Category: Gaming

  • Death Stranding 2 Playtest Reviews Raise Concerns for Hideo Kojima

    Death Stranding 2 Playtest Reviews Raise Concerns for Hideo Kojima

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hideo Kojima aims for unique experiences in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, seeking to spark debate despite positive initial feedback from playtesters.
    2. Playtests are essential for identifying bugs and gauging audience reaction; more testers are enjoying the sequel compared to the original.
    3. The first Death Stranding received mixed reactions, with criticisms focused on slow gameplay and long periods without action.
    4. Early previews of Death Stranding 2 suggest improved gameplay, including more exciting elements and a wider variety of vehicles.
    5. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to release on June 24th as a PS5 exclusive.


    Publishers are constantly searching for games that can attract a wide audience. In contrast, Hideo Kojima has focused on different goals while creating Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. In a recent interview with Edge Magazine, which was summarized by Video Game Chronicle, Kojima shared that playtesters are reacting to the sequel in a more positive manner. Unlike the first Death Stranding, which received mixed reactions, many testers are now praising this follow-up. Interestingly, Kojima expressed a desire for the early reviews of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach to be more critical.

    Purpose of Playtests

    Playtests are crucial for spotting bugs and understanding how a broader audience might feel about a game. In the interview, Kojima mentioned that only four out of ten players liked the original Death Stranding. He didn’t provide specific numbers, but he stated that significantly more testers are enjoying Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. This positive feedback could be good news for Sony, but Kojima’s intent is to create a game that stirs up more debate. He aims to deliver unique experiences, even if some gamers find the gameplay or atmosphere unappealing.

    Mixed Reactions to the First Game

    Despite some concerns, Death Stranding had a solid average review score of 82 on Metacritic. However, critics and players who disagreed with the general opinion voiced strong reactions. A frequent criticism was the lengthy periods without any significant events. Early previews of Death Stranding 2 suggest that the gameplay is now more exciting. Furthermore, instead of just walking around, players will have access to a broader array of vehicles.

    It’s unlikely that Sony shares Kojima’s deep concern about the overwhelmingly positive feedback on his new project. Even if the reviews for Death Stranding 2 turn out to be more mixed, the first game was a commercial hit, drawing in over 20 million players. Strong acclaim will likely motivate more gamers to dive into Kojima’s intriguing yet fulfilling universe.

    Upcoming Release Date

    Initially planned as a PS5 exclusive, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is scheduled to release on June 24th.

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  • Asus Launches ROG Strix XG32UCWG: 480Hz OLED with TrueBlack Glossy

    Asus Launches ROG Strix XG32UCWG: 480Hz OLED with TrueBlack Glossy

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus is launching the ROG Strix XG32UCG and adding the ROG Strix XG32UCWG to its 32-inch gaming monitor lineup.
    2. The ROG Strix XG32UCWG features a new ‘TrueBlack Glossy’ coating for a clear display experience.
    3. It includes a WOLED display with native 4K resolution and a refresh rate of 240 Hz.
    4. The monitor can switch to a 1080p setting, allowing a refresh rate of up to 480 Hz using LG’s Dual Mode technology.
    5. It boasts a peak brightness of 1,300 nits and a 0.03 ms GtG response time, though pricing and availability are not yet announced.


    Asus is set to launch the ROG Strix XG32UCG soon, but they are also adding to their 32-inch gaming monitor lineup with the new ROG Strix XG32UCWG. Alongside this model, there is also the ROG Strix XG32UCWMG, about which we have provided detailed information in another article.

    Innovative Display Features

    The ROG Strix XG32UCWG showcases Asus’ latest effort to introduce a genuine glossy finish into the OLED monitor sector. While OLED TVs have traditionally featured glossy surfaces, brands like LG and Samsung have favored matte or ‘semi-glossy’ finishes for their gaming monitors, including last year’s ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM, currently priced at $979.99 on Amazon. Asus claims that its new ‘TrueBlack Glossy’ coating offers a ‘zero-haze’ experience that surpasses previous glossy WOLED models like the ROG Strix XG27AQDMG.

