Category: Gaming

  • Shuhei Yoshida, Ex-PlayStation Studios Head, Reveals He Was Fired by Former CEO

    Shuhei Yoshida, Ex-PlayStation Studios Head, Reveals He Was Fired by Former CEO

    Key Takeaway

    1. Shuhei Yoshida was dismissed from his role as President of SIE Worldwide Studios in 2019 for refusing to follow Jim Ryan’s directives, particularly regarding Sony’s direction toward live-service games.
    2. Yoshida played a key role in developing major PlayStation franchises over his 11-year tenure, including The Last of Us, God of War, Uncharted, and Ghost of Tsushima.
    3. Despite the “fired” label, Yoshida maintained a friendly relationship with Jim Ryan, citing their long history since the PS1 era and noting professional boundaries and conflicts.
    4. His departure was framed as a choice between a smaller role in indie projects or leaving Sony—he opted to remain for five more years before departing in early 2025.

    Yoshida’s Departure and Its Implication

    Shuhei Yoshida, a long-standing figure in PlayStation’s development scene, shared that his exit from leading Sony’s worldwide studios in 2019 wasn’t just a voluntary move but rather a consequence of being dismissed by Jim Ryan, the ex-CEO of Sony.

    Inside the Sony Politics

    At the recent Alt:Games festival in Australia, Yoshida told the crowd that he was “fired” because he refused to follow some of Ryan’s peculiar directives. His departure was portrayed as a necessity, not a choice, pointing to tensions within Sony’s leadership structure.

    Reflecting on His Career and Franchises

    • Yoshida’s leadership spanned over a decade
    • He was at the helm when iconic games like The Last of Us, God of War, Uncharted, and Ghost of Tsushima were created and refined

    Resistance to Certain Strategies

    Though Yoshida did not specify exactly what requests he rejected, he’s hinted before that he was uncomfortable with Sony’s push into live-service games—an approach that came to define Jim Ryan’s era. Still, he remains amicable with Ryan, emphasizing their long history.

    Personal Relationship with Jim Ryan

    Having known Jim from the early days of PlayStation in the 1990s, Yoshida mentioned that, despite professional differences, their friendship endured. He humorously noted that working under a friend can be complicated, especially when one prefers working as equals.

    Bright Future or End of an Era?

    When Yoshida first stepped back in 2019, fans wondered whether a veteran like him would continue in an influential role. He stated that the choice was straightforward—either focus on indie projects or depart Sony. After five more years of service, he finally left early 2025, marking the end of a significant chapter in PlayStation history.

    Sources
  • Daniel Radcliffe Harry Potter Films Ranked: Surprising Top Pick

    Daniel Radcliffe Harry Potter Films Ranked: Surprising Top Pick

    Key Takeaway

    1. Daniel Radcliffe’s preferred Harry Potter film, based on a head-to-head bracket, is *Deathly Hallows – Part 2*.
    2. The ranking process involved direct comparisons between two films at a time, which may differ from a simple list of favorites.
    3. Fans often favor films like *Prisoner of Azkaban* or *Goblet of Fire*, but Radcliffe ultimately chose the final film as his top pick.
    4. There is ongoing debate among fans about the strongest entries, with some praising *Half-Blood Prince* for its atmosphere and character development.

    Harry Potter Fans Debate the Best Films

    Among Harry potter lovers, no doubt everyone got their own favorite film, and the debate about which one is the best might never ends. Fans are curious about what Daniel Radcliffe, who played Harry, personally prefers. During an interview on SP!VIN, he was asked to rank all eight Harry Potter movies, but he didn’t just list them in order. Instead, he ranked them by taking part in a head-to-head style bracket, making the process more fun and uncertain. The final outcome might have been different if he had just listed his favorites without the challenge.

    Radcliffe’s Picks in the First Rounds

    • The first round saw Chamber of Secrets winning over Philosopher’s Stone.
    • In the second, he decided on Goblet of Fire over Prisoner of Azkaban, which seemed like a tough call for him.
    • Next, Order of the Phoenix was chosen over Half-Blood Prince.
    • The final match of the initial round was Deathly Hallows – Part 2 defeating Part 1.

