Sony has just announced a new collection of Plates for the PlayStation 5 they’re calling the “Deep Earth Collection”. This premium range of accessories features a smooth metallic finish and introduces three captivating colours to customise your PlayStation 5 – Volcanic Red, Cobalt Blue, and Sterling Silver. The new plates draw inspiration from the breathtaking and powerful hues found deep within our planet, the ‘Deep Earth Collection’ adds a touch of sophistication to your gaming setup.
Source: PlayStation
Volcanic Red, with its rich and blazing red tone, promises to be a vibrant and captivating change to your DualSense controllers or console. Cobalt Blue, on the other hand, offers a deep shade of blue with intriguing hints of purple, creating a truly mesmerizing aesthetic. Lastly, Sterling Silver showcases a classic aesthetic with a subtle blue undertone, adding a touch of elegance to your gaming setup.
Source: PlayStation
Source: PlayStation
Source: PlayStation
Together with the plates, Sony is also launching a series of controllers that come with the same finish as the plates. The new “Deep Earth” DualSense Controllers will be complementing your “Deep Earth” plates or simply inject some character into your most used controllers. It’ll definitely be turning heads with the pop of colour.
Source: PlayStation
Pricing & Availability
Pre-orders for the ‘Deep Earth Collection’ begin on October 4, with the Volcanic Red and Cobalt Blue colourways launching on November 3. Sterling Silver accessories will arrive on January 26, allowing you to start the new year in style.
The ‘Deep Earth DualSense controllers’ will be available for a recommended retail price (RRP) of USD$74.99/JPY¥9,980/EUR€74.99/GBP£64.99. Meanwhile, the Deep Earth PS5 console covers will be priced at USD$59.99/JPY¥7,980/EUR€59.99/GBP£49.99. Keep in mind that the exact launch date and availability of these accessories may vary by region.
It’s that time of year again – new(ish) Nintendo Switch bundles are here. Starting from October 6, you can dive into the world of Super Mario with the Nintendo Switch™ Mario Kart™ 8 Deluxe Bundle. This bundle includes a digital copy of the thrilling racing game and a three-month individual membership to Nintendo Switch Online, providing you with all the essentials to embark on your Super Mario adventures.
However, one massive thing you have to take note of is that we’re not talking about the OLED version of the Nintendo Switch. We’re talking about the regular Switch which also means that the bundle is technically the same bundle that we’ve seen from Nintendo previously.
But that’s not all! October 6 also marks the arrival of two enchanting Nintendo Switch Lite system bundles. These bundles feature charming designs inspired by the beloved Animal Crossing™: New Horizons game and include a digital version of the game itself.
If you’re a fan of Animal Crossing, you’re in for a treat. The exclusive Nintendo Switch Lite bundles are inspired by the charming world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons. Here’s what you can expect:
Nintendo Switch Lite Isabelle’s Aloha Edition – Animal Crossing: New Horizons Bundle (Target Exclusive): This bundle includes a coral-coloured system adorned with a leaf design on the front and a white leaf motif on the back.
Nintendo Switch Lite Timmy & Tommy’s Aloha Edition – Animal Crossing: New Horizons Bundle (Walmart Exclusive): Only available at Walmart, this exclusive bundle features a cool turquoise-coloured system with the same leaf-inspired design.
While these bundles are exclusive to the U.S., it wouldn’t surprise us to see these bundles come to Malaysia in stores like Impulse Gaming, Atlas Gamers and M4G.
It’s the perfect time to get your Switch or Switch Lite if you don’t already have one. Nintendo has had one of the best lineups for their hybrid console this year with games like Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and Metroid Prime Remastered. Let’s not forget the upcoming Super Mario Bros. Wonder game, set to launch on October 20.
Unity has been at the receiving end of ire from the Game development community and here’s what’s happening.
In a startling move that has left the game development community reeling, Unity, the company behind one of the most prolific game engines, has announced a new pricing model set to go live on January 1, 2024. Unlike Unity’s traditional royalty-free licensing structure, this change introduces a “per-install” fee, triggering outrage and concern among developers.
Breaking Down the New Pricing Structure
Unity’s “Runtime Fee” is poised to impact developers based on the number of game installations. The fee structure varies depending on the subscription tier:
Unity Personal: Developers under this tier will incur a $0.20 per-install fee after their game achieves $200,000 in annual revenue and 200,000 lifetime installs.
