As a News Reporter at Tech4Gamers, I bring the latest findings from the tech industry to our readers. Specializing in processors, graphics cards, and more, I strive to deliver detailed insights that keep our audience well-informed and engaged. Periodically, I also delve into the vibrant world of gaming to share captivating stories.
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AMD is set to reveal its RDNA 4 GPU architecture soon but hasn’t provided details yet and has missed recent launch events.
AMD is reportedly focusing on the Navi 48 and Navi 44 GPUs. Navi 48 is expected to launch first, possibly at CES, and the Navi 44 in the second quarter.
AMD is confirmed to be developing the Navi 48 XTX and Navi 44 XL, with the XTX being a high-performance variant and the XL a cut-down version.
AMD is anticipated to unveil the RDNA 4 GPU architecture in the upcoming months. Regarding RDNA 4, the red team has not yet released any information or promised anything and has been conspicuously absent from several launch events.
According to rumors, AMD is no longer working on the high-end Navi 41 GPU; only the Navi 48 and Navi 44, the latter being the lower-end model, are still in development. Meanwhile, the Navi 48 may make its debut first, perhaps at CES the following year.
A leaker seems to have also spilled the beans on the cheapest GPU of this lineup.
Why it matters: It has long been said that the budget and mid-range markets will be AMD’s biggest focus with RDNA 4.
Image via Twitter
It looks like the Navi 48 XTX and the Navi 44 XL are indeed being worked on by AMD. Data miner Olrak29 found the new entry and used it to identify this SKU in a shipping manifest.
AMD normally provides the XL, XT, and XTX models of discrete GPUs. For the mobile and workstation series, there are further versions, such as XTXH and XTGL. Nevertheless, the desktop discrete series typically consists of only three variants.
While the XT and XTX might have the same specifications, depending on the GPU, the XTX variant is typically the full-spec version with improved performance. XL models, on the other hand, are typically cut-down versions of the original GPU die.
As such, RDNA 4 may come with a Radeon RX 8600 SKU.
Furthermore, AMD is also expected to bring improvements that are important for the gaming community, such as better ray-tracing and higher efficiency. A first glimpse at some of these improvements could be coming with the PS5 Pro.
At Tech4gamers, I cover all sorts of gaming news. Whether it’s a leak of any upcoming game or an update, an announcement, or a rumour, I like to write about it all. Over the weekend, I sit and write features where I talk about games that I miss or want to see return.
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GTA 6 is coming in 2025 as a console-exclusive title from Rockstar.
Following the recent delay of Black Myth: Wukong, many fans are concerned that GTA 6 could also be delayed on Xbox because of the lower-end Xbox Series S.
On the other hand, many fans are confident that Rockstar would not let this happen.
While GTA 6 is still a year away from its launch, the title is already creating excitement within the industry.
While everyone seems to be quite positive, there are still a few concerns, including those related to the frame rate. Xbox fans are also concerned about GTA 6 potentially being delayed on their platform due to the Xbox Series S.
Why it matters: It’s no secret that developers are not fond of optimizing for the Xbox Series S. If they are unable to work with this console, Microsoft also prevents a release on the Xbox Series X.
GTA 6 Is Finally Launching Next Year
Recently, many Xbox fans discussed on NeoGAF what would happen if the Xbox Series S became the reason for the delay of GTA 6 on the platform.
Many fans agreed it could be possible, as two of the biggest releases, Baldur’s Gate 3 and Black Myth: Wukong, have already been delayed on Xbox. Larian, in particular, struggled to get split-screen working on the Xbox Series S and eventually removed the feature altogether.
Many fans feel this is a legitimate concern since GTA 6 will be highly ambitious. The game is already expected to target 720p 30FPS on this hardware, so the console might not be able to handle Rockstar’s work. It is important to note that Stalker 2 currently runs below 30FPS on this hardware.
Many fans also believe that Rockstar could get away with a Series X-only release in such a situation.
If anything, they’ll surely release it for the Series X alongside the PS5 version.
-User Certinty
Others have argued that the studio is so big it would not run into the same problems as Larian or Game Science. Looking at the responses, it’s clear that many have full faith in Rockstar.
GTA 6 Is Likely To Break Most Records At Launch
While the PS5 will undeniably be the biggest platform for GTA 6 at release, Xbox still has a substantial user base in the US. This is where GTA 6 will shine the most, so Rockstar is unlikely to ignore a platform as big as Xbox.
