Despite previous doubts, it seems that Redfall is set to receive one last update before Arkane Austin's closure. Since its launch, Redfall has faced numerous challenges, including lackluster reviews and a struggle to attract a large player base, despite being available on Xbox Game Pass from day one. While post-launch updates attempted to address player feedback, they failed to call in new players.

The studio promised a massive overhaul was in the works. Still, with Microsoft's announcement that it would close the studio, the hope of getting the promised update went underwater. Surprisingly, Arkane Austin announced it still plans to launch one last update to the game.

The developer's official account announced this last Redfall update (Game Update 4) on X. According to the developer, the update will include an overhauled Neighbourhood and Nest systems, a single-player pause, an offline mode, and more. The addition of an offline mode is particularly noteworthy, as it ensures that the game remains playable even if its servers are eventually deactivated.

This update could be a turning point for Redfall, potentially addressing some of its issues at launch. However, it's worth noting that some promised content, such as DLC characters from the Bite Back Edition, may never be released. Microsoft has promised compensation for those who purchased the Bite Back Edition, but details are yet to be disclosed.

KitGuru says: Have you already tried Redfall? Are you planning to revisit it after Arkane Austin launches the new update?

SteelSeries has recently broadened its Arctis Nova product line with the debut of the Arctis Nova 5 wireless headsets. This new addition is accompanied by the launch of the Nova 5 Companion App, which grants users access to many audio presets. The Nova 5 will be available in three models, offering audio solutions for various gaming platforms, including Xbox, PlayStation, and more.

The Arctis Nova 5 headsets have three notable features to enhance the gaming audio experience. These include a triple connection option featuring Quick Switch Wireless technology, enabling seamless switching between high-speed 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth 5.3. Additionally, the headsets are designed for extended gaming sessions with over 60 hours of gameplay on a single charge. Lastly, the Companion App introduces a feature that enables real-time audio adjustments without interrupting gameplay and presents a library of over 100 game-specific audio presets crafted by audio professionals and gaming specialists.

The headsets have Neodymium magnetic drivers to deliver a more realistic audio experience. The Arctis Nova 5 series also incorporates a compact USB-C dongle for quick connectivity to various gaming platforms, including PCs, consoles, and mobile devices. Another standout feature is the redesigned ClearCast 2.X Mic, offering enhanced bandwidth and clarity for communication. This microphone features a high-bandwidth chipset enabling 32KHz/16Bit audio and AI-powered noise reduction capabilities through the Sonar Audio software suite, an equaliser designed for gaming that provides extensive control over sound parameters.

In terms of charging, the headsets support rapid charging, delivering an additional six hours of battery life after just a 15-minute charge. The Arctis Nova 5 Series is now available globally, offering various variants such as the Arctis Nova 5, Nova 5X (Xbox), and Nova 5P (PlayStation) for £129.99/€139.99/$139.99. Furthermore, consumers can download the SteelSeries Sonar Audio software suite for free HERE.

KitGuru says: If you're looking for a new gaming wireless headset for PC, Xbox Series X|S, or PlayStation 5, the Nova 5 might be worth considering.

LN2 is commonly used for overclocking Intel and AMD CPUs. However, it's not every day we see someone using this same cooling method on an Apple M-series SoC, as Geekerwan did with the M4.

Geekerwan (via Tom's Hardware) benchmarked the M4 in its 3+6 core configuration (3 performance cores + 6 efficiency cores) but has already acquired the 4+6 model for further testing. Geekerwan inserted a Kingpin Cooling T-Rex Rev 4 CPU LN2 pot at the rear of the iPad Pro, most likely where the M4 processor is housed, and filled it with liquid nitrogen to keep the chip cool while running at 4.41 GHz.

Image credit: Geekerwan 

The LN2-cooled M4 iPad Pro scored 4,001 points in Geekbench 6's single-core test, 28% quicker than the M3 Max in the 16-inch MacBook Pro in the same test. In addition, the M4 outperformed the Mac Studio's M2 Ultra by 44%. Even though it lacks active cooling, the M4 iPad Pro receives a perfect grade. Even in its regular condition, the M4's single-core performance is high, surpassing the 3,000 mark. For the final few yards, the liquid nitrogen assisted the M4 in reaching the finish line.

