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Fans Are Already Concerned Over Steam’s Fate After Gabe Dies

Story Highlight
  • Steam reigns as the best launcher on PC as it has no competition in the market.
  • However, fans are concerned about Valve’s fate after Gabe dies. 
  • Many fans believe that Valve will fall into much worse hands and will change PC gaming forever. 

Steam is the best launcher on PC, and there is literally no competition. Many users prefer using Steam, as there are over 37 million concurrent users. This is not something a single launcher on a platform can easily do.

This is all thanks to the legendary Gabe Newell, who knows how to handle such a beast of a launcher. That said, fans are concerned about what will happen to this platform after Gabe dies. We actually never thought of that and it is actually terrifying. 

Why it matters: Gabe has managed to keep a launcher like Steam together, so it is fair to have concerns regarding its future without him.

Gabe Newell Steam
Fans Are Terrified Over Valve’s Future After Gabe Newell Dies

An anonymous user on 4Chan made a post that has unlocked a new fear in many people’s hearts. The post highlights what could go wrong with the legendary launcher after Gabe Newell dies. 

Gabe is 61, and the user believes he is likely to die before 75. While we don’t know when someone is supposed to die, this assumption seems fair, so let’s consider it. A power vacuum will appear as soon as he dies, and it will arguably be a disaster. 

The new Valve CEO could very well take on a different approach than Gabe, which is likely to destroy everything this legend has worked for. The user has even suggested ads on Steam, which would arguably be a disaster. 

Steam Featured
Steam is Still The Fan Favorite Launcher On PC

Eventually, fans will move away from Steam, forcing the CEO to change ways of making profits, which would ultimately harm indie developers. The anonymous user mentioned that this is their actual fear, and users seemed to agree with that. 

Many have claimed that they have unlocked a new fear, and as PC gamers, we also seem to share the same sentiment. Of course, Gabe does not completely control PC gaming, but he surely plays a massive role in it. Thanks to him, many PC games are also beginning to abandon third-party launchers in favour of Steam.

However, being concerned about it now will not help. So, fans should at least try to stay optimistic and wish that Valve falls into similar hands. 

Bloodborne On PC Is No Longer A Dream

Story Highlight
  • Even after almost a decade, Bloodborne is one of the most loved PlayStation exclusives. 
  • Sony still has no plans to release a remake or a PC port.
  • However, fans took matters into their own hands, and now, thanks to the newly launched ShadPS4, the game is almost playable on PC. 

Bloodborne is, without a doubt, the most requested game by PlayStation and PC fans. The former wants a remake, while the latter wants a PC port. However, Sony isn’t generous enough to grant either one’s request.

While there are many rumors stating that a remake or another project is in the works, I find that hard to believe. It might happen after the release of PS5 Pro or PS6, but before that, I am not buying any of the rumors. 

That said, fans have waited a lot for the PC port, so they took matters into their own hands. Thanks to ShadPS4, a team is working on porting Bloodborne to PC, and it is no longer a dream; let me tell you why.

Why it matters: Bloodborne was released 9 years ago and to this date, PlayStation hasn’t taken the demand from fans seriously.

Bloodborne Is Finally Coming To PC

Bloodborne On PC
Thanks to ShadPS4, Bloodborne On PC is Inevitable 

Bloodborne coming to PC was a dream before ShadPS4 was released. It could only be booted with the help of other emulators. No further progress was being made, but that changed once ShadPS4 was released. This emulator has been a complete game changer, as in just a small amount of time, almost the whole game has been made playable. 

The emulation team has been progressing rapidly, and this PlayStation exclusive is said to be playable by the end of this month. This is by no means a stretch, as you can see the progress. Just recently, the team reached Orphan of Cos, the final DLC boss

Fans have been waiting for a long time to witness this legendary moment. The PC port is no longer a dream, and you can have high hopes this time. At first, I didn’t have any expectations either, but just days after the emulator was launched, Bloodborne was playable on it, even in a broken condition. 

So, if this game can be emulated, then it means many of the other long-awaited PS4 titles can come to PC, too. Still, fans should keep their expectations in check and wait just for the Yharnam adventure to become real.

The Progress Has Been Unreal

Bloodborne
Many Rumors Point Toward A Remake or A Remaster, but No Official Announcement Has Been Made Yet

The game is still being emulated, but as mentioned before, it is expected to be playable by the end of this month. If you haven’t been following the progress, then I would recommend checking Pirat_Nation on Twitter, as this account has been posting about it for a while now. 

At first, it was running at 15 FPS with really poor textures and no sound. However, just look at it now. Sure, it doesn’t run as it does on PS5, but it hasn’t even been that long since the team started working on this project. There is hope now; there is finally hope.

You should also note one thing: to play this game, a low-end setup might not cut it. Now, why is that, as PS4 isn’t that strong of a hardware? The game is going to need a lot of optimization, so as soon as it is released, it might only run properly on high-end setups. 

However, fret not. You are unlikely to wait for long as the progress has been so great. 

You Will Finally Be Able To Explore The Long Awaited Yharnam

Playing as The Hunter and exploring every corner of Yharnam and beyond won’t be just a dream now. The emulators have literally made most of the game playable in a matter of weeks, and I am being literal here. 

PC fans who have been waiting for so long will now be able to fight the horrifying bosses in this game. However, I recommend lowering your expectations quite a bit. I have played this game on PS4 before, and it isn’t nearly as good as people make it sound.

I enjoy Souls games more than anything else, but in my opinion, Bloodborne is overrated. There are just a few bosses in the game that are actually good. However, the DLC is another story. You can have higher expectations for the DLC but do not think that the experience is going to be easy.

The game also has its fair share of horror, giving it a different vibe than the rest of FromSoftware’s medieval fantasy titles. In many ways, Bloodborne’s atmosphere is still in a league of its own, so I can’t wait to see it coming to PC.

Here’s hoping Sony doesn’t shut down this project and PC fans finally get to play this game.

How Batman: Arkham’s Transition To VR Is Game-Changing

Story Highlights
  • The transition to VR allows gamers to truly embody Batman.
  • Investigating crime scenes in VR adds a physical, hands-on dimension to Batman’s detective work. 
  • Gadgets in VR feel like natural extensions of Batman’s abilities, enhancing gameplay realism.

