I’ve previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, I love to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games and breaking exclusive stories. Besides my passion for gaming journalism, I love spending my leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited my articles.
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Valheim’s success took Iron Gate by surprise, as the developer had only one programmer to fix bugs.
Lead developer Robin Eyre revealed he only expected the title to sell 20,000 copies in early access.
However, it sold 5 million in just a month, becoming a pop culture phenomenon.
Indie games have championed 2025 so far, with titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 showcasing the immense potential of this niche. However, despite their brilliance, indie titles face significant constraints and limited resources, which necessitate cost reduction.
And, one of the casualties of the indie development culture is Valheim, the Viking-based survival game that was released in 2021 and became a humongous success.
Why This Matters: Valheim’s success in drawing a huge player base and delivering great gameplay shows the incredible talent in indie games, often rivaling big AAA studios.
Valheim sold 5 million copies in its first month.
While talking to GamesRadar at Gamescom, Valheim lead developer Robin Eyre reflected on the game’s success years later and revealed that the studio was unprepared to deal with the game’s breakout success and only had a single developer working on bug fixes for 5 months.
Eyre stated that going into early access, Valheim only had five developers, and they were expecting 20,000 sales. But the title took off, selling a million copies every week for two months, catching developer Iron Gate studio off guard.
“First thing we had to do was make sure that everyone could play the game. So for five months, there was one programmer fixing bugs.”
The studio focused on maintaining high game quality for the millions of Valheim players and tasked one programmer with bug fixes. Robin Eyre expressed his disbelief at the survival game’s popularity, saying he couldn’t have imagined this in his wildest dreams.
Besides millions of sales, Valheim had a massive impact on culture, influencing games like Fortnite to let trees decimate players, something Eyre is very proud of introducing. The game is still in early access years later, but besides Steam, it has made its way to Xbox as a console exclusive.
Valheim influenced many forthcoming survival games.
Just like Sandfall Interactive released a GOTY contender with 30 developers, Valheim’s remarkable critical reception and even more astonishing commercial performance are a testament to the talent in the indie space.
At T4G, my task is to cover the latest news around the gaming globe ASAP and with the utmost precision. I adore all the games and respect all the devs behind the amazing games that we get all year. So, whether it’s a PC or a Console game, I got it all covered.
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High on Life 2 was present at the Gamescom 2025 and has managed to impress.
The initial impressions are really positive, praising it for great visuals and fun gameplay.
The title launches on Friday the 13th in 2026 for PC, PS5, Xbox, and Game Pass.
The first High on Life game was released in 2022 and caught everyone by surprise. It was full of chaos, jokes, and overall a very fun experience. Its DLC was also more of the same. So, at the Xbox Games Showcase this year, High on Life 2 was announced.
The initial trailer promised more of the same, but multiplied, and that seems to be the case based on the early impressions. At Gamescom, High on Life 2 was playable and impressed everyone with its brilliant visuals and gameplay.
Why it matters: In a world where indie games are shining brighter than ever, High on Life 2 seems to be another great title. It not only promises the chaotic fun from the last gameplay but also significantly adds to it.
According to IGN’s preview, the sequel builds on the first game and takes things to a whole new level. There are numerous connections, such as old weapons and other items, but there is also a massive number of new ones.
It marks the return of the same trash-talking guns that add comedic twists to the game. The humor has also been dialed up a notch. This time, the game offers even more, including emulated games like Bible Adventures and more.
There is also a new traversal option: skateboarding. The combat is also more fleshed out with a greater variety of weapons. The graphics have also received a major boost. It still retains its goofy art style, but it looks better than ever.
High on Life 2 picks up its predecessor and dials it up a notch.
Gamespot has also released a 44-minute gameplay that focuses on an in-game mission. It shows how much the visuals and overall combat feel have improved. So, all in all, Squanch Games seems to have done everything right.
High on Life 2 releases next year on Friday the 13th. It will be available on PC and consoles. Currently, there is no information about a probable Switch 2 port.
What are your thoughts on High on Life 2 getting great impressions at Gamescom? Let us know your opinions in the comments or join the discussion at the Tech4Gamers forum.
At Tech4Gamers, I contribute as a Senior News Reporter, combining my skills and gaming enthusiasm to keep our audience updated on the latest developments.
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GTA 6 is aiming to introduce various ground-breaking systems into the open-world sandbox.
Realistic water physics are part of this sandbox, with a team of 20 engineers working on this aspect of the game.
