Week in Review: The top stories in phones, computing, and more

The iPhone 15 event countdown is on, the best of IFA 2023, Google Pixel 8 revealed
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September 8, 2023
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Welcome to the Week in Review
Welcome
There’s nothing quite like coming back from a long break and facing what can only be described as a looming maelstrom of activity. Sure, this week had its charms, including new GoPro devices that both disappointed and elated, a return for Polaroid, and some really spiffy mid-range GPUs from AMD, but there was really no escaping the ticking clock that is next week’s huge Apple Event.

Perhaps I’m more preoccupied with it than some because it will be me next week (September 12), on the Cupertino Campus, sitting in the Steve Jobs Theater and learning exactly what Apple means by ‘Wonderlust’.
 
Yes, most of it will be about the anticipated all-new iPhone 15 (will there be three or four new phones? No one is sure) but I’m also expecting to see a pair of new Apple Watches, updated AirPods, and maybe even more.
 
There will always be the possibility of a huge surprise – the storied “one more thing”, but I actually don’t expect anything like that this year. Apple CEO Tim Cook will talk about the current shiny object, the upcoming Vision Pro mixed reality headset, but mostly as an update. There won’t be news there.
 
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. We have so many awesome stories this week across mobile, computing, software, streaming, and, of course, the big IFA show in Berlin. Enjoy – and take a deep breath with me as we prepare for next week.
 
Lance Ulanoff, US Editor-in-Chief    
The week in iPhone
The case for and against upgrading to the iPhone 15
The iPhone 14 Pro Max won't be Apple's top-of-the-line iPhone for much longer (Future)
Apple has a special event scheduled for September 12, at which it's going to unveil the iPhone 15 handsets – but should you upgrade to one? We've outlined everything we're expecting from these phones, and explain why you might or might not want to buy in.
Read the full story
The week at IFA 2023
These are the 13 coolest products from IFA 2023
We've been on the ground at IFA in Berlin (IFA)
The big IFA 2023 tech expo in Berlin is wrapping up, and we're wrapping up our coverage with 13 great consumer technology products that we've seen over the last few days – from a portable blender that actually makes sense to a waterproof TV that floats.
Read the full story
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    The week in Android phones
    Google reveals the Pixel 8 and the Pixel Watch 2
    The gadgets Google is launching in October (Google)
    Google has its own launch event, on October 4, and it just dropped a big teaser, sharing images of the Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro and Pixel Watch 2 through official channels. There's a lot we still don't know about these devices, but we do now know what they look like.
    Read the full story
    The week in TVs
    This pricey media server is the ultimate movie player
    Upgrade your movie-watching experience with Kaleidescape (Kaleidescape)
    It's been Home Theater Week on TechRadar, and we're showcasing some of the best TVs and connected audio kit that you can buy - including Kaleidescape's entertainment systems, which offer stunning quality for your digital movies, if you can afford them.
    Read the full story
    The Week in Entertainment
    This Netflix movie looks like a medical Wolf of Wall Street
    Emily Blunt and Chris Evans in Pain Hustlers (Brian Douglas / Netflix)
    A new teaser trailer for Netflix's upcoming movie Pain Hustlers has landed, and it looks very much like Wolf of Wall Street but set in the medical and pharmaceutical world. With Chris Evans, Emily Blunt and Andy Garcia starring, it's also got lots of star wattage.
    Read the full story
    More of this week's top stories
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    Sep 08, 12:00


    Kotaku Friday, September 8, 2023 11:25 AM
        

    We're a good week into September, though if you're based on the east coast of the United States, the temperature sure doesn't feel like it. No matter: There's air conditioning and video games to keep us distracted from irrational weather.

    Read more...


    Kotaku Friday, September 8, 2023 11:10 AM
        

    On September 8, seemingly out of nowhere, Microsoft announced the Mega 3:4 scale Xbox 360 collector set. It will propel you back to the halcyon days of 2007, at least if you're willing to throwdown $150 for a collectible that doesn't actually play any games.

    Read more...


    Kotaku Friday, September 8, 2023 11:05 AM
        

    We're coming up on the end of 2023, and damn, what a year for video games, huh? The last time we updated our picks for the best games of 2023 (so far), we were adding some real bangers like Street Fighter 6 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Nine months into the year, there are even more heavy hitters…

    Read more...


    Kotaku Friday, September 8, 2023 10:07 AM
        

    Only Up! Is a brutal janky platformer that blew up on Steam earlier this summer after becoming a hit with Twitch viewers. A number of controversies later, its creator has removed the game from Valve's digital storefront seemingly forever, saying they made a lot of mistakes and need time to heal before making their…

    Read more...


    Kotaku Friday, September 8, 2023 9:15 AM
        

    I adored the Baldur's Gate 3 ending I got. It definitely felt a bit rushed in its efforts to wrap up several plot lines at once, but I was pretty happy with where my character ended up and the direction his relationships went, or were implied to go. However, it was all contingent on me making what is arguably the…

    Read more...


