Category: Gaming

  • WoW Content Creator Faces Death Threats Over Bot Hunting

    WoW Content Creator Faces Death Threats Over Bot Hunting

    Madskillzzhc has been active in creating content for World of Warcraft since 2007, lately concentrating on revealing and fighting against bots. These bots are automated programs that manage in-game characters to carry out repetitive tasks without any human involvement. They are especially common on WoW’s hardcore servers, where dying means the end of your character. Because of the high risks involved in farming on these servers, resources become more valuable, creating a prime opportunity for bot farms to take advantage and sell items for real money.

    Taking a Stand

    Feeling frustrated with Blizzard’s inaction, Madskillzzhc decided to take action himself, gathering other players to join him in his battle against this issue. Sadly, this mission has now reached a concerning conclusion. He received death threats against him and his family on Discord channels in Russia and Taiwan, alongside alarming thoughts of violence. His personal details were leaked, leading the YouTuber to step back from the WoW community.

    A Difficult Decision

    In a short farewell video released on December 17, 2024, Madskillzzhc shared his decision to remove all his content related to bot hunting to prevent any further complications. "They have my personal information and I know how dangerous these people can be," he stated in the video description. For the WoW community, this represents not just the loss of a dedicated anti-bot fighter, but also brings to light the dangers of opposing organized bot farms.

    Community Reactions

    The YouTuber’s exit has sparked heated discussions on platforms like Reddit regarding Blizzard’s handling of the bot situation. Although the developer has ample resources at its disposal, it seems either unable or unwilling to tackle the issue effectively. Many fans speculate that financial interests might be at play, as bot accounts can generate revenue through subscriptions and microtransactions.

    YouTube (Madskillzzhc)

    Source: Link

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  • Exciting MMO with Vast Open World Launching Early Access Soon

    Exciting MMO with Vast Open World Launching Early Access Soon

    The Quinfall offers a massive open world that stretches over 2,000 km², making it significantly larger than popular MMOs such as World of Warcraft (207 km²) and Elder Scrolls Online (400 km²). The game world is split into five unique regions, each with its own climate, seasonal changes, and fluctuating weather patterns.

    Combat and Gameplay Features

    In The Quinfall, players can engage in a non-target combat system that emphasizes medieval warfare. This includes player versus player (PvP) skirmishes, siege battles on castles, and naval encounters. Staying true to MMO conventions, the game features a range of professions, a lively trading economy, and the option to build personal homes or clan islands. Players have the freedom to customize their characters extensively and make choices that significantly influence the storyline.

    Storyline and Early Access

    The story revolves around the struggle between the gods Pelyonas and the dragonborn Greis and Kreas, who are fighting for a cursed crown. Set in a world torn apart by civil war, players will need to choose whether to contribute to the chaos or work towards restoring peace. A 20-minute video on The Quinfall’s official YouTube channel gives a sneak peek into the game, highlighting gameplay and the announcement of its Early Access launch.

    The feedback in the comments section is quite varied. While some fans enjoy the nostalgic “old school” MMORPG vibe, others have raised concerns regarding aspects like rough animations and slow harvesting mechanics. Nonetheless, since The Quinfall is still undergoing development, there’s ample time to iron out these issues.

    Development Timeline and Community Concerns

    Initially announced in 2023, The Quinfall began its first closed beta in January 2024. Early Access is set to launch on January 24, 2025, which means it will have been in development for just four years. This phase is anticipated to last six months, and players can already put the MMO on their Steam wish lists.

    Although excitement among MMO enthusiasts is palpable, there’s also a degree of skepticism. Vawraek Technology Inc., the studio behind the game, was founded in January 2021 and has yet to release a successful game. Their initial project, Kayra Online, was canceled, which has led to doubts in the community about the team’s ability to meet the high expectations for The Quinfall. Specific concerns revolve around the enormous size of the open world coupled with the relatively brief development period.

