HardwareFreaks

Category: Systems

  • New “XBOX Handheld” logo spotted on official Microsoft game pages

    Microsoft has quietly signaled its intentions for the portable gaming market with a subtle yet significant update: a new logo appearing on its official game pages.

    This fresh badge, labeled XBOX Handheld, is now visible alongside traditional platform badges in the “Ways to play” section. It’s not just a cosmetic change; it’s an acknowledgment of the growing landscape where gamers are increasingly looking to play big titles on the go.

    The logo has appeared prominently on pages for upcoming titles such as Gears of War: E-Day, Halo: Campaign Evolved, and State of Decay 3. This move serves to clearly define the compatibility ecosystem for portable gaming.

    To illustrate this partnership, Microsoft featured specific devices, including the Asus-made ROG Xbox Ally and the ROG Xbox Ally X, right on these official pages. This strongly suggests that the new label functions as a verification program, confirming which games run smoothly on these popular portable Windows PCs.

    This development comes at a fascinating time. There had been persistent rumors about delays or cancellations surrounding a dedicated first-party Xbox handheld device. Now, this streamlined labeling points toward a more cohesive and expansive ecosystem for handheld gaming, signaling Microsoft’s continued commitment to this segment.

    Streamlining these compatibility labels is a smart move for portable users, regardless of whether an official dedicated console arrives tomorrow. It focuses on the actual experience: ensuring that exciting titles can be enjoyed by anyone with a capable portable setup.

    Ultimately, the introduction of the XBOX Handheld logo suggests that Microsoft is actively shaping a future where Xbox content is accessible across all platforms, making high-quality gaming truly handheld.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Resident Evil 4 Remake can be played in co-op thanks to new mod

    The intense atmosphere of survival horror games is often defined by solitary struggle, forcing players into an isolating experience. But what if that isolation could be shattered? A dedicated modder has achieved exactly that for one of gaming’s most celebrated titles, bringing true cooperative multiplayer to the Resident Evil 4 Remake campaign.

    For many years, fans have longed for the ability to play this atmospheric adventure with a partner, syncing their efforts in real-time. While tools like Parsec offer solutions for some games, integrating seamless co-op into the intricate world of Resident Evil has proven to be a major challenge. Now, a brilliant mod has stepped in, offering a revolutionary way for two players to experience the Remake together.

    This innovative modification allows players to synchronize their gameplay across the entire campaign. It’s not just about playing side-by-side; the mod meticulously syncs crucial game elements—everything from opening doors and triggering story events to managing enemy positions, switches, and alarms.

    Imagine navigating a tense hallway where one player triggers an alarm, instantly alerting their partner, or coordinating a rush against a horde of enemies. This real-time synchronization transforms the solo challenge into a dynamic cooperative experience, adding layers of communication and strategy that deepen the horror experience for both participants.

    The mod is currently available on NexusMods, providing a fantastic entry point for players eager to explore this new dimension of play. However, as with any cutting-edge software, it is still in beta. While the potential is immense, the development team is actively working to refine the experience and address several outstanding issues.

    Currently, some of the challenges being tackled by the developers include managing lag spikes, resolving enemy synchronization bugs, and fixing glitches where the game might unexpectedly auto-pause when inventories are opened. These fixes are crucial for ensuring a smooth and fully immersive cooperative journey.

    This development represents a significant step forward for the community, demonstrating that creative modding can unlock new levels of interaction and replayability in beloved games. For those ready to dive into this synchronized adventure, the wait is on as the mod continues to evolve.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • PlayerUnknown Productions hit with layoffs

    The independent game development world is facing a challenging financial climate, and not everyone is immune to the pressures of a tightening industry. Amid these struggles, studio founder Brendan “PlayerUnknown” Greene has made difficult but necessary decisions regarding the future of PlayerUnknown Productions.

    Greene recently announced that the studio had to implement layoffs, citing difficulties in securing sufficient funding to continue development on new projects. In a candid message shared on social media, he detailed the reality facing many indie developers: the games industry has been in a tough spot for a while, and we’re not alone in the struggle to find funding.

    For as long as possible, Greene managed to keep the studio afloat by operating solo. This personal commitment provided a brief reprieve, but now, to ensure continued work on upcoming titles, he must shift strategy. He explained that the path forward requires moving with a smaller team while actively seeking new partners who can provide the necessary resources.

    Despite these challenging circumstances, creativity and community remain central to PlayerUnknown Productions. Greene confirmed that the legacy of the studio is still alive: Prologue, the company’s first game, will now be made available for free to everyone.

    Furthermore, the team remains committed to future endeavors. The reduced group will continue working on the development of their next project, MELBA, leveraging their shared vision and expertise.

    This situation is not unique to PlayerUnknown Productions. The independent scene is currently grappling with widespread economic headwinds, as publishers across the board are tightening their financial demands. This climate has impacted numerous studios. For example, other development houses, including Double Fine and Build a Rocket Boy, have also faced staffing adjustments in recent years.

    Ultimately, the story of PlayerUnknown Productions reflects a broader reality: while the passion for game creation endures, small studios continue to navigate an exceptionally difficult landscape where financial viability is a constant battle. The hope remains that these independent creators can find the right partnerships to bounce back and thrive in this demanding environment.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • CD Projekt Red CEO ‘not convinced’ its redemption arc is finished

    The journey of CD Projekt Red has always been one steeped in epic fantasy and ambitious world-building, bolstered by beloved titles like The Witcher 2 and The Witcher 3. Yet, following the landmark launch of Cyberpunk 2077, the studio found itself navigating a complex landscape—a narrative often described as a tumultuous redemption arc.

    Despite the widespread acknowledgment that the franchise received a massive overhaul with expansions like Phantom Liberty, some within the company remain unconvinced that the full restoration of its reputation has been achieved. Michał Nowakowski, the co-CEO of CDPR, reflected on the years following Cyberpunk’s initial release, finding the period to be heartbreaking as they sought to rebuild trust with their audience.

    Nowakowski suggests that while the studio achieved a significant turnaround, the full redemption arc is an ongoing endeavor. He noted that CDPR felt they had lost the faith of some people indefinitely, indicating that the work of reputation recovery continues long after the game’s release.

    Looking ahead, the focus shifts to future promises. The ambition is now channeled into next-generation storytelling with The Witcher 4, a project that has rapidly accelerated toward full production. This new narrative aims to pivot the focus of the series, shifting emphasis away from Geralt and towards Ciri in what is envisioned as a new trilogy.

    The ongoing development represents a bold commitment to the future. While the path to The Witcher 4 is still several years away, it underscores CDPR’s dedication to making meaningful, impactful stories. It is this hopeful vision for what comes next that fuels the studio’s continued effort to cement its legacy and inspire new generations of gamers.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Modders bring multiplayer back to The Last of Us Part 2 on PC

    Bringing Back the Brawl: How a Fan Mod Is Reclaiming Multiplayer for The Last of Us Part II

    For many fans of Naughty Dog’s acclaimed series, the absence of multiplayer combat in The Last of Us franchise has been a lingering frustration. After the official mode was cancelled for the first game, there was a strong desire to see that competitive element return, especially for the highly anticipated sequel, The Last of Us Part II.

    That yearning has found a voice in the community through ambitious fan development. A dedicated team is currently working on a major project: a fan-made modification designed to resurrect real-time PvP combat within The Last of Us Part II on PC.

    This isn’t just a casual tinkering session; it is an attempt to fill a significant gap left by the original game’s multiplayer experience. The goal is to allow players to engage in dynamic conflict, leveraging the game’s established and visceral combat systems in new ways.

    The project has been in development since January and promises to be available for download later this year, specifically targeting a release in September. While many fans hoped for an official return from Naughty Dog, this community initiative sought to provide that competitive experience directly through PC modification.

    Early gameplay footage shared by the creators has already shown players diving into these encounters, demonstrating real-time PvP action using the existing mechanics of the game. It proves that the vision for dynamic multiplayer is still alive among dedicated players.

    However, developing such content comes with its own set of complexities. The project exists outside of official support channels, meaning the mod operates independently of Sony or Naughty Dog’s approval. This places the creators in a delicate position concerning potential legal challenges, as history shows that cease and desist letters have been issued against other mod makers.

    Even with the creative momentum, some observers note that the scope of this project raises interesting questions about accessibility. While the goal is to bring back multiplayer fun, there remains uncertainty regarding whether players who heavily invested in console gaming will be able to easily access and play this PC-exclusive experience.

    Ultimately, this mod stands as a testament to the enduring creativity of the gaming community, demonstrating that even when official paths are closed, fans are determined to find new ways to interact with their favorite worlds.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Game Pass lost ‘millions’ of subscribers due to last year’s price hikes

    When Asha Sharma took the helm as head of Xbox earlier this year, she immediately sought to balance the books by partially reversing a Game Pass price hike from 2025. This strategic move was prompted by a stark reality: it was claimed that Microsoft lost millions of subscribers following those cost increases.

    The numbers didn’t lie. During a live interview at Summer Game Fest, Xbox’s new chief strategy officer, Matthew Ball, confirmed that Game Pass experienced a massive subscriber drop last year after the price hikes were implemented. These cost adjustments arrived in late 2025, a period when Phil Spencer was still leading the organization and making significant changes to various Game Pass tiers.

    With growth flatlining—or even contracting—in key areas, Sharma’s decision to reduce prices for both the PC and Ultimate subscriptions became a logical response. It suggested that if subscriber numbers were declining due to cost pressures, expansion in those crucial segments was also stalled.

    However, the story of Game Pass is more complex than just pricing. Despite the success of the service, it constantly faces scrutiny regarding the pressure placed on internal studios. Critics argue that the model demands constant smash hits to maintain relevance and subscriber interest, a demand that many feel is nearly impossible to meet consistently.

    This tension is echoed by industry voices. Thomas Mahler, head of Moon Studios, who brought beloved titles like Ori and the Blind Forest and its sequel to Game Pass, voiced concerns about this dynamic. He suggested that while billions were invested in acquiring studios, many key investments, including Bethesda and numerous smaller teams, have recently underperformed when measured against newer game releases.

    The strategy now balances financial health with creative vitality. It is a delicate tightrope walk for Xbox leadership: ensuring the sustainability of the service by managing costs while simultaneously fostering an environment where brilliant, diverse games can thrive. The ultimate challenge lies in keeping the subscriber base happy, engaged, and excited about what comes next.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • A Dozen games are set to leave PlayStation Plus next month

    The digital landscape of gaming is always in flux, and for PlayStation Plus subscribers, this means a predictable monthly rhythm of additions and departures. As Sony continues to refresh its service, fans are keeping a close eye on what titles are making the cut, and what games are making the jump to the digital history books.

    This month, July, brings a lineup of games set to leave the PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium subscription services. Users can find the official list of these departures in the ‘Last Chance to Play’ section on the PS5’s PlayStation Plus tab, with removals likely scheduled for the third week of July.

    While every departure brings a slight sense of melancholy, there are plenty of gems among the titles being removed. Before saying goodbye, gamers have a chance to dive into these excellent indie experiences. Among the games slated for removal are titles like Risk of Rain 2, Tropico 6, Clash: Artifacts of Chaos, Roki, Source of Madness, Cursed to Golf, Hundred Days, OneeChanbara Origin, Get Even, Bomber Crew, Space Crew, and Infinite Minigolf.

    Not all departures are equally bittersweet. While games like Tropico offer hundreds of hours of island management and complex strategy, the landscape also features some truly outstanding independent releases that deserve a closer look. Titles such as Roki, Source of Madness, and Cursed to Golf are particularly worthy contenders for extended play sessions.

    However, the departures also bring up discussions about quality versus quantity. For instance, Risk of Rain 2, despite being an excellent rogue-like with deep progression systems and endless replayability, is often cited as a disappointing exit. It’s a game that rewards countless hours spent unlocking new characters, abilities, and crafting unique builds.

    Ultimately, the rotation serves as a reminder that the gaming world is constantly evolving, offering subscribers a fresh selection every month. Whether you prefer massive AAA experiences or deep-cut indie gems, there is always something exciting waiting to be discovered in the PlayStation Plus catalog.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • June 2026 AIO CPU Cooler Round Up Multi Review

    Here

    Credit: KitGuru

  • SEGA hopes to make its entire library of 4,500 games “fully playable”

    The digital age is defined by constant evolution, but history, especially in the vibrant world of video games, often faces the threat of being lost in time. As hardware ages and technology shifts, countless classic titles risk vanishing, leaving behind only fragmented memories. Yet, determined efforts are underway to fight this fading legacy.

    At the forefront of this preservation movement is SEGA, which has unveiled an ambitious initiative aiming to make its entire library of 4,500 games fully playable for modern audiences. This isn’t just a technical exercise; it’s a mission to ensure that the rich history and legacy of the platform endure.

    Leading this monumental effort is Yosuke Okunari, a 30-year veteran at the studio who has dedicated years to building the foundation for this project. Okunari has been working behind the scenes to create an in-house game database, painstakingly cataloging the vast collection.

    The scope of the work is staggering. While excluding ports and remakes, the current database includes approximately 2,800 Sega titles, bringing the total library to nearly 4,500 entries. The long-term vision, as Okunari sees it, is to leverage this comprehensive data to create a truly playable experience for every game in the catalog.

    However, making games “playable” is far more complex than simply digitizing files. As Okunari noted during recent interviews, preserving gaming history involves navigating a thicket of challenges—from the relentless evolution of technology to the intricate legal landscape surrounding intellectual property and licensing agreements.

    The complexities of IP holders, publishers, and various regulatory hurdles often complicate the journey toward seamless preservation. It is a testament to the delicate balance between technological ambition and bureaucratic reality that even this grand project requires such careful navigation.

    Despite these obstacles, SEGA’s commitment sends a clear message: there is a strong desire among industry players to actively safeguard their creative history for current and future generations. The goal is to move beyond mere archiving and create living, breathing digital monuments that honor the golden age of gaming.

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    Credit: KitGuru

  • The Crew Motorfest races past new player milestone

    In the world of open-world racing, some franchises don’t just run; they soar. Ubisoft’s The Crew Motorfest is a prime example, having successfully amassed a staggering 10 million players over the past few years, proving that a love for speed, exploration, and customisation can truly build a massive community.

    Less than three years after its initial launch, the open-world festival racer has reached a major milestone. This growth isn’t just about numbers; it reflects an enduring passion among players who enjoy navigating vibrant landscapes and diving deep into the automotive culture that defines the game.

    The trajectory of The Crew Motorfest’s success is remarkable. When the game first launched, it attracted 1 million monthly active players. Since then, the community has continued to expand, peaking at 3 million active players in May of last year. This journey illustrates how effectively the game continues to deliver fresh content and engaging experiences.

    This momentum is fueled by the core appeal of the game: a blend of high-octane competition, deep exploration, and the freedom to customise every vehicle. It’s this dedication to providing rich automotive experiences that keeps players hooked month after month.

    The success of Motorfest is also highlighted by its accessibility. Unlike many games, the experience is offered through Ubisoft’s subscription service, making this expansive racing world available to a wider audience and fostering continuous engagement from millions.

    Beyond the statistics, the development team consistently points to the passion of its community as the driving force behind their creations. They remain committed to building new experiences, constantly inspired by the enthusiasm for vehicles, competition, exploration, and car cultures.

    As The Crew Motorfest looks toward the future, it remains an exciting title, promising more adventures and new experiences for its growing player base. The ongoing commitment to free updates ensures that the journey continues as players look forward to what comes next in the racing world.

    Credit: KitGuru