### Budget-Friendly Daily Driver: HP 15.6″ Laptop Evaluation

If you’re in the market for a dependable daily driver for activities like internet surfing, productivity software, and streaming without going over budget, take a look at the fantastic offer on the HP 15.6″ laptop, available for **$369**—a notable reduction from its usual price of **$1,999**. This clearance sale presents an appealing choice for those seeking value in performance.

#### Daily Computing Efficiency

The HP 15.6″ laptop is equipped with the **Intel Processor N100**, featuring four cores that can achieve speeds of up to **3.4GHz**. This level of processing power is adequate for everyday computing tasks; however, it may struggle with more intensive tasks such as 4K video editing or gaming. The processor is optimized for lightweight laptops, emphasizing battery life and thermal control over raw benchmark performance.

With **16GB of DDR4 RAM**, this laptop enables smooth multitasking, allowing users to handle multiple browser tabs along with productivity software and video conferencing platforms without experiencing significant lag. The **256GB PCIe NVMe SSD** boosts the system’s efficiency by launching Windows and programs swiftly; users should keep in mind storage limitations, as larger games and media files can fill up space quickly.

#### Screen and Graphics

The **15.6-inch Full HD display** features a resolution of **1920×1080** and comes with an anti-glare finish to reduce reflections. With a brightness level of **250 nits**, it performs reasonably well in standard indoor environments; however, visibility might be limited in bright sunlight. The integrated **Intel UHD graphics** are adequate for video playback and light photo editing but are not suitable for contemporary AAA gaming and intensive creative tasks.

#### Connection and Functionality

This laptop is compatible with **Wi-Fi 6**, which provides quicker connections and improved performance in crowded networks compared to Wi-Fi 5. With **Bluetooth 5.3**, it guarantees reliable connections with wireless devices. Two **USB-A ports** allow for connecting older peripherals without needing adapters, while the **HDMI 1.4b** output enables connections to external monitors and projectors, making it perfect for presentations or increasing workspace.

Operating on **Windows 11 Home**, users receive a familiar interface and support for a wide range of software, including established desktop applications like Adobe products, business applications, and games from platforms such as Steam. The **3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack** works with standard audio equipment, and the integrated webcam satisfies the basic needs for video conferencing, making it well-suited for both professional use and online education.

#### Summary

At **$369**, this HP laptop serves as a strong competitor to Chromebooks, offering complete Windows functionality along with unexpectedly large memory for its price point. The price cut likely signifies an inventory clearance, providing an ideal chance for those needing an economical and effective daily driver.

If you’re interested in buying, check out the [HP 15.6″ Laptop on Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6197/).

I think games are generally quite bad at acknowledging that they are things that are made by people. These people tend to have conversations about ideas, which turn into implementing those ideas, and sometimes these ideas are abandoned. We’ve all enjoyed a deleted scene in the extras of a DVD, yet the cutting room floor does not seem to be a thing for most games, at least not publicly. Which is why the new B-Sides DLC for Dystopika, a chill cyberpunk city builder quite liked by some former RPSers.

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### Revitalizing Grand Theft Auto IV: The Effect of GTA4 RTX Remix Mod

Within the gaming community, the capability of enthusiasts to infuse new vitality into classic titles is truly exceptional. A prominent illustration is the recently unveiled GTA4 RTX Remix mod for **Grand Theft Auto IV**, which upgrades the game’s graphics to contemporary standards, providing a renewed experience for gamers revisiting this legendary title. Originally released in 2008 by Rockstar Games on Xbox 360, PS3, and PC, **GTA IV** has been praised for its captivating storyline and extensive open-world setting. Nevertheless, the PC version has historically been noted for its troubled launch and inadequate performance, leading to its somewhat blemished reputation.

#### The Progression of GTA IV on PC

In spite of its tumultuous debut, the relentless efforts from Rockstar, alongside the determination of devoted modding communities, have markedly enhanced the game’s functionality and performance throughout the years. By 2025, **GTA IV** is more user-friendly than ever, even functioning seamlessly on devices such as the Steam Deck. The advent of the GTA4 RTX Remix mod signifies a crucial enhancement, employing Nvidia’s RTX Remix technology to incorporate sophisticated path-traced lighting without modifying the game’s original textures or geometry.

