Category: Gaming

  • Limited RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Launch Supply Similar to RTX 3090

    Limited RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Launch Supply Similar to RTX 3090

    The new RTX 50 “Blackwell” series graphics cards, the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080, are scheduled to hit the market on January 30, starting at prices of $1,999 and $999, respectively. However, it seems that getting hold of these GPUs might not be easy. Rumors from the PCGH forums suggest that, at launch, availability of the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 could be limited in Germany.

    Challenges in North America

    The situation in North America doesn’t appear to be any better. A leak from Moore’s Law Is Dead indicates troubling news about the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 supply. But it’s vital to consider these claims as unverified information from unnamed sources. So, it’s best to approach them with a healthy dose of skepticism.

    One distributor in North America mentioned to MLID that they would not receive any RTX 5090 units at launch, and only about 20 RTX 5080 GPUs. This is significantly lower than the “couple of hundred RTX 4080s” they managed to acquire back in 2022. The distributor also predicts that RTX 5090 supply might not arrive until late Q1 or Q2.

    AIBs Facing Similar Issues

    The outlook for AIBs (Add-In Board partners) appears grim too. An AIB source told Tom that they would receive the same quantity of RTX 5090s at launch as they did with the RTX 3090s, along with an RTX 5080 supply that’s just a “fraction” of what they got for the RTX 4080 two years ago. The RTX 3090 had a notoriously limited launch, making it difficult to purchase on release day. This doesn’t bode well if the RTX 5090 has a similar or even lower supply.

    Interestingly, it seems not just gamers will face difficulty. An Nvidia source revealed that the company’s internal Employee Store will have very few RTX 5090 Founders Edition cards available. Reportedly, Nvidia employees found it much easier to purchase an RTX 4080 Founders Edition at launch from the same store.

    A Glimmer of Hope for the RTX 5080

    On a somewhat positive note, an AIB in the EU indicated that while the RTX 5090 may be quite scarce, the initial launch supply for the RTX 5080 should be adequate.

    Overall, it appears that enthusiasts eager for the RTX 5090 or RTX 5080 might need to engage in some serious searching. Here’s hoping the launch of the RTX 50 series goes smoother than the launches of the RTX 30 and RTX 40 series, so gamers don’t end up paying inflated prices to acquire these GPUs.

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  • Samsung Odyssey 3D Monitor Optimized for The First Berserker: Khazan

    Samsung Odyssey 3D Monitor Optimized for The First Berserker: Khazan

    Samsung is betting on a new action RPG to attract gamers to its Odyssey 3D monitor. The game, titled The First Berserker: Khazan, is set to be released on March 27th, just ahead of the monitor launch in April. With its 3D cel-shaded graphics, Nexon, the game’s publisher, thinks it’s ideal for Samsung’s glasses-free tech. This display enhances 2D visuals and characters, giving them a sense of depth from any angle.

    Exciting Features Unveiled

    The Samsung 3D monitor was first introduced at Gamescom 2024, featuring a front-mounted lenticular lens, stereo camera, and eye-tracking capabilities. After some updates, the Odyssey 3D made another appearance at CES 2025. At this event, The First Berserker: Khazan was among the games showcased. Many attendees were amazed by how the thrilling combat scenes seemed to leap off the screen without the need for glasses. Samsung has also enhanced the software that supports the monitor to better tailor games for 3D viewing.

    Technical Innovations

    The Odyssey 3D monitor employs a light field display that projects light rays at angles that appear natural to the audience. While it can convert standard 2D video into a 3D format, games demand additional instructions to create believable multi-dimensional visuals. Samsung aims to launch with over 10 titles fully compatible with its monitor. However, Acer has already rolled out its SpatialLabs 3D laptops, monitors, and cameras that come with a more extensive list of games that are supported.