However, the M4's multi-core performance fell short of expectations. It performed 54% slower than the M3 Max and 57% slower than the M2 Ultra. Geekerwan provided many Geekbench 6 entries, with the highest multi-core score of 14,785 points.

KitGuru says: The lower multi-core score is only expected since the M4 has considerably fewer cores than the M3 Max and M2 Ultra. However, we expect Apple to launch a higher-core count M4 SoC, which should put the M4 chips closer in multi-core performance to the previous generations.

The G.Skill Ripjaws is back. This week, G.Skill unveiled the sleek new Ripjaws M5 RGB DDR5 memory kits, offering matte black or matte white heatspreaders with an RGB lightbar on the top. At 41mm tall, these DDR5 memory modules should be friendly for use with most CPU coolers. 

The Ripjaws M5 RGB series features a minimalist design similar to the Ripjaws S5. The heatspreaders are 41mm tall and can be matte white or matte black. Moreover, they come with built-in customisable RGB lighting, allowing users to match the rest of their system. 

Available in kits of up to 96GB (2x 48GB) with CL32-39-39-102 timings and speeds of up to 6400 MT/s. Regardless of their speeds, capacity, and timings, all the kits support Intel XMP 3.0 memory overclock profiles. This allows users to easily overclock the memory kit by activating XMP in the BIOS, provided they have a compatible motherboard and processor. 

G.Skill Ripjaws M5 RGB DDR5 memory kits are set to be available starting in May 2024.

KitGuru says: Do you prefer the aesthetics of the Ripjaws M5 over previous versions?

Microsoft has recently unveiled the Proteus controller, a customisable video game controller kit designed with accessibility in mind. Developed by ByoWave as part of the Designed for Xbox program, the wireless controller consists of modular cubes with interchangeable faceplates featuring controller buttons, a directional pad, and analogue sticks.

All of the controller's components are “snap and play”, meaning you connect them to the socket you wish to use, and you're done. These components can be combined in over 100 different configurations, empowering one-handed gamers and others with impairments to tailor the controller to their specific needs. The buttons are also remappable through an accompanying app for further customisation.

Upon its release, the Proteus Controller will be compatible with the Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and Windows 10 and 11. ByoWave has stated that it will not initially support the PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch, although collaboration with these platforms is possible.

Available for pre-order at a discounted price of $255 on ByoWave's website, the controller package includes a USB-C charging connection, a Bluetooth dongle, and additional components such as left and right grips for a standard gamepad and two large one-button controllers. Without the discount, the controller is priced at $299.

In addition to the Proteus Controller, Microsoft is updating the Xbox adaptive controller to enable gamers to create personalised gaming setups. The updated controller will support additional attachments, with each USB port accommodating up to 12 buttons, a second stick, and a hat switch. The firmware upgrade will be rolled out to Xbox Insiders in the next few weeks before being made available to the public.

KitGuru says: Byowave's Proteus controller looks exceptionally well designed. However, it is also a very high-end piece of kit. 

After the Geekbench benchmark of the AMD Engineering Sample 100-000000994-38 (supposedly a 12-core Ryzen AI CPU), this same sample has now been found on the Blender Open Data database, where you will see it performed similarly to an AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 5955WX.

HXL was the first to share the AMD Engineering Sample 100-000000994-38 median score on Blender. With 270.92 points, it's set between the AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 5955WX (272.56 points) and the Ryzen 7 7700X (269.02 points). The leaker also added that this processor uses a 12-core configuration, of which four are Zen 5 and eight are Zen 5c. As such, this could well be the flagship series processor.

STX 4+8 ES

Blender Benchmark V4.1https://t.co/b2e7i9XSbi pic.twitter.com/vIgKlCK6E8

— HXL (@9550pro) May 16, 2024

The upcoming CPU is poised to deliver a substantial upgrade to AMD's mobile APU lineup. While there's little information on the integrated GPU's performance, it's said to feature up to 16 CUs. The new series will also introduce an enhanced NPU chip (XDNA 2), promising three times more AI performance than the Hawk Point APUs.

The official announcement is expected to occur at Computex 2024 during AMD's opening keynote, which is scheduled for June 3rd at 17:30.

KitGuru says: Were are you expecting this level of performance from a 12-core Strix Point APU?

