Category: Gaming

  • MagicX Delays Release Date for Nintendo DS Gaming Handheld

    MagicX Delays Release Date for Nintendo DS Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. The launch of the MagicX Zero 40 has been delayed from June 17 to June 27 for last-minute optimizations.
    2. MagicX first showcased the Zero 40 in December 2024, and they have since released a Mini Zero 28 version.
    3. The Mini Zero 28 is currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon and also has a V2 version available.
    4. The Zero 40 will be available in black and white and will use the Allwinner A133P chipset.
    5. The specifications of the Zero 40, including its 4-inch display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, remain unchanged.

    The MagicX Zero 40 was supposed to launch on June 17, but it seems there’s been a delay. MagicX first showed off the Zero 40 in December 2024 with an early hands-on video. Since then, they’ve also launched the Mini Zero 28, which is currently priced at $79.99 on Amazon, and they’ve already made a V2 version of it.

    Delay in Launch

    Sadly, MagicX has announced that they are postponing the Zero 40 launch event for some last-minute ‘optimisations.’ While they haven’t shared specific details about the delays, they’re confident that the changes won’t take too long. The new expected release date for the Zero 40 is now June 27, and it will still be available on their retail platform.

    Specifications Remain the Same

    From what we know, the Zero 40 will still come in black and white colors and will run on MagicX’s favored Allwinner A133P chipset. Additionally, there are no indications that the device’s specifications have changed, including its 4-inch display with a resolution of 480 x 800 pixels, making it quite special among contemporary retro gaming handhelds. For more information, please refer to the technical spec sheet from MagicX included below.

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    MagicX Delays Release Date for Nintendo DS Gaming Handheld

     

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  • Capsule Prototype Boosts Cloud Gaming Sessions by 2.25x per GPU

    Capsule Prototype Boosts Cloud Gaming Sessions by 2.25x per GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei’s Capsule system allows multiple cloud gaming sessions to use a single GPU through engine-level isolation.
    2. Capsule can support 2.25 times more players simultaneously compared to traditional isolation techniques while maintaining 30 frames per second.
    3. Resource consumption (CPU, GPU, RAM, VRAM) increases at a sublinear pace as more players join.
    4. The system uses both global and per-player storage, allowing efficient sharing of game assets.
    5. Capsule is still in prototype testing within the Open 3D Engine (O3DE) amid rising interest in cloud gaming due to high GPU prices.

    A team at Huawei Technologies has introduced a new system called Capsule, which aims to let multiple cloud gaming sessions use just one GPU through engine-level isolation. This system is built within the Open 3D Engine (O3DE) and can separate each player’s inputs, rendering tasks, and game events in real-time without needing to alter the original application code.

    Testing Results

    The team put Capsule to the test with four applications based on O3DE and found that it could handle up to 2.25 times more players at the same time compared to traditional isolation techniques while keeping a steady rate of 30 frames per second. As more players joined, the resource consumption of CPU, GPU, RAM, and VRAM increased at a sublinear pace. The system cleverly incorporates both global and per-player storage, thus enabling shared assets to be utilized where applicable.

    Market Context

    This announcement comes at a time when cloud gaming is gaining more attention, partly due to the rising prices of GPUs. According to PCWorld, a survey by Liquid Web revealed that 42 percent of gamers might opt to delay a GPU upgrade if cloud or AI upscaling options could satisfy their performance requirements.

    Capsule is still in the prototype phase and is currently undergoing testing at the engine level within O3DE.

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  • Steam’s Most Anticipated MMORPG Launches in Early Access

    Steam’s Most Anticipated MMORPG Launches in Early Access

    Key Takeaways

    1. Focus on Community: BitCraft Online emphasizes teamwork and communal activities like building, crafting, and farming over combat.

    2. Terraforming Mechanics: Players can significantly alter the environment, impacting the ecosystem, economy, and social dynamics of the game.

