Category: Gaming

  • Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison

    Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hybrid Design: The Nintendo Switch 2 features a hybrid design with three modes (handheld, tabletop, TV) and detachable JoyCons for multiplayer gaming.

    2. Display: Both the Nintendo Switch 2 and ASUS ROG Ally have 1080p screens with a 120Hz refresh rate, but the Switch 2 has a larger 7.9-inch display compared to the ROG Ally’s 7-inch screen.

    3. Performance: The ROG Ally is powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, offering robust performance for a wide range of PC games, while the Switch 2 includes a custom Nvidia processor for 4K gaming when docked.

    4. Game Library: The ROG Ally provides access to a vast library of PC games, whereas the Switch 2 is known for its exclusive titles like Mario and The Legend of Zelda.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to release on June 5, 2025, at a price of $449.99, while the ROG Ally is already available, with prices ranging from $600 to $700.

    The handheld gaming market is becoming more competitive with the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2. Since the original Switch came out, many new models have appeared, like the ASUS ROG Ally and the Steam Deck. We’ve already compared the Switch 2 to the Steam Deck, so now it’s time to see how Nintendo’s new device measures up against the ROG Ally.

    Design and Display Features

    A major perk of the Nintendo Switch 2 is its unique hybrid design. It offers flexibility with three different modes: handheld, tabletop, and TV. The JoyCons can be removed, which makes multiplayer gaming more enjoyable. It features a 7.9-inch LCD screen, boasting a 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.

    ASUS ROG Ally Overview

    In contrast, the ASUS ROG Ally resembles the Steam Deck more as a traditional gaming handheld. It has a 7-inch display surrounded by a conventional controller layout. Unlike the Switch, these controls are not detachable and are designed for solo gameplay. The ROG Ally also features a 1080p screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.

    Performance and Game Library

    The ROG Ally is powered by AMD’s Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, making it one of the more robust handhelds that can handle a wide range of PC games. This chip includes RDNA 3 graphics, 6GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD. Its 40Wh battery pack runs the device, which weighs in at 608 grams. While battery life was critiqued, newer models like the ROG Ally X have made significant enhancements. The Ally X includes an 80Wh battery, 24GB of RAM, better joysticks, and improved cooling. Being a Windows PC, it provides access to a vast library of games from popular platforms such as Steam.

    Nintendo Switch 2 Specifications

    Although details about the hardware are scarce, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a custom Nvidia processor that supports 4K gaming when docked for TV play. Docking boosts the console’s performance, but it can still be used in handheld mode thanks to its 5,220mAh battery. Nintendo is famous for its beloved exclusive franchises, including Mario and The Legend of Zelda, offering unique gaming experiences that are hard to find elsewhere.

    Pricing and Final Thoughts

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for a release on June 5, 2025, priced at 449.99 US Dollars. In comparison, the ROG Ally comes in various configurations ranging from 600 to 700 US Dollars. However, unlike the Switch 2, it’s already on the market, including the upgraded Ally X model.

    Ultimately, the choice between the Nintendo Switch 2 and the ASUS ROG Ally largely hinges on your gaming preferences. If you love Nintendo’s exclusive games and want the versatility of a hybrid console, the Switch 2 is a strong contender. On the other hand, the ROG Ally offers access to an extensive PC game library and includes Windows 11 features as well.

    Nintendo Switch 2 vs ASUS ROG Ally: Handheld Gaming Comparison
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  • Anbernic RG557 Chipset for Nintendo Wii U Emulation Unveiled Early

    Anbernic RG557 Chipset for Nintendo Wii U Emulation Unveiled Early

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Anbernic RG557 features a 5.48-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio.
    2. The device is capable of emulating PS2 and PSP games at 4x and 8x original resolutions, respectively.
    3. There is speculation about the chipset, with hints towards either the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2 or the MediaTek Dimensity 8300.
    4. The Dimensity 8300 may provide a significant performance boost over the RG556 and a 30% advantage over the Retroid Pocket 5 in CPU tasks.
    5. The RG557 will be the first handheld gaming device to feature capacitive joysticks for improved accuracy.

