Category: Gaming

September 27, 2024
Blizzard Working on New StarCraft Shooter, Release Uncertain
Since the last expansion for StarCraft II in 2016 and the debut of StarCraft: Remastered in 2017, Blizzard’s famous StarCraft series has not seen any new content. However, prominent journalist and author Jason Schreier suggests that this might change soon. In a conversation on the Unlocked podcast, Schreier revealed that Blizzard is reportedly developing a StarCraft shooter again, this time under the guidance of Dan Hay, a former executive director from Far Cry with extensive experience in shooter game development.
Skepticism Among Fans
There is a significant amount of skepticism among fans regarding the game’s potential release. Blizzard has previously initiated two StarCraft shooter projects but did not complete them. One of the most notable examples is StarCraft: Ghost, a third-person shooter announced in 2002. Despite high hopes and numerous changes in development teams over twelve years, the project was officially canceled in 2014. Another initiative, codenamed Ares, aimed to create a first-person shooter reminiscent of Battlefield, but it too was scrapped in 2019.
Renewed Hopes and Speculation
While the origin of Schreier’s information remains uncertain, it has sparked renewed interest in the possibility of a StarCraft shooter. Discussions are already vibrant on Reddit regarding potential gameplay elements. Speculations cover a variety of scenarios, from gameplay similar to Left 4 Dead featuring Zerg adversaries to real-time battles inspired by Planetside.
Upcoming Book Release
Additionally, Jason Schreier’s latest book, "Play Nice: The Rise, Fall, and Future of Blizzard Entertainment," is set to be published on October 8. The hardback edition of the book is available for pre-order on Amazon for approximately $27.
Tags: Blizzard Entertainment, Jason Schreier
September 27, 2024
Lenovo Legion Go Gen 2 Gaming Handheld Introduced in Brochure
Only a few days after leaks confirmed the arrival of Lenovo’s upcoming Legion Go Lite handheld, fresh news has emerged for fans of the original Lenovo Legion Go. A recent report from VideoCardz indicates that the compatibility brochure for the newly launched Legion Go Dock reveals it will support three different handheld devices. Two of these are already known: the Legion Go, which is currently priced at $589 on Amazon and debuted in October 2023, and the recently leaked Legion Go Lite. The brochure also mentions a third device, the Lenovo Legion Go Gen Two handheld, which was previously hinted at during the Lenovo Innovate 24 event.
Speculation on the Gen Two Handheld
Interestingly, the second product brochure link on the Lenovo Legion Go USB-C Dock product page does not reference the Gen Two handheld or the Go Lite. Despite this omission, it is anticipated that the second-generation console, expected to feature several enhancements, will be officially announced soon. While no additional leaks have emerged yet, given that the first Legion Go was based on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture, the successor may incorporate the latest Zen 5 processors, known as Strix Point. The Ryzen 9 AI HX 370, a potential candidate for the Gen Two, has demonstrated impressive performance in Cinebench R23 benchmarks, achieving a peak of 23,786 points in multi-core tests and 354 points per watt in power efficiency. This chip competes well against other mobile processors like Apple’s M3 Max and Intel’s Core Ultra series, showcasing a balanced blend of performance and power efficiency—both essential for gaming on handheld devices.
Caution on Credibility
Ultimately, these insights are speculative, grounded in current industry trends and hardware leaks. Additionally, there is always the possibility that Lenovo made an error in the noted Dock Compatibility brochure, so it’s wise to approach this leak with caution. More definitive details should surface once Lenovo officially launches the new handheld, which is likely to occur next year unless further leaks arise beforehand.
In the meantime, you can check out our magazine article discussing four key issues we hope the upcoming Legion Go Gen Two will address upon its release.
Lenovo Legion Go USB-C Dock website and brochures (1) (2) via VideoCardz.
Tags: Lenovo Legion Go
September 26, 2024
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 Specs Leak: Huge VRAM Boost vs RTX 5080
Prolific leaker Kopite7kimi has disclosed the specifications for Nvidia’s upcoming GeForce RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 graphics cards. The RTX 5090 will finally receive a significant increase in VRAM, while the RTX 5080 will not see this upgrade. Additionally, the RTX 5090 is expected to consume even more power than its predecessors. The exact launch date remains uncertain, but CES 2025 is anticipated to showcase this flagship product.
