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Phasmophobia Xbox Series S|X & PS5 Specs Revealed; 120FPS Mode Only On Series X

Story Highlight
  • Phasmophobia won’t have a 120 FPS mode on PS5.
  • Only the Xbox Series X port of the horror game will run at 4k/120FPS.
  • The game launches on PS5, Xbox Series, and PS VR 2 on October 29, 2024.

In what has been a pretty uneventful year for horror fanatics, Twitch darling Phasmophobia is finally launching on consoles in a few days to usher in the spooky season.

Peaking around Halloween 2020, the innovative ghost-hunting title with universal critical acclaim was announced for PS5 and Xbox Series consoles on October 17 by developer Kinetic Games.

The dev also revealed Phasmophobia’s specs on both these platforms, with the game’s tech side looking pretty competent. However, there is one major difference between the two ports; only the Xbox Series X version of the horror title has 120 fps.

Why It Matters: This generation’s PS5 and Xbox Series are constantly trying to one-up each other when it comes to localisations, with the former mostly getting the upper hand as the lead console. Hence, it’s interesting to see Xbox finally get one over its competitor.

Phasmophobia specs
Phasmophobia specifications for consoles

According to the announcement by Kinetic Games on X, the performance and balance mode on both consoles will target 4k and 60 FPS. However, the Xbox Series X will be compatible with 120 FPS. On the other hand, the Series S will run Phasmophobia on 1080p and 60 FPS.

Therefore, Xbox Series X has better optimisation for the title than PS5, something that hasn’t happened since Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown. Phasmophobia is also coming out on PS VR 2, which will feature 120Hz reprojection and a 60Hz refresh rate.

Latest Updates

Whatever the specs are, it’s nice to see a well received and innovative horror title launching around Halloween in what has been a dry year for horror after a great 2023. Phasmophobia will be released for the aforementioned platforms on October 29, 2024.

What do you think of only Xbox Series X featuring 120FPS mode? Let us know in the comments section or join the discussion on Tech4Gamer’s official forums. 

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Becomes Best-Seller on CD Keys Amid Black Ops 6 Launch

Story Highlight
  • Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 has launched to 250K players on Steam. 
  • However, due to the game being launched on Xbox Game Pass, the subscription service’s ultimate tier is currently a best-seller on CD Keys. 
  • On the third-party platform, Black Ops 6 is at the 6th spot.

Microsoft shocked the world previously by announcing that a franchise like Call of Duty is coming to Xbox Game Pass. It is pretty shocking that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launched the subscription service on day one.

This gives players an opportunity to try out their favorite parts of the game in a limited amount of time. If someone wants to just play the campaign, they wouldn’t have to spend a lot of money on the game. Due to that, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is now the best-seller on CD Keys. 

Why it matters: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 has been launched to great numbers on Steam despite many trying it out on the subscription service.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate Best Seller
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is Currently The Best-Seller on CD Keys

As you can see in the image above, Game Pass Ultimate for a month is currently the best seller. CD Keys is one of the best third-party platforms that provides product keys to consumers at low prices. 

Right at the fourth number, you can see that a similar Game Pass deal but with two more months has taken the spot. So, in the top five best sellers, there is no sign of Black Ops 6, which shows that Xbox’s strategy to launch the game on its subscription service worked. 

It should also be noted that Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is at the 6th spot despite being on a discount. 

Analysts also think that the game can boost Game Pass subscriptions by up to 4 million. While this seems too optimistic, it doesn’t seem impossible, especially now. There were concerns that releasing Call of Duty on the subscription service would hurt the game’s sales.

However, that doesn’t seem to be the case, as it has been dominating Steam’s best-seller chart for a while now, and it also shattered the launch player record of Modern Warfare 3. 

Latest Updates

After last year’s disastrous launch of MW3, damage repair is still needed, but this year’s Cal of Duty seems to have delivered.

What do you think about Black Ops 6 so far? Did you pay full price for it, or are you playing it via Xbox Game Pass? Let us know in the comments section below or join Tech4Gamers’ official forums. 

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 Launched To ‘Mixed’ Reviews On Steam

Story Highlight
  • Despite being one of the most ancitiapted titles of the year, Black Ops 6 might have failed to cater to its audience.
  • The title has launched to mixed reviews on Steam, with 35% of the reviews being negative.
  • The negative reviews cite several reasons, including issues with the Call of Duty HQ, performance, and several bugs.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 was one of this year’s most anticipated releases, and while the title has launched to over 250K players on Steam, it still appears that Activision might have missed the mark with it.

Following its recent launch, the game has received mixed reviews on Steam, with players pointing out various issues affecting gameplay quality. However, a large portion of negative feedback revolves around the Call of Duty HQ launcher.

Why it matters: Black Ops 6 was seen as a pivotal release for the Call of Duty series, especially given the lukewarm reception of recent instalments. Unfortunately, it appears Black Ops 6 may have struggled to break this trend as well.

Call of Duty Black Ops 6 Steam Reviews
Call of Duty Black Ops 6 – Steam Reviews

Currently, Black Ops 6 has garnered 2.6k reviews on Steam, with 65% positive and 35% negative feedback.

As mentioned before, players’ primary issue is the Call of Duty HQ launcher, which, designed to unify multiple Call of Duty titles, has struggled with functionality since its inception.

Many players feel this launcher has become a significant barrier to accessing and enjoying Black Ops 6, overshadowing the experience itself. One user explained the hurdle of playing the game through Steam as the following:

Black Ops 6 - Negative Steam Review
Black Ops 6 – Negative Steam Review

That said, other areas of Black Ops 6 have also faced critique. Players have reported bugs, performance issues, and various multiplayer problems.

Additionally, the Zombie mode has also received criticism. However, it remains one of the title’s more praised aspects, drawing significant interest and engaging players more than other elements of the game.

Latest Updates

The title is expected to boost Game Pass subscriptions by 4 million, though it remains to be seen whether this projection holds, given the early reviews.

We remain hopeful that Activision can address these issues and give us a more polished experience in Black Ops 6 as future updates roll out. What do you think about the game so far? Let us know in the comments section or join the discussion on Tech4Gamers’ official forums. 

Dragon Age: The Veilguard Currently Most Pre-Ordered Game On PS Store In UK & US

Story Highlight
  • Dragon Age: The Veilguard is currently the most pre-ordered entry on the PlayStation US and UK stores.
  • It has surpassed a plethora of other giants, including Monster Hunter Wilds, Life is Strange: Double Exposure, and the like.
  • For some stark contrast, the RPG is the 10th most pre-ordered title on the Xbox US store at the moment.

Many players were excited for the Dragon Age: The Veilguard after a whole decade of waiting. However, the sequel soon found itself in controversy after BioWare revealed more footage and details. It is allegedly a “super woke” experience that contains immersion-breaking modern language and takes on a criticized art, story, and gameplay direction compared to its predecessors.

Therefore, it is no surprise that many reports have pointed towards a bleak future for the title’s pre-order and post-launch sales. However, in a new turn of events, the pre-orders of Dragon Age: The Veilguard are now dominating the PlayStation store at the moment. 

Why it matters: Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s current status as the top pre-ordered entry on PSN US and UK stores suggests that it could perform well for Sony after release. However, many other tidbits have pointed toward a mediocre launch for the RPG.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard is currently dominating the PlayStation US and UK stores by being the most pre-ordered title.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard is currently the most pre-ordered title on the PlayStation US and UK stores.

As spotted on the PlayStation US and UK store pages, Dragon Age: The Veilguard is currently the most pre-ordered entry. It has completely surpassed the upcoming giants like Monster Hunter Wilds, Sniper Elite Resistance, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and many others.

However, the same cannot be said about the Xbox US store, where it is currently the 10th most pre-ordered entry at the moment. It has also failed to make any noticeable impressions on Amazon and Steam listings since it is still not in the top-10 rankings there.

Latest Updates

Dragon Age: The Veilguard has found itself in heaps of trouble even before release, but this milestone could suggest that there is hope for the game. But what are your thoughts regarding the pre-order domination on the PS store? Do let us know your opinions in the comments below, or join the discussion on the official Tech4Gamers forum.

Kratos Should Revisit The Rebuilt Greece World Next

Story Highlight
  • After taking his revenge on the Greek gods, Kratos found himself in the Norse realms, starting a new life.
  • The newer God of War games saw Kratos’ character development, leaning towards a more justice-oriented person with his mind at ease now.
  • With his arc in the Norse realm ended, Kratos should now revisit the Greek world in an attempt for redemption

The once rage-filled, angry mortal turned God of War brought forth the destruction of Olympus and the Greek gods, completely destroying the Greek world. His path towards retribution led him to the Norse world.

Living up to his God-Slayer title, Kratos took down the Aesir gods, bringing Ragnarok to Asgard, but this time for the betterment of the remaining 8 realms. Ragnarok gave Kratos a fresh start, helping free all the people from Odin’s tyranny.

However, Kratos’ story doesn’t end there, and even if he and Atreus have departed paths, there are many ways the Ghost of Sparta can go from here. With the franchise set to evolve and Atreus likely to get a spin-off game, Kratos should return to the Greek world to fix what he’s broken.

Why It Matters: Starting a new family in Midgard changed Kratos significantly, with the Ghost of Sparta departing from his old ways and fighting for justice. With Kratos now trying to do the right thing, he should at least try to improve things in his rebuilding homeland.