Superhero games have always been a topic of interest for those who enjoy the MCU (marvel cinematic universe) and DC, Batman being one of the most famous superheroes for the latter.

Many games have been made for these heroes, but few stand out as much as the Arkham series games. The Arkham games are available on PC, consoles and there’s a trilogy for Nintendo Switch players.

From “Arkham Asylum” to the latest “Arkham Knight” the series has delivered amazing games where players can truly serve justice as Batman would. The Batman Arkham series has always been immersive, but VR took it to another level.

The use of VR in the 2016 installation Batman: Arkham VR changed how players interacted with Batman’s world. The transition to VR is a game changer here’s why.

Stepping into Batman’s World: VR’s Impact on Immersion

The true essence of Batman is not just in the action and fighting but in the atmosphere, the dark alleys, distant sirens, looming skyscrapers, and the occasional street thug fights.

Batman Arkham Knight
Batman Arkham Knight – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

In traditional gaming, players experience this world of Batman from a third-person perspective or through a fixed point. But in VR, you are Batman. VR places you in the streets of Gotham City, making every action you take seem as if you are there.

Visual Immersion

Batman: Arkham VR is a short narrative and may be a far cry from what fans want or expect. However, it’s like walking through a city in real life except in this instance you’re Batman. Being able to look up at the towering buildings or down at the rain-soaked streets in first person creates a sense of scale and presence.

interactive Environments

In virtual reality, the environments are not just backdrops but are interactive environments. Players can touch objects, manipulate tools, and explore every inch of the Batcave as if they own it. The Bat computer, for example, isn’t just a menu in VR it’s a tangible console that players can interact with. 

The Detective Experience: Becoming the World’s Greatest Detective

It goes without a doubt that the “Batman: Arkham” series laid the foundation for superhero gaming. One of the most significant things about Batman is his role as the world’s greatest detective.

Batman: Arkham
Batman: Arkham – Image Credits (Tech4gamers)

In the previous Arkham games, there existed detective modes, detective vision and puzzle-solving elements that players loved. Batman: Arkham VR takes this experience and pushes it a step further by physically making players engage in the investigation process.

Crime Scene Investigation

In VR investigating a crime scene is not just about pressing buttons. The VR experience allows gamers to physically walk around, crouch to examine the evidence and reconstruct events, for example when solving the Riddler’s puzzles.

Batmans Gadgetry

If you’re a true Batman fan you know gadgets mean everything. VR allows gadgets to become an extension of yourself. Throwing a Batarang, scanning environments, or using the Grapple Gun to transverse areas is a lot more satisfying when done with natural gestures. 

Psychological Immersion: Experiencing Batman’s Mind

The game has average reviews maybe because it was just meant as a bitesize demo but has the potential to change VR gaming. The transition to VR not only immerses players in the world of Gotham but could also allow for a deeper exploration of Batman’s psyche.

The full version could dive deeper into the more twisted justice bent nature of Batman’s mind. The Arkham games have a good fanbase with the player count of Arkham Knight increasing 50% after the release and failure of Suicide Squad.

Batman: Arkham Series
Batman: Arkham VR – Image Credits (Road To VR)

Furthermore, the unsettling nature of Scarecrow’s fear toxin sequences or the taunting by the Joker just hit more when directly experienced through VR. The game however has a major twist ending which shows that players were not playing as Batman but as Robin which many found weird.

The game is now being used as the template for a new Batman game called Batman: Arkham Shadows set in VR and to release in November.  

Final Words

The transition of the Batman: Arkham series to VR has redefined what it means to be Batman. People still say that the Batman: Arkham games such as the Arkham Knight are still better than most superhero games even after many years. 

The Survival Mechanics in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: What Sets it Apart

Story Highlights
  • The scarcity and realism in resource management create constant tension, making ever decision impactful.
  • Mutants are unpredictable causing a layer of fear and complexity to encounters.
  • S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 emphasizes realistic gunplay and strategy.
  • The Zone itself is dangerous, with deadly anomalies and radiation that demand constant attention.

There have been numerous games launched in the survival genre, each with its own unique dynamics. However, few have left as big of a mark as the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series. The new installment of this series “S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl” is on the horizon. 

The game is expected to redefine survival mechanics using its post-apocalyptic atmosphere, dangerous anomalies and mutants like its predecessor. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 was delayed multiple times to September 5, 2024, but was delayed yet again to November of 2024 for final touches.

Resource Management: Beyond the Basics

In most survival games, resource management typically revolves around gathering food, water, and crafting materials. However, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 takes this a step further making players manage a wide array of resources while navigating through the “Zone”.  Also, the minimum hardware requirements to run the game are not that much allowing it to be enjoyed by a much wider audience.

Scarcity and Realism

Unlike in other survival games where resources are relatively easily found, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 emphasizes on scarcity and realism. Ammunition, food and medical supplies are hard to come across. With a main story run time of around 40 hours it is crucial to be mindful of every decision made.

STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl
STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl – Image Credits (Pinterest)

Weapon and Armor Maintenance

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 also introduces weapon and armor degradation. The durability of armor and weapons could be modified in stand-alone mode S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 1, same will be for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2. Players must regularly check and maintain their equipment to prevent it from breaking down during critical situations. 

Deadly Combat

In S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 combat is not just about killing enemies; it’s about surviving in a world where danger lurks around every corner. The games combat mechanics are designed to be brutal and unforgiving, reflecting the harsh realities of life in the Zone.

Realistic Gunplay and Stealth

The game uses realistic ballistics and physics in gameplay. Bullets drop over a distance, guns have recoil, firing from unstable positions leads to inaccurate shots and more. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 requires players to carefully consider factors like distance, cover and weapon condition. Being stealthy is also required when resources are low.

STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl
STALKER 2: Heart of Chernobyl Survival Mechanics – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

The Zone Itself Is an Enemy

One of the defining features of the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series is the depiction of the Zone as a living breathing entity filled with many dangers based on the real-life Chornobyl Zone. S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 will take the same idea and build upon it.

Deadly Anomalies

Anomalies are a major thing in the series and in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 they are more unpredictable and deadlier than ever. These mysterious phenomena can cause instant death if not carefully navigated. Players must use detectors and throw bolts to reveal these anomalies giving an extra layer of caution while exploring. 