GeForce RTX 5090 Specifications
The Blackwell flagship GeForce RTX 5090 (PG144/145-SKU30, GB202-300-A1 GPU) will feature 21,760 CUDA cores. The total number of Streaming Multiprocessors (SM) is still unknown, as it depends on how many CUDA cores each SM will include. Other significant specifications consist of 32 GB of 28 Gbps GDDR7 VRAM on a 512-bit bus, offering an impressive total memory bandwidth of approximately 1.5 TB/s. The graphics card is expected to have a Total Graphics Power (TGP) of 600 Watts, likely necessitating two 12VHPWR cables to avoid overheating issues associated with high wattage through a single connector.
GeForce RTX 5080 Specifications
Kopite7kimi previously mentioned that the GeForce RTX 5080 (PG144/147-SKU45, GB203-400-A1 GPU) would be half of the AD202 architecture, and this holds true. It will include 10,752 CUDA cores and 16 GB of 28 Gbps VRAM on a 256-bit bus, resulting in a total memory bandwidth of around 750 GB/s. The TGP for this card is set at 400 Watts, which is significantly higher than the RTX 4080’s 320 Watts.
Performance Expectations
Given these specifications, the GeForce RTX 5090 is expected to be a powerhouse. In contrast, the RTX 5080 seems more like a mid-cycle refresh rather than an exciting new entry. This trend may extend to lower-tier models, suggesting that we can expect more xx70 and xx60 class cards with 8 GB of VRAM in the near future.
Tags: Nvidia RTX 5080, Nvidia RTX 5090
September 26, 2024
Epic Games Store Offers Free Indie Game This Week
Epic Games has refreshed its weekly game giveaway, revealing details last week. Recently, the platform has been offering multiple titles each week in its giveaway program. However, it has shifted back to featuring just one game, which will be free to download later today.
Free Game Details
The Epic Games Store is making The Spirit and the Mouse available at no cost, reducing the price from $19.99 to $0.00 starting at 15:00 UTC. This giveaway will be available until October 3 at 14:59 UTC. It’s important to mention that while The Spirit and the Mouse can be played on PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, and Windows, the free offer is only for the Windows version of the game.
System Requirements
The game has fairly low system requirements, even for its more demanding settings. Theoretically, The Spirit and the Mouse can operate on a Windows 10 machine with just 4 GB of RAM, an AMD A8-3850 or Intel Core i7-8550U processor, and an AMD Radeon R7 250 or Intel HD Graphics 620 GPU. However, the developers suggest having at least 8 GB of RAM and a stronger CPU, such as the AMD FX-4300 or an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 GPU. For more specifics, please check the Epic Games store listing.
Important Note
Disclaimer: Notebookcheck is not liable for any price changes made by retailers. The discounted price or deal mentioned here was accurate at the time of writing and may be subject to time limits and/or limited stock availability.
Tags: Epic Games
September 26, 2024
Xiaomi Mouse X1: 26,000 DPI, 110-Hour Battery for $59.99
Xiaomi Mouse X1 is a high-performance and lightweight gaming mouse crafted for seamless and responsive gameplay. With state-of-the-art technology and a design that prioritizes ergonomics, this mouse provides precision, speed, and comfort for gamers, whether they play casually or competitively.
Pre-Sale Details
The Xiaomi Mouse X1 is open for pre-sale now, with deliveries expected to start on October 8th. You can reserve this exceptional mouse for only $59.99 at Geekwills.
Key Specifications
- PAW3395 Sensor: 650 IPS tracking speed, 50G acceleration
- DPI Range: 50-26,000 for precise tracking
- Polling Rate: 8kHz in wireless mode, 1kHz in wired mode
- Battery Life: 530mAh capacity, up to 110 hours in wireless mode at a 1000Hz polling rate
- Connections: Wired and 2.4GHz wireless options
- Weight: A lightweight design at just 65g for swift movements
- Dimensions: 125.3 x 63.4 x 40.6mm
Stylish and Functional Design
The Xiaomi Mouse X1 showcases an elegant and minimalist design that enhances its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Its smooth contours and integrated arched button ensure a comfortable grip, making it perfect for extended gaming periods. Offered in both black and white, the mouse adds a touch of sophistication to any modern setup.
Advanced Sensor for Accurate Tracking
This mouse is equipped with a PAW3395 sensor that offers a tracking speed of 650 IPS and 50G acceleration. The advanced sensor allows for precise and smooth tracking, making it ideal for intense gaming. Additionally, the TTC optical switches contribute to an enjoyable experience, delivering a satisfying click with every press.
Low Latency for Enhanced Performance
The Xiaomi Mouse X1 features an 8000Hz wireless connection, ensuring an ultra-fast response time of just 0.125 milliseconds. This low latency enhances gaming performance and can give players a significant advantage in competitive situations.
