How-To Geek - Video Games

What Are "Boomer Shooters" and Are They Worth Playing?

Sydney Butler — Thu, 23 Nov 2023 12:00:19 GMT

"Boomer shooters" represent both an era and a genre of first-person shooter video games, and although this term for them is fairly recent, you've probably always known a boomer shooter when you saw one. Let's look at what boomer shooters are.

Steam is Expanding Support for PlayStation Controllers

Arol Wright — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 22:08:10 GMT

Sony's PlayStation controllers are awesome for PlayStation consoles, and they also work with some PC games and mobile platforms. Even though Steam on PCs can detect PlayStation controllers, it's hard to know which games actually support them. Valve is now trying to fix that, and it's also rolling out other improvements for controllers on PC.

Why Are Modern Game Consoles So Big and Will They Ever Shrink?

Tim Brookes — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 12:00:18 GMT

Do you remember when you could fit the latest console neatly in the entertainment unit beneath your TV? The latest games consoles are Kong-sized compared to those from only a few generations ago. So what happened?

How to Play Non-VR Games on PSVR 2 (and Why You Should)

Sydney Butler — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 17:01:23 GMT

The PlayStation VR 2 (PSVR 2) is known for its excellent hardware and affordable entry point into the world of AAA VR gaming. But did you know that it's an awesome piece of kit for non-VR games and apps too?

The Best Steam Deck Cases of 2023

Rob Webb — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 15:01:23 GMT

Whether you enjoy gaming on the go or in the comfort of your own home, you'll want to keep your Steam Deck protected against accidental drop and shock damage with a decent protective case.

The Best Gaming Projectors of 2023

Gaurav Shukla — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 15:00:23 GMT

Gaming on a projector is a whole different level of fun, thanks to its cinematic feel. But how do you find the best gaming projector for your setup? To help, we have picked the best to get you started.

How Game Mode Works on Your Mac

Tim Brookes — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 13:00:21 GMT

Game Mode is a feature added to Macs with the release of macOS Sonoma that optimizes the Mac specifically for playing games. Let's take a look at what it does and how you can use it.

The New Steam Deck Has an OLED Screen

Arol Wright — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 22:10:38 GMT

The Steam Deck made taking PC games on the go much easier, and it also spawned an entire market of competitors such as the ASUS ROG Ally. Even in the face of so many alternatives, the original Steam Deck remains popular, especially at its (relatively) low price. Now, the Steam Deck is getting a refresh with an OLED screen and a bunch of other improvements.

Roblox Error Code 264: How to Fix It

Mahesh Makvana — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 17:00:12 GMT

Don't worry if you've encountered error 264 in Roblox, with the message "Same account launched game from different device." Fixing your issue is usually as easy as logging out of Roblox on all your devices. But if that doesn't work, there are other simple fixes you can try as well.

How to Mod Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty

Nalin Rawat — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 16:00:23 GMT

Have you finally finished playing Cyberpunk 2077's Phantom Liberty campaign, or are you just getting started? Either way you should check out some of the amazing mods from the community. These mods get you access to hours of additional content and playtime in the amazing sandbox that is Night City.

How to Buy Cheap Games and Save Money on PS5, Xbox, PC, and Switch

Tim Brookes — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 13:00:22 GMT

Games can be expensive, but gaming can still be a budget-friendly hobby. Here are some tips for saving money wherever you play, whether you're a console, PC, or portable gamer.

6 Ways to Fix "An unexpected error occurred and Roblox needs to quit" on Windows

Mahesh Makvana — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 12:00:26 GMT

Have you encountered an alert saying "An unexpected error occurred and Roblox needs to quit" on your Windows PC? The app may have a minor glitch or a file on your system may be causing it. You just need to tweak some settings to fix the issue. We'll show you how to do just that.

The 9 Best Emulators for Mac Gaming

Tim Brookes — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 13:01:25 GMT

If you’re struggling to find anything worth playing on your Mac then why not look to the classics instead? Here are the best emulators you can use to play old games on your modern Mac.

Save Hundreds on a Razer Gaming Laptop, Plus More Deals

Meghan Herlihy — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 15:26:55 GMT

Halloween candy shouldn't be the only thing on your shopping list this week, thanks to all the good tech sales available. Whether it's over a thousand dollars off a Razer gaming laptop, the Corsair K60 Pro SE Mechanical Gaming Keyboard dropping to its lowest price of the month, or 41% off the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+, don't miss out on the chance to treat yourself to a new device or piece of tech, and save yourself a nice chunk of change in the process.

