Category: Gaming

  • Fan Receives Reply from PlayStation After Complaining About PS5 Games

    Fan Receives Reply from PlayStation After Complaining About PS5 Games

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is committed to delivering exceptional single-player experiences while exploring ways to expand their audience.
    2. PlayStation executive Herman Hulst emphasizes that single-player PS5 titles are a key reason for consumers to purchase a PlayStation console.
    3. A recent job advertisement suggests the possibility of more PlayStation exclusive titles being released on rival platforms like Xbox and Nintendo.
    4. Industry insiders believe not all exclusive titles will be available on other consoles immediately; the focus will likely be on select cross-platform games.
    5. Microsoft’s multiplatform strategy is proving profitable, potentially reducing the reasons for gamers to remain loyal to a single console.

    The console competition might be slowing down this time around, but not every gamer is accepting this truth. A current job advertisement hinted that more PlayStation exclusive titles could be released on different platforms. This news upset one fan who chose to send a complaint email to the company. Much to their surprise, the PlayStation Head Office actually replied.

    Sony’s Commitment

    In their response, Sony stated that they are “fully committed to providing outstanding single-player experiences.” They acknowledged that they are looking into ways to broaden their audience, but they are “dedicated to maintaining the distinctive identity that PlayStation embodies.” While the response pleased the Reddit user, many other readers viewed the email as a standard reply sent to numerous customers.

    Insights from PlayStation Executives

    The views of PlayStation executive Herman Hulst mirror the message sent to the frustrated gamer. Back in June, Hulst articulated that Sony sees its single-player PS5 titles as a reason for consumers to buy a PlayStation console.

    The job ad that stirred up such a strong reaction was for a Senior Director in Multiplatform & Account Management. The job description includes overseeing content on various platforms like Xbox and Nintendo. The company has already ported several PlayStation exclusive games to PCs. However, the upcoming release of Helldivers 2 on Series X|S consoles in August is particularly significant. Seeing first-party PS5 games on a Nintendo handheld would also make headlines.

    Insider Opinions

    Since news about the job opportunity has circulated, industry insiders have downplayed its importance. According to Shinobi602, it is improbable that every exclusive title will be available on rival consoles and PCs right from the start. Instead, the company is likely to be choosy about which cross-platform games to release. To grow their player communities, live-service and some multiplayer games would be the most logical choices.

    It is clear that many gamers still take pride in their consoles and the unique perks they provide. However, Microsoft is demonstrating the profitability of a multiplatform strategy by leading sales against the competing PS5. Xbox, Nintendo, and PC players might soon have even fewer reasons to stick to one particular device.

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    Fan Receives Reply from PlayStation After Complaining About PS5 Games

     

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  • Lexar Launches Affordable 4TB SSD for PlayStation 5 Gamers

    Lexar Launches Affordable 4TB SSD for PlayStation 5 Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lexar launched a new PCIe 4.0 SSD designed to match the PlayStation 5 (PS5) aesthetic, targeting gamers as a storage upgrade.
    2. The new SSD has a maximum read speed of 7,000 MB/s and a write speed of up to 6,000 MB/s, slightly lower than its predecessor.
    3. It includes a heat-sink and is a plug-and-play option for the PS5, allowing users to keep their current games without uninstalling.
    4. The SSD is currently priced at $224.99 through Costco as an online exclusive, down from $249.59 for the previous 4TB model.
    5. This updated model is a revised version of Lexar’s flagship SSD that has been available on Amazon for some time.

    Lexar has made a bold move by launching its newest PCIe 4.0 SSD, which has a design that mimics the front of the PlayStation 5 (PS5), making it an ideal storage upgrade for gamers.

    Specifications and Performance

    This SSD is actually a new update of the flagship model that has been on Amazon for a while now, but it comes with a slightly lower maximum read speed of 7,000 megabytes per second (MB/s) and a write speed reaching up to 6,000MB/s. In contrast, the original Play 2280 boasted a max read speed of 7,400 megabytes per second (MB/s) and a write speed of up to 6,500MB/s.

    Features and Compatibility

    The updated model still features a heat-sink and is designed as a plug-and-play option for the PS5, meaning users don’t have to uninstall or delete any of their current games.

    Pricing

    Currently, the SE is available for $224.99 through Costco, but only as an online exclusive, which is a drop from the $249.59 price tag of its 4TB predecessor.