    Technical Specifications

    To enhance the effectiveness of this TrueBlack Glossy coating, Asus has equipped the monitor with a WOLED display that supports native 4K resolution and a refresh rate of 240 Hz. Utilizing LG’s Dual Mode technology, the monitor can easily switch to a 1080p setting, allowing it to double its refresh rate to an impressive 480 Hz when necessary. Although pricing and availability have yet to be disclosed by Asus, they have shared that the ROG Strix XG32UCWG can reach peak brightness of 1,300 nits and features a 0.03 ms GtG response time, along with the following ports:

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  • Asus ROG Strix XG32UCWMG: 4K OLED Gaming Monitor with 165Hz & 330Hz

    Asus ROG Strix XG32UCWMG: 4K OLED Gaming Monitor with 165Hz & 330Hz

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus launched the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG, a 27-inch monitor with a 240 Hz QD-OLED display and native 4K resolution, priced at $649.99.
    2. The XG27UCDMG builds on the existing XG27AQDMG, which features a 1440p resolution.
    3. Asus also introduced the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG and XG32UCWG, with the former being a 32-inch monitor that supports LG’s Dual Mode technology for flexible refresh rates and resolutions.
    4. The XG32UCWMG can operate at 4K 165 Hz or 1080p 330 Hz, and features Asus’ Aspect Ratio Control for customizable display sizes.
    5. The XG32UCWMG includes advanced connectivity options and a peak brightness of 1,300 nits, but pricing and availability details are still pending.


    Asus has launched the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG worldwide, featuring a 240 Hz QD-OLED display that measures 27 inches diagonally. This new model builds on the ROG Strix XG27AQDMG, which is currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon. While both monitors share the same refresh rate of 240 Hz, the XG27UCDMG offers a native 4K resolution, unlike the 1440p resolution of the XG27AQDMG.

    Expanding the ROG Strix Series

    In addition to the XG27UCDMG, Asus has also introduced the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG, along with the even more advanced ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWG. The XG32UCWMG measures 32 inches diagonally and features a WOLED panel made by LG Display. This new monitor supports LG’s Dual Mode technology, allowing it to handle two combinations of refresh rates and resolutions instead of just one.

    Versatile Performance Options

    Specifically, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG can function at 4K resolution with a refresh rate of 165 Hz, or switch to 1080p at 330 Hz when needed. Additionally, users can limit the panel size using Asus’ Aspect Ratio Control to create a 24.5-inch or 27-inch display. One of the standout aspects of the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG is its ‘TrueBlack Glossy’ coating, which is an upgrade on the glossy finish of the XG27AQDMG. Asus describes this coating as:

    The TrueBlack Glossy film combines a zero-haze optical layer with a sophisticated anti-reflective stack. The zero-haze layer preserves black tones in any lighting condition, ensuring that the monitor can exhibit deep blacks, even in well-lit spaces. For gamers who want excellent image quality throughout the day, these monitors are a fantastic choice.

    Connectivity and Brightness Features

    The new monitor will come equipped with one DisplayPort 1.4 port, two HDMI 2.1 ports, as well as a pair of USB Type-A ports and a USB Type-C port that offers 15 W charging and DisplayPort Alt Mode support. Reportedly, the ROG Strix OLED XG32UCWMG boasts a peak brightness of up to 1,300 nits and is certified with VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black. However, Asus has yet to disclose the pricing or availability of this monitor.

