Category: Gaming

April 25, 2025
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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Tags: Anbernic RG557, gaming emulator, Retro Gaming Handheld
April 25, 2025
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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Tags: Nintendo, PS5, Switch 2
April 25, 2025
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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Tags: launch delays, Nintendo Switch 2, pre-orders
April 25, 2025
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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Tags: Gaming Monitor, Redmi Monitor G Pro 27U, Xiaomi
April 25, 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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Tags: Chuchel, Epic Games Store, Super Space Club
April 25, 2025
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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Tags: Krafton, Subnautica 2, Unknown Worlds Entertainment
April 25, 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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Tags: Chuchel, Epic Games Store, Loop Hero
April 25, 2025
Razer Pro Click V2 Series: New Vertical Mouse and Classic Option
Key Takeaways
1. Razer has launched the Pro Click V2 Vertical Edition, its first vertical mouse, priced at $119.99, designed to reduce wrist and arm pain with a 71.7-degree angle.
2. The Pro Click V2 Vertical features an ergonomic design with a Focus Pro 30K optical sensor and supports a handshake grip for comfort during extended use.
3. The mouse boasts impressive battery life, lasting up to six months on a single charge, and includes USB-C charging based on user feedback.
4. Razer’s Pro Click V2 regular model is lighter (110 grams), has a 30-degree angle, and offers a battery life of up to 3.5 months, featuring nine buttons for enhanced functionality.
5. Both models support HyperSpeed Wireless RF, multi-device Bluetooth, and wired connectivity, aiming to improve productivity for gamers and professionals alike.
Razer is once more making an effort to enhance gaming capabilities within traditional office equipment. Priced at $119.99, the new wireless Pro Click V2 Vertical Edition marks the company’s inaugural vertical mouse. It is angled at 71.7 degrees, claiming to alleviate pain in the wrist, fingers, and arms. For those who might need time to adjust, there is also the more traditionally shaped Pro Click V2 available for $99.99. Both products can be purchased right away, with the standard Pro Click V2 being exclusive to the Razer Store.
Ergonomic Design Meets Gaming Features
While other mice have combined ergonomic design with gaming features, Razer’s eight-button vertical mouse brings this shape to the Focus Pro 30K optical sensor. It encourages a handshake grip, making it comfortable for extended use. When the lighting is turned off, Razer states that the Pro Click V2 Vertical can last up to six months on a single charge. The new version also addresses feedback from users of the original Pro Click by introducing USB-C charging.
Changing Perspectives on Vertical Mice
Some gamers may be hesitant to try a vertical mouse, but the Pro Click V2 could shift their views. Weighing in at 150 grams, the mouse reduces wrist movement significantly. With customizable 18-zone Chroma RGB lighting, it offers far more visual appeal compared to competitors like the Logitech MX.
Comparing Models
The regular Pro Click V2 features the same optical sensor but is lighter at 110 grams. This ergonomic mouse includes nine buttons distributed around its frame, which is set at a gentler 30-degree angle. The battery life of the standard Pro Click V2 is also impressive, lasting up to 3.5 months. Both mice boast HyperSpeed Wireless RF, multi-device Bluetooth, and wired connectivity options.
With these new Razer mouse selections, users can utilize AI Prompt Master to boost their productivity. By accessing tools like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, mundane tasks can become much quicker to complete.
The Razer Pro Click V2 Vertical Edition may generate mixed feelings among users. Nevertheless, if this mouse effectively serves both gamers and professionals, it could encourage other brands to embrace similar innovations.
Press release via Razer PR
RAZER’S NEW ERGONOMIC PRO CLICK V2 MICE: A COMBINATION OF PRODUCTIVITY AND GAMING
From professional use to casual gaming, Razer’s latest series of ergonomic productivity mice aims to enhance performance and comfort throughout the day. Concentrating on improving productivity with gaming-quality technologies, featured aspects include easy-to-reach AI tools, customizable buttons, and Razer Chroma™ RGB lighting.
Tags: Ergonomic Gaming Accessories, Razer Pro Click V2, Vertical Mouse
April 25, 2025
Alienware Area-51 Gaming Laptop with RTX 5080 & Thunderbolt 5 Available
Key Takeaways
1. Dell has redesigned the Alienware Area-51 with a clear window, RGB lighting, and four fans, now available in the U.S. starting at $3,099.
2. In Europe, the laptops are pricier and include an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 instead of the expected RTX 5070 Ti, with specs like an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX.