    Semi-Finals and the Final Showdown

    Moving into semi-finals, Radcliffe picks Goblet of Fire over Chamber of Secrets and Deathly Hallows – Part 2 over Order of the Phoenix. When it came to the final, Deathly Hallows – Part 2 came out on top, beating Goblet of Fire.

    Surprisingly, the Last Movie Wins

    This result surprised many fans because they usually think of Prisoner of Azkaban or Goblet of Fire as the best. Some fans also talked about Half-Blood Prince on Instagram, with some saying it should be rated higher because it’s darker and develops characters more deeply. Still, the final decision shows how opinions can shift based on how Radcliffe sees the movies.

    Fan Reactions and Opinions

    Many fans share their thoughts about the ranking on social media, and reactions vary widely. Some agree with Radcliffe’s choices, while others believe that certain movies deserve better places on the list. The subject of which Harry Potter film is the best remains a passionate discussion among followers of the franchise.

    Sources
  • Dragon Quest Smash Grow Mobile Launches April 21

    Dragon Quest Smash Grow Mobile Launches April 21

    Key Takeaway

    1. Dragon Quest Smash/Grow is a fast-paced roguelite mobile game featuring randomised runs, co-op multiplayer, and classic Dragon Quest vocations, launching on April 21, 2026.
    2. The game utilizes a Blessing system, offering randomized power-ups that reshape each run, providing unique experiences every time.
    3. Players assemble a party of three characters, switch between vocations, and share Blessings, emphasizing strategic synergy and variety in gameplay.
    4. Additional content includes co-op quests, Gauntlet mode, and boss encounters, expanding beyond the main story.
    5. The game is developed by Square Enix and KLabGames, supervised by series creator Yuji Horii, with special pre-registration rewards for early players.

    Exciting New Dragon Quest Game on Mobile

    Square Enix and KLabGames are teaming up to bring a whole new take on the famous Dragon Quest series with a dynamic new mobile game known as Dragon Quest Smash/Grow. This game is set to release on both iOS and Android platforms on April 21, 2026. Its design is totally different from the usual RPGs, focusing more on quick, exciting runs that players can do either solo or with friends, creating a fresh experience for fans of the franchise.

    Game Features and Mechanics

    The game is totally free but offers in-app purchases for players who want to enhance their gameplay. If players pre-register, they’ll get a bonus of 10 Premium Transmuter pulls right from the start. This game falls into the roguelite action RPG category, where each gameplay session begins in a place called a Rift—a dungeon filled with waves of monsters and a hefty boss known as an Alpha waiting at the bottom. Players control their characters by tapping and holding to move, releasing to attack, and building up a Coup de Grâce gauge needed to perform powerful finishing moves that wipe out enemies.

    Strategic Blessing System

    • During each run, a core feature called the Blessings system provides various power-ups, which are randomly assigned and change after each stage.
    • These Blessings can vary from fireballs to electrified weapons, which automatically attack enemies, making every run different and unpredictable.
    • The strategic combination of Blessings is what makes each playthrough unique, so players can experiment with different power-up sets to find their favorite combos.

    Party Building and Cooperative Play

    Players assemble a team of three characters, and they can switch between them during battle to maximize the strengths of different jobs. The game features familiar Dragon Quest vocations, each with its own upgrade paths and preferred weapons. Interestingly, Blessings are shared among all party members, not confined to one character, adding a layer of strategy for team setups.

    Additional Content and Franchise Celebration

    Besides the main storyline, the game also includes multiplayer quests for up to four players, an endless Gauntlet mode to challenge players with continuous enemy waves, and Shrine battles against tough bosses. The game’s story kicks off with Chapter 1, called Send ‘Em Flying! Slime Invasion, setting the stage for new adventures. Notably, Yuji Horii, the legendary creator of the Dragon Quest series, is overseeing this project, which coincides with the franchise’s 40th anniversary. The opening trailer was created by Kamikaze Douga, a well-known animation studio.

    Other Mobile Gaming News

    Dragon Quest Smash/Grow isn’t the only major mobile game event happening soon. Wuthering Waves will release Version 3.3 on April 30, bringing six crossover events, 40 free pulls for players, and a new area to explore to celebrate its second anniversary. Fans of mobile gaming will have plenty to look forward to in the coming days, offering diverse new content and exciting gameplay experiences.

