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Microsoft Introduces Free Xbox Cloud Gaming Following 50% Game Pass Price Hike
Microsoft has overhauled Xbox Game Pass, split it into different tiers, and raised prices. In the U.S., Ultimate jumped 50% to $29.99/month; Premium is $14.99; Essential stays $9.99. These changes began October 1, 2025 for new members and are rolling to most existing members in early November.
To ease the hit, Microsoft packed in more value at the top tier: 75+ day-one releases/year, Ubisoft+ Classics and Fortnite Crew perks, and higher-quality cloud streaming (up to 1440p) for Ultimate. All tiers now include cloud gaming, with Premium/Essential capped at 1080p.
Not everyone is paying more yet. In countries like Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Poland, and India, existing Ultimate subscribers on auto-renew will keep their current price for now and get 60 days’ notice before any change. This pause does not apply in the U.S. or U.K.
Microsoft is also testing a free, ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming with short pre-roll ads, one-hour session limits, and a monthly cap (internal test now; public beta planned). It would let players stream select owned titles, Free Play Days picks, and Xbox Retro Classics without a subscription.
Player reaction is mixed: some are canceling over the higher annual cost, while others say Ultimate still saves money if you play many day-one releases.
What changed in Game Pass and is it worth it?
Microsoft renamed its plans to Essential (was Core), Premium (was Standard), and Ultimate and expanded the libraries, cloud features, and perks to help justify the higher price.
* Essential — $9.99/mo.
50+ curated games on console and PC, online multiplayer, in-game perks, and unlimited cloud gaming at 1080p. No day-one Xbox-published titles.
* Premium — $14.99/mo.
~200+ games across console, PC, and cloud, plus Xbox-published games within a year (Call of Duty excluded). Cloud gaming at 1080p. Added Rewards earn-backs.
* Ultimate — $29.99/mo. (up 50%)
75+ day-one releases/year, Ubisoft+ Classics, EA Play, Fortnite Crew (from Nov 18), bigger Rewards, and the best cloud experience: up to 1440p streaming with faster queues. Library spans console, PC, and cloud.
The new pricing began on October 1, 2025 for new members and starts hitting most existing members in early November. Microsoft says the increase reflects a bigger catalog, new partner benefits, and upgrades to cloud streaming.
What does that look like in practice? Ultimate is the showcase tier. It folds in 75+ day-one releases each year, Ubisoft+ Classics, EA Play, and Fortnite Crew starting November 18, plus a beefed-up Rewards program and cloud streaming up to 1440p with faster queues. Premium aims for flexibility at $14.99, with 200+ games across console, PC, and cloud, and Xbox-published titles arriving within a year of launch (Call of Duty excluded). Essential holds the entry point at $9.99, offering 50+ curated games on console and PC, online multiplayer, in-game benefits, and unlimited 1080p cloud play.
There’s also a regional differences. In Germany, Ireland, South Korea, Poland, and India, many existing Ultimate subscribers on auto-renew are keeping their current price for now. Microsoft says those customers will get at least 60 days’ notice before any change; this pause does not apply in the U.S. or U.K. In some countries, like Brazil, the price hike increased by 99%.
Value comes down to habits. If you chase day-one releases or already pay for Fortnite Crew, Ultimate can still pencil out. If you don’t need day-one access, Premium covers a lot for less. If you only dip into a few hits and play online, Essential gets you in the door with cloud included.
A free cloud carrot after an unpopular price hike
The price jump has not gone down well. Many players say $29.99 per month for Ultimate is a step too far, and some have canceled or stacked older deals to avoid paying more. Was the new free, ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming meant to calm things down? Maybe, maybe not. It is happening, so here is what it looks like.
How the free tier works (in testing): Microsoft is piloting an ad-supported option that lets you stream select games without a Game Pass subscription. Internal tests use about two minutes of preroll ads, one-hour session caps, and up to five free hours per month. It is planned for PC, Xbox consoles, handhelds, and the web, with a public beta before full launch. Eligible content should include some games you own, Free Play Days picks, and a slice of Xbox Retro Classics. These specifics could shift at launch, but that is the current shape.
Quality and tiers: Cloud officially left beta; Ultimate streams up to 1440p with higher bitrates and shorter queues, while Premium and Essential include unlimited 1080p cloud. The free tier is a sampler, so expect stricter limits and ads rather than premium quality.
Why it matters: A no-cost, try-before-you-pay funnel could bring lapsed and curious players back in, especially on low-spec PCs or mobile. For heavy users who care about day-one releases, Fortnite Crew, Ubisoft+ Classics, and higher-resolution streaming, the value decision still lives at Ultimate, now at a higher price.
