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Microsoft rule out Project Helix at Xbox Games Showcase as CEO buckles to fans
Microsoft's Xbox boss Matt Booty confirmed that the next-generation console, codenamed Project Helix, will not be revealed at the upcoming Xbox Games Showcase, prioritizing games instead. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma responded to fan backlash regarding platform exclusivity in presentations, indicating adjustments for future shows. The article discusses Microsoft's console strategy and its responsiveness to fan feedback.
NVIDIA RTX Spark "superchip" and DLSS 4.5 Ray Reconstruction announced
NVIDIA announced the RTX Spark "superchip" for AI, creation, and gaming, alongside DLSS 4.5 Ray Reconstruction at Computex 2026. The RTX Spark integrates NVIDIA's AI and graphics technologies into a single chip for laptops, promising enhanced performance for creative workflows and AAA gaming at 1440p with ray tracing. DLSS 4.5 Ray Reconstruction features a new transformer model for superior image quality in ray-traced games, set to launch in August.
Respawn Monday #001: Abiotic Factor, Marathon Runs, and the Outward 2 Beta — Too Much Gaming | Video Games Reviews, News, & Guides
The author discusses recent gaming experiences, including the survival game Abiotic Factor on PC Game Pass, its retro visuals, and engaging crafting mechanics. They also detail playing the extraction shooter Marathon with new friends, preparing for Season 2's wipe, and covering the Outward 2 beta, noting its deliberate difficulty and lack of handholding.
Nvidia sets out roadmap for RTX Spark, its new PC platform, which also gives us a better idea of when to expect next-gen…
Nvidia is collaborating with Microsoft to launch RTX Spark, a new PC platform featuring Windows on Arm, with a roadmap extending to 2030. The platform will align with Nvidia's new architectures, including Grace Blackwell in 2026, Vera Rubin in 2027/28, and Feynman in 2030. Nvidia showcased gaming on RTX Spark, demonstrating Forza Horizon with 100 FPS at 1440p with Ray Tracing and DLSS, with the platform set to launch in the fall.
Developers are creating Arm game ports, wholly Arm-native versions, and Prism-optimised updates for Nvidia's RTX…
Nvidia is collaborating with game developers to create Arm-native versions of games and optimize existing titles for its upcoming RTX Spark laptops and mini PCs. While an emulation layer will be used for some x86 games, the focus is on native Arm ports and new developments to ensure optimal performance. Nvidia is working with Microsoft and developers to bring top games to the platform.
Computex 2026: NVIDIA’s RTX Spark Is a Big Swing at the Future of Premium Laptops
NVIDIA unveiled the RTX Spark, a new Arm-based chip for laptops and compact PCs, at Computex 2026. Developed with MediaTek, it aims to deliver RTX 5070-level performance for AI, content creation, and gaming, while offering improved efficiency and battery life. The chip supports local AI agent execution and enhanced creative workflows in Adobe software, positioning NVIDIA as a competitor in the mobile computing market.
The Surface Laptop Ultra is the most powerful Surface yet, thanks to NVIDIA's RTX Spark
Microsoft has launched the Surface Laptop Ultra, a new device described as a clone of the MacBook Pro. This laptop is powered by NVIDIA's RTX Spark graphics technology, making it the most powerful Surface device to date.
Games Inbox: Will this be the biggest week for gaming in 2026?
Readers discuss the potential for the upcoming week to be the biggest in gaming for 2026, with events like State of Play, Summer Game Fest, and Xbox presentations. There's a mix of anticipation for new game reveals and hardware, alongside concerns about the industry's overall direction and the impact of major releases like Grand Theft Auto 6 on other titles such as Call of Duty.
XBOX is “Talking” About How to Handle Showing Competing Platform Logos – CEO
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma acknowledged fan feedback regarding the display of competing platform logos in Xbox showcases, stating the company is discussing adjustments for future events. This follows comments from Xbox Chief Content Officer Matt Booty about including all platform logos. The debate touches on Microsoft's strategy shift towards multi-platform releases for franchises like Halo and Forza, versus fan desire for more Xbox hardware exclusives.
