# Nintendo Unveils Two Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Hardware Bundles for October Launch

As the holiday season draws near, Nintendo is set to present gamers with an exciting chance to grab two new hardware bundles, both showcasing the beloved *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*. These bundles are ideal for anyone eager to explore the realm of Nintendo Switch or enhance their existing console, arriving just in time for the festive shopping spree.

Nintendo has officially revealed two bundles: the **Nintendo Switch: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle** and, for the first time in Canada, the **Nintendo Switch – OLED Model: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle**. Both bundles will hit the shelves starting in October, with release dates differing by region. Each bundle comes with a digital download of *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe* along with a 12-month Nintendo Switch Online Individual Membership, granting a year of online multiplayer access and a collection of over 200 classic NES, SNES, and Game Boy games.

Let’s delve into the offerings of each bundle:

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## **Nintendo Switch: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle**

– **Suggested Retail Price**: $399.99 CAD / $299.99 USD
– **What’s Included**:
– A standard Nintendo Switch console featuring Neon Red and Neon Blue Joy-Con controllers.
– A digital download code for *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*.
– A 12-month Nintendo Switch Online Individual Membership, allowing access to online multiplayer, cloud saves, and a continuously expanding library of classic Nintendo games.

This bundle is perfect for those looking to embrace the flexibility of the original Nintendo Switch, playable in TV mode, handheld mode, or tabletop mode. The inclusion of *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*, a crowd-pleasing racing title, and the 12-month online membership makes this bundle an incredible deal for both newcomers and seasoned Nintendo enthusiasts.

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## **Nintendo Switch – OLED Model: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Bundle**

– **Suggested Retail Price**: $449.99 CAD / $349.99 USD
– **What’s Included**:
– The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model console, equipped with white Joy-Con controllers.
– A digital download code for *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*.
– A 12-month Nintendo Switch Online Individual Membership.

The OLED Model boasts numerous enhancements over the standard Switch, featuring a brilliant 7-inch OLED screen, improved audio, and a broad adjustable stand for tabletop mode. It also includes 64 GB of internal storage (twice that of the standard model) and a dock with a wired LAN port for more reliable online gameplay (LAN cable sold separately). This bundle is perfect for those desiring the ultimate handheld gaming experience, highlighted by the OLED screen’s vibrant colors and enhanced contrast.

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## **Why Choose Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?**

*Mario Kart 8 Deluxe* has been a key element in the success of the Nintendo Switch since its launch. The game is loaded with features, including a rich selection of characters, tracks, and vehicles. It also facilitates both local and online multiplayer, making it a fantastic choice for casual and competitive players alike. Its ease of access and entertainment value have rendered it a must-have title for nearly every Switch owner.

With the introduction of the *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Course Pass*, which brings in new tracks and content, the game continues to progress and provide fresh experiences for gamers. The inclusion of this title in both bundles guarantees that new Switch owners will enjoy hours of fun right from the start.

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## **Exciting Upcoming Games to Anticipate**

For those wanting to grow their game collection after acquiring one of these bundles, Nintendo has an impressive array of upcoming titles ready for pre-order. Here are a few standout titles:

– **The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom** – Launching on September 26, this eagerly awaited game features Princess Zelda as the lead character embarking on a new quest.
– **Super Mario Party Jamboree** – Arriving on October 17, this party game assures entertainment for friends and family with its variety of mini-games and multiplayer options.
– **Mario & Luigi: Brothership** – Set to debut on November 7, this RPG adventure reunites the legendary Mario brothers for yet another grand expedition.
– **Donkey Kong Country Returns HD** – Set for release on January 16, this remastered rendition of the classic *Donkey Kong Country* game will evoke nostalgia and excitement for fans of the original.

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## **Popular Titles to Enjoy with Your New Switch**

Beyond *Mario Kart 8 Deluxe*, there’s a plethora of other excellent games available for the Nintendo Switch that players can enjoy once they’ve secured their new bundle. Here are several popular titles to consider:

– **The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom** – The latest installment in the *Zelda* series offers a vast open world filled with puzzles, battles, and exploration.
– **Super…**

# AMD Clinches PlayStation 6 Chip Deal Following Fierce Rivalry

In the realm of gaming, legendary confrontations often play out on-screen, from the magnificent battles in *The Lord of the Rings* to the thrilling shootouts in *Halo 2*. However, another type of contest has been taking shape behind closed doors since 2022: the intense rivalry among tech titans vying for the contract to design and manufacture the chip for Sony’s forthcoming PlayStation 6 console. As reported by *Reuters*, AMD has triumphed, surpassing robust competition from Intel and Broadcom.