Nonetheless, it remains to be seen how GTA 6 will perform on consoles until it is launched on PC. With the PS5 Pro expected this year, it will be interesting to see how Rockstar will handle optimization for four vastly different console specifications.
As a News Reporter at Tech4Gamers, I bring the latest findings from the tech industry to our readers. Specializing in processors, graphics cards, and more, I strive to deliver detailed insights that keep our audience well-informed and engaged. Periodically, I also delve into the vibrant world of gaming to share captivating stories.
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Intel addressed the Vmin Shift instability affecting 13th and 14th-generation CPUs, confirming it won’t impact the upcoming Arrow Lake and Lunar Lake processors.
The issue does not affect Core i3s, most Core i5s (excluding K models), 12th-gen Alder Lake chips, or mobile CPUs.
Intel recommends using default settings and updating BIOS for affected 13th and 14th-gen CPUs while it continues its investigation.
For those worried that Arrow Lake would experience similar troubles as recent Intel chips, Intel has provided a fresh update on the instability debacle. The company has good news for its future customers.
Why it matters: The tech giant is experiencing a nightmarish situation at the moment. Because of the problems, it has even lost market share to AMD in certain sectors.
An Intel processor, upside down. Image Credits: PC World.
Thomas Hannaford, an Intel spokesman, has released a fresh statement regarding the “Vmin Shift Instability issue investigation,” which is identified as the primary source of the issues highlighted.
Due to the different designs underlying both product lines, Intel affirms that the Vmin Shift instability issue does not affect its upcoming CPU generation, dubbed Arrow Lake and Lunar Lake. Intel will ensure that forthcoming product lines are also shielded from the problem.
The company goes on to specify which of its current ranges of processors are not impacted by this issue. This covers all Core i3 models, all 13th and 14th-generation Core i5 CPUs (except the K model), and every 12th-generation Alder Lake chip.
Furthermore, Intel assures its users that the instability issues do not affect mobile CPUs of the 13th and 14th generations, including the high-end HX processors that some people worry about.
Intel also states unequivocally that Meteor Lake chips for laptops, Xeon servers, and workstation CPUs are unaffected.
Intel’s investigation into the instability issue is still ongoing. Meanwhile, it advises owners of 13th—and 14th-generation CPUs to utilize the previously suggested Intel Default Settings for their chip and update to the most recent BIOS for their motherboard.
At Tech4Gamers, I mainly cover new gaming news, leaks, and rumours. Aside from that, I love to write features about my favourite games while inserting my opinion about their different aspects.
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Hideaki Itsuno has directed many big games for Capcom but is now leaving the studio.
The director has helped bring games like Devil May Cry 5 and Dragon’s Dogma 2 to life.
He will continue to work in the gaming industry in the future.
Capcom has recently been praised by the fandom since it outdid itself with AAA releases. The publisher now aims to revive more classic IPs, so Dino Crisis fans can have hope again.
Among the games this publisher has released, the Devil May Cry series is arguably one of the best. The fandom especially loves the latest entry in the series due to non-stop action and great combat.
However, director Hideaki Itsuno, who played an important role in this production, has now left Capcom after serving at the studio for 30 years.
Why it matters: Not everyone can dedicate 30 years to a sole company, so Hideaki Itsuno deserves appreciation for this achievement.
The Devil May Cry Director Is Leaving Capcom After 30 Years of Hard Work
The developer has suddenly shared this announcement on Twitter. He states that August will mark his final month at Capcom, bringing an end to a three-decade-long journey.
At the end of August 2024, I will be leaving Capcom after 30 years and 5 months.
-Hideaki Itsuno
During his time at the studio, he helped make the Devil May Cry franchise incredible, contributing to the last three Capcom games as the director. Similarly, he directed Dragon’s Dogma 2 earlier this year.
Devil May Cry 5 Is Often Regarded As The Best Game In The Series
In the future, Hideaki Itsuno will work on games in a new environment.
He aims to create games that are as fun or even more fun than the ones he has already created. While this could be difficult, given how high the bar is set, we trust the legendary director.
It might be sad that he is leaving Capcom after so many years, but he will still be involved in the gaming industry. Fans are already showering this legend with the appreciation he deserves and hope to follow his adventure. We also wish Hideaki Itsuno all the best.