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  • GTA 6 Delay Could Cut 700,000 PS5 and Xbox Sales, Analysts Warn

    GTA 6 Delay Could Cut 700,000 PS5 and Xbox Sales, Analysts Warn

    Key Takeaways

    1. The delay of GTA 6 to May 2026 is expected to negatively impact PS5 and Xbox Series X/S sales, with an estimated 700,000 fewer units sold this year.
    2. Analysts predict a drop of 21 million game sales for PlayStation and Xbox, leading to a potential revenue decrease of $2.7 billion in the console market.
    3. Consumers may shift their preferences towards the Nintendo Switch 2, especially during the upcoming Christmas season, as they move away from PS5 and Xbox consoles.
    4. Following the delay announcement, shares of Take-Two Interactive fell by 15%, prompting a statement from the CEO to reassure investors.
    5. Despite the delay, excitement for GTA 6 remains high, as evidenced by the rapid popularity of its new trailer, while a former developer suggests further delays are unlikely.


    The recent news regarding the delay of GTA 6 has left fans feeling not just disappointed but also had a negative impact on the entire gaming industry. This situation has prompted other developers to reconsider their plans for game releases, and analysts are now predicting a downturn in sales for PS and Xbox consoles this year. According to a data firm, approximately 700,000 fewer units of PS5 and Xbox Series consoles are expected to be sold due to this delay.

    Significant Impact on Sales

    This analysis comes from Ampere Analysis, represented by analyst Piers Harding-Rolls. They predict that the postponement of GTA 6 to May 2026 will greatly affect sales of the PS5 and Xbox Series X/S this year. Furthermore, game sales for both PlayStation and Xbox are anticipated to drop by 21 million units. Ampere also forecasts that the console market could see a revenue decrease of $2.7 billion this year.

    Shift in Consumer Preferences

    The firm further notes that the delay of GTA 6 may lead to an increase in sales for the Nintendo Switch 2 during the upcoming Christmas season. As consumers may turn away from the PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, they might be more inclined to purchase the Switch 2, which is often viewed as a supplementary device by PS5 owners. “In our consumer data, Switch is often seen as a second device for owners of PlayStation 5. The overlap is quite significant. They are in the same competitive sphere, even if the content is not exactly the same,” Harding-Rolls allegedly stated.

    Market Reactions

    Following the announcement of the delay, it was reported that shares of Take-Two Interactive fell by 15%, prompting the CEO to release a statement to reassure shareholders. A new trailer for the game was also launched, which quickly became the most viewed video across multiple platforms, indicating that excitement for the game remains high. Meanwhile, a former developer from Rockstar mentioned that it’s unlikely there will be further delays for GTA 6, contrasting with a recent Bloomberg report that suggested another delay is quite possible.

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  • Epic Games Store Reveals May 2025 Free Mystery Game Clue from Konami

    Epic Games Store Reveals May 2025 Free Mystery Game Clue from Konami

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store has refreshed its free game offerings, including a major triple-A game and an indie title.
    2. Next week’s giveaways will feature two additional games, but details on discounted titles are limited.
    3. Konami has leaked that the game “Deliver At All Costs” will be available for free starting May 22.
    4. The timing of the free game release coincides with the launch of Konami’s new action game set in the 1950s.
    5. Pricing information is subject to change, and the article advises caution regarding discounted prices.


    The Epic Games Store has recently refreshed its free game offerings for the week on PC. To the surprise of some gamers, the store has chosen to provide a major triple-A game alongside another indie title. For complete information on this week’s giveaway, please refer to our special article.

    Upcoming Discounts and Mystery Games

    Epic Games hasn’t shared much information about the discounted titles for next week. Instead, the store has returned to its Mystery Game program, a strategy it employed last week as well. Currently, it has only confirmed that next week’s giveaway will feature two more games.

    A Sneak Peek at Next Week’s Game

    Interestingly, it appears that Konami has leaked one of the games for next week before the official announcement. Although Epic Games hasn’t confirmed this, Konami stated back in March that Deliver At All Costs will be available for free download from Epic Games for a week starting May 22. This date is significant as it marks the launch of Konami’s upcoming action game set in the 1950s, coinciding with the timing of Epic Games’ next giveaway. Additionally, the game is also set to be released on Xbox Series and PlayStation 5 consoles (currently priced at $499 on Amazon) next week.