    Anbernic has recently introduced the RG557, and it has been about twenty four hours since this announcement. True to its style, Anbernic has shown off the device’s design, gaming capabilities, and some specifications. A notable feature is its 5.48-inch AMOLED screen, which has a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels and follows a 16:9 aspect ratio.

    Gaming Performance Insights

    Furthermore, the company hinted that the RG557 is capable of emulating specific PS2 and PSP titles at 4x and 8x their original resolutions, respectively. However, the company has not disclosed which chipset powers this new gaming device. Leaked information hints that Anbernic might be using the Snapdragon G2 Gen 2, which Qualcomm unveiled last month.

    Speculation on Chipsets

    Retro Handhelds, however, disagrees with this assumption. According to their source, described as an ‘Anbernic rep’, the RG557 will be equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 8300, which we reviewed last year, along with its ‘Ultra’ version found in the Poco X6 Pro and Xiaomi 14T (currently priced at $509 on Amazon). Our benchmarks showed that the Dimensity 8300 would significantly enhance the RG557’s performance compared to the RG556, which is powered by the older and less efficient Unisoc T820.

    Competitive Edge and Features

    As noted by Retro Handhelds, the Dimensity 8300 would provide the RG557 an edge over the Retroid Pocket 5 as well. Specifically, Anbernic’s upcoming device could outshine the Pocket 5 by around 30% in CPU-intensive tasks. However, the difference in their GPUs might be almost negligible. Interestingly, the RG557 is set to be the first gaming handheld to use capacitive joysticks, which should improve accuracy. It is likely that Anbernic will share more information about the RG557 in the near future.

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    Anbernic RG557 Chipset for Nintendo Wii U Emulation Unveiled Early

     

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  • Titanfall 3 Rumors: Nearly Complete, UE5, Singleplayer & More

    Titanfall 3 Rumors: Nearly Complete, UE5, Singleplayer & More

    Key Takeaways

    1. Titanfall 3 is reportedly nearing completion and may launch soon, with the full title being “Titanfall 3: Escape From The Frontier.”
    2. The game is being developed using Unreal Engine 5 and will feature both a singleplayer campaign and various multiplayer modes.
    3. Multiplayer options will include Extraction, Team Deathmatch, Control, Arenas, and classic modes from Titanfall 2.
    4. There are hints of a potential weather system, which could enhance gameplay and exploration in the singleplayer mode.
    5. Characters from Apex Legends might return, but the release date remains uncertain, with news possibly coming by the end of this year or early next year.

    The next installment in the Titanfall series has kept fans guessing for a while, with many wondering if a sequel would ever be released. However, recent news suggests that the game is nearing completion and may launch shortly. A new leak reveals that the game is being created using Unreal Engine 5 and will include multiple game modes, featuring both a singleplayer campaign and all the beloved modes from Titanfall 2.

    Details from the Leak

    The detailed information comes from Osvaldatore on X, who shared insights about Titanfall 3. According to the post, the full title of the game will be “Titanfall 3: Escape From The Frontier.” It indicates that the game is built on UE5 and is almost finished. Additionally, the game will have a singleplayer mode and a variety of multiplayer options like Extraction, Team Deathmatch, Control, Arenas, and all the classic modes from Titanfall 2.

    Potential Features

    There are hints that Titanfall 3 might include a weather system, though it’s still uncertain how it will be integrated, whether in singleplayer, multiplayer, or both. If it’s featured in the singleplayer campaign, this could indicate a more open and explorative gameplay experience compared to its predecessor. The leak also suggests that some characters from Apex Legends will be making a comeback.

    Osvaldatore asserts that his source is entirely confident about the details shared, although the release date remains uncertain. The post doesn’t provide any specific timeline for an announcement or launch, but based on the claim of “almost complete,” it’s possible that we could hear news by the end of this year or early next year.

