AMD’s new Ryzen 7 9800X3D processor has been overclocked to a staggering 6.9GHz, achieving an incredible 1000FPS+ in Counter-Strike 2 and a mind-blowing 2000FPS+ in Valorant. This impressive feat was achieved using LN2 cooling and an ASUS ROG Crosshair X670E Gene motherboard, showcasing the immense potential of the 9800X3D for gamers seeking ultimate performance.
The latest Windows 11 update, KB5041585, is causing problems for some users, including slowdowns, installation failures, and conflicts with Valorant’s anti-cheat system. While Microsoft is aware of the issues, there is no official fix yet, leaving users in a tough spot between security updates and potential performance issues.
With exciting new games expected to join Xbox Game Pass in August, now is the perfect time to dive into three excellent titles already available on the service. From the competitive action of Valorant to the quirky exploration of Journey to the Savage Planet, and the intriguing mysteries of The Case of the Golden Idol, there’s something for every gamer on Xbox Game Pass.
Find out if you can team up with your console friends in Valorant. We break down the cross-platform support and cross-progression features, explaining why PC players stay separate.
NetEase Fragpunk is a free-to-play hero shooter that combines the core gameplay elements of Valorant with a unique card system that adds a layer of strategic depth to each match. Players take on the role of agents with specialized abilities and battle across various maps, trying to secure zones and plant or defuse bombs. The game features an eclectic cast of characters with unique abilities and a variety of cards that create special rules for each round, leading to unpredictable and often hilarious gameplay moments. Fragpunk is currently in development for Xbox and PC and is scheduled for release in 2025.
Riot Games’ popular competitive hero shooter Valorant is expanding to PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles with a limited beta test expected as soon as next week. The console versions will feature cross-progression but not crossplay due to competitive integrity concerns arising from differing control methods. Riot Games has implemented a new ‘Focus’ feature to adapt the game for controller usage. The beta test will initially roll out in select regions on June 14, with a wider release to follow. Valorant on consoles will receive simultaneous updates and patches with the PC version.
Valorant is nearing the end of Episode 8 Act 2 and is preparing for the release of Episode 8 Act 3. Several new updates and content are set to be released in the coming weeks and months. A new bundle, similar to League of Legends’ Spirit Blossom, is expected to arrive soon, featuring a flower-themed aesthetic. The 8.08 update will address two major bugs and reintroduce the Split map, which was recently removed. Leaks have also revealed the arrival of a new battle pass, which will bring additional cosmetic items and challenges. With these updates on the horizon, now is an excellent time to join or continue playing Valorant to maximize your gameplay experience.
Valorant Episode 8 Act 2 is concluding, with only a week remaining before the next chapter. While details are limited, Riot Games has outlined upcoming changes to Premier mode and hinted at a thematic connection to League of Legends’ Spirit Blossom. Episode 8 Act 3, launching April 30th, will introduce fixes for bugs in Cypher’s Tripwire ability and Split map. Premier mode enhancements include squad up features. More details, including patch notes, are expected closer to the launch.
Riot Games has temporarily disabled Split in Valorant due to a game-breaking exploit on the A site. The exploit allowed players to gain an unfair advantage by boosting onto a ledge. Players can still access Split in Deathmatch and Escalation modes. Additionally, a minor bug with Cypher’s Trapwires has been identified but the agent remains enabled. Split has also been removed from competitive map pools and the upcoming Premier Playoffs. The fix for these issues is expected to arrive in Patch 8.08, although an exact release date is yet to be announced.
Valorant Premier’s Invite Division will replace Contender as the highest tier, offering a direct path to VCT Challengers. Premier’s ranking system has been revised, and new promotions and eligibility criteria have been implemented.
