Category: Gaming

May 9, 2025

GameSir Spirit Fox: Affordable Controller with Hall Effect Joysticks

Key Takeaways

1. GameSir has launched the Spirit Fox controller in China, with potential plans for a global release as the T3 Lite.
2. The Spirit Fox differs from the Super Nova by offering only wired connectivity, while the Super Nova supports multiple connection types.
3. The controller is compatible with Android, iOS, Switch, and PC.
4. Key features include Hall effect joysticks, dual vibration motors, a 1,000 Hz polling rate, and a low 2 ms input delay.
5. The Spirit Fox is priced at CNY 49.9 in China, approximately $7 at the current exchange rate.

Under a month has gone by since GameSir launched the X5 Lite, its new budget-friendly mobile gaming controller. Now, the brand is stepping back into traditional controllers with the Spirit Fox, which has been introduced in China. It’s worth mentioning that Spirit Fox is a direct translation; the controller might also be referred to as the Arctic Fox, Silver Fox, or the Black Fox.

Potential Global Release

The pictures released by ITHome indicate that GameSir might eventually market this controller worldwide as the T3 Lite. Regardless, this new controller is quite different from the Super Nova we reviewed in March (currently priced at $49.99 on Amazon). While the Super Nova offers multiple connectivity options such as 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth, and wired, the Spirit Fox relies solely on the wired option.

Compatibility and Features

Nonetheless, this limitation still allows GameSir’s latest controller to work with Android, iOS, Switch, and PC. Additionally, the Spirit Fox is equipped with Hall effect joysticks, dual vibration motors, and features a 1,000 Hz polling rate. GameSir has claimed that the controller has a mere 2 ms input delay and includes two macro buttons positioned at the back. However, GameSir has not yet announced when the Spirit Fox or T3 Lite will be available for the global market. To put it in perspective, the controller is priced at CNY 49.9 in China, which translates to approximately $7 at the current exchange rate.

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Tags: Mobile Gaming Controller
May 9, 2025

Nintendo Denies AI Images in Mario Kart After Billboard Claims

Key Takeaways

1. AI-generated images in Mario Kart World raised questions among gamers due to their unusual designs, despite a Nintendo spokesperson clarifying that AI artwork is not involved in the game.

2. The game’s vast open-world tracks present a challenge for detailed design, making AI appear to be an attractive option, but Nintendo is cautious about its use.

3. Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa acknowledged the potential of AI for enhancing character behavior but expressed concerns over legal issues related to AI-generated images.

4. Shigeru Miyamoto, a key figure at Nintendo, has shown reluctance to adopt AI technologies, preferring not to follow competitors like Sony, which has patented AI tools for game asset creation.

5. While gamers accept AI for improving gameplay dynamics, there is significant resistance to the idea of AI-generated visuals in premium games like Mario Kart World, reflecting broader concerns within the gaming community.

The use of AI in video games has stirred up a lot of debate. In a recent Nintendo Treehouse event, spectators spotted odd billboards on the Mario Kart World tracks. These AI-generated images showcased recognizable items, but their designs were quite unusual. A Nintendo spokesperson clarified to Eurogamer that AI artwork doesn’t play a part in Mario Kart World.

Skepticism Among Gamers

After looking closely at the Mario Kart World footage, many players questioned the presence of AI images. However, a few billboards did raise eyebrows. For instance, there was a construction advertisement for a bridge, where certain elements of the design felt out of place. Nearby was an image of a skyscraper that didn’t match any real-life buildings. Additionally, one billboard featured a car with windows that were strangely tall. Many current AI tools simply don’t have the finesse or training to produce realistic designs.

Ambition and Caution

Mario Kart World stands as the most ambitious installment in the series, showcasing vast open-world tracks. With the challenge of populating these areas with intricate details, using AI might seem like an attractive shortcut. Nevertheless, key figures at Nintendo have been slow to adopt generative AI. Last July, Nintendo President Shuntaro Furukawa mentioned that while AI could enhance the behavior of “opponent characters,” he was cautious about the legal implications surrounding images created by machines.

