Category: Gaming

  • “Free Idle Game: Addictive Fun Soars to #1 on Steam Charts”

    “Free Idle Game: Addictive Fun Soars to #1 on Steam Charts”

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Concept: Revolution Idle features rotating colored circles that create multipliers, focusing on optimizing production systems with idle game mechanics.

    2. Cross-Platform Synchronization: Players can seamlessly continue their progress on PC and mobile devices, enhancing accessibility and convenience.

    3. Positive Reception: The game has received approximately 3,900 reviews on Steam, with 85% being positive, and it currently ranks highly in the “Trending Free” chart.

    4. Engaging Gameplay: Players appreciate the game’s depth, well-paced progression, and the slow unveiling of new mechanics, which keeps the experience fresh.

    5. Criticism: Common concerns include similarities to Antimatter Dimensions, the use of AI-generated art, perceived pay-to-win elements, and technical issues like instability and high CPU usage.


    Revolution Idle is a free idle and incremental game that captivates many players, making it hard to step away from. You can find it on PC through Steam, as well as on Android and iOS platforms. The main concept of the game features a set of rotating colored circles that gradually create multipliers. Players work to fill these circles, significantly increasing their numbers while navigating through more intricate prestige and progression systems, all with just a few clicks.

    The Objective

    The aim in Revolution Idle is to constantly elevate numbers, unlock additional features, and optimize your production system for peak efficiency, all while adhering to the traditional idle game mechanics. Automated features guarantee that progress continues even when you aren’t actively engaged. A notable aspect of the game is its cross-platform synchronization, which keeps your game state current whether you’re playing on a computer or a mobile device.

    Launch and Reception

    Revolution Idle made its debut in Early Access in October 2024 and celebrated its full release on May 1. Since then, it has accumulated approximately 3,900 reviews on Steam, with most coming from its Early Access duration. Nevertheless, the overall feedback has been very positive, with 85% of reviews rating the game favorably. It is also currently leading Steam’s “Trening Free” chart, indicating that its captivating gameplay and clever design are appealing to a broad audience.

    Player Feedback

    Gamers find Revolution Idle extremely engaging, often complimenting its unexpected depth and well-paced progression. The slow unveiling of new mechanics keeps the game interesting and provides ongoing motivation, even as players delve deeper into it. Though there are microtransactions, feedback from users indicates that the full experience is completely achievable at no cost.

    Criticism and Concerns

    Despite its success, Revolution Idle has faced some criticism. Numerous reviewers have noted its striking similarity to Antimatter Dimensions, pointing out that the fundamental concepts, mechanics, and gameplay flow appear almost identical. The inclusion of AI-generated art has also attracted negative feedback, particularly when it is used without clear identification. Although the game is free to play, some players perceive the monetization strategy as obtrusive, mentioning elements that could be seen as pay-to-win. Technical issues have been reported as well, including sporadic instability, high CPU usage, and challenges related to visual effects and localization.

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  • GTA 6 Launch Delayed to 2026: Analyst Explains Reasons

    GTA 6 Launch Delayed to 2026: Analyst Explains Reasons

    Key Takeaways

    1. GTA 6’s release date has been pushed to May 2026, a change that was somewhat expected internally at Rockstar.
    2. Developer workloads, strict deadlines, and management’s shift in priorities contributed to the delay.
    3. Jason Schreier reported that Rockstar staff had long doubted the feasibility of a Fall 2025 launch.
    4. Online reactions include surprise at Take-Two’s decision to prioritize employee well-being, contrasting with its past practices.
    5. Fans are generally positive about the delay, hoping it will reduce stressful crunch periods experienced during previous game developments.


    Shortly after Rockstar announced that GTA 6’s release date has been pushed to May 2026, new reports indicate that this delay was somewhat expected behind closed doors. Journalist and well-known analyst Jason Schreier noted that the Rockstar developers had not genuinely anticipated a Fall 2025 launch for some time. This was due to excessive workloads, strict deadlines, and a change in management’s views on preventing severe crunch.