Does The Greek World Even Exist Anymore?

god of war 3 boss battle
The Greek world fell into shambles with the destruction of Olympus and most of the gods.

While the time skip between God of War 3 and God of War (2018) hasn’t been explicitly stated in the games, a dedicated comic series explains what Kratos did after killing Zeus.

In summary, he tried to kill himself on multiple occasions but couldn’t, so he tried to find peace. His journey led him to various lands, from Scandinavia to Egypt. Eventually, Kratos ended up in the Norse realm, where the latest God of War games continue.

According to dialogue and the events of the game, it is just speculation that 150-200 years have passed since the events of God of War 3. This means that the Greek world is probably still rebuilding from the aftermath of the gods’ deaths.

To prove that the Greek world isn’t completely dead, God of War 3 ends with a beam of hope. Kratos stabs himself in the abs to release all the hope to the Greek land in order to rebuild. Even one of the vases in Tyr’s temple from God of War (2018) shows the Greek people rebuilding.

Rebuilt Greece Could Be A Start For The Roman Pantheon

God of War Ragnarok Kratos
Egypt, Roman, and Japanese pantheons Were Confirmed To Be Canon In God of War Ragnarok.

It’s no secret that the Roman and Greek pantheons share many similarities. One could say that the Roman gods were loosely based on the Greek ones. It’s highly possible that Roman gods would’ve taken over Greece after the death of Zeus.

Zeus (Greek) and Jupiter (Roman) are both gods of lightning and kings of gods. The two pantheons have several more similarities, and they would be perfect for setting up the next story in the IP.

Simply put, there were remaining Greek gods such as Apollo, Aphrodite, Artemis, Phobos, and several other gods, and they likely took on Greece. Or it could be possible that the magic and power of Gods disappeared with the death of Zeus, and the Greek people still lived on without needing the gods, as do the Norse people now.

Kratos Trying To Right His Wrongs

kratos and atreus in god of war raganarok
God of War Ragnarok was mostly Kratos trying to redeem himself

God of War Ragnarok did an absolutely amazing job with Kratos’ character development. Never in a million years would I’ve imagined how Santa Monica would transform the angry Spartan into an advocate for peace and justice.

Most of the game involved Kratos avoiding war, trying to retribute himself for his past and current mistakes, advocating for justice, and opening his heart to the people. Maybe after all this character development and the events of Valhalla, the DLC, Kratos will finally be ready to revisit his homeland.

Latest Updates

It would be challenging to nail this storyline since there are many plot points to consider. Whether it’s fighting for justice or finishing unfinished business for the sake of his people back in his homeland, Kratos needs to revisit Greece for one old time’s sake.

However, Kratos will have difficulty proving himself to be a helper after his notorious reputation as a god killer.

PC Ports For PS5 Exclusives Likely To Release A Lot Faster After Spider-Man 2

Story Highlight
  • Sony recently announced the PC Port of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, which angered its fandom. 
  • This announcement was made 1 year after the game was released, indicating that PS5 exclusives could come to PC even quicker.
  • While some argue that the PS5 may lose its value, developers are likely to prioritise optimising games for consoles, so it would come down to preference. 

Just recently, Sony announced that Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 is coming to PC. This came as a surprise to many, but it shouldn’t have, as the whole game was already playable on PC. The game’s source code was leaked, and modders ported it to the PC.

While this might have pushed Sony to release the PC port sooner, there could be other reasons. The giant might want to generate more profit as PC has a massive player base. So, this early release indicates that more PS5 exclusives are likely to be ported at a similar time duration or even quicker. 

Why it matters: Sony needs PlayStation 5 exclusives to sell the console, as many fans are now skeptical and thinking of shifting to PCs and waiting for the releases. However, it is unlikely that many fans would shift to another platform even if Sony started releasing day one release on PC.

Spider-Man 2 Announcement Was Really Early

Marvels Spider Man 2 Sony Layoffs
Sony Might Have Announced Spider-Man 2 PC Port Too Soon

As a PC gamer, I think the announcement for Spider-Man 2’s PC port was really early. It has been a year since the game was released on PlayStation, and it is coming to PC in just a few months. This has caused a ruckus as Sony fans are angry over the announcement of the PC Port.

I don’t care about the games being released on any platform, as there are plenty of games to play, and that is what matters. However, the Sony fans don’t seem happy about the whole thing, and they might get even more annoyed in the future. 

Now, let’s look at the pattern here. Ghost of Tsushima was released in 2020 on PS4, and it took Sony 4 years to release the game on PC. After that, God of WarRragnarok was ported in just 2 years, and now Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 PC port has been announced in just 1 year. 

Sony’s time for releasing PC Ports is shrinking, and that doesn’t seem like a coincidence to me. PlayStation also seems to be focusing on releasing more games on PC, except Bloodborne, which, by the way, is already playable via emulation if you were unaware. 

However, I don’t understand the strategy here. Sony needs more exclusives in order to keep its fandom intact, right? The PS5 doesn’t have many new games, but the gaming giant has been managing with the remasters so far. However, they have also been released on PC from day one. 

The Silent Hill 2 remake was released on PC on day one, and the same will be true with Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. So, the gaming giant is aiming for more sales here, but is that really the case?

I Am Confused With Sony’s Strategy

PlayStation PC Ports
PSN Severely Hurts The Sales of PlayStation PC Ports

I honestly don’t know what the leadership at this company is thinking. Sony wants more money, so it is porting more ports to PCs, right? It was previously revealed that the gaming giant wants to focus more on the PC platform. 

So, its main goal is to capitalize on the profits of PC gamers. That is a great strategy, but has Sony implemented it correctly? The PSN requirement delists games from most countries, which hurts sales. 

So, unless the giant does something about that, the sales will not be as expected. However, despite that, I believe there will be faster PC Ports now, and given how ignorant Sony is, the PSN requirement is here to stay. 

Analysts have also concluded that the PlayStation doesn’t hold much value now. While the console still has exclusives, they keep shrinking. Also, releasing games late on PC has other drawbacks, as, after 3 or 4 years, not many people would be excited to play the game.

However, if Sony decides to release Bloodborne on PC, it will be a huge success and definitely break some records. 

Day One Releases On PC Is Possible

I believe that even with the PSN requirement, if Sony releases its games on PC on day one, it could generate some solid profits. However, this is likely to anger its fandom and cause trouble in the long run. 

If this happens, it will totally depend on preference. Games are often well-optimized for consoles, so fans are not that likely to switch to PCs.

Latest Updates

I don’t think it would be impossible for the gaming giant to release ports even sooner, but what do you think? Let us know in the comments section below. 

Hands-On: Best CPU Coolers For Ryzen 9 7950X

Though the Ryzen 9 7950X is an impressive gaming CPU with its ultra-fast memory and clock speeds, it’s important to note that such high-performance processors also generate significant heat. To simplify your choice, we’ve conducted thorough testing and compiled a list of the best CPU coolers designed for the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X.

Why Trust Tech4Gamers
  • Awais Khan is our hardware expert who has been testing graphics cards, RAM, coolers, and processors for years.
  • 80+ coolers tested and reviewed by our team of hardware experts (Tech4Gamers Team).
  • 900+ hours spent testing different CPU coolers for our reviews.
  • Objective testing criteria (See how we test CPU Coolers).

At Tech4Gamers, ensuring you get reliable information is our priority. That’s why every hardware round-up undergoes a meticulous review process by our team of experts and editors. Each review is carefully examined against our strict editorial guidelines, guaranteeing you trustworthy insights you can depend on.

Here is a quick look at the best CPU coolers for Ryzen 9 7950X compared with each other:

Cooler
Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black
Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT
Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360
How It Looks
Noctua NH-D15S chromax.Black, Premium Dual-Tower CPU Cooler with NF-A15 PWM 140mm Fan (Black)
Cooler Master 360 Atmos Performance-Driven Close-Loop AIO Liquid Cooler, R9|Ultra 9, Dual Chamber aRGB Pump, 360 Radiator, Sickleflow Edge PWM Fans, AM5|4, Intel LGA 1851|1700 Platform
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT Liquid CPU Cooler - IPS LCD Screen - Three AF120 RGB Elite Fans - 360mm Radiator - Fits Intel® LGA 1700, AMD® AM5, and More - Included iCUE Commander CORE - White
Enermax Liqmax III 360 A-RGB AIO CPU Liquid Cooler - 360mm Radiator, 120mm ARGB PWM Fan, for Intel LGA1700/AMD AM5, 5 Year Warranty
Award
Best Overall CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Best 360mm AIO Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Best White CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Type
Low-Profile Air Cooler
360mm AIO Liquid Cooler
360mm AIO Liquid Cooler
360mm AIO Liquid Cooler
What We Liked
Easy Installation, Design, Fan Noise, Performance, Heat Pipes
Performance, overclocking headroom, pricing, design, custom 3D printed design
LCD Screen, Performance, Design, Warranty Period
Performance, low price high value, RGB lighting, VRM cooling, 5-year warranty
What We Disliked
Size Issues, No RGB
Cables are difficult to manage, fans aren't daisy-chain compatibleable
Price, Difficult Installation
Thick radiator, embedded fan has no control
TDP
200W
400W
250W
400W
RGB
Colors
Black, Brown
Black, white
Black, White
Black
Fan
1x NF-A15 140mm
3x SickleFlow Edge A-RGB
3x AF RGB Elite 120mm
3x Digital RGB fans
Noise
24.6dB(A)
27.2dB(A)
30.64dB(A)
500 — 1,800RPM
Fan Speed
300 — 1,500RPM
690 — 2,500RPM ± 10%
550 — 2,100RPM
23.46dB(A)
Dimensions
35 x 150 x 165mm
394 × 119 × 27.2mm
397 x 120 x 27mm
400 x 120 x 38mm
Short On Time?
An ideal cooler that balances great thermal performance with a reasonable price point.
Perfect for overclocking the Ryzen 9 7950X and keep it from thermal throttling.
Combining good performance with gorgeous looks, this white AIO is ideal for any build.
Recommended for users on a tight budget who want decent temperatures on their CPU.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Review
Read Our Hands-On Review
Read Our Hands-On Review
Read Our Hands-On Review
Read Our Hands-On Review
Cooler
Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black
How It Looks
Noctua NH-D15S chromax.Black, Premium Dual-Tower CPU Cooler with NF-A15 PWM 140mm Fan (Black)
Award
Best Overall CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Type
Low-Profile Air Cooler
What We Liked
Easy Installation, Design, Fan Noise, Performance, Heat Pipes
What We Disliked
Size Issues, No RGB
TDP
200W
RGB
Colors
Black, Brown
Fan
1x NF-A15 140mm
Noise
24.6dB(A)
Fan Speed
300 — 1,500RPM
Dimensions
35 x 150 x 165mm
Short On Time?
An ideal cooler that balances great thermal performance with a reasonable price point.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Review
Read Our Hands-On Review
Cooler
Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS
How It Looks
Cooler Master 360 Atmos Performance-Driven Close-Loop AIO Liquid Cooler, R9|Ultra 9, Dual Chamber aRGB Pump, 360 Radiator, Sickleflow Edge PWM Fans, AM5|4, Intel LGA 1851|1700 Platform
Award
Best 360mm AIO Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Type
360mm AIO Liquid Cooler
What We Liked
Performance, overclocking headroom, pricing, design, custom 3D printed design
What We Disliked
Cables are difficult to manage, fans aren't daisy-chain compatibleable
TDP
400W
RGB
Colors
Black, white
Fan
3x SickleFlow Edge A-RGB
Noise
27.2dB(A)
Fan Speed
690 — 2,500RPM ± 10%
Dimensions
394 × 119 × 27.2mm
Short On Time?
Perfect for overclocking the Ryzen 9 7950X and keep it from thermal throttling.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Review
Read Our Hands-On Review
Cooler
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT
How It Looks
Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT Liquid CPU Cooler - IPS LCD Screen - Three AF120 RGB Elite Fans - 360mm Radiator - Fits Intel® LGA 1700, AMD® AM5, and More - Included iCUE Commander CORE - White
Award
Best White CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Type
360mm AIO Liquid Cooler
What We Liked
LCD Screen, Performance, Design, Warranty Period
What We Disliked
Price, Difficult Installation
TDP
250W
RGB
Colors
Black, White
Fan
3x AF RGB Elite 120mm
Noise
30.64dB(A)
Fan Speed
550 — 2,100RPM
Dimensions
397 x 120 x 27mm
Short On Time?
Combining good performance with gorgeous looks, this white AIO is ideal for any build.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Review
Read Our Hands-On Review
Cooler
Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360
How It Looks
Enermax Liqmax III 360 A-RGB AIO CPU Liquid Cooler - 360mm Radiator, 120mm ARGB PWM Fan, for Intel LGA1700/AMD AM5, 5 Year Warranty
Award
Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X
Type
360mm AIO Liquid Cooler
What We Liked
Performance, low price high value, RGB lighting, VRM cooling, 5-year warranty
What We Disliked
Thick radiator, embedded fan has no control
TDP
400W
RGB
Colors
Black
Fan
3x Digital RGB fans
Noise
500 — 1,800RPM
Fan Speed
23.46dB(A)
Dimensions
400 x 120 x 38mm
Short On Time?
Recommended for users on a tight budget who want decent temperatures on their CPU.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
NewEgg
Buy On NewEgg
Review
Read Our Hands-On Review

Last Updated:

  • October 27, 2024: After testing more AIOs, we have added the Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360 and the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS to our recommendations.
[toc]

More For The Ryzen 9 7950X:

Best CPU Coolers For Ryzen 9 7950X

Following are my recommended coolers:

  1. Best Overall: Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black
  2. Best 360mm: Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS
  3. Best 240mm: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB
  4. Best White: Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT 360
  5. Best Budget: Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360

Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black

Best Overall CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X

Specifications: Type: Low-Profile Air Cooler | Colors: Black | TDP: 200W | RGB: None | Dimensions: 35 x 150 x 165mm | Fan: 1x NF-A15 140mm | Fan Speed: 300 — 1,500RPM |  Noise: 24.6dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 1150, 1151, 1155, 2011, 2066 AMD: AM4, AM5.

Pros

  • Easy installation
  • Attractive design
  • Low noise fan
  • Remarkable thermal performance
  • Six copper heat pipes

Cons

  • No RGB
Check Price

Read Our Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black CPU Cooler Review

The Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black comes with a total of 45 aluminum fins, along with six copper heat pipes directly in contact with the baseplate. During our dedicated performance test, we noticed the design allows the cooler to have performance similar to a 240mm AIO cooler and adequately cool the Ryzen 9 7950X. The cooler also offers a premium build quality, with the heatsink built solely out of aluminum.

While there isn’t much to dislike with the cooler, the Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black has a simplistic all-black design with no RGB. The cooler fits perfectly in sleeper and stealth builds but will cause problems for flashier builds that require more RGB.

According to our hardware specialist, Nauman Siddique, the cooler’s build quality is astonishing, and this is why:

“The cooler is also lightweight; many people may assume it would be heavy with such a large heatsink, but it is not because of its build quality.”

Buy It If

✅You want killer performance from an air cooler: If you’re not comfortable shifting to an AIO cooler, the Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black houses enough power to cool the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X CPU. Furthermore, our testing showed the cooler also allows decent overclocking headroom.

Don’t Buy It If

❌You want better eye candy: In case you’re looking for better eye candy from an air cooler, we don’t recommend buying the Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black because of its mundane design and lack of RGB lighting.

What Makes It The Best Overall CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X?

Overall, the Noctua NH-D15S Chromax.Black is a phenomenal cooler with a stunning black look, which is perfect for all-black builds. It provides top-notch thermal performance along with excellent RAM clearance, which is why we have crowned it the best overall CPU Cooler for Ryzen 9 7950X.

WARNING: Air coolers are prone to gather more dust in a PC. So, depending on where you live, ensure you clean the PC occasionally.
Performance: 9/10 Value: 9/10
Features: 9/10 Design: 7/10

Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS

Best 360mm AIO Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X

Dimensions: 394 × 119 × 27.2mm | Fans: 3x SickleFlow Edge A-RGB | Fan Speed: 690 — 2,500RPM ± 10% | Noise Level: 27.2dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X AMD: AM4, AM5 | RGB: Yes

Pros

  • Outstanding thermal performance
  • Decent overclocking headroom
  • Good pricing
  • Unique design
  • Low noise fans
  • Custom 3D printed pump design option

Cons

  • Cables are difficult to manage
  • Fans aren’t daisy-chain compatible
Check Price

Read Our Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS AIO Cooler Review

Are you looking for a high-performance 360mm AIO cooler? Your wait is over because the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS will fulfill all your cooling desires. With its 3x SickleFlow Edge 120mm A-RGB fans, the AIO cooler brings a breath of fresh air around CPU coolers. During our performance testing, the MasterLiquid 360 averaged 71°C, showing off its absolute beastly performance and overclocking headroom, ensuring there are no bottlenecks with any CPU. This AIO cooler is good enough to cool off any sweat from your PC on a hot summer day.

The MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS AIO cooler’s aesthetics are unique and gorgeous. I love the pump design in particular. If you’re going for a Metallica-themed PC build, this AIO cooler will be a perfect fit with its loads of RGB and strip-themed design. Additionally, if you want, you can create your own 3D custom pump block and use that. I love most things about this cooler, and while it’s relatively easy to install, the cables are pretty challenging to manage. Moreover, the fans aren’t daisy-chain compatible; only the A-RGB headers are. But if you can let go of these downsides, you’ll find a genuinely remarkable AIO cooler.

PRO TIP: This AIO cooler comes with three fans and several RGB headers. Therefore, plan out your cable routing before installation to ensure less clutter and better airflow.

When Hayyan Serwer was reviewing and testing the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS, he kept glorifying its performance and aesthetics. Here’s what he had to say about both those aspects in his review:

The Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS is a high-performance AIO liquid cooler with excellent thermal performance and low noise levels.

✅Buy It If
✅ You want to use your own 3D custom design on an AIO that lets you overclock your CPU: If you’re an enthusiast who wants to overclock their Ryzen 9 7950X CPU and have an AIO cooler that has an option to let you use your custom 3D pump design, then I recommend looking into the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS AIO cooler.
❌Don't Buy It If
❌ You require daisy-chained fans to reduce cable clutter: If you already have a lot of cables in your PC and want an AIO cooler that supports daisy-chained fans, then I don’t recommend purchasing the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS AIO cooler because its cables are not only difficult to manage, but it also isn’t compatible with daisy-chained fans.

What Makes It The Best 360mm AIO Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X?

