Category: Gaming

  • PlayerUnknown’s Prologue: Go Wayback! Free Playtest Now Live

    PlayerUnknown’s Prologue: Go Wayback! Free Playtest Now Live

    Key Takeaways

    1. PUBG creator Brendan Greene founded PlayerUnknown Productions and is developing a new hardcore survival game called Prologue: Go Wayback!.
    2. The closed beta playtest for Prologue: Go Wayback! runs from May 7 to May 14, and players can join via the official Discord to request a key.
    3. The game focuses on body temperature as a critical survival factor, linking it to players’ hunger and thirst levels.
    4. Unique survival mechanics require players to use a complex process to start fires, enhancing the game’s realism.
    5. Prologue: Go Wayback! is part of a larger project called Project Artemis, featuring an Earth-sized map and utilizing procedural generation and machine learning.

    One of the most beloved games today, PUBG, was made by Brendan Greene, who later established his own studio, PlayerUnknown Productions. Their initial project, titled Prologue: Go Wayback!, was revealed last year. This upcoming hardcore survival game places a strong focus on body temperature. Currently, the game is undergoing another playtest that is free for anyone who joins the official Discord and asks for a key.

    Playtest Details

    The closed beta playtest for Prologue: Go Wayback! commenced on May 7 and will continue until May 14. Those who want to experience this early version of the game can visit the official Discord and request a key through the #playtest-signup channel. PlayerUnknown Productions is providing keys for both Steam and Epic Games Store.

    Insights from the Creators

    In a recent conversation with the Epic Games Store, Greene along with Creative Director Scott Davidson discussed Prologue: Go Wayback! and how it sets the stage for a larger project. The game utilizes machine learning for creating landscapes and is set in a wilderness filled with forests. It emphasizes body temperature, which is linked to other survival factors. “When your hunger and thirst decrease, you start to lose your ability to control your temperature, meaning your temperature will drop quicker,” Davidson stated.

    Unique Survival Mechanics

    Unlike typical survival games where players can easily craft a campfire, Go Wayback! requires a more intricate process to start a fire. “You must begin with bits of paper and cardboard, ignite those with sticks on top. Once the sticks catch fire, add logs on top, and those logs will burn over time. You then keep adding a few logs to maintain the fire, which will provide heat and keeps the warmth inside structures,” Davidson elaborated.

    Prologue: Go Wayback! will contribute to the development of Project Artemis, a more grand project by PlayerUnknown Productions, which is rumored to have an Earth-sized map. Using what the team refers to as “Guided Generation,” both Go Wayback! and Project Artemis will incorporate a blend of procedural generation, machine learning, and handmade art.

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  • Gears of War: Reloaded Physical Release for PS5 and PC Only

    Gears of War: Reloaded Physical Release for PS5 and PC Only

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gears of War: Reloaded is set for release on August 26th, but Xbox consoles may have limited physical options.
    2. There is a possibility of a digital-only version for Xbox, while physical versions are confirmed for PC and PS5.
    3. Xbox owners feel overlooked as Microsoft shifts focus to multi-platform releases and subscription services.
    4. Rising costs for Xbox consoles may deter potential buyers amidst declining sales.
    5. Speculations about future Xbox hardware, including a potential handheld device, raise questions about support for physical media.

    Gaming is heading towards an all-digital future, but some platforms are progressing quicker than others. The release date for Gears of War: Reloaded is set for August 26th across various platforms. A retailer in Spain has listed physical versions for PC and PS5, but the Xbox consoles are left out. Originally, the Gears of War series was exclusive to Xbox, and its developer is still part of Xbox Game Studios. However, it appears that Microsoft console users might have limited purchasing options.

    Possible Xbox Disc Version

    There is still a glimmer of hope for buyers who want an Xbox disc version. GAME España only got word about the physical releases for PC and PS5, but more news might be on the way. Additionally, Gears of War: Reloaded might be digital-only for Xbox consoles, depending on the region. Lastly, the availability of a physical PC version raises questions about these listings. While physical discs for PC games are uncommon, download code boxes are often found in Spain.

