Category: Gaming

  • Try the Highly Anticipated Game for Free Before PS5 Release

    Try the Highly Anticipated Game for Free Before PS5 Release

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new installment of Coffee Talk, titled Coffee Talk Tokyo, features gameplay in a Japanese setting, enhancing the narrative experience.
    2. A free demo of Coffee Talk Tokyo is available on PS5 and Xbox Series for players to try before the full release.
    3. The storytelling in the game is entrusted to a different studio, adding depth to customer interactions and narratives.
    4. The full version of Coffee Talk Tokyo is speculated to release by the end of 2025 across multiple platforms.
    5. The previous game in the series, Coffee Talk Episode 2, received a Metacritic score of 76 and is known for its relaxing atmosphere and soothing music.

    There are a lot of games available in the PS5 library, so players can find something that suits their taste. Now, there’s a chance to sample a new game for free before its official launch. If you love stories, this is one you won’t want to miss.

    A New Chapter in Coffee Talk

    The latest installment, Coffee Talk, is starting to gain buzz, particularly regarding its gameplay mechanics. A demo is now accessible on both PS5 and Xbox Series.

    In this edition, Coffee Talk Tokyo, you’ll immerse yourself in Japan, also known as the land of the rising sun. This setting allows you to explore the unique atmosphere of Japanese bars while experiencing a rich narrative brought to you by Chorus Worldwide Games Limited. Interestingly, Toge Production, who developed the game, has entrusted another studio with the storytelling aspect. This means you need to pay attention to your customers’ narratives, as some contain unexpected twists, and you’ll uncover much about both your regulars and newcomers.

    Try It for Free

    If you’re eager to give it a shot, the demo is available at no cost on PS5 and Xbox Series. As for when the full version will be released, not much information is out yet; however, it is speculated that it might come out by the end of 2025 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Series X, S, and Nintendo Switch.

    Just a quick reminder, the second game in this series, titled Coffee Talk Episode 2: Hibiscus & Butterfly, received a Metacritic score of 76 and was set in an alternate Seattle, where various creatures coexisted with humans. Your task was to serve beverages like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate while listening to the stories of your customers, showing them empathy. It’s important to mention that the soothing music in this version created a relaxing environment, allowing players to enjoy each moment fully. It’s clear that the same soothing vibes will be present in this new episode taking place in Japan.

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  • Steam Beta Introduces Long-Awaited Customization Features

    Steam Beta Introduces Long-Awaited Customization Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Valve introduced new customization options in the beta version of the Steam client, benefiting Steam Deck users.
    2. The accessibility menu allows separate UI size adjustments, high-contrast mode, reduced animations, and improved screen reader compatibility.
    3. In-game overlay improvements address high-DPI settings but some users experience crashes or black screens with NVIDIA graphics cards.
    4. User feedback is largely positive, especially for the scalable UI, but concerns remain about overlay issues and Big Picture mode.
    5. Users are requesting additional features, such as CPU temperature displays and enhanced gyro support, which have not yet been addressed.

    On June 7 and 8, Valve introduced fresh updates for the beta version of the Steam client, providing a lot more options for customization. These enhancements also benefit Steam Deck users (currently priced at €457 on Amazon), as it is anticipated that the new features will seamlessly transition to SteamOS without significant alterations.

    New Accessibility Features

    The latest accessibility menu enables users to modify the UI size separately from Windows scaling, which is a great aid for individuals with visual impairments or those using large monitors. Additionally, a special section includes various beneficial options: a high-contrast mode for better readability, diminished animations to lessen distractions (particularly suited for those with sensory sensitivities), and UI annotations that improve the compatibility with screen readers. Collectively, these updates make Steam more user-friendly and easier to navigate.

    In-Game Overlay Improvements

    The in-game overlay has been fine-tuned for high-DPI settings, fixing problems like font issues and cut-off display elements. However, not everything is working perfectly. Some players have faced crashes or black screens while using the overlay with NVIDIA graphics cards—though the audio continues to function, the screen stays dark. A Steam admin mentioned that this problem is not due to Valve’s beta update but stems from the NVIDIA driver itself.