    Inside Scoop on the Delay

    On Bluesky, Schreier mentioned, “nobody I’ve talked to at Rockstar has believed Fall 2025 was a real window for a very long time now.” He also pointed out that the shift to 2026 has seemed unavoidable internally for quite a while. To be honest, this aligns with what many fans had guessed, particularly since GTA 6 has been under development for almost ten years now.

    Online Reactions

    Naturally, this fresh context has ignited some fascinating conversations online. Some users express surprise at what they consider an unusually “mature” choice by Take-Two to postpone the game for the sake of employee well-being, especially given the publisher’s past reputation for pressuring studios. Others have suggested that the timing of the delay may have been deliberately chosen to prevent unnecessary investor anxiety too soon, allowing the company to manage its share value during crucial earnings calls.

    Fan Reactions and Criticism

    We also observed some lighthearted teasing regarding the new May 26 date, with fans questioning why Rockstar didn’t target a “6/26/26” launch for the sake of style. However, the majority of the feedback has been quite positive, particularly from gamers who recall the stressful crunch periods during the final stages of Red Dead Redemption 2’s development.

    At this point, the 2026 release window for GTA 6 appears to be quite solid. Whether this will help avoid the typical last-minute pressure that Rockstar is known for is still uncertain, but for now, the company seems to be aiming for a different approach.

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  • Apple Requires Apps to Include External Payment Links

    Apple Requires Apps to Include External Payment Links

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ruling Against Apple: A US judge has ruled that Apple cannot charge or block external payment links in iOS apps, marking a win for developers like Epic Games.

    2. Developer Freedom: Developers can now direct users to payment websites outside of Apple’s system, avoiding the 27-30% fees imposed by Apple on in-app purchases.

    3. Background of the Case: The ruling is part of a long-standing legal battle between Epic Games and Apple, influenced by misleading testimonies from Apple executives.

    4. Impact on App Store: Developers are expected to update their apps immediately to take advantage of this ruling, which could lead to lower costs for users and higher profits for developers.

    5. Broader Implications: While the ruling currently applies only in the US, it may affect other platforms like Google Play Store, depending on the outcome of Apple’s planned appeal.


    A US judge has decided against Apple, stopping the company from charging or blocking external payment links in iOS applications, starting right away. This is a win for Epic Games and other developers, marking a significant change in a four-year legal fight, and allowing US App Store apps to avoid Apple’s 30% fees for in-app payments, disrupting the iPhone ecosystem.

    Developers Gain More Freedom

    Now, developers can direct users to payment websites that are not part of Apple’s system. Apple can no longer impose fees of 27-30% on outside purchases, nor can it prevent developers from designing or positioning payment links. The company is also prohibited from using fear tactics—like warning messages—to dissuade users from leaving an app to buy elsewhere. Developers can simply provide neutral alerts, which is a big win for Epic and Spotify, who have had similar confrontations with Apple.

    Background of the Ruling

    This decision, linked to the ongoing Epic vs. Apple drama since 2020, was complicated by Apple VP Alex Roman’s misleading testimony and CEO Tim Cook’s attempts to ignore a ruling from 2021, despite warnings from Phil Schiller, according to TechCrunch. Previously, Apple compelled developers to utilize its payment system, taking a 30% cut from in-app transactions and banning any external links or suggestions of alternatives while employing scare tactics against outside payments.

    Future Implications for the App Store

    Apple plans to appeal while still following the ruling. This could lead to a change as developers, like Epic and Spotify, are set to update their apps right away. The table below outlines the specifics. This could lead to lower costs for users and higher profits for developers, particularly for free-to-play games such as Fortnite, but this change is currently limited to the US. With Google’s Play Store facing similar issues, this ruling could have wider effects across different platforms. Will Apple’s appeal change this decision, or is it the start of a new chapter in app freedom? Only time will tell.

