Author: admin

The thing about Big Business these days is that when you get Big Numbers, that normally leads to Bigger Business, right up to the point the well has not only dried up, but turned to dust. So, when you have a game like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, now winner of many Geoff Keighleys and seller of many copies, you might assume that developer Sandfall Interactive would increase the size of their operations. Apparently, you would be wrong!

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The end of a very short era is here! I guess, if you care about the life cycles of tech products made by multi-billion dollar companies. It appears that the days of the original LCD model of the Steam Deck is coming to an end, as a quiet notice from Valve suggests their focus will be with the slightly newer, shinier OLED line of handheld gaming devices.

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I’ve always found PowerWash Simulator‘s Big Brand Collabs slightly odd, if a touch humorous. They don’t always make much sense to me, like the SpongeBob one, though I will admit that the Shrek one does feel like a good fit, even if I am loath to look at intellectual property. And now here we are with its sequel, PowerWash Simulator 2, with its first bit of DLC freshly announced, sending prospective powerwashers off to a distant land called Ooo from the seminal Adventure Time.

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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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