Should You Upgrade to the New Slim PS5?

Sydney Butler — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 16:01:39 GMT

Sony has announced a new, slimmer model of PlayStation 5 set for release in the 2023 holiday season. The new model improves the current PS5 design in several key areas. However, if you already own a PS5, should you upgrade?

How to Play Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty in VR for Free

Nalin Rawat — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:01:47 GMT

Cyberpunk 2077 had one of the most disastrous game launches in recent memory. However, CD Projekt Red have redeemed themselves with the newest Phantom Liberty expansion. This is the perfect chance to revisit Night City and totally immerse yourself in the game with a VR headset.

Logitech's New Audio Mixer Software Enters Open Beta

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:17:53 GMT

Available today in open beta, Logitech's new MIXLINE software allows you to control multiple audio sources for livestreaming and monitoring. It utilizes a simple diagram-style interface, which some users may prefer over the traditional "mixing board" layout of other mixers or DAWs. Join the open beta to install MIXLINE for free on Windows.

Alienware's Aurora R16 Has 14th Gen Intel And RTX 4090 GPUs

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:45:30 GMT

It's been just two months since the launch of Alienware's compact Aurora R16 gaming desktop. Still, Alienware sees the need for a refresh. Upgraded configurations of the Aurora R16 go on sale October 17th and include the latest 14th Gen Intel CPUs, plus NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 4090 GPU.

The Best Steam Deck Screen Protectors of 2023

Rob Webb — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 14:00:33 GMT

The Steam Deck is a great way to enjoy PC gaming on the go. But before you take yours out and about, you should consider investing in a screen protector. Offering protection against scratch damage and general knocks and shocks, they're ideal for keeping your screen looking pristine.

New $299 Xbox Series S ”Starter Bundle” Includes Game Pass

Arol Wright — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 20:17:26 GMT

We're rapidly approaching the holiday season, where console manufacturers usually introduce new bundle deals to win over potential gift-givers. This time around, Microsoft is adding three months of Game Pass Ultimate to its $299 Xbox Series S console, while keeping the price the same. Meet the Xbox Starter Bundle.

Are Game CD Key Sites Safe or Legal?

Sydney Butler — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 11:00:31 GMT

In general, platforms like Steam and the Epic Game Store offer great discounts and competitive pricing for PC games. Many gamers turn to third-party "CD key" sites, though, to save even more money. How legal or risky is this practice?

The Best PS5 Headsets of 2023

Jon Bitner — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 14:00:34 GMT

The PlayStation 5 is compatible with a wide variety of headsets, but some offer more versatility and features than others. Some have great noise cancellation, while others offer crisp audio for an immersive gaming experience.

How to Download and Install Steam on Linux

Abubakar Mohammed — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:31:33 GMT

So, you want to try out gaming on Linux? In this article, let's look at how to install Steam on any Linux distribution to kickstart your Linux gaming journey.

How to Fix a Steam Error Code e20

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 13:01:34 GMT

Are you having trouble logging in to your Steam account? Does your app display an "e20" error code? If so, you aren’t alone. Many users have experienced this error message, preventing them from signing in to their account in the app. Luckily, there are a few ways to resolve this problem, and we’ll show you those ways.

How to Stream to Your Steam Deck (3+ Methods)

Goran Damnjanovic — Sat, 30 Sep 2023 11:00:33 GMT

If you own a Steam Deck and a gaming PC, you can use the latter to stream games locally to the former. You can also use cloud game streaming services on your Deck. Here’s how.

Meta Quest 3 Is Like the Apple Vision Pro, but 1/7th the Price

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 19:15:57 GMT

With pre-orders starting at $500, the Meta Quest 3 headset boasts full-color video passthrough, a 2064 x 2208 per-eye video resolution, and a second-generation Qualcomm Snapdragon XR2 chipset for increased graphical capabilities. It's a clear and compelling upgrade from the Quest 2, especially for those who want to see their real-world surroundings while inhabiting a virtual world. This release may also put a damper on Apple's upcoming Vision Pro headset, which will cost $3,500 and boasts video passthrough as a flagship feature.