    Xbox Owners Feel Overlooked

    As sales of Xbox consoles decline, their owners are feeling increasingly left out. Titles that were once Microsoft exclusives, like Forza Horizon 5 and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, are now playable on the PS5. PlayStation gamers can jump into Gears of War: Reloaded right on launch day without any delays. Microsoft’s focus has shifted towards multi-platform releases and subscription services like Game Pass. Because of this, there’s less incentive to choose an Xbox Series X over other options.

    Rising Costs for Gamers

    After price hikes, gamers still wanting an Xbox console now have to shell out more cash. Nevertheless, Microsoft hasn’t completely given up on future hardware development. Leaked images of the Project Kennan handheld, a joint project between Microsoft and Asus, have surfaced. Speculations suggest another Windows-based portable device or a successor to the Series X could arrive by 2028. Yet, given recent patterns, it’s uncertain if any upcoming Xbox console will even support physical media.

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    Gears of War: Reloaded Physical Release for PS5 and PC Only
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  • AOC U27G4R 4K Gaming Monitor: 320Hz Mode & Great Value

    AOC U27G4R 4K Gaming Monitor: 320Hz Mode & Great Value

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dual-Frame Panel: The AOC U27G4R offers both 4K at 160 Hz and 1080p at 320 Hz options for versatility in gaming.

    2. Adaptive Sync Feature: This monitor reduces screen tearing by maintaining a minimum of 48 fps in games.

    3. Excellent Color Performance: It covers 125% of the sRGB color space and has a rapid response time of 0.3ms at 320Hz, making it ideal for competitive gaming.

    4. Space-Saving Design: The new stand is compact and height-adjustable, allowing for better ergonomics and desk space usage.

    5. Affordable Pricing: The monitor is set to launch in May 2025 at €369 or £299, making it a budget-friendly option compared to similar products.

    The new AOC U27G4R gaming monitor stands out because of its unique dual-frame panel, allowing users to pick between 4K at 160 Hz and 1080p at 320 Hz. Moreover, the Adaptive Sync feature helps eliminate screen tearing as long as the games run at a minimum of 48 fps. In addition to the dual-frame capability, the rapid IPS panel guarantees a full-screen brightness of 400 nits.

    Color Performance

    This monitor covers nearly 125% of the sRGB color space, 94% of Adobe RGB, and 96% of DCI-P3. With a response time of just 0.3ms at 320Hz, it makes for an excellent option for competitive gamers. AOC has also designed a new stand that occupies less desk space and is flat enough to accommodate a keyboard on it. The 4K display is height-adjustable by about 5 inches and can rotate to be used in portrait mode.

    Gaming Features

    The monitor also includes various gaming features such as an FPS counter, a function to brighten dark areas, and a crosshair displayed at the center of the screen. Users can connect gaming PCs and consoles through two HDMI 2.1 ports or DisplayPort 1.4. AOC chose not to include USB-C connectivity to keep the costs down; however, the monitor does have a USB-A hub with four ports that support speeds up to 5Gbit/s.

    Pricing and Availability

    The AOC Gaming U27G4R monitor, featuring its 360Hz dual-frame mode, is anticipated to launch in the European market in May 2025, with a suggested retail price of €369 or £299. This positions the AOC monitor as slightly more budget-friendly compared to rivals like the Asus ROG Strix XG27UCG, which starts at $449 on Amazon and also offers a similar dual-mode panel.

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    AOC U27G4R 4K Gaming Monitor: 320Hz Mode & Great ValueAOC U27G4R 4K Gaming Monitor: 320Hz Mode & Great Value

     

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  • Free-to-Play Soulslike RPG with Unique Graphics Tops Steam Charts

    Free-to-Play Soulslike RPG with Unique Graphics Tops Steam Charts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Storyline: Players control Wa, a ghostly protector in the dream world of Lume, battling a nightmare corruption to restore balance using ancient powers.

    2. Gameplay Mechanics: The game features challenging bosses, environmental puzzles, and a combat system that emphasizes timing, combining melee, ranged attacks, and magic.

    3. Visual and Audio Design: Bygone Dreams: Prophecy boasts a unique hand-drawn art style with cel-shading and lithographic influences, accompanied by an immersive soundtrack of over 50 original pieces.