Extended Battery Life
With its built-in 530mAh battery, the Xiaomi Mouse X1 offers up to 110 hours of usage in 2.4GHz wireless mode, even at a 1000Hz polling rate. It also includes an LED battery indicator for monitoring power levels, allowing for uninterrupted gaming experiences.
Ergonomic Comfort
The design of the Xiaomi Mouse X1 focuses on user comfort, fitting naturally in the hand. Its enhanced tactile feedback ensures that every click is both accurate and satisfying, making long gaming sessions more enjoyable.
Package Contents
- Xiaomi Mouse X1
- USB Type-A to USB Type-C cable
- USB adapter
- Smart USB wireless receiver
The Xiaomi Mouse X1 merges cutting-edge technology with ergonomic design and impressive battery life, providing an outstanding gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual player or a pro, this mouse aims to boost your performance.
Tags: ergonomic design, gaming mouse, Xiaomi Mouse X1
September 26, 2024
Meta Quest 3S Launches at Meta Connect for $299 Starting Price
The highly anticipated Meta Quest 3S MR headset has been officially revealed at Meta Connect 2024. This new headset serves as an affordable option, ideal for those exploring mixed reality for the first time or looking to upgrade from their Meta Quest or Meta Quest 2.
Specifications and Features
The Meta Quest 3S is equipped with the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, which is also found in the pricier Quest 3 headset (currently available on Amazon for $649). Unlike the Quest 3, it does not feature pancake lenses; instead, it utilizes Fresnel lenses with a slightly narrower field of view. A significant advantage is that it offers the full color Passthrough functionality similar to the Quest 3, accessible via a dedicated “Action Button” for toggling between passthrough and immersive experiences.
With a resolution of 1832 x 1920 and refresh rates of 90Hz and 120Hz, the Quest 3S boasts a horizontal field of view of 96° and a vertical field of view of 90°. It includes 8GB of RAM and options for either 128GB or 256GB of storage. The device features a 4,324mAh battery, which, while smaller than the Quest 3’s 5,060mAh battery, still allows for up to 2.5 hours of usage, slightly better than the Quest 3’s 2.2 hours.
Compatibility and Accessories
Meta has ensured that the Quest 3S is compatible with several accessories from the Quest 3 lineup, including the Elite Strap, Elite Strap with Battery, Carrying Case, Compact Carrying Case, Link cable, controller-specific Charging Dock, and Active Straps. Additionally, it will come with an exclusive Breathable Facial Interface designed to keep users cool during vigorous gaming sessions or workouts.
The Meta Quest 3S is now available for pre-order, with a release date set for October 15. The price for the 128GB version is $299.99, while the 256GB version is priced at $399.99. Both versions include a pair of Touch Plus controllers.
Special Offers
From now until April 30, 2025, every order of the Quest 3S will include a complimentary copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow, a game exclusive to the Quest 3 and Quest 3S, launching on October 22, 2024. Additionally, Meta will provide a free three-month subscription to Meta Quest+.
Tags: Meta Quest 3S, mixed reality headset
September 26, 2024
OneXGPU 2: AMD Radeon RX 7800M eGPU Release and Bundle Deal
The upcoming release of One-Netbook’s next external graphics processing unit (eGPU) is just around the corner, following a series of teasers throughout August and early September. The OneXGPU 2 is notable as it is the first device to feature the newly announced Radeon RX 7800M, which AMD revealed just two weeks ago. This laptop-grade GPU is equipped with impressive hardware specifications:
Performance Comparison
The OneXGPU 2 is expected to significantly outperform its predecessor, the OneXGPU powered by the Radeon RX 7600M, which is currently available on Amazon for $699.99. Reports suggest that the Radeon RX 7800M will enable the OneXGPU 2 to exceed the performance of NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 4070 laptop GPU, although this advantage may be limited to OCuLink and not extend to USB 4. The OneXGPU 2 will also feature a variety of ports, making it versatile for different setups.
Launch Details
One-Netbook plans to launch the ONEXPLAYER OneXGPU 2 on September 26 through Indiegogo. The company has confirmed that pre-orders will begin at 16:00 UTC, starting at a price of $839. It’s important to note that this introductory price will only be available until September 30 at 15:59 UTC, after which it will increase to $899. Additionally, customers have the option to purchase the OneXGPU 2 bundled with the ONEXPLAYER X1 for $1,838, with the price rising to $2,198 for a configuration that includes 64 GB of RAM and 4 TB of storage.
