundreds of millions, Microsoft will have to invest even more to secure blockbuster titles for Game Pass.

    To address this issue, the company might consider raising Game Pass subscription prices, which seems likely since Xbox has to meet strict financial goals, or they could choose to focus more on indie or AA games instead of AAA deals. No matter what path they choose, one thing is evident: Xbox faces a tough road ahead.

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  • Nintendo Shuts Down Popular Switch ROM Sites to Fight Piracy

    Nintendo Shuts Down Popular Switch ROM Sites to Fight Piracy

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nsw2u and Nswdl, popular sites for downloading Switch ROMs, are no longer accessible due to FBI action.
    2. The FBI’s seizure was part of a law enforcement operation following a warrant related to copyright infringement.
    3. Many ROM sites do not host files themselves, but Nintendo continues to target those aiding in piracy.
    4. Emulator developers, like Yuzu, have faced legal challenges, leading to the closure of some projects.
    5. Nintendo is taking legal action against products like the MIG Switch, leading to concerns about unfair restrictions on gamers.


    Finding Switch ROMs has gotten a little harder for emulation fans. Recently, gamers found out that both Nsw2u and Nswdl are no longer accessible. A message from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) now appears for visitors to these sites. Supporters used to be able to download Switch games that could be played on emulators and modified consoles.

    FBI’s Action Explained

    The notice states that this action was taken “in accordance with a seizure warrant issued pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 2323 issued by the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia as part of a law enforcement operation and action by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.” Interestingly, the Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) from the Netherlands was also part of this. As noted by Kotaku, Nsw2u was included in an EU piracy watchlist back in May 2025.

    The Nature of ROM Sites

    Like Nsw2u and Nswdl, many websites that provide access to Switch ROMs do not actually store the files themselves. Nevertheless, Nintendo has been going after anyone who aids in copyright infringement or piracy. Fortunately, since the ROMs can be found on different file-sharing platforms, there are still many other options available.

    Targeting Emulator Developers

    A perhaps more successful approach has been to go after the creators of Switch emulators and mods. Yuzu stopped its operations in March 2024 after a settlement due to a lawsuit from Nintendo. However, this open-source program continues to be a favored choice among gamers.

    Nintendo has also reportedly taken legal action against a retailer that was selling the MIG Switch. This cartridge is meant for legal backups but can also run some Switch ROMs. Given that the Switch 2 is backward compatible, Nintendo has been banning consoles that use the MIG Switch from online services. This has raised alarms at a Brazilian consumer protection agency, which worries that other gamers might experience unfair restrictions.

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  • Krafton: Subnautica 2 Delay to 2026 Not Due to Financial Issues

    Krafton: Subnautica 2 Delay to 2026 Not Due to Financial Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. Subnautica 2 has been postponed to 2026, with Krafton denying that financial issues caused the delay.
    2. Krafton dismissed the three founders of Unknown Worlds Entertainment, replacing them with Steve Papoutsis as the new CEO.
    3. The timing of the leadership changes is suspicious, as it coincides with a potential $250 million bonus tied to revenue goals for Unknown Worlds.
    4. Charlie Cleveland, one of the ousted founders, claims the game is ready for early access, contradicting Krafton’s stance that it is not.
    5. The first Subnautica was a huge success, selling over 6 million copies, but the controversy surrounding the sequel has affected trust between Krafton, Unknown Worlds, and fans.


    The follow-up to the 2018 underwater survival title, Subnautica 2, has been officially postponed until 2026. Krafton, the publisher, insists that the delay was not driven by any financial or contractual issues, despite reports revealing a potential $250 million payment that developers, Unknown Worlds, could have received if they met specific performance goals.

    Leadership Changes

    Last week, Krafton made headlines by dismissing the three founders of Unknown Worlds Entertainment from their roles. Charlie Cleveland, who was the original I Director, along with CEO Ted Gill and co-founder Max Guire, were ousted from the company they established in 2001. In their place, Krafton appointed Steve Papoutsis from Striking Distance as the new CEO of Unknown Worlds.

