Tag: Cyberpunk 2077

  • Cyberpunk 2077 Confirmed as First Nintendo Switch 2 Game with DLSS

    Cyberpunk 2077 Confirmed as First Nintendo Switch 2 Game with DLSS

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 will feature docked 4K output and support up to 120 fps, powered by an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor with DLSS upscaling capabilities.
    2. CD Projekt Red confirmed that Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition will utilize DLSS, making it the first known title for Switch 2 to leverage this technology.
    3. Players can expect DLSS to enhance both handheld and docked performance modes, although details on a specific version for Switch 2 are not yet disclosed.
    4. Performance options include a quality mode at 30 fps and a performance mode at 40 fps (likely at 120Hz) when docked, with handheld play offering 30 fps at 1080p or 40 fps at 720p.
    5. Nintendo has been reserved about the Switch 2’s specifications, but more information will emerge as journalists begin testing the console.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to deliver remarkable capabilities, such as docked 4K output and a maximum of 120 fps. It is believed to be powered by an Nvidia Tegra T239 processor, and with DLSS upscaling, the handheld could reach its full potential. Recently, Nintendo confirmed that the Switch 2 will indeed support this technology. In an interesting development, CD Projekt Red, the studio behind Cyberpunk 2077, informed Digital Foundry that their action RPG will utilize DLSS.

    Performance Insights

    The developer has not clarified if a version of DLSS tailored for the Switch 2 is in the works. Nevertheless, players can expect to experience DLSS in both handheld and docked performance and quality modes. This announcement marks the game as the first known title for Switch 2 to leverage DLSS. The topic has sparked discussions, especially since handheld demos of Switch 2 displayed a relatively stable 40 fps. Given that the Steam Deck often struggles to hit this figure, DLSS may account for the improved performance. However, it remains unclear if the upscaling is observable in the footage of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition.

    Analyzing the Evidence

    In a recent episode of the Digital Foundry Direct podcast, analysts examined videos in search of evidence of DLSS. When upscaling is enabled, players might notice objects with jagged edges. Yet, apart from a few cases, Nvidia’s upscaling was hard to detect. The presence of low-quality motion blur could also hide these indicators in the Switch 2 game. Furthermore, when DLSS renders images at reduced resolutions, identifying these subtle details becomes challenging.

    Game Modes and Performance Targets

    The developer of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition also confirmed the performance expectations for Switch 2. Players will have the option to select a quality mode at 30 fps or a performance mode at 40 fps (likely at 120Hz) when docked. The output resolution is 1080p thanks to DLSS. For handheld play, players can still anticipate 30 fps at 1080p in quality mode, while performance mode drops the resolution to 720p to achieve 40 fps.

    Nintendo has been cautious about revealing detailed information regarding the Switch 2 specifications. However, as more journalists begin to test the console, it should soon become clear how other games will take advantage of DLSS.

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  • Valve Should Avoid Steam Deck 2 to Compete with Nintendo Switch 2

    Valve Should Avoid Steam Deck 2 to Compete with Nintendo Switch 2

    Key Takeaways

    1. Performance Comparison: The Nintendo Switch 2 may have advantages over the Steam Deck, particularly highlighted by demos like Cyberpunk 2077.

    2. Poll Results: Approximately 80% of gamers believe Valve should focus on developing a significantly upgraded Steam Deck 2.

    3. Switch 2 Specs: The Switch 2 is expected to feature a larger, higher-resolution screen and a powerful Nvidia Tegra T239 processor for better performance.

    4. Software Differences: The Switch 2 offers exclusive Nintendo titles that are not available on the Steam Deck, but its game library is smaller compared to Steam’s extensive collection.

    5. Usage Trends: Many Steam Deck owners currently use it as a secondary device and are not eager to switch to the Nintendo Switch 2.