Rockstar is said to have allocated at least $200 million to the water physics of GTA 6.
GTA 6 is less than a full year away, with each passing month bringing the industry closer to its 2026 launch. As the excitement continues to grow, many are eagerly awaiting new information from Rockstar and a potential new trailer by the end of the year.
Much of GTA 6 remains shrouded in mystery, but a new report suggests Rockstar has made sweeping changes to the water physics in the game. In particular, the team is reportedly aiming to deliver the most realistic water physics in a game to date.
Why it matters: Rockstar has always been ahead of the industry in terms of visuals, physics, and dynamic elements. It seems the studio is continuing to push this part of its game design further with GTA 6.
Grand Theft Auto 6 Is Just A Few More Months Away
As reported by VGTech, Rockstar has a dedicated team of 20 engineers working on this element of the game alone.
It is also said that a budget between $200 and $300 million has been dedicated to the process. This budget is so interesting since the game is said to have a budget as high as $2 billion in total.
The team is working on dynamic high and low tides, in addition to other interesting water mechanics. Moreover, GTA 6 is said to be introducing surfing as a playable activity to expand the series’ open-world sandbox.
Players can also expect to see hurricanes and floods as part of the dynamic weather system in the open world. All of this should contribute to the immersion factor in Rockstar’s latest title.
Rockstar Has Over 1,000 Developers Working On The Title
Although Rockstar has not said much about GTA 6’s open world systems, Take-Two has previously teased the studio’s aims of perfecting the GTA formula with this entry. Therefore, fans could indeed see these systems in the final release.
I’ve previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, I love to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games and breaking exclusive stories. Besides my passion for gaming journalism, I love spending my leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited my articles.
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According to Digital Foundry, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Integrade is the best-looking game on the platform.
The port stays stable at 30 FPS and looks on par with the PS4 version of the game.
The publication also praised the image quality, saying it matched the 1080p screen.
The Nintendo Switch 2 has been under some scrutiny recently due to the quality of AAA ports on the platform. One of the console’s selling points was its ability to run big hitters like Cyberpunk 2077, but titles like Elden Ring have performed poorly on the Switch 2, barely hitting the advertised FPS.
However, it turns out the console has a lot of unexplored potential, as PlayStation exclusive Final Fantasy 7 is doing wonders on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Why it matters: Smoothly running AAA titles is essential to the success of Switch 2. Hence, running a game that was once a PlayStation exclusive this well is a big win.
Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade will grace the Switch 2 in late 2025.
According to Digital Foundry’s weekly Patreon program, Final Fantasy 7 Remake Intergrade is the best-looking title on the Nintendo Switch 2 right now. The publication praised the port’s demo, saying the game was stable at 30 FPS throughout.
In their review, Digital Foundry even stated that Final Fantasy 7 on Nintendo Switch 2 looked on par compared to the PS4 version.
I’m going to say it right now, this is the best looking thing I’ve seen on Switch 2.
-Digital Foundry.
Furthermore, Digital Foundry revealed that the image quality of the demo matched the 1080p Nintendo Switch 2 screen.
With recent releases like Borderlands 4 having issues running on the console, this is a much-needed win for the Nintendo Switch 2, especially after analysts previously said PlayStation ports on the handheld may be a bit too ambitious.
Cyberpunk 2077 Is Almost Unplayable On The Switch 2.
All in all, there is still a long road ahead for the Nintendo Switch 2 to achieve redemption, as heating issues persist in the console. For instance, AAA games released this generation, such as Star Wars Outlaws, are dropping FPS like flies on the console.
Do you think the Nintendo Switch 2 can keep up this performance for other AAA titles? Tell us in the comments below or head to the Tech4Gamers forum for discussion.
At Tech4Gamers, I’m a Senior Error Fix Writer specializing in troubleshooting problems. Each article results from deep research, testing fixes and providing solutions.
Story Highlights
2025 is seeing a resurgence of stealth games, which are coming back on all platforms.
Classic franchises such as Metal Gear Solid are making a return with new remakes.
People are leaning towards a more intellectual and slower gameplay.
Mobile stealth games are improving thanks to better design and innovations in the industry.
For a long time, the gaming industry was dominated by action games and battle royal games such as PUBG and Fortnite, while stealth games were mostly overlooked. Stealth games were losing popularity back in 2024, which was unbearable for me to see as someone who enjoyed stealth games.