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  • Beware: Fake Battlefield 6 Playtest Invites Steal Steam Accounts

    Beware: Fake Battlefield 6 Playtest Invites Steal Steam Accounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Battlefield 6’s official trailer was released on July 24, generating excitement for the game.
    2. Fake playtest invitations are circulating on social media, aimed at stealing user information.
    3. The first trailer revealed single-player campaign visuals and hinted at multiplayer details coming on July 31.
    4. There is speculation about an open beta starting on August 4, but this date has not been confirmed by EA.
    5. EA may have hinted at a release date of October 11 based on pre-order information ending on October 10.

    Battlefield 6 has been creating a lot of buzz lately, especially after its official trailer dropped on July 24. EA revealed that an open beta is on the horizon, with many expecting it to kick off on August 4. However, it seems that some fans have started to receive invitations for a playtest, which are actually fake and designed to harvest user information.

    Fake Playtest Invitations

    According to Battlefield Bulletin on X, users on Instagram have noticed ads saying ‘Join the Playtest’ that include a link to Steam. The post on Instagram claims that the aim of this test is to assess a select few features of Battlefield 6 and to put the server under stress. While it may initially appear genuine, it’s a scam intended to compromise your Steam account. It’s best to steer clear of the link if it appears in your feed.

    Game Features and Leaks

    The first official trailer showcased some in-engine visuals from the single-player campaign and revealed that the multiplayer aspects will be unveiled on July 31. Nonetheless, much information has already leaked due to datamines and footage from the Battlefield Labs playtests. Battlefield 6 is set to include a single-player campaign, various multiplayer modes, and a free-to-play battle royale mode, with the map details for that mode having recently surfaced.

    Multiplayer Reveal and Open Beta Speculations

    Currently, it is uncertain whether the multiplayer reveal on July 31 will cover the battle royale mode or if it will be presented separately. As for the open beta, EA has yet to confirm a date, but the rumor of an August 4 start date has been circulating, although some reports suggest that this date might not be correct.

    Possible Release Date

    In recent news, it appears that EA may have unintentionally hinted at the game’s release date. The legal disclaimers for the Standard Edition of Battlefield 6 noted that pre-orders would end on October 10, which implies that the game could be released on October 11.

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  • New GameNative Update Enhances Windows Game Emulation on Android

    New GameNative Update Enhances Windows Game Emulation on Android

    Key Takeaways

    1. GameNative has been updated to version 0.3.0, featuring the new Vortek driver for better compatibility with DirectX 10 and 11 titles on non-Adreno GPU devices.
    2. The emulator simplifies game launching via Steam, improving management of titles with Denuvo DRM and supporting online gaming.
    3. Version 0.3.0 includes enhancements for in-game frame rates, though improvements may vary by device.
    4. General stability and performance upgrades contribute to a smoother emulation experience.
    5. GameNative is still in development and is not yet a finalized version, meaning users may encounter issues while emulating Windows games.

    Windows game emulation on Android is making great strides, with a new contender entering the scene: GameNative. The emulation tool for PC gaming has just been updated to version 0.3.0, introducing several important enhancements, including the newest Vortek driver.

    Enhanced Compatibility

    This new driver is said to significantly enhance compatibility with DirectX 10 and DirectX 11 titles on devices that don’t use Adreno GPUs. This is somewhat akin to what GameSir has rolled out with the recent GameHub update, and as a result, devices powered by non-Snapdragon processors should experience a noticeable increase in game emulation performance.

    Improved Game Launching

    Moreover, the updated GameNative now simplifies the process of launching games via Steam. This upgrade enables the emulator to manage titles featuring Denuvo DRM more effectively and supports online gaming capabilities.

    Frame Rate and Stability Upgrades

    Additionally, the developers have highlighted that version 0.3.0 includes enhancements for in-game frame rates. However, there are no specifics about which games are affected, and the level of improvement can vary greatly depending on the device used for emulation.

    Besides these features, GameNative v0.3.0 brings general stability and performance enhancements, which should contribute to a smoother emulation experience. It appears that this emulator is gradually becoming a much improved version of Pluvia. However, it’s important to note that it is still not the finalized version that the developers aim for, and since it isn’t version 1.0 yet, users might encounter various issues while trying to emulate Windows games. For those who are keen, the latest version can be downloaded from the official GitHub repository.