This contract is poised to generate billions in revenue, establishing it as one of the most profitable agreements in the semiconductor sector. For Sony, the choice extended beyond merely opting for the most powerful or cost-efficient chip; it was also about ensuring that the PlayStation 6 meets gamer expectations globally, especially regarding backward compatibility.

## AMD’s Key Advantage: Backward Compatibility

Sony’s decision to continue its partnership with AMD for the PlayStation 6 was significantly prompted by the necessity for backward compatibility, a feature rising in importance within the gaming community. Backward compatibility enables players to access titles from older console generations on newer systems, safeguarding their game collections and boosting the overall worth of the console.

AMD boasts a commendable history in this sphere, having created the custom system-on-a-chip (SoC) for both the PlayStation 5 and the anticipated PS5 Pro. Transitioning to a different chip supplier, like Intel, could have posed major obstacles in maintaining backward compatibility. Per *Reuters*, Sony engineers and executives deliberated this matter thoroughly with Intel, yet the anticipated expenses and engineering efforts required to ensure interoperability with previous PlayStation games were considered prohibitively high.

“Guaranteeing backward compatibility with previous PlayStation versions would have been expensive and necessitated extensive engineering resources,” the report noted. “Facilitating gameplay for PlayStation users on older systems is a feature Sony routinely incorporates in its next-generation consoles.”

This emphasis on backward compatibility likely gave AMD a considerable advantage in the bidding process, as the company already possesses significant experience with Sony’s architecture, enabling smoother integration of older games on the PlayStation 6.

## The Rivals: Intel and Broadcom

Although AMD ultimately secured the contract, the competition was intense. Intel, a revered name in the semiconductor domain, reportedly engaged in several high-profile discussions with Sony in 2022. These discussions featured not only the companies’ CEOs but also a multitude of engineers and executives. However, according to the *Reuters* report, the two organizations faced difficulties reaching an agreement on a suitable profit margin for the chips Intel would manufacture.

An Intel spokesperson addressed the report, asserting, “We fundamentally disagree with this characterization but will refrain from commenting on current or potential client discussions. Our customer pipeline is robust across both our product and foundry divisions, and we are fully committed to innovating to meet their requirements.”

Broadcom, another contender in the race, has yet to issue a detailed statement regarding the decision. Although Broadcom is a significant presence in the semiconductor market, its focus has historically leaned more towards networking and communications chips rather than gaming consoles, potentially putting it at a disadvantage relative to AMD and Intel.

## The Financial Stakes

The financial ramifications of this contract are substantial. The PlayStation 5 has already surpassed 40 million units sold globally, and expectations for the PlayStation 6 are high when it launches, anticipated around 2028. The custom SoC that will power the PlayStation 6 is expected to be central to the console’s performance and capabilities. Securing this contract not only ensures a significant revenue influx for AMD but also reinforces its status as a major player in the gaming market.

For Sony, choosing to stay with AMD likely brings a sense of continuity and reliability. AMD’s chips have propelled the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and now the PlayStation 6, allowing Sony to build on a recognized architecture while mitigating the potential risks and complications associated with switching to a new chip supplier.

## What Lies Ahead for the PlayStation 6?

While specifics regarding the PlayStation 6 remain limited, recent news indicates that the console will not be prepared until around 2028. This timeline affords AMD and Sony adequate opportunity to refine the hardware and confirm that the PlayStation 6 will stand as a formidable successor to the PlayStation 5.

One of AMD’s primary challenges will be achieving a balance between performance and power efficiency. With games becoming increasingly demanding in graphics, the necessity for powerful chips capable of handling 4K (and potentially 8K) gaming at high frame rates will grow. Simultaneously, energy efficiency will be vital, as both gamers and regulators become more aware of the environmental consequences associated with high-power electronics.