Resistance to Change

Shigeru Miyamoto, the renowned game director, designer, and producer at Nintendo, also expressed reluctance towards recent AI advancements. In a September 2024 interview, he indicated that the company would not imitate some of its rivals. For instance, Sony has secured a patent for AI technology that assists artists in crafting game assets.

Most gamers are fine with developers utilizing AI to make enemies act more authentically. However, the idea of $80 games like Mario Kart World incorporating AI images would change the conversation. The backlash from the Ark: Survival Evolved trailer serves as a cautionary tale for the gaming industry.

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Tags: Mario Kart World, Nintendo
May 9, 2025

PS4 and PS5 Outpace Xbox by 10 Million Players in 2024

Key Takeaways

1. PlayStation is expected to have 10 million more users in the U.S. than Xbox by the end of 2024, with a growing player lead since 2022.
2. Microsoft’s focus on game publishing across platforms is impacting Xbox sales, as former exclusives are now available on PlayStation.
3. Game Pass has helped retain some Xbox gamers, but its absence on PlayStation limits its reach.
4. The launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 boosted Game Pass subscriptions but did not maintain Xbox’s player base advantage.
5. Microsoft faces challenges with declining Xbox console appeal due to price hikes and competition from Sony.

With Microsoft not putting much attention on hardware, it’s not surprising that the PS5 would have an advantage in the race for console sales. Recent Ampere data gives gamers proof of PlayStation’s lead. By the end of 2024, there will be 10 million more gamers in the U.S. using Sony consoles compared to their Xbox counterparts. As reported by The Game Business, this difference would be even bigger if it weren’t for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launching on Xbox Game Pass.

PlayStation’s Growing Edge

Ampere’s data indicates that by the end of 2022, PlayStation had a lead of six million players over Microsoft’s consoles. This gap has been slowly increasing and is expected to grow even more in the coming years. Microsoft is now focusing on publishing games across various platforms, including the PS5. As former Xbox exclusive titles like Forza Horizon 5 make their way to PlayStation, sales for the Series X consoles have taken a hit. Reports suggest that Microsoft is collaborating with Asus on a Windows handheld device, but a new Xbox console might not appear until 2027 or 2028.

The Impact of Game Pass

Despite Xbox games being available on the PS5, Game Pass has kept some gamers loyal to the Series X and S. Although PC Game Pass features many of the same games, the subscription service is absent on PlayStation. The influence of Game Pass was noticeable with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 in October 2024. The Game Business reports that Black Ops 6 had the highest number of players at launch in the history of the shooter franchise. Moreover, Game Pass experienced the largest single-day growth in subscribers.

Challenges Ahead for Microsoft

Sadly for Microsoft, the excitement generated by the Activision game didn’t last long. Xbox consoles have seen a decline in their share of the Black Ops 6 player base. After leading for a time, the player numbers on PlayStation and Xbox consoles are now roughly equal.

Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has acknowledged that some gamers still prefer traditional purchasing methods. Game Pass alone won’t stop Sony from solidifying its position in the console competition. Additionally, recent price hikes for Xbox consoles have made Microsoft’s hardware less appealing to potential buyers.

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Tags: Game Pass, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X
May 9, 2025

Wooting Teaser: New Hall-Effect Keyboard with Split Space Bars

Key Takeaways

1. Wooting is developing a new gaming keyboard, hinted at in a recent YouTube video featuring CEO Calder Limmen.
2. The upcoming keyboard likely has a 60% or 65% layout, lacking a function row, with possibilities of unusual layouts.
3. It features a split space bar design, enhancing ergonomics and productivity by allowing modifier keys for easier access.
4. The video subtly highlights keys F, R, and 4, possibly referencing FR4, a popular material for mechanical keyboard plates.
5. Wooting continues to engage with its community through playful teasing and hints about their upcoming products.

Wooting has made a name for itself by popularizing Hall-effect technology, and they recently launched the Wooting 80HE, a product we highly commended in our evaluations last year. Now, it appears that Wooting is busy developing its next gaming keyboard, and they’re already giving fans a sneak peek at the design.

