CORSAIR proudly presents the next generation of award-winning VIRTUOSO gaming headsets: VIRTUOSO MAX. Featuring state-of-the-art 50 mm Graphene drivers, VIRTUOSO MAX joins innovative engineering with cutting-edge audio technology, for spectacularly clear, precise audio. From the lightest footstep to the heaviest rainfall, VIRTUOSO MAX enriches every in-game sound for unbreakable immersion, on any platform. The result is a headset that sounds so good, it's worth obsessing over.

Also launching today is an officially licensed VIRTUOSO MAX for Xbox consoles. Immersive, clear gaming audio from the CORSAIR sound experts is now available on the Xbox as well as PC. In addition to seamless wireless connection between platforms, the VIRTUOSO MAX for Xbox also offers intuitive on-ear audio/chat mix controls.

We're thrilled to announce the next Xbox Partner Preview - our no-fluff, all-games broadcast - is coming this Thursday, October 17. In the latest installment, we'll feature a mix of new and upcoming games for you from incredible partners like Remedy Entertainment, Sega, 505 Games, and many more, with over a dozen new trailers over the course of around 25 minutes. During Xbox Partner Preview, you'll get a first look at gameplay from Alan Wake II's next expansion, The Lake House, an action-packed new trailer for Like A Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, a peek at multiple bosses in dark-fantasy action game Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, multiple world premieres, and other great titles coming to Xbox consoles, Windows PC, and Game Pass.

As always, Xbox Partner Preview is all about sharing exciting games news from our talented partners across the globe: you'll get new game reveals, release date announcements, and fresh new gameplay from upcoming games. And to sweeten the deal, during the broadcast, Xbox Wire will post exclusive behind-the-scenes stories about select titles shown. This event will be broadcast digitally on Thursday, October 17, at 10am Pacific / 1pm Eastern / 6pm UK across our Xbox channels on YouTube and Twitch.

MSI is thrilled to announce a new collaboration with S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, introducing four limited edition products: GeForce RTX 4070 Ti SUPER 16G GAMING SLIM STALKER 2 EDITION, CLUTCH GM41 LIGHTWEIGHT WIRELESS STALKER 2 EDITION, VIGOR GK41 STALKER 2 EDITION, and FORCE PRO WIRELESS STALKER 2 EDITION. These exclusive products combine cutting-edge performance and immersive S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2-themed designs to enhance your gaming experience. Additionally, customers who purchase these limited-edition products will also be eligible to redeem S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl through MSI's Member Center, granting access to the full game and enhancing their overall gaming experience.

GeForce RTX 4070 Ti SUPER 16G GAMING SLIM STALKER 2 EDITION
Powered by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti SUPER 16G, this slimmer variant of the GAMING series offers high performance with ray tracing and DLSS support. TRI FROZR 3 thermal design keeps it cool and quiet during intense gaming.

From the creator of the groundbreaking line of Arctis Nova headphones, SteelSeries.com, the original esports brand that fuses gaming and culture, today introduces Arctis GameBuds. The role that gaming plays in moving culture forward is essential and SteelSeries set out to push boundaries and solve problems for those living a "gaming lifestyle" in today's rapidly changing world. The goal was simple, reinvent the world's number one premium gaming headphones - within a pair of gaming earbuds. Whether the pain the points are related to the fact that gamers couldn't connect to a PS5 or Xbox via Bluetooth, or the status quo was poor gaming audio quality and bad microphone communications in traditional earbuds, or the inability to utilize a single pair of earbuds across multiple platforms, or fatigue and poor battery life from all-day use, the introduction of SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds solve multiple problems for gamers.

As an industry first, SteelSeries is introducing a unique feature set for gaming earbuds, including Arctis App connectivity featuring parametric EQ customizations with 100+ game-specific audio presets that can be changed on-the-fly while in-game, 360° Spatial Audio, and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), a Quick-Switch Wireless System, and stable ultra-low latency wireless 2.4Ghz connectivity with a new USB-C nano dongle. The design, development, and engineering required creating a new custom next-gen wireless chipset, co-developed with a key technology partner, that allowed the brand to push the boundaries of innovation. The result is a better player experience and better audio for the games people play - in an all-new form factor.

There have been a slew of changes for the upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows launch, and the latest announcement out of Ubisoft promises some serious changes to the game's launch strategy. Not only will the game be delayed by almost four months, but it will now launch on PC via Steam at the same time as PS5 and Xbox consoles, and Ubisoft is apparently ditching the season pass model that it previously resorted to for major game launches.

