Category: Gaming

March 5, 2025
Dotemu Unveils Absolum: New Roguelite Beat-‘Em-Up from Streets of Rage 4 Team
Key Takeaways
1. Dotemu and Guard Crush revived the Streets of Rage series with a successful fourth game in 2020, selling over 2.5 million copies and releasing a DLC expansion, Mr.X Nightmare.
2. The team also launched Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge in 2022, which featured two DLC expansions and was well-received in the beat-em-up genre.
3. They are developing a new dark fantasy beat-em-up called Absolum, set in a unique realm called Talmah, featuring roguelite elements and a fresh storyline.
4. Players will choose from four distinct characters, each with unique abilities, as they battle against a sun king’s army in a visually stunning 2D animated world.
5. The game includes skill-based combat mechanics with combo chains and rare items, complemented by a soundtrack from renowned composers, and is expected to release in late 2025.
Dotemu and Guard Crush brought new life to Sega’s Streets of Rage series with the release of a fourth game in 2020. This arcade-style beat-em-up was well-received, managing to sell over 2.5 million copies by 2021. Additionally, it introduced a downloadable content expansion called Mr.X Nightmare in the same year.
Exciting New Ventures
In addition to Streets of Rage, Dotemu also released Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge in 2022, which was another hit in the beat-em-up genre. This title received two popular DLC expansions, Dimension Shellshock and Radical Reptiles. Now, the team is gearing up to showcase their combat skills once more.
A Fresh Concept
Dotemu and Guard Crush have partnered with the French animation studio Supamonks to develop a stunning new dark fantasy beat-em-up that incorporates roguelite features. Unlike their previous titles, Absolum is a fresh intellectual property that takes elements from the genre and mixes them with roguelite elements.
Set in Talmah, a unique dark fantasy realm devastated by a cataclysm instigated by wizards, the game features a world where ordinary people have grown to mistrust magic. This mistrust has allowed a cruel sun king to enslave wizards and dominate the lands.
Rebel Forces Rise
The story follows a powerful enchantress who leads a small band of rebels against the king’s relentless army to dismantle his wicked reign. Players can choose from one of four outcasts: Galandra, a necromancer armed with a massive sword; Karl, the last free dwarf of Talmah who fights with his fists and a blunderbuss; Brome, a gifted wizard; and Cider, a quick skirmisher.
The game previews showcase breathtaking 2D animation and art, combined with exhilarating action. Developers have indicated that players will encounter multiple pathways and new random events each time they restart.
Combat and Strategy
Similar to Streets of Rage 4, the game will feature combo chains that enable players to connect their moves and magical powers. Players can also discover and utilize rare items to gain an edge. The combat mechanics “require skill and timing,” encouraging players to try out different strategies with every playthrough.
The soundtrack is crafted by Gareth Coker, known for his work on the Ori series, Halo Infinite, and Prince of Persia. It also features collaborations with talented composers like Yuka Kitamura from Dark Souls and Elden Ring, Mick Gordon from Doom Eternal and Atomic Heart, among others.
Currently, there is no official release date for the game, but it is anticipated to debut in late 2025.
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Tags: Absolum, Dotemu, Guard Crush
March 5, 2025
RX 9070 XT Set to Outshine RTX 5070 with 10x Launch Supply
Key Takeaways
1. The RTX 5070 has received negative reviews, with critics accusing Nvidia of overhyping the card.
2. AMD’s RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT are launching soon, with promising availability and competitive pricing starting at $549 and $599, respectively.
3. The RX 9070 XT is expected to have significantly better stock availability compared to the RTX 50 series, which struggled at launch.
4. Reports suggest that the RX 9070 XT’s pricing is more genuine than Nvidia’s RTX 50 series pricing, making it more appealing to consumers.
5. AMD is likely to capture market share due to the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT’s favorable supply and pricing compared to the RTX 5070.
Reviews for the RTX 5070 have been released, and the card does not live up to Nvidia’s hype from its CES 2025 reveal. The response has been quite negative; Gamers Nexus has accused Nvidia of “selling lies,” while Hardware Unboxed has labeled this GPU as “the worst 70 series ever.”
