Category: Gaming

  • PlayStation, SEGA, Square Enix Join Tokyo Game Show 2025 Lineup

    PlayStation, SEGA, Square Enix Join Tokyo Game Show 2025 Lineup

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tokyo Game Show 2025 will be the largest in history, featuring 772 exhibitors and 4,083 booths from September 25 to 28 in Chiba, Japan.
    2. Sony is expected to make significant announcements, particularly in the Family Game and Indie Game Areas.
    3. Sega may preview Sonic Racing: Crossworlds and is rumored to announce a new Jet Set Radio game and Persona 6.
    4. Kojima Productions plans to reveal more about their projects, including Physint for PS5 and the horror game OD.
    5. The event’s theme is “Unlimited, Neverending Playground,” with artwork by illustrator Zashiki Warashi, emphasizing gratitude to game developers.


    Tokyo Game Show 2025 is turning out to be one of the biggest events ever, with PlayStation, Sega, and Square Enix officially signed on as exhibitors. The show is set to take place from September 25 to 28 at Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan, featuring an impressive 772 exhibitors across 4,083 booths.

    A Record-Breaking Year

    The numbers for this year are higher than those from 2024, making it the largest Tokyo Game Show in history. Out of the 772 exhibitors, 299 hail from outside Japan. Additionally, there are whispers that Sony has some major announcements planned, as they will be showcased in both the Family Game and Indie Game Area.

    Sony’s Indie Presence

    While details about Sony’s role in the indie section remain scarce, it has a track record of collaborating with smaller developers to launch their games on PS Plus right from day one. Some well-known examples include titles like Resogun, Rocket League, Fall Guys, and Dave the Diver.

    Sega and Square Enix will join the ranks of other notable names such as Capcom, Kojima Productions, and Bandai Namco. There’s speculation that Sega might give a sneak preview of Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, set to release on September 25, 2025. Additionally, there are rumors of a new Jet Set Radio game and a Persona 6 announcement.

    Upcoming Titles and Expectations

    Kojima Productions is anticipated to provide more insight into its action-espionage project, Physint, for PS5, as well as the horror game, OD, which is backed by Xbox. Capcom is also expected to share in-game footage of Resident Evil Requiem, scheduled for release on February 27, 2026.

    This year’s event carries the theme “Unlimited, Neverending Playground,” showcasing artwork by illustrator Zashiki Warashi. Warashi expressed his joy about being part of Tokyo Game Show 2025, stating:

    “ I am truly happy to have received so many reactions to the teaser illustration. I drew it with a feeling of gratitude toward those involved in game production. I put my heart into it despite the pressure of such a prestigious event like TGS. I would be happy if visitors to TGS enjoy it even a little.”

    With major players like Square Enix, Sega, and Sony confirmed for the lineup, Tokyo Game Show 2025 is poised to deliver exciting new game announcements and gameplay reveals.

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  • Ubisoft Faces Backlash for EULA Requiring Game Deletion

    Ubisoft Faces Backlash for EULA Requiring Game Deletion

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ubisoft updated its End User License Agreement (EULA) to require players to “uninstall” and “destroy” games if support for them ends.
    2. The change has sparked significant backlash from gamers, particularly on platforms like Reddit.
    3. The revised EULA places the responsibility on users to stay informed about changes, allowing Ubisoft to terminate the agreement for various reasons.
    4. Ubisoft is experiencing financial difficulties, reporting a loss of €159 million for fiscal year 2024-2025, amid declining popularity and unsuccessful game releases.
    5. The new policy coincides with the “Stop Killing Games” movement, which aims to prevent publishers from shutting down online-only games without adequate support.


    Ubisoft has found itself in hot water once again after revising its End User License Agreement (EULA), adding a clause that has stirred up a lot of talk in the gaming community. The updated EULA indicates that players are required to “uninstall” and “destroy” their games if support for a particular title ceases.

    Gamers React

    This has led to a significant amount of backlash on various platforms, especially on Reddit, where users have reacted quite angrily to the recent changes in the EULA. Many see this update as a possible response to the Stop Killing Games movement, which has been gaining traction.

