Category: Gaming

April 5, 2025
Mario Kart Port for PS4 and PS5: Excitement on Hold
Key Takeaways
1. A developer named HoTsHoTz79 showcased an unofficial Mario Kart game for PS4 and PS5, based on Ishaan Patel’s open-source project created in Unity.
2. The game currently has bugs and missing features, such as item usage and proper drifting mechanics.
3. Ishaan Patel’s original project is a fan creation that resembles Mario Kart 8 but uses his own animations and programming while retaining Nintendo’s assets.
4. There is no downloadable version of the game available, and its future completion is uncertain due to other commitments.
5. Nintendo is unlikely to allow this fan project to continue, given their history of shutting down similar unofficial games.
Amidst the recent buzz surrounding Nintendo, a developer known as “HoTsHoTz79” on X/Twitter has revealed a video showcasing an unofficial version of Mario Kart operating on PS4 and PS5 consoles, which are priced at $499.99 on Amazon. This particular port is not an official title from Nintendo; instead, it is a recreation of an open-source Mario Kart game created by Ishaan Patel using Unity (C#) almost four years ago.
Visuals and Performance
The shared footage depicts the game on Sony’s systems, but it comes with several visible bugs and performance hiccups. HoTsHoTz79 mentioned that the current version is incomplete, lacking essential gameplay features like item usage and effective drifting mechanics. Additionally, there are graphical flaws stemming from unsupported shaders and misaligned meshes.
Origins of the Project
Ishaan Patel’s original Mario Kart in Unity was a fan initiative aimed at capturing the essence of Nintendo’s beloved racing game. While it bears a strong resemblance to Mario Kart 8 in terms of visuals and gameplay, Patel is clear on his website that most of the assets, including character and level designs, are owned by Nintendo. However, all the animations and programming are his own creative work.
Future of the Project
HoTsHoTz79 also pointed out that there is no downloadable version available right now, and it remains uncertain if the project will reach completion due to other commitments. Nevertheless, this proof-of-concept, despite its bugs and uncertain future, showcases the potential for fan-driven Unity projects on PlayStation systems.
While this news is thrilling for fans of the franchise, it is highly improbable that Nintendo would permit such a project to proceed, given their track record of shutting down fan-made games that incorporate official Nintendo elements.
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Tags: Mario Kart, PS4, PS5
April 5, 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 Pre-Orders Delayed Indefinitely in the US
Key Takeaways
1. Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. are delayed, originally set for April 9, 2025.
2. Nintendo will evaluate tariffs and market conditions before announcing a new pre-order date.
3. The official launch date for the Nintendo Switch 2 is June 5, 2025, but it may be delayed if tariffs worsen.
4. There are concerns that the console’s price may increase beyond the already high estimate of $450.
5. The higher pricing could make the console unaffordable for many gamers.
While the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 stirred up mixed reactions, there are plenty of Nintendo enthusiasts eager to pre-order the new console. Those in the United States might find themselves waiting longer than expected. A representative from the company shared this message:
Pre-order Delays Announced
Pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the U.S. will not begin on April 9, 2025, as they need to evaluate the potential effects of tariffs and changing market conditions. Nintendo plans to provide updates regarding the timing later on.
Originally, the pre-orders for the Nintendo Switch 2 were set to start on April 9 in the U.S. Now, it’s uncertain when exactly they will commence. Nevertheless, the launch date for the console remains fixed at June 5. There is a possibility that this date may be delayed if the tariff situation worsens.
Price Concerns Rise
Additionally, there’s a significant chance that the Nintendo Switch 2 could be priced even higher due to these tariffs. Many people felt that $450 was already on the expensive side, and any further increase would make it unaffordable for even more gamers.
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Tags: Nintendo, pre-orders, Switch 2
April 5, 2025
Ubisoft Restores Nudity in Far Cry 4 After Steam Censorship Error
Key Takeaways
1. Ubisoft made unexpected changes to Far Cry 4 regarding nudity, despite the game being released in 2014.
2. The alterations were specifically aimed at the Japanese version of the game, and original files have been restored in the global Steam release.
3. Changes included modifying character appearances, such as a non-playable character being dressed and the main character wearing a loincloth.
4. Ubisoft is facing financial challenges, and there are speculations about Tencent’s influence on censorship due to their investment in the company.
5. Similar censorship actions were observed in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, indicating a broader trend in Ubisoft’s approach to content representation.
