Dead by Daylight is kicking off 2025 with a bang. It is bringing back its popular 2v8 game mode with a twist: a Resident Evil crossover. From February 10th to the 25th, “The Fog” event will unleash a blend of asymmetrical horror and iconic Resident Evil characters, promising a unique gameplay experience.

This marks the third iteration of Dead by Daylight's 2v8 mode since its debut in July 2024, and it's already proving a hit with players eager to test the new take on this familiar formula. This time, the 2v8 mayhem welcomes two Resident Evil Killers: The Nemesis and Albert Wesker, the Mastermind. Joining these two is Dead by Daylight's own creation, The Legion.

Resident Evil is a natural fit for this crossover, having already contributed two dedicated Dead by Daylight Chapters, complete with Killers, Survivors, and various legendary outfits. And what better stage for this clash of titans than the Raccoon City Police Department? All Resident Evil characters will be available in the 2v8 mode during the event.

In addition, Dead by Daylight developers are introducing new themed gameplay elements to enhance the Resident Evil crossover. The Nemesis and Mastermind's powers revolve around infecting and weakening Survivors using the T-Virus and Uroboros, respectively. In a 2v8 match featuring both Killers, a unified antidote will be available in Supply Crates, capable of curing both infections.

Another nod to the Resident Evil universe comes in the form of Herbs. Green and Yellow Herbs will spawn randomly on the map, with the former restoring one Survivor Health State and the latter healing one Hook State. However, Killers can permanently destroy any Herb they find. When they do it, they'll also get a small movement speed boost, adding a strategic layer to their placement. Moreover, two Survivor bots will populate each lobby to streamline Killer queue times.

But that's not all. The new update adds new outfits to the game, with The Nemesis receiving the Nemesis Origin Outfit. At the same time, Albert Wesker will get the New Dawn Outfit from the Resident Evil 4 remake. On the Survivor side, Jill Valentine, Leon Kennedy, Ada Wong, and Rebecca Chambers each receive a new classic outfit.

KitGuru says: Do you play Dead by Daylight? Do you like to see crossovers such as this?

Corsair is expanding its workspace solutions with the Multi Frame Pegboard, a versatile add-on designed to bring order and extra storage to any workstation. Its clamp-on system attaches to your desk, instantly increasing usable space by moving items from the desktop to the pegboard and its accompanying shelves, keeping essential equipment within easy reach.

The Multi Frame Pegboard draws inspiration from the Elgato Multi Frame, originally designed as an add-on for the Platform:6 Desk. Responding to community demand for a standalone version compatible with existing desks, Corsair has delivered. Whether you're a streamer, gamer, or simply someone who appreciates a tidy workspace, the Multi Frame Pegboard offers a compelling solution.

The Multi Frame Pegboard significantly increases storage capacity with two generously sized pegboards, three adjustable shelves, and a selection of hooks. Its universal standard 3060 aluminium T-channel crossbar is a key feature, allowing seamless integration with a wide range of accessories. From Elgato favourites like the Key Light and Flex Arm to custom 3D-printed creations, everything can be easily mounted using the included T-nuts and adapters. The rail also supports attaching one or even two VESA monitor arms, allowing for better monitor placement and reducing desk clutter. Integrated wire management channels further contribute to a clean and professional aesthetic.

Available in 4-foot (120 cm) and 6-foot (180 cm) lengths, the Multi Frame Pegboard accommodates desks 4-foot wide and larger. Choosing between black and white colour options ensures it complements various home office styles. The quick and easy clamp-on mounting system makes installation a breeze. Industry-standard pegboard hole spacing and the included 13 hooks allow for complete customisation of the storage layout. The Multi Frame Pegboard is now available for £399.99 for the 4-foot model and £499.99 for the 6-foot model.

KitGuru says: If you want to add some extra storage capacity to your desk, something like the Multi Frame Pegboard could be a good solution. However, its price might make some forget that idea and look for a cheaper solution.

Thermal Grizzly has expanded its thermal pad lineup by introducing the Minus Pad Basic, Minus Pad Advance, and Minus Pad Pro series. These new pads were built upon the established Minus Pad 8, featuring optimised thermal conductivity, compressibility, and price-performance ratios. Designed for versatility, they are suitable for a wide range of applications, including SSDs, graphics card coolers, GPU water blocks, voltage regulators, and memory modules.

The new Minus Pad series offers a tiered approach to thermal pad performance, allowing users to choose the best option for their needs and budget. All three pad series share some key characteristics, including ease of application, availability in various sizes, and non-electrical conductivity.

