Category: Gaming

  • Free Closed Alpha: New Roguelite Blends MOBA and RPG on Discord

    Free Closed Alpha: New Roguelite Blends MOBA and RPG on Discord

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Announcement: Raiders of Blackveil is the first game from Wombo Games, founded by former Square Enix chief creative officer Janos Flösser.

    2. Multiplayer Roguelite Concept: The game is a multiplayer roguelite where teams of up to three animal champions break into a mega-corporation, causing destruction and escaping with loot.

    3. Character Classes: There are eight character classes (Mage, Assassin, Priest, Guardian, Monk, Druid, Warrior, Warlock), with four currently available that fit traditional roles like tank, damage dealer, and support.

    4. Early Access and Testing: The game is set to release on Steam Early Access this summer, with a closed alpha test available for free on Discord for macOS and Windows users.

    5. Future Development: Wombo Games intends to expand the game further, hinting at the addition of more champions and features as it evolves.

    Raiders of Blackveil has been officially announced as the first game from Wombo Games, a new indie studio started by former Square Enix chief creative officer, Janos Flösser. While Raiders of Blackveil is primarily a multiplayer roguelite, it incorporates a diverse blend of elements and mechanics from various other genres, presenting what appears to be an exciting concept.

    Gameplay Overview

    In Raiders of Blackveil, players join forces in teams of up to three powerful animal champions to break into a nefarious mega-corporation, cause as much destruction as they can, and then make their escape. The game is heavily influenced by MOBA mechanics, featuring four distinct playable champions, while also encouraging players to search for loot during each run. This loot can include special currencies, equipment, gadgets, and unique legendary items that give your character’s setup special abilities.

    Character Classes

    The game boasts eight different character classes: Mage, Assassin, Priest, Guardian, Monk, Druid, Warrior, and Warlock. Each class comes with its own perks and synergies, enhancing the strategic elements of gameplay. At the moment, the four available heroes fit into traditional roles like tank, damage dealer, and support. However, Wombo Games has mentioned that Raiders of Blackveil is “our baby, and we intend to see it mature,” hinting at the addition of more champions in the future.

    Early Access and Testing

    Wombo Games has announced that the Steam Early Access version will be released with at least the following features:

    Although Raiders of Blackveil is expected to be available on Steam Early Access “this summer,” the developers have provided a closed alpha test version for free through Discord for both macOS and Windows users. Be advised: bugs may be an issue in this version, but participating in the alpha test will assist the developers in refining the game before the official release. As the game is only available for download through Discord, handheld players are restricted to devices like the Asus ROG Ally (currently priced at $649.99 at Best Buy), unless they want to go through the hassle of manually setting up the game with options like Steam, Bottles, or WINE on SteamOS.

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  • CES 2025 Review: A Quarter In, It’s Not Aging Well

    CES 2025 Review: A Quarter In, It’s Not Aging Well

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia made misleading claims about the RTX 5070’s performance compared to the RTX 5090, which were quickly disproven.
    2. Nvidia’s AI announcements, including an AI assistant for gaming graphics, failed to resonate and were overshadowed by AMD’s Strix Halo APU.
    3. AMD’s passive approach included a lack of initiative, exemplified by the RX 9070 XT’s unannounced appearance at CES and reliance on media for pricing.
    4. Intel continues to struggle with limited product offerings, and their future chip releases, including Nova Lake and Panther Lake, face significant delays.
    5. Overall, CES 2023 has not delivered the expected excitement, as many announcements and products have aged poorly or failed to materialize.

    It’s been a little over three months since Nvidia, AMD, and Intel had us glued to livestreams packed with dense investor jargon, trying to find the few bits of info that actually matter to chip buyers. Now, looking back, it seems like most of those bits turned out to be nothing but shiny distractions, their luster worn away by marketing mistakes and avoidable blunders. While these stories may not be brand new, they illustrate how this year’s CES has aged badly compared to others.