A Challenging Launch
Overall, the RTX 5070 is being viewed unfavorably, creating an excellent opportunity for AMD’s RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT. These new RDNA 4 graphics cards are set to launch tomorrow, March 6th, with pricing starting at $549 for the RX 9070 and $599 for the RX 9070 XT. AMD appears to have a significant amount of stock ready for launch, which is a promising sign for buyers.
Better Availability Expected
Several reports are now indicating that it will be much easier for consumers to purchase the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT compared to the RTX 50 series. Moore’s Law Is Dead has also provided some exciting details that should leave gamers feeling optimistic.
It’s well-known that the availability of the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 during their launch was quite poor. Even now, over a month post-release, finding these cards at their official MSRPs is nearly impossible. The same goes for the RTX 5070 Ti, which also struggled at launch.
Supply Insights
Luckily, Moore’s Law Is Dead reports that the launch supply for the RX 9070 XT is looking much better, expected to be 3 to 10 times more plentiful than the RTX 5080. However, they do mention that a “decent amount of supply is above MSRP.” Still, the $599 MSRP for the RX 9070 XT is said to be more genuine compared to Nvidia’s pricing for their RTX 50 cards.
While some RX 9070 XTs may be priced higher than $599, if Moore’s Law Is Dead’s information holds true, it should be possible to purchase one at the official starting price.
More Stock for the XT
The leaker has also indicated that there will be a considerably larger supply of the RX 9070 XT compared to the RX 9070. They compare the RX 9070’s supply to that of the RX 6800, which is a less powerful version of the RX 6800 XT. This makes sense, as AMD’s pricing of the RX 9070 just $50 less than the XT suggests they are encouraging gamers to opt for the XT version.
Furthermore, MLID has shared insights about the launch stock for the RTX 5070, which is expected to have similarly poor availability as other RTX 50 models. Reports suggest that AIB pricing for this GPU will be quite unfavorable as well, and unfortunately, the supply situation is not likely to improve in the near future.
In summary, it looks like the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT are in a prime position to capture some much-needed market share. Let’s see if these cards can fulfill AMD’s expectations.
Buy the Gigabyte Radeon RX 7800 XT OC on Amazon
Moore’s Law Is Dead on YouTube, Teaser image: Gigabyte, Boliviainteligente on Unsplash, edited.
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Tags: AMD RDNA 4, RTX 5070, RX 9070 XT
March 5, 2025
Retroid Pocket Classic: A Modern Take on Game Boy Color
Key Takeaways
1. GoRetroid has introduced the Retroid Pocket Classic, a handheld console inspired by the Game Boy Color, available in seven vibrant colors.
2. The device features a vertical display, cross-style d-pad, ABXY buttons, and additional buttons for Start, Select, power, and volume control.
3. Competition is expected with the Anbernic RG35XX series, with a projected price under $100.
4. Anticipated features may include Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity.
5. An official announcement date is pending, with more details expected to be released soon.
GoRetroid, a Chinese company, has become well-known in the world of retro gaming with its handheld consoles under the Retroid brand. Recently, they have introduced their newest device, which has generated a lot of buzz among fans.
Exciting New Design
A teaser posted on X reveals the Retroid Pocket Classic, featuring a design that brings back memories of the Game Boy Color. This new handheld will come in seven vibrant colors, such as purple, pink, teal, and the classic gray often associated with Nintendo. Interestingly, there’s also a yellow option that GoRetroid hints might include a blue back, reminiscent of the Pokémon Special Pikachu Edition of the Game Boy Color.
Features and Layout
The Retroid Pocket Classic is designed with a vertical display, accompanied by a cross-style d-pad and ABXY buttons for gameplay. Additionally, it includes two pill-shaped buttons that are likely for Start and Select, and a dot-shaped button just below the display. A front speaker is also present, along with buttons on the right side presumed to be the power button and volume control. However, the teaser does not reveal the back of the device, leaving the presence of shoulder buttons uncertain.
Competition and Pricing
The Pocket Classic is anticipated to compete against the Anbernic RG35XX handheld series, leading to expectations that its price will be under $100. While specific specifications have not been disclosed, there are hopes that it will include features like Bluetooth and WiFi, unlike the Anbernic RG35XX 2024, which is currently available on Amazon for $59.99.