    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 11:49 AM
         Genshin Impact bundle celebrates new concerts with exclusive items

    Now that Genshin Impact version 4.0 is live, HoYoverse is commemorating the anime game's progress and growth with a number of concerts that'll be held in cities all across the world. As part of this celebration, a whole new Genshin Impact bundle with exclusive in-game gear will be available for purchase for players who want to obtain a few concert-related items.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Genshin Impact codes, Genshin Impact character tier list, Genshin Impact leveling guide

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 11:45 AM
         One of the best soulslikes ever made is less than $5

    Lords of the Fallen is something special. In the wake of Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Demon's Souls, Elden Ring, and Sekiro, FromSoftware has cultivated dozens of imitators. The soulslike has become one of the most extant genres in gaming, but rarely do other developers succeed at the same level as Miyazaki and co. Lords of the Fallen is the exception, one of the best games like Dark Souls you can find, and a terrific dark RPG in its own right. With a half sequel, half remake on the way, and the new Lords of the Fallen release date fast approaching, can now get the hit from CI Games for less than the price of lunch.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best soulslike games, Best RPG games, Best fantasy games

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 11:38 AM
         MW3 voice actors – full Modern Warfare 3 cast

    Who stars in the Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 cast? Originally, we thought there wasn't going to be a new Call of Duty game this year, following MW2 and Warzone 2 in a mammoth 2022. Then, there were rumors of a DLC, and now we know Sledgehammer Games takes the reins for a brand-new full Modern Warfare 3 game.

    Just a few short months after its surprise reveal at the end of July, the Modern Warfare 3 release date is moving in fast, and with such a stellar roster of beloved characters and the familiar faces behind them, we're interested to know which Modern Warfare 3 voice actors are back for the next installment of the FPS game series. There might be some spoilers ahead as we reveal who is and isn't returning for Modern Warfare 3, so keep that in mind before you check out the MW3 cast list below.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best FPS games, CoD Modern Warfare 3 release date, Best war games

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 11:29 AM
         Opera GX's new browser AI wants to answer all your videogame questions

    Opera GX is launching a gamer-focused AI for its browser, and you can use it right now. With the goal of answering any and all videogame questions you have at any point, the best Opera GX games will be joined by a fast-thinking AI that PCGamesN saw while at Gamescom 2023. Opera GX wants to continue cementing itself as the videogame browser, and this AI is the next step.


    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 11:21 AM
         EA Sports FC 24 crossplay explained

    Does EA Sports FC 24 have crossplay? As many PC players will know, EA has a rocky relationship with their PC ports of sports games. The relationship has definitely improved over the years, but things aren't exactly where they ought to be.

    Fortunately, EA is starting their new football game series on the right foot by supporting EA Sports FC 24 crossplay on PC and current generation consoles. The good news doesn't stop there as additional game modes will be available in crossplay this year, making the PC version of EA Sports FC 24 almost equal to its console counterparts. Sadly, there's some bad news regarding Ultimate Team, but we'll get to that as the EA Sports FC 24 release date draws closer.


    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 10:57 AM
         Assassin's Creed Mirage voice actors and cast list

    Who is in the Assassin's Creed Mirage cast? Like Paris and London before it, the bustling streets of Baghdad are faithfully recreated by Ubisoft in this latest instalment in the series. However, it takes a whole cast of voice actors to bring the Round City's populace to life, to say nothing of the assassination targets and historical figures we might bump into as we embark upon protagonist Basim's journey from street thief to master assassin.

    Thankfully, Ubisoft has already confirmed some of the more prominent Assassin's Creed Mirage voice actors and their corresponding roles, and the cast list comprises a range of talent from films, theatre, and videogames. We've also got some familiar characters making a return to the action-adventure game series since their initial debut in Assassin's Creed: Valhalla, though not all of the voice actors have reprised their roles for the sequel. Our up-to-date cast list also provides valuable insight into each character's role in the story before the Assassin's Creed Mirage release date rolls around.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Assassin's Creed Mirage release date, Best stealth games, Best RPG games

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 10:25 AM
         Fae Farm romance options – best gifts and who to date

    Who can you romance in Fae Farm? The cozy farming simulator sees you tending to a recently inherited property, but as with many RPGs of this genre, that's far from the only thing you can be getting to. We've discovered several characters you can romance, and figured out the best gifts to increase your chances with that special someone.

    You'll need to know how to go on dates in this cozy RPG, as you might have your eye on one particular winged friend in Fae Farm. From our time with the game, it's shaping up to be one of the cutest life games we've played recently. Don't worry, we've got you covered and you'll soon be impressing the fairy of your dreams.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best life games, Best farming games, Best PC simulation games

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 10:21 AM
         Like a Dragon Gaiden release date

    When is the Like a Dragon Gaiden release date? With the main series now shifting its gameplay focus to JRPG mechanics with its new protagonist Ichiban, fans of Kazuma Kiryu were perhaps missing playing as the Dragon of Dojima. Those familiar with the Yakuza games will see this as a return to the classic gameplay but in an all-new setting.

    As one of several spinoffs from the main series over the years, Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Has No Name is the most like the Yakuza series of old, as it's more like an action-adventure game. But really, the main appeal will be the chance once more to take on the role of former Yakuza enforcer turned best Dad, Kazuma Kiryu. Here is everything you need to know about Like a Dragon Gaiden.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best open-world games, Best RPG Games, Best action-adventure games

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 9:33 AM
         One of Dead by Daylight's most chaotic features might be coming back

    Dead by Daylight perks will make or break your experience - especially given just how powerful The Xenomorph is looking on the PTB right now. If you're a bit of a masochist, you can randomize your DBD perks using various different websites, which normally goes just as badly as you might expect. For those of you who thrive on the chaos, though, developer Behaviour Interactive has hinted that the horror game's own perk randomizer may make an exciting reappearance in the future.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: DBD killer tier list, Best horror games, DBD codes

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 9:43 AM
         Best Baldur's Gate 3 builds

    What are the best Baldur's Gate 3 builds? There are so many ways that you can shape your character in BG3 that it can be difficult to know where to start. Between races and backgrounds, classes and skills, there are countless combinations – and some are undoubtedly better than others. Thankfully, we're here to help, with a collection of builds to create characters you love that can still pack a punch.