Will the higher price stick or will players switch?
The short answer is that Microsoft will try to hold the line, while testing ways to keep people engaged. The price increase is already live for new members and will hit most existing members in early November. Some regions have a temporary pause for existing Ultimate subscribers on auto renew, which shows Microsoft can stagger changes when local rules require it.
Early sentiment points to churn risk. Reader polls and comments show many players canceling or downgrading after the jump to 29.99 dollars per month, although a vocal group still finds value when they play multiple day one titles and use the new perks.
Microsoft’s counter is a wider funnel. The free ad supported cloud tier creates a no cost path to sample games. If the beta draws casual players and lapsed subscribers back into the ecosystem, some will likely convert to Premium or Ultimate over time. Cloud quality also improved, with Ultimate streaming up to 1440p. That helps justify the top tier for people who care about convenience and fidelity.
What to watch next
* If cancellations outpace new sign ups, expect more partner perks, limited time discounts, or regional offers to shore up value.
* If the free cloud test gains traction, Microsoft may raise time caps, rotate stronger catalogs, or run sponsored play events to convert free users.
If you play several day one titles each year and want bundled perks, Ultimate can still make sense. If not, Premium covers a lot for less. If you only dabble, the free cloud tier may be enough once it opens to the public.
Acer purchase bonus: 3 months of PC Game Pass
If you buy a new eligible Acer or Predator Windows 11 PC, you can claim three months of PC Game Pass with EA Play included. This is not Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. It is PC Game Pass, which means you will see much of the Game Pass catalog on Windows, but not every console title. Microsoft’s catalog varies by plan, platform, and region, so some Xbox-only games will not appear in the PC library.
Eligible models (examples)
* Predator Helios Neo 16
* Predator Helios 16 / Helios 18
* Predator Triton Neo 16
* Predator Orion X
* Acer Nitro V 16
* Acer Nitro 14 AMD
What you save
PC Game Pass now costs $16.49 per month in the U.S. Three months included with your Acer purchase is worth $49.47 before tax.
How to redeem
On your new PC, open the Xbox app, sign in with your Microsoft account, and follow the on-screen steps to activate the offer. After three months, the plan renews at the then-current rate unless you cancel. Game availability and EA Play benefits change over time and by region.
Final thoughts: is it still worth it?
The new Game Pass prices are high, especially for Ultimate. But Microsoft has added real value with more day-one games, better cloud performance, and new perks like Ubisoft+ Classics and Fortnite Crew. If you play regularly and want the full experience, Ultimate can still be a solid deal.
For most people, Premium offers the best balance. It includes a wide game library, cloud access, and a lower monthly cost. If you only play occasionally, the Essential plan or upcoming free cloud tier might be enough.
You can also try it risk-free. Buy a new Acer or Predator PC and get three months of PC Game Pass at no cost and if you have a valid student email you can enjoy up to 15% off your next purchase from the Acer Store by signing up with Student Beans. With both options you can save more than 50 dollars and explore hundreds of PC games before deciding if a full subscription is right for you.
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After 19 Years Windows 11 Finally Adds Support for Video Wallpapers
Video wallpapers let users set a video as their screen background, and this fun feature is finally returning to Windows 11 devices after almost two decades. Video wallpapers are an entertaining and animated twist on standard block color or photo backgrounds, adding an extra hint of customization, and another way to personalize your PC. Keep reading to learn how to set a video wallpaper on Windows 11 and when you can expect to try it out for yourself.
When are video wallpapers coming to Windows?
Now obsolete, Windows Vista supported video wallpapers via an application named DreamScene, but this was not implemented in future Windows versions. As such, users have been waiting for the day when they could finally customize their desktop with a video wallpaper for years. An X user first reported the new feature after spotting it in the newest Windows 11 Dev and Beta preview builds.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtkWjg1rjvk
It supports MP4, MOV, AVI, WMV, M4V, and MKV files and will only work on desktops. It will not include videos for the lockscreen, however it is still a fun and creative way to customize a PC. Although there is no official announcement from Windows detailing when this much-anticipated feature will be available, users on the preview build can enable feature ID 57645315 and restart explorer.exe to access video wallpapers.