    Background on Titanfall

    Titanfall 2, developed by Respawn Entertainment, was released in 2016 and has received Overwhelmingly Positive reviews on Steam. It introduced a singleplayer campaign that was missing from the first Titanfall, or at least not in the conventional way, along with a range of multiplayer modes.

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  • Hades 2 Console Version Exclusive to Switch and Switch 2

    Hades 2 Console Version Exclusive to Switch and Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Hades 2 will be released on Nintendo Switch and the new Switch 2.
    2. The game is expected to launch in 2023 following its Early Access phase on PC.
    3. Supergiant Games is excited about bringing Hades 2 to more platforms.
    4. Fans of the original Hades are eagerly anticipating the sequel.
    5. Players should watch for updates from Supergiant as the release date approaches.

    Following a fruitful Early Access phase on PC, Hades 2 is gearing up for its debut on the Nintendo Switch (you can find it here on Amazon) as well as the new Switch 2 when its version 1.0 is released. The developer, Supergiant, has stated that players can look forward to the game coming out this year.

    Exciting News from Supergiant

    The buzz around Hades 2 is growing, and Supergiant Games has made it clear that they are excited to bring this title to more platforms. Fans of the original game have been eagerly awaiting the sequel, and now they have a reason to be even more thrilled with the announcements of its availability on both Switch consoles.

    Release Plans

    As the launch of Hades 2 approaches, players should keep an eye out for updates from Supergiant. The team’s commitment to delivering a polished gaming experience is evident, and the anticipation is palpable as they prepare for a year filled with excitement for fans of the franchise.

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  • LG UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA: New Curved Gaming Monitor in US

    LG UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA: New Curved Gaming Monitor in US

    Key Takeaways

    1. LG has launched the UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA gaming monitor in the US, priced at $1,399.99.
    2. The monitor features a 34-inch screen with a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 pixels and an 800R curvature.
    3. It offers a refresh rate of 240 Hz and a response time of 0.03 ms GtG.
    4. The panel covers 98.5% of the DCI-P3 color space and has peak HDR brightness of up to 1,300 nits.
    5. The monitor includes LG’s webOS interface and various connectivity options, such as Gigabit Ethernet and USB Type-C.

    LG has started offering another OLED gaming monitor in the US, adding to the UltraGear OLED 32GX870A lineup. Just to remind you, the company revealed three new OLED gaming monitors in December 2024, which were showcased at CES 2025 in Las Vegas a month after that. Later, LG launched the UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA as a fourth model in Japan, which became available a month later priced at JPY 199,800 (approximately $1,376).

    Pricing and Availability

    Now, the UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA is available in the US for $1,399.99, either on Amazon or directly from LG. As mentioned before, LG has designed the UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA using the panel from the UltraGear OLED 34GS95QE that was released the previous year. Consequently, this model delivers a resolution of 3,440 x 1,440 pixels on a 34-inch screen with an 800R curvature, a refresh rate of 240 Hz, and an impressive 0.03 ms GtG response time.

    Display Specifications

    Moreover, the panel features 98.5% DCI-P3 color space coverage, peak SDR brightness of 275 nits, and peak HDR brightness reaching up to 1,300 nits (APL 1.5%). To differentiate itself, LG has included its webOS interface, which brings various streaming services right to the monitor. Additionally, the UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA has a similar port layout to the UltraGear OLED 34GS95QE, but it includes Gigabit Ethernet and USB Type-C while sacrificing the USB Type-B port. As illustrated in the image below, the UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA is equipped with the following input/output options:

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    LG UltraGear OLED 34GX90SA: New Curved Gaming Monitor in US
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  • RTX 5060 Ti Price Leak: Good News or Trouble from US Tariffs?