At T4G, my task is to cover the latest news around the gaming globe ASAP and with the utmost precision. I adore all the games and respect all the devs behind the amazing games that we get all year. So, whether it’s a PC or a Console game, I got it all covered.
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A LinkedIn profile shows Blizzard Entertainment is working on a new AAA first-person shooter RPG.
It doesn’t give away much except that it’s been in development for PC and Consoles since April.
Fans have been demanding a StarCraft RPG game for the longest time, and Xbox has also teased a revival in the past.
Blizzard Entertainment, the studio behind famous IPs like Overwatch and Diablo, is working on a new AAA RPG game. The studio has been under fire for some time because of the mediocre Overwatch 2, but they seem to be actively working on their next project.
Why it matters: Blizzard Entertainment has an inconsistent record when it comes to game development. They’ve had projects in the works for years, and they canceled them. So, while the idea is interesting, it’ll be seen if it turns into something.
Blizzard Entertainment is working on a new AAA project.
The company previously worked on a survival game, and fans were stoked about it. Even the developers stated they were excited to showcase what they had done. However, when the Microsoft acquisition fell into place, the game got canceled despite years of development.
This new project has surfaced on the internet via the Linkedin profile of Chris McCabe, the Senior Director of Product Management. According to the profile, Blizzard’s new game is a AAA RPG FPS title being developed for PC and consoles.
The update doesn’t reveal much except that the game has been in development since April. However, considering Xbox has previously teased a StarCraft revival, fans speculate that Blizzard may be preparing to bring back this IP.
Fans have been hoping for a StarCraft RPG for a very long time.
While the original launched in 1998 and was an RTS, fans have been demanding a StarCraft RPG for the longest time.
Still, there is a possibility that this project could be a brand-new IP. Since Overwatch 2 is not nearly as successful as Blizzard wanted it to be, perhaps the team is working on an entirely new first-person shooter IP.
At Tech4Gamers.com, I cover the latest news and rumours in the gaming industry, from new game releases to hidden gems and video game leaks. Furthermore, I occasionally write tech articles about video game consoles, providing insights into the hardware and software that powers our gaming experiences.
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Known for their narrative-driven games, CDPR continues this trend in Cyberpunk 2077’s side quests.
While the main story is compelling, side quests offer more character development and world-building.
Due to the main focus on Johnny Silverhand, side quests are sometimes overlooked.
However, I believe one more interesting aspect of the game is often overlooked: the side quests. Although Cyberpunk 2077 grabs attention with its main story and the intriguing setting of Night City, the side quests often don’t get the recognitionthey deserve.
Why it matters: The side quests are full of interesting stories and crucial for truly understanding CDPR’s larger universe.
CDPR’s Storytelling Legacy
Side quests in Cyberpunk 2077 expand upon the characters and their relationships.
CD Projekt Red is known for great storytelling and character development, thanks to the success of The Witcher 3. Cyberpunk 2077’s side quests continue this legacy, showing off the developer’s skill in creating detailed branching stories.
While the main campaign might feel too short, the side quests offer deeper character development and more complex plots, often delivering a stronger message. CDPR is also known for prioritizing quality over quantity.
Pawel Sasko, the lead quest designer, says that the team throws out over 90% of their ideas to make sure only the best and most important quests make it into the final game. This careful selection is clear in the side quests, which often match the main story in terms of depth and emotional impact.
Consider the side quest “Chippin’ In.” In this quest, Johnny Silverhand takes over V’s body, causing a series of risky choices that can lead to a special main game ending. This quest adds depth to Johnny’s character and gives players a unique route they might miss if they only follow the main story.
Character Development and World-Building
Night City is one of the most detailed open worlds ever.
Side quests expand on the Cyberpunk 2077 universe in ways the main story often doesn’t. For instance, in the side quest “Sinnerman,”players go on a morally challenging journey with a death row inmate who wants to reenact a crucifixion as part of his redemption.
This quest makes players think deeply about justice and forgiveness, offering one of the game’s most thought-provoking experiences. Many side quests are important for character growth and world-building.
For example, the quest “Heroes,” which deals with the aftermath of Jackie Welles’ death, provides a touching look at grief and friendship. Attending Jackie’s memorial service lets players pay their respects and find closure.
The side quest “Pyramid Song” is another highlight that strengthens the connection between V and Judy Alvarez. This underwater adventure goes beyond just gameplay, focusing on the emotional depth and character relationships.
