Category: Gaming

  • Free to Play Steam Survival PvPvE Shooter Now Available

    Free to Play Steam Survival PvPvE Shooter Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Realism and Immersion: Deadside emphasizes realistic survival gameplay in a post-Soviet war-torn environment, focusing on exploration and tactical mechanics without zombies or futuristic elements.

    2. Survival and Competition: Players start with minimal resources and must gather gear through looting, missions, and combat, with dynamic PvPvE challenges adding excitement.

    3. Base Building: Players can construct and upgrade bases for shelter and storage, which require maintenance to remain functional.

    4. Accessibility for New Players: Compared to other survival shooters, Deadside is more welcoming to newcomers, offering a less harsh survival experience focused on exploration.

    5. Ongoing Development: Developed by Bad Pixel and published by tinyBuild, Deadside entered Early Access in April 2020 and fully released in December 2024, with regular updates and promotional events for players.


    Set in a rough open environment, Deadside mixes tactical survival gameplay with a strong emphasis on realism and immersion. Instead of featuring zombies or futuristic elements, it places players in a barren, war-torn area of the post-Soviet Union. Covering more than 225 square kilometers, the game allows players to explore thick forests, abandoned towns, industrial areas, and military bases while searching for gear, weapons, and supplies.

    Survival and Competition

    Deadside merges traditional survival game mechanics with thrilling PvPvE action. You start with nearly nothing and need to gradually gather resources, whether by looting, fulfilling missions, or fighting against bandits and other players. Realism is crucial: the mechanics of weapons are based on physics, and a single mistake can set you back significantly. The game keeps the gameplay lively with dynamic missions. Challenges like bandit attacks or heavily guarded supply convoys frequently show up on the map, providing valuable loot but also attracting other players’ attention.

    Building Your Base

    A key element of Deadside is the ability to construct bases. With the materials you collect, you can create a shelter and slowly upgrade it into a sturdy fortress. These bases act as both a retreat and a secure spot for storing important gear, but they require regular maintenance to prevent them from falling apart.

    According to a review from the YouTube channel LevelCapGaming, Deadside is more welcoming to newcomers than other survival shooters such as DayZ. The survival mechanics are less harsh and focus more on exploration, making it attractive for players who don’t have hours to dedicate daily. However, the AI has been criticized for its lack of tactical awareness – frequently rushing at players without taking cover. At the time of this review, Deadside had roughly 32,000 ratings on Steam with a “Mostly Positive” approval rating of 77%. Here’s the video review from LevelCapGaming:

    Game Development and Updates

    Deadside was developed by the indie studio Bad Pixel and published by tinyBuild. The survival shooter first entered Early Access in April 2020 and saw its complete release in December 2024. On March 25, the game received Update 1.4, which brought a new map and more content. To celebrate, players can experience the PvPvE shooter for free over the weekend from March 28 to 30. If you like it, you can purchase Deadside for 40% off, bringing the price down to about $15 from the original $24.50 until April 3.

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  • MSI Launches MAG 271QPX X24 QD-OLED Monitor with 240Hz Refresh Rate

    MSI Launches MAG 271QPX X24 QD-OLED Monitor with 240Hz Refresh Rate

    Key Takeaways

    1. High-Performance Display: The MSI MAG 271QPX X24 features a 26.5-inch QD-OLED panel with a WQHD resolution (2560×1440), 240Hz refresh rate, and an ultra-fast 0.03ms response time for minimal motion blur.

    2. Color Accuracy: The monitor offers impressive color coverage with 98% Adobe RGB and 99% DCI-P3, ensuring vibrant and accurate colors for gaming and content creation.

    3. Longevity Features: Equipped with OLED Care 2.0, including a passive cooling system and custom heatsink, it aims to enhance panel longevity and reduce fan noise.

    4. Ergonomic Design: The stand allows extensive adjustments, including tilt, swivel, pivot, and height, with VESA mount compatibility for flexible setup options.

    5. Connectivity Options: The monitor includes two HDMI 2.1 ports and one DisplayPort 1.4a for 240Hz support, along with a 3.5mm audio jack, but lacks USB ports.


