Category: Gaming

  • Mortal Kombat 1 Definitive Edition for $70: All DLCs & Movie Skins

    Mortal Kombat 1 Definitive Edition for $70: All DLCs & Movie Skins

    Key Takeaways

    1. Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition includes the base game, Khaos Reigns Expansion, Kombat Packs, pre-order bonuses, and various skins and unlocks.
    2. The game will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, with prices set at $69.99 (PS5, Xbox, PC) and $59.99 (Nintendo Switch).
    3. PC players can purchase the game through the Epic Game Store and Steam; a physical version has not been confirmed.
    4. An upgrade option for existing players costs $59.99, leading to complaints about its high price and lack of future support for the original game.
    5. The release of the Definitive Edition marks the end of support for the original Mortal Kombat 1, which launched in September 2023.

    NetherRealm Studios has revealed the Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition. This updated edition of the well-known fighting game will be available for consoles and PC, making it a smart buy for anyone who hasn’t played it yet.

    What’s Included

    Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition comes with the base game, the Khaos Reigns Expansion Story Content, Kombat Pack 1 and Kombat Pack 2, the Shang Tsung pre-order bonus, six kameo fighters, five skins inspired by the Mortal Kombat 2 movie, the Tournament Liu Kang Skin, six Premier Skins, a 1250 Dragon Krystal Pack, and the Kameo Unlock Pack along with an instant unlock for Havik.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can find Mortal Kombat 1: Definitive Edition on platforms like Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5 (listed on Amazon for $499), Nintendo Switch, and PC. The game is priced at $69.99 across all platforms, except for the Nintendo Switch where it’s priced at $59.99 on the eShop. For PC players, the game will be available on both the Epic Game Store and Steam. However, NetherRealm Studios hasn’t confirmed if there will be a physical version, so don’t expect one anytime soon.

    Upgrade Options

    There’s also an upgrade option for players who already own the base game (only on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC), but it costs $59.99, which many consider quite steep. Fans are upset not just about the high price, but also that the release of the definitive edition signifies the end of support for the game that launched in September 2023, which was supposed to receive a new story expansion.

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  • Nobara 42: Enhanced SteamOS Alternative with New Features

    Nobara 42: Enhanced SteamOS Alternative with New Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nobara 42 replaces Firefox with Brave as the default web browser, implementing policies to limit certain features criticized by the FOSS community.
    2. A new Flatpak store called Flatpost is introduced to manage Flatpak applications and permissions, enhancing software installation usability.
    3. The distribution includes a new driver manager for easy switching between various GPU drivers, including Nvidia options.
    4. Nobara has transitioned to a rolling release model, providing regular updates, and it comes with pre-installed desktop environments KDE 6.3.4 and Gnome 48.
    5. Nobara Linux aims to be user-friendly and ready to use out of the box, with features like a handheld/HTPC mode for devices like the Lenovo Legion Go.

    Nobara Linux is a gaming-centered Linux distribution built on Fedora. Its main developer, GloriousEggroll, is also known for creating Proton-GE, a modified version of Valve’s Proton compatibility layer. On May 13, GloriousEggroll shared the news about Nobara 42, which is an update to Nobara 41 that includes several important modifications to the default setup, software, and drivers.

    Significant Changes in Browsing

    One major update in Nobara 42 is the shift from Firefox to Brave as the default web browser. This decision was made due to a video issue found in the current version of Firefox and other browsers that rely on it. With the switch to Brave, the Nobara team has put in place a special policy that turns off certain Brave features often criticized by the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) community, such as Brave Rewards, Brave Wallet, Brave VPN, and AI Chat. Additionally, Tor is turned off by default and the DNS Over HTTPS setting is set to automatic. These adjustments aim to create a less intrusive Brave browsing experience, but users can easily change or remove the policy file if they want to revert to the original settings, as noted in the update log.

    New Features to Enhance Usability

    Along with the new default browser, GE has introduced Flatpost, their own Flatpak store that can manage Flatpak applications and repositories, including permission management—something usually found in apps like Flatseal or Warehouse. Flatpost comes pre-enabled in Nobara 42, and Flatpaks are the recommended method for software installation. However, users still have the option to use app images or install other app stores if they prefer to.

    Under-the-Hood Improvements

    Nobara 42 also includes some less visible upgrades, particularly a new driver manager that allows users to switch between various GPU drivers easily. This includes both open-source and closed-source versions of Nvidia’s drivers, and users can select from production, beta, or new feature versions.

