Category: Gaming

  • DualSense Wireless Controller Death Stranding 2 Limited Edition Revealed

    DualSense Wireless Controller Death Stranding 2 Limited Edition Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony has announced a limited edition DualSense controller for Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, designed in collaboration with Kojima Productions.
    2. The controller features a black color with the Drawbridge insignia and motto in bright orange, along with special markings and the game’s title engraved on the back.
    3. Pre-orders for the controller will start on May 22, 2025, at a price of $84.99 in the US and similar prices in Europe, the UK, and Japan.
    4. The DualSense wireless controller will launch on June 26, 2025, coinciding with the game’s release date.
    5. Death Stranding 2: On The Beach will be a PS5 exclusive at launch, with potential future releases on PC and Xbox.

    It has kind of become a common thing for popular games to have a special edition controller, and the newest game to follow this trend is Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding 2: On The Beach. Sony’s PlayStation has revealed the DualSense wireless controller – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Limited Edition, just before the game is set to launch on June 26, 2025.

    Collaboration with Kojima Productions

    Sony mentioned that they collaborated closely with Kojima Productions to create the controller. The controller features a black color and includes the Drawbridge insignia and motto in a bright orange shade. This design can be found on the touchpad of the controller. Additionally, there are special markings on the handles, and the back of the controller has the game’s title engraved on it.

    Pre-Order and Pricing Details

    The DualSense wireless controller – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Limited Edition will be available for pre-order starting May 22 at 10 AM local time. The price is set at $84.99 in the US, €84.99 in Europe, £74.99 in the UK, and ¥12,480 in Japan. The controller will launch on June 26, 2025, coinciding with the release of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach.

    Exclusivity on PS5

    Death Stranding 2: On The Beach will be a PS5 exclusive (which is also available on Amazon for $499) at its release, but similar to the first game, we can anticipate it will eventually come to PC and Xbox as well.

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  • New Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store for a Limited Time

    New Free Game Giveaways on Epic Games Store for a Limited Time

    Key Takeaways

    1. Deadtime Defenders is receiving ‘Positive’ feedback on Steam while in Early Access.
    2. Touch Type Tale has an average of ‘Very Positive’ reviews on Steam.
    3. Touch Type Tale won the Best Expert Game award at the 2023 German Computer Game Awards.
    4. Touch Type Tale also received the Innovation prize from the 2023 German Developer Award.
    5. Prices and deals mentioned are subject to change and may vary due to time limits or stock availability.

    As it currently is, Deadtime Defenders is getting ‘Positive’ feedback on Steam even though it is still in Early Access. At the same time, Touch Type Tale has an average of Very Positive reviews on that same platform. Additionally, that game won the Best Expert Game award at the German Computer Game Awards in 2023, and it also nabbed the Innovation prize from the German Developer Award in the same year. For more info, check out the listings on Epic Games’ store.

    Important Note

    Notebookcheck cannot be held liable for any price changes made by sellers. The discounted price or deal mentioned in this piece was valid at the time of writing and could be affected by time limits or limited stock availability.

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  • Anbernic Reveals Key Specs for New Miyoo Flip Rival RG34XX SP

    Anbernic Reveals Key Specs for New Miyoo Flip Rival RG34XX SP

    Key Takeaways

    1. Anbernic’s RG34XX SP features a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.
    2. The device is powered by the Allwinner H700 quad-core processor and has 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM for improved performance.
    3. It includes Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi connectivity options.
    4. The RG34XX SP has a 3,300 mAh battery that can last up to 6 hours on a single charge.
    5. Anbernic has emphasized the sturdiness of the RG34XX SP’s hinge design, contrasting it with issues faced by the Miyoo Flip.

    Anbernic has released more information about the RG34XX SP, just three days after presenting its new alternative to the Miyoo Flip (currently priced at $74.99 on Amazon). At first, Anbernic concentrated on the design of its latest portable device, while also sharing some details such as a 3.4-inch display with a resolution of 720 x 480 pixels.

    New Specifications Confirmed

    The company has now revealed that this 3:2 display will be powered by the Allwinner H700, a quad-core processor that Anbernic has frequently used over the past year. This suggests that the RG34XX SP offers performance similar to the current RG35XX SP. However, the increase from 1 GB to 2 GB of LPDDR4 RAM is likely to yield a noticeable performance boost in specific scenarios.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    Other features like Bluetooth 4.2 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi remain available, along with a 3,300 mAh battery that Anbernic says can last up to 6 hours on a single charge. It appears that Anbernic has subtly criticized Miyoo, whose clamshell device still faces hinge problems despite a version 2 update. While not overtly stated, Anbernic has taken the unusual approach of highlighting the RG34XX SP’s hinge design and its sturdiness. For complete specifications, take a look at the video linked below.