    Misleading Claims from Nvidia

    A major example of poorly aged statements is Nvidia’s claim that the RTX 5070 would perform similarly to the RTX 5090. It’s almost unbelievable they made such a statement in the first place. Jensen might have wanted to replicate the significant jumps seen in past generations, such as the RTX 3070 matching the RTX 2080 Ti, but it should have been clear from the start that this claim wouldn’t hold up. And indeed, it didn’t — it was quickly disproved once the review media got their hands on it, just like the recent attempt to mask the poor performance of the RTX 5060 Ti 8GB by only sending out samples of the 16 GB model to reviewers.

    AI Announcements Fall Flat

    Although their other big announcements were AI-related rather than for gamers, these didn’t fare any better. The idea of adding an AI assistant to gaming graphics card software seemed like a solution in search of a problem, and it appeared increasingly disconnected as Nvidia’s drivers began to face issues. Perhaps more importantly, Nvidia’s Project DIGITS mini-PC, which was meant for local AI, was outdone by AMD’s Strix Halo APU. This APU seemed perfectly set up to take advantage of the market, but it only appeared in a few products. Based on how the Framework Desktop version isn’t even arriving until Q3 this year, it clearly isn’t being produced in sufficient quantities to capitalize on the chance that fell into AMD’s lap.

    AMD’s Passive Approach

    Rather than executing poorly, the first few months of the year for AMD have been characterized by a noticeable lack of initiative. The infamous appearance of the RX 9070 XT at CES without an actual announcement is the prime example. They even had to rely on tech media for pricing, but ended up so unsure that the final announcement had to be overdubbed, making Radeon appear comically passive. The next major release, the RX 9060 XT, was approached with greater confidence. However, the silence surrounding it has led gamers to eagerly await any information, with leaks and rumors being the only updates before its expected release on May 18. AMD Gaming’s YouTube channel teased a mystery livestream that turned out to be a rather dull showcase of FSR 4 in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.

    Intel’s Ongoing Struggles

    As for Intel, they weren’t doing well even when CES was happening, and they really had nothing to showcase. Everything they had at that time, both products and plans, has aged poorly. News about Battlemage graphics cards being limited by older CPUs came out right after CES, and later that month, it was confirmed that their next-gen Nova Lake desktop chips wouldn’t be available until 2026. Additionally, their Panther Lake mobile CPUs were supposed to launch later this year, but leaks indicate that even that timeline has slipped. For Intel, all it can rely on is what’s currently available, and with those products already feeling outdated, it’s going to be a long wait for the next three quarters.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Sell Out: eBay Users Fight Scalpers

    Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Sell Out: eBay Users Fight Scalpers

    Key Takeaways

    1. High demand for the Nintendo Switch 2 is expected, with interest from fans, scalpers, and bots.
    2. Supply chain issues are worsened by US tariffs, making it harder to obtain supplies for the console’s launch.
    3. Not all interested buyers will receive an invitation to purchase the console, prioritizing those with a Nintendo Switch Online membership and gameplay hours.
    4. Users are frustrated with scalpers and bots gaining an advantage, leading to the creation of fake listings to disrupt unethical practices.
    5. Scalpers are likely to continue thriving, with prices for legitimate listings expected to exceed $750.

    Much like the previous model, the new Nintendo console, Switch 2, is anticipated to have high demand throughout the year. Fans, scalpers, and even automated bots are all eager to get their hands on it.

    Supply Chain Challenges

    Even with the excitement, US President Donald Trump’s tariffs are causing significant issues for supply chains, making it harder to obtain supplies than during any past console release.

    Nintendo has hinted that not everyone who showed interest in the console on their website will be able to get one at the launch on June 5, 2025. They mentioned, “Invitation emails will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have purchased a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid membership and a minimum of 50 total gameplay hours, as of April 2, 2025.”

    Competition for Preorders

    As the invites are sent out on May 8th, users hoping to skip ahead in line find themselves dealing with some of the less ethical parts of the internet, with many retailers like GameStop already out of stock.

    This situation has frustrated some users, as they see scalpers and bot users getting an advantage. In response, some have taken action by creating fake listings (sample link one, two) to disrupt these practices.