    The new EULA can be found on Ubisoft’s official site. It places the responsibility on users to stay informed about any modifications:

    “You and UBISOFT (or its licensors) may terminate this EULA at any time, for any reason. Termination by UBISOFT will be effective upon (a) notice to You or (b) termination of Your UBISOFT Account (if any) or (c) at the time of UBISOFT’s decision to discontinue offering and/or supporting the Product.

    This EULA will terminate automatically if You fail to comply with any of the terms and conditions of this EULA. Upon termination for any reason, You must immediately uninstall the Product and destroy all copies of the Product in Your possession.”

    Changes Noticed

    These revised terms have not gone unnoticed by gamers, who are increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction with Ubisoft’s choices. Over the past five years, the company’s popularity and market share have taken a hit, leading Ubisoft to forge a partnership with Tencent. For the fiscal year 2024-2025, Ubisoft reported losses of €159 million ($177.9 million), marking a 20.5% decline in net bookings, totaling around $2 billion.

    Many gamers and industry analysts see this update as a miscalculation, especially in light of a string of lackluster titles like Skull and Bones, XDefiant, Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, Avatar Frontiers of Pandora, and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.

    The Road Ahead

    Additionally, this new policy comes at a time when the “Stop Killing Games” initiative has gathered 1,266,069 signatures towards its goal of 1,000,000. The movement’s objective is to stop publishers like Ubisoft from shutting down online-only games without providing any end-of-life support, similar to what happened with the original Crew.

    Ubisoft is still facing significant financial challenges and a tarnished public image, and the latest changes to the EULA appear to widen the gap between the company and the gaming community. While Ubisoft stands its ground, the strong backlash indicates that many gamers might be seeking other options.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Now Available on Amazon After Game Sales Open

    Nintendo Switch 2 Now Available on Amazon After Game Sales Open

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 is now available for order on Amazon’s U.S. site, but purchases are invite-only due to limited stock.
    2. The base model of the Switch 2 is priced at $449.99, while the Mario Kart World Bundle costs $499.99.
    3. The console initially launched on June 5th but was not available on Amazon U.S. until recently; other retailers saw a boost in pre-orders.
    4. There are concerns about a potential disagreement between Amazon and Nintendo regarding the sale of Switch 2 games and consoles by third-party sellers.
    5. Restocking of the Switch 2 on Amazon is uncertain, with availability issues noted, particularly in Japan where shortages may last until Spring 2026.


    After disappointing fans about the Nintendo Switch 2 launch date, the console has finally become available on Amazon’s U.S. site. The retailer has recently started offering first-party Switch 2 games, indicating that the handheld console would soon follow. Indeed, gamers can now place orders for the system; however, Amazon is keeping purchases limited to invite-only.

    Pricing Details

    The price for the Switch 2 on Amazon is not unexpected. The base model is priced at $449.99, while the Mario Kart World Bundle comes in at $499.99. When buyers hit the “Request Invite” button, they might receive an email with a purchase link within 24 hours. Yet, like other retailers, Amazon is expected to have limited stock, which could result in some disappointed customers.

    Initial Launch Issues

    When Nintendo’s latest console debuted on June 5th, it was not available on Amazon.com. Instead, the retail giant provided the system on its other regional sites, such as in Canada and Germany. Meanwhile, U.S. rivals like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target saw a boost in pre-orders for the Switch 2.

    Possible Disagreements

    Many experts thought that Amazon and the Japanese company may not have seen eye to eye. A Bloomberg report mentioned that Nintendo was against third-party sellers listing Switch 2 games and consoles. Sellers could get the system at lower prices from Asia and still make decent profits when reselling. Currently, only Amazon seems to be retailing the console.

    Both companies have rejected the claims made by Bloomberg, yet customers remain doubtful. Amazon stands as the leading online retailer in the U.S., and it has been part of earlier console launches like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. A disagreement of some sort appeared to be the most reasonable assumption.