3. Both models feature 32GB of RAM (upgradeable to 64GB), a 2TB SSD, and three M.2 slots for additional storage.
4. The laptops offer premium features like a 4K webcam, mechanical Cherry keyboard, and a multitouch glass trackpad, with specific weights of 7.5 lbs for the 16-inch and 9.6 lbs for the 18-inch model.
5. Connectivity options include two Thunderbolt 5 ports, two USB-A ports, HDMI 2.1, and 5Gbit/s Ethernet.
Dell has totally revamped the Alienware Area-51, giving the laptop a fresh design that includes a clear window on the bottom, RGB lighting, and an impressive four fans. This premium gaming laptop is now available for purchase in the United States. On Dell’s official online store, the Alienware 16 Area-51 starts at a price of $3,099, and the Alienware 18 Area-51 is priced at a minimum of $3,299.
Price Variations in Europe
In certain European regions, the new Alienware laptops come with a slightly higher price tag than what was first expected. This is mainly because the base version does not include the RTX 5070 Ti; instead, it has an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop GPU with 16GB of GDDR7 VRAM and a TDP of 175W, which includes Dynamic Boost. Each configuration is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and features a 500-nit display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. The 16-inch model delivers a refresh rate of 240Hz, while the 18-inch variant provides a 300Hz refresh rate.
Memory and Storage Options
Dell has also chosen to include 32GB of RAM, which can be upgraded to 64GB for an extra cost of $150. The laptop comes with a 2TB SSD but has three M.2 slots available for adding two more SSDs, making the storage customizable by the user. One distinctive aspect of the Area-51 is the inclusion of two Thunderbolt 5 ports, along with two USB-A ports, HDMI 2.1, and 5Gbit/s Ethernet for connectivity.
Premium Features and Specifications
For the high cost, customers can expect a 4K webcam, a mechanical Cherry keyboard with RGB lighting, a multitouch trackpad made of glass, and a battery rated at 96Wh. The 16-inch model measures 1.12 inches in thickness and weighs 7.5 lbs, while the 18-inch model weighs about 9.6 lbs. The 360W power adapter adds another 2.2 lbs to the total weight. More information about the new Area-51 can be found in our original launch article.
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Tags: Alienware Area-51, Dell Gaming Laptop, RTX 5080 GPU
April 25, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 GameCube Controller Price and Pre-Order Details
Key Takeaways
1. A new GameCube-style controller for the Switch 2 was revealed, priced at $64.99, and is designed for Switch Online GameCube titles.
2. Pre-orders for the Switch 2 and the GameCube controller start on May 8th for registered Nintendo account users, with wider access for Switch Online subscribers starting May 12th.
3. The controller will ship on June 5th, aligning with the Switch 2 launch date.
4. The controller may primarily support classic games through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, but Nintendo confirmed it will also work with other games, despite potential compatibility issues.
5. The GameCube controller will connect wirelessly and include Home, Capture, and GameChat buttons, similar to the Switch 2 Pro and Joy-Cons.
A recent leak about the Switch 2 has stirred up excitement among retro gaming fans, thanks to a filing from the FCC for a new controller. After some images were released, many enthusiasts anticipated a GameCube-style controller. As expected, the Switch 2 Direct on April 2nd showcased a controller specifically made for Switch Online GameCube titles. Nintendo has revealed that the controller will be priced at $64.99. Additionally, those pre-ordering the Switch 2 will have the first chance to buy this new accessory.
Pre-Order Details
Starting May 8th, players who have registered Nintendo accounts will have the opportunity to secure a Switch 2 pre-order. At the same time, they can also order the GameCube controller. Following May 12th, more Switch Online subscribers will gain access to the accessory. The controller is set to be shipped on June 5th, which coincides with the launch date of the Switch 2.
Compatibility Confusion
There has been some uncertainty regarding whether the new controller will work with Switch 2 games. An article from Nintendo Life mentioned that it might only be compatible with classic games available through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Nevertheless, Nintendo has clarified that this controller will be usable with other games too. However, there could be some problems due to the distinct layout of the controller.
Some gamers are voicing that the price of $64.99 feels steep, especially since it’s intended for playing emulated GameCube games. Titles like The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker and Super Mario Sunshine should be enjoyable with this controller. Interestingly, despite the fact that many competitive Smash Bros. players still prefer GameCube controllers, the Nintendo Direct did not mention the series at all.
Wireless Connectivity
Even though it has a nostalgic look, the GameCube controller will connect wirelessly to the Switch 2. Players will also be able to use the Home, Capture, and GameChat buttons that are present on the Switch 2 Pro and Joy-Cons.
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Tags: GameCube Controller, Nintendo Online, Switch 2