Category: Gaming

  • Microsoft may remove Call of Duty from Xbox Game Pass amid declining first-party game sales

    Microsoft may remove Call of Duty from Xbox Game Pass amid declining first-party game sales

    Key Takeaway

    1. Microsoft’s gaming revenue declined by 9%, with support for first-party Xbox games weakening, partly due to Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 struggles.
    2. There is speculation that future Call of Duty titles might be removed from Xbox Game Pass to prevent cannibalization of premium sales.
    3. Call of Duty and other AAA Xbox games have experienced significant sales losses, attributed to their availability on subscription services and the impact on standalone sales.
    4. Microsoft’s overall content growth and revenue are stagnating, prompting potential strategies like removing Call of Duty from subscription tiers or delaying releases.

    Games Revenue Fell Significantly

    In the month of January, Microsoft reports were indicating that their gaming revenue went down about 9% from the same 3-months period last year. Support for their own Xbox titles took a hit, especially with the struggles faced by Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, which was a big factor in the decline. There are worries that the Xbox Game Pass might have been eating into the sales since some believe that more people were playing via subscription than buying individual games. Because of this, some insider is saying that future game releases might decide to skip the subscription service altogether.

    Expert Opinions and Industry Insights

    Jez Corden from Windows Central shared these insights on a fresh podcast, saying that the idea of removing Call of Duty games from the Game Pass isn’t just a rumor, it’s a possibility. During the same broadcast, he talked about how that popular AAA Xbox games are being affected because they become available from day one on the Game Pass Ultimate or other tiers, making it less attractive to buy the physical or digital copies separately.

    Impact on Game Sales and Market Trends

    While Microsoft hasn’t publicly released exact numbers about their sales losses, industry insiders have shared their opinions. For example, Christopher Dring from The Game Business pointed out that titles on the service tend to lose “around 80 percent of expected premium sales on Xbox.” Games like Starfield and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle also saw their sales affected, signaling a broader trend where subscription services might be hurting traditional game sales.

    Black Ops 6 and Price Losses

    Before the release of Black Ops 7, there was already signs that Game Pass was hurting the franchise. The first installment to launch with day-one availability on the service was Black Ops 6 in 2024. Bloomberg estimated that the game might have lost up to $300 million because of the reliance on subscriptions, which shows how much the revenue model can impact the game’s profitability.

    Declining Sales and Player Counts

    In more recent leaks from a lawsuit related to Activision-Blizzard’s former CEO Bobby Kotick, it was revealed that Call of Duty sales fell by a staggering 60% in 2025. This decline isn’t surprising because the series has seen historically low player counts on Steam, and other titles like EA’s Battlefield 6 have also pulled some attention away. The competition and changing consumer habits seem to be hitting the franchise hard.

    Financial Performance and Future Strategies

    Microsoft’s latest financial statement shows a 5% decrease in quarterly revenue year-over-year. If key franchises like Call of Duty aren’t enticing new subscribers or encouraging standalone sales, then the company might need to reconsider its strategies to boost growth.

    Potential Changes for Accessibility and Pricing

    A lot of critics argue that Activision’s franchise is partly responsible for the recent price hike of Xbox Game Pass. Some suggest they might remove Call of Duty from the Ultimate tier to offer cheaper options or delay its release on Game Pass to protect launch-day sales, hoping to balance both subscriptions and standalone purchases better.

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  • New Metro Game Name Leaked Before Rumored State of Play Reveal

    New Metro Game Name Leaked Before Rumored State of Play Reveal

    Key Takeaway

    1. The upcoming Metro game is rumored to be titled “Metro 2039,” indicating a new mainline entry in the series.
    2. The title suggests a significant time jump in the series’ timeline, possibly back to Moscow or a new setting related to Exodus.
    3. Previous Metro games have been critically well-received for their atmosphere, storytelling, and mechanics, and the new game is expected to continue this trend.
    4. The official reveal may occur at Sony’s rumored April 16 State of Play event, but details are not yet confirmed.