    Availability Concerns

    It’s uncertain how often Amazon will restock the Switch 2. After Nintendo created a stockpile for its release, availability has been inconsistent. The situation in most areas is at least not as severe as in Japan, which could face shortages until Spring 2026.

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  • Pre-Order 8BitDo 64 Controller in Black & White on Amazon, July 30

    Pre-Order 8BitDo 64 Controller in Black & White on Amazon, July 30

    Key Takeaways

    1. The 8BitDo 64 Controller is inspired by the classic Nintendo 64 controller and is designed for the Analogue 3D system, with a new release date of July 30, 2025.
    2. It is available for pre-order on Amazon for $39.99 (or £34.99 in the UK) in Black and White colorways.
    3. The controller is compatible with Nintendo Switch, Android devices, and Windows PCs, offering both Bluetooth and Wired USB modes.
    4. It features a design that maintains the original N64 controller’s layout, including a concave rubber joystick cap and C-buttons, along with unique 8BitDo buttons.
    5. Notable features include a Hall Effect joystick, a wear-resistant joystick ring, turbo function, home button, and vibration support, though battery life and dimensions are not yet disclosed.


    The 8BitDo 64 Controller made its debut announcement in October 2024, drawing inspiration from the classic Nintendo 64 controller. Designed specifically for the Analogue 3D system, its original release date was set for March 19, 2025. Unfortunately, delays with the Analogue 3D meant the controller’s release was also pushed back. Fortunately, the 8BitDo 64 Controller is now listed for pre-order again on Amazon, accompanied by a new release date.

    Pre-Order Details

    You can pre-order the 8BitDo 64 Controller in Black and White colorways on Amazon for $39.99. For those in the UK, it is also available for pre-order at £34.99 in both colors. Both Amazon listings indicate that the controller is expected to launch on July 30, 2025. Additionally, Analogue’s official website mentions that the Analogue 3D is set to ship this July, although the console is currently out of stock.

    Compatibility and Features

    While the 8BitDo 64 Controller is primarily made for the Analogue 3D, a modern version of the Nintendo N64 console, 8BitDo claims the Bluetooth controller is also compatible with Nintendo Switch (including N64 Online), Android devices, and Windows PCs. Users can switch between Bluetooth and Wired USB modes easily, and there’s a toggle underneath for changing between D-input and S-input modes.

    The design of the 8BitDo 64 Controller aims to stay true to the original N64 controller, featuring a concave rubber joystick cap along with C-buttons, plus the arrangement of the Start and A/B buttons. It includes unique 8BitDo buttons, like a turbo function and a home button. Other notable aspects of this controller include a Hall Effect joystick, a wear-resistant joystick ring, and support for vibrations (for Analogue 3D and Switch). However, specifics concerning battery life, weight, and dimensions are still not disclosed.

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  • Themes Could Arrive on Switch 2 Next Year

    Themes Could Arrive on Switch 2 Next Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo Switch handhelds have limited customization options compared to Xbox Series and PS5 devices.
    2. Leaker Nash Weedle suggests that themes may be introduced in the Nintendo Switch 2, but not this year.
    3. Themes could allow players to customize their home screens with changes to icons, backgrounds, and sounds.
    4. Themes might be available for purchase in the Nintendo store or bundled with games.
    5. There is no official confirmation from Nintendo about an upcoming Direct event or theme announcements, so caution is advised regarding this information.


    When it comes to custom options, the Nintendo Switch handhelds have not been in the spotlight, while Xbox Series and PS5 devices let gamers adjust their home screens. Followers have been waiting for this level of customization for a long time since the first Switch, but nothing has changed. Nonetheless, it seems that Nintendo might finally introduce themes in the Switch 2.

    Possible Arrival of Themes

    This information comes from leaker Nash Weedle, who shared on X that themes could be on their way to the Nintendo Switch 2, but it won’t be this year (translated to English). It’s unclear when they might actually be released, but it could potentially be early next year. Even so, offering general or game-related themes would let gamers customize their home screen and some interface elements, though this might be the limit of what can be customized. Themes could include changes to icons, fresh backgrounds, sounds, and more. This is similar to how themes are handled on PlayStation and Xbox consoles.

