HardwareFreaks

Tag: Gaming

  • This is what Tom’s Hardware readers clicked the most during Prime Day — Portable displays, DVD burners, the Nintendo Switch 2, and two decent SSD deals, among others

    In a year where storage and RAM prices hit record highs, finding new graphics cards proved nearly impossible, and the general enthusiasm for building a new PC seemed to have taken a backseat, we started looking for something else. It was a curious experiment: seeing what our readers were clicking on when the usual high-end component news felt scarce.

    While the industry focused on chasing elusive GPU deals, we dove into the digital landscape searching for value. We watched as clicks didn’t gravitate toward new processor releases; instead, they focused on surprisingly specific gadgets and console opportunities. The results painted a colorful picture of what savvy shoppers were truly prioritizing in this environment.

    The click leaders were far from the anticipated CPU updates. Top attention was captured by items that offered immediate utility or massive savings: specifically, Corsair’s portable touchscreen monitor, various media burners, and, most unexpectedly, the Nintendo Switch 2.

    Even amidst the high cost of gaming PCs and consoles, the lure of the next-generation console was undeniable. When you factor in the potential savings—getting a deal on a console like the hypothetical Switch 2—it becomes an incredibly attractive option for budget-conscious gamers looking to expand their entertainment horizons.

    The pursuit of deals also led to incredible finds in essential PC components and storage. Smart shoppers uncovered significant value in next-generation SSDs, such as the Western Digital Black SN7100, which offered blistering speed while keeping costs reasonable. We saw deals on powerful CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D 10th Anniversary Edition, demonstrating that high-end gaming performance doesn’t always require the absolute latest component price tag.

    Beyond core components, peripherals and displays also captured massive interest. Items like the Corsair Xeneon Edge portable monitor offered a versatile solution for setting up custom workstations, while clever external media options gave users new ways to interact with their digital content.

    The trend clearly showed that when high-end PC parts become prohibitively expensive, consumers look for creative ways to enhance their setups and enjoy gaming without breaking the bank. Instead of just focusing on the next CPU upgrade, the focus shifted to maximizing value across a wide range of tech categories.

    This shift suggests that innovation in budget tech isn’t just about finding cheaper components; it’s about recognizing where consumer interest naturally flows when the high-end market slows down. For savvy shoppers, the best deals often hide in unexpected places, offering portable monitors, snappy SSDs, and next-gen console fun alongside traditional PC hardware.

    Credit: Tom’s Hardware

  • AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3D re-review: Maxing out DDR4’s gaming potential

    Here

    Credit: Tom’s Hardware

  • Borderlands 4 gets new free and paid DLC, cross-save and more

    Get ready to jump into the neon-drenched chaos of Borderlands 4, because Version 1.8 is dropping a massive payload this week! Gearbox has rolled out an update packed with fresh endgame content, exciting new DLC, and features designed to keep your Vault Hunter progression flowing across every platform.

    The biggest headline is the arrival of Bounty Pack 3: A Zane to Kill For, a story-driven experience that throws players into a bizarre neon-soaked arcade simulation. This adventure puts you in charge of investigating the murder of Zane’s Digi-Clone backup. The mission is designed to be repeatable, featuring new high-tier loot, two mini-boss encounters, and a formidable new boss.

    Beyond the story, players unlocking this expansion also gain access to Vault Card 3, offering tempting arcade-themed cosmetics and rerollable gear to customize your look and loadout.

    But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Version 1.8 introduces a game-changing feature: Cross-Platform Saves. This means your epic journey as a Vault Hunter can now seamlessly move between any platform where you own Borderlands 4, eliminating frustrating save file migration headaches.

    For those looking for immediate action, Gearbox has dropped a massive free challenge: Takedown at Hadron Abyss. This intense raid plunges players into a submerged research facility teeming with mutated aquatic enemies, culminating in a showdown with the Child of Terramorphous. The raid is scalable for any party size and supports both Mayhem modifiers and Hardcore mode, rewarding players with brand new Legendary and Pearlescent items, including unique weaponry and class mods.