    Insider Teases New Metro Game Name

    A new hint about the next Metro game has been revealed, and interestingly, it involves the title. Insider Jez Corden has posted a brief message on X, saying “Metro 2039. Soon.” This could means fans might finally be getting a confirmed name for the upcoming game. The post doesn’t provide much details, but it matches earlier rumors hinting that the reveal could happen sometime soon – maybe during Sony’s rumored April 16 State of Play event.

    Speculations and Expectations

    According to an previous leak, 4A Games, the creators of the Metro series, are preparing an announcement for a new main game. This new project, allegedly called Metro 2039, is said to be a sequel to Metro Exodus and marks the fourth main installment. The naming pattern seems to follow a timeline theme, with dates hinting at the story’s era, so this new title might fit into the ongoing storyline.

    Where the Series Has Been

    The earlier games named Metro 2033, Metro Last Light, and Metro Exodus all focus on survival in a post-apocalyptic Russia after nuclear devastation. While Last Light removed the year from the title, it still set the story in 2033. Exodus then advanced the timeline, taking players on a journey beyond Moscow across the ruined landscape. If 2039 is true, the new game could jump forward in time, possibly revisiting familiar settings like Moscow or expanding on Exodus’ world, with some hints pointing back to Moscow’s importance.

    What Fans Can Expect

    So far, Metro’s been warmly received. The first game is praised mainly for its incredible atmosphere and survival gameplay mechanics. Last Light improved combat and story, while Exodus pushed visuals and semi-open levels, becoming one of the most impressive shooters of its period, especially on modern systems. However, the series hasn’t aimed for grand scale just for scale itself — instead, it focuses on storytelling and mood. Fans are eager to see what direction the next chapter will take and if it will continue to focus on narrative or explore new gameplay styles.

    Final Thoughts

    While the rumors are promising, it’s best to hold onto some skepticism until official confirmation is given. The source has a good reputation, but until then, this remains speculation. Whether the game will go back to a more confined setting like the Moscow metro or explore newer narrative paths is what fans are waiting to find out. The series has always been about atmospheric survival, so the next story could deepen that experience or open new doors.

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  • CookieRun Kingdom KPop Demon Hunters Event Receives Early Praise

    CookieRun Kingdom KPop Demon Hunters Event Receives Early Praise

    Key Takeaway

    1. The CookieRun: Kingdom KPop Demon Hunters crossover is perceived as more manageable and player-friendly, with a fair reward structure and lighter gacha pressure.
    2. The event offers a substantial amount of content, including new characters, storylines, rewards, costumes, and activities, contributing to its positive reception.
    3. Early impressions emphasize accessibility and enjoyable gameplay experience over long-term balance, suggesting initial success is driven by user engagement rather than game strength.
    4. External promotions, like McDonald’s partnership and broader branding efforts, help maintain visibility and attract a wider audience beyond the game.

    CookieRun: Kingdom’s KPop Demon Hunters crossover is starting to become more then just about which popular IP it features. People are also talking about the feel of the gameplay itself. In the early reports everyone seems quite pleased because this event feels different — more straightforward and less burdensome than typical gacha events.

    Feedback on Rewards and Playability

    One of the biggest points that players mention is how the rewards are structured, which seems to make the event more accessible. The review from LDPlayer points out this event uses special event currency, instead of relying on the regular crystal system. This means players are not pressured to spend all their crystals, making the event less stressful. Guides released after the event started also clarify how many points players can earn from Light Sticks and how they can use those to unlock some of the crossover content.

    Event Content and Duration

    According to Devsisters, this collaboration will last until May 6, and it includes a whole lot of content, such as new playable characters, storylines, rewards, costumes, and themed mini-games. Apple’s App Store editorial also describes this as a larger and more involved event centered not only on HUNTR/X but also on story elements like the Saja Boys, Dark Cacao Kingdom, and a Gwi-Ma battle. This shows that it is more than just a cosmetic crossover.