    MSI has launched the MAG 271QPX X24, a 26.5-inch QD-OLED gaming monitor, which is currently available on Newegg for $679.99. This flat-panel display is aimed at competitive gamers who demand high refresh rates and superior OLED contrast.

    Display and Performance

    This monitor boasts a QD-OLED panel with a resolution of 2560×1440 (WQHD), providing impressive 98% Adobe RGB and 99% DCI-P3 color coverage. With a refresh rate of 240Hz and an ultra-fast 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time, it’s crafted to minimize motion blur during fast-paced gaming. The monitor showcases a remarkable contrast ratio of 1,500,000:1 and carries the VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400 certification, delivering rich blacks and peak brightness hitting up to 1,000 nits (3% APL).

    Longevity and Connectivity

    To enhance the longevity of the OLED panel, MSI includes OLED Care 2.0, featuring a passive cooling system made from graphene film, along with a custom heatsink. This design helps eliminate fan noise while maintaining the health of the panel. For connectivity, there are two HDMI 2.1 ports and one DisplayPort 1.4a, all capable of supporting 240Hz refresh rates. While there are no USB ports, the monitor does come equipped with a 3.5mm audio jack and a Kensington lock slot.

    Ergonomics and Features

    The stand provides extensive ergonomic adjustments: tilt range is from -5° to 20°, swivel can go from -30° to 30°, pivot is adjustable from -90° to 90°, and height can be raised up to 110mm. It also comes with a 100x100mm VESA mount. When assembled with the stand, the monitor dimensions measure 609 x 242 x 416mm.

    The MAG 271QPX X24 is positioned as a mid-range choice for gamers looking for OLED image quality paired with competitive performance. Additional features include 10-bit color depth, an anti-glare coating, and support for Adaptive-Sync, completing the overall offering.


  • Epic Games Sale: City Builder Game Now Just $6, Was $60

    Epic Games Sale: City Builder Game Now Just $6, Was $60

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Setting and Progression: Anno 1800 immerses players in the 19th century, evolving from a small village to a bustling city with factories and trade.

    2. Exploration of New Worlds: Players can venture into the New World to gather exotic resources, creating new settlements and enhancing their economy back in the Old World.

    3. Military and Naval Strategy: A strong naval presence is crucial for protecting trade routes and engaging in strategic battles against pirates and opponents.

    4. Reception and Reviews: The game has received positive feedback, scoring 80 points from GameStar and holding an 81 Metascore on Metacritic, though concerns were raised about naval combat simplicity and campaign depth.

    5. Pricing and Discounts: Anno 1800 is currently on sale for $6 on the Epic Games Store, down from its typical price of $60, with additional DLCs available for a more enriched gameplay experience.


    Anno 1800 takes players on a journey to the 19th century, a time defined by steam power, industrial growth, and colonialism. You start with a small village consisting of a trading post and a few farmhouses. As you progress through the game, this simple settlement transforms into a bustling city filled with factories, ships, railways, and grand homes.

    Exploring New Worlds

    While your adventure commences in the Old World, it isn’t long before you embark to the New World—a tropical area abundant in exotic resources such as rum, cotton, and coffee. Here, players can create new settlements and transport these precious goods back to the Old World to meet the upper class’s demands and boost the economy of their homeland.

    Military and Naval Strategy

    In addition to construction and trade management, having a strong naval presence and military might is essential. With frigates, ships of the line, and armored monitors, you can confront pirates, opponents, or entire fleets. Naval confrontations are both strategically demanding and vital for maintaining your influence on the global stage. By enhancing your military and wisely guarding trade routes, you can cultivate an empire that flourishes in every region. With co-op and multiplayer options, you can build this empire alongside friends or compete fiercely against them.