    Source: Link

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  • Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop May Have Fewer CUDA Cores

    Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop May Have Fewer CUDA Cores

    Yesterday’s leak gave us several insights into Nvidia’s upcoming GeForce RTX 50 series laptop graphics cards. To begin with, both the GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 are expected to feature 16 GB of GDDR7 VRAM. Hence, it appears that the only distinction between the two models will lie in their CUDA cores. Recently, Moore’s Law is Dead has disclosed additional details about Nvidia’s near-final Blackwell laptop GPU.

    CUDA Cores and Performance

    The GeForce RTX 5080 is set to come equipped with 7,680 CUDA cores, which is a slight increase compared to the 7,424 CUDA cores in the GeForce RTX 4080 laptop version. According to Tom, the Blackwell GPU could potentially provide a performance boost of 40-60% over the GeForce RTX 4080. However, considering the modest rise in CUDA core numbers and a tiny shift in manufacturing from TSMC 4N to TSMC 4NP, this projection might be overly optimistic.

    Thermal Constraints and TGP

    Moreover, the GeForce RTX 5080 will debut with a maximum TGP of 175 Watts, which is identical to its predecessor. This figure is unlikely to change in the near future due to thermal limitations. While the architectural enhancements introduced by Blackwell and the GDDR7 memory should lead to a noticeable performance increase, it may not reach the levels suggested earlier.

    Conflicting Information

    Interestingly, this new information contradicts Tom’s previous leak, which indicated that the GeForce RTX 5080 laptop version would feature 8,192 CUDA cores. That might be reasonable for a Ti-branded model, but there’s currently no proof of an RTX 5080 Ti existing. It also can’t be the GeForce RTX 5090, as the CUDA core difference is too small. Perhaps it refers to the full, unaltered die that Nvidia intends to downsize for stable performance.

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  • Discover 2 Free Steam Games: Sandbox MMO & Retro Shoot-’em-up

    Discover 2 Free Steam Games: Sandbox MMO & Retro Shoot-’em-up

    Looking to grow your Steam collection this festive season? There are currently two games you can grab for free. Here’s what you can look forward to with each of them.

    Black Desert Overview

    Black Desert is a sandbox MMORPG that is recognized for its stunning visuals and intricate character customization. Players can select from various races such as humans, shai, and giants, in addition to 25 distinct classes. Besides the typical warriors and mages, the game also features unique classes like ninjas and dark knights. However, keep in mind that not every race can choose every class, and some classes are locked to specific genders.

    Combat and Gameplay Features

    Combat in Black Desert showcases a lively system that focuses on combos and strategic fighting. But it’s not just about battles. The game is filled with sandbox features like trading, crafting, and an elaborate economic system. Players have the ability to buy houses, recruit workers, and even build a trading empire. Usually priced at $10, this action MMO doesn’t need a subscription, although it offers various downloadable content and in-game purchases such as pets, cosmetic items, and experience boosts.

    Reception and Availability

    The reviews for this MMO, created and published by Pearl Abyss in 2017, are mixed. On Steam, Black Desert has a 74% positive rating from around 83,000 reviews, while its Metacritic scores are a Metascore of 76 and a User Score of 5.9. Critics often highlight a lackluster main story and pay-to-win elements like convenience boosts in the in-game shop. If these problems don’t bother you, it’s definitely worth checking out since it’s free on Steam until January 6, 2025.

    Distant Space 2 Overview

    Distant Space 2 is a shoot-’em-up that draws inspiration from the delightful retro flair of classic 80s arcade games. Players get to fly a spaceship, battling enemy fleets across 26 levels, some of which include bosses that require special strategies. As you progress, you can collect enemy weapons, adding a lot of variety to the game. With its nostalgic music score, this game is bound to charm arcade lovers and retro fans alike.

    Developer Details

    This game was created by PixelMouse, an indie studio known for hits like the first Distant Space and Minimalism. Normally, the game is priced at $1, and it has been well-received by approximately 84% of about 250 players. Until December 24, you can download it for free on Steam.

