Category: Gaming

  • SEGA Removes Nine Free Classic Mobile Games from iOS and Android

    Key Takeaways

    1. SEGA has removed nine classic mobile game ports from app stores, signaling the end of the SEGA Forever program.
    2. The games were initially free with ads, but all ads were removed, making paid versions accessible for free before the delisting.
    3. The list of removed games includes 13 titles, as some entries like Golden Axe Classics and Shining Force contain multiple games.
    4. The SEGA Forever initiative started in 2017, aimed at providing free access to classic games on mobile platforms, but support has ended.
    5. Reasons for delisting may involve technical challenges with updates and potential plans for a new mobile subscription service, though no official details have been provided.

    SEGA has quietly removed nine classic mobile game ports from the iOS App and Google Play Store, signaling the end of the SEGA Forever program. Many of these retro games were beloved by fans:

    Free to Download

    These classics were available for free, with an optional $2 in-app purchase to eliminate ads. Eventually, SEGA decided to take away all ads, effectively making the paid versions of these games accessible for free. A pop-up within the game warned players that support for these titles had ended, but they could still be played offline.

    The List of Classics

    While there are nine listed games, it actually amounts to 13, since both Golden Axe Classics and Shining Force include three games each.

    These titles are now alongside other SEGA classics that were removed back in 2023, such as Ristar, Vectorman, Comix Zone, and more.

    SEGA Forever Initiative

    In 2017, the company initiated SEGA Forever, which brought many of its cult classics to iOS and Android platforms. The goal was to provide these classic games for free, although they were supported by in-game advertisements.

    SEGA has not disclosed the specific delisting dates for these nine titles. This action came shortly before the SEGA Forever program was officially discontinued in late 2023, ending support for older mobile ports.

    This is not the first instance of SEGA removing classic ports. The Japanese gaming publisher had previously taken down over 60 games, including Crazy Taxi and Jet Set Radio, from consoles and PC storefronts last December.

    Reasons Behind Delisting

    A possible explanation for the delisting could be the complex technical requirements for updating these games to meet newer system APIs. Some fans speculate that SEGA might be gearing up for a new mobile subscription service or a “SEGA Pass,” but there are currently no official confirmations or indications that this is in the works.

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  • Redditor’s Free DIY Low Profile Case for Nintendo Switch 2 Impresses

    Redditor’s Free DIY Low Profile Case for Nintendo Switch 2 Impresses

    Key Takeaways

    1. A Reddit user designed a 3D-printed low-profile case for the Nintendo Switch 2 to protect it during short trips without adding bulk.
    2. The case attaches securely to the device’s vent openings and allows for safe transport, even when lifted or shaken.
    3. Community feedback led to design improvements, including optional stick covers and suggestions for a felt lining to protect the screen.
    4. The case is made from PLA, with PETG as another option, and the model is available for free download, encouraging further customization.
    5. The Switch 2 community is creating various 3D-printed add-ons, such as a side dust cover and a Joy-Con grip, emphasizing open-source solutions for gaming accessories.

    A Reddit user has crafted a 3D-printed, custom low-profile case for the Nintendo Switch 2, which aims to protect the console during quick trips, while not adding extra bulk. This case attaches to the device’s vent openings, providing protection for the screen and Joy-Con rails, supposedly slim enough to easily fit into a backpack.

    Purpose Behind the Design

    Redditor u/BalintCsala created this case out of personal necessity: needing something lightweight and small for short bus rides of 20 minutes that wouldn’t require a big travel pouch. The design clips onto the Switch 2’s vents and remains secure enough for lifting and even shaking gently, without the console falling out, according to the creator’s claims.

    Community Feedback and Updates

    Users pointed out that the exposed analogue sticks could be a weak point, highlighting the potential for pressure damage and dust build-up. In response, the creator quickly made adjustments to the design, adding optional stick covers. Suggestions from the community included adding a felt lining to prevent scratches on the screen, as well as modifying the design for game cartridge storage and accessory compatibility.