#### What is GTA4 RTX Remix?

Developed by modder **Xoxor4d**, the GTA4 RTX Remix mod is a technological innovation. It upgrades the game’s lighting, permitting more authentic interactions between light sources—such as car headlights and sunlight—and the game’s objects and environments. This enhancement can boost the graphical output to nearly photorealistic standards, a remarkable feat considering the game’s original launch almost two decades ago. Critics and gamers have lauded the mod for demonstrating how advanced lighting effects can enrich the overall visual experience, transforming classic games into something that feels fresh and modern.

#### Visual Comparisons and Advancements

The distinction this mod creates is clear when juxtaposed with the original version of **GTA IV**. While the gameplay remains anchored in its 2008 framework, the new lighting system offers a preview of contemporary gaming technology. The visual quality accomplished through this mod illustrates the potential of advanced lighting systems in gaming, where precise light behavior is emphasized over merely boosting resolution or frame rate.

#### Availability and Installation

Initially exclusive to patrons of Xoxor4d’s Patreon, the GTA4 RTX Remix mod has recently been released to the public. Gamers keen on refreshing their **GTA IV** experience can download the mod for free from Xoxor4d’s [GitHub page](https://github.com/xoxor4d/gta4-rtx), which includes installation guidance and compatibility details with other mods, like Fusion Fix.

#### The Future of Game Remastering

Though the mod has its flaws—such as sporadic excessive shininess on character models—it presents a strong case for community-driven improvements in gaming. As players continue to rediscover **GTA IV** in 2025, aided by mods like GTA4 RTX Remix, it prompts the inquiry: why wait for official remasters when devoted fans deliver such remarkable upgrades at no expense? The transformation this mod offers encourages other game developers and console manufacturers to prioritize innovative technologies that can substantially enhance the longevity and appeal of older titles.

In summary, GTA4 RTX Remix illustrates the collaboration between passionate modding communities and cherished gaming franchises, showing that with ingenuity and technological progress, beloved games can remain vibrant and engage new generations of players.

The Soulslike is dead. The age of the Souplike has begun. Indie developer Kite Line has just published Soup Rooms – a sequel of sorts to dong yarhalla’s videogame concept album from 2007, in which you visit small square rooms with feverdream aesthetics and a peculiar entity in the middle.

What was I doing back in 2007? Alas, I was not playing Soup. There’s a high probability that I cooked soup in 2007, but it wouldn’t have been very interesting soup. It would not have featured any spirit wolves, whiny fallen clouds, consumptive Casio men, “boinglers”, or Willem Dafoes.

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**No Games For Genocide: Boycott Xbox to Challenge Complicity in Israeli Actions**

In a noteworthy shift within the gaming sector, a group referred to as No Games For Genocide has launched a campaign urging a boycott of Xbox. This effort calls on journalists, developers, streamers, and consumers to take part in the Palestinian-led BDS (boycott, divest, sanction) initiative against Microsoft. The group claims the tech company is complicit in Israeli war crimes, particularly regarding its recent actions related to its cloud services.

This campaign follows Microsoft’s decision to halt its cloud services for a division of the Israel Defense Forces which used them for extensive surveillance of Palestinians. Nevertheless, the group underscores that Microsoft continues to offer cloud services to additional military units, which they argue sustains its involvement in human rights abuses against Palestinians.

Microsoft’s Dominance in the Gaming Sector

Microsoft has established itself as a powerful entity in the gaming industry through various acquisitions, making a full boycott difficult for many employees and consumers, especially in the context of the ongoing employment crisis in this field. Nonetheless, No Games For Genocide insists that collective resistance is vital to garnering Microsoft’s attention toward their message.

Sara Khan, a key organizer and cofounder of Game Assist, expressed that the gaming industry resides at the intersection of entertainment and technology. She articulated the importance of tackling the connections between this industry and the violence inflicted upon Palestinians. Khan, alongside Austin Kelmore, founder of the IWGB Game Workers Union, galvanized industry participants to form this collective, concentrating on impactful actions against the bond between the gaming industry and the atrocities happening in Palestine.

