Category: Gaming

  • Epic Games Store Reveals New Free Game Giveaway Announcement

    Epic Games Store Reveals New Free Game Giveaway Announcement

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store Mega Sale ends on June 12, featuring two game giveaways valued at nearly $85 for PC and Mac users.
    2. A new mobile game giveaway worth almost $50 is available for Android and iOS devices.
    3. Epic Games is concluding its Mystery Game teasers and has announced next week’s giveaway plans in advance.
    4. The upcoming discount will be on Two Point Hospital, a business simulation game originally launched in 2018.
    5. Two Point Hospital has received positive reviews, holding an average score of 83/100 on Metacritic.

    The Epic Games Store is wrapping up its current Mega Sale. This sale will last until June 12 and includes the giveaway of two games valued at nearly $85 for PC and Mac users. Additionally, there’s a new mobile game giveaway that adds up to almost $50 for Android and iOS devices.

    Mystery Game Teasers Ending

    As the Mega Sale nears its end, Epic Games has also decided to conclude its Mystery Game teasers. This means they have revealed the giveaway plans for next week ahead of time. According to the video below, the store is set to offer a discount on Two Point Hospital, which is priced at $29.99 in the US (currently $22 on Amazon).

    About Two Point Hospital

    Originally launched in 2018 and added to the Epic Game Store earlier this year, Two Point Hospital is a light-hearted business simulation game that enhances the classic Theme Hospital with modern graphics and improved gameplay. So far, Two Point Hospital has inspired two sequels: Two Point Campus and Two Point Museum, highlighting the original’s popularity. The game holds an average score of 83/100 on Metacritic and 84/100 on OpenCritic, with 93% of reviewers recommending it. The giveaway for next week is scheduled to begin at 15:00 UTC on June 12. For more information, check out Epic Games’ store listing.

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  • Microsoft Layoffs Expected to Affect Xbox Gaming Division Jobs

    Microsoft Layoffs Expected to Affect Xbox Gaming Division Jobs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has announced 305 job cuts, adding to the previous reduction of about 6,000 employees, signaling a shift in focus towards software development over new console creation.
    2. Employee morale is declining due to uncertainty about potential further layoffs, causing anxiety about the company’s long-term strategies.
    3. The Xbox gaming division is facing job losses, particularly after the Activision Blizzard merger, with 1,900 positions cut in early 2024.
    4. Microsoft’s gaming strategy is shifting towards cross-platform publishing, allowing first-party titles on other consoles like the PS5, while competition from SteamOS intensifies.
    5. Plans for a new Xbox console remain uncertain, with a potential release for a successor to the Series X aimed for 2027, but there are ongoing developments with new controllers.

    Microsoft has recently declared 305 job cuts, following a significant reduction of about 6,000 employees back in May. The firm has not disclosed whether these layoffs affect the Xbox gaming division. However, Tom Warren from The Verge is now suggesting that further job losses at Microsoft could have consequences for gamers. This restructuring indicates a shift towards prioritizing software development over creating a new Xbox console.

    Falling Morale Among Employees

    Warren’s article highlights a concerning trend of declining morale among staff. The uncertainty surrounding the potential for additional layoffs is contributing to growing anxiety. Employees are left pondering the company’s long-term strategies and how these may influence their roles. Warren has heard that more unfortunate news could surface as early as the end of June. Unlike previous rounds of job cuts, the Microsoft Gaming sector might face substantial changes.

    Xbox Gaming’s Challenges

    The Xbox gaming division is not immune to layoffs, with most occurring in 2024 after the merger with Activision Blizzard. In January 2024, Phil Spencer announced the elimination of around 1,900 positions from a workforce of about 22,000. This reorganization involved Corporate Vice President of Gaming Mike Ybarra, who had been part of Microsoft since 2009.

    As Xbox re-evaluates its focus, it wouldn’t be shocking to see more job losses. Console sales have declined while Microsoft pivots towards cross-platform publishing. Now, gamers can access first-party titles even on Sony’s PS5. At the same time, with competition from SteamOS, Microsoft aims to enhance gaming on Windows devices. Asus is reportedly gearing up to launch an Xbox-themed handheld PC, similar to the ROG Ally.