  • OnePlus Turns New Flagship Phone into Gaming Handheld with Controller Attachment

    OnePlus Turns New Flagship Phone into Gaming Handheld with Controller Attachment

    Key Takeaway

    1. OnePlus has developed a controller add-on for the Ace 6 Ultra to enhance mobile gaming, especially for FPS titles, rather than a dedicated gaming handheld device.
    2. The controller features ergonomic grips, four physical buttons, micro-switches for responsive controls, and hybrid touch/button controls to improve complex gaming actions.
    3. Hardware enhancements include a built-in gaming antenna, a slot for attaching a cooler, and a Type-C port for charging while gaming, aiming for high performance and user convenience.
    4. The accessory will be launched alongside the OnePlus Ace 6 Ultra in China on April 28, 2026, with unclear plans for a global release.

    Rumors and Clarifications about OnePlus Gaming Devices

    There was alot of buzz about OnePlus developing a gaming handheld, with some leaks teasing potential design features. Before the official release of the Ace 6 Ultra, a blurry sketchie image appeared, suggestin it might be a new gaming device. But turns out, the rumor was not exactly correct, as the company was not working on a dedicated gaming device at all.

    Focus on a Controller Add-On

    Instead, what OnePlus has been working on is actually a controller attachment, meant to enhance the existing Ace 6 Ultra smartphone. This accessory, which has just been made fully visible, aim to turn the phone into a portable gaming device. It mainly targets players who play shooting games, emphasizing ergonomic comfort and control.

    Design and Usability Features

    The company released some videos demonstrating how the controller operates, highlighting its ergonomic grip for long gaming sessions. They state that mobile FPS games can be hard to master without proper controls, and this add-on aims to improve that experience significantly. The tool prepares for hybrid gameplay, mixing touch input with physical buttons, making it more flexible than traditional touchscreens alone.

    Button Layout and Performance

    Four physical buttons are incorporated into the controller, that’s meant to boost gameplay efficiency. The design promotes multi-finger control, so players can perform complex actions like peek, aim, shoot, and recoil control seamlessly. The setup shows promise to make mobile FPS gaming much more precise.

    Hardware Specifications

    Looking into the technical spec, OnePlus emphasizes that the controller’s hardware is built for high performance. It features micro-switch buttons, which are preferred over membrane switches because they’re more responsive and provide a satisfyingly clicky feel. The device promises a quick 1 kHz polling rate, with an approximate response time of 1.8 milliseconds, promising a highly responsive gaming experience.

    Additional Features and Compatibility

    The controller has a dedicated slot where you can attach a cooling fan to prevent overheating. Moreover, it boasts a “built-in gaming antenna” that helps improve wireless connection. There’s also a Type-C port at the bottom, allowing users to keep charging their phones during gaming sessions without cable mess complications. The adjustable telescopic mechanism hints that the controller can fit a variety of phone sizes, making it potentially compatible with other models apart from the Ace 6 Ultra.

    Launch Details and Market Availability

    This new controller is expected to launch at the same time as the OnePlus Ace 6 Ultra in China, scheduled for April 28, 2026. Whether it will reach international markets remains unconfirmed for now, as the company has not announced any global release plans yet.


    Sources

  • Honor WIN H9: First 3D Anti-Dizziness 300Hz Display, RTX 5070 Ti, 270W

    Honor WIN H9: First 3D Anti-Dizziness 300Hz Display, RTX 5070 Ti, 270W

    Key Takeaway

    1. Honor is launching the WIN H9 gaming laptop with a focus on high performance, featuring a 270W power draw, six-fan cooling, and industry-first “3D Game Anti-Dizziness technology.”
    2. The laptop will include a 16-inch “true color” display with 500 nits brightness, 300Hz refresh rate, and 3ms response time.
    3. The series has a two-tier strategy: the flagship WIN H9 with advanced cooling and top-tier specs, and the WIN H7 targeting high-performance mainstream users.
    4. Honor emphasizes ecosystem integration through its MagicRing platform, connecting the laptops with upcoming devices like MagicBook Pro and MagicPad 3 Pro.
    5. The design features a new “X” aesthetic, signaling a refreshed brand identity.