Inspiration from the BDS Movement

The collective’s energy gained momentum when the Palestinian-led BDS movement designated Xbox as a focus for consumer action earlier this year. The organizers recognized this as a chance to synchronize their efforts with a larger social justice agenda, positioning it as a key campaign.

This appeal for unity encompasses various ways to participate: consumers are encouraged to abstain from buying Microsoft products, streamers should steer clear of Xbox-published games, journalists are invited to stop any coverage of these games, and developers are urged to avoid publishing their works on Microsoft platforms.

Addressing Concerns and Risks

The leaders of No Games For Genocide acknowledge the challenges tied to asking individuals to take such steps. They understand the associated risks concerning employment and job stability, promoting long-term strategies to foster collective strength among workers. This method aims to empower individuals by nurturing a supportive atmosphere for political involvement within the industry without risking personal livelihoods.

Despite many signatories currently representing consumer interests, there is hope to rally more studios and media organizations to pledge to the boycott. The call for collective power embodies the belief that united actions can provide a safety net for those taking a stand on contentious political matters.

Understanding the Context

The recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Palestine has brought up discussions regarding the relevance of the boycott. However, Khan and other organizers stress that the issue extends beyond a temporary halt in hostilities. They contend that resolving the conflict necessitates addressing the underlying structures of settler colonialism and rethinking the long-term consequences for Palestinian rights and sovereignty.

No Games For Genocide remains resolute in exerting pressure until Microsoft ceases its technological support for the Israeli military and complies with ethical standards in accordance with the principles of human rights and international law.

As the movement accrues visibility, it has attracted considerable attention from industry professionals and consumers alike, resonating with broader anti-colonial movements. The campaign’s aims closely align with the objectives of the BDS movement, seeking to instigate a ripple effect that demands accountability and transformation within the tech and gaming sectors.

For more information or to join the boycott, individuals can visit the No Games For Genocide website to sign the pledge and explore additional ways to get involved.

Truth be told, I have never played a Castlevania game. Just haven’t gotten round to one of ’em yet! Symphony of the Night is probably more my speed over the original games, but I do see their importance too of course. However, what I have played, at least a little bit of, is a game that is very derivative of OG platformer except for the fact you can see the entire, 8-bit level at once: Schattenjäger.

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**Ready or Not: Free Trial Notification for Consoles**

*Ready or Not*, the widely recognized and contentious first-person tactical co-op shooter and SWAT simulator crafted by Void Interactive, has garnered attention with its recent announcement regarding a complimentary trial on consoles. Starting December 3, players will have the chance to explore the entire game for a limited duration, running through February 20, 2026.

### Free Trial Information

The trial is available on PlayStation 5 (with a PS Plus subscription), Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. Those who download and install the trial will enjoy complete access to all missions and functionalities of *Ready or Not* for up to three hours. Additionally, any progress made during the trial can be saved and transferred if players decide to purchase the complete version post-trial.

### Background on *Ready or Not*

First introduced in early access on PC via Steam in 2021, *Ready or Not* has sparked significant conversation and debate. It parted ways with its initial publisher, Team17, just prior to its official release and has been scrutinized for its narrative and thematic elements, especially concerning a mission situated in a community college. Critics, such as Kotaku writer Ethan Gach, have highlighted flaws in the game’s execution, criticizing aspects of immature humor and a depiction of law enforcement that raises unease.

### Recent Issues

In July 2023, the title faced backlash from its community when a patch released for PC censored specific in-game assets, including nudity, in preparation for its console debut. This decision prompted a considerable outcry from long-time players, leading to a review-bombing campaign aimed at the game. Yet, mere hours after the patch’s rollout, modders discovered methods to revert the changes.

In spite of these challenges, the *Ready or Not* development team remains dedicated to regular updates and enhancements. Earlier this year, the community also witnessed the exit of the game’s community manager following a controversial comment regarding a political figure, further emphasizing the increased scrutiny surrounding the title.