    After extensive testing and research, we bring you our absolute favorite builds for all Baldur's Gate 3 classes in Larian Studios' long-awaited RPG game, including their optimal subclass, race, and background. To keep it simple, we've provided a general overview of each build alongside the opportunity to delve into dedicated guides for their best skills and weapons as you refine your character in Baldur's Gate 3. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the choices presented to you in character creation, our guide to the best BG3 builds is guaranteed to help you create the best character possible.

    Continue reading Best Baldur's Gate 3 builds
    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Baldur's Gate 3 quests, Baldur's Gate 3 review, Baldur's Gate 3 class

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 9:29 AM
         Best CS2 crosshair codes

    What are the best CS2 crosshairs? Choosing the perfect crosshair to suit your playstyle is no easy task. If you pick a large crosshair, you could end up blocking potential targets from your sightline. Too small and you might not be able to hit your targets from a distance.

    The main thing to remember is that you're going to want to spend some time testing out each type of crosshair. Fortunately, Deathmatch has been revamped in Counter-Strike 2 to give you another batch of targets to gun down. Picking the best crosshair and using the best CS2 binds should help you on your quest to earn the highest CS2 ranks and rating. Here's what you need to know about crosshairs in CS2.

    Continue reading Best CS2 crosshair codes
    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Counter-Strike 2 release date, Counter-Strike 2 beta access, Counter-Strike 2 maps

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 9:02 AM
         Cities Skylines 2 is everything that fans, modders, and CO ever wanted

    Cities Skylines 2 has a lot of different people to please. Like any experience in the superlative city-building game, if you give one group precisely what they want, you risk alienating another. Raise commercial taxes so you can put more money into schools, and business owners will revolt; introduce all the features and systems that you might imagine for a sequel, and although it gratifies long-standing fans who understand the game already, it'll be daunting to Cities Skylines 2 newcomers. With the Cities Skylines 2 release date inbound, developer Colossal Order wants to deliver on all fronts.


    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 7:55 AM
         Is Dead by Daylight Steam Deck compatible?

    Is Dead by Daylight Steam Deck compatible? When it comes to playing Dead by Daylight on the Steam Deck, you have nothing to fear. Whether you decide to take on the role of a killer, or help fellow survivors repair generators and escape, this asymmetrical team-based horror plays great on the Steam Deck.

    As per the Dead by Daylight system requirements, you'll need a 50GB worth of storage space before you face off with The Entity. Pick up one of the best microSD cards for Steam Deck, especially if you're rocking that 64BG model of the handheld, and you'll be good to go to start getting your spooky on.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: DBD killer tier list, Best horror games, DBD codes

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 7:55 AM
         Is Starfield Steam Deck compatible?

    Is Starfield Steam Deck compatible? Having a Bethesda RPG installed on your Steam Deck feels like you don't need any other game on the handheld, and Starfield is no exception. Unfortunately, it appears we'll need to wait a while longer to take our space flights on the go.

    As stated in the Starfield system requirements, you'll need 125GB of storage space if you want to head out exploring new planets. There's over a hundred different solar systems on offer, so it's not exactly a surprise the game takes up so much space. If you're hoping to play Bethesda's latest title on the go, you might want to check out our guide to the best microSD card for Steam Deck, especially if you've got the 64GB model.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Starfield review, Starfield companions, Starfield traits

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 7:56 AM
         Destiny 2 emblem codes September 2023

    September 8, 2023: We checked for new Destiny 2 emblem codes.

    What are all the active Destiny 2 emblem codes? Emblems are essential to authentic Guardian flair. They offer an opportunity for expression among your fireteam, the random Guardians you encounter in the tower, and your opponents in activities such as Crucible. Each emblem has a specific meaning, some being ubiquitous seasonal emblems and others so rare that only a fraction of a percent of players own them.

    Whether you're a hardcore collector or someone who appreciates the opportunity to express yourself through your Guardian, there's never a good reason to say no to a free Destiny 2 emblem. Here, we have several emblem codes, including some Bungie is offering simply as rewards for players grinding through Destiny 2 Season of the Deep. We've compiled them all in a list that we'll update periodically as Bungie makes more emblems available in the FPS game.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Destiny 2 classes, Destiny 2 Lightfall review, Destiny 2 builds

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 7:53 AM
         Best Starfield legendary gear

    What is the best Starfield legendary gear? Doesn't matter whether you're playing an RPG, taking a stroll down the tinned food aisle in Tesco, or buying a nifty new pair of jeans; everything has a quality level. You can really taste the difference with higher quality ingredients, and if you manage to get your hands on some Starfield legendaries, your enemies are sure to taste… your difference.

