Category: Gaming

  • Rockstar Teases New Bully Update with GTA 6 Launch Buzz

    Rockstar Teases New Bully Update with GTA 6 Launch Buzz

    Given that the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 is coming up, it’s clear that Rockstar Games has quite a bit on its plate. Yet, it appears that the team is finally starting to focus some effort on the older classic, Bully: Scholarship Edition.

    New Developments on SteamDB

    Recently, user @TezFunz2 on X noticed a new development branch for the game listed on SteamDB. This branch, named "qabeta," is secured with a password, suggesting that Rockstar might have already given this latest version of Bully to testers. However, it’s likely that this new branch isn’t a full remake.

    Issues with the Original Game

    Bully: Scholarship Edition was generally liked by gamers on PC, but it isn’t without its problems. Many players have reported odd crashes and freezes, and so far, Rockstar has not provided a solid patch for these bugs. Thus, with the introduction of this new branch, the developers may be looking to address these issues before they officially launch GTA+ for PC.

    GTA+ Subscription Insights

    If you didn’t know, the GTA+ subscription has only been available for console players until now. This subscription primarily grants access to special benefits in Grand Theft Auto 5. Even though GTA 6 won’t be part of it, the subscription still allows free access to several other Rockstar games, including Bully.

    With the anticipated GTA+ subscription for PC reportedly on the way, Rockstar Games likely wants to ensure that new subscribers enjoy a smooth experience with Bully. We’ll find out more when the update is released, but it might take a while since the developers are probably preoccupied with the expected second trailer for GTA 6.

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  • Ayaneo 3 Launches with Unique Vibration Motor and Custom ABXY Layouts

    Ayaneo 3 Launches with Unique Vibration Motor and Custom ABXY Layouts

    One-Netbook has made history by being the first brand to unveil a gaming handheld powered by the Zen 5 chipset, known as the OneXFly F1 Pro. Not to be left behind, Ayaneo is quickly catching up with its upcoming device, the Ayaneo 3, which will feature the same AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 chipset that One-Netbook has used in its recent release.

    Availability and Specifications

    At this point, it’s unclear when the Ayaneo 3 will hit the market. Nevertheless, the company has shared more information about the gadget, which is expected to officially launch sometime before 2025. It’s important to note that the Ayaneo 3 will have performance levels similar to the OneXFly F1 Pro, including its less powerful Ryzen 7 8840U version.

    Unique Features

    Despite this, Ayaneo aims to set the Ayaneo 3 apart from its competitors in other ways. For instance, the device will come equipped with a new vibration motor known as the ‘Magnetic Suspension Motor’. This is reportedly the first ‘self-developed motor’ to appear in Windows handhelds, but it’s still uncertain how it will stack up against the motors found in devices like the Legion Go and ROG Ally (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon), among others.

    Customization Options

    In addition, Ayaneo has revealed that the Ayaneo 3 will feature a function called ‘Free Button’. According to a video they shared, users will have the flexibility to change the ABXY buttons on the Ayaneo 3 whenever they want. As a point of comparison, the Ayaneo 3 is said to offer a choice between LCD and OLED displays, which sets it apart from other Windows handhelds on the market.

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  • RTX 5090 Price Shock: New GB202 Chip 22% Larger than AD102

    RTX 5090 Price Shock: New GB202 Chip 22% Larger than AD102

    As the release of the RTX 50 "Blackwell" GPUs approaches, more information about Nvidia’s upcoming graphics cards is likely to surface. We’ve already learned about Team Green’s intentions for the RTX 50 laptop GPUs and the anticipated launch date for the RTX 5070 among others.

    Die Size Revelation

    According to MEGAsizeGPU on X, we might now have the precise die size of the RTX 5090, and it’s quite significant. The RTX 5090 is set to feature the GB202 GPU, which, as per MEGAsizeGPU, has a colossal size of 744 mm2. This represents an incredible 22.2% increase compared to the 609 mm2 AD102 chip in the RTX 4090. Such a rise in die size carries some crucial implications for the RTX 5090.