Now, with major franchises going back to their roots, Indie games also embracing a slower and mind-stretching approach the competition may seem tough. In 2025, however, we are seeing a comeback of stealth games, which is both surprising and overdue. You must be thinking, why is this so? and why now, after so long? Let’s dive right into it.
Iconic Franchises Returning
One of the biggest reasons for the resurgence of stealth games is the return of the fan favorite franchise Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater, which is a 2004 classic. The game is getting a remake using Unreal Engine 5. This will significantly boost the graphics, combat mechanics, and camera systems, helping to regain audience to a title that helped make stealth games famous.
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater will feature an original multiplayer mode called Foxhunt.
Similarly, it has been rumored that Splinter Cell may be getting a remake. An official date, however, for its release has not been announced. The anticipation alone is enough to help re-engage longtime fans.
Focus on Stealth
The return of Assassin’s Creed Shadows to the franchise’s stealth roots is causing much excitement. After years of heavy combat players have been introduced to two interchangeable protagonists.
The game showcases a stealth-focused shinobi and a samurai for action-based combat. Players can now switch between stealth and combat modes; however, it is clear that stealth mode is being preferred by players.
Anvil Engine – Image Credits (Eurogamer)
Ghost of Yotei, which is a sequel to the much-loved title Ghost of Tsushima, will expand on the stealth dynamic, making it a much-anticipated title among fans. Similarly, indie titles like Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream and Monaco 2 are focusing on stealth and have proved that stealth-based games are thriving in the indie world, too.
Taking to Mobile Gaming
These stealth-based titles are not only turning heads on consoles and PCs but are also making their way onto mobiles in a big way. Thanks to technological advancements, mobile stealth games can now deliver immersion unlike ever before.
Games such as Republique, Hello Neighbour, and Robbery Bob have improved the popularity of stealth on the mobile platform. These games make use of short missions and gesture controls that make them perfect for mobile gaming.
Craving Thoughtful Gameplay
There is a clear shift taking place in gamer preferences. After years of fast-paced action titles, gamers are now taking to titles that demand a more patient, intelligent, and planned approach. Stealth games such as Thief serve as the best solution to these demands by rewarding players for strategy, observation, and more.
Thief Gameplay – Image Credits (Pinterest)
This shift is especially visible in online communities. People on Reddit and other gaming forums are praising the return of stealth games that keep players on edge and tense at all times. The mental satisfaction of sneaking it past enemies undetected or completing a mission without raising an alarm resonates with the overstimulated players of today.
Nostalgic and New
The world of stealth games is being revived not only because of nostalgia. Developers are carefully blending the nostalgic aspect with new and fresh ideas, keeping things new. New titles are not copying the past; they are trying to reinvent.
Enhanced AI, better stealth mechanics, branching storylines and beautiful environments are helping revive something that’s tested and tried.
2025 marks the return of the stealth genre, not as a niche genre, but as the go-to choice for many gamers. With help from advancements in gaming and other innovations, stealth games are proving that they can be just as exciting and engaging as they were years ago.
Something about sneaking through places and taking down enemies silently without alarming others just hits different. Stealth games are a whole different world of satisfying that players today are craving, and as time passes, I alongside many others would like to see more of the stealth genre.
At Tech4Gamers, I mainly cover new gaming news, leaks, and rumours. Aside from that, I love to write features about my favourite games while inserting my opinion about their different aspects.
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A past rumor strongly hinted that the next Forza Horizon would be set in Japan.
A new report now suggests the game will be showcased at the Tokyo Game Show.
This adds more weight to the speculation that Forza Horizon 6 will indeed feature a Japan setting.
The next entry in the Forza series has already been confirmed by Phil Spencer and is set to release next year. As Forza Motorsport was released recently, the next entry will be a sequel to Horizon 5. However, no information regarding it has been revealed.
While there is no official information, a recent Instagram post of an Australian car company revealed that the game is set in Japan, exciting a massive amount of fandom. Now, a reliable insider has claimed that Forza Horizon 6 will appear at Tokyo Game Show, further fueling the Japan setting rumor.
Why it matters: Racing games set in Japan, paired with Forza-level graphics, are truly a match made in heaven. Its potential appearance at the Tokyo Game Show is just adding more fuel to the fire.
This information comes from Windows Central, a media outlet that has a solid track record. The outlet claims that they have seen documentation suggesting that the game will be announced this year.
Windows Central has seen documentation suggesting Forza Horizon 6 will be announced at this year’s Tokyo Game Show.