    User Feedback and Suggestions

    In the comments on the update, many users have applauded the new features, particularly the scalable UI. Yet, some criticism persists. Issues with the overlay, ongoing problems in Big Picture mode, and requests for features like a CPU temperature display or better gyro support have not been resolved yet.

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  • Steam Deck vs Switch 2: Cyberpunk 2077 Performance Comparison

    Steam Deck vs Switch 2: Cyberpunk 2077 Performance Comparison

    Key Takeaways

    1. Early leaks indicate the Switch 2 performs well with Cyberpunk 2077, better than the Steam Deck in docked mode.
    2. In docked mode, the Switch 2 maintains around 30 fps with DLSS technology, offering more stable frame rates than the Steam Deck.
    3. The Steam Deck performs better as a handheld device, providing a more stable experience and often exceeding 30 fps during tests.
    4. The Switch 2 is more efficient, consuming less power while matching or surpassing the Steam Deck’s performance in Cyberpunk 2077.
    5. Despite performance advantages for the Switch 2, the Steam Deck’s OLED display offers superior image quality and HDR features.

    Before the release date of the Switch 2, there were leaks that revealed how well Nintendo’s new console performed with Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition. This game is one of the more intensive titles for the Switch 2, and early videos indicated that it ran better than on the Steam Deck. However, it wasn’t until recently that performance tests could be conducted side by side. In a fresh review, Digital Foundry discovered that one of these handheld devices had some distinct strengths.

    Benchmarks and Performance

    Due to the significant differences in specs between the Steam Deck and the Switch 2, the site tried to create a fair testing environment. The analysis featured the official benchmark for Cyberpunk, along with the Kabuki streaming run and the sequence titled The Beast in Me. Digital Foundry mentioned that the Switch 2 is designed for hybrid home use, while Valve markets the Steam Deck with a separate dock sold individually.

    Docked Mode Comparison

    When the consoles are in docked mode, Nintendo’s device clearly outperforms its competitor. In quality mode while playing Cyberpunk 2077, the Switch 2 usually maintains around 30 fps. Additionally, thanks to DLSS technology, the console shows more stable frame rates at higher resolutions compared to the Steam Deck. In certain tests, the docked Steam Deck struggles to keep up with the Switch 2’s performance, even with FSR3 or XeSS assistance. In performance mode, the results are similar, though the Nintendo console often runs under 40 fps.

    Handheld Usage

    Conversely, when used as a portable device, the Steam Deck manages to stand its ground against the Switch 2. During the Kabuki streaming run, the Nintendo console frequently drops below 30 fps. On the other hand, the Steam Deck provides a more stable experience, leading testers to believe that its CPU is more adept at handling certain tasks.

    Efficiency and Battery Life

    Another aspect where the Switch 2 specs give it an edge is efficiency. Consuming less power, the Nintendo device often matches or surpasses the performance of Valve’s handheld in Cyberpunk 2077. In contrast, the Steam Deck has a much larger battery to make up for its higher energy usage.

    With an increasing number of third-party AAA games arriving for the Switch 2, Nintendo might be a more favorable option for home gaming. However, benchmarks don’t capture the allure of the upgraded Steam Deck’s OLED display. Even if the resolution is lower, gamers could appreciate its superior image quality and HDR features.

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  • Game Console XF43: Affordable Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks

    Game Console XF43: Affordable Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks

    Key Takeaways

    1. The new XF43 gaming handheld is a budget-friendly device part of the XF35H line, inspired by the Anbernic RG35XX H.
    2. It features a similar button layout to the RG50XX, including Hall effect joysticks and a smaller 4.3-inch screen with a resolution of 480 x 272 pixels.
    3. The XF43 is powered by the RK3128 processor with four ARM Cortex-A7 CPU cores running at 1.3 GHz and includes 4 GB of DDR3 RAM.
    4. It has a 3,000 mAh battery and supports microSD cards up to 256 GB.
    5. The handheld is priced around $50 on Amazon, including a 64 GB microSD card and available in four color options.