    4. Prologue Availability: A free prologue released on May 6 offers 2 to 3 hours of gameplay, receiving positive early feedback from players on Steam.

    5. Player Reception: The game is praised for its atmosphere, visuals, and combat, with about 90% of early user reviews being favorable, despite some noted limitations typical of a prologue.

    Bygone Dreams: Prophecy is a captivating action RPG with a souls-like essence that immerses gamers in a bizarre world influenced by Slavic myths and Bosnian tales. The plot centers around Wa, a ghostly protector who awakens in the dream world of Lume, where a creeping nightmare corruption is on the verge of engulfing everything. To bring back equilibrium, Wa must discover and wield long-lost ancient powers.

    Gameplay and Features

    Players will face challenging bosses, tackle environmental puzzles, and traverse mysterious, dreamlike environments. In a classic souls-like manner, combat in Bygone Dreams: Prophecy requires accurate timing as players combine melee hits, ranged assaults, magical skills, and well-timed dodges. The adventure is complemented by an immersive soundtrack featuring more than 50 original pieces, along with fully voiced cutscenes. The game’s visuals blend cel-shading with lithographic styles, resulting in a unique, hand-drawn look.

    Development and Prologue

    Bygone Dreams: Prophecy is brought to life by Prime Time in collaboration with publisher GrabTheGames. Gamers can experience a free prologue, launched on May 6, which offers roughly 2 to 3 hours of gameplay, as stated in a press release. This early preview of the game has been well-received on Steam.

    Player Reception

    Early Steam feedback indicates that players appreciate Bygone Dreams: Prophecy for its immersive ambiance, unique visual approach, and rich orchestral score. The combat mechanics are noted for being impactful and thoughtfully crafted, while the game runs efficiently and accommodates multiple languages, including voice-overs. Some players have pointed out issues like rigid cutscenes, limited exploration rewards, and a few missing features—though many understand these shortcomings since it’s just a prologue. Currently, about 90% of the 21 user reviews are favorable, and the game is leading in Steam’s “Trending Free” category.

    The complete launch of Bygone Dreams is anticipated for June 2025, but the developers have not yet disclosed the final cost for the souls-like RPG. If this piques your interest, you can already add the game to your Steam wishlist to stay in the loop.

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  • Asus ROG Ally 2 Leaked Specs: 50% Larger Battery for Gaming Handheld

    Asus ROG Ally 2 Leaked Specs: 50% Larger Battery for Gaming Handheld

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus is introducing two new ROG Ally gaming handheld models, replacing the original ROG Ally but not the ROG Ally X.
    2. The black model (RC73XA) will feature the Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset, while the white model (RC73YA) will likely have a quad-core AMD Aerith Plus APU.
    3. The black model is expected to include 2 TB of storage and 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, while the white model will have 1 TB of storage and 16 GB of RAM.
    4. The white version will have a 60 Wh battery, a 50% increase from the original, and both models will feature 7-inch displays, with the black model offering 1080p resolution and 120 Hz refresh rate.
    5. The black model may be marketed as the ROG Ally 2 (Xbox Edition) and will be more powerful than the white variant, but release dates for both models are still unannounced.

    Earlier today, images of two new Asus ROG Ally gaming handhelds were seen online. It appears that these new models will only take the place of the original ROG Ally, not the ROG Ally X as well. From what we’ve talked about earlier, only the black model (RC73XA) shown above is expected to feature AMD’s much-anticipated Ryzen Z2 Extreme chipset.

    Additional Specifications

    Thanks to some digging by @94G8LA, we can now learn a bit more about both models. For instance, Asus seems to be pairing the Ryzen Z2 Extreme with 2 TB of M.2 2280 storage and a maximum of 64 GB of LPDDR5X RAM, which is clocked at an impressive 8,533 MT/s. On the other hand, the white model (RC73YA) is likely to come with 1 TB of storage and 16 GB of RAM.