    3. Unique Character Growth: Character abilities progress naturally based on player activities, promoting exploration and personalized experiences.

    4. Anticipated Launch: The game has over 200,000 wishlists on Steam and ranked among the Top 50 most played demos during the Steam Next Fest.

    5. Early Access Release: BitCraft Online will launch in Early Access on June 20 for $30, with plans to switch to a free-to-play model at full release.

    If you’re in search of a new MMO adventure, BitCraft Online could be exactly what you need. Unlike well-known games such as World of Warcraft or Final Fantasy XIV, this game shifts the spotlight away from combat and instead focuses on creating a communal world. Here, activities like building, crafting, farming, and connecting with others are what really matter, making it an MMO that values teamwork more than fighting. We first highlighted this game back in March.

    A New Take on Terraforming

    At the core of BitCraft Online is terraforming, which allows players to alter the environment in significant ways. You can redirect rivers, grow crops, or even establish settlements in pristine areas. All of these changes leave a lasting effect on the persistent world. As a result, a lively ecosystem develops over time, where every action can lead to significant consequences. Transforming a valley for farming or creating a trading network with other players not only changes the surroundings but also influences the game’s economy and social dynamics.

    Unique Character Growth

    The way characters progress in BitCraft Online is quite distinct from traditional MMORPGs. Instead of selecting a set class, your character’s abilities advance naturally based on what you do. If you spend time on farming, your efficiency in that area will increase. If you concentrate on crafting or building, your skills in architecture will grow. This natural progression system encourages players to wander freely and create their own individual journey throughout the game.

    Highly Anticipated Launch

    BitCraft Online is certainly one of the most awaited new MMOs. The developers have mentioned that the game has recently exceeded 200,000 wishlists on Steam. It also made it into the Top 50 most played demos during the Steam Next Fest.

    On June 20, over 200,000 players will finally have the chance to experience BitCraft Online as it launches in Early Access on Steam for $30. The game is expected to transition to a free-to-play model at its full release, though a final launch date has yet to be confirmed.

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  • GameNative: Easy Windows Game Emulation on Android Devices

    GameNative: Easy Windows Game Emulation on Android Devices

    Key Takeaways

    1. Winlator is a popular emulator for running Windows games on Android, requiring a good smartphone and adjustments for optimal performance.
    2. GameNative, based on Pluvia, outperforms it by supporting DRM-protected games that Pluvia cannot run.
    3. GameNative offers native support for Steam, simplifying the process of playing Windows games on Android devices.
    4. The emulator includes an on-screen keyboard, controller overlay, and cloud save support, but cannot run games needing an external launcher.
    5. While it has more features than Pluvia, GameNative is not completely stable and may have issues with certain games.

    Winlator is a well-known emulator for Windows games on Android, and it has gotten to a point where it can smoothly run many big-name games. To have the best experience, though, you’ll need a good smartphone and some adjustments to the emulator. GameNative makes this easier by providing a setup that is pretty simple.

    Improvements Over Pluvia

    This application is based on Pluvia and uses Winlator as its backend. One of the key reasons it outshines Pluvia is its ability to support games that have DRM. This means that this Windows emulator for Android can run a lot of games that Pluvia usually cannot.

    Native Steam Support

    Another significant benefit of GameNative is that it can run Steam natively. This means users don’t have to put in much effort to start playing Windows games on their Android devices.

    Additionally, the emulator includes an on-screen keyboard and a controller overlay (the GameSir G8 Plus is curr. $79.99 on Amazon), alongside various performance enhancements. It even offers cloud save support, but it’s important to know that it cannot run games needing an external launcher.

    Stability Considerations

    While GameNative has more features compared to Pluvia, it is still not completely stable. Users might encounter some problems when trying to emulate certain Windows games. You can download the app for free from its official GitHub repository, and there’s a Discord server that can be useful for tips and guidance.