    It looks like Game Console has quietly launched a new budget-friendly white label gaming handheld, which is already available under several brand names. This device is part of the XF35H line, which seems to have been inspired by the Anbernic RG35XX H. In comparison, the XF43 shares a lot of similarities with last year’s RG50XX from the same manufacturer.

    Design and Features

    The XF43 has a similar button layout to the RG50XX, featuring Hall effect joysticks, a d-pad, and the ABXY button arrangement. It also includes function buttons located at the top of the screen. Nevertheless, the XF43 sports a smaller 4.3-inch screen that has a resolution of just 480 x 272 pixels, unlike the RG50XX.

    Performance Specifications

    The device is powered by the RK3128 processor from Rockchip, which includes four ARM Cortex-A7 CPU cores running at 1.3 GHz. It also comes with what is said to be 4 GB of DDR3 RAM and a 3,000 mAh battery that can handle microSD cards up to 256 GB. Right now, this affordable gaming handheld is priced at about $50 on Amazon, or approximately $47 when you take into account a 5% discount at checkout, which also includes a 64 GB microSD card and four color options. Alternatively, you can find the same handheld from other sellers like What Geek.

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    Game Console XF43: Affordable Handheld with Hall Effect Joysticks

     

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  • Free Multi-Award Winning Game Revealed on Epic Games Store

    Free Multi-Award Winning Game Revealed on Epic Games Store

    Key Takeaways

    1. Backpack Hero and Figment are currently free on the Epic Games Store, with new free games being added on July 10, including Figment 2 and SkyRacket.
    2. An extensive bundle worth $79.99 is expected to be given away soon, according to leaker MeguminShiro.
    3. Sid Meier’s Civilization VI Platinum Edition will be available for free on July 17, 2025, at 15:00 UTC.
    4. The Platinum Edition includes the base game, two expansions, and six DLCs, offering a comprehensive gameplay experience.
    5. Civilization VI features unique leaders with specific traits and an active research system for technology and civics, enhancing strategic gameplay.

    Backpack Hero and Figment are currently available for free on the Epic Games Store, and on July 10 at 15:00 UTC, this selection of free games will be refreshed. With this change, Figment 2 and SkyRacket will also be available for $0 on the store. Furthermore, according to a leak from MeguminShiro, an extensive bundle valued at $79.99 is set to be given away.

    Upcoming Free Game Details

    Specifically, the reliable leaker has disclosed that the Epic Games Store will offer Sid Meier’s Civilization VI Platinum Edition for free on July 17, 2025, at 15:00 UTC. This package includes the base game, which has won multiple awards, along with two expansions and six downloadable content packs (DLCs).

    Civilization VI is known as a 4X strategy game where players can guide a civilization from the Stone Age all the way to the Information Age. Gamers can select a historical leader and then engage in city-building, warfare, and diplomacy.

    Leader Characteristics and City Expansion

    Each leader in the game carries their own unique agendas and traits that are inspired by their real-world counterparts. Another fascinating feature of this upcoming free title is the ability to physically expand cities across multiple tiles. This allows players to strategically position important areas for quicker advancement.

    Players can also utilize the active research system found in the game, which applies to both technology and civics. This system makes it possible to unlock new abilities and structures as players progress.

    Launched in 2016, Sid Meier’s Civilization VI has a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, and the Platinum Edition will provide players with two significant expansions: Gathering Storm and Rise and Fall, along with six DLCs. To find out more about this exciting upcoming free game, check out the video below.

    Community Insights

    MeguminShiro shared this information on r/EpicGamesPC, providing valuable insight into what players can look forward to in the near future.

