Category: Gaming

  • Adventure Game on Steam Now Just $0.89 After 91% Discount

    Adventure Game on Steam Now Just $0.89 After 91% Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Significant Discount: Psychonauts is currently available for $0.89 on Steam, marking a 91% price cut as part of a special promotion until April 26.

    2. Game Longevity: Since its launch in 2005, Psychonauts has remained popular due to its creative level designs and imaginative storytelling.

    3. Positive Reception: The game has an “Overwhelmingly Positive” status on Steam with over 17,000 reviews, highlighting its distinct art style and engaging narrative.

    4. Availability: Psychonauts can be played on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and runs well on most contemporary PCs.

    5. Pricing History: This current price is one of the lowest in the last two years, with the game regularly seeing major discounts.


    Psychonauts, the beloved platformer made by Double Fine Productions, can now be snagged for just $0.89 on Steam. This amazing 91% price cut is part of a special promotion that lasts until April 26. This offer is not only one of the biggest discounts the game has seen, but it also ties with the lowest price in the last two years, according to data from SteamDB.

    Game Overview

    First launched in 2005, Psychonauts has really stood the test of time compared to many other games. Its creative level designs, witty writing, and vibrant imagination in every scene have kept it relevant. Players take on the role of Razputin, a runaway psychic kid who sneaks into a government-operated psychic summer camp. Instead of doing typical camping stuff, Raz dives into the bizarre minds of various characters, each represented as a strange, metaphor-filled dream world.

    Player Reception

    The game still enjoys an “Overwhelmingly Positive” status on Steam, boasting over 17,000 reviews. Many gamers rave about its distinct art style and narrative format. While some of the gameplay elements might feel a little outdated now, the game’s charm and inventiveness continue to attract new fans almost twenty years later.

    If you’ve ever wanted to experience a game that mixes Tim Burton-like visuals with smooth platforming and a surprisingly emotional storyline, this is a great opportunity. Psychonauts is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, and it runs smoothly on almost any contemporary PC.

    Pricing Details

    The current discount slashes the game’s regular price of $9.99, and looking at its pricing history, it has been going through these major discounts periodically over the past couple of years. However, at just $0.89, this is as good as it’s gonna get.

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  • “Get the Challenging RPG Shooter Like BioShock for $3 on Steam”

    “Get the Challenging RPG Shooter Like BioShock for $3 on Steam”

    Key Takeaways

    1. Gameplay Features: Prey combines first-person action with RPG elements, emphasizing exploration, strategy, and resource management, allowing players to adapt their gameplay style.

    2. Storyline and Setting: Set in an alternate 2032 aboard the Talos I space station, players uncover the truth about a Typhon alien outbreak while navigating moral choices and psychological puzzles.

    3. Freedom to Explore: Players can roam Talos I freely, using various weapons and abilities, including supernatural powers gained from the Typhon, enhancing the gameplay experience.

    4. Critical Reception: The game received praise for its engaging start, depth of skill trees, and immersive atmosphere, earning solid scores from critics and players alike despite some noted imperfections.

    5. Availability and Pricing: Prey was released in May 2017 and is currently available at a significant discount on Steam, making it an attractive option for new players.


    Prey is not your average shooter game. It combines first-person action with RPG elements, emphasizing exploration, strategy, and managing resources. The game is set in an alternate 2032, where President Kennedy survived an assassination attempt and launched a flourishing space program. You play as Morgan Yu on the Talos I space station, which orbits the moon. This station was once the hub of groundbreaking research until a catastrophic experiment unleashed a dangerous alien species, the Typhon, that killed almost everyone on board. With no recollection of your past, your mission is to reveal the truth about the Typhon outbreak and your role in the project. As the story progresses, you’ll encounter tough moral choices, unravel psychological puzzles, and influence the game’s ending in several ways.

