Category: Gaming

March 9, 2025
RX 9070 XT Price Drops Boosts Sales, Outperforming Nvidia
Key Takeaways
1. Early sales data shows the AMD Radeon RX 9070 series is popular, but sales at MSRP fell short of expectations.
2. In the UK, the RX 9070 XT models are top sellers on Amazon, indicating strong demand for RDNA 4 graphics cards among gamers.
3. Amazon’s best-seller lists show similar trends in Germany, with the RX 9070 series rising in popularity, while Nvidia remains strong in the US market.
4. Despite higher-than-expected prices for the RX 9070 XT, AMD GPUs still offer better value compared to Nvidia’s RTX 5070 Ti.
5. Upcoming competition in the entry-level market is anticipated with the expected launch of Nvidia’s RTX 5050 and RTX 5060 cards.
Days after the AMD Radeon RX 9070 series hit the market, the tech world is exploring early sales data. Although the number of GPUs sold at the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) fell short of expectations, it hasn’t stopped gamers from buying. Retailers are indicating that AMD’s ample supply is already running low. The RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT are leading Amazon’s best-selling GPU list, particularly in Europe.
UK Market Trends
In the UK, RDNA 4 graphics cards are quickly becoming the top choice for gamers. Two Sapphire Pulse RX 9070 XT models are leading the charts on Amazon UK, surpassing the Gigabyte Radeon RX 9070 XT. Among the top ten, the MSI Inspire 3X OC RTX 5080 stands out as the only Nvidia RTX 50 series card. These rankings support claims from Overclockers UK, which reported selling 5,000 RX 9070 series GPUs on March 6.
German and US Sales
On Amazon’s German platform, the situation appears similar, with the Asus Prime RX 9070 leading in sales. Meanwhile, the MSI Ventus 3X OC RTX 5070 Ti still holds the top spot in the United States. However, the RX 9070 series competitors are making their way up the rankings.
Amazon’s best-seller lists are updated hourly and tend to favor newer products. Best Buy might focus on total sales numbers, as Nvidia GPUs continue to be the more sought-after options. Nonetheless, if AMD can keep restocking the RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT, the green team will need to ramp up production to keep pace.
Pricing and Competition
The excitement around the RX 9070 launch decreased when retailers announced the GPU prices. Without a reference card from AMD to compare against, manufacturers set the RX 9070 XT prices above the $599 MSRP. Still, AMD GPUs present a solid value, especially with the Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti priced at $749.99 in a similar situation.
Nvidia can find some solace in knowing that AMD lacks a competitor for the limited RTX 5090. The next showdown seems to be on the horizon, focused on entry-level graphics cards, as the RTX 5050 and RTX 5060 are expected to debut in the coming months.
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Tags: AMD RX 9070, GPU sales trends, Nvidia RTX 5070 Ti
March 9, 2025
New Xbox Console Expected; Doubts on Call of Duty 2026 Dev Kit
Key Takeaways
1. Phil Spencer reassures gamers that Microsoft is still committed to console development despite challenges faced by the Series X.
2. The upcoming Xbox is speculated to function like a PC, making it easier for developers to create games without specialized hardware.
3. There are mixed reactions among gamers regarding the idea of a TV-friendly PC console, with concerns about ease of use compared to traditional consoles.
4. Compatibility with a wide range of PC games could reduce the need for traditional consoles, but user-friendly navigation remains crucial for popularity.
5. Predictions suggest the new Xbox console may not launch until 2027, and backward compatibility with Xbox-exclusive games is a concern for gamers.
Gamers are buzzing with ideas about what a new Xbox console might be like. Despite the Series X facing some hurdles, Phil Spencer reassures that Microsoft is still in the game when it comes to console development. While there is chatter about a potential handheld device, an insider from the industry describes the upcoming Xbox as a PC that works well with TVs.
Speculations on Development Kits
On the Xbox Two Podcast, Jez Corden discussed rumors about a new Call of Duty game being tested on a development kit for the next Xbox console. Although Corden expressed skepticism about the existence of such a kit, he emphasized how easy this new system would be to develop for. The console would operate like a Windows PC, lacking any specialized software or hardware. Thus, it seems more likely that developers for Call of Duty 2026 have a spec sheet rather than an actual prototype.
Reactions to the Next Gaming System
Corden suggests that Microsoft’s forthcoming gaming device will be a TV-friendly PC. This idea has led to mixed reactions from gamers. Many components are being shrunk down, apart from the Nvidia RTX 50-series and AMD RX 9070-series GPUs. It’s feasible to create a compact PC that fits nicely into a living room. Still, systems like the Series X or PS5 offer a more straightforward gaming experience for users.