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  • Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099

    Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aurora 16 is a mid-range gaming laptop from Dell’s Alienware line, priced 35% lower than the Aurora 16X due to fewer features.
    2. It comes with base specs including an Intel Core 5 210H processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics, 8 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage, starting at €1,099 (approximately $1,245).
    3. Upgrade options are available for a Core 9 270H processor and GeForce RTX 5070 graphics card, but the RTX 5070 is limited to 85 W TGP in the Aurora 16.
    4. The laptop features a 300 nit, 120 Hz display and has an option for a larger 96 Wh battery.
    5. Release date for the Aurora 16 in the Eurozone is set for May 27, with complete pricing and availability details yet to be confirmed.

    The Aurora 16 has been unveiled today as one of two new mid-range gaming laptops by Dell under its Alienware line. While the Aurora 16 and Aurora 16X share a similar appearance, the Aurora 16 has fewer features, allowing it to be sold at a price that is 35% lower. For example, this model uses a plastic casing and lacks RGB backlit keys, which are present in the Aurora 16X.

    Specifications and Performance

    Many gamers may find the base specs of the Aurora 16 lacking. Dell states that this model is equipped with an Intel Core 5 210H processor, an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card, 8 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of storage. Additionally, it features a 300 nit, 120 Hz display and a 60 Wh battery, all for a starting price of €1,099 (approximately $1,245). As a point of comparison, other laptops with the GeForce RTX 3050, such as the HP Victus 15 or Asus TUF A15 (currently priced at $658 on Amazon), can be found for under $700.

    Upgrade Options

    However, the Aurora 16 does offer the option to upgrade to a Core 9 270H and a GeForce RTX 5070. This upgrade could make it more competitive with the Aurora 16X. That said, Dell limits the GeForce RTX 5070 to an 85 W TGP in the Aurora 16, whereas the Aurora 16X allows for 115 W with an additional 15 W Dynamic Boost.

    The Aurora 16 also has the option to come with a larger 96 Wh battery. All versions include dual USB Type-A and USB Type-C ports, as well as HDMI 2.1 and Ethernet ports. The release date for the Aurora 16 in the Eurozone is set for May 27, although Dell has yet to confirm complete pricing and availability details.

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    Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099Alienware Aurora 16: New 16-inch Gaming Laptop Starts at €1,099

     

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  • Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

    Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft is working on a new Xbox console that may run on the Windows operating system, focusing on game preservation.
    2. A job listing for a Principal Software Engineer highlights the need for developing scalable emulation solutions for legacy games.
    3. Microsoft has begun releasing past exclusive games on other platforms like the PS5 and may do so for the upcoming Switch 2.
    4. Xbox games are becoming more accessible on modern Windows PCs, but some titles remain exclusive to older consoles.
    5. AI may be used to improve backward compatibility, emphasizing the importance of preserving older Xbox games.

    Microsoft is keen on making sure that its vast collection of Xbox games can still be enjoyed in the years to come. There are talks that the company is working on a new Xbox console that would operate on the Windows operating system. However, Microsoft might encounter challenges in bringing older classics to its new hardware and possibly to other systems. Recently, a job listing was made public for a Principal Software Engineer, aimed at enhancing the game preservation team.

    Some Key Responsibilities

    The role involves creating “scalable emulation solutions” and “emulating legacy games on modern platforms.” The engineer would also be tasked with ensuring game assets are protected from piracy, theft, and other forms of tampering. Sadly, the job posting does not specify which existing or future consoles or platforms these emulated games might be available on.

    Expanding Game Availability

    Microsoft has already started releasing previous exclusives on the PS5, and there are signs that it might extend this to the upcoming Switch 2. Even though sales of the Series X have been on the decline, Microsoft has not given up on its plans to launch a new Xbox console. Project Kennan is a rumored device made by Asus that could include Xbox controls. This handheld device is expected to be based on Windows and will likely offer a full-screen Xbox user interface.

    The Future of Xbox Gaming

    Modern Windows PCs can access a lot of the Xbox games that are available on the Series X, Series S, and now the PS5. However, certain games are still locked to Microsoft’s current and older consoles. Jez Corden from Windows Central reports that Xbox systems will adjust to utilize the Win32 API. The Series X currently supports a development environment that is somewhat similar, but some games coded for Xbox ERA are still restricted.