    Future of Xbox Console Development

    Jez Corden from Windows Central indicates that Microsoft’s plans for a new Xbox console are currently uncertain. Nevertheless, a successor to the Series X is still in the works, aiming for a possible release in 2027. The company has not completely forsaken hardware, as there are rumors about three new controllers being developed. However, the shifting focus within Microsoft Gaming may shed light on why Tom Warren is predicting more layoffs.

    News about any unfavorable developments within Microsoft Gaming is not expected to be revealed until after the Xbox Games Showcase on June 8th.

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    Microsoft Layoffs Expected to Affect Xbox Gaming Division Jobs

     

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  • Asus WiFi 7 Router for Gamers: 18,000 Mbps and Versatile Connectivity

    Asus WiFi 7 Router for Gamers: 18,000 Mbps and Versatile Connectivity

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ROG Strix GS-BE18000 is a new WiFi 7 router that supports 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands with a maximum combined speed of approximately 18,000 Mbps.
    2. The 2.4GHz band has a speed of up to 688 Mbps, the 5GHz band supports up to 5,764 Mbps, and the 6GHz band can reach up to 11,529 Mbps.
    3. The router is designed for gamers, featuring eight internal antennas and multiple Ethernet ports (seven LAN and one WAN) that support 2.5 Gbps.
    4. It includes USB 3.2 Gen 1 support and can manage both wireless and wired mesh networks, along with features for traffic prioritization and separate SSIDs for LAN events.
    5. The ROG Strix GS-BE18000 is not yet available for sale and will likely come with a high price tag.

    Asus has introduced a fresh router named the ROG Strix GS-BE18000. This device is powerful and is expected to come with a high price tag, supporting the newest wireless technologies. It is specifically a WiFi 7 router that works on all three frequency bands: 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz. The maximum advertised data speed reaches approximately 18,000 Mbps, but this figure is the total that includes all the mentioned frequencies.

    Detailed Frequency Specs

    To be more specific, the 2.4GHz band can handle speeds up to 688 Mbps, while the 5GHz band can achieve a maximum of 5,764 Mbps. The 6GHz band can reach up to 11,529 Mbps under perfect conditions. While not all smartphones and tablets currently support WiFi 7 and the 6GHz band, laptops and desktops can be upgraded with a compatible WiFi 7 card, which starts at $49 on Amazon.

    Targeting Gamers

    The ROG Strix WiFi 7 router features eight internal antennas. Asus clearly aims at gamers with this router, even though its external design is relatively simple. It has a notable ROG logo, but lacks the “cyborg” design elements found in the GT-BE19000. Additionally, the ROG Strix GS-BE18000 comes with seven Ethernet ports and one WAN port for connecting to a modem, all of which support 2.5 Gbps.

    Additional Features

    USB 3.2 Gen 1 is also part of the package, and the router can handle both wireless and wired mesh networks. Finally, the ROG Strix router allows prioritization of gaming traffic and can create separate SSIDs for events like LAN parties. However, the ROG Strix GS-BE18000 is not yet ready for sale.

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    Asus WiFi 7 Router for Gamers: 18,000 Mbps and Versatile Connectivity

     

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  • Xbox PC Branding May Signal New Windows Console Marketing Plans

    Xbox PC Branding May Signal New Windows Console Marketing Plans

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is using the term “Xbox PC” for Windows versions of games, indicating a possible shift in how they identify Xbox content for PC users.
    2. The term “Xbox PC” may help reduce confusion between Xbox console games and those available on Windows, rather than signaling a new platform.
    3. Rumors suggest a new Xbox console could be based on Windows, with potential plans for a handheld device in partnership with Asus.
    4. Sales of Xbox Series X|S consoles are declining as Microsoft focuses on cross-platform publishing and integration with Windows.
    5. The upcoming Xbox Games Showcase may reveal new marketing strategies to enhance the connection between Xbox gaming and Windows PCs.