    Honor Pushes Forward With New Gaming Laptop Teasers

    Honor eager gets ready to unveil its latest gaming laptop, the WIN H9, with a show scheduled for April 23 in China. The company, known for its innovative tech, teases a powerful machine with impressive features. Last week, some leaked details highlighted a 270W power intake and a cooling system with six fans, showing how serious Honor is about performance. The new images also reveal that they plan to incorporate a fresh “3D Game Anti-Dizziness” technology, which aims to make long gaming sessions more comfortable by reducing dizziness caused by rapid movements in games.

    Innovative Display and Gaming Features

    Honor’s new flagship laptop is poised to impress with a 16-inch LCD screen that promises true color quality and a brightness level of 500 nits, perfect for immersive gaming. One of the leaked teasers reveals the device will boast a 300Hz refresh rate, making fast-paced action look smooth, accompanied by a quick 3ms response time. The device looks well-suited for serious gamers who need sharp visuals and fluid gameplay without lag. Honor seems to want to attract those who demand high specs and eye-popping visuals, all in a sleek design.

    Different Models for Different Needs

    Honor is adopting a two-model approach with the WIN H9 as its premium gaming laptop, sporting a six-fan cooling system that’s claimed to be a world-first and the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus with RTX 5070 Ti graphics. This indicates high-end performance aimed at heavy gamers and enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the WIN H7 offers a more accessible option with a typical four-exhaust cooling system, powered by an i7-14650HX processor and RTX 5060 graphics. This strategy allows consumers to pick a model that fits their performance needs and budget, emphasizing versatility in the product lineup.

    Broader Ecosystem and Design Approach

    Aside from hardware specs, the upcoming Honor WIN H9 appears linked to other new devices like the MagicBook Pro 14/16 and the MagicPad 3 Pro, hinting at a seamless ecosystem through Honor’s MagicRing technology. This integration suggests that users will be able to connect and share across devices effortlessly. Also, the new design with a bold “X” motif shows that Honor isn’t just focused on upgrading its laptops but also reinventing its overall brand look, aiming to stand out with a modern and dynamic aesthetic.


    Sources

  • Nintendo Switch 2 Games Sale – 50% Off including Pokémon

    Nintendo Switch 2 Games Sale – 50% Off including Pokémon

    Key Takeaway

    1. Costco offers significant discounts (up to 50%) on newer Nintendo Switch 2 titles like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, primarily for members.
    2. Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond are both available at notably lower prices compared to other retailers, with strong reviews and optimized graphics for Switch 2.
    3. Other recent titles like Kirby Air Riders are also discounted, although limited in availability, as Nintendo maintains stable MSRPs amidst ongoing supply shortages.

    Huge Discounts on Nintendo Switch 2 Games at Costco

    Some of the Switch 2’s debut titles are still selling at their original prices at the launch, but recent deals now give gamers a golden opportunity to purchase newer Nintendo releases for much less. Costco’s recent sale offers massive discounts, especially on titles like Pokémon Legends: Z-A and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, both now half price.

    Exclusive Offers for Costco Members

    These deals, brought to attention by Wario64, are exclusive mainly for members of Costco, with availability depending on the store location. If you want to know if your local warehouse has the game you’re interested in, just check through the retailer’s app, under the warehouse tab.

    Pricing and Features of Pokémon Legends: Z-A

    Pokémon’s newest adventure, Legends: Z-A, is a real steal at just $29.97, a sharp drop from the usual $59.99 that Amazon or other stores have listed it for. This makes it an extraordinary find for fans of the franchise wanting to expand their Pokémon collection.

    Game Details and Player Feedback

    Rating high with a 78 score from Metacritic, the game brings a fresh spin by blending real-time battles within an urban setting, diverging from the classic turn-based system. The graphics are smooth with a stable frame rate, and players can enjoy a variety of missions. However, some note Lumiose City appears less lively than expected, leaving a quality gap in the open-world experience.

    Metroid Prime 4: Beyond and Its Review

    Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, eagerly anticipated, scored similarly with top marks from critics. Graphics have been notably enhanced, taking full advantage of Switch 2’s capabilities, and new exploration options like motorcycle-like vehicles add depth to gameplay. Still, the world can seem sparse, with some players feeling it’s a little too empty in parts.

    Game Exploration and New Gameplay Features

    The game’s visuals and design are praised for their optimization, but the lot of open spaces does leave some users wishing for more life and activity within its environments. Regardless, it offers a captivating sci-fi experience that’s worth the price, especially during these deals.