    Many of these listings do not actually provide the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle; instead, they sell a printed image of it while charging the full retail price or even more. Some sellers include notes to warn real buyers, saying things like “If you are not a bot, do not purchase.” Others are more blunt, simply stating “NO REFUNDS” in capital letters. No matter how they are presented, once these listings are flagged by moderators or disappointed buyers on eBay, they are removed, likely due to a violation of the terms of service.

    High Prices and Persistent Scalping

    With limited secured preorders and fans, scalpers, and collectors all searching for Nintendo’s newest console, it is expected that these tactics will continue. Scalpers will likely keep thriving, with listings that appear more legitimate typically priced above $750 on the e-commerce platform.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Preorders Sell Out: eBay Users Fight Scalpers
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  • Anbernic RG557: Complete Details Before Launch Day

    Anbernic RG557: Complete Details Before Launch Day

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG557 will be available for order on April 25, starting at $234.99.
    2. Customers can choose a version with a 256 GB MicroSD card for $264.99, with price increases planned on April 28.
    3. The RG557 features a 5.48-inch AMOLED display with 1080p resolution and is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset.
    4. It includes 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256 GB of UFS 4.0 flash storage, running on Android 14.
    5. The device supports game emulation up to the Wii U level and has Wi-Fi 6E for improved streaming capabilities.

    Earlier this week, Retro Game Corps shared that Anbernic has revealed the release date and pricing for the first retro gaming handheld of this year. Strangely, the company took some time before making an official announcement itself.

    Launch Date and Pricing

    The Anbernic RG557 will be available for order starting on April 25 at 03:00 PDT (10:00 UTC). As anticipated, the initial price set by Anbernic for the RG557 is $234.99 when shipping from either its Chinese or American warehouses. Alternatively, customers can choose the handheld in Transparent Purple or White colors, which comes with a 256 GB MicroSD card for $264.99. It’s important to note that on April 28, Anbernic plans to raise its prices by $15, making them $249.99 and $279.99, respectively.

    Specifications Overview

    In terms of specifications, the RG557 is designed to replace the RG556, which is currently priced at $229.99 on Amazon. The new model features a 5.48-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080p, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset and 12 GB of LPDDR5X RAM. Additionally, Anbernic has equipped the RG557 with 256 GB of UFS 4.0 flash storage that runs on Android 14, alongside a 5,500 mAh battery that supports 27 W wired fast charging. The RG557 is expected to be capable of emulating games up to the Wii U level, and its Wi-Fi 6E connectivity is likely to make it a good choice for game streaming services like Nvidia GeForce Now. For further information, please check Anbernic’s official website.

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    Anbernic RG557: Complete Details Before Launch Day

     

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Surpass PS4 and PS5 Launch Projections

    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Surpass PS4 and PS5 Launch Projections

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 has received 2.2 million lottery requests in Japan, indicating strong interest and potential for record-breaking sales.
    2. Pre-orders began on April 24th in the US, with estimates suggesting up to 6.6 million pre-orders globally by the June 5th release.
    3. The Switch 2 is expected to surpass the initial sales of the PS5 and PS4 if Nintendo can meet demand, despite concerns about supply shortages in Japan.
    4. Nintendo is working to build inventory and combat scalpers, having sent over a million units to the US by the end of February, while keeping the Switch 2’s price stable.
    5. Predictions indicate that the Switch 2 could sell 20 million units in its first year, surpassing the original Switch’s launch record of 15.1 million.

    There has been a clear interest for the Switch 2, especially shown by new figures from Japan. The company noted 2.2 million lottery requests to secure the console from the Japanese Nintendo Store. An updated report from Bloomberg suggests that the handheld might become the biggest console launch ever, thanks to its pre-order sales.

    Pre-Order Insights

    Pre-orders for the Switch 2 kicked off on April 24th in the US, where some customers are still feeling let down, even with rumors of a good supply. However, even without solid figures from North America, the Switch 2 seems set to break records. Pelham Smithers Associates estimates that Japan makes up about a third of global demand. Therefore, Nintendo could gather as many as 6.6 million pre-orders before the release on June 5th.