The Minus Pad Basic offers good thermal conductivity, slightly reduced compressibility compared to the other Minus Pad series, and an excellent price-performance balance. Stepping up, the Minus Pad Advance brings enhanced thermal conductivity and improved compressibility. Finally, the Minus Pad Pro delivers the highest level of thermal conductivity and excellent compressibility, albeit at a slightly higher price point.

The Minus Pad series is available in 100 x 100mm and 120 x 20mm sizes, with thicknesses ranging from 0.5mm to 3.0mm. This wide selection suits various applications, allowing users to fine-tune their thermal solution for optimal performance. The Basic series starts at €14.90, while the Advance series starts at €19.90. The flagship Pro series starts at €29.90.

KitGuru says: If you needed a few thermal pads, would you consider Thermal Grizzly's new Minus Pad series?

The launch of AMD's RDNA 4 graphics cards appears imminent. A month after sparking interest with a weird announcement at CES and following confirmation of a March release window, AMD CEO Dr. Lisa Su narrowed that down to “early March” during the recent Q4 2024 earnings call. Su stated that these cards will be available for purchase, not just pre-order, suggesting a full product launch by then. 

This news somewhat corroborates the recent rumours of a dedicated AMD press briefing for the Radeon RX 9070 series in late February, a plan that now seems to be confirmed by Su's statement. Adding further credence to the timeline, Uniko's Hardware (via VideoCardz), citing a source, claims to have pinpointed the launch date to March 6th, echoing Su's “early March” timeframe.

It's worth recalling that the launch was initially slated for January 23rd but was pushed back. While AMD remains officially silent on the matter, the fact that many reviewers have already received RX 9070 cards for testing and reports of retail availability suggests that preparations are well underway. This additional six-week lead time could translate to healthier stock levels for the Radeon RX 9070 series GPUs, addressing a common concern with previous Radeon launches. Finally, it's important to note Su's specific mention of the 9070 series, suggesting that the initial launch won't likely include any other GPUs.

Meanwhile, Nvidia remains tight-lipped about its RTX 5070 series, the Radeon RX 9070's competitor. While previous reports point to a February 20th release for the RTX 5070 Ti, with the 5070 following later, no firm date for the latter has been officially announced. Unlike AMD, however, Nvidia has already revealed pricing for its upcoming cards, with the 5070 Ti expected to cost $749 and the 5070 to go for $549.

KitGuru says: Are you planning on upgrading your GPU soon? Will you wait for the AMD Radeon RX 9070 to be released before deciding which GPU to get?

Nvidia has updated its DLSS/RTX guidelines for game developers to help them integrate the recently launched DLSS 4 and Reflex 2 technologies into their titles. These revised standards mandate that developers ensure full support for all user-activated features within their game interfaces. Still, the most interesting part is that the guidelines state that Reflex Low Latency technology doesn't support other frame generation technologies except DLSS.

Reflex 2 uses Reflex Low Latency and the new Frame Warp, with the latter being exclusive to the RTX 50 series and thus only supported in the more recent drivers. On the other hand, Reflex Low Latency enjoys broad compatibility, extending back to Nvidia's Maxwell architecture and starting with the GeForce 455+ drivers.

Nvidia promotes Reflex technology alongside DLSS Frame Generation and DLSS Upscaling to minimise system latency by synchronising game rendering tasks. However, the latest developer guidelines (via Reddit) state that Reflex Low Latency is incompatible with other frame generation techniques, such as AMD's FSR.

While developers haven't typically provided an in-game toggle to enable Reflex when using alternative frame generation methods, workarounds exist through third-party tools like RivaTuner. However, based on what Nvidia says, forcing Nvidia Reflex via this third-party software while playing games using frame generation technologies other than DLSS may not give you any advantage.

KitGuru says: Do you force-enable Reflex using third-party tools? Have you ever noticed a difference when gaming with Reflex turned on via third-party software?

Boulies has recently launched its latest chair: the Master Rex. Building upon the success of the Master Chair, the Master Rex aims to deliver ergonomic support and comfort for work, rest, and play. Key improvements include an integrated leg rest and a more robust “Enhanced Stable Tilt Mechanism” for superior stability and longevity.

Whether you're grinding through a workday, immersed in a gaming session, or simply unwinding, the Master Rex offers a comfortable sitting experience. Its customisable features and clean, modern aesthetics allow it to integrate seamlessly into any home or office environment. The integrated leg rest provides pressure-free reclining, while the adjustable lumbar support promotes proper posture.

The Master Rex offers user users a smooth recline and rocking motion. The backrest adjusts from 95° to 165°, allowing users to find the ideal angle for any activity. The durable tilt mechanism facilitates a 15° rocking range, which can be locked into position for added stability.