    Battery and Display Features

    Moreover, the screenshot below indicates that the white version will have a 60 Wh battery, which is a 50% increase in capacity compared to the original ROG Ally (currently priced at $549.99 on Amazon). Both ROG Ally 2 models seem to be equipped with 7-inch displays made by BOE. However, we can only see that the black variant will have a 1080p resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate.

    According to @94G8LA, the black model might actually be introduced as the ROG Ally 2 (Xbox Edition). While the precise function of its dedicated Xbox button is still unclear, the device is expected to be more powerful than the white version. Right now, it looks like the white variant will use a quad-core AMD Aerith Plus APU with a 20 W TDP, while the Ryzen Z2 Extreme in the black version has a 36 W TDP. No information regarding the release dates has been shared yet either.

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    Asus ROG Ally 2 Leaked Specs: 50% Larger Battery for Gaming HandheldAsus ROG Ally 2 Leaked Specs: 50% Larger Battery for Gaming HandheldAsus ROG Ally 2 Leaked Specs: 50% Larger Battery for Gaming Handheld

     

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  • Xbox Game Pass Adds 4 New Games Across 4 Genres Today

    Xbox Game Pass Adds 4 New Games Across 4 Genres Today

    Key Takeaways

    1. Four new games added to Xbox Game Pass, featuring diverse genres.
    2. Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 allows players to create heroes and engage in iconic anime battles.
    3. Dungeons of Hinterberg combines dungeon exploration with a charming Alpine setting and magical abilities.
    4. Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn is a dark fantasy RPG with fast-paced combat and an open world.
    5. Metal Slug Tactics reimagines the classic series as a tactical RPG, focusing on strategy and team dynamics.

    Today is a big day for Xbox Game Pass, as it welcomes four new games that bring a mix of genres. For anime enthusiasts, there’s Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2, a major fighting game filled with time-traveling battles and well-known characters. Dungeons of Hinterberg merges dungeon exploration with a peaceful Alpine backdrop, providing both excitement and charm. Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn immerses players in a chaotic dark fantasy action RPG. In the meantime, Metal Slug Tactics reimagines the classic run-and-gun series with a strategic twist. Let’s take a closer look at each game.

    Dive into Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2

    Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 throws players right into the core of the cherished anime world. You take on the role of a Time Patrol member, traveling through iconic battles to prevent history from changing. Players can create their own unique hero, train under famous masters, and engage in fully 3D battles that replicate the show’s vibe. The combat system mixes melee attacks and ranged options with special moves and stunning transformations. Apart from the main story, the game includes co-op missions, online tournaments, and a lively hub full of activities.

    Explore Dungeons of Hinterberg

    Dungeons of Hinterberg invites players to a beautifully stylized Alpine realm brimming with magic, action, and hidden secrets. You become Lu, a student who desires a break from her routine and finds herself in the tranquil village of Hinterberg, soon confronting perilous dungeons filled with monsters and puzzles. With magical abilities at your disposal, you’ll partake in fast-paced real-time combat while uncovering a mysterious mountainous area featuring 25 distinct dungeons. As you progress, you’ll discover Lu’s personal journey, forge friendships, and enjoy the game’s deep, atmospheric setting.

    Enter the World of Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn

    Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn is a dark fantasy action RPG that thrusts players into a fierce conflict between gods and humanoids. You play as Nor Vanek, an elite fighter equipped with magic, an axe, and a flintlock gun to take on undead foes and repel the forces from the afterlife. The combat is swift and seamless, combining precise melee hits, strong ranged attacks, and magical capabilities. In addition to thrilling action and monumental boss encounters, the game presents an open world filled with secrets, hazards, and obstacles.