    Challenges Ahead

    Even though The First Berserker: Khazan has potential, it might not be sufficient to ensure the commercial success of the Samsung 3D monitor. Nonetheless, Nexon is planning to release a 3D version of the game on Steam to demonstrate what the display can do. For gamers eager to experience this Dungeon Fighter Online-inspired RPG, a demo is currently available for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S users.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Beats PS5 Reveal with 17M YouTube Views

    Nintendo Switch 2 Beats PS5 Reveal with 17M YouTube Views

    After being talked about for several years, the Nintendo Switch 2 was officially announced on January 16. The initial video released by the company showcased the new handheld gaming device, and it seems to be receiving a lot of attention. To be precise, this reveal video accumulated over 17 million views within just 48 hours.

    Comparing View Counts

    Naturally, the first-generation Nintendo Switch trailer had a stronger showing, racking up 19.5 million views on YouTube in the same two-day period. It’s quite fascinating that the new gaming handheld’s reveal video surpassed the first official PlayStation 5 video, which managed to gather about 13.3 million views in 48 hours.

    Growing Popularity on Social Media

    Another interesting point is that the Nintendo Switch 2’s reveal trailer on X is gaining even more traction. The video has achieved over 40 million views on Nintendo of America’s account, while the Japanese version has surpassed 52 million views.

    This clearly shows that there is significant excitement surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2. While the reveal trailer suggests that the handheld is set to meet expectations, the price will play a crucial role in its success. For reference, the original model debuted at a price of $299.99, which many consider a reasonable option compared to other popular handhelds, such as the ROG Ally (Z1 Extreme currently priced at $499.99 at Best Buy).

    Expected Pricing and Game Bundles

    A recent report indicates that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be priced at $499 and will include a Mario Kart game as part of the bundle. Without the game included, the handheld is expected to retail for around $449.99. More information will be shared by the company during the upcoming Nintendo Direct event.

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  • Thunderobot Unveils 31.5″ 4K 165Hz Samsung QD-OLED Gaming Monitor

    Thunderobot Unveils 31.5″ 4K 165Hz Samsung QD-OLED Gaming Monitor

    Thunderobot has unveiled its latest gaming monitor, the Black Warrior DU32F165E, specifically for the Chinese market. This monitor is priced at 5099 yuan ($696) and is currently available for purchase on JD.com. Let’s dive into its main specifications.

    Key Features of the DU32F165E

    The DU32F165E boasts a 31.5-inch Samsung QD-OLED display, providing a stunning 4K resolution (3840×2160) along with a remarkable contrast ratio of 1,500,000:1 and wide 178° viewing angles. This combination ensures excellent image quality and vivid visuals.

    With a high refresh rate of 165Hz, the monitor supports HDMI, DisplayPort, and Type-C inputs, and features an impressive response time of just 0.03ms. It includes Adaptive-Sync technology that works with G-Sync and FreeSync, guaranteeing smooth and tear-free gaming experiences. The monitor also holds HDR 400 certification, achieving a peak brightness of 1000 nits, which enhances contrast and reveals fine details in both bright and dark scenes.

    Color Performance and Calibration

    The DU32F165E shines in terms of color accuracy and reproduction, covering an impressive 99% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, 98% of Adobe RGB, and 100% of sRGB. Its native 10-bit color depth can display 1.07 billion colors, offering lifelike and vibrant visuals. Each unit is factory-calibrated with a Delta E ≤ 2 for precise color accuracy, and buyers will receive a paper calibration report.

    To ensure durability, the monitor is equipped with advanced burn-in prevention features, including pixel-shift technology, AI-based static image detection, and brightness adjustments for static on-screen elements like taskbars. Additionally, it integrates low blue light hardware and DC dimming to help reduce eye strain during extended usage.

    Adjustable Design and Connectivity Options

    The monitor comes with a flexible stand that allows for 120mm height adjustment, tilt from -6° to 20°, ±45° swivel, and ±90° vertical rotation. For connectivity, it includes dual HDMI 2.1 ports, one DisplayPort 1.4, a Type-C port that provides 90W power delivery, one USB-B port, and two USB-A ports.

    Moreover, the DU32F165E supports KVM functionality, enabling users to control multiple devices using a single keyboard and mouse, along with PIP/PBP features for effective multitasking across multiple screens.