A Sneak Peek

In a recent short video on YouTube, Wooting humorously noted that an unreleased keyboard appeared “accidentally” in a clip featuring the company’s CEO, Calder Limmen. The keyboard can be seen briefly behind Limmen, though it’s somewhat blocked from full view. Nonetheless, there are clues about what the new keyboard might look like.

Design Features

First off, it’s clear the upcoming keyboard lacks a function row, which suggests it might be a 60% or 65% layout. However, there’s a chance it could be something unusual, such as a TKL without function row or even an F-row-less 1800 layout. More intriguing than the layout is the bottom row. Instead of the usual long space bar, the keyboard in the video features a split space bar with three keys replacing the single long one.

Ergonomic Benefits

If you didn’t know, split space bars are often found on compact keyboards, such as 40% layouts and Alice-style boards like the Keychron Q13 Max we reviewed recently. These layouts can significantly enhance productivity and ergonomics since you can assign frequently used modifiers to one of the space bar keys for easier access with your thumb.

Subtle Hints

During the video, some keys on the keyboard are highlighted in red. It’s not entirely obvious, but the keys appear to be F, R, and 4, which might reference FR4, a popular plate material used in high-end mechanical keyboards that can produce a nice “poppy” sound when typing.

Wooting is known for teasing upcoming products and engaging with the community, often in a playful manner, and this seems to be another instance of that. Of course, it could also be Wooting having a little fun at the expense of the community or trying to mislead any would-be detectives.

You can find the Keychron K4 HE, a 96% Hall-effect gaming keyboard we recently reviewed, available on Amazon for $144.99.

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Tags: Split Space Bar, Wooting 80HE
May 9, 2025

New Games on Xbox Game Pass Today: Exciting Releases Await

Key Takeaways

1. New Game Addition: “Revenge of the Savage Planet” is now available on Game Pass, adding a fresh title to Microsoft’s gaming subscription.

2. Positive Reception: The game has received a 96% positive rating based on around 60 reviews during its Advanced Access phase on Steam.

3. Unique Storyline: Players take on the role of a former worker who wakes up on an alien planet to find they’ve been abandoned by their corporation and must seek revenge.

4. Gameplay Variety: The game features exploration, platforming, puzzles, and combat, with mechanics like slime-based weapons and vertical movement options.

5. Co-op Play: “Revenge of the Savage Planet” includes a cross-platform co-op mode for both online and local split-screen play.

Game Pass subscribers should be excited today because a new game is being added: Revenge of the Savage Planet, which is a fresh title in Microsoft’s gaming subscription. This action-adventure game has received about 60 reviews on Steam during its Advanced Access phase, boasting an impressive 96% positive rating. For players who enjoy battling mutants instead of exploring alien landscapes, Mutants Unleashed provides an exciting option. Below is a brief overview of both games.

The Story Behind Revenge of the Savage Planet

Set in a future filled with greed and corporate disorder, Revenge of the Savage Planet puts you in the role of a former worker for the mega-corporation Alta Interglobal. After a century in cryosleep, you wake up on a strange alien planet, only to discover that you’ve been fired and abandoned. Your goal is to survive, gather resources, explore the dangerous world and seek revenge on the company that left you behind.

Gameplay Features and Mechanics

Revenge of the Savage Planet offers a thrilling mix of exploration, platforming, puzzles, and combat, all experienced from a third-person view. With slime-based weapons and abilities like double-jumps and wall-jumps, you’ll fight off odd aliens and biomechanical enemies. The game includes four expansive alien worlds that you can explore freely, featuring vertical movement thanks to grappling hooks. Additionally, there is a cross-platform co-op mode that you can enjoy both online and in local split-screen.

Turtles Back in Action

After defeating Superfly and being accepted by society, the Turtles are finally living like average teens and even going to high school. However, their break from action doesn’t last long. When a new wave of mutants, called the “Mewbies,” begins to disrupt New York City, the brothers jump back into action. With support from April O’Neil and Master Splinter, they confront this new threat.

Gameplay of Mutants Unleashed

Mutants Unleashed combines classic beat-’em-up gameplay with platforming features, allowing players to pick from Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello, or Michelangelo, each having their own unique abilities and fighting styles. Whether playing solo or in local co-op for two players, you’ll fight through a variety of levels, ranging from the streets of New York to secret underground facilities. Along with intense combat, the game includes exploration tasks and collectibles, such as graffiti tags and pizza deliveries, which provide extra challenges and rewards.