    Prices are subject to change. The offer was valid at the time this article was written but may be limited in duration or quantity. All information is provided without guarantee.

    Source: Link

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  • GOG Offers Highly Rated Action RPG for Free Today

    GOG Offers Highly Rated Action RPG for Free Today

    On December 18, the famous leaker Bilbil-kun suggested that GOG would provide Silence: The Whispered World 2 as its next free game. However, this information was found to be wrong. Instead, GOG is giving away the unique action RPG Chicken Assassin Reloaded for free from December 19 to 22.

    The Plot of Chicken Assassin

    In Chicken Assassin, players meet Mean McAllister, a brave chicken who is on a mission to save his abducted girlfriend from a merciless gang. Those who enjoy fast-paced games like Tap Titans or Beat the Boss are likely to find this adventure entertaining. The game is presented in a 2D side-scrolling format.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Players step into the shoes of the “meanest rooster in town,” battling hordes of enemies through rapid clicks and smart use of McAllister’s abilities. The rooster has the power to unleash strong area attacks, temporarily stun enemies, or greatly enhance his attack speed.

    Chicken Assassin Reloaded is available for about $5 on Steam, where it has an impressive 94% positive rating from nearly 2,700 reviews. However, on Metacritic, this action RPG, created by OneShark and released by Akupara Games in June 2016, has a more average user score of 7.5. The main complaint revolves around its repetitive grind mechanics, with some players finding the gameplay a bit dull.

    Important Details

    Prices can change at any time. The offer was valid at the time of writing, but it may be limited in duration or availability. All information is provided without guarantee.

    Source: Link

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  • Asus ROG Leak: Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 to 5050 VRAM Details

    Asus ROG Leak: Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 to 5050 VRAM Details

    A recent gaming PC listing has revealed details about Nvidia’s anticipated GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 desktop GPUs. Now, attention turns to their laptop versions. Sources like Videocardz and X user @94G8LA have discovered several listings that provide insights into Asus’ 2025 products, including the amount of VRAM Nvidia’s upcoming models will offer. It appears that the top three models will come with GDDR7 memory. Unlike the desktop version, however, the GeForce RTX 5090 won’t see an increase in video memory.

    ROG Strix Scar 18 Variants

    The ROG Strix Scar 18 will be available in two models: G835LX and G835LW. Users can choose between a Core Ultra 9 285 HX or a Core Ultra 9 275 HX for the processor. Based on their names, these seem to be Arrow Lake-HX parts that were introduced in a previous leak. For GPUs, buyers can opt for the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 (featuring 16 GB VRAM) or the GeForce RTX 5080. In contrast, the ROG Strix G16 (G615LR) offers the same CPU options but is restricted to the GeForce RTX 5080 and GeForce RTX 5070 Ti (with 12 GB).

    Asus ROG Flow Z13 Tablet

    Additionally, @94G8LA has shared a comprehensive SKU list detailing the specifications of each Asus laptop expected to be launched soon. This list confirms prior leaks about the Asus ROG Flow Z13 tablet, which will be equipped with AMD’s Strix Halo-based Ryzen AI 9 Max+ 395 and 32 GB of soldered LPDDR6X-8000 RAM. The tablet boasts a 13-inch 16:10 OLED display with a refresh rate of 180 Hz, which is quite impressive.

    AMD and Intel Offerings

    Next, there are some Intel and AMD options that also utilize the same memory. We get a glimpse at the lower end of the GeForce RTX 50 series laptop models. Interestingly, the GeForce RTX 5070, 5060, and 5050 will all debut with 8 GB VRAM. This might not be the best thing, as it could lead to confusion among customers.

    Another point worth mentioning is the inclusion of AMD Ryzen 7000 HX processors, specifically the Ryzen 9 7945HX and Ryzen 9 7940 HX. This suggests that AMD might not have any Ryzen 9000 HX models planned for this release, or they may not be included in Asus’s laptop lineup.