    Kirby Air Riders on Sale

    Another recent Nintendo release, Kirby Air Riders, is now available at its lowest price yet—$29.97. Created by Masahiro Sakurai, this racing game stands out for its unique control scheme and fast-paced action that combines racing with combat, making it more challenging to fully master.

    Game Mechanics and Player Experience

    While it’s simpler to pick up than Mario Kart, the game demands skill and timing, with heavy emphasis on fighting and strategic play along with racing. Its speed and combat-focused gameplay make it a distinctive experience not just for casual gamers but also for those seeking a more intense challenge.

    Market Outlook and Future Price Trends

    With ongoing chip shortages, many are worried about possible price increases for both the Nintendo Switch console and its games. Fortunately, Nintendo has so far maintained its suggested retail prices for both hardware and software. Although physical copies are supposed to stay at standard pricing, discounts like these at Costco are unlikely to return soon.

    Important Notes for Buyers and Disclaimer

    Keep in mind, the prices and deals mentioned were available at the time of writing. Retailers may change prices without notice, and availability might be limited. So prospective buyers should act quick if they wish to take advantage of these discounts.

    Sources
  • Forza Horizon 6 Pre-Sales Reach 500K on Steam, Earn $30M Before Launch

    Forza Horizon 6 Pre-Sales Reach 500K on Steam, Earn $30M Before Launch

    Key Takeaway

    1. Forza Horizon 6 has already sold over 500,000 copies pre-release on Steam, making it the best-selling game in the franchise’s history even before launch.
    2. Early sales projections suggest the game could sell over 2 million units on Steam within 24 hours of release.
    3. The game’s hype is driven by its setting in Japan, exclusive current-gen console development, and its focus on Japanese car culture, including vintage JDM vehicles.
    4. Pre-orders increased significantly after map reveals, previews, and the release of the official achievement list, with wishlist numbers reaching 3.3 million on Steam.
    5. The release date is set for May 19, 2026, for PC and Xbox Series S|X, with a PS5 version arriving later.

    Anticipated Release And Record Breaking Pre-Sales

    There is just one month left before Forza Horizon 6 hits the streets, and it already making big waves before its official launch. Over a half million copies have been pre-sold on Steam, which is a massive number, roughly bringing in about $30 million from different editions and prices in various regions. This makes it the top-selling game in the entire Forza Horizon series, even before it’s out. And, there’s still more marketing and excitement coming that could push it even further.

    Sales Predictions & Market Impact

    According to Rhys Elliot from Alinea Analytics, these initial sales suggest the game might sell over 2 million copies on Steam right after it launches alone. The figures from Steam do not cover sales from Microsoft’s own store or the huge number of players who will subscribe through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which will likely add to its sales numbers. As Big as these sales are, they are expected to rise once the game officially launches, pushing it into the world record books for sales in the franchise.

    Hype & Fans’ Expectations

    Shooting back to 2021, the game attracted around 10 million players during its first week across all platforms. But back then, it was also a part of Xbox Game Pass serving as a day-one release, which boosted those figures. Fans now are especially excited about the game’s setting in Japan, and the pre-launch buzz indicates that it will likely outdo Naz previous entries. The anticipation is high, with many fans saying this could be the best yet.

    Long Wait & Exclusive Tech Innovations

    This new game marks the longest gap between Horizon series entries and is the first built exclusively for Xbox’s current-gen consoles. This advantage allows Playground Games to utilize the Forza Tech engine’s full potential, pushing graphics and gameplay to new heights. The exclusivity means more advanced features and better performance, making it a highly awaited release for racing fans worldwide.

    Features & Cars in Forza Horizon 6

    The game will be explore Japanese car culture in deep detail, featuring iconic vehicles like the 1997 Toyota Chaser, Nissan Skyline R33, Nissan Gloria Gran Turismo, and Mitsubishi Montero Exceed. It also includes beginner-friendly cars like a 1989 Silvia K’s, a 1994 Celica GT-Four, and some surprises like a 1970 American GMC Jimmy. These choices appeal to both collectors and new players looking for a diverse driving experience.

    Pre-Order Surge & Wishlist Stats

    Previews and hands-on demos have significantly boosted pre-sales, with the numbers continuing to grow especially after the game’s map was unveiled and details about its achievements came out. On April 13, alone, the game sold 22,000 copies on Steam, the highest pre-sale figure since pre-orders started, when 50,000 copies were snatched up initially. Player interest is reflected in the impressive 90,000 wishlists on launch day, which has now grown to an astonishing 3.3 million on Steam alone.