The Tokyo Game Show is just a month away, and fans are eagerly waiting to see if the next Forza Horizon will finally be unveiled. The big question, of course, is whether the rumored Japan setting will be confirmed.
If Playground Games really does take the series to Japan, the excitement would reach an all-time high. The neon-lit cities, mountain drift roads, and vibrant car culture make it a perfect fit for Forza Horizon.
A reveal at TGS would make total sense, but fans should still take this with a grain of salt since Microsoft has yet to confirm anything.
It’s also unlikely the company will announce its plans ahead of time, as keeping the reveal under wraps would make the surprise even bigger.
What are your thoughts about Forza Horizon 6 being set in Japan? Share them with us in the comments section below or join the official Tech4Gamers forums for discussion.
Currently serving as a News Reporter at Tech4Gamers, I have the privilege of combining my love for gaming with the art of storytelling. My role involves crafting engaging narratives that keep our audience abreast of the latest developments in the gaming world.
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Former PlayStation boss says that Nintendo understands its fans better than Sony does its own.
If he were to become Nintendo’s head, he’d change nothing since there’s nothing that requires fixing.
It’s also the reason why Nintendo didn’t suffer from the post-COVID gaming slowdown.
The pandemic era was truly the best time for video games, benefiting both corporations and consumers. However, the aftereffects of the lockdown had a profound impact on the industry, exacerbated by the declining economy, which has led to its current terrible state.
Only one giant corporation was immune to these aftershocks. As per former PlayStation boss Shawn Layden’s words, no one is more in touch with their fans than Nintendo is. This is the reason why they were able to counteract the post-COVID gaming slowdown.
Why it matters: Understanding the audience is the first and foremost basic principle of every business. Unfortunately, most executives in the gaming industry are out of touch with consumers, which is why we see terrible news daily about project cancellations, layoffs, and more.
In an hour-long podcast with HipHop gamer, Layden was asked what he would change if he were the head of Nintendo. His response was quite surprising.
If it’s not broke, don’t fix it, — If you put me in that job, I would just stand back
The ex-PlayStation boss added that even compared to Sony, Nintendo understood its audience better.
Regarding the repercussions of the pandemic, he stated that Nintendo was quite intelligent not to ramp up their team since, eventually, after the lockdown restrictions were lifted, people would have less time for gaming.
Sony Doesn’t View Nintendo As Their Competitor In The AAA Game Space
Nintendo truly stuck with one team and, even with enjoying the peak, didn’t have to suffer with layoffs and cancellations afterward. Surprisingly, Nintendo boasts a 98% employee retention rate, whereas giants like Sony and Microsoft frequently eliminate their teams.
In fact, they’re completely opposite of their competitors since Nintendo continues expanding with more hirings, while PlayStation and Xbox are downsizing.
At Tech4Gamers.com, I cover the latest news and rumours in the gaming industry, from new game releases to hidden gems and video game leaks. Furthermore, I occasionally write tech articles about video game consoles, providing insights into the hardware and software that powers our gaming experiences.
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A $500 PC is an entry-level option that can run popular games at 1080p on lower settings. It’s a good starting point that can be upgraded over time.
A $1,000 PC is a mid-range build that offers great value. It can handle modern games at high settings in 1080p and is also capable of playing at 1440p.
A $2,000 gaming PC is an enthusiast-level system designed for 4K gaming. It also functions as a powerful workstation for streaming or content creation.
When allocating your budget, the graphics card should get the largest share (40-50%), followed by the processor (20-25%). The rest should go to memory, storage, and the power supply.
The majority of modern gamers still play at 1080p, with only a minority moving to higher resolutions like 1440p or 4K, according to Steam’s hardware and software survey. That’s important to know because, in my opinion, the resolution you’re aiming for should guide how much you spend on a gaming PC. You don’t need a top-tier machine if your goal is just smooth performance at standard settings.
With $500, you’ll get smooth 1080p gaming but not ultra settings on new releases. At $1,000–$1,500, you hit the sweet spot: modern games run well, look great, and the system lasts years.
Around $2,000, you’re buying high-end comfort with 1440p, 4K options, and future-proof performance. This guide breaks down what each budget delivers so you can pick the right PC with confidence.
Best Gaming PC Under $500 (Entry-Level Build)
Putting together a gaming PC for under $500 is challenging but possible. At this price, we’re firmly in the budget category, so the goal is to get playable performance on modest settings, even using sale elements.