    Experience Metal Slug Tactics

    Metal Slug Tactics transforms the traditional run-and-gun series into a tactical RPG, offering a new perspective while respecting its arcade heritage. Players command beloved characters like Marco, Fio, and Tarma in turn-based confrontations against the forces of General Morden. The gameplay shifts from relentless shooting to clever positioning, team dynamics, and strategic thinking. Featuring retro pixel art and roguelite features, the game preserves the essence of the original while introducing an added layer of complexity and challenge.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: CPU/GPU Specs and Performance Revealed

    Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: CPU/GPU Specs and Performance Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features a Tegra T239 chip with eight Cortex-A78c cores, rather than a tri-cluster CPU as previously reported.
    2. The GPU utilizes an Nvidia Ampere SKU with 1,536 CUDA cores and is built on Samsung’s 8N node technology.
    3. The motherboard includes two 6 GB LPDDR5X-8,533 modules, a 256 GB SK Hynix UFS 3.1 module, a MediaTek Wi-Fi antenna, and a RealTek audio chip.
    4. Initial performance tests suggest the Switch 2’s GPU is similar to a GeForce GTX 750 Ti, while the CPU performance is comparable to an Apple A12.
    5. Real-world performance assessments are still pending, as the console has not yet been released.

    Kurnalsalts, a prominent expert in semiconductor teardowns, has revealed insights about what drives the Nintendo Switch 2. A detailed image of the die shows what powers its Tegra T239 chip. The die area measures 207 mm², which is nearly double that of the Nvidia chip in the original Nintendo Switch. Contrary to previous reports, it does not come with a tri-cluster CPU featuring a prime Cortex-X1 core.

    CPU Configuration

    Instead, the chip is equipped with eight Cortex-A78c cores that work together. Currently, the maximum clock speed is not known. As for the GPU, it utilizes an Nvidia Ampere SKU with 1,536 CUDA cores distributed across 6 TPCs. This chip is constructed on Samsung’s 8N node, the same technology used to manufacture Ampere GPUs. This effectively disproves earlier assertions that the Switch 2’s T239 is a 5 nm die-shrunk version.

    Motherboard Insights

    Geekerwan also took apart the Nintendo Switch 2 motherboard to uncover its key components. It includes two 6 GB LPDDR5X-8,533 modules from SK Hynix, although the console won’t operate them at full capacity. Other components consist of a 256 GB SK Hynix UFS 3.1 module, a MediaTek Wi-Fi antenna, and a RealTek audio chip.

    Performance Expectations

    Since the Switch 2 hasn’t been released yet, it’s challenging to assess its real-world performance. Geekerwan attempted to simulate it by underclocking a GeForce RTX 2050 laptop CPU, discovering that the results matched previously observed performance numbers. For instance, Cyberpunk 2077 ran at around 40 FPS with DLSS performance mode enabled.

    In synthetic benchmarks, the GPU of the Nintendo Switch 2 is comparable to a GeForce GTX 750 Ti from previous generations. On the CPU side, it competes with a six-generation old Apple A12. However, it’s important to note that these tests were conducted on entirely different hardware, not the actual Nintendo Switch 2.

    Social Media Buzz

    Kurnalsalts shared updates on X, while Geekerwan provided more details on YouTube.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Leak: CPU/GPU Specs and Performance RevealedNintendo Switch 2 Leak: CPU/GPU Specs and Performance RevealedNintendo Switch 2 Leak: CPU/GPU Specs and Performance RevealedNintendo Switch 2 Leak: CPU/GPU Specs and Performance Revealed

     

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  • RX 9070 GRE Review: 28% Faster than RTX 5060 Ti 16GB

    RX 9070 GRE Review: 28% Faster than RTX 5060 Ti 16GB

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD launched the Radeon RX 9070 GRE in late April, specifically for the Chinese market, featuring the Navi 48 GPU and 12 GB of GDDR6 VRAM.
    2. Priced at RMB 4,199 (around $582), the RX 9070 GRE is more affordable than its main competitor, the RTX 5070, which costs 4,599 RMB.
    3. Performance benchmarks show the RX 9070 GRE outperforms the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB by about 30% but is approximately 8% slower than the RTX 5070.
    4. At 4K resolution, the RX 9070 GRE struggles due to lower memory bandwidth compared to the RX 9070, though it performs well in ray tracing for most games.
    5. Currently, the RX 9070 GRE is only available in China, with no confirmation on global release plans.

    AMD launched the Radeon RX 9070 GRE specially for the Chinese market in late April. This latest RDNA 4 graphics card uses the same Navi 48 GPU as found in the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT, and it comes equipped with 12 GB of GDDR6 VRAM. AMD stated that even with a reduced Navi 44, the RX 9070 GRE is capable of outperforming the RX 7900 GRE at 1440p resolution.

