Category Archives: Gaming

Computers, Gaming

MSI Brings Thin and Light to Gaming and Creator Laptops with the Stealth A16 AI+ & the Creator A16 AI+

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MSI is bringing thin and light to a 16-inch form factor. What’s more, these laptops are not just normal laptops, they’re gaming and creator laptops. The Stealth A16 AI+ and Creator A16 AI+ were both launched at COMPUTEX 2024. These laptops combine cutting-edge AI, impressive gaming capabilities, and content creation prowess in a portable design.

The Stealth A16 AI+ and Creator A16 AI+ are equipped with the latest AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series Processors, featuring a new processor architecture, integrated graphics, and a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This combination delivers exceptional processor performance, stunning visuals, and robust AI computing power.

MSI Stealth Creator AI

The new XDNA 2 architecture within the processors offers up to three times faster AI performance compared to previous generations. This allows for running generative AI tools or large language models directly on the laptops. The integrated Radeon 800M series graphics boast up to 33% more graphics cores, resulting in smooth gaming experiences on a lightweight chassis. Additionally, the processor unit boasts the latest Zen 5 architecture, supporting up to 12 cores and 50% more on-chip memory compared to predecessors, translating to industry-leading processor performance.

For those seeking the ultimate in AI computing power, both the Stealth A16 AI+ and Creator A16 AI+ can be configured with the latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 series graphics cards. These graphics cards feature specialized AI Tensor Cores, delivering cutting-edge performance and revolutionary capabilities for enhanced creativity, efficient workflows, and blisteringly fast gaming.

The Stealth A16 AI+ and Creator A16 AI+ feature a lightweight magnesium-aluminum alloy chassis, ensuring portability without too much compromise on durability. MSI’s Cooler Boost 5 cooling system keeps thermals in check during demanding tasks. A wealth of ports allows for versatile connectivity options. This combination of features makes these laptops some of the most well-balanced lightweight gaming and creator options available.

In addition to the gaming and content creation focused models, MSI also unveiled the Summit A16 AI+ and Prestige A16 AI+, business and productivity laptops powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series Processors. These laptops combine the latest processors with a large 82Wh battery and a lightweight design, catering to mobile business professionals seeking exceptional performance and portability.

Pricing & Availability

Specific pricing and availability information for the Stealth A16 AI+, Creator A16 AI+, Summit A16 AI+, and Prestige A16 AI+ laptops will be revealed on the official MSI website.

Computers, Gaming

Meet the MSI Claw 8 AI+ with Updates Specs & Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra Processors

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The Handheld gaming PC battle is really heating up! In addition to the updated ROG Ally X, MSI is updating the Claw with a new name and updated specs. The company is showcasing Claw 8 AI+ at COMPUTEX 2024. This is the world’s first Windows 11 gaming handheld powered by the latest Intel Lunar Lake Core Ultra processors.

MSI Claw 8 AI Rodneil GadgetMatch 1
Source: Rodneil/GadgetMatch

The Claw 8 AI+ builds on MSI’s previous gaming handheld, the Claw. This new iteration incorporates the powerful and energy-efficient Intel Core Ultra processors for smooth gameplay and extended battery life for on-the-go gaming sessions.

MSI isn’t making updates willy-nilly. Instead, it has actively listened to user feedback and implemented several improvements in the Claw 8 AI+. These enhancements include:

  • Additional Thunderbolt 4 USB-C Port: This expands connectivity options for external devices.
  • Enhanced LB/RB Button Tactile Feel: Improved button responsiveness for a more satisfying gaming experience.
  • Increased Battery Capacity: Enjoy longer gaming sessions without needing to recharge as frequently.
  • Lighter Wall-Mounted Charger: A more convenient charging solution for users.
MSI Claw 8 AI Rodneil GadgetMatch 2
Source: Rodneil/GadgetMatch

The Claw 8 AI+ has a slightly tweaked design featuring an 8-inch display with better ergonomics. With its 8-inch display and Windows 11 operating system, the Claw 8 AI+ allows for playing a wide range of PC games. Additionally, MSI is boasting that the updated Claw has:

  • Excellent Grip: Ensures comfortable and secure handling during gameplay.
  • Industry-Leading Battery Life: Provides extended gaming sessions on a single charge.
  • Superior Cooling: This keeps the device cool even during intense gaming sessions.
  • Joysticks and Triggers with Hall Effect Sensors: Delivers precise and responsive controls.