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  • Classic Franchise that Defined a Genre Now on Sale on Steam

    Classic Franchise that Defined a Genre Now on Sale on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dark Souls has significantly influenced modern gaming, leading to the creation of the Souls-like genre known for its challenging gameplay.
    2. Dark Souls Remastered offers a polished experience by fixing glitches from earlier versions, allowing players to explore as the Ashen One in a dangerous world.
    3. Dark Souls 2 Scholar of the First Sin is controversial but provides a unique experience, despite community criticism, and introduces new gameplay mechanics.
    4. Dark Souls 3 concludes the series, addressing issues from Dark Souls 2 and incorporating nostalgic elements, while confirming there will be no fourth installment.
    5. The Dark Souls trilogy remains valuable in the gaming market, with limited discounts; currently, Dark Souls Remastered and Dark Souls 2 are both 50% off on Steam.


    At this stage, Dark Souls has really embedded itself into the core of contemporary gaming. Many developers have strived hard to produce the next “Dark Souls,” leading to the rise of an entire genre known as Souls-like games. Recognized for their challenging difficulty, the first three Dark Souls titles continue to maintain a loyal fan base today, along with a lively modding community that excels in generating fresh content.

    A New Take on Dark Souls

    Dark Souls Remastered is the updated 2018 release of the original Dark Souls. This version is a true PC port that eliminates all the glitches from the ‘Prepare to die edition’ that was released a few years before. In this game, you take on the role of the Ashen One, a seemingly insignificant character who awakens in an unknown location with nothing except the clothes on their back.

    The Challenge Awaits

    Aside from a few basic tutorials at the beginning, you’re pretty much left to fend for yourself. You are thrown into an expansive world where everything can, and likely will, kill you. Ideally, you shouldn’t rely on a guide during your first playthrough, but no one will blame you if you do, as everything in the game is purposefully ambiguous, including quests and interactions with NPCs. The lore is built through item descriptions and loading screens.

    Dark Souls 2 Scholar of the First Sin is undoubtedly one of the most controversial games in the series. It attempts to surpass Dark Souls by introducing several fundamental changes, such as a stat that decides the number of invulnerability frames you receive while rolling. Though the community frequently mocks the game, it still has a loyal following that argues it isn’t as terrible as many claim. Regardless, you should give it a shot because it offers something distinctly different from the trilogy.

    The Final Chapter

    Dark Souls 3 serves as the conclusion of the series. Game director Hidetaka Miyazaki has confirmed there won’t be a fourth Dark Souls, which is evident from the company’s shift towards other franchises like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Elden Ring. Dark Souls 3 brings together all the events from the previous two games.

    Without diving into spoilers, the main idea of the Dark Souls series revolves around cycles that repeat endlessly. Dark Souls 3 ultimately puts an end to this cycle. Additionally, it seeks to rectify some of the ‘issues’ brought about by Dark Souls 2 by playing on nostalgia from the original Dark Souls. There are also several new game mechanics, such as weapon arts, that later became fundamental to the combat in Elden Ring.

    Limited Time Offers

    Even though Dark Souls 3 is nearly nine years old, the trilogy rarely sees discounts. When it does, the price reductions are not as significant as those seen with other franchises. This reflects how the games maintain their worth even in today’s market. If you’re interested in Dark Souls and want to understand the excitement surrounding it, now is a perfect time to dive in.

    Dark Souls Remastered is currently 50% off on Steam. Dark Souls 2 Scholar of the First Sin has also been marked down by 50%. Both versions include the base game along with their DLCs. However, for Dark Souls 3, you will need to spend a bit more for the Deluxe Edition. But both are at 50% off, and the additional cost is definitely justified given the vast amount of content available.

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  • Nics Tek Launches Hesper64(100) Keyboard with Dual-Action Keys

    Nics Tek Launches Hesper64(100) Keyboard with Dual-Action Keys

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dual-Action Keys: The Hesper64(100) features dual-action keys for quick access to secondary functions without using modifier keys.

    2. Pricing and Availability: The keyboard has an MSRP of $239, but early backers can reserve it on Kickstarter for $169 with a $1 deposit.

    3. Mechanical Switches and Hot-Swappability: It includes 64 low-profile mechanical keys, all hot-swappable, supporting N-key rollover.

    4. Customization Features: Users can customize key functions and macros with QMK and VIA support.

    5. Design and Connectivity: The keyboard has an aluminum alloy top case, a brass mode button for wired and wireless connectivity options, and comes in two colors: Sand Beige and Misty Night.


