Category: Gaming

  • Viture and 8BitDo Unveil First Mobile Controller with XR Glasses Support

    Viture and 8BitDo Unveil First Mobile Controller with XR Glasses Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Viture x 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller features a see-through black design with orange joysticks and uses a USB-C connection instead of Bluetooth.
    2. It offers customizable buttons and joysticks, as well as adjustable triggers, though rear buttons are not confirmed.
    3. This controller is the world’s first to support XR glasses, enhancing compatibility with Viture’s XR products.
    4. Users can play games from various platforms, including Google Play Store, Netflix, PlayStation Remote Play, and more, while using connected VR glasses.
    5. Pricing and release date are not yet disclosed, but there is a giveaway for a chance to win the controller and become a beta tester.

    Following a hint back in January about a partnership between 8BitDo and Viture, the two companies have now unveiled the Viture x 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller. This mobile controller shares a design with the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller that came out last year but features some significant changes.

    Design and Connection

    The Viture x 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller sports a see-through black casing and orange joysticks. Unlike 8BitDo’s previous controller which connects through Bluetooth, this new one comes equipped with a USB-C port. Currently, there’s no specification sheet available, making it unclear if it will work with both Android phones and iPhones.

    Features and Compatibility

    This new controller allows for button and joystick customization, along with adjustable triggers. The promotional video released does not display the backside of the controller, leaving us uncertain if it includes buttons on the rear. Given its resemblance to 8BitDo’s mobile Bluetooth variant, it is quite likely that it features rear buttons.

    Unique Selling Point

    What sets this controller apart is its compatibility with XR glasses. As mentioned in the promotional video shared on X, it is touted as the world’s first controller to support XR glasses. This is fitting, considering Viture’s reputation for XR glasses like the Viture Pro, which is currently listed on Amazon for $399. The controller includes a USB-C port on the right grip for connecting VR glasses.

    Viture claims that users can enjoy various games across multiple platforms, including the Google Play Store, Netflix, PlayStation Remote Play, Amazon Luna, Xbox Game Pass, and Nvidia GeForce, all while using the VR glasses connected to the controller.

    Pricing and Availability

    Neither Viture nor 8BitDo has disclosed the price for the new controller or its release date. However, there is a chance to win one, along with the possibility of becoming a beta tester. The winner of the giveaway is set to be announced in two weeks, but no specific date has been provided for when the chosen beta testers will be revealed.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Confirmed with Nvidia DLSS and Ray Tracing Support

    Nintendo Switch 2 Confirmed with Nvidia DLSS and Ray Tracing Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will use potentiometer-based Joy-Con sticks instead of Hall Effect-based ones.
    2. The console features an Nvidia GPU capable of DLSS and raytracing, allowing for 4K output to TVs.
    3. Software developers have the flexibility to choose between native 4K resolution or upscaling.
    4. Speculation suggests the Switch 2 may use DLSS 2.0 or a custom version developed with Nvidia.
    5. There is uncertainty about the inclusion of frame generation, with more details expected from Nvidia in the future.

    Nintendo has shared a lot about the Switch 2 since it was launched. First off, the Joy-Cons will continue using potentiometer-based sticks instead of the more durable Hall Effect-based ones. Thanks to an interview with IGN, we’ve learned a little more about what’s inside this new console. The company has confirmed that the Nintendo Switch 2’s Nvidia GPU can handle DLSS and raytracing, as stated:

    “We incorporate DLSS upscaling technology, and it’s essential for us in our game development. Regarding the hardware, it can output to a TV at a maximum resolution of 4K. It’s up to the software developers to decide whether they will use that as a native resolution or upscale it, which provides a lot of flexibility for them.”

    Speculation on DLSS Version

    There’s no specific mention of which version of DLSS it uses, but it’s reasonable to guess that it’s DLSS 2.0 (or a specially made version) since the speculation suggests that the Switch 2’s SoC is based on Nvidia’s Ampere architecture. Alternatively, it might be a custom DLSS version developed by Nintendo in collaboration with Nvidia, similar to what Sony and AMD did for PSSR on the PlayStation 5 Pro.

    Good News for Gamers

    In any case, this is encouraging news for those looking to buy a Nintendo Switch 2 because the somewhat underwhelming Nvidia chip will need all the support it can get to achieve the desired 4K at 60 FPS or 1080p at 120 FPS. The only missing detail right now is frame generation. It’s unclear if this feature is enabled since Nintendo has been intentionally vague about specifics, but they mentioned that Nvidia might provide more information about the Switch 2’s hardware in the future.