    Explore Freely

    In Prey, you have the liberty to roam the vast environments of Talos I at your own rhythm, whether it’s hacking terminals or using the environment to trap enemies. The alien menace appears in various forms, from small Mimics that take the shape of common objects to formidable Phantoms with telekinetic powers. To fend them off, you can use standard weapons like pistols and shotguns or the inventive GLOO Cannon. You can also utilize neuromods that provide you with supernatural abilities, including powers taken from the Typhon themselves. These options influence your gameplay style, whether you favor a stealthy, tech-oriented method or a more aggressive, psionically driven approach. With an intricate crafting system, expansive skill trees, and numerous upgrades, Prey presents a rich and adaptable gameplay experience that encourages experimentation.

    Critics’ Take

    The German gaming magazine GameStar has lauded Prey for its compelling start, describing the initial hour as thrilling, full of unexpected twists, and stylishly executed. This captivating introduction instantly hooks players. Regarding gameplay, the review emphasizes Prey’s impressive freedom, pointing out the depth of the skill trees, clever level designs, and the multitude of potential strategies. The editors sum it up as “like the first Bioshock, but more demanding.” The game world is filled with a vibrant, immersive atmosphere, supported by exceptional sound design. Talos I, with its detailed environments and layered narrative, invites players to delve deeper and rewards curiosity at every corner.

    Not Without Issues

    Nonetheless, Prey has its imperfections. GameStar notes several aggravating moments, such as unexpected enemy ambushes and intrusive battle music that may trigger out of the blue. Other design choices, like lengthy walks without fast-travel options or cumbersome hacking mini-games, can detract from the experience. The interface for terminals and inventory management can also feel clumsy at times. Technically, the CryEngine does not fully showcase its capabilities. While the graphics are decent, they don’t particularly impress. Despite these shortcomings, GameStar awarded Prey a solid score of 85 out of 100. On Metacritic, it has a Metascore of 82 and a User Score of 8.1. Nearly 35,000 players on Steam have reviewed it, with 90% giving it a thumbs up. So, while it isn’t flawless, Prey is evidently well-received by both critics and gamers alike.

    Prey was created by Arkane Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks, making its debut in May 2017. Typically priced around $30 on Steam, it’s currently offered at just $3 due to a 90% discount running until April 26. As per SteamDB, this marks the first time the game has been available at this price since January 2025.

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  • PlayStation 6 Portable Leak: Full PS5 Library Support Expected

    PlayStation 6 Portable Leak: Full PS5 Library Support Expected

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation 6 Portable is expected to launch alongside the standard PS6 console.
    2. It will feature a low-power AMD system on a chip (SoC) with performance between the Xbox Series S and PS5.
    3. The PS6 Portable will have extensive game compatibility, including the ability to play PS5 titles without developer updates.
    4. Unpatched PS5 games may not perform optimally on the PS6 Portable, similar to how PS4 games run on PS5.
    5. The handheld gaming market is becoming competitive, with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 and potential Xbox handhelds.


    Thanks to insights shared by @KeplerL2 on the NeoGAF forums, we’re starting to get a clearer picture of the PlayStation 6 Portable. If this information checks out, this handheld version of the PS6 is set to be released alongside the standard PS6 console. It’s rumored that the portable device will include a low-power AMD system on a chip (SoC) that delivers performance levels between the Xbox Series S and the PlayStation 5. Furthermore, it seems the PS6 Portable will have extensive game compatibility.

    Compatibility Insights

    When questioned about whether current-gen games would require updates to run on the PS6 Portable, @KeplerL2 stated that the handheld could play PS5 titles without needing any developer modifications or patches. This is because the PS6 Portable reportedly features “shader binary compatibility,” enabling it to run PS5 games natively.

    Nevertheless, the leaker mentioned that unpatched games might not perform optimally on the PS6 Portable. This is quite reasonable considering that the PS5 can also play all PS4 games natively, yet developers often release patches for their PS4 titles to utilize the enhanced capabilities of the newer console.

    Handheld Gaming Landscape

    With the Nintendo Switch 2 launching in June and rumors of Microsoft working on an Xbox handheld console, the gaming console competition appears to be shifting into handheld territory. If we also consider the emergence of next-gen Windows handhelds like the updated Steam Deck and ROG Ally, the market for portable consoles could become extremely competitive in the coming years.