    Source: Link

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  • Nvidia RTX 4010 Performance Surprises Without Official Drivers

    Nvidia RTX 4010 Performance Surprises Without Official Drivers

    Nvidia is preparing to introduce the RTX 50 series, but before that happens, an unexpected 40 series GPU has emerged. This GPU appears to be the Nvidia RTX 4010, which the company has yet to officially announce.

    Unusual GPUs in the Chinese Market

    The discovery of this alleged RTX 4010 is not unusual for the Chinese market. A YouTuber named Budget-Builds Official sourced this GPU, who is known for reviewing various peculiar GPUs from China. This adds to the intrigue surrounding the product.

    Driver Support Challenges

    As the Nvidia RTX 4010 is not available for sale, it lacks official driver support. Even GPU-Z fails to identify it as the intended GPU. However, Budget-Builds Official managed to get it functioning using a Chinese RTX 4090 D driver. Surprisingly, the GPU operated well with that driver, even achieving respectable benchmark results and running games smoothly.

    Performance Insights

    While it might seem peculiar, the RTX 4010 managed to perform adequately with the driver. However, since it’s an entry-level GPU and there’s a unique driver situation, not all games could consistently reach the desired 60 FPS average. At 1080p resolution, many games hovered around 30 FPS with mixed visual settings. Noteworthy titles like GTA Online, Counter-Strike 2, and Crysis performed notably well. Essentially, this RTX 4010 offers performance similar to the RTX A400 Ampere, which aligns with its specifications.

    In China, the supposed RTX 4010 is priced at about $100. This is a reasonable price for a GPU that supports ray tracing, but due to the driver complications, it might be wiser to choose a low-profile RTX 3050 instead (Gigabyte 2X Windforce currently priced at $171.99 on Amazon).

    Source: Link

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  • Lenovo S02: Affordable Controller with Hall Effect Sensors

    Lenovo S02: Affordable Controller with Hall Effect Sensors

    Lenovo appears to have a much wider selection of products available in China compared to the global market. Still, importing directly can often be a good choice. This includes the newly released Lenovo S02 gaming controller. Currently, you can find this model on Banggood for about $29, not including tax and shipping fees. Be aware that shipping might take some time; if you place an order today, you can expect the item to arrive between early and mid-January.

    Modern Features

    Although the Lenovo S02 is a fairly standard controller, it is loaded with contemporary technology. Notably, Lenovo incorporates Hall effect sensors in its analogue triggers, which are designed to provide very accurate input readings. However, it is unclear if the joysticks also utilize Hall effect technology. The controller lacks extra buttons on the back, but the front features a turbo button. Activating this function allows users to achieve up to 110 presses each second by holding down a button. This can be particularly helpful during quick-time events or in arcade-style games. Additionally, the gamepad includes a rumble function with adjustable vibration levels.

    Connectivity and Battery Life

    There are three ways to connect the controller: you can opt for a wired connection, or you can go wireless using either Bluetooth or a 2.4 GHz receiver. You can find the configuration options available in an app. The 600 mAh battery charges through USB-C and can last for up to 10 hours of gameplay. The controller works with PCs, smartphones, and the Nintendo Switch.

    Source: Link

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  • MSI MPG 322URX: New OLED Gaming Monitor with Hidden Upgrades

    MSI MPG 322URX: New OLED Gaming Monitor with Hidden Upgrades

    The upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is set to take place from January 7 to January 10 in Las Vegas. With this event approaching, companies such as Asus have started to hint at new products before CES 2025. MSI, for its part, has disclosed all the details about the MPG 322URX QD-OLED, which was introduced earlier this month in China.

