**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!

Read more

## 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.

Amazon is transforming the manner in which consumers acquire laptops by providing substantial savings on a diverse selection of models from reputable brands like HP, Dell, Asus, Lenovo, and Apple. Among the notable promotions, one of the most remarkable is the present deal on a 15.6-inch HP touchscreen laptop, now available for only $650—signifying an extraordinary 70% reduction from its original price of $2,200.

This visually striking moonlight blue laptop not only highlights an impressive reduction but also comes with a generous 6-in-1 accessory package worth nearly $200, boosting the overall appeal of the offer. However, purchasers should act swiftly, as this limited-time promotion is anticipated to conclude shortly.

### Advanced Features and Design

The HP laptop showcases a vibrant 15.6-inch Full HD display, framed in an ultra-slim 6.5 mm micro-edge bezel that optimizes screen area while reducing distractions. The anti-glare finish guarantees that users can enjoy clear visuals without putting strain on their eyes, and the touchscreen capability simplifies navigation and boosts interactivity. Users can easily scroll through documents, draw, and type directly on the display with the provided touchscreen pen.

Besides the impressive visuals, the laptop features a full-sized keyboard and a dedicated numeric keypad, ensuring a comfortable typing experience, which is crucial for extended tasks. The inclusion of a dedicated Copilot key grants instant access to the AI assistant, while an integrated webcam and built-in microphones allow for seamless video communication.

### Performance and Storage

At its core, the HP laptop utilizes the power of an Intel Core i3-N305 processor paired with 16GB of RAM. This setup is crafted to efficiently manage various tasks, whether for professional or leisure purposes. The ample 1TB SSD provides abundant storage capacity, allowing users to keep all their important files and documents organized without fear of running low on space.

### Long-Lasting Battery Life

Another major highlight of this laptop is its strong battery performance. Users can anticipate over 9 hours of usage on a single charge, enabling uninterrupted work throughout the day. Furthermore, the device supports quick charging, reducing downtime and maintaining user mobility.

### Comprehensive Accessory Bundle

To further enhance the acquisition, the laptop includes a 6-in-1 accessory bundle comprising a touchscreen pen, a 128GB thumb drive, a laptop bag, a cleaning cloth, camera protector, dust plugs, and Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. This package ensures that users have everything needed to commence their work or entertainment experience promptly.

### Final Thoughts

At a price of $650, this HP laptop emerges as a premier option for anyone in search of a powerful yet reasonably priced device. With its current price marking one of the lowest seen in recent times, prospective buyers should take advantage of the opportunity before the offer expires. It is a perfect deal for students, professionals, or anyone requiring a dependable computing solution.

For those interested in this outstanding deal, additional details can be found [here](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6521/).

# Steam Winter Sale: Unmissable Bargains on Games, Highlighting *Arc Raiders*

The Steam Winter Sale has commenced, offering a multitude of price cuts on well-known video games, alongside the Xbox Countdown Sale. This yearly occasion serves as an ideal moment for gamers to save significantly on titles they’ve been longing for all year. Among the diverse offers, one game emerges as essential: the breakout extraction shooter sensation, *Arc Raiders*. Having debuted on October 30, 2025, this game is now discounted for the first time since launch, available for an incredible price of just $32, after a 20% reduction from its original $40 tag.

## Overview of *Arc Raiders*

*Arc Raiders* has garnered overwhelmingly favorable reviews, marking a high point in the gaming world due to its captivating first-person survival gameplay, multiplayer PvP interactions, and thrilling cooperative PvE features. The game’s design encourages collaboration and strategic thinking, enabling players to join forces while maneuvering through tough terrains filled with adversaries and challenges. Yet, one significant critique has been its reliance on AI-generated voices, which many players find insufficient. Enthusiasts remain optimistic that the game’s success will inspire the developers at Embark Studios to reinvest in recording these lines with human voice actors for an enhanced gaming experience.

## Gameplay and Features

The gameplay in *Arc Raiders* delivers an exhilarating blend of cooperative and competitive aspects. Players can collaborate to tackle missions, gathering resources and engaging in battles against powerful enemies. The game’s architecture fosters teamwork, making it a superb option for those who relish playing alongside friends or teaming up with other players online. Despite its initially low price point, the game features a variety of in-game cosmetic options for players wishing to customize their characters. Importantly, these purchases are completely optional and do not influence gameplay, permitting players to relish the core experience without feeling obliged to spend additional money.

## Personal Experience

Numerous players, including those who generally avoid online gaming or tactical shooters, have found themselves enthralled by *Arc Raiders*. The game’s immersive atmosphere and captivating gameplay have converted skeptics into eager participants. Players have shared accounts of thrilling gaming sessions where they achieve multiple successful runs, conveying a gratifying sense of accomplishment despite the difficulties presented by the game.