Radiation and Weather

In the game the Zone is full of radiation, making players manage their exposure carefully. Finding safe zones, using anti-radiation drugs and wearing protective gear is mandatory for survival in the game.

STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl
STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl Gameplay – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

On top of the radiation there is the unforgiving weather system affecting vision and gear. This unpredictability and constant threat make S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 the currently most wish listed game on steam.

Mutants: The Fearsome Foes of The Zone

Mutants in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 are not just simple enemies but are a core element of the game’s survival mechanics. These creatures are twisted by the anomalies and radiation within the Zone making them deadly and unpredictable. Each encounter is an obstacle in the Zone.

Unique Behaviors of Mutants

Each and every mutant in the game has its own special behavioral patterns, strengths and weaknesses. There’s a long list of mutants each deadly in its own right. Some of the mutants may hunt in packs while others rely on stealth, and some are powerful enough to kill even the most well-prepared players in seconds.

The Anticipation is High

The survival mechanics of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 will undoubtedly create tension and immersion in players. The approach of the game to resource management, combat, environmental hazards and encounters with mutants sets it apart from other survival games.

All of these factors combined has made S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 one of the most anticipated games for late 2024. Whether you’re a veteran of the Zone or a newcomer, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 promises to deliver a survival and gameplay experience unlike any other. With only a little time left to go let’s hope for the best.

Ryzen 7 9700X Vs Ryzen 7 7800X3D: Gaming Benchmarks

AMD Ryzen 7 9700X

Rated: 9.2/10

AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Rated: 9.5/10


Pros And Cons

CPUProsCons
AMD Ryzen 7 9700X✅ Great 4K gaming performance
✅ Highly power efficient
❌ Inferior single-core performance
❌ No direct multiplier-based overclocking
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D✅ TSMC 4nm process for cores
✅ Lower operating temperatures
❌ Power draw higher than TDP
❌ Inediquate for smoother 4K gaming

Key Takeaways

  • According to our analysis, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D renders 6.6% better gaming performance at 1080p resolution than the Ryzen 7 9700X.
  • The Ryzen 7 7800X3D demonstrates an impressive 23.4% better power efficiency, while the Ryzen 7 9700X offers an 9.1% higher thermal efficiency.
  • Considering August 2024 market pricing, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is available for $398, marginally above the $359 price of the Ryzen 7 9700X.
  • We recommend the Ryzen 7 7800X3D for superior gaming performance. The Ryzen 7 9700X is good for its newer architecture at a lower price.


Comparison Table

FeatureAMD Ryzen 7 9700XAMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Former CodenameGranite Ridge AM5Raphael AM5
Base Clock3.8 GHz4.2 GHz
Max. Boost ClockUp to 5.5 GHzUp to 5 GHz
CPU Memory SupportDDR5 (Up to 5600 MT/s)DDR5 (Up to 5200 MT/s)
Integrated GraphicsAMD Radeon GraphicsAMD Radeon Graphics
Graphics frequency2200 MHz2200 MHz
Max Operating Temperature95°C89°C
Best MotherboardsBest Motherboards For Ryzen 7 9700XBEST Motherboards For Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Best CPU CoolersBest CPU Coolers For Ryzen 7 9700XBest CPU Coolers For Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Best RAM-BEST RAM For Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Architectural Difference

  • Architecture: The Ryzen 7 9700X, embodying AMD’s cutting-edge Zen 5 architecture, showcases the pinnacle of technological innovation, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is rooted in the prior Zen 4 architecture.
  • CPU Socket: Although the Ryzen 7 9700X and Ryzen 7 7800X3D belong to distinct generations with varying core architectures, they share the same AMD AM5 CPU socket.
  • Process Node: The Ryzen 7 9700X’s cores are crafted using TSMC’s refined 4nm FinFET process, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D employs the 5nm FinFET technology for its CPU cores.
  • Clock Speed: Based on their specs, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D offers a 10.5% faster speed in CPU base operations, while the Ryzen 7 9700X offers a 10% greater boost cock for demanding tasks.
  • TDP: As a gaming processor, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D has a massive thermal design power of 120W, 91.7% higher than the new Ryzen 7 9700X’s default TDP of 65W.

The Ryzen 7 9700X, AMD’s latest mid-range marvel, boasts cutting-edge integrated technologies and delivers formidable performance with its eight cores and 16 threads. In contrast, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, a premium gaming processor from the previous generation, offers similar cores and threads.


Gaming Benchmarks

Following our analysis of specifications and architectural differences, let us compare the performance of Ryzen 7 9700X vs Ryzen 7 7800X3D in demanding games to determine which CPU truly surpasses the other. We used a system boasting the following specifications to experience these games.

Test Bench

Cyberpunk 2077

Gameplay Frame Rates
Cyberpunk 2077 Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Staring our benchmarks with Cyberpunk 2077, we get 13.6% better average performance using the Ryzen 7 7800X3D (125 FPS) than the Ryzen 7 9700X (110 FPS).
  • The Ryzen 7 9700X managed 57 FPS in the lowest 1% performance, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D led with 84 FPS, a 47.4% advantage.

Forza Horizon 5

Gameplay Frame Rates
Forza Horizon 5 Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • The Ryzen 7 7800X3D’s average performance in Forza Horizon 5’s session was about 2.6% more promising than the Ryzen 7 9700X.
  • In terms of the low 1% performance, the Ryzen 7 9700X produced only 191 FPS, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D rendered 207 FPS, leading by around 8.4%.

Ghost of Tsushima

Gameplay Frame Rates
Ghost of Tsushima Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • In Ghost of Tsushima trials, we observed a 4.52% average performance boost using the Ryzen 7 7800X3D compared to the Ryzen 7 9700X.
  • At the 1% low mark, the Ryzen 7 9700X achieved 130 FPS, with the Ryzen 7 7800X3D outperforming it at 140 FPS, a 7.7% lead.

Hogwarts Legacy

Gameplay Frame Rates
Hogwarts Legacy Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Our Hogwarts Legacy tests show the Ryzen 7 7800X3D outperforms the Ryzen 7 9700X by an average of 9.2%, producing a 71 FPS average compared to 65 FPS.
  • The Ryzen 7 9700X hit 53 FPS at the 1% low, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D reached 55 FPS, a 3.8% gain.