    In other news, Thunderobot also launched a new 27-inch 2K gaming monitor this week, featuring a Fast-IPS panel, a 210Hz refresh rate, 400 nits brightness, and a 1ms response time. Meanwhile, LG has introduced the UltraGear G8, a 27-inch gaming monitor that offers dual-mode capabilities with 4K resolution at 240Hz and FHD resolution at a stunning 480Hz.


  • Nintendo Switch 2 Leak Suggests Possible Launch Price

    Nintendo Switch 2 Leak Suggests Possible Launch Price

    The Nintendo Switch 2 has officially been announced, but while the design of the handheld device has been revealed, information about pricing still remains a mystery. A recent leak has brought some clarity to this situation. This information comes from an X user named @Shpeshal_Nick, who references a source that has previously proven accurate about launch dates.

    Pricing Insights

    According to @Shpeshal_Nick, this source indicates that the new handheld will be priced at $449, marking a significant increase from the original Nintendo Switch. For context, the first-generation console was released in 2017 with a price of $299.99, which many found to be quite budget-friendly.

    Interestingly, earlier reports had predicted a launch price of $399 for the Nintendo Switch 2. The new rumored price of $449 is said to include a “Mario Kart bundle,” which could be valued at around $50. Therefore, if you take away the bundled game, the suggested price aligns with the previous speculation (Z1 Extreme ROG Ally curr. $499.99 on Best Buy).

    Caution with Leaks

    Even though the $399 price tag for the Nintendo Switch 2 might seem plausible, it’s wise to be cautious with these leaks. While the company has not disclosed any pricing information for the new gaming handheld, they have confirmed that more details will be shared during the upcoming Nintendo Direct event. This event is scheduled for April 2, which is just around the corner.

    As for the Nintendo Switch 2, it is anticipated to launch with various AAA titles available. Although developers have not yet provided any details, the upcoming Direct event may offer further insights on this front.

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  • GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Expected to Have Limited Stock in Germany

    GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Expected to Have Limited Stock in Germany

    Gaming hardware has been facing shortage problems since 2020. Although the supply chain has mostly bounced back, new releases like the Ryzen 9000X3D and Arc B570 show that fulfilling demand is still a tricky task. A recent thread on PCGH suggests that high-end GeForce RTX 50-series GPUs, particularly the GeForce RTX 5090, might encounter similar supply issues in Germany.

    Moderator Insights

    The information comes from a moderator on PCGH who claims to have connections in Germany’s “well-informed dealer circles.” They say that Nvidia will have control over which retailers receive the GeForce RTX 5090. The moderator listed a few retailers, such as Mindfactory, where customers are most likely to find the RTX 5090 or even the RTX 5080. Importantly, customers will only be allowed to purchase one unit each.

    Amazon Resellers

    Additionally, the moderator mentioned that Amazon resellers will only get stock of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 in later waves—specifically the second, third, or even the fourth—leading to potential price hikes. Business and B2B retailers will not have access to the GeForce RTX 5090 at launch and will need to wait longer, which is exciting news for gamers looking to buy the card directly.

    While the poster didn’t share any information on the global supply situation, it’s not hard to imagine Nvidia might have similar restrictions worldwide. On the bright side, this could help prevent scalpers from taking advantage of the situation, but it remains to be seen how this will actually unfold in practice.

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  • GeForce RTX 5090 Beats RTX 4090 by 37% in Blender Benchmark

    GeForce RTX 5090 Beats RTX 4090 by 37% in Blender Benchmark

    The new GeForce RTX 5090 gaming GPU has just been launched, and it promises to deliver remarkable improvements in gaming performance thanks to its AI-powered frame generation features. The discussion about Nvidia’s use of AI technology to achieve these enhancements continues, but the performance upgrades that the RTX 5090 and other Blackwell gaming GPUs offer to render artists seem to be quite impressive. This is supported by a recent listing on Blender Open Data.