    Throwback fans will also rejoice, as the beloved wave-based gauntlet mode, Circle of Slaughter from Borderlands 3, has been reworked and brought back into the fold for Borderlands 4. This mode features five escalating rounds, optional extraction points, and a brilliant new penalty box system that lets downed players influence the arena while spectating.

    The adventure continues with a tantalizing roadmap for future content. Gearbox has confirmed that Bounty Pack 4 is slated to arrive in July alongside the Version 1.9 update, keeping the expansion momentum high. Looking further ahead, September is set to deliver Bounty Pack 5, Story Pack 2, and introduce a brand new playable Vault Hunter: Loveless the Hacker, an ex-Anshin operative battling a physical manifestation of a self-created digital virus.

    Credit: KitGuru

  • Keep your gaming keyboard and PC fans clean with these electric air blower deals, starting from $17 — high-RPM cordless air dusters are great replacements for canned air to blast away the dust and dirt

    Don’t Let Dust Defeat Your Desktop: The Gadgets Revolutionizing PC Maintenance

    In the world of computer building and gaming, there are countless components you obsess over—the latest graphics cards, lightning-fast CPUs, and massive monitors. Yet, one essential element often gets relegated to an afterthought: cleaning. We talk about keeping our systems running smoothly, but how often do we pause to address the insidious problem of dust lurking under keyboard keys or deep within the confines of a PC case?

    For years, dedicated PC enthusiasts have relied on compressed air cans for this necessary task. While effective, the cycle of buying replacement cans quickly adds up. But today, maintenance is getting a serious upgrade thanks to the rise of portable, hand-held air blowers, turning a tedious chore into an easy, satisfying cleanup session.

    Recent sales events, like Prime Day, have put some fantastic bargains on these handy tools. Now is the perfect moment to grab an air duster and give your machine the deep clean it deserves, ensuring optimal cooling and longevity for all your components.

    The Art of Air Duster: More Than Just a Tool

    The beauty of modern air blowers lies in their versatility. They aren’t just simple puffers; they are sophisticated tools designed to reach those notoriously difficult spots where dust accumulates, allowing you to clear out the grime that can impede airflow and degrade performance.

    The market offers a diverse range of options, catering to different needs—from ultra-lightweight units for quick cleanups to powerful models capable of tackling deep internal dust. You’ll find variations in speed (measured in RPM), battery life, charging methods, and the sheer number of attachments available.

    For example, some models boast impressive speeds, reaching up to 180,000 RPM, providing the necessary power to blast away stubborn dirt from fans and intricate keyboard spaces. Other options focus on convenience and rechargeable power, utilizing USB Type-C charging for maximum portability.

    One excellent choice balances power and features, offering high spin speeds and multiple nozzles or brush tools, making it perfect for comprehensive PC and keyboard sanitation. Other budget-friendly models offer solid performance with sufficient reach to tackle common clutter in the workspace.

    Whether you opt for a compact model that moves air at up to 45 meters per second or a high-powered unit designed for serious component cleaning, there is a perfect air duster waiting to simplify your maintenance routine. Stop letting dust slow down your system; grab one of these innovative tools and get ready for a clean, high-performance summer.

    Credit: Tom’s Hardware

  • RollerCoaster Tycoon 3 is free on the Epic Games Store

    The weekly free game frenzy is back, and this time, the Epic Games Store is dropping a fantastic pairing of classics and indie gems for everyone with an account. If you’re looking to expand your library without spending a dime, now is the perfect time to dive into these must-have titles.

    This week’s offering features two very different but equally compelling experiences: the beloved management classic RollerCoaster Tycoon 3: Complete Edition and the visually striking action platformer, Voidwrought.