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Tags: Game Pass, Revenge of the Savage Planet
May 9, 2025

MSI MAG 272QP X50: New 27-Inch 500Hz QD-OLED Gaming Monitor

Key Takeaways

1. MSI has launched a new 27-inch gaming monitor, the MAG 272QP X50, featuring QD-OLED panels from Samsung Display.
2. The MAG 272QP X50 has a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 and a native output of 500 Hz, similar to the MPG 272QR X50.
3. It is VESA ClearMR 21000 and DisplayHDR True Black 500 certified, with a fast 0.03 ms GtG response time.
4. The monitor will be available in China starting May 16, priced at CNY 5,999 (~$829), making it cheaper than the MPG 272URX.
5. The MAG models often have fewer ports or downgraded features compared to the MPG models, which may apply to the MAG 272QP X50 as well.

MSI has shown off yet another new 27-inch gaming monitor, just a day after announcing a Mini LED-backed version for worldwide availability. This time, the company has introduced the MAG 272QP X50, marking a return to their regular use of QD-OLED panels from Samsung Display.

Previous Models

To summarize, earlier this year, MSI revealed the MPG 272URX and MPG 272QR X50. However, at the moment, only the MPG 272URX (curr. $1,099.99 on Amazon) can be bought. Recently, MSI also introduced a more affordable option to the MPG 272URX called the MAG 272UP X24. Now, they have done something similar for the MPG 272QR X50 by bringing out the MAG 272QP X50.

Specifications

From what we know, both monitors use the same Gen 4 QD-OLED panel with a resolution of 2,560 x 1,440 and a native output of 500 Hz. Reportedly, the MAG 272QP X50 is VESA ClearMR 21000 and DisplayHDR True Black 500 certified, matching the MPG 272QR X50. Additionally, the MAG 272QP X50 boasts a 0.03 ms GtG response time, just like its counterpart in the MPG series.

Availability and Pricing

According to the website, MSI plans to start selling the MAG 272QP X50 on May 16 in China. ITHome has confirmed that this monitor will have a price of CNY 5,999 (~$829), making it CNY 1,000 (~$138) cheaper than the MPG 272URX. For now, it’s not clear how MSI has differentiated the MAG 272QP X50 from the MPG 272QR X50. Typically, the MAG models come with fewer or downgraded ports than their MPG counterparts, which might include missing USB ports.

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Tags: MAG 272QP X50, MSI, QD OLED
May 9, 2025

Nintendo Aims to Boost Switch 2 Popularity Amid Price Concerns

Key Takeaways

1. Nintendo’s FY25 financial results showed declines in both hardware and software sales, despite growth from new game launches.
2. The anticipated Switch 2 is expected to boost sales and profit for FY26, with a target of 15 million units sold.
3. Pricing for the Switch 2 could be adjusted based on potential new tariffs, which might affect demand.
4. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 in Japan have reached 2.2 million, indicating strong initial interest.
5. FY25 saw a significant decline in hardware (31.2%) and software sales (22.2%), influenced by strong sales in the previous year.

This is the time of year when companies share their financial results, and Nintendo, like EA, has revealed its yearly data. The overall performance for FY25 wasn’t very strong for Nintendo, with declines in both hardware and software sales. However, the business from the games launched during the fiscal year showed consistent growth. The anticipated Switch 2 is projected to bring notable increases for the upcoming fiscal year, but the company is keeping a close eye on the tariff situation. While the console’s pricing remains stable for the moment, it could be subject to change later.

Pricing Adjustments Ahead

As stated in a report by Reuters, Nintendo’s President Shuntaro Furukawa mentioned during the earnings call that the pricing for Switch 2 could be modified if new tariffs are introduced. This could potentially decrease demand for the console. For now, the goal is to rapidly enhance the console’s popularity around the world. Nintendo aims to sell 15 million units of the Switch 2, hoping for a 13% increase in operating profit for FY26. The pre-order lottery in Japan has already collected 2.2 million orders, suggesting that 15 million units might be a more cautious target.