When it launches, MSI will offer a one-month free trial of Xbox Game Pass with the Claw 8 AI+. This will give users access to Microsoft’s extensive list of games including AAA titles both old and new. Xbox Game Pass will renew at RM15 in Malaysia after the first month’s trial.

A Post-Apocalyptic Dream for Fallout Fans

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In addition to the high-performance laptops, MSI also unveiled a special edition – the MSI Claw x Fallout Limited Edition – a collaboration with the renowned game studio Bethesda. This limited-edition gaming handheld caters specifically to Fallout fans. The exterior design is inspired by the game’s iconic Vaults, Pip-Boys, and robots, making it a true collector’s item. Beyond aesthetics, the Claw x Fallout boasts features like an excellent grip for comfortable handheld gaming, the largest battery in the industry for extended playtime, superior cooling to maintain performance, and joysticks and triggers equipped with Hall effect sensors for precise control. With Windows 11 allowing access to a vast library of PC games, Fallout fans can revisit the post-nuclear apocalypse world anytime, anywhere.

Pricing & Availability

Specific pricing and availability information for the Claw 8 AI+ gaming handheld and the MSI Claw x Fallout Limited Edition will be revealed at a later date.

Computers, Gaming, News

ASUS Unleashes the All-New ROG Zephyrus G16 Gaming Laptop with over 400 TOPs of AI Processing

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ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has unveiled the latest iteration of its highly acclaimed ROG Zephyrus G16 gaming laptop. This update boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 processor, featuring a built-in NPU for AI-accelerated tasks, making it suitable for various uses beyond gaming.

ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces ROG Zephyrus G16 2024 GA605

A Supercharged Gaming Powerhouse

The ROG Zephyrus G16 packs a serious punch! The AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 processor offers 12 cores and 24 threads, ideal for demanding applications. This processing power is further enhanced by a built-in AMD Ryzen AI XDNA 2 NPU, capable of delivering 50 TOPS of AI performance. The CPU and integrated Radeon™ 800M graphics contribute an additional 31 TOPS, bringing the total AI processing power to a staggering 81 TOPS. This translates to significant performance improvements in AI-powered applications, including powerful Windows Copilot tools.

Zephyrus G16 PR 2

For graphics-intensive tasks like photo and video editing, image generation, and coding, the Zephyrus G16 is equipped with up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU. This powerhouse delivers up to 321 TOPS of AI processing power at its maximum TGP of 105 watts. Gamers will benefit from features like DLSS 3 super-resolution, utilizing AI to generate high-quality frames and enhance image quality in the latest titles.

In total, the Zephyrus G16 boasts a combined 402 TOPS of local AI processing power, empowering users to run multiple AI applications simultaneously, and revolutionizing workflows for gamers, creators, and engineers alike.

Thin & Light meets Aesthetics

The impressive hardware is housed within the same critically acclaimed thin-and-light design showcased at CES 2024. The exquisitely crafted CNC-milled aluminium chassis features a customizable Slash Lighting array on the lid for a personalized touch.

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Zephyrus G16 PR 6b

The ROG Zephyrus G16 boasts a stunning ROG Nebula display with an OLED panel supporting NVIDIA G-SYNC technology. This 16:10 aspect ratio display features a 2.5K resolution and a blazing-fast 240 Hz refresh rate, perfect for both high-end gaming and content creation. For exceptional HDR experiences, the display is VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certified.

Offering exceptional connectivity and storage options, the ROG Zephyrus G16 comes equipped with 32 GB of LPDDR5X-7500 memory and supports the new SD Express 7.0 standard for ultrafast SD card performance. Additionally, it is the first ROG laptop to feature WiFi 7 technology, enabling faster speeds with reduced congestion when paired with a compatible router.