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  • MSI MAG 272UP X24: Affordable 4K OLED Gaming Monitor at 240Hz

    MSI MAG 272UP X24: Affordable 4K OLED Gaming Monitor at 240Hz

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI launched the MAG 272UP X24, an affordable gaming monitor featuring Samsung Display QD-OLED technology.
    2. The MAG 272UP X24 has a 4K native resolution (3,840 x 2,160) and a refresh rate of 240 Hz.
    3. Priced at CNY 5,499 (approximately $752), it fills the gap between the MAG 271QP X24 and MAG 273QP X24 models.
    4. It includes HDMI 2.1 ports and a DisplayPort 1.4a connection, but lacks DisplayPort 2.1 connectivity.
    5. Availability outside of China is not yet announced.

    MSI has just launched another affordable gaming monitor featuring the latest Samsung Display QD-OLED technology. To summarize, the company previously introduced the MAG 271QP X24 last week for $679.99 in the United States. Before that, they unveiled the MAG 273QP X24, which also uses the same panel technology as last year’s MAG 271QPX QD-OLED E2.

    New Addition to the Lineup

    Now, MSI has filled the space between the MAG 271QP X24 and MAG 273QP X24 with the MAG 272UP X24. As per multiple sources, this new model will hit shelves in China next week, priced at CNY 5,499 (approximately $752). Considering the similarities between the MAG 271QP X24 and MAG 273QP X24, it is fair to anticipate that the MAG 272UP X24 will share similar features.

    Features and Specifications

    The new MAG 272UP X24 sports a 4K (3,840 x 2,160) native resolution paired with an impressive refresh rate of 240 Hz. This makes the MAG 272UP X24 a more budget-friendly option compared to the MPG 272URX, which is currently priced at $1,099.99 on Amazon. However, it’s important to note that the MAG 272UP X24 lacks the DisplayPort 2.1 connectivity that MSI provides for the MPG 272URX.

    Instead, the MAG 272UP X24 includes HDMI 2.1 ports along with a DisplayPort 1.4a connection that utilizes Display Stream Compression (DSC) to support 4K at 240 Hz at the same time. In essence, the MAG 272UP X24 serves as MSI’s answer to the ROG Strix XG27UCDMG, which Asus began offering worldwide earlier this month. Unfortunately, there’s no information yet regarding when the MAG 272UP X24 will be available in other countries.

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    MSI MAG 272UP X24: Affordable 4K OLED Gaming Monitor at 240HzMSI MAG 272UP X24: Affordable 4K OLED Gaming Monitor at 240Hz
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 USB-C Port Lacks Video Output for Display Glasses

    Nintendo Switch 2 USB-C Port Lacks Video Output for Display Glasses

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 features an additional USB-C port on the top, allowing charging and accessory connections in tabletop mode.
    2. The top USB-C port does not support video output, limiting its use for third-party docks.
    3. Video output is only available through the bottom USB-C port of the Switch 2.
    4. There is uncertainty about the Switch 2’s compatibility with display glasses like the Xreal Air 2, as they are not official Nintendo products.
    5. Players may not need a dock with the Switch 2, as they can charge through the top port and connect accessories directly to the bottom port.

    Among the improvements found in the Nintendo Switch 2 compared to the earlier model is an additional USB-C port. Located on the top of the console, this port enables players to charge the Switch 2 while in tabletop mode or connect accessories like the Nintendo Switch 2 Camera or the Hori Nintendo Switch 2 Camera. However, it’s important to note that this USB-C port does not support video output.

    Details from Nintendo

    This information was shared by Koichi Kawamoto from Nintendo during a question and answer session. When asked whether the two USB-C ports on the Nintendo Switch 2 could deliver image output, he clarified that video output is only available through the USB-C port located on the bottom of the device. As a result, Switch 2 users won’t be able to utilize a third-party dock with the top USB-C port.

    Compatibility Concerns

    In addition to the lack of video output from the top USB-C port, Koichi Kawamoto mentioned that he can’t confirm the Switch 2’s ability to work with display glasses like the Xreal Air 2 Glasses, which are currently listed on Amazon for $299, since they are not official Nintendo items.

    The original Nintendo Switch is compatible with the display glasses, but it requires some extra hardware to operate in docked mode without the official dock. With the introduction of two USB-C ports on the Switch 2, players may not need a dock anymore, as they can connect a charger to the top port while plugging the glasses directly into the bottom USB-C port. The only potential issue could arise if Nintendo has limited docked mode to only allow charging through the bottom port.