    RTX 5060 Ti Price Leak: Good News or Trouble from US Tariffs?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RTX 5060 Ti is expected to be announced on April 15, with reviews and sales starting on April 16; the RTX 5060 may launch in May.
    2. Initial pricing for the RTX 5060 Ti could be $429 for the 16 GB model and $379 for the 8 GB variant, making them competitive against previous models.
    3. The RTX 4060 Ti faced criticism for its pricing, as the performance increase over the RTX 3060 Ti was minimal, highlighting pricing concerns in the market.
    4. The final retail price of the RTX 5060 Ti is still uncertain and may be influenced by high demand and fluctuating market conditions.
    5. Recent US tariffs on imports from Taiwan and China could lead to higher consumer prices for the RTX 5060 Ti if they remain in place.

    The RTX 5060 Ti is expected to release soon, as rumors suggest that the announcement could happen on April 15. Last month, we shared that Nvidia might reveal both the RTX 5060 and RTX 5060 Ti on this date. Reviews and the official sales for the RTX 5060 Ti are anticipated to be available the following day, April 16. The RTX 5060, however, is rumored to hit the market in May.

    Specifications and Pricing Uncertainty

    We have some insights into the specifications for both the RTX 5060 and the RTX 5060 Ti, but the final pricing for these GPUs remains a mystery. It’s common for GPU prices to fluctuate until officially announced. However, Nvidia appears to have communicated the final price of the RTX 5060 Ti to its AIB partners about a week before the launch.

    As per details shared on Board Channels (through VideoCardz), Nvidia is expected to set the initial price for the RTX 5060 Ti at $429 (RMB 3,599) for the 16 GB model. Meanwhile, the 8 GB variant of the RTX 5060 Ti is said to be priced at $379 (RMB 3,199), which is $50 less. If these figures are correct, they seem quite competitive, especially when compared to the launch prices of the RTX 4060 Ti models.

    Comparison to Previous Models

    The RTX 4060 Ti 8 GB debuted at $399, whereas the 16 GB version was priced at $499. This $100 price gap drew a lot of negative feedback, as the RTX 4060 Ti didn’t offer a significant performance boost compared to the RTX 3060 Ti. Consequently, Nvidia faced criticism for imposing an extra $100 charge for an additional 8 GB of VRAM.

    Despite this, we still don’t know what the actual retail price of the RTX 5060 Ti will be. The high demand, which has caused prices for mid-range GPUs like the RX 9070 to soar, could impact the final consumer pricing for the RTX 5060 Ti.

    Market Challenges Ahead

    Additionally, the recent tariffs imposed by the current US government on countries like Taiwan and China may worsen the already struggling GPU market. The US has enacted a 32% tariff on goods from Taiwan and an astonishing 104% on imports from China, following the latest increases. Both nations play a crucial role in Nvidia’s supply chain. If these tariffs remain in place, US consumers might find themselves facing much higher prices than the leaked MSRPs for the RTX 5060 Ti.

    RTX 5060 Ti Price Leak: Good News or Trouble from US Tariffs?
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  • LG UltraGear 32GX870A: New 480Hz OLED Gaming Monitor with USB-C

    LG UltraGear 32GX870A: New 480Hz OLED Gaming Monitor with USB-C

    Key Takeaways

    1. The UltraGear OLED 32GX870A features a WOLED panel, supporting up to 240 Hz at 4K and 480 Hz at 1080p with a 0.03 ms GtG response time.
    2. It supports AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync technologies to minimize image tearing during gameplay.
    3. The monitor has a maximum brightness of 275 nits for SDR and 1,300 nits for HDR.
    4. Enhanced connectivity includes webOS, a USB Type-C port with DisplayPort Alt Mode, and two HDMI 2.1 ports, but it lacks USB Type-B connectivity.
    5. The UltraGear OLED 32GX870A is priced at $1,399.99 and is available for purchase through major retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.

    LG has unveiled its latest gaming monitor, the UltraGear OLED 32GX870A, which utilizes its cutting-edge WOLED panel technology. This release comes after the company introduced the UltraGear 27G850A, based on Nano IPS technology, which also featured a dual refresh rate. Previously, LG launched the UltraGear OLED 455GX950A, capable of switching between 1080p and 5K2K resolutions, achieving refresh rates of 330 Hz and 165 Hz, respectively.

