How-To Geek - Video Games

Should You Upgrade to the New Slim PS5?

Sydney Butler — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 16:01:39 GMT

Sony has announced a new, slimmer model of PlayStation 5 set for release in the 2023 holiday season. The new model improves the current PS5 design in several key areas. However, if you already own a PS5, should you upgrade?

How to Play Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty in VR for Free

Nalin Rawat — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:01:47 GMT

Cyberpunk 2077 had one of the most disastrous game launches in recent memory. However, CD Projekt Red have redeemed themselves with the newest Phantom Liberty expansion. This is the perfect chance to revisit Night City and totally immerse yourself in the game with a VR headset.

Logitech's New Audio Mixer Software Enters Open Beta

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:17:53 GMT

Available today in open beta, Logitech's new MIXLINE software allows you to control multiple audio sources for livestreaming and monitoring. It utilizes a simple diagram-style interface, which some users may prefer over the traditional "mixing board" layout of other mixers or DAWs. Join the open beta to install MIXLINE for free on Windows.

Alienware's Aurora R16 Has 14th Gen Intel And RTX 4090 GPUs

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:45:30 GMT

It's been just two months since the launch of Alienware's compact Aurora R16 gaming desktop. Still, Alienware sees the need for a refresh. Upgraded configurations of the Aurora R16 go on sale October 17th and include the latest 14th Gen Intel CPUs, plus NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 4090 GPU.

New $299 Xbox Series S ”Starter Bundle” Includes Game Pass

Arol Wright — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 20:17:26 GMT

We're rapidly approaching the holiday season, where console manufacturers usually introduce new bundle deals to win over potential gift-givers. This time around, Microsoft is adding three months of Game Pass Ultimate to its $299 Xbox Series S console, while keeping the price the same. Meet the Xbox Starter Bundle.

Are Game CD Key Sites Safe or Legal?

Sydney Butler — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 11:00:31 GMT

In general, platforms like Steam and the Epic Game Store offer great discounts and competitive pricing for PC games. Many gamers turn to third-party "CD key" sites, though, to save even more money. How legal or risky is this practice?

How to Download and Install Steam on Linux

Abubakar Mohammed — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:31:33 GMT

So, you want to try out gaming on Linux? In this article, let's look at how to install Steam on any Linux distribution to kickstart your Linux gaming journey.

How to Fix a Steam Error Code e20

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 13:01:34 GMT

Are you having trouble logging in to your Steam account? Does your app display an "e20" error code? If so, you aren’t alone. Many users have experienced this error message, preventing them from signing in to their account in the app. Luckily, there are a few ways to resolve this problem, and we’ll show you those ways.

How to Stream to Your Steam Deck (3+ Methods)

Goran Damnjanovic — Sat, 30 Sep 2023 11:00:33 GMT

If you own a Steam Deck and a gaming PC, you can use the latter to stream games locally to the former. You can also use cloud game streaming services on your Deck. Here’s how.

Meta Quest 3 Is Like the Apple Vision Pro, but 1/7th the Price

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:15:57 GMT

With pre-orders starting at $500, the Meta Quest 3 headset boasts full-color video passthrough, a 2064 x 2208 per-eye video resolution, and a second-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset for increased graphical capabilities. It's a clear and compelling upgrade from the Quest 2, especially for those who want to see their real-world surroundings while inhabiting a virtual world. This release may also put a damper on Apple's upcoming Vision Pro headset, which will cost $3,500 and boasts video passthrough as a flagship feature.

How to Play Resident Evil 4 Remake in VR

Nalin Rawat — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 13:00:29 GMT

Resident Evil 4 (RE4) Remake is getting an official VR mode, which is exclusive to the PSVR 2. However, thanks to Praydog's REFramework VR mod, you can play RE4 on a PC VR setup right now. Just follow the steps given below to install the mod and immerse yourself in this remake of a classic zombie horror game.

How to Fix a Steam Error Code 105

Mahesh Makvana — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:00:29 GMT

Are you frustrated by Steam’s error 105 that prevents you from accessing your games? If so, you’ve come to the right place. There are a few ways you can use to resolve this connection error with your app and restore your Steam connectivity. We’ll show you what those ways are here in this guide. Let’s get started.