    As of Nobara 41, the Nobara Project has transitioned to a rolling release model, ensuring that updates are provided more regularly and promptly. Nobara 42 comes with two desktop environments pre-installed: KDE 6.3.4 and Gnome 48. There are multiple ISOs available for different scenarios, including versions with Nvidia drivers already installed and an HTPC ISO designed to mimic SteamOS. The Nvidia driver at the time of Nobara 42’s release is 570.144, while the Mesa version stands at 25.1.0, and the Kernel is the latest stable version, 6.14.6.

    A User-Friendly Distribution

    Nobara Linux is designed to be a straightforward, user-friendly distribution that is mostly ready to use straight out of the box. The updates in Nobara 42 seem to advance this aim, particularly with the new store and enhanced driver management features. Additionally, it includes a handy handheld/HTPC mode, making it a solid alternative to Windows for devices like the Lenovo Legion Go (currently priced at $649.99 on Amazon).

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    Nobara 42: Enhanced SteamOS Alternative with New Features
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 May Feature 5nm Chip for Enhanced Performance

    Nintendo Switch 2 May Feature 5nm Chip for Enhanced Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nvidia Tegra T239 chip for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 uses standard Arm CPU cores and an Ampere-based GPU, manufactured on Samsung’s older 8 nm process.
    2. Nintendo opted for the more affordable 8 nm manufacturing process instead of the advanced 5 nm, which may lead to long-term performance drawbacks.
    3. The pricing strategy for the Switch 2 could hinge on its cost-saving chip decision, with a potential price point of $349 instead of $449.
    4. Future collaborations between Nintendo and Samsung could involve a performance-enhanced version of the Switch 2, possibly an OLED model.
    5. Nintendo’s choice of chip manufacturing may influence other companies like AMD to consider Samsung nodes, though AMD currently has a strong partnership with TSMC.

    An earlier leak provided a detailed view of the Nvidia Tegra T239 chip that powers the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. This chip incorporates standard Arm CPU cores and features a GPU based on Nvidia’s Ampere architecture. Additionally, it has been confirmed that the chip will be produced using Samsung Foundry’s older 8 nm (8N) process. A recent article from South Korean news source Chosun offers more insights into Nintendo’s future.

    Nintendo’s Chip Decisions

    According to prior leaks, the Tegra T239 for the Nintendo Switch 2 was originally intended to be manufactured on Samsung’s more advanced 5 nm process. However, Nintendo chose to go with the DUV-based 8 nm node since it was more affordable. Utilizing the established technology for Nvidia Ampere (RTX 30 series) also made GPU design easier. Nevertheless, if the recent performance simulations for the Switch 2 hold true, the cost-saving decision may have some long-term drawbacks for Nintendo. This choice could be justified if the Switch 2 were priced at $349 instead of $449.

    Future Collaborations

    The report mentions that Nintendo might work with Samsung again down the line. The previously discussed 5 nm node could potentially be utilized for a “performance-enhanced version of the Switch 2.” This upgraded model might be an OLED edition that brings much-needed additional power. By current gaming console standards, the Tegra T239 is already lagging behind, and this gap is likely to widen as future games will require more robust hardware.

    Industry Impact

    It appears that Nintendo’s collaboration could prompt other handheld chip manufacturers, like AMD, to consider Samsung nodes for their future products. However, this is not expected to happen anytime soon, as AMD maintains a strong partnership with TSMC and has managed to secure valuable fabrication space on the highly sought-after N2X node for its Zen 6 architecture.

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  • Valve Confirms No Steam Data Breach, Accounts Remain Secure

    Valve Confirms No Steam Data Breach, Accounts Remain Secure

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve investigated rumors of a data breach involving 89 million Steam accounts and found that the leaked data only included older one-time codes and phone numbers, with no links to account details or personal information.

    2. The company assured users that the leaked older text messages cannot compromise account security, and users will be notified if any changes are made to their account via SMS.

    3. Users do not need to change passwords or phone numbers, but Valve recommends setting up an authenticator for added security.

    4. The initial breach report originated from a LinkedIn profile claiming a dataset for sale on the dark web, but Valve clarified it does not use Twilio for authentication, despite claims of 2FA logs being involved.

    5. Valve has not confirmed the source of the leak or how the 2FA logs ended up on the dark web, as Twilio denied any breach.

    No, your Steam account hasn’t been compromised. Valve has addressed the latest rumors and leaks concerning a data breach that allegedly involves over 89 million accounts available for purchase on the dark web.