In a previous article, we detailed the delays to Assassin's Creed Shadows, but further information was revealed in a Ubisoft trading update (PDF):

We are departing from the traditional Season Pass model. All players will be able to enjoy the game at the same time on February 14 and those who preorder the game will be granted the first expansion for free.

Leading gaming accessories maker Turtle Beach Corporation (Nasdaq: HEAR) today announced the global availability of its new premium wireless multiplatform gaming headset, the redesigned Turtle Beach Stealth 700. This third iteration of Turtle Beach's best-selling premium wireless gaming headset brings massive upgrades to the series, with new features like CrossPlay dual wireless transmitters that make switching between devices quick and easy, plus simultaneous Bluetooth 5.2 connectivity. Massive 60 mm Eclipse dual drivers delivering powerful, unparalleled sound, and a long-lasting 80-hour rechargeable battery life are also significant upgrades. The Designed for Xbox, PlayStation, and PC editions of the Stealth 700 are all available for purchase at www.turtlebeach.com and participating retailers worldwide for $199.99/£179.99/€199.99 MSRP.

"Elevating a fan-favorite gaming headset like our Stealth 700 is always a balance between true innovation and continuing to deliver the performance that's made this such a popular model generation after generation," said Cris Keirn, CEO, Turtle Beach Corporation. "Our new Stealth 700 delivers significant feature upgrades over earlier versions and the competition, all while retaining the original $199.99 MSRP that's made this a best-selling premium wireless gaming headset for years."

The wait is over! We're thrilled to unveil the Cipher Series for the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, with Xbox Design Lab. This collection taps into the nostalgia of classic tech designs with six stunning transparent top cases, letting you relive the magic of seeing the inner workings of your favorite gadgets—while adding a modern twist. Alongside the Cipher Series, we're also introducing two vibrant chromatic D-pad and paddle designs in Sunset Chroma and Energy Chroma, bringing fresh style to the Elite Series 2 controller. And to elevate the retro-modern aesthetic, we're excited to announce the Xbox Wireless Controller Special Edition - Ghost Cipher, a follow-up to the fan-favorite Sky Cipher.

With its transparent casing and metallic silver details, the Cipher Series lets you look inside the controller, capturing the spirit of those iconic see-through devices that tech enthusiasts still fondly remember—now making a bold comeback for a new generation of players. Drawing inspiration from the iconic translucent tech of the '90s and early 2000s, the Cipher Series brings six stunning transparent top case designs to Xbox Design Lab. These vibrant, candy-colored top cases encapsulate the controller's metallic frame, showcasing both its external beauty and the advanced engineering within the Elite Series 2 controller.

Logitech G, a brand of Logitech and leading innovator of gaming technologies and gear, introduced today at Logi Play the Logitech G ASTRO A50 5th Generation Wireless Gaming Headset and Base Station. It joins its bigger brother, the A50 X, to form the new A50 family of high-performance gaming headsets with advanced feature sets for multi-platform gamers.

The A50 Generation 5, now with PLAYSYNC AUDIO, is based on the same architecture as our award-winning A50 X, offering a streamlined and versatile feature set tailored for multiplatform gamers. The new PLAYSYNC AUDIO feature is designed specifically for players who want to use USB for seamless audio switching between console and PC platforms and don't require HDMI video switching.

Logitech G, a brand of Logitech and leading innovator of gaming technologies and gear, announced today at Logi Play the new Racing Series, marking an important milestone in Logitech G's simulation racing heritage. The Racing Series brings unprecedented innovation and customization to drivers, letting them fine-tune their gear setup and equipment levels to match their driving style.

"We've heard from numerous sim racers that their setup should mirror the car they're driving, whether it's tackling gravel in a rally car, drifting with burning rubber, or navigating an open-wheeler with precision," said Richard Neville, head of SIM product engineering, Logitech G. "Each of these disciplines requires distinct steering input styles to achieve peak performance and the best feel, which is why the steering wheel shapes in these vehicles vary greatly. We developed the RS system specifically for motorsport enthusiasts who want to play their way."

PowerA, a division of ACCO Brands and a global leader in enhancing interactive entertainment with officially licensed gaming accessories, proudly announces the expansion of its renowned FUSION Line with two new controllers designed for gamers seeking an edge: the FUSION Pro Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S with Lumectra and the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller for Xbox Series X|S. These controllers offer pro-level gameplay, combining cutting-edge features with PowerA's signature design and functionality, starting at just $69.99.