    Initial Player Impressions

    Most of what players say early on is that the event is easy to join and enjoy, with simple unlocking mechanics and a friendly feel overall. Videos and first-look impressions focus on how currencies are earned, what can be unlocked, and the gameplay experience rather than on how powerful the new units are. It seems players are appreciating how the event makes participation straightforward and enjoyable without feeling too heavy or grindy.

    Broader Impact of the Collaboration

    The KPop Demon Hunters theme isn’t just sticking in the game for now. Its popularity extends outside, thanks to a recent deal with McDonald’s and Netflix that launched on March 31. This included special adult meals, Derpy McFlurry, collectible cards, and extra game content based on HUNTR/X vs Saja Boys rivalry. Such promotions help keep the property in fans’ minds beyond just gaming, possibly helping the crossover appeal to a broader audience then just the usual players.

    Behind the Scenes in Game Art & Technology

    Looking beyond just game content, there is also interest in how game visuals are evolving. Notable artist Mark Linington, who has worked on games like Mass Effect, Halo, and Diablo IV, shared insights on Nvidia’s DLSS 5 technology and discussions about AI in art. The conversation touches on topics like creative control and how much of the final image actually belongs to the artists who created it.

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  • Nintendo Adds Yoshi App, Wooden Block Sets, and More to My Mario Collection

    Nintendo Adds Yoshi App, Wooden Block Sets, and More to My Mario Collection

    Key Takeaway

    1. Nintendo expanded the My Mario Collection with new interactive products, including the Hello, Yoshi! app and the Hello, Mario! board book.
    2. The Hello, Yoshi! app is free, accessible on mobile and Nintendo Switch devices, and allows kids to interact with Yoshi through touch.
    3. New wooden block sets featuring Peach, Yoshi, and Luigi also double as amiibo figures and aim to stimulate children’s imagination.
    4. A new episode of the stop-motion series “It’s Me, Mario!”, titled Coin Jam, is now available online.

    Expanding the My Mario Collection with New Fun Items

    Nintendo has recently added four new exciting products to their My Mario Collection, including an app that brings the beloved character Yoshi to life. This collection first got announced earlier this year and features a variety of products, games, and experiences aimed mainly at the youngest Mario fans. The aim is to combine play and learning, engaging children with familiar and new Mario-themed adventures.

    The Hello, Yoshi! App

    The new app titled “Hello, Yoshi!” is similar in concept and fun to the previously launched “Hello, Mario!” app. This interactive mobile app is for free and is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Plus, it can be played on the Nintendo Switch and the upcoming Switch 2, which is priced around $449. Kids can have fun pulling, poking, stretching, and spinning Yoshi’s face, which triggers a variety of funny reactions. Just like the Mario app, Yoshi will occasionally get sleepy and stop responding, giving kids a chance to take a break from screen time, making it a clever addition for parents concerned about overuse.

    Interactive Books and Wooden Blocks

    In addition to the app, Nintendo has published an interactive board book called “Hello, Mario!” This book is published by Penguin Random House and contains pull-tabs which excite children as they manipulate them, helping Mario perform actions such as rolling his eyes or removing his cap. The tactile nature of the book encourages interactive learning through movement.

    • Animal Figures: Nintendo has also released a trio of wooden block sets featuring Peach, Yoshi, and Luigi, crafted from hardwood material. These blocks are not only toys but also function as amiibo figures, compatible with selected Nintendo games. They are designed to spark childrens’ imagination as they build different structures and create their own stories.
    • Inclusion in Larger Sets: For those already owning the larger thirty-piece Mario-themed blocks, these smaller sets might seem redundant since they are included in the existing set. Nevertheless, they serve as a good option for quick imaginative play or additional collectibles.

    Animated Mini-Series Episode

    Maintaining the fun, Nintendo also released a new episode of “It’s Me, Mario!” a stop-motion animated series. The title of this episode is “Coin Jam,” and it marks the seventh installment in the series. Fans can watch this now on the official My Mario website or through the Play Nintendo YouTube channel. This series provides entertaining stories that continue to engage audiences of all ages in Mario’s whimsical universe.