    Material Choices and Availability

    The case was made using PLA, though PETG is another choice available, according to the creator. ABS was dismissed due to concerns about warping. The complete model can be downloaded for free via the original Reddit post, which is linked in the source section below. This post also contains STEP files for those interested in customizing the design further.

    Beyond just this low-profile case, the Switch 2 community has been steadily developing a collection of useful, 3D-printed add-ons. One particularly popular design is a simple side dust cover, also produced by Reddit user u/BalintCsala, which clips onto the console’s Joy-Con rails to keep dirt out of the open vents.

    Other Creative Additions

    Meanwhile, Chongfun on Printables has designed a single Joy-Con grip with built-in trigger extensions, which aims to provide a more comfortable grip and better control for handheld gaming. Alongside the low-profile shell, these DIY additions highlight a growing ecosystem of community-driven hardware that is open-source, easily shareable, and focused on solving everyday problems without waiting for official accessories.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Overheating Issues Persist with Simple Games

    Nintendo Switch 2 Overheating Issues Persist with Simple Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gamers are reporting excessive heating and noise issues with the Switch 2, raising concerns about potential overheating.
    2. The enhanced specs of the Switch 2 allow it to run demanding games, but even less intensive titles can cause overheating problems.
    3. The Switch 2 dock may contribute to heating issues, as it is not primarily designed for cooling and can obstruct ventilation.
    4. The console has an internal fan and will switch to sleep mode if it gets too hot, but users are advised to keep it in a cooler environment.
    5. Despite concerns, many original Switch users note that the new model runs warmer, and Nintendo is working to address overheating worries.

    As the hottest summer months roll in for the Northern Hemisphere, attention has shifted towards how well the Switch 2 keeps cool. While it’s unusual to hear about consoles getting bricked, some gamers have reported their handhelds heating up excessively and being noisy. An article from Nintendo Soup points out that gamers in Japan have voiced their frustrations regarding this issue. However, users in other parts of the world are also worried about the Switch 2 overheating.

    Enhanced Specs and Heat Generation

    The upgraded specs of the Switch 2 allow it to run demanding games such as Cyberpunk 2077. With added support for better frame rates and higher resolutions, it’s expected that the system will produce more heat compared to the older model. Nonetheless, some titles on both the original Switch and Switch 2 that aren’t graphically intense are also putting a strain on the handheld. For instance, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate hasn’t rolled out an Upgrade Pack yet, but one Reddit user shared that the game caused their console to shut down after playing for two hours.

    Docking Dilemmas

    The dock for the Switch 2 might be playing a role in the heating issues as well. Even though it has a built-in fan, its main function isn’t to cool down the handheld. Many users are utilizing the dock for 4K gaming with high refresh rates, which leads it to heat up quite rapidly. Some fans of Nintendo speculate that the dock might obstruct some ventilation for the console, causing the Switch 2 to overheat. Interestingly, even downloading files via the Ethernet port seems to put stress on the dock, making it noticeably loud in nearby rooms.

    Internal Cooling Mechanisms

    To combat overheating, the new console has an internal fan designed to avoid throttled performance or unexpected shutdowns during hot conditions. When used in handheld mode, players have reported that a console that feels hot to touch may show a warning message. To help cool it down, the Switch 2 will switch to sleep mode. It’s advisable for gamers to unplug the console or dock from any AC adapter and place it in a cooler space.

    Even with the potential risk of high temperatures damaging handheld gaming devices, many original Switch users have noted that the new model operates at a warmer temperature. Nevertheless, Nintendo has tried to minimize these worries.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Overheating Issues Persist with Simple GamesNintendo Switch 2 Overheating Issues Persist with Simple Games
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  • Is 8 GB VRAM Enough for Blade 14? Great for 1080p Gaming!

    Is 8 GB VRAM Enough for Blade 14? Great for 1080p Gaming!

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gamers prefer a 14-inch laptop with the GeForce RTX 5090, but compact devices face unique challenges.
    2. Asus has enhanced the ROG Zephyrus G14 with stronger GPU options (RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5080), but it starts at 3400 Euros.
    3. Razer offers a lighter design with the RTX 5070 Laptop at a lower price of 2399 Euros, questioning the value of higher VRAM.
    4. The RTX 5070 Ti Laptop shows only a 7% performance lead at 1080p over the RTX 5070 Laptop, with better advantages at QHD resolution.
    5. Upgrades for gaming laptops, like increased VRAM, are desirable but come at a higher cost; Razer’s Blade 14 remains a good value in its category.