    Launch Date & Future Platforms

    The game is set to officially release on May 19, 2026, for PC and Xbox Series S|X. Players on PlayStation 5 will have to wait until later this year for their turn, but the anticipation is high for this next chapter in the Horizon franchise. With such promising early numbers and massive excitement, Forza Horizon 6 is shaping up to be one of the biggest racing games in recent history.

    Sources
  • Rocknix Adds Official Steam Support for Android Handheld Devices

    Rocknix Adds Official Steam Support for Android Handheld Devices

    Key Takeaway

    1. Rocknix now supports Steam, allowing playback of Linux and PC games via Proton.
    2. Support is limited to certain Qualcomm-based devices, excluding newer models like AYN Odin 3 and Konkr Pocket Fit Elite.
    3. Steam support is available in Nightly builds and is expected to improve over time.
    4. Installing the OS on internal memory enhances game and Steam performance.
    5. Compatibility issues may arise with RTX, DirectX 12 games, and requiring specific launch arguments for some titles.

    Steam Support Comes to Rocknix

    The folks who made Rocknix, a Linux based OS mainly for old-school gaming handhelds, just announced that now the OS can run Steam. This is pretty cool because it means gamers can access a wide variety of Linux and PC games through Proton, making it more versatile for gaming on handhelds.

    Device Compatibility and Limitations

    Right now, support is with Qualcomm powered handhelds only. The current compatible models include some from brands like AYN, Ayaneo, and Retroid. Sadly, newer gadgets with Snapdragon 8 Elite or Dragonwing Q8, like the AYN Odin 3 and Konkr Pocket Fit Elite, are not on the list yet. The supported devices are listed on official sources for those interested.

    Usage Tips and Known Issues

    Since Steam support on Rocknix is only accessible through the Nightly builds, expect some bugs at first, but hopefully those will get fixed in future updates. Rocknix also suggests installing the OS directly onto the device’s internal memory because it makes Steam start faster, and game installs and launches quicker too.

    Game Compatibility and Launch Settings

    About games compatibility, it is said that some with RTX features might not run smoothly. Also, certain DirectX 12 games that refuse to boot may need a special launch argument to get running. Helldivers 2 also needs a specific launch argument, while titles like Counter-Strike 2 require users to enable DRM and Vulkan support along with Wayland client libraries in EmulationStation’s advanced options. More detailed instructions on how to set up Steam in Rocknix can be found in the original source.

    Sources
  • Nintendo Switch now supports Steam with latest Proton beta update

    Nintendo Switch now supports Steam with latest Proton beta update

    Key Takeaway

    1. Proton 11.0-Beta 1 introduces ARM64 support, enabling running Steam on devices like the Nintendo Switch and newer ARM-based handhelds.
    2. The update includes FEX-2604 for ARM64EC, though older kernels, such as on the first-gen Switch, limit its effectiveness for gaming.
    3. Valve primarily released this beta to support the upcoming Steam Deck-style device, Steam Frame, with improved compatibility and certification for select titles.

    Proton 11.0-Beta 1: New ARM64 Support For Steaming on Multiple Devices

    There is a fresh Proton update, and even tho Valve made it as a beta, it has some major changes. This version, labeled 11.0-Beta 1, has added ARM64 support, which’s a big deal for folks wanting to run Steam on ARM devices like the Nintendo Switch 1. And, already, a modder has shown that you can get Steam working on this dated handheld gaming device. Pretty cool, huh?

    Running Windows Games On Switch Gets Easier

    While folks have already been trying to run Windows games on the first-gen Switch, this beta makes it alot easier to do. A user known as @aagaming.me on BlueSky haven’t tried playing Windows games just yet, but they’ve demonstrated that the Steam Linux ARM64 beta works smooth on the old Switch (costs about $213.49 refurnished on Amazon). This’s promising for those wanna play on the small device.

    Technical Details & Limitations

    The update includes features like FEX-2604 meant for ARM64EC builds, but the first-gen Switch has an outdated kernel that’s not compatible. So, modders may need to wait longer for the mainline kernel updates before they see a big change in gaming performance. It’s a step forward, but still some hurdles for now.