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Pricing & Availability

ASUS has not yet revealed specific pricing and availability information for the ROG Zephyrus G16.

Computers, Gaming, News

Dominate the Game with Acer’s New Line of Predator Gaming Monitors

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Acer’s Predator gaming monitor lineup is getting a boost with three new OLED displays designed for serious gamers and enthusiasts. The Predator X27U F3, Predator X34 X5, and Predator X32 X3 boast high refresh rates, ultra-smooth performance, and vibrant visuals to deliver an immersive gaming experience.

All three monitors leverage OLED technology to produce excellent colour accuracy with 99% DCI-P3 colour gamut coverage and true 10-bit colour depth for rich visuals with minimal image banding. Additionally, they are NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible and support AMD FreeSync Premium™ Pro to eliminate stuttering, tearing, and ghosting for a smooth and seamless gaming experience.

Predator X27U F3: Prioritizing Speed

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The Predator X27U F3 is ideal for gamers seeking breakneck speed. This 27-inch WQHD (2560×1440) OLED monitor boasts a blistering 480 Hz refresh rate and a 0.01 ms pixel response time for ultra-fast visuals. The monitor is equipped with Type-C and two HDMI 2.1 ports, making it suitable for both console and PC gaming. A unique feature is the tripod mount socket on the stand, allowing gamers and streamers to attach webcams or screen lights for enhanced functionality.

Predator X32 X3: Balancing Resolution and Refresh Rate

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The Predator X32 X3 caters to gamers who prioritize either high resolution or rapid refresh rates. This 31.5-inch 4K UHD (3840×2160) OLED display offers a 240 Hz refresh rate and a 0.03 ms (GTG) response time for smooth gameplay. The innovative Dynamic Frequency and Resolution feature allows users to switch between stunning 4K UHD visuals at 240 Hz or smooth FHD at a blazing-fast 480 Hz, depending on their preference and the game’s demands. Similar to the X27U F3, the X32 X3 comes with Type-C and two HDMI 2.1 ports for versatile connectivity.

Predator X34 X5: Dominate the Battlefield

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The Predator X34 X5 is designed for gamers who crave an expansive and immersive experience. This monitor features a massive 34-inch curved UWQHD (3440×1440) OLED panel with an 1800R curvature for a truly panoramic view. A rapid 240 Hz refresh rate and a near-instantaneous 0.03 ms (G to G) response time ensure seamless gameplay with minimal lag. The X34 X5 is equipped with two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort, and Type-C for comprehensive connectivity options.

Enhanced Comfort and Durability

The new Predator OLED monitors offer adjustable tilt, swivel, and height functionality for optimal viewing angles. Built-in 5-watt speakers provide basic audio, and a KVM switch allows users to effortlessly switch between two PCs using a single keyboard and mouse setup. To prevent eye fatigue during extended gaming sessions, these monitors incorporate BlueLightShield Pro, flickerless technology, low-dimming, and ComfyView technologies.

Acer has also implemented several OLED screen protection mechanisms to extend the monitor’s lifespan and image quality. These features include Display Saver (always on) for automatic dimming when inactive, Constant Brightness to minimize brightness fluctuations, and Image Retention Refresh and Screen Move (always on) to reduce the risk of stuck pixels and image ghosting.

Pricing and Availability

  • Predator X34 X5:
    • Starting in Q4 in North America at USD1,099.99 (approx. RM5,184.21)
    • Starting in Q4 in EMEA for EUR1,399 (approx. RM7,132.34)
    • Starting in Q4 in China for RMB7,999 (approx. RM5,199.40)
  • Predator X32 X3:
    • Starting in Q4 in North America at USD1,199.99 (approx. RM5,643.12)
    • Starting in Q4 in EMEA for EUR1,399 (approx. RM7,132.34)
    • Starting in Q4 in China for RMB7,999 (approx. RM5,199.40)
  • Predator X27U F3
    • Starting in Q3 in North America at USD1,199.99 (approx. RM5,643.12)
    • Starting in Q3 in EMEA for EUR1,199 (approx. RM6,123.45)
    • Starting in Q3 in China for RMB6,999 (approx. RM4,549.84)
Computers, Gaming, News

Acer Enters Router Market with Wave 7 Mesh and Predator Connect W6x for Gamers

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Acer has expanded its product portfolio with the introduction of two new routers: the Acer Wave 7 and the Predator Connect W6x. This marks Acer’s first foray into the router market, following the expansion of the Predator branding to include graphics cards last year.