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  • Battlefield 6 Pricing Update: No $80 Plans from EA

    Battlefield 6 Pricing Update: No $80 Plans from EA

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo’s $80 game pricing has sparked backlash and influenced other publishers.
    2. EA CEO Andrew Wilson confirmed that the company is not planning to raise game prices at this time.
    3. Battlefield 6 is unlikely to be priced at $80, based on current pricing strategies.
    4. Speculations suggest Battlefield 6 may be priced around $70 for consoles and $60 for PC.
    5. EA aims to provide diverse pricing options to enhance player value without major changes in pricing.

    Ever since Nintendo set the price of some of its games at $80, other game publishers have also started following suit, facing significant backlash from gamers. On the flip side, EA, one of the biggest names in gaming, appears to be holding off on raising its prices, at least for the time being. This suggests that Battlefield 6 won’t be priced at $80, which is a relief for fans and aligns with the latest rumors about pricing.

    EA’s Pricing Strategy

    As reported by IGN, during a recent earnings call, EA CEO Andrew Wilson addressed a question from an investor regarding the $80 price tag on games. He stated, “We’re not looking to make any changes on pricing at this stage.” Wilson elaborated that EA aims to cover a wide range of pricing options to provide players with the best possible experience. He added, “We’ll keep looking for ways to deliver great value to our players through various pricing structures over time, but no major changes are planned yet,” he concluded.

    Battlefield 6 Pricing Speculations

    While this doesn’t definitively set the price for the highly anticipated Battlefield 6, it implies that it won’t be $80. A recent leak suggested that the Standard Edition would be priced at €70 on PC and €80 on consoles. Conversely, the Phantom Edition is rumored to be €100 on PC and €110 on consoles. In terms of US pricing, it might translate directly, making the starting price around $70.

    Comparing with Previous Titles

    Looking at the pricing for Battlefield 2042, it is currently $60 on PC and $70 on console. Battlefield 6 might follow this trend, potentially being $10 more for console gamers, which would still place it at $80. However, given Wilson’s statement about no pricing changes at this moment, it’s possible the game will maintain the $60 PC and $70 console prices, which would be the best-case scenario for fans.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket DS Launches: Dual Display Handheld with Discounts

    Ayaneo Pocket DS Launches: Dual Display Handheld with Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo launched its first smartphone and gaming laptop, and introduced a budget brand called Konkr.
    2. The company unveiled an ARM-based version of the Flip 1S DS and a matching keyboard, but has not confirmed release dates for any products.
    3. The Pocket DS gaming handheld is listed on Indiegogo, featuring a 165 Hz OLED screen, 8,000 mAh battery, and Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset.
    4. Ayaneo offers a $20 discount for the Pocket DS to those who pay a $1 reservation fee for the upcoming crowdfunding campaign.
    5. The start date for the crowdfunding campaign for the Pocket DS has not yet been announced.

    Ayaneo has been very active lately, with several new product reveals. This week, the company introduced its first smartphone and a gaming laptop, while also announcing a new budget brand called Konkr.

    New Product Launches

    In addition, Ayaneo unveiled an ARM-based version of the x86-powered Flip 1S DS, which they launched earlier this month, along with a matching keyboard option. Despite the excitement, Ayaneo has not specified when any of these new products will be available for purchase, including their delayed Gaming Pad. However, it appears that the Pocket DS is likely to be the first product to launch globally.

    Pocket DS Details

    While Ayaneo hasn’t officially confirmed it, they have listed the Pocket DS on Indiegogo, hinting at the upcoming release of the gaming handheld. The company has also highlighted multiple hardware features, such as a 165 Hz OLED main screen, an 8,000 mAh battery, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 chipset, which is used in other Ayaneo devices like the Pocket Evo (currently priced at $459 on Amazon).

    Special Launch Offer

    Interestingly, Ayaneo is providing a launch discount for those who pay a $1 reservation fee. Once a person signs up for more information about the crowdfunding campaign, Ayaneo states that paying this fee will give backers a $20 discount for the Pocket DS. It’s important to mention that anyone can request this reservation fee before the campaign starts. For further details, visit Indiegogo’s support page. At this moment, Ayaneo has not revealed when the crowdfunding for the Pocket DS will kick off.