    Purchase Options

    If and when they do become available, players might be able to buy them from the Nintendo store, or they could come bundled with a game purchase. Nintendo is anticipated to hold another Direct event this month, where they might announce the themes for the Switch 2, but the odds of that happening seem slim.

    Caution Regarding Information

    It’s important to mention that there has been no official word from Nintendo about a Direct event this month or the themes themselves, so it’s wise to take this information cautiously. Still, themes would definitely be a great addition to the Switch 2.

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  • MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition Performance with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme

    MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition Performance with AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI has started selling the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition in China, despite not providing an official release date for fans.
    2. The Claw 8 Ryzen Edition features an 8-inch display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and 1200p resolution, similar to the Claw 8 AI+.
    3. The device is powered by the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, showing strong performance and energy efficiency compared to its predecessor.
    4. The Ryzen Z2 Extreme’s performance is competitive with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 but has better power efficiency due to its lower core count.
    5. Benchmark comparisons between the Claw 8 Ryzen Edition and Claw 8 AI+ are complicated by the use of outdated Intel drivers, making direct performance assessments challenging.


    MSI has yet to provide fans with details about when they can expect their first gaming handheld powered by AMD Ryzen. Recently, the company began selling the MSI Claw 8 Ryzen Edition in China, just days after saying it would be available later in the summer. Surprisingly, the handheld is already being shipped.

    Early Impressions

    While MSI hasn’t officially confirmed much, a YouTuber has shared some initial thoughts about the device, which can be seen in the video linked below. The Claw 8 Ryzen Edition has a close resemblance to the Claw 8 AI+ (currently priced at $999 on Amazon), as both feature an 8-inch display with 120 Hz refresh rate and 1200p resolution. However, the newer model offers a glimpse into the capabilities of the AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme, which hints at the performance we might see from upcoming devices like the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go later this year.

    Performance Comparison

    The Ryzen Z2 Extreme shows impressive performance, surpassing its predecessor at 12 W of power, but it falls just behind the regular Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 found in recent handhelds such as the Aokzoe A1X and the OneXFly F1 Pro. It seems that the Ryzen Z2 Extreme closely tracks the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 at higher power levels, but it has the advantage of slightly better overall power efficiency due to its reduced CPU core count and lack of an NPU.

    Benchmark Challenges

    Sadly, the choice to utilize benchmarks from the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V with older Intel drivers complicates direct comparisons between the new Claw 8 Ryzen Edition and the Claw 8 AI+ for now. That said, the Core Ultra 7 258V seems to be the more efficient APU at lower wattages. For further details, check out the video below.

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  • Retroid Announces Upcoming Release of Pocket Flip 2 Handheld

    Retroid Announces Upcoming Release of Pocket Flip 2 Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MediaTek Dimensity 1100 version of the Pocket Flip 2 will be available for order starting July 9 at 01:00 UTC.
    2. The Dimensity 1100 model is priced at $199, which is $20 less than the Snapdragon 865 version.
    3. Early buyers can use coupon codes for discounts: FLIP2SAVE20 for $20 off until July 11, and FLIP2SAVE10 for $10 off until August 9.
    4. Key differences include Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity in the Dimensity 1100 model, reduced wired charging from 27 W to 18 W, and a potential performance lag in GPU and CPU tasks.
    5. Both models share a 5,000 mAh battery and a 5.5-inch AMOLED display.


    Retroid has at last announced when the MediaTek Dimensity 1100 version of the Pocket Flip 2 will be available. Initially revealed alongside the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 version during pre-launch promotions, Retroid had indicated that the Dimensity 1100 models would be released a month after the Pocket Flip 2’s debut in March. Although this timeline wasn’t met, the company has since released an updated Pocket Mini, known as the V2, which fixes display problems found in the V1 model (curr. $229 on Amazon).