    This is particularly thrilling since, prior to the recent surge of Windows handhelds, Nintendo dominated the handheld gaming scene for nearly a decade.

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  • Valorant Mobile Officially Announced with Important Detail

    Valorant Mobile Officially Announced with Important Detail

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valorant Mobile is officially confirmed, but immediate access is not available.
    2. Currently, only players in China can pre-register for Valorant Mobile.
    3. A play test is anticipated soon, but global access is likely months away.
    4. Riot Games is collaborating with Lightspeed Studios to adapt Valorant for mobile.
    5. The game’s release may take time due to the need for optimization across different mobile hardware.


    Murmurs about Valorant’s mobile version have circulated for several years, yet none of the speculation ever came to fruition until now. Finally, the official Valorant account took to X to clarify the situation. Yes, Valorant Mobile is real, but you likely won’t be able to play it right away.

    Pre-Registration Details

    At this moment, only players residing in China can pre-register for Valorant Mobile. A play test is expected soon, but it remains uncertain if players from other regions will have a chance to join in. In any case, it will probably be several months before the game becomes officially available in China, and even longer for worldwide access. It will be intriguing to see what strategies Riot employs to stop players outside China from using Valorant Mobile on their Android phones by sideloading the APK.

    Exciting Developments Ahead

    Still, the anticipation might be worthwhile as Riot has teamed up with Lightspeed Studios, who are known for PUBG Mobile, to adapt Valorant for mobile platforms. While the game wasn’t particularly demanding on PC, fine-tuning it for mobile devices with various hardware configurations will be challenging. Maybe this is the reason Riot is taking its time with the release.

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  • OnePlus 27W Freezing Point Phone Cooler Launching April 24

    OnePlus 27W Freezing Point Phone Cooler Launching April 24

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus is launching the OnePlus 13T and the OnePlus 27W Freezing Point Phone Cooler on April 24 in China.
    2. The OnePlus 27W Freezing Point Cooler features a modern round design, thermoelectric cooling, a fan, and MagSafe compatibility.
    3. It is more powerful than previous models, requiring at least a 27W power adapter to operate effectively.
    4. The cooler is designed to prevent overheating during intense gaming sessions and demanding tasks.
    5. Initially launching in China, it is expected to have a global rollout for compatibility with various OnePlus and Oppo devices.


    OnePlus is not only launching the compact OnePlus 13T on April 24 in China but also introducing the OnePlus 27W Freezing Point Phone Cooler. This clever accessory is made to keep your phone cool during heavy gaming sessions or demanding tasks. It’s a more powerful version compared to the 18W model from 2021 and the 27W version from 2023—neither of which had MagSafe support. With its modern design and MagSafe compatibility, it has caught the attention of gamers and power users alike.

    Why the OnePlus 27W Freezing Point Cooler Stands Out

    The OnePlus 27W Freezing Point Cooler is poised to take center stage at the OnePlus 13T launch. It will be launched alongside a 20,000mAh power bank and is intended to help prevent overheating with a combination of thermoelectric cooling and a fan. Unlike the oval-shaped 18W version, this new model features a round design, a grey finish, a black fan, and a striking red OnePlus logo. It connects through a USB-C port and requires at least a 27W power adapter to function properly. There’s no confirmation yet about whether it includes the three-speed switch found in the older model, but here’s hoping that feature is included.

    The Benefits of MagSafe Compatibility

    One of the exciting features is its MagSafe compatibility, which allows it to attach easily to phones like the OnePlus 13T, as well as the 13, 13R, and 12 models, along with other OnePlus and Oppo devices that have magnetic cases. While it will first launch in China, it’s likely that a global rollout will happen, making it a useful accessory for anyone who pushes their phone to its limits.

    For those who might not be familiar with this type of product, it uses electric power to actively move heat away from the back of your phone into the surrounding air. Although phone makers have increasingly added larger heatsinks to help manage heat, once you try an active cooler like this, you’ll never want to go back. I specifically purchased the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2-powered iQOO Neo9 Pro for playing Genshin Impact—one of the top devices at that time for this game—and even then, I seldom play without my active cooler. It genuinely elevates long-lasting performance to a whole new level.