    One of the hot topics right now is how the performance of the Nintendo Switch 2 stacks up against the Steam Deck. Demos like Cyberpunk 2077 have indicated that the specs of the Switch 2 might have certain advantages. This could mean that Valve is feeling more pressured to update their popular handheld device. A recent poll by PC Guide asked gamers if they believe the company should accelerate the development of the Steam Deck 2. The results show that most buyers are fine with waiting for a more substantial upgrade.

    Poll Findings

    About 80% of those who participated in the poll think that Valve should prioritize creating a Steam Deck 2 that represents a significant upgrade. This view aligns with what the manufacturer is planning. While there are no specifics available about the upcoming handheld, Valve hasn’t dismissed the idea of launching a new device in the future. Back in late 2024, SteamOS Designer Pierre-Loup Griffais mentioned that the company aims for a much faster and more efficient processor. Battery life remains a major concern, as the current market options aren’t living up to expectations.

    Comparing Specs

    The specifications of the Switch 2 feature a bigger, higher-resolution screen compared to both the Steam Deck and its OLED version. The rumored Nvidia Tegra T239 processor is expected to deliver better frame rates, particularly with upscaling. Despite this, Valve’s SteamOS has made its way onto newer devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S. Gamers can anticipate more powerful third-party SteamOS alternatives while they wait for the possibility of a Steam Deck 2.

    Software Differences

    The differences in software between the two systems are also quite significant. The Switch 2 has Nintendo exclusives like Mario Kart World that aren’t accessible on the Steam Deck. Additionally, Nintendo’s handheld is set to support popular PC and console games that were too demanding for the original Switch. However, its game library still falls short when compared to the Steam marketplace, which boasts over 100,000 titles. On the flip side, not every game on Steam is verified for the Steam Deck, which could pose challenges for gamers interested in cutting-edge graphics.

    Currently, many owners of SteamOS use the Steam Deck as a secondary gaming device instead of their main console. At this point, they don’t seem eager to change this setup for the Switch 2.

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    Valve Should Avoid Steam Deck 2 to Compete with Nintendo Switch 2
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  • Cyberpunk 2077 on Nintendo Switch 2 Impresses Steam Deck Owners

    Cyberpunk 2077 on Nintendo Switch 2 Impresses Steam Deck Owners

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo showcases Switch 2 games in docking mode for optimal visuals, but handheld performance remains uncertain.
    2. Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition maintains around 40 fps in a demo, but experience may vary with some frame rate dips.
    3. Digital Foundry suggests the Switch 2 could compete with the Steam Deck and PS4, despite concerns about power consumption in handheld mode.
    4. The Switch 2 is expected to feature the Nvidia Tegra T239 processor with DLSS support, though its impact on gameplay is still unclear.
    5. Deck Wizard’s YouTube channel provides promising footage of Cyberpunk 2077 on Switch 2, hinting at potential upscaling techniques.

    It’s not unusual for Nintendo to show clips of Switch 2 games in docking mode. This way, the titles look their best, but how they perform in handheld mode raises questions. With a better GPU enhancing the Switch 2’s specs, playing demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 seems feasible. Gamers can now view lots of YouTube footage from Deck Wizard that showcases the action RPG. The video indicates a more stable frame rate than what most Steam Deck players see.

    Performance Insights

    During much of the demonstration, the work-in-progress Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition maintains around 40 fps, although there are some dips. In Deck Wizard’s video, the game’s menus show that Performance Mode was active. While the other system settings for Switch 2 remain unclear, the demo has impressed some doubtful Steam Deck users.

    Cyberpunk 2077 holds a Steam Deck Verified status, meaning players can anticipate decent performance. Nevertheless, without modifications, many sessions peak at 30 fps. As gamers explore the most intricate environments, experiencing choppiness is not rare.

    Expectations vs. Reality

    The handheld demonstration of the CD Projekt Red game may surpass what was expected based on the known specs of the Switch 2. Digital Foundry made comparisons between the console and the Steam Deck using gameplay footage from the Switch 2. The site suggested that the new system could compete with Valve’s handheld PC or the PS4. However, there are worries that a lower power consumption could restrict the Switch 2 when it is not docked. Even with a resolution of 720p, the Deck Wizard video gives a hopeful first glimpse at the mobile performance of the Switch 2.