    Launch Details

    Now, Retroid has shared that the Dimensity 1100 version of the Pocket Flip 2 will be up for order starting from July 9 at 01:00 UTC. This new model will typically cost $20 less than the Snapdragon 865 version, coming in at a starting price of $199. Early buyers can also enjoy a $20 discount by using the coupon code FLIP2SAVE20 until July 11, and a $10 discount with the code FLIP2SAVE10 until August 9.

    Key Differences

    In summary, there are three main differences between the Dimensity 1100 and Snapdragon 865 versions of the Pocket Flip 2. Firstly, the Dimensity 1100 provides Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity, while the Snapdragon 865 model uses Bluetooth 5.1. Although both models share a 5,000 mAh battery and a 5.5-inch AMOLED display, wired charging capabilities decrease from 27 W to 18 W. Additionally, the Dimensity 1100 version might see a 10% performance lag in GPU-intensive tasks and a 22% dip in CPU workloads compared to the Snapdragon 865. For more detailed information on Retroid’s latest clamshell gaming device, refer to our original article covering the Pocket Flip 2 launch.

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  • Microsoft Focuses on New Fallout Games and Remasters After Changes

    Microsoft Focuses on New Fallout Games and Remasters After Changes

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fallout 3 Remastered is in development, with potential release using Unreal Engine 5.
    2. Fallout 5 is planned but may not be released until 2030 or later.
    3. Xbox Game Studios has faced challenges, including 9,000 layoffs and project cancellations like Perfect Dark.
    4. There are possibilities for remasters of Fallout 2 and a sequel to New Vegas.
    5. The second season of the Fallout TV series is set to premiere in December 2025.


    Considering that Fallout 76 was launched back in 2018, the followers of this post-apocalyptic RPG series are eagerly waiting for fresh quests. While Bethesda hasn’t officially announced any release dates, there are whispers that several games are currently in development. On the Friends Per Second podcast, Jordan Middler from Video Games Chronicle confirmed that Fallout 3 Remastered is indeed still being worked on. Additionally, Fallout 5 is on the horizon but might not make it until 2030 or beyond. Middler also mentioned a potential remaster of Fallout 2 and a sequel to New Vegas.

    Xbox Game Studios Challenges

    Part of the discussion focused on the recent issues within Xbox Game Studios. The elimination of 9,000 Microsoft positions has had an effect on the developers, resulting in the untimely cancellation of projects like Perfect Dark. Following the layoffs, Microsoft aims to concentrate on profitable Xbox franchises and intellectual properties, such as Fallout.

    Fallout 3 Remastered Anticipation

    Fallout 3 Remastered is likely one of the first titles ready for players. It’s thought that Obsidian Entertainment is collaborating with Virtuous, the studio that worked on Oblivion Remastered. Nonetheless, early leaks suggested a 2023 release, and Bethesda has not given an official statement. When this title eventually comes out, gamers can look forward to visuals enhanced by Unreal Engine 5.

    For those fans who don’t regard Fallout 76 as a core game, it has been ten years since Fallout 4 was released. Insiders aren’t expecting Fallout 5 to be revealed any time soon. Unfortunately, Middler also doesn’t see any signs of hurried development happening.

    Other Xbox Game Speculations

    What remains uncertain is the timeline for other Xbox titles hinted at during the podcast. Bethesda and Obsidian are exploring different spin-offs and remasters. One project, in particular, could thrill enthusiasts of the 2010 title Fallout: New Vegas.

    At this moment, the TV series will need to keep fans engaged until any new Fallout game becomes available. The second season of the Amazon-produced show is set to debut in December 2025.

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  • Dead by Daylight Partners with Popular Franchise for New Content

    Dead by Daylight Partners with Popular Franchise for New Content

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dead By Daylight officially announced a collaboration with The Walking Dead, confirming previous rumors.
    2. Iconic moments from The Walking Dead, like Rick’s hospital scene, are highlighted as part of the crossover.
    3. Players will soon have the chance to play as Rick Grimes and Michonne, though Michonne’s character is temporarily unavailable due to technical issues.
    4. Update 9.1.0 is set to be released on July 29, bringing new gameplay features and bug fixes.
    5. Dead By Daylight has a history of collaborations with major franchises, including Resident Evil and Scream, making this partnership expected.


    Crossovers are quite popular in the gaming industry. A great example is Fortnite, which keeps adding different franchises into its gameplay, making fans very happy. Recently, Dead By Daylight surprised everyone with a significant announcement.

    A Shocking Revelation

    While some might find this news unexpected, others saw it coming. There had been plenty of rumors about a possible collaboration between The Walking Dead and Dead By Daylight. However, this became official just yesterday when Behaviour Interactive shared an image from the show on X, a platform well recognized by fans.

    Iconic Moments

    If you’ve seen the first episode of The Walking Dead, you probably remember Rick standing by a hospital door that says, “Don’t open, dead inside.” The post also included the message: “Together, we endure. Alone, we fall.”

    Gameplay Updates

    This afternoon, further details were shared on Dead By Daylight’s account on X. At first, players will have the chance to take on the roles of Rick Grimes and Michonne during the PTB phase. However, players can’t use Michonne yet because of some technical problems, although her skills are already there. You will need to wait for the arrival of update 9.1.0, which is scheduled for July 29.

    Waiting Games

    More delays might come as fans await update 9.1.0. Currently, players won’t find Rick Grimes and Michonne’s lines available in the PTB, and progress made during this phase won’t be saved. On a positive note, numerous bug fixes and significant gameplay changes have been introduced by the developers.

    Expected Collaborations

    This collaboration isn’t that shocking, as many anticipated it would eventually happen. Since its debut in 2016, Dead By Daylight has teamed up with major gaming franchises like Resident Evil and Tomb Raider, along with horror film icons such as Scream and Halloween.

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  • Razer Launches Wireless BlackWidow V4 TKL with Hot-Swappable Keys

    Razer Launches Wireless BlackWidow V4 TKL with Hot-Swappable Keys

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Blackwidow V4 Tenkeyless (TKL) HyperSpeed has a compact design without a number pad, saving desk space.
    2. It features a socketed PCB design that allows users to easily swap out mechanical switches.
    3. The keyboard comes with customizable black PBT keycaps and supports Chroma RGB lighting for a personalized look.
    4. It includes dual foam layers for a clean typing sound and a 2-stage kickstand for improved ergonomics.
    5. The new model has replaced the OLED screen with physical controls and supports both HyperSpeed wireless and Bluetooth connections.


    Razer has not introduced any discounts for its newest product on Prime Day, but its design without a number pad may help free up some space on your gaming desk.

    Design and Compatibility

    The Blackwidow V4 Tenkeyless (TKL) HyperSpeed features a socketed PCB design that works with “most” 3- or 5-pin mechanical switches, making it quite swappable. This means users can easily remove the standard Razer Orange switches and combine them with other types, like the Yellow or Green options from the OEM, to find the perfect typing feel.

    Keycap Customization

    The accessory comes with black PBT keycaps that are also interchangeable with other colors like Green, White, or Quartz – and even with Razer’s Phantom Stealth Pudding sets. Each key can be illuminated separately with Chroma RGB lighting, allowing for a personalized look.

    Sound and Ergonomics

    The V4 TKL HyperSpeed is designed to provide a “clean” typing sound thanks to its internal structure, which includes dual foam layers placed between the 5052 Aluminum Alloy Top case and the bottom case. The keyboard also has a 2-stage kickstand that may enhance ergonomics for users.

    New Features

    This latest model in the Blackwidow V4 series has replaced the OLED screen with additional physical controls, including 3 shortcuts for audio, media, and battery settings. It supports Snap Tap with the HyperSpeed 2.4GHz wireless technology, but it can also connect via Bluetooth for use with multiple devices.

    The Blackwidow V4 Tenkeyless is available for purchase through Razer or Amazon for $179.99. If you’re looking for a mouse to complement your setup, the Cobra Pro is currently discounted by 21%, making it available for $129.99.

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