Horizon Zero Dawn

Gameplay Frame Rates
Horizon Zero Dawn Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Benchmarking Horizon Zero Dawn shows the Ryzen 7 7800X3D achieving 1.4% or 4 FPS higher average performance over the Ryzen 7 7700X.
  • During the worst 1% performance times, the Ryzen 7 9700X managed 171 FPS, whereas the Ryzen 7 7800X3D ruled with 182 FPS, 5.3% higher.

Microsoft Flight Simulator

Gameplay Frame Rates
Microsoft Flight Simulator Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Our Cyberpunk 2077 benchmark results indicate a 24.7% average performance advantage for the Ryzen 7 7800X3D over the Ryzen 7 7700X.
  • During this gameplay, the Ryzen 7 9700X recorded 71 FPS in the 1% low, with the Ryzen 7 7800X3D leading at 88 FPS, 23.9% better.

Starfield

Gameplay Frame Rates
Starfield Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • While playing Starfield, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D mustered an average of 134 FPS, 7.2% better than the Ryzen 7 9700X’s 125 FPS.
  • At 1080p, the Ryzen 7 9700X’s low 1% framerate was 58 FPS, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D outperformed with 72 FPS, 24.1% higher.

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

Gameplay Frame Rates
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt Benchmarks at 1080p – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  • Evaluating CPU performance in The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, we find the Ryzen 7 7800X3D achieves 110 FPS, a 9.0% better average framerate than the Ryzen 7 7700X’s 101 FPS.
  • In 1% low performance, the Ryzen 7 9700X managed 71 FPS, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D directed at 79 FPS, an 11.3% boost.

Overall Gaming Performance

Featured
Ryzen 7 9700X
Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Average FPS
152 📈
162.1 📈
1% lows
100.2 📉
113.4 📉
Winner
-
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Featured
Ryzen 7 9700X
Average FPS
152 📈
1% lows
100.2 📉
Winner
-
Buy Now
Featured
Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Average FPS
162.1 📈
1% lows
113.4 📉
Winner
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
Buy Now

The Ryzen 7 9700X bore a worthy performance of 152.0 average FPS. However, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D triumphs in the Ryzen 7 9700X vs Ryzen 7 7800X3D, boasting a 6.6% higher average of 162.1 FPS. Furthermore, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D displayed a 13.2% take in a 1% low, cracking smoother gameplay and diminished stuttering.


Editor`s Note
Image

According to our testing, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D enhances a user’s gaming experience by harnessing the power of its innovative 3D-V cache technology. Check its performance against a CPU utilizing comparable technology in Ryzen 7 7800X3D vs Ryzen 9 7950X3D.

– Uzair Shabir


Power Efficiency

StatsAMD Ryzen 7 9700X (W)AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D (W)
Cyberpunk 20778873
Forza Horizon 58971
Ghost of Tsushima8872
Hogwarts Legacy8772
Horizon Zero Dawn8769
Microsoft Flight Simulator8872
Starfield8871
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt8870
Average Gaming Power Draw87.9 ⚡71.2 ⚡
Winner: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

The Ryzen 7 7800X3D offers a notable 23.4% better power efficiency, operating at 71.2 watts compared to the 87.9 watts consumed by the Ryzen 7 9700X at 1080p gaming. In my tests, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D delivered 2.28 FPS per watt, a 31.8% superior efficiency than the Ryzen 7 9700X’s 1.73 FPS per watt.


Thermal Efficiency

StatsAMD Ryzen 7 9700X (°C)AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D (°C)
Cyberpunk 20775966
Forza Horizon 55564
Ghost of Tsushima5861
Hogwarts Legacy6065
Horizon Zero Dawn5862
Microsoft Flight Simulator5863
Starfield5758
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt5462
Gaming Temperature57.4 🌡️62.6 🌡️
Winner: AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D

Based on our gaming temperature data on file for Ryzen 7 9700X vs Ryzen 7 7800X3D, the Ryzen 7 9700X operated at an average of 57.4°C during 1080p games, while the Ryzen 7 7800X3D reached 62.6°C. So, we conclude that the Ryzen 7 9700X demonstrates enhanced thermal efficiency, exceeding the Ryzen 7 7800X3D by 9.1%.


Price And Availability

CPULaunch MSRPCurrent Price
AMD Ryzen 7 9700X💲359💲359
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D💲449💲398
Price Difference25.1%10.8

The Ryzen 7 9700X, as the newest processor, is being sold at its launch MSRP of $359, with no change in price, and is readily available in the market. On the other hand, the cost of the older Ryzen 7 7800X3D has decreased by approximately 12.8%.


What We Recommend?

Ryzen 7 9700X: The Ryzen 7 9700X features cutting-edge architecture and delivers outstanding performance in 1080p and 1440p gaming. It is about 9.1% more efficient in terms of thermal management, providing good value for its cost.

Ryzen 7 7800X3D: The Ryzen 7 7800X3D is a power-efficient, high-performance gaming processor with about 6.6% superior gaming performance. It is also good for 4K gaming resolutions. It stands out as an outstanding value proposition, offering remarkable performance for its cost.

We recommend the Ryzen 7 7800X3D for an unparalleled gaming experience owing to its 6.6% outstanding performance and 23.4% better efficiency. However, for those seeking the advantages of the latest architecture at a lower expense, the Ryzen 7 9700X is a compelling alternative.


Frequently Asked Questions

Which CPU is better for gaming, the Ryzen 7 9700X or the Ryzen 7 7800X3D?

The Ryzen 7 7800X3D is better suited for gaming due to its 3D V-Cache technology, which enhances gaming performance, especially in titles that benefit from increased cache.

What is the difference in power usage between the Ryzen 7 9700X and the Ryzen 7 7800X3D?

In our gaming testing, the Ryzen 7 9700X used roughly 23.4% more power than the Ryzen 7 7800X3D. However, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D’s TDP is 55W greater.

Which CPU offers better value, the Ryzen 7 9700X or the Ryzen 7 7800X3D?

Our analysis indicates that the Ryzen 7 7800X3D provides better quality for the cost. This is due to its higher performance and enhanced power efficiency.