How to Play Resident Evil 4 Remake in VR

Nalin Rawat — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 13:00:29 GMT

Resident Evil 4 (RE4) Remake is getting an official VR mode, which is exclusive to the PSVR 2. However, thanks to Praydog's REFramework VR mod, you can play RE4 on a PC VR setup right now. Just follow the steps given below to install the mod and immerse yourself in this remake of a classic zombie horror game.

How to Fix a Steam Error Code 105

Mahesh Makvana — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:00:29 GMT

Are you frustrated by Steam’s error 105 that prevents you from accessing your games? If so, you’ve come to the right place. There are a few ways you can use to resolve this connection error with your app and restore your Steam connectivity. We’ll show you what those ways are here in this guide. Let’s get started.

Error Code 403 on Roblox: 7 Ways to Fix It

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 12:00:30 GMT

Getting an error code 403 while trying to use Roblox on your computer? The error is frustrating, but you have a few ways to resolve it and resume your gaming sessions. We’ll tell you why this error occurs and, most importantly, how you can fix it on your Windows computer. Let’s get started.

Customize Your Xbox, PS5 or Switch Console with Wraps, Stickers and More

Tim Brookes — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:01:29 GMT

Tired of the boring black or white box under your TV? Here’s how to make it stand out without buying a new pricey limited edition console.

The Steam Deck Sequel Isn't Coming Anytime Soon

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 15:30:42 GMT

It's been nearly two years since the Steam Deck's introduction. But with the recent launch of ASUS' ROG Ally handheld, many gamers are asking when Valve will debut a more powerful Steam Deck. Well, a second-gen Steam Deck is in the works, and it should offer a "leap" in performance without a reduced battery life. It just won't be here anytime soon.

BenQ's New Low-latency 4K Projectors Look Great

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 13:00:29 GMT

Last year, BenQ introduced its X Series projectors, which boast premium gaming features like low-latency 4K video. These projectors scored well in our reviews and enjoy wide praise from gamers. BenQ is now moving forward with three new X Series projectors—the X500i, X300G, and X3100i.

Logitech’s New Yeti Microphones Have RGB Lights and Fewer Options

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:45:35 GMT

More than a decade after its launch, the Blue Yeti microphone is now being revamped. Logitech just opened pre-orders for two new Yeti mics—the Yeti GX and Yeti Orb. These are the first Yeti mics to use Logitech G branding, rather than the original Blue Microphones branding. They're heavily targeted towards the gaming market, both mics feature RGB lighting and other gaming-focused features.

Steam Won't Open? 9 Ways to Fix It

Mahesh Makvana — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 12:01:29 GMT

Want to play your favorite games, but Steam just won’t open on your computer? Many items can cause your favorite game launcher not to launch. Fortunately, you have a few ways to fix the issue and make Steam open as usual on your machine. We’ll show you what those fixes are here in this guide.

Steam Deck vs. Asus ROG Ally vs. Lenovo Legion Go: Which Handheld Is the Best?

Nalin Rawat — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 11:00:25 GMT

The handheld console gaming category has seen a big revival in recent months. While the Steam Deck led the charge in the industry, it was quickly followed by new portable gaming consoles like Asus's ROG Ally and Lenovo's Legion Go. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of some of the most popular handheld gaming consoles in the market.

The PS5 Now Supports 8TB M.2 SSDs and Dolby Atmos Audio

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:37:50 GMT

Two of the PlayStation 5's biggest annoyances just got fixed. The latest PS5 update adds support for 8TB M.2 SSDs, doubling the previous 4TB limit. It also introduces Dolby Atmos surround sound compatibility, which provides a new level of immersion for gamers and greatly improves the PS5's media playback acumen (though developers like Netflix are responsible for adding Dolby Atmos to their respective media apps).

10 Best Offline Android Games

Joe Fedewa — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 12:01:27 GMT

Mobile games are a great way to pass the time, but you may not always have an internet connection or want to run up your data. Thankfully, there are a lot of great Android games that can be played offline.

Govee Gaming Light Strip G1 Review: A Must-Have Companion Set for Gamers

Mark LoProto — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 10:00:28 GMT

Govee has done quite a lot to improve the aesthetics of the average gaming setup. The AI-powered light kit may help create a dynamic, responsive environment great for streamers, but it’s classic, simplified strips like the Gaming Light Strip G1 that are sure to appeal to a broader demographic.