Moments like these show why Cyberpunk 2077’s side quests are crucial for a complete experience.
The Importance of Side Quests
The game really excels during its detailed side quests.
I feel like side quests in Cyberpunk 2077 do not get much attention because the main story is so dominant. The focus on V’s journey and Johnny Silverhand’s role can make side quests seem like mere distractions.
But this view overlooks how much the side content enriches the overall narrative. Players often tend to miss these side quests, ultimately missing out on a complete experience. Although Silverhand is an interesting character and Keanu Reeves gives a strong performance, his focus in the story takes away from V’s personal journey.
The main storyline shifts away from V’s connection with Night City, making it feel more like Johnny’s story. In contrast, Johnny’s character is more fully developed in his side quests, where I learned more about his story and connected on a deeper level.
Additionally, side quests in Cyberpunk 2077 are often connected to the main story in one way or another. Quests like “Blistering Love” build on earlier missions and wrap up important character stories.
In this quest, players learn about the history between Johnny Silverhand and Rogue, adding depth to both characters that the main plot doesn’t fully explore.
Why Aren’t They Talked About More?
Hideo Kojima Also Shows Up In Cyberpunk 2077
So, why don’t Cyberpunk 2077’s side quests get more attention? One reason could be the way the game was marketed. The main story and Keanu Reeves as Johnny Silverhand were the main focus in promotions, so many players might have seen the side quests as less important.
Another reason is the sheer size of Cyberpunk 2077. With so much content to explore and the launch of Phantom Liberty expansion, players might overlook or undervalue side quests, especially if they aren’t directly tied to the main story.
At Tech4Gamers.com, I cover the latest news and rumours in the gaming industry, from new game releases to hidden gems and video game leaks. Furthermore, I occasionally write tech articles about video game consoles, providing insights into the hardware and software that powers our gaming experiences.
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The original justification for charging for online multiplayer was to cover the costs of running servers.
The argument about covering costs is no longer valid, as console makers earn substantial profits from digital sales and subscriptions.
Online multiplayer is often bundled with other subscription services, making it difficult to separate its cost.
Gamers have accepted paid online multiplayer as the norm, making it easier for console manufacturers to maintain the fee.
Consoles have long been celebrated for offering a more affordable and user-friendly gaming experience. Yet, every console gamer knows the sting of realizing that a long-anticipated game requires an online multiplayer subscription.
When console manufacturers first started charging for online multiplayer, it was because running the servers was costly. Back with the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3, these services were new and seen as a luxury.
In 2024, the situation has changed a lot. Nowadays, online multiplayer is a basic part of gaming, not a luxury. Cloud technology has made server management cheaper and easier. Even so, console manufacturers still charge for online multiplayer, but now it’s more about making money than covering costs.
Why it matters: The excuses of charging for online multiplayer to cover costs are over. Now, it’s about making and boosting profits in a world where services, subscriptions, and digital content are key.
Online Multiplayer Wasn’t Always A Paid Feature
The Xbox 360 had many great exclusive titles.
It wasn’t always like this, though. Originally, online gaming was free on all platforms. However, Microsoft introduced Xbox Live for the Xbox 360, making it a paid online multiplayer standard.
At the time, PS3 still offered free online play. However, the better experience of Xbox Live and popular games like Halo led many players to pay for it. Soon after, Sony introduced a paid online service with the PlayStation 4.
Nintendo followed with the Switch, making paid online services a standard feature across all major console platforms.
The Subscriptions Ecosystem
Every major console manufacturer now has subscription services with online multiplayer access.
Paid multiplayer services continue because consoles have built subscription-based ecosystems around their platforms. Services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus are key to their revenue, offering online play, game libraries, and other features.
This bundling makes it hard for users to see what they’re actually paying for. For example, Microsoft’s shift from Xbox Live Gold to “Game Pass Core” shows how online play is now part of a larger subscription model.
The argument that paid multiplayer is needed to cover costs no longer holds up as well. With big profits coming from digital sales, microtransactions, and subscriptions, the old reason for charging for online play doesn’t apply anymore.
Consoles are no longer major financial losses, and the real money now comes from digital game sales, DLCs, and subscription fees. The profits from these services make me question whether it’s still necessary to charge for online play, especially since PC gamers get similar features without extra fees.
Why haven’t console manufacturers removed the fee for online multiplayer? Simply put, because they can. Gamers have accepted paying for online play as standard.