After a recent update for Far Cry 4, players found some unexpected adjustments. Ubisoft didn’t provide any patch notes, but users on Steam noticed numerous file changes. Soon, Reddit users discovered that these alterations focused on nudity. What’s puzzling is that Far Cry 4 has been out since 2014. After some backlash, Ubisoft clarified that these changes were aimed specifically at the Japanese version of the game. The original files have now been restored in the global Steam release.
Game Overview
Far Cry 4 is a shooter featuring open-world gameplay, set in Kyrat, a fictional nation in the Himalayas. The cultural norms in Kyrat are more relaxed regarding nudity, which is partly why it holds a Mature rating from the ESRB. The game performed well in sales, so it seems odd that Ubisoft would remove suggestive content now. Initially, the publisher didn’t address the situation, leading fans to guess the reasons behind it.
Specific Changes
One notable instance of the censorship occurred with a non-playable character in the Shanath Arena. Before the update, players could see a topless woman, but after the patch, she was dressed in a bra. Additionally, the main character, Ajay Ghale, was altered to wear a loincloth covering his private parts. As this news spread, players began sharing before-and-after images on Reddit and various online forums.
Financial Context
Despite the success of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Ubisoft has faced significant financial challenges. Following a series of underwhelming game releases, the French company established a subsidiary for franchises like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry. Tencent, a prominent investor in China’s gaming sector, plays a crucial role in this subsidiary. Because Chinese publishers often censor nudity, some players of Far Cry 4 speculated that Tencent’s marketing strategies were influencing these changes. Nevertheless, it seems that Ubisoft is currently more focused on how the game is received in Japan.
Further Censorship
Interestingly, Ubisoft also implemented recent censorship in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. In response to complaints about the portrayal of a Japanese shrine, players can no longer damage that structure.
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Tags: censorship, Far Cry 4, Ubisoft
April 4, 2025
FromSoftware Focuses on Singleplayer Games Despite Duskbloods Online
Key Takeaways
1. New Direction for FromSoftware: The Duskbloods marks a unique venture for FromSoftware, focusing on online multiplayer gameplay exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2.
2. Company Focus Remains: Hidetaka Miyazaki reassured fans that the multiplayer focus of The Duskbloods does not indicate a shift away from single-player experiences in future titles.
3. Continued Commitment to Tradition: FromSoftware will continue to develop projects that align with their traditional single-player style, similar to the upcoming Switch 2 edition of Elden Ring.
4. Game Mechanics: The Duskbloods is a PvPvE online multiplayer game featuring over 12 characters known as Bloodsworn, each with unique abilities tied to a special type of blood.
5. Release Information: The Duskbloods is set to launch next year exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2.
The Duskbloods marks a new venture for FromSoftware, taking a slightly unique route from their other well-known games. This title is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 and features online multiplayer gameplay. Following its announcement during the Nintendo Direct on April 2, fans have speculated whether the studio has shifted its focus away from single-player experiences. However, the studio’s president has reassured everyone that this isn’t the case.
Clarification on Company Direction
In a post on the Nintendo Creator’s Voice Blog, Hidetaka Miyazaki explained that while The Duskbloods is centered around multiplayer, it doesn’t signify a change in the company’s overall strategy. “As I mentioned before, this is an online multiplayer title at its core, but that doesn’t mean we have decided to move towards a more multiplayer-focused approach with future titles,” Miyazaki remarked.
Commitment to Traditional Styles
He further emphasized that, similar to the Switch 2 edition of Elden Ring—which prioritizes single-player experiences—the team will keep developing projects that align with their classic approach. FromSoftware has a strong reputation for creating beloved titles such as the Dark Souls series, Bloodborne, and the Armored Core games.
Game Features and Release Information
At its heart, The Duskbloods is a PvPvE online multiplayer game. Players can choose from over 12 characters, called Bloodsworn, who possess extraordinary abilities granted by a special type of blood, resembling vampires. These Bloodsworn are vying for a prize known as “First Blood,” which comes from an event referred to as the “Twilight of Humanity.”
The Duskbloods is set to launch next year as an exclusive for the Nintendo Switch 2.
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Tags: FromSoftware, Nintendo Switch 2, The Duskbloods
April 4, 2025
Xbox Executive Critiques Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing and Graphics
Key Takeaways
1. Mike Ybarra, former Microsoft executive, criticized the Nintendo Switch 2’s price, launch games, and performance after its recent announcement.
2. Ybarra expressed disappointment in the Switch 2’s game lineup, stating he had no interest in the revealed titles and questioned their graphical performance.
3. The Nintendo Switch 2’s price of $450 and potential high game costs, like $90 for Mario Kart World, raised concerns about its value and innovation.
