HardwareFreaks

Category: UK

  • Insider claims Sony moved away from PC ports because they “didn’t make enough money”

    PlayStation Refines Strategy: The Shift Towards Platform Exclusivity

    In recent weeks, whispers across the gaming industry have focused intently on PlayStation’s evolving multi-platform strategy, particularly their decision to pivot away from widely porting single-player first-party titles to PC. While Sony has remained tight-lipped about a definitive public announcement, trusted insiders have begun offering clarity on the underlying reasons driving this strategic shift.

    The conversation gained traction following comments from PlayStation CEO Hideaki Nishino, who offered a diplomatic overview of the company’s current stance regarding multi-platform releases. Nishino clarified the company’s main policy: “For single-player games developed in-house, we will further refine the value of the gaming experience that PlayStation can offer,” he stated. He further indicated that for live-service games requiring online multiplayer, the standard remains a release on both PS5 and PC.

    This subtle distinction suggests a deliberate move toward strengthening the PlayStation brand by controlling the core narrative experience while still accommodating broader audience reach for different types of titles.

    The reasons behind this decision have been further illuminated by industry insiders. Jason Schreier, a trusted source within the company, offered a more direct explanation regarding the strategy. He noted that while they are careful about public statements, there is no ambiguity in the direction Sony is taking.

    Schreier pointed to internal discussions revealing that single-player narrative games were deemed inconsistent with their PC counterparts and did not generate sufficient revenue on the broader platform. This perspective was supported by staff reports indicating a desire to keep the intellectual property aligned specifically to the PlayStation ecosystem.

    An employee named Hermen Hulst reportedly shared these concerns during a townhall, emphasizing that the focus should be on maximizing the value offered by the PlayStation platform for these specific narrative experiences. This indicates a commitment not just to cross-platform freedom, but to ensuring a cohesive and high-value experience for players choosing PlayStation.

    Ultimately, even without an official declaration from Sony, the collective insights point toward a focused approach where the PlayStation console is positioned as the definitive home for its most cinematic, single-player masterpieces. It appears the strategy is less about pure technical capability and more about curating a distinct, premium gaming experience.

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    Credit: KitGuru

  • New Asus ROG Strix LC IV AIO coolers feature wireless Q-Connector module

    Asus Unleashes Cable-Free Cooling: Introducing the ROG Strix LC IV Series

    For years, the quest for high-performance computing has been constantly undermined by a persistent enemy: cable clutter. As system components become more complex, managing the spaghetti of power and data cables often becomes a headache, compromising both aesthetics and airflow. Enter Asus, which is tackling this common frustration head-on with the launch of its new ROG Strix LC IV series of AIO liquid CPU coolers.

    This latest generation of cooling solutions isn’t just about superior thermal performance; it’s a revolution in system assembly design. The core innovation lies in the proprietary Asus AIO Q-Connector system, which fundamentally changes how users connect their coolers to their motherboards, offering truly cable-free installation.

    The new lineup features two distinct configurations designed for different needs. The standard LC model boasts 400mm tubing and utilizes ball-joint fittings, allowing for effortless orientation and aesthetic flexibility when installing the radiator. For those seeking a slightly more compact solution, the SLC variant offers shortened 250mm pipes, keeping the bulk neatly centered along the radiator.

    But the innovation doesn’t stop at simple connectivity. These coolers transform from mere cooling units into interactive displays. Both versions feature a 5.08-inch IPS display embedded directly into the pump block. This screen allows users to view real-time metrics, dynamic images, or video streams via the powerful Asus InfoHub software application, turning system monitoring into an engaging visual experience.

    The magic of cable elimination is managed by the AIO Q-Connector technology. This system utilizes a USB-C port located beneath the screen to interface with Pogo pins, allowing power and data to be transferred directly through contact points on compatible motherboards. This streamlined approach drastically simplifies the setup process and delivers a cleaner, more sophisticated aesthetic.

    Underneath this sleek design, powerful performance is still paramount. Each cooler drives three 120mm fans integrated into a unified frame, effectively minimizing cable clutter while maximizing intake. These powerful fans operate between 800RPM and 2500RPM, delivering impressive airflow of up to 82.57CFM and static pressure of 4.36mmH2O.

    Crucially, the LC IV series boasts broad compatibility, designed to fit seamlessly into various high-end platforms. They are ready for AMD AM4 and AM5 sockets, as well as Intel LGA1700 and LGA1851 motherboards. This ensures that enthusiasts can upgrade their systems with cutting-edge cooling without platform limitations.

    Priced competitively starting around €220, the Asus ROG Strix LC IV series doesn’t just offer superior thermal management; it offers a tangible step forward in PC design. By focusing on elegant aesthetics and smart connectivity through technology like the Q-Connector, Asus is setting a new standard for how high-performance hardware should look and function.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Colorful announces limited-edition Chitu MAG-60 magnetic keyboard

    The Magnetic Leap: Colorful Unveils the Limited-Edition Chitu MAG-60 Keyboard

    Prepare to rethink your workspace, because Colorful has dropped a truly unique piece of peripheral hardware: the Chitu MAG-60 magnetic switch keyboard. This isn’t just another typing tool; it’s a highly exclusive statement piece, limited to just 300 units globally, set to launch on June 30th.

    The design is as striking as the technology. Drawing inspiration from the auspicious Chinese zodiac of the Year of the Horse, the keyboard boasts an opulent aesthetic. It features a luxurious Alcantara suede top cover, elegant leather side accents, and a robust CNC-machined T6 aluminum chassis, giving it a distinctly premium feel.

    Every detail is crafted for exclusivity. Each unit is personalized with laser-engraved serial numbering and custom artisan-made metal keycaps, ensuring that this keyboard is not merely functional, but a bespoke piece of art.

    But the true magic lies beneath the surface. The core functionality is powered by exclusive TTC Year of the Horse “White Horse” magnetic switches, engineered to deliver an impressive 100-million-keystroke lifespan. To ensure an unparalleled typing experience, these switches feature a triple-layer acoustic module and a suspended structure, meticulously designed to reduce resonance and deliver silent, refined feedback.

    The engineering prowess extends into advanced sensing. The keyboard incorporates TMR sensing technology, a game-changer that dramatically reduces power consumption by up to 90% while simultaneously tripling thermal stability compared to traditional Hall-effect solutions. This focus on efficiency and longevity sets a new benchmark for high-performance input devices.

    Performance specifications are blistering. Users can expect pinpoint accuracy with a 0.005mm RT trigger precision, lightning-fast 0.125ms latency, and an ultra-responsive 8,000Hz polling rate. Customization is also seamless, managed through a browser-based driver platform that lets users fine-tune actuation distances, Rapid Trigger settings, and macros without needing complex dedicated software.

    Adding to the tactile appeal are five-sided dye-sublimated PBT keycaps that allow the integrated RGB illumination to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of every keystroke. This fusion of high-end materials and bleeding-edge magnetic technology positions the Chitu MAG-60 as a must-have for discerning enthusiasts.

    Priced attractively at £245/€285 at launch, Colorful is also sweetening the deal for early adopters. Orders placed during the initial launch period will receive a rare gift: a limited-quantity 0.1g 999 pure gold horse.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Black Myth: Wukong reaches 30 million sales milestone

    In the competitive world of action-RPGs, Black Myth: Wukong isn’t just a game—it’s a cultural phenomenon. The title has reportedly crossed the monumental threshold of 30 million copies sold globally, marking an incredible milestone for its developers and players alike.

    This impressive figure is built upon a foundation of exceptional performance, especially considering its launch in 2024. Back in its initial run, the game captivated the gaming community, peaking at over 2.2 million concurrent players on Steam alone. This massive engagement helped solidify the title’s place among some of the most successful single-player experiences released recently.

    The success story extends beyond raw player numbers. Black Myth: Wukong didn’t just achieve high engagement; it established new benchmarks for what a game can accomplish on major platforms. By reaching those staggering concurrent player counts, the title set a new record on Steam for single-player games, positioning itself ahead of other heavyweights like Cyberpunk 2077, Elden Ring, and Baldur’s Gate 3.

    The sales velocity of Black Myth: Wukong has been particularly remarkable. It demonstrated an astonishing ability to move units quickly, outpacing many of its industry rivals in the crucial early stages of the market. For instance, when compared to titles like Elden Ring, which required roughly three years to reach similar figures, or Cyberpunk 2077, which took about five years to reach equivalent numbers, Black Myth: Wukong demonstrated a significantly accelerated path to success.

    The title’s popularity spans multiple gaming ecosystems. While Steam remains the dominant platform for purchases, the game has also seen strong traction on console, with the PlayStation 5 version ranking highly among top performers.

    This sustained impressive performance is not just a flash in the pan; it shows that Black Myth: Wukong continues to captivate audiences long after launch. Industry observers note that its sales trajectory remains highly commendable, cementing its status as a landmark achievement in the action-RPG genre.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Lies of P co-op mod hits V1.0 with full campaign support

    Taming the Shadows Together: Lies of P Mod Unlocks Full Co-Op Campaign

    The dream of exploring the labyrinthine horrors of Lies of P with a trusted friend just got significantly more real. The modding community has delivered a massive upgrade, officially releasing version 1.0 of the Lies of P Seamless Co-Op Mod, which now grants players full access to the entire campaign and all DLC content.

    For those familiar with the mod’s earlier iterations, the project had initially debuted in December 2025 as a limited build. Back then, players could only tackle specific boss encounters, offering exciting glimpses into the game’s challenging encounters but not the full narrative experience. Now, that limitation is gone. The development team has successfully implemented the changes necessary to deliver a truly complete and seamless cooperative campaign experience.

    This major update isn’t just about unlocking more content; it’s about building a shared adventure. Version 1.0 introduces a suite of sophisticated mechanical additions designed to enhance the co-op experience, ensuring that friends can tackle the daunting world of Lies of P together with coordination and strategy.

    Beyond campaign progression, the new framework introduces powerful systems for cooperative gameplay. Players now have access to essential features such as a Trade Item System, an In-Game Leaderboard, a comprehensive Operations Menu, and a robust backup system, all working in tandem to manage the shared journey.

    To ensure smooth interaction between players, Ember Wave has also integrated crucial technical supports, including official Steam server support and synchronized menu saves. Furthermore, difficulty settings are now adjustable in real-time, allowing groups to tailor the challenge exactly to their skill level while diving into the deep lore of the game.

    The result is an entirely new layer of gameplay, transforming a solitary challenge into a collaborative epic. As some reviewers have noted, running through Lies of P with a friend truly offers a fresh and dynamic perspective on the game’s notoriously demanding encounters.

    Ready to step into the shadows of Montvis as a team? You can download the latest version and start your shared adventure from Nexus Mods. Keep in mind that this mod requires a legitimate Steam copy of Lies of P installed on Windows; users who purchased the game through the Microsoft Store will unfortunately be unable to utilize this exciting feature.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Call of Duty Black Ops 1 & 2 re-releases will be ports, not remasters

    The Legacy Rises: Black Ops Classics Return as Ports

    For dedicated gamers, the history of Call of Duty is etched in the memories of classic titles. Now, the expectation is mounting for those foundational experiences—Call of Duty Black Ops 1 and 2—to make their way to modern platforms like PlayStation and the Xbox PC app. But before diving into the action, there’s a crucial distinction fans need to understand: these are not simple graphical updates; they are faithful ports, not remasters.

    Activision has officially clarified this distinction, confirming that the incoming versions are direct ports designed for modern consoles and PC. This response immediately shifts the narrative from one of nostalgic upgrade to a celebration of legacy preservation. Fans who might have hoped for a polished remaster, similar to what some have seen in later installments like Call of Duty 4, will find that the experience remains true to its original design.

    What this means for players is stability and fidelity. The core experience will maintain the exact graphics settings, resolution targets, and frame rate goals established by the original releases. In a series notorious for pushing performance limits, Activision has reaffirmed the strict commitment to the iconic 60FPS target, ensuring that the classic speed and flow of the gameplay remains intact.

    The enduring appeal of Black Ops lies squarely in its core components: two of the most celebrated single-player campaigns and deeply engaging multiplayer modes in the franchise’s history. These titles are not just games; they are cornerstones of the Call of Duty legend, responsible for elevating the series to legendary status during the Xbox 360 era.

    While the technical specifications promise fidelity, there is still room for evolution. The true excitement now lies in how these classic foundations integrate with the modern gaming landscape. As players get ready for these re-releases, speculation is already swirling about whether this fresh opportunity will usher in new servers and lobbies, offering a renewed environment to revisit the intense multiplayer battles that defined the original era.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • The Epic Games Store is getting a much needed overhaul

    The landscape of PC gaming is constantly evolving, and when a platform like the Epic Games Store decides to undergo a massive overhaul, it sends a clear signal: big changes are coming. The store isn’t just getting a cosmetic refresh; it’s embarking on a complete rebuild aimed at transforming the user experience for gamers.

    Over the next year, the Epic Games will be rebuilding its storefront from the ground up. This ambitious project is designed to eliminate frustrating bottlenecks and introduce features that truly enhance community interaction and convenience. The goal? To make the store feel less like a catalog and more like an integrated hub for gaming.

    The core of this transformation centers on performance and feature parity. Players can expect a dramatic boost in speed, with anticipated loading times becoming five times faster. But the improvements go far beyond mere speed; Epic is focusing heavily on delivering tangible quality-of-life features that many long-time users have been asking for.

    Among the most anticipated additions are game-specific information directly integrated into the experience. This means players will soon be able to access in-app patch notes, keeping them instantly updated without needing to jump between multiple windows. Furthermore, Epic is introducing features designed to foster a more collaborative environment, including cross-region game gifting and much-needed party chat functionality.

    These initial changes are set to roll out gradually, with the new storefront and community features taking precedence before moving on to deeper user experience and design refinements later in the development cycle. It’s a phased approach designed to deliver impact immediately.

    Looking further down the road, the roadmap paints an even more expansive vision for Epic. Beyond immediate store enhancements, plans are underway for a multi-platform version of the storefront, slated for release in 2027. This future vision aligns perfectly with industry rumors suggesting that Epic intends to expand its presence beyond PC and onto future console ecosystems, linking up with projects like Xbox Project Helix.

    Ultimately, this overhaul signals Epic’s commitment to maturing the platform. By prioritizing speed, community tools, and cross-platform potential, they are positioning themselves not just as a distributor of games, but as a central, dynamic hub for the entire gaming experience.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Zenimax and Bethesda studios may be targeted in Xbox layoffs

    The landscape of game development is shaking up, with reports emerging that Xbox is undertaking significant restructuring by planning to shut down several key game development studios. This move isn’t just about cutting costs; it signals a major shift in how the platform is prioritizing its creative assets.

    Specific names taking a hit include Compulsion Games, Ninja Theory, and Double Fine. But the scope of the changes appears to extend deeper into the ecosystem. Companies falling under the Bethesda / Zenimax umbrella are also reportedly being targeted in this organizational overhaul.

    The impact of these decisions is already causing ripples among industry veterans. Long-time developers and co-founders have voiced concern, suggesting that any layoffs at Zenimax may be much more profound than anticipated by some observers.

    This strategic pivot raises questions about the priorities behind the acquisitions. When Phil Spencer began acquiring these studios for Xbox back in 2018, the initial aim was to foster a diverse portfolio of projects spanning different budgets and scopes. However, this goal seems to have evolved considerably since the massive acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

    Now, the focus appears to be tightening around titles tied directly to major franchises like The Elder Scrolls or Fallout. Studios working on less immediately recognizable intellectual properties are increasingly facing the risk of closure.

    Further reports suggest that other development houses are also in the crosshairs. For instance, Insider Gaming has indicated that Arkane Lyon may face potential closure, although a final decision remains pending. This studio is currently engaged in developing a high-budget Marvel game, a project whose profitability could be heavily constrained by licensing fees.

    The shift in focus suggests a new, streamlined strategy for the Xbox ecosystem. While some studios will face the axe, others are navigating the changing tides of corporate gaming—a reminder that the world of interactive entertainment is constantly being reshaped by corporate ambition and financial reality.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Thermal Grizzly launches new Hydronaut Pro and Duronaut Pro thermal pastes

    Thermal Grizzly Unleashes Next-Level Thermal Performance with New Paste Lineup

    Thermal Grizzly, a name synonymous with cutting-edge thermal solutions, has just expanded its impressive portfolio by introducing two new high-performance thermal interfaces: Duronaut Pro and Hydronaut Pro. These new compounds are designed to push the boundaries of heat transfer efficiency, offering users enhanced stability and superior conductivity compared to their standard offerings.

    At the heart of this expansion is the Duronaut Pro. This advanced compound focuses intensely on long-term stability and minimizing those frustrating pump-out effects often experienced with thermal paste. Thermal Grizzly achieved this by combining a specialized silicone oil base with aluminum micropowder and zinc oxide nanopowder, creating a formula that significantly reduces contact resistance while allowing for easy application in a very thin layer. Crucially, the product documentation confirms that this mixture remains electrically non-conductive and will not cure over time, ensuring reliable performance.

    The innovation doesn’t stop there with the Hydronaut Pro, which targets demanding industrial systems by employing a completely silicone-free carrier structure. Traditional silicone-based pastes can introduce structural risks, such as oil bleeding or mechanical displacement when subjected to repeated temperature fluctuations, which can compromise performance or damage adjacent sealing materials like EPDM or NBR. Thermal Grizzly’s new formulation eliminates these structural concerns, delivering exceptional thermal conductivity without the risk of curing.

    To validate these advancements, the company conducted rigorous laboratory testing. Using a 30x30mm contact surface under a heavy load of 240W heat flow and 300N of force, the results demonstrated a measurable performance boost. Testers observed an approximate 4% improvement in thermal transfer when moving from their standard Duronaut or Hydronaut products to the new Pro versions.

    These enhanced thermal materials are now available to drive superior cooling across various applications. The pricing reflects the high-performance nature of these innovations: the Duronaut Pro starts at €17.90 for a 2g quantity, while the Hydronaut Pro is available starting at €14.90 for a 2g quantity.

    This latest launch signals Thermal Grizzly’s commitment to offering more than just standard cooling solutions; it provides specialized, robust thermal interfaces for those who demand peak performance from their hardware and industrial systems.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Outward 2 gets last minute delay to 2027

    The wait for a polished experience is often the hardest part of the gaming journey, but for fans of the acclaimed title Outward, the development team has chosen patience over rushing. Nine Dots Studio has announced a delay for the highly anticipated sequel, Outward 2, pushing the launch window from July 2026 to sometime in 2027.

    This change comes after an open beta had recently taken place in June, offering players a glimpse into the world of Outward 2. While the initial excitement was high, the studio decided that giving the game the necessary time for refinement was paramount to delivering the quality its dedicated fanbase deserves.

    Speaking on the decision, creative director Guillaume Boucher-Vidal acknowledged the shift, offering an apology: “I apologise that we couldn’t give you the game you guys deserve on time.”

    The reasoning behind this measured approach speaks volumes about the studio’s commitment to quality. Rather than launching immediately after beta testing, Nine Dots Studio opted for a more comprehensive review period. As Boucher-Vidal explained, it is challenging to determine the appropriate level of stability for early access. The team needed to take a hard and honest look at both the game itself and their development process before making a final decision.

    This philosophy suggests that the studio prioritized stability above speed. By extending the timeline, the developers aim to ensure that Outward 2 arrives with a considerably higher degree of polish. Instead of releasing an early access title that might be plagued by bugs or technical issues, they are committing to delivering a finished, high-quality experience.

    For those eager to dive into the world of Valenwood and its lore, this delay signals a promise: Outward 2 will not just arrive on time, it will arrive ready. Fans can look forward to a title that benefits from extensive refinement, ensuring that when the launch finally happens in 2027, it is the seamless, polished adventure everyone has been waiting for.

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    Credit: KitGuru