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  • May Console and Accessory Sales Dip 13% in Investment

    May Console and Accessory Sales Dip 13% in Investment

    Key Takeaways

    1. Video game hardware sales decreased by 13% in May 2023 compared to May 2022, dropping from $197 million to $172 million.
    2. The PS5 remains the top-selling console, with a 3% increase in sales, while the Xbox Series and Nintendo Switch saw declines of 30% and 44%, respectively.
    3. Accessory sales also declined by 6%, from $165 million to $154 million, with the PS5 Dual Sense Wireless Controller being the best-selling accessory.
    4. Year-to-date sales for video game hardware dropped by 26%, and accessory sales saw a 12% decline.
    5. The ongoing sales drop suggests that current consoles may be nearing the end of their life cycle, indicating a potential need for new generation upgrades.

    The sales of video game consoles and accessories has been going down, according to new data from an analysis firm that reveals much lower sales figures for May compared to last year. The PS5 keeps its number one position among the consoles sold, however, the Xbox Series and the original Switch did not perform as well.

    Sales Data Overview

    This information comes from Circana through Mat Piscatella on BlueSky, showing that the spending on video game hardware decreased by 13% in May this year versus last year. The total dropped from $197 million to $172 million, continuing a trend observed over the past few months. Despite this, the PS5 (Buy on Amazon) experienced a 3% increase in sales, making it the top hardware seller in units and dollars. Conversely, sales for the Xbox Series consoles and the original Nintendo Switch plummeted by 30% and 44%, respectively.

    Accessories and Year-to-Date Sales

    When it comes to accessories, there was a 6% decline in sales, decreasing from $165 million to $154 million. The PS5 Dual Sense Wireless Controller in Midnight Black (Buy on Amazon) emerged as the top-selling accessory in both units and dollars.

    Circana also provided year-to-date (YTD) data but mentioned that January 2024 had a five-week tracking period while January 2025 was only four weeks. During this timeframe, video game hardware sales dropped by 26%, and accessory sales saw a 12% decline.

    Market Trends and Best-Selling Games

    This ongoing drop hints that the PS5, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switch consoles may be reaching the end of their life cycle. The PS5 and Xbox Series were introduced in 2020 while the original Switch launched in 2017. Although there is a new Switch model available, the PS5 and Xbox Series appear to be due for a new generation upgrade.

    In terms of the best-selling video games for May, Elden Ring: Nightreign and Doom: The Dark Ages took the top two places, while The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, which was the best-seller the previous month, slipped to number four. There has also been a surge in sales for Star Wars: Battlefront II, which rose from 135 to number 12 in May due to recent buzz around the game.

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  • Stardew Valley Becomes Steam’s Top-Rated Game: Rankings Inside

    Stardew Valley Becomes Steam’s Top-Rated Game: Rankings Inside

    Key Takeaways

    1. Top-Rated Game: Stardew Valley is currently the highest-rated game on Steam, surpassing popular titles like Portal 2 and Terraria, with an overall rating of 8.87 and 98% positive feedback from nearly 900,000 players.

    2. Unique Ranking System: Steam250 uses a special formula to rank games, considering both the percentage of positive reviews and the total number of reviews to determine a game’s standing.

    3. Engaged Community: Since its 2016 launch, Stardew Valley has fostered a vibrant community, with players expressing gratitude for the game’s emotional depth and themes of belonging and kindness.

    4. Creator’s Vision: Eric Barone, the game’s developer, created Stardew Valley alone over four years, infusing it with his personal values and an emphasis on community, freedom, and nature.

    5. Emotional Connection: The game’s focus on rewarding community and kindness resonates with players, especially in challenging times, reflecting a desire for belonging and emotional fulfillment.

    Stardew Valley, which is presently on sale on Steam for $7.49, has now become the top-rated game on Steam, as per information from Steam250, a site that collects user review scores from Valve’s online store. This indie farming simulator, developed by Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone, has climbed to the number one spot on Steam’s Top 250 list, surpassing long-time favorites like Portal 2 and Terraria.

    Game Rankings Explained

    Steam250 ranks games with a unique formula that takes into account both the share of positive reviews and the total amount of reviews. As of July 2025, Stardew Valley boasts an overall rating of 8.87, with an impressive 98% positive feedback from 899,986 players. In contrast, Portal 2 is in second place with 99% positive reviews but from a smaller group of 436,665 users. Meanwhile, Terraria holds third place with 97% positive comments from 1.42 million reviews.