    Starfield is absolutely massive - our Starfield review says so, and there are countless items and trinkets you can squirrel away in your pockets as you traverse the universe. But not all gear is made equal, so which are the ones really worth your time? Sure, all Starfield guns can be effective in some form or other, but when you acquire a legendary weapon, that's when you become something to fear.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Starfield review, Starfield companions, Starfield traits

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 7:27 AM
         2023's best cozy game is on sale, and it's for a good cause

    If there's one game that has flown under the radar in 2023, it's Viewfinder. Easily one of 2023's most relaxing games, Viewfinder is an absolutely gorgeous puzzler that tasks you with reshaping the world around you using only a camera and various different perspectives. It's absolutely beautiful, and perfect for whiling away the winter hours - oh, and did I mention it's going cheap on Steam, alongside loads of other games? There's also that.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: best puzzle games, best adventure games, best story games

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 6:41 AM
         Starfield finally graced by Skyrim and Fallout's greatest character

    Starfield is huge, a Bethesda RPG game of depthless detail and exploration where every single square inch seems to contain a new story, a fresh wonder, the possibility of adventure. But until now, there has been one useful engine missing from the successor to Skyrim, The Elder Scrolls, and Fallout, without whom Starfield could never feel complete. We've seen some remarkable Starfield ships, but without the appearance of this gigantic, rocket-powered, round-faced colossus, the game would be meaningless. Starfield Thomas the Tank Engine is here at last.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Starfield review, Starfield companions, Starfield traits

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 6:12 AM
         All Starfield missions and quests explained

    What are Starfield missions? Blasting off across the solar system is an exciting prospect, but you might be wondering what quests await you in the big black yonder. Well, rather a lot as it happens, and the Settled Systems are chock-full with all manner of missions and side-quests to complete. Aside from the main story, you can become embroiled in large-scale political conflict, battle space pirates, or even make a friend. We've compiled a list of Starfield missions just to make sense of it all.

    Starfield missions take eager spacefarers on a grand exploration of over 1,000 Starfield planets. According to lead quest designer Will Shen, the Starfield's galactic scale and procedural generation necessitated a new approach to designing Starfield quests, which often begin in "a dynamically placed settlement that takes you to a dynamically placed dungeon as you're walking through the planet." With main quests, countless side quests, and more, here are all of the Starfield missions to keep you busy in space, no matter which way you play.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Starfield review, Starfield companions, Starfield traits

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 5:43 AM
         One of 2023's biggest games has just been delisted from Steam

    Only Up, the ultra-challenging, physics-based indie game, has been removed from Steam by its creator owing to "stress." Created by SCKR Games, Only Up was previously removed from Steam amid accusations of copyright violations connected to various in-game assets. Immensely popular with YouTubers and Twitch streamers, partly because of its intense difficulty, the creator of Only Up has now delisted the game from Valve's storefront, explaining that they "made a lot of mistakes" and wish to "put the game behind [them]."

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best indie games, Best puzzle games, Best new games

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 5:37 AM
         Sylvanas Windrunner is back in WoW, but not how you expect

    I've said it before and I'll say it again: I'm a Sylvanas Windrunner apologist through and through when it comes to World of Warcraft. Sure, she's an absolutely horrible person, but the MMORPG just wouldn't be the same without her. So, imagine my face when a new datamined transmog effectively lets you roleplay as Sylvanas from before the turbulent events of WoW Shadowlands - trust me when I say, I am very, very excited.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: WoW Dragonflight tier list, The best WoW addons, WoW Dragonflight review

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 6:12 AM
         What is the Starfield fps? Frame rate explained

    What is the Starfield frame rate? You may have heard that the frame rate for this vast space game is locked to 30fps on Xbox consoles. While this fact won't bother most people, you might be concerned if you own a high-end computer with a high refresh rate display. If an option on PC that gives you a higher, consistent fps exists, it's only understandable that you'd wish to know in advance.

    Starfield is a massive open-world game - well, more like an open universe, with a rather ambitiously sized collection of star systems to explore. As such, you might be curious about the average frame rate you can expect on PC, especially if your rig is a little on the older side. Now that the Starfield release date has passed, we've tested it against our own hardware to bring you the lowdown on Starfield fps.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Starfield review, Starfield companions, Starfield traits

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 6:24 AM
         All Armored Core 6 bosses and how to beat them

    What are the Armored Core 6 bosses? While it may not be a soulslike, AC6 still features the long, complex boss fights that FromSoftware has become known for. The emphasis of the game is still on your highly customizable mech, but the combat plays an integral part in your journey.

    There aren't a huge amount of AC6 bosses, as we covered in our AC6 review, and most of them are far from tough.  To gear up to take on any of these behemoths, check out all of the AC6 leg types available for the best AC6 build. If you're wondering whether Armored Core 6 Game Pass is a thing, we've got you covered there, too.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Armored Core 6 bosses, Armored Core 6 parts, Armored Core 6 builds

    PCGamesN Friday, September 8, 2023 5:46 AM
         Best power supply for PC gaming in 2023

    When you're looking for the best power supply for PC gaming it's important to remember that every PC's PSU requirements vary. Not only is the wattage an important consideration, but the size of systems can widely vary, meaning that there really is no 'one size fits all' solution. That said, we're confident that you'll find something that caters to you in our shortlist.