There is no information yet about the official announcement date, but GoRetroid assures that it will be revealed soon. As the launch date approaches, more information is likely to emerge regarding this exciting new handheld.
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Tags: GoRetroid, handheld console, Retroid Pocket Classic
March 5, 2025
Alienware AW3425DW: 34″ 240Hz OLED Gaming Monitor for $799.99
Key Takeaways
1. The Alienware AW3425DW features a QD-OLED panel from Samsung Display, offering superior color precision compared to IPS and VA panels.
2. It provides 99.3% DCI-P3 color space coverage, a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, and VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black certification.
3. The monitor has a native resolution of 3,400 x 1,440 pixels, a pixel density of 110 PPI, and an 1800R curvature, similar to its predecessor, the AW3423DW.
4. It boasts a 240 Hz refresh rate, a 37% increase over the AW3423DW, and supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia G-Sync, and VESA AdaptiveSync.
5. The design includes adjustable height, swivel, and tilt options, with VESA mounts for third-party stands, and is priced at $799 with availability in the US starting April 29, 2025.
The Alienware AW3425DW has been unveiled as part of a range of new gaming monitors by Dell during the Mobile World Congress 2025 (MWC 2025) in Barcelona. Many of these monitors use IPS or VA panels, like the similarly titled AW3425DWM. In contrast, the AW3425DW employs a QD-OLED panel from Samsung Display, which delivers better color precision than its IPS or VA rivals.
Exceptional Features
The Alienware AW3425DW features an impressive 99.3% coverage of the DCI-P3 color space, paired with a peak brightness of 1,000 nits (3% APL) and VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black certification. It also has a native resolution of 3,400 x 1,440 pixels, a pixel density of 110 PPI, and an 1800R curvature, mirroring the specifications of the prior model, the AW3423DW, which is currently priced at $899 on Amazon.
Enhanced Performance
This model combines its 1440p resolution with a remarkable refresh rate of 240 Hz, offering a 37% enhancement over the AW3423DW. In simpler terms, Alienware’s latest 34-inch OLED monitor is equipped with a Gen 2 QD-OLED panel, while the AW3423DW had a Gen 1 panel. Additionally, the AW3425DW supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Nvidia G-Sync, and VESA AdaptiveSync variable refresh rate technologies, along with a variety of ports.
Adjustable Design
Dell has also incorporated a stand that allows for height, swivel, and tilt adjustments, along with 100 x 100 mm VESA mounts for third-party stands. The Alienware AW3425DW is set to become available in the US starting April 29, 2025, priced at $799. However, Dell has not yet confirmed the release details for other regions.
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Tags: Alienware AW3425DW, Gaming Monitor, QD-OLED Monitor
March 5, 2025
Three New Titles Added to Xbox Game Pass This Week
Key Takeaways
1. Monster Train: A deck-building roguelike game where players protect a hellish train from enemies, featuring strategic card combat and replayable elements.
2. Galacticare: A quirky hospital management game set in space, where players treat alien patients, grow their clinic, and have access to both a story campaign and a sandbox mode.
3. One Lonely Outpost: A sci-fi farming simulator focused on building a colony on an uninhabitable planet, with elements of farming, crafting, exploration, and NPC interactions.
4. Diverse Gameplay: Each game offers unique mechanics and themes, ranging from card battles to hospital management and farming, appealing to different gaming preferences.
5. Visual Styles: The games feature distinct visual designs, with Monster Train’s strategic layout, Galacticare’s whimsical art, and One Lonely Outpost’s vibrant pixelated graphics enhancing the overall experience.
In the first complete week of March, Microsoft will be introducing three new titles to Xbox Game Pass. Here’s a brief look at what gamers can expect from each game.
Monster Train
Monster Train is a deck-building game that falls under the roguelike genre, where players are tasked with protecting a hellish train from heavenly foes. The combat, which revolves around cards, takes place over several levels, with enemies moving from the bottom towards the top, engaging in battles at every stage. Players need to carefully position their units to thwart the invaders before they reach the train’s core on the top floor. Featuring five different clans and roguelike elements that ensure every playthrough is distinct, this game offers a lot of reasons to replay it.