AMD is apparently planning a major rebrand that will discontinue its HS, H, and U naming scheme for Ryzen Mobile CPUs. Instead, the company will introduce the “Ryzen AI” naming system for all next-generation SKUs, starting with the upcoming Strix Point series.

That's according to a Lenovo China product manager on Weibo (via VideoCardz), who revealed that AMD will be bidding farewell to its current branding, where “HS”, “H”, and “U” represent a specific TDP configuration. This naming scheme has been used for several years, most recently for the Ryzen 8040 “Hawk Point” CPUs.

However, AMD's strategic shift towards AI computing has prompted the company to make significant brand adjustments. The new naming scheme, “Ryzen AI”, will depart from the current nomenclature and be introduced with the 100-series numbers. This mirrors Intel's Core Ultra 100 series, which debuted with the “Meteor Lake” family.

One potential challenge for consumers will be understanding the TDP configuration of the new chips under the “Ryzen AI” family. While the current system allows differentiation between U, H, HS, and HX families based on performance tier, the new approach will see the “HX” moniker being used on certain SKUs. These may not necessarily belong to the new “Fire Range” processors (supposedly high-end laptop CPUs with +55W TDP) but could be follow-ups to existing HS/H chips.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: As AMD prepares for this transition, it will be crucial for the company to provide clear guidance to consumers to ensure they can make informed decisions when choosing new devices.

AOC has added two entry-level gaming monitors to its G4 line, replacing the previous G2 models. The 24G4XE and 27G4XE are designed with FHD resolution and a 180Hz refresh rate, catering to cost-conscious gamers or as an ideal secondary monitor.

Available in 24-inch and 27-inch sizes, both models feature 1080p resolution and a 180Hz refresh rate. While they may not be the fastest panels on the market, their affordable price point makes them accessible to many gamers. Both versions share similar specifications, including a Fast IPS panel with 1ms GtG response time and a 1000:1 contrast ratio.

In addition to the core specs, these monitors come loaded with gaming-specific features such as G-Sync and Adaptive Sync. AOC also highlights HDR10 compatibility, although the lack of local dimming and the maximum brightness of 300 nits may limit the HDR experience.

For enthusiasts looking to mount their monitors, the 100×100 VESA compatibility is included. Meanwhile, AOC has opted for a flat and compact base design, providing extra desk space for gamers who prefer a diagonal keyboard position. However, the ergonomic features are limited, with only tilt support provided. Both versions have two HDMI 2.0 connections, one DisplayPort 1.4, two 2W speakers, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The 24G4XE and 27G4XE are priced at £139.99 and £159.99, respectively, with a three-year warranty. 

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: For those looking for an inexpensive high-refresh-rate monitor with basic ergonomic features, the new AOC G4XE monitors could be just what they need.

It seems Nvidia and Mediatek's reported collaboration is bigger than we initially thought. Following reports of a new AI processor in Q3 2024, it is now claimed that the pair are also working on a new SoC for gaming handhelds. 

The leaker XpeaGPU has added fuel to the fire by suggesting that Nvidia and MediaTek are exploring the possibility of a collaboration to create a new ARM-based SoC for gaming handhelds. However, it's worth noting that this new SoC isn't the same as the one to be used in the Switch 2.

Yep and Mediatek is also working on gaming handled SoC with Nvidia GPU as Jensen is frustrated by Nintendo and he sees a good market potential.
PS: its different than the new NV semi-custom div that tries to reenter the console market (some CN clients are already interested) https://t.co/sBuYVLJILc

— AGF (@XpeaGPU) May 15, 2024

Currently, Nvidia's biggest customer for gaming SoCs is Nintendo, which is rather slow at adopting new technologies. Taking the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 as an example, it is expected to feature an Ampere-based SoC, meaning it will use a GPU architecture that debuted in 2020.  With this new SoC, the company could go for the various Chinese companies that are constantly launching new gaming handhelds, injecting new life into Nvidia's gaming division.

The ARM-based nature of the processor doesn't limit its potential to just Windows portables. As per the reports we've been seeing from Qualcomm's Snapdragon X series, Windows 11 already has the necessary optimisations to run DirectX/Vulkan games on ARM processors smoothly. As for Linux-based gaming consoles (like the Steam Deck), we're still not sure how an ARM SoC would perform.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Do you think the new Nvidia/Mediatek gaming SoC will be able to dethrone AMD's position in this market segment?