    Reviews and Reception

    In a review from the German publication GameStar, Anno 1800 earned a commendable score of 80 points, highlighting the game’s intricate building mechanics, engaging endgame, and significant replayability. The review also recognized the stunning visuals, seamless transition between the Old and New Worlds, and effectively implemented co-op and multiplayer modes, all contributing to extended enjoyment. However, the reviewers felt that naval combat was somewhat simplistic and the campaign lacked depth. They also pointed out that the level of multitasking required might be daunting for new players.

    Anno 1800 has garnered positive reviews across major gaming platforms. On Metacritic, it holds a Metascore of 81 and a User Score of 7.9. Meanwhile, Steam showcases over 21,000 reviews for this building strategy game, with 81% of them being favorable.

    Pricing and Discounts

    Ubisoft launched Anno 1800 in April 2019. It typically retails for about $60 on Steam and the Epic Games Store. Currently, the game is being offered on Epic at a remarkable 90% discount, dropping the price to a mere $6. This deal is valid until April 9 and is applicable only to the base game. It’s important to mention that Anno 1800 has a diverse array of DLCs that enhance the gameplay with elements like tourism, skyscrapers, and Arctic adventures. To fully experience the game, additional purchases are required.

    Disclaimer: Notebookcheck does not take responsibility for price fluctuations by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this article was valid at the time of writing and may be subject to limitations in time and/or availability of units.

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  • Epic Games Store Announces Free Mystery Games Ending March 2025

    Epic Games Store Announces Free Mystery Games Ending March 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Epic Games Store is offering two new free games: Cat Quest I and Neko Ghost, Jump!, replacing Jurassic World Evolution 2.
    2. The total value of the new giveaway is approximately $27.98, which is lower than last week’s free game value of $59.99.
    3. The free games will be available for download until April 3, with a cutoff time of 15:00 UTC for the original prices.
    4. Both games have received positive reviews on platforms like OpenCritic and Steam and have low system requirements.
    5. The giveaways are only for the Windows versions of the games, and details for redemption can be found on the Epic Games listings.


    The Epic Games Store has introduced two new titles to take the place of Jurassic World Evolution 2 (currently $35 on Amazon), which they have been offering for free since last week. While last week’s free game had a reported value of $59.99, this week’s selection is worth about half that amount.

    Cat-Themed Offerings

    As anticipated, the store has focused on games that feature cats for this week’s giveaway. Contrary to what some fans thought, the new offer does not exclusively include titles from the Cat Quest series. Instead, Cat Quest I is accompanied by Neko Ghost, Jump! for a total giveaway value of $27.98.

    Availability and Reception

    Epic Games has stated that both games will be accessible for download until 16:00 UTC on April 3. Nevertheless, the countdown for next week’s giveaway hints that Cat Quest I and Neko Ghost, Jump! will revert to their original prices an hour earlier at 15:00 UTC.

    Both of these games have been positively received by players and critics on platforms like OpenCritic and Steam. Additionally, they have fairly low system requirements; it’s important to mention that these giveaways are only applicable to their Windows versions. Full details for redemption can be found on the Epic Games listings for Cat Quest I and Neko Ghost, Jump!

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  • Baseus 90° Elbow USB-C Cable Now in Longer Lengths

    Baseus 90° Elbow USB-C Cable Now in Longer Lengths

    Key Takeaways

    1. Baseus has launched a new 6.6 ft (2 m) version of its USB-C Cable with a 90° Elbow, available in North America and Europe.
    2. The longer cable is priced at $18.99 in the US and €12.99 in Europe, making it more expensive than the original 3.3 ft (1 m) cable.
    3. It offers the same fast charging capability of 100W but maintains a data transfer speed of 480 Mbps.
    4. The cable includes safety features like low temperature safeguards and an e-marker chip for voltage and current recognition.
    5. The connectors are reinforced for durability, but the long connector base may block speakers on some devices.


    Baseus has introduced a new, extended version of its USB-C Cable featuring a 90° Elbow in both North America and Europe. The initial 3.3 ft (1 m) cable, which debuted in December 2024, was promoted as an ideal accessory for mobile gaming and e-sports, thanks to its unique angled design.

