Author: admin

I mean, all you can do is laugh, right? You’ve probably already guessed at what based on the headline, but we’ll dig a little deeper into this all the same. Yes, Ark 2 has been delayed, the same Ark 2 that was revealed almost exactly five years ago, that was at one point in time promised to release in 2023, and then 2024, and then sort of half-heartedly slated for 2027, before landing where we are now, with the news that the game is currently planned for release in 2028. Uhuh!

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### The Meta Quest 3S: Your Portal to Virtual Reality Gaming

The Meta Quest 3S has become a remarkable gateway for fans keen to delve into the world of virtual reality (VR) gaming. With its affordable price tag and an extensive game library, it offers a smooth introduction for beginners. At present, the headset is available at a reduced price, enhancing its appeal. The 128GB model is listed at $250, reduced from $300, while the larger 256GB version costs $350 instead of $400. Importantly, the 256GB variant comes with the action-filled game *Batman: Arkham Shadow* at no additional charge.

#### Engaging Gaming Adventure with *Batman: Arkham Shadow*

In *Batman: Arkham Shadow*, players step into the shoes of the legendary Dark Knight, on a mission to apprehend a new villain known as the Rat King. Set against the setting of July 4th, this game serves as a narrative continuation of *Batman: Arkham Origins*, adding a deeper sense of immersion that only the Meta Quest 3S can provide. With its sophisticated headset and wireless motion controllers, players will explore Gotham City like never before, participating in exhilarating action sequences as they guide Batman through the city streets.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6531/)

#### Access to a Rich Collection of VR Games

Upon obtaining the Meta Quest 3S, users are granted three months of Meta Quest+, providing access to over 40 VR games at no extra cost. A standout title in this assortment is *Walkabout Mini Golf*, a game that blends straightforward mechanics with immense fun. It boasts creatively crafted courses, an enjoyable multiplayer feature, and an Easter egg hunt for concealed golf balls, enabling friends to connect and play together virtually from various locations, capturing the essence of socializing in a pleasurable and relaxed atmosphere.

Another noteworthy game is *Marvel’s Deadpool VR*, which immerses players in the hectic mindset of their beloved wisecracking antihero as they combat waves of foes, all narrated by the renowned actor Neil Patrick Harris. Although it’s not part of the Meta Quest+ subscription, this title represents one of the flagship VR games of 2025 and is definitely worth checking out.

#### Improved Hardware and Features

The Meta Quest 3S represents a significant step forward compared to its predecessor, the Meta Quest 2. It features the state-of-the-art Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chipset, boosting performance and delivering smoother gameplay. Moreover, the headset’s new exterior sensors facilitate full-color passthrough, enabling users to stay aware of their real-world surroundings while immersed in VR experiences. A newly integrated action button streamlines the shift between virtual reality and mixed reality environments, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

With discounts up to $50 currently offered, there has never been a better moment to invest in the Meta Quest 3S. The 128GB version is available for just $250, while the 256GB model is priced at $350, making it a prime choice for those eager to explore the vibrant realm of VR gaming.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6531/)

### PlayStation Portal Remote Player: A Must-Have for Mobile Gaming

The PlayStation Portal Remote Player is transforming the gaming experience for enthusiasts, allowing them to stream their favorite games straight from their console via Wi-Fi, eliminating the requirement for a larger screen. Whether you’re relaxing in bed, hanging out on the couch, or away from home, the Portal Remote Player guarantees that your gaming enjoyment is not restricted by your location.