    On the one hand, we have a trip back to the golden age of simulation with RollerCoaster Tycoon 3: Complete Edition. Released in 2004, this game remains a benchmark for theme park management and construction. Developed by Frontier—the same studio responsible for the highly acclaimed Planet Coaster series—it offers deep, satisfying gameplay where players construct elaborate environments and manage the logistics of bustling theme parks.

    On the other side of the spectrum is Voidwrought. This game, released in 2024, is a hand-drawn 2D action-platforming metroidvania that marries an excellent artistic style with solid, engaging gameplay mechanics. Developed and published by the independent studio Powersnake, it offers a unique world to explore.

    Whether you are a devotee of deep simulation games or crave immersive, hand-crafted adventure, there is something here for every taste. While some might have debated the merits of Voidwrought, it stands as a valuable option to check out, especially when offered for free.

    Remember that these treasures are available now on the Epic Games Store until next Thursday. After that date, the store will introduce an even more diverse lineup, including adventure puzzles like I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream and the co-op beat ’em up, River City Girls 2.

    It’s a great reminder that free content can lead to some truly exceptional gaming experiences. Make sure you claim your titles before the deadline!

    Credit: KitGuru

  • We should all be happy that GTA 6 isn’t launching with multiplayer

    The anticipation surrounding Grand Theft Auto 6 is palpable, with preorders live and the launch date looming. But amidst the hype, a crucial question hangs over the community: what does this monumental new title mean for the enduring world of GTA Online?

    There’s a notable narrative shift being pushed by Rockstar Games, positioning GTA 6 as primarily a singleplayer experience. While this framing is undoubtedly intended to maximize focus on the new world, it raises immediate questions about the future of the massive online component that has defined the franchise for over a decade.

    The history of GTA Online is a testament to the power of live service gaming, dominating player engagement since its inception. Yet, with such overwhelming popularity and the sheer scope of Rockstar’s ambition, it feels counterintuitive that the online world must be sidelined during the development of the next cinematic adventure.

    Despite Rockstar’s long history and ownership of platforms like FiveM, there is a strong expectation that a new iteration of the multiplayer mode will follow. The key to unlocking this future lies in allowing both projects—the sprawling singleplayer epic and the dynamic online world—to develop in harmony, rather than being rushed into simultaneous release.

    A separation, while seemingly less dramatic, offers a genuinely smarter path forward. By giving GTA 6 the necessary space to be an incredibly ambitious and polished cinematic masterpiece, Rockstar can focus its immense resources on creating an experience that lives up to the monumental expectations. This careful pacing ensures that the inevitable launch of GTA Online 2 will benefit from a more mature foundation.

    This staggered approach allows for critical benefits: the release of the singleplayer game first provides the necessary time for refinement and bug fixing, ensuring a superior experience. Furthermore, it creates an opportunity for Rockstar to gather vast amounts of player data and feedback from the new GTA 6 base, allowing them to refine and introduce exciting new systems into the sequel, GTA Online 2.

    Imagine the scenario: a world-class singleplayer experience debuts, followed by an evolved, deeply satisfying online world built upon that new foundation. This approach minimizes the risk of launching two complex, sprawling titles simultaneously and leads to less disaster.

    Ultimately, this strategic pause allows Rockstar to manage its immense workload, ensuring that both projects can achieve their full potential. It’s a chance to build something truly special for both the players and the online community who have poured so much devotion into the franchise over the years.

    Credit: PC Gamer

  • GTA 6 pre-order editions explained: What do you get with each version?

    The anticipation surrounding GTA 6 has been palpable, but as pre-order editions are now live, a new tension emerges: how much of this sprawling digital world is locked behind a paywall? While the base game offers plenty of action, the real choice for gamers lies in deciding whether to settle for the essentials or dive into the full scope of customization that Rockstar has promised.