A console powered by Windows could bring compatibility with a vast array of PC games. With both Microsoft and Sony releasing titles for the platform, the necessity for a traditional console could lessen. However, not every gamer prefers to manage hardware and fiddle with settings. The ease of navigation with a controller will also play a significant role in how popular the console becomes.
Historical Context and Future Predictions
Many Reddit users have brought up the downfall of Valve’s Steam Machine in response to Corden’s forecasts. However, that mini PC was based on the Linux-oriented Steam OS, unlike Windows. Although there is a vast library on Steam, the flexibility that comes with PCs using Microsoft’s software is what most gamers tend to favor.
Corden predicts that a new Xbox console won’t emerge until 2027. Gamers are worried about backward compatibility with Xbox-exclusive games, an issue Microsoft must address before making any official announcements.
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Tags: Call of Duty, Steam Machine, Xbox
March 9, 2025
Top Indie Steam Deck Games Up to 85% Off in Limited Sale
Key Takeaways
1. Many highly-rated games are on sale at reduced prices on Steam.
2. Discounts include popular action, adventure, and indie games.
3. Some indie titles are marked down by as much as 85%.
4. The sale is a limited-time event, providing a chance to buy games at lower costs.
5. Prices and deals may change, and Notebookcheck is not responsible for those changes.
Many highly-rated games are currently available at reduced prices on Steam. This special sale includes discounts on popular action, adventure, and various other genres. When it comes to indie games, there are a number of titles that have been marked down by as much as 85%. A few notable mentions include:
Important Note
Please keep in mind that Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for any changes in pricing made by retailers. The prices or deals mentioned in this article were correct at the time of writing and might be limited by time and/or stock availability.
Steam Sales
The current Steam sale is a great opportunity for gamers to score some of the best titles at a fraction of their original cost. Whether you’re looking for action-packed adventures or charming indie experiences, there’s something for everyone in this limited-time event.
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Tags: Discounts, Indie Games, Steam Sale
March 8, 2025
ASUS TUF Gaming F16 with RTX 4050 Launching in India March 12
Key Takeaways
1. ASUS TUF Gaming F16 laptop will launch in India on March 12, 2025, at 12 PM.
2. It features an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU and a 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13650HX processor with 14 cores.
3. The laptop has a 16-inch FHD+ anti-glare display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a brightness of 250 nits.
4. It includes 16GB DDR5 RAM, a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD, and multiple ports including Thunderbolt 4 and USB 3.2.
5. Pricing details are yet to be revealed, but it is expected to be a mid-range gaming laptop available on Amazon India.
ASUS is set to unveil the TUF Gaming F16 (FX607) laptop in India on March 12, 2025, at 12 PM. The device is already listed on Amazon India, confirming its key features.
Key Features
The ASUS TUF Gaming F16 is equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 Laptop GPU, providing excellent performance for both gaming and content creation tasks. It runs on the 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13650HX processor that has 14 cores, which include 6 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores, achieving a maximum clock speed of 4.9 GHz.
The laptop boasts a 16-inch FHD+ (1920 x 1200) anti-glare display that features a 16:10 aspect ratio, a brightness of 250 nits, and a refresh rate of 120Hz. Its design in Mecha Gray includes narrow bezels that create an immersive gaming environment. Weighing in at 2.27 kg, it measures 35.5 x 25.2 x 2.21 ~ 2.82 cm. The device is also outfitted with 16GB DDR5 RAM and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD for quick boot times and smooth multitasking.
Ports and Operating System
This laptop includes an RJ45 LAN port, Thunderbolt 4 with DisplayPort support, a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port which supports power delivery and G-SYNC, along with two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports. It operates on Windows 11 Home and comes with a two-year global warranty, which adds to its appeal.
Pricing and Launch Details
Post-launch, the ASUS TUF Gaming F16 is expected to be available on Amazon India. Though pricing details have not been disclosed yet, it is anticipated that it will be categorized as a mid-range gaming laptop based on its impressive specifications.
Tags: ASUS, gaming laptop, TUF Gaming F16
March 8, 2025
Win One of Five Radeon RX 9070 XT Graphics Cards in Giveaway
Key Takeaways
1. AMD’s Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 are more impressive than Nvidia’s recent announcements.
2. Availability at suggested retail prices is limited, especially in regions like Europe.
3. AMD is hosting a giveaway for five Radeon RX 9070 XT graphics cards, including two signed by CEO Dr. Lisa Su.
4. The contest is open for five more days and only for residents of the U.S. and Canada in UPS, FedEx, or DHL service areas.