    Comparing Sales

    The PS5 moved between 2.1 and 2.5 million units in its first two weeks, while the PS4 also had similar figures, with 2.1 million consoles sold in the same timeframe. The Switch 2 could easily surpass both of these, as long as Nintendo can meet the high demand. Nintendo’s President, Shuntaro Furukawa, indicated that the company might not have enough supply in Japan.

    Inventory Efforts

    Worried about scalpers, Nintendo is attempting to build a large stock of consoles. Reports suggest that the company sent over a million units to the US by the end of February. They are still increasing production, but tariffs from China have made pre-ordering the Switch 2 more complicated. After some delays, the gaming giant chose not to raise the price of the Switch 2, although the price for accessories has gone up.

    Future Projections

    Takashi Mochizuki from Bloomberg shared on social media that the Switch 2 could sell 20 million consoles in its first year. This would beat the original Switch’s record of 15.1 million units after its launch in 2017 and is higher than some earlier predictions.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Surpass PS4 and PS5 Launch Projections

     

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Delivery Delays Expected in US and Canada

    Nintendo Switch 2 Delivery Delays Expected in US and Canada

    Key Takeaways

    1. High demand for the Switch 2 has caused website crashes and order cancellations, leading to potential delivery delays.
    2. Pre-order options include retailer websites or registering interest on the My Nintendo Store, with invites starting May 8 for qualified customers.
    3. Not all early registrants will receive their Switch 2 on the June 5 launch date, despite placing orders.
    4. Invitation emails will prioritize Nintendo Switch Online members with a minimum of 12 months of paid service and at least 50 gameplay hours.
    5. Pre-ordering from partners like GameStop may increase chances of receiving the Switch 2 on launch day.

    The response to the pre-orders for the Switch 2 has been really hectic, with websites crashing, orders getting canceled, and stock disappearing in a flash. This high demand has prompted Nintendo to prepare for potential delays in delivery. The Switch 2 is set to be released on June 5, but not everyone in the US and Canada who signed up early will receive the handheld on the release date.

    Ways to Secure Your Switch 2

    There are two main ways to secure your place for the Nintendo Switch 2. Customers can either pre-order the device through retailer websites or express their interest on the My Nintendo Store page. Those who register and qualify will receive an invite starting May 8. However, Nintendo has updated its webpage for US and Canada customers on ‘How to buy Nintendo Switch 2’, indicating that while they will strive to meet orders on launch day, delivery by June 5 is not assured.

    Order Invite Details

    This implies that some fans who got their invites on time and placed an order for the Switch 2 might not see it on launch day. “Invitation emails will be given priority on a first-come, first-served basis to registrants who have bought a Nintendo Switch Online membership with a minimum of 12 months of paid service and at least 50 total gameplay hours as of April 2, 2025,” the website mentions.

    Additionally, it notes that some invitations may be sent after the launch, allowing people to order at that time, with shipping fees calculated post-purchase. Nintendo suggests that pre-ordering from partners like GameStop could boost your chances of getting the Switch 2 right at launch.

    Conclusion

    Overall, the excitement for the Switch 2 is palpable, but with the current issues, fans may need to be patient. Keep an eye on your email for those all-important invites, and remember that securing your order may take a bit of extra effort.

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  • Xiaomi Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U: 4K Gaming Monitor with Mini LEDs

    Xiaomi Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U: 4K Gaming Monitor with Mini LEDs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched the Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U, replacing the Redmi Display G Pro 27 as a high-end gaming monitor.
    2. The monitor features a 27-inch IPS display with 4K resolution, default refresh rate of 160 Hz, and 1 ms GtG response time.
    3. It offers peak brightness of 1,600 nits and 99% coverage of Adobe RGB and DCI-P3 color spaces, with support for Dolby Vision HDR.
    4. The new model is priced at CNY 2,699 (approximately $370), a 35% increase from its predecessor’s price of CNY 1,999 ($274).
    5. Availability for global customers has not been confirmed, though previous models were released worldwide.