How to Get DLSS 2/3 in Starfield for Free

Nalin Rawat — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 13:00:28 GMT

Starfield is one of the biggest game releases of this year, but its performance on PC leaves a lot to be desired. Fortunately, modders have already added NVIDIA's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) support to the game through alternative means. Check out our step-by-step guide on how to add DLSS 3 support to Starfield through mods.

The Best Nintendo Switch Emulators for Windows PCs

Nalin Rawat — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 11:01:27 GMT

The Nintendo Switch is home to many amazing games that are exclusive to the console. Fortunately, gamers can use Nintendo Switch emulators to play Switch-exclusive games without being restricted by the hardware. We have listed some of the best Nintendo Switch emulators that can help you run games on a Windows PC and other platforms.

I Use Multiple Mousepads (And You Should Too)

Matt Herr — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:00:27 GMT

Looking for a cheap way to personalize or switch up your PC setup? Why not try a new mousepad! Here's why I keep and move between a variety of these often overlooked peripherals.

Xbox Series S With 1TB Storage Now Available for $350

Arol Wright — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 14:24:13 GMT

This is an increasingly digital world, and as such, it's odd for our game consoles to come with so little storage out of the box. With most games coming up on 40GB of storage at least, with many crossing the 100GB mark, the digital-only 512GB Xbox Series S is at a disadvantage. Thankfully, there's no an additional storage option for the Xbox Series S.

Save Up to $1,200 on a Razer Blade Gaming Laptop This Labor Day Weekend

Andrew Heinzman — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 14:30:28 GMT

Gaming on the go is easy when you own a powerful, lightweight, and stylish Razer Blade laptop. Several models of the Razer Blade are currently on sale at Best Buy, with savings up to $1,200. Whether you're upgrading from an old gaming laptop or buying your first one, now's an opportunity to score something great at an excellent price.

How to Use Discord on Xbox

Tim Brookes — Sat, 02 Sep 2023 12:01:27 GMT

Discord isn’t just for PC gamers anymore. You can now use it on both Sony and Microsoft consoles, where it makes an excellent alternative to in-game chat for chatting, gaming, and passing the time.

Lenovo's First PC Gaming Handheld Mimics the Nintendo Switch

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:32 GMT

There are already dozens of PC gaming handhelds, including the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally, but Lenovo thinks that there's room for one more. Lenovo took to the IFA Berlin conference to introduce Legion Go, a portable Windows console that boasts a powerful CPU, ridiculously fast charging, a screen that's totally overkill, and detachable controllers. The Legion Go launches this October with prices starting at $700.

Lenovo’s Smart Glasses Are Coming to the US, With a New Name

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 04:00:32 GMT

Late last year, Lenovo revealed its Glasses T1 wearable display. These fancy OLED smart glasses, which can stand in for a computer monitor or TV, originally launched in China. A North American release was slated for early 2023, but it never occurred. Now, at the IFA Berlin conference, Lenovo is showing off its Legion Glasses—a rebranded version of Glasses T1 that's plainly targeted toward gamers. Lenovo says that the Legion Glasses will arrive stateside this October, and interestingly, they only cost $329.

How to Restart Steam (Even When It Freezes)

Mahesh Makvana — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:00:27 GMT

By restarting Steam on your computer, you can fix minor issues with the app as well as bring certain app changes into effect. You can give your app a reboot even when it won’t respond to your actions. We’ll show you how to do that on your Windows 11, Windows 10, and Mac computer. Let’s get started.

How to Get Custom Songs on Beat Saber for PC & Quest Headsets?

Nalin Rawat — Wed, 30 Aug 2023 12:00:28 GMT

Beat Saber users are not limited to just official music packs but can add custom songs to the game. Since the process can be complicated, follow our step-by-step guide to add custom songs to Beat Saber for PC VR and Quest headsets.

Xbox ”Wraps” Are a New Take On Special Edition Consoles

Arol Wright — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 20:23:20 GMT

Special-edition consoles aren't really a thing anymore, outside of limited production runs or giveaway items. Sony has opted for swappable custom covers for the PlayStation 5, but there hasn't been any options for the Xbox Series X or S outside of third-party skins. The days of special edition Xbox consoles with unique designs might be over, but now at least Xbox Series X owners can buy "wraps," which will give your console a new look without breaking out the screwdriver or carefully applying decal stickers.