    Pricing Overview

    This performance claim generated excitement, especially since the RX 9070 GRE was priced starting at just RMB 4,199, which is about $582. In comparison, the RTX 5070, which is the RX 9070 GRE’s main rival, has a suggested retail price of 4,599 RMB in China, making it roughly 9.5% more expensive than the RX 9070 GRE. Initial performance reviews of the RX 9070 GRE have surfaced, and while it may not meet AMD’s high expectations, it still shows to be a reliable performer.

    Performance Analysis

    Starting with benchmarks from the synthetic 3DMark test suite, 163.com noted that the RX 9070 GRE outperforms the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB by about 30% and is roughly 8% slower than the RTX 5070. Smzdm has reported similar performance metrics for the RX 9070 GRE as well.

    In gaming tests, the RX 9070 GRE showcased a notable lead over the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB and trails only slightly behind the RTX 5070. A video review by Carbon Based Technology on bilibili mentions that the RX 9070 GRE is performing:

    Interestingly, the RX 9070 GRE seems to match the performance of the RX 7900 GRE at 1440p. AMD had previously claimed that the RX 9070 GRE maintains a 6% advantage over the RX 7900 GRE at 2K resolutions. This assertion was challenged by the review from Carbon Based Technology.

    4K Performance

    When tested at 4K, the RX 9070 GRE underperformed, likely due to its 33% shortfall in memory bandwidth compared to the RX 9070. Reports indicate that at 4K, the RX 9070 GRE is:

    Furthermore, in terms of ray tracing capabilities, the RX 9070 GRE appears to perform quite well. Expreview mentions that, except for the Nvidia-sponsored Cyberpunk 2077, the RX 9070 GRE competes closely with the RTX 5070 in titles like F1 24 and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.

    To conclude, the RX 9070 GRE seems like a formidable graphics card. It competes against the RTX 5070 while being more affordable. The performance gap between the two graphics cards is minimal, leading Expreview to suggest that gamers shouldn’t be “too picky” since the “actual experience is nearly identical.”

    Unfortunately, the RX 9070 GRE is currently limited to China. It remains uncertain when, or if, the card will be made available globally.

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    RX 9070 GRE Review: 28% Faster than RTX 5060 Ti 16GBRX 9070 GRE Review: 28% Faster than RTX 5060 Ti 16GBRX 9070 GRE Review: 28% Faster than RTX 5060 Ti 16GB
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  • Battlefield 6 Release Date Set Before March 2026 Amid GTA 6 Delay

    Battlefield 6 Release Date Set Before March 2026 Amid GTA 6 Delay

    Key Takeaways

    1. The upcoming Battlefield game is set to launch by March 2026, with a possibility of a holiday 2025 release.
    2. EA CEO Andrew Wilson indicated that the delay of GTA 6 will not impact Battlefield’s release strategy.
    3. Developers are making significant changes to avoid the issues faced with Battlefield 2042.
    4. EA is facing financial challenges, but successful titles have provided some uplift.
    5. There are expectations that Battlefield 6 will be promoted during the holiday season due to reduced competition.

    EA CEO Andrew Wilson has announced that the upcoming Battlefield game is set to launch by March 2026. This news isn’t a surprise since the company had already indicated that Battlefield 6 would arrive in the fiscal year 2026. Following the delay of GTA 6, analysts were anticipating a range of news from other companies. According to Variety, this update was shared during EA’s financial report covering January 1st to March 31st.

    Release Timing

    The previous expectation for Battlefield 6 also pointed to a release by the end of March 2026. However, this timeline does not exclude the possibility of a holiday 2025 launch. Wilson did not retract his comments on a summer announcement in the latest fiscal report. Even with efforts to limit leaks, details about the shooter have surfaced from Battlefield Labs playtests. To avoid another mishap like Battlefield 2042, developers are willing to implement significant alterations.

    Market Influences

    Earlier, Wilson mentioned that the release of GTA 6 could affect the timing of Battlefield 6. For now, it seems that the delay of the action RPG hasn’t impacted EA’s strategy. Still, many gamers believe the company will aim to release the next Battlefield title in November or December. With no major competition from the Rockstar Games blockbuster, it’s easier for publishers to promote their games during the holiday period.