Pre-Order Strategy

In the US and Canada, Nintendo chose to delay pre-orders to evaluate the effects of tariffs, but the company maintained the original pricing for the consoles; however, accessory prices have risen. It appears that Nintendo is carefully watching the situation. Although they are eager to get the Switch 2 into the hands of many consumers, the console’s price is still influenced by the potential severity of the tariffs imposed.

Sales Trends

The FY25 report indicates that hardware sales declined by 31.2% compared to the previous year, while software sales fell by 22.2% year-on-year. A contributing factor to this decline was the strong sales from the previous fiscal year, driven by titles like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, released in May 2023, and Super Mario Bros. Wonder, which came out in October 2023. Considering that the original Switch is now entering its ninth year, these sales figures can be seen as relatively steady.

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Tags: Nintendo, Switch 2
May 9, 2025

Razer Launches Basilisk Mobile Mouse and Joro Keyboard for Gaming

Key Takeaways

1. Razer launched the Basilisk Mobile mouse ($89.99) and Joro keyboard ($139.99) targeted at mobile gamers.
2. The Basilisk Mobile is lightweight (76 grams) with customizable inputs, a Focus X 18K optical sensor, and a battery life of up to 105 hours.
3. The Joro keyboard features a slim design (16.5 mm thick) with low-profile scissor switches, dedicated function buttons, and can last up to 1800 hours on a single charge.
4. Both devices connect via 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed Wireless or Bluetooth, with the Joro supporting connections to three wireless devices.
5. Razer includes innovative features like Snap Tap and AI Prompt Master to enhance user experience in both products.

Razer has introduced a new gaming keyboard and mouse set aimed at mobile gamers, offering a better experience with less compromise. The $89.99 wireless Basilisk Mobile is a smaller version of the well-liked right-handed ergonomic gaming mouse. On the other hand, the $139.99 Joro adds to Razer’s lineup as a super-slim portable keyboard that works with PC, Mac, and Bluetooth devices. Both items are now ready for purchase at Razer stores.

Basilisk Mobile Features

The Basilisk Mobile keeps the basic ideas of its larger siblings but is lighter at 76 grams, unlike the hefty 112-gram Basilisk V3 Pro 35K. It measures 4.4 x 3 x 1.6 inches, making it a lot easier to fit into bags. Users still get a noticeable thumb-rest and three buttons on the left side that can be remapped. There are also 10 customizable inputs, and with HyperShift, the number of commands can be increased.

Advanced Technology

Razer has included a Focus X 18K optical sensor and third-generation optical switches in this compact mouse. Unlike the Orochi V2, the Basilisk Mobile does not need AA or AAA batteries. It charges via a USB-C cable and can last up to 105 hours on a full charge. However, it does not work with existing Razer charging docks. The Basilisk Mobile can connect to desktops, laptops, and mobile devices using 2.4 GHz HyperSpeed Wireless or Bluetooth.

Joro’s Unique Design

Taking a bold approach, the Joro aims to be the most travel-friendly keyboard for gamers. It uses low-profile scissor switches, mimicking the feel of Blade laptops. The Joro weighs 374 grams and is 16.5 mm thick, following a 75% form factor. Gamers will find directional arrows and dedicated buttons for functions like Page Up and Page Down. The Joro also has Mac-specific features, and Razer plans to launch a Mac version of Synapse on May 8th.

Right now, the Joro is a Bluetooth-only device. Users have the ability to switch between three wireless devices using function keys. When the single-zone Chroma RGB lighting is off, the Joro can last up to 1800 hours on one charge. In the future, this mobile keyboard will also be compatible with the same HyperSpeed wireless dongle that works with the Basilisk Mobile mouse.

Innovative Features

Many of Razer’s latest advancements are compatible with the Basilisk Mobile and Joro. With the Joro, gamers can utilize Snap Tap to prevent conflicting inputs. Razer’s mouse also includes AI Prompt Master to enhance both productivity and gaming experiences.