    Company’s Findings

    Valve took a look at the leaked data and discovered it only included “older text messages that had one-time codes valid for only 15 minutes, along with the phone numbers they were sent to.”

    More crucially, the company stated, “The leaked information did not link the phone numbers to any Steam account, nor did it contain password details, payment information, or other personal data.”

    Security Assurance

    The company emphasized that older text messages “cannot be used to compromise the security of your Steam account.” Additionally, they noted that “whenever a code is utilized to alter your Steam email or password via SMS, you will receive a notification via email and/or secure messages on Steam.”

    You don’t need to change your passwords or phone numbers, but it’s always smart to set up an authenticator for extra security. For more details on how to set up and activate Steam Guard, check out the guidance on Steam’s support website.

    Origin of the Report

    The initial report about the hack can be traced back to a LinkedIn profile, Underdark.ai, which asserted that a malicious actor named Machine1337 had uploaded a dataset containing 89 million Steam user accounts on the dark web.

    According to the report, these accounts were being sold for $5000 (€4463.50 or £3766) and required buyers to have a Telegram account to complete the transaction. The report also mentioned internal vendor data in the leak, suggesting there might be some admin access involved.

    Updates and Clarifications

    The report has been revised to indicate that the leak included “real-time 2FA SMS logs routed through Twilio.” Interestingly, Twilio has denied any breach, and Valve clarified that it does not use Twilio for authentication services.

    Currently, Valve has not yet confirmed the origin of the leak or how the two-factor authentication (2FA) logs made their way onto the dark web.

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  • RTX 5080 Super/Ti with 24GB VRAM Coming Soon, RTX 5090D Update

    RTX 5080 Super/Ti with 24GB VRAM Coming Soon, RTX 5090D Update

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia launched the RTX 50 series Blackwell GPUs, initially featuring four models: RTX 5090, RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, and RTX 5070, with the RTX 5060 Ti added later.
    2. A new model, rumored to be the RTX 5080 Super or Ti, is expected to launch by the end of the year, featuring 24 GB of VRAM.
    3. The RTX 5080 Super/Ti may replace the banned RTX 5090D in China, which had been suspended from sales due to regulations.
    4. The replacement for the RTX 5090D is predicted to have 14,080 CUDA cores and a 384-bit memory bus, down from the RTX 5090’s specifications.
    5. The RTX 5090D and RTX 5090 differed mainly in AI inference performance limits, affecting its market availability.

    Back in January, Nvidia introduced the latest RTX 50 series Blackwell GPUs. Initially, there were four models: the RTX 5090, RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, and RTX 5070. Over the months that followed, the lineup grew with the addition of the RTX 5060 Ti, and now the anticipated RTX 5060 is on the way. According to a recent leak, Nvidia plans to introduce another model by the end of this year, which is rumored to be the RTX 5080 Super or Ti.

    Leak Details From Baidu

    The new information reportedly comes from Baidu forums, as reported by Wccftech. It suggests that the RTX 5080 Super or RTX 5080 Ti is set to launch before the year ends. This new GPU is expected to feature 24 GB of VRAM, representing a significant enhancement from the 16 GB found in the standard RTX 5080. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain if this new GPU will serve as a replacement for the banned RTX 5090D in China.

    Specifications and Expected Changes

    Speaking of the RTX 5090D, its replacement is predicted to have a reduced count of 14,080 CUDA cores, which is considerably less than the RTX 5090’s 21,760. Additionally, it will likely utilize a 384-bit memory bus in place of the 512-bit bus seen in the regular RTX 5090. As previously noted, the VRAM will also decrease to 24 GB, compared to the 32 GB of the RTX 5090.

    This reduction is a result of new regulations that led to the RTX 5090D being prohibited in China with its existing specifications. While there has been no official announcement, sources indicate that sales of the RTX 5090D have been suspended in the country. It was comparable to the RTX 5090 in terms of hardware, with the primary difference being a hardware-imposed limit on AI inference performance for the RTX 5090D.

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  • Minecraft Introduces Craftable Saddles After 15 Years

    Minecraft Introduces Craftable Saddles After 15 Years

    Key Takeaways

    1. Saddles in Minecraft can now be crafted using three pieces of leather and one iron ingot.
    2. Previously, saddles were only obtainable through chance methods like finding them in chests or as mob drops.
    3. The update makes it easier for players to tame mounts by allowing them to craft their own saddles.
    4. Snapshot 25w20a is available for Java Edition and Bedrock Preview players, excluding Android users.
    5. The update includes mechanical adjustments and visual upgrades in preparation for Minecraft’s upcoming summer update and aligns with the launch of the live-action movie.