Acer Wave 7: Designed for Whole-Home Connectivity

The Wave 7 caters to a broad range of users, including families and remote workers, by delivering high-performance Wi-Fi 7 for extensive and reliable coverage in homes with numerous devices.

The Wave 7 comes in two configurations, offering a choice between a 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz combination or a 2.4 GHz and 6 GHz combination for users to optimize performance based on their specific needs. Both configurations support dual-band connectivity, utilizing both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies, to ensure strong and consistent signals throughout the home.

Acer Wave 7 01

Furthermore, the Wave 7 boasts innovative features like 320 MHz channel support and Multi-Link Operation (MLO) technology. MLO allows devices to transmit and receive data concurrently across different frequencies, significantly boosting overall throughput, minimizing latency, and reducing interference.

This mesh system allows for further expansion by adding more access points, creating a seamless blanket of Wi-Fi coverage throughout a large space. For enhanced flexibility in network configuration, the Wave 7 offers three Gigabit Ethernet ports with switchable WAN/LAN capability. Built-in Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) security provides an additional layer of peace of mind.

The Wave 7 is available in single, double, and triple-pack options, offering users flexibility when building their network systems.

Predator Connect W6x: Prioritizing Speed and Performance for Gamers

The Predator Connect W6x caters specifically to gamers, offering support for Wi-Fi 6 with speeds up to 6000 Mbps. This router is equipped with a powerful quad-core processor, 1 GB of DDR4 RAM, and 256 MB of ROM, prioritizing near-zero packet loss for smooth and uninterrupted gameplay. An LED light indicator conveniently displays the network connection status on the router’s cover.

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Gamers can manage their network remotely using the Predator Connect utility app, downloadable on smartphones or tablets starting in July. The Predator Connect W6x also boasts a comprehensive selection of ports, including four Gigabit Ethernet ports for LAN connectivity and a single 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port for WAN connectivity.

Pricing & Availability

The Acer Wave 7 will be available in North America in Q2, and in EMEA in July starting at EUR119 (approx. RM607.54) for a single pack, EUR199 (approx. RM1,015.97) for a double pack, and EUR299 (approx. RM1,526.51) for a triple pack.

The Predator Connect W6x will be available in North America in Q2, and in EMEA in July starting at EUR 129 (approx. RM658.59).

Computers, Gaming, News

ROG Ally X Announced: Upgraded Power and Performance for Handheld Windows Gaming

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ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has unveiled the ROG Ally X, the successor to its popular ROG Ally handheld console. Designed for Windows 11 gaming on the go, the ROG Ally X retains the powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor but boasts significant upgrades in storage, memory, battery life, and ergonomics.

ROG Ally X

The ROG Ally X takes user feedback to heart with several key internal upgrades. First, storage capacity doubles to a whopping 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD, providing ample space for your gaming library. The redesigned motherboard now features an M.2 2280 slot, allowing for future storage upgrades beyond the original capacity.

Next, the ROG Ally X moves to a generous 24 GB of LPDDR5X-7500 RAM. This is particularly beneficial for modern games that utilize higher resolutions and complex textures. With more system memory, users can allocate more resources for both the system and the integrated GPU, potentially enhancing performance in demanding titles.

01 front view of ROG Ally X
Source: ASUS
03 front right view of ROG Ally X
Source: ASUS
02 back view of ROG Ally X
Source: ASUS

Battery life gets a significant boost as well. The ROG Ally X features an 80 Wh battery, doubling the capacity of the previous model. This translates to longer gaming sessions away from an outlet. Impressively, despite the larger battery, the weight increase is minimal, and the weight distribution is optimized for comfortable handheld gaming.