    New Longer Version Available

    Not long ago, Baseus launched a cable that is twice the length of the original. The Baseus USB-C Cable with 90° Elbow (6.6 ft/2 m) is available on Amazon in the US for $18.99. In European countries such as the Netherlands, France, and Germany, the price is €12.99. This makes it a bit pricier than the shorter variant, which is priced at $15.99/€9.99.

    Features and Specifications

    The new longer USB-C Cable with 90° Elbow maintains the same fast charging capability of 100W as its predecessor. However, it is important to mention that data transfer speeds still max out at 480 Mbps, just like before. The cable includes low temperature safeguards, with a trickle mode that kicks in when a device hits 80% battery to help avoid overheating. An additional safety feature is the e-marker chip, which intelligently recognizes the voltage and current of the connected device.

    Baseus claims that the connectors are reinforced to resist bending, and the rounded edges provide a more comfortable hold. One potential downside is that the long connector base might block speakers on some gadgets. The cable is made from a high-density nylon braided exterior that enhances its durability, but users of the initial cable have reported that it can feel quite stiff at first. It remains uncertain when or if this accessory will officially become available in the UK.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Ace: A Powerful Retro Gaming Device Unveiled

    Ayaneo Pocket Ace: A Powerful Retro Gaming Device Unveiled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo recently completed its crowdfunding campaign for the Ayaneo 3 and introduced the Pocket S2 during Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 event.
    2. The Pocket Ace’s design is not fully revealed yet, but it is generating interest among gamers.
    3. The Pocket Ace features a boxy shape and button layout similar to the Retroid Pocket 2S and has a 4.5-inch display, expected to outperform the RG405M.
    4. Specifications include a 1,620 x 1,080 pixel resolution, a 6,000 mAh battery with 40 W fast charging, and immersive haptics with a linear motor.
    5. The Pocket Ace will be available on Indiegogo, appealing especially to retro gaming fans.


    Ayaneo has been quite active with its recent gaming handheld launches. Earlier this week, it completed its crowdfunding campaign for the Ayaneo 3. Just a few days prior, it introduced the Pocket S2 in tandem with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon G3 Gen 3 event.

    Teasing the Pocket Ace

    Ayaneo is also keeping the Pocket Ace in the spotlight, although the actual design of the device hasn’t been fully unveiled. It’s still unclear when the Pocket Ace will hit the market, but Ayaneo has at least given a glimpse of how the device will look.

    Design Comparisons

    For those who love retro gaming handhelds, the Pocket Ace might remind them of the Retroid Pocket 2S due to its boxy shape, button layout, and screen size. The 4.5-inch display also invites comparisons to the RG405M, which currently retails for $169.99 on Amazon. Nonetheless, the Pocket Ace is expected to outperform those two models significantly, powered by a Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset.

    Impressive Specifications

    As per Ayaneo, the Pocket Ace’s screen has a resolution of 1,620 x 1,080 pixels with a 3:2 aspect ratio. Additionally, a 6,000 mAh battery is included that supports 40 W fast charging, along with a 0916B ultra-wideband linear motor for an ‘immersive haptics’ experience. Furthermore, the Pocket Ace features Hall effect joysticks, similar to many of Ayaneo’s other gaming devices. The Pocket Ace will eventually be available on Indiegogo; you can find more information on the related Indiegogo pre-launch page.

    Conclusion

    To sum up, Ayaneo continues to capture the attention of gaming enthusiasts with its innovative devices. The Pocket Ace looks promising, especially for fans of retro gaming, and it should be an exciting release once it finally launches on Indiegogo.

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  • Backbone One Xbox Edition Controller Now Available for $110

    Backbone One Xbox Edition Controller Now Available for $110

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Backbone One Xbox Edition is a mobile game controller designed specifically for Xbox fans, featuring a unique see-through green design.
    2. It includes familiar ABXY buttons, with the Xbox button replacing the capture button from the PlayStation edition.
    3. The controller is priced at $109.99, making it $10 more expensive than the PlayStation and standard editions.
    4. The Backbone One Xbox Edition offers the same functionality as its counterparts, focusing on enhancing the mobile gaming experience.
    5. It is more than twice the price of the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller, which is compatible only with Android devices and offers additional features like Hall Effect joysticks and a 13-hour rechargeable battery.