    For PC players, this decision carries extra weight. Although console players are equally faced with this dilemma, owning the game digitally gives the option to potentially secure a better deal on PC, especially given the long-term potential for Rockstar to maintain high pricing for its digital content.

    The Standard Experience

    The GTA 6 Standard Edition sets a relatively accessible price point at $79.99/$69.99. This package includes a month of the GTA+ subscription and access to the Vintage Vice City pack, assuming pre-order. While this gives players access to some cosmetic options, it deliberately limits the vast array of customization features that define the Grand Theft Auto series.

    The Standard Edition offers a foundation for the epic story, but those who crave deep immersion and the ability to truly personalize their world will find themselves looking elsewhere for the next step.

    The Ultimate Deep Dive

    For those ready to embrace the full scope of Vice City, the GTA 6 Ultimate Edition steps up the ante with a price of $99.99/$89.99. This package includes everything in the base game plus all the extensive customization features that unlock true character and environment development.

    The difference is staggering. The Ultimate Edition grants access to unparalleled vehicle customisation, exclusive clothing shops, unique tattoo options, and deep role-playing activities that transform the core experience into a living sandbox. Imagine tracking down abandoned classic cars, revamping them with exclusive mods, or choosing bespoke outfits for Jason and Lucia.

    Features included in the Ultimate Edition include:

    • Vehicles and Garages: Unlocking exclusive vehicles like the ’95 Grotti Cheetah, the ’67 Vapid Dominator Buggy and Garage, and the ability to customize them with features like the ‘Rideout Customs.
    • Cosmetics: Access to extensive apparel and accessories, including the Vice City Style outfits, personalized weapons, and a massive collection of tattoos from the Electric Fang Tattoo artists.
    • Unique Activities: Engaging in special quests like the ‘Classic Car Collection, raiding compounds with the ‘Ptt Youngin$ Compound, navigating mod shops with ‘One-Eyed Willie’s, and getting signature styles at Sara’s Unisex Salon.

    Ultimately, the choice boils down to desire: if you want a strong narrative experience, the Standard Edition provides that base layer. If you are looking for the deepest, most personalized sandbox—where every vehicle is a masterpiece and every character has endless stylistic choices—the Ultimate Edition unlocks the full potential of Vice City.

    Credit: PC Gamer

  • Where to find bamboo in Forza Horizon 6

    When Forza Horizon 6 introduced its Autumn season, players were immediately challenged by a wild new event: the Bamboo Bash. The objective was simple yet demanding: hunt down and crash into thirty bamboo stalks during a high-speed sprint. While the concept sounds like an easy way to shake up the racing experience, finding those elusive spots in Japan’s iconic bamboo forests at speeds of 100 mph proved to be a genuine treasure hunt.

    Navigating the landscapes while seeking out these sprawling green giants can feel like a maddening puzzle. Where exactly does one go to maximize chaos and skill points? Fortunately, we tracked down the perfect coordinates for this high-octane challenge, ensuring players could complete the task in record time.

    The definitive location for the Bamboo Bash adventure is nestled within the scenic bamboo forest by the Arashiyama Run speed zone. This spot sits right on the border between Minamino and Ito, offering a visually stunning backdrop as drivers weave through groves of bamboo while flying down the road.

    Beyond the main route, this area offers a rich tapestry of surrounding landmarks to explore. Nearby destinations like Shirakawa-Go in the former region and Kitayama Big Daisugi in the latter provide excellent scenic detours, making the journey itself as rewarding as the crashing.

    For those looking for an alternative, a more convenient option exists closer to Tokyo. Just outside the Porsche 911 Turbo 3.3 Barn Find area in the south of Ohtani, near Mei’s house and the city limits, offers another spot for vehicular mayhem, though it may feature fewer bamboo stalks.

    Regardless of the location chosen, the thrill lies in the sheer spectacle of the chaos created. Players who master the art of speed and impact earn not only skill scores but also the coveted Bamboom! Skill rating. It’s a brilliant way to test both driving precision and pure adrenaline.