Another area of emphasis may include integration with cloud gaming and streaming.

**10 Video Game Guys I’d Love to Dine With (and Perhaps Catch a Flick)**

When it comes to gaming, the characters we engage with for countless hours can leave a memorable mark. Be they protagonists, antagonists, or loyal allies, some figures are simply too captivating to pass by. After all, when you’re gazing at someone for dozens or even hundreds of hours, it’s a plus if they’re pleasing to the eye. And sometimes, you can’t help but imagine how it would feel to take them out to a delightful dinner. Here’s a compilation of ten video game guys I’d absolutely invite out for a bite—and maybe a film.

### 10. James Sunderland from *Silent Hill 2*

James Sunderland is a layered individual, to put it mildly. His deeds in *Silent Hill 2*—especially his choice to take his wife Mary’s life—are morally questionable at best. Whether it was a compassionate act or a selfish means of freeing himself from the burden of caring for her, it’s not something I could easily ignore.

However, after being trapped in a haunting, surreal version of Silent Hill, I feel James could benefit from a little uplift. He’s reliable in a pinch, and let’s face it, he’s not hard to look at. So, I’d take him out for a lovely dinner—just once, though. I’m not seeking any long-term bond here.

### 9. Sephiroth from *Final Fantasy VII*

Sephiroth embodies the essence of “tall, dark, and handsome.” With his flowing silver mane, dark leather coat, and that enormous sword, he’s hard to overlook. His presence alone would make me inclined to accept a date.

That said, Sephiroth’s fixation on hatred and mayhem would certainly make for an uncomfortable dinner dialogue. I doubt he could pause his ambitions for world domination long enough to savor a quiet meal at a cafe. But he’s just so strikingly attractive that I’d still be willing to give it a try, even if the date wouldn’t bring me joy.

### 8. Johnny Gat from *Saint’s Row*

Johnny Gat is a perilous individual, but he’s also strikingly charismatic. As a member of the Saints, he’s a ruthless gang member, but he’s fiercely devoted to those he cares about. Plus, he’s quite easy on the eyes.

Unfortunately, Johnny’s track record for safeguarding his loved ones isn’t stellar—he lost his girlfriend Aisha to a rival gang in *Saint’s Row 2*. So, while I’d relish spending time with him, I’m not convinced he could shield me from his foes. Still, I’d take the chance for one date. Surely, the rival gangs wouldn’t target me after merely one dinner, right?

### 7. Solid Snake from *Metal Gear*

Solid Snake is the quintessential action hero. He’s the person who can accomplish anything, whether it’s saving the world or executing a stealth mission. His knack for achieving the impossible is incredibly appealing.

That said, Snake’s accelerated aging from his genetic alterations is somewhat of a deterrent. His lifespan is significantly shorter than mine, making a long-term relationship implausible. Nevertheless, I’d be willing to go on a few dates with him—he deserves some moments of joy, even if they are brief.

### 6. Arthur Morgan from *Red Dead Redemption 2*

Arthur Morgan is the archetypical cowboy, and who wouldn’t want to enjoy a date with a rugged Wild West heartthrob? We could hunt for our meal and savor it by a campfire beneath the stars. It sounds like the ideal romantic night.

There’s just one catch: Arthur is deceased. *Red Dead Redemption 2* unfolds in 1899, and I’m not particularly drawn to time travel, especially not to an era lacking modern luxuries. But I can still fantasize about the delightful dinner we’d have if time weren’t a constraint.

### 5. Master Chief from *Halo*

Master Chief is the ultimate warrior, having rescued humanity from The Covenant and The Flood. His achievements alone would make me eager to accept a date. Additionally, his smooth voice is like music to the ears.

I don’t need to uncover what he looks like underneath the armor—the enigma is part of the charm. However, Master Chief is deeply committed to his duty, and I doubt he’d have much time for a relationship. Still, I’d snag as many dates as possible before the UNSC summons him back to the field.