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  • The Turkish Witcher: Action RPG Launches with 92% Positive Reviews

    The Turkish Witcher: Action RPG Launches with 92% Positive Reviews

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Setting and Theme: Players embody the warrior Ertugrul in a semi-open world inspired by medieval Turkey and Mesopotamian cultures, featuring authentic locations.

    2. Combat System and Characters: The game features tactical real-time combat with three distinct characters—Ertugrul (swordsman), Meryem (archer), and Turgut (axe-wielder)—each with unique abilities.

    3. Early Access Launch: Ertugrul of Ulukayin entered Early Access on the Epic Games Store in August 2024 and launched on Steam on June 12, 2025, priced at $20 with a current discount.

    4. Community Reception: The game has received positive feedback, with 92% of 264 user reviews praising its setting, story, and engaging combat among three playable characters.

    5. Technical Issues and Developer Response: Despite positive aspects, the game faces technical challenges like FPS drops and bugs, but developers are committed to improving the game through community engagement and regular updates.

    In Ertugrul of Ulukayin, players take on the persona of the famed warrior Ertugrul, who, along with his companions, fights against a Mongolian assault on Anatolia. The game features a semi-open world that is deeply inspired by cultures from Anatolia and Mesopotamia, highlighting authentic locations from medieval Turkey – including ancient ruins, picturesque towns, and vast grasslands.

    Tactical Combat and Characters

    The gameplay in Ertugrul of Ulukayin focuses on strategic real-time fights from a third-person viewpoint, combining light and heavy strikes with dodging and blocking, much like well-known games such as The Witcher 3. Players can alternate between three characters: Ertugrul, a talented swordsman; Meryem, a sharpshooting archer; and Turgut, an axe-wielding powerhouse. Each character presents a unique combat style and special skills. Dream sequences that draw from Turkish folklore provide a rich atmospheric layer and are intended to affect happenings in the real world of the game.

    Early Access and Pricing

    Ertugrul of Ulukayin first became available in Early Access on the Epic Games Store in August 2024 and launched on Steam on June 12, 2025. The creators at Tekden Studio anticipate that the Early Access duration will last roughly a year. The complete release will feature two large maps, new skills, and more extensive battles – promising approximately 15 hours of gameplay. Usually, it is priced at $20 on Steam, but it is currently discounted by 10%, making it $17.99 – a deal available until June 19 at 12 p.m. (ET).

    Community Feedback

    Just a week following its launch on Steam, Ertugrul of Ulukayin has accrued 264 user reviews, with 92% of players giving it a thumbs up. Gamers have commended the game’s unconventional setting and captivating narrative, while the gameplay has received accolades for its three unique characters and exciting combat systems. The developers’ proactive engagement with the gaming community has also gained appreciation, enhancing the game’s positive early reputation.

    Technical Challenges

    Despite its merits, Ertugrul of Ulukayin faces several technical challenges. Even on high-performance computers, players have noted regular FPS drops and significant system strain, which can lead to frustration. Issues like clipping glitches, rigid animations, and various bugs further detract from the overall experience. The combat system, although full of potential, requires improvement – with many users labeling it as sluggish and imprecise.

    Developer Commitment

    Nonetheless, the developers have emphasized that the Early Access stage aims to actively engage the community in the game’s evolution. Just a day after its Steam release, a hotfix was issued to tackle performance problems and fix initial bugs. It will be interesting to see if Tekden Studio can address these technical challenges and further develop the game’s solid foundation over the upcoming months. The German gaming publication GameStar has already referred to Ertugrul of Ulukayin as “the Turkish Witcher,” underlining its ambitious nature and cultural richness.

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  • Lenovo Legion Go 2 Release Date Revealed in New Leak

    Lenovo Legion Go 2 Release Date Revealed in New Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Legion Go 2 is expected to launch in September, based on information from a Lenovo LATM representative.
    2. It will compete with the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, which are also powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z2 Extreme SoC.
    3. The Legion Go 2 may support SteamOS, which has shown advantages over traditional Windows-based handhelds.
    4. Other upcoming handhelds include the MSI Claw 8, with all three devices featuring the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, but none have confirmed pricing yet.
    5. AMD has expanded the Ryzen Z2 lineup with new models, but the standard Ryzen Z2 is not expected in upcoming handhelds from popular brands.