    Performance Benchmarks

    We have a clear insight into how the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 performs in Geekbench’s OpenCL and Vulkan benchmarks. The Blackwell flagship GPU shows a significant lead over its predecessor, with increases of up to 37% in OpenCL and 16% in Vulkan. While these enhancements aren’t revolutionary, the data we have so far indicates a solid generational boost in raw performance. Furthermore, according to the earlier mentioned Blender Open Data listing, the RTX 5090 demonstrates a notable speed advantage over the GeForce RTX 4090, particularly when using the Nvidia OptiX rendering engine.

    Impressive Scores on Blender

    When tested on Blender 3.6.0, the GeForce RTX 4090 achieved a median score of 13,000 points. In stark contrast, the RTX 5090 excelled with a remarkable score of 17,800 points, signifying an approximate 37% performance increase. This improvement can be attributed to the additional 33% RT cores present in the Blackwell card, which are evidently making a difference in this ray-traced rendering evaluation. However, it’s important to note that we currently have only one result for the RTX 5090, meaning its median score may fluctuate as more benchmark data becomes available on Open Data, allowing for a more accurate comparison between these two flagship models.

    Purchase Information

    If you’re interested, you can find the impressive 34-inch Samsung G8 OLED gaming monitor available for purchase on Amazon.

    Blender Open Data | A special acknowledgment to our forum member LL for bringing attention to this entry | Teaser background image by engin akyurt via Unsplash.

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  • Thunderobot Unveils 27″ 2K 210Hz Fast-IPS Gaming Monitor

    Thunderobot Unveils 27″ 2K 210Hz Fast-IPS Gaming Monitor

    Thunderobot has launched the ZQ27F210, a 27-inch 2K gaming monitor that boasts a refresh rate of 210Hz and is priced at a remarkable 799 yuan ($109). This monitor will be available for buying starting at 8:00 PM on January 25 through JD.com in China. Let’s take a look at its primary specifications.

    Thunderobot ZQ27F210 Specs

    The ZQ27F210 comes with a 27-inch QHD Fast-IPS display that provides a resolution of 2560×1440, a refresh rate of 210Hz (overclocked from 200Hz), and a response time of 1ms GTG, making it perfect for fast-paced competitive gaming.

    With an impressive 98% DCI-P3 and 99% sRGB color gamut coverage, this monitor also has a 10-bit color depth (8-bit + FRC). This means you can expect bright, lifelike colors and outstanding accuracy, featuring a factory-calibrated Delta E≤2 for precise color representation. It’s also HDR-compatible, delivering a peak brightness of 400 nits and a typical brightness of 350 nits, enhancing contrast and creating a more immersive viewing experience.

    Gaming Features and Comfort

    Supporting Adaptive-Sync, the ZQ27F210 works well with Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering. Furthermore, it includes an anti-glare coating, low blue light technology, and flicker-free DC dimming, all aimed at providing comfort during long gaming sessions.

    This monitor is packed with multiple gaming assist functions, such as an adjustable crosshair, FPS counter, and timer, which can be accessed via the OSD menu. These tools help to boost gameplay, enhancing precision and performance. Also, it has a built-in black equalizer that improves shadow details, making it easier to spot enemies hiding in dark areas.

    Connectivity and Design

    For connectivity options, the ZQ27F210 provides two HDMI 2.0 ports (which support 144Hz), a DisplayPort 1.4 (supporting 210Hz), and an audio-out jack. The monitor comes with a compact, adjustable stand that allows tilting from -5° to 20° and is compatible with VESA 75x75mm mounts, giving users flexible setup choices.

    The monitor features a stylish three-sided narrow-bezel design, maximizing screen real estate while maintaining a compact footprint. Additionally, it offers three years of free hardware repair along with lifetime online technical support.

    In other news, LG has just revealed the UltraGear G8, a 27-inch gaming monitor that provides dual-mode support for 4K at 240Hz and FHD at 480Hz. At the same time, HKC has launched a new 27-inch 2K gaming monitor equipped with a 200Hz refresh rate, a Fast IPS panel, and a 1ms response time.