    While many players were hoping for a unique vehicle reward, this iteration of the challenge offered something different. Instead of a limited-edition car, participants secured a Super Wheelspin. Whether one finds good luck in the spin is up to the player—some ended up with a truly terrible haul, while others managed to snag a better prize.

    Credit: PC Gamer

  • Six more games join GeForce Now this week

    Get ready to dive into new worlds and epic adventures because the GeForce Now library just got a serious boost! Nvidia has rolled out a fresh update this week, expanding the catalog with six brand-new titles, promising gamers plenty of fresh content to explore.

    Among the exciting additions are some real gems. Fans can now access classics like The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales, the latest HD-2D offering from Square Enix, alongside a diverse selection of indie games and more.

    This week’s update isn’t just about new releases; it’s a chance to expand your gaming horizons. The newly available titles include Dark Scrolls, SAND: Raiders of Sophie, Deer & Boy, EMPULSE, FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves, and plenty more.

    Whether you’re looking for sprawling RPGs or fast-paced indie experiences, this expanded selection means there is something new waiting for every taste. It’s a perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems and add fresh challenges to your rotation.

    But the excitement doesn’t stop there. To make these gaming adventures even more accessible, Nvidia is running its ongoing GeForce Now Summer Sale. This limited-time offer is the perfect moment to jump into premium gaming with some serious savings.

    Members can take advantage of significant discounts on annual memberships. For instance, Ultimate plan subscribers can save £70 off a 12-month membership, while Performance plan users get a discount of £35 on their 12-month subscription.

    These fantastic deals are available for a limited time, making it an ideal opportunity to unlock vast gaming libraries and enjoy stunning visuals without breaking the bank. Are you ready to explore what these new titles have to offer?

    Credit: KitGuru

  • New VR Games announced including H3VR2, I Am Your Beast and more

    While the gaming world still largely gravitates toward the immersive comfort of flat-screen experiences, Virtual Reality continues to prove its staying power by delivering a steady stream of innovative and excellent titles. Despite not yet dominating the mainstream gaming landscape, developers are clearly committed to expanding the VR ecosystem with unique and experimental offerings.

    The excitement for this growing scene was amplified by the recent Summer 2026 VR Games Showcase, which offered fans a tantalizing glimpse into some of the most anticipated titles currently in development. This showcase highlighted the creative potential that virtual reality offers, showcasing games that push the boundaries of gameplay and immersion.

    One of the standout highlights from the event was the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved classic, Hot Dogs, Horseshoes & Hand Grenades. This game has already established itself as a masterclass in depth, physics, customization, and variety, setting a high bar for future iterations. Its successor, H3VR2, promises an evolution of that formula, positioning itself as a “tactical extraction roguelike.” Players will take on the role of a sentient hot dog tasked with diving into strange and enormous sci-fi megastructures to uncover the answers to existence, promising a deeply satisfying shooting experience.

    Beyond the tactical adventures, the showcase also revealed exciting ports and new experiences. Fans can now look forward to a full VR port of I Am Your Beast, an excellent fast-paced FPS known for its Hotline Miami-esque intensity. This means that the unique, adrenaline-fueled action of this game is now accessible within the immersive world of virtual reality.

    The lineup of announcements extended beyond pure action, offering variety for every type of gamer. Other showcased titles included a VR update for the motorbike racer Lanesplit, an engaging DLC for Attack on Titan set within the Orchestra Rhythm Game Maestro, and perhaps most unexpectedly, a run-and-gun shooter titled Transformers: Beyond Reality.

    These announcements demonstrate that developers are not just maintaining existing franchises but are actively pushing new creative boundaries. The commitment to bringing unique concepts—from sentient hot dogs to sprawling sci-fi explorations—to VR is proving that the platform offers a compelling space for truly experimental and unforgettable gaming experiences.

    Credit: KitGuru