The first ever FUSION Pro Wireless Controller for Xbox and PC delivers an unparalleled gaming experience, featuring stunning Ghost RGB LED lighting, intuitive customization options, and pro-grade enhancements like Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers, low-latency wireless connectivity, and four advanced mappable buttons. Meanwhile, the FUSION Pro 4 Wired Controller offers a premium build with highly anticipated features such as Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers, and Dual Rumble Motors, all at a budget-friendly price. Both controllers include the new patent pending Quick-Twist adjustable height thumbsticks allowing gamers to adjust the height of either thumbstick with a simple twist. No need to manage removable parts. Both controllers are available now at PowerA.com, Amazon, and major retailers where gaming accessories are sold, with MSRPs of $149.99 and $69.99, respectively.

GameSir, a leading brand in gaming peripherals, proudly introduces its T7 wired controller. Featuring Hall Effect sticks and triggers, the T7 controller guarantees durability and precise handling for gamers. Compatible with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One X|S, Windows 10/11 and Steam, the T7 blends functionality and style with its three colour choices too.

Equipped with GameSir non-contact magnetic Hall Effect technology, the controller's sticks are designed to remain wear-free throughout their lifetime. This advanced technology ensures an impressive lifespan of up to 5 million cycles, effectively preventing stick drift and guaranteeing reliable, durable performance for gaming on Xbox, PC, and Steam. Precision-tuned Hall Effect analogue triggers are also built-in, which offer a consistent, smooth pull. This feature is particularly beneficial for racing games, providing the confidence needed to enjoy a seamless and responsive gaming experience. The precision of these triggers ensures that every input is accurate, enhancing overall gameplay.

Black Myth: Wukong is undoubtedly 2024's best-selling game, so far. Released in August 2024 and gaining 18M sales within two weeks, PC and PS5 users have been enjoying this game since its release, and Xbox gamers have just been sitting at the back seat missing out on all the fun. Now, GameStop has taken advantage of the situation, offering two options to the Series S users.

GameStop posted on X, offering Series S users a trade in price of $272.50 in exchange for their Xbox S, which is not far off from the price of a new Xbox Series S, $289.99. With no release date for the game on Xbox, players on the Series S might be tempted to jump ship. Either the gamers remain patient and wait for the game to come to the console, or they trade in their Series S, and perhaps use credit to purchase a PS5 and enjoy the game that has been making waves in the gaming community recently.

According to new information from Tom's Hardware, AMD has announced plans to unify its consumer-focused gaming RDNA and data center CDNA graphics architectures into a single, unified design called "UDNA." The announcement was made by AMD's Jack Huynh, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Computing and Graphics Business Group, at IFA 2024 in Berlin. The goal of the new UDNA architecture is to provide a single focus point for developers so that each optimized application can run on consumer-grade GPU like Radeon RX 7900XTX as well as high-end data center GPU like Instinct MI300. This will create a unification similar to NVIDIA's CUDA, which enables CUDA-focused developers to run applications on everything ranging from laptops to data centers.

Jack HuynhSo, part of a big change at AMD is today we have a CDNA architecture for our Instinct data center GPUs and RDNA for the consumer stuff. It's forked. Going forward, we will call it UDNA. There'll be one unified architecture, both Instinct and client [consumer]. We'll unify it so that it will be so much easier for developers versus today, where they have to choose and value is not improving.

A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that the delay of Black Myth Wukong on Xbox is not due to the platform's technological limitations but something else entirely. Black Myth: Wukong is a widely known game, reaching a large amount of sales within few months after launch. This well known Black Myth: Wukong, is available for PC and PlayStation 5 players, however one direct competitor is missing. Microsoft's representatives reiterate that Black Myth: Wukong would launch on Xbox soon, but the delay is not due to technological limitations but a case of timed exclusivity by a direct rival, Sony PlayStation.

This claim by the Microsoft representative may be true, after all, before the current generations, Microsoft boasted that their Xbox Series X would be the most powerful household console till date, that surpasses the performance of direct rivals. So that alone may clear the doubts about delay of the game due to platform limitations. Another reason to believe it is because, this isn't the first time we've heard that Sony signed a timed exclusivity contract with devs of a highly potential game title. To avoid competition with direct competitors and just watch the show from the front seat, it's possible that Sony may have done the same again. But then again, it could also be that the developers found out about the technological gaps between the two platforms and decided to hold back the game for a few optimizations before launch. And what the representatives are saying, is just a way to divert the attention from the platform's limitations.