Galacticare
For those who have fond memories of Theme Hospital and enjoy science fiction, Galacticare might be just what you need. This quirky hospital management game allows you to oversee an intergalactic medical facility, where you treat alien patients suffering from strange ailments. Players can progressively grow their clinic, establish specialized treatment areas, and recruit doctors who possess unique and complementary abilities. In addition to a story campaign filled with quirky characters, the game also offers a sandbox mode for a more relaxed, low-pressure gameplay experience.
One Lonely Outpost
One Lonely Outpost is a sci-fi farming simulator that invites players to create a bustling colony on an uninhabitable planet. You can cultivate crops using either natural or synthetic techniques, draw in new settlers, and enhance your community. Besides farming, the game focuses on crafting, exploration, and interactions with non-playable characters (NPCs) for trading and building friendships. Its vibrant, pixelated 2.5D visuals bring a nostalgic retro aesthetic to life.
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Tags: Galacticare, Monster Train, Xbox Game Pass
March 5, 2025
Redmagic Cooler 5: 30W Cooling, Dual-Mode, Smart Features
Key Takeaways
1. Redmagic Cooler 5 launched in China, priced at 199 yuan ($27) with a limited-time deal at 169 yuan ($23).
2. Advanced thermal management with peak cooling power of 30W and a 30% efficiency boost, lowering device temperatures by up to 30°C.
3. Features an aerospace-grade aluminum heat sink, low noise operation, and a seven-blade fan for effective heat dispersion.
4. Dual-mode attachment system with magnetic connection for iPhones and clip-on option for Android devices, ensuring stability during use.
5. Compact design with real-time temperature monitoring, adjustable cooling options, and RGB lighting controlled via the RedMagic app, with limitations for iOS users.
Redmagic has introduced the Cooler 5 in China, following the release of its Pro version last year. The price is set at 199 yuan ($27), but there’s a special deal available for a limited time at 169 yuan ($23). You can find it now on JD.com. Let’s take a look at the main specifications.
Key Features of the Cooler 5
The Cooler 5 is designed with advanced thermal management, providing peak cooling power of 30W, while it operates steadily at 24W. Its custom TEC cooling chip is built to improve heat dissipation, delivering a 30% boost in cooling efficiency compared to the previous model. This allows it to lower device temperatures by up to 30°C, which helps to avoid thermal throttling, ensuring that gaming, streaming, and prolonged use are optimal.
Design and Functionality
This device is equipped with an aerospace-grade aluminum heat sink, which uses a through-type structure for better cooling while keeping noise levels low. A seven-blade high-speed fan creates strong airflow that effectively disperses heat without causing much noise. The unique floating air duct design directs hot air away from the user’s hands, making it more comfortable during long gaming sessions.
Attachment System
The Cooler 5 features a dual-mode attachment system that includes both magnetic absorption and a clip-on option. It connects magnetically to iPhone models from 12 to 16 series, except the iPhone 16e, ensuring a secure and easy fit. For Android phones and other devices, there’s an optional clip-on accessory for universal compatibility. The magnetic connection keeps it stable even during intense gaming, stopping any accidental disconnections.
The RedMagic Cooler 5 has a handy anti-touch switch, which lets users turn it on or off quickly without unintentional interference. It also has real-time temperature monitoring, adjustable cooling options, and lighting settings through the RedMagic companion app. While Android users can manage temperature adjustments, fan speed, and RGB lighting fully, iOS users face some limitations due to system constraints.
Stylish and Compact
With a sleek black and transparent design, the RedMagic Cooler 5 is compact, measuring 69 x 59 x 30mm.
Tags: Cooler 5, Gaming Accessories, Redmagic
March 5, 2025
Samsung Unveils Foldable Handheld Gaming Consoles at MWC 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Innovative Design: The Flex Gaming concept features a 7.2-inch foldable OLED screen that allows for easy portability, similar to a Galaxy Z Flip smartphone.
2. User-Friendly Features: It includes joysticks, D-pads, a home button, and a USB Type-C port, with a unique design that protects the joysticks when folded.