    Financial Challenges

    EA has been encountering financial challenges that Battlefield 6 could potentially address. The company recently let go of developers at Respawn Entertainment and scrapped an unreleased Titanfall project. Layoffs have also hit Codemasters, leading to the halt of work on EA Sports WRC. Nonetheless, Wilson was quick to highlight the publisher’s successes. Titles like Split Fiction and College Football 25 have provided a much-needed uplift.

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  • SteamOS Beta Update: ROG Ally, Legion Go Support & AMD CPU Control

    SteamOS Beta Update: ROG Ally, Legion Go Support & AMD CPU Control

    Key Takeaways

    1. SteamOS 3.7.5 Beta introduces enhanced support for various handheld devices, including better input support for Asus and Lenovo handhelds and the Byowave Proteus controller.

    2. The update features improved AMD P-State CPU frequency control for better CPU management and efficiency, aiming to prevent performance drops during heavy CPU load.

    3. The software stack has been upgraded to Linux kernel version 6.11 and Plasma 6.2.5, enhancing overall performance and prioritizing a Wayland-first experience.

    4. Open-source AMD Mesa graphics drivers have been updated, adding VRR frame rate limiting and improving system security and compatibility.

    5. Miscellaneous updates include Bluetooth wake for the Steam Deck, accurate surround sound support, faster transitions between desktop and gaming modes, and fixes for bugs related to shutdowns and switching modes.

    Following the new evidence of a complete public release of Valve’s SteamOS, which is based on Linux, several enhancements have been made in later patches and updates. These updates frequently improve support for various hardware and controller setups. The latest SteamOS beta version, 3.7.5, named Ready Steady Go, has just been unveiled. This version brings improvements not only for third-party gaming handhelds but also substantial updates to the driver and software stack, along with essential quality-of-life enhancements.

    Improvements for Handhelds

    In the earlier SteamOS Preview update notes, it was noted that the SteamOS 3.7.5 Beta channel includes support for the trackpad of the Lenovo Legion Go S. This Beta update also highlights “better input support for Asus and Lenovo handhelds,” suggesting there are additional modifications for the Legion Go (current price: $599.99 at Best Buy) that will probably be explained more thoroughly when the main SteamOS update is released. Furthermore, the new update introduces support for the Byowave Proteus controller, which is a significant advancement for accessibility. It also resolves issues related to the Nintendo Switch Pro controller’s gyro inputs, which were not registering correctly upon initial connection.

    Significant Software Changes

    More importantly, SteamOS 3.7.5 Beta introduces support for AMD P-State CPU frequency control, transitioning from the previous Schedutil. This change should increase the number of AMD CPUs that SteamOS can manage accurately, enhance CPU efficiency, and help avoid performance drops during times of significant CPU load variation. Additionally, the underlying software stack has seen a major update, with the 3.5.7 patch upgrading the Arch Linux base to Linux kernel version 6.11, and now incorporating Plasma 6.2.5 for desktop mode. This update shifts from KDE 5.27.10 to the next major version, which updates the desktop to the latest Qt version and prioritizes a Wayland-first experience. Although SteamOS already utilized Wayland, the upgrade to Plasma 6 should enhance overall performance and efficiency.

    Graphics Driver Updates

    The open-source AMD Mesa graphics drivers have also received an update. In addition to adding VRR frame rate limiting for both internal and external displays, these updates primarily aim to keep the system secure and compatible while addressing minor bugs.

    Other miscellaneous updates included in this release for SteamOS consist of Bluetooth wake from sleep for the LCD Steam Deck, accurate surround sound support, improved and faster transitions between desktop and gaming modes, and fixes for bugs such as slow shutdowns and hanging when switching to desktop mode.

    Note: This update is aimed at the Steam Deck Beta and Preview channels and contains new features still undergoing testing. You can join this in Settings > System > System Update Channel.

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    SteamOS Beta Update: ROG Ally, Legion Go Support & AMD CPU Control
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