4. Ybarra’s comments highlight the competitive landscape as Xbox continues to develop new consoles, including the upcoming Project Kennan handheld.
5. Microsoft could leverage the Switch 2’s pricing issues to promote Xbox Game Pass, offering affordable day-one game releases compared to Switch 2’s expensive titles.
Current Xbox representatives might not be too harsh on their competitors, but Mike Ybarra, a former executive at Microsoft, is not holding back at all. After working as the President of Blizzard Entertainment, he took on the role of CEO at PrizePicks. Following the Direct on April 2nd, Ybarra made some jabs at the Nintendo Switch 2, specifically its price, launch games, and overall performance.
Ybarra’s Initial Reaction
Many were taken aback when Ybarra’s first comment on X was, “Hard pass for me on Switch 2.” He expressed that none of the Switch 2 titles revealed during the Direct excited him. Additionally, he questioned the promised enhanced performance of Nintendo’s new console. In response to the announcement that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom would run at 4K 60fps, Ybarra remarked, “It looks like a game from 2000.”
Nintendo Switch 2 Pricing Concerns
The price of the Nintendo Switch 2 has sparked considerable discussion. At $450, it was a bit higher than some had anticipated. Moreover, the physical launch titles for the Switch 2, such as Mario Kart World, could reach $90 in certain areas. Ybarra believes the handheld and its features lack sufficient value and innovation. For instance, Nintendo’s GameChat doesn’t seem groundbreaking, especially considering Xbox introduced party chat way back in 2008.
Ybarra’s Position on Xbox and Future Prospects
Ybarra’s allegiances seem unclear since his exits from both Microsoft and Blizzard. With Xbox hardware sales facing difficulties, it might appear odd for a former Xbox ally to criticize Nintendo. However, it’s important to note that Microsoft is still in the process of developing and marketing new consoles. Project Kennan, an upcoming handheld from Asus, might bring a full-screen Xbox UI, adding to the competition.
The pricing of the Nintendo Switch 2 may provide Microsoft an opportunity to promote a similarly priced option with distinct advantages. While games for the Switch 2 are expensive, Xbox Game Pass offers day-one releases at a more affordable monthly cost. Still, Kennan will miss out on iconic franchises such as Mario and Zelda. Furthermore, it is uncertain how effectively Microsoft can address the issues related to a Windows-based console.
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Tags: Mike Ybarra, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Game Pass
April 4, 2025
GeForce RTX 5090 Laptops vs. Desktop RTX 4070 Ti Performance
Key Takeaways
1. Major companies like Razer and HP are releasing gaming laptops with GeForce RTX 5090 graphics.
2. The mobile RTX 5090’s performance is closer to the desktop RTX 4070 Ti Super than to the desktop RTX 5090.
3. The mobile RTX 5090 has more unified shaders and cores than the desktop RTX 4070 Ti Super but performs lower due to a much lower TGP.
4. In real gaming scenarios, the mobile RTX 5090 can perform similarly to the desktop RTX 4070 Ti Super in high-demand games at 4K settings.
5. The mobile RTX 5090 offers better performance-per-watt compared to its raw performance, despite being more aligned with older desktop components.
Major companies such as Razer and HP have started to deliver their newest gaming laptops that come with GeForce RTX 5090 graphics. Although performance has improved compared to the mobile RTX 4090, the difference between it and the desktop RTX 5090 is quite large and arguably more pronounced than the difference between the mobile RTX 4090 and the desktop version. Our benchmark tests indicate that the mobile RTX 5090 is more similar to the desktop RTX 4070 Ti Super, as evidenced by the graphs below. The 3DMark results show only a small percentage difference between these two GPUs.
Performance Expectations
It’s a bit disappointing to see that the mobile RTX 5090 has more unified shaders, TMUs, ROPs, RT cores, and tensor cores than the desktop RTX 4070 Ti Super, yet it doesn’t perform as well. The main issue here is the much lower TGP of the mobile chip, which means that the GPU clock rates are roughly half of those found in the desktop versions. Hence, the theoretical performance is only in the low 30 TFLOPS range, compared to around 40 TFLOPS for the desktop RTX 4070 Ti.
Gaming Performance
However, there is a silver lining for the mobile RTX 5090 when it comes to playing real games, rather than just relying on synthetic benchmarks like 3DMark. Titles like Final Fantasy 15, Cyberpunk 2077, Black Myth: Wukong, and Alan Wake 2 at 4K with maximum settings show performance levels that are comparable to a desktop RTX 4070 Ti Super, despite the significant differences in TGP, according to our findings. This doesn’t even factor in any benefits from DLSS4 or MFG features, which would further widen the performance gap favoring the mobile RTX 5090. Therefore, laptop users can at least rely on the better performance-per-watt of the mobile RTX 5090, even if its raw performance is more in line with a last generation desktop component.