Since multiplayer is now a part of subscription services that offer extra features, companies face little resistance to these fees. Multiplayer gaming has become a major profit source, and dropping the fees would cut into their earnings.
Additionally, with the rise of cloud gaming and streaming, Xbox and PlayStation are heavily investing in these services. For example, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes multiplayer access along with cloud gaming and a large game library.
This bundling makes it harder for gamers to resist paying for what was once a separate feature.
As console makers tighten their hold on online gaming, PC gaming becomes more appealing. Although setting up a gaming PC can be costly upfront, it often saves money in the long run.
Online multiplayer on PC is free, and platforms like Steam frequently offer discounts, making games cheaper over time. Additionally, PC gaming provides more freedom in how you play and manage your games. Unlike consoles, which have strict limits, PCs offer greater flexibility and cost efficiency.
At Tech4Gamers.com, I cover the latest news and rumours in the gaming industry, from new game releases to hidden gems and video game leaks. Furthermore, I occasionally write tech articles about video game consoles, providing insights into the hardware and software that powers our gaming experiences.
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The PS3/Xbox 360 era blessed us with high-definition gaming, HDMI ports, and a balance between new features and user-friendliness.
This era gave birth to popular franchises such as The Last of Us, Uncharted, Gears of War, and Halo.
It was a period where developers took risks, experimented, and focused on creating fun games.
Looking back at the Xbox 360 and PS3 days, it’s easy to feel that this was the golden age of gaming, even if nostalgia might make it seem even better than it was. This generation of consoles struck a great balance between new ideas, creativity, and easy access, which the industry hasn’t quite matched since.
Even though gaming has moved on, many current issues—like high development costs, less risk-taking, and the rise of live service games—can be traced back to the end of this golden age. That said, let’s discuss why I consider the PS3/Xbox 360 era the “golden age” of console gaming.
Why it matters: With the Xbox 360 digital store permanently shutting down after 19 long years, I believe the iconic era of console gaming is truly over.
Significant Technological Leap
PlayStation 3 is home to some of the most iconic games ever released.
The PS3 and Xbox 360 brought major technological advances over their predecessors. These consoles introduced high-definition gaming, which greatly improved visuals from earlier models.
They also added HDMI ports, letting players make the most of their HD TVs, which became more common during this period. These consoles struck a great balance between new features and user-friendliness.
Unlike today’s focus on ultra-realistic graphics that take longer to develop, games from the PS3/Xbox 360 era were visually impressive and released regularly. Titles like Halo 3, Gears of War, and Uncharted set new standards for graphics while still being enjoyable and accessible to a wide audience.
In today’s games, it’s easy to lose track of important things like enemies, NPCs, and items because of all the visual clutter. In comparison, the simpler design of Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 games helped players focus on what was important without being distracted by extra details.
The Genesis of Modern Franchises
Before microtransactions, loot boxes, and endless updates, there was pure gaming joy.
The Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 era was a golden age for game franchises that are still popular today. Games like The Last of Us and Assassin’s Creed showcased a burst of creativity and daring.
The creativity led to a rich mix of genres, such as stealth, arcade racing, puzzles, and space combat, which appealed to both serious and casual gamers. From exclusive hits like The Last of Us and Gears of War to popular third-party games like GTA 4 and BioShock, the range and quality were outstanding.
It was also a big time for indie games, thanks to platforms like Xbox Live Arcade and the PlayStation Store. Games such as Braid and Limbo proved that smaller titles could have a major impact on the industry.
The PS3/Xbox 360 era marked the last wave of true originality before the rise of remakes and remasters. Many modern games are either sequels or remakes of titles from this era, proving how creative the PS3/Xbox 360 generation was.
Today’s market mainly features huge AAA titles, with fewer mid-tier games like those from the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 days. The wide variety of genres from that time has largely disappeared, replaced by a focus on free-to-play or live-service experiences.
The Rise of Online Gaming
Online gaming reached its peak during the COD and Halo 3 days.
How can I forget the growth of online gaming during this era? Xbox Live became a key part of gaming, setting the bar for online services with features like multiplayer gaming, digital downloads, and achievements that added a new competitive edge.
Sony’s PSN started off more slowly but eventually matched Xbox Live and made online gaming a standard part of the experience. Online gaming became hugely popular with titles like Call of Duty 4 and Halo 3, which continue to define competitive play to this day.