    If you invest in a quality power supply, it'll likely become the longest-standing member of your rig throughout years of upgrades as you turn your tower into the best gaming PC. You might not necessarily consider it to be the most critical part of your PC, but if the gaming CPU effectively acts as the brain, then a PSU is the heart of your rig - think about it, even the array of cables resembles a mess of arteries and veins at a glance.

    MORE FROM PCGAMESN: Best graphics card, Best gaming PC, Best SSD for gaming

    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 11:44 AM
        

    There's a growing subgenre of horror games that lure you in with cutesy charm before revealing something sinister waiting beneath it. Your Doki Doki Literature Clubs. Your Among The Sleeps. Your Opening A Box Of Celebrations Only To Find Your Mum's Knitting Kit. Absolutely bone-chilling stuff. The Bunny Graveyard fits right in with this idea, which tells a seemingly sweet tale across a series of mini-games à la WarioWare, but as expected, things take a creepy turn in the trailer below.

    Read more


    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 11:27 AM
        

    I first clocked the mysterious-looking OU when Japanese indie collective Asobu did their pre-Bitsummit showcase stream in 2021. It wasn't entirely clear what OU was going to be at that point, other than a sort-of-puzzle game about an amnesiac boy who'd found himself in a fantastical world of picturebook pages, and even when Alicia Haddick played it for herself at Bitsummit proper the following year, OU still had a strong, impenetrable sense of ambiguity about it.

    But its striking art and rustic guitar soundtrack have stuck in my mind ever since, and finally, OU is now out in the wild. I've only played about two hours of it so far, but it's clear there's still a lot more to discover within its dreamy little vignettes. It's one of those games that's designed to be played multiple times to get the full extent of the story, and I've just hit the first of those Nier Automata-esque restarts. Honestly, I'm not quite sure what to think of it yet, but one thing is certain: I can't get it out of my head.

    Read more


    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 11:06 AM
        

    As promised, I have returned from the Starfield fields for an extended look at its PC performance and settings. And what a journey it's been – there was the drama-tinged DLSS mod, the crap Steam Deck showing, the streaming workaround for said crap Steam Deck showing, and even the first recorded instance (I think?) of a game utterly refusing to work on a hard drive.

    Read more


    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 10:54 AM
        

    Announced earlier this year at Summer Game Fest, Islands Of Insight is, somehow, both an open world multiplayer game, and a puzzle game - something akin to The Witness but in a fantasy world you share with other players. There are serene floating islands, wide open flying and a varied chocolate box of puzzles. Publisher Behaviour Interactive (from Dead By Daylight fame) have now announced a free open playtest, available to everyone from now until September 21st. As lovely as the game looks, I'm excited to try Islands Of Insight for myself.

    Read more


    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 10:30 AM
        

    Although most of my favourite films are tragedies, games with a grim and heavy premise don't often appeal to me as much as you'd think. I wasn't quite expecting to enjoy The Man Came Around, then, as it's about a group of desperate people trying to cross the border to escape their authoritarian government. In Winter, no less.

    It's actually rather light in practice, although not in a flippant or trivialising way. The message is clearly that these things are serious and our sympathies should be, well, basic concern for the wellbeing of other people. But it's not as miserable to play as games with such serious themes often are. The premise is serious, but the act of playing it is not. I'd call it "diverting" rather than "entertaining", but the bottom line is there's a good afternoon or two in there for you.

    Read more


    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 9:41 AM
        

    Cursed ship designs were always an inevitability with Starfield, and after two full days in the wild, players have already made some wildly funky and plainly cool ships. Scrolling through social media channels, you'll find that players have hammered away at their own unique designs while also creatively remaking other iconic vessels from Mass Effect, Star Wars, Halo and, of course, our friend Thomas The Tank Engine. There's also been a shocking lack of, uhm, male organ-shaped spacecraft which makes putting this post together much less hard. But for now, onward! Let's admire some cool ships.

    Read more


    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 9:00 AM
        

    Confession time: if you've been keeping up to date with Colossal Order's feature highlight video series for Cities: Skylines 2 over the last couple of months, you're probably not going to learn a huge amount from my experience of playing it at Gamescom a couple of weeks ago. I spent most of my hour-long demo session steadily working my way through its extensive tutorial, as I have not, in fact, played Cities: Skylines before now - although I can at least confirm that its tutorial is very newbie-friendly, and that I now feel more prepared to give it a go properly when it comes out in full on October 24th.

    But the thing that really impressed me was just the sheer scope of its playable spaces. We've known since the end of July that its maps are roughly 5x bigger than those in the first game, and when I saw Colossal Order's Maps & Themes video, I thought, 'Yes, those sure look enormous!' But actually seeing them in person really put things into perspective for me, especially when I tried zooming the camera out and it just kept going and going and going and…

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    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 7:20 AM
        

    Paradox have announced that Star Trek: Infinite is coming out on October 12th. Infinite's previous trailers already made it look like a "Stellaris in a different version of space" affair - which is by no means an unfavourable comparison - and the latest footage shows off more grand strategy shenanigans. Planet management. Lotsa menus. Expanding factions, sometimes peacefully if you prefer a clear conscience.

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    Rock Paper Shotgun Latest Articles Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 5:56 AM
        

    On today's installment of Bad Calls I Have Made, I will cop to never really buying the idea of Starfield needing an SSD. Even among its astronomical system requirements, an inflexible demand for solid state storage seemed like a stretch; after all, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart runs mostly fine on a hard drive, and in a previous life that game was employed as a cheerleader for the PS5's SSD. Starfield would probably just have rubbish load times or texture pop-in or something, and all would be revealed once I could try it on mechanical storage. Which I now have.