The ROG Ally X sports a redesigned chassis in a sleek black colourway. The handles are slightly deeper, and the overall shape is more rounded for improved comfort without adding significant bulk. The button and joystick layout has been tweaked for better ergonomics, with a slight slant to the triggers for easier activation. Macro buttons on the back are now smaller to reduce accidental presses while remaining accessible.

Gamers will appreciate the upgraded joysticks. These new modules boast a 5-million-cycle lifespan and stiffer springs, offering a more familiar and responsive feel for seasoned controller users. The D-Pad has also been improved, delivering precise eight-direction inputs for fighting and retro games.

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Source: ASUS
Ally X comparison
Source: ASUS

In response to user feedback, the original XG Mobile port has been replaced with two USB-C® ports on the ROG Ally X. One of these ports is Thunderbolt™ compatible, offering broader interoperability with third-party docks and external GPUs.

To accommodate the larger battery, the ROG Ally X utilizes new fans that are 23% smaller but employ 50% thinner blades for improved airflow. Two redesigned tunnels within the fan housing direct air upwards and out through a new third exhaust vent on the top of the device. This 24% increase in airflow volume cools not only internal components but also the touchscreen, keeping it up to 6°C cooler for more comfortable extended gaming sessions.

Pricing & Availability

The ROG Ally X is expected to be available soon. No specific pricing details have been announced at the time of writing.

Entertainment, Gaming

“Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft is set to Premiere in October on Netflix

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Get ready for an animated adventure with Lara Croft! Netflix is gearing up to premiere its highly anticipated series “Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft” this October.

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This anime-styled series, co-produced by Crystal Dynamics, Legendary Television, and DJ2 Entertainment, marks a new chapter for Lara Croft in the realm of animation. Slated for release on October 10th, 2024, details surrounding the plot remain under wraps, but whispers suggest the series might pick up after the events of the recent video game trilogy. This could potentially bridge the gap between the core Tomb Raider games and the original titles, offering a fresh perspective for fans.

Hayley Atwell, known for her role as Agent Carter in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, lends her voice to Lara Croft in this series. With a talented production team and a beloved character at the helm, “Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft” promises an action-packed and visually stunning adventure for fans of the franchise.

Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft | Date Announcement | Netflix

While the spotlight is currently on Netflix’s animated series, it’s worth noting that Lara Croft’s adventures extend beyond this platform. Rumors of a potential new Tomb Raider live-action film have been circulating, suggesting the tomb raiding heroine remains a popular figure across various media formats.

Whether you’re a seasoned Tomb Raider enthusiast or just discovering the thrill of the franchise, there’s plenty to look forward to! With the upcoming animated series and whispers of a live-action film, Lara Croft’s legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Business, Computers, Gaming, News

MSI Gives A Sneak Peak at Its COMPUTEX 2024 Showcase

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MSI is teasing its showcase at COMPUTEX 2024, happening from June 4th to 7th. MSI will be showcasing its latest offerings for the AI era. This includes cutting-edge AI-powered hardware and innovative software designed to transform the way we work and play.

MSI Computex

MSI’s booth will boast a variety of AI-focused products, from cutting-edge AI-ready PCs to the exclusive offline text-to-image tool, AI ARTIST. This innovative tool empowers content creators by generating high-quality visuals directly on MSI devices, eliminating network latency and data security concerns.

  • 03 MSI Claw A1M awards
  • 01 MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo

Several of MSI’s AI-powered products have received prestigious awards, including the COMPUTEX Best Choice Golden Award-winning Prestige 16 AI Evo laptop, the Best Choice Award-winning MSI Claw gaming handheld, and the Best Choice Award-winning Modern AM273Q AI PC.