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  • Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 RTX 5090 Slower than Older RTX 4090 Laptops

    Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 RTX 5090 Slower than Older RTX 4090 Laptops

    Key Takeaways

    1. Initial laptops with GeForce RTX 5090 aim for high TGP values of 160 W or more, showcasing peak performance.
    2. The Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 GU605CX has a lower TGP of 120 W, positioning it as a midrange RTX 5090 alternative.
    3. The 120 W RTX 5090 in the Zephyrus lags 25-30% behind the 175 W RTX 5090 in the SCHENKER Neo 16.
    4. In gaming scenarios, RTX 4090 laptops outperform the Zephyrus by 5-35% in popular games without DLSS enhancements.
    5. The Zephyrus 16 is slimmer, lighter, and more stylish, but its lower power limit affects GPU performance, affecting cost vs. performance trade-offs.

    Some of the initial laptops featuring GeForce RTX 5090 graphics are aiming for high thermal design power (TGP) values of 160 W or more, showcasing the peak performance of the mobile GPU. In contrast, the new Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 GU605CX sets its sights on a lower TGP of just 120 W, positioning itself as a “midrange” RTX 5090 alternative. Even though it remains a solid gaming laptop, its graphics performance is noticeably affected, leading to a situation where many RTX 4090 laptops can actually outpace the Asus.

    Performance Comparison

    In our latest review of the Zephyrus model, along with the accompanying graphs, it’s clear that the 120 W RTX 5090 in the 16-inch Asus lags about 25 to 30 percent behind the 175 W RTX 5090 found in the 16-inch SCHENKER Neo 16. This performance gap is so significant that even average RTX 4090 laptops in our database can exceed the Zephyrus by as much as 10 percent based on 3DMark tests.

    Gaming Experience

    The situation worsens when diving into real gaming scenarios, as the mobile RTX 4090 proves to outperform the RTX 5090-equipped Zephyrus by even larger margins, even at 1080p resolutions. Popular games such as Final Fantasy XV, Baldur’s Gate 3, Cyberpunk 2077, Monster Hunter Wilds, and Assassin’s Creed Shadows can run anywhere from 5 to 35 percent faster on older RTX 4090 laptops when compared to the newer Zephyrus, without the aid of DLSS enhancements.

    It’s important to point out that the new Zephyrus 16 is more slender, lighter, and more stylish than many other 16-inch gaming laptops, which required a tighter power limit for the GPU. Whether this trade-off is worth it in terms of cost versus performance ultimately rests on the buyer’s preferences.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2: Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Costs $80

    Nintendo Switch 2: Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Costs $80

    Key Takeaways

    1. New Game Pricing: Nintendo Switch 2 games like Mario Kart World will cost $79.99 for physical copies and $69.99 for digital versions.

    2. Older Game Pricing: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will also be priced at $79.99, while Breath of the Wild is $10 less than that, maintaining a higher price than its original Switch 1 version.

    3. Upgrade Option: Players who own Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom can upgrade to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for $10, which includes improved graphics and smartphone app integration.

    4. Variable Pricing Strategy: Not all new games will have a $79.99 price tag; pricing will vary based on what Nintendo believes is appropriate for each title.

    5. Example of Lower Pricing: Donkey Kong Bonanza is priced lower at $59.99 for digital and $69.99 for physical, showing that Nintendo has flexibility in game pricing.

    Just a few days ago, Nintendo made an announcement about prices for certain Nintendo Switch 2 games. For instance, Mario Kart World will be available for $79.99 if you buy the physical game cartridge. The digital version, on the other hand, will cost $69.99. Interestingly, this new pricing strategy also affects older games. Nintendo confirmed that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom in its physical form for the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $79.99 or €89.99 in Europe.

    Pricing Details

    In comparison, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is priced $10 less, making it still $10 more than the original price for the Switch 1. Other titles like Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Super Mario Party Jamboree will also see a price tag of $79.99 for the Nintendo Switch 2. For gamers who already possess The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom, there’s an option to get an upgrade pack for $10. This upgrade gives access to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, which features improved graphics and better integration with the Nintendo Switch smartphone app.