    Impressive Performance Details

    The UltraGear OLED 32GX870A takes things further by allowing outputs of up to 240 Hz at 4K and 480 Hz at 1080p, all while boasting incredibly fast 0.03 ms GtG response times. LG claims that this monitor supports both AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia G-Sync technologies, helping to reduce image tearing during high refresh rates. Additionally, it can reach a maximum brightness of 275 nits for SDR and 1,300 nits for HDR.

    Feature-Rich Design

    In essence, the UltraGear OLED 32GX870A shares the same panel technology as the previous year’s UltraGear OLED 32GS95UE. However, LG has enhanced it with webOS, a USB Type-C port that offers DisplayPort Alt Mode and 90 W Power Delivery, along with a DisplayPort 2.1 port. Note that this DisplayPort delivers a peak bandwidth of 54 Gbps (UHBR 13.5), which is less than the 80 Gbps (UHBR 20) required to avoid Display Stream Compression (DSC) at resolutions of 4K and refresh rates of 240 Hz.

    Connectivity and Pricing Information

    The UltraGear OLED 32GX870A is also equipped with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a 3.5 mm audio jack, and two USB 3.0 Type-A ports. Oddly, it lacks USB Type-B connectivity. Nevertheless, consumers can buy this new monitor in the US for $1,399.99 through Amazon, Best Buy, or directly from LG. For additional technical specifications, visit LG’s official website.

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    LG UltraGear 32GX870A: New 480Hz OLED Gaming Monitor with USB-CLG UltraGear 32GX870A: New 480Hz OLED Gaming Monitor with USB-C

     

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  • New PS3 Emulator for Android Surpasses RPCS3-Android

    New PS3 Emulator for Android Surpasses RPCS3-Android

    Key Takeaways

    1. The RPCS3-Android emulator has been discontinued, but a new emulator called RPCSX-UI-Android has been launched by the same developer.
    2. RPCSX-UI-Android maintains a similar user interface and experience as RPCS3-Android, requiring users to download PlayStation 3 firmware for proper emulation.
    3. The new emulator supports both PKG and ISO game formats and offers compatibility with physical and virtual controllers.
    4. RPCSX-UI-Android includes bug fixes and enhancements, but may still face performance issues with certain PlayStation 3 games as it is in early development.
    5. The emulator is available for download on GitHub, with a changelog detailing improvements over the previous version.

    PS3 emulation has reached a significant point with the launch of RPCS3-Android by the developer behind RPCS3. Since it first came out, this Android version of the well-known PlayStation 3 emulator has received numerous updates, leading to various improvements in emulation.

    Discontinuation and New Beginnings

    Despite the promising start for PS3 emulation on Android, the developer has stopped support for RPCS3-Android. The bright side is that the same developer has rolled out a new emulator called RPCSX-UI-Android for PlayStation 3 on Android devices. Fundamentally, the software is similar to its predecessor, maintaining the same user interface but under a different title.

    Emulation Experience

    The overall experience with the new PS3 emulator, RPCSX-UI-Android, remains consistent with the previous version, RPCS3-Android. For instance, users will need to download a PlayStation 3 firmware to emulate games properly. In terms of game compatibility, RPCSX-UI-Android supports both PKG and ISO formats, just like the earlier version.

    Controller Support and Features

    Additionally, the emulator offers support for both physical and virtual controllers. An example of a physical controller is the Abxylute S9 mobile controller, which is currently priced at $69.99 on Amazon. The new emulator also includes a virtual home button, allowing players to easily access functions such as screen recording, taking screenshots, and loading save states.

    Updates and Performance

    With RPCSX-UI-Android, users can expect several bug fixes and enhancements compared to the previous RPCS3-Android version. However, it’s worth noting that this new emulator is still in its early development phase and may struggle to run all PlayStation 3 games smoothly.