    So, can you play Starfield on an HDD? No. It's bloody awful.

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    Twinfinite Friday, September 8, 2023 10:00 AM
        
    Check these tasks off your list before you head into Kitakami.

    Twinfinite Friday, September 8, 2023 9:41 AM
        
    UNLIMITED STORAGE!

    Twinfinite Friday, September 8, 2023 9:00 AM
        
    To infinity and beyond!

    Siliconera Friday, September 8, 2023 11:30 AM
        

    Spy x Family Anya Dollfie Dream doll

    Promotional images of the Dollfie Dream doll of Anya Forger from Spy x Family appeared on Thanks, Volks' official website. The doll was previously announced back in January 2023. Now, the Anya Dollfie Dream doll will be able to join the existing one of Yor Forger, her stand-in mother, that Volks released in 2022. We'll find out more details in an update on Anya's release and price on September 11, 2023.

    Along with the update, a web page made specially for Anya's Dollfie Dream doll will launch on September 11, 2023. The doll features a new body type for Volks' ball-jointed dolls - Chimikko DD. She will be the first doll in the company's collection to use it.

    The full-body promotional image of the Anya Dollfie Dream doll shows off her cherry pink hair, big blue eyes, and sewn school uniform. She's also posed in a more dynamic position, showing how much you can pose the ball-jointed doll. It was announced previously that you'll also be able to change the Anya Dollfie Dream doll into a set of casual clothing.

    See the full-body promotional image below:
    [gallery columns="1" size="full" ids="983327" link="file"]

    The Spy x Family Anya Dollfie Dream doll is in development, but doesn't have an exact release date or price yet. More information regarding it will be revealed in an update on September 11, 2023.

    The post Spy x Family Anya Dollfie Dream Doll Revealed appeared first on Siliconera.


    Siliconera Friday, September 8, 2023 11:00 AM
        

    Final Fantasy XIV 10th Anniversary Survey Determines New Side Story

    Square Enix kicked off a Final Fantasy XIV 10th anniversary survey for players. Until September 22, 2023, people can tell the company about the game, their characters, and other details. Once all the results come in, Square Enix will use them for future development. It also confirmed that a Final Fantasy XIV side story will star a character based on the survey results. The links for the North American and European surveys are different.

    To take the survey, you must have a Square Enix ID and log into your account. It also must be registered. Once you're finally inside, a handful of questions come up. It will ask if Final Fantasy XIV was your first MMORPG, then Final Fantasy game. It will ask when you started playing.

    After that, it will focus on what matters to you about the game. You'll be asked about our main job, your favorite home point, your favorite mount, your favorite minion, and the enemy you think is strongest. At the very end, it will ask which Final Fantasy XIV character you think should be the star of the side story.

    Final Fantasy XIV is available for the PC, PS4, and PS5. The 10th anniversary survey is open in North America and Europe until September 22, 2023. The Final Fantasy XIV character side story based on the results will be discussed further at a later date.

    The post Final Fantasy XIV 10th Anniversary Survey Determines New Side Story appeared first on Siliconera.


    Siliconera Friday, September 8, 2023 10:30 AM
        

    Marubeni ad uses King Ghidorah and Final Fantasy V FFV Battle at the Big Bridge BGM

    A new Japanese advertisement video is garnering attention for featuring the King Ghidorah kaiju and the Final Fantasy V track "Battle at the Big Bridge." Marubeni, the company behind the ad, published an official webpage which is also available in English. However, its Japanese press release provided more context that confirmed the formal usages of the above two elements. [Thanks, 4Gamer!]

    Marubeni chose Final Fantasy V's "Battle at the Big Bridge" not only due to fan popularity. Gilgamesh, the character who has the track as his leitmotif, reappears frequently in subsequent Final Fantasy titles. The company thus also noted that he has become an unhateable character despite often appearing as an enemy.

    The press release also revealed that Toei gave approval for Marubeni to re-use King Ghidorah's assets from the 2001 movie Godzilla, Mothra, and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack. Other than re-using its sound effects, Marubeni also repaired the kaiju suit that was last used for the movie.

    Marubeni has uploaded the full 90-second video to its brand channel on YouTube. It also included English subtitles with "Share the Challenge" as the ad's official English title.

    [tnm_video layout="mnmd-post-media"]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F1C_hXD1HOw[/tnm_video]

    While the ad video premiered first on YouTube, Marubeni will also show it on Japanese television channels. The original 90-second video will appear exclusively on TBS on the evening of Sunday, September 10, 2023. An abridged 30-second version will air sporadically starting from September 17, 2023.

    Final Fantasy V originally came out for Super Famicom (SNES) in 1992 in Japan. Its first English localization landed in North America for the PlayStation in 1999. Square Enix released a new Pixel Remaster version for PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile devices on November 10, 2021.

    The post A New Japanese Ad Uses the Final Fantasy V Big Bridge BGM appeared first on Siliconera.