    The Backbone One has gained a lot of attention as a popular game controller specially made for mobile devices. After introducing the original Backbone One in 2020 and an Android version in 2022, the company has rolled out several limited edition models, including a PlayStation version and a special Death Stranding edition. Now, they’ve revealed a new Xbox edition.

    Design and Features

    The Backbone One Xbox Edition sports a see-through green hue, reminiscent of the Hyperkin DuchesS Controller, which pays homage to the Xbox controller that came with the 2004 Xbox Halo: Combat Evolved bundle. This green color theme is also found in the 8BitDo Retro R8 Mouse and Retro 87 Mechanical Keyboard, showing a trend in nostalgic designs.

    Collaborating with Xbox, this controller features ABXY buttons like the regular version. The main difference lies in the Xbox button replacing the capture button found on the PlayStation Edition. Other than the color and the button arrangement, it keeps the same functionality as its counterparts.

    Pricing and Comparison

    Currently, the Backbone One Xbox Edition can be purchased from Backbone’s website for $109.99, which is $10 higher than both the PlayStation and standard editions. This price also makes it more than twice the cost of the 8BitDo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller, which is listed on Amazon for $49.99. While the 8BitDo controller is compatible only with Android devices and connects through Bluetooth, it boasts Hall Effect joysticks, back paddle buttons, and a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 13 hours.

    Backbone’s new offering looks to enhance mobile gaming experience, appealing to Xbox fans and gamers alike.

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  • Epic Games Store Offers Two Free Games for March 2025

    Epic Games Store Offers Two Free Games for March 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. Epic Games Store introduced a new collection of free mobile games for Android and iOS users, including Eastern Exorcist and Super Meat Boy Forever.
    2. Current discounts include Evoland 2 and Out There – Omega Edition, totaling $23.98, but availability is limited to users in the EU and UK.
    3. Epic Games does not offer its mobile store through Google Play Store or Apple Store; users must side-load the storefront.
    4. The two games will be free to add to your Epic Games library until April 3 at 15:00 UTC, requiring an Epic Games account.
    5. Price changes and deal availability may vary, and Notebookcheck is not responsible for any changes made by retailers.


    The Epic Games Store recently revealed a fresh collection of free mobile games available for Android and iOS users. Last week, they unified their mobile and PC game promotions, introducing titles like Eastern Exorcist and Super Meat Boy Forever. Before that, the store had been offering monthly discounts on mobile games, including Star Wars Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) and its sequel, KOTOR II: The Sith Lords.

    Current Discounts on Mobile Games

    This time, Epic Games has put Evoland 2 and Out There – Omega Edition on sale, totaling a value of $23.98 for Android and iOS. It’s important to remember that there are regional limitations for iOS and iPadOS users. Thus, you can only download Evoland 2 and Out There – Omega Edition if you’re residing in the European Union or the UK.

    Installation and Availability

    Moreover, Epic Games doesnot share its mobile store through the Google Play Store or Apple Store. Users need to side-load the storefront onto their devices, and you can find the installation instructions on Epic Games’ support pages. The two games offered this week will be free to add to your Epic Games library until April 3 at 15:00 UTC. To redeem both games on Android and iOS at the same time, you need to be logged into an Epic Games account.

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  • SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for PlayStation 5 Now Available

    SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD for PlayStation 5 Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Robust Design: The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD has an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance and can survive falls from nearly 10 feet.

    2. Fast Connectivity: It connects via USB 3.2 Gen 2, offering maximum transfer speeds of 1,000 MB/s, and weighs just under 2.5 ounces.

    3. Gaming Compatibility: Designed for PlayStation 5, it is also compatible with PCs and other devices with USB-C ports, featuring a PS5-inspired design.

    4. Warranty: The SSD comes with a five-year warranty from the manufacturer.

    5. Pricing: The 1TB version is priced at $129 and the 2TB version at $199, with the purchase including a one-month trial of Discord Nitro.