    Core Count Implications

    A large die size typically indicates a potential rise in core count, suggesting that the RTX 5090 could have significantly more CUDA cores than the RTX 4090. Current leaks suggest that the CUDA core count for the RTX 5090 might reach an astonishing 21,760. If this is accurate, it would mark a 33% increase from the RTX 4090’s 16,384 CUDA cores.

    Heat and Pricing Concerns

    With a notably larger die and increased CUDA cores, alongside the expected 600 W TDP, there are heat management concerns too. The RTX 4090 models on the market already have a substantial footprint. Given the 600 W TDP, it wouldn’t be surprising if the coolers on the RTX 5090 models are even larger.

    In addition, a bigger die leads to increased silicon needs, which can drive up costs. The RTX 5090’s GB202 GPU is likely to use the TSMC 4NP process, which is not brand new and may be cheaper than the 3 nm N3, but reports indicate TSMC may raise prices of the 4 nm process by nearly 10% next year. This price increase, along with the larger die size, could result in a significant rise in the RTX 5090’s price compared to the RTX 4090.

    Anticipated Pricing and Market Demand

    While Nvidia has yet to officially disclose the MSRP for the RTX 5090, recent leaks suggest it might be priced between $1,800 and $1,900. The $1,900 figure represents only a $300 increase from the RTX 4090’s launch price of $1,600. However, considering the RTX 4090 has become increasingly scarce at that price point since its launch, concerns arise.

    Currently, in the US, the RTX 4090 is hard to find for less than $2,000. The high demand for a 4090-class card will likely direct buyers toward the new RTX 5090, particularly since AMD does not have a rival product. Thus, while we expect the RTX 5090 to be available at its base MSRP at launch, it would not be surprising to see many AIB models priced significantly higher.

    In conclusion, the RTX 5090 appears to be a formidable GPU that will excel in 4K gaming. However, those interested in purchasing the card should be ready to spend, as Nvidia is likely to pass along the increased costs to consumers.

    MEGAsizeGPU on X, Tom’s Hardware, TrendForce, Teaser image: Notebookcheck, Laura Ockel on Unsplash, edited

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  • Never Run Out of Controllers Again: Switch 2 Patent Revealed

    Never Run Out of Controllers Again: Switch 2 Patent Revealed

    Four players, yet only three controllers—a common issue for console gamers. A new patent from the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has surfaced, suggesting a possible fix that might help Nintendo Switch users deal with controller shortages.

    Smartphones as Controllers

    The patent details a system where smartphones can act as controllers. Players would be able to connect their phones to the console simply by scanning a QR code displayed on the TV. This advancement could not only address the lack of controllers but also allow for more extensive multiplayer sessions than what Joy-Cons (which are $78 on Amazon) and Pro Controllers (retailing at $76 on Amazon) currently support. Moreover, it’s possible that smartphones could serve as extra screens, providing fresh opportunities for local multiplayer experiences.

    Future Console Considerations

    It’s important to point out that the patent does not specifically indicate that this function is related to a possible Switch 2. The illustrations that accompany the patent show a regular Nintendo Switch. However, with expectations of Nintendo’s next console arriving by March 2025, it’s reasonable to think the company may be planning to reserve such features for later.

    Developers Behind the Patent

    This patented technology was created by Ikki Niwa and Yusuke Akifusa, both of whom have strong connections to Nintendo. Niwa worked as a game designer on Nintendo Switch Sports, while Akifusa has a history of involvement with titles like Pokémon Stadium 2 and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. He also directed applications such as Nintendo 3DS Sound and Nintendo 3DS Camera. While Nintendo hasn’t issued any official comments, it seems probable that the company was directly involved in this development.

    On Reddit, a lot of users are excited about the possibility of smartphones changing local multiplayer gaming. However, there are those who remain doubtful, worried that this feature might turn out to be just another gimmick, similar to the Wii U’s second screen. As of now, it’s still unclear if this innovation will be incorporated into the expected successor to the Nintendo Switch, which sells for $299 on Amazon.