    Siliconera Friday, September 8, 2023 10:00 AM
        

    Kingdom Hearts Jacquard accessories

    Square Enix revealed a new line of Kingdom Hearts accessories made from Jacquard fabric. The new collection includes a variety of useful items with motifs from the franchise. The new Kingdom Hearts bags and backpacks are expected to release in Japan on January 13, 2024, and pre-orders are now open from the Square Enix online e-store.

    The Jacquard fabric utilized in the new Kingdom Hearts accessories includes motifs and logos representing the Heartless, Nobodies, the Kingdom Hearts moon, and King Mickey. It combines them to replicate the iconic look used in some of the promotional material and logos of the KH series.

    Here is the full lineup and prices for the new Kingdom Hearts Jacquard backpacks, bags, and accessories collection:

    You can also take a better look at the new item in the gallery below.
    [gallery size="medium" ids="983286,983287,983288,983289,983290,983291" link="file"]

    Other recently announced Kingdom Hearts merchandise includes two Kingdom Key keyblades that project keyholes with light, emulating the unlocking and locking of worlds throughout the series.

    The new Kingdom Hearts Jacquard accessory collection is expected to release in Japan on January 13, 2024. It is now available for pre-order from the Square Enix online e-store.

    The post Kingdom Hearts Jacquard Bags and Backpacks Coming in 2024 appeared first on Siliconera.


    Siliconera Friday, September 8, 2023 9:30 AM
        

    Street Fighter SH Figuarts Ryu Chun-Li

    Bandai's Tamashii Nations revealed two new versions of the popular Ryu and Chun-Li SH Figuarts articulated figures from the Street Fighter series. Each figure costs ¥8,800 yen (or about $60). Their expected release date is February 2024. The new Ryu and Chun-Li figures are now available to pre-order from select retail stores in Japan. Details about the worldwide release aren't available yet.

    Each figure comes with three interchangeable face plates, several wrist part replacements, a Hadouken effect part for Ryu and a Hyakuretsukyaku (Lightning Kick) effect part for Chun-Li, and a background sheet representing one of the character's signature stages.

    These are the "Outfit 2" versions. The original figures originally released in 2017 and could be found worldwide. The new editions of the Ryu and Chun-Li SH Figuarts figures have been redesigned to improve the character's face modeling, and to better represent some of their iconic moves.

    You can take a better look at the new Ryu and Chun-Li SH Figuarts figures in the gallery below.

    [gallery columns="4" size="medium" link="file" ids="983296,983299,983300,983303,983297,983298,983301,983302"]

    In other Street Fighter merchandise news, Premium Collectibles Studio recently announced a new $4,000 bust of Chun-Li.

    The new Street Fighter Ryu and Chun-Li SH Figuarts figures are expected to appear in Japan on February 2024.

    The post Street Fighter Ryu and Chun-Li SH Figuarts Figures Revealed appeared first on Siliconera.


    Siliconera Friday, September 8, 2023 9:00 AM
        

    resident evil umbrella sauna set

    For fans of pharmaceutical companies (or just fans of Resident Evil), Capcom in Japan has released a sauna set that uses the Umbrella logo on it. Your fellow sauna-goers will love wondering what kind of nefarious virus might be in the steam. The Resident Evil Umbrella sauna set is available via e-Capcom and costs 6600 JPY ($44.70). They'll start shipping out around October 12, 2023.

    In total, the sauna set comes with a sauna hat, a towel, and a tote bag. All of them look kind of like something that you would get for free if you really worked at Umbrella. They're plain black with the Umbrella logo and company name on it. The sauna hat has red lines running down it, likely due to the umbrella logo being red and white.

    Capcom has released several odd pieces of merchandise for the Resident Evil series in the past. Examples include bath salts that look like Red and Green Herbs, as well as a room spray that looks like the First Aid Kit in the game. These items never officially made it overseas to other countries, however. The sauna set is also a Japan exclusive.

    The Resident Evil Umbrella sauna set is available via e-Capcom store, which only ships to Japan.

    The post Capcom Will Release Resident Evil Umbrella Sauna Set appeared first on Siliconera.


    PC Invasion - FeedDDD Friday, September 8, 2023 11:51 AM
         How To Use Transfer Container In StarfieldIn Starfield, transfer containers are essential in facilitating resource collection and management. These containers enable players to collect harvested resources from an outpost without leaving their ship, making the process much more efficient. By keeping harvested resources separate from the player's ship inventory, transfer containers create a streamlined system of resource transfers, resulting in cleaner and more organized inventory management. However, knowing how to build and use them can be a bit tricky, so here's a guide on how to use Transfer Containers in Starfield. How to build Transfer Containers in Starfield Image: PC Invasion Here's how to use Transfer Containers in Starfield: Build an Outpost Make an Extractor Connect the Extractor to the Transfer Outpost with an Output Link Create a Source of Power for your Outpost Place a Landing Pad near your Transfer Container Land your ship on this Landing Pad Open the Cargo Hold found in your ship&#...

    PC Invasion - FeedDDD Friday, September 8, 2023 11:31 AM
         Starfield Echoes Of The Past Mathis CloseupIn Starfield, you'll explore numerous plot threads as you complete faction missions that run parallel to your main adventure. You'll meet a variety of memorable characters. Sometimes, you'll have to make difficult choices about their fate, which appears to be the case shortly after you join the Crimson Fleet and meet its charismatic leader, Delgado. However, events soon transpire that will lead you to wonder if you should kill Delgado in Starfield. Starfield – should you kill Delgado? You first encounter Delgado, leader of the Crimson Fleet, right at the end of the previous mission for that faction. When you figure out how to complete Rook Meets King, you are introduced to Delgado and another rookie, Mathis. This meeting immediately initiates your next mission, Echoes of the Past. As you work your way through Echoes of the Past, Mathis proposes that you kill Delgado, and you must decide whether you want to go along with him. Screenshot by PC Invasio...