Unity Pro and Enterprise: These tiers will experience slightly lower per-install fees starting at $0.125 to $0.15 after a game reaches $1 million in annual revenue and 1 million total installs. Volume discounts will apply for heavily installed games, potentially going as low as $0.01 per install for games with 1 million monthly installations.
The new pricing model will affect certain countries, including the United States, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, South Korea, and the United Kingdom. In other countries, an “emerging markets rate” ranging from $0.005 to $0.02 will apply after meeting the minimum thresholds.
Source: Unity Technologies
Developer Shock, Outrage & Concerns
Unity’s decision to switch to a per-install fee structure has sparked widespread anger within the game development community. This change fundamentally contradicts Unity’s previous approach, which allowed developers making under $100,000 per month to enjoy fee-free usage of the Unity engine. Larger developers, earning $200,000 or more monthly, paid only per-seat subscription fees for access to Unity’s full-featured Editor.
This shift has not only infuriated developers but has also cast a shadow on trust in Unity. Many developers are concerned about retroactive changes, as the new fee structure will apply to previously existing Unity games. Developers who invested significant time and resources into Unity based on its royalty-free structure now feel betrayed.
I was wrong. This is how the fees are working out for Rust:
Lifetime we'd have paid them about $410k more. About $40k a year. Last month it would have cost us $2,517.
While this isn't much, here's some stuff I don't like:
– Unity can just start charging us a tax per install? -…
The outcry was loudest on X, formerly Twitter. Developers were up in arms as the changes in the pricing structure for Unity’s game engine could result in Unity charging more than the developer will ever make. This would create a very unsustainable development cycle for games. In a post on X, Gary Newman, founder of Facepunch – the company behind the hit game Rust, outlined that the new pricing policy not only increases the price of maintaining and developing games, it does so exponentially. In his post, he outlines what would have cost his company USD$410,000 over the lifetime of the game, it would cost the company USD$2,517 a month barring increases to the install base of Rust. In an interview with IGN, Newman has come out saying that Rust 2 would not be a Unity based game due to the changes.
Developer Aggro Crab also highlights that games on services like Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Plus would incur costs simply for access to the user base when they agree to list on these services. Let’s not forget massive games like Honkai Star Rail and Genshin Impact that use Unity’s development engine and are free to play would incur massive fees which could put companies like Hoyoverse and Aggro Crab out of business. Let’s not forget games like PokémonGO.
Possible Misuse and Privacy Concerns
Developers fear the potential for abuse in a per-install fee model. Groups of gamers with a history of “review bombing” could theoretically engage in “install bombing” by repeatedly installing and deleting a game, incurring costs for the developer with each new installation. Pirated copies of games could also be factored into the fee calculations, adding costs for illicit downloads.
Initially, Unity stated that the per-install fee would apply even if a user deleted and re-installed a game. However, they later adjusted this stance to charge only for the initial installation on a single device with exceptions for secondary devices like the Steam Deck. In addition, the wording of the announcement and its terms and conditions indicate that fees would be incurred by the distributing entity. This would mean that platforms like Steam, Epic Game Store and App Store would be the ones who would incur the charge and not developers.
Developers also question Unity’s ability to accurately track installations, raising concerns about privacy and the accuracy of Unity’s counting methods. These concerns and the uproar at the change in pricing have resulted in a massive dip in Unity’s shares with the trend continuing today after some reprieve. What’s even more intriguing is the fact that the top brass in Unity divested a portion of their shares days before the announcement. CEO Jon Riccitiello alone sold 2,000 shares the week before the announcement according to Kotaku.
Impact on Game Business Models
Unity’s new fee structure could significantly impact the feasibility of various game business models. It may discourage developers from offering low-cost games due to the additional fee burden. Additionally, games distributed through subscription services like Microsoft’s Game Pass may face financial challenges due to per-install fees.
Some developers are urging players not to install their games in protest of the new fee. The overall sentiment among developers is one of frustration and distrust, with many questioning Unity’s commitment to its user base. Some developers are looking into delaying upcoming games to jump to another engine like Valve’s Unreal Engine. It’s worth noting that Unity was launched to “democratize game development” and now, it seems like the company wants to cash in in the most douchy way possible. Having only just gained prominence in recent years, the company is looking at a possible mass exodus of developers from its platform due to the pricing change that is due to come into effect in 2024.
Unity’s announcement has set off a firestorm of controversy, with developers clamouring for changes to restore trust and transparency in their relationship with the platform provider.
PlayStation Plus has announced its games lineup for the month of September, and it’s looking good for open-world and MMORPG fans. If you subscribed to PlayStation Plus, be sure to grab these before they are taken off the store!
Saints Row (PS4 and PS5)
Source: PlayStation
This one’s for the die-hard Saints Row fans. Released early last year, this game features the expansive map of Santo Ileso. You can expect a world that’s a larger-than-life sandbox, plenty of exhilarating side gigs, illicit enterprises, and epic missions.
Traverse this wild landscape by shooting, driving, and soaring in a wingsuit to claim your spot at the top. Seize control of the city, engage in battles against rival factions, and establish your dominance over the urban streets. The game also features online and co-op multiplayer modes so you can choose to play alone or with a friend.
Black Desert – Traveler Edition (PS4)
Source: PlayStation
If you’re looking for an expansive MMORPG, Black Desert – Traveler Edition may be the drink you need to quench that thirst. The game features dynamic PvE battles, epic PvP siege wars, a diverse range of character classes, and specialized combat styles.
You can also opt to immerse yourself in a multitude of Life Skills including trading, fishing, horse training, alchemy, cooking, and more. The Traveler Edition combines the core game with additional expansions such as the Traveler Item Pack for an enhanced gaming experience.
Generation Zero (PS4)
Embark on an immersive first-person open-world journey set in the unforgiving landscapes of 1980s Sweden where robots have invaded the world. Face off against relentless mechanical adversaries while unraveling the mysteries that have befallen the region.
Navigate the perilous terrain with stealth and strategy as you engage in heart-pounding guerrilla warfare against these robotic foes. Salvage valuable components from your defeated adversaries to craft essential gear, armaments, and munitions. Establish and reinforce your personal strongholds throughout the island and fight to take your home back. The game also features co-op multiplayer mode, allowing you to play with up to three of your friends.
Excited to embark on ? Don’t wait too long as these games will only be available to PlayStation Plus members until 2 October!
Logitech has just unveiled two power-packed gaming products tailored to cater to the demands of serious eSports players and everyday gamers. In a gaming arena where precision and performance can make or break a victory, Logitech aims to empower gamers with its latest offerings – the Logitech G Pro X TKL Lightspeed keyboard and the Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 gaming mouse.
The Logitech G Pro X TKL Lightspeed Keyboard
The Logitech G Pro X TKL Lightspeed keyboard is designed with eSports professionals in mind. Gamers can customize their experience by choosing from Tactile Switches (GX Brown), Linear Switches (GX Red), or Clicky Switches (GX Blue) to match their gameplay style. The keyboard’s RGB backlighting can be personalized to create an immersive gaming atmosphere.
But it’s not just about aesthetics. Logitech’s Lightspeed wireless technology ensures minimal latency, surpassing the performance of standard Bluetooth connections. eSports enthusiasts and gamers will find an array of customization options at their fingertips, including programmable F keys that double as G keys for controlling various aspects of their desktop environment.
The Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 Gaming Mouse
The Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 Gaming Mouse represents the next evolution in the gaming mouse domain. Designed to be faster and more precise than its predecessor, this lightweight mouse weighs a mere 60 grams.
Source: Logitech
Under the hood, Logitech has introduced the Lightforce Hybrid switches, combining the best of optical sensors – speed and reliability – with the tactile feel of mechanical switches. This innovative approach ensures durable and responsive clicks.
The Hero 2 sensor takes tracking to new heights, capable of registering movements at a rate of 500 inches per second and offering a staggering 32,000 DPI. Logitech’s unique dual array design ensures accurate tracking even when lifting or tilting the mouse.
Connectivity receives an upgrade with the inclusion of a USB Type-C port. The Superlight 2 features a shape and coating identical to its predecessor, ensuring a seamless transition for existing users.
Battery life also gets a boost – a 26% improvement over the previous model. With Logitech’s Lightspeed Wireless technology, the mouse promises up to 95 hours of gaming on a single charge. The mouse’s zero-additive PTFE feet ensure a smooth glide, vital for optimal gaming performance.
Pricing and Availability
The Logitech G Pro X TKL Lightspeed Gaming Keyboard and Logitech G Pro X Superlight 2 Gaming Mouse are available in pink, black, and white colour options.