3. Enhanced Visual Experience: Although specific details on resolution and refresh rate are not disclosed, the display quality is expected to match that of Samsung’s premium foldable smartphones.
4. Significant Upgrades: The current model shows major improvements over the previous version presented at CES 2023, focusing on compactness and portability for gaming.
5. Samsung’s Innovative Shift: This move reflects Samsung’s commitment to exploring new markets and addressing real-world needs in the gaming industry.
At MWC 2025, Samsung introduced its latest creation: the Flex Gaming concept. This handheld gaming device boasts a 7.2-inch foldable OLED screen and aims to make a mark in the gaming world as a portable console that’s easy to carry around.
A New Beginning for Handheld Gaming
Right now, gaming consoles like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch are often too bulky, making them hard to transport. Samsung’s Flex Gaming concept seeks to solve this problem by featuring a hinge and a foldable display, allowing it to fold akin to a Galaxy Z Flip smartphone.
Unique Features and Design
The Flex Gaming console is equipped with joysticks and D-pads on either side of the screen, featuring a clever cavity design that neatly holds the joysticks when the device is folded. Additionally, it includes a home button, a button labeled with an ‘N’, as well as a USB Type-C port located at the bottom. The current prototype showcases a bright lime green-yellow hue that gives the device a lively and modern feel.
Samsung has yet to disclose specifics regarding resolution, refresh rate, or brightness, but the foldable screen is anticipated to be on par with the displays found in Samsung’s foldable smartphones. If this is the case, it will provide gamers with a truly engaging visual experience.
Major Improvements Over Previous Models
This year’s Flex Gaming concept represents a notable advancement from the version presented at CES 2023, which had a flip-open display instead of a foldable one. The updated design is more functional and meets the rising need for compact, easily portable gaming gadgets.
It’s quite intriguing to see Samsung dedicating time and resources to venture into areas outside its usual business while addressing real-life challenges.
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Tags: Flex Gaming, handheld gaming, Samsung
March 5, 2025
GTA 5 PC Players Face Account Migration Issues and Missing Features
Key Takeaways
1. GTA 5 Enhanced is now available on PC with features like ray tracing and faster loading times, but upgrade issues persist for many players.
2. Existing players on Epic Games or Steam can upgrade for free, but migration of saved files is causing problems.
3. Players with flagged accounts from unauthorized hacks cannot transfer their saves, leading to frustration.
4. Rockstar’s servers are overwhelmed, impacting migration and preventing some players from upgrading.
5. Key features like text chat are missing at launch, and players are having difficulty finding the in-game benchmark tool.
GTA 5 Enhanced is now available on PC, featuring enhancements like ray tracing and quicker loading times. Even though Rockstar tried to make the upgrade easy, not everything is going as planned. Many gamers are finding it hard to move their saves from GTA V and GTA Online to this new version. Additionally, players are noticing some downsides, such as the absence of text chat.
Free Upgrade for Existing Players
Gamers who have GTA 5 in their Epic Games or Steam libraries can upgrade to GTA 5 Enhanced without any fee. Naturally, lots of players who have invested countless hours into the game are not keen on starting from scratch. To help with this, there’s a feature in the GTA 5 Legacy pause menu that lets you upload your saved files.
Migration Issues Arise
Sadly, quite a few players are running into error messages when they try to start the migration process. One reason for this is that any account with unauthorized hacks cannot transfer. Even if a player has removed those mods, their accounts still remain flagged. Users on Reddit who insist they never cheated are expressing their frustrations.
Server Strain and Missing Features
Not all problems with migration stem from flagged accounts. Rockstar’s servers are overwhelmed due to the high demand for GTA 5 Enhanced. Some players who had previously accessed GTA 5 for free through Epic Games are finding they can’t upgrade without paying extra.
Once players finally get to log into GTA 5 Enhanced, they face some significant omissions. Text chat, a beloved method for introverted PC gamers to connect, isn’t available at launch. Furthermore, while most players find the performance acceptable, many are struggling to locate the in-game benchmark tool.
Rockstar has begun to address some of these issues. The company is requesting players to be patient and assures that all eligible users should be able to download GTA 5 Enhanced soon. It is hoped that other gamers with unjustly flagged accounts can find solutions besides starting over.