That era truly kicked off the multiplayer craze we see today. Midnight launches, big online communities, and the start of gaming as a spectator sport (which led to today’s eSports) all began during this period.
The Last Era of True Innovation
I look back on the PS3/Xbox 360 era with nostalgia. It was a time when gaming felt new and exciting. The ease of just inserting a disc and playing without huge day-one updates or annoying microtransactions is a cherished memory for me.
It was a time when developers and publishers were willing to take risks and try new ideas, developing unique and fun games. Although modern gaming has its strengths, it has lost many of the industry’s best qualities. Two decades ago, we truly lived in the best time for this industry.
In my role as a news writer, I’ve covered a wide range of topics, from breaking news to in-depth analyses of the latest developments in the gaming world. My articles have garnered attention and citations across the industry, reflecting my commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content.
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Rocksteady Studios has done great work with the Batman Arkham series but fell short with its recent title.
A developer’s LinkedIn profile indicates that the studio is now working on an unannounced project.
This new project will be interesting after the debacle of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League.
Rocksteady Studios has been a key player in bringing superheroes into the gaming world, particularly with its acclaimed Batman Arkham series, which is still regarded as one of the best superhero IPs ever made.
However, the studio has faced recent challenges, especially with the poor performance of Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League. According to a LinkedIn profile, Rocksteady Studios is ready to move on and is now working on an unannounced title.
Why it matters: Following the disappointing reception of Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League, Rocksteady Studios must deliver a strong experience with its upcoming title to redeem itself.
So far, little is known about Rocksteady Studios’ upcoming title. However, the studio may be revisiting a previously scrapped game from 2016, codenamed Stones, a project different from the average Rocksteady title.
Stones was in development following the release of Batman Arkham Knight in 2015 but was shelved in 2016 when the focus shifted to Suicide Squad. This new project might be Rocksteady finally completing what it started years ago.
A new Batman game could also be in development. Since the release of Batman Arkham Knight in 2015, Batman has faced challenges in the gaming industry, with recent portrayals not meeting fan expectations.
Batman Arkham City Is Deemed As The Best Superhero Game Ever
Recent rumors suggested that Warner Bros was working on a game based on Matt Reeves’ The Batman, but DC Studios’ CEO, James Gunn, quickly dismissed those. Still, a Batman game wouldn’t be unexpected for Rocksteady Studios, given the team’s history, but many fans are eager to see the developer explore new territories.
Introducing a new DC superhero into the gaming world could be a refreshing direction for Rocksteady. However, these are just speculations, and we’ll need to wait for more developments to learn about their upcoming project.
In the meantime, we can only hope for a strong showing from this unannounced title, as Rocksteady Studios needs to restore its reputation after the disappointing release of Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League.
At Tech4Gamers, I mainly cover new gaming news, leaks, and rumours. Aside from that, I love to write features about my favourite games while inserting my opinion about their different aspects.
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Concord was released a week ago, and it is already in a poor state.
According to an analyst, the game has only sold 10K copies on PC and 15K on PS5.
Steam’s current player count is less than 100, leading to long matchmaking and empty lobbies.
PlayStation spent millions on Concord, which took 8 years to develop. However, the game has been a total failure since its launch. Player counts were 10 times fewer than Redfall. The developers have even called haters talentless freaks, which seems rather unprofessional on their end.
At the time of writing, the player count has fallen into the double digits. Players are finding it hard to get into multiplayer matches, so it may be a matter of a few days before everyone moves on.
An analyst has also estimated that Concord sold around 25K copies across both Steam and PS5.
Why it matters: Concord had already received so much criticism before release, so it’s not surprising that it ended up failing like this. However, PlayStation is unlikely to take this failure lightly.
Concord is The Biggest PlayStation Failure of 2024
Analyst Simon Carless, author of a newsletter, GameDiscover.co, has revealed his estimation of the game’s sales. He believes it has sold only 10K copies on Steam and 15K on PlayStation 5.
Concord’s total sales are sitting around 10,000 units on Steam, and around 15,000 on PlayStation.
-Simon Carless
Carless mentioned this in a response to an email from IGN. This seems to be a rough estimate, as the game’s concurrent peak on Steam was just over 600 players. As such, the player count might be a generous estimate.
According to estimates, PlayStation spent as much as $200 million on this project. Between the marketing and extensive development, Concord was a huge project for everyone at Firewalk and PlayStation.