The PRO X TKL gaming keyboard is priced at $199 while the PRO X Superlight 2 gaming mouse at $159. These products are now available for purchase on LogitechG.com and in select markets worldwide, including the US and Canada.
Playstation Link Enables Immersive Audio for Remote Play on the Playstation Portal
Sony is known for pushing the boundaries of gaming, and their latest audio products – the Pulse Elite wireless headset and the Pulse Explore wireless earbuds – are no exception.
Pulse Elite Wireless Headset: Over-Ear Immersion for Remote Play
The Pulse Elite is Sony’s brand-new wireless headset designed to take your gaming audio to the next level. One of its standout features is lossless audio, ensuring that you’ll hear every detail with pristine clarity. But that’s not all; it comes equipped with a retractable boom mic enhanced with AI-powered noise rejection. This feature intelligently filters out background noise, keeping your communication crystal clear even in noisy environments.
To add to its convenience, Pulse Elite comes with a charging hanger for easy storage and quick charging, ensuring you’re always ready for your next gaming session. The premium design and comfortable over-ear fit make it perfect for long gaming sessions. The only downside? It requires a USB dongle for use with the PlayStation 5, so keep track of that small but essential piece of tech.
The Pulse Elite is built for audiophiles according to Sony, and that’s why they’ve equipped the Pulse Elite with custom-designed planar magnetic drivers. These drivers are usually found in premium headphones used by sound engineers, guaranteeing an audiophile-level listening experience.
For those who prefer a more portable audio experience, Sony unveiled the Pulse Explore wireless earbuds. These earbuds offer a unique blend of lossless audio quality and low-latency performance, making them perfect for gaming.
But what sets these earbuds apart is their ability to multitask. They can connect to the PlayStation 5 via a USB dongle and simultaneously link to a secondary device via Bluetooth. This means you can stay immersed in your game while taking a phone call or listening to your favourite podcast on the side.
Like the Pulse Elite, the Pulse Explore also features custom-designed planar magnetic drivers for an unmatched listening experience. Plus, their futuristic design complements the PlayStation 5’s aesthetics.
PlayStation Link: Revolutionizing Wireless Audio
Both Pulse Elite and Pulse Explore leverage PlayStation Link, Sony’s proprietary wireless audio technology. This technology offers low latency, lossless audio and seamless switching between multiple PlayStation Link hosts, such as the PS5 with the USB adapter and PlayStation Portal.
The USB adapter included with each headset and earbuds is required for PlayStation Link when using them with the PS5. This adapter will also be available for purchase separately and can be used on PC and Mac, ensuring that you can enjoy the same lossless, low-latency audio experience on your computer.
Pricing & Availability
These two audio devices are a new addition to Sony’s growing slate of PlayStation accessories. Together with the PlayStation Portal, Sony seems to be carving out an ecosystem that centres around the console.
Sony hasn’t revealed availability details just yet. However, the Pulse Explore will be priced at USD$199.99 (MYR932.42), EUR219.99 (MYR1,101.99), GBP199.99 (MYR1,171.15) and JPY29,980 (MYR949.36); while the Pulse Elite is priced at USD$149.99 (MYR699.29), EUR149.99 (MYR750.37), GBP129.99(MYR760.10) and JPY18,980 (MYR600.87).
While Sony might not be making dedicated gaming handhelds anymore (RIP PS Vita), their commitment to delivering top-notch gaming experiences remains unwavering. Sony’s Remote Play feature, which allows gamers to stream their console games locally, has been available for over a decade. And now, Sony is taking it to the next level with the PlayStation Portal, a device designed to bring your PS5gaming experience wherever you go.
This handheld, teased earlier this year as Project Q, is designed to make your PS5 gaming experience portable without compromising on quality. Equipped with an impressive eight-inch 1080p LCD display, it can stream games at up to 60fps.
This isn’t your run-of-the-mill handheld console; it’s a dedicated remote-play device that’s ready to extend your PS5 gaming experience. Sporting controllers that mirror the design and functionality of the PS5’s DualSense controllers, the PlayStation Portal ensures you get that familiar haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, making your gaming experience seamless and consistent.
One crucial aspect that gamers often worry about when it comes to remote play is latency. Will there be a lag that ruins the experience? According to IGN’s review, the PlayStation Portal does an excellent job in this department, offering minimal latency during gameplay.