Intel is preparing to unveil Thunderbolt Share, a new technology that enables users to seamlessly share displays, keyboards, mice, and data between computers using Thunderbolt technology. This technology prioritises speed, security, and simplicity, hoping to set a new standard for connectivity.

This solution facilitates quick and efficient PC-to-PC connections, allowing users to effortlessly share displays, keyboards, mice, storage, and data while ensuring the safety and ease of use. Furthermore, Thunderbolt Share goes beyond direct PC-to-PC connectivity by enabling Thunderbolt-compatible devices, such as displays or hubs, to make it easier to communicate between multiple PCs.

It's unclear if Thunderbolt Share will support data transmission from external GPUs to secondary PCs, potentially expanding its utility and versatility. It's important to note that Thunderbolt Share is only compatible with devices with the necessary license. Intel has confirmed that manufacturers, including MSI, Lenovo, Acer, Razer, Kensington, Belkin, Promise Technology, and Plugable, have obtained this license, indicating their intention to offer the technology as an added value feature to approved devices. The specific list of such devices is yet to be announced.

Thunderbolt Share is designed to support Thunderbolt 4 and 5 technologies and is compatible with the Windows operating system. Expect to see systems with Thunderbolt Share out-of-the-box starting this year.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Do you think the industry and customers will widely adopt Thunderbolt Share, or will the wired nature of this technology limit its appeal?

Patriot Memory has collaborated with MSI to launch the Viper Xtreme 5 RGB DDR5 MPower series for gamers, overclockers, and power users. The partnership between the two companies resulted in the creation of memory modules with data speeds of up to 8000 MT/s in up to 48GB kits.

The Viper Xtreme 5 RGB DDR5 MPower memory series modules feature a polished silver aluminium heat spreader that perfectly compliments MSI's MPower theme. With customisable RGB lighting, enthusiasts may customise their system's appearance and sync the lighting effects across all RGB-lit components.

The Xtreme 5 RGB DDR5 MPOWER kit is Intel XMP 3.0-approved for easy plug-and-play overclocking on the newest Intel platforms. It also works with MSI's user-friendly EZ Dashboard software. Intel's On-Die ECC technology enhances the Xtreme 5 RGB DDR5 MPower's data integrity and stability, correcting single-bit faults and identifying multi-bit errors.

The Viper Gaming Xtreme 5 RGB DDR5 MPower series kits come with 32GB (2x 16GB) and 48GB (2x 24GB) memory kits running at up to 1.45V with timings going as low as 38-49-49-85. In addition to 8000 MT/s, there are also 6400 MT/s and 6000 MT/s options. A limited lifetime warranty backs all memory kits.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Would you fancy yourself a kit of Viper MPower DDR5 memory? What speed and capacity would you choose?

AMD's latest round of desktop APUs have officially arrived. The new Ryzen 7 8700F and Ryzen 5 8400F are now available worldwide, adding options without graphics to the existing Ryzen 8000G line-up. 

AMD Ryzen 8000 F-Series processors are optimised for efficiency with low power draw and are unlocked for higher overclocked performance at the touch of a button. Additionally, the 8700F comes equipped with an XDNA-based NPU capable of delivering up to 16 TOPS, which will boost AI workloads efficiently.

You can see the specs for both processors in the table below:

Regarding performance, AMD compares the Ryzen 5 8400F against the Intel Core i5-13400F, claiming its new Ryzen 5 processor is up to 14% faster in gaming. As for the Ryzen 7 8700F, it's put side-by-side against the Intel Core i5-14400. In this comparison, AMD shows the new Ryzen 7 processors beating the Intel Core chip by up to 24% in gaming and production workloads.

As these new SKUs do not include an iGPU, you'll need to factor in the cost of a discrete GPU to go along with the processor when planning a new build.

KitGuru says: What do you all think of AMD's new Ryzen 8000G options? Are you thinking of building a system with one? 