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  • Cookie Run Kingdom Act 2 Launch Scheduled for May 2026

    Cookie Run Kingdom Act 2 Launch Scheduled for May 2026

    Key Takeaway

    1. CookieRun: Kingdom Act 2 is scheduled for launch in May 2026, featuring a major escalation in the game’s story, involving a multi-timeline war.
    2. The update will alter the story progression cadence from every four weeks to a two-week cycle, increasing the frequency of new content.
    3. The upcoming chapter will expand the game’s conflict, moving beyond the current regional storyline towards a broader, more intense narrative scope.




    CookieRun: Kingdom Act 2 Announcement

    Upcoming Major Update for CookieRun: Kingdom

    Devsisters has announced that the second act of CookieRun: Kingdom will be launched in May 2026. They describes this new chapter as bringing the game into its most intense and biggest conflict to date. The storyline will take a darker turn as it explores a shattered world where chaos ensues.

    Storyline and Gameplay Changes

    The new act is gonna start after a massive event destroys the world’s timeline, leading to a war that effects different timelines. This means we’ll see characters and worlds collide in ways we’ve never seen before. Devsisters wants to up the stakes by making it a bigger escalation for the players, pushing the game’s boundaries further into a multi-layered story.

    Updated Release Schedule

    Once Act 2 kicks in, the frequency of story releases gonna change too. Instead of new main story chapters every four weeks, players will now get updates every two weeks, making the story progression faster and more exciting. Fans can expect a quicker pace of new content coming their way.

    Context From Previous Updates

    This new chapter follows the game’s recent anniversary storyline, specifically the February 12 update about Episode 14: The Convergence of Fates. During that update, it was explained that the Cookie Alliance was approaching the Beast-Yeast continent to face Dark Enchantress Cookie. That event was part of a three-step story arc celebrating the game’s anniversary.

    What to Expect in the Next Chapter

    Considering the current storyline progress, Act 2 will act as the next big step rather than a side story. The official news hints that the conflict will become broader in scope, expanding beyond the current regional battles. It is likely that new elements and characters will be introduced, making the epic even greater.

    Missing Details and Focus

    So far, no official date in May has been declared, nor has there been a gameplay trailer or list of new playable Cookies for the update. However, recent announcements have highlighted collaborations like the ongoing KPop Demon Hunters event, live until May 6, which might hint at future content previews.

    Summary of What’s Coming

    • Launch in May 2026
    • Story about fractured timelines and multi-war themes
    • Increased update pace from four to two weeks
    • No official trailer yet

    Fans are eagerly awaiting more details but can anticipate that the next big chapter will significantly change the game’s universe and gameplay dynamic.


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  • Upcoming Metro Game Teased for State of Play Announcement | What to Expect

    Upcoming Metro Game Teased for State of Play Announcement | What to Expect

    Key Takeaway

    1. A new mainline Metro game is expected to be announced soon, potentially as early as next week.
    2. The upcoming title is believed to be a direct sequel to Metro Exodus, possibly set in Moscow.
    3. The game may incorporate elements from a canceled open-world Metro project, including a full open-world design.

    New Metro Game Rumors and Expectations

    There have been some exciting whispers that after seven long years without a new mainline Metro game, the series might be making a comeback soon. Even though nothing official has been announced, sources close to the project suggest that 4A Games, the studio behind the franchise, could be gearing up to reveal their next project in the near future. Fans are eagerly awaiting official confirmation, but leaks and hints are fueling anticipation for what’s to come.

    Potential Announcement and Release Timeline

    According to information shared on X by @AlexandreNGamr, a new Metro game might be unveiled next week. Interestingly, this timeframe seems to line up with Sony’s upcoming State of Play event, anticipated around April 16, which could serve as the perfect platform for such a reveal. The timing is certainly intriguing, and many are speculating that an official announcement could coincide with this event.