    The Lenovo Legion Go 2 was revealed earlier this year as one of the first handheld devices powered by AMD’s new Ryzen Z2 Extreme SoC. However, the version showcased was just a prototype, and no details about its price or release date were available. Recently, a user on Reddit (via Videocardz) uncovered some of this missing information.

    Expected Release Date

    In response to a customer inquiry, a Lenovo LATM (Latin America) representative mentioned that the Legion Go 2 is expected to be available in September. Typically, these handhelds launch globally at the same time, so it’s reasonable to think that this could be the worldwide launch date. That said, this information should be taken lightly, as support personnel often misinterpret these details. Still, a September release for the Legion Go 2 seems quite logical.

    Competition Ahead

    The launch will coincide with the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, positioning it as a strong contender among Ryzen Z2-branded consoles. While the Legion Go 2 may not come with SteamOS pre-installed, it’s likely to offer support for it right from the start. So far, SteamOS has shown to be superior to traditional Windows-based handhelds, and it’ll be fascinating to see if it can maintain its edge against the ROG Xbox Ally’s new streamlined OS version.

    Other Handhelds on the Horizon

    There’s also the MSI Claw 8, which could be released around the same time. At this point, these three handhelds are the only ones on the market featuring a Ryzen Z2 Extreme, at least from popular brands. Notably, none of them have confirmed pricing yet, and if the ROG Xbox Ally is any indication, they are likely to be pricey.

    This may explain why AMD has recently broadened the Ryzen Z2 lineup with two new models: a high-end Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme and a Ryzen Z2A, which is based on the older Zen 2 architecture that powered the Steam Deck. Interestingly, the standard Ryzen Z2 appears to be absent from any upcoming handhelds, even from lesser-known manufacturers like Ayaneo, Aokzoe, and OneXPlayer.

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  • TrimUI Brick Hammer: New Pocket-Sized Gaming Handheld Released

    TrimUI Brick Hammer: New Pocket-Sized Gaming Handheld Released

    Key Takeaways

    1. TrimUI Brick Hammer is the new CNC metal version of the original TrimUI Brick, launched less than a year after the first model.
    2. New color options for the TrimUI Brick Hammer include Gunmetal Grey, Rose Gold, and Fluorescent Green, while maintaining the same hardware as the original.
    3. The device features a 3.2-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,024 x 768 and improved heat management due to its metal body.
    4. The weight of the TrimUI Brick Hammer remains similar to the original, though independent reviews are needed for confirmation.
    5. Pre-orders for the TrimUI Brick Hammer are available at $94.99, with a 15% discount using the code TRIMUI15OFF, and shipping expected by June 30.

    The TrimUI Brick has been available for less than a year now. Despite this, TrimUI has already rolled out a second update after launch Purple, Red, and White color choices last November (currently priced at $75.99 on Amazon). This time around, the company has introduced CNC metal versions, which they’re promoting as the TrimUI Brick Hammer.

    New Color Options

    Offered in Gunmetal Grey, Rose Gold, and Fluorescent Green finishes, the TrimUI Brick Hammer features the same essential hardware as the standard TrimUI Brick. To provide some context, the Allwinner A133P along with 1 GB of LPDDR3 RAM present in all TrimUI Brick models is robust enough to emulate systems such as the Sega Dreamcast.

    Enhanced Display Features

    One of the main perks of the TrimUI Brick is its 3.2-inch IPS screen, delivering a relatively high native resolution of 1,024 x 768. Theoretically, the CNC body of the TrimUI Brick Hammer should allow for better heat management compared to the original TrimUI, which tends to heat up in certain spots. Many would argue that the TrimUI Brick Hammer feels more high-end in hand compared to the largely plastic original TrimUI Brick as well.