The Master Rex features a rounded-edge cushion for optimal ergonomics. These rounded corners conform to the body's natural curves, promoting good posture and reducing pressure on the hips and thighs. The larger seating surface provides ample space to find the perfect sitting position. The 4D armrests, constructed from aluminium, have been redesigned to be firmer, smoother, and more durable. Their softer surfaces offer excellent elbow comfort and support, while height, depth, width, and angle adjustability allow complete customisation.

The Master Rex is available in Ultraflex PU leather (black and brown) and water-repellent fabric (dark grey, light grey, and green). Boulies' refined Ultraflex PU leather combines durability and comfort with a soft feel thanks to its microfibre suede backing. The W/R fabric option has also been upgraded for increased durability and softness. This carefully chosen material is comfortable and breathable, and a specialised coating repels spills and prevents absorption.

Finally, the Master Rex features XL PU casters for hardwood floors and an upgraded aluminium base for enhanced stability. A class-4 gas lift ensures safe and reliable height adjustment. The chair is available from the Boulies website for £329.99 (including a £80 savings campaign).

KitGuru says: Of all Master Rex chair variants, which one do you prefer?

Since its initial reveal in January, AMD's Radeon RX 9070 series has been shrouded in uncertainty. While board partners showcased their custom designs at CES 2025, AMD remained tight-lipped about the release date, leaving attendees and enthusiasts scratching their heads. Subsequent, somewhat cryptic social media posts from an AMD official hinted at a March launch, promising a dedicated event to unveil the new cards properly. However, nothing has been made official yet.

Now, whispers from the industry suggest that the RX 9070 series could be upon us sooner than expected. According to Benchlife (via @harukaze5719), AMD is aiming for an announcement before the end of this month. Interestingly, the Chinese website points to a press conference rather than a full-blown launch event. While AMD hasn't held a formal announcement event, the details of the new cards, including their names, did appear in their CES press kit, blurring the lines somewhat.

Although the report mentions the date for the event, it doesn't say anything regarding the actual release. However, the latest reports point to late March, so it could take about a month after the announcement to see the first Radeon RX 9070 series GPUs hitting the shelves.

While the usual suspects like stock levels and software optimisation might have been part of the reason for the delay of these cards, Nvidia has also undoubtedly played a significant role here. With the GeForce RTX 5070 series also expected to launch in the latter half of February, AMD is likely playing a waiting game, carefully assessing the market response to Nvidia's offerings before finalising its pricing strategy.

KitGuru says: Do you have high hopes for the AMD Radeon RX 9070 series graphics cards?

AMD's CES 2025 keynote unveiled the Ryzen 9000HX series codenamed “Fire Range”, the successor to the 7000HX “Dragon Range”. Effectively, a BGA-packaged version of a “Granite Ridge” chip, Fire Range CPUs combine one or two “Zen 5” CCDs with a client I/O die. While it lacks an integrated NPU and sports a basic iGPU, its focus is clear: enthusiast gaming laptops and mobile workstations. 

The 28 PCIe Gen 5 lanes provide ample bandwidth for the discrete GPUs it's designed to complement. The Ryzen 9 9955HX3D is the headlining model in the series, the sole model featuring 3D V-Cache. This chip has the potential to claim the crown of the fastest mobile CPU for gaming, potentially even outpacing Intel's Arrow Lake-HX, especially if the desktop 9800X3D's performance relative to the Core Ultra 9 285K is anything to go by.

Dream Machines (via VideoCardz) has already announced its intention to bring laptops powered by the 9955HX3D to market, with an estimated arrival window of late March or early April 2025. Reports suggest AMD has secured various contracts with several major laptop OEMs, pointing towards a potentially successful market run for these new Fire Range chips, unlike its predecessors.

However, this top-tier performance will come at a cost. Dream Machines listings of these upcoming laptops start at €2,530 (~£2100) for configurations pairing the 9955HX3D with an RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU, while the flagship RTX 5090 Laptop GPU variant is predicted to command a price tag closer to €3,860 (~£3200). These laptops will have 16-inch 300 Hz displays, 16 GB of DDR5-5200/5600 memory, and a 1 TB NVMe SSD.

KitGuru says: Would you consider getting a high-end gaming laptop? If so, would you go for one with an AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX3D CPU or something less capable (and potentially cheaper) would be enough?

Razer has just unveiled a fresh look for its premium Xbox controllers. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition are now available in a new white colourway. This crisp aesthetic contrasts the original design, appealing to competitive console and PC gamers who appreciate clean and minimalist aesthetics.