However, there’s a catch. The PlayStation Portal isn’t a standalone gaming device. Instead, it’s your gateway to streaming games from your PS5 using Wi-Fi. You can only play games that are already installed on your PS5 console; it won’t support PS VR2 games or games streamed through PlayStation Plus Premium’s cloud streaming.
Sony has made an interesting move in the audio department. Instead of offering Bluetooth audio support, they’re introducing their proprietary PlayStation Link wireless technology. It promises lossless, lag-free audio, but it also means the PlayStation Portal won’t work with existing wireless headsets. You’ll need Sony’s new wireless headphones and earbuds, which are launching alongside the Portal.
As for battery life, Sony is aiming for a duration similar to its DualSense controller, which typically lasts around seven to nine hours. Sony hasn’t revealed all the details yet, but they’re targeting a release “later this year.”
Pricing & Availability
The PlayStation Portal will be priced at USD$199.99 (MYR932.42), EUR219.99 (MYR1,101.99), GBP199.99 (MYR1,171.15) and JPY29,980 (MYR949.36).
The handheld remote play device is now available for pre-order in select markets, including the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. Availability in other regions will be announced as they become available.
Nintendo is hyping up its upcoming release of Super Mario Bros. Wonder with a brand new edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED. The Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED is slated for release on October 6, 2023, in select markets.
The new edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED was revealed during the Super Mario Bros. Wonder Direct. It will be released just in time for the highly anticipated Super Mario Bros. Wonder game, set for release on October 20. For Mario fans and Nintendo enthusiasts, the new colourway might just be that push to embrace OLED technology or dive into the Nintendo Switch ecosystem.
The Mario Red Edition Nintendo Switch OLED is just… unghhhh… so pretty. The console, dock, and Joy-Con controllers are drenched in Mario’s signature red colour, with subtle details in a deeper red. The dock features a silhouette of Mario in action, while the back boasts a charming touch – a set of hidden golden coins. It’s a nod to the classic allure of Mario’s adventures.
This design is exclusive to the OLED model of the Nintendo Switch, aligning with Nintendo’s strategy of offering themed consoles alongside major game releases. While the package doesn’t include a copy of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, it’s a perfect way to welcome Mario back in his original 2D platformer glory.
Pricing & Availability
Pre-orders are available directly through Nintendo, and fans in the UK and Australia can expect availability soon. The new Mario Red Edition of the Nintendo Switch OLED will be priced at $349.99 (MYR1,626.47).
Google Play Pass – the company’s answer to Apple Arcade – has made its debut in Malaysia. Play Pass will allow users access to a curated collection of mobile games free from ads and in-app purchases. Think of it like Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass for your Android phone. It currently has over a thousand games available in the catalogue on the Play Store.
Stealthily launched earlier this week in Malaysia, the Google Play Pass costs MYR10.99 per month. Your first month, however, is free. If you opt to subscribe to the Google Play Pass for a year, you’ll be getting a 25% discount with the plan renewing for MYR99 a year. The pass is shareable with up to five family members within a family group.
With the Play Pass, users gain access to games like Monument Valley 2, Stardew Valley, and more, all without ads and in-app payments.
Lilith graces Sanctuary once again this September with the Mother’s Blessing Weekend, bringing generous XP and Gold bonuses for Diablo 4 players.
In response to player feedback on the scarcity of live-service content in Diablo 4, Blizzard Entertainment aims make it up to players with 25% increase in both Gold and XP gains. This event is set to take place from Friday, September 1 at 10:00 AM until Tuesday, September 5 at 10:00 AM PDT.
During this event, players across all World Tiers, including the Seasonal and Eternal Realms, will benefit from the boosted Gold and XP rates. To find this benefit in-game, keep an eye out for a new icon positioned next to your potion count, which signifies the enhanced rate of earning Gold and XP.
This news arrives shortly after the announcement of Diablo 4 Season 2: Season of Blood at Gamescom: Opening Night Live. Scheduled to commence on October 17, Season 2 will introduce captivating content, including a Vampire Hunter companion and vampiric powers.
As the anticipation for Season 2 builds, the Mother’s Blessing Weekend provides an opportunity for players to amass wealth and experience at an accelerated pace. Stay tuned for more updates on Diablo 4 events and developments that may enrich your gameplay.