I absolutely love the Cooler Master MasterLiquid 360 ATMOS for several reasons. First, it has a unique design that not many other AIO coolers have. Second, it topped off in almost all our tests, showing its incredible thermal performance. Third, it’s not expensive at all and offers great value, making it the best 360mm AIO cooler for the Ryzen 9 7950X CPU. Lastly, it also allows you to use your own custom 3D designs for the pump, making the cooler more appealing for enthusiasts.

Performance: 10/10 Value: 8/10
Features: 8/10 Design: 9/10

ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB

Best 240mm AIO Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X

Specifications: Type: 240mm AIO Liquid Cooler | Colors: Black | TDP: 250W | RGB: Yes | Dimensions: 277 x 120 x 38mm | Fan: 2x ARCTIC P12 PWM RGB 120mm | Fan Speed: 200 — 1,800RPM | Noise: 10.64dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X, 2011-v3, 2066 AMD: AM4, AM5

Pros

  • 40mm VRM fan
  • Outstanding performance
  • Great value for money
  • Low noise fan
  • Integrated cable management
  • Beautiful design

Cons

  • Tricky installation
Check Price

Read Our ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240mm A-RGB Cooler Review

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240mm AIO comes with a 240mm radiator equipped with two 120mm fans using P12 fans. During our dedicated performance test, the cooler showed remarkable cooling performance with the Ryzen 9 7950X, keeping the temperatures around 55°C at 4K resolution. Going towards the build quality, the cooler has a copper baseplate and an aluminum radiator for better cooling and less weight. Moreover, the fans house rubber bumpers that decrease the fan noise. It was also imminent during our noise testing when we only got a 10.64dB(A) noise level.

The ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240mm AIO offers some of the best aesthetics we have seen in an AIO cooler. For example, the pump and tubing design give a spaceship-like effect. Furthermore, the RGB fans and customization only help improve the aesthetics of the cooler.

Our CPU coolers expert, Hayyan Serwer, who tested the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240mm, stated that the cooler’s value is impeccable. This is what he had to say:

“The AIO’s cooling capabilities are outstanding, especially when compared to comparable AIO coolers in its pricing range.”

Buy It If

✅You want high-end performance on a tighter budget: If you’re on a tighter budget but want high-end cooling performance for your Ryzen 9 7950X CPU, we recommend buying the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240mm AIO because of its remarkable cooling performance. You can also overclock the CPU to a certain extent.

Don’t Buy It If

❌You’re new to AIO coolers: If you’re new to AIO coolers, we don’t recommend buying the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 because of its difficult installation process.

What Makes It The Best 240mm AIO Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X?

Not only does the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 240 A-RGB look visually appealing, but it also provides great performance, all the while maintaining low noise levels, making it the best 240mm AIO Cooler for Ryzen 9 7950X.

Performance: 9/10 Value: 10/10
Features: 8/10 Design: 9/10

Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT

Best White CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X

Specifications: Type: 360mm AIO Liquid Cooler | Colors: Black, White | TDP: 250W | RGB: Yes | Dimensions: 397 x 120 x 27mm | Fan: 3x AF RGB Elite 120mm | Fan Speed: 550 — 2,100RPM | Noise: 30.64dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X, 2011, 2066 AMD: AM4, AM5, sTR4

Pros

  • LCD screen
  • Exceptional cooling performance
  • Elegant white design
  • 5 year warranty

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Difficult installation
Check Price

Read Our Corsair iCUE Link H150i LCD Review

The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT 360mm AIO cooler provides exceptional cooling performance with its 3x 120mm fans running at 2,100RPM speeds. During my performance testing in games like Red Dead Redemption II, Cyberpunk 2077, and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, the Ryzen 9 7950X showed average temperatures around 50°C, allowing slight overclocking headroom. With its performance, the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT also houses premium build quality with the radiator made of pure aluminium. The fans have anti-vibration material, and the pump also offers an LCD screen. I noticed that the build quality lives up to the five-year warranty the brand provides.

The AIO cooler offers an elegant white design with white fans and a fully-white radiator. If you’re building a white PC, this cooler is perfect to enhance your PC’s aesthetic. Furthermore, you can also utilize the LCD screen to show a customized image or GIF. Otherwise, you can use the LCD screen to show the CPU’s temperatures.

Buy It If

✅You want a decent white AIO cooler with an LCD screen: The Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT AIO offers impressive cooling performance with an elegant white design, offering decent RGB customization. Moreover, you also get an LCD screen to enhance the cooler’s look. So, if you’re building your Ryzen 9 7950X PC in a white design, I recommend purchasing this cooler.

Don’t Buy It If

❌You’re new to AIO coolers: While the H150i Elite LCD XT offers exceptional cooling performance, I don’t recommend buying it if you’re new to AIOs. The cooler has a difficult installation and offers no paper manual, either. This can make it pretty difficult to install for newcomers.

What Makes It The Best White CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X?

In conclusion, if budget is not a restriction, then the Corsair iCUE H150i Elite LCD XT 360mm AIO is definitely worth considering; it comes with an LCD screen, RGB, and, most importantly, offers amazing cooling performance. These points make it the best white CPU cooler for the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X processor.

PRO TIP: You can use the LCD screen to see the CPU’s live temperatures. Doing so can help maintain stable overclocks.

If you’re building a white PC, you might also be interested in the following:

Performance: 10/10 Value: 7/10
Features: 9/10 Design: 10/10

Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360

Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X

Dimensions: 400 x 120 x 38mm | Fans: 3x Digital RGB fans | Fan Speed: 500 — 1,800RPM | Noise Level: 23.46dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1851, 1200, 115X, 2066, 2011, 2011-3, 1366 AMD: AM5, AM4 | RGB: Yes

Pros

  • Remarkable thermal performance
  • Low price, high value
  • Easy daisy-chaining fans
  • Brilliant RGB lighting
  • Decent VRM cooling
  • Long 5-year warranty

Cons

  • Thick radiator
  • Embedded fan has no control
Check Price

Read Our Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360mm AIO Cooler Review

Usually, I wouldn’t recommend a budget CPU cooler if you’re trying to pair it with the Ryzen 9 7950X. However, the Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360mm AIO cooler is one of the only exceptions because of its out-of-this-world cooling performance and low price. Firstly, the cooler fans can easily be daisy chained, making installation easier and cleaner. Secondly, you get a pump fan that helps cool the motherboard’s VRMs, a neat feature for a “budget” AIO cooler. In any case, during our dedicated review, the AIO averaged 82°C at Cinebench R23.2, going head-to-head with many high-end options.

I’ll be honest: the LiqMaxFlo isn’t the best AIO cooler to look at. However, I’m happy with its aesthetics because at least there’s some RGB lighting on the fans. The pump design looks mediocre, but it’ll live because the VRM cooling is too good to give up for some RGB. Besides that, you get an extended 5-year warranty, ensuring you won’t need to change the cooler anytime soon, thanks to its sturdy build quality and serviceable radiator. The only issue with the LiqMaxFlo is its thicker radiator, making it a difficult fit in SFF PC cases. Do your homework beforehand if you’re trying to fit a decent AIO cooler in such a chassis.

Nauman Siddique was mesmerized by the AIO cooler’s price-to-performance value and couldn’t help but state the following in his review of the product:

The ENERMAX LIQMAXFLOW 360mm is a powerful AIO CPU cooler perfect for high-end CPUs. It’s rated for 400W TDP, making it an excellent value for the price.

✅Buy It If
✅ You want all the perks while staying at a tight budget constraint: If you’re looking for a budget AIO cooler that won’t thermal throttle the Ryzen 9 7950X, has a longer warranty period, and can be serviced as needed, then the Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360 will serve you well. Unlike other closed-loop AIO coolers, this one has a refill port on the radiator, and it comes with a 100ml coolant for whenever you have to service the product.
❌Don't Buy It If
❌ You’re using a compact chassis: The Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360mm AIO cooler’s radiator is slightly thicker at around 38mm without fans and ~64.8mm with fans installed, making it difficult to fit in small form factor PC cases. If you’re housing such a chassis, I recommend you complete your homework before purchasing the cooler.

What Makes It The Best Budget CPU Cooler For Ryzen 9 7950X?

The Enermax LiqMaxFlo 360mm AIO cooler is one of my favorites because of its lower price, impressive build quality, and features like a refill port on the radiator, easy daisy-chained fans, and a VRM fan on the pump, improving the cooler’s value even more. Furthermore, during our testing, the cooler averaged 82°C in Cinebench R23.2, showcasing its amazing potential. Thus, all of these features make it the best budget CPU cooler for the Ryzen 9 7950X.

Performance: 9/10 Value: 10/10
Features: 9/10 Design: 7/10

Thermal Benchmarks

In order to find the best CPU coolers for Ryzen 9 7950X, we tested them thoroughly under full load for thermal efficiency. Here are our benchmarks.

How We Tested & Picked These CPU Coolers For Ryzen 9 7950X

Our team of hardware experts has tested over 100 coolers based on these factors. This way, we can carefully round up the best ones for a top-notch CPU like the Ryzen 9 7950X

  • Performance: Performance is the most important factor to consider when looking for a CPU cooler. Since the 7950X is a high-end offering from AMD, it needs decent cooling to avoid issues like thermal throttling. That’s why we chose the best-performing CPU coolers while conforming with other conditions.
  • Budget: All of the coolers mentioned in this list are of different price categories. Paying more for a cooler will get more performance; while that is true for the most part, the level of performance you might need heavily depends on your workload. Gamers might need expensive AIO coolers, while everyday tasks can be completed using a traditional air cooler.
  • TDP Rating: While TDP may no longer be an accurate representation of the cooler’s performance, it still does a good job of putting into perspective how a cooler should perform compared to other coolers in a similar price category. All of the above-mentioned CPU coolers are more than capable of cooling the Ryzen 9 7950X.
  • Noise Levels: For people working in professional environments, it is important to look for a cooler with a lower noise output. Usually, coolers that come with a triple-fan setup have an overall louder noise output; however, there are exceptions to this. Thus, we looked for coolers that provide exceptional cooling performance without making too much noise.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a new CPU cooler for the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X?