The game is sitting at below 2.5 user score on Metacritic, so PlayStation appears to have a huge loss on its hands. This may even lead to additional changes to the live service plans moving forward.
Perhaps the most interesting part about the estimate is that sales across both PlayStation and Steam appear to be quite similar. It was previously said that Concord would do much better on PS5, but the estimate shows a 5,000 unit sales difference.
Do note that this is an estimate, so it is by no means 100% accurate. However, we would be shocked if the actual sales were higher.
As a Hardware Expert at Tech4Gamers, I blend my Computer Science expertise with a love for technology. Through comprehensive reviews and comparisons, I guide our audience in making informed tech decisions.
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Apple’s MacBook Air stands out for its value and performance, making it more appealing than many high-end Windows laptops.
Windows laptops, including those with Snapdragon X Elite chips, struggle with performance and security issues.
While future Copilot+ PCs might alter the market, Apple currently leads in quality and affordability.
Despite the rise of new technologies and the market’s competitive nature, Apple’s MacBook stands out for its value and performance. The MacBook maintains its superiority over Windows laptops, even when comparing price points and specifications. Let’s explore why.
The Cost-Effectiveness Of The MacBook Air
A key advantage of the MacBook is its pricing strategy. The 13-inch M2 MacBook Air remains an attractive option for buyers. Officially starting at $999 with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, the M2 MacBook Air presents a modest offering compared to some Windows alternatives.
MacBook Air – Image Credit (Apple)
However, the Surface Laptop 7th Edition also starts at $999 and offers twice the memory, which might appear to be a better deal on the surface. But, current market conditions further enhance the MacBook Air’s affordability.
At retailers like Best Buy and Amazon, the exact configuration of the 13-inch M2 MacBook Air is noted for as low as $799. This $200 discount is significant and makes the MacBook Air a more compelling choice.
On the other hand, all laptops in the Co-Pilot+ PC line, designed to compete in the high-performance space, require a minimum of 16GB of RAM, meaning nothing under $999 matches the MacBook Air’s price point.
Comparing The MacBook Air With Windows Laptops
The Windows laptop market is diverse, with models catering to various needs and budgets. However, as users’ reviews indicate, despite the progress made by brands like Dell, HP, and Microsoft, many high-end models still struggle to match the MacBook Air’s value proposition.
Liquid Retina Display On MacBook Air – Image Credit (Apple)
The MacBook Air’s build quality, design, and ecosystem integration are key factors that set it apart. Apple’s attention to detail in design, from the slim profile to the high-resolution Retina display, contributes to a premium user experience that many Windows laptops find hard to rival.
The M2 MacBook Air’s performance, powered by Apple’s ARM technology silicon chips, also delivers impressive efficiency and power, making it a strong contender in everyday tasks and even light professional work.
Performance And Longevity
The M2 MacBook Air, although not the newest model, has many similarities with the recently released M3 version. The M3 chips do provide enhanced CPU and GPU performance.
However, for the majority of users, the M2 model’s performance remains more than sufficient. The upgrades in the M3 model are modest, and for many, the extra expense might not be worth it.
MacBook Air High-Definition Camera – Image Credit (Apple)
For those considering even more budget-friendly options, the M1 MacBook Air is available for as low as $649. While it’s an older model, the M1 MacBook Air still provides excellent performance and value as per users.
However, the M2 model is recommended for its enhanced display, improved webcam, better speakers, and more comprehensive port selection. The additional $250 for the M2 model is well worth it for the upgraded features.
Future Trends And The Co-Pilot+ PCs
I recommend holding off on purchasing a Windows laptop because the upcoming Snapdragon X Elite chips could potentially revolutionize performance and efficiency, possibly making current models obsolete.
Snapdragon X Elite – Image Credit (Qualcomm)
However, early reviews of the Snapdragon X Elite SoC for laptops have been disappointing, particularly in gaming and CPU tests, where it falls short compared to rivals like Radeon and Arc graphics cards. Despite Qualcomm’s initial claims, the chip has not lived up to expectations.
Moreover, Microsoft’s Copilot+ PCs also face challenges, including security issues and underwhelming AI capabilities. Additionally, performance and battery life issues with Snapdragon X chips are further complicating their market impact.