### 4. Wyll from *Baldur’s Gate 3*

Wyll is the unsung champion of *Baldur’s Gate 3*. While the rest are caught up fawning over Astarion and Gale, they’re overlooking this kind-hearted, valiant Warlock. He’s a folk hero willing to do whatever it takes to protect Bald

# **Unknown 9: Awakening – A Hands-On Preview**

Since its initial reveal, *Unknown 9: Awakening* has become one of the most awaited entries in the action-adventure gaming scene. Crafted by Reflector Entertainment and brought to you by Bandai Namco, this title pledges a compelling storyline, exceptional gameplay features, and an intricate, enigmatic lore that traverses various media forms such as podcasts, graphic novels, and beyond. Following a brief encounter at Summer Game Fest, I was thrilled to delve further into the universe of *Unknown 9*, and my interactive session at PAX West has only amplified my enthusiasm for its imminent launch.

## **The Story and Characters**

In *Unknown 9: Awakening*, players assume the role of Haroona, a young woman endowed with supernatural powers, played by the skilled Anya Chalotra. Haroona serves as a Quaestor, a seeker of hidden truths, as she learns to control her magical abilities. One of her most captivating skills is the ability to enter a mysterious dimension referred to as *The Fold*. This alternate reality conceals secrets and powers that a clandestine group called *The Ascendants* is also in pursuit of. The Ascendants contend that a collective known as the *Unknown 9* has prevented humanity from realizing its true potential by concealing this knowledge.

The storyline is enveloped in enigma, with minimal information disclosed thus far regarding the Unknown 9, The Ascendants, or the authentic nature of The Fold. Nonetheless, the lore is rich and extensive, and I’m eager to reveal more about these mysterious factions and Haroona’s involvement in their struggle. The narrative promises to be an exhilarating journey of exploration, with profound philosophical themes regarding knowledge, power, and humanity’s possibilities.

## **Gameplay Mechanics: Mastering Haroona’s Powers**

One of the remarkable aspects of *Unknown 9: Awakening* is its innovative gameplay mechanics, especially concerning Haroona’s magical abilities. During my hour-long playtest, I had the opportunity to experiment with her powers, particularly her defining skill—*Stepping*. Stepping enables Haroona to infiltrate an enemy’s body and manipulate their actions, offering a fresh and imaginative twist to combat.

Stepping unveils a realm of possibilities for players. You can seize control of an enemy and turn them against their comrades, force them to self-destruct, or even instigate intricate chain reactions to eliminate multiple adversaries at once. As you advance in the game, Stepping grows stronger, allowing you to combine multiple Stepping actions for even more catastrophic outcomes. I’m already envisioning the chaotic scenarios players will conjure, from gathering enemies for massive blasts to coordinating complex takedowns.

However, Stepping is not without limits. It necessitates a recharge, which can be accomplished through traditional combat engagements. Haroona holds her own in battles, and her *Umbric* abilities empower her to push, pull, and hurl enemies using magical force. Alternatively, players can choose a stealthier tactic, approaching foes quietly for instant kills that replenish Stepping. Each combat style features its unique skill tree, enabling players to tailor their strategies to fit their preferred playstyle.

## **Peeking: Planning Your Attack**

Another invaluable skill in Haroona’s toolkit is *Peeking*, which permits her to sense nearby enemies and interactable items, such as locks, explosives, and collectibles. Peeking is ideal for players who enjoy methodically planning their attacks. By employing Peeking, I was able to assess the number of adversaries I faced, determine whether they were positioned near explosives or clustered together, and strategize my approach accordingly. While charging in without a plan is certainly feasible, Haroona’s abilities reward those who take the time to strategize their offensive.

## **A Linear, Yet Immersive World**

One aspect that caught me off guard about *Unknown 9: Awakening* is its relatively linear format. Though there are chances to venture off the main path to discover skill points and collectibles, the primary route tends to be direct. This design choice evokes memories of titles like *Assassin’s Creed*, where you navigate cities by climbing, scaling, and leaping across structures. However, *Unknown 9* streamlines the parkour mechanics, making it friendlier for players who might not favor intricate traversal systems.

Despite its linear nature, the game’s environments are vivid and richly crafted. From lively urban areas to breathtaking caves, the world of *Unknown 9* is visually compelling. A few minor hitches emerged during my demo, such as Haroona’s hair sporadically twitching, yet these were trivial concerns that didn’t diminish the overall experience. I also encountered several companions throughout my playthrough, but I didn’t spend enough time with them to form a concrete opinion regarding their significance in the storyline.