#### Exclusive Deal

At present, Amazon has reduced the price of the PlayStation Portal Remote Player to $179 from its standard price of $200, which is a 10% savings. This time-limited promotion is available for both the white and black versions of the unit. It is crucial to be aware that this offer is valid only for today and will expire at midnight. If you’re thinking about getting this device for yourself or as a gift for a loved one, it’s wise to act swiftly, noting that shipping may take place after Christmas.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5815/)

#### Remote Capabilities and Specifications

Featuring a remarkable 8-inch Full HD LCD screen, the Portal Remote Player provides vivid graphics and seamless gameplay at up to 60fps. The 1080p resolution delivers superb image sharpness, immersing gamers in their virtual environments. To enhance the visual experience, the device is equipped with Tempest 3D AudioTech, allowing for wireless audio connections through PlayStation Link or via the 3.5mm audio jack for a fully immersive sound experience.

Moreover, the device incorporates adaptive triggers and haptic feedback technology, which elevate gameplay by replicating sensations that immerse players as active participants in the action.

#### How to Begin with Remote Play

To utilize the PlayStation Portal Remote Player, a broadband internet connection is essential for streaming compatible games installed on your PS5 console. While a minimum speed of 5Mbps is necessary, a faster connection of at least 15Mbps is suggested for the best gaming performance.

Configuring the Portal Remote Player is straightforward:

1. Connect your PS5 console to a broadband internet connection and enable Rest Mode.
2. Make sure Remote Play is turned on in Settings > System > Remote Play.
3. Switch on your Portal, sign in to your PlayStation Network (PSN) account, and choose the pairing option.
4. Select your console from the home screen to connect.

Be aware that certain games requiring a VR headset or extra peripherals (aside from DualShock 4, DualSense, or DualSense Edge controllers) are incompatible with the Portal Remote Player. Furthermore, while a PS Plus Premium membership is supported, it is limited to games installed on your console, providing access to a continually growing library from the Game Catalog and Classics Catalog.

#### Final Thoughts

For gamers looking for an efficient way to play their favorite titles on the go, the PlayStation Portal Remote Player is an outstanding addition to any gaming arrangement. With its current price of $179, it represents excellent value. The end of the day signifies the finish of this promotional deal, so ensure you secure your device before the opportunity passes.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5815/)

I went into Dispatch with a goal in mind: Be a hard-ass. Seeing the trailers for Adhoc’s revival of Telltale’s signature cinematic, choice-focused story games, I figured it would be fun to roleplay its lead, Robert Robertson, as a straight-shooting boss who only deals in tough love.

I used to play every Telltale game with a character arc in mind, largely to see whether they could bend enough to allow my interpretation. And Dispatch’s world of superheroes caught in the corporate machine handed me the perfect set-up for my story.

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**In Need of an Extra Xbox Controller? The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core is on Discount!**

If you aim to elevate your gaming sessions or simply seek a spare controller for those multiplayer matchups, now is an ideal moment to explore the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller. With the festive season approaching, you can grab this high-end controller at a remarkable price.

### A Serious Xbox Controller That Will Quickly Become Your Go-To

Presently priced at **$110**, reduced from its standard price of **$150**, this amounts to a savings of **$40**, or **27% off**. For a high-quality controller, that’s an outstanding bargain, especially since most high-end alternatives are usually much pricier.

The minute you open the Elite Series 2 Core box, it becomes evident that this is a step up from the regular variants. Anticipate responsive thumbsticks, delightful button clicks, and an overall premium feel. It connects wirelessly to your Xbox or Windows PC effortlessly, allowing you to play without the inconvenience of cables. Plus, Bluetooth compatibility facilitates straightforward pairing with other compatible gadgets.

### Personalization at Your Command

A key feature of the Elite Series 2 Core is its personalization options. Unlike typical Xbox controllers, this model empowers you to adjust stick sensitivity, remap buttons, and fine-tune various configurations to suit your distinct play style. This is particularly beneficial for competitive gamers who require accurate controls tailored for specific genres, whether they are immersing themselves in first-person shooters or partaking in fighting games.

Furthermore, the Elite Series 2 Core comes with interchangeable parts, enabling you to swap different thumbsticks and paddles to modify the controller’s feel and responsiveness. This versatility guarantees that you can design the perfect setup for any game.