    In the beginning of May, the Xbox Wire blog revealed the remaster of Gears of War: Reloaded. A few keen-eyed readers noticed that Microsoft is labeling the Windows version as “Xbox PC.” While this term wasn’t alarming, it was different from the usual way the company lists games on the Microsoft Store. Recently, gamers spotted “Xbox PC” once again in a trailer for Mio: Memories in Orbit. Jez Corden from Windows Central has raised questions about whether this change hints at how Microsoft might promote a new Xbox console that is rumored to be in the works.

    New Labels and Fan Theories

    Some fans think that Xbox PC could indicate a brand new platform. However, it’s more probable that it’s just an easier way to identify Xbox-related content aimed at Windows users. Corden highlights that it can be confusing to tell apart the Xbox Windows app from the console version. Additionally, while many new Series X and S games can be played on PC, not all titles are available. The term Xbox PC helps to reduce any misunderstandings.

    Future Console Speculations

    There are signs that any new Xbox console could be based on Windows. There’s talk of a Project Kennan, which is rumored to be a partnership with Asus to create an Xbox version of a ROG Ally handheld PC. This device would include an Xbox controller setup and a full-screen user interface that would make using Windows feel more like playing on a console. Microsoft is also said to have been working on another Xbox handheld that was expected to come out in 2027, but that project seems to be on pause so they can focus on current Windows handheld devices.

    The Changing Landscape of Xbox

    Sales for the Xbox Series X|S consoles are falling as Microsoft shifts its attention to cross-platform publishing. Instead of making a gaming system with exclusive software, Microsoft is merging its consoles with Windows machines. The Xbox PC label could become more important in describing this evolving ecosystem.

    So far, Microsoft hasn’t revealed any new marketing strategies. However, the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase might give a sneak peek at plans to better connect Xbox gaming with Windows PCs.

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    Xbox PC Branding May Signal New Windows Console Marketing Plans
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Teardown: Cooling System, Battery & Mainboard Explained

    Nintendo Switch 2 Teardown: Cooling System, Battery & Mainboard Explained

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will be available to customers soon, with a teardown video already released by ProModding.
    2. The console has red and blue stickers over screws that are only visible after removing the Joy-Con controllers.
    3. Accessing the console is relatively easy, but removing the stickers could potentially cause damage.
    4. The cooling system includes a small fan and a copper heat pipe, and the console is expected to use no more than 10 watts during heavy use.
    5. Both USB-C ports are soldered to the mainboard, and it is unclear if the battery is secured with adhesive like the original Switch.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to reach customers within the next 24 hours, but the YouTube channel ProModding has already taken the console apart and shared a teardown video, which you can see below. Nintendo has placed red and blue stickers over the screws on the back panel, which become visible once you detach the magnetic Joy-Con 2 controllers.

    Opening the Console

    These stickers are tricky to peel off without causing damage, but apart from that, getting into the console is pretty straightforward. The kickstand is built into the back panel and is easy to swap out, assuming Nintendo plans to offer official replacement parts. This might be needed since, according to ProModding, the kickstand doesn’t seem very durable. Once you’re inside, there are many screws and cables to disconnect to take off the metal cover that helps with heat dissipation from the processor, as shown by the thermal paste applied to it.

    Cooling System Details

    Beneath that cover, the cooling system features a small fan and a copper heat pipe. The Switch 2 is not likely to use more than 10 watts while in use, so the cooling setup should be adequate. However, both USB-C ports are soldered onto the mainboard, which means they can’t be replaced like on many smartphones. Sadly, the teardown video does not show the removal of the battery, leaving it unclear whether it is attached with a bothersome adhesive like the original Nintendo Switch (starting at $299 on Amazon).