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, today announces the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro. This wireless esports controller, officially licensed by Xbox, combines innovative performance features and cutting-edge technology to redefine competitive gaming on both Xbox and PC.

"The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro represents our commitment to providing the highest level of performance for esports athletes," said Nick Bourne, Head of Console Gaming at Razer. "With insights from top competitive players, we have crafted a controller that meets the demands of professional gaming with exceptional precision and versatility. " Crafted in collaboration with feedback and extensive play-testing from Eric "Snip3down" Wrona, 2-time X Games Medalist and 24-time Halo Champion, the Wolverine V3 Pro delivers performance that can transform competitive gaming.

Transparent tech is making a major comeback! We're introducing an exciting, brand-new controller to the Xbox lineup, the Xbox Wireless Controller - Sky Cipher Special Edition. Inspired by revealing the mysteries inside of the Xbox Wireless Controller, this transparent controller offers a look into the intricate technology that powers your gaming experience. Sky Cipher features a transparent blue design, complemented by metallic features and silver interior parts that shine through from inside, exuding an aura of sophistication and futuristic appeal.

Elevate your experience and style with the Sky Cipher controller. Stay elegantly on target with Sky Blue metallic triggers and a matching D-pad surrounded by a dark blue accent. Refine your game with two-tone thumbsticks featuring Sky Blue bases and dark blue tops. Hold on to the action with rubberized, Sky Blue grips on the back case. Looking closely at the hand grips, you can see the rumble pack vibrate and react to your gameplay.

Hisense announced its Laser Cinema PX3-PRO is certified as 'Designed for Xbox Limited Series', which is the world's first Designed for Xbox ultra short throw projector, ensuring the very best Xbox gaming experience possible.

Ensuring premium experiences with seamless compatibility, plug-and-play convenience and customized features specifically tailored for Xbox gameplay, 'Designed for Xbox Limited Series' certification of the PX3-PRO guarantees gamers an unparalleled gaming experience in an eye-friendly, true-to-life color and immersive gaming environment.

Nobody Wants to Die is an innovative experience taking place in futuristic New York City, inspired by neo-noir films, offering a distinctly visual aesthetic and intriguing plot. Playing as Detective James Karra you investigate crime scenes using time manipulation and advanced technology to uncover clues to unmask a killer in an era where death is a thing of the past and explore the dangers of transhumanism.

"Since the beginning, we've wanted to create a visually spectacular narrative driven game." says Critical Hit Games CEO and Lead Game Designer, Grzegorz Goleń. "Our small, passionate and experienced team have used Unreal Engine 5 to create an incredibly realistic environment and world. We can't wait for players to lose themselves in Nobody Wants to Die's sci-fi world."

By the time you're reading this, it's already too late to sign up for the old price, if you were planning on getting or extending your Game Pass, since as of today, Microsoft has increased the cost for both PC and Xbox owners. On top of that, Microsoft has added a new tier for Xbox owners and made its lower tiers a lot less interesting. However, as TPU is a PC centric site, let's start with the bad news for PC owners. Depending on where you live, the price increase varies, but on average, Microsoft has increased the price by US$/€2/£2. However, some lower income countries are only seeing an increase of US$1, although we're not sure why Switzerland ended up in this group. However, the exchange rate is clearly affecting some other countries either negatively or positively where some countries end up paying a little bit more and others a little bit less.

Now for the really bad news for Xbox console owners. Xbox Game Pass for Console is no longer available to new subscribers, but those already on this tier that have automatic renewal enabled will be able to continue to have access to the same tier and perks that it's been offered with to date. In its place, Microsoft is introducing the Xbox Game Pass Standard tier and the fundamental difference between it and the Xbox Game Pass for Console package is that subscribers no longer have access to day one releases, but they gain access to online multiplayer games and the full back catalogue of games. There's no word on how long those subscribed to the Xbox Game Pass Standard tier will have to wait to gain access to new releases yet, but the new tier isn't available immediately either, so we'll most likely find out in due time.

At Xbox, we're committed to bringing the joy and community of gaming to everyone. Today, we're announcing a collaboration with Amazon where Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members in over 25 countries can play games directly from the Xbox app on select Fire TV devices via cloud gaming, giving people even more choice in how they play their favorite games. In July, the Xbox app will be available on the Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2023) ($59.99) and Fire TV Stick 4K (2023) ($49.99). For people new to console gaming, or for those looking for another way to play, it's a great low-cost, convenient, and portable option to enjoy a huge library of incredible games.

To get started, players just need a Fire TV Stick, a Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller, and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership to gain instant access to hundreds of phenomenal games, including Senua's Saga: Hellblade II, Starfield, and Forza Horizon 5, among others. Plus, Bethesda Game Studios' beloved Fallout games are also available with Game Pass Ultimate, including Fallout 76 and Fallout 4. Fallout fans will be able to play these games on select Amazon Fire TV devices alongside the acclaimed Fallout TV show on Prime Video, which released in April.

Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, has today announced the availability of its APC Back-UPS Pro Gaming uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) in Europe. Celebrating 40 years of Legendary Reliability and leadership in critical power protection during 2024, the new, stylish, and state-of-the-art UPS has been designed to protect gaming equipment from power outages and deliver a robust power connection, despite energy spikes and failures.

Back-UPS Pro Gaming has been specifically designed with gamers, streamers, and influencers in mind, delivering uninterruptible power protection, even in regions where the grid is unstable, keeping GPU-powered PCs, leading consoles, streamers, and gamers connected to both their online gaming experiences and audiences, regardless of power disruptions. To deliver robust protection, APC Back-UPS Pro Gaming UPS features sine wave battery backup power - delivering the smooth electrical current required by sensitive electronics and AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulation), and helping to protect against power irregularities that can result in glitches and buffering during an outage to extend the lifespan of gaming equipment.

Aspyr is excited to announce STAR WARS: Bounty Hunter, in collaboration with Lucasfilm Games, a new title that brings the original STAR WARS: Bounty Hunter (2002) to modern platforms with visual enhancements, improved environmental textures, new dynamic lighting effects, and a new flashlight tool for navigating dark places. STAR WARS: Bounty Hunter will launch on Aug. 1, 2024, for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Steam for the suggested retail price of $19.99 and is available to pre-order today with a 10% discount until the official launch.

Become the most feared Bounty Hunter in the galaxy! As Jango Fett, you'll have to jump, jetpack, climb, and maneuver in this iconic action-adventure game featuring a variety of visual improvements on modern platforms, as well as Steam Deck support and a number of DualSense controller features for PlayStation 5 players.

Amazon Games and NCSOFT announced today that THRONE AND LIBERTY, a free-to-play MMORPG featuring massive-scale combat in a dynamic world, will launch in North and South America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan on Tuesday, September 17, 2024. The game will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, with cross-platform play enabled.

"On behalf of Amazon Games and NCSOFT, I'm proud to announce that THRONE AND LIBERTY will launch on September 17, 2024. We all know fans around the world have been eagerly waiting for news on when they can jump into the game," said Merv Lee Kwai, Head of Third-Party Publishing at Amazon Games. "We can't wait to show you what we've been working on, and invite you to experience it all for yourself when the game launches this September."

Set sail for adventure, pirates. Sea of Thieves makes waves in the cloud this week. It's an adventure-filled GFN Thursday with four new games joining the GeForce NOW library. Plus, members are sharing their favorite locations they can access from the cloud. Follow along all month on @NVIDIAGFN social media accounts and post your own favorite cloud screenshots using #GreetingsfromGFN.

Seas the Day
Live the pirate life in the smash-hit pirate adventure game from Rare and Xbox Game Studios. Sea of Thieves takes place in an open world where players can explore the vast seas, engage in ship battles, hunt for treasure and embark on exciting quests. The Sea of Thieves environment is always changing, as various seasons bring new features to the game and offer rich rewards for pirates old and new. Visit uncharted islands in search of treasure, dive deep into narrative-focused Tall Tales, take part in events and forge a path to become a true Pirate Legend. The newest season features the mysterious Sunken City, Cursed Sloop skeleton ships and fresh cosmetics.

During Ubisoft Forward showcase, we got a whole new gameplay trailer showing off a lot of details for the upcoming Star Wars Outlaws open-world game that is set to launch on August 30th. In addition, Ubisoft also released the new overview trailer, showing off some of the locations and missions that you will be able to take in the game.

The new gameplay trailer focused on locations and encounters, including Tatooine and Mos Eisley. It follows the protagonist, Kay Vess, on a mission to Mos Eisley, where he needs to track an expert gunslinger. The trailer shows off dogfights, and what to expect from the dynamic side, including stealth aspect of the game. It also reveals how you would be able to gain skills.