If you plan to get a Huntsman V3 Pro keyboard, a BlackShark V2 Pro, or a Blackwidow V4 Pro, get it at Currys. When you buy any of these peripherals, you'll get a Gamesplanet voucher for a select free game, including Helldivers 2, Elden Ring, Starfield, and much more.

It's an excellent time to update your peripherals, especially if you're already fancying yourself some Razer gear. Whether you want a new compact keyboard such as the Huntsman V3 Pro Mini, a full-fledged one like the Blackwidow V4 Pro, or something in the middle like the Hunstman V3 Pro TKL, this is a good time to get it.

Even if a keyboard isn't what you're looking to upgrade, maybe a headset like the BlackShark V2 Pro is what you're looking for. Then, you're still lucky, as Currys' current promotion also includes these (in black and white).

When buying any of these at Currys, you'll get a voucher to redeem a free game at Gamesplanet. The selection of 32 games includes new ones such as Manor Lords, Tekken 8, and Millenia, as well as upcoming titles like Stalker 2, Prison Architect 2, and the Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree Edition (or the DLC alone). The entire selection of eligible games can be found HERE.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Are you planning on taking advantage of the campaign to get a free game? If so, which game are you planning on getting?

Here's something you don't expect to see in public on the Internet – a leaked presentation from Dell that delves deep into the development of the company's XPS range. With over 300 pages, the presentation provides an in-depth analysis of the design process, key components, obstacles encountered during the development phase, and details on the hardware upcoming laptops will feature.

The presentation spotted by VideoCardz is dated August 2023 and focuses on the XPS notebook powered by a Qualcomm X Series CPU, but it also includes Dell's plans for the next three years of the XPS series. The roadmap reveals the introduction of Intel's future CPUs, including Arrow Lake in Q1 2025, Panther Lake in Q1 2026, and Nova Lake in Q1 2027. 

Image credit: VideoCardz

Qualcomm's upcoming Oryon V2 and Oryon V3 are also in the roadmap, with the former expected to be released in H2 2025 and the latter in Q4 2027. Moreover, Nvidia is also mentioned in the roadmap following its usual release cadence, as it's expected to launch new laptop GPUs in early 2025 and another new one in early 2027.

AMD looks to be out of Dell's XPS plans until 2027, as the only mention of the red team is in the XPS 16 Performante, which even has a note that it might be delayed to 2028.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: The coming years look very promising for the Windows laptop segment.

MediaTek and Nvidia have reportedly teamed up to co-develop a new SoC that could potentially rival Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite. This new chip is expected to be based on TSMC's N3 node, and its design should be completed by Q3 of this year if reports are accurate.

With the AI PC market expected to rise significantly by 2027, MediaTek and Nvidia aim to seize the opportunity and provide this segment of the market with their products. MediaTek's chip-making skills have improved considerably in the last few years, as seen in the Dimensity 9300. Adding Nvidia to the mix means that we'll see the expertise of these two giants combined, hoping to create something that can rival the promising Snapdragon X Elite.

According to UDN (via Dan Nystedt), the jointly developed processor will be priced at around $300. It's claimed TSMC will mass-produce it using a 3nm process node, but it's unclear exactly which one. As you might know, TSMC has various 3nm process nodes, including N3, N3E, N3P, N3X, and N3AE. The N3E, believed to be used by Apple on the M4, is the most likely option. Nystedt added that TSMC will use its CoWoS (Chip-on-Wafer-on-Substrate) packaging for the co-developed SoCs.

If the report is accurate, we should see the design finalised later this year, with mass production kicking off in the first half of 2025.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Do you think Mediatek and Nvidia together will be able to develop a processor capable of rivalling the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and the M4?

AMD has been actively developing its Ryzen-based APUs built on Strix Halo technology, and it seems that the company is still testing the upcoming APUs. According to recent reports, several samples have been transferred between locations, and some were discovered during transit.

As per the manifests spotted by @harukaze5719, Strix Halo is also being tested with a 120W TDP, which could be the highest-end version of the chip. This suggests AMD Strix Point APUs might get a third TDP option, adding to the previously rumoured 55W to 70W options. Moreover, the manifests show that the boards with the 120W TDP chip had 32GB and 64GB RAM options.