MSI will also be showcasing a range of GPU platforms catering to various needs. The G4101, a 4U server optimized for AI training, packs a powerful punch with a single liquid-cooled AMD processor, ample DDR5 memory slots, and multiple PCIe slots for high-performance graphics cards. For even more demanding tasks, the G4201 supercomputer boasts eight high-performance GPUs and dual processors, ideal for scientific computing and complex AI applications.

Partnering with leading CXL technology providers, MSI’s S2301 CXL memory expansion server is designed to tackle data-intensive workloads and in-memory databases. This powerful server caters to AI training and high-performance computing (HPC) applications.

09 MSI components

MSI’s upcoming AI gaming desktops will integrate advanced AI technology to optimize settings based on your activity. The MEG VISION X AI utilizes MSI’s AI ENGINE for intelligent detection and hardware adjustments, while also featuring cloud and private AI assistant functions. Additionally, MSI Artist x MSI Chat allows for local generation of high-quality images and summaries, all while keeping your data secure.

The award-winning Modern AM273Q AI series is an eco-conscious all-in-one PC crafted from recycled plastics. It prioritizes both performance and sustainability with features like MSI’s Power Meter software for energy efficiency monitoring and a retractable webcam for enhanced privacy.

MSI’s showcase will also feature an impressive lineup of user-friendly motherboards and PC builds. These innovative designs boast sleek aesthetics and cutting-edge features, pushing the boundaries of the DIY community. Visitors can also experience the latest in connectivity with the ThunderboltTM Ecosystem and explore virtual streaming possibilities with DigiME’s innovative application.

MSI understands the importance of visual immersion for gamers. Its new QD-OLED series monitors, like the MPG 341CQPX QD-OLED, offer stunning visuals with a high refresh rate and curved design for an unparalleled gaming experience. These monitors are packed with MSI’s exclusive gaming intelligence software and cutting-edge features for top-tier performance.

MSI Gear, formerly known as MSI Gaming Gear, is expanding its horizons with a versatile range of peripherals designed for gamers, professionals, and creatives alike. The new lineup prioritizes comfort, ultra-low latency, and cross-platform compatibility for a competitive edge during gameplay. From hot-swappable keyboards to customizable controllers, MSI Gear offers something for everyone.

MSI’s storage solutions cater to a variety of needs. The DATAMAG magnetic portable SSD offers convenient storage expansion for iPhones and other devices, while the DATAVAULT SSD enclosure ensures you never lose important data. For performance enthusiasts, the SPATIUM M560 PCIe 5.0 SSD delivers blazing-fast transfer speeds and utilizes an innovative non-metal vapor chamber for efficient heat dissipation.

Experience the next generation of wireless connectivity with MSI’s Roamii WiFi 7 mesh series. Engineered for high-bandwidth activities like streaming and online gaming, this mesh system utilizes advanced WiFi 7 technology to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and wider coverage throughout your home. For those seeking a convenient upgrade, the BE6500 USB adapter offers plug-and-play simplicity, instantly boosting your PC or laptop’s WiFi capabilities to the latest WiFi 7 standard.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of computing firsthand! Visit MSI’s booth (#M0806) at COMPUTEX 2024, happening from June 4th to 7th, 2024. Immerse yourself in cutting-edge AI technology, explore a range of innovative products, and discover how MSI is shaping the future of AI, gaming, and personal computing.

Computers, Gaming, News

Microsoft Unveils DirectSR: One SR To Rule Integrate Them All

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Gamers rejoice! Microsoft has taken a big step towards simplifying and improving the way PC games leverage upscaling technologies with the introduction of DirectSR. But what exactly is DirectSR, and how will it impact your gaming experience? Let’s delve into the details.

Low-light Photography of Computer Gaming Rig Set
Photo by FOX on Pexels

What is Super Resolution (SR)?

Before diving into DirectSR, it’s important to understand Super Resolution (SR). SR is a collection of image processing techniques used in games to render them at a lower resolution and then intelligently upscale them to a higher resolution for display. This allows for smoother performance, especially on less powerful hardware, without sacrificing too much visual quality.

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Photo by Thomas Foster on Unsplash

There are currently several popular SR technologies available, including AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), NVIDIA Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), and Intel Xe Super Sampling (XESS). Each technology has its own strengths and weaknesses, but they all share the common goal of delivering high-quality visuals with improved performance.

The current landscape of PC gaming presents a challenge for developers. In order to support multiple SR technologies from different vendors, they often need to integrate separate APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) into their games. This can be a time-consuming and complex process, potentially hindering the adoption of SR features across a wider range of titles.

Microsoft’s DirectSR: A Unified Solution

DirectSR aims to bridge this gap by offering a single API that works with various SR technologies. Developed by Microsoft in collaboration with AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA, DirectSR essentially acts as a translator, allowing developers to integrate any supported SR technology with minimal effort. This simplifies the development process and reduces the burden on studios, potentially leading to more widespread adoption of SR features in PC games.

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Photo by Alex Haney on Unsplash

Benefits for Gamers

For gamers, DirectSR offers several potential benefits. Here are a few key advantages:

  • Improved Performance: By enabling developers to easily implement SR technologies, DirectSR has the potential to boost performance in games, allowing you to enjoy smoother gameplay at higher resolutions.
  • Wider Choice of SR Options: With DirectSR, developers can offer players a choice between different SR solutions within the game. This empowers you to select the technology that best suits your hardware and preferences.
  • Simplified User Experience: DirectSR aims to eliminate the need for developers to create separate user interfaces for each SR technology. This can lead to a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for gamers within the game’s settings.

Current Status and Availability

DirectSR is still in its early stages, currently available as a developer preview through the Microsoft DirectX Agility SDK. This means it’s not yet implemented in any commercially available games. However, the positive outlook suggests that future PC games could leverage DirectSR to provide a wider range of SR options and a smoother overall gaming experience.

The arrival of DirectSR marks a significant step towards simplifying and standardizing how PC games utilize Super Resolution technologies. While it’s still early days, DirectSR has the potential to benefit both developers and gamers by streamlining the development process and offering a broader range of performance-enhancing options. As DirectSR matures and is integrated into more games, PC gamers can look forward to a future of smoother frame rates and stunning visuals, all without sacrificing precious hardware resources.

Entertainment, Gaming

From Pixels to Primetime: Minecraft Blocks its Way to Netflix

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The trend of video game adaptations continues to gain momentum, with the iconic sandbox phenomenon Minecraft being the latest to join the ranks. Buckle up, block-loving fans, because an animated Minecraft series is officially in the works at Netflix!

Screenshot 2024 06 01 at 01 36 51 Minecraft Series Official Announcement Netflix

This exciting announcement comes hot on the heels of successful video game adaptations like Netflix’s own “The Witcher” and “Arcane” on the same platform. It seems the lines between gaming and mainstream entertainment are blurring faster than a Steve sprinting away from a Creeper.

Minecraft, developed by Mojang Studios and acquired by Microsoft in 2014, boasts a unique, blocky aesthetic and a focus on creativity and exploration. It’s no surprise this beloved title has captivated players for over a decade, selling a staggering 238 million copies as of 2023.

The upcoming Netflix series will be an original story featuring new characters, all set within the familiar world of Minecraft. The animation will be handled by WildBrain, the studio behind popular shows like “Carmen Sandiego” and “Ninjago: Masters of Spinjitzu.” Details about the plot, characters, and release date are still under wraps, but one thing’s for sure: this is a major move for the Minecraft franchise and a potential game-changer for the animated series landscape.

Minecraft Series | Official Announcement | Netflix

However, not everyone is celebrating with a bucket of lava and a diamond pickaxe. Some have expressed concerns about the timing of this announcement. Minecraft’s core audience skews younger, and some viewers worry that a Netflix series might not capture the essence of a game known for its open-ended creativity and player-driven experiences.

Despite the concerns, the potential of a Minecraft series is undeniable. In the right hands, it could introduce a whole new generation of players to the joys of building, exploring, and battling creepers. Only time will tell if this adaptation lives up to the hype, but one thing’s for certain: the blocky world of Minecraft is about to take centre stage on Netflix.