    Most gamers likely desire a 14-inch laptop equipped with the GeForce RTX 5090, featuring silent cooling and a reasonable price. However, the situation is not that simple, as compact devices come with their own challenges. Manufacturers are aware of sales trends and can gauge if investing in more powerful models will be beneficial. Asus has put extra effort into the 2025 ROG Zephyrus G14, modifying the chassis and cooling system to support two stronger GPU options, the RTX 5070 Ti Laptop and RTX 5080 Laptop. Nevertheless, this effort comes at a cost, with the G14 featuring the RTX 5070 Ti starting at a minimum of 3400 Euros in Europe. Only time will reveal whether the sales will validate this investment.

    Razer’s Approach

    On the flip side, Razer has chosen to provide the RTX 5070 Laptop as the top GPU option, now in a sleeker and lighter design. They’ve also cut the price compared to the earlier model, and our reviewed setup with the Ryzen AI 9 365, 32 GB RAM, and RTX 5070 Laptop has a recommended retail price of 2399 Euros. This raises the question: are you truly willing to spend an extra 1000 Euros for an additional 4 GB of VRAM and slightly better performance?

    Performance Insights

    As addressed in our detailed review of the Razer Blade 14, there are certain restrictions in QHD resolution due to the VRAM, leading to potential frame drops. Indiana Jones, in particular, has been problematic as it is quite demanding on VRAM, which could soon become an issue for the 5070 Ti Laptop as well. But what about gaming at 1080p? We took a closer look at Full-HD performance, primarily focusing on newer titles.

    Even with the upgraded processor and the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop featuring 12 GB VRAM, the ROG Zephyrus G14 only leads by about 7% on average at 1080p. There are exceptions, such as F1 25, which has intense hardware demands, but in most cases, the difference is minimal. The advantages of the RTX 5070 Ti Laptop become more evident at QHD resolution, which we have detailed in our review.

    Final Thoughts

    It would have been great to see a Razer Blade 14 with faster GPU options and increased VRAM to better serve gamers in the coming years. However, such upgrades come with a price. Still, the overall offering of the new Razer Blade 14 presents a compelling value at this price range.

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  • Nintendo and Amazon Refute Sales Dispute Claims Over Switch 2

    Nintendo and Amazon Refute Sales Dispute Claims Over Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo and Amazon denied claims about the removal of the Switch 2 and its games from the Amazon US Storefront due to a disagreement over third-party sellers.

    2. The rumors originated from a Bloomberg report, which suggested Nintendo was concerned about independent resellers selling products at lower prices.

    3. Both companies issued firm statements rejecting the claims, with Nintendo stating they do not disclose retail negotiations.

    4. The Nintendo Switch 2 is currently unavailable on Amazon US, unlike its availability on Amazon UK, Canada, Japan, and other retailers.

    5. The absence of the Switch 2 on Amazon US raises questions about potential issues between Nintendo and Amazon, creating uncertainty for consumers.

    Following some recent news, Nintendo and Amazon both denied claims that the Switch 2 and its first-party games were removed from the Amazon US Storefront due to a disagreement over third-party sellers.

    Background of the Claims

    This rumor began with a report from Bloomberg, which suggested Nintendo was worried about how much freedom independent resellers had on Amazon’s site. The concern was mainly about resellers who bought Nintendo products in large amounts from Southeast Asia and then sold them at lower prices than the official US retail prices on various online platforms.

    Responses from Nintendo and Amazon

    In response to these allegations, both companies firmly rejected the claims. Nintendo commented via email to Bloomberg, stating, “There is no such fact. We do not disclose details of negotiations or contracts with retailers.” Similarly, Amazon released its own statement, declaring, “The claims made by Bloomberg regarding our relationship with Nintendo are inaccurate,” though they did not clarify which part of the report was wrong.