  • LG UltraGear G8 27″ Gaming Monitor: 4K/240Hz & FHD/480Hz

    LG UltraGear G8 27″ Gaming Monitor: 4K/240Hz & FHD/480Hz

    LG has just announced its new gaming monitor, the UltraGear G8 (27G850A). This monitor is currently available in China and Japan, with plans for a global release soon. In China, the price is set at 5,999 yuan ($818). Let’s take a look at its main features.

    Display and Performance

    The UltraGear G8 sports a 27-inch 4K Nano IPS Black display, boasting a resolution of 3840×2160, which provides superb color accuracy and impressive contrast. It has a dual-mode refresh rate, allowing for a 240Hz refresh rate at 4K resolution and an astonishing 480Hz at 1080p, making it ideal for fast-paced gaming. Additionally, it includes a 1ms (GtG) response time, helping to decrease motion blur.

    Visual Quality and Color Accuracy

    With a contrast ratio of 2000:1, brightness reaching 450 nits, and VESA DisplayHDR 600 certification, the monitor delivers clear, vibrant visuals. It also covers a wide color spectrum, featuring 99% DCI-P3, 100% sRGB, and 86.6% Adobe RGB, ensuring accurate color reproduction.

    Connectivity and Ergonomics

    This monitor supports Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, VESA AdaptiveSync certification, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, guaranteeing smooth, tear-free visuals while gaming. In terms of connections, it includes DisplayPort 2.1, two HDMI 2.1 ports, a USB Type-A port, and a 4-pole headphone jack. While it does not have built-in speakers, the ergonomic design features a 4-side narrow bezel and adjustable tilt, height, rotation, and pivot for user comfort.

    Gaming Features and Design

    For enhanced gaming experience, the monitor offers features like a built-in FPS counter, dynamic action sync for lower input lag, a crosshair overlay for improved accuracy, and a black stabilizer to boost visibility in darker areas. Furthermore, it showcases a unique hexagonal lighting design that adds to the ambiance, immersing gamers deeper in their virtual worlds.

    In other news, LG recently introduced the UltraGear GX9 series at CES 2025, which includes the award-winning 45GX990A and 45GX950A monitors featuring 45-inch 5K2K OLED displays, 800R curvature, and advanced gaming features such as customizable aspect ratios and VRR support. The series will also feature the 39GX90SA, which integrates webOS for seamless streaming and gaming. The launch is anticipated for Q1 2025.


  • AMD 2026 Roadmap Leak: 3D V-Cache for PlayStation Chip and Strix Halo

    AMD 2026 Roadmap Leak: 3D V-Cache for PlayStation Chip and Strix Halo

    A recent leak from Chiphell has revealed AMD’s plans for 2026. The company has already launched most of its products for 2025 at CES 2025, except for the RDNA 4. Now, we can see some of AMD’s future strategies, although the roadmap is missing details on mainstream laptop CPUs and Epyc server components.

    Upcoming Ryzen CPUs

    To kick things off, AMD is set to introduce its Zen 6 Ryzen 11,000 desktop CPUs (this name is not final). The CPU tiles will be produced using TSMC’s N3E process, while the I/O die will be made on the N4C node. This approach aligns with AMD’s strategy of not always being at the forefront of technology.

    GPU Developments

    According to earlier gossip, AMD is looking to combine its RDNA and CDNA series into a new line called UDNA. This will be the foundation for all GPUs and AI accelerators released by AMD. In 2026, the GPUs will also utilize TSMC’s N3E technology, featuring a premium model this time around.

    AMD leaker Kepler_L2 noted that the new offering won’t be considered a “flagship.” It is expected to outperform the RTX 4090 but will likely fall short compared to the newly announced RTX 5090. This suggests that AMD is concentrating more on affordable, upper-mid-range products.

    Exciting Innovations

    In a twist, AMD is looking to enhance Strix Halo (or maybe Medusa Halo?) by adding 3D V-cache. This addition will be alongside the existing 32 MB Infinity Cache, and it will be intriguing to see how this enhancement performs.

    The most exciting news is that Sony is planning to incorporate 3D V-cache into one of its future products. This chip could potentially be used in an upcoming handheld gaming console, or it might power the PlayStation 6. Meanwhile, Microsoft remains uncertain about its direction in this regard.

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