Star Wars Eclipse is in “Development Hell,” Quantic Dream Want to Exit NetEase – Rumor
Rumors suggest that Quantic Dream's Star Wars Eclipse is in "development hell" and the studio wishes to divest from NetEase. The project has reportedly faced significant issues, compounded by the shutdown of their previous game, Spellcasters Chronicles. Quantic Dream is also undergoing an internal reorganization that may lead to layoffs.
Call of Duty yet again promises 'no clowny skins' for Modern Warfare 4, but we've been burned before
Infinity Ward has reiterated its commitment to thematic and grounded cosmetics for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, a promise previously made for Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 which was later broken with Fallout TV show skins. Despite fan skepticism and past disappointments, the developers are emphasizing a return to the series' roots, though past underperformances and external pressures like the BDS movement add complexity to the situation.
Sunday Tech Bits
EuroOffice has launched as a European alternative to Microsoft 365, emphasizing data sovereignty and user control. The new productivity suite aims to provide a competitive option for businesses and individuals seeking alternatives to established software providers.
There's one game Don't Nod narrative designer Nina Freeman won't ever uninstall from her PC, because it's banned on Steam: 'It's tragic, because everyone should play this game'
Narrative designer Nina Freeman discusses her PC gaming habits, highlighting Devotion as a game she will never uninstall due to its quality and controversial Steam ban. She also shares her most played game, Dota 2, and her appreciation for complex branching narratives in titles like Scarlet Hollow.
Xbox will "adjust" its promotional materials after fans slam decision to use rival logos in its showcases
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma acknowledged that including competitor logos in promotional materials was a mistake and will be adjusted for future showcases. Chief content officer Matt Booty emphasized transparency regarding game platforms, a commitment Xbox intends to maintain despite fan backlash.
Stop Killing Games consumer protection bill passes floor vote in California
The California State Assembly has passed the Protect Our Games Act (AB 1921), a bill aimed at protecting consumer rights and ensuring game preservation. The legislation, motivated by incidents like Ubisoft's shutdown of The Crew, would require publishers to provide offline access or refunds when server-dependent games are discontinued. The bill now moves to the California State Senate, facing opposition from industry groups like Video Games Europe and the ESA who argue it could increase development costs and stifle innovation.
Rayman Origins: Enhanced Edition Briefly Appears on Microsoft Store for $1999
An "Enhanced Edition" of Rayman Origins briefly appeared on the Microsoft Store for $1,999, suggesting a remake with 4K, 60 FPS, and new features, including PlayStation Vita exclusive content. Separately, rumors indicate Rayman Legends Retold, a remake of the 2013 title, may be available for pre-order soon and could feature online co-op and crossovers with other games.
Game Pass Ultimate Codes: How To Find, Redeem, And Stay Safe In 2026
This guide explains how to find, redeem, and safely use Game Pass Ultimate codes, which provide access to Xbox Game Pass, EA Play, cloud gaming, and multiplayer features. It details legitimate sources for codes, common redemption errors, and tips to maximize value while protecting your account through security measures like two-step verification and avoiding suspicious sellers.
How To Get Free Xbox Game Pass Codes: Legit Methods, Safety Tips, And Tricks For 2026
This guide details legitimate methods for obtaining free Xbox Game Pass codes, focusing on official Microsoft promotions, retail bundles, and loyalty programs. It also provides safety tips to avoid scams, such as avoiding sites that request passwords or payments, and advises on how to maximize trial periods and family sharing for extended access.
Minecraft Movie Build Challenge
Mojang Studios has launched the Minecraft Movie Build Challenge, inspired by the upcoming sequel A Minecraft Movie Squared. Players aged 16 and older can enter by building within a limited 16x16x32 block space using pre-selected blocks and Overworld mobs. The winner will receive movie tickets, a private screening, and the chance for their build to be featured in the movie or end credits. Additionally, players can earn a Builder Cape by watching specific Minecraft creators on TikTok and Twitch.
Saturday Mobilization
Microsoft and Dell are set to launch new laptops powered by Nvidia's technology. This collaboration aims to bring enhanced performance and capabilities to the laptop market.