    Important Note on Pricing

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The discounted prices or deals mentioned here were accurate at the time of writing and could be subject to time limits or limited stock.

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  • Miyoo Mini Flip: Compact Clamshell Handheld for Gaming Enthusiasts

    Miyoo Mini Flip: Compact Clamshell Handheld for Gaming Enthusiasts

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Miyoo Flip faced early issues, including hinge problems, despite initial sales success and development over nearly a year.
    2. A new version, the Miyoo Mini Flip, is expected to be released, which is significantly smaller than the current Miyoo Flip.
    3. The Mini Flip will likely compete with other devices like the Anbernic RG34XX SP and Powkiddy V90S.
    4. It is rumored to feature a 2.8-inch screen with a 640 x 480 resolution and a 2,000 mAh battery.
    5. There is potential for improved capabilities, such as Wi-Fi, indicating a possibility of a different chipset than the one used in previous models.


    It can be said that the Miyoo Flip has not had the best beginning. After nearly a year of development, the device seemed to sell quite well at first. Marketed as a rival to the RG35XX SP (currently priced at $78.98 on Amazon) with its dual joysticks, reports soon started to surface about a Miyoo Flip V2 being in the works to enhance the device’s hinge functionality. Sadly, some units of the Miyoo Flip V2 are also showing hinge problems.

    New Developments on the Horizon

    In spite of this, fresh news regarding a completely new Miyoo clamshell has appeared online. As depicted in the image below, this new version is significantly smaller than the current Miyoo Flip. It is anticipated to be released as the Miyoo Mini Flip, though the exact launch date is still uncertain at this point. Nevertheless, the Mini Flip will likely be compared not only to the Miyoo Flip but also to the Anbernic RG34XX SP and Powkiddy V90S.

    Specifications and Features

    From the visuals that have been shared so far, it appears that the Miyoo Mini Flip is equipped with a roughly 2.8-inch screen, similar to the Miyoo A30 and Miyoo Mini V4 that came before it. In this regard, the Mini Flip is rumored to carry the same hardware as the latter, suggesting a 640 x 480-pixel display backed by a 2,000 mAh battery. Unfortunately, it is also expected to bring back the Sigmastar SSD202D (2x ARM Cortex-A7) chipset along with 128 MB of DDR3 RAM. However, the indication that the Mini Flip might have Wi-Fi capability hints that a different chipset could potentially be included.

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  • Three S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Remasters Launch Next Week – Free for Players

    Three S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Remasters Launch Next Week – Free for Players

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date and Platforms: S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy – Enhanced Edition will be available on May 20, 2025, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.

    2. Free Remasters for Existing Owners: Players who already own the original S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games will receive the remastered versions at no extra cost.

    3. Unique Gameplay Experience: The series combines shooting, role-playing, and survival elements in a dangerous open-world setting inspired by the Chernobyl exclusion zone.

    4. Modernized Graphics and Features: The remastered editions feature upgraded visuals, improved controls, and better overall gameplay handling while maintaining the original essence.

    5. Enhanced Features: The remasters include complete controller support, Steam Deck compatibility, and PS5 DualSense features, along with fixed bugs and quality-of-life improvements.


    One of the most immersive shooting games is returning on May 20, 2025. The S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Legends of the Zone Trilogy – Enhanced Edition is bringing back the beloved games Shadow of Chornobyl, Clear Sky, and Call of Pripyat in a fully updated format, available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The great news is that anyone who already has the original titles will receive the remastered versions without any additional charges. Moreover, the newly updated editions might attract new players interested in this iconic series.

    A Unique Gaming Experience

    The S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series combines shooting, role-playing, and survival gameplay in a vast open-world environment. Players take on the role of stalkers – who are mercenaries, scavengers, and survivalists – as they explore the perilous exclusion zone surrounding Chernobyl. This area is not only highly radioactive but is also filled with bizarre anomalies and mutated creatures.

