sticks Archives

BetaBeacon

June 26, 2026

Android 17’s new foldable gaming mode could make flippy phones more fun

Android 17 is introducing a dedicated gaming mode for foldable devices that features a virtual gamepad with touch controls. The virtual gamepad includes a D-pad, virtual sticks, action buttons, triggers, and more, and can be customized to suit user preferences. The mode is compatible with games that support physical controllers and can be easily activated by unfolding the device. The goal is to enhance the gaming experience on Android devices and cater to users who prefer physical controls for certain games.

Winsage

June 24, 2026

“This is the gaming handheld we’ve been waiting for” — MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ review of a masterpiece priced for the few

The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is a gaming handheld powered by Intel's Arc G3 Extreme processor, priced at 9.99. It features an 8-inch FHD+ display (1920x1200) with 500 nits brightness and supports variable refresh rates from 48Hz to 120Hz. The device includes Hall-Effect analog sticks, tactile buttons, and dual front speakers with Bluetooth Core 6.0 support. It scored 6,726 on the 3DMark Time Spy benchmark. The 80Whr battery lasts approximately 3.5 hours on demanding games and over five hours on lighter titles. It has Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports for desktop functionality when docked.

Winsage

June 12, 2026

Windows bowls a BSOD at sports fans

Worcestershire County Cricket Club experienced a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) on its screens, which are typically used to relay messages to spectators. The BSOD was caused by a DRIVERPOWERSTATE_FAILURE, likely due to a hardware issue or a malfunctioning driver. This incident has drawn attention from system administrators and has been noted by a reader named Rhodri Howell.

BetaBeacon

June 1, 2026

Can the Android-powered mini gaming device ‘AYANEO Pocket S Mini’ play demanding games? A review after trying Fortnite and NTE.

The AYANEO Pocket S Mini is a gaming device that hit the Japanese market on March 26, 2026. It is powered by a Snapdragon G3x Gen 2 SoC and allows users to enjoy Android game apps with a physical controller. The device scored 144464 on the AnTuTu Benchmark app, surpassing the performance of 35% of users. It features a quick menu called 'AYAWindow' and comes in two models with different RAM and storage options.

AppWizard

May 31, 2026

Acer Nitro Blaze Link Streams PC Games Straight to a Dedicated Handheld

Acer has introduced the Nitro Blaze Link, a handheld gaming device designed to stream games from a nearby computer. It features ergonomic grips, standard controls, and a seven-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1920 by 1200 pixels. The device weighs 464 grams, measures approximately 287 millimeters in width, and has a maximum thickness of 33.5 millimeters. It is powered by an 18-watt-hour battery and includes a USB-C port for charging (up to 15 watts) but does not support data transfer. The Nitro Blaze Link runs on Debian Linux, uses Moonlight for video streaming, and requires Sunshine installed on the host computer. It has 1GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 8GB of integrated flash storage, supports WiFi 6, and is designed to work with Acer's Predator Helios and Nitro laptops. The device cannot run games locally, has limited storage and RAM, and relies on a stable wireless connection for performance. It is expected to be available in the U.S. market in the fourth quarter of 2026, with no pricing information disclosed.

AppWizard

May 26, 2026

This retro games console is capable of playing AAA PC games alongside the classics – looks like an NES but runs like a Ferrari

The AceMagic Retro X5 is a mini PC that combines a nostalgic design reminiscent of the 1985 Nintendo Entertainment System with modern performance capabilities. It features the AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 chipset and 32GB of RAM. The device is available for purchase on Amazon in various European regions, with discounts of up to 32% in Germany and Spain, and 28% in Italy and France, using the code RETROX5T3 until May 31, 2026. The Retro X5 is designed to complement gaming consoles and operates quietly, although users may face challenges with audio output, particularly achieving 5.1 audio through HDMI with certain operating systems.

BetaBeacon

May 22, 2026

This OLED Android handheld is great for PS2 games, and it just got a cheaper model

ANBERNIC has released an 8GB/128GB version of the RG577 handheld, which is currently being sold for a discounted price on their website. The device features a MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset, a 5.48-inch OLED screen, a 5,500mAh battery, and other notable specs. Despite facing competition from other handhelds with OLED screens and Snapdragon chipsets, the RG577 is still considered a capable Android handheld option under 0.

BetaBeacon

May 22, 2026

AYANEO gives us a first official look at its Game Boy-like Pocket BLOCK

AYANEO has unveiled the KONKR Pocket BLOCK handheld, a pocket-friendly vertical device with a Game Boy-style design. It features a microSD card slot, a 3.5mm port, and will be available in grey and purple colors. The device is expected to be more affordable and compact, making it an attractive option for those looking for a pocket-friendly Android handheld.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced is a textbook remaster

Ubisoft has released a remastered version of Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag, titled Black Flag Resynced, after a 12-year hiatus. The game features significant upgrades, including an overhauled combat system with dynamic animations, seamless transitions between cities and the ocean, dynamic weather conditions, and enhanced lighting effects using ray tracing. New gameplay features include a crouch button, a fast travel option to the Jackdaw from the map screen, and a shanty player for selecting songs. While some systems have been reinvented, the game retains familiar elements and largely stays true to its roots, preserving the essence of the original experience.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Valve Steam Controller Review

Valve's Steam Controller builds on insights from the Steam Deck and aims to enhance the PC gaming experience. It features an asymmetrical thumbstick layout, ergonomic design, and weighs 292 grams. The controller lacks a headphone jack but includes Grip Sense technology for gyroscope activation. Its charging system combines a 2.4 GHz wireless transmitter and magnetic charging dock, with a battery life rated at 35 hours. The controller offers extensive customization options, including dual trackpads, drift-resistant joysticks, and programmable buttons through Steam Input. It performs well across various games, although some non-Steam titles may require additional setup. The Steam Controller is designed for comfort and versatility, making it suitable for living room gaming, despite its premium price.