    Upgrade Fees and Game Pricing

    It’s still a bit unclear if the same upgrade cost will apply to games that have new gameplay features, such as Kirby. Nevertheless, Nintendo points out that not every new game will carry a price of $79.99. Instead, the cost of each title will be individually determined based on what Nintendo thinks is suitable. This pricing method is already shown with Donkey Kong Bonanza, which has a price of $59.99 for the digital version and $69.99 for the physical one, making it $10 cheaper than Mario Kart World.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order on eBay: Prices Rising Before Release

    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order on eBay: Prices Rising Before Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo has implemented rules to prevent scalpers from reselling the Switch 2, requiring a year-long Nintendo Switch Online subscription for purchases on their website.
    2. In the UK, pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are being sold at inflated prices on eBay, exceeding the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).
    3. Retail sales for the Switch 2 are ongoing in the UK, while U.S. sales are delayed due to new tariffs, creating complications for buyers.
    4. eBay listings for the Switch 2 must comply with specific guidelines, including a promise to ship within 40 business days, raising concerns about the authenticity of many listings.
    5. Many eBay listings have been removed for rule violations, but compliance may improve as the official release date of June 5th approaches.

    Nintendo has introduced rules to stop scalpers from reselling the Switch 2. To buy one, gamers need to have had a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for at least a year, along with other requirements. However, these rules only apply to purchases made through Nintendo’s own website. Meanwhile, buyers in the UK and other areas are already reserving consoles from retailers, and eBay sellers are making a profit. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 are selling for much more than the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP).

    High Prices on eBay

    Some of the top sales on eBay UK include the Nintendo Switch 2 + Mario Kart World Bundle. For instance, one bundle sold for over 600 British pounds, which is around 773 US dollars. With an MSRP of £429.99 and $499.99, these sales don’t represent record-breaking profits for scalpers on new consoles. Still, with criticism about Nintendo’s pricing, it’s clear that some buyers are willing to pay a premium.

    Retailer Sales and Complications in the US

    Various UK retailers like Argos and Amazon have started their sales or sent out invitations. In contrast, the situation for Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders in the United States is more complex. Following news of new tariffs under Trump, the company has delayed sales there. This might mean that eBay could be the only option for sellers who manage to get their hands on the console.

    It’s still uncertain whether any of the eBay transactions will go through without getting canceled. Per the guidelines on eBay UK, “Presale listings must promise that the item will be shipped within 40 business days after purchase.” Sellers must also make it clear that they are listing a Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order that will be shipped within that time frame. This policy is also valid for eBay in the US and Australia. Given that the console is set to officially launch on June 5th, many of these sales don’t seem to be genuine. However, the “40 business days” requirement could push the shipping date closer to the launch.

    Missing Listings and Future Sales

    A lot of the eBay listings have recently disappeared due to rule violations. Nonetheless, as the release date for the Switch 2 nears, it should become easier for sellers to comply with eBay’s requirements.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Order on eBay: Prices Rising Before Release
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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons Won’t Feature Hall Effect Sticks

    Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons Won’t Feature Hall Effect Sticks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has notable improvements but comes with a high price of $450, which many consider excessive.
    2. There are concerns about the durability of Joy-Cons, with a likelihood of needing replacements over time.
    3. New Joy-Con 2 sticks do not utilize Hall Effect technology but are designed to enhance user experience.
    4. Speculation exists about potential issues with joystick drift in the upcoming Switch 2 Pro controller.
    5. Third-party manufacturers may offer better joystick options at lower prices for docked gamers.

    While the Nintendo Switch 2 brings some clear improvements compared to the original Switch, many people believe that the $450 price tag is too high. Additionally, there’s a strong possibility that you’ll end up replacing several Joy-Cons during the life of the console due to their tendency to wear out.

    Joy-Con Concerns

    This small yet crucial piece of information was shared by Nate Bihldorff, a high-ranking official at Nintendo of America. In a conversation with Nintendo Life, Nate explicitly mentioned that the new Joy-Con 2 sticks do not use Hall Effect technology. However, they are reportedly designed “from the ground up” to provide the “best possible experience.”

    Future Controller Speculation

    Although it wasn’t directly stated, this likely refers to the Switch 2 Pro controller too. Since the Nintendo Switch 2 won’t be released for another two months, it may be premature to make any judgments. Still, it’s only a matter of time before potentiometer-based joysticks start to drift from continuous use. One can only wish that the Joy-Con 2s perform better than their previous generation, which were well-known for being fragile.

    If you mostly game while docked, there are many third-party manufacturers that provide Hall Effect sticks at reasonable prices. We should have more information on these options once the Switch 2 has been available for a few weeks.