    Community Responses

    Since its launch in 2016, Stardew Valley has kept a vibrant and engaged community. On Reddit, its ranking led to a flood of gratitude for the game’s emotional depth. One user, dhusk, mentioned, “In today’s world, it’s no wonder that a game about belonging, acceptance, and the rewards of hard work has achieved such popularity. All of that seems to be out of reach with many people struggling daily.”

    Another user, Serious-Landscape568, remarked, “I totally agree; there’s something unique about how SDV rewards not only money but also community and kindness. In a time where many feel powerless, that really strikes a chord.”

    The Creator’s Vision

    This emotional connection isn’t by chance. Eric Barone shared in an interview, “It’s a lifetime of creating things.” He single-handedly developed Stardew Valley, “coding, illustrating, composing music, and writing,” over a span of four years.

    His decisions were influenced by his personal values. He chose to omit animal butchering because “it didn’t fit the vibe I was aiming for.” The game’s environment is inspired by his roots in the Pacific Northwest: “The essence of this nature is deeply embedded in me.”

    Barone emphasized the game’s freedom, stating, “If you want to raise 300 rabbits, you can.” He expressed, “I think everyone desires a sense of belonging… this was my way of achieving that.” This authenticity continues to resonate with players around the globe. If you’re a supporter of the game and curious about the development process, you can check out the full interview below.

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  • Play The Last of Us Part II Remastered in Chronological Order

    Play The Last of Us Part II Remastered in Chronological Order

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Last of Us Part II Remastered was released for PS5 in January 2024 and for PC in April 2024.
    2. A new free update allows players to experience the game in a Chronological mode for better narrative understanding.
    3. The developers recommend first-time players start with the original gameplay order.
    4. The update includes new trophies and two new skins for the No Return survival mode.
    5. Patch 2.1.0 for PS5 and Patch 1.5 for PC also provide various bug fixes and performance enhancements.

    The Last of Us Part II was launched in June 2020, and a remastered edition was released in January 2024 for the PS5. Following that, in April of the same year, The Last of Us Part II Remastered became available on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. The game’s narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, but Naughty Dog has introduced a new update that lets players experience Ellie’s adventure in a chronological order. This is aimed at attracting newcomers and enticing those who’ve already played the game.

    New Update Announcement

    As per the announcement on the PlayStation Blog, the free update for The Last of Us Part II Remastered now allows players on PS5 and PC to start the game in Chronological mode. The Naughty Dog team believes that this option will further enrich players’ understanding of the narrative in Part II. According to Jonathon Dornbush, the Editorial Content Manager, “Players will be able to see how Ellie being gifted a guitar flows so neatly into her learning to play, for example, while the journey through Seattle will showcase the fascinating parallels between Ellie and Abby’s crisscrossing journeys. You’ll see just how close they come into running into each other, how their actions impact each other, and more.”

    Playing Experience

    For those playing for the first time, the developers still suggest experiencing the game in its original form, but the Chronological mode is an available option. Once again, the team collaborated with Nixxes to facilitate this new experience for PC users. Additionally, players can earn new trophies in Chronological mode, and there are two new skins to use in the No Return survival mode.

    Patch Details

    The PS5 update is delivered through Patch 2.1.0, while the PC update is contained in Patch 1.5. Along with these new features, the update also includes various bug fixes and enhancements for performance.

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  • Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Demo for Pocket Mini 2 & Pocket 4 Pro

    Retroid Dual Screen Add-on Demo for Pocket Mini 2 & Pocket 4 Pro

    Key Takeaways

    1. Retroid has launched a Dual Screen Add-on for its handheld devices, enhancing gameplay by providing an additional screen.
    2. The add-on connects via a removable USB-C to USB-C cable and is compatible with the Retroid Pocket Mini and Retroid Pocket 4 Pro.
    3. The demo showcases various functionalities, like displaying game information on one screen while playing a game on the handheld, and using split-screen mode.
    4. Retroid offers two versions of the Dual Screen Add-on: one for its devices and another for other devices with specific size requirements.
    5. The add-on is priced at $69, with a $5 discount available using the code “RDS,” and shipping is expected to start on August 5.