5. AMD’s entry into giveaways is new and a positive shift, despite the need for more global accessibility.
While AMD’s Radeon RX 9070 XT and RX 9070 launches were clearly more impressive than Nvidia’s earlier announcements, not everyone was able to buy one at the suggested retail price, particularly in regions like Europe. Some gamers may be lucky enough to win one for free through AMD’s current giveaway. There are a total of five Radeon RX 9070 XT graphics cards available, with two of them signed by AMD’s CEO, Dr. Lisa Su.
Contest Details
As of now, you have five days left to take part in the contest. Only people who legally reside in the United States and Canada can join the giveaway. Additionally, participants must live in areas that UPS, FedEx, or DHL can reach. For more details, you can click on the “Terms and Conditions” link at the bottom of the Gleam.io webpage.
AMD’s Entry into Giveaways
Typically, giveaways are more associated with Nvidia, which often teams up with game publishers for special events tied to game releases. It’s refreshing to see AMD stepping into this arena, but it would be even better if it was open to a global audience. In our review of the Radeon RX 9070 XT, we highlighted its great price-to-performance ratio, FSR 4.0, and the use of standard 8-pin power connectors. However, some higher TDP models are known to incorporate 12VHPWR connectors.
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Tags: AMD giveaway, gaming graphics cards, Radeon RX 9070 XT
March 8, 2025
Ubisoft’s Project U Trailer Leaked: Is the Frozen Game Thawing?
Key Takeaways
1. Project U is a co-op shooter in development by Ubisoft Annecy for over five years, initially revealed in September 2022.
2. The game originally featured a PvPvE system with ten teams of four competing against AI-controlled machines, but faced significant replayability challenges.
3. Due to rising costs and delays, Project U was placed back into internal incubation as of November 2024, though it has not been officially canceled.
4. A leaked cinematic intro raises questions about the game’s future, with community reactions being largely skeptical regarding its release.
5. If development resumes, a major redesign will be necessary for Project U to distinguish itself from other similar titles, avoiding the fate of Ubisoft’s discontinued game XDefiant.
Project U has been in the works at Ubisoft Annecy for no less than five years. It was first officially mentioned back in September 2022 and was characterized as a “new kind of session-based co-op shooter.” Initially known as “Pathfinder,” the game was meant to follow a PvPvE system, where ten teams of four would compete against AI-controlled machines. Players would progress through various zones before confronting a final boss.
Challenges in Development
However, the game faced significant challenges with replayability, which led to design issues. Increasing costs and ongoing delays compelled Ubisoft to place the game back into internal incubation as of November 2024, although it was never formally canceled. The company has not yet provided any insights on what lies ahead. Recently, a cinematic intro for Project U appeared on YouTube, leaked by Shaun Weber.
Community Reactions
The leaked footage offers an interesting look at Project U, but its importance is still uncertain. It might have been produced before Ubisoft paused the development, or it could suggest a potential comeback if the studio has discovered a new direction. On Reddit, many users are doubtful. A lot of them believe the game will not be released, with some poking fun at Ubisoft’s frequent strategy changes by dubbing it “Project U-Turn.” If development has genuinely restarted, a major redesign would be crucial to set it apart from similar games. Otherwise, Project U could end up facing the same outcome as XDefiant, Ubisoft’s arena shooter that was discontinued just a few months after its launch.
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Tags: Co-op Shooter, Project U, Ubisoft
March 8, 2025
Free Unreal Engine 5 Horror Game – Download Now!
Key Takeaways
1. Game Overview: Madness Inside is a psychological horror walking simulator where players control Lieutenant Vic Voyt, trapped in an abandoned psychiatric hospital while pursuing a criminal.
2. Gameplay Duration and Replayability: The game typically takes 60 to 80 minutes to complete, with two endings encouraging players to replay for different experiences.
3. Player Feedback: The game has received positive reviews on Steam, with 80% favorable feedback praising its atmosphere, sound design, and lighting, though some players noted issues with gameplay length and predictability of jump scares.
4. Technical Aspects: Developed using Unreal Engine 5, Madness Inside features impressive graphics, but has faced criticism for technical glitches and vague objectives.
5. Pricing and Availability: The game is usually priced at $7 but is currently available for free on itch.io and on sale for $2.95 on Steam until March 10.
Madness Inside is a psychological horror walking simulator made by ZV GAMES, which came out on December 4, 2024. In this game, players take on the role of Lieutenant Vic Voyt, who finds himself unexpectedly locked within an abandoned psychiatric hospital while chasing a dangerous criminal. This hospital was once the site of terrifying experiments. As players navigate its spooky hallways, they must solve puzzles and gather hints to uncover the unsettling history of the place and figure out how to escape. The developers mention that finishing the game typically takes between 60 to 80 minutes, but those who want to explore more can spend extra time digging into its secrets. The story offers two distinct endings, providing some incentive for replaying.