## **Combat Customization and Skill Trees**

One of the

**New DLC for House Flipper: Dine Out – An Appetizing Expansion for Budding Restaurant Owners**

Since its debut in 2018, *House Flipper* has won over gamers who relish the joy of converting neglected properties into ideal homes. Created by Frozen District, the game has experienced a consistent influx of updates, which include various DLCs, a VR version, and even a direct sequel. Yet, in spite of the launch of *House Flipper 2*, the original game still benefits from fresh content, with the latest being the eagerly awaited *Dine Out* DLC, scheduled for release on November 26.

### What is the *Dine Out* DLC?

As implied by its title, *Dine Out* revolves around the renovation and management of eateries. This fresh DLC provides players with the chance to shift gears from conventional property rehabilitation and immerse themselves in the culinary realm. However, it’s not merely about refurbishing restaurants—*Dine Out* presents a plethora of new features that will be beneficial across all renovation types, making it an essential addition for any *House Flipper* fan.

### A Fresh Culinary Adventure

If you’re feeling weary from flipping houses, *Dine Out* brings a rejuvenating change of scenery. Rather than concentrating solely on property renovations, you can now wear a chef’s hat and unleash your creativity in the kitchen. The DLC debuts a new tool named the **Universal Cooker**, which empowers players to whip up a range of dishes. In addition, the **Cookbook** feature incorporates 30 new recipes into the game, allowing you to experiment with diverse cuisines in your meticulously renovated dining areas.

Although you won’t be able to market the meals you cook, they can embellish your restaurant or home as decorative features. Furthermore, if you possess the earlier released **Farm DLC**, you’ll receive discounts on ingredients based on the crops and livestock you hold in your inventory. This introduces an enjoyable aspect of resource management, further enhancing the cooking experience.

### Leasing Properties: A Novel Way to Earn

One of the most thrilling additions in the *Dine Out* DLC is the introduction of **leasing**. In earlier versions of *House Flipper*, after renovating a property, your next step was to sell it and move on. Now, with leasing, you can rent out your properties to tenants, generating a consistent income stream. The rent collected will vary based on considerations such as the property type (residential, office space, restaurant, etc.) and the total room count.

While it remains unconfirmed whether tenants will maintain your property or potentially inflict damage, this feature could lend an intriguing dynamic to the game. Picture returning to a property to make repairs after a tenant vacates—it could present a fresh set of challenges for players to encounter.

### More Than Simply Restaurants

Although the restaurant motif is the primary focus of the *Dine Out* DLC, the expansion also brings a variety of features that will enhance the overall *House Flipper* experience. Here’s a summary of what to anticipate on November 26:

– **New grid measurement system**: This allows for more accurate placement of items, simplifying the creation of flawlessly aligned designs.
– **Customizable neon signs**: Personalize your restaurant or other properties with neon signs that can be adjusted to fit your preferences.
– **Customizable tablecloths**: Select from numerous designs to provide your dining areas with a distinctive touch.
– **10 new quests and properties**: Undertake new tasks and renovate a new selection of properties, each with its own specific demands.
– **Symmetrical item placement**: A much-requested feature, you will now have the ability to arrange items symmetrically on flat surfaces, enhancing your design’s sophistication.
– **Over 1,350 new items**: From culinary equipment to restaurant décor, the *Dine Out* DLC contributes a vast range of new items to the game, granting you even greater creative freedom.

### Is *Dine Out* a Worthwhile Addition?

With an abundance of new features and the chance to venture into the restaurant industry, the *Dine Out* DLC is poised to be one of the most thrilling expansions for *House Flipper* to date. Whether you’re a long-time player or just starting, the fresh content has something for everyone. The combination of cooking, leasing, and the extensive array of new items guarantees ample entertainment.

So, do you really need more *House Flipper* DLC? Perhaps not. But will you desire it? Without a doubt. The *Dine Out* DLC promises to inject a refreshing and flavorful twist into the game, making it an irresistible addition to any player’s library.

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*House Flipper* keeps progressing, and with the launch of the *Dine Out* DLC on November 26, it’s evident that Frozen District is dedicated to