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  • Cyberpunk 2077 Confirmed as First Nintendo Switch 2 Game with DLSS

    Cyberpunk 2077 Confirmed as First Nintendo Switch 2 Game with DLSS

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will feature docked 4K output and support up to 120 fps, powered by an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor with DLSS upscaling capabilities.
    2. CD Projekt Red confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will utilize DLSS, making it the first known title for Switch 2 to leverage this technology.
    3. Players can expect DLSS to enhance both handheld and docked performance modes, although details on a specific version for Switch 2 are not yet disclosed.
    4. Performance options include a quality mode at 30 fps and a performance mode at 40 fps (likely at 120Hz) when docked, with handheld play offering 30 fps at 1080p or 40 fps at 720p.
    5. Nintendo has been reserved about the Switch 2’s specifications, but more information will emerge as journalists begin testing the console.


    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to deliver remarkable capabilities, such as docked 4K output and a maximum of 120 fps. It is believed to be powered by an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor, and with DLSS upscaling, the handheld could reach its full potential. Recently, Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will indeed support this technology. In an interesting development, CD Projekt Red, the studio behind Cyberpunk 2077, informed Digital Foundry that their action RPG will utilize DLSS.

    Performance Insights

    The developer has not clarified if a version of DLSS tailored for the Switch 2 is in the works. Nevertheless, players can expect to experience DLSS in both handheld and docked performance and quality modes. This announcement marks the game as the first known title for Switch 2 to leverage DLSS. The topic has sparked discussions, especially since handheld demos of Switch 2 displayed a relatively stable 40 fps. Given that the Steam Deck often struggles to hit this figure, DLSS may account for the improved performance. However, it remains unclear if the upscaling is observable in the footage of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition.

    Analyzing the Evidence

    In a recent episode of the Digital Foundry Direct podcast, analysts examined videos in search of evidence of DLSS. When upscaling is enabled, players might notice objects with jagged edges. Yet, apart from a few cases, Nvidia’s upscaling was hard to detect. The presence of low-quality motion blur could also hide these indicators in the Switch 2 game. Furthermore, when DLSS renders images at reduced resolutions, identifying these subtle details becomes challenging.

    Game Modes and Performance Targets

    The developer of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition also confirmed the performance expectations for Switch 2. Players will have the option to select a quality mode at 30 fps or a performance mode at 40 fps (likely at 120Hz) when docked. The output resolution is 1080p thanks to DLSS. For handheld play, players can still anticipate 30 fps at 1080p in quality mode, while performance mode drops the resolution to 720p to achieve 40 fps.

    Nintendo has been cautious about revealing detailed information regarding the Switch 2 specifications. However, as more journalists begin to test the console, it should soon become clear how other games will take advantage of DLSS.

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  • Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Nintendo President Discusses No 3D Mario Game for Switch 2 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has an impressive launch lineup featuring many popular third-party games.
    2. Gamers are disappointed by the lack of a 3D Mario game since Super Mario Odyssey, released eight years ago.
    3. Doug Bowser hinted at future Mario games, encouraging fans to “stay tuned.”
    4. Some analysts, like Krysta Yang, believe focusing on Mario Kart World may not be the best choice and suggest showcasing a new 3D open-world game instead.
    5. Over 20 games will launch with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but third-party titles dominate the lineup, leaving limited Nintendo offerings.


    The launch lineup for the Nintendo Switch 2 is quite impressive, featuring many well-known third-party games. However, some gamers are still unhappy about the absence of a 3D Mario game. Since Super Mario Odyssey was released on the Switch eight years ago, there has been no announcement for a sequel. Recently, when asked about the future of Mario games, Doug Bowser, the President of Nintendo of America, provided a glimmer of hope for fans. He also conveyed that the variety of games available for the Switch 2 will keep players entertained for quite a while.