    The SanDisk Extreme Portable for PlayStation 5 and PC is a newly launched external SSD that comes in two different configurations. The American company describes this drive as being somewhat rugged, boasting an IP65 rating which indicates it should be safe from dust and water damage.

    Robust Design

    SanDisk also states that this SSD can survive falls from nearly 10 feet. Since flash memory lacks moving parts, it is typically more durable than standard hard drives, but the Extreme Portable is exceptionally tough even among SSDs.

    Fast Connectivity

    This solid-state drive connects through USB 3.2 Gen 2 and offers a maximum transfer speed of 1,000 MB/s. Weighing just under 2.5 ounces, it measures around 3.97 x 2.07 inches with a thickness of 0.38 inches. Additionally, it comes with a five-year warranty from the manufacturer.

    Gaming Compatibility

    As per SanDisk, the storage has been designed, tested, and certified for use with Sony’s PlayStation 5. Of course, the drive is also compatible with PCs, smartphones, and various other devices that have a USB-C port. Console gamers will appreciate the color scheme and design that draws clear inspiration from the PS5. Furthermore, the official price includes a one-month trial of Discord Nitro.

    The 1TB version of the new Extreme Portable is priced at $129, while the 2TB external SSD is available for $199.

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  • Dolphin Emulator Supports All Wii, GameCube, and Virtual Console Games

    Dolphin Emulator Supports All Wii, GameCube, and Virtual Console Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dolphin emulator can now boot every playable Wii game, achieving full compatibility with the Wii library.
    2. Booting a game does not guarantee full playability; a game is considered “playable” if it runs well with minor glitches.
    3. The only software that cannot be booted on Dolphin is the Wii U Menu, with no other titles listed as “Broken.”
    4. Approximately 97.3% of Gamecube, Wii, and Virtual Console games are classified as playable or perfect, with 69.4% being perfect.
    5. Dolphin is compatible with multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS (if jailbroken), and Xbox consoles.


    The Dolphin emulator stands out as the leading option for emulating Gamecube and Wii games, and there’s a solid reason for this: it can now successfully start every game that was playable on an actual Nintendo Wii.

    Recent Developments

    On March 24, a user named u/error521 shared on Reddit that Dolphin had achieved the milestone of being able to boot all Wii titles, overcoming the last obstacle in boot compatibility. For some time now, Dolphin has successfully booted every Gamecube title and Virtual Console game, which means that any game playable on the Nintendo Wii can also be launched through Dolphin.

    Understanding Playability

    However, it’s important to note that booting a game doesn’t guarantee that it’s fully playable. According to Dolphin’s compatibility chart, a game is deemed “playable” if it “runs well [with] only minor graphical or audio glitches.” As per Dolphin’s definition, playable titles are those that can be completed from start to finish.

    Current Limitations

    At this point, the only software that still can’t be booted on Dolphin is the Wii U Menu. It’s a bit puzzling why the menu for the Wii’s successor is included in the compatibility list for the Wii. Aside from this, the “Broken” section, which lists software that fails to boot, is completely empty.

    There are a few games that only manage to get through the boot sequence before reaching a menu (about 0.3% of the Wii’s library, including Gamecube games). Approximately 2.0% of Wii games can start but are prone to crashes or significant graphical/audio issues. Nevertheless, an impressive 97.3% of Gamecube, Wii, and Virtual Console games are classified as either “playable” (with minor glitches) or “perfect” (with no gameplay issues). Out of these, 69.4% are regarded as “perfect.”

    Availability and Platforms

    Dolphin is the most well-known emulator for Nintendo Gamecube and Wii, essentially because it’s the only widely accessible emulator for the Wii. It is compatible with Windows 10 and later, macOS Catalina and later, Linux, Android 5.0 and later (64-bit only), iOS (if jailbroken or using AltStore, with JIT required), Xbox One, and Xbox Series S|X.

    For additional information about Dolphin, you can visit the project’s official website.

    Dolphin Compatibility List

    u/error521 on r/emulation

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