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Tags: GTA 5 Enhanced, Rockstar Games, save transfer issues
March 5, 2025
Sony PS5 Beta Program Streamlines Game and Firmware Testing
Key Takeaways
1. Centralized Beta Registration: Players will register once on the PlayStation Beta website for all upcoming beta programs.
2. Wide Application: The new system includes beta tests for PlayStation 5 games, PC titles from Sony, and early access to new features in the PlayStation mobile app and PS5 OS.
3. Invitation Process: Registering does not guarantee an invitation; players can indicate interest in specific games and choose whether to participate if invited.
4. Voluntary Participation: Joining the beta program is free and voluntary, with no obligation for participants.
5. Feedback and Reversion: Testers are encouraged to provide feedback and report issues; they can revert to the previous stable firmware version if needed.
Sony has unveiled a new beta program for the PlayStation 5 through the PlayStation Blog, aiming to streamline all upcoming beta programs. Previously, users had to sign up separately for each game’s beta testing and system updates. Going forward, participants will only need to register once on the official PlayStation Beta website.
Centralized Registration for Betas
This new system will establish a single hub where gamers can show their interest in all beta tests and sign up easily. This applies not just to PlayStation 5 titles but also to games on PC from Sony, as well as early access to new features in the PlayStation mobile app and the PS5 operating system. Joining the beta program is free; the only requirement is an active PlayStation account that hasn’t had any issues in the past.
Invitation Process and Feedback
As is common with beta programs, there’s no guarantee that those who register will receive an invitation to test various games. Gamers can indicate which games they’re interested in, and upon receiving an invite, they can choose whether to participate. Joining the beta is entirely voluntary, free, and without obligation in all situations.
Sony encourages beta testers to give feedback on the games they try out and to report any bugs or performance issues so that these can be addressed before the official release. For those testing a beta version of a firmware update for the PlayStation 5, there’s an option to revert back to the previous stable version at any moment if the beta version has serious errors.
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Tags: Beta Program, PlayStation 5, sony
March 5, 2025
Nacon RIG 900 Max HS: Wireless PS5 & PC Gaming Headset with Charger
Key Takeaways
1. The RIG 900 Max HS is officially licensed for PlayStation, compatible with PS5 and PS4, and can also be used with PCs.
2. It features a 2.4 GHz wireless dongle for low latency and Bluetooth support for easy switching between devices.
3. Users can customize settings through Nacon’s apps for iOS and Android, including equalizer settings and microphone sensitivity.
4. The headset includes noise reduction technology, a battery life of up to 60 hours, and a charging dock.
5. It has 40mm drivers covering a frequency range of 20Hz to 20,000Hz, with physical volume controls and a detachable, foldable microphone.
Nacon has unveiled its latest wireless headset, the RIG 900 Max HS. This new model stands apart from the already available Nacon RIG 900 Max HX, primarily due to its official licensing for PlayStation. With this licensing, the wireless adapter that comes with it is compatible with Sony’s PlayStation 5 and PS4 consoles. Additionally, the headset can also be used with PCs, making it quite versatile for gamers.
Wireless Connectivity
The wireless dongle operates on a 2.4 GHz frequency, ensuring low latency, an important feature for competitive gamers. Besides, it comes with Bluetooth support, enabling easy transitions between gaming consoles, smartphones, and other gadgets. This feature is useful for making phone calls or enjoying music while not gaming.
Customization Features
Nacon promotes its apps for iOS and Android, giving users the ability to tweak equalizer settings and modify microphone sensitivity. Their noise reduction tech is designed to cut out annoying background sounds, allowing for clearer communication. Moreover, the RIG 900 Max HS boasts an impressive battery life of up to 60 hours, and the included dock serves as a charging station for the wireless headset.
Audio Performance
The headset features 40mm drivers that cover a frequency range from 20Hz to 20,000Hz. Users can adjust the volume with physical buttons, and the microphone is detachable, foldable, and has a mute function. While the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS isn’t yet available for order on the official US store, it can be purchased in Europe for a suggested retail price of €250.
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Tags: Nacon RIG 900 Max HS, PlayStation compatible, wireless gaming headset