    Nintendo’s Response

    When CNN inquired why a Mario platformer hasn’t been mentioned yet, Bowser urged Nintendo enthusiasts to “stay tuned.” He suggested that while there are plenty of games for the Switch 2, Mario, the iconic plumber, will still play a significant role in the new handheld’s library.

    Mixed Reactions

    As it became clear that Mario Kart World would be the main focus for the upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2nd, not all industry analysts were in favor. Former Nintendo PR Manager Krysta Yang believed that putting the spotlight on the kart racing game was a misstep. On her Kit & Krysta podcast, she proposed that Nintendo should showcase a 3D open-world game that could utilize the enhanced specs of the Switch 2. A prime example she mentioned was The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which inspired many Wii U players to switch to the original model.

    A Change of Heart

    After the complete reveal of the Switch 2 launch titles, Yang began to recognize the variety of choices available. Even though Mario Kart World might not feature a 120 fps option, its off-road mechanics introduce fresh elements to the previous racing games. Still, Donkey Kong Bananza, scheduled to launch on July 17th, will have the responsibility of representing the 3D platforming genre. Over 20 games are set to debut with the Switch 2 on June 5th, but it’s worth noting that third-party titles overshadow a limited selection of Nintendo’s offerings.

    Unfortunately, Bowser did not provide specific details on when Super Mario Odyssey 2 or another 3D Mario title might be released on the Switch 2. Until that highly anticipated moment arrives, gamers will have to settle for racing against Mario on the tracks.

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  • Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Requires Huge Storage Space

    Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Requires Huge Storage Space

    Key Takeaways

    1. The remaster of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion has been confirmed through images on the developer’s website, but Bethesda has not provided any official comments or details yet.
    2. The game will require a substantial 121 GB of storage on devices, a significant increase from the original 5 GB needed in 2006.
    3. Xbox users may face challenges finding space on their consoles due to the large file size.
    4. Bethesda is expected to announce the game’s pricing soon, with a likely cost of around $40.
    5. There is a possibility that the remaster may also be available through an Xbox Game Pass subscription.


    The remaster of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion has been one of the least secretive announcements in recent times, with images surfacing on the developer’s website. However, Bethesda has yet to comment on it, not even hinting at any details. Recently, a group of data miners known as XoXLeak disclosed the amount of storage that the game will occupy on your device, and it’s quite shocking.

    Disk Space Requirements

    Similar to many games utilizing Unreal Engine 5, it will demand a staggering 121 GB of space on your valuable SSD. For comparison, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion originally required just 5 GB, which was considered a substantial amount of storage when it debuted in 2006. This is going to be a hassle for Xbox users, as they will need to once again find ways to free up space on their consoles to enjoy Tamriel in all its Unreal Engine 5 splendor.

    Pricing and Release Expectations

    The final detail missing from the puzzle of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remaster is its cost. Fortunately, we won’t have to wait long for this information, as Bethesda is expected to quietly announce the game today (April 21). A price point around $40 seems likely. Anything higher than that might be seen as excessive, but there’s a strong possibility that it could also be available through an Xbox Game Pass subscription.

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  • New Doom: The Dark Ages Trailer Released Ahead of May 15 Launch

    New Doom: The Dark Ages Trailer Released Ahead of May 15 Launch

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Dates: Doom: The Dark Ages will launch on PC and consoles on May 15, with an early access option on May 13 for an extra fee.

    2. Gameplay Insights: The second trailer reveals the main villain and a possible boss, with the Doom Slayer transitioning from being controlled by the Makyrs to aiding the Sentinels.

    3. Action Elements: The gameplay includes scenes of the Atlan mech defeating Titans and a dragon, showcasing a shift in the series with the “Stand and Fight” slogan.

    4. BFG Scene: The trailer features a unique moment where the BFG is launched from a crossbow, highlighting a new direction for the game.

    5. Soundtrack Details: While Mick Gordon is not involved, Finishing Move Inc. is working on the soundtrack, blending the original theme with Djent-dubstep influences.