AMD has announced that older generation AM4 coolers will be compatible with their new AM5 socket, which means it will not be necessary for you to buy a separate cooler for the Ryzen 9 7950X.

Does the Ryzen 7950X support DDR4?

The new 7000 series processors from AMD will not have support for DDR4 memory, which means buyers will be limited to DDR5 RAM kits.

Will Ryzen 7000 be AM4?

With the new Ryzen 7000 series, AMD has moved on to their brand-new AM5 socket, which suggests that these processors will not be backward compatible with the older AM4 socket.

Recent Updates

  • June 1, 2024: I have made some formatting changes to improve readability.
  • February 21, 2024: Added thermal benchmarks from our tested reviews.
  • October 28, 2023: Few text and grammar changes to improve readability. Added image galleries. One product was changed.
  • September 12, 2023: Few text changes to improve readability. No products were changed.
  • June 27, 2023: Few text changes to improve readability. No products were changed.

The Best 280mm AIO Coolers [With Temperature Results]

Out of all CPU cooling mediums, air coolers have been prominent in cooling even the best gaming CPUs. However, with time, AIO coolers have taken the lead by providing greater overclocking headroom at competitive pricing. 280mm AIO coolers fall within the midrange prices, showcasing 140mm fans that can displace more heat at lower RPMs, generating lower noise, making them perfect for low-noise lovers. Therefore, after thorough testing, I have compiled a list of the top 280mm AIO coolers in today’s article.

Why Trust Tech4Gamers
  • Hayyan Serwer is our CPU Cooler expert who has been testing different AIOs for years.
  • 80+ coolers tested and reviewed by our team of hardware experts (Tech4Gamers Team).
  • 400+ hours spent testing different coolers for our reviews.
  • Objective testing criteria (See how we test CPU coolers).

At Tech4Gamers, ensuring you get reliable information is our priority. That’s why every hardware round-up undergoes a meticulous review process by our team of experts and editors. Each review is carefully examined against our strict editorial guidelines, guaranteeing you trustworthy insights you can depend on.

For a glance, here are all our top 280mm AIO picks, all compared to each other in the table below:

Cooler
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB
Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280
Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280
ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280
How It Looks
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB - CPU AIO Water Cooler, Water Cooling PC, Intel & AMD, Efficient PWM-Controlled Pump, Fan: 200–1900 RPM, LGA1851 and LGA1700 Contact Frame - Black
Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280 CPU AIO (11773)
Gigabyte AORUS WATERFORCE X 280 AIO Liquid CPU Cooler, Rotatable Circular LCD Display with Micro SD Support, 280mm Radiator with 2x140mm Low Noise ARGB Fans, Compatible with Intel LGA1700
Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280 - AIO- Asetek 8.5th Gen - 2.88” IPS LCD Screen Liquid Cooler- Pre-Installed ARGB Daisy-chainable Fans or UNI Fan SL-INF Fans - LGA1700/115X/1200 (GA2ALCD28W.US)
ID-COOLING FROSTFLOW X 280 CPU Water Cooler White LED AIO Cooler 280mm CPU Liquid Cooler 2x140mm PWM Fans, Intel 1700/1200/115X/2066, AMD AM4/AM5
Award
Best Overall 280mm AIO Cooler
Best High Performance 280mm AIO Cooler
Best RGB 280mm AIO Cooler
Best Looking 280mm AIO Cooler
Best Budget 280mm AIO Cooler
What We Liked
Solid performance, Cools the VRM with a 60mm fan, Beautiful RGB
Enthusiast-grade performance, Great compatibility, Unique pump design, Overclocking
Exceptional performance, LCD display, Personalisation, RGB aesthetics
Low noise, stronger than 360mm AIO coolers, 2.9" LCD, aesthetics, customization
Remarkable value, Performance, Aesthetics, 6-year warranty
What We Disliked
Tricky installation on Intel builds
Expensive
Expensive, Extra loud fans
LCD makes it expensive
Lower overclocking headroom
Dimensions
317 x 138 x 38mm
316 x 144 x 30mm
312 x 140 x 27mm
319.5 x 140 x 30mm
311 x 140 x 27mm
Fans
2x P14 PWM PST A-RGB fans
2x Rise Aurora 140mm Fans
2x 140mm ARGB Fans
2x Lian Li 140mm Performance fans
2x 140mm Fans
Fan Speed
200 — 1,900RPM
0 — 2,000RPM
800 — 2,500RPM
300 — 2,450RPM
800 — 1,600RPM
RGB
Short On Time?
It is a complete package that offers excellent performance and gorgeous looks.
Carries a high price tag but makes up for it with its unparalleled performance.
A treat for RGB lovers that also delivers when it comes to thermal capabilities.
It's the perfect cooler to show off your build and keep it as cool as possible.
The go-to option for most budget users as it comes with an affordable price and yet offers good performance.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Cooler
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB
How It Looks
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB - CPU AIO Water Cooler, Water Cooling PC, Intel & AMD, Efficient PWM-Controlled Pump, Fan: 200–1900 RPM, LGA1851 and LGA1700 Contact Frame - Black
Award
Best Overall 280mm AIO Cooler
What We Liked
Solid performance, Cools the VRM with a 60mm fan, Beautiful RGB
What We Disliked
Tricky installation on Intel builds
Dimensions
317 x 138 x 38mm
Fans
2x P14 PWM PST A-RGB fans
Fan Speed
200 — 1,900RPM
RGB
Short On Time?
It is a complete package that offers excellent performance and gorgeous looks.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Cooler
Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
How It Looks
Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280 CPU AIO (11773)
Award
Best High Performance 280mm AIO Cooler
What We Liked
Enthusiast-grade performance, Great compatibility, Unique pump design, Overclocking
What We Disliked
Expensive
Dimensions
316 x 144 x 30mm
Fans
2x Rise Aurora 140mm Fans
Fan Speed
0 — 2,000RPM
RGB
Short On Time?
Carries a high price tag but makes up for it with its unparalleled performance.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Cooler
Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280
How It Looks
Gigabyte AORUS WATERFORCE X 280 AIO Liquid CPU Cooler, Rotatable Circular LCD Display with Micro SD Support, 280mm Radiator with 2x140mm Low Noise ARGB Fans, Compatible with Intel LGA1700
Award
Best RGB 280mm AIO Cooler
What We Liked
Exceptional performance, LCD display, Personalisation, RGB aesthetics
What We Disliked
Expensive, Extra loud fans
Dimensions
312 x 140 x 27mm
Fans
2x 140mm ARGB Fans
Fan Speed
800 — 2,500RPM
RGB
Short On Time?
A treat for RGB lovers that also delivers when it comes to thermal capabilities.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Cooler
Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280
How It Looks
Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280 - AIO- Asetek 8.5th Gen - 2.88” IPS LCD Screen Liquid Cooler- Pre-Installed ARGB Daisy-chainable Fans or UNI Fan SL-INF Fans - LGA1700/115X/1200 (GA2ALCD28W.US)
Award
Best Looking 280mm AIO Cooler
What We Liked
Low noise, stronger than 360mm AIO coolers, 2.9" LCD, aesthetics, customization
What We Disliked
LCD makes it expensive
Dimensions
319.5 x 140 x 30mm
Fans
2x Lian Li 140mm Performance fans
Fan Speed
300 — 2,450RPM
RGB
Short On Time?
It's the perfect cooler to show off your build and keep it as cool as possible.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Newegg
Buy on Newegg
Cooler
ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280
How It Looks
ID-COOLING FROSTFLOW X 280 CPU Water Cooler White LED AIO Cooler 280mm CPU Liquid Cooler 2x140mm PWM Fans, Intel 1700/1200/115X/2066, AMD AM4/AM5
Award
Best Budget 280mm AIO Cooler
What We Liked
Remarkable value, Performance, Aesthetics, 6-year warranty
What We Disliked
Lower overclocking headroom
Dimensions
311 x 140 x 27mm
Fans
2x 140mm Fans
Fan Speed
800 — 1,600RPM
RGB
Short On Time?
The go-to option for most budget users as it comes with an affordable price and yet offers good performance.
Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Newegg
Buy on Newegg

Last Updated:

  • October 27, 2024: After going through more 280mm options, our experts found the Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280’s performance, value, and looks to be exceptional. As such, we’ve awarded it the best looking 280mm title.
[toc]

Looking for more options? We have you covered:

Best 280mm AIO Coolers

Here are my top 280mm AIO CPU Coolers:

  1. Best Overall: ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 A-RGB
  2. Best High Performance: Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
  3. Best RGB 280mm: Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280
  4. Best Looking: Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280
  5. Best Budget: ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280

ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB

Best Overall 280mm AIO Cooler

_ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB - Best Overall 280mm AIO Cooler
ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB

Specifications: Dimensions: 317 x 138 x 38mm | Fans: 2x P14 PWM PST A-RGB fans | Fan Speed: 200 — 1,900RPM | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700 AMD: AM4, AM5 | RGB: Yes 

Pros

  • Solid performance
  • Cools the VRM with a 60mm fan
  • Beautiful RGB

Cons

  • Tricky installation on Intel builds
Get it now

There is no other AIO that can beat the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB at being the best overall 280mm AIO. It replaces the previous Liquid Freezer II 280 and comes with an impressively good performance jump. I tried this AIO with the i7-13700K and was blown away by the thermal performance. The main reason why it performs so well is the new fins stacking ARCTIC has used in the radiator to give it 23% surface area. Along with that, the Intel Contact Frame also plays a vital role in improving the contact between the copper baseplate and the CPU.