    More than 15 years since they first appeared, saddles in Minecraft can now be crafted. The newest Snapshot 25w20a update from Mojang enables players to create this rare item using just three pieces of leather and one iron ingot, resources that are much easier to find in the Overworld.

    Changes to Saddle Acquisition

    Previously, players could only get saddles through chance. They were found in chests in dungeons, as drops from mobs, or via fishing and trading. Thanks to this update, players can craft their own saddles after collecting just one piece of leather, making it much easier to tame mounts.

    Snapshot Highlights

    Some key features of Snapshot 25w20a include its availability for Java Edition users and Bedrock Preview players, with the exception of Android players. Mojang is continually improving the game with mechanical adjustments, such as recent enhancements to leashes and ranged combat, along with visual upgrades in preparation for Minecraft’s upcoming summer update.

    Snapshot 25w20a also aligns with the digital launch of the Minecraft live-action movie, which seeks to take advantage of the renewed interest in the game.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Trailer Shows Hogwarts Legacy Graphics Upgrade

    Nintendo Switch 2 Trailer Shows Hogwarts Legacy Graphics Upgrade

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upgrade fee of $9.99 for selected titles to Nintendo Switch 2, including Civilization VII and Hogwarts Legacy.
    2. Nintendo Switch 2 offers ten times the graphics performance compared to the original Switch.
    3. Enhanced graphics include improved resolution and lifelike lighting, as seen in the Hogwarts Legacy trailer.
    4. Hogwarts Legacy runs at 1,440p on TV and 1,080p in handheld mode, with Nvidia DLSS, edge smoothing, and HDR support.
    5. Players with a Hogwarts Legacy cartridge can upgrade to the new version for $10 after activating the option in-game.

    A variety of titles are available for an upgrade fee of $9.99 to the new edition on the Nintendo Switch 2. The Nintendo eShop has also listed Civilization VII as an upgrade pack priced at $9.99, and Hogwarts Legacy can also be upgraded to the new version for the same amount, according to a report by Video Games Chronicle. Nvidia claims that the Nintendo Switch 2 delivers ten times the graphics performance compared to the first version of the Switch, highlighting a notable difference in graphics quality.

    Enhanced Graphics Performance

    This improvement is evident in the Hogwarts Legacy trailer shown below, showcasing everything from improved resolution to much more lifelike lighting. It’s important to note that the enhancements extend beyond just the graphics; the Nintendo Switch 2 version finally allows for the expansive open world that players have come to expect from the PS5 and PC editions. This means that loading screens when entering or exiting Hogwarts and various buildings have been removed entirely.

    Resolution and Support Details

    The developers have confirmed that Hogwarts Legacy will operate on the Nintendo Switch 2 at a resolution of 1,440p on TV, and 1,080p in handheld mode, both featuring Nvidia DLSS, edge smoothing, and HDR support. Additionally, the game allows for mouse mode functionality with the Joy-Con. The developers have also mentioned that players who already have Hogwarts Legacy on a game cartridge can upgrade to the new version for $10, but they must first activate this option in-game before they can purchase the upgrade through the eShop and download the new version.

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  • GTA 6 Trailer 2 Recreated in GTA 5: Hilarious Moments Inside

    GTA 6 Trailer 2 Recreated in GTA 5: Hilarious Moments Inside

    Key Takeaways

    1. The second trailer for GTA 6 became highly popular, especially after the announcement of its delay.
    2. YouTuber Gu1maz created a video reenacting the GTA 6 trailer using characters from GTA 5, showcasing creativity and humor.
    3. Fans are hoping for no more delays, with a humorous plea from Michael to Rockstar in Gu1maz’s video.
    4. Rockstar delayed the release of GTA 6 to May 26, 2026, to ensure high quality and a great gaming experience.
    5. The game will launch for PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, with a PC version expected a year later, similar to GTA 5.

    The second trailer for GTA 6 quickly became one of the most viewed videos after it was released. This popularity was due in part to fans seeking a break after the announcement of its delay and also because of the exciting story and gameplay details that were shared. The visuals were impressive, especially when compared to the earlier GTA game, and they have been humorously recreated in GTA 5, featuring Michael and Trevor as the main characters.

    YouTuber’s Creative Take

    YouTuber Gu1maz recently shared a video on their channel titled “GTA 6 trailer 2 but it’s GTA 5,” which delivers exactly what its name suggests. In this footage, Michael from GTA 5 is portrayed as Jason from GTA 6, mimicking scenes from the second trailer as closely as possible. Interestingly, Trevor takes on the role of Lucia, who is Jason’s (or Michael’s) romantic interest. The creator has made an effort to match the camera angles and dialogues from the GTA 6 trailer.