What to Do if Your Nintendo Switch Won't Charge

Reyadh Rahaman — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 16:00:29 GMT

If you keep using your Nintendo Switch when it won't charge, it eventually won't turn on at all. This is possibly the result of an issue with its battery. However, before you buy a new battery for your Switch, you should take a close look and do some troubleshooting.

Razer’s BlackWidow V4 75% Is Aimed At Keyboard Enthusiasts

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:32:01 GMT

As a gaming brand, Razer rarely sets its sights on the boutique mechanical keyboard market. That's changing with the BlackWidow V4 75%, which features hot-swappable switches (3 or 5-pin), factory-lubricated stabilizers, a gasket-mounted plate, two layers of sound-dampening foam, and a tape-modded PCB with extra screw holes for stabilizer mods. Not to mention, this keyboard marks the return of Razer's beloved Orange Tactile switches.

Samsung’s Freestyle Projector Just Got an Upgrade

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 15:13:36 GMT

Despite its painful price tag, Samsung's Freestyle projector is pretty excellent. It's small enough to fit in a bag, its 1080p picture looks great, and it can tilt at all angles. Now, Samsung is launching the Freestyle Gen 2 projector, an iterative upgrade that adds built-in cloud gaming capabilities. The Freestyle Gen 2 costs $800 and is now available for pre-order, with orders shipping August 1st.

Microsoft is Shutting Down the Xbox 360 Store

Arol Wright — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 13:58:28 GMT

It's really hard to believe, but the Xbox 360 has been around for almost two decades now. Microsoft's entry in the seventh console generation came out in 2005, 18 years ago as of the time of writing. Since then, a successor, the Xbox One, came out in 2013, and successors to that successor, the Xbox Series X and Series S, came out in 2020. Still, that console was so popular that it's still used a fair bit today, and Microsoft has kept its online store around. Until now, anywya.

8BitDo's New Micro Gamepad Isn’t Just for Gaming

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 15:53:51 GMT

You may be familiar with 8BitDo's premium gamepads, which tend to stick with tried-and-true designs. 8BitDo isn't just a gaming hardware company, though — it makes a lot of other stuff, too. Today marks the launch of the 8BitDo Micro, a keychain-sized controller that weighs just 24.8 grams (about half a pound) but offers a full selection of buttons, minus an analog stick. The 8BitDo Micro is primarily made for Nintendo Switch and Android devices, but it also offers a "keyboard mode" that opens some interesting possibilities on PCs and tablets.

Valve Finally Upgrades Steam Remote Play With 4K Gaming

Cory Gunther — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 15:27:14 GMT

Steam Remote Play is a wonderful feature enabling your primary gaming PC to be used as a streaming box. Then, you can play high-end games on your phone, tablet, Steam Deck, and more, as long as you have a fast enough local network. This week, Valve finally delivered one of the most highly-requested features, which is 4K high-quality streaming.

CrossOver 23 Brings More Windows Apps and Games to Mac

Corbin Davenport — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 18:41:39 GMT

CrossOver is a popular compatibility layer for running Windows software on Mac, Linux, and Chromebooks, based on the open-source Wine project. The developers have been hard at work on a new version with improved DirectX 12 support and other changes, and now it's finally available as the CrossOver 23 update.

LG Retroactively Adds a Burn-in Warranty to Its OLED Gaming Monitor

Andrew Heinzman — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 15:54:31 GMT

The quality of OLED is plainly better than LCD. However, OLED computer monitors are still somewhat rare. Customers worry that these monitors may be vulnerable to OLED burn-in—a problem that's accelerated by non-moving onscreen elements (such as the Windows Taskbar). Now, LG is reassuring potential buyers with a very simple strategy. Instead of pretending that burn-in isn't a problem, it's retroactively adding burn-in coverage to an OLED monitor's two-year warranty.

Valve Now Sells Refurbished Steam Decks at Lower Prices

Arol Wright — Wed, 09 Aug 2023 13:55:16 GMT

The Steam Deck managed to cram PC gaming into a handheld form factor in a way that hadn't quite been done before, largely thanks to Valve's work on a custom Linux-based software experience and the Proton compatibility layer. However, the starting price of $399 is too high for some people. If you've missed the various deals and sales so far, and you don't mind slightly used devices, you now have the option of picking up a refurbishd unit.