    With less than two months until its release, gamers still have questions about some essential features of the Switch 2. Most leaks indicate that it will use the Nvidia Tegra T239 processor, which will include DLSS support. It is thought that this feature has not yet played a role in other gameplay videos. Some shine in the Deck Wizard footage may suggest that some form of upscaling was in effect, which could assist Cyberpunk 2077 in reaching 40 fps.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Game File Sizes: Surprising and Reasonable

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game File Sizes: Surprising and Reasonable

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Nintendo Switch 2 has a storage capacity of 256GB, significantly higher than the original and OLED models.
    2. Game file sizes for the Switch 2 are larger but still manageable, with most games fitting comfortably within the available storage.
    3. The Switch 2 features DLSS technology for enhanced graphics, improving visual quality without drastically increasing file sizes.
    4. It is powered by a custom Nvidia processor and GPU, enabling 1080p gameplay at 120fps in handheld mode and 4K gameplay in TV mode.
    5. The device also supports HDR, making it a strong option for gamers seeking improved graphics and performance.

    The Nintendo Switch 2 is packed with upgrades, one of the most notable being its storage capacity. It has a significant increase from the 32GB of the original model (and even the 64GB of the OLED version) to a whopping 256GB. Many gamers speculated that this larger storage would be necessary due to the anticipated larger file sizes of Switch 2 games. However, recent information suggests that while the file sizes are indeed bigger, they are still quite manageable.

    Game File Sizes

    An IGN report highlights that the Nintendo Japan store has released a list of some games for the Switch 2 along with their respective file sizes. Below is the list of games and their sizes:

    From the provided list, the file sizes can be seen as quite reasonable, except for Cyberpunk 2077, which is not surprising given its reputation as the largest. Owners of the Switch 2 should have ample storage for multiple games before feeling the need to buy a MicroSD Express card.

    Graphics and Performance

    There are indications that the Nintendo Switch 2 incorporates DLSS technology, which utilizes artificial intelligence to enhance lower resolution images in real-time, resulting in better visual quality. This could explain how the games can have relatively smaller file sizes yet still deliver high-resolution graphics. Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 is equipped with a GPU that employs AI upscaling through DLSS as well as ray tracing capabilities.

    The device is driven by a custom Nvidia processor coupled with an Nvidia GPU. It boasts impressive features like 1080p gameplay at 120fps when in handheld mode and 4K gameplay during TV mode. Additionally, it supports HDR, making it a well-rounded option for gamers.

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  • Nintendo Switch 2 Game Lineup Features Overpriced Titles

    Nintendo Switch 2 Game Lineup Features Overpriced Titles

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nintendo charges high prices for older games on the Switch, often much more than on rival platforms.
    2. Upcoming titles for the Switch 2 include popular games like Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, and Hogwarts Legacy.
    3. Game prices for the Switch 2 may start at €69.99 ($75) and go up to €89.99 ($98) for physical copies.
    4. The original Switch, launched in 2017, faces competition from other handheld devices that offer better deals on games.
    5. Owning a Switch 2 and its games could be expensive, especially considering Nintendo’s pricing history.

    Nintendo has long been known for selling older games on its aging Switch console at prices that are often much higher than those on rival platforms. For instance, Nintendo still asks $59.99 for Skyrim, a game that came out 14 years ago and is sometimes available for as low as $3.99 during Steam sales. Other titles on the Nintendo eShop also command high prices, such as L.A. Noire at $49.99 and Wolfenstein II at $39.99. Even the recently launched, yet older, Red Dead Redemption carries a $10 extra cost when purchased from the eShop.

    Upcoming Titles

    With the conclusion of the Nintendo Direct event, we got a glimpse of some new games set to launch with or soon after the Switch 2’s release in June. The lineup includes popular titles like Elden Ring, Hitman World of Assassins, Hogwarts Legacy, Yakuza 0, Cyberpunk 2077, and the Final Fantasy VII remake.