    Thrilling and Unpredictable Gameplay

    What makes the gameplay engaging is its unpredictable nature. Combat is extremely fast-paced, ammunition is scarce, and any encounter with bandits, soldiers, or mutated beasts can be deadly. A single mistake can lead to starting over from a manual or auto-save, risking hours of hard work. Players must gather their own equipment, fix damaged weapons, search for rare artifacts, and interact with various factions, each with its own motives.

    Modernized Yet Authentic

    The remastered versions elevate the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. classics to contemporary technical standards while maintaining their core essence. Players can look forward to upgraded textures, revamped 3D models, more lifelike skyboxes, improved water effects, and enhanced lighting and weather dynamics, all leading to a remarkable visual improvement. Cut-scenes have been re-rendered in 4K, the field of view for weapons has been adjusted, and the entire user interface and heads-up display have been revamped to remain faithful to the original style. The update also brings better controls and a variety of quality-of-life enhancements.

    Enhanced Features and Accessibility

    The remasters now offer complete controller support, compatibility with Steam Deck and Steam Workshop, along with integrated achievements. On PS5, the games utilize DualSense features such as adaptive triggers and built-in speakers. Although the main gameplay remains the same and no new content has been introduced, numerous bugs have been fixed, and overall gameplay handling has improved significantly.

    Anyone who already owns one of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. games will receive the corresponding remaster for free on May 20 – available on PC (Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store) as well as on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S. New players can purchase the complete remastered trilogy for $40 or buy each individual game for about $20.

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  • Tenku Luna: New Japanese Handheld with Dual USB4 and 120Hz Display

    Tenku Luna: New Japanese Handheld with Dual USB4 and 120Hz Display

    Key Takeaways

    1. The gaming handheld market is growing rapidly, with Anbernic leading the way through frequent new releases like the RG557.
    2. A new Japanese brand, Tenku, is entering the market with its model, the Tenku Luna, which is set to launch soon.
    3. The Tenku Luna features a 7-inch display with 1080p resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, similar to Asus gaming handhelds.
    4. It is equipped with the older Ryzen 7 7840U processor, despite AMD having newer models available.
    5. Unique features of the Tenku Luna include a 50 Wh battery and two USB4 ports, with pricing and availability to be announced on May 17.


    The gaming handheld market has seen a significant influx of devices in recent years. Anbernic has played a key role in this growth, thanks to its continuous stream of new releases, culminating with the RG557 (curr. $339.99 on Amazon) launched last month. Nonetheless, other brands are still attempting to break into this competitive arena.

    A New Japanese Brand Enters

    In this context, a fresh model, touted as the first from a Japanese manufacturer, is set to hit the market shortly. The Tenku Luna is scheduled for a full launch later this week; however, it seems to offer very little innovation. It appears that Tenku has taken inspiration from the Asus ROG Ally, rather than trying to forge its own path.

    Specifications and Features

    For instance, the Tenku Luna boasts a 7-inch display with 1080p resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, mirroring the specs of Asus’ gaming handhelds. Interestingly, Tenku has chosen to equip their device with the older Ryzen 7 7840U, which AMD has since replaced with the Ryzen 7 8840U, moving on to even newer models like the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.

    What Makes It Unique?

    However, the Tenku Luna isn’t just a clone of the ROG Ally. The device features a 50 Wh battery and two USB4 ports—one located on the top and another on the bottom of the device. At this moment, specific pricing and availability details are still not revealed; Tenku plans to disclose all this information on May 17 at 02:00 UTC.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Ace: New Portable Gaming Handheld for Switch Emulation

    Ayaneo Pocket Ace: New Portable Gaming Handheld for Switch Emulation

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Ayaneo Pocket Ace is available for pre-order on Indiegogo for around $339, excluding import taxes and duties.
    2. Droix is offering the Pocket Ace through its websites in the UK and US, with shipping starting on July 11.
    3. The base model features slower flash storage but uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chip.
    4. All versions of the Pocket Ace have a 6,000 mAh battery and a 4.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels.
    5. Droix provides better customer support and warranty options compared to crowdfunding platforms.