    Weight Considerations

    Interestingly, the transition from plastic to metal doesn’t seem to add any extra weight, but we suggest being cautious about making any conclusions until independent reviews come in. The TrimUI Brick Hammer can be pre-ordered now priced at $94.99, not including a microSD card. Additionally, you can save 15% on any SKU by using the code TRIMUI15OFF during checkout. TrimUI aims to start shipping pre-orders by June 30.

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    TrimUI Brick Hammer: New Pocket-Sized Gaming Handheld Released
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  • Battlefield 6 Transitions to Alpha with DLSS and New Features

    Battlefield 6 Transitions to Alpha with DLSS and New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Battlefield 6 has progressed from pre-alpha to alpha stage, indicating closer development to a summer announcement.
    2. A new 13 GB patch for Battlefield Labs has been released, updating the watermark to “BF Labs Alpha.”
    3. The patch introduces DLSS support, with expectations of it being DLSS 4, alongside files related to a potential battle royale mode.
    4. The battle royale mode may remaster “Operation Firestorm” from Battlefield V and introduce unique mechanics for eliminated players.
    5. Players can now customize gameplay by eliminating borders around capture zones, along with leaked footage showcasing new visuals and gameplay features.

    Battlefield 6, or the title of the upcoming Battlefield game, has been subject to numerous leaks recently. The flow of information is ongoing, as it’s been indicated that the game has advanced from pre-alpha to alpha stage. Developers have integrated support for DLSS and implemented various gameplay modifications. Additionally, there are hints regarding the much-speculated battle royale mode.

    New Patch Details

    According to the 1BF telegram channel, a fresh Battlefield Labs patch has been released, weighing in at approximately 13 GB. This update comes packed with numerous changes and features, though only a few have been disclosed so far. Notably, the watermark has been updated from “Labs” to “BF Labs Alpha,” and all instances of “PRE ALPHA” have been replaced with “ALPHA.” This alteration might indicate that the developers are inching closer to unveiling the game, which is still slated for a summer announcement.

    Gameplay Enhancements

    Among the various updates, the patch introduces support for DLSS, although the specific version has not been confirmed—it’s expected to be DLSS 4. Additionally, the update contains files related to the battle royale mode. This mode was initially hinted at back in May through a datamine, and it’s believed to be a remaster of “Operation Firestorm” from Battlefield V. It’s rumored to introduce unique mechanics for players who have been eliminated during matches.

    Customization Options

    In a final note, players are now able to eliminate the borders around capture zones if they choose. That sums up the key aspects from the most recent leak.

    Numerous gameplay footage leaks from Battlefield Labs playtests have surfaced, showcasing stunning visuals, tank combat, weaponry, gadgets, and the new, somewhat debated class system.

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  • Third-Party Nintendo Switch 2 Game Sales Struggle Against First-Party Titles

    Third-Party Nintendo Switch 2 Game Sales Struggle Against First-Party Titles

    Key Takeaways

    1. A significant 62% of physical Switch 2 game sales in the U.S. were from first-party titles, rising to 86% in the U.K. when including the Mario Kart World bundle.
    2. Despite a wider range of third-party games for the Switch 2, players showed reluctance to choose them over Nintendo’s offerings.
    3. Nintendo’s decision to delay game reviews until after the Switch 2’s release may have impacted third-party game visibility and sales.
    4. 80% of initial Switch 2 game sales occurred at physical stores, indicating a strong preference for physical copies over digital downloads.
    5. Most third-party titles released for the Switch 2 were ports, limiting appeal to buyers who may have already played these games.

    Compared to the first console, there was a bigger focus on third-party titles for the Switch 2 launch. Yet, sales figures show that fans still lean towards games made by Nintendo. The Game Business looked into the numbers, revealing that Mario Kart World was a clear frontrunner in sales. Additionally, third-party developers struggled to persuade gamers to choose digital downloads instead of physical copies.