    Suspicious Timing

    As reported by Bloomberg, the timing of these changes raises eyebrows, especially considering the financial implications. Krafton had earlier promised a signing bonus of $250 million to Unknown Worlds, which would be shared among the studio’s employees if revenue targets were met by the end of 2025. This arrangement was heavily weighted towards the three executives who were let go, providing them with a significant portion of the bonuses if the conditions were fulfilled.

    With Subnautica 2 now officially pushed back to 2026, it seems improbable that Unknown Worlds will hit the revenue goals, effectively blocking the team from receiving their potential payout of a quarter-billion dollars.

    Response from Charlie Cleveland

    After his dismissal, Charlie Cleveland voiced his concerns and contradicted Krafton’s narrative, stating, “We know that the game is ready for early access release, and we know you’re ready to play it. And while we thought this was going to be our decision to make, at least for now, that decision is in Krafton’s hands. And after all these years, to find that I’m no longer able to work at the company I started things.”

    On the flip side, Steve Papoutsis, the new CEO, informed staff that Krafton did not think Subnautica 2 was ready for early access and claimed he was unaware of the bonus agreement: “It’s never been told to me that we’re making this change specifically to impact any earnout or anything like that.”

    A Successful Predecessor

    The first Subnautica entered early access back in 2014 and had its full launch in 2018. The game sold over 6 million copies, marking it as one of the most successful indie survival games ever.

    Whether the delay for Subnautica 2 is warranted remains unclear, but the controversy has already damaged the trust between Krafton, Unknown Worlds, and the fans of the Subnautica series.

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  • Free $39 Strategic Space Combat Game with Great Reviews on Steam

    Free $39 Strategic Space Combat Game with Great Reviews on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free Offer: Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock is available for free on Steam until July 17th, normally priced at $39.99.
    2. Game Overview: The game is a 3D turn-based strategy set during the first Cylon War, focusing on the defense of the Twelve Colonies.
    3. Gameplay Mechanics: Players command the Colonial fleet in tactical 3D battles using a unique turn-based system where commands are executed simultaneously.
    4. Positive Reception: The game has an 86% positive rating on Steam and a score of 7.8/10 from IGN, indicating a strong player experience.
    5. Limited Time Promotion: The free offer is time-sensitive, encouraging players to take advantage of it quickly before the deadline.


    Strategy game fans who love Space-themed games, along with Battlestar Galactica supporters, have an exciting reason to rejoice. The well-known tactical game, Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock, which usually costs $39.99, is now available for free on Steam. However, this offer is only valid until July 17th, so players are encouraged to act fast.

    Game Overview

    Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock is an engaging 3D turn-based strategy game that was released in 2017. Created by Black Lab Games, the storyline takes place roughly three years into the first Cylon War, as depicted in the reimagined series. Players face off against the Cylon forces, tasked with defending the ‘Twelve Colonies’. The initial campaign kicks off with the Galactica mysteriously disappearing shortly after its deployment, leaving Admiral Lucinda Cain, the highest-ranking officer, in charge of the fleet.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    The gameplay features a unique turn-based system where each side confirms commands that are executed simultaneously. Players control the Colonial fleet from the Daidalos, directing a diverse array of ships in tactical 3D battles. The game delves into the early phases of humanity’s struggle against their own created robots, offering players a chance to experience a well-known conflict prior to the events of the popular TV show.

    With the game currently being offered for free on Steam, now is the perfect time to explore this strategic space combat experience. Given its impressive 86% positive rating on Steam and a score of 7.8/10 from IGN, Battlestar Galactica: Deadlock is likely to provide an enjoyable experience for fans of the franchise and those who appreciate turn-based tactical strategy games.

    Important Note

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for any price alterations made by retailers. The promotional price or deal mentioned in this article was accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to time limitations or a restricted number of units available.