    What We Know About the Possible Game

    The next Metro installment is most likely to be the fourth main entry in the series, building upon the stories of Metro 2033, Metro Last Light, and Metro Exodus. There’s also a VR title called Metro Awakening expected to release in 2024, but it’s not considered a core part of the main storyline. Rumors indicate that the new game would be a direct sequel to Metro Exodus, possibly revisiting the Moscow metro area and continuing the narrative from the previous game.

    Previous Leaks and Possible Inspirations

    A recent leak has shed some light on a former project that was reportedly canceled. This leaked file seems to relate to a now-scrapped Metro game developed around 2023, which was said to feature a vast open world, taking the semi-open approach seen in Metro Exodus even further. The protagonist named Hunter, along with side characters Bourbon and Khan, appeared in these early plans. While the project was ultimately shelved, it’s possible that elements of this open-world concept might influence the upcoming release.

    What to Expect Moving Forward

    All signs point to more detailed information being released next week, which could clarify many of these rumors. However, considering the development timelines of previous titles like Last Light and Exodus, it’s unlikely the new game will be ready before 2028. This delay could mean that it will be among the earliest titles available for the PlayStation 6 console, making it a highly anticipated launch title.

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  • UL Solutions Reports Benchmark Cheating in RedMagic 11 Pro Series

    UL Solutions Reports Benchmark Cheating in RedMagic 11 Pro Series

    Key Takeaway

    1. UL Solutions delisted the RedMagic 11 Pro series due to violation of platform rules, specifically related to thermal limits and performance manipulation during benchmarking.
    2. The phones automatically switched to a high-performance “Diablo” mode during certain benchmark runs, resulting in artificially inflated scores by up to 24%.
    3. Nubia disputes the allegations, claiming their performance profiles are meant to give users more control, but did not clarify if automatic mode changes occur during benchmarks.
    4. These practices of optimizing for benchmarks and ignoring thermal constraints are common among various brands, though they can lead to device instability and overheating.

    UL Solutions Remove RedMagic 11 Pro from Rankings

    UL Solutions has recently taken down the RedMagic 11 Pro gaming phones from their benchmarking lists because they found out that these phones broke their rules and guidelines. The main problem was that the devices were said to be “cheating,” but in reality, they were just ignoring heat limits to get the best possible performance from their hardware.

    Performance Tests Show Discrepancies

    While it might look like they was cheating, the hardware itself can actually reach those high scores. UL Solutions defend their decision by sharing results from their own testing. They tested the RedMagic 11 Pro with two different versions of the 3DMark benchmark software. One of these versions is known to the public, but the other version has been renamed and is not recognized by the gaming phone itself.

    In the test using the public version, UL Solutions discovered the RedMagic 11 Pro would automatically run in a high-performance mode called “Diablo” mode. But when they ran using the other version, which the phone doesn’t recognize as a benchmarking app, the device stayed in normal mode. This caused a notable difference: in the high-performance mode, the phone scored about 24% higher in the benchmark.

    Nubia’s Response and User Concerns

    The company behind RedMagic, Nubia, issued a statement trying to justify their phones, but it didn’t quite work. In an email to Android Authority, Nubia said that its performance configurations aren’t “unethical” and are meant to give users more control over how their phones perform. But they didn’t mention that the phone automatically switches to high-performance when it detects benchmarking tools.

    Many users also reported issues with stability when using the highest performance modes—crashes, overheating, and other problems—like those caused by external cooling fans costing around $54.23 on TradingShenzhen. This highlights that pushing devices to maximum limits can sometimes have serious drawbacks, especially in terms of overheating and instability.

    Similar Practices in Other Brands

    This isn’t something completely unique to Nubia or RedMagic phones. Other brands such as Huawei, Oppo, and MediaTek have also been found to ignore thermal and power guidelines when their phones detect benchmarks or intensive workloads. This kind of behavior isn’t unusual in the smartphone business and often sparks debates about fairness and device safety in performance testing.