### Summary

With a mix of exceptional quality, extensive customization options, and wireless convenience, the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Gaming Controller stands out in its category. Given its current discounted price, it’s prudent to contemplate acquiring one before prices might rise. Prepare for your gaming adventures and take advantage of what this sophisticated controller has to offer.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6519/)

# The Rise of Handheld Gaming PCs and a Look at Traditional Gaming Laptops

Handheld gaming PCs have seen a notable surge in popularity in recent times, propelled by the release of devices such as the Steam Deck. This innovative device showcased that a nearly complete PC gaming experience could fit into a portable design. Following the Deck’s triumph, additional handhelds like the Lenovo Legion Go and the Asus ROG Ally surfaced, providing gamers with numerous choices. These portable devices are undoubtedly convenient and surprisingly powerful for their size, allowing users to enjoy full PC games comfortably on the couch without the hassle of a hefty laptop.

Nonetheless, in spite of their benefits, handheld gaming PCs tend to have a rather limited scope, as they are chiefly created for gaming. In contrast to traditional gaming laptops, they may have difficulty managing a multitude of tasks such as processing workloads, surfing the web, and media consumption simultaneously. For individuals in search of a versatile device that accommodates broader computing necessities alongside gaming, traditional gaming laptops continue to be a more sensible option.

At present, a noteworthy offer on the Asus TUF F16 gaming laptop makes it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive portable gaming experience. Typically priced around $1,000, the 2024 model is currently available for $800, representing a noteworthy $200 discount.

This particular configuration of the TUF F16 is powered by an Intel Core i5 210H processor, complemented by an NVIDIA GeForce 4050 laptop GPU and 8GB of RAM. For those desiring improved performance, the 2025 model is also on sale, featuring an Intel Core i5 13450HX processor coupled with the NVIDIA GeForce 5050 laptop GPU and 16GB of RAM, offered at a $300 discount—reducing the price from $1,300 to $1,000. Both versions include a 512GB SSD to meet all storage requirements.

## Gaming Performance

While the Asus TUF Gaming F16 may not be classified as a leading powerhouse that can maximize every new AAA title, it nonetheless delivers respectable performance for its price segment. Indie games operate smoothly, and numerous larger titles can achieve stable performance at medium settings with minimal sacrifices.

The TUF F16 features a 16-inch display with a taller 16:10 aspect ratio, functioning at Full HD resolution and supporting a fluid 144Hz refresh rate—traits that enhance fast-paced gaming and competitive play. Adaptive-Sync technology minimizes screen tearing and stuttering, enabling a smoother gaming experience. Furthermore, the slender bezels surrounding the display optimize usable screen area without making the laptop feel excessively large or unwieldy.

In terms of design, Asus adopts a fairly understated approach. The keyboard is full-sized and incorporates a dedicated number pad—a feature that is becoming increasingly rare among contemporary laptops. The gold-accented WASD keys add a dash of personality without straying into flashy territory.

Battery life on the Asus TUF F16 is praiseworthy; its 90Wh battery supports rapid charging, reaching 50% capacity in around 30 minutes. There’s also a 100W USB-C port available for charging phones and accessories, enhancing its adaptability.

In summary, at just $800, the Asus TUF F16 offers substantial value. It emerges as a competent gaming hub that can efficiently handle basic everyday laptop tasks, appealing to both gamers and general users alike.

Saturdays are for waking up early, stretching out, and realising with horror that you left it very late to ask people what they would be playing over the weekend. Then, when you are just about recovered from the first shock, realising with even bigger horror that you didn’t ask them what they would be playing over Christmas.

Oh dear. Oh my. Oh criminy!

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## Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM: The Premier Gaming Display

High-end gaming displays frequently necessitate a trade-off between refresh rates and color precision. The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM defies this trend, offering an impressive array of features tailored for dedicated gamers. This 32-inch behemoth presents a genuine 4K resolution, groundbreaking QD-OLED technology, a remarkable 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time, and a swift 240Hz refresh rate, making it a fantastic option for both casual and competitive play.

### Outstanding Price Tag

Currently offered at a historic low of $899, down from its usual $1,299, the ROG Swift PG32UCDM provides high-end OLED gaming capabilities at a more reachable price. This not only boosts its value but also makes it an enticing choice for gamers aiming to enhance their gaming setup ahead of the holiday season.

### QD-OLED Advancements

The quantum dot OLED (QD-OLED) display achieves perfect blacks by allowing each pixel to emit its own light and turn off entirely. This leads to boundless contrast, surpassing conventional LCD displays. In darker game scenes, delicate shadows unveil concealed details rather than blending into drab gray. The monitor achieves 99% DCI-P3 color coverage with authentic 10-bit color depth, enabling colors to vividly leap off the screen.

### Perfect Size and Definition

The 32-inch display size is an ideal match for 4K resolution, yielding clearer visuals than 1440p without rendering text and UI elements overly small. Users can comfortably sit at an average desk distance, observing onscreen details without straining their necks. The display’s 16:9 aspect ratio guarantees compatibility with most games and software without the inconvenience of black bars or distortion.

### Rapid Refresh Rates and Response Metrics

Featuring a 240Hz refresh rate and an ultra-fast 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time, the PG32UCDM significantly improves motion clarity. Fast-moving shooters profit from diminished blurring, allowing gamers to identify opponents and react swiftly. This capability revolutionizes gameplay, where previous lower refresh rates felt like sluggish presentations.

### Enhanced Cooling Mechanism

To avoid burn-in and sustain peak performance, Asus implements a custom cooling system with a distinctive airflow design and graphene film backing. This mechanism maintains stable OLED panel temperatures even during extended gaming sessions featuring static UI components. The monitor also ensures consistent brightness levels across the display, eliminating common brightness fluctuation issues with contrasting visuals.

### Certified HDR Capabilities

The PG32UCDM meets the VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black certification, ensuring adherence to stringent HDR performance criteria. With elevated peak brightness levels, in-game explosions and light sources can illuminate brilliantly while preserving the deep, rich blacks inherent to OLED technology. Furthermore, the monitor’s matte finish reduces reflections without compromising clarity, allowing for use in well-lit settings.

### Comprehensive Connectivity Options

Fitted with a 90W USB-C port, the monitor seamlessly transmits display signals while charging your laptop with a single connection. By incorporating Display Stream Compression, users can achieve the full 4K 240Hz signal through DisplayPort 1.4, along with HDMI 2.1 support for next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X at 4K 120Hz.

### Competitive Pricing Structure

Priced at $899, the PG32UCDM is $400 less than its suggested retail price, providing a budget-friendly option compared to similarly equipped OLED gaming displays, which typically range from $1,200 to $1,500. Instead of opting for VA or IPS panels that may lag in contrast, gamers can choose this flagship panel technology and benefit from enthusiast-grade refresh rates paired with outstanding color precision.

In summary, the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM emerges as a top selection for gamers in search of the best of both realms—rapid performance and breathtaking visuals. Its features and competitive pricing position it as a leading contender in the gaming monitor arena.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6526/)

**Nintendo Switch 2 Promotion at Microcenter: Key Information to Consider**

If you’re thinking about buying a Nintendo Switch 2 and live close to a Microcenter, this is an excellent moment to seize a time-sensitive deal. The renowned tech store has recently slashed the console’s price to only $400, offering a surprising $50 reduction from its standard price. This promotion is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with the first holiday season for the Switch 2, making it an appealing option for both gamers and those looking to give gifts.

### Offer Details

Microcenter is prominently promoting the Nintendo Switch 2 at $399.99, creating a timely chance for those eager to acquire the newest gaming equipment. However, it’s important to note that this reduced price is available solely in-store and there is no shipping option. Therefore, customers will either need to reside nearby or be ready to travel to the store. At the time of this writing, several Microcenter locations have confirmed stock availability, with around 25 units in stock.