    Nics Tek has introduced its new compact keyboard called the Hesper64(100), which features dual-action keys. These keys are designed to let gamers quickly access secondary functions without needing to press the SHIFT, CTRL, ALT, or FN keys. The keyboard is priced at an MSRP of $239, but early backers can reserve it through Kickstarter for only $169 with a $1 deposit.

    Key Features

    This keyboard comes with a total of 64 low-profile keys that utilize mechanical switches, with some keys offering dual-action capabilities. When these special keys are activated, the keyboard effectively has 100 keys. The upper section of the dual-action keys has a different travel depth compared to the lower section, which helps prevent typing errors. All keys are hot-swappable and provide N-key rollover support.

    Customization Options

    Users can take advantage of QMK and VIA support, which allows for complete software customization of key functions along with advanced macro and shortcut programming possibilities.

    A brass mode button lets users switch the keyboard between wired mode, 2.4 GHz wireless, and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless modes. In Bluetooth mode, the keyboard can pair with up to three devices simultaneously.

    Design and Colors

    The top case of the keyboard is constructed from anodized CNC aluminum alloy, while the bottom is made of ABS plastic. A brass logo button is used to turn the device on or off, and it includes a floating RGB light strip that illuminates the edges of the base. The Hesper64(100) will be offered in two colors: Sand Beige and Misty Night.

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  • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Publisher Responds to Oblivion Remaster

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Publisher Responds to Oblivion Remaster

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Timing Concerns: The launch of Oblivion Remastered shortly before Expedition 33 raised concerns in the gaming community about competition.
    2. Distinct Audiences: Expedition 33 targets a different group of gamers due to its JRPG elements, while Oblivion Remastered appeals to fans of Western RPGs.
    3. Strong Promotion and Pricing: Microsoft’s promotion and the game’s availability on Xbox Game Pass contributed to its attention, alongside an attractive price of $49.99 on Steam.
    4. Sales Success: Expedition 33 has sold over one million copies, showing strong performance despite being available on Game Pass.
    5. RPG Genre Viability: The success of both games suggests that the RPG genre can support multiple titles released close together.


    The release timing of the Oblivion Remastered was somewhat concerning for the lesser-known Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. After months of speculation, Bethesda surprise-launched its action RPG on April 22nd. Just a few days later, Sandfall Interactive’s Expedition 33 made its debut, raising worries in the gaming community. Nevertheless, both titles have seen remarkable sales figures and a strong player base. This positive outcome is not unexpected for Kepler Interactive, the publisher behind the French RPG.

    Different Audiences

    Matthew Handrahan, Senior Portfolio Manager, shared his insights with The Game Business about how Expedition 33 appeals to a distinct group of gamers. He said, “During my time in the press, I noticed that Western-style RPGs and Japanese-style RPGs attract different audiences and interests.” Although it’s developed in France, Expedition 33 has a JRPG feel with a defined storyline and primarily turn-based battles. On the other hand, Oblivion Remastered offers the freedom of an open world and real-time combat, akin to Western games.

    Strong Promotion and Pricing

    The publisher of Expedition 33 cites several factors that contributed to its notable attention. From the beginning, Microsoft helped promote the title at significant gaming events. Additionally, being part of the day-one Xbox One Game Pass gave subscribers an easy and low-cost opportunity to try out Expedition 33. However, with gaming costs rising, Steam’s pricing of $49.99 was quite attractive. As players engage with the Paintress, reviews indicate that the graphics and voice acting are on par with any AAA title.

    A Remarkable Achievement

    Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has achieved success by any standard. Even with its availability on Game Pass, the game has surpassed one million copies in sales. Moreover, Expedition 33 is reporting similar peak player counts on Steam within a 24-hour period as Oblivion Remastered. These results may suggest that the RPG genre is varied enough to enable games that are launched just days apart to flourish.

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  • Epic Games Store Announces Free Game Giveaway for Android, iOS May 2025

    Epic Games Store Announces Free Game Giveaway for Android, iOS May 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store has updated its free mobile game giveaway program on Android and iOS to align more closely with its PC offerings.
    2. This week, the only free game available is Super Space Club, which is usually priced at $7.98.
    3. Users must sideload the Epic Games Store application to access it on their devices, particularly on iOS.
    4. The app installation is currently only available for iOS devices within the European Union.
    5. Epic Games will refresh its mobile giveaway on May 8 at approximately 15:00 UTC.