Strix Halo?https://t.co/WVAsColA7w pic.twitter.com/guqZ1uBVOH

— 포시포시 (@harukaze5719) May 10, 2024

The shipping documents do not specifically identify the Strix Halo chipset, but the FP11 socket, which is mentioned, is believed to be used by these upcoming APUs. The 120W TDP chips are most likely reserved for the top models, which are believed to have up to 16 Zen 5 cores and 40 RDNA 3.5 CUs. These models are expected to handle up to LPDDR5X-8000 memory via a 256-bit memory bus.

The leak with the Strix Halo specifications also suggests the chip would offer up to 60 TOPS via its built-in XDNA 2 AI engine and 32 MB of MALL memory. If earlier rumours are to be believed, Strix Halo chips will be released early next year.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Although 120W might look like a lot for a laptop APU, note that the integrated graphics unit in this chip is expected to be on par with an RTX 4060/4070 laptop GPU. 

AMD has multiple generations of the RDNA architecture in the works. With RDNA 3, we didn't quite get the performance jump many were hoping for, leaving many hopeful for RDNA 4. According to rumours this week, RDNA 4 might actually be a bit of a refresh, largely reusing a lot of the technology that went into RDNA 3. However, it is also claimed that RDNA 5 should be a ‘completely new' architecture. 

The report is from Chiphell user wjm47196 (via Wccftech), who has previously leaked Radeon RX 6000 series GPUs ahead of launch. According to the user, RDNA3 failed to reach its performance objectives, causing the GPU core frequency power curve to “go out of control”. Moreover, the previously proposed 192MB Infinity Cache was also cancelled owing to cost and power consumption concerns.

With RDNA 4, things should go a little better. AMD is expected to launch graphics cards based on the Navi 44 and 48 GPUs for the mainstream and entry-level markets, much like the Radeon RX 5000 series. This same architecture is expected to be used on the PS5 Pro and bring improved ray tracing performance. As for overall performance, the top SKU is expected to be on par with the Radeon RX 7900 XT.

On the other hand, RDNA 5 might be the “Zen” moment for AMD GPUs. RDNA 5 is claimed to bring a complete redesign, which might even justify a new name that's not RDNA. This new GPU architecture is expected to be featured in the Zen 6-based Medusa APU and on the next Xbox console, slated for 2028.

Additionally, the rumour emphasises AMD's plan to fine-tune its AI and ROCm software package by involving Xilinx. Something like “Radeon AI” is definitely a possibility as the red team focuses more on AI.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Do you believe “RDNA 5” will be AMD's “Zen moment” for GPUs?

Sucker Punch's Ghost of Tsushima is coming to PC later this week. However, it has been removed from sale on Steam and other PC storefronts in over 100 countries and regions that Sony's PlayStation Network does not serve. This move mirrors the ongoing regional delisting issues of Helldivers 2, which is also unavailable in the same countries and regions.

Notably, previous Sony PC adaptations such as God of War and Horizon Zero Dawn were single-player only and did not require a sign-in to Sony's proprietary online service. However, Sony's latest effort to impose a sign-in requirement to play Helldivers 2 was met with considerable backlash, prompting the firm to undo it.

Apparently, Sony didn't think Steam was accessible in more countries than PSN, possibly locking out users in non-PSN-supported territories from the game they had paid for. Even after Sony overturned its decision, Helldivers 2 is still unavailable in over 170 countries. Arrowhead CEO Johan Pilestedt is lobbying for this to be changed, but the restrictions are still in place at the time of writing.

On the other hand, Ghost of Tsushima is mainly known for its story-driven single-player campaign, which won't require users to login to PSN. Still, a multiplayer mode called Legends was added after the game's original release. Due to this multiplayer mode, the game is being delisted from all regions where PSN isn't available. Ghost of Tsushima will also notably be the first Sony PC game to ship with the new PlayStation overlay, giving players access to various PSN services, like friends, trophies and more. 

As seen on SteamDB, the same purchasing limits imposed on Helldivers 2 can now also be found for Ghost of Tsushima, which lands on PC this week. It would seem Sony's desire to unify the PlayStation and PC experience for its published games outweighs the desire for more sales, pushing into areas where PlayStation has historically not had much presence. 