The white Wolverine V3 range delivers the same lightning-fast responsiveness, esports-optimised ergonomics, and tournament-grade performance as the standard models. The four mouse click-back buttons and the two claw gripper bumpers are all remappable, giving the player an extra layer of control. The controllers also feature Razer Pro Hyper Triggers, which can be configured for short or long trigger pulls, mecha-tactile action buttons, an 8-way floating D-pad, and Hall-effect thumbsticks.

The Wolverine V3 Pro, Razer's flagship wireless esports controller, is officially licensed by Xbox and designed to give players the edge in competitive scenarios. For those who prefer a wired connection, the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is an equally good option (and also cheaper). Also officially licensed by Xbox, this wired controller offers a 1000 Hz polling rate, giving competitive gamers the confidence they need to perform at their best on Xbox and PC.

The Wolverine V3 Pro white comes with a carrying case and costs £199.99/$199.99/€219.99. The Tournament Edition white controller costs £99.99/$99.99/€109.99.

KitGuru says: Although 100 pounds for a wired controller looks steep, the rest of Wolverine V3 ProTournament Edition's feature set sure looks impressive. Whether that justifies its price is up to the buyer.

Intel's upcoming Core Ultra 7 255H mobile processor shows impressive single-threaded performance in a leaked PassMark benchmark, but its multi-core capabilities raise concerns.

The Passmark results (via Notebookcheck) reveal a significant generational leap in single-threaded performance. The Core Ultra 7 255H scored 4631 points, a 32% increase over the Core Ultra 7 155H CPU. This impressive gain can be attributed to the new “Lion Cove” P-cores and TSMC's N3B process technology. Interestingly, the 255H even outperforms the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 “Strix Point” APU by around 17% in single-threaded performance.

However, the tables turn regarding its multi-core performance, where the 255H falls behind the Strix Point chip by over 20%. This discrepancy highlights the impact of Intel's decision to remove hyperthreading support from its non-K Core Ultra 200 series CPUs. While this move benefits single-threaded performance, it limits the multi-core capabilities of these processors. Despite the disappointing multi-core results, the Core Ultra 7 255H still shows a respectable 12% multi-threaded performance improvement over its predecessor.

It's worth noting that Arrow Lake-H CPUs will feature integrated GPUs with up to eight Xe LPG+ cores. While these iGPUs are expected to be slower than the Xe2-based graphics in Lunar Lake processors, they should still offer decent performance for casual gaming and everyday tasks. These processors should be available this quarter with new laptops from different manufacturers.

KitGuru says: Based on these results, the Arrow Lake-H processors will likely perform better than AMD's latest Ryzen AI 300 series in gaming when paired with a discrete GPU. However, we expect AMD Strix Point processors to be the better option for productivity.

As expected, Nvidia's RTX 50 series launch didn't have enough stock for the demand. It was predictable that stock would run relatively fast, especially considering the reported low product count arriving at retailers. As if that wasn't enough, it seems the next batch of cards will take a while to arrive, with some retailers expecting that it could be months before we see a new RTX 5090 card for sale.

While the initial launch of the RTX 5090 and 5080 Founders Edition cards went smoothly, with positive reviews and impressive benchmarks, gamers eager to get their hands on the new cards face a frustrating reality: limited availability. OverclockersUK has reported that its initial RTX 50 series cards stock has completely sold out, and pre-orders are currently unavailable. According to the retailer, more RTX 5080 cards are expected to arrive in 2 to 6 weeks. As for the RTX 5090 cards, they can take 3 to 16 weeks.

Similar reports are emerging from other regions. In the Netherlands (via Megekko forums), sources suggest that the Asus RTX 50 series cards are being shipped in batches, with varying availability depending on the specific model. Furthermore, there are claims that Nvidia won't be shipping any more Founders Edition cards until March, potentially leaving gamers with limited options for purchasing the reference designs.

Later this month, we're expected to see the launch of the RTX 5070 series cards. Hopefully, these won't have the same stock issues.

KitGuru says: Were you planning to get an RTX 5080 or RTX 5090? Were you lucky enough to get one of these at launch?

Fans of Need for Speed might have to temper their expectations for a new entry in the franchise. Criterion Games, the studio behind the franchise, has confirmed that the next Need for Speed game won't come anytime soon as the team shifts its focus to developing the next Battlefield title.

This isn't the first time Criterion has lent its expertise to the Battlefield franchise. The studio played a significant role in developing Battlefield 2042, Battlefield V, and Battlefield 1. However, this time, it seems their involvement in the upcoming Battlefield title is taking priority, putting the next Need for Speed game into second plan.