How to enable video wallpapers on Windows 11
If you want to set your video to wallpaper on Windows 11, follow these instructions:
* Open Settings
* Navigate to Personalization
* Click Background
* Select Browse photos
* Choose your desired video
If you wish to try out video wallpapers before the announce date, follow these instructions to enable it manually on Windows 11 builds 26220.6690 (Dev Channel) and 26120.6690 (Beta Channel) for version 25H2 and 24H2:
* Open this Github website
* Download the ViveTool-vx.x.x.zip file to activate the new Start menu design
* Open the file with File Explorer
* Click Extract all and Extract
* Copy the path to the folder
* Open Start
* Search for the Command Prompt, open the top result and choose Run as administrator
* Insert this command to navigate to the ViveTool folder: cd c:\folder\path\ViveTool-v0.x.x (be sure to change the path to the folder that includes your path) and press Enter
* Insert the following command to enable video wallpaper: vivetool /enable /id:57645315 and press Enter
* Restart the computer
Videos will play on loop and interactive videos are not supported. Moreover, please note that there is currently no setting to set up a video wallpaper on Windows 11, as this feature has not yet been officially implemented.
Why should you try out video wallpapers?
Although video wallpapers are not a must-have, they offer a quirky and unique way to personalize a Windows 11 PC. Using a funny GIF or your favorite clip of a family holiday, sports team, or beloved pet as a background can help boost your mood and bring a smile to your face. Moreover, video wallpapers can also create a specific ambiance, like a sense of calm during a hectic work day.
What are some alternative video wallpaper apps you can try?
The Windows 11 video wallpaper feature may be a little while off yet, however there are some alternatives you can try in the meantime. Lively Wallpaper is a free and open-source software that lets users set animated wallpapers. Users can use GIFs, videos, and webpages as their desktop background and screensaver, and the app won the Microsoft Store App Awards in 2023. Wallpaper Engine also has hundreds of thousands of wallpapers to choose from, and even allows users to create a wallpaper playlist to showcase throughout the day.
The lowdown: are Windows 11 video wallpapers really worth the wait?
Video wallpapers provide a fun way to personalize your PC. Although they are a nice-to-have not a must-have, they make a creative and interactive change from a static wallpaper. Many Windows 11 users have been waiting for a video wallpaper feature for almost twenty years since DreamScene was made obsolete. For them, the news that a Windows 11 video wallpaper feature will be available soon is an exciting prospect. Keep an eye on the latest Windows updates to find out when the new video wallpaper feature lands.
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Acer Gaming Laptops and Desktops With the 50 Series GPU
It’s no secret that the latest and greatest Acer gaming laptops and desktops are equipped with Nvidia 50 series graphics cards. Built on state-of-the-art Blackwell architecture, 50 Series GPUs go beyond simply rendering pixels, they predict them. Transforming how your favorite games play, next-gen DLSS 4, ultra-fast GDDR7 memory and fourth-gen ray tracing cores leave the competition standing.
Today we’re going to give you the lowdown on these era-defining AI-driven GPUs and the Acer gaming PCs that everyone is raving about. Read on to discover which Nvidia 50 series GPU works for you, as well as the pros and cons of laptop and desktop GPUs.
Introducing the 50 Series GPUs
Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 50 Series is the latest generation of graphics cards, delivering a great leap forward in AI-infused gaming and content creation. Delivering higher frame rates and unbelievably sharp visuals, the 50 Series brings top-notch performance to every level from highly-efficient 1080p systems, to 4K, 8K, and beyond. Let’s take a look at the GPUs in the 50 Series family.
* RTX 5090. King of the 50-Series, the 5090 features 32 GB of GDDR7 memory and a huge core count to power 4K/120 Hz gaming and heavy creative workloads.
* RTX 5080. Built for gamers and creators who demand 4K performance, the ultra-fast GDDR7 memory lets you smash the most demanding games and creative applications at high settings.
* RTX 5070 Ti. Delivering high performance 4K capability for mainstream gamers, DLSS 4 and upgraded cores, deliver strong performance especially in 1440p/4K gaming and 3D/creative tasks.
* RTX 5070. The solid all-rounder for gamers and students in creative fields, the 5070 offers excellent performance per watt and supports the full suite of RTX 50 Series features, ideal for high-end 1440p gamers.
* RTX 5060 Ti / RTX 5060 / RTX 5050 (entry level). These models bring the 50 Series architecture, DLSS 4, and AI horsepower to more accessible laptops and desktops, making modern features available even for 1080p/1440p systems.
Laptop vs Desktop GPU pros and cons
If you’re on the fence about choosing an Acer gaming laptop, or possibly an Acer gaming desktop, then it makes good sense to understand the upsides and downsides of laptop and desktop GPUs.
Laptop GPUs pros:
* Portability: Picture the power of Nvidia’s latest GPUs in a machine you can carry anywhere: laptop GPUs are ideal for students, