Category: Gaming

  • Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 eGPU Preview: Thunderbolt 5 & OCuLink

    Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 eGPU Preview: Thunderbolt 5 & OCuLink

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus ROG XG Mobile 2025 is currently the only Nvidia-powered eGPU available, while others focus on AMD Radeon options.
    2. The new prototype eGPU features a desktop-grade GeForce RTX 5060 with significant specs, including 3,840 CUDA cores and 8 GB of GDDR7 VRAM.
    3. The prototype has a Total Graphics Power (TGP) of 150 W, allowing high performance in a compact design.
    4. It includes advanced connectivity options with OCuLink and Thunderbolt 5 ports, although current support is limited to Thunderbolt 4 speeds.
    5. Release date and pricing for the GeForce RTX 5060 eGPU remain uncertain, but interest is growing among enthusiasts.

    YouTuber ETA Prime has shared an early preview of a new Asus ROG XG Mobile 2025 rival. Right now, Asus’ newest GPU stands alone as the only Nvidia-powered eGPU available. In contrast, many eGPU makers lean towards the AMD Radeon RX 7600M or the Radeon RX 7600M XT, even though the more potent RX 7800M can be found in the OneXGPU 2, which is currently priced at $849.99 for a refurbished model on Amazon.

    Prototype Features

    All these eGPU options make use of graphics cards designed for laptops. According to ETA Prime, the prototype presented in the video below is based on a desktop-grade graphics card instead. This is something that can only be done by combining devices like the Minisforum DEG1 with a full desktop GPU at the moment.

    In this instance, the unnamed prototype is equipped with a GeForce RTX 5060, which boasts a GB206 GPU, 3,840 CUDA cores, and 8 GB of GDDR7 VRAM, along with a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s. Interestingly, this eGPU solution also has a Total Graphics Power (TGP) of 150 W, despite its relatively compact design.

    Connectivity Options

    Even more impressive, the eGPU is fitted with OCuLink and Thunderbolt 5 ports, which should enhance its functionality compared to many other eGPU alternatives. However, it’s worth noting that ETA Prime points out the prototype he has can only support speeds up to Thunderbolt 4. Unfortunately, it’s still unclear when the GeForce RTX 5060 eGPU will hit the market, or what the price will be.

    ETA Prime’s insights on this prototype have sparked interest, and many are eagerly waiting for further updates.

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    Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 eGPU Preview: Thunderbolt 5 & OCuLink

     

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  • Hellblade 2 Announced for PS5; Enhanced Edition Coming Soon

    Hellblade 2 Announced for PS5; Enhanced Edition Coming Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II will be released on PlayStation 5 on August 12, 2025, marking its transition from Xbox exclusivity.
    2. The Enhanced Edition will feature a new 60 FPS Performance Mode for most platforms and a “Very High” graphical setting for PC users.
    3. New gameplay features include the return of the Dark Rot Mode and an upgraded Photo Mode with a “Motion Tab.”
    4. The Standard Edition will be priced at $49.99, while a Deluxe Edition will cost $69.99 and includes Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice and its soundtrack.
    5. Players who own Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice on PS4 will receive a free upgrade to the PS5 version.

    Ninja Theory has shared the exciting news that Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II will be available on the PlayStation 5 starting August 12, 2025. This announcement makes it official that the much-praised action-adventure game, originally for Xbox, is making its way to Sony’s console. Additionally, the release of Hellblade II on PS5 will come along with a significant ‘Enhanced’ upgrade for both Xbox Series S|X and PC users.

    Enhanced Features for Players

    The Enhanced Edition of Hellblade II will bring several upgrades, such as a new 60 FPS Performance Mode for most platforms, except for the Xbox Series S. This is a notable improvement over the previous 30 FPS limit with dynamic resolution, in which the game occasionally dipped below the desired frame rate during visually demanding moments.

    PC gamers will also benefit from a new “Very High” graphical setting, further enhancing the already stunning visuals of Hellblade II. Those using the Steam Deck can rejoice as the game will be Steam Deck Verified on the same day the Enhanced Edition launches.

    New Gameplay Experiences

    In addition to visual and performance enhancements, Hellblade II will introduce fresh gameplay features, including the return of the Dark Rot Mode from Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice. This mode causes the Dark Rot to spread to Senua’s head, resulting in the loss of all progress in the game.

    An upgraded Photo Mode will also be part of the package, complete with a “Motion Tab” for capturing cinematic moments in the game. Furthermore, the Enhanced Edition will include four hours of developer commentary, offering players a deeper understanding of the psychosis-driven atmosphere in Hellblade II.

    Pricing and Editions

    The Enhanced Edition of Hellblade II is set to be released on August 12, 2025, for the PlayStation 5, with a Standard Edition priced at $49.99 for the base game. There will also be a Deluxe Edition available for $69.99, which includes a PS5-optimized version of Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice along with its soundtrack.

    Additionally, players who own Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice on PS4 will receive a free upgrade to the PS5 version.

    The arrival of Hellblade II on the PlayStation marks another significant step in the trend of Xbox first-party titles leaving their console exclusives behind. Recently, three major Microsoft-owned games have topped the PS5’s most-downloaded charts: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, Forza Horizon 5, and Minecraft, all of which were among the best-selling games in the U.S. and Canada for April.

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  • Philips Unveils New QHD Gaming Monitor with 260Hz Refresh Rate

    Philips Unveils New QHD Gaming Monitor with 260Hz Refresh Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. 27-inch QHD monitor with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels and a refresh rate of up to 260Hz.
    2. Fast 1 ms gray-to-gray response time and support for Adaptive Sync to enhance gaming performance.
    3. Covers 120% of the sRGB and 95% of the DCI-P3 color space, with a color accuracy of Delta E < 2. 4. Connectivity options include two HDMI ports, one DisplayPort, and a 3.5mm headphone jack; lacks USB hub. 5. Adjustable stand and additional gaming features like a crosshair and selective brightening; priced at €240 in Europe.

    The Philips 27M2N3501PA is a recently launched monitor targeted at gamers. This 27-inch display features a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, offering sharp images while placing lesser demands on hardware for achieving higher frame rates, especially when compared to 4K monitors. It boasts a refresh rate of 240Hz, which can even be overclocked to 260Hz. However, users depending on HDMI connections will only be able to utilize refresh rates of up to 144Hz. Additionally, Philips states that it has a gray-to-gray response time of just 1 millisecond and supports Adaptive Sync to help align frame rates and refresh rates.

    Display and Color Performance

    This QHD IPS monitor provides a brightness level of 300 nits and operates as an 8-bit panel with FRC support. Philips claims that it covers 120% of the sRGB color space and 95% of the DCI-P3 color space. The specified color accuracy is Delta E < 2, which is good for gamers. However, one should not expect extremely high contrast levels due to the type of panel used. With a contrast ratio of 1000:1, it falls short of OLED contrast levels. Nevertheless, the monitor does support HDR10 content officially.

    Gaming Features and Connectivity

    For added gaming convenience, there’s a crosshair feature with colors that can adjust automatically, as well as selective brightening for darker image areas. In terms of connectivity, it includes two HDMI ports and one DisplayPort, but lacks a USB hub or similar options. There is also a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. On the plus side, the Philips monitor includes two 2-watt speakers, and its stand is adjustable for height, tilt, and rotation. Users can also customize their settings via the Philips Evnia Precision Center software. The 27M2N3501PA is currently available in Europe for €240, although the official list price from Philips is €279.

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    Philips Unveils New QHD Gaming Monitor with 260Hz Refresh Rate
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  • Liquid Metal in PS5 Pro May Increase Defects

    Liquid Metal in PS5 Pro May Increase Defects

    Key Takeaways

    1. Initial complaints about faulty PlayStation 5 consoles are linked to liquid metal thermal paste issues.
    2. The vertical positioning of the console can compromise the seal, causing liquid metal to leak onto the motherboard.
    3. Overheating and potential short circuits result from liquid metal flow, affecting console performance.
    4. The issue is mainly reported in the launch model but also affects PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro versions.
    5. A recent survey shows an increase in overheating complaints among players, with 3% currently affected.

    A few years back, initial users started to voice their frustrations regarding faulty PlayStation 5 consoles, which were linked to issues with the liquid metal thermal paste used in the processor. iFixit’s teardown reveals that Sony employs liquid metal for better heat transfer from the APU to the heatsink. This thermal paste is secured by a unique type of seal.

    Issues with Vertical Positioning

    Nonetheless, when the console is set up vertically, this seal might not be secure enough, potentially allowing the liquid metal to flow from the processor onto the motherboard. This results in two main issues. Firstly, the APU cannot effectively dissipate heat due to the diminished thermal conductor, which can lead to overheating of the chipset and cause the console to crash. Secondly, the liquid metal, which conducts electricity, can cause short circuits on the motherboard.

    Increasing Complaints

    In a recent video by Moore’s Law is Dead, the founder of Alderon Games discusses how more gamers have been reporting this issue over time. This problem mainly impacts the launch model but has also been seen in the PS5 Slim and PlayStation 5 Pro (starting at $699 on Amazon). While Sony has made improvements in these newer versions, the risk remains since liquid metal is still used in all these consoles.

    User Experience

    For many users, the issue appears as the console crashing during extended gaming sessions, leading to overheating. The more resource-intensive the game is, the quicker the chipset overheats and shuts down due to the faulty cooling system. A survey conducted by the developer indicates that this problem currently affects around 3% of Path of Titans players, an increase from 2% just a few months ago. It is currently not feasible to predict how many consoles might experience this defect in the future.

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    Liquid Metal in PS5 Pro May Increase Defects
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  • Humble Bundle Fans Face Another Price Increase for Choice Subscription

    Humble Bundle Fans Face Another Price Increase for Choice Subscription

    Key Takeaways

    1. Humble Bundle offers affordable game bundles and a monthly subscription service called Humble Choice, with part of the sales going to charities.
    2. As of July 1st, 2023, Humble Choice’s new pricing is $14.99 per month or $154.99 per year, aimed at improving game quality and content.
    3. Despite price increases, Humble Choice is still seen as more valuable compared to other subscription services, though some users are considering canceling.
    4. Most games from Humble Choice are redeemable on Steam, but recent titles require different launchers, raising concerns among users about usability.
    5. Rising costs in gaming subscriptions are a trend, with services like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass also increasing their prices.

    Humble Bundle provides affordable game bundles, with part of the sales going to charities. At the same time, Humble Choice is a monthly subscription that simplifies the selection of games. Yet, loyal fans are feeling the strain as the service raises its prices yet again. Wario64 posted an email about the price increases on social media.

    New Pricing for Humble Choice

    Starting July 1st, customers in the U.S. will now need to pay $14.99 monthly or $154.99 yearly for Humble Choice. Gamers from different regions are also sharing emails with similar updates. Humble Bundle mentioned that the new pricing will help them deliver the “best-quality games and content you enjoy.” This announcement comes after a previous notice in May about rising costs and a mandatory membership to IGN Plus.

    Value Compared to Other Services

    Despite the increase, the service can still be seen as more valuable than other subscription options. Nevertheless, some users seem to be considering pausing or canceling their subscriptions. To retain these customers, the company highlights other perks of the service. In addition to an archive of older, inexpensive games from well-known publishers, subscribers get discounts on newer AAA titles.

    Game Availability and Launchers

    Most games available through Humble Choice are redeemable keys for Steam. One popular title right now is Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun, which is priced at $21.99 on Valve’s store. However, the company has started including games that require different launchers. In March 2025, several titles were released through Origin, which has now moved to the EA app. Critics have voiced their concerns about the software being awkward and lacking the user-friendly features of Steam.

    Rising Costs of Gaming Subscriptions

    With certain games selling for as much as $80, subscription services can help keep an increasingly pricey hobby affordable. Sadly, services like PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass have also seen price increases over the past year.

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  • Vortex F5 Gaming Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks for $119

    Vortex F5 Gaming Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks for $119

    Key Takeaways

    1. The QRD Vortex F5 is a handheld gaming device that supports emulation for multiple platforms, including PlayStation 1, PSP, Nintendo DS, Game Boy consoles, and Nintendo 64.
    2. It offers two storage options (64GB or 128GB microSD card), likely preloaded with games, and is priced at $119.
    3. Powered by an RK3566 SoC with four Cortex-A55 cores, the device has 1GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 8GB of internal eMMC storage.
    4. The device features a 5.5-inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels, joysticks with Hall effect technology, and includes various buttons for gameplay.
    5. It has a 5,000mAh battery providing over six hours of usage and includes built-in speakers, a headphone jack, and an HDMI port for larger screen play.

    The QRD Vortex F5 is a new handheld gaming device designed for playing a variety of games through emulation. It supports games from platforms like the PlayStation 1, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo DS, several Game Boy consoles, and the Nintendo 64. Customers can choose from two different storage options, with a microSD card available in either 64GB or 128GB, likely preloaded with some games. The device can be purchased for $119, however, buyers should check the shipping details ahead of making their purchase.

    Performance Specifications

    This retro gaming handheld is powered by an RK3566 SoC that features four Cortex-A55 cores. Its performance is notably less impressive when compared to more advanced gaming devices such as the Asus ROG Ally X, which starts at $649 on Amazon, a product we’ve previously covered in detail. Nevertheless, this device is equipped with 1GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 8GB of internal eMMC storage.

    Design and Features

    Weighing in at 0.73 lbs, the Vortex F5 has a 5.5-inch display with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. The buttons and joysticks are positioned on either side of the IPS screen. Specifically, it includes two joysticks, action buttons, a D-pad, and shoulder buttons. The joysticks use Hall effect technology, which is designed to avoid stick drift, even after long periods of play.

    In addition, the device has two built-in speakers, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and an HDMI port, which can be handy for those who want to play multiplayer games on a bigger screen. The QRD handheld is powered by a 5,000mAh battery that offers over six hours of usage, although the actual battery duration may vary depending on the games being emulated and played.

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    Vortex F5 Gaming Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks for $119

     

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  • Next Epic Games Store Free Game Leaked: Highly Rated Roguelike

    Next Epic Games Store Free Game Leaked: Highly Rated Roguelike

    Key Takeaways

    1. Backpack Hero will be free on the Epic Games Store from July 3 to July 10.
    2. The game, originally priced at $19.99, has received positive reviews since its 2022 launch.
    3. Players manage inventory as Purse, an anthropomorphic mouse, on a quest to find her mother.
    4. The game includes over 800 items, more than 100 enemies, and randomly generated levels.
    5. Backpack Hero has an approval rate of 86% on Steam, with players enjoying its engaging content despite some criticism of the city-building feature.

    Free games are always a pleasure, and the Epic Games Store rarely lets us down with its giveaways. We previously shared news about one game that will be free next month, and it looks like there’s another one coming.

    Exciting News About Backpack Hero

    According to the leaker MeguminShiro, the highly-rated roguelike game Backpack Hero will be available for free on the Epic Games Store from July 3 to July 10. This game is priced at $19.99 on both Steam and the Epic Games Store, and since its launch in 2022, it has enjoyed a positive reception on both platforms.

    Gameplay and Features

    Backpack Hero focuses heavily on managing your inventory, which should excite fans of the genre. Players will step into the shoes of Purse, an anthropomorphic mouse on a journey to locate her mother, while facing a variety of enemies along the way.

    To succeed and overcome her foes, Purse needs to utilize tools from her backpack, which can be upgraded to hold more items as you progress. The game’s developer, Jaspel, has noted that Backpack Hero features over 800 items to uncover and more than 100 enemies to battle against.

    Engaging Content and Community Reaction

    Additionally, the game offers randomly generated levels and various play styles, making it quite enjoyable, while the captivating lore adds depth to the experience. Ultimately, players strive to “rebuild” Purse’s hometown, Haversack Hill, according to Jaspel.

    The reviews for Backpack Hero on Steam are “very positive,” boasting an approval rate of 86% from more than 6,800 reviews. While critics have applauded the game overall, some have pointed out flaws, particularly with the city-building aspect. Nevertheless, the reviews indicate that players are likely to have a great time with this title.

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  • Gamers Claim Front Mission 3 Remake Uses AI for Odd Visuals

    Gamers Claim Front Mission 3 Remake Uses AI for Odd Visuals

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Front Mission 3 remake utilizes generative AI, creating images that significantly differ from the original 1999 version.
    2. Some changes in the remake include new elements not present in the original, such as altered vehicles and character designs.
    3. While AI upscaling is generally accepted, generative AI can drastically change a game’s visual style if not used carefully.
    4. Fans express concern about the developers not limiting AI to enhancing original assets, questioning the artistic integrity of the remake.
    5. The use of AI in gaming is a contentious topic, leading platforms like Steam to label games with AI-generated content.

    Many game creators, graphics processing units (GPUs), and gaming consoles use AI upscaling to enhance the visuals of older games. However, the Front Mission 3 remake seems to push the boundaries by utilizing generative AI. Instead of simply improving resolution, players are encountering images that are hard to recognize. RPG Site compared the remake on Nintendo Switch to the original PlayStation version from 1999 and found some astonishing differences.

    A Classic Reimagined

    Front Mission 3, developed by what is now Square Enix, is often considered the top game in the tactical RPG franchise. When players are not engaged in battles with mecha-like wanzers, they can explore the “Network.” This feature resembles an internet browser that adds depth to the game’s narratives and characters. RPG Site discovered many drastically altered images within this part of the game.

    Unexpected Changes

    Some of the most surprising alterations in the Front Mission 3 remake include aspects that were not present in the original version. A city scene that used to show a pixelated wanzer crash now features a strangely shaped helicopter and police tape. In another instance, the team opted to transform an orange wanzer into a red one with an unusual design. These modifications appear to go past mere upscaling, indicating that generative AI has produced new elements.

    While many reviewers are not against AI upscaling, generative AI, if used carelessly, can completely alter the visual style of a game. This advancing technology learns by analyzing vast amounts of data, including images. Over time, it gathers enough information to create new visuals based on requests. Fans are now questioning why MegaPixel Studio didn’t restrict the machine learning in the Front Mission 3 remake to merely enhancing the original 1999 assets.

    Ongoing Debate

    The integration of AI in gaming has sparked a heated discussion that is unlikely to settle down soon. Steam has started to label games that feature AI-generated content, with Everybody’s Golf Hot Shots being the most recent example. In cases like Front Mission 3, gamers claim that the developers have mishandled the original artistic intent.

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  • July 2025 Epic Games Store Free Game Leaked Early

    July 2025 Epic Games Store Free Game Leaked Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store is offering The Operator for free and Sable from June 26 to July 03, 2025.
    2. Figment will be free again from July 3 to July 10, 2025, as revealed by leaker MeguminShiro.
    3. Figment is an action-adventure game set in a colorful, imaginative world, originally launched in 2017.
    4. The game explores themes of trauma and fear, featuring a combination of combat, puzzles, and exploration with a musical aspect.
    5. Music plays a key role in Figment, with dynamic soundtracks and environmental sounds integrated into gameplay and puzzles.

    Epic Games Store is currently offering The Operator for free, and from June 26 to July 03 at UTC 15:00, they will also provide Sable without charge. As for the second free game of July 2025, the well-known leaker MeguminShiro has disclosed that it will be Figment.

    Figment Revisited

    Figment was previously available for free on the Epic Games Store back in March 2020, and according to the leak, it will be free again starting July 3 at UTC 15:00 until July 10, 2025, at UTC 15:00. Launched in 2017, Figment is an action-adventure game that takes place in a vibrant and imaginative world.

    Themes and Gameplay

    Players who have experienced the game say it delves into themes like trauma and fear, presented in a playful and hand-drawn art style. The game combines combat, puzzles, and exploration, all enhanced by a musical aspect.

    The combat system is easy to grasp, making Figment a suitable choice for beginners. Gamers have pointed out that the boss battles are distinctive, with each boss performing unique songs during the encounters. The soundtrack of Figment is another captivating feature, described by players as both dynamic and interactive. This underscores the importance of music within the gameplay.

    Musical Integration

    Sounds respond to player actions and movements, contributing to a dramatic atmosphere. This upcoming free title on the Epic Games Store also weaves musical elements into its puzzles, allowing players to tackle challenges using environmental sounds. You can check out the video linked below to discover more about Figment.

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  • Retroid Pocket Mini V2 Now Available on Amazon for Gamers

    Retroid Pocket Mini V2 Now Available on Amazon for Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Product Launch: The updated Retroid Pocket Mini V2 was launched by GoRetroid in May after several setbacks.

    2. Pricing: The device is priced at $199 directly from GoRetroid, while it costs $229 on Amazon.

    3. Shipping Options: Direct shipping from GoRetroid ranges from $20 to $45, with delivery taking 15 to 60 days or just a week with DHL.

    4. Specifications: The handheld features a 3.92-inch OLED screen, 1080p resolution, Snapdragon 865 chipset, 6GB RAM, and 128GB expandable storage.

    5. Features: It includes Hall Effect thumbsticks, tactile buttons, a cooling fan, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and a 4,000mAh battery.

    After several setbacks, GoRetroid launched an updated version of the Pocket Mini handheld in May. Known as the Retroid Pocket Mini V2, this gaming device can be purchased directly from Retroid for $199, not including shipping costs. You can also find the handheld available for order on Amazon.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Retroid Pocket Mini V2 is listed on Amazon for $229. While Amazon itself doesn’t sell it, the item is shipped through them. As of now, the estimated delivery window spans from August 11 to August 19, which is nearly two months away. If you opt to buy directly from GoRetroid, shipping fees range from $20 to $45, and delivery can take anywhere from 15 to 60 days, or just a week if you select DHL.

    Specifications and Features

    Equipped with a 3.92-inch OLED screen featuring a 1080p resolution, the Retroid Pocket Mini V2 is powered by the Snapdragon 865 chipset, accompanied by 6GB RAM and 128GB of expandable storage. This Android-based handheld comes with Hall Effect thumbsticks and tactile ABXY face buttons. Additionally, it includes a cooling fan, supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, and boasts a battery capacity of 4,000mAh.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the Retroid Pocket Mini V2 offers a solid gaming experience with its advanced features and specifications. Whether you choose to buy it through Retroid or Amazon, you can enjoy a powerful handheld gaming device.

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