Given the current development timeline for the next Battlefield game, which, according to recent footage, is in pre-alpha, it's unlikely a new fully-fledged NFS game will be released for several years. Considering the typical development cycle for AAA games and Criterion's statement (via Eurogamer), active production on the next Need for Speed won't begin until the new Battlefield is complete. If that's the case, fans might have to wait until the early 2030s for a new entry in the racing franchise.

While EA could assign another studio to develop a new Need for Speed game, this seems unlikely. Criterion Games has a wealth of experience in the racing genre, and finding another studio with the same expertise in this genre would be a challenge. We could argue that Codemasters might be able to do something out of the Need For Speed franchise, but it would probably go into a more realistic racing experience than your usual NFS game.

KitGuru says: This extended hiatus marks a significant shift for the Need for Speed series, which enjoyed annual releases between 1997 and 2013. If the current release cadence holds, December 2025 will mark the longest gap between two Need for Speed titles since the franchise's inception in 1994.

Nvidia's RTX Video Super Resolution (RVSR) technology, which uses the power of your GPU to upscale video content, has received a significant update that addresses one of its main drawbacks: power consumption.

RTX VSR allows you to enjoy sharper and more detailed videos in your web browser or media player, even if the source is low resolution. Imagine watching Netflix in 4K, even if the stream is only available in 1080p. However, this magic comes at a cost, as the initial version of RTX VSR was notorious for its high power consumption, with some users reporting their GPUs drawing over 200W while upscaling video.

Thankfully, Nvidia has listened to feedback and optimised RTX VSR for improved efficiency. The latest update introduces a new AI model that reduces power consumption by up to 30%, allowing you to enjoy enhanced visuals without putting excessive strain on your graphics card. RTX VSR is now integrated into the Nvidia App, making it easier than ever to access and control. To enable the feature, navigate to the “System” menu, then “Video,” and adjust it according to your preferences. You can also choose to display an on-screen indicator to indicate when RTX VSR is active.

The update also introduces a new “Auto” quality level that dynamically adjusts the upscaling intensity based on the video content and your GPU's capabilities. Alternatively, select “Manual” and choose one of the presets available to set the upscaling quality.

KitGuru says: Do you use Nvidia's RTX Video Super Resolution? Have you ever noticed high GPU power consumption while upscaling a video using this technology?

The success of Black Myth: Wukong shows no signs of slowing down. The action RPG, inspired by the classic Chinese tale Journey to the West, has surpassed the 25 million copies sold worldwide.

Since its launch in August 2024, Black Myth: Wukong has amassed an enormous community with its visuals, gameplay, and story. It has become the single-player game in Steam history with the most concurrent in-game players, peaking at over 2.2 million users soon after launch.

This incredible momentum continued, with the game selling 10 million copies in its first three days and reaching 20 million sales within a month. Now, nearly six months after its debut, Black Myth: Wukong has crossed the 25 million mark, according to Niko News (via Game World Observer).

While the game has garnered a dedicated fanbase worldwide, its popularity in China is at another level. It has become a cultural phenomenon. According to Yicai Global, a recently opened Black Myth: Wukong merchandise store in the country reportedly earned over $410,000 within its first three days, and many products quickly sold out.

KitGuru says: With its impressive sales figures, critical acclaim, and dedicated fanbase, the game is already a success even if it doesn't sell any more copies. However, we believe that won't happen, and the sales figures will only increase as time passes.

A new State of Play event is reportedly just around the corner, potentially bringing a few exciting announcements and updates later this month.

Gaming insider NatetheHate (via VGC) has hinted that Sony is planning a State of Play event sometime during February without specifying a date. However, when asked for it, the leaker answered, “What does your heart tell you?”, suggesting that it would occur during the week of Valentine's Day.

While details about the rumoured State of Play remain scarce, there's plenty of speculation about what Sony might have up its sleeve. Potential highlights could include updates on highly anticipated titles like Ghost of Tsushima 2 and Death Stranding 2, as well as the announcement of new content for Astro Bot. Moreover, there should be time to show a few new titles during the presentation.

This news comes after a relatively quiet start to the year for PlayStation, with only minor announcements and updates to Sony's platform. On the other hand, Nintendo and Xbox have been making waves with their recent announcements, including the first look at Switch 2 and the surprise reveal of Ninja Gaiden 4 and a Ninja Gaiden 2 remake.

KitGuru says: Do you usually watch PlayStation's State of Play presentations? What will Sony showcase during the next event?

Colorful, a major Nvidia board partner in China, has seemingly leaked key details about the upcoming GeForce RTX 5060 series, including a potential March release date.

This information comes from Chaintech (via @wxnod), a Taiwanese company that supplies components to Colorful. Based on Chaintech's 2025 earnings forecast presentation, we know the supposed release dates for all the RTX 50 series cards. With the RTX 5090D (China exclusive) and RTX 5080 already available, we can expect to get the RTX 5070 series later this month, including the RTX 5070 and RTX 5070 Ti. Afterward, in March, we can expect the RTX 5060 Ti and RTX 5060. This aligns with previous rumours and suggests that Nvidia aims to complete its RTX 50 series lineup within the year's first quarter.

Image credit: Chaintech (via @wxnod)

Based on previous rumours, it's believed that there will be two RTX 5060 Ti models: one with 16 GB of GDDR7 memory and another with 8 GB. This has been corroborated by an EEC filing by MaxSun (via @Olrak29_), another Nvidia board partner, showing both 16G and 8G models. As for the RTX 5060, it's expected to launch with 8 GB of memory unless Nvidia decides to use 3 GB memory modules.

The GeForce RTX 5060 series is poised to compete with AMD's upcoming Radeon RX 9060 series, which is expected to launch later this year. The RTX 5060 non-Ti could also face competition from Intel's Arc B580, which offers a compelling combination of performance and value in the mainstream segment, albeit with not-so-good drivers (which can always be improved with time).

KitGuru says: What kind of performance are you expecting from the RTX 5060 series cards?

Thermal Grizzly has expanded its KryoSheet line of liquid metal thermal pads with a new size specifically designed for the Nvidia GB 202 GPU of the GeForce RTX 5090 graphics cards.

This pre-applied liquid metal pad offers a convenient and effective alternative to traditional thermal paste, simplifying the installation and improving cooling performance. The new KryoSheet measures 44 x 37 mm, covering the GB202-300-A1 GPU in the RTX 5090. It extends slightly beyond the chip's edges, requiring electrical insulation of the surrounding components. To address this, Thermal Grizzly includes a TG Kapton Insulation Sheet with the new KryoSheet.

Applying the KryoSheet is a straightforward process:

1. Clean and degrease the GPU and surrounding area using isopropanol or a similar cleaning agent.
2. Apply the Kapton Insulation Sheet, aligning the strips along the borders of the GPU die. Ensure that the Kapton strips do not cover the GPU itself.
3. Once the surrounding area is insulated, apply the KryoSheet according to the included instructions.

The KryoSheet does not need to be cut to size, as it is already sized for the RTX 5090's GPU. Thermal Grizzly's KryoSheet offers a hassle-free way to experience the benefits of liquid metal cooling. Its pre-applied design eliminates the mess and potential risks associated with liquid metal application, making it suitable for air- and water-cooled RTX 5090 graphics cards.

KitGuru says: If you got an RTX 5090, would you use the Thermal Grizzly KryoSheet to reduce temperatures?

Intel has confirmed part of its CPU roadmap for the next two years, confirming the arrival of Panther Lake in 2025 and Nova Lake in 2026. But while Panther Lake's future in the desktop market remains uncertain, Nova Lake could shake things up with a new architecture with dual CPU tiles.

During its Q4 earnings call, Intel shed light on its upcoming processor plans. Panther Lake, the successor to the current Core Ultra 200 series, is scheduled for launch in the second half of 2025. However, Intel has not confirmed whether Panther Lake will be available for desktop PCs.

Following Panther Lake, Intel will unleash Nova Lake in 2026. Unlike its predecessor, Nova Lake has explicitly mentioned that it will have a desktop variant, suggesting a potential shift in Intel's strategy. Leaks from Reddit user Exist50 (via HXL) suggest that Nova Lake could feature a hybrid architecture with two 8P+16E tiles. These tiles are expected to combine “Coyote Cove” P-cores and “Arctic Wolf” E-cores.

Intel's Nova Lake SKUs would come for desktops (Nova Lake-SK), featuring up to 16x P-cores and 32x E-cores on two tiles. The high-end mobile (HX), mainstream mobile (H), and low-power mobile (U) variants would feature a single CPU tile. The Nova Lake-HX platform for enthusiast gaming laptops is rumoured to feature up to 8x P-cores and 16x E-cores, potentially indicating a move away from using the same dies as desktop CPUs. As for Nova Lake-S and Nova Lake-H SKUs, these would come with up to 4x P-cores and 8x E-cores. Lastly, the Nova Lake-U chips would pack up to 4x P-cores only.

During the earnings call, Intel also announced a delay for Falcon Shores, its next-generation XPU/GPU designed for the data centres. Originally intended to compete with rival AI accelerators, Falcon Shores will now be used internally as a test chip. Instead, Intel will focus on Jaguar Shores, the successor to Falcon Shores, for its next data centre offering.

KitGuru says: Do you think Panther Lake will come to the desktop, or will Intel Core Ultra's next-generation CPUs use the Nova Lake platform?

Sandfall Interactive has unveiled the official PC system requirements for its upcoming turn-based RPG, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. This title, powered by Unreal Engine 5, promises a captivating blend of strategic combat and real-time exploration, bringing a spin to the traditional turn-based combat of RPGs.

Before you embark on your journey into the mysterious world of Clair Obscur, make sure your PC is up to the task. To experience the game at 1080p resolution with low settings at 30 FPS, you'll need at least an Intel Core i7-8700K or AMD Ryzen 5 1600X processor, 8 GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070, an AMD Radeon RX Vega 56, or an Intel Arc A580 graphics card. It also requires 55 GB of free disk space for installation.

For those seeking a more visually stunning and fluid experience at 1080p with high settings and 60 FPS, the developers recommend an Intel Core i7-11700K or AMD Ryzen 5 5600X processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a more powerful GPU like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 or AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT. Here are the detailed system requirements for Clair Obscur:

MINIMUM

• Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
• OS: Windows 10
• Processor: Intel Core i7-8700K / AMD Ryzen 5 1600X
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Ti 8GB / AMD Radeon RX Vega 56 8GB / Intel Arc A580 8GB
• DirectX: Version 12
• Storage: 55 GB available space
• Additional Notes: For 1080p 30FPS low settings gameplay.

RECOMMENDED

• Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
• OS: Windows 11
• Processor: Intel Core i7-11700K / AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 8 GB / AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT 16 GB
• DirectX: Version 12
• Storage: 55 GB available space
• Additional Notes: For 1080p 60FPS high settings gameplay.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will be released on April 24 on PC (Steam, Microsoft Store), Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5. It will also be available at launch via Game Pass on PC, Xbox Series X|S, and Cloud.

KitGuru says: Are you interested in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33? Is your PC ready for it?

Philips is entering the gaming projector scene with a bang! The GamePix 900, the company's first dedicated gaming projector, is now available for pre-order at an enticing introductory price.

This projector combines high-end specs with good value (at least during its initial campaign), offering a compelling alternative to traditional gaming displays. The GamePix 900 boasts 4K resolution at 60Hz, 1440p at 120Hz, and a 240 Hz refresh rate at 1080p. With a claimed input lag of just 6 ms at 240 Hz, it should offer a decently responsive gaming experience.

The GamePix 900 delivers up to a 120-inch display with HDR10 support and 95% Rec. 709 colour space coverage, bringing games to life with vibrant colours and deep contrast. Its 1000 ANSI lumens LED light source ensures bright and vivid images, even in well-lit environments. Philips has tailored the GamePix 900 to the needs of gamers with three dedicated gaming modes for different genres: Action, Adventure, and Sports. Its compact 2 kg design makes it easy to transport and set up for gaming on the go. The GamePix 900's LED light source is rated for an impressive 30,000 hours of operation, providing years of reliable performance.

For a limited time, the first 1,000 pre-orders of the GamePix 900 will be available at a special introductory price of £495/$599/€699 (excluding VAT, US taxes, and shipping). This represents a significant discount from the regular MSRP of £819/$999/€1199. Pre-orders are now available on the official Philips Projection website. Regular retail availability is expected in April 2025.

KitGuru says: Have you ever played games on a projector? Would you replace a projector for your TV or monitor?

Asus has addressed the recent concerns surrounding its PCIe Q-Release Slim, a GPU release mechanism built into some motherboards to simplify graphics card removal. While acknowledging the potential for cosmetic wear and tear on the PCIe connector, Asus maintains that the mechanism does not cause functional damage to the graphics card or the motherboard.

The Asus Q-Release Slim graphics card release mechanism, featured on premium AMD and Intel 800-series motherboards, allows users to eject their graphics cards by tilting the card and tugging it upward (or sideways) while the PCIe push-latch automatically releases it. While this sounds simple, various reports claim that small bits of the PCIe connector can be damaged in certain circumstances. Based on the photos supplied, this does not affect actual PCIe connection pins, meaning functionality and performance should be unaffected. However, PCB abrasion is never a good thing.

In response to these reports, Asus said that “In [its] internal testing and evaluation of the extremely small number of cases reported, [it] found no damage to the motherboard or graphics card that would affect functionality and/or performance. However, it is important to emphasise that any type of PCIe add-in card will exhibit signs of usage and wear marking after 60 continuous insertions and removals”.

Asus also stressed that following the proper removal procedure minimises the risk of damage. Still, reports of wear after only 60 insertions and removals raise questions about the long-term durability of the Q-Release Slim mechanism. PCIe slots and card-edge connectors are typically rated for a limited number of mating cycles. While the exact number varies depending on the manufacturer and design, the industry standard is around 50 cycles for regular slots.

It's possible that specific slot configurations or usage patterns might increase the risk of wear with the Q-Release Slim mechanism. However, Asus maintains that the wear observed in the reported cases is within the expected range for normal usage and does not pose a functional risk to the graphics card or the motherboard.

KitGuru says: Do you own a motherboard with this GPU release system? Have you ever noticed if it has caused damage or wear to your graphics card?

Intel's Arc Battlemage GPU family might be getting a few new members. New PCI IDs spotted in Intel's Linux patches suggest the company is preparing to launch three additional Battlemage graphics cards.

While the current Battlemage lineup consists of only the Arc B580 and B570, rumours have been swirling about a more powerful Battlemage GPU, the BMG-G31. The new PCI IDs found by @GawroskiT differ from the existing IDs for the B580 and B570, suggesting that Intel plans to release more Battlemage cards.

In addition, there are reports that Intel has started shipping cards with a clamshell memory configuration. This could allow for increased VRAM capacity, potentially paving the way for a 24GB Arc Battlemage graphics card. This aligns with previous rumours suggesting a 24GB Arc Pro model for workstations and AI workloads could be on the way.

With their upcoming GPU releases, Nvidia and AMD are focusing on the high-end and mainstream segments. As such, Intel could well capitalise on the demand for capable and affordable gaming graphics cards. We've already seen what Battlemage can do in the £200-£300 bracket, and it's generally solid – at least when talking about raw performance. Expanding to other pricing segments would surely put some welcome pressure on AMD and Nvidia.

KitGuru says: What do you think these three new Intel PCI IDs stand for? Are they for workstation solutions, consumer cards, or a mix of both?

GOG is replacing the Community Wishlist tool with a new system called Dreamlist. Like its predecessor, Dreamlist will give gamers the power to revive their favourite classic titles, allowing users to vote on which retro games they want to see restored and preserved on the GOG platform.

GOG, known for its dedication to bringing classic games to modern audiences, has long championed game preservation. Its latest project, Dreamlist, takes this commitment further by giving the community a direct voice in the preservation process.

Essentially an evolution of GOG's Community Wishlist, Dreamlist allows users to vote on the games they want to see updated and supported on the platform. This feedback helps GOG prioritise its preservation efforts and signals to rights holders that there's a demand for these classic titles, potentially paving the way for their re-release.

GOG's Preservation Program focuses on revitalising classic games that their original developers or publishers might have abandoned. This can involve adding support for higher resolutions, modern controllers, cloud saves, and other enhancements that make these games more accessible and enjoyable for today's players. Dreamlist streamlines this process by providing a direct channel for community feedback. Some of the games advanced by GOG's staff include Freelancer, Resident Evil: Code Veronica X, Command & Conquer: The Ultimate Collection, Final Fantasy VII, The Operative: No One Lives Forever, Alien Trilogy, Diablo II and Discworld 1.

KitGuru says: While Dreamlist offers a promising avenue for game preservation, it's important to acknowledge the challenges involved. Reviving retro PC games can be complex, often requiring technical expertise and navigating complicated rights issues. However, the power of a passionate community shouldn't be underestimated. Together, gamers can demonstrate demand for these games and potentially influence their re-release, ensuring that these gems of gaming history are not forgotten.

In a surprising move, Sony has announced it will no longer require players to link their PlayStation Network (PSN) accounts to play certain PC titles.

This decision comes after widespread criticism from PC gamers who objected to the PSN account requirement for games like Marvel's Spider-Man 2, The Last of Us Part II Remastered, God of War Ragnarök, and Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. Starting with the launch of Marvel's Spider-Man 2 on PC, these titles will no longer require a PSN account to play. This change will also be applied retroactively to previously released PC versions of these games.

However, Sony isn't completely abandoning the idea of connecting PSN accounts to PC games. They've recognised the benefits of integration and have announced plans to offer exclusive perks to players who link their accounts. Players who link their PSN accounts to PC games can receive various in-game bonuses. For example, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 will offer early access to suits, while God of War Ragnarök will provide a resource bundle and an armour set. Other benefits may include access to exclusive content and trophy support for their PC gameplay.

Sony's decision to remove the mandatory PSN account requirement is a positive step towards fostering a more inclusive and accessible PC gaming experience. It removes a barrier that many gamers find frustrating and allows them to enjoy these titles without the hassle of creating a new account.

KitGuru says: While the option to link accounts and receive exclusive perks remains, the choice is now entirely up to the player. This flexibility gives gamers more control over their experience and respects their privacy preferences.