In addition to solid CPU cooling capabilities with 2x P14 PWM PST A-RGB fans, the Liquid Freezer III’s pump also has a 60mm VRM fan, meaning you get lower VRM temperatures at high loads. As for the design, the AIO looks really good with an RGB pump and fans. The VRM fan design on the pump is also quite sleek and aesthetic. Plus, you can daisy-chain the cables to make cable management easier than ever.

Here’s what I said about the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB in my dedicated review:

The Arctic Liquid Freezer III 280mm AIO cooler shines with its top-notch cooling capabilities, compatibility with leading Intel and AMD sockets, and the inclusion of the high-performance MX-6 thermal paste.

✅Buy It If

I took these pictures of the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB during my testing:

You want great performance at an attractive price: The Liquid Freezer III 280 is a massive upgrade over its predecessor, especially in terms of raw cooling performance as the denser radiator does a great job at dissipating heat quickly.

You prefer having a VRM fan: The 60mm VRM fan further improves the value as the AIO cools not only your CPU but also your motherboard’s VRMs.

❌Don't Buy It If

You’re a beginner and plan to install yourself: This goes specifically for Intel builds, as I would not recommend this AIO to beginners who plan to install it themselves. The Contact Frame required for the LGA1700 socket no doubt improves the performance but is also a bit tricky to install.

What Makes It The Best Overall 280mm AIO Cooler?

Now that I have tested the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 A-RGB through its paces, the AIO turns out to be the jack of all trades. But the main reason why I have picked it as the best overall 280mm AIO cooler is that it offers great performance for a very competitive price.

Editor`s Note
Image

I am absolutely blown away by just how much value ARCTIC has packed into the Liquid Freezer III 280. It not only delivers top-tier performance but also looks great with RGB lighting. Plus, the VRM fan is a great add-on that improves the motherboard’s stability at high loads. The only caveat is the installation for Intel builds, which is a bit tricky due to the Contact Frame.

– Hayyan Serwer

Performance: 9/10 Value: 10/10
Features: 9/10 Design: 9/10

Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280

Best High Performance 280mm AIO Cooler

Best High Performance 280mm AIO Cooler - Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280
Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280.

Specifications: Dimensions: 316 x 144 x 30mm | Fans: 2x Rise Aurora 140mm Fans | Fan Speed: 0 — 2,000RPM | Noise Level: 31.5dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X, 2011-3, 2066, 3647, 4189 AMD: AM4, AM5, sTR4, sTRX4, sWRX8, SP3 | RGB: Yes 

Pros

  • Enthusiast-grade performance
  • Copper radiator
  • Great compatibility
  • Unique pump design
  • Impressive overclocking potential

Cons

  • Expensive

Check Price

The Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280mm AIO cooler exhibits a degree of polish with its remarkable enthusiast-grade performance. During my performance testing, the AIO cooler showed outstanding overclocking capabilities with high-end CPUs at full load without having any issues. The AIO cooler has a sturdy build quality that helps with heat dissipation. For example, coming with an FPI count of 15 and an enlarged surface area, the copper radiator ensures effective heat dissipation. I also loved the hydraulic bearings on the 140mm fans, which ensure their longevity while also keeping a lower noise output.

The Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280mm AIO cooler stands out for its modular design, showcasing a unique pump design with tons of RGB. Moreover, the black aesthetic complements the pump and tubing, improving the overall aesthetics when paired with a darker PC build.

I loved the AIO cooler’s remarkable cooling performance and couldn’t help but state the following in my review:

“The Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280 D-RGB cooler is a feature-rich cooling solution comprising nothing but the custom loop components from ALPHACOOL. This cooler has a decent performance but with loud fans.”

 

✅Buy It If

Here are a few images we took of the AIO cooler during our dedicated review:

You want to achieve higher overclocks without giving up on aesthetics: If you’re looking for a 280mm AIO cooler that provides enough cooling performance to help achieve higher overclocked boost clocks for high-end CPUs and you don’t have to give up on beautiful aesthetics, then I recommend purchasing the Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280.

❌Don't Buy It If

You’re on a tighter budget: Given its outstanding performance, a higher price tag was almost expected; however, that can be a deal-breaker for some people who are on a tighter budget.

What Makes It The Best High Performance 280mm AIO Cooler?

The Alphacool Eisbaer Pro Aurora 280 brings everything you want from a high-performance cooler into one complete package. While its performance is more than sufficient for most processors, you can also pair it with workstation GPUs thanks to the larger surface area of the CPU block. All that, combined with its unmatched thermal performance, makes it the best high performance 280mm AIO cooler.

Performance: 10/10 Value: 8/10
Features: 9/10 Design: 8/10

Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280

Best RGB 280mm AIO Cooler

Best RGB 280mm AIO Cooler - Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280
Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280.

Specifications: Dimensions: 312 x 140 x 27mm | Fans: 2 x 140mm ARGB Fans | Fan Speed: 800 — 2,500RPM | Noise Level: 44.4dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X, 2011, 2066 AMD: AM4, AM5, sTR4, sTRX4 | RGB: Yes 

Pros

  • Exceptional performance
  • LCD display
  • Excellent personalisation
  • Beautiful RGB aesthetics
  • Sturdy build quality

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Extra loud fans

Check Price

The Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280mm AIO cooler is packed with 2x 140mm A-RGB fans running at 2,500RPM speeds for most of its cooling capabilities. During our dedicated performance testing, the AIO cooler showed no bottlenecking issues with high-end CPUs, even at full load. Besides its impressive performance, the AIO cooler also features decent build quality with dual ball-bearing fans, each with 7 blades that help manage the 89.18CFM. Moreover, we loved the aluminum radiator with black-sleeved high-quality tubing that helps increase the longevity of the cooler.

Talking about its looks, the Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280mm AIO cooler comes in a predominantly black design with a circular pump, which includes a rotatable top cover. Topping that off, the LCD screen on the CPU block increases the cooler’s customizability. However, we loved the RGB lighting present throughout the cooler.

Nauman Siddique, one of our hardware experts, loved the AIO cooler’s aesthetics and performance, as he expressed in his review:

“The AORUS WATERFORCE X 280 is a powerful cooler with a high price. It boasts a stunning 60 x 60mm LCD screen with vibrant colors and great software customization. This cooler prioritizes aesthetics and performance over value.”

PRO TIP: You can lower your AIO cooler’s fan speeds to decrease their fan noise but that will also decrease the airflow in the PC case and increase temperatures. So, it would help if you were careful not to decrease the fan speed too much.
✅Buy It If

We took a few images of the AIO cooler during our dedicated review:

You want a beautiful AIO with an easy installation and decent performance: If you’re looking for a 280mm AIO cooler that can keep any high-end CPU from bottlenecking at full load while having an easy installation process and showcasing beautiful aesthetics, then we recommend buying the Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280mm.

❌Don't Buy It If

You dislike noisy fans: We don’t recommend purchasing this AIO cooler if you can’t handle noisy fans as the Gigabyte Aorus WATERFORCE X 280mm’s fans go up to 44.4dB(A) at 100% speed, making them pretty loud.

What Makes It The Best RGB 280mm AIO Cooler?

The Gigabyte AORUS WaterForce X 280 gets a lot right with its simple yet effective design. It stands out with its sleek implementation of the RGB elements while providing you with enough thermal performance and customizability, making it the best RGB 280mm AIO cooler.

Performance: 8/10 Value: 7/10
Features: 8/10 Design: 10/10

Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280

Best Looking 280mm AIO Cooler

Best Looking 280mm AIO Cooler - Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280
Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280

Specifications: Dimensions: 319.5 x 140 x 30mm | Fans: 2x Lian Li 140mm Performance fans | Fan Speed: 300 — 2,450RPM | Noise Level: 26.7dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X AMD: AM4, AM5 | RGB: Yes

Pros

  • Stronger than most 360mm AIO coolers
  • Low noise levels
  • Vibrant 2.9″ LCD
  • Daisy-chained fans
  • Beautiful aesthetics
  • Amazing customization capabilities

Cons

  • LCD makes it expensive
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I have always been a sucker for good-looking AIO coolers. But do you know what I love more? It’s a good-looking AIO cooler that also performs just as well. The Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280mm AIO cooler fits both requirements, making it one of my favorite AIO coolers. Most of the performance is because the 2x 140mm fans run at 2,450RPM speeds with a massive 89.7CFM. During my testing with the i7-13700K in Cinebench R23, the AIO averaged 67°C with an ambient temperature of 23°C, showcasing outstanding overclocking headroom. 

The testing proves that the Lian Li Galahad II is better than most 360mm AIO coolers. Moreover, the fans stay extremely quiet at max load. Regarding its looks, the cooler has a 2.9″ LCD screen that can easily be customized with a GIF, temperatures, or whatever else you’d like. I also love the exotic pump design soaked in RGB lighting, further improving the cooler’s looks.