    Xiaomi has officially launched the Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U, which was first introduced last week. To summarize, this new model takes the place of the Redmi Display G Pro 27 as one of the priciest gaming monitors in Xiaomi’s lineup. While it does offer several enhancements compared to its predecessor, these upgrades come with a noticeable increase in price.

    Specs and Features

    The Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U boasts a 27-inch IPS display that supports 4K resolution and runs at 160 Hz by default, achieving 1 ms GtG response times. Though it has a lower refresh rate than the 180 Hz provided by the Redmi Display G Pro 27, the new monitor can hit 320 Hz if users are willing to lower the resolution to 1080p.

    Brightness and Color Accuracy

    In addition, the Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U shines with a peak brightness of 1,600 nits, thanks to its 1,152 Mini LED local dimming zones. This represents a 60% enhancement over the previous model, and it also offers 99% coverage of the Adobe RGB and DCI-P3 color spaces, supports Dolby Vision HDR, and carries the VESA DisplayHDR 1000 certification. For those interested, here are the I/O specifications:

    Pricing Details

    Last year, the Redmi Display G Pro 27 was priced at CNY 1,999 (about $274). This time, Xiaomi has set the price for the Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U at CNY 2,699 (approximately $370), marking a 35% increase from the previous generation. Xiaomi has yet to disclose if this new Mini LED gaming monitor will be available for global customers. However, they did eventually release the Redmi Display G Pro 27 worldwide as the Monitor G Pro 27i, which was launched alongside the G24i and G27Qi (currently priced at $189.99 on Amazon).

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    Xiaomi Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U: 4K Gaming Monitor with Mini LEDsXiaomi Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U: 4K Gaming Monitor with Mini LEDs

     

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  • Epic Games Store Unveils Second Free Game for May 2025

    Epic Games Store Unveils Second Free Game for May 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store is giving away Chuchel and in-game items for Albion Online for free until May 1, 2025, at 15:00 UTC.
    2. The next free game, Super Space Club, will be available from May 1 to May 8, 2025, priced at $14.99 normally.
    3. Super Space Club is a lo-fi arcade space shooter with a positive rating on Steam based on around 40 reviews.
    4. The game features a unique energy system where health depletes with weapon use and damage taken, requiring strategic gameplay.
    5. Players can choose from various ships, each with unique characteristics, and there are no extra lives in the game.

    Epic Games Store users can now grab the final giveaway for April 2025, which includes Chuchel, a funny adventure game, along with several in-game items for Albion Online, all for $0. This giveaway also marks the first one for May 2025, running from now until May 1, 2025, at 15:00 UTC.

    Upcoming Giveaways

    In addition to this, the store has announced the second giveaway for May 2025, which will be available immediately after the current giveaway concludes. The next free game on the Epic Games Store is Super Space Club, set to be available for $0 from May 1 at 15:00 UTC until May 8 at 15:00 UTC.

    Game Details

    Super Space Club is listed at $14.99 and currently has a “Positive” rating on Steam, supported by roughly 40 player reviews. According to the developers, it’s a lo-fi arcade game designed as a space shooter for relaxation. Players take on the role of a pilot whose main goal is to survive endless enemy waves.

    Unique Gameplay Features

    This new Epic Games Store offering mixes the classic gameplay of old-school arcade shooters like Asteroids from 1979 with contemporary graphic styles. One interesting feature of this upcoming free game is its unique energy system: the player’s health depletes when firing weapons and taking damage. This requires players to strike a careful balance between offense and defense.

    There are no extra lives available, meaning once the health bar runs out, the game is over. Visually, Super Space Club boasts vibrant graphics, shifting color schemes, and geometric designs. Players can choose from various ships, each with its own distinct characteristics, similar to the variety of weapons on offer. You can find more information about this upcoming Epic Games Store giveaway in the video linked below.