    Conclusion

    ProModding (YouTube) has provided some interesting insights into the Nintendo Switch 2’s design and components, showing how the console is put together and what to expect.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2: 8 Games Receive Free Updates Before Launch

    Nintendo Switch 2: 8 Games Receive Free Updates Before Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has released patches for eight additional games ahead of the Switch 2’s launch, along with updates for twelve other titles.
    2. The updates are minor compared to the significant improvement made for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, which now runs at 60 frames per second.
    3. Gameplay improvements have been made, but specific details of the changes have not been disclosed by Nintendo.
    4. A total of 20 titles will receive updates for the Switch 2 at launch, including free and paid upgrades.
    5. Paid upgrades for various games will range from $10 to $20, offering enhancements in graphics, performance, and additional content.

    Just ahead of the Switch 2’s release to customers, Nintendo has rolled out patches for eight additional games, alongside the previously mentioned updates for twelve other titles. The exact reasons for these patches haven’t been shared by the company, but the changes are considered quite minor when compared to the update for Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, which increased the frame rate to 60 frames per second and addressed a variety of technical problems.

    Gameplay Improvements

    Nintendo’s release notes indicate that several adjustments have been made to enhance gameplay on the Switch 2, although no specific details on the changes have been disclosed. For example, the updates for two Zelda titles primarily prepare them for their full Switch 2 version, which will come at a price of $10. In Pikmin 3 Deluxe, a glitch causing the screen to flicker occasionally has been somewhat fixed, meaning that the issue won’t be completely resolved until a future update arrives.

    Total Updates at Launch

    With these eight games included, a grand total of 20 titles will receive updates for the Switch 2 when it launches. Alongside these free updates, Nintendo is also providing paid upgrades for various games, which range from $10 to $20. These upgrades feature enhancements in graphics and performance, plus new content, like an expanded campaign in Kirby and the Forgotten Land.

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  • Cyberpunk 2077 Expansion Rumored as Support Studio Works on DLC

    Cyberpunk 2077 Expansion Rumored as Support Studio Works on DLC

    Key Takeaways

    1. CD Projekt Red is developing a new Witcher game and has just started pre-production on Cyberpunk 2.
    2. There are rumors of a new expansion for Cyberpunk 2077, as only one expansion has been released so far.
    3. Speculation about the new expansion arose from a LinkedIn profile of a writer at Virtuos, mentioning “Cyberpunk 2077 DLC” and multiple side quests.
    4. The official Cyberpunk 2077 account teased potential new content with a recent video and a mysterious message about “encrypted data.”
    5. CD Projekt Red is also working on a sequel to the Edgerunners anime and a live-action project set in the Cyberpunk universe.

    CD Projekt Red is currently busy with the development of the new Witcher game and Cyberpunk 2, which has just started its pre-production phase. However, it appears that the studio still has plans for Cyberpunk 2077. There are rumors circulating about a potential new expansion for the 2020 game, especially since there has only been one expansion released thus far, and Cyberpunk 2 has a long way to go before it launches.

    Origin of the Rumor

    The speculation began with a Reddit user named ‘Free_Carpenter151,’ who discovered a LinkedIn profile belonging to a writer at Virtuos. This profile mentioned “Cyberpunk 2077 DLC” as a project they had been engaged with since April 2025. Virtuos is known for creating the 2.2 update for Cyberpunk 2077. The project description hinted at “multiple new side quests” and “upcoming DLC releases,” indicating that a new expansion might be in the works.

    Recent Developments

    In addition, on March 27, the official Cyberpunk 2077 account on X posted a brief video featuring several characters from the game, along with six others categorized as “encrypted data.” The message stated, “Oh, and don’t worry about the encrypted data warning. Just a glitch in the system! Or is it?”

    Cyberpunk 2077 had its first and only expansion, Phantom Liberty, released in September 2023. Prior to that, after the initial announcement in September 2022, the Level Design Lead at CD Projekt Red hinted at the possibility of a second expansion. Nevertheless, it was thought that this second expansion was scrapped in favor of focusing on the sequel. Fans remain skeptical whether these clues actually indicate a second expansion for Cyberpunk 2077, suggesting that the support studio working on a DLC could imply various outcomes, not necessarily a full expansion.