    The Epic Games Store has updated its free mobile game giveaway program on both Android and iOS platforms, following a similar update on PC earlier today. Recently, Epic Games has been trying to bring both programs closer together. That said, some differences still exist. For instance, on mobile, they included Loop Hero along with Chuchel, while on PC, only Chuchel received a discount.

    Free Game Offers This Week

    This week, the only game available for free is Super Space Club, now listed at $0.00 on both Android and iOS, a deal that usually costs $7.98. In simpler terms, this week, the Epic Games Store has aligned its giveaways across both platforms. Sadly, it seems unlikely that picking up free mobile games from the store will be any simpler in the future.

    Installation Notes

    Currently, to access the Epic Games Store, users need to sideload the application on devices such as the iPhone 16 (currently priced at $700 – refurbished on Amazon). While the store does provide installation instructions for both systems, the app can only be installed on iOS devices within the European Union. Keep in mind that Epic Games plans to refresh its mobile giveaway at approximately 15:00 UTC on May 8. Until then, you can download Super Space Club for free through the mobile apps or via a desktop browser using this instant checkout link, as long as you are logged into your Epic Games account first.

    Important Disclaimer

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for any price changes made by retailers. The deal or discounted price mentioned here was accurate at the time of writing and may have time limits or limited stock availability.

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  • Hollow Knight: Silksong Demo at Australian Museum in September

    Hollow Knight: Silksong Demo at Australian Museum in September

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hollow Knight: Silksong will feature a larger world and more diverse enemies, with a general release date set for 2025.
    2. A demo of the game will be available at the ACMI Game Worlds exhibit in Melbourne this September.
    3. Fans speculate that a more specific release date may be announced before the September event.
    4. The sequel is expected to be released as a physical game for the Switch 2, and will also be available on PlayStation, Xbox, and Steam.
    5. Hollow Knight: Silksong is currently one of the most anticipated upcoming game releases.


    After not hearing much since its reveal in 2019, the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct has given us a sneak peek at Hollow Knight: Silksong. The creators have promised a bigger world filled with a huge variety of enemies. The Nintendo trailer only mentioned a general release date for Hollow Knight: Silksong in 2025. But now, IGN has reported that players will be able to try out the game during an event in September.

    Exciting Exhibition

    The ACMI (Australia’s National Museum of Screen Culture) showcase may not have drawn much attention, if it wasn’t for the game demo. In Melbourne, the Game Worlds exhibit this September will highlight the new sprites of the main character, Hornet. Visitors can also look forward to learning about boss battles and the game’s unique artistic style. The previous Metroidvania game is known for its distinct art and unexpectedly tough combat.

    Anticipation Builds

    Given the unusual museum setting, some gamers are guessing that the release date for Hollow Knight: Silksong might be announced before September. After the teaser from Nintendo Direct, it seems logical that Team Cherry would want to showcase the game at a major event in Spring or Summer. Fans are eager to find out a more exact date for its launch, and maybe even the price.

    The first Hollow Knight did really well on the handheld device, leading to impressive sales on the Nintendo Switch. Following a leak from a Polish retailer, it’s likely that the sequel will be released as a physical game for the Switch 2. Owners of PlayStation and Xbox consoles can also expect the game. However, the game is particularly awaited on the Steam platform. Hollow Knight: Silksong is currently at the top of the list for the most anticipated upcoming releases.

    Looking Ahead

    IGN and SteamDB have both noted the excitement surrounding this title. As fans eagerly await more details, the buzz is definitely building for what promises to be an exciting addition to the gaming world.