A $500 gaming PC won’t run the latest games on Ultra graphics, but it can handle popular titles at 1080p with some settings turned down. This is a nice option for first-time PC gamers.
Storage: 500GB SSD (SATA or low-end NVMe) – or a small SSD + cheap 1TB HDD combination.
Motherboard: Basic micro-ATX board (likely B560/B660 for Intel or B450/B550 for AMD, often without Wi-Fi).
Power Supply: 500W range PSU (ensure it’s from a reliable brand, even if it’s a lower-tier 80+ Bronze unit).
Case: An inexpensive case (compact mid-tower) with decent airflow but minimal frills.
This setup is all about value. A Core i3 with a GTX 16-series or RX 6500 XT can handle eSports and older big titles at 1080p, while 16GB of RAM keeps things running well. Storage is small but easy to expand later.
At around $500, motherboards and power supplies are often lower quality, so it’s worth spending an extra $20–$30 on a better PSU. For newer games, aim for medium settings to keep performance smooth.
Also, keep in mind that technology trends and performance in future games will continue to improve. However, it’s upgradable. You could swap in a better graphics card or add more storage as needed, so your ~$500 investment can evolve later.
Best Gaming PC Under $1000 (Mid-Range Build)
Perfect Computer Cooling Example – Image Credits(Tech4Gamers)
A budget of around $1000 allows for true mid-range gaming PCs. You can afford more powerful components than the $500 build, which allows for high settings and FPS gameplay at 1080p, as well as very respectable 1440p performance.
This gaming PC is an ideal choice for gamers seeking solid performance today, with some future-proofing for the next few years.
Here are the components you can buy for $1000:
CPU: It can be AMD Ryzen 5 5600X (6 cores, 12 threads) or Intel Core i5-13400F (10-core hybrid) – both offer strong gaming performance.
GPU:NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 8GB or AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT 12GB – modern mid-range graphics capable of high-quality 1080p and entry 1440p gaming.
RAM: 16GB DDR4-3600 (dual-channel). You can now find 32GB DDR4 within budget, which is a bonus for multitasking or future needs.
Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD (PCIe 4.0 if possible for faster speeds, e.g., WD Black SN770 or Crucial P5 Plus).
Motherboard: B550 (AM4) for Ryzen or B760 (LGA1700) for Intel – a mid-tier board with features like M.2 slots for SSD, and perhaps built-in Wi-Fi/BT at the upper end.
CPU Cooler: Tower air cooler (e.g., Cooler Master Hyper 212) or a basic 240mm AIO liquid cooler – better cooling than stock to allow sustained performance.
Case: Good mid-tower ATX case (with better airflow and build quality than the cheapest cases – e.g., Phanteks P300A, DeepCool Matrexx 55 Mesh).
PSU: 650W–750W 80+ Bronze or Gold power supply (from a reputable brand like Corsair, EVGA, or Seasonic, to ensure stability and headroom for upgrades).
A $1000 build offers a strong mid-range CPU with 6–8 cores, great for gaming, streaming, and multitasking. Paired with a capable GPU, it’s capable of delivering smooth experiences. Expect 16GB RAM (upgradeable to 32GB) and a fast 1TB SSD for quick loads and plenty of storage.
A $1000 gaming PC under $2000 provides an experience that satisfies nearly all gamers, except those seeking the absolute maxed-out 4K settings. It’s also a very balanced build, so you won’t have any single component severely bottlenecking the system. Most games will be GPU-limited at 1080p/1440p, which is what you want.
Best Gaming PC Under $1500 (High FPS 1440p Build)
Lian Li computer case.
This one is my personal favorite. A $1500 build can be considered an upper mid-range or lower high-end system; it’s the kind of PC that can dominate at 1440p resolution and even perform well at 4K for many titles.
Gamers with this budget are usually looking for very high frame rates, the ability to enable all the eye-candy, and some extra touches like a stylish case or robust cooling.
RAM: 32GB DDR5-6000 (2×16GB kit) – Given the budget, transitioning to DDR5 memory makes sense for the latest platforms and provides extra bandwidth.
Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD (high-performance model) plus a secondary 2TB HDD or SATA SSD for additional game storage – or simply a 2TB NVMe if you find a good price.
Motherboard: Quality mid-high-end board (e.g., Z790 for Intel or B650/X670 for AMD AM5) – with features like Wi-Fi 6E, plenty of USB ports, and robust power delivery for overclocking.