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Tags: GeForce RTX 5090, HP, Razer
April 4, 2025
KT Pocket: Exciting Teaser for High-End KT-R1S Gaming Handheld
Key Takeaways
1. The KT-R1 gaming handheld is powered by the MediaTek Helio G99, suitable for mid-range Android gaming.
2. KT Pocket announced the KT-R2 will feature either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or the Dimensity 1100 chipset.
3. Speculation exists about a new handheld called the KT-R1S, but its authenticity is debated within the community.
4. A knowledgeable member claims the KT-R1S is real, although some details might be inaccurate.
5. The KT-R1S is expected to retain a 5,000 mAh battery, with improved performance from a newer MediaTek chipset for better game emulation.
A few months ago, KT Pocket revealed some initial information about a new version of their KT-R1 gaming handheld. The KT-R1 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G99, which is still quite strong for a mid-range Android gaming device. However, a new competitor, the Ayaneo Pocket Ace, is set to launch soon, featuring a design that combines aspects of the Retroid Pocket 2S and Anbernic RG405M (Current price: $169.99 on Amazon).
Latest Developments
In October 2024, KT Pocket announced that the KT-R2 would come with either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or the Dimensity 1100. However, a more recent post by the YouTube channel Nittrx hints that there might also be another gaming handheld in the works named the KT-R1S.
Authenticity and Speculations
The image shared by Nittrx appears to be genuine at first glance. The channel even supports the idea that this device is real. Nevertheless, within the KT Pocket community, there’s been a lot of discussion, and some members believe the image is actually an elaborate April Fool’s joke that caught many off guard. Despite this, a seemingly knowledgeable member from the KT Pocket Discord claims that the KT-R1S is indeed real, although the specifics mentioned are not accurate.
Battery and Performance Insights
According to this member, KT Pocket is likely going back to the 5,000 mAh battery, similar to the one in the current KT-R1. While this may not be seen as an improvement, the introduction of a newer MediaTek chipset that can emulate games up to GameCube and PlayStation 2 should enhance battery longevity compared to the existing KT-R1. Sadly, other information regarding the KT-R1S is still unknown for the time being.
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Tags: Ayaneo Pocket Ace, KT-R1S, KT-R2
April 4, 2025
RTX 5060 Ti 16GB Price Leak: $499 Expected Release Cost
Key Takeaways
1. Nvidia is expected to unveil the RTX 5060 Ti around mid-April, but details on the launch schedule are unclear.
2. The RTX 5060 Ti will have two versions: 8 GB priced at $399 and 16 GB priced at $499, with custom models potentially costing more.
3. The 16 GB version may outperform the RTX 5070 in VRAM-heavy games, similar to the RTX 3060 12 GB’s performance.
4. The standard RTX 5060 is anticipated to launch in May at a price of $299, while the RTX 5050 is expected to return at $199.
5. Pricing rumors are subject to change due to market instability and external factors like tariffs.
Nvidia is expected to unveil the RTX 5060 Ti around mid-April. However, we won’t have a definitive answer until the actual day since Nvidia has not been very open about its launch schedules lately. Regardless, a recent leak has provided insights into the potential pricing of this mid-range desktop graphics card.
Pricing Details
The GeForce RTX 5060 Ti is anticipated to be released in two different versions: 8 GB and 16 GB. The price for the 8 GB model is expected to be $399, while the 16 GB version may go for $499. It’s important to note that these prices are just the suggested retail price, and custom versions could be priced higher, sometimes even exceeding the cost of an RTX 5070.
Performance Expectations
This might not be a negative aspect, as the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB could actually surpass the performance of the RTX 5070 in games that rely heavily on VRAM, such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle. A similar situation occurred in the past with the RTX 3060 12 GB, so it is likely that the RTX 5060 Ti 16 GB will also demonstrate its capabilities beyond what one might expect.
Other Models
We also have the standard RTX 5060 to consider. If the aforementioned prices hold true, a price of $299 seems reasonable for this model. However, its release is not scheduled until May. Lastly, the RTX 5050 is expected to return this generation, and a price of $199 would be perfect to help Nvidia regain its position in the entry-level GPU market.
As always, rumors about pricing can be unreliable and are subject to last-minute changes. This is particularly relevant right now due to the market’s instability related to tariffs and other issues.