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  • Fortnite Returns to iOS in the US After Epic Games’ Legal Win

    Fortnite Returns to iOS in the US After Epic Games’ Legal Win

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games and Apple have been in a legal dispute since 2020 over Fortnite’s removal from the App Store due to direct payment options.
    2. A recent ruling allows Fortnite to return to iOS after Apple was found in “willful violation” of a 2021 injunction.
    3. Epic Games’ CEO, Tim Sweeney, proposed a deal to drop litigation if Apple extends its new payment framework globally.
    4. The ruling may impact how developers handle in-app purchases and their relationship with Apple in the future.
    5. The conflict has lasted over four years, marking a significant development in the ongoing struggle against Apple’s App Store policies.


    Epic Games and Apple have been engaged in a court dispute since 2020, when Apple took down the Epic Games store from its App Store. This action also removed the widely played battle royale game, Fortnite, from iPhone and iPad users. However, in a ruling on April 30, it has been decided that Fortnite can come back to iOS, as the judge overseeing the case has ruled in favor of Epic Games. Tim Sweeney, the head of Epic Games, shared insights on X, referencing the Digital Markets Act.

    Background of the Dispute

    Fortnite’s removal from the App Store resulted from Epic Games implementing direct payment options for in-app purchases, which would allow them to avoid paying Apple’s 30% commission. The game store then sued the company from Cupertino, claiming that Apple was unfairly forcing developers to adhere strictly to the App Store’s guidelines when sharing content with iOS users. In 2021, Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers sided with Epic Games, stating that Apple couldn’t stop developers from including external links; however, Fortnite still didn’t make its way back to the platform.

    Recent Legal Developments

    According to the ruling on April 30, Apple is found to be in “willful violation” of the 2021 injunction, and the court will not accept such defiance. “For this Court, there is no second bite at the apple,” Judge Rogers remarked.

    Sweeney took to X to share the news that following this ruling, Fortnite will reappear on the App Store next week, along with a proposal for peace. He stated, “If Apple extends the court’s friction-free, Apple-tax-free framework worldwide, we’ll return Fortnite to the App Store worldwide and drop current and future litigation on the topic.” After four years, four months, and 17 days, it seems that it’s “Game over for the Apple tax,” Sweeney declared.

    Conclusion

    In summary, the long-standing conflict between Epic Games and Apple has taken a significant turn, with the return of Fortnite to iOS on the horizon. The developments could change how developers approach in-app purchases and their relationship with Apple moving forward.

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  • Next Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store Revealed Early

    Next Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store Revealed Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. Free Games Announcement: Epic Games Store will offer Deadtime Defenders and Touch Type Tale for free starting next Thursday at 15:00 UTC.

    2. Game Details: Deadtime Defenders is a side-scrolling shooter, while Touch Type Tale focuses on typing strategies. Both have RPG elements and single-player campaigns.

    3. Positive Feedback: Touch Type Tale has received very positive reviews, and Deadtime Defenders has positive ratings on Steam.

    4. Low System Requirements: The games can run on most computers made in recent years, requiring around 8 GB of RAM and an older Nvidia graphics card.

    5. Price Disclaimer: Prices mentioned may change, and the information is accurate at the time of writing, with potential time limitations or limited availability.


    The Epic Games Store has refreshed its offerings of free games for PC, Android, and iOS. Although the platform tends to keep its future mobile giveaways a secret, it has chosen to reveal the free games for PC that will be available next week.

    Upcoming Free Games

    Starting next Thursday at 15:00 UTC, users can grab both Deadtime Defenders and Touch Type Tale, with a total value of $27.98. Deadtime Defenders is primarily a side-scrolling shooter, while Touch Type Tale focuses on typing strategies. Both games feature RPG elements and revolve around single-player campaigns. They have received positive feedback on Steam, with ratings of very positive for Touch Type Tale and positive for Deadtime Defenders.

    System Requirements

    These games should perform well on almost any computer made in the last few years, due to their low system requirements. Specifically, you’ll need roughly 8 GB of RAM and an older Nvidia graphics card, such as the GeForce GTX 750 Ti or GTX 1050 Ti (currently priced at $119.98 on Amazon). For more information, check out Epic Games’ listings for Deadtime Defenders and Touch Type Tale.

    Important Note

    Please note that Notebookcheck is not liable for any changes in price that retailers may implement. The discounted price or deal mentioned here was accurate at the time of writing, and it could be subject to time limitations or limited availability.

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