Error Code 403 on Roblox: 7 Ways to Fix It

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 12:00:30 GMT

Getting an error code 403 while trying to use Roblox on your computer? The error is frustrating, but you have a few ways to resolve it and resume your gaming sessions. We’ll tell you why this error occurs and, most importantly, how you can fix it on your Windows computer. Let’s get started.

Customize Your Xbox, PS5 or Switch Console with Wraps, Stickers and More

Tim Brookes — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:01:29 GMT

Tired of the boring black or white box under your TV? Here’s how to make it stand out without buying a new pricey limited edition console.

The Steam Deck Sequel Isn't Coming Anytime Soon

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:30:42 GMT

It's been nearly two years since the Steam Deck's introduction. But with the recent launch of ASUS' ROG Ally handheld, many gamers are asking when Valve will debut a more powerful Steam Deck. Well, a second-gen Steam Deck is in the works, and it should offer a "leap" in performance without a reduced battery life. It just won't be here anytime soon.

BenQ's New Low-latency 4K Projectors Look Great

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 13:00:29 GMT

Last year, BenQ introduced its X Series projectors, which boast premium gaming features like low-latency 4K video. These projectors scored well in our reviews and enjoy wide praise from gamers. BenQ is now moving forward with three new X Series projectors—the X500i, X300G, and X3100i.

Logitech’s New Yeti Microphones Have RGB Lights and Fewer Options

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:45:35 GMT

More than a decade after its launch, the Blue Yeti microphone is now being revamped. Logitech just opened pre-orders for two new Yeti mics—the Yeti GX and Yeti Orb. These are the first Yeti mics to use Logitech G branding, rather than the original Blue Microphones branding. They're heavily targeted towards the gaming market, both mics feature RGB lighting and other gaming-focused features.

Steam Won't Open? 9 Ways to Fix It

Mahesh Makvana — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 12:01:29 GMT

Want to play your favorite games, but Steam just won’t open on your computer? Many items can cause your favorite game launcher not to launch. Fortunately, you have a few ways to fix the issue and make Steam open as usual on your machine. We’ll show you what those fixes are here in this guide.

Steam Deck vs. Asus ROG Ally vs. Lenovo Legion Go: Which Handheld Is the Best?

Nalin Rawat — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 11:00:25 GMT

The handheld console gaming category has seen a big revival in recent months. While the Steam Deck led the charge in the industry, it was quickly followed by new portable gaming consoles like Asus's ROG Ally and Lenovo's Legion Go. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of some of the most popular handheld gaming consoles in the market.

The PS5 Now Supports 8TB M.2 SSDs and Dolby Atmos Audio

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:37:50 GMT

Two of the PlayStation 5's biggest annoyances just got fixed. The latest PS5 update adds support for 8TB M.2 SSDs, doubling the previous 4TB limit. It also introduces Dolby Atmos surround sound compatibility, which provides a new level of immersion for gamers and greatly improves the PS5's media playback acumen (though developers like Netflix are responsible for adding Dolby Atmos to their respective media apps).

10 Best Offline Android Games

Joe Fedewa — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:01:27 GMT

Mobile games are a great way to pass the time, but you may not always have an internet connection or want to run up your data. Thankfully, there are a lot of great Android games that can be played offline.

How to Get DLSS 2/3 in Starfield for Free

Nalin Rawat — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 13:00:28 GMT

Starfield is one of the biggest game releases of this year, but its performance on PC leaves a lot to be desired. Fortunately, modders have already added NVIDIA's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) support to the game through alternative means. Check out our step-by-step guide on how to add DLSS 3 support to Starfield through mods.

The Best Nintendo Switch Emulators for Windows PCs

Nalin Rawat — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 11:01:27 GMT

The Nintendo Switch is home to many amazing games that are exclusive to the console. Fortunately, gamers can use Nintendo Switch emulators to play Switch-exclusive games without being restricted by the hardware. We have listed some of the best Nintendo Switch emulators that can help you run games on a Windows PC and other platforms.

I Use Multiple Mousepads (And You Should Too)

Matt Herr — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:00:27 GMT

Looking for a cheap way to personalize or switch up your PC setup? Why not try a new mousepad! Here's why I keep and move between a variety of these often overlooked peripherals.