8 Ways to Fix "Messages Failed to Load" on Discord

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 30 Jul 2023 14:00:26 GMT

Are you getting a “Messages Failed to Load” error in Discord’s desktop app? The platform’s servers may be acting up, or your Discord client may have an issue. Luckily, you don’t have to keep waiting forever as there are fixes you can apply to potentially resolve your problem.

7 Ways to Fix a Steam Service Error on Windows 11 or Windows 10

Mahesh Makvana — Sat, 29 Jul 2023 13:00:28 GMT

Trying to access Steam only to be greeted with a “Steam Service Error” message? Your Steam client may be experiencing issues, or your Windows 11 or 10 PC may have a problem. We’ll show you various ways to fix this issue on your computer. Let’s get started.

How to View Your Steam Purchase History

Mahesh Makvana — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 14:00:28 GMT

Steam makes it super easy to see the list of items you’ve ever purchased from this platform. This can include your games and downloadable content. We’ll show you how to access your purchase history in Steam’s desktop, web, and mobile app. Let’s get started.

Your Xbox Is Getting a New Home Screen

Arol Wright — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 21:09:14 GMT

Even though PCs can be fantastic for gaming, consoles have remained a popular option for anyone interested in a setup that doesn't require hunting for PC parts or messing with graphics settings. If you own an Xbox, you're in luck, as Microsoft is re-doing its home screen — and it looks absolutely amazing.

8 Ways to Fix a Steam Error 16

Mahesh Makvana — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 14:00:25 GMT

Steam's error 16 can appear out of the blue and prevent you from doing whatever it is that you're doing in the app. If the error keeps popping up and won't go away no matter what, follow a few troubleshooting tips to possibly fix the issue. Here are those methods.

Google Play Games on PC Is Now Better Than Ever

Corbin Davenport — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 18:43:37 GMT

Google's solution for playing Android games on Windows computers, Google Play Games for PC, entered public beta last year in five countries. Today, the beta is expanding to even more regions and computers, and there are a few new features to enjoy.

How to See Hidden Games on Steam

Mahesh Makvana — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:00:25 GMT

Want to find your hidden Steam games so you can play, unhide, or delete them? It’s easy to do that, thanks to Steam’s user-friendly interface. We’ll show you how to do that as well as how to re-hide your games if you want. Let’s get started.

Xbox Live Gold Is Now Xbox Game Pass Core, With More Games Included

Corbin Davenport — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 16:42:35 GMT

Microsoft’s Xbox consoles don’t have free online multiplayer for most games (except free-to-play titles), requiring you to purchase a subscription to Xbox Live Gold. Now, Xbox Live Gold is being replaced with Xbox Game Pass Core, while staying at the same price.

Optimize Your Xbox or PS5: Performance, Quality, and Resolution Mode

Tim Brookes — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 12:01:21 GMT

On modern consoles, you'll find options for fine-tuning fidelity and frame rate. They first appeared in the PS4 and Xbox One era, but they're now commonplace on PS5 and Xbox Series consoles. Here's how you can tell which is best for you.

Lenovo Legion Slim 7i Gen 8 Review: Big Gaming Fun in a Thoughtful Package

Bill Loguidice — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 10:00:35 GMT

Lenovo is not the biggest name in gaming laptops and desktops, but its Legion brand has been quietly impressing since 2017. One of its latest laptop models, the Lenovo Legion Slim 7i Gen 8, might just be one of its most impressive gaming machines to date.

The Best Gaming Controllers of 2023

Tim Brookes — Sat, 15 Jul 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Pro Tip: The best controllers aren't always the ones that come with your console. Whether you need a new controller for your Windows PC, Xbox, Playstation 5, or even your smartphone, you've got options.

How to Use and Customize the Virtual Keyboard on Your Steam Deck

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 15:00:19 GMT

Since it doesn't feature a hardware keyboard, Steam Deck relies on an on-screen virtual keyboard. Learn how to use and customize the virtual keyboard on your Steam Deck below.