    Doom: The Dark Ages is set to release on PC and consoles on May 15, or on May 13 if you’re okay with paying a bit more. The initial trailer for the game didn’t show much, leaving fans curious. However, we got more insights into the gameplay through sources like IGN, who were able to try out a demo. Now, Bethesda has quietly released a second trailer that gives us additional details.

    New Insights into Gameplay

    This new trailer for Doom: The Dark Ages introduces us to the game’s villain, along with what seems to be their dark master, whom we could face as a boss at the end of the game. The Doom Slayer appears to be initially under the control of the Makyrs, only to later become a one-man aid for the Sentinels, reminiscent of the classic “You can’t shoot a hole into the surface of Mars” moment.

    Action-Packed Scenes

    We also witness the Atlan mech effortlessly destroying Titans and battling a dragon. The trailer ends with an impressive scene of the BFG in action, but instead of a high-tech weapon, its Cell was launched from a rather shabby-looking crossbow. Doom: The Dark Ages is taking the series in a fresh direction with its “Stand and Fight” slogan, positioning it as a strong candidate for Game of the Year.

    Soundtrack Preview

    In addition, we get a glimpse of what the soundtrack for Doom: The Dark Ages will offer. Although it’s unfortunate that Mick Gordon isn’t involved, Finishing Move Inc. seems to be doing a commendable job of maintaining the original theme, infused with Djent-dubstep elements.

  • Xbox Cloud Gaming Stats: Series One & Smart TVs Outshine Smartphones

    Xbox Cloud Gaming Stats: Series One & Smart TVs Outshine Smartphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xbox Cloud Gaming is shifting focus from hardware to software and subscriptions, with smartphones seen as ideal for streaming games on the go.
    2. Contrary to expectations, cloud gaming is more commonly used on home devices like Xbox One and Smart TVs rather than mobile.
    3. Microsoft is working to improve mobile streaming experiences, but current mobile capabilities lag behind older consoles and Smart TVs.
    4. Challenges like clunky controls and aspect ratio issues hinder mobile gaming experiences, but solutions are being developed to enhance visuals and usability.
    5. Microsoft is exploring partnerships, such as with Asus for Project Kennan, to create a new handheld that may improve access to Xbox and other gaming titles.


    Xbox Cloud Gaming has expanded as Microsoft shifts its focus from hardware to software and subscriptions. Smartphones are seen as an ideal option for streaming games when users are away from their PCs and consoles. However, data released in December at the Game Developers Conference might catch gamers off guard. It turns out that cloud gaming is more widely used in homes, with the Xbox One and Smart TVs being the most popular devices for the service.

    Mobile Gaming Developments

    Amid ongoing speculation about a new Xbox handheld, Microsoft aims to enhance streaming capabilities on mobile devices. Yet, for the moment, Xbox Cloud Gaming on the move does not measure up to the older Xbox consoles and Smart TVs. A lot of Xbox One users are playing Series X|S games that are not available on their current console. Samsung and LG televisions have transformed into comprehensive entertainment systems by supporting cloud gaming applications.

    Challenges in Mobile Experience

    As pointed out by Jez Corden in an article for Windows Central, recreating a console-like experience on a smartphone continues to present obstacles. The controls can feel clunky, and black bars frequently show up on mobile screens that lack a 16:9 aspect ratio. The Razer PC Remote Play has tackled the latter problem, even though it isn’t classified as cloud gaming. Microsoft also intends to enhance visuals for these smaller displays going forward.

    Exploring New Partnerships

    Finding games on mobile interfaces can also deter users from embracing Xbox Cloud Gaming. Reports indicate that Microsoft is collaborating with Asus to create Project Kennan. This new Xbox handheld is likely to utilize the Windows operating system that powers the ROG Ally. Additionally, it may feature a full-screen console-like user interface that allows access to Xbox, Steam, and Epic Games titles.

    In any case, Xbox Cloud Gaming is reaching an increasing number of gamers each month. In the last part of 2024, the service recorded more than 140 million hours of gaming activity. Still, the mobile sector holds significant potential for further growth.

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