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: I think what this whole saga makes clear is that Sony needs to support PSN in more countries. Sony has garnered high sales on PC for many titles, partly thanks to making games available in regions where console gaming is less prevalent. People in those countries are likely still going to play those games. Better to have an official store option, rather than forcing those areas to resort to piracy. This will be particularly concerning for God of War, one of Sony's highest-selling PC games. its sequel, God of War: Ragnarök, is now on the way, and if that game is suddenly unavailable in countries where players had previously purchased the original game, then we will likely see a spike in illegal downloads instead. 

Thermaltake is expanding its racing line-up with the new GR500 Racing Sim cockpit, along with a triple-monitor stand to go with it. Combined, you'll have everything you need to fully immerse yourself in a racing game, and your monitors will sit at the perfect height. 

The Thermaltake GR500 racing simulator cockpit was made to provide users with a more genuine racing experience. Everything was designed to make you feel like you're behind the wheel of a race car, from its racing-inspired bucket design to its fibreglass seat. The adjustable seat allows you to slide forward and back and recline so you can adjust yourself. The GR500 is built with aluminium and steel and has an anti-tip bracket for extra stability and safety.

The base includes RGB Lighting Strips with 20 lighting effects, including a Rhythm Pickup mode that changes the light dynamically in response to music. Moreover, the cockpit has universal hardware compatibility, allowing you to use popular wheels, gear shifters, and pedals from Logitech, Fanatec, Thrustmaster, and other brands.

The Triple Racing monitor stand complements the GR500 Racing Simulator Cockpit. Made of powder-coated steel with a fine-textured black finish, it can support up to three 32″ monitors. The stand also supports VESA standard sizes of 75x75mm, 100x100mm, 200x100mm, and 200x200mm, allowing you to use virtually any PC monitor. Lastly, it offers decent ergonomic features, letting you adjust the height and rotation/angle.  

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Are you thinking of setting up a little Racing Sim at home? 

Recent leaks and teases have suggested that a new ROG Ally handheld was on the way from Asus. Now, this updated system has been unveiled as the ROG Ally X, which will have a few updates over the original design, but will still offer the same display and APU as the original. 

According to The Verge, the new model will have a larger battery, which is expected to be about 40% larger than its predecessor. However, Asus has not revealed any specifics on the exact capacity. Still, Asus said that while the original's battery lasted about 1.5 hours while gaming, the new one should last around 3 hours. The device will also have an M.2 2280 SSD slot, making upgrades more straightforward. These features suggest that the new handheld will be larger, although no other details have been confirmed yet.

ASUS has also confirmed that the ROG Ally X will come with more than 16GB of memory, although the exact capacity and speed are still unknown. The device will be more repairable with a newly redesigned joystick and revised grips. It will also be heavier than the previous version. Moreover, the SD card slot on the new device has been moved further away from the air vent, possibly solving the thermal issues of the original model.

The ROG Ally X is expected to cost more than the original. However, ASUS has not yet revealed its official pricing or release date. The company is set to announce the new gaming console on June 2nd, and we can expect more information about the device's features and specifications then.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: Do you think the ROG Ally X will solve the shortcomings of the original model?

By now, you might've already heard that Nvidia's new GPU architecture will be named after the renowned astrophysicist Vera Rubin. Although Nvidia has yet to confirm the existence of this new architecture, there have been new rumours regarding its specs.

Earlier this year, Nvidia unveiled its latest and most potent AI chip, the Blackwell B100, which is slated for release later this year. However, some people are already looking forward to the company's future products and what they'll offer. According to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo (via VideoCardz), the R100 GPU is expected to go into mass production by Q4 2025, with the system and rack solutions starting no earlier than Q1 2026.

Sources suggest that Nvidia is still finalising the specifications, especially the interposer size and packaging. The company is said to be considering three options, including a 4x reticle design that uses CoWoS-L packaging, also used in Blackwell GPUs. The Vera Rubin architecture is expected to employ the TSMC N3 process node and pack four HBM4 stacks.

Rumour has it that Nvidia is focusing on power consumption as one of the key areas of the Vera Rubin architecture. With the B200 GPUs consuming up to 1000W, we're curious about how much power Rubin GPUs will consume.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru says: It is unclear if Rubin will be used for anything other than data centre GPUs, so we'll have to wait and see. There is also plenty to learn about the features and performance capabilities of this upcoming architecture.