    Image source: Nintendo

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  • Aoostar Godx Gaming Mini PC with Discrete GPU Now Available

    Aoostar Godx Gaming Mini PC with Discrete GPU Now Available

    Aoostar has introduced a new gaming mini PC called Godx. While it isn’t the tiniest compact computer on the market, it does outperform many others. This device features the AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX, a high-performance processor from the Rembrandt series.

    Performance Capabilities

    Despite being three generations old, the CPU still effectively manages modern AAA games with ease. Aoostar has equipped the Godx with the Radeon RX 6600 LE, a GPU that’s exclusive to China. However, it looks like this RDNA 2-based desktop graphics card will soon be available worldwide.

    GPU Specifications

    The RX 6600 LE may not be the newest option from AMD. Its specifications are nearly identical to the standard non-LE RX 6600, which is a mid-range solution from 2021. Additionally, this isn’t the first time Aoostar has used this GPU. Earlier this year, the company launched the "Youyan," which also featured the same CPU and GPU, but it hasn’t been introduced globally yet.

    Benchmark Results

    In our tests, the non-LE version consistently achieved over 60 FPS in most games. Aoostar claims that the Godx mini PC can maintain a stable 80 FPS in Black Myth: Wukong at 2K resolution on high settings.

    To keep performance steady during demanding tasks, Aoostar has outfitted the Godx with what they call a Glacier 3.0 cooling system. This setup includes dual fans and seven heat pipes, designed to maintain a cool system while minimizing noise.

    Connectivity and Features

    The mini PC is also equipped with an Intel AX210 network card, which promises "esports-grade" WiFi 6 speeds, although it is actually a WiFi 6E card. It comes with a good selection of ports, including:

    Other notable features of the Aoostar Godx are its metal chassis, support for up to 32 GB of DDR5-4800 RAM, two M.2 PCIe 4.0 slots, and the ability to connect three displays at 4K 120 Hz. The barebone version of this gaming mini PC is currently available for pre-order on the official website at a price of $529, while the fully-loaded version with 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB storage is priced at $679.

    Source: Link

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  • Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070, 5070 Ti, 5080, 5090 Release Dates Leak

    Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070, 5070 Ti, 5080, 5090 Release Dates Leak

    With CES 2025 just around the corner, it isn’t surprising to see rumors about upcoming announcements coming to light. One of the main attractions at next year’s event in Las Vegas is expected to be the GeForce RTX 50 series, featuring Nvidia’s fresh Blackwell architecture.

    Possible New Models

    So far, it seems Nvidia has set the GeForce RTX 5080 and GeForce RTX 5090 to be unveiled during CES 2025, scheduled for January 7 to January 10. Nevertheless, VideoCardz has recently shared that there may also be a more affordable option making its debut at the same event. The site is currently uncertain whether this will be the GB205-300 based GeForce RTX 5070 or the more robust GeForce RTX 5070 Ti.

    Announcement Expectations

    Nonetheless, it is believed that at least one of these models will likely be revealed during CES 2025, alongside the GeForce RTX 5080 and GeForce RTX 5090. Interestingly, the specifications for the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti indicate that it will utilize a smaller version of the GB203 architecture, which will also serve as the foundation for the GeForce RTX 5080, among other updates. On another note, there have been some unexpected lower prices for the GeForce RTX 5090 that surfaced online earlier this week, and we have discussed those details separately.

    Future Launches

    Reports suggest that Nvidia is aiming to launch the GeForce RTX 5090 D in the first quarter of 2025 as well. This model is expected to be exclusive to China, much like the GeForce RTX 4090 D was. Therefore, it is unlikely that this card will make an appearance at any US-based exhibitions. In contrast, both Benchlife and VideoCardz currently do not anticipate the arrival of the GeForce RTX 5060 or the GeForce RTX 5060 Ti before the second quarter of 2025.