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Tags: GPU Pricing, NVIDIA, RTX 5060 Ti
April 4, 2025
Aokzoe A1X Launching Soon to Compete with Asus ROG Ally X
Key Takeaways
1. Aokzoe plans to fund the A1X gaming handheld through Kickstarter.
2. Competitors like Ayaneo, GPD, and OneXPlayer have recently launched similar products.
3. The A1X will feature passthrough charging to reduce battery wear during gameplay.
4. Users can limit the maximum charge of the A1X to 50% for better battery management.
5. The price of the A1X remains unknown, but it aims to offer longer battery life compared to competitors.
Months have gone by since Aokzoe last talked about its A1X gaming handheld, which was also called the A1 X in the past. During this time, competitors such as Ayaneo, GPD, and OneXPlayer have launched their own products, including the Ayaneo 3, GPD Win Mini 2025, and the OneXFly F1 Pro (currently $1,439 on Amazon), among others.
Aokzoe’s New Plans
Not discouraged by the competition, Aokzoe has announced its plan to fund the A1X through Kickstarter. A preview of the campaign page is now available, but the company has only stated that the handheld will be launched ‘soon’. Additionally, Aokzoe has confirmed that the A1X will come with the following specifications:
Charging Features
The A1X will also feature passthrough charging, which helps reduce battery wear when playing games and charging at the same time. Beyond that, the device will allow users to limit the maximum charge to as low as 50%. Given how efficient the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 has shown to be in gaming compared to the Ryzen 7 8840U and Ryzen Z1 Extreme, we think the Aokzoe A1X could provide longer battery life than competitors like the ROG Ally X and other handhelds with larger batteries. Unfortunately, the price of Aokzoe’s new gaming handheld is still a mystery for now.
Conclusion
With its new funding approach and promising features, Aokzoe is looking to make a strong entry into the gaming handheld market. As gamers await more details, the anticipation builds for the A1X’s eventual release on Kickstarter.
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Tags: Aokzoe A1X, AYANEO, GPD Win Mini 2025
April 4, 2025
GTA V Enhanced Launching on Xbox Game Pass Soon
Key Takeaways
1. Grand Theft Auto V Enhanced will be available on Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass starting April 15, 2025.
2. The Enhanced edition features ray-tracing, improved visuals, and exclusive PC upgrades like ray-traced ambient occlusion and global illumination.
3. Minimum system requirements include an Intel Core i7 4770 or AMD FX 9590 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a compatible GPU.
4. Steam reviews for the PC version are “mixed,” with issues related to account transfers and unresolved bugs from the original version.
5. Players cannot revert to the legacy version after migrating their accounts, and GTA Online still faces cheating problems.
After some whispers online about the arrival of Grand Theft Auto V on Game Pass, the tech company from Redmond has now confirmed it. Grand Theft Auto V Enhanced will launch on Xbox Game Pass and PC Game Pass on April 15, 2025. This Enhanced edition brings various quality-of-life updates and visual upgrades compared to the original 2015 PC version of the game.
Features of Grand Theft Auto V Enhanced
This Enhanced edition introduces ray-tracing features, including ray-traced shadows and reflections. Additionally, it provides improved visual details, exclusive PC features like ray-traced ambient occlusion, and global illumination for superior lighting. It also supports Nvidia’s DLSS 3 along with AMD’s FSR 1 and FSR 3 technologies.
System Requirements and Performance
The port ensures quicker loading times thanks to an SSD with DirectStorage. It is compatible with Sony’s DualSense controllers and delivers enhanced audio experiences with Dolby Atmos support. For minimum requirements, it needs an Intel Core i7 4770 or AMD FX 9590 CPU, 8GB of RAM, an SSD, and at least a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1630 or AMD Radeon RX 6400 GPU.
The suggested specifications include an Intel Core i5 9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU, 16GB of Dual Channel RAM, a DirectStorage compatible SSD, and either a Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT GPU. Additionally, you will require a minimum of 105GB of free disk space for installation.
Steam Reviews and User Feedback
On Steam, the reviews for the PC version are described as “mixed,” with players expressing frustration regarding problems transferring their Rockstar accounts from the older version to the Enhanced edition. Many of the negative comments highlight that the port has not resolved numerous bugs present in the legacy version of the game.
This issue is compounded by the inability to revert to the legacy version once the account has been migrated. Furthermore, GTA Online has not seen any fixes, and cheating remains a persistent problem.
Xbox Wire | r/gtaonline on Reddit | Steam
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Tags: Grand Theft Auto V, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1630, Xbox Game Pass