    The Principal Software Engineer might direct their focus toward older Xbox titles that require more effort to emulate. Phil Spencer has also mentioned that AI could play a role in enhancing backward compatibility. In any case, preserving games will be essential for Microsoft’s Play Anywhere initiative.

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    Microsoft Job Posting Signals Game Emulation on New Xbox Console

     

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  • Discounted Tough Platformer with Nostalgic Art Style on Steam

    Discounted Tough Platformer with Nostalgic Art Style on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cuphead became a major hit in 2017 due to its challenging gameplay and unique cartoon-style graphics, receiving over 160,000 positive reviews on Steam.
    2. Players can choose to play as Cuphead or Mugman, who must recover their souls by defeating various bosses after losing them to the Devil.
    3. Gameplay includes boss battles, aircraft segments, and running challenges, with bosses having multiple phases and attack patterns.
    4. The game features two difficulty levels: Simple (easier, no soul rewards) and Regular (more challenging), allowing players to choose their experience.
    5. Cuphead is currently on sale for $13.99 on Steam, which is the lowest price since its release, while the DLC, The Delicious Last Course, costs $18.89.

    In 2017, Cuphead made a huge impact in the gaming community. What seemed like a simple cartoon-style platformer quickly became known as one of the most challenging games released that year. It received rave reviews from both players and critics, and to date, it boasts over 160,000 positive reviews on Steam.

    Characters and Storyline

    In Cuphead, you can take on the role of either Cuphead or his brother, Mugman, who reside on Inkwell Isle. The game offers both solo and cooperative play options. After losing their souls to the Devil due to gambling, the brothers must retrieve the souls of other debtors. Players navigate through various regions, facing off against enemies and collecting their souls.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Most levels feature confrontations with bosses (or multiple bosses) in an arena setting, while other segments involve piloting an aircraft, which comes with its own unique controls. Additionally, there are sections where players run through areas, eliminating any foes encountered. As previously mentioned, Cuphead is challenging, and it often takes several attempts to complete a level. Boss battles typically consist of multiple phases, each introducing new attack patterns and combos.

    Difficulty Settings and Pricing

    Cuphead offers two difficulty levels: Simple and Regular. As the names indicate, Simple is the more forgiving option. However, completing a level on Simple does not reward players with a soul, which is the main goal of the game. This mode is designed for players to get accustomed to the level before transitioning to Regular. Alternatively, players can choose to jump straight into the fray.

    At the moment, Cuphead is available at a 30% discount on Steam, reducing its price to $13.99. According to SteamDB’s price tracker, this is the lowest price since its release. While it frequently goes on sale, it usually does not drop below 30% because it remains a highly regarded game. If you’re interested in the DLC, The Delicious Last Course, it will cost you $18.89.

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  • PS5 Powers Every Frame of GTA 6 Trailer 2, Says Rockstar

    PS5 Powers Every Frame of GTA 6 Trailer 2, Says Rockstar

    Key Takeaways

    1. Trailer 2 for GTA VI received over 1 million likes within an hour and has now reached 5 million likes.
    2. The trailer showcases a mix of real-time gameplay and in-game cutscenes, highlighting the game’s visual achievements.
    3. Some minor aliasing issues were noted, which may not affect performance on the more powerful PS5 Pro.
    4. GTA VI is expected to launch at 30 FPS, with no 60 FPS option likely available at release.
    5. GTA VI may not be compatible with the rumored Nintendo Switch 2, and other handheld devices may struggle to run the game efficiently.

    Rockstar Games has recently unveiled Trailer 2 for GTA VI, which quickly gained traction, amassing over 1 million likes within just an hour of its upload. As of now, the total likes have soared to 5 million. This trailer isn’t only a successful reveal; it also provides a closer look at Grand Theft Auto 6. Rockstar confirmed that the entire footage was recorded on a PlayStation 5 and not the PS5 Pro.

    Gameplay and Cutscenes

    In a statement shared on X, Rockstar Games mentioned that Trailer 2 features a blend of real-time gameplay and in-game cutscenes. The seamless transition between these two elements is a significant accomplishment for the game. Returning to the point about the PS5 capturing the new trailer, many YouTubers have scrutinized the video, with most of them praising the game’s environment, special effects like explosions, and particularly the intricate details of the characters.

    Performance Insights

    However, as noted by Digital Foundry, some specifics and minor aliasing issues detract from the overall visual quality of the trailer. It’s suggested that these concerns may not be present on the PlayStation 5 Pro, which has superior hardware compared to the standard PS5.