More From Ryzen 7 7800X3D:

The Outlast Trials Interview – Red Barrels Intends To Establish Second Team

Story Highlight
  • The Outlast franchise made the jump to live-service with The Outlast Trials.
  • It offers the same horror experience that fans have come to love, but Red Barrels is expanding the game with each new update.
  • Our latest interview discusses the challenges of this approach and more with the studio’s co-founder.

The Outlast Trials marked the beginning of a new era for Red Barrels, one that would explore a unique combo of live service and horror gaming. Through its co-op gameplay, bone-chilling terrors, and ever-evolving content, The Outlast Trials promises a horror experience like none other.

The latest update enhances this experience further, offering a new rogue-lite mode and a new killer that comes at players with a deadly firearm. To discuss the ever-evolving state of this live-service horror offering, we recently spoke with Philippe Moran, the co-founder of Red Barrels.

During our interview, we went over the latest update, Red Barrels’ evolution as a team, and plans for the future.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and The Outlast Trials’ latest update?

Philippe Morin: I’m Philippe Morin, co-founder and designer at Red Barrels. The latest update is a big one. We’re basically starting a season structure with lots of new stuff and improvements. Among other things, it has a new Prime Asset, new environment, new mode (Escalation), etc.

How have players reacted to Project Lupara and the new Escalation mode?

Philippe Morin: The reaction has been very positive. We’ve seen a big bump in terms of engagement and concurrent players. We get a lot of love from fans, and we feel privileged. We always listen to players’ feedback, and we will keep on improving and refining with each update. 

When you reflect on The Outlast Trials from its early access days to the full release and now a major update, what are your thoughts on how the game has evolved?

Philippe Morin: It’s been really satisfying to see the game evolve. I’ve been making games for almost 26 years, and it’s the first time I play a game I’ve worked on just for the fun of it. Considering we started working on Outlast Trials 7 years ago, I never expected this to happen.

Our team is amazing and they’ve been able to create so much content and new features in the last year, the future is looking bright. People tend to forget, but we’re a small team. 

We were 10 on Outlast, 20 on Outlast 2, 45 when the early access of Trials shipped, and we’re currently 65. We’ve grown, but we’re still significantly small for the kind of game we’re making.

Your latest prime asset wields a gun, and ranged weapons are brand new to the series. How do you one-up something like this in the future?

Philippe Morin: Ask me in a few months…

What, in your opinion, is needed to make a great horror game?

Philippe Morin: Total commitment and very little compromise. You gotta love scaring the shit out of people. 

What do you think about the current state of horror games, both in terms of AA/indie and AAA games?

Philippe Morin: The landscape has changed a lot since we released the first Outlast. There’s a lot more horror games on the market. Players have a lot more choices these days, which is a good thing, but it’s a lot harder for game developers to make their games stand out.

I honestly don’t pay too much attention to trends. We focus on the games we want to make and hope enough players enjoy it. I think if you pay too much attention to what others are doing, you risk losing your focus and derailing the whole project. 

I’ve seen it several times in big studios. Some dude gets a promotion and wants to justify his job, so he comes up with an analysis showing Project X is heading in the wrong direction and the team must do a 180, bla bla bla… 

We started Red Barrels to avoid those frustrating situations.

You’ve also shared a roadmap for The Outlast Trials. How challenging has it been for the team to work on a live service project that already has a roadmap out there? Does it become stressful compared to the days of Outlast being a single-player series?

Philippe Morin: Yes, it’s been a big adaptation. A lot of us must change our mindset. We’re used to shipping a game, taking a break, and then slowly starting the conception phase of a new game. But with Trials, it feels more like a marathon… a very long one. So, we must find a balance between what needs to be done and keeping the creative juices flowing.

When the team initially considered making a multiplayer game, was a free-to-play approach given any thought?

Philippe Morin: No. It was never part of the conversation. Our focus was to make the best cooperative horror experience we could.

We’ve seen cases where successful live service games switched to the free-to-play model after release. Could you see that as a possibility for the Outlast Trials?

Philippe Morin: Never say never, but currently, it’s not an option on the table.

With The Outlast Trials being as successful as it is, how will this impact the development of Outlast 3 since Red Barrels is a small team? Do you think fans will have to wait longer than expected now that resources are being poured into the live service elements?

Philippe Morin: We’re growing the studio so we can eventually have a second team. I can’t give dates or make any official promises. As a small team, we can’t do it all, and we must pick our battles.

For a live service title, to what extent do the player counts dictate a developer’s next move apart from the fan feedback?

Philippe Morin: It definitely becomes an important parameter of the equation, but it doesn’t pinpoint the source of problems, even less the solutions.

What are you most excited about when thinking of future content for The Outlast Trials?

Philippe Morin: Now we have the foundations of the game. We can focus on creating cool content and bring back a lot of ideas we’ve had along the way but couldn’t do yet. We always saw Outlast Trials like a universe in motion, and I can’t wait for people to see what we have in store for them.

Would you like to share any final thoughts?

Philippe Morin: It’s been a long and bumpy ride, but I’m proud of the team and the game.

The Outlast Trials
The Outlast Trials Is Just Getting Started

Following this update, Red Barrels is already preparing for future content. The Outlast Trials experience will evolve with new trials, rewards, game modes, and enemies moving forward, ensuring that players always have something new to look forward to.

Whether it be solo or in a group with your friends, Red Barrel wants to keep you terrified at all times. Moving forward with this goal, the studio has massive ambitions to fulfill. We wish the team the best of luck on this journey, and we would also like to thank co-founder Philippe Morin for taking the time out of his day to conduct this interview.

Destiny 2 Average Player Count Down By 74% As Game Hits All-Time Low

Story Highlight
  • Destiny 2 saw a massive growth in players after The Final Shape expansion was released.
  • However, just three months after its release, the game has seen a 74% loss in players. 
  • It is the lowest average player count the game has seen three months after an expansion was released. 

Destiny 2, developed by Bungie, is one of the highest-grossing live service games. In 2023, the game lost many players on Steam, but the peak increased after just a few months. Shortly after, due to massive The Final Shape hype, the peak player count almost tripled

However, now it seems like the live service title has hit a new low in the past 30 days. Destiny 2’s average player count has been reduced by 74%, which is concerning for a live service title.