## Current Availability

For gamers eager to seize this limited-time deal, *Arc Raiders* is now accessible on both Xbox and PC for $32. The sale offers a fantastic opportunity to discover this innovative title while reaping substantial savings. However, as players delve into their gaming experiences, a recurring message has surfaced urging Embark Studios to reassess their use of AI voices, indicating a stronger dedication to improving the game’s overall quality.

In summary, the Steam Winter Sale provides a distinctive opportunity for gamers to enhance their collections with remarkable offers. *Arc Raiders* shines as an excellent selection, both for its gameplay and discounted price. For those who appreciate value and seek adventure, now is an optimal moment to dive into this outstanding title.

### The Influence of High-Quality Headphones on Media Experience

An excellent set of headphones can significantly elevate how you enjoy your preferred media. Putting money into superior audio equipment can revolutionize daily listening, but it’s important to select a trusted brand that provides great value without costing a fortune. Sony has consistently excelled in both quality and affordability, and their newest products are no different.

#### Sony ULT WEAR Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones

Now available for $148, reduced from their usual price of $250, the Sony ULT WEAR headphones are an outstanding option for individuals seeking quality audio and comfort. This notable discount of $102 represents a 41% reduction, making these headphones an attractive choice.

[A preview of the offer on Amazon can be accessed here.](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6523/)

#### Remarkable Comfort for Long Wear

One of the distinguishing characteristics of these Sony headphones is their comfort. The ear cups feature soft padding, making prolonged wear comfortable—a vital aspect for those who favor headphones over earbuds. The adjustable headband provides a personalized fit, preventing the common issue of tightness that can lead to discomfort during lengthy listening periods.

#### Active Noise Cancelling Capability

The active noise cancelling (ANC) function is especially impressive, effectively reducing distractions from ambient sounds such as traffic, conversations, and airplane noise. This feature enables users to concentrate on music, podcasts, or audiobooks, or simply relish a more peaceful setting. Moreover, the headphones include a setting to allow ambient sound in without the need to take them off, offering awareness of surroundings when needed.

#### Notable Battery Longevity

Battery life is another key benefit, providing many hours of playback on a single charge. This is beneficial for travelers and commuters who require reliable audio throughout the day. With quick recharge capabilities, users can swiftly power up their headphones, ensuring minimal interruptions between uses.

### Summary

The Sony ULT WEAR Over-Ear Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones blend comfort, sound quality, and state-of-the-art features, making them a superb choice for various listening situations. At the current promotional price of $148, they constitute a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a dependable and feature-rich audio experience.

[Seize the opportunity to take advantage of this offer before it disappears. Check it out on Amazon.](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6523/)

### The Comfort of Multi-Port Charging Options

Carrying individual chargers for each of your gadgets—smartphones, laptops, tablets, earbuds, and smartwatches—can be quite cumbersome, particularly when trying to pack light. A multi-port charger can greatly simplify your charging requirements, making it a crucial accessory for modern tech enthusiasts. Right now, there’s a fantastic chance to upgrade your charging arrangement with a premium multi-port choice.

#### The Anker Prime 67W USB-C Charger

Anker is famous for its portable charging solutions, and the **67W Anker Prime USB-C charger with three ports** stands out as a top-tier product. Available for **$37** on Amazon, this charger is currently offered at a **25% discount**. The deal is accessible to both Prime and non-Prime customers, with complimentary shipping for all buyers.

##### Important Features

– **Compact Structure**: The Anker charger is roughly **51% smaller** than the original 67W MacBook charger, resulting in exceptional portability. The prongs fold in when not in use, ensuring safe and convenient storage.

– **Multiple Ports**: This charger features **two USB-C ports** and **one USB-A port**, enabling you to charge several devices at once. You can achieve an efficient output of **67W** when connecting a single device, while **65W max two-port charging** can decrease charging times by as much as **34%**.

– **Broad Compatibility**: The charger works with various devices, including **iPhone Series 12 to 17**, **Samsung Galaxy phones**, **MacBooks**, **Pixel phones**, and **iPads**.

– **Stable & Secure**: Advanced features like **GaNPrime Tech** and **ActiveShield 2.0** offer improved heat management and safety, ensuring your devices won’t overheat during charging.

#### Perfect for Any Scenario

The Anker Prime charger is ideal for anyone in search of a hassle-free power solution. Its compact size makes it easy to transport, allowing you to plug it into an outlet at cafes, coworking areas, or airports, ensuring your devices stay charged and ready for use.

Currently listed at **$37**, this charger is a sensible investment given its functions and the convenience it provides. The package includes the charger, a welcome guide, and a **24-month warranty** for additional peace of mind.

For those intending to travel during the holidays, ordering this charger today guarantees delivery before Christmas, enabling you to streamline your charging setup without needing multiple adapters.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6524/)