    Game Pricing Insights

    The pricing for games on the Switch 2 appears to be quite uncertain. However, if we trust the prices from the Spanish eShop, we might be looking at a starting price of €69.99 ($75) that can go up to €89.99 ($98) for a physical copy. Even if older games are offered at some discount, shelling out that much for Cyberpunk, which often sees sales at $23.99, feels somewhat absurd. While a direct currency conversion might not accurately reflect a game’s true price, any tariffs under the current administration are unlikely to lead to lower prices.

    The original Switch debuted in 2017, essentially as the only handheld capable of running a variety of high-quality games. Now, however, the market is flooded with handhelds from companies like MSI, Asus, and Valve, which allow gamers to buy titles from nearly every digital store.

    Value Comparison

    It must be said that many of the games previewed during the Switch 2 Direct event look impressive, and a mix of both new and classic titles will be available at launch. Still, with the console priced at $449, the Asus ROG Ally offers a better deal at just $50 more (currently on Amazon), plus you would save a lot on the games.

    In the end, considering Nintendo’s track record with pricing and the likely costs of games, owning a Switch 2 and acquiring its games could turn out to be quite a pricey endeavor.

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  • Radeon RX 9070 Undervolting Boosts Performance Over RTX 4070 Ti

    Radeon RX 9070 Undervolting Boosts Performance Over RTX 4070 Ti

    Key Takeaways

    1. The AMD Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs offer strong gaming performance and better price-to-performance ratio compared to Nvidia RTX 5070 and RTX 5070 Ti.
    2. The RX 9070 shows impressive value, maintaining performance even when undervolted, allowing for reduced power consumption without significant performance loss.
    3. In benchmark tests using Cyberpunk 2077, the RX 9070 achieved 54 FPS at stock settings and 50 FPS after a -100mV undervolt, reflecting only a 10% performance drop.
    4. When overclocked to 3GHz, the RX 9070 surpassed the RTX 5070 Ti by roughly 2 FPS and achieved 60 FPS with additional power while still undervolting.
    5. The RX 9070 is priced around $640, significantly less than the RTX 4070 Ti Super ($1000+) and competitive with the RTX 5070 Ti (approximately $750).

    AMD Radeon RX 9000 Series Performance

    The AMD Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs stand strong against the Nvidia RTX 5070 and RTX 5070 Ti when it comes to gaming performance, and they provide better bang for your buck regarding price-to-performance ratio. Nonetheless, they do consume more power compared to Nvidia models. Notably, the RX 9070 shows impressive value and maintains similar performance levels even when undervolted. This indicates that reducing power consumption does not significantly affect performance, allowing for a decent gaming experience in demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077.

    Testing Insights from Experts

    Renowned overclockers Der8auer and Alva Jonathan have been evaluating the Radeon RX 9000 series, with their latest experiments focused on the RX 9070. Jonathan discovered that undervolting the ASRock Radeon RX 9070 Steel Legend GPU resulted in a small decline in performance, but there was a significant decrease in power usage. The same outcome was observed with the Radeon RX 9070 XT as well.

    Using Cyberpunk 2077 for benchmark testing, the RX 9070 hit 54 FPS at default settings. After applying a -100mV undervolt through AMD’s Adrenalin software and cutting power by 30%, the GPU managed 50 FPS in the same gaming situation. Remarkably, the RX 9070 maintained a clock speed of just over 2.4GHz, reflecting about a 10% performance drop from its stock settings. While the RTX 5070 Ti achieved a higher score of 58 FPS at both stock and undervolted settings, the AMD RX 9070 still outperformed the RTX 4070 Ti Super, which scored 46 FPS at stock settings.