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  • Intergalactic: Heretic Prophet Leak Reveals RPG Features and More

    Intergalactic: Heretic Prophet Leak Reveals RPG Features and More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Development: Naughty Dog has been developing an open-world RPG titled Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet since 2020, announced at The Game Awards last year.

    2. Open-World Design: The game features a “nested sandbox” open-world, blending elements from The Last of Us Part II and Dark Souls, with parkour, a glider, and “faith anchors” for fast travel.

    3. Combat Mechanics: The combat system is similar to God of War 2018, including combos and weakpoint targeting, along with RPG elements like dialogue options for character interactions.

    4. Visuals and Audio: The game boasts an advanced lighting engine that adapts to planetary phases, alongside a unique audio atmosphere mixing ambient drone music with metal and religious choirs.

    5. Release Timeline: The anticipated release date is late 2026, with a potential cinematic trailer expected to debut at The Game Awards this year.


    Naughty Dog has been developing their next big AAA open-world RPG called Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet since 2020. It was announced for the first time at The Game Awards last year, but there has been little information since then aside from a basic PlayStation page. Recently, a leak has surfaced that shares intriguing details about the game’s setting, gameplay, visuals, and more, including a tentative release timeframe.

    Leak Details

    This information comes from a user who claims to have been a quality assurance tester for builds between February and May on a PS5 Pro development kit, shared through 4chan. The leak describes the open-world as akin to a blend of The Last of Us Part II and Dark Souls. While it’s not a traditional open-world, it’s more like a “nested sandbox” that features large areas to explore. Players can utilize parkour, a glider, and a feature called “faith anchors” for fast travel once they land on a planet.

    Combat and RPG Elements

    The combat system in Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is reported to resemble that of God of War 2018, featuring combos and weakpoint targeting, among other mechanics. Regarding RPG elements, there will be a dialogue box for interactions with other characters. The main character often finds themselves alone, and there will be various options to bypass certain encounters.

    Visuals and Audio

    The leak also mentions that the lighting engine is “insane,” with colors changing according to the “planetary phase” during gameplay. Furthermore, ambient drone music shifts into “metal” religious choirs and rock, creating a unique atmosphere. This combination is described as a mix of religious apocalypse fan fiction and hard science fiction by the leaker.

    Anticipated Release

    As for the release date, Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet is expected to launch in late 2026, though a cinematic trailer may be revealed at The Game Awards this year.

    Commenters on the leak express doubts about its reliability, especially since Naughty Dog hasn’t provided any official information regarding the mechanics mentioned, so it’s wise to take this with caution.

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  • Donkey Kong Bananza: From Switch 1 to Switch 2 Development Shift

    Donkey Kong Bananza: From Switch 1 to Switch 2 Development Shift

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Donkey Kong Bananza is set to launch on July 17 for the Nintendo Switch 2.
    2. Development Team: The game is developed by the team behind Super Mario Odyssey, with Kenta Motokura as producer and Kazuya Takahashi as director.
    3. Transition to Switch 2: The game moved from Switch 1 to Switch 2 to utilize voxel-based environmental destruction and new features.
    4. Innovative Features: The game will include mouse controls for cooperative play and a unique DK Artist mode.
    5. Voxel Technology: The entire game world is built using voxels, enabling a destructible environment that enhances gameplay.


    Donkey Kong Bananza is one of the most anticipated titles for the Switch 2, set to release next week. The game’s development has been quite eventful. Initially planned for the Switch 1, the developers opted to transition to the Nintendo Switch 2 to allow for voxel-based environmental destruction.

    Development Team Behind the Game

    The creative minds behind Donkey Kong Bananza come from the Super Mario Odyssey team, with Kenta Motokura serving as the producer and Kazuya Takahashi taking on the role of director. Kenta Motokura has a history with notable titles like Super Mario Sunshine, Donkey Kong Jungle Beat, and Pikmin. In a chat with IGN, Motokura shared:

    “The original idea for Donkey Kong Bananza sparked when my supervisor, Mr. Kozum, asked us to think about making a 3D Donkey Kong game. At that time, we had a programmer testing out voxel technology.”