    Retroid has released a demonstration video showcasing its Dual Screen Add-on working with two of its handheld devices. This accessory provides an additional screen above a compatible handheld, resembling dual-screen gadgets like the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS.

    Demo Overview

    The video, which is three minutes long, features the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on utilized with a Retroid Pocket Mini and a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro (which can be found on Amazon for $199). It highlights that the Dual-Screen Add-on comes with a removable USB-C to USB-C cable. This cable connects to the display and the handheld device via their respective ports.

    Gameplay Experience

    In the demo, the Retroid Pocket Mini is shown running a racing game. Here, the Dual Screen acts as the main display, while the handheld screen shows a map, car position, and additional game information. In another part of the video with the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, the dual screen add-on is used to play a YouTube video while the user plays a game on the handheld. This allows users to watch a walkthrough video on the external screen while engaging in gameplay on the handheld.

    Additional Features

    This is not the first time Retroid has shared a video displaying the screen accessory prior to its launch. An earlier video illustrates the Dual Screen Add-on mirroring the handheld’s display. It also demonstrates how users can activate a split-screen mode, where one screen displays different content from the other.

    Retroid provides two different versions of the Dual Screen Add-on. One version is specifically designed for Retroid devices (including Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, Retroid Pocket 5, and Retroid Pocket Mini). The other version features a longer back clip and is suitable for other devices that have screen sizes between 6-7 inches, a maximum height of 115mm, and support DisplayPort via USB-C.

    Pricing and Availability

    Both variants of the Retroid Dual Screen Add-on can currently be ordered directly from Retroid for $69. Buyers can receive a $5 discount by using the code “RDS.” Shipping is anticipated to start on August 5.

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  • Cyberpunk 2077 Joins PlayStation Plus with a Special Condition

    Cyberpunk 2077 Joins PlayStation Plus with a Special Condition

    Key Takeaways

    1. Cyberpunk 2077 is currently available at appealing discounts for PlayStation users with an active subscription.
    2. An Essential tier subscription won’t work; players need Extra, Premium, or Deluxe to access the game.
    3. The base game is included in the subscription, but the DLC, Phantom Liberty, must be purchased separately.
    4. The game has seen significant improvements since its release, including revamped mechanics and a returning metro line.
    5. CD Projekt Red plans to release one more DLC, adding more content to the game experience.

    Cyberpunk 2077 has been available for some time now, and it frequently sees appealing discounts. For PlayStation users who hesitated to buy the game, now is a great opportunity to give it a go. Just remember, you must have an active PlayStation Plus subscription.

    Subscription Requirements

    Keep in mind that the Essential tier won’t work for this. You need to have either Extra, Premium, or Deluxe. Like all games on the subscription service, you’ll have access to Cyberpunk 2077 as long as your subscription remains active. However, this offer only includes the base game, so if you want the DLC, Phantom Liberty, you’ll have to purchase it separately. This DLC is a crucial component of the Cyberpunk 2077 experience and is highly recommended for an added bonus.

    Game Updates and Improvements

    Typically, one could say Cyberpunk 2077 is nearing the end of its life cycle, but CD Projekt Red has announced that there will be one more DLC released soon. It may not be as large as Phantom Liberty, but it’s likely to include some exciting content. Players who were turned off by the game’s underwhelming performance on the PS4 will be happy to hear that it has improved significantly since its initial release.

    A lot of game mechanics have been revamped, such as the skill tree, weapons, vehicles, and more. The metro line that was originally removed from the base game is also making its return. The game now fully utilizes the advanced features of the PlayStation 5, although it’s unlikely that there will be specific enhancements for the PS5 Pro.

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