    Overclocking Capabilities

    Interestingly, when overclocked to 3GHz, the RX 9070 surpassed the stock RTX 5070 Ti by roughly 2 FPS. This test also highlighted the potential of the Radeon RX 9070 when given additional power. By supplying the GPU with 10% more power while still applying a -100mV undervolt, it was able to reach 60 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077, which is an 11% improvement from stock performance. In terms of market pricing, the RX 9070 (ASRock Steel Legend) is available for around $640, while the RTX 4070 Ti Super is priced over $1000. Meanwhile, the RTX 5070 Ti is typically listed at approximately $750, although it often exceeds its MSRP.

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    Radeon RX 9070 Undervolting Boosts Performance Over RTX 4070 Ti
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  • Nvidia Driver Update Adds Support for GeForce RTX 5090, 5080

    Nvidia Driver Update Adds Support for GeForce RTX 5090, 5080

    The latest GeForce Game Ready Driver, identified by the version number 572.16, has been released, providing support for the newly launched GeForce RTX 5090 graphics card. This software update enhances the gaming experience by incorporating DLSS 4 optimizations across more than 75 games and applications. By leveraging AI enhancements, DLSS 4 boosts image quality while also lowering video memory usage. Generally, this leads to a noticeable improvement in performance.

    Games Taking Advantage

    Among the games that gain from this updated driver are Cyberpunk 2077 and Star Wars Outlaws, along with other popular titles such as Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Hogwarts Legacy, and Alan Wake 2. A standout feature is DLSS Multi Frame Generation, paired with RTX Video Super Resolution (VSR), which now requires less GPU power and can upscale HDR movies, making it more suitable for RTX GPUs.

    New Display Support

    Beyond DLSS 4, the Game Ready Driver package 572.16 supports 19 new G-Sync Compatible monitors from manufacturers like AOC, MSI, Alienware, and LG. Six games that now benefit from one-click optimal settings presets include Marvel Rivals, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, Dynasty Warriors: Origins, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Path of Exile 2, and Supervive.

    Along with the recent Nvidia app update, this driver introduces new AI features for Nvidia Broadcast and various behind-the-scenes adjustments and fixes. The SFF-ready Asus Prime GeForce RTX 5080 is currently still listed on Amazon, priced at a whopping $2,599.99, which is almost three times the initial launch price of $999 for the standard version.

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  • GeForce RTX 5090 Struggles for 30 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 Path Tracing

    GeForce RTX 5090 Struggles for 30 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 Path Tracing

    The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 is the most potent gaming GPU ever created by Nvidia, and it’s scheduled to hit stores on January 30. Reviews for the RTX 5090 are expected to be released on January 24, while the RTX 5080 reviews will arrive on the same day as its launch. Despite the absence of official reviews, we have gathered insights about the RTX 5090 through leaks and various gaming performance data.

    Impressive Performance Metrics

    A gaming test from PC Centric highlights how the RTX 5090 performs in Cyberpunk 2077, both with and without DLSS Frame Generation. The results show that the RTX 5090 excels with 4x Frame Generation enabled and DLSS set to “Performance” mode. In this setup, the GPU runs Cyberpunk 2077 at 4K/ultra settings with maximum ray tracing, achieving an impressive 290 FPS, although it experiences a latency of 35 to 40+ milliseconds.

    Frame Generation Effects

    When switching to DLSS “Quality,” the average FPS drops to around 200, along with a small latency increase. Interestingly, adjusting the Frame Generation from 2x to 4x or back again does not significantly impact latency as one might have thought. The testing by PC Centric shows a stark contrast in FPS averages with and without Frame Generation. While the RTX 5090 reaches 200 FPS with DLSS “Quality” and 4x Frame Generation, it only achieves about 65 FPS when Frame Generation is disabled. For comparison, zWORMz Gaming on YouTube reports that the RTX 4090 gets roughly 40-47 FPS under similar conditions.

    Need for DLSS in Heavy Games

    Ultimately, when both DLSS and Frame Generation are turned off, the RTX 5090 struggles to handle Cyberpunk 2077 with full Path Tracing at 4K/ultra settings, as its FPS falls below 30. To summarize, if you plan to play Cyberpunk 2077 at maximum graphics settings, you will need DLSS for smooth gameplay. The RTX 5090 comes at a hefty price of $2,000, so if you’re aiming for a high refresh rate experience, Nvidia’s new Multi Frame Generation feature will be very helpful.