    Transition to Switch 2

    In Super Mario Odyssey, there were some levels that showcased limited voxel destruction, like Luncheon Kingdom and Snow Kingdom. When the announcement about the Switch 2 came along, highlighting its new features such as mouse controls, the team decided to move the project to the newer console. Takahashi explained this transition:

    “When we found out about the Switch 2’s development, we understood that the best way to bring our ideas to life would be on Nintendo Switch 2. This allows us to work on a vast array of materials and make large-scale changes to the environment using this advanced hardware.”

    Exciting New Features

    The features mentioned by Takahashi include mouse controls for cooperative play and the innovative DK Artist mode. Motokura pointed out that the entire game world is constructed using voxels, which makes Donkey Kong ideally suited for a destructible environment.

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  • GameStop’s Nintendo Switch 2 Stapler Available for $100,000

    GameStop’s Nintendo Switch 2 Stapler Available for $100,000

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameStop is auctioning a black stapler linked to the “Staplegate” incident, where it damaged Nintendo Switch 2 screens during launch night.
    2. All auction profits will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, with current bids exceeding $100,000.
    3. The auction includes a certificate of authenticity and the first damaged Nintendo Switch 2, which has been refurbished.
    4. The stapler has been described as an “authentic relic” and was retired immediately after the incident.
    5. GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen is adding a personal touch to the auction by offering a pair of his own underwear if bids reach six figures.


    GameStop has successfully recovered from the mishap during the launch night of the Nintendo Switch 2. The retailer is now auctioning off the notorious black stapler that accidentally damaged several Switch 2 screens at their Staten Island, New York, location. All profits from this auction will be donated to the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Currently, bids have surpassed $100,000 with six days left in the auction.

    Auction Details

    This infamous stapler is listed on eBay and will come with a certificate of authenticity, along with the very first Nintendo Switch 2 that had its screen stapled, which has since been refurbished. The fortunate buyer will also receive the original packaging, which shows visible puncture marks from the incident.

    GameStop has referred to this item as an “authentic relic from the now-infamous ‘Staplegate’ incident.” The black stapler was used by a GameStop employee who, in a moment of overzealous excitement during launch night, stapled a receipt directly onto a customer’s new Nintendo Switch 2 box, causing damage to both the cardboard and the screen in one quick act.

    The Staplegate Incident

    The listing for ‘Staplegate’ further explains, “Features authentic field-use wear throughout and retired immediately from service, the stapler now stands a retail legend born from a half-second decision.”

    To add some context, customers who unwrapped their Nintendo Switch 2 consoles last month discovered that the screens had been punctured by staples. This was due to an employee attaching receipts to the boxes, accidentally driving staples into the screens. These occurrences were limited to just one Staten Island store. GameStop promptly replaced the damaged consoles for the customers affected.

    In the wake of this incident, GameStop CEO Ryan Cohen commented: “While the incident itself was unfortunate, we hope its legacy serves a greater purpose.” In a surprising twist, Cohen even promised to throw in a pair of his own underwear if the auction surpassed six figures. At the time of this writing, the listing is sitting at $111,269.00, with 188 bids and 228,167 views in the last 24 hours.

    A Charitable Turnaround

    This retail mistake has been cleverly transformed into a social media success for the company, while also serving as a charitable initiative to genuinely help children in need.

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  • Nintendo to End Game Vouchers Service by 2026

    Nintendo to End Game Vouchers Service by 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo will stop the Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers service on January 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Pacific Time.
    2. Users can no longer purchase vouchers after the service ends; vouchers allow savings on first-party games.
    3. Unused vouchers will expire 12 months after purchase, with no current plans for a new service for Switch 2 games.
    4. My Nintendo Gold Points will no longer be earned for digital purchases starting March 24, 2025, but can still be earned for physical titles for up to one year.
    5. Nintendo’s pricing strategy includes raising some first-party game prices to $80, amidst increasing gaming costs and potential new discount programs.


