Gaming

ASUS’ new ROG Strix Scar II is world’s most compact 17-inch gaming laptop

Thanks to its super-slim bezels!

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After going hands on with the ROG Strix Scar II and reviewing the Hero II in full, we wondered what else could be done to improve this second-generation lineup. Well, it looks like ASUS just gave us the answer.

Discreetly launched today, the new 17.3-inch ROG Strix Scar II (model name GL704) is the most compact gaming laptop of its kind, according to ASUS. It’s basically a supersized variant of the already-available 15.6-inch version but with an even badder screen.

It may be worth the wait, because the color-accurate 17.3-inch 1080p display is able to fit into a chassis designed for 15.7-inch panels, effectively providing it a width of less than 400mm thanks to the slim bezels.

The wide keyboard and Aura Sync RGB lighting make a return, along with the fast 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time of the display.

In terms of specs, it can go up to an Intel Core i7-8750H processor with 16GB of memory and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics chip. A 256GB SSD plus 1TB SSHD combo maintains the speed and fluidity of the system.

It’ll be available by the end of September in official ROG stores. Pricing begins at US$ 1,699.

Gaming

Ubisoft will showcase Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake on April 23

The remake is real!

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Gaming’s worst kept secret is finally out. After months of rumors and speculations, Ubisoft will officially reveal its upcoming Assassin’s Creed Black Flag remake on April 23.

In March, the company first confirmed the game’s existence through the first concept art for the title. The upcoming remake will be officially called Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, which definitely states that it’s going to be a remake, rather than just a remaster.

Today, Ubisoft has announced that the worldwide reveal will happen on April 23. The showcase should clear the air as to how the remake will handle the franchise’s most successful outing to date.

When it first came out, Black Flag rightfully claimed itself as the quintessential pirate life simulator in the modern era. Rather than a straightforward stealth and assassination game, the title featured Edward Kenway, a vagabond pirate turned reluctant assassin. It was a worthy next step coming from the Desmond Miles trilogy, which concluded with Assassin’s Creed III.

Now, the studio isn’t done with the title. Assassin’s Creed Black Flag will ideally see the pirate game built again from the ground up. However, it’s still a bit unclear how much of the game will actually be rebuilt. Thankfully, the wait isn’t long at all.

For now, the franchise is still thriving with its latest new outing, Assassin’s Creed Shadows. It is also gearing up for the next mainline entry, currently called Codename Hexe.

SEE ALSO: Ubisoft confirms Assassin’s Creed: Black Flag remake

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Gaming

007 First Light reveals title sequence, Lana Del Rey leads theme song

New Bond game sets the tone ahead of its May 2026 launch

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007 First Light Title

IO Interactive and Amazon MGM Studios have unveiled the official title sequence for 007 First Light, giving players their first look—and listen—at the game’s cinematic direction ahead of launch.

The reveal took place during the BAFTA Game Awards in London, where the studios confirmed that Lana Del Rey performs the game’s title track. She co-wrote and composed the song with David Arnold, marking Arnold’s return to the Bond franchise.

007 First Light launches on May 27, 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version arriving later in Summer 2026.

A modern take on a classic Bond tradition

The title sequence follows the long-standing James Bond tradition of stylized opening credits that establish tone and identity. Here, IO Interactive leans into a mix of modern visuals and classic Bond motifs, reflecting the game’s reimagined origin story.

This version of Bond is younger, less experienced, and at times reckless, as he begins his journey into espionage. The sequence ties those themes together through cinematic imagery, anchored by Del Rey’s signature vocals and Arnold’s orchestral influence.

It also marks a notable moment for the franchise, signaling Bond’s return to gaming after more than a decade.

A deeper dive into the game’s music

Alongside the reveal, IO Interactive released a new episode of its “Beyond the Light” series, focusing on the game’s soundtrack.

The episode features insights from Dominic Vega, Missions and Audio Director on 007 First Light, as well as The Flight, the duo behind the game’s score. They discuss the creative process behind shaping the sound of this new Bond era and the challenges of working within such an iconic franchise.

Pre-orders now live with early access perks

Pre-orders for 007 First Light are now open across supported platforms. Players who pre-order will receive a free deluxe upgrade, which includes 24-hour early access for digital editions.

Nintendo Switch 2 pre-orders, however, are limited to physical editions only.

More details are available on the game’s official website and IO Interactive’s press channels.

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Gaming

PRAGMATA launches with dual-character sci-fi action

Capcom’s long-awaited lunar adventure blends hacking and combat

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PRAGMATA | CAPCOM Key Art

CAPCOM has officially released PRAGMATA, a new sci-fi action-adventure title now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.

Set on the moon in the near future, PRAGMATA follows an unlikely duo navigating a lunar station overrun by hostile robots. Players take control of spacefarer Hugh and android Diana. Each one is equipped with distinct abilities that must be used in tandem to progress.

The single-player experience leans on a mix of action and strategy. Combat pairs with hacking mechanics. It requires players to switch between characters and coordinate their skills. These are necessary to overcome enemies and environmental challenges.

A Nintendo Switch 2 version is scheduled to arrive in Southeast Asia on April 24, 2026, with pre-orders now open.

Southeast Asia availability

PRAGMATA is rolling out across platforms with the following release schedule:

  • PlayStation 5 — April 17, 2026 (Physical & Digital)
  • Xbox Series X|S — April 17, 2026 (Digital)
  • Steam (PC) — April 17, 2026 (Digital)
  • Nintendo Switch 2 — April 24, 2026 (Physical & Digital)

Physical edition and early bonuses

Physical Standard Editions are available for PlayStation 5 starting April 17, followed by Nintendo Switch 2 on April 24.

Players who purchase from participating retailers in Southeast Asia may receive limited bonuses, including a Chibi Diana memo pad and an A4 clear folder with exclusive artwork. These are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Digital editions and extras

Digital Standard and Deluxe Editions are available now for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The Nintendo Switch 2 version arrives on April 24.

The Standard Edition includes the base game, while the Deluxe Edition adds the Shelter Variety Pack. This bundle includes additional outfits for Diana and Hugh, extra background music tracks, gestures, a weapon skin, and a collection of in-game artwork.

Soundtrack rollout

Six tracks from the PRAGMATA original soundtrack, including the main theme “Memories Are You,” are now available on major streaming platforms ahead of the full release.

PRAGMATA is now available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with the Nintendo Switch 2 version launching next week in Southeast Asia.

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