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  • Snapdragon 8 Elite Runs Cyberpunk 2077 at 60 FPS via Emulation

    Snapdragon 8 Elite Runs Cyberpunk 2077 at 60 FPS via Emulation

    Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite features a significantly enhanced GPU, the Adreno 830. Earlier demonstrations had shown it could run the Red Dead Redemption PC port via an emulator at 160 FPS. Now, a user on X, @cozy_OSS, claims that this chip can supposedly emulate Cyberpunk 2077 at a locked 60 FPS, with the graphics set to Low and the resolution at 720p.

    Video Evidence

    The user shared a brief video clip showcasing the FPS locked at 60. However, the video appears a bit uneven, which suggests that technologies like AMD FSR and frame generation might be enabling this performance. Still, the Snapdragon 8 Elite has shown to outperform the Radeon 780M in tests like 3DMark Steel Nomad Light, and that integrated GPU can smoothly run Cyberpunk 2077 at 720p on the Low settings (Legion Go is curr. priced at $549 on Amazon).

    Emulation Potential

    It’s also important to mention that the game is believed to be emulated using a pre-release PC emulator created by Eggns. There is a chance that performance could improve with a more finely-tuned emulator. Some users on X have noted that the previous Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 can run Cyberpunk 2077 at 30 FPS on the same Low preset using emulators like Mobox, Winlator, and Horizon.

    Future Prospects

    Earlier reports suggest that the Snapdragon 8 Elite is quite adept at emulating PC games. On the whole, it is said to deliver about double the emulation performance compared to its predecessor. With the right backing from developers, native ports of major AAA games could perform well on this new SoC. However, due to the diverse hardware landscape of Android, achieving this may take some time.

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  • Vinyl Release of Cyberpunk 2077’s Soundtrack Brings Night City’s Music to Life

    Vinyl Release of Cyberpunk 2077’s Soundtrack Brings Night City’s Music to Life

    Cyberpunk 2077 Soundtracks Coming to Vinyl

    The world of video game soundtracks is expanding with the announcement of Cyberpunk 2077’s Radio Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 soundtracks being released on vinyl. Scheduled for release on April 26, 2024, these albums aim to bring the eclectic and immersive music of Night City into the homes of fans in a classic format.

    Vinyl Editions with Distinct Appearance

    Each vinyl, distinct with its bright yellow appearance, is priced at $29.98. The decision to release the soundtrack in this format speaks to a growing trend of video game music gaining recognition as a legitimate and cherished art form, beyond the digital realm.

    A Nod to the Quality of Music

    The move to vinyl is not just about nostalgia; it’s a nod to the quality of the music produced for Cyberpunk 2077. The game itself has made significant strides since its original release, especially with the Ultimate Edition and the Phantom Liberty expansion. These updates have been well-received, particularly for improving the storytelling and gameplay experience.

    Soundtrack: An Integral Part of the Cyberpunk 2077 Experience

    However, it’s not just about the game’s content; the soundtrack has played a crucial role in defining the Cyberpunk 2077 experience. The music, integral to the game’s atmosphere, has been critically acclaimed for its depth and the way it complements the game’s futuristic, dystopian theme.

    Gateway to the Cyberpunk 2077 World

    For those yet to experience Cyberpunk 2077, the release of these vinyls could serve as a gateway into the game’s richly detailed world. The soundtrack’s availability in a physical format offers a different way to connect with the game, appealing to both gamers and vinyl collectors.

    The Rise of Video Game Soundtracks

    This initiative also highlights the importance of video game soundtracks in the wider music industry. As gaming continues to evolve as a significant cultural force, the music that accompanies these digital adventures is gaining more attention and appreciation, transcending its role as mere background music to becoming a central element of the gaming experience.

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