    A Plea for No More Delays

    At the conclusion of the video, Michael humorously addresses Rockstar, urging them not to postpone the game again, as fans have been eagerly anticipating it for over a decade.

    Rockstar made the decision to push back the release of GTA 6 to May 2026, citing the need to maintain high-quality standards and deliver the best possible experience. Following the delay announcement, a former developer from GTA mentioned that further delays are unlikely since Rockstar provided a specific release date instead of a vague timeframe. However, a recent report from a Bloomberg journalist suggested that another delay could still happen.

    Release Information

    GTA 6 is set to launch on May 26, 2026, and will be available for PS5 and Xbox Series consoles. The PC version is anticipated to come out a year later, following the same pattern as GTA 5.

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  • 8BitDo Teases New Leverless Controller Launching May 16

    8BitDo Teases New Leverless Controller Launching May 16

    Key Takeaways

    1. 8BitDo is teasing a new product set to be unveiled on May 16 at 8 AM PST (3 PM GMT).
    2. The device features a flat shape with a textured back and a pattern of directional arrows alongside ABXY buttons.
    3. Speculations suggest it could be either a new arcade stick or a leverless controller.
    4. A leverless controller uses buttons for all inputs, offering improved precision for fighting games.
    5. The new product is branded as ‘Made for Pros.’

    8BitDo has shared a teaser for an upcoming product that’s set to be unveiled in just a few days. The teaser, which was shared on X, indicates that the device has a flat shape and features a textured back. This textured part is actually designed with a pattern of directional arrows alongside the ABXY buttons.

    Speculations and Theories

    There are already some guesses about what this new product could be. A few people believe it might be a new arcade stick akin to the 8BitDo Arcade Stick for Xbox, which you can find on Amazon for $119.99. However, a lot of folks think it might be a leverless controller instead.

    Understanding Leverless Controllers

    For those unfamiliar, a leverless controller, also referred to as a hit box-style controller, is a kind of gaming controller primarily used for fighting games. Unlike traditional controllers that feature a joystick for directional movement, a leverless controller operates using only buttons for all inputs, including directions. This design allows for improved precision and accuracy, which are essential qualities in fighting games.

    Upcoming Announcement

    8BitDo has confirmed that this new product, which is branded as ‘Made for Pros,’ will be officially announced on May 16 at 8 AM PST (3 PM GMT).

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  • May PlayStation Plus Game Catalog: Battlefield V, S.T.A.L.K.E.R., & More

    May PlayStation Plus Game Catalog: Battlefield V, S.T.A.L.K.E.R., & More

    Key Takeaways

    1. PlayStation Plus members will receive 10 new games in May, available starting May 20.
    2. Highlighted titles include Battlefield V, Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted, and S.T.A.L.K.E.R, with some games exclusive to PS5 and others for PS4.
    3. Battle Engine Aquila is exclusive to PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers.
    4. PS Plus offers three tiers: Essential ($10/month, $80/year), Extra ($15/month, $135/year), and Premium ($18/month, $160/year).
    5. Sony is considering raising prices for software and hardware, including the PS5, and is exploring relocating manufacturing to the US.

    PlayStation Plus members are about to receive 10 new games in the upcoming catalog for May. Sony recently revealed this list on the PlayStation blog, saying the games will be available starting May 20. Among the highlighted titles are Battlefield V, Five Nights at Freddy’s: Help Wanted, and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. Certain games will be exclusive to the PS5, while others will be for the PS4.

    May Games Catalog

    For the May lineup, PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium members can look forward to the following games:

    Of the titles mentioned earlier, Battle Engine Aquila is exclusive to PlayStation Plus Premium subscribers only.

    Subscription Pricing

    PS Plus offers three different tiers: Essential, Extra, and Premium. A one-month Essential subscription costs $10, and an annual subscription is $80. For the Extra tier, it costs $15 per month and $135 for the yearly plan. The Premium subscription, which provides access to game trials, cloud streaming, and the Classics catalog, is priced at $18 monthly and $160 yearly.

    Future Price Changes

    Reports have indicated that Sony is thinking about raising prices for its software and hardware, which may include the PS5. The company has already hiked the price of the console in regions like the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Sony also mentioned in its fiscal year report that relocating manufacturing to the US could be a smart strategy and is under consideration for future plans.

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