### Console Compared to Packages

It’s essential to understand that the discount is applicable only to the standalone Nintendo Switch 2 console, independent of any game packages. If you were contemplating buying the console along with the well-known game *Mario Kart World*, which costs an extra $80, the total savings would lessen. Essentially, the bundle would provide only a $20 discount off the regular price of $450, a deal that some retailers, such as Walmart, had previously offered during sales earlier in December.

### Current Trends in the Market

In spite of the favorable reception and strong sales of the Switch 2, the broader market for gaming consoles has faced difficulties this holiday season. Recent data from Circana reveals that November 2025 was a lackluster month for gaming hardware sales, with only 1.6 million units of various consoles—including the Nintendo Switch (both models), PS5, and Xbox Series X/S—being sold. This marks the lowest pre-holiday sales volume for consoles since 1995. The increasing average price of new consoles, even with promotions like Black Friday, has contributed to this downturn.

### Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the $400 price point at Microcenter offers a significant opportunity for anyone seeking a Nintendo Switch 2. Although the deal is limited to in-store purchases, the discount is attractive, especially within the context of a challenging holiday season for console sales. For gamers wanting to upgrade their setup or gift someone special, prompt action may be wise to secure this offer.

**KPop Demon Hunters: A Deep Dive into the Soundtrack and Its Influence**

Since its launch six months ago, KPop Demon Hunters has emerged as a cultural sensation, enchanting viewers with its combination of narrative, music, and dynamic characters. Central to this cinematic adventure is the film’s soundtrack, masterfully developed by Ejae, who takes on the roles of songwriter and lead vocalist for the protagonist, Rumi. The film’s music effectively embodies its themes and character arcs, playing a crucial role in its overall achievement.

Ejae recently collaborated with YouTuber Daniel Wall for an extensive interview, where she presented demos for several tracks featured in the film. These preliminary recordings showcase Ejae’s vocal talent and served as a conceptual basis before the final versions were completed and performed by the full ensemble, including Rei Ami and Audrey Nuna, who portray fellow Huntr/x teammates.

A standout piece on the soundtrack is “What It Sounds Like,” the film’s concluding number. In the finale, Rumi and her fellow Huntr/x girls deliver a stirring anthem, exchanging apologies amidst a packed stadium as they confront and ultimately vanquish the demon king Gwi-ma. This concluding scene represents a culmination of themes woven throughout the film, rendering it a profoundly emotional and impactful ending. The demo version of this track reveals a fascinating element—the earlier arrangement included a complete medley, blending melodies from other tracks in the soundtrack, such as “Free” and “How It’s Done,” enriching the auditory experience further.

However, it is essential to recognize that the award-winning lead single “Golden” was absent from the demo mix, as it had yet to be composed at that time. This underscores the evolving nature of songwriting and how distinctly the final output can differ from its preliminary stages.

In the demo, the harmonies exhibited a remarkable interplay between Rumi and her Huntr/x friends, producing a layered sound that some fans feel is less pronounced in the final cut. While the produced track emphasizes Rumi’s vocals, the multi-part harmonies in the demo deliver a unique auditory experience that highlights the group’s synergy, which many fans have grown to appreciate.

Ejae’s examination of these themes and the evolution of the songs has struck a chord with audiences, as reflected in fan-sharing metrics. The emotional resonance of “What It Sounds Like” is significant, with numerous listeners identifying it as a favorite—Ejae herself revealed it was her leading track on her Spotify Wrapped for the year, displaying an impressive streaming count.

The soundtrack’s progression from demo to film illustrates the creative blend of K-Pop and cinematic storytelling, as evidenced by the critical praise and vibrant fan engagement surrounding KPop Demon Hunters. As discussions about this film persist, the music remains a powerful narrative device, enriching the viewing experience and leaving a profound impression on its audience.