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  • RTX 5090 Power Connector Burns, Damages PSU Cable

    RTX 5090 Power Connector Burns, Damages PSU Cable

    Key Takeaways

    1. Another case of a burnt power connector on an MSI RTX 5090 GPU has been reported, adding to existing incidents in the RTX 50 Series.
    2. The damage includes burnt and melted connection points on the GPU’s power connector and the PSU cable, with visible deterioration at the PSU end.
    3. The affected GPU was used for about a month at stock settings without any overclocking.
    4. The PSU cable was a stock 12VHPWR cable from a Corsair SF1000L, chosen due to concerns over custom cables.
    5. The 12VHPWR connector is rated for 600W, matching the RTX 5090’s power draw, raising concerns about inadequate load balancing in the GPU series.

    There has been another incident involving a burnt power connector on an RTX 50 series GPU, according to reports. A Reddit post highlights the burnt power connector on an MSI RTX 5090, along with damage to the cable at the PSU end. This case adds to the list of burnt connector problems documented in the RTX 50 Series 12VHPWR Megathread, bringing the confirmed total to five. The GPU was bought around a month ago and was functioning without any overclocking.

    Details of the Incident

    In the post by user ‘Roachard’, the damage to their MSI 5090 GAMING TRIO OC’s power connector is clearly visible, with several burnt and melted connection points, plus burnt pins on the PSU cable. Notably, the cable also shows damage at the PSU end. The user mentioned that it was a stock PSU 12VHPWR cable that came with the Corsair SF1000L, chosen specifically due to other reports of melting issues with custom cables.

    Examination of the Damage

    The plastic connector on the PSU side has a noticeable bulge, and the cable appears to have burnt white. It remains uncertain if that specific port on the PSU is now dysfunctional or if the PSU itself has sustained damage. Roachard noted that the GPU was acquired approximately a month ago and was being operated at stock settings.

    Technical Insights

    The setup included an Asus Strix B650E-I motherboard paired with a Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU. Comments on the post suggest that the issue might stem from inadequate load balancing on the RTX 40 and 50 series GPUs. Additionally, the 12VHPWR is rated for a maximum power delivery of 600W, which matches the power draw of the RTX 5090 under load, leaving little to no headroom for safety.

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    RTX 5090 Power Connector Burns, Damages PSU Cable
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  • MSI Launches Polar Tempest Edition of Claw 8 AI+ Just Months After Release

    MSI Launches Polar Tempest Edition of Claw 8 AI+ Just Months After Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI launched the Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition with new white panels and increased storage from 1 TB to 2 TB, priced at $999 before taxes.
    2. The Polar Tempest Edition features an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor and 32 GB of RAM, promising better performance than competitors like the ROG Ally X.
    3. The new model is expected to lag behind more powerful alternatives powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.
    4. Currently, the Polar Tempest Edition is limited to the US market, with no confirmed plans for release in other regions.
    5. The shipping for the Polar Tempest Edition is set to begin on July 15.

    The MSI Claw 8 AI+ has been available for several months now, having first appeared late last year with the smaller Claw 7 AI+. However, MSI only started to ship the 8-inch gaming handheld in various markets, such as Europe and the UK, by mid-February.

    New Variant Launched

    In a recent move, MSI has introduced a refreshed version of the Claw 8 AI+, named the Polar Tempest Edition. This new model, which will start shipping on July 15, features white panels instead of the retro-style ones found on the original version. Additionally, MSI has increased the storage capacity from 1 TB to 2 TB, adding a $100 extra charge, bringing the total price to $999 before taxes.

    Performance Specs

    The Claw 8 AI+ Polar Tempest Edition is equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor and 32 GB of RAM. This means the device is expected to outperform competing handhelds like the ROG Ally X, which use the Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip. Nonetheless, it will still lag behind alternatives powered by the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, such as the GPD Pocket 4 and OneXFly F1 Pro, which is currently priced at $1,439 on Amazon.

    Availability Concerns

    Currently, it appears that MSI has limited the Polar Tempest Edition’s availability to the US. The company has not provided any updates on whether this model will be launched in other regions in the future. Given the release timeline for the original Claw 8 AI+, it may take several months before the Polar Tempest Edition is released globally.

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    MSI Launches Polar Tempest Edition of Claw 8 AI+ Just Months After ReleaseMSI Launches Polar Tempest Edition of Claw 8 AI+ Just Months After Release
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