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  • Oppo Venom Gaming Tech Set to Transform Smartphone Gaming Soon

    Oppo Venom Gaming Tech Set to Transform Smartphone Gaming Soon

    In the fast-changing landscape of smartphone gaming, hardware improvements are just one piece of the puzzle. Software advancements are becoming crucial for smooth gameplay experiences. A recent leak suggests that Oppo may soon take the lead with its newly introduced “Venom” gaming technology.

    What is “Venom” Gaming Tech?

    According to the well-known industry figure Ice Universe, “Venom” is an innovative technology that operates at the core level of chip architecture. This advancement enables Oppo to enhance both energy efficiency and gaming performance by directly connecting with the chip’s main design. Ice Universe pointed out that “Venom is slaying with its ability to deepen the bottom layer to enhance energy efficiency,” emphasizing its potential for change.

    Comparisons and Improvements

    In addition, another prominent leaker, Digital Chat Station, likened this new tech to Oppo’s past developments, such as the 120 FPS GPU frame interpolation solution. Although that earlier tech was remarkable, it was only an introduction to the more extensive capabilities that Venom offers. This gaming technology provides frame-by-frame optimization, which helps reduce delays and power usage, leading to smoother gameplay and cooler devices. A particularly striking claim suggests that Venom could upgrade a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset to perform like a hypothetical “Snapdragon 8 Gen 3.5.” This highlights how software innovations can significantly affect raw processing power.

    Future Devices with Enhanced Gaming Experience

    Venom is expected to first appear in the upcoming OnePlus Ace smartphones, which belong to Oppo’s sub-brand. Gamers can look forward to major enhancements in thermal management, battery life, and overall efficiency. The technology aims to tackle two major concerns for gamers: lagging responses and high power consumption. Oppo’s dedication to revolutionizing the gaming experience goes further. The company has also revealed a custom networking chip intended to ensure optimal gaming performance, even under poor internet conditions, solidifying its position in the gaming realm.

    While devices like the Find X8, X8 Pro, and OnePlus 13 have already shown significant progress through improved chipsets and advanced cooling techniques in ColorOS 15 and Oxygen OS 15, Oppo is striving for even greater heights. With this gaming technology, Oppo is gearing up to lay the groundwork for its future flagship devices, promising gamers an exceptional blend of performance, immersive gameplay, and energy efficiency.

    Source: Link

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  • Gigabyte MO27Q2: New Gaming Monitor with QD-OLED Panel

    Gigabyte MO27Q2: New Gaming Monitor with QD-OLED Panel

    Only a few days ago, we shared news about the MO32U, which is a new addition to Gigabyte’s line of gaming monitors, boasting a 32-inch size and 4K resolution. To give you some background, the company also launched the Aorus FO32U2 and Aorus FO32U2P earlier this year, and then in the summer, they released the Aorus FO32U, which currently costs $949.99 on Amazon.

    New Addition to the 27-Inch Lineup

    On top of that, Gigabyte has refreshed its 27-inch series with the MO27Q2. This model seems to use the same QD-OLED panel from Samsung Display that’s found in the Aorus FO27Q2. In simple terms, the MO27Q2 provides a resolution of 1440p (2,560 x 1,440), paired with an impressively fast refresh rate of 240 Hz and a quick 0.03 ms GtG response time. Furthermore, the panel has certifications like VESA ClearMR 1300 and DisplayHDR True Black 400, which means it can achieve a full panel brightness of 250 nits, or 1,000 nits when displaying HDR content (APL 3%).