Furthermore, the daisy-chained fans make cable management easy, reducing cable clutter. The only thing I moderately dislike is the slightly expensive price tag because of the LCD. I’d rather have a lower price than an LCD, but the Galahad II makes up for it thanks to its remarkable performance and features.

✅Buy It If
You want the most eye candy from an AIO that won’t thermal throttle your CPU: If you’re trying to cool a flagship processor and want a 280mm AIO cooler that won’t thermal throttle the CPU at the least and will also look amazing in any PC build, then I can’t help but recommend the Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280mm AIO cooler. It has impeccable customization capabilities, looks beautiful, and can outperform most 360mm AIO coolers. 
❌Don't Buy It If
You don’t want to empty your wallet: Unfortunately, the Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280mm AIO cooler is slightly expensive. It’s not the most expensive 280mm AIO cooler on our list, but it’s pretty pricey. If you’re on a lower budget, you should skip this cooler and look for our budget offering.

What Makes It The Best Looking 280mm AIO Cooler?

I love the Lian Li Galahad II LCD 280mm AIO cooler mainly because of its remarkable thermal performance. However, the cherry on top is its exotic aesthetics, with the fans and pump completely soaked in beautiful RGB lighting. Moreover, the 2.9″ LCD screen can be customized as you wish. The daisy-chained fans reduce cable clutter, and the pre-installed fans simplify installation. Additionally, depending on your PC build, you can get a black or white version, making it the best looking 280mm AIO cooler.

Performance: 9/10 Value: 7/10
Features: 9/10 Design: 10/10

ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280

Best Budget 280mm AIO Cooler

Best Budget 280mm AIO Cooler - ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280
ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280.

Specifications: Dimensions: 311 x 140 x 27mm | Fans: 2x 140mm Fans | Fan Speed: 800 — 1,600RPM | Noise Level: 32.6dB(A) | Socket Support: Intel: LGA 1700, 1200, 115X, 2011, 2066 AMD: AM4, AM5 | RGB: Yes

Pros

  • Remarkable value
  • Decent thermal performance
  • Beautiful rough aesthetics
  • Longer warranty period

Cons

  • Lower overclocking headroom
Check Price

The ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280mm AIO cooler showcases remarkable value thanks to its decent thermal performance on a budget. During my performance testing, none of our reviewed CPUs, like the Ryzen 7 7700X, showed any thermal throttling issues even at full load at 1440p and 4K resolutions. I also loved the premium-sleeved 400mm tubing that ensures the cooler’s longevity. Moreover, the aluminum radiator and copper baseplate increase heat dissipation properties.

With a rough yet simple aesthetic all over the radiator, the ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280mm AIO cooler has good aesthetics for darker PC builds that prefer stealth than tons of RGB lighting. However, you do get some RGB around the pump, along with the darker tubing material, which enhances the looks of the AIO cooler.

WARNING: Before making an AIO cooler purchase, ensure you know your AIO placement beforehand for optimal airflow and that the AIO cooler can fit in the chassis without any issues. Otherwise, you might not be able to install the cooler easily.
✅Buy It If

You want to cool your processor on a tighter budget without sacrificing looks: If you’re going to cool your CPU on a stricter budget without sacrificing the cooler’s aesthetics, I recommend purchasing the ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280mm AIO cooler because of its outstanding value for performance.

❌Don't Buy It If

You want to achieve higher overclocked boost clocks: I don’t recommend buying this AIO cooler if you’re going to achieve higher overclocked boost clocks because of its lower thermal headroom to overclock high-end CPUs. You might be fine with mid-range CPUs, however.

What Makes It The Best Budget 280mm AIO Cooler?

The ID-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280mm AIO cooler houses 2x 140mm fans running at 1,600RPM fans for the bulk of its impressive thermal performance with simple yet elegant aesthetics, making it perfect for stealth PC builds. Coupling all that with its sturdy build quality and lower price tag makes it the best budget 280mm AIO cooler.

Performance: 8/10 Value: 10/10
Features: 7/10 Design: 8/10

Benchmarks Of The Best 280mm AIO Coolers

Knowing how well a CPU cooler can cool processors is the most important factor to consider before making a purchase decision. Therefore, to make it easier for you, we have shared our findings after testing several AIO coolers and comparing them with each other. In our testing, we removed the power limits to push these coolers to the limits, that’s why you won’t get even close to these temperatures during normal gaming.

Why We Didn’t Go For These 280mm AIO Coolers

Our hardware specialists have tested many 280mm AIO coolers. However, here is a list of a few honorable mentions that couldn’t make the cut for today’s article:

  • NZXT Kraken X63 RGB: The AIO cooler comes with a higher price tag and slightly lower performance than its competitors.
  • EVGA CLC 280: Higher fan noise with slower pump speed makes it a less viable purchase choice.

How We Picked & Selected These 280mm AIO Coolers

When it comes to selecting an AIO for your CPU, we always ask our users to consider all factors before making a decision. Choosing an AIO cooler can be troublesome at times due to the range of options to choose from, but don’t worry; we’ve compiled a bunch of shopping tips to make your purchase easy.

  • Socket Compatibility: Because each CPU has a different socket size, you must conduct some research to ensure that your AIO will suit your CPU. To verify the specifications of your AIO, go to the manufacturer’s website and see if it supports your CPU socket.
  • TDP: Knowing your preferred AIO cooler’s TDP is essential to know whether it’s enough to cool your CPU at full load without causing any thermal throttling issues. Generally, you always want your CPU cooler’s TDP to be significantly higher than your CPU’s.
  • Noise Levels: Moving parts are believed to produce a lot of noise in products, and trust me, there are a lot of moving parts in an AIO. You may always use the internet to find out which AIO produces the least noise.
  • Aesthetics: Overall, you may always select an AIO to improve the appearance of your system. There are a variety of variations available, including RGB AIOs, AIOs with LCDs on their pump headers, and circular pump headers instead of the typical cubes. Depending on your personal preferences, you may always select from various possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size fans go with a 280mm AIO radiator?

The radiator on a 280mm AIO supports two 140mm fans on one face.

What type of cases support 280mm AIO?

There are no specific cases we can mention as the list goes on, but before making a case purchase, make sure to read the case specification on what size AIO radiator they can support.

How much cooling does a 360mm radiator offer than a 280mm?

The 360mm AIO can support up to three 120mm fans instead of two 140mm on the 280mm AIO. This means that the 360mm radiator will make up for more airflow and, thus, better cooling compared to the 280mm radiator.

How do you use a 280mm AIO water cooler?

To install any 280mm AIO, follow the steps mentioned in the product book, or you can also try watching installation videos available on the internet. If you still aren’t able to, then consult someone who knows their way around AIOs.

What is the difference between 240mm and 280mm?

240mm radiators only support up to two 120mm fans on either side, while 280mm radiators support up to two 140mm fans on either side.

Recent Updates

  • April 23, 2024: Some formatting changes to improve readability. I have replaced the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer II 280 with the ARCTIC Liquid Freezer III 280 because the successor brings massive performance gains.
  • February 26, 2024: We have replaced the NZXT Kraken X63 RGB with the NZXT Kraken 280 RGB because the latter comes at a lower price, delivers better performance, and also has an LCD screen. Similarly, the EVGA CLC 280 was replaced with the D-Cooling FROSTFLOW X 280 because the former has significantly louder fans with slower pump speeds, which results in lower thermal performance, according to our tests.
 

Ori Dev Says AAA Games Will Continue To Struggle; Criticizes Forced DEI

Story Highlight
  • The Ori director has raised concerns about AAA gaming’s future.
  • Thomas Mahler says that the current turmoil is barely a surprise.
  • He believes corporate meddling and forced DEI will continue to hinder studios moving forward.

Over the decades, the gaming industry has grown beyond imagination, inviting new audiences, creatives who wish to contribute, and more. However, this expansion also means that more business-oriented people have taken a liking to gaming.

This has led to a greater focus on numbers and profits, somewhat undermining the passion that goes into AAA productions. According to the designer behind the Ori series, this is a major reason AAA gaming struggles today.

Why it matters: Whether it be rising budgets or major failures in recent years, AAA studios face more challenges than ever today.

Moon Studios' Thomas Mahler on AAA Gaming
Moon Studios’ Thomas Mahler Addresses The Current State of AAA Gaming via Twitter

Thomas Mahler says the current struggles of AAA studios come as no surprise. He explains that gaming grew due to the passion and interests of talented developers who wanted to deliver genuinely enjoyable experiences for fans.

This passion meant that like-minded individuals often came together and eventually expanded into bigger teams that formed full studios. These studios then produced renowned experiences using an approach that worked specifically for them.

Mahler believes gaming’s sudden growth has led to executives focusing on the aim of delivering products. They now interfere with established studios, often changing the work culture drastically.

My prediction is that it won’t get better any time soon.

-Thomas Mahler

He explains that this is why many AAA teams no longer live up to their past reputations. The director makes a solid point since various developers have previously criticized management for changing things needlessly or refusing to accept feedback.

Concord
Concord Ended Up Being A $400 Million Failure

Elsewhere, he addressed the current sentiment around DEI. Mahler agrees with Elon Musk and believes forced DEI does little to help a game. Major polls have revealed that players also agree with this sentiment.