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  • Director Confirms Phantom Blade Zero Does Not Use Generative AI

    Director Confirms Phantom Blade Zero Does Not Use Generative AI

    Key Takeaway

    1. The development team emphasizes that Phantom Blade Zero was created entirely by human artists, without using AI technology.
    2. All character models, maps, and visual assets were handcrafted, including hand-drawn maps and physical replicas of weapons for realism.
    3. The game’s combat mechanics were motion-captured by martial artists and experts, highlighting a focus on authenticity and human craftsmanship.
    4. The company prioritizes human artistry and cultural authenticity over automation, aiming for a deeply proud and passionate creative process.

    Phantom Blade Zero nears its worldwide launch date of September 9, 2026, with much anticipation. However, Liang, the CEO of S-Game and the game’s creative mind, emphasizes that the game is essentially a work of human effort, not driven by latest algorithms. He shared this insight through a detailed message on social media, highlighting that their team has put a lot of love and dedication into the project, avoiding the use of AI technologies altogether.

    Dedicated Craftsmanship Over AI

    Liang told followers on X, “Phantom Blade Zero is ringing in its final development days and we are throwing everything we got into perfecting each part of the game. There’s no shortcuts here, just pure hard work.” His words show his pride in traditional methods, asserting that their team’s craftsmanship was central. Despite the rise of AI in game development, he made clear that S-Game refuses to rely on it, stating that “every art, every model, and every voice was made by real humans, not machines.”

    From Reality to Art

    The game’s characters are based on actual people. Models started with 3D scans of real actors, bringing a sense of authenticity. Voice recordings in both Chinese and English were performed by professional actors and directors, then animated by the team to match lip movements perfectly. This hands-on process underscores their commitment to quality and realism, staying true to human skill instead of computer-generated content.

    Authentic Details and Cultural Inspiration

    • The maps in the game were hand-drawn with traditional Chinese brushes on Xuan paper by talented young artists from the Central Academy of Fine Arts.
    • Ancient Chinese weapon designs served as inspiration, with real swordsmiths creating physical replicas to help animators understand weight and technique.
    • Martial arts moves were captured through motion capture performed by experienced fighters, kung fu masters, and lion dancers, emphasizing authentic movement.
    • Scan trips around China to study historic places in Fujian, Zhejiang, and Beijing contributed to the unique “Kungfupunk” style, blending tradition and modernity.

    Liang closed his message with a heartfelt statement on the importance of human creativity, expressing his belief that “art created by people isn’t just a tool for creating value, it *is* the value.” Instead of just assembling a team of developers, S-Game strives to foster passion and pride among everyone working on the game, making it a true expression of human effort and dedication.

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  • Ultra-Rare Punch-Out ROM with Missing Fighters & Major Differences from NES Version

    Ultra-Rare Punch-Out ROM with Missing Fighters & Major Differences from NES Version

    Key Takeaway

    1. An extremely rare early prototype of Nintendo’s Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!! has emerged, featuring unique differences from the retail version, including game content and cartridge makeup.
    2. The prototype employs stamped mask ROMs, unlike typical prototypes that use rewritable EPROM chips, raising questions about its purpose and authenticity.
    3. There are notable gameplay differences, such as arcade fighters appearing in the intro and the presence of two mysterious, unreleased fighters, Rockyhead and Mongol Khan.

    Rare Find of Nintendo’s 1987 Prototype

    An incredibly rare early version of Nintendo’s famous Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!! from 1987 just surfaced on the internet, and it is a totally functioning game but without sound. This pre-release version of the game has been dumped online for public to explore and enjoy, offering some notable differences from the final retail edition of the NES game.

    Insight from the Video Game History Foundation

    The VGHF recently examined the prototype cartridge in a detailed video. Frank Cifaldi, the founder and head of VGHF, has dedicated nearly thirty years to studying NES prototypes and was quite astonished. He said, “I’ve never seen anything like this,” after inspecting the cartridge’s internals. The prototype sports a sticker with a fake label matching Nintendo of America’s early NES packaging aesthetics from the mid-’80s.

    Unique Storage and Design Aspects

    The game data resides on stamped mask ROMs, which are permanent chips typically found in retail cartridges and marked with manufacturing dates. Usually, early prototypes used rewritable EPROMs, making this example unusual. Though Cifaldi mentioned these ROMs might be mock-ups, he was puzzled as to why a development version of Punch-Out!! would be assembled with these components.