Player Feedback and Atmosphere
Since its launch, Madness Inside has received roughly 30 reviews on Steam, with 80% being favorable. Gamers have praised its gripping atmosphere, excellent sound design, and dark settings, all of which contribute to a chilling and immersive experience. Utilizing Unreal Engine 5, the game shines with impressive lighting and shadow effects that enhance the overall ambiance. However, it does have some shortcomings. The brief gameplay, technical glitches, and vague objectives have been points of contention. Moreover, some players have noted that certain jump scares feel predictable or excessive, which can lessen the overall horror impact.
Pricing and Availability
Typically, Madness Inside is priced around $7, but right now it can be downloaded for free on itch.io. It’s not clear how long this free offer will be available. For those who prefer Steam, the game is currently on sale with a 55% discount until March 10, reducing the price to $2.95.
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Tags: Madness Inside, psychological horror, ZV GAMES
March 8, 2025
Open-World Shooter on Steam: Now Just $6 from $60, 26K+ Reviews
Key Takeaways
1. Narrative Setting: Players control a Ghost operative on Auroa, a tech island now dominated by the rogue Wolves, after a failed mission leaves them isolated.
2. Gameplay Mechanics: The game emphasizes tactical shooting, survival, and collaboration, with features like healing injuries, managing supplies, and stealth tactics.
3. New Features: Breakpoint introduces camouflage for stealth, a loot system with weapon and armor tiers, and offers solo or co-op gameplay with PvP options.
4. Mixed Reviews: The game received mixed feedback, praised for its engaging story and open world but criticized for shallow loot mechanics, monotonous tasks, and heavy monetization.
5. Discount Promotion: Ubisoft is offering significant discounts on Ghost Recon Breakpoint until March 13, reducing the price from $60 to as low as $6 for various editions.
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint is an expansive shooter that puts players in the shoes of a top-tier Ghost operative. The narrative takes place on Auroa, which was once a bustling tech paradise but is now under the control of the Wolves, a rogue group of former Ghosts. Following a failed mission, players are left injured, isolated, and without support. To survive and retake the island, they must battle the Wolves and reveal the mysteries surrounding Skell Technology, a company central to the development of advanced military drones.
Gameplay Dynamics
In terms of gameplay, Ghost Recon Breakpoint faces challenges with its identity. It mixes open-world exploration with elements of survival and looter-shooter mechanics, but fundamentally, it stays true to its roots as a tactical shooter that emphasizes planning, collaboration, and stealth. Players are tasked not only with dismantling enemy strongholds but also with healing injuries, managing supplies, and traversing thick forests or rugged mountains.
New Features and Modes
A fresh stealth feature allows players to camouflage themselves in mud or foliage for silent eliminations. Breakpoint also brings in a loot mechanism that classifies weapons and armor into various tiers, a shift that didn’t resonate with every fan. Nevertheless, the expansive open world, which provides ample freedom, remains a standout element. The campaign can be tackled solo or in co-op mode with up to three friends, while a PvP setting allows players to challenge one another.
Review Highlights
In a review by GameStar, Ghost Recon Breakpoint garnered commendations for its exhilarating assaults on enemy installations and its robust gameplay. The captivating storyline and the broad open world with a well-designed atmosphere were also positively noted. However, the fusion of traditional Ghost Recon tactics with looter-shooter and survival elements doesn’t quite mesh. The critique points to monotonous tasks and a loot system that seems shallow, lacking significant influence on the overall gameplay experience. Another significant drawback is the heavy monetization through microtransactions, along with the requirement to be always online, even for solo play.
Due to these concerns, Ghost Recon Breakpoint has garnered mixed reviews on Metacritic. The Metascore stands at 58, while the User Score is a disappointing 3.0. However, feedback on Steam has been more positive. With over 26,000 reviews, the open-world shooter maintains a Mostly Positive rating of 72%.
Pricing and Discounts
Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Breakpoint, launched by Ubisoft in October 2019, maintains a full price of $60 on Steam. However, until March 13, the publisher is offering a massive 90% discount, reducing the price to merely $6. This promotion applies not only to the standard edition but also to the Deluxe, Gold, and Ultimate Editions, all of which are significantly marked down. The Deluxe Edition, now $7 instead of $70, comes with bonus content like extra weapons. The Gold Edition, currently $15 instead of $100, includes the Year 1 Pass, which unlocks new missions and playable classes. For those seeking the complete package, the Ultimate Edition is available for $18 instead of $120, which includes all Gold Edition features alongside exclusive bonus missions and extra vehicles.