CPU Cooler: 240mm or 360mm AIO liquid cooler, or a top-tier air cooler (to allow turbo boost at full potential and keep the CPU cool under heavy load).
Case: High-airflow ATX mid-tower from a premium brand (Corsair, Lian Li, Fractal, etc.), possibly with tempered glass and RGB fans – aesthetics start to play a role at this budget.
PSU: 750W–850W 80+ Gold modular power supply – strong enough to handle a power-hungry GPU/CPU combo and provide stable power, with modular cables for a clean build.
Here, you’re getting 90-95% of the performance of ultra-high-end rigs for much less money. You can expect ultra settings in every game at 1440p while still hitting high frame rates.
In competitive or less demanding games, frame rates will reach into the high hundreds at 1440p, which is perfect for high refresh rate monitors. Even at 4K resolution, this system can hold its own.
This option is also great for VR gaming and high-refresh competitive gaming. If you have a 240Hz 1080p monitor, for example, a $1500 rig can push certain games to those settings. Well, a $1500 gaming PC is a forward-looking investment that gives you ultra-quality gameplay, very strong esports performance, and entry into 4K gaming. It’s the kind of setup where you can practically “set and forget” your graphics options.
Best Gaming PC Under $2000 (Enthusiast Build)
Rocking the Samsung Odyssey G9. (Image By Tech4Gamers)
The $2000 mark is the high-end enthusiast gaming PC. A budget of up to $2,000 puts you within reach of true top-tier performance. We’re talking about a system that can comfortably handle 4K gaming, content creation, and heavy multitasking.
Here are the components you can buy for $2000:
CPU:Intel Core i7-14700K (20-core hybrid) or AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D (8-core with 3D V-Cache) or even Ryzen 9 7900X (12-core) – high-end processors known for excellent gaming and strong workstation performance.
RAM: 32GB DDR5-6000 (could also do 64GB if needed for heavy creative work, but 32GB is ample for gaming).
Storage: 2TB NVMe SSD (premium model, e.g., Samsung 990 Pro or WD Black SN850X) for fast load times, plus an optional secondary SSD/HDD if large storage is required.
Motherboard: High-end Z790 or X670E motherboard – with top-notch VRM for overclocking, multiple M.2 slots (possibly with heatsinks), Wi-Fi 6E, and lots of connectivity. These boards also often have nice-to-haves like RGB lighting, debug displays, etc.
CPU Cooler: 360mm AIO liquid cooler (or a top-tier dual-tower air cooler) – to ensure the high-end CPU boosts to its maximum clocks under load without thermal throttling.
Case: Premium ATX case (such as Lian Li O11 Dynamic, Fractal Design Torrent, Corsair 5000D Airflow, etc.) that offers excellent cooling potential, spacious interior for a neat build, and stylistic flair (glass panels, RGB fans if desired).
PSU: 850W+ 80+ Gold or Platinum fully modular PSU – providing clean, reliable power for the power-hungry GPU/CPU, and overhead for future upgrades or overclocking.
With $2000, you’re looking at a high-end gaming PC. Prebuilt systems in this range often include CPUs like the Ryzen 5 7600X or Core i5-13600K paired with an RTX 4060 Ti or 4070, while custom builds can squeeze in stronger parts for the same price.
This level of PC handles modern games at max settings, making 4K gaming smooth and impressive. You can enjoy ultra graphics, detailed textures, and advanced effects without worrying about performance.
It also doubles as a powerful workstation. With a strong CPU and plenty of RAM, it’s great for streaming, video editing, 3D rendering, and software development. It’s built for enthusiasts who want the best performance now, with room to upgrade later.
How to Wisely Allocate the Budget for Building a PC?
When planning your build, think of the budget as a set of priorities rather than an even split. The right distribution helps avoid bottlenecks and keeps the system balanced for years.
General guidelines:
GPU (≈40–50%) – the graphics card drives gaming performance, so it deserves the biggest share.
CPU (≈20–25%) – choose a processor that matches the GPU; too weak or too powerful will waste potential.
RAM (≈10–15%) – 16GB is standard, but 32GB is a smart move for multitasking and demanding titles.
Storage (≈10–15%) – a fast NVMe SSD improves load times; larger drives can be added later.
PSU & cooling (≈10%) – reliable power and airflow protect your investment long-term.
It’s equally important to budget for future changes. Not every upgrade needs to happen on day one; adding more storage, memory, or even a stronger GPU later is often the more efficient route. And while saving in advance is always best, some gamers look at payday loan options for upgrades when an unexpected deal appears.