    Nintendo has revealed that it will be stopping its Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers service at the beginning of 2026. The company stated that the service will conclude on January 30, 2026, after which users will no longer be able to buy the vouchers.

    Official Announcement

    In a notice on their support page, Nintendo specified:

    “As of 11:59 PM Pacific Time January 30, 2026, it will no longer be possible to purchase Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers.”

    The Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers allowed gamers to buy two vouchers for $99.99. These vouchers could be redeemed for first-party Switch games, helping users save a significant amount compared to buying the games separately, either digitally or physically. For instance, by purchasing two $60 games, users could save $20.

    Vouchers and Expiration

    Nintendo has stated that any unused vouchers will become invalid after 12 months, but there is no information yet on whether a new service for Switch 2 games will be introduced. According to Nintendo:

    “Game vouchers remain valid for 12 months from purchase. For example, if a set of Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers is purchased on January 30, 2026, each Nintendo Game Voucher remains valid until January 30, 2027.”

    The My Nintendo Gold Points program was introduced when the original Switch was launched back in 2017. For every dollar spent on a digital purchase, users earned one point, which could then be exchanged for discounts on Nintendo games.

    Changes to Gold Points

    On March 24, 2025, Nintendo stopped the ability to earn My Nintendo Gold Points for digital purchases made through the eShop and via download codes. However, players can still earn Gold Points for up to one year after a physical title is released. Those who have Gold Points can redeem them for discounts until March 24, 2026.

    This change occurs at a time when the cost of gaming is increasing significantly. Nintendo might be considering a new discount program. Conversely, the company is also recognized for its reluctance to provide discounts on its first-party titles, even as it has raised prices for select games to the $80 mark, establishing a new trend in the industry.

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  • Dell Unveils Two New QD-OLED Gaming Monitors with High Refresh Rates

    Dell Unveils Two New QD-OLED Gaming Monitors with High Refresh Rates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dell has launched two new gaming monitors: Alienware 25AW2525HM ($250) and Alienware AW2725D ($550), targeting gamers.
    2. The AW2725D features a 27-inch QD-OLED panel with a resolution of 2560 x 1440, offering superior contrast and a gray-to-gray response time of 0.03 milliseconds.
    3. The AW2725D supports a maximum refresh rate of 280 Hz and includes G-Sync, FreeSync Premium Pro, and AdaptiveSync compatibility.
    4. The AW2525HM is a more budget-friendly option, with a 25-inch IPS panel, Full HD resolution (1920 x 1080), and a maximum refresh rate of 340 Hz.
    5. Both monitors are designed for user comfort, featuring adjustable height, tilt, and rotation options.


    Dell has introduced two new gaming monitors: the Alienware 25AW2525HM, which is priced at $250, and the Alienware AW2725D, which costs $550. While they have different setups and specifications, they both aim for the same audience: gamers.

    AW2725D Highlights

    The AW2725D comes equipped with a QD-OLED panel, claiming to provide a much better contrast ratio than other panel types. This 27-inch monitor offers a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 and boasts a gray-to-gray response time of only 0.03 milliseconds. It can reach a brightness level of up to 1,000 cd/m², but that peak brightness is only achievable under localized conditions; the standard brightness is set at 250 Hz. The maximum refresh rate is 280 Hz, and it supports G-Sync, FreeSync Premium Pro, and AdaptiveSync. A variety of ports are available, such as two HDMI 2.1 FRL ports, one DisplayPort, three USB-A ports, and a USB-C port.

    AW2525HM Features

    On the other hand, the more economical AW2525HM has a visible diagonal of 25 inches and utilizes an IPS panel. The maximum refresh rate is listed as 340 Hz, but its resolution is not very high, only matching the Full HD standard of 1920 x 1080. It includes several ports, including HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, two USB-A ports, and one USB-B port. Furthermore, both monitors are designed to be rotated, tilted, and height-adjusted for user convenience.

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