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    Ayaneo Pocket DS Launches: Dual Display Handheld with DiscountsAyaneo Pocket DS Launches: Dual Display Handheld with Discounts

     

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  • Free Games on Steam: New Batch Arrives Before July 2025 Ends

    Free Games on Steam: New Batch Arrives Before July 2025 Ends

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new batch of free games has been released on Steam.
    2. Player feedback on these games varies; not all titles are well-received.
    3. Some games have earned positive ratings from players.
    4. Expectations from players can greatly influence their reception of free games.
    5. There are enjoyable options available for those seeking new games at no cost.

    Another batch of free games has appeared on Steam. As with previous rounds, not every newly available game has pleased the players who gave them a go. Here’s a summary of the ones that are currently getting good overall ratings from players:

    Current Freebies

    In this latest collection, some titles have managed to earn positive feedback while others have not. It’s always interesting to see how players react to these no-cost options, and the ratings can vary widely.

    Player Feedback

    Despite some games being free, the reception isn’t always great. Players have different expectations, and sometimes the games don’t meet those. However, there are still a few that players seem to enjoy, which is a good sign for those looking for something new to play without spending money.

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  • Ayaneo Pocket Vert: Ultra Hi-Res Vertical Handheld in Development

    Ayaneo Pocket Vert: Ultra Hi-Res Vertical Handheld in Development

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ayaneo is introducing the Pocket Vert, its first vertical handheld gaming device.
    2. The Pocket Vert is designed for handheld enthusiasts, featuring a retro aesthetic and an ultra high resolution screen.
    3. It is expected to have superior display specifications compared to the Pocket DMG, which has a 1240 x 1080 OLED display.
    4. The device will be built with high-quality materials, emphasizing craftsmanship and likely appealing to collectors.
    5. No specific launch date or technical details were provided, but the release is anticipated for 2025 or 2026, with potential delays.

    Ayaneo has unveiled a range of gaming handhelds, yet most feature a horizontal or landscape layout, with the exception of the Pocket DMG, which stands alone as the only vertical or portrait device from the Chinese brand. This, however, is set to change as Ayaneo has announced that it is working on a new vertical handheld called the Pocket Vert.

    A Handheld for Enthusiasts

    The Ayaneo Pocket Vert is being called a “passion project for true handheld enthusiasts.” During a recent livestream detailing their strategy, the company shared that this device will showcase a retro aesthetic combined with an ultra high resolution screen. To give you some context, the Ayaneo Pocket DMG is equipped with a 1240 x 1080 OLED display, offering 419 pixels per inch and a peak brightness of 450 nits. Thus, it’s anticipated that the Pocket Vert’s display will exceed that of the Pocket DMG.

    Premium Build Quality

    This new handheld is also said to be constructed from high-quality materials, highlighting its exceptional craftsmanship and build quality. This makes it not just another gaming console, but rather a piece of art that collectors would cherish. Given these features, it is expected that the Ayaneo Pocket Vert will come at a hefty price, likely around double the cost of the Retroid Pocket Classic, which is currently listed on Amazon for $149.00.

    Speculations on Launch

    While Ayaneo did not disclose any specific technical details regarding the Pocket Vert or its expected release date, the insights shared during the strategy session pertain to 2025 and 2026. This suggests that it may not be available this year. Additionally, given Ayaneo’s history of not adhering to scheduled release timelines, there is a chance that this handheld could also experience delays.

    Ayaneo on YouTube

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    Ayaneo Pocket Vert: Ultra Hi-Res Vertical Handheld in DevelopmentAyaneo Pocket Vert: Ultra Hi-Res Vertical Handheld in Development

     

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  • PlayStation 6 Orion and Canis Handheld Codenames Leaked

    PlayStation 6 Orion and Canis Handheld Codenames Leaked

    Key Takeaways

    1. The PlayStation 6 will launch with two AMD-based APUs: the Orion chip for the main console and the Canis chip for a handheld device.
    2. The Canis handheld will support games from PS4, PS5, and PS6, offering both 1080p and 720p options for portable and home console play.
    3. A new power-saving mode for the PS5 is being introduced to support the upcoming PS6 ecosystem and enhance energy efficiency.
    4. Sony has changed its naming convention for the PS6 from Shakespearean themes to constellation names, with Orion and Canis representing the main console and handheld, respectively.
    5. More details about the PS6’s performance, pricing, and hardware are expected to be revealed in the coming months as Sony aims for a cohesive gaming ecosystem.