### Looking Forward

The free trial presents a distinctive chance for console gamers to engage with the thrilling tactical gameplay of *Ready or Not* without any monetary obligation. As the game seeks to widen its player base on consoles, its turbulent history may influence both player anticipations and developer choices in the future. This trial might potentially invite new players, allowing them to connect their experiences with the game’s evolving narrative and upcoming developments.

What’s that unholy rumbling? An avalanche? Ah, nothing so delicate. It’s the next free update for Total War: Warhammer 3, which launches tomorrow alongside the Tides of Torment DLC. The strategy barons of Creative Assembly have just put up a blog post, and frankly, it’s a mess. The Chaos demons of Salaanesh have mastered the foxtrot. The Norscans now give birth to squadrons of porters when they pillage stuff. The Trolls have discovered imperialism, the High Elves have devised a patronage system, and the Dark Elves have learned how to prioritise. It’s a close-packed salvo of additions worthy of the cabin scene from A Night Of The Opera. I am trying to think of a Warhammer-appropriate Groucho joke and failing.

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**Elden Ring: Nightreign’s The Forsaken Hollow – DLC Overview**

Elden Ring Nightreign’s inaugural paid DLC, *The Forsaken Hollow*, is officially released, aiming to rekindle enthusiasm among fans of this celebrated multiplayer roguelike. This mini-expansion intends to invite players back into its enchanting world with fresh content, features, and challenges.

### Release Schedule

*The Forsaken Hollow* is set to launch across various platforms at staggered intervals. For PC players, the DLC debuted on December 3 at 6:00 p.m. ET. Console users, specifically those on PlayStation 5 and PS4, will regrettably need to wait until December 4 at 12:00 a.m. ET to engage with the new content.

### How to Access The Forsaken Hollows

To gain access to the content in *The Forsaken Hollow*, players must meet certain conditions:
1. First, defeat Tricephalos, the three-headed wolf Nightlord.
2. Next, players should visit the Roundtable Hold and converse with the Iron Menial to obtain a message from the Small Jar Merchant, unlocking the new Scholar and Undertaker classes.
3. To initiate the new Shifting Earth event and face the Balancers boss, players must conquer a second Nightlord and then reach a chapel that appears behind the Small Jar Merchant to commence the event titled “The Great Hollows.”

### New Content in The Forsaken Hollows

*The Forsaken Hollow* adds two new character classes:

1. **Scholar**:
– Character Skill: Analyze – debuffs foes from a scoped perspective.
– Passive Skill: Bagcraft – increases item carrying capacity.
– Ultimate Art: Communion – connects enemies and allies, distributing damage and healing.

2. **Undertaker**:
– Character Skill: Trance – grants free stamina and enhanced speed.
– Ultimate Art: Loathsome Hex – delivers multiple strikes on a target.
– Passive: Confluence – provides an additional free Ultimate Art when an ally activates theirs.

Additionally, the DLC brings the *Great Hollows* Shifting Earth event, featuring a completely new area filled with unique points of interest, ruins, and mazes. Players can also anticipate new field bosses, toxic swamps in Limveld, and a variety of new weapons to discover.

### Challenge and Gameplay Experience

Director Junya Ishizaki highlighted that the DLC is crafted to be demanding yet fair, ensuring that players familiar with the main game can experience a blend of nostalgia and new challenges. The inclusion of tougher foes is intended to evoke the sense of exploration and difficulty characteristic of the base game.

### Patch Notes Summary

In conjunction with the new DLC, a complimentary update has been rolled out, featuring quality-of-life enhancements and bug fixes, including:

– Enhanced visibility for equipped relics.
– Modifications to the arrangement of relic presets in the Relic Rites menu.
– Various gameplay-related bug fixes, such as issues with triggering Sites of Grace and inconsistencies in character abilities.

However, this update does not address balance modifications for current characters, presumably to allow assessment of the new classes before any changes take place.

### Conclusion

*The Forsaken Hollow* DLC enriches *Elden Ring: Nightreign* by introducing new characters, a novel area to explore, and engaging gameplay meant to keep players immersed. As the gaming community re-enters the universe crafted by FromSoftware, this expansion stands as a remarkable enhancement to an already expansive gaming experience.

Make sure to mine for these ores.

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