Latest Updates

Considering his experience with the industry, Thomas Mahler’s words raise major concerns for gaming moving forward. With each failure today being riskier than the last, perhaps AAA gaming needs to take a step back and consider the optimal approach for the future.

What do you think about the developer’s opinion? Let us know in the comments and discussion on the official Tech4Gamers Forums.

Sonic Unleashed Deserves Remaster Treatment From Sega

Story Highlight
  • Sonic Unleashed was ahead of the curve in 2008 and deserves another chance.
  • Fans want to see the game return, and Sega is also interested in fulfilling fan demand, setting the stage for a re-release.
  • A remaster could fix the technical issues and address the Werehog criticisms.

Sonic has gone through a renaissance of sorts in recent years. Looking at the series today, it’s hard to believe how Sega managed to bounce back after the painfully mediocre Sonic Forces almost became the final nail in this series’ coffin.

Thanks to the fresh approach of Sonic Frontiers and nostalgic callbacks like Sonic Mania, everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog is back in all his glory. The series’ current popularity has even opened up opportunities for remasters and remakes, evident by the recent success of Sonic X Shadow Generations.

There’s plenty of variety to pick from when considering games to revisit, but fans clearly want to see one title returning above all else, and I agree. In my opinion, Sonic Unleashed should be next to receive a remaster.

Why it matters: Remasters are all the rage today, and the trend will only become more popular in the next few years.

Nailing The 3D Gameplay

Sonic Unleashed
Sega Introduced Two Different Gameplay Styles In 2008

Sonic Unleashed personifies everything I truly love and appreciate about this series’ 3D boost gameplay, a formula that was coined and practically perfected by Sega on the first attempt.

Facing the herculean task of following up on the abysmal Sonic 06, Sonic Unleashed knocked the core gameplay out of the park. Gone were the awkward controls, clunky movements, and downright hilarious bugs of Sonic 06, and instead, everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog became a force of nature with speeds that would make The Flash jealous.

It can’t be overstated just how good this entry still feels to play. It nailed the satisfaction of kicking into max gear and blowing past waves of enemies in one seamless boost streak.

The strong level design only helped make the 3D gameplay all the more memorable. Whether it be the sandy roads of Savannah Citadel or the urban vibe of Skyscraper Scamper, the game had no shortage of exciting and memorable stages for the blue hedgehog to whiz by.

Is Sonic Unleashed the best 3D Sonic game ever made?
byu/EdogawaConan2 inSonicTheHedgehog

I also loved the impressive sense of scale in many of these levels.

For instance, Skyscraper Scamper had you going from rooftop to rooftop, traversing rails through busy highways, and speeding past a massive bridge over a vast ocean to wrap things up.

Meanwhile, the stage featured pedestrian vehicles going about their routines and a massive airship to add additional depth to the background. Small details like these were far from rare in Sonic Unleashed, even if it was all too easy to miss them.

This very attention to detail made the game a cut above the rest for me. Simply put, the experience was pure bliss for both new and old fans. Let’s also not forget how ambitious of a production this game was, something that was made clear from the film-like CGI opening cutscene.

The Case For A Remaster

I would love to see Sega remaster Sonic Unleashed and bring it to PC, do you think it'll ever happen?
byu/realCarlyLIVE inSonicTheHedgehog

Sonic Unleashed is perhaps the one game in this series fans can’t stop gushing over. Yet, for all this praise and nostalgia, it’s no easy task to revisit the title in all its glory.

For starters, Sega never released a PC port. Emulation isn’t much help either, with both RPCS3 and Xenia being hit or miss here. Making matters worse, the game never ran too well on the Xbox 360 and PS3.

Go back, and you’ll be shocked by all the frame drops that accompany the blue hedgehog’s dazzling display of speed on these consoles. Sonic Unleashed is best played at 60FPS through backward compatibility on the Xbox Series S|X today, but this still leaves out the huge audiences of PC and PS5 without much of a choice.

Stumble upon any Sonic discussion, and you’ll find plenty of fans rallying for a more polished re-release. Perhaps the biggest reason to remaster the game is to address the controversial Werehog gameplay of the night stages.

Sega’s take on beat-em-up gameplay was easily my least favorite part of Sonic Unleashed. Personally, I always found the combat stiff, the platforming mundane, and the overall premise of these stages unappealing.

They were passable at best but downright sleep-inducing at worst. However, a remaster could allow the team to iron out many of the problems with the Werehog segments.

Fingers Crossed For The Future

Sonic X Shadow Generations
Sonic X Shadow Generations Has Been A Huge Success

Though the situation may seem bleak for now, Sega’s latest experiment with remasters has been a standout success. Sonic X Shadow Generations sold 1 million units mere hours after its release, setting the stage for similar remasters in the future.

Latest Updates

The topic of Sonic Unleashed has also been brought up in the past, so it’s not like Sega isn’t aware of the demand. Here’s hoping the team can finally realize the true potential of this iconic title with a major re-release soon.

Sucker Punch Repurposed GOT Sequel Featuring Jin Sakai For Ghost Of Yotei, It’s Claimed

Story Highlight
  • As per a report, Sucker Punch initially had plans for a Ghost of Tsushima sequel featuring Jin Sakai. 
  • The idea was later gutted and repurposed into Ghost of Yotei, which featured Atsu as the protagonist.
  • PlayStation is reportedly eyeing Yotei as a spin-off instead of a mainline entry.

The announcement of Ghost of Yotei garnered a mixed reception from fans. Some are skeptical about the departure from Jin Sakai, while others look forward to a more modern setting. Even Sony doesn’t seem too happy about the change, either. 

Now, a new report suggests that Sucker Punch initially planned to release a Ghost of Tsushima sequel featuring Jin Sakai, but it was later repurposed into Ghost of Yotei. 

Why it matters: The rumors of a Ghost of Tsushima sequel had been surfacing for a long time. So, it was largely surprising for the fans when Sucker Punch revealed the sequel, and it didn’t involve Jin Sakai. 

This rumor comes from the YouTuber Endymion, who claims that Ghost of Yotei was initially Ghost of Tsushima 2, with Jin returning as the protagonist. But Sucker Punch later gutted the whole narrative and used Atsu instead for a whole different story. 

The entire narrative was effectively gutted from what I’m being told and repurposed into the story about Atsu, now, as you’ve seen in the new trailer.

-Endymion

He assumes that the plot would’ve seen Jin going to Mount Yotei and facing a Mongol threat there, but things changed in the last 2 years. Sucker Puncher reportedly hired a few individuals in the later stages of Yotei’s development, almost as if something had changed later on. 

Ghost of Yotei New Featured
Ghost of Yotei features Atsu as the protagonist.

He further stated that Sony is currently deciding on a price for Yotei. It reportedly wants to treat the game as a spin-off and keep Jin for the next mainline story. In addition, the source also revealed that the Ghost of Yotei might face a delay. 

Latest Updates

Multiple sources have confirmed to Endymion that the game could be pushed to 2026. If all this is true, Jin Sakai’s return is still inevitable with a new game. It will also be really interesting to see how the fans react to this news. 

What are your thoughts on Sucker Punch repurposing a probable Ghost of Tsushima sequel in favor of Ghost of Yotei? Let us know in the comments or join the discussion at the official Tech4Gamers Forum.

Satya Nadella Says ‘Exclusive Game Content’ Important For ‘Gaming Business Growth’

Story Highlight
  • Satya Nadella says that ‘providing exclusive game content’ is important to grow the Xbox gaming business.
  • However, he has also noted that Project Latitude is not on pause, as new content will keep coming on other consoles. 
  • It is possible that Xbox has not entirely given up on making first-party games that have not been released on other consoles.

It is clear that Microsoft is now focusing on bringing Xbox games to as many platforms as possible, resulting in first-party entries appearing on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch consoles. While many gamers are unsatisfied with this polemical strategy, others also argue that it will only benefit Xbox to grow its gaming market. Now, Satya Nadella has said that ‘providing exclusive game content’ is still important.

The Microsoft CEO claims that exclusive gaming content is still crucial for the ‘growth of our gaming business,’ which suggests that not all Xbox games will eventually be released on third-party consoles. On the flip side, Satya is still focused on bringing many games to other platforms.

Why it matters: Satya Nadella’s emphasis on providing exclusive game content to grow the gaming business suggests that Xbox still hasn’t given up on bringing first-party games, which contradicts the company’s focus on Project Latitude.

Satya Nadella Microsoft CEO
Satya Nadella secured over $30 million in raises despite seeing over 2500+ job cuts on Xbox.

Microsoft’s latest annual filing report for 2024 notes Satya’s remarks regarding how to successfully grow the Xbox gaming market. His strategy suggests that besides releasing Xbox entries on other consoles, focusing on providing exclusive titles that gamers seek is also highly important. 

Growth of our gaming business is determined by the overall active user base through Xbox enabled content, availability of games, [and] providing exclusive game content that gamers seek

-Satya Nadella

Some gamers have found his words to be contradictory, especially since he said that Project Latitude is in full swing. During the report, Satya also confirmed that Xbox now owns 20 gaming franchises that earned over a billion. 

sea of thieves ft
Many Xbox exclusives, like Sea of Thieves, perform quite well on other platforms.

Latest Updates

What are your thoughts regarding his exact strategies with Xbox going forward? Let us know your opinions in the comments below, or join us for a discussion on the official Tech4Gamers forum.

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