    Major Differences in Game Content

    Unlike most NES prototypes that closely resemble final versions, this build shows significant early differences. The intro credits show fighters from the 1984 arcade Punch-Out!!, like Piston Hurricane and Pizza Pasta—characters replaced or removed in the retail version. Piston Hurricane was renamed Piston Honda, and Pizza Pasta was cut out from the North American version. Soda Popinski appears under his arcade name Vodka Drunkenski, likely a change for marketing purposes.

    Unseen Characters and Hidden Content

    Two mysterious fighters called Rockyhead and Mongol Khan appear in the game, but they’ve never been seen in any official release of Punch-Out!!. The playable roster in the prototype is limited to four opponents: Glass Joe, Bald Bull, King Hippo, and Don Flamenco. Other fighters like Von Kaiser and Great Tiger are present only in the game’s code and can be revealed via debugging, but they are not accessible to fight.

    The Cartridge’s Journey and Public Release

    This rare prototype console cartridge has an interesting history; it was found at a garage sale by a former Nintendo of America employee. It later received PSA certification and was auctioned by Heritage Auctions for $45,000. Many believed the game was kept hidden in private collections, but the lucky purchaser chose to upload the ROM online, allowing the Video Game History Foundation to analyze it thoroughly.

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  • Ayaneo Announces Price Increase for Handhelds and Mini PCs

    Ayaneo Announces Price Increase for Handhelds and Mini PCs

    Key Takeaway

    1. Ayaneo is warning of upcoming price increases for several products due to low inventory and high demand.
    2. Current stock of the Pocket Vert, Pocket S Mini, Mini PC AM03, and Mini PC AM01S is limited, encouraging buyers to purchase now before prices rise.
    3. Certain variants and editions, such as the Pocket Air Mini and Retro White, are no longer available or have been discontinued.

    Ayaneo Announces Price Hikes on Several Products

    Ayaneo the gaming device company has been making some noisy warnings about the upcoming increase in the prices of their gadgets. They recently upped the prices of the Pocket Air Mini in China, and now, they have announced that four other products will be seeing price changes too.

    Limited Stocks and Price Increase Alert

    From a message on their Discord, Ayaneo reports that they are running out of stock for many items. Some products are even out of stock completely. If you’re still interested in buying, it’s probably better to do it quick, because prices might get higher soon.

    Devices Affected by the Price Hike

    The devices that are still in their stores, but will see their prices go up include the Pocket Vert, Pocket S Mini, Mini PC AM03, and Mini PC AM01S. Their demand lately has been high, leading to very limited supply. Customers are advised to buy them now, before the prices increase.

    Pricing Details for the Pocket Devices

    • The Pocket Vert comes in two variants: 8GB RAM + 128GB storage for $269, and 12GB RAM + 256GB for $349.
    • The Pocket S Mini starts at $319 for the 8GB + 128GB model and can go up to $399 for the 12GB + 256GB variant.
    • The 16GB RAM with 512GB storage is no longer available which is a bummer. Also, no free Pocket Air Mini is given anymore as compensation for the Pocket S Mini’s reduced battery capacity.

    Mini PC Prices and Availability

    The Mini PC AM03 has pricing beginning at $399 for a barebones version without RAM or storage, and it can go up to $499 for the 16GB RAM + 512GB SSD upgrade. Meanwhile, the Mini PC AM01S is available only in the B.Duck edition now, priced at $399 for the base version and $549 for the 32GB RAM + 1TB storage model. The Retro White versions are no longer being sold.

    Upcoming Pre-Order For the Konkr Fit

    The company also reminded folks that you can still pre-order its new Windows handheld, the Konkr Fit. The starting price is $999 for a model equipped with 16GB RAM, 512GB storage, and a powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU. If you prefer more power and memory, the top-tier model costs $1,299, with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 processor, 32GB RAM, and 1TB storage.

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