    Download Information

    For those interested in downloading the latest PS3 emulator for Android, the developer DHrpcs3 has made it available on GitHub. A comprehensive changelog is also provided for users who wish to explore the improvements that RPCSX-UI-Android offers over its predecessor, RPCS3-Android.

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  • Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box Adds 144Hz Lighting Support

    Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box Adds 144Hz Lighting Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Firmware version 2.5.0 released for both Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K and 8K models.
    2. Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K introduces new features, including support for Display Stream Compression (DSC) pass-through for 8K@60Hz.
    3. Improvements in input source switching reduce delay for LG TV users with PlayStation 5.
    4. The update adds support for 3D pass-through and light syncing at 144Hz.
    5. Firmware updates are automatically installed, and users can check settings in the Philips Hue app.

    An update is being released for the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K and the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K. The 8K version debuted in October 2024, while both models received their last updates in December.

    Firmware Enhancements

    According to the release notes for firmware version 2.5.0, the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K has received several bug fixes and small upgrades; however, there are no additional specifics shared. On the other hand, the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K benefits from numerous new features and improvements.

    New Features For 8K Model

    These enhancements include the addition of support for Display Stream Compression (DSC) pass-through for 8K@60Hz, specifically for the PlayStation 5 Pro console, which is currently priced at $699 on Amazon. Furthermore, there are improvements in input source switching, which reportedly decreases delay for LG TV users utilizing a PlayStation 5. This update also brings support for 3D pass-through and light syncing at 144Hz. Philips Hue has also addressed issues related to CEC power on/off and auto-off functionalities.

    Updating Your Device

    Firmware version 2.5.0 will be automatically installed on the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 8K and the Philips Hue Play HDMI sync box 4K. To check if automatic updates are enabled, you can go to the Philips Hue app and navigate to Settings > Software update.

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    Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box Adds 144Hz Lighting Support
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  • Free Janky Action-Indie Game on Steam – Limited Time Offer

    Free Janky Action-Indie Game on Steam – Limited Time Offer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Unique Concept: “Granny Kick Neighbor” stands out with its crazy idea of playing as weapon-toting grandparents in chaotic gameplay.
    2. Free Access: The game is currently available for free on Steam, but this offer will end soon as it will become a paid title.
    3. Early Access Status: The game is in early access, feeling more like a test version with limited content and repetitive gameplay.
    4. Future Updates: Developers plan significant updates, including more destruction, game modes, and better structure, making it worth trying now.
    5. Quirky Fun: Despite its rough charm, it’s an enjoyable sandbox for destruction, ideal for fans of early indie games.

    Not every game needs to be polished to get noticed; sometimes, a crazy concept is all it takes. Granny Kick Neighbor, an indie action game with a purposely rough charm, is currently available for free on Steam. However, this offer won’t last forever. The developers have recently announced plans to turn the game into a paid title soon, following several significant updates.

    Gameplay Overview

    Right now, the game is in early access and throws players into mayhem as either a weapon-toting grandma or grandpa. Your goal is to create as much chaos as you can. Players can destroy household items and fight zombies using oversized hammers and rocket launchers, embracing silly physics and total mayhem. It’s strangely enjoyable—for a limited time.

    Current State of the Game

    However, today’s experience feels more like a test version rather than a complete game. There’s a lack of content, and the gameplay becomes repetitive pretty quickly. Even the positive reviews concede that the novelty fades fast. Nevertheless, this could change in the future. As previously mentioned, the developer has announced plans for a “full conversion” that promises more destruction, additional game modes, and a better overall structure. If you grab it now, you’ll retain access to all the content—even after the price increases.

    Final Thoughts

    Considering what it is—a free sandbox for destruction packed with quirky physics—it’s likely worth picking up while it’s still free, especially if you enjoy exploring early indie games or just want something fun to play around with. It’s available now on Steam under “Granny Kick Neighbor.”

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