    Global Launch and Comparisons

    Interestingly, the MPG 322URX has made its global debut about a week after the MPG 321URXW was launched. The MPG 321URXW is simply a white variant of the MPG 321URX, which is currently priced at $924.99 on Amazon. One notable aspect of the MPG 322URX is that it might be more suited for high-end gamers in the future compared to the MPG 321URX. However, both models share the same Gen 3 QD-OLED panel sourced from Samsung Display. Because of this, the MPG 322URX has several display features, including:

    Design and Connectivity Features

    In addition, the MPG 322URX maintains the same overall look as the MPG 321URX, along with a similar ergonomic stand. Upon closer inspection, there are three key differences between the two models that might be overlooked at first. For example, the MPG 322URX’s USB Type-C port is capable of charging connected devices at 98 W, providing an 8 W increase compared to the MPG 321URX.

    Furthermore, MSI has upgraded the USB 2.0 Type-A and Type-B ports to quicker USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) versions. The most significant update is the addition of a DisplayPort 2.1a port that complies with the Ultra-High Bit Rate 20 (UHBR20) standard. This allows the MPG 322URX to output 4K at 240 Hz via DisplayPort without relying on Display Stream Compression (DSC), thanks to an impressive 80 Gbit/s peak bandwidth.

    Latency and Market Availability

    In theory, DSC can introduce some delays and reduce quality, even though VESA claims it is ‘visually lossless.’ It’s worth noting that VESA acknowledges that around 25% of people could distinguish a DSC image from a native one during tests. This means your viewing experience might differ from someone else’s in this respect.

    Nonetheless, there are currently no consumer graphics cards that can take advantage of UHBR20. In essence, the main appeal of the MPG 322URX over the MPG 321URX is currently moot. It’s not surprising that MSI markets the MPG 322URX as ‘built to support future hardware.’ While the company hasn’t disclosed the price of the MPG 322URX yet, we anticipate it will be featured in MSI’s CES 2025 presentations next month in Las Vegas.

    Source: Link

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  • Leaked $5,000 Gaming PC Features RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Specs

    Leaked $5,000 Gaming PC Features RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 Specs

    Nvidia has officially stated that the much-anticipated RTX 50-series GPUs, based on the Blackwell architecture, will be unveiled at CES 2025. Let’s face it, there’s not much left to guess about. It’s nearly guaranteed that the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 will be among the first models to hit the market as Nvidia’s next-generation offerings. To add to the excitement, we already see listings for these GPUs popping up online.

    Acer Predator Orion 7000 Upgrades

    Recently, the Acer Predator Orion 7000 gaming PC towers have been announced to receive upgrades featuring Intel’s Arrow Lake-S CPUs. A new listing that was found confirmed a top-tier configuration of this pre-built system that includes the high-end RTX 5090 GPU. As expected, this GPU will come with an impressive 32 GB of GDDR7 memory. The system is also equipped with a Core Ultra 7 265KF CPU, although it’s likely that even more powerful CPU options will be available soon. At this moment, though, all the focus is on the RTX 5090 GPU. The price for this system is a staggering €4,699, which translates to about $5,000 – a huge increase compared to previous models. Here comes the sticker shock!

    RTX 5080 Specifications

    Additionally, our pals at Videocardz have found another model in the Predator Orion 7000 lineup, this one featuring the more budget-friendly RTX 5080 GPU. As expected, this GPU has a more reasonable 16 GB of GDDR7 memory. On the topic of specs, recent leaks suggest that the RTX 5090 will have an astounding 21,760 CUDA cores and 32 GB of GDDR7 memory on a 512-bit bus, with a total board power (TBP) of 600 watts. In contrast, the RTX 5080 is set to include 10,752 CUDA cores, 16 GB of GDDR7 memory on a 256-bit bus, and a TBP of under 400 watts. With less than a month to go before CES 2025, it won’t be long until we see how the RTX 50-series launch goes. As more leaks and listings continue to emerge, it’s clear that the RTX 50-series is poised to take center stage – and perhaps take a toll on our bank accounts.

    Source: Link

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