Why it matters: A few months after every expansion, this game loses a lot of players, but this is the biggest drop so far.

Destiny 2 Has Lost A Lot of Players
Destiny 2 Has Lost A Lot of Players In The Past 30 Days | Source: SteamDB

As per SteamDB, the game has an average of 32,497 players. This number is calculated by keeping the concurrent players for the last 30 days in mind. When The Final Shape was released, this live service title was averaging 123K monthly players

So, just three months after the massive expansion was launched, the game seems to have lost over 90K players. The Final Shape arguably brought the biggest number of payers to the game. However, out of all three expansions, this one has seen the biggest drop in players

That is the main concern, as the average player count of three after the Witch Queen expansion was over 60K. Similarly, three months after the release of Lightfall, the average count was above 62K. On the other hand, three months after The Final Shape was released, the player count has fallen by almost 50% in comparison with the other two expansions. 

The Final Shape was massive, more than any other expansion it has ever received. However, this player count is concerning for a live-service game. The developer has already shown its intent to support the game for a very long time. 

So, we are sure that in the future, when more expansions are released, the player count will rise again. Bungie has gone through many troubles since the end of 2023. The developer has faced many layoffs, and it was reported that Marathon’s development isn’t going smoothly either. 

Hopefully, things will get better for this studio so that it can focus more on its games. 

The Problem With PvP Games – Why People Dislike It

Story Highlight
  • PvP games constantly evolving can overwhelm players who can’t keep up.
  • The often non-existent stories in PvP games are unappealing compared to single-player narratives.
  • PvP games’ unpredictability and endless cycles can be frustrating, unlike single-player games, which offer a complete experience.

Since gaming has been taken seriously, many releases have centred on multiplayer experiences. Though these settings can be super fun for some, they can be infinitely annoying for others. This article will explain the main reasons I and many others don’t like PvP games.

A Bit Of Backstory

My gaming journey began with old Nintendo games on my browser. The first modern games I played were CS: GO and Fortnite, with Fortnite being my main focus around 2020, though I never excelled at it.

After struggling with Fortnite, I switched to Valorant. Initially refreshing, the team dependency and my poor aim (being left-handed without a left-handed mouse) led to burnout after 8 months. I then took a long break from gaming.

Now, I enjoy single-player games, particularly Metroidvanias and Souls-likes, and have been much happier ever since.

PvP Isn’t For Everyone

The following sections will list some of my personal gripes with PvP games and why I much prefer single-player experiences.

Keeping Up

PvP games constantly evolve with new content and techniques. While this keeps dedicated players engaged, it can overwhelm those who lack time or interest in keeping up.

Ninties Fortnite
Nineties Were A Big Innovation (GIF From Amino Apps)

This would be fine if it was just another way to make your gameplay more interesting, but not keeping up makes the game much worse for the player because they get outplayed by those who do.

This isn’t an issue in single-player games. You could buy a game and play it all the way through without seeing a single ounce of content on it. You are free to play the game however you like, and you might even be rewarded for playing this way.

Lack Of Story

Although I enjoy games with vague narratives, the often non-existent stories in most PvP games are unappealing. These stories often feel made up on the spot.

Valo Cinematics
Cinematics Are The Extent Of Story Telling In PvP (Image By Riot Games)

I don’t need detailed story markers or dialogue to stay engaged; I prefer the Souls series’ environmental storytelling, which still provides clear objectives to drive the game forward.

Though these modes have some lore of why you’re endlessly fighting, it’s just that, an endless fight with no escape, which is a good way to transition into the next point.

Endlessness

Imagine playing Valorant late at night. You’re stuck in a losing streak, but you keep playing to avoid ending up in a loss. Finally, you win, and the excitement replaces your previous dread of playing another game. This cycle is common in PvP games, leading players to either switch games or quit altogether eventually.

Single-player games, on the other hand, offer a complete experience from start to finish. Features like New Game+ enhance replayability, but even one playthrough is enough to get your money’s worth.

CS2
Waiting For Lobbies Is So Tedious (Image By Tech4Gamers)

PvP games’ constant evolution means that taking a break can make it hard to come back and enjoy them, as you might feel “washed” and struggle to keep up, which can be very frustrating. On the other hand, if you wanna dive into a single-player game again, you usually need only a small time frame to recall your muscle memory, and you’re good to go.

Frustratingly Difficult

We love challenging games but draw the line at frustrating difficulty. Multiplayer games can be unpredictable, with some encounters feeling too easy or impossibly hard, especially with added RNG, making losses frustrating.

Dark Souls 3 You Died Screen
Much Rather Have This (Image By Tech4Gamers)

Single-player games, even the hard ones, are based on patterns. Your opponents are AIs, which can be learnt and mastered. On the other hand, you can never master a PvP game with every opponent’s playstyle. 

All the points discussed above also contribute to making a game feel frustratingly difficult and almost impossible to be good at times.

Preferences

My dislike for PvP games applies to a small subset of people. Most gamers love multiplayer games; in 2023, out of 3 billion gamers worldwide, 1.17 billion played online, according to the Academy of Animated Arts.

Single-player games are like art, while PvP games resemble sports, appealing to many. PvP games have significantly benefited the industry and players, and everyone should try them before forming a preference.

Sony Patents To Automatically Create In-Game Sound Effect Variations

Story Highlight
  • A new Sony patent we spotted wants to automatically produce in-game sound effects from existing audio data.
  • The proposed system would use AI to bring variety and immersion in the game audio.
  • It would reduce development times and make game audio more unique for repeated gameplay.

Sony is one of the leading conglomerates around the globe to push for innovations in the gaming industry. Most of these ideas first appear in patents, and the latest one might just take the cake. The publisher seems to have figured out a way to innovate game audio for good.

We spotted a new patent published by the company that talks about automatically creating in-game sound effects—and possibly even music—using tech like AI. It would make use of existing game audio data to produce its variations without any human intervention, adding a slew of sound effects and immersion in games.

The video games output a variety of sounds during game play to keep the players interested and engaged. For example, a sudden shocking sound is emitted during a horror video game or music is output during a dancing video game.