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May 9, 2025

Retroid Pocket Mini V2: Compact Handheld with AMOLED Display

Key Takeaways

1. Retroid has launched the Pocket Mini V2 on its website, addressing previous display issues with a new front panel option for customers willing to disassemble their devices.
2. The Pocket Mini V2 is priced at $100 and is currently available in China, with a global launch expected soon.
3. It features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset and 6 GB of LPDDR4x RAM, making it competitive with higher-priced gaming handhelds.
4. The device is equipped with a 4,000 mAh battery that supports 27 W wired charging and has a 3.92-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 pixels and a 60 Hz refresh rate.
5. The Pocket Mini V2 will only be available in black.

Retroid has quietly unveiled a new version of the Pocket Mini on its website. Just under two months ago, the company launched the Pocket Classic and Pocket Flip 2 worldwide. Although these two devices were initially well received, Retroid has faced challenges in fixing display problems on the original Pocket Mini.

New Features and Availability

To tackle these issues, one popular solution was a new front panel, which Retroid is willing to send out for those ready to go through a complicated disassembly and reassembly. The Pocket Mini V2 is now listed on their site for $100 ahead of its upcoming global launch. At this time, it is unclear when the new version will officially release, but since Retroid is already selling it in China, we think a worldwide launch isn’t too far off.

Specifications Confirmed

In the meantime, people can check out Retroid’s new listing that verifies all major specifications. The device will continue to use a Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset and 6 GB of LPDDR4x RAM. This means the Pocket Mini should be competitive with pricier Android gaming handhelds like the Ayn Odin2, which is currently priced at $449 on Amazon.

Battery and Display Details

As shown in the image below, the Pocket Mini V2 features a 4,000 mAh battery that supports 27 W wired charging, along with a 3.92-inch AMOLED display sourced from the Pocket Classic. The display has a native resolution of 1,240 x 1,080 pixels and a refresh rate of 60 Hz. From what we can gather, this new version of the Pocket Mini will only be available in black.

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Tags: AMOLED display, Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, Retroid Pocket Mini V2
May 9, 2025

GTA 6 Trailer 2 Hints at Connection to Red Dead Redemption Universe

Key Takeaways

1. The GTA 6 trailer has gained nearly 500 million views since its release on May 6, showcasing significant visual upgrades.
2. The currency in GTA 6 features characters from Red Dead Redemption, suggesting a shared universe between the two games.
3. Fans are theorizing possible connections between GTA 6’s lead character, Jason, and Arthur Morgan from Red Dead Redemption 2.
4. The release date for GTA 6 has been pushed to May 26, 2026, to allow for further development and perfection.
5. The trailer is a record-breaking success, with almost 87 million views on YouTube and over 475 million views across all platforms.

Fans are going wild over the new trailer for GTA 6, which has racked up nearly 500 million views since it dropped on May 6 (as of now). The visuals show significant upgrades from the previous title, and fans are having a blast finding hidden details by examining every single frame. One interesting find is the currency featured in the game, hinting that GTA 6 could exist in the same universe as Red Dead Redemption.

Links to Red Dead Redemption

Typically, Rockstar keeps its major franchises, Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption, apart, with only a few Easter eggs connecting them. However, the latest trailer reveals that the cash used in GTA 6 displays the faces of President Hardin and President Thaddeus Waxman from the Red Dead Redemption series. This connection implies that the two games might actually share a universe.

Fan Theories

Could there be additional connections between these two titles? The community is buzzing with excitement and theories, suggesting that Jason, the lead character in GTA 6, could somehow be linked to Arthur Morgan, the main character from Red Dead Redemption 2.

Originally, GTA 6 was set to launch in the fall of 2025, but Rockstar recently announced a new release date of May 26, 2026. The developers want to take extra time to perfect the game, which appears to have great potential based on the recent PS5 trailer. The game is expected to first release on PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, with a PC version likely coming a year later.

Trailer Success

While fans were bummed about the delay, the new trailer came as an unexpected treat. A report from The Hollywood Reporter revealed that the trailer achieved over 475 million views across different platforms. On YouTube alone, it has almost reached 87 million views, making it the biggest video launch of all time, as stated by Rockstar.

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Tags: GTA 6, PS5, Red Dead Redemption