    Future Projects

    Recently, the studio showcased a tech demo for Witcher 4, revealing some of the technologies that will be incorporated into the game. Furthermore, they announced last week (May 28) that Cyberpunk 2 has officially entered pre-production. The teams at CD Projekt Red are working hard on these significant titles, as well as a potential sequel to the Edgerunners anime and a live-action project set in the Cyberpunk universe.

    With all these projects in the pipeline, it seems that CD Projekt Red is committed to expanding its universe in various ways.

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  • Free Sci-Fi FPS Game with Space Battles at Steam Next Fest

    Free Sci-Fi FPS Game with Space Battles at Steam Next Fest

    Key Takeaways

    1. Jump Ship is a cooperative PVE roguelike FPS set in space, focusing on mission-based gameplay.
    2. Players can enjoy a free demo during Steam Next Fest from June 9 to June 16, featuring basic gameplay elements.
    3. The game encourages team play with flexible roles, resource management, and intense space dogfights, while primarily designed for groups of four.
    4. The aesthetic draws inspiration from games like Apex Legends and Halo, featuring polished graphics and vibrant visuals.
    5. Early development will include AI-generated text-to-speech for dialogue, which will later be replaced with professional voice acting.

    Jump Ship is an upcoming sci-fi game set in space, and its creators have some ambitious plans for this first-person shooter. The game revolves around mission-based cooperative PVE roguelike gameplay, where players jump into different runs, finish missions, and explore the vastness of space. Though there is no set release date yet, gamers can check out a free demo of Jump Ship on Steam during the Steam Next Fest. This demo will be accessible from June 9 to June 16, giving players ample time to familiarize themselves with the game.

    Exciting Features Await

    Jump Ship aims to offer more than just typical FPS action. Players can expect elements like resource management, crew maintenance, and intense dogfights in space. The developers plan for teams of four in the cooperative PVE gameplay, ensuring that everyone has something to do. Notably, Jump Ship does not feature fixed classes, allowing players to arrange and rearrange their roles and tasks freely. While there’s a solo mode available, the game is primarily designed for cooperative play, making solo play less appealing.

    Unique Gameplay Experience

    The mission-based structure of Jump Ship hints at a gameplay loop reminiscent of Warframe; however, players will seamlessly transition from piloting a ship to engaging in ground battles and aerial dogfights. Each mission will be handcrafted, but there seems to be procedural generation included to keep gameplay varied. Players can experiment with different ship setups and various upgrades to enhance their gaming experience.

    Visually Striking Design

    From the graphics perspective, Jump Ship appears to take inspiration from the sleek, futuristic aesthetics of games like Apex Legends and the Halo franchise. Overall, the visuals look polished, with the space sections showcasing stunning graphics, including breathtaking views of space and vibrant laser weapon blasts.

    The demo available during Steam Next Fest offers just a glimpse of what the game has in store, including a basic tutorial, “a few missions” within a single map area, limited ship upgrades to unlock, and “basic player and ship customisation.” Before this, only a small group of players were allowed access to the beta, which will likely return to that format after the Next Fest concludes. Players may have to wait until the summer for the Steam Early Access release to engage with the game more thoroughly, but luckily, it shouldn’t be too long of a wait.

    Future Developments

    It’s worth mentioning that the development team for Jump Ship has revealed that the early versions will utilize AI-generated text-to-speech for dialogue, but these placeholders will eventually be replaced by professional voice acting as the game progresses further in development.

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  • New Puzzle-Platformer Game Launches on Steam with Discount and Positive Rating

    New Puzzle-Platformer Game Launches on Steam with Discount and Positive Rating

    Key Takeaways

    1. Popucom is a cooperative puzzle-platformer game launched on Steam on June 1, receiving a “Very Positive” rating.
    2. The gameplay focuses on color-based puzzles and requires teamwork, with options for online and local split-screen co-op.
    3. Players encounter both match-3 style puzzles and more complex environmental challenges that require cooperation and clever thinking.
    4. While combat is not the primary focus, the game includes quick skirmishes and boss battles, set in a visually captivating world.
    5. Popucom features a colorblind mode and has been praised for its art style and engaging gameplay, though there are compatibility issues with the Steam Deck.