    The Ayaneo Pocket Ace has recently been launched on the crowdfunding site Indiegogo, and it can be ordered for around $339. Those familiar with handheld gaming devices know that this price does not include import taxes and duties, which many companies try to navigate with varying levels of success.

    Alternative Purchasing Options

    For individuals who are hesitant or prefer not to use crowdfunding platforms, there are third-party retailers like Droix that provide better customer support and warranty choices. In this regard, Droix has begun selling the Pocket Ace through its websites in the UK and US, with shipments expected to start this summer. Currently, Droix aims to kick off shipping for the Pocket Ace on July 11, at the following price points:

    Specifications and Features

    The base model comes with slower flash storage, but it uses the same Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chip found in the bigger Pocket S (currently priced at $589.99 on Amazon) and has a 6,000 mAh battery like the other models. Additionally, all versions boast a 4.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels and a peak brightness of 550 nits. For more details, you can check out the product listings on Droix’s UK and US websites.

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  • PlayStation Portal Handheld Gets Praise as Strong Seller by Sony CEO

    PlayStation Portal Handheld Gets Praise as Strong Seller by Sony CEO

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation Portal is a specialized accessory for PS Remote Play, not a standalone console, but it’s reportedly selling well despite initial doubts.
    2. Sony’s gaming console sales, including the PS5, are declining, while the portable gaming market is growing, contributing to the Portal’s appeal.
    3. Approximately 980,000 PlayStation Portals are estimated to have been sold among PS5 owners by the end of 2024, showing higher-than-expected demand.
    4. The Portal could generate more revenue for Sony, especially as the PS6 release is not expected until 2027 or 2028.
    5. Future developments may include a PS6 handheld that runs PS5 games natively, enhancing Sony’s presence in the portable gaming market.


    When the PlayStation Portal first launched, it got some flak for being a specialized product focused on PS Remote Play. Instead of being a standalone console, it was introduced as an accessory that streamed games from the PS5. Despite the initial doubts, Sony’s President and CEO Hiroki Totoki recently hinted that it’s selling well. As the gaming company continues to enhance the Portal, it will stay a key focus for them.

    Difficult to Classify

    The PlayStation Portal remote player doesn’t actually run games from its own storage, making it hard to define. Unfortunately, Sony hasn’t shared exact revenue figures like they do for their regular consoles. They did announce that the PS5 has sold 77.8 million units, but it’s clear that sales growth has slowed. Data from Circana shows that console sales from Sony, Nintendo, and Microsoft are on the decline. However, the portable gaming market is on the rise, which might be why the Portal is appealing to some.

    Rising Popularity

    Circana has also been keeping an eye on U.S. statistics that indicate the Portal’s increasing appeal. By the end of 2024, the company reported that four percent of PS5 owners have bought the device. With 24.54 million PS5s sold that same year, this suggests that around 980,000 Portals have likely been purchased by gamers. Although most PlayStation users don’t own the accessory, it has surpassed the expectations of analyst Mat Piscatella.

    The PlayStation Portal could bring in more revenue for Sony in the coming years. The PS6 might not hit the market until 2027 or 2028. Plus, the handheld is starting to make a name for itself in the cloud gaming space. Currently in beta, PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers can stream select games from the service’s library without needing a PS5. Still, the Portal remains a comfortable way to enjoy console gaming anywhere at home.

    Future Prospects

    Given current market trends, Sony might also focus on launching the speculated PS6 gaming handheld. This portable console is expected to run PS5 games natively, although with some performance trade-offs.

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