The Best Gaming Headsets of 2023

Russ Ware — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 14:00:00 GMT

The best gaming headset needs to be affordable, comfortable, sound sharp, and have a microphone that won't make your voice chat companions wince. Our top picks manage to do it all with some extra features on top.

You Can (Once Again) Get Game Pass Ultimate for $1

Arol Wright — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 15:55:11 GMT

Microsoft's Game Pass Ultimate subscription gives you access to many PC and Xbox games for one monthly cost, and the company used to offer a one-month trial for just $1. Thankfully, that offer has returned.

How to Turn Off G-SYNC for Specific or All Games

Goran Damnjanovic — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 13:00:12 GMT

You may want to disable G-SYNC if your VA monitor suffers from flickering with G-SYNC enabled in certain games, you experience issues gaming on a TV with VRR support, or if you don't want G-SYNC on while playing esports titles. Here's how to disable G-Sync globally and for specific games.

What Happens to Your Digital Games When You Die?

Sydney Butler — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:00:19 GMT

Shelves of physical games have been replaced by digital ones for most people. Unlike digital games, physical games have simple ownership rules. If it's in your hands, it's yours. This begs the question---once you're gone, is your shelf of virtual games gone too?

How to Add PC Game Pass and Microsoft Store Games to Steam

Goran Damnjanovic — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 16:00:54 GMT

Most PC Game Pass and Microsoft Store games are UWP apps, meaning you can't add them to Steam as non-Steam games the usual way. But there's a working method, and it includes downloading and running a third party app. In this guide, we'll show you how to do it.

The Best Nintendo Switch Headsets for 2023

Jon Bitner — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Nintendo Switch now supports a wide variety of headsets and headphones. Whether you need the functionality of a wireless connection or something affordable and durable for your kids, here are our five favorite headsets for Switch.

How to Refund a Game on Steam

Chris Hoffman — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Steam offers a generous refund system. You can refund any game you purchase through Steam, for any reason---whether it isn't working properly on your PC or you just don't find it fun.

How to Get the Best Deals During Steam Sales

Jason Fitzpatrick — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Big Steam sales can be a great way to save on games, but it's not always a guarantee you're getting the best deal on a given game during a given sale. Here's how to ensure you're getting the most for your money.

When Is the Next Steam Sale? Here Are the Steam Sale Dates

Jon Bitner — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 13:00:00 GMT

Steam sales are a beloved part of PC gaming culture. These events see hundreds of price cuts on blockbuster games, indie darlings, and everything in between. They typically run for about a week, and they're an excellent way to save money while filling up your library with a boatload of great games.

Why You Should Never Use Ultra Settings In Games

Sydney Butler — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 11:00:14 GMT

Video games now offer stunning visuals that can be nearly indistinguishable from real life. As a result, many gamers have become enamored with the prospect of maxing out their graphical settings, but this might not always be the wisest choice.

The Best Handheld Gaming PCs for 2023

Jon Bitner — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Handheld gaming PCs offer both portability and performance so you can take your gaming sessions anywhere. Whether you're looking for a certain operating system or an option that fits your budget, there are plenty of handheld PCs to choose from.

Is Steam's Download Speed Slow? 8 Ways to Speed It Up

Mahesh Makvana — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 13:00:55 GMT

Is Steam downloading games at a slow speed on your computer? If so, here are some easy Steam app and computer tweaks to help speed up your downloads. Spend less time waiting for your games to arrive and more time playing them.

Steam Deck 2 Doesn't Need a Higher Resolution Screen

Goran Damnjanovic — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 15:00:55 GMT

The Steam Deck is a nifty little handheld gaming PC, but it does come with its share of wrinkles. The 800p display, however, isn't one of them. If you ask me, the Steam Deck 2 (or whatever Valve ends up calling the Deck's successor) doesn't need a higher resolution display. Here's why.

Do the Xbox, PS5, and Switch Support Ultrawide Screens?

Sydney Butler — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:00:17 GMT

Are you considering an ultrawide screen for your gaming setup? Before you splurge, understand how popular consoles like the Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch handle this increasingly popular screen format, and whether you're truly set to enjoy the ultrawide experience.

5 Reasons Using Your Controller Wired is Better

Sydney Butler — Sat, 17 Jun 2023 07:00:19 GMT

You might think that wireless controllers are always the way to go, but don't discount the advantages of using a wired controller! Let's take a closer look at why using a wired controller might be a better option for you.

