Category: Gaming

February 4, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Mouse: A Game Changer for Strategy Games
Among the various speculations regarding the Switch 2’s features, the new joy-con controller is stirring up quite a bit of curiosity. As the release date approaches, leaks indicate that the controller could utilize Hall effect analog sticks or maybe even predictive input technology. Additionally, a video released by Nintendo demonstrated the controllers gliding across surfaces similar to a mouse. During a chat with IGN, the executive producer for Civilization 7 shared thoughts on how this could enhance the strategic gameplay on the Switch 2.
Joy-Con Design and Functionality
In the trailer from Nintendo, players witness the joy-cons attaching to the new console’s sides, likely using magnets. Before they were fastened to the Switch 2, the controllers showcased their versatility by mimicking wireless mice. Some pads can faintly be seen on the underside of the joy-con, and there are whispers about an optical sensor that could monitor its movements.
IGN reached out to Dennis Shirk from Firaxis Games to discuss what a joy-con mouse mode could mean for Civilization 7. While he didn’t provide specific details, he complimented Nintendo on their innovative approach to controller design. The new Sid Meier title would benefit from enhanced power and a bigger screen, but the Switch 2 might offer improvements in ways that are not immediately obvious.
Challenges with Strategy Games
Big strategy and simulation games have always been a tough match for the Switch. The city-builder Skylines 2 hasn’t even launched on the Xbox Series X or PS5, not to mention Nintendo’s portable console. There are worries about performance, but the lack of a mouse often means that controls must be simplified for these platforms.
When using handheld mode, the Switch joy-con shines with games that feature motion controls or simpler button layouts. However, its shortcomings quickly show when precise cursor control is needed in strategy games. Running empires in Civilization 7 is already challenging without accurate inputs. A recent patent from Nintendo also suggests that the joy-con might be capable of learning and anticipating a player’s actions. For both fighting games and real-time strategy games, Switch 2 players may discover they have less reliance on a pro controller.
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Tags: Civilization 7, Joy-Con, Switch 2
February 4, 2025
AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 Launching Late February
A recent leak suggests that Nvidia might introduce the GeForce RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti around March. Prior to this, the RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5070 are expected to be released on February 20. If you’re looking to buy one of these, it might be a good idea to hold off for a week or so, as AMD is set to present the Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 soon.
Upcoming AMD Presentation
The details come from Benchlife, which indicates that AMD has a special RDNA 4 presentation planned for late February. This is necessary because the architecture only received a brief mention during AMD’s otherwise remarkable CES 2025 showcase. In this upcoming event, we can anticipate insights on how the Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 will compete with other graphics cards.
Expected Performance
According to what we know right now, the RX 9070 XT is expected to be a more affordable alternative to the RTX 4080 (or maybe even the RTX 5080). The standard version, RX 9070, might go head-to-head with the RTX 5070 Ti. Regarding the rest of AMD’s lineup, they could possibly have a separate launch, as they weren’t discussed in the CES 2025 presentation. A reveal in late February sets the stage for a more comprehensive launch in March, aligning with earlier predictions.
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Tags: AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT, GeForce RTX 5070, NVIDIA
February 4, 2025
Krafton Partners with OpenAI to Transform the Future of Gaming
Krafton, the famous creator behind the world-wide hit “PUBG: Battlegrounds,” is venturing into thrilling new areas in gaming with assistance from OpenAI. During a recent meeting in Seoul with OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, Krafton’s CEO, Kim Chang-han, talked about possible partnerships that could transform the gaming landscape.
Enhancing NPC Intelligence
The main topic of their talks was to use OpenAI’s advanced large language models (LLMs) for creating smart AI characters. These “virtual cooperative characters” (CPCs) aim to surpass the usual non-playable characters (NPCs) by having more natural and meaningful dialogues with players, which should enhance the overall gaming experience.
Krafton’s AI Innovations
This partnership is in line with Krafton’s recent breakthroughs in AI-focused gaming. Earlier in the year at CES 2025, they presented their own CPC technology developed along with Nvidia. This advancement is a major step forward that allows players to interact with AI characters in a more lively and realistic manner.
Krafton intends to weave this sophisticated AI tech into both their existing and future gaming titles. The iconic “PUBG: Battlegrounds,” which made Krafton a household name globally, is set to gain from this collaboration, promising players more exciting and unpredictable gameplay. Furthermore, the upcoming life simulation game “inZOI,” slated for release later this year, will also feature these advanced AI capabilities, aiming to change the game genre.
OpenAI’s Broader Ambitions
Outside the gaming sphere, OpenAI is branching into hardware, robotics, AI chips, and quantum computing. Their recent trademark registrations indicate a keen interest in AI-powered consumer gadgets, such as smartwatches, AR/VR headsets, headphones, and humanoid robots that can learn new things.
Additionally, OpenAI is teaming up with Broadcom and TSMC to create custom AI chips, with plans to launch them by 2026. Although these initiatives are still at a nascent stage, OpenAI is actively collaborating with partners to introduce AI-driven innovations to the market.
This collaboration between Krafton and OpenAI signifies a pivotal move towards the future of gaming, where AI will increasingly shape immersive, interactive, and tailored experiences for gamers around the globe.
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Tags: Krafton, OpenAI, PUBG
February 4, 2025
Conflicting Reports on New Valve Steam Hardware with AMD RDNA 4
YouTuber eXtas1s has recently shared his thoughts on what might be Valve’s upcoming Steam console. He, alongside HandleDeck, has noticed connections between AMD and Valve in the latest Linux driver updates for the Radeon RX 9070 and other RDNA 4 desktop graphics cards.
Speculations About Valve’s Console
This has led them to speculate that Valve could be working on a home console that might compete with the Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5 Pro (currently priced at $699 on Amazon). It’s important to mention that neither of them has offered any solid proof to back up their assertions, even though the drivers are open-source.
For now, it would be wise to regard any hints about Valve creating a new Steam Machine with caution. eXtas1s has a somewhat patchy track record regarding leaks of this nature, having missed the mark several times after initially detailing last year’s Xbox Games Showcase.
Counterarguments from GamingOnLinux
In response, Liam Dawe from GamingOnLinux completely denies the claims made by eXtas1s and HandleDeck. He points out on GamingOnLinux that Valve has been hiring developers for many years to update AMD Mesa graphics drivers to maintain Linux compatibility for both current and future AMD hardware.
Dawe argues that eXtas1s and HandleDeck have misread the recent driver modifications, likely influenced by earlier rumors about the Valve ‘Fremont’ linked to the so-called AMD Lilac platform. To support his argument, a senior member of Valve’s Linux graphics driver team noted in the documentation for a recent Mesa driver patch regarding AMD’s RDNA 4 architecture that:
This initial support should be good enough but it’s missing two features (cooperative matrix and video decode/encode) compared to GFX11 (RDNA3) because lack of time.
DCC is still under active development but it might be possible to finish it during the RC period.
The Validity of the Rumors
In summary, this new rumor seems just as credible as the one about an AMD Ryzen Z2 refresh for the Steam Deck that VideoCardz discussed. For context, Pierre-Loup Griffais, a well-known designer of the Steam Deck, publicly dismissed this rumor. While the future of new Steam hardware is still uncertain, some third-party hobbyists have successfully transformed the Steam Deck into a home console experience.
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Tags: AMD RX 9070, Steam Deck, Valve
February 4, 2025
Redragon K673 PRO SE: Anime RGB Mechanical Keyboard Launched in India
Redragon, a well-known brand for gaming accessories and peripherals, has unveiled a fresh mechanical gaming keyboard in India, showcasing a stunning new look. The Redragon K673 Pro SE features an anime-inspired design and specifications tailored for PC gamers.
Features of the Redragon K673 Pro SE
The first thing that catches your eye about this mechanical gaming keyboard is its vibrant design. It showcases Eisa, an anime character that brings lively red and pink accents, along with Eisa’s engraving on the spacebar and predominantly white keys in the center. This keyboard has a compact 81-key layout, making it ideal for gamers.
Gaming Aesthetic and Performance
True to its gaming style, the keyboard also includes RGB backlighting with a variety of colors and several lighting modes. You can also modify the brightness of the RGB lights. Another impressive feature of this keyboard is its wireless capability (supporting both Bluetooth 3.0/5.0 and 2.4GHz wireless modes), powered by a substantial 4,000mAh battery that can last up to 7 days with the backlight on, or 45 days with it off.
Exceptional Typing Experience
One standout aspect of the Redragon K673 Pro SE is its thick-lubed custom linear switches, designed to provide a fast typing experience while delivering responsive feedback. Unlike standard mechanical keyboards, Redragon incorporates five layers of noise dampening solutions to enhance typing acoustics, similar to the precision-locked gasket seen in M82 gaming keyboards. There’s also a versatile knob for quickly adjusting brightness, volume, and more.
The Redragon K673 Pro SE has been launched in India at a price of 7,990 INR on the brand’s official website and Flipkart. However, Amazon India is currently offering a special launch price of just 6,490 INR for a limited time.
Tags: K673 Pro SE, mechanical gaming keyboard, Redragon
February 4, 2025
Lenovo Launches Legion Go Charging Connector for Gamers
Last August, Lenovo introduced the Legion Go Charging Connector along with several other accessories for the Legion Go. This connector features a battery and connects the two controllers of the Legion Go, allowing them to function as one. After five months since its announcement, the controller is finally ready for purchase.
Pricing and Features
You can now find the Legion Go Charging Controller on Amazon for $49.99. It includes a built-in 2,850mAh battery and pogo pins to keep the attached controllers charging when they’re connected. There’s a USB-C port on the top for recharging the connector, and Lenovo states that using a 45W adapter will fully charge it in just 2 hours.
Safety and Design
The Legion Go Charging Connector comes with several safety features, including protections against over-voltage, over-temperature, and over-current. It is available in Shadow Black and includes a USB-A to USB-C cable. According to the product description, this accessory is specifically designed for the Legion Go.
Additional Accessories
At CES 2025, Lenovo also unveiled more accessories for the Legion Go, such as the Legion Sling Bag, which has dedicated compartments for the Legion Go and its accessories. This sling bag is an improvement over the original carrying case that only fits the device itself. It will be available in April for $34.99.
Moreover, they launched the Legion Glasses 2, which is an upgraded version of the original Legion Glasses. These new glasses are not just more stylish but also lighter and offer better resolution. They will hit the market this month for $399.99.
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Tags: Legion Go Charging Controller, Legion Sling Bag, Lenovo Legion Go
February 4, 2025
Intel XeSS Hits 160 Games Supported, XeSS 2 Adoption Slow
In a recent post from Intel, it was shared that their Xe Super Sampling (XeSS) technology now works with over 150 games. You can check out the full list of these XeSS-supported games on Intel’s official site. At the time of this writing, popular titles like Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Ghostrunner 2, and Death Stranding are included.
Good News for Gamers
This update is fantastic for gamers, even for those not using Intel’s graphics cards like the new Arc B580, which costs about $300 on Amazon. Unlike Nvidia DLSS, Intel XeSS can be used on graphics cards from other brands, though it may come with a minor dip in performance. The essence of XeSS is akin to DLSS and FSR; games are first rendered at a lower resolution and then upscaled to match the display’s native resolution using AI technology, aiming to boost frame rates while keeping image quality in check.
The Launch of XeSS 2
In December 2024, Intel introduced XeSS 2. This upgraded version of the upscaling tech brings two significant improvements: Frame Generation and XeSS Low Latency. With Frame Generation, the frame rate can be effectively doubled by having AI create every alternate frame instead of rendering it. Meanwhile, the Low Latency feature can cut latency by as much as 45%.
Slow Adoption Rate
Despite these advancements, the uptake of XeSS 2 has been slow. Even after two months since its launch, only two games currently support the upscaling technology: Marvel Rivals and F1 2024. However, Intel is optimistic about the future, having already announced that eleven more titles will soon be compatible with XeSS 2, including Civilization VII and Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Intel’s updates indicate that they are committed to enhancing the gaming experience for users across various platforms.
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Tags: DLSS, Intel Arc B580, XeSS
February 4, 2025
GeForce RTX 5060 and 5060 Ti Expected Launch Window Revealed
Now that the GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 have been officially released (at least in theory), it’s time to examine the rest of the Blackwell series. The GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5070 are expected to launch this month (February). This leaves us anticipating the GeForce RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti, which a leak from a Chinese AIB suggests could arrive next month.
Release Information
Leaker @wxnod found a listing on a Chinese online shopping platform indicating that the GeForce RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti are set to launch in March 2025. This aligns with a report from 2024 that indicated the same timeline. Unlike their more powerful counterparts, these models might not have a special event for their announcement and could be quietly introduced through a press release. Regardless, the timing is perfect, as it coincides with AMD’s plans to unveil part of its RDNA 4 series.
Specifications and Features
While we don’t know the precise specifications for the GeForce RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti yet, it’s likely that the latter will utilize a reduced GB205 die (possibly GB206) similar to what’s found in the RTX 5070. A prior leak mentioned that Nvidia would make it available in 8 and 16 GB models, suggesting a 128-bit memory bus. As for the RTX 5060, it might be equipped with a GB207/GB207 GPU with 8 GB of VRAM on the same bus.
Performance Expectations
If the performance of the GeForce RTX 5080 is a good indicator, the rest of the Blackwell series will likely show only modest performance improvements compared to the Ada Lovelace generation. However, the RTX 5060 Ti with 16 GB of RAM might perform better over time due to its added VRAM, which has previously allowed the RTX 3060 to surpass the RTX 4060 in scenarios where VRAM is a key factor.
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Tags: Blackwell series, GeForce RTX 5060, GeForce RTX 5070 Ti
February 4, 2025
Dream Machines Gaming Laptop: AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D & RTX 5090
Dream Machines is not a well-known brand, but it produces laptops using Clevo and Tongfang barebones, similar to Schenker and XMG. Their latest model boasts impressive gaming capabilities, powered by the AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D processor.
Processor Performance
AMD’s newest flagship gaming processor is still somewhat uncommon in laptops, yet it’s expected to be incredibly fast. It has 16 Zen 5 performance cores that can reach boost clock speeds of up to 5.4 GHz and features a 128MB L3 cache. The top configuration combines this robust AMD chip with the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 laptop GPU, which comes with 24GB of GDDR7 VRAM and a total graphics power (TGP) of 175 watts. If this laptop can manage to keep its components cool during intensive tasks, it could rank among the fastest gaming laptops available.
Display and Memory
The gaming laptop from Dream Machines also showcases a 16-inch 16:10 IPS display, offering a resolution of 2,560 x 1,600 pixels, a swift 300Hz refresh rate, and a bright 500 nits. It fully covers the sRGB color space, ensuring vibrant visuals. Users can also choose to configure the laptop with up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD, plus there is an extra M.2 slot available for future storage upgrades.
Connectivity Options
Like many laptops powered by AMD, this 5.4-pound machine does not feature Thunderbolt 4, but it includes two standard USB-C ports that support data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbit/s. For further connectivity, it offers DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1, three USB-A ports, and a 2.5 Gbit/s Ethernet port. The specifications also include stereo speakers rated at 2 x 2 watts and a 1080p webcam. Additionally, the RTX 5090 laptop can be fitted with an external water cooling system, dubbed “Dream Waterfall” by the company.
Dream Machines is currently taking pre-orders for the RT5090-16NA25 through their official online store, but they haven’t revealed a specific shipping date yet. Nvidia anticipates that the mobile GeForce RTX 5090 will start shipping in March, while AMD expects that the Ryzen 9 CPU will be available in the first half of 2025.
Regardless, the configuration featuring the Ryzen 9 9955HX3D, GeForce RTX 5090 Laptop GPU, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD is priced at $3,289.
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Tags: Dream Machines, GeForce RTX 5090, Ryzen 9 9955HX3D
February 4, 2025
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 Available in Alienware Area-51 Desktop
Dell has begun offering the Area-51 gaming desktop through its Alienware brand. To summarize, the company brought back the Area-51 last month, unveiling it alongside its laptop versions at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Additionally, Dell provided information about a successor to the Alienware AW2725DF, which is currently priced at $749.99 on Amazon; we have discussed those details in a separate article.
Specifications Overview
As anticipated, the Alienware Area-51 gaming desktop currently features an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 GPU. The latter is expected to be replaced by the GeForce RTX 5090 models later this year, but the exact timing is unclear. For context, availability of the RTX 5080 and RTX 5090 graphics cards might not improve until late February or possibly next month at the earliest.
Pricing and Options
The new Area-51 starts at a price of $4,449.99, which includes 2 TB of storage, 32 GB of DDR5 RAM, and a Windows 11 Home license. Alternatively, customers can choose a configuration with a 4 TB SSD and 64 GB of RAM, which comes with an extra cost of $600. At launch, there are limited customization options available, even though it was hinted that there would be options for up to 8 TB of storage and more affordable processor choices during CES 2025.
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Tags: Alienware Area-51, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080