Tags: Indiegogo, OneXGPU 2, Radeon RX 7800M
September 26, 2024
PS5 Pro 120 FPS at 1440p: Tips for Optimizations and PSSR
Sony’s new PS5 Pro console has had a rather controversial launch. Priced at a staggering $699, the PS5 Pro features the same Zen 2-based CPU as the original PS5 but boasts a GPU that claims to enhance performance by 45%. Unfortunately, Sony’s official demonstrations showed only slight improvements in graphics and performance.
Significant Enhancements Noted
A recent report from Digital Foundry indicated that the PS5 Pro does provide notable advancements over the original PS5. Gameplay from Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth showcased what Digital Foundry describes as "night and day improvements." The PS5 Pro achieved a steady 60 fps in performance mode, along with impressive enhancements in visual fidelity.
Promising Gameplay Capabilities
Industry insider Moore’s Law is Dead reported that gameplay footage from an unnamed developer suggested the PS5 Pro could run their game at dynamic resolutions between 1600p and 1300p at approximately 50 fps. When the framerate was unlocked, it easily surpassed 100 fps without any optimizations required. The developer expressed confidence that with further tweaks specific to the PS5 Pro, the console could maintain 1440p to 1600p at 120 fps or even reach 4K 60 fps at ultra settings.
The Price Dilemma
Despite these impressive features, the PS5 Pro’s high price cannot be ignored. Additionally, considering the original PS5 (currently priced at $449 on Amazon) was released nearly four years ago, significant improvements were to be expected. Nevertheless, for gamers seeking top-tier console performance, the PS5 Pro is indeed an attractive option—if they can handle the hefty price tag.
Tags: Gaming Performance, PS5 Pro, sony
September 25, 2024
Assassin’s Creed Shadows Delayed to Valentine’s Day 2024
A recent announcement from Ubisoft has revealed that the release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows has been postponed to February 14, 2025. The game was initially slated for November 12, 2024, but the development team needs additional time to enhance important aspects, such as the stealth mechanics and the dual-protagonist system. This information was shared through a tweet from the official @assassinscreed account on X/Twitter.
Delays and Cancellations
This postponement follows Ubisoft’s decision to cancel its appearance at the Tokyo Game Show and the planned press previews, which raised questions about the viability of the November release. In light of this situation, Ubisoft assured fans that all preorders for Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be refunded. Additionally, future preorders will come with a complimentary first expansion as a gesture of goodwill.
Developer’s Statement
Marc-Alexis Côté, the executive producer of the delayed title, expressed the following on behalf of the Assassin’s Creed Shadows team:
"We understand this decision will come as disappointing news, especially to those who’ve been waiting patiently for an Assassin’s Creed game inspired by Feudal Japan, but we sincerely believe this is in the best interest of the game, and ultimately your experience as a player."
Côté has played a significant role in the Assassin’s Creed series, having previously contributed to titles like Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.
Tags: Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, game delay, Ubisoft
September 25, 2024
OnePlus and Oppo Partner with Spotify for In-App Gaming Feature
Music and mobile gaming often go hand-in-hand, but switching between apps to control playback can disrupt the flow. In a move to streamline this experience, OnePlus and Oppo have partnered with Spotify to introduce a new in-app gaming overlay.
New Overlay for Seamless Experience
According to a recent post on X (formerly Twitter) by Pete Lau, chief product officer at OPPO and founder of OnePlus, select users will gain access to a unique overlay within the Spotify app. This feature allows you to play games on your mobile device while controlling your music playback at the same time.
Essentially, you won’t need to toggle back and forth between the Spotify app and your game to change the volume, skip songs, or pause your music. This update could significantly enhance convenience for those who enjoy listening to music while playing their favorite mobile games.
Streamlining User Experience
The main goal here seems to be improving the experience for users who like to game with music in the background. Both OnePlus and OPPO are optimistic that integrating these functionalities into a single interface will make the experience smoother for users.
However, there is a small catch: it remains uncertain which regions will initially have access to this new feature. Currently, the rollout appears to be limited, with more information about availability in different markets expected to be announced soon.
A New Trend in Mobile Features
This collaboration between OnePlus, OPPO, and Spotify represents a fresh approach to blending music streaming with mobile gaming. It may pave the way for new trends in smartphone feature development and cross-app functionalities.
If you have a OnePlus or OPPO device and live in a region where this update is available, be on the lookout for the new overlay option in your Spotify app. Once it’s accessible, you can dive into the gaming tools and music control features it provides and assess how they improve your entertainment experience on the go.
Tags: Oneplus, Oppo, Spotify