Disabled Recall By Default – Image Credit (Microsoft Windows Blog)
There is some optimism, though, as there are hints that AI-enabled Copilot+ PCs featuring Qualcomm Snapdragon X chips may become more competitively priced. Qualcomm has suggested that more affordable Snapdragon X PCs might be available next year, potentially changing the dynamics in the laptop market.
Until then, Apple holds a notable advantage in providing a high-quality, affordable laptop that outperforms many Windows alternatives at similar price points.
At Tech4Gamers, I work as a guides expert. My role involves writing about solving different gaming and tech-related topics that pique my interest and that I believe more people should know about. This position allows me to share my insights and discoveries with a broader audience, enriching their gaming experiences with the unique perspectives I bring.
Story Highlight
Skill development often outweighs the benefits of high-end hardware in gaming performance.
For noticeable improvements, invest in mid-range hardware upgrades like good audio and input devices.
Ensure a low-latency internet connection to avoid game-disrupting lag.
Gaming hardware has been getting continually better and more expensive. This makes you wonder if we’ve hit a point of diminishing returns and if the standard bits of gaming hardware are good enough for most people. Does it matter what hardware level you have to be a good gamer? Keep reading to find out!
Does It Matter?
Yes, better hardware does improve gaming simply by enhancing your perception. For example, playing a shooter at 60 FPS feels smoother than at 30 FPS, but how much does 120 or 240 FPS really help? Let’s explore how each part of your setup impacts your gaming experience.
Audio
Audio might be the biggest overlook one can make while crafting their perfect setup. A lot of competitive games rely heavily on audio cues to alert players of things happening around them that might be outside their field of view.
Corsair HS80 Wireless Headphones With RGB (Image By Tech4Gamers)
This might also apply to your audio input, as having a clear and legible can make a big difference in your comms sounding less slurred, allowing you to alert your teammates better.
Because audio is such an underrated aspect of most people’s setup, we would say that having a good quality headset can give you a very real advantage in competitive play. You don’t need to go overboard; you just need headphones that relay directional sound well so you can tell if someone is sneaking up on you and where from.
Performance
We’re bundling together two pieces of hardware under performance: the framerate that your computer can supply and the framerate your monitor can display.
Unfortunately, Steam’s hardware survey does not measure refresh rates, so we don’t know how many people use monitors with higher refresh rates. Disregarding that, higher refresh rates do significantly help you in how fast you can react to certain events and how low the delay between you doing something and it happening is.
GEFORCE RTX 4090 – Image Credit (Tech4Gamers)
Even though you wouldn’t be able to see the higher framerate, having a computer that can render as many frames as possible can be beneficial because of the decreased delay between your input and the event triggering.
Once again, there is a middle ground to be seen here, with most people struggling to notice a difference in efficiency in refresh rates higher than 120 or 144Hz, though advantages do exist if you go even higher.
Input Devices
We’re bundling keyboards, mice, and controllers all into a single heading for this one.
Keyboards with shorter travel can reduce the delay between your reaction and an input being sent to your computer. Getting a shorter travel keyboard is a harmless horizontal upgrade for gaming, though the typing experience on your computer might suffer.
Logitech G Pro X Superlight Mouse (Image By Tech4Gamers)
Mice are a bit more complicated. They need to have a good DPI range, short travel, low delay, and light enough to glide over your desk. Competitive gamers are very particular about their mice, leading us to believe that getting better can give you some advantage.
Finally, controllers mainly need small dead zones to be more effective, with back buttons being a bonus. The best method to improve your gaming skills on a controller is to throw it in the trash and start using a keyboard and mouse.
Internet Speed
For many people, the biggest delay in their gaming setup is not their refresh rate or the time it takes to make their buttons actuate but the delay in sending their game data to a server and updating the game for others.
Internet Router (Image By Tech4Gamers)
Competitive games can become almost unplayable on high latency, so this is an aspect that we think it’s okay to invest heavily in. Be sure to check the advertised latency of your connection as well as the bandwidth before upgrading or changing your internet plan.
Is It Necessary?
Despite listing all the hardware that can affect your gaming experience, the biggest bottleneck for most people in becoming better gamers is not their hardware but their skills. There have been countless stories of pro gamers winning tournaments on horrible hardware to get their deserved recognition.
Try to hone your expertise as much as possible before you are sure that your hardware is holding you back from being a better gamer. You might find that the advantage you’ve been looking for was inside you this whole time.