Xbox Series S With 1TB Storage Now Available for $350

Arol Wright — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 14:24:13 GMT

This is an increasingly digital world, and as such, it's odd for our game consoles to come with so little storage out of the box. With most games coming up on 40GB of storage at least, with many crossing the 100GB mark, the digital-only 512GB Xbox Series S is at a disadvantage. Thankfully, there's no an additional storage option for the Xbox Series S.

How to Use Discord on Xbox

Tim Brookes — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 12:01:27 GMT

Discord isn’t just for PC gamers anymore. You can now use it on both Sony and Microsoft consoles, where it makes an excellent alternative to in-game chat for chatting, gaming, and passing the time.

Lenovo's First PC Gaming Handheld Mimics the Nintendo Switch

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:32 GMT

There are already dozens of PC gaming handhelds, including the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, but Lenovo thinks that there's room for one more. Lenovo took to the IFA Berlin conference to introduce Legion Go, a portable Windows console that boasts a powerful CPU, ridiculously fast charging, a screen that's totally overkill, and detachable controllers. The Legion Go launches this October with prices starting at $700.

Lenovo’s Smart Glasses Are Coming to the US, With a New Name

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:32 GMT

Late last year, Lenovo revealed its Glasses T1 wearable display. These fancy OLED smart glasses, which can stand in for a computer monitor or TV, originally launched in China. A North American release was slated for early 2023, but it never occurred. Now, at the IFA Berlin conference, Lenovo is showing off its Legion Glasses—a rebranded version of Glasses T1 that's plainly targeted toward gamers. Lenovo says that the Legion Glasses will arrive stateside this October, and interestingly, they only cost $329.

How to Restart Steam (Even When It Freezes)

Mahesh Makvana — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:00:27 GMT

By restarting Steam on your computer, you can fix minor issues with the app as well as bring certain app changes into effect. You can give your app a reboot even when it won’t respond to your actions. We’ll show you how to do that on your Windows 11, Windows 10, and Mac computer. Let’s get started.

How to Get Custom Songs on Beat Saber for PC & Quest Headsets?

Nalin Rawat — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 12:00:28 GMT

Beat Saber users are not limited to just official music packs but can add custom songs to the game. Since the process can be complicated, follow our step-by-step guide to add custom songs to Beat Saber for PC VR and Quest headsets.

Xbox ”Wraps” Are a New Take On Special Edition Consoles

Arol Wright — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 20:23:20 GMT

Special-edition consoles aren't really a thing anymore, outside of limited production runs or giveaway items. Sony has opted for swappable custom covers for the PlayStation 5, but there hasn't been any options for the Xbox Series X or S outside of third-party skins. The days of special edition Xbox consoles with unique designs might be over, but now at least Xbox Series X owners can buy "wraps," which will give your console a new look without breaking out the screwdriver or carefully applying decal stickers.

What to Do if Your Nintendo Switch Won't Charge

Reyadh Rahaman — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 16:00:29 GMT

If you keep using your Nintendo Switch when it won't charge, it eventually won't turn on at all. This is possibly the result of an issue with its battery. However, before you buy a new battery for your Switch, you should take a close look and do some troubleshooting.

Razer’s BlackWidow V4 75% Is Aimed At Keyboard Enthusiasts

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:32:01 GMT

As a gaming brand, Razer rarely sets its sights on the boutique mechanical keyboard market. That's changing with the BlackWidow V4 75%, which features hot-swappable switches (3 or 5-pin), factory-lubricated stabilizers, a gasket-mounted plate, two layers of sound-dampening foam, and a tape-modded PCB with extra screw holes for stabilizer mods. Not to mention, this keyboard marks the return of Razer's beloved Orange Tactile switches.

Samsung’s Freestyle Projector Just Got an Upgrade

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 15:13:36 GMT

Despite its painful price tag, Samsung's Freestyle projector is pretty excellent. It's small enough to fit in a bag, its 1080p picture looks great, and it can tilt at all angles. Now, Samsung is launching the Freestyle Gen 2 projector, an iterative upgrade that adds built-in cloud gaming capabilities. The Freestyle Gen 2 costs $800 and is now available for pre-order, with orders shipping August 1st.

Microsoft is Shutting Down the Xbox 360 Store

Arol Wright — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 13:58:28 GMT

It's really hard to believe, but the Xbox 360 has been around for almost two decades now. Microsoft's entry in the seventh console generation came out in 2005, 18 years ago as of the time of writing. Since then, a successor, the Xbox One, came out in 2013, and successors to that successor, the Xbox Series X and Series S, came out in 2020. Still, that console was so popular that it's still used a fair bit today, and Microsoft has kept its online store around. Until now, anywya.

8BitDo's New Micro Gamepad Isn’t Just for Gaming

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 15:53:51 GMT

You may be familiar with 8BitDo's premium gamepads, which tend to stick with tried-and-true designs. 8BitDo isn't just a gaming hardware company, though — it makes a lot of other stuff, too. Today marks the launch of the 8BitDo Micro, a keychain-sized controller that weighs just 24.8 grams (about half a pound) but offers a full selection of buttons, minus an analog stick. The 8BitDo Micro is primarily made for Nintendo Switch and Android devices, but it also offers a "keyboard mode" that opens some interesting possibilities on PCs and tablets.

Valve Finally Upgrades Steam Remote Play With 4K Gaming

Cory Gunther — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 15:27:14 GMT

Steam Remote Play is a wonderful feature enabling your primary gaming PC to be used as a streaming box. Then, you can play high-end games on your phone, tablet, Steam Deck, and more, as long as you have a fast enough local network. This week, Valve finally delivered one of the most highly-requested features, which is 4K high-quality streaming.

CrossOver 23 Brings More Windows Apps and Games to Mac

Corbin Davenport — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 18:41:39 GMT

CrossOver is a popular compatibility layer for running Windows software on Mac, Linux, and Chromebooks, based on the open-source Wine project. The developers have been hard at work on a new version with improved DirectX 12 support and other changes, and now it's finally available as the CrossOver 23 update.

LG Retroactively Adds a Burn-in Warranty to Its OLED Gaming Monitor

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:54:31 GMT

The quality of OLED is plainly better than LCD. However, OLED computer monitors are still somewhat rare. Customers worry that these monitors may be vulnerable to OLED burn-in—a problem that's accelerated by non-moving onscreen elements (such as the Windows Taskbar). Now, LG is reassuring potential buyers with a very simple strategy. Instead of pretending that burn-in isn't a problem, it's retroactively adding burn-in coverage to an OLED monitor's two-year warranty.

Valve Now Sells Refurbished Steam Decks at Lower Prices

Arol Wright — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 13:55:16 GMT

The Steam Deck managed to cram PC gaming into a handheld form factor in a way that hadn't quite been done before, largely thanks to Valve's work on a custom Linux-based software experience and the Proton compatibility layer. However, the starting price of $399 is too high for some people. If you've missed the various deals and sales so far, and you don't mind slightly used devices, you now have the option of picking up a refurbishd unit.

8 Ways to Fix "Messages Failed to Load" on Discord

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 14:00:26 GMT

Are you getting a “Messages Failed to Load” error in Discord’s desktop app? The platform’s servers may be acting up, or your Discord client may have an issue. Luckily, you don’t have to keep waiting forever as there are fixes you can apply to potentially resolve your problem.

7 Ways to Fix a Steam Service Error on Windows 11 or Windows 10

Mahesh Makvana — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 13:00:28 GMT

Trying to access Steam only to be greeted with a “Steam Service Error” message? Your Steam client may be experiencing issues, or your Windows 11 or 10 PC may have a problem. We’ll show you various ways to fix this issue on your computer. Let’s get started.

How to View Your Steam Purchase History

Mahesh Makvana — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 14:00:28 GMT

Steam makes it super easy to see the list of items you’ve ever purchased from this platform. This can include your games and downloadable content. We’ll show you how to access your purchase history in Steam’s desktop, web, and mobile app. Let’s get started.

Your Xbox Is Getting a New Home Screen

Arol Wright — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 21:09:14 GMT

Even though PCs can be fantastic for gaming, consoles have remained a popular option for anyone interested in a setup that doesn't require hunting for PC parts or messing with graphics settings. If you own an Xbox, you're in luck, as Microsoft is re-doing its home screen — and it looks absolutely amazing.

8 Ways to Fix a Steam Error 16

Mahesh Makvana — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 14:00:25 GMT

Steam's error 16 can appear out of the blue and prevent you from doing whatever it is that you're doing in the app. If the error keeps popping up and won't go away no matter what, follow a few troubleshooting tips to possibly fix the issue. Here are those methods.

Google Play Games on PC Is Now Better Than Ever

Corbin Davenport — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 18:43:37 GMT

Google's solution for playing Android games on Windows computers, Google Play Games for PC, entered public beta last year in five countries. Today, the beta is expanding to even more regions and computers, and there are a few new features to enjoy.

How to See Hidden Games on Steam

Mahesh Makvana — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:00:25 GMT

Want to find your hidden Steam games so you can play, unhide, or delete them? It’s easy to do that, thanks to Steam’s user-friendly interface. We’ll show you how to do that as well as how to re-hide your games if you want. Let’s get started.

Xbox Live Gold Is Now Xbox Game Pass Core, With More Games Included

Corbin Davenport — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 16:42:35 GMT

Microsoft’s Xbox consoles don’t have free online multiplayer for most games (except free-to-play titles), requiring you to purchase a subscription to Xbox Live Gold. Now, Xbox Live Gold is being replaced with Xbox Game Pass Core, while staying at the same price.

Optimize Your Xbox or PS5: Performance, Quality, and Resolution Mode

Tim Brookes — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 12:01:21 GMT

On modern consoles, you'll find options for fine-tuning fidelity and frame rate. They first appeared in the PS4 and Xbox One era, but they're now commonplace on PS5 and Xbox Series consoles. Here's how you can tell which is best for you.

How to Use and Customize the Virtual Keyboard on Your Steam Deck

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 15:00:19 GMT

Since it doesn't feature a hardware keyboard, Steam Deck relies on an on-screen virtual keyboard. Learn how to use and customize the virtual keyboard on your Steam Deck below.

You Can (Once Again) Get Game Pass Ultimate for $1

Arol Wright — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 15:55:11 GMT

Microsoft's Game Pass Ultimate subscription gives you access to many PC and Xbox games for one monthly cost, and the company used to offer a one-month trial for just $1. Thankfully, that offer has returned.

How to Turn Off G-SYNC for Specific or All Games

Goran Damnjanovic — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 13:00:12 GMT

You may want to disable G-SYNC if your VA monitor suffers from flickering with G-SYNC enabled in certain games, you experience issues gaming on a TV with VRR support, or if you don't want G-SYNC on while playing esports titles. Here's how to disable G-Sync globally and for specific games.

What Happens to Your Digital Games When You Die?

Sydney Butler — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:00:19 GMT

Shelves of physical games have been replaced by digital ones for most people. Unlike digital games, physical games have simple ownership rules. If it's in your hands, it's yours. This begs the question---once you're gone, is your shelf of virtual games gone too?

How to Add PC Game Pass and Microsoft Store Games to Steam

Goran Damnjanovic — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 16:00:54 GMT

Most PC Game Pass and Microsoft Store games are UWP apps, meaning you can't add them to Steam as non-Steam games the usual way. But there's a working method, and it includes downloading and running a third party app. In this guide, we'll show you how to do it.

How to Refund a Game on Steam

Chris Hoffman — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Steam offers a generous refund system. You can refund any game you purchase through Steam, for any reason---whether it isn't working properly on your PC or you just don't find it fun.

How to Get the Best Deals During Steam Sales

Jason Fitzpatrick — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Big Steam sales can be a great way to save on games, but it's not always a guarantee you're getting the best deal on a given game during a given sale. Here's how to ensure you're getting the most for your money.

When Is the Next Steam Sale? Here Are the Steam Sale Dates

Jon Bitner — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Steam sales are a beloved part of PC gaming culture. These events see hundreds of price cuts on blockbuster games, indie darlings, and everything in between. They typically run for about a week, and they're an excellent way to save money while filling up your library with a boatload of great games.

Why You Should Never Use Ultra Settings In Games

Sydney Butler — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 11:00:14 GMT

Video games now offer stunning visuals that can be nearly indistinguishable from real life. As a result, many gamers have become enamored with the prospect of maxing out their graphical settings, but this might not always be the wisest choice.

Is Steam's Download Speed Slow? 8 Ways to Speed It Up

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 13:00:55 GMT

Is Steam downloading games at a slow speed on your computer? If so, here are some easy Steam app and computer tweaks to help speed up your downloads. Spend less time waiting for your games to arrive and more time playing them.

Steam Deck 2 Doesn't Need a Higher Resolution Screen

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 15:00:55 GMT

The Steam Deck is a nifty little handheld gaming PC, but it does come with its share of wrinkles. The 800p display, however, isn't one of them. If you ask me, the Steam Deck 2 (or whatever Valve ends up calling the Deck's successor) doesn't need a higher resolution display. Here's why.

Do the Xbox, PS5, and Switch Support Ultrawide Screens?

Sydney Butler — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:00:17 GMT

Are you considering an ultrawide screen for your gaming setup? Before you splurge, understand how popular consoles like the Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch handle this increasingly popular screen format, and whether you're truly set to enjoy the ultrawide experience.

5 Reasons Using Your Controller Wired is Better

Sydney Butler — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 07:00:19 GMT

You might think that wireless controllers are always the way to go, but don't discount the advantages of using a wired controller! Let's take a closer look at why using a wired controller might be a better option for you.

How to Play Xbox Games on Your PC

Reyadh Rahaman — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 15:00:00 GMT

You can now play many Xbox games on your PC without owning an Xbox console. All you need is the Xbox app and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. You can also buy some Xbox apps that have been ported to PC---or try an emulator.

FPS vs. Refresh Rate: What Are the Differences?

Russ Ware — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 12:00:45 GMT

In computing and gaming, frame rate and refresh rate are both commonly used as a marker for how powerful a PC setup is. But exactly what are these two key PC specifications, how do they differ, and is one more important than the other?

How to Stop Your Xbox From Overheating

Tim Brookes — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 12:00:47 GMT

When you're playing your Xbox you want to enjoy hot new titles, not a too-hot console. Here are some tips for reducing thermal buildup in your overheating Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S.

5 Common Mistakes New PlayStation 5 Owners Make

Sydney Butler — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 09:00:49 GMT

So you've got your hands on a PS5, and it's out of the box and powered on. You're in for a good time, but there are pitfalls you should know about before you get lost in your next favorite game.

Your SD Card Might Slow Down Your Nintendo Switch

Corbin Davenport — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 17:30:00 GMT

The only way to add more storage to the Nintendo Switch is with a microSD card. However, not all SD cards are created equal, and using some types of cards could slow down your games.

How to Stop Your PS5 From Overheating

Tim Brookes — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 12:00:39 GMT

Sony's PlayStation 5 is effectively a powerful PC in a small, slightly-rounded box. When the system is under load, it can kick out some serious heat, which may lead to overheating. Here are some tips to avoid that.

Minecraft is Now Available for Your Chromebook

Arol Wright — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 11:39:55 GMT

It's been a long time coming. Microsoft has been hard at work bringing Minecraft to a new platform --- ChromeOS. Now, if you have a Chromebook, you can now drift away playing your favorite blocky game, as Minecraft has officially finished landing on the platform.

How to Stop Your PS4 From Overheating

Tim Brookes — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:00:20 GMT

Does your PlayStation 4 console sound like a jet engine? Are you seeing warnings about the console being too hot, or experiencing sudden shutdowns? Here's how to fix an overheating PS4.

Physical vs. Digital Games: Should You Buy Physical Games?

Corbin Davenport — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Many video games are now available as a digital purchase or physical media, and increasingly, more games are only available digitally. Does it make sense to buy physical games anymore?

How Many FPS Can the Human Eye See?

Reyadh Rahaman — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 15:00:00 GMT

How many FPS can the human eye see? That's a tough question because the human eye doesn't really see in "frames per second," and everyone's eyes are different. We'll talk about the biology, but the real question is what the upper limit is when it comes to FPS on monitors. At what point do you stop noticing FPS increases?

MAME Now Supports Even More Arcade Games

Arol Wright — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:59:25 GMT

There are plenty of emulators out there, and MAME is one of the standouts. It's a multi-purpose emulator that can emulate a variety of arcade games and platforms, making it more flexible than purpose-built emulators. The latest update makes it even more versatile.

6 PC Gaming Myths That Just Won't Die

Sydney Butler — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:00:49 GMT

PC gaming has a lot going for it, but thanks to some persistent myths, many potential PC gamers are hesitant to make the leap from consoles. Here are six of the most pernicious myths in PC gaming that won't die.

Does Your Steam Deck SD Card Affect Game Loading Times?

Goran Damnjanovic — Wed, 31 May 2023 12:00:00 GMT

While upgrading your Steam Deck's SSD is easier than you might think, it's still a fairly complex procedure. Expanding your Steam Deck's storage with an SD card is way simpler and doesn't require opening the thing. But does using slower SD cards increase game loading times? Let's find out.

How to Play Diablo 1 on a Modern PC for Retro Hack and Slash Fun

Jason Fitzpatrick — Tue, 30 May 2023 12:30:00 GMT

With the arrival of Diablo IV just around the corner, there is no better time to blow the dust off the first Diablo game to experience the original story. Better yet, you can play it with modern enhancements, previously unplayable characters, and more.

How Bad Frame Pacing Can Make Games Feel Awful

Sydney Butler — Tue, 30 May 2023 12:00:52 GMT

There you are, immersed in the latest gaming masterpiece, only to find that something isn't quite right. A jarring stutter or a jittery sensation that's detracting from the smooth, engaging experience you're used to. Say hello to bad frame pacing.

Minecraft Trails & Tales Update Has New Mobs, Coming June 7

Arol Wright — Tue, 30 May 2023 11:27:22 GMT

Minecraft is just one of those games that never, ever gets old. And with updates like these, that's not happening anytime soon. Minecraft just gave us a release date for an update that's coming with several improvements and additions --- some new, some not so much.

How to Emulate the PS3 on a Steam Deck With RPCS3

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 26 May 2023 12:00:13 GMT

Want to go back to the late aughts/early 2010s and relive the PS3 glory days on your Steam Deck? You can do it with the help of RPCS3, a PS3 emulator that can run all your PS3 favorites. Our guide will show you how to install RPCS3 via EmuDeck and how to get the emulator up and running.

PlayStation Backbone Controller Is Coming to Android Phones

Arol Wright — Tue, 23 May 2023 13:00:11 GMT

Most third-party controllers, whether they're for PC or smartphones, are modeled after the Xbox's controller. And I don't know about you, but I've been always more fond of the PlayStation layout. If you feel the same way, the PS-style Backbone One controller is now available on Android.

The Dolphin Emulator Just Got Better on Android

Arol Wright — Mon, 22 May 2023 17:31:02 GMT

Thanks to the Dolphin Emulator, you can play your GameCube and Wii games on all kinds of devices, including PCs, gaming handhelds, and, of course, Android devices. The latest round of updates is making the emulator better than ever on Android.

Does Your Xbox or PlayStation Need a Cooling Fan?

Sydney Butler — Sun, 21 May 2023 08:00:41 GMT

The last thing you want is your gaming marathon cut short by a console that's too hot to handle. You might even be considering buying one of those aftermarket cooling fans to keep things chill, but is it really necessary?

Nintendo Switch Emulation: What You Need to Know

Tim Brookes — Fri, 19 May 2023 08:00:07 GMT

Like any Nintendo console before it, the Switch can be emulated on modern platforms including Windows, macOS, Linux, and even mobile and handheld platforms. So what's involved, and is it worth it?

What Is a Game Engine?

Sydney Butler — Wed, 17 May 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Have you ever played video games and wondered how they're made or how they even work? The secret is in the game engine, the complex set of software tools that lies at the heart of every modern video game today.

Switch OLED vs. Switch vs. Switch Lite: Which Should You Buy?

Tim Brookes — Wed, 17 May 2023 11:00:08 GMT

The Nintendo Switch is one of the best-selling game consoles of all time. Its success has seen the platform flooded with titles, from first-party Nintendo bangers to indie darlings. The Switch is clearly a solid investment, even for the casual gamer---but which Switch should you go for?

Handheld Gaming PC vs. Budget Gaming Laptop: Yet Another Tough Decision

Sydney Butler — Tue, 16 May 2023 09:00:51 GMT

With the success of Steam Deck and handhelds from ASUS, GPD, and Aya on its heels, there's a lot to like about portable PC gaming these days. However, the pricing of these handhelds puts them in competition with gaming laptops!

10 Awesome PlayStation 5 Features You Should Be Using

Tim Brookes — Sat, 13 May 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Got your hands on a PlayStation 5 at last? Sony's console can do more than let you experience top-tier titles. To make the most of this powerful gaming system, check out these PS5 add-ons and hidden features.

How to Upgrade Your Steam Deck's SSD

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 12 May 2023 12:00:56 GMT

Plan on replacing your Steam Deck's solid-state drive (SSD) but don't know how to do it? You can upgrade your Steam Deck's SSD without much hassle in less than half an hour. We'll walk you through the Steam Deck SSD replacement procedure in an easy-to-follow step-by-step guide.

You Can Now Pre-Order the ASUS ROG Ally

Arol Wright — Fri, 12 May 2023 10:41:04 GMT

From none other than ASUS, we now have a strong contender to the Steam Deck: the ROG Ally. This powerful handheld made headlines a few times last month, but if you were wondering when you could get to buy it, you're in luck --- you can now place an order for yours.

Why Some People Play Nintendo Switch Games With a Keyboard

Sydney Butler — Fri, 12 May 2023 09:00:44 GMT

You may have noticed some players using keyboards to play Nintendo Switch games. It's a curious sight, but there's a method to this madness! In this article, we'll delve into why some people opt for keyboards when playing Switch games.

You're Nearly Out of Time to Save Your Old Minecraft Account

Corbin Davenport — Mon, 08 May 2023 14:03:21 GMT

Minecraft used to have special Minecraft.net and Mojang accounts for purchases and online play, but starting in 2020, Mojang migrated them to Microsoft accounts. In a few months, the migration period is ending, and all remaining old accounts will be gone forever.

Steam's Latest Update Makes Search More Useful

Corbin Davenport — Mon, 08 May 2023 10:21:14 GMT

Valve is testing a significant update to Steam right now that improves the in-game overlay, but that's not the only upgrade to get excited about. There's another change rolling out that can help you find the right page on the Steam store.

8Bitdo's New $30 Gaming Controller Works With PC & Android

Arol Wright — Fri, 05 May 2023 11:56:17 GMT

8Bitdo sells some of the best gaming controllers around, with options targeted at portability, D-Pad play, Apple devices, and other use cases. Now there's a new entry-level version of the company's Ultimate controller.

OpenGL vs. DirectX: Which Is Better for Gaming?

Russ Ware — Tue, 02 May 2023 08:00:46 GMT

The choice between OpenGL and DirectX in games isn't as common as it once was, but you might still see it. And if you do, you might wonder what the difference is and which option gives the optimum gaming experience.

Why the ROG Ally Could Become the Ultimate Emulation Machine

Goran Damnjanovic — Sat, 29 Apr 2023 08:00:19 GMT

While the Steam Deck is the best retro gaming console you can get right now, the ROG Ally from ASUS could dethrone it if its $700 price leak is true. Here's why.

Steam's Desktop Client Just Got a Big Update (In Beta)

Arol Wright — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 16:34:40 GMT

Steam is everyone's favorite game storefront. And soon, it's going to be looking way slicker, thanks to some big interface (and backend) changes in its desktop client. They're coming soon to a gaming PC near you.

What Is NVIDIA Image Scaling, and How Do You Use It?

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 11:00:00 GMT

If you own an NVIDIA graphics card and want to improve performance in a game that doesn't support DLSS nor FSR, you can take advantage of NVIDIA's Image Scaling feature. But what is NVIDIA Image Scaling anyway, and how do you enable it?

Even the Best Steam Deck Competitors Lack One Major Feature

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 08:30:02 GMT

The ROG Ally from ASUS announced in April 2023 looks like a great handheld gaming PC, but disappointingly, the Ally is yet another Steam Deck competitor lacking a major Steam Deck feature that is super important to me. I'm talking about the trackpads.

What Is Antiwordle, and How Is It Different from Wordle?

Reyadh Rahaman — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 11:00:32 GMT

Among the many Wordle clones out there, Antiwordle is arguably the most similar. It's got the same minimalist style, however, the goal of this game is the opposite of the original Wordle.

MAME 0.254 Can Emulate Even More Arcade Games

Corbin Davenport — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:27:17 GMT

MAME is one of the most popular emulators around, built to run old home computers and arcade games on modern devices. The latest update includes many fixes and support for a new arcade platform.