    Sales Insights

    Data from Circana during the launch week shows that in the U.S., 62% of physical Switch 2 game sales were from first-party titles. It’s important to note that these stats do not account for the Mario Kart World bundle. When this bundle is factored in, the percentage of sales for Nintendo-exclusive games rises significantly. For instance, in the U.K., first-party sales made up 86% of all physical game purchases.

    Looking Back at the Switch Launch

    In comparison, during the launch month of the original Switch, 81% of buyers in the U.S. and 89% in the U.K. chose Nintendo games. Even with a broader range of third-party games available for the Switch 2, players seemed reluctant to try these options. Christopher Dring’s article points out that one unnamed publisher confessed that their sales were lower than expected.

    Dring also points out that Nintendo’s decision to delay reviews until after the Switch 2 was released might have contributed to this issue. While Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition topped third-party sales, other publishers had a hard time getting noticed in the media. Furthermore, many non-Nintendo games were simply ports that a number of Switch 2 buyers may have already experienced.

    Retail Preferences

    A striking 80% of the initial game sales for the Switch 2 occurred at physical stores instead of through digital downloads. It’s likely that consumers also turned down the Game-Key Card option. CD Projekt Red’s Cyberpunk 2077 stands out as an exception, yet most third-party companies seem to prefer this format.

    As more notable titles release on day one for the Switch 2, players may start to appreciate the variety. However, for the moment, these fans are mainly purchasing the handheld system to play Nintendo games in cartridge format.

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  • June 2025’s Last Free Epic Games Store Game is a Multi-Award Winner

    June 2025’s Last Free Epic Games Store Game is a Multi-Award Winner

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free Game Availability: The Operator is now available for free on the Epic Games Store, with Sable being the last free game of June 2025.

    2. Award Recognition: Sable, launched in September 2021, has won multiple awards, including PC Gamer’s Best Narrative of 2021 and nominations for Best Debut Indie at The Game Awards.

    3. Exploration-Focused Gameplay: Sable features an open-world experience on the planet Midden, emphasizing exploration without combat and allowing players to progress at their own pace.

    4. Visual Appeal: The game is noted for its stunning hand-drawn graphics and calming desert environments, enhancing the overall exploration experience.

    5. Mixed Player Feedback: While many players enjoy the freedom of Sable, some criticize the lack of challenging puzzles. It holds a “Very Positive” rating on Steam and will be free from June 26 to July 03, typically priced at $24.99.

    The Operator can now be downloaded for free on the Epic Games Store. This marks the second-to-last free game for June 2025, and the final giveaway of the month is an acclaimed title. According to the latest update in the free games section, Sable will be the last free game available this month.

    Award-Winning Game

    Sable, which was launched in September 2021, has received numerous accolades, including PC Gamer’s Best Narrative of 2021. It was also nominated for the Best Debut Indie award at The Game Awards 2021 and made it to Paste Magazine’s top 5 games of 2021.

    Unique Gameplay Experience

    In Sable, players explore the vast, desolate planet of Midden, which is filled with ruins. The game offers an open-world experience, but it is particularly known for its absence of combat. Rather than focusing on action, Sable emphasizes exploration without a strict main questline dictating how players progress.

    Players can chart their own course, take on quests at their own pace, and tackle platforming challenges as they choose. The game features stunning hand-drawn graphics, and its desert settings are often seen as providing a calming experience.

    Mixed Reviews

    While players appreciate the freedom Sable offers, some have pointed out that its puzzles are not very challenging. Nevertheless, the game enjoys a good reputation on Steam, with a “Very Positive” rating based on nearly 4,700 reviews. Typically priced at $24.99 when not on sale, Sable will be available for $0 on the Epic Games Store from June 26 to July 03, at 15:00 UTC. Take a look at the video below for more insights.

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