    Digital Foundry also mentioned that GTA 6 is likely to be limited to 30 FPS at launch, even on the PS5 Pro. This assumption doesn’t stem solely from the impressive visuals of Grand Theft Auto VI, but rather from Rockstar’s pattern of releasing significant titles without a 60 FPS option at launch.

    Console Compatibility

    Regarding the rumored Nintendo Switch 2 version, Digital Foundry believes that GTA VI is “too big” for the system. Analysts speculate that devices like the Steam Deck or even the ROG Ally X and Legion Go (currently priced at $599.99 on Best Buy) might struggle to run Grand Theft Auto 6. Nevertheless, Rockstar Games has not disclosed any plans for supporting handheld gaming devices. It’s possible the developers are already taking steps to optimize the game for better performance on lower-spec systems.

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  • YouTuber Challenges Big Brands with 29g Ultralight Mouse

    YouTuber Challenges Big Brands with 29g Ultralight Mouse

    Key Takeaways

    1. Vaidemi, a Russian YouTuber, is developing the Nimbus mouse, focusing on creating a lightweight gaming mouse with a durable shell, rather than just minimizing weight.
    2. The Nimbus mouse weighs only 29 grams and features a symmetrical design, with components sourced from the Xyder Amalight 4K gaming mouse.
    3. The design process is documented in a YouTube video, showcasing stages from brainstorming to prototyping, including a skeletal internal framework called XSHELL.
    4. The mouse shell is made using a 3D printer and high-strength resin, allowing it to withstand over 30 kg of weight without breaking.
    5. Vaidemi hopes for a production version of the Nimbus mouse in the future, as he has previously collaborated with other brands on similar projects.

    With the rise of ultra-light mice gaining popularity — even Logitech is getting in on the action — various independent projects have emerged to transform regular mice into ultra-light gaming powerhouses. The newest project, however, is not focused on achieving the lightest weight. Instead, Vaidemi, a Russian YouTuber recognized for his gaming mouse reviews, is striving to develop the lightest gaming mouse with a sturdy shell. This approach helps to prevent issues related to durability and dust that often arise from mouse designs that sacrifice weight by adding holes.

    The Nimbus Mouse

    The outcome of Vaidemi’s project, which he meticulously showcases in a recent YouTube video, is the Nimbus, a gaming mouse weighing just 29 g. It features a distinctive symmetrical design and internal components that seem to be sourced from the Xyder Amalight 4K gaming mouse. The design of the shell took inspiration from the Maya Lamzu X (currently priced at $121.99 on Amazon) and the Endgame Gear OP1 (currently priced at $64.99 on Amazon).

    Design Process

    Vaidemi’s video captures the entire design journey, from brainstorming to CAD, prototyping, and numerous design revisions — it’s definitely worth a watch, even if you have to turn on closed captions, since the narration is in Russian. Ultimately, the design included a skeletal internal framework, which the creator named the XSHELL, serving as the mounting points for components like the PCB, buttons, and outer shell. He also addressed several concerns, such as the placement and easy activation of side buttons and ensuring consistent pre- and post-travel for the main clicks without sacrificing weight.

    Production Details

    The shell was 3D printed using an Anycubic Photon Mono 4 SLA printer (currently priced at $239.99 on Amazon), which provided a uniform finish and allowed for intricate details without significantly increasing weight, particularly in complex shapes. For the final iteration of the mouse, a high-strength “industrial” resin was utilized, which seems to have been effective, as the YouTuber demonstrates that he can place over 30 kg of weight on the mouse without it breaking. The final product, which Vaidemi claims to use as his go-to mouse for both work and gaming, has a metallic blue paint with a slight matte finish and weighs in at 29 g, including the skates and paint.

    While Vaidemi expresses a desire to see a production version of the mouse released soon, he has yet to disclose any official plans for it. Previously, he collaborated with Xyder on a superlight mouse, so there’s hope for future developments.

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  • Steam’s New Free Games: Horror and Naval Combat Awaits

    Steam’s New Free Games: Horror and Naval Combat Awaits

    Key Takeaways

    1. Steam added four new free games on May 7, expanding its diverse offerings.
    2. B.A.D. Institute is a first-person survival horror game set in a haunted boarding school.
    3. Rebel Pirates is a nautical-themed MMO strategy game focused on ship and crew management with PvP elements.
    4. Bingo Machine is a simple app that simulates a bingo draw, ideal for organizers and casual players.
    5. Stick Figure Combat is an arcade game featuring waves of stick figures, unlockable weapons, and a level editor for added replay value.

