A majority of respondents in a reader poll feel that performance deficits in Google's Pixel devices are not enough to deter them from buying one. Many value the "Pixel experience" and cohesive software over raw horsepower. Some users prioritize better power efficiency and less overheating over raw performance. However, a third of readers are deterred by Google's inability to match the competition at flagship price points, fearing for the device's longevity and performance in the future.
Google Play Games allows users to play Android games on their computers by signing in with their Google accounts and downloading games. It synchronizes progress automatically, enabling players to continue their games seamlessly between devices. The platform supports keyboard, mouse, and controller inputs, enhancing gameplay, especially for strategy and simulation games. It offers a stable, ad-free experience compared to traditional Android emulators. The library includes over 200,000 titles optimized for PC performance, catering to both seasoned gamers and newcomers.
Joe Rogan hosted a guest named Simpson who discussed the game Deadlock on his podcast. Simpson described the game as having a complex economy, stating that the player with the most money becomes stronger. Rogan remarked that the game seems complicated and noted that it takes about 200 hours to understand its mechanics. The discussion highlighted the challenges and frustrations associated with playing Deadlock, a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game.
The Epic Games Store offers free games weekly, with two titles available this week: Odsparks: An Automation Adventure and Firestone. Odsparks, developed by Massive Miniteam and published by HandyGames, is a cosy automation game released a year ago, typically priced at .99. It invites players to create automation workshops in a whimsical world. Firestone, a free-to-play idle clicker RPG from Holyday Studios launched in 2024, allows players to engage in battles and offers infinite progression offline. Claiming Firestone from the Epic Games Store this week provides worth of in-game bonuses, including various chests and resources. Both games are free until May 7 at 4 PM BST / 8 AM PT. Additionally, Hogwarts Legacy is available for free until May 3.
Six months ago, ASUS and AMD launched the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X in 45 countries, combining Xbox capabilities with Windows 11 in a portable format. Player feedback has led to continual updates, optimizing hundreds of games for handheld play and introducing features like Default Game Profiles and expanded Xbox mode. Recent updates include automatic gameplay transition to TV when docked, support for HDR10 and Variable Refresh Rate on certain docks, a Display Widget for adjusting settings via the Game Bar, improved controller pairing, and the Gamepad Cursor feature for non-controller supported applications. Automatic Super Resolution is now in preview for Xbox Insiders on the ROG Xbox Ally X, enhancing visual quality. The Xbox Wireless Headset now supports Bluetooth LE Audio for reduced latency and improved battery life. The Xbox PC app has been revamped to consolidate games from various storefronts into one library. Over 1,000 PC games are now compatible with handheld play, and features like Default Game Profiles and Advanced Shader Delivery have been introduced. Popular games supporting these features include Ninja Gaiden 4, Grounded 2, and others, with more titles expected in the future.
Users can now customize console colors by adjusting sliders for a unique hue, which will accentuate elements of the console interface. Quick Resume has been enhanced to allow disabling on a per-game basis. The Play History feature has been revamped with a new tab for easier access. A User Selected Resolution feature lets players choose streaming resolution, while a Network Quality Indicator provides real-time network health insights. PC gamers can manually add any installed game or app to their Xbox library. Users can pin up to three favorite games for quick access. A Gamepad Cursor feature allows navigation in non-controller apps. Xbox notifications can be repositioned on the Game Bar. The Xbox mobile app now includes wishlist alerts for game changes. Recent updates for the ROG Xbox Ally improve external display experiences. Microsoft Rewards is hosting a Total Prize Drop event with prizes up to ,000,000. The Handheld Compatibility Program has expanded, adding titles like Hades II as handheld optimized. Xbox Cloud Gaming now includes over 1,000 games for streaming.
The rollout of Xbox mode for Windows 11 PCs begins today in select markets, providing a console-inspired gaming experience for laptops, desktops, and tablets. This mode features a controller-optimized, full-screen interface that allows easy access to games and minimizes distractions. Players in select regions can download Xbox mode today, with plans for broader availability in the coming weeks. Xbox mode enables users to browse and launch games, switch between Xbox mode and the Windows desktop, and access a comprehensive game library, including Xbox Game Pass titles. Feedback from players has influenced the development of Xbox mode, which aims to create a consistent Xbox experience across devices. To access Xbox mode, users must ensure their Windows 11 PC is set to receive the latest updates.
Microsoft has begun rolling out its Xbox mode for Windows 11, which aims to provide a full-screen, dedicated gaming experience similar to console functionality. This feature, announced in March, is now available in select markets as of April 30. Xbox mode is designed to create a cohesive Xbox experience across various devices, including laptops, desktops, and tablets, and caters to gamers who prefer using a controller. The launch is part of Microsoft's strategy to enhance the integration of Xbox with Windows, although some users still find the Xbox experience on PC lacking compared to competitors like Steam.
MindsEye's game, Blacklisted, has been released, alleging sabotage against Build a Rocket Boy (BARB) by co-CEOs Leslie Benzies and Mark Gerhard. The game, originally intended as a crossover with the Hitman franchise, was reimagined after IO Interactive ended its publishing agreement. Players can complete Blacklisted in under an hour, and it features a flawed checkpoint system that does not save progress. The promotional material lacks quality, and gameplay inconsistencies detract from the experience. The narrative hints at a conspiracy but fails to provide clarity or engagement, leaving players with unanswered questions. The game's execution raises doubts about the claims of sabotage it presents. Blacklisted is free for existing MindsEye owners, but the experience may not justify the time investment.