    Color and Viewing Experience

    In addition, the MO27Q2 supports 10-bit color and covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space, along with wide viewing angles of 178° horizontally and 178° vertically. Essentially, there are no distinct differences in these features between the FO27Q2 and MO27Q2. Both monitors are calibrated to △E ≤2 at the factory, come equipped with two 5 W speakers, and include the following ports:

    However, it’s worth noting that the MO27Q2 does not have a dedicated 3.5 mm microphone jack, which is available in the FO27Q2. The MO27Q2 does come with other useful features, like a KVM switch and Gigabyte’s typical gaming software enhancements, as well as an adjustable stand and VESA mounts measuring 100 x 100 mm. As mentioned by ComputerBase, Gigabyte plans to start selling the MO27Q2 in the first quarter of 2025.

    Source: Link,Link,Link,Link

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  • Lenovo’s Nvidia RTX 5050 Gaming Laptops Not Budget-Friendly

    Lenovo’s Nvidia RTX 5050 Gaming Laptops Not Budget-Friendly

    Nvidia is preparing to launch the RTX 50-series GPUs, with the potential reveal planned for CES 2025. A recent report indicates that the company has ceased production on nearly all of the RTX 40-series GPUs. Additionally, a Product Manager from Lenovo has mentioned that the RTX 4050 Laptop GPU will continue to be available alongside its upcoming successor.

    Updates on the RTX 5050 Laptop GPU

    The Lenovo Product Manager clarified that the RTX 5050 Laptop GPU will not be taking the place of the RTX 4050. According to the company official, this new mobile GPU is aimed at gaming laptops that fall into a higher price category.

    For those who are curious, gaming laptops equipped with the RTX 4050 can be found for under $1,000, with some models priced around $900 (like the MSI Thin 15, currently at $599.99 at Best Buy). While the Lenovo Product Manager hasn’t disclosed the starting price for the RTX 5050 laptops, it’s reasonable to expect that they will be similarly priced to the current RTX 4060 models.

    Specs of the New Nvidia GPU

    Regarding the new entry-level Nvidia Blackwell GPU, previous leaks have suggested that the RTX 5050 Laptop GPU might feature more cores than the previous model and could include 8 GB of GDDR7 memory. For comparison, the RTX 4050 Laptop comes with 6 GB of GDDR6 memory and is equipped with 2560 CUDA cores.

    It’s also worth mentioning that Nvidia is likely to maintain the stock of the RTX 4060 Laptop, as it shares the same AD107 GPU architecture with the RTX 4050 Laptop. However, it remains uncertain how long the laptops with the RTX 4060 will be available, especially if the RTX 5050 Laptop is indeed aimed at a higher pricing tier; the new entry-level Blackwell model may take its place.

    Weibo (translated from Chinese) via: Wccftech

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  • Steam Enforces New Season Pass Rules for Clearer Promises

    Steam Enforces New Season Pass Rules for Clearer Promises

    There have been many strong feelings about season passes and microtransactions since they started showing up in modern gaming, with lots of gamers seeing the slow content release as just another way for developers and publishers to make money. Now, Valve is taking steps to change how game companies can offer season passes on Steam.

    Promising Future Content

    When you buy a Season Pass, you are making a promise for upcoming content. During the launch of a Season Pass, you will need to set a schedule for when each piece of content will be released. This schedule is a promise to both Steam and the players.

    Valve’s Concerns

    Valve has two main issues with season passes: timing and clear communication. Under the new rules, any season pass sold on Steam must reveal what players can expect when the new content is released. Furthermore, if publishers don’t deliver the season pass on schedule — or within three months after Valve’s deadline — Valve will refund players through Steam.

    When a Season Pass is available for sale on Steam, it needs to have the following details:

    Game publishers and developers can postpone promised season pass content, but they must inform Valve in advance and notify their customers about the delay. This three-month buffer is meant to help with common development issues that happen in gaming these days.

    Additional Guidelines

    Another important point in the new season pass rules is that any season pass offered on Steam must come with at least one DLC that is already available at the time of buying, although pre-purchase season passes are excluded from this requirement for obvious reasons.

    It’s hard to say how these new regulations will change the gaming world, but they aim to create a fairer environment for gamers and consumers, even though the allowances for pre-purchase season passes might lead to more of those being offered.

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