    Steam has added four more free games to its collection on May 7. The last update showcased a variety of indie titles, but this time the offerings are a bit more diverse, ranging from naval battles to a bingo simulation.

    Overview of New Games

    1. B.A.D. Institute

    This is a first-person survival horror game that takes place in a spooky boarding school. You take on the role of Hào, a new student who finds Brightwater Art & Design school infested with monsters resembling people you might know. With just your phone and the environment around you, the game emphasizes stealth, solving puzzles, and managing to stay alive long enough to escape.

    2. Rebel Pirates

    This title is a nautical-themed MMO arcade strategy game where you can take command of your own ship and crew to seize islands. Players can enhance their ships, equip cannons, and collaborate with other players in PvP naval confrontations. It has regular events and daily missions. Released on May 1, the game has already received a perfect score from a few early reviews.

    Simple Fun with Bingo

    3. Bingo Machine

    As the name suggests, this app mimics a real bingo draw machine using either 75 or 90 balls. There’s no need for bingo cards, score tracking, or complicated gameplay. It serves as a free utility tool, mostly intended for organizers or casual players, although the complete version requires a paid DLC to unlock additional features.

    4. Stick Figure Combat

    In this arcade arena game, you’ll face relentless waves of grey stick figures. It’s quick and filled with unlockable weapons, plus it features both a level editor and online leaderboards. While the combat is the main attraction, you can also make your own zombie levels or experience points farms. Though simple in its visuals, the game offers surprising replay value. It just released on April 30 and has become free this week.

    Variety in Gameplay

    Each of these games offers something unique—some are for pure enjoyment, while others serve a practical purpose. With Steam consistently updating its free game offerings every week, this release is a timely nudge to keep checking back if you’re aiming to expand your library with indie or experimental games.

    @SteamGamesPC on X/Twitter, Steam

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 May Record GameChat Audio and Video for Safety

    Nintendo Switch 2 May Record GameChat Audio and Video for Safety

    Key Takeaways

    1. Starting March 2026, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription will be required to use the new GameChat features.
    2. Nintendo’s updated privacy policy allows the company to collect, monitor, and record audio and video from GameChat sessions for safety purposes.
    3. The Switch 2 aims to appeal to both long-time fans and teenagers, despite concerns about privacy regarding recorded chat sessions.
    4. GameChat features safety measures, requiring friends-only connections, text message verification, and parental approval for users under 16.
    5. Unlike Microsoft and Sony, who do not continuously record chats, Nintendo is openly monitoring online interactions with GameChat.

    Gamers seem to be a bit unsure about the new GameChat features in Nintendo’s Switch 2. Starting March 2026, you will need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to use this feature. Additionally, screen-shared videos might not run as smoothly due to lower frame rates. Recently, Nintendo also announced it might record both audio and video from GameChat to ensure that online gaming remains safe for everyone involved.

    Privacy Policy Changes

    Keen-eyed users on Reddit discovered that Nintendo has updated the privacy policy on their website. The new language indicates that the company “may collect, monitor and record audio and video of your chat sessions with other users to provide a safe and secure environment for certain of our services.” The detailed text makes it clear that Nintendo could keep track of shared content, which includes “text, images, audio, video, your nickname and user icon.”

    Audience and Concerns

    Despite the fact that long-time fans of classic Nintendo games have grown older, the Switch remains a favorite console among teenagers. With the improved specifications of the Switch 2, it can now hold its own against advanced portable computers. However, Nintendo does not expect a major shift in its target audience. Given this demographic, many Reddit users feel there’s a valid reason for recording GameChat sessions. On the flip side, some players are vowing to steer clear of this feature because of privacy worries.

    Multiplayer Safety Measures

    Nintendo has already set up some measures to protect players in Switch 2’s multiplayer mode. For one, GameChat can only be initiated with people on a gamer’s friend list. Additionally, there’s a system that requires text message verification during the setup process. Lastly, parents need to give their approval for kids under 16 to use GameChat with other players.

    In contrast, both Microsoft and Sony assert that they do not record chats continuously on their Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Gamers, however, have the option to report clips if they encounter any bad behavior. Discussions are also ongoing on Discord about how the service manages archived messages. With the introduction of Switch 2 GameChat, it seems Nintendo is just being more open about its monitoring of online interactions.

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    Nintendo Switch 2 May Record GameChat Audio and Video for Safety
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