How to Play Xbox Games on Your PC

Reyadh Rahaman — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 15:00:00 GMT

You can now play many Xbox games on your PC without owning an Xbox console. All you need is the Xbox app and an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. You can also buy some Xbox apps that have been ported to PC---or try an emulator.

FPS vs. Refresh Rate: What Are the Differences?

Russ Ware — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 12:00:45 GMT

In computing and gaming, frame rate and refresh rate are both commonly used as a marker for how powerful a PC setup is. But exactly what are these two key PC specifications, how do they differ, and is one more important than the other?

HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 Wired Gaming Mouse Review: No Fuss Solution

Bryan M. Wolfe — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 17:30:00 GMT

One of the most established names in the PC gaming space is out with a brand-new peripheral for hardcore gamers. The HP-owned HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 mouse is an exemplary yet straightforward device offered in wired and wireless versions, an important choice all gamers must make.

How to Stop Your Xbox From Overheating

Tim Brookes — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 12:00:47 GMT

When you're playing your Xbox you want to enjoy hot new titles, not a too-hot console. Here are some tips for reducing thermal buildup in your overheating Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S.

5 Common Mistakes New PlayStation 5 Owners Make

Sydney Butler — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 09:00:49 GMT

So you've got your hands on a PS5, and it's out of the box and powered on. You're in for a good time, but there are pitfalls you should know about before you get lost in your next favorite game.

Your SD Card Might Slow Down Your Nintendo Switch

Corbin Davenport — Sun, 11 Jun 2023 17:30:00 GMT

The only way to add more storage to the Nintendo Switch is with a microSD card. However, not all SD cards are created equal, and using some types of cards could slow down your games.

How to Stop Your PS5 From Overheating

Tim Brookes — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 12:00:39 GMT

Sony's PlayStation 5 is effectively a powerful PC in a small, slightly-rounded box. When the system is under load, it can kick out some serious heat, which may lead to overheating. Here are some tips to avoid that.

Minecraft is Now Available for Your Chromebook

Arol Wright — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 11:39:55 GMT

It's been a long time coming. Microsoft has been hard at work bringing Minecraft to a new platform --- ChromeOS. Now, if you have a Chromebook, you can now drift away playing your favorite blocky game, as Minecraft has officially finished landing on the platform.

How to Stop Your PS4 From Overheating

Tim Brookes — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 12:00:20 GMT

Does your PlayStation 4 console sound like a jet engine? Are you seeing warnings about the console being too hot, or experiencing sudden shutdowns? Here's how to fix an overheating PS4.

Physical vs. Digital Games: Should You Buy Physical Games?

Corbin Davenport — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT

Many video games are now available as a digital purchase or physical media, and increasingly, more games are only available digitally. Does it make sense to buy physical games anymore?

How Many FPS Can the Human Eye See?

Reyadh Rahaman — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 15:00:00 GMT

How many FPS can the human eye see? That's a tough question because the human eye doesn't really see in "frames per second," and everyone's eyes are different. We'll talk about the biology, but the real question is what the upper limit is when it comes to FPS on monitors. At what point do you stop noticing FPS increases?

The Best Gaming Microphones of 2023

Jon Bitner — Sat, 03 Jun 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Gaming microphones are useful not only for chatting with teammates, but also for producing crisp audio during livestreams. If you want to move on from the middling microphones built into gaming headsets, take a look at our favorite gaming microphones.

The Best Xbox Series X Headsets of 2023

Jon Bitner — Sat, 03 Jun 2023 14:00:00 GMT

The best Xbox Series X headsets will allow you to hear everything in your game while carrying your voice with crystal clarity to your teammates. Finding the perfect one can be a challenge, but these are the headsets that stand above the rest.

The Best Nintendo Switch Accessories of 2023

Jon Bitner — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 14:00:00 GMT

You've already got a Switch, some games, and an online subscription---what more could you need? How about some of the best console accessories to make controlling, traveling, and powering your console a more pleasant experience?

MAME Now Supports Even More Arcade Games

Arol Wright — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:59:25 GMT

There are plenty of emulators out there, and MAME is one of the standouts. It's a multi-purpose emulator that can emulate a variety of arcade games and platforms, making it more flexible than purpose-built emulators. The latest update makes it even more versatile.