    PC Invasion - FeedDDD Friday, September 8, 2023 11:07 AM
         Nba League Pass Logo 2000x1000 1 (1)For purchasing the 25th Anniversary Edition of NBA 2K24, you will receive a 12-month subscription for NBA League Pass. This subscription service allows you to watch any NBA games, live or on-demand, which complements your virtual balling perfectly. Now, you won't miss any action on any court this year. However, knowing when you'll get it and how to redeem NBA League Pass in NBA 2K24 is a bit of a process. Here's how to do so just in time for the NBA season! How to get NBA League Pass in NBA 2K24 Image: 2K Sports Here's how to redeem NBA League Pass in NBA 2K24: Buy the 25th Anniversary Edition of NBA 2K24 Install NBA 2K24 on your chosen platform Log into or Create your NBA 2K account Your NBA League Pass code will be delivered by email within three days Redeem your NBA League pass by December 31, 2023 The NBA 2K24 25th Anniversary Edition, which you need to get the free NBA League Pass subscription, costs $149.99. While this may seem like a lot of...

    PC Invasion - FeedDDD Friday, September 8, 2023 11:00 AM
         Fae Farm Where To Find Copper OreOnce Cleo tasks you with getting to explore a dungeon in Fae Farm, one of your requirements to do so is to find 25 Copper Ore. Fortunately, this is easier than the game's visual language implies at times. Here's where to find Copper Ore in Fae Farm. 'Dungeon Delver': Copper Ore and the Saltwater Mines in Fae Farm Copper Ore isn't found anywhere on the regular map. Instead, you have to head all the way to the most southeastern edge of the map by the shoreline at the Saltwater Mines. Track it on your map if needed. Screenshot by PC Invasion Before you set out, make sure you brought food to replenish energy. You're going to need it. Screenshot by PC Invasion You'll find a little alcove with a set of locked wooden doors. Though it looks off limits, it's not. Walk up to the doors and they will automatically unlock, letting you inside. You are now inside the Saltwater Mines. Here you'll use your pickaxe to smash ...

    PC Invasion - FeedDDD Friday, September 8, 2023 11:00 AM
         Fae Farm: Saltwater Mines Seals GuideOnce you've discovered Saltwater Mines in Fae Farm and made a Seal Crafting Station, the exploration is on until you reach the final floor. However, there's a catch- the type of seal needed to activate a floor will change every few floors. Save yourself some crafting materials so you don't overprepare. Here's a Saltwater Mines Seals guide for Fae Farm. Saltwater Mines Seals crafting guide First of all, you can make a Seal Crafting Station outside your house using 20 stone and 10 copper ore. These should easily be on hand from your first trip into the Saltwater Mines. Related: Fae Farm: Where to find Copper Ore The seal type changes every four floors. This means in total you have to craft 24 separate seals. The final floor is given to you without need to make one. The seals you will be crafting, in order, are: Copper Seal: Four copper ore Hammered Copper Seal: Copper Seal, eight raw citrine Engraved Copper Seal: Copper Seal, eight raw p...

    Gamer Empire Friday, September 8, 2023 9:29 AM
         As the final boss of the Lightfall campaign in Destiny 2, Calus is a real challenge. Many players have had trouble with this encounter. We will go over what Loadouts you will want to bring as well as some strategies that will make this fight much easier on yourself. Recommended Read: How to Catch Exotic […]

    Gamer Empire Friday, September 8, 2023 8:50 AM
         Fishing in Destiny 2 is a chill way to farm new Seasonal gear. Many players have even begun using it as their sole method for farming Exotic gear. To get Exotic gear from fishing, you will need to catch an Exotic fish. We will go over some of the best ways to get Exotic fish. […]

    Gamer Empire Friday, September 8, 2023 5:22 AM
         In Destiny 2, Shaders are a pivotal weapon in the constant war of Fashion. If you don't have a large Shader collection, you will quickly find your fashion options limited. To up your fashion game, you will need to know where to go to buy Shaders. Let's get to it. Recommended Read: How to Get […]

    Gamer Empire Friday, September 8, 2023 4:37 AM
         Gathering and crafting are a major part of FFXIV. One unique thing about these Disciple of the Land and Hand classes is that they have special currencies. There are Purple and White Scrips you can earn with Crafters and Gatherers. These scrips allow you to purchase unique items. Recommended Read: How to Get Master Recipes […]

    iDev Games Feed Friday, September 8, 2023 11:02 AM
         A simple record game where you have to earn points by jumping over sticks and grabbing boxes; The speed of moving obstacles increases slowly....

    Pivotal Gamers Friday, September 8, 2023 4:15 AM
         Hello fellow gamers. We have another excellent offer from Giveaway Of The Day for Different World. This is what they say. Different World is available as a Giveaway of the day!You have limited time to download, install and register it. A few words about Different World Shoot 'em up game Other worlds. Control a spaceship destroying alien opponents. By destroying opponents, the player receives...