Why it matters: The publishing of this patent suggests that Sony is testing ideas behind the scenes to make in-game audio unique during gameplay for added realism and automation of a monotonous development process.

The image shows a gameplay scenario where multiple NPCs are producing sound effects | Image Source: Patentscope
The image shows a gameplay scenario where multiple NPCs are producing sound effects | Image Source: Patentscope

The patent dubbed “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING AND APPLYING AUDIO-BASED BASIS FUNCTIONS” introduces an advanced audio synthesizer that uses many components and methods—including neural networks—to produce new sound content from existing audio files.

Sony argues that players may slowly grow bored of playing certain games because of a lack of variety in sounds. For example, a user walking around the map for hours may get tired of the same static walking sound effect. However, the new patent would resolve this dilemma by creating many audio variations to add immersion and realism.

However, over time, the players get bored of playing the same video games and or listening to the same sounds.

The image describes a part of the technical system to automatically generate in-game sound effects | Image Source: Patentscope
The image describes a part of the technical system to automatically generate in-game sound effects | Image Source: Patentscope

This Sony patent would have a drastic domino effect on the gaming industry, as it would completely change how developers view game sounds.

Developers would be able to use AI or other technologies to automatically create in-game sound effects instead of manually adding many of them, thus reducing development time and strain. On the flip side, it would only make Sony games appear more immersive and realistic to the players.

All in all, we suggest taking the patent with a pinch of salt since it might never be implemented and leave the testing phase. However, Sony has published a variety of unique legal docs, some of which have come true over time.

For instance, the company recently published a patent regarding the PS3 backward compatibility for PlayStation 5, which corroborates a popular rumor. Another piece in the past also discussed an AI for calculating the worth of NFTs.

League’s Newest Champion Aurora Is Just Ahri On Steroids

Story Highlights
  • Aurora, a Vastayan witch that deals with spirits, is the latest addition to Runeterra.
  • She’s a mobile mage that can go either mid or top lane.
  • Her abilities and Vastayan heritage both make her almost seem like an Ahri revamp.

Aurora, the witch between worlds, is the latest champion revealed by Riot. She’s been teased for a while now, both through announcement and ingame file leaks. Riot claims that they’ve been working on Aurora for the past 7 years, and have already released two separate champions by taking elements from her kit.

After her original design was released in Lilia and her ability to copy spells was given to either Zoe or Sylas, what exactly did Riot cook up? Well, a better Ahri that fans are already calling a balancing nightmare.


Aurora, The Witch Between Worlds

aurora league
Image by Riot

The latest addition to League is a ranged top lane mage. No, she’s not going to be another Teemo, I think. Her story follows her being ostracized by her tribe as a child due to her ability to see the spirit realm.

She went to Ornn to learn more about herself, but was rejected. Ornn eventually gave in after seeing her diligently clean the Hearth Home and told her about Haestyr the spirit, and gave her the ability to travel through the spirit realm.


Aurora’s Skills

Aurora seems like a simple champion at first. Her passive, Spirit Abjuration, is one of League’s many 3-hit proc passives where triggering it grants increased damage and a movement speed boost.

aurora passive
Image from Riot

This passive also puts her in Spirit Mode, which continuously heals her. From what I can see so far, the heal and movement speed bonus stack.

aurora q
Image from Riot

Her Q, Twofold Hex, is a skill shot that pierces through enemies and marks them. Recasting the skill deals damage to all marked enemies and pulls in a spirit from them to herself, dealing damage to all enemies the spirits pass through.

aurora w
Image from Riot

Her W, Across the Veil, is a simple jump that briefly shifts her to another realm, rendering her invisible. This skill refunds its cooldown on takedowns, so it can be spammed. Riot clearly doesn’t think we have enough invisible champs already.

aurora e
Image from Riot

Her E, The Weirding, is another simple skill, being a damaging ability that slows enemies hit and knocks Aurora back slightly. Both her Q and E have Riot cleverly disguise dashes in the form of hops, which is a funny way to beat the allegations of giving every new champion a thousand dashes.

aurora r
Image from Riot

Then there comes Riot’s trademark 200 years of game design in the form of Aurora’s Ultimate, Between Worlds. The simplest way to explain it is a Camille R that traps the entire enemy (and your own) team. This also has the added effect of granting Aurora a dash to the other side of the circle whenever she touches a corner.

This not only gives her one of the highest mobility abilities in the game as a mage but also gives her immunity frames during the dash, which I don’t think we’ve seen with any other champion. What this means is that a good enough player can time her dashes to completely negate one-shots or executes like Urgot’s R.


Wait, Isn’t This Just Ahri?

Faker skin ingame
Ahri’s one of Riot’s biggest breadwinners (Image from Riot)

Okay, I can’t be the only one thinking this, right? I mean sure, Aurora also being a Vastayan with animalistic ears and a tail doesn’t mean anything. Both Aurora and Ahri dealing with souls could be a coincidence as well.

What really made me think this is the similarities between their kits. Firstly, Aurora’s Q just seems like the 2024 equivalent of Ahri’s Q. They’re both skillshots that deal damage once and then again on return, the difference being that Aurora’s return is a recast.

The rest of the kit’s not too similar. However, the R is just an overtuned version of Ahri’s ultimate. If I had a dollar for every time Riot gave a half-human half-animal hybrid Vastayan that deals in souls and an ultimate that lets her reposition with dashes, I’d have two dollars.

From what I’ve seen so far, the number of dashes per R is the same on both champions as well, with 3 dashes in the duration. I get that making a highly mobile mage is difficult, but I’d be fooled if someone said this was an Ahri revamp.


Days Gone Director Blasts Astro Bot Cameo; Says Deacon Reduced To Cartoon Shill

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  • The Days Gone director is angry that Deacon has been “reduced to a cartoon shill” for Astro Bot promotions.
  • He says this treatment insults the character and the game’s legacy he helped develop.
  • Days Gone never got the love it deserved from Sony despite selling well.

Days Gone was a mixed bag for many. Some didn’t like it, calling it very generic, while others praised found it incredible. Recently, Bend Studios congratulated Asobi on Astro Bot, with a picture of Deacon St. John garnering attention from the franchise director.

The post features Deek as a bot looking at robot dogs playing on the beach. Days Gone’s John Garvin was unhappy with this post and expressed dissatisfaction with the protagonist’s portrayal in this image.