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  • Subnautica 2 Dev Vlog Reveals Co-op Gameplay Ahead of Early Access

    Subnautica 2 Dev Vlog Reveals Co-op Gameplay Ahead of Early Access

    Key Takeaways

    1. Subnautica 2 is set in a new alien environment, building on lessons learned from the first game.
    2. The sequel will introduce co-op gameplay, allowing players to explore together.
    3. Early access for Subnautica 2 is expected to begin later in 2025, with player feedback encouraged during development.
    4. The game will feature new biomes, vehicles, crafting options, and leviathans.
    5. Early Access duration is anticipated to last around two to three years, with publishing managed by KRAFTON.

    Subnautica was created and released by Unknown Worlds Entertainment in 2018, and the game has received overwhelmingly positive feedback on Steam. It quickly gained popularity after its release, and fans have been eagerly awaiting a follow-up, which was officially announced last October. Recently, a new developer vlog called ‘Road to early access’ appeared on their YouTube channel, inviting fans to contribute to the game’s improvement as it prepares for early access later this year.

    New World and Gameplay

    In the video, Design Lead Anthony Gallegos reveals that Subnautica 2 takes place in a completely new and mysterious alien environment. He mentions that the team has utilized all the lessons they learned from the first game to enhance the sequel. One exciting addition is the introduction of co-op gameplay, which was missing in the original title. The vlog features scenes of two players exploring the underwater world together and assisting one another.

    Early Access Timeline

    According to Gallegos, the early access period for Subnautica 2 will begin “later in 2025.” During this phase, players can provide feedback while the game is still being developed. They will be able to explore various biomes and encounter new vehicles, crafting options, and leviathans. Although a specific release date for early access hasn’t been confirmed yet, this marks the first update since the teaser that was released in October 2024.

    The Steam page for Subnautica 2 mentions that while it is “difficult to accurately predict how long Early Access will last,” based on past experiences with Early Access titles from Unknown Worlds Entertainment, the team anticipates a duration of around two to three years. Additionally, unlike the original game from 2018, the sequel will have its publishing managed by KRAFTON.

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  • Epic Games Store Offers Free Games on Android and iOS Until April 2025

    Epic Games Store Offers Free Games on Android and iOS Until April 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store is offering new free games for Android and iOS, alongside its PC giveaways.
    2. Discounts are available on popular titles Loop Hero and Chuchel, totaling $25.96, but only for mobile versions.
    3. Installation of the Epic Games Store on iOS is limited to users in the European Union, with guidelines provided.
    4. Both games can be accessed without purchase through the Epic Games mobile app until May 1 at 14:59 UTC.
    5. Prices and deals mentioned are subject to change, and Notebookcheck is not responsible for price fluctuations.

    The Epic Games Store has launched a new selection of free games for Android and iOS, coinciding with its latest giveaway for PC. Recently, the store has been offering one free game along with in-game items for popular free-to-play games. For instance, last week’s offerings included Botanicula and Firestone Online Idle RPG, which were in line with the PC giveaway from Epic Games.

    New Discounts on Popular Titles

    This time, the store has shifted its focus from the PC free game initiative by offering discounts on Loop Hero and Chuchel, with a total value of $25.96. Both games can also be found on other platforms like Windows and Nintendo Switch, where they currently retail for $299 on Amazon. However, it’s important to note that this latest Epic Games Store deal only applies to the Android and iOS versions of the games.

    Installation Notes and Availability

    There are still some limitations to keep in mind when installing the Epic Games Store on either platform. Although Epic Games has provided installation guidelines for Android and iOS, the iOS version is restricted to users in the European Union. As always, users can acquire both games without needing to make a purchase through the Epic Games mobile app. As of now, players can access Chuchel and Loop Hero for Android and iOS via this instant checkout link once they are logged into their Epic Games account. The current giveaway is set to last until May 1 at 14:59 UTC; for more details, you can check the Epic Games website.

    Final Thoughts and Price Disclaimer

    Please be aware that Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The prices or deals mentioned in this article were accurate at the time of writing and may be affected by time limits and/or limited stock.

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