    Broader Impact for Handhelds & New Devices

    And it’s not just the Switch – newer ARM handhelds like the Retroid Pocket 6 could benefit from this too. @aagaming.me shared a version of Proton ARM & Steamrt ARM, which can be used with Compatibilitytools.d to run games within the Steam beta client. This could be a huge upgrade compared to other apps like GameHub or GameNative, offering more seamless gaming experience on ARM devices.

    Valve’s Focus on The Steam Frame & Compatibility Enhancements

    This upgrade mainly seems targeted at the upcoming Steam Frame, a new gaming headset with Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 inside. It’s supposed to work independently as a gaming device and run lots of games with these new compatibility layers. Not just for handhelds anymore, Valve aims to expand ARM support across different platforms.

    Playable Titles & Bug Fixes

    The beta also marks some titles as playable—like Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil, and Warhammer: Vermintide 2. Plus, Valve included various bug fixes, details for which you can check on their Proton GitHub release notes. Overall, these updates hint at a brighter future for Linux gaming on ARM devices, although some limitations still remain for certain hardware.

    Sources
  • Plaion NeoGeo AES+ Console: Modern Replica of the Classic SNK System

    Plaion NeoGeo AES+ Console: Modern Replica of the Classic SNK System

    Key Takeaway

    1. The NeoGeo AES+ is a modernized version of the classic 90s console, incorporating contemporary features like HDMI output and support for overclocking.
    2. It uses re-engineered legacy ASIC chips instead of emulation or FPGA technology to replicate the original hardware.
    3. The console supports both original and new NeoGeo AES game cartridges, with accompanying accessories like an Arcade Stick and support for original peripherals.
    4. Multiple editions are available, including a standard version, an Anniversary Edition, and a limited Ultimate Edition, each with unique accessories and collectibles.

    Modern Retro Gaming Comes Back with NeoGeo AES+

    Plaion has recently announced a new version of the retro SNK console from the 90s called the NeoGeo AES+. This modernized version is available to pre-order now and is set to release later this year. Fans of vintage gaming can now relive classic moments with updated features packed into a familiar design.

    Features that Merge Old with New

    The NeoGeo AES+ keeps the nostalgic look of the original console, but with several modern upgrades. It includes an HDMI port, unlike the old days when connections were limited, and offers DIP switches to choose language preferences. Gamers can also overclock if they want more performance and select display modes for better visual experience. Moreover, high scores can be saved permanently, though you will need to buy a separate memory card. For those with CRT TVs, AV input ports are still available, ensuring compatibility with older TVs.

    Unique Hardware Approach

    What makes this console stand out is its hardware design. Instead of emulating the games or using FPGA technology like some other modern recreations, it uses legacy ASIC chips. These chips have been re-engineered with modern standards to faithfully replicate the original hardware and software. This method helps keep the authenticity of the gaming experience intact, making it a unique choice for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

    Game Compatibility and Accessories

    • The console supports both new and original NeoGeo AES game cartridges, ensuring backwards compatibility.
    • It ships with a 1:1 replica of the classic Arcade Stick, connecting via the traditional 15-pin connector, so old hardware can still be used.
    • Owners of the original arcade controllers will be happy to know they can connect their sticks to the new device without issues.

    Additional Offerings and Variants

    In addition to the main console, Plaion plans to sell 10 classic game cartridges like Metal Slug and Big Tournament Golf, giving gamers a way to expand their collection. Also, a wireless version of the SNK NeoGeo Gamepad will be available for more flexible gaming sessions. The pre-order price for the basic NeoGeo AES+ is set at $249.99, with shipments expected from November 12, 2026. It comes bundled with a controller, an HDMI cable, and a power brick.

    Special Editions for Collectors

    For fans looking for something exclusive, there’s the NeoGeo AES+ Anniversary Edition in white. This version includes a white Metal Slug cartridge, a matching wireless Arcade Stick, and a white memory card. It’s priced at $349.99 and can also be pre-ordered. For the ultimate collector’s item, the NeoGeo AES+ Ultimate Edition features the console in black along with a wired and wireless Arcade Stick, wireless gamepad, a memory card, and a set of 10 NeoGeo game cartridges with a game rack—offered in very limited quantities at $999.99.