    Current Availability of the Switch 2

    Even with these denials, the Nintendo Switch 2 is still noticeably missing from Amazon US. The console can be found on Amazon UK, Canada, Japan, and retailers like GameStop, Walmart, Best Buy, and Target. However, Amazon US has not yet officially listed the Nintendo Switch 2, its first-party games, or accessories. The only product available for pre-order is “Donkey Kong Bananza.”

    The lack of the Nintendo Switch 2 on Amazon US hints at a possible disagreement between the two companies, especially since both Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series S|X are easily found on the US storefront. Nevertheless, the Nintendo Switch 2 achieved an impressive sales record of 3.5 million units within just a week of its launch, including 1 million units sold in Japan alone.

    Uncertainty for Consumers

    It remains uncertain whether this situation is just temporary or if it indicates a deeper issue, leaving both customers and the gaming community confused and turning to physical stores to buy the handheld console.

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  • RTX 5070 Super Specs, Price, Release Date, and VRAM Details

    RTX 5070 Super Specs, Price, Release Date, and VRAM Details

    Key Takeaways

    1. RTX 5070 Super Specs: The RTX 5070 Super is expected to feature the GB205 GPU with around 6,400 CUDA cores, a 4.2% increase from the standard RTX 5070.

    2. Increased Power Consumption: The TDP of the RTX 5070 Super is raised to 275 W, up from 250 W for the standard model, possibly affecting performance.

    3. Memory Upgrade: The new GPU is anticipated to come with 18 GB of 28 Gbps GDDR7 memory, improving from the 12 GB in the RTX 5070.

    4. Release Timeline: The RTX 5070 Super is likely to launch in late 2025 or early 2026, coinciding with AMD’s competing models.

    5. Pricing Expectations: The RTX 5070 Super may see a $50 price increase compared to the RTX 5070, with similar increases for other Super series models. Pricing is still uncertain.

    It looks like Nvidia is working on a “Super” update for the RTX 50 series GPUs. The new lineup is likely to feature:

    RTX 5070 Super Insights

    We have some insider info about the RTX 5080 Super’s hardware specs, thanks to kopite7kimi. Now, the same leaker has shared details on the RTX 5070 Ti Super and the RTX 5070 Super. In this piece, we will focus on the RTX 5070 Super since we’ve already discussed the RTX 5070 Ti Super elsewhere.

    Reportedly, the RTX 5070 Super utilizes the same GB205 GPU as its non-Super counterpart but has a slightly increased CUDA core count and more VRAM. Supposedly, the GB205-400-A1 GPU in the RTX 5070 Super features around 6,400 CUDA cores, which is about a 4.2% rise.

    Power and Performance

    To accommodate the extra CUDA cores, Nvidia is said to have raised the RTX 5070 Super’s TDP to 275 W, compared to 250 W for the standard RTX 5070. It’s not clear yet if this 10% increase in TDP will lead to any significant boost in clock speeds.

    Moreover, the RTX 5070 Super is expected to come with 18 GB of 28 Gbps GDDR7 memory, which is a fantastic upgrade from the 12 GB of VRAM that was one of the main issues users had with the RTX 5070. However, the bus width is believed to stay the same at 192-bit.

    Pricing and Release Date Speculations

    In addition to what kopite7kimi has disclosed, RedGamingTech has given some insight on potential prices and release dates for the RTX 50 series refresh. The leaker suggests that the RTX 5070 Super, along with other Super series cards, might hit the market in late 2025 or early 2026. This timeline aligns with the anticipated release for AMD’s competing models.

    When it comes to pricing, RGT claims that “according to a pretty reliable source,” the pricing for the RTX 50 Super series is as follows:

    If these estimates are to be believed, the RTX 5070 Super would see a $50 increase compared to the RTX 5070, a $100 rise for the RTX 5070 Ti Super versus the RTX 5070 Ti, and a $150 jump for the RTX 5080 Super compared to the RTX 5080. The RTX 5060 Super is also projected to be $50 more than the RTX 5060.

    That being said, nailing down GPU prices before they launch is often difficult. So, it’s wise to take this pricing info for the RTX 50 Super with a hefty pinch of salt.