    Popucom is a vibrant new platformer game that focuses on cooperative play and teamwork. Released on Steam on June 1, the game has quickly gained a notable “Very Positive” rating. The main gameplay mechanics of Popucom center around color, and the developers have introduced several unique features to differentiate it from other games in the genre. The price of Popucom is quite reasonable, available for $17.99 after a 10% discount for its launch on Steam.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    At its heart, Popucom is a traditional puzzle-platformer that requires players to solve puzzles in their environment while navigating a colorful world to progress. Importantly, Popucom is designed solely for co-op play, requiring players to either connect in an online party or set up a split-screen session for local co-op — making it an excellent choice for families. The puzzles often follow a familiar match-3 pattern, where positioning or moving objects correctly is essential for advancement. However, players will also encounter more complex environmental puzzles that demand cooperation, timing, and clever thinking to overcome. In addition to color-based challenges, players will gather various items that are crucial for solving certain puzzles or removing barriers.

    Combat and Environment

    Although combat isn’t the primary aspect of Popucom, there’s still plenty of action, ranging from quick enemy skirmishes to intense boss battles reminiscent of bullet-hell games. As you navigate this odd new planet, you’ll encounter a variety of foes while working to “restore the world to its former glory.” Visually, Popucom is captivating, featuring somewhat simplistic character and environment designs, all set against stunning views of the expansive sky.

    Reception and Compatibility

    Even though Popucom just launched on Steam a week ago, it has already made a significant impression, with around 1,000 reviews submitted and a “Very Positive” rating. Many reviews highlight Popucom’s delightful art style, engaging and original gameplay, challenging puzzles, and the unexpected addition of a colorblind mode, which has been well received.

    The early access demo of Popucom was compatible with the Steam Deck, but it seems there were issues when the full game launched. Therefore, those wanting to play on-the-go may need to consider alternatives such as the Lenovo Legion Go (currently $699.99 from Lenovo US) or the Asus ROG Ally.

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  • IO Interactive’s 007 First Light Game Launching in 2026

    IO Interactive’s 007 First Light Game Launching in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. IO Interactive’s new video game, 007 First Light, featuring James Bond, is set to launch in 2026.
    2. The game will be available on multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S.
    3. IO Interactive is partnering with Amazon MGM Studios, the owner of the James Bond franchise since 2022.
    4. The gameplay will combine action and stealth elements, featuring familiar characters like M, Q, and Moneypenny, alongside new characters.
    5. Players can sign up on the IO Interactive website for updates and receive two free in-game items.

    IO Interactive has announced its new video game featuring James Bond, called 007 First Light, which is set to launch in 2026. This was revealed during Sony’s State of Play livestream, and the game will be available on platforms like the Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X|S.

    Developer Background

    Since 2021, IO Interactive has been working on the Hitman series, first introduced in 2000. Their most recent game, Hitman: World of Assassination (buy here on Amazon), debuted alongside the Nintendo Switch 2 console. The studio is partnering with Amazon MGM Studios, the current owner of the James Bond franchise, which acquired the IP in 2022 for a whopping $8.5 billion.

    Gameplay and Characters

    This upcoming title will blend IO Interactive’s signature action and stealth gameplay with the James Bond universe, presenting a third-person experience. Familiar faces from the films, like M, Q, and Moneypenny, will join new characters such as mentor John Greenway, as they guide the 26-year-old recruit in becoming a legendary MI6 spy who can save the world.

    Readers interested in updates can sign up on the IO Interactive game website. By creating an account, they can also receive two free in-game items: a Gilded Wrath gold pistol skin and an On Duty all-black turtleneck. It remains uncertain if this new spy will leave a lasting impression like Sean Connery or be as forgettable as George Lazenby in Bond’s cinematic history .

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