    Sony’s upcoming PlayStation 6 has been revealed in a recent leak, which indicates that the console will launch with two AMD-based APUs. As reported by Moore’s Law is Dead (MLID) through PlayStation Lifestyle, the Orion chip will be the primary processor for the PS6, while the Canis chip will operate a handheld device. Both chips utilize the same CPU and GPU architecture, enabling Sony to make development easier for both devices.

    Handheld Features

    The Canis handheld is not just a version of the PS5; it is an essential part of the PS6 lineup. According to MLID, it will support games from the PS4, PS5, and PS6, offering 1080p and 720p performance options, making it suitable for both portable play and as a small home console. This strategy aims to attract many late PS4 users into Sony’s new gaming ecosystem with a more affordable option.

    Power-Saving Mode

    The recent announcement of a power-saving mode for the PS5, which reduces performance to save energy, is in line with previous MLID statements that suggested this feature would help introduce Sony’s handheld devices. The implementation of this mode on the PS5 signifies the first step in shifting towards the PS6 ecosystem.

    New Naming Convention

    Sony has shifted from using Shakespearean-themed codenames for the PS5 (like Oberon) to constellation-inspired names for the PS6, with Orion as the main console and Canis for the handheld. Although Sony has yet to disclose specific hardware details or a release date, MLID claims that more information, including performance goals and pricing, will come in the upcoming months.

    The codenames Orion and Canis suggest that the PlayStation 6 will consist of more than just one console, as Sony aims to create a cohesive home and portable gaming ecosystem for the next generation. The introduction of a handheld PS6 might give Sony an edge in various price ranges and facilitate the transition from the PS4 as it approaches a launch window toward the end of the decade.

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  • Xbox Magnus Leak: Next-Gen 4K120 Gaming with AMD Zen 6

    Xbox Magnus Leak: Next-Gen 4K120 Gaming with AMD Zen 6

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox, codenamed Magnus, will feature AMD’s Zen 6 CPU cores and RDNA 5 graphics technology, promising performance up to twice that of the PlayStation 5 Pro.
    2. The Magnus APU will use a two-chiplet architecture with an AT2 GPU die, including 68 active compute units and a 192-bit GDDR7 memory interface.
    3. Expected performance is comparable to a Radeon-class GPU similar to an RTX 5080, with 50 to 100 percent higher performance than the PS5 Pro for various tasks.
    4. The console is anticipated to support features like FSR upscaling, ray tracing, and backwards compatibility with older Xbox games, with a potential launch price between $500 and $600.
    5. The Magnus design could significantly impact the mid-range PC market by using the same technology found in desktop GPUs, with more details on pricing and release dates expected soon.

    A recent leak from Moore’s Law is Dead indicates that Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox, known internally as Magnus, is set to incorporate AMD’s Zen 6 CPU cores alongside RDNA 5 graphics technology. This combination is projected to provide performance that could be up to twice as powerful as the PlayStation 5 Pro. The release of this system could happen as soon as late 2026 or in 2027.

    Technical Details

    The leaked information points out that the Magnus APU will feature a two-chiplet architecture that revolves around the AT2 GPU die, which will also be utilized in AMD’s mid-tier desktop graphics cards. This graphics unit is believed to include 68 active compute units and will have a 192-bit GDDR7 memory interface. Meanwhile, the CPU will be based on a cutting-edge 3nm Zen 6 design. Moore’s Law is Dead estimates that the performance will be comparable to a Radeon-class GPU akin to an RTX 5080, potentially offering between 50 to 100 percent higher performance than the PS5 Pro, depending on the specific tasks.

    Cost and Features

    Utilizing the AT2 die for both the console and desktop graphics could help Microsoft reduce manufacturing costs over time, as well as enhance driver support. The Magnus is also anticipated to include features like FSR upscaling, ray tracing capabilities, and backwards compatibility with older Xbox games. While the exact pricing remains unclear, there is speculation suggesting a launch price might fall within the $500 to $600 range, with a minimum of 32GB RAM to facilitate high-resolution gaming at 120Hz.

    Future Outlook

    If these leaks are accurate, the Magnus design could mark a major advancement for Xbox, utilizing AMD’s next-gen technologies to focus on high-refresh 4K gaming. This could also shake up the mid-range PC market by using the same silicon found in desktop GPUs. More detailed information, such as pricing and release dates, is likely to surface in the upcoming months as development progresses.

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