Why it matters: The former director, who left Bend Studio in 2019, has always been very vocal about Days Gone not getting the treatment it deserved. This time, he’s furious about the IP’s cameo in Astro Bot.

Days Gone Director Lashes Out At Bend Studio’s Latest Post | Image via Twitter

John Garvin replied to Bend Studio’s latest Twitter post, stating that it is sad that Deek has been reduced to promoting other games. When told he was being harsh, he said that seeing his character reduced to a ‘cartoon shill’ and promoting smaller games justified his reaction.

I see my character being reduced to a cartoon shill promoting some small game, and I’m being harsh?

– John Garvin

Fans have been demanding a Days Gone sequel for a very long time. And it’s sad that Sony hasn’t treated the game with much love despite sales figures showing potential for a full franchise.

However, calling Astro Bot ‘some small game’ doesn’t make sense either. Astro Bot is the best-rated Opencritic game for PlayStation to date. Moreover, it features many other characters as bots, including Kratos, Nathan Drake, Ratchet, and more.

As such, these cameos serve as a homage to these IPs. Even Deek is included in the game as part of PlayStation’s legacy, celebrating Days Gone as an important part of Sony’s gaming brand.

Days Gone Director on Astro Bot Cameo
John Garvin Is Clashing With The Fans Following His Controversial Statement | Image via Twitter

John Garvin still seems upset that Days Gone 2 never happened, but his anger seems misdirected in this instance. Fortunately, he later clarified that his statements did not intend to disrespect Astro Bot.

Bend Studio is currently working on a live-service project. While John Garvin is no longer involved, fans are curious to see where the studio goes from here.

Read This Before Upgrading Your GPU

Story Highlights
  • Before upgrading your GPU, don’t forget that the GPU’s name matters a lot. Always consider reviews before buying.
  • Flagship GPU releases set benchmarks and influence market perceptions, impacting buying decisions across various price ranges in the GPU market.
  • Avoid relying solely on brand loyalty, skip same-generation upgrades, and carefully assess when upgrading GPU is justified.

AMD, Nvidia, and Intel are all working on enhancing their graphics cards’ performance, with some new models set to launch soon. If you’ve been holding onto your current GPU for a while, you might consider an upgrade.

But rushing into purchasing a new GPU might mean overlooking extra performance, better value, or additional features. So, before upgrading your GPU, ensure to go through these guidelines.

GPU Names And Prices Matter

Colorful iGame GTX 1060 Vulcan 3G Graphics Card
Colorful Igame GTX 1060 – Image Credit (Tech4Gamers)

Names matter more than you might think, influencing purchasing decisions. Consider an example of Nvidia GTX 1060 3GB and GTX 1060 6GB models. Initially, I thought the difference was just in the VRAM size, but Nvidia also reduced the number of CUDA cores from 1280 to 1152 and changed the memory bus width from 192-bit to 128-bit in the 3GB model.

RTX 3060 and RTX 3060 Ti are another example of this pricing and performance disparity. Launched at $329 and $399, the RTX 3060 Ti offered significantly better performance for a small price difference.

Initially, I opted for the RTX 3060 over the RTX 3060 Ti and missed a substantial performance boost for a relatively small price difference. As the market stabilized, the RTX 3060 Ti often held its price, while the RTX 3060 occasionally saw price reductions. Therefore, always consider reviews to determine the best option.

Influence Of Flagship GPUs

Upgrading the GPU
Gigabyte GeForce RX Vega 64

When Nvidia launched GTX 1080 Ti, it quickly became the go-to choice for gamers seeking top-tier performance. It set a benchmark in its generation for raw power and efficiency. However, while competitive in some aspects, AMD’s response with the Radeon RX Vega 64 couldn’t match the GTX 1080 Ti’s overall performance and market perception.

Despite offering a compelling alternative at a lower price point, AMD struggled to capture the same mind share and enthusiast following Nvidia enjoyed with its flagship GPU. This disparity in perception and market positioning illustrates how flagship releases can significantly influence buying decisions across different price ranges in the GPU market.

Performance Over Brand Loyalty

Asus-Strix-GeForce-RTX-3080Ti-Vs-3080Ti-Founders-Edition01-1024x768
Asus Strix GeForce RTX 3080Ti Vs 3080Ti Founders 

Consider gaming monitors. Like graphics cards, many brands offer various features and specifications. Some users might be loyal to brands like ASUS or Acer due to their reputation. However, a blind allegiance to a single brand may overlook equally competitive options from lesser-known brands like ViewSonic or AOC, which could offer similar or even superior performance at a more affordable price point.

Similarly, as with GPUs, making an informed decision based on current market offerings and your specific requirements is key to getting the best gaming experience, regardless of brand affiliation. This approach ensures that your investment in gaming hardware aligns with your priorities and budget rather than being dictated by brand loyalty alone.

When To Wait And When To Upgrade

Imagine you’ve been using an RTX 4070 super. Over time, you want more graphical horsepower for higher resolutions or more demanding games. The temptation arises to upgrade to an RTX 4080 super for that extra performance boost.

In such a case, I advise you to resist the urge to upgrade your GPU within the same generation unless your current GPU no longer meets your needs, especially if you can sell it at a good price to afford a substantial upgrade without overspending.

Waiting for the next GPU generation often yields a more significant performance leap for a similar investment. However, upgrading within the same generation might lead to missing out on advancements in the next generation.

That’s why it’s crucial to weigh immediate benefits against potential advancements in future GPU releases when making upgrade decisions.

Enhancing Your PC Beyond Just A New GPU

Upgrading the GPU
GeForce RTX 3070.

You might be tempted to upgrade your graphics card for higher numbers, even if it doesn’t improve your gaming experience. For example, if you have a 1440p monitor at 144Hz and an RTX 3070, upgrading to an RTX 3080 might not make a noticeable difference unless you’re playing demanding games. Instead, consider investing in PSU, better cooling or additional RAM for more balanced performance and stability.

When upgrading your PC, it’s essential to consider the entire setup rather than just focusing on the graphics card. Think of your PC as a complete unit. Here are the top 3 upgrades I recommend for a balanced and effective enhancement.