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Tags: Ghost Recon Breakpoint, Open World Shooter, Ubisoft
March 8, 2025
MCP Update Transforms PS1 Memory Card into Bluetooth Receiver
Key Takeaways
1. 8BitMods has released a firmware update for its Memory Card Pro (MCP002) and Memory Card Pro 2, enabling Bluetooth receiver capabilities for PS1.
2. Currently compatible controllers include the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C BT/2.4G and Xbox wireless controller, with most Xbox variations expected to work.
3. Users must ensure no wired controller is connected to the same port as the Memory Card to avoid potential damage to the PS1.
4. The original Memory Card Pro (MCP002) also supports Bluetooth, while the first revision (MCP001) will not receive updates; a 40% discount is available for upgrades.
5. 8BitMods plans to expand the compatibility list for additional controllers, though specific models remain unconfirmed.
8BitMods has rolled out a firmware update for its Memory Card Pro (MCP002) and Memory Card Pro 2. These memory cards designed for the original PlayStation, or PS1, can now function as Bluetooth receivers, as noted in the relevant Wiki page.
Compatible Controllers
Currently, only two controllers that support Bluetooth LE are officially compatible with this receiver. The first is the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C BT/2.4G, and the second is the popular Xbox wireless controller from Microsoft, which can be found on Amazon starting at $45. There are many variations of the Xbox controller, and most of them should work with the 8BitMods setup, according to their information.
To connect a controller to a PS one, users must switch both the controller and Memory Card Pro into pairing mode, which remains active for 60 seconds. The Memcard Pro is designed to remember previously paired controllers by default, although users can turn off this feature if they prefer.
Important Limitations
That being said, there is a notable restriction. A wired controller must not be connected to the same port as the Memory Card under any circumstances. 8BitMods warns that this could potentially lead to damage to the PlayStation 1 console, so caution is advised.
Interestingly, this new Bluetooth receiver capability is also partially available on the original Memory Card Pro (model number MCP002). However, the first revision (MCP001) will not receive a software update. For retro gamers who bought the first revision from select retailers, there is a chance to obtain a new Memory Card Pro or Pro 2 at a 40% discount. Unfortunately, these memory cards are currently out of stock and can only be pre-ordered.
Future Expansions
Finally, the range of supported controllers is expected to increase. 8BitMods has already indicated plans to expand the official compatibility list, but it remains unclear which specific gamepads will be added in the future.
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Tags: 8BitMods, Bluetooth controller, MCP002
March 8, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 FCC Listing: NFC, Upgraded Wi-Fi, and More
Key Takeaways
1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has the model number BEE-01, with Joy-Con controllers identified as BEE-012 and BEE-014.
2. The console features two USB-C ports for charging, located on both the top and bottom.
3. It includes NFC technology in the right Joy-Con for compatibility with Amiibo figures.
4. The Wi-Fi capability will be upgraded to Wi-Fi 6, but will not support Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7.
5. The Switch 2 will use the same Game Cards as the original Switch and will support a maximum charging input of 15V with a 20V AC adapter.
With only a few weeks remaining before the Nintendo Direct event for the Switch 2, new information about Nintendo’s latest handheld console has come to light, thanks to an FCC listing. The documentation submitted to the US agency has disclosed important details about connectivity options like Wi-Fi, NFC, and USB-C.
Model Numbers and Charging Ports
The FCC documents indicate that the Nintendo Switch 2 carries the model number BEE-01, while the left and right Joy-Con controllers are identified as BEE-012 and BEE-014, respectively. Additionally, it has been confirmed that the handheld device will charge via either of its two USB-C ports. The hardware reveal video showcased that the Switch 2 includes a USB-C port on both the top and bottom, similar to the Lenovo Legion Go, which is currently priced at $698.85 on Amazon.
NFC and Wi-Fi Specifications
Moreover, the Nintendo Switch 2 will feature NFC technology, with the RFID component situated in the right Joy-Con. This indicates compatibility with Amiibo figures. The Wi-Fi capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2 will also see an upgrade; however, it won’t support the faster standards of Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7, instead opting for Wi-Fi 6.
Game Card Compatibility and Charging Details
Additional insights from the FCC documents highlight that the console will utilize the same Game Cards compatible with the original Switch, Switch OLED, and Switch Lite. It will also support a maximum charging input of 15V and come with a 20V AC adapter. The amperage details remain unclear, making it impossible to determine if the Nintendo Switch 2 will charge more quickly than its predecessor.
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Tags: BEE-01, Nintendo Switch 2, Wi-Fi 6+