The key is to stay within your overall plan and treat enhancements as part of a long-term strategy rather than impulsive buys.
Final Thoughts
From budget $500 builds to high-end $2000 monsters, there’s a gaming PC option for every type of gamer. Many people start with the simple question: How much does a gaming PC cost?
The truth is, the answer depends entirely on your goals. A $500 system can deliver smooth 1080p gameplay, while a $2000 rig provides 1440p or even 4K performance with plenty of power to spare.
At the end of the day, the right gaming PC is the one that fits your needs and budget. Whether you build or buy, this guide shows what to expect at each price point. Pick the option that suits you best and enjoy your new gaming setup.
I’ve previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, I love to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games and breaking exclusive stories. Besides my passion for gaming journalism, I love spending my leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited my articles.
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EA has now rebranded Criterion to Criterion Games – A Battlefield Studio, suggesting its complete focus on the upcoming Battlefield 6.
The official rebranding also suggests Criterion will no longer work on Need for Speed in the future as a lead developer.
Past rumors hinted EA shelved Need for Speed, and the rebranding now confirms it.
Now, EA has officially rebranded Criterion into ‘Criterion Games – A Battlefield Studio,’ signaling a full official departure from the Need for Speed franchise. The team, which was the lead NFS developer for a long time, has been focusing on Battlefield 6 for the last 2-3 years.
Why it matters: The Criterion Games rebranding has caused a lot of stir in the Need for Speed community. It’s unclear if EA has plans to preserve and further develop the NFS series.
Criterion Games has been rebranded by EA, suggesting it will no longer develop Need for Speed games.
The new rebranding can be seen on the Criterion Games site, where it claims to be a proud member of the Battlefield studios. The Battlefield group is currently based on four studios, including DICE, Motive, Ripple Effect, and Criterion, all focused on developing BF6.
Today, we’re proud to [be a] part of Battlefield Studios, driving innovation, technical excellence, and bold design across one of the most iconic franchises in gaming.
-Criterion Games.
Criterion will now focus on the grand ambitions that EA has for the Battlefield franchise as a support studio, which include eventually launching yearly titles like Call of Duty.
It’s unclear if EA will revive Need for Speed with a new studio or shelve it, though handing it to Codemasters seems unlikely given its focus on F1.
Regardless, the Need for Speed community is quite unhappy with the new developments.
Do you think EA is officially done with the Need for Speed series by making Criterion fully focus on the Battlefield IP? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or join the discussion on the Tech4Gamers forum.
I’ve previously worked for eXputer as a Senior News Writer for several years. Now with Tech4Gamers, I love to devoutly keep up with the latest gaming and entertainment industries. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science and years of experience reporting on games and breaking exclusive stories. Besides my passion for gaming journalism, I love spending my leisure time farming away in Stardew Valley. VGC, IGN, GameSpot, Game Rant, TheGamer, GamingBolt, The Verge, NME, Metro, Dot Esports, GameByte, Kotaku Australia, PC Gamer, and more have cited my articles.
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A new report suggests that the Gamescom build of Borderlands 4 runs quite poorly on Switch 2 in docked mode.
The tester reports that the title barely reaches 30 FPS with a few enemies on screen, with horrendous input lag.
The visuals also look horrible because the render resolution was turned all the way down.
The new Gamescom impressions suggest that Borderlands 4 barely runs on Switch 2 in docked mode. The game struggles to hit 30 FPS with only a few enemies on the screen, and the input lag delay has been described as ‘horrendous.’
Why it matters: After similar reports from other games, Borderlands 4 also struggles to run on Switch 2, suggesting that the handheld is not able to handle the modern AAA entries without huge compromises. The title may flop on the platform if these issues are not solved.
EpicNNG tested the Gamescom build, and Borderlands 4 also looks quite abysmal on Switch 2 because of the render resolution being turned all the way down. Technical issues, such as lag spiking, also made it hard for him to aim at the enemies.
He was unable to play the game for long because of the unexpectedly poor experience.
I think to say Borderlands 4 runs on the Switch 2 is
misleading. And I think the game barely walks, let alone run.
-EpicNNG.
And just like Bandai Namco with the Elden Ring Switch 2 port, EpicNNG was also not permitted to record or show footage of his time with Borderlands 4 on Switch 2.
Borderlands 4 is rumored to run much better on other platforms.
Despite these worrying issues, Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford has high expectations for Borderlands 4, claiming the title is worth buying even if it costs $350. Additionally, he believes the FPS will sell at least 6 million copies, if not more, despite controversies.
Borderlands 4 is aiming to launch on 12 September 2025, on consoles and PC. A Switch 2 release is planned for later down the road on 3 October 2025.
Do you think the Borderlands 4 Switch 2 port will see improvements before the final launch to solve the issues testers have faced yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below, or join the discussion on the Tech4Gamers forum.
At T4G, my task is to cover the latest news around the gaming globe ASAP and with the utmost precision. I adore all the games and respect all the devs behind the amazing games that we get all year. So, whether it’s a PC or a Console game, I got it all covered.
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EA is rumored to be paying content creators heavy amounts of money for Battlefield 6.
Creators are getting anywhere from $10K to $300K for promoting the upcoming title.
This was quite unnecessary since the beta has already had quite a positive reception.
Battlefield 6 is poised to make a huge comeback this year after massively successful rounds of betas. After so many years, this is the first time people are looking forward to a Battlefield game instead of a Call of Duty game.
While the beta has attracted quite a positive reception, it is claimed that EA paid millions to content creators to promote its upcoming release. In fact, it is rumored that they paid as much as $300K to top content creators for Battlefield 6.
Why it matters: Battlefield 6 has undoubtedly had great demos, and people are genuinely looking forward to the game; however, paying creators for reviews and promotion is never the right way.
EA is reportedly paying content creators huge sums of money for Battlefield 6
TheGhostOfHope has revealed that a minimum of $10K and a maximum of a whopping $300K was paid to content creators for Battlefield 6 promotion. This comes after a rumor last month claiming that EA signed a multimillion-dollar deal for promotions.
So, any creator who has been actively playtesting Battlefield 6 or talking about it is most certainly being paid, which gives the game a bad look. The title is quite phenomenal on its own, so these sorts of promotions were unnecessary.
Battlefield 6 is obliterating Black Ops 7 on the Steam wishlist games
Companies often hire creators to hype games that aren’t that good; however, with Battlefield 6, that isn’t the case. This also presents the fact that now we have to be wary of the game’s reviews by content creators.
Nonetheless, Battlefield 6 is still aiming to be a hit among the fans, breaking multiple records despite just being in its beta test phase. It is among the most wishlisted games on Steam and has even revived older entries in the series.
What are your thoughts on EA paying content creators $300K to promote Battlefield 6? Let us know your opinions in the comments or join the discussion at the official Tech4Gamers Forum.
At Tech4Gamers, I contribute as a Senior News Reporter, combining my skills and gaming enthusiasm to keep our audience updated on the latest developments.
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Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake uses Unreal Engine 5 for stunning visuals, but performance leaves a lot to be desired.
The engine powering this game has come under fire, with fans criticizing the shortcomings of games relying on the technology.
Many even believe that Unreal Engine 5 has completely failed to live up to past promises.
Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake has received a lot of praise over the last week, but one major problem has sullied the excitement for this title. The remake runs quite poorly on consoles in performance mode, with the PS5 Pro often running worse than the base console.
Although this outcome has raised eyebrows over Konami and Virtuos’ optimization efforts, many have even begun to discuss Unreal Engine 5 again, stating that the constant optimization woes in titles using this engine are becoming too hard to ignore.
Why it matters: During its initial announcement, Unreal Engine 5 was pitched as the future of AAA gameplay and visuals, but it has not lived up to those promises yet.
Fans Are Not Happy With UE5 Constantly Running Into Problems | Image via Twitter
Over on Twitter, Synth Potato pointed to a slew of recent games that depicted one major problem or another. A common theme among these titles was the use of Unreal Engine 5, and this is not the first time this engine has been criticized.
Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake marks one more problematic release to add to the list, and even though the game presents a strong visual outlook, the graphics do not justify the low resolutions and poor frame rates.
Others like Mafia: The Old Country and Oblivion Remastered showcased similar problems, with stuttering being common across all titles. Some even went as far as dubbing Unreal Engine 5 a complete failure.
Unreal Engine 5 Is Causing Controversies After Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake | Image via Twitter
On the other hand, others pointed out that the engine itself should not be blamed for the developers’ shortcomings. They highlighted recent releases like The Finals and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 as examples of Unreal Engine 5 games performing well on all platforms.
With games like The Witcher 4 also expected to use the same technology, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for Unreal Engine 5. However, fans are far from impressed with what the engine has delivered during the current generation so far.