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  • Halo Studios Announces Big Reveal at October Championship Event

    Halo Studios Announces Big Reveal at October Championship Event

    Key Takeaways

    1. Halo Studios, formerly known as 343 Industries, will reveal new information at the Halo World Championship (HWC) in October 2025.
    2. The studio recently transitioned to Unreal Engine 5 and is developing multiple Halo projects.
    3. Speculations about potential new games include Halo 7, a remake of Halo: Combat Evolved, and an expansion of the Master Chief Collection to other platforms.
    4. The HWC 2025 event is highly anticipated by fans seeking solid updates after years of speculation.
    5. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for an exciting showcase of Halo’s future developments.

    Halo Studios, the newly named developer previously recognized as 343 Industries, has announced it will unveil fresh information about its future Halo endeavors during the Halo World Championship (HWC), which is scheduled for October in Seattle.

    “While guessing can be exciting, if you want the real deal on what Halo Studios has been up to, you won’t want to miss this year’s Halo World Championship,” the studio mentioned in a recent Halo Waypoint blog update.

    Exciting Updates Ahead

    This represents the next major update since the studio declared its transition to Unreal Engine 5 and its new vision for the franchise at last year’s event. To provide some background, at HWC 2024, Halo Studios also changed its name from 343 Industries and disclosed that it was developing several Halo projects.

    In the same blog post, the studio expressed, “For us, ‘A New Dawn’ was just the start. At this year’s HaloWC, we are eager to keep the chat going.”

    Speculations and Anticipations

    Since the event in 2024, there have been many rumors about what Halo Studios might be working on. Some of the most discussed theories online include Halo 7, a possible remake of Halo: Combat Evolved, or an expansion of the Master Chief Collection to Nintendo and PlayStation platforms. However, so far, there have been no official confirmations regarding these speculations.

    For Halo enthusiasts who have been waiting for solid updates after years of guessing, the upcoming HWC 2025 event in October is highly anticipated. Whether it’s a continuation, a remake, or a completely new concept, it’s evident that Halo Studios aims to make this year’s World Championship just as memorable as the last, if not even more.

    Stay Tuned for More

    With this build-up, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting showcase of the future of Halo.

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  • Steam Introduces New Metrics for In-Game Performance Overlay

    Steam Introduces New Metrics for In-Game Performance Overlay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steam has introduced a new real-time FPS graph for monitoring game performance.
    2. Users can view detailed stats on CPU usage, GPU usage, and RAM usage.
    3. The feature allows comparison of FPS with DLSS turned on and off.
    4. Access the feature in the ‘In Game’ tab under ‘Overlay Performance Monitor’ in Steam settings.
    5. Currently, the feature is only fully available for Windows users, and some older GPUs may not provide accurate data.

    Steam has introduced a new and useful feature to its client, building on the native photo and video capture tool that was launched last year. Users can now check detailed stats about their game’s performance via a real-time FPS graph, alongside information on CPU usage, GPU usage, and RAM usage. You can even see an FPS comparison with DLSS turned on and off.

    Understanding Your Game’s Performance

    This new addition is perfect for figuring out how many ‘fake’ frames your GPU is generating. If you prefer a simpler view with less information, that option is also available. To start using this feature, go to the ‘In Game’ tab in your Steam settings and find the ‘Overlay Performance Monitor’ section. It’s important to note that this feature is accessible to all Steam users. Valve has released a blog that details how each metric functions.

    A Shift from Third-Party Tools

    Previously, players had to depend on third-party software for such insights, but you will still need those apps to gather data that Steam’s overlay doesn’t cover. Keep in mind, though, that the complete range of data is currently only available for Windows users, and some older or ‘non-standard’ GPUs may not provide precise information. However, this feature is a wonderful enhancement to Steam’s already extensive array of user-friendly tools.

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    Steam Introduces New Metrics for In-Game Performance OverlaySteam Introduces New Metrics for In-Game Performance Overlay

     

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  • Nvidia Ends Driver Support for GTX 700, 900, and 10 Series GPUs

    Nvidia Ends Driver Support for GTX 700, 900, and 10 Series GPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release 580 will be the final Nvidia driver to support older GPU architectures: Maxwell, Pascal, and Volta.
    2. Affected product lines include GeForce GTX 700, GTX 900, GTX 10 series, and Titan V.
    3. The end-of-life (EOL) status for these GPUs will also apply to Windows, not just UNIX systems.
    4. Nvidia will continue to support the newer Turing-based GeForce GTX 16 series GPUs.
    5. After driver version 580, future updates, performance enhancements, and security fixes will no longer be available for the affected GPUs.

    Nvidia has announced that its upcoming major driver release, known as Release 580, will be the final version to support older GPU architectures like Maxwell, Pascal, and Volta. This decision effectively ends the long run of well-known product lines, including the GeForce GTX 700, GTX 900, GTX 10 series, and Titan V. The current driver version is 576.80, suggesting that the transition could happen in the next few months.

    Deprecation Schedule

    As per a revised UNIX graphics driver deprecation schedule, Nvidia has stated:

    The Release 580 series will be the last to support GPUs based on the Maxwell, Pascal, and Volta architectures.

    Even though the update is specifically aimed at UNIX systems, Nvidia’s driver structure is mostly consistent across different platforms. This means that the end-of-life (EOL) status will also apply to Windows. Therefore, future Game Ready drivers will not be available for these older GPUs once the 580 series is rolled out.

    Affected Products

    The products impacted include:

    However, Nvidia will keep supporting the more recent Turing-based GeForce GTX 16 series GPUs, which are not affected by this update.

    The Maxwell, Pascal, and Volta architectures have powered Nvidia GPUs for a period of eight to eleven years, which is quite a long time in the rapidly evolving GPU market. While this news might disappoint users of older systems, the company has arguably provided support that goes beyond the usual hardware lifecycle.

    Future Considerations

    Users with GPUs that are impacted can continue using their current drivers, but future Game Ready driver updates, performance enhancements, and security fixes will stop after the release of driver version 580. Nvidia has yet to announce a specific launch date for this update, allowing users some time to consider potential upgrades.

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  • Subnautica 2 Biomes List Revealed: Fan-Favorite Returns

    Subnautica 2 Biomes List Revealed: Fan-Favorite Returns

    Key Takeaways

    1. Subnautica 2 is in development, with early access expected later this year.
    2. Developers have shared insights through Q&A videos and development vlogs, but many details remain a mystery.
    3. A fan discovered potential biomes for Subnautica 2 through file names in a developer vlog.
    4. Identified biomes include the returning Kelp Forest and new ones like Overgrown Ruins, World Tree, and Void.
    5. The final game may feature additional biomes and different names than those currently speculated.

    Subnautica 2, the highly anticipated follow-up to the beloved underwater survival title Subnautica, is currently in development, with early access expected to be available later this year. Although the developers have shared some insights about the sequel through Q&A videos and development vlogs, many intriguing aspects concerning the storyline, map, and characters are still a mystery.

    A Peek into the Underwater World

    Thanks to an observant fan of the series, we may have caught a glimpse of what the aquatic environment in Subnautica 2 might look like. Recently, the developers released a vlog detailing how they created the game’s setting. A user on Reddit noticed several file names in the background that hinted at the biomes featured in Subnautica 2. They compiled a list of these biomes and even shared screenshots to support their findings.

    Biomes Spotted by Fans

    The biomes that the Reddit user identified and shared include:

    The community responded enthusiastically to the post, with many expressing their excitement about the Kelp Forest returning in Subnautica 2. “I need a big and foresty kelp forest. Thank you,” one user wrote.

    Meanwhile, other users were keen on different biomes. “Overgrown Ruins is intriguing. Ruins of what? The precursors’ stuff? Old human stuff? Something else?” one comment asked. Additionally, commenters showed interest in the World Tree and Void biomes.

    More Surprises Await

    It’s important to note that this list of biomes is not exhaustive, and the final version of the game could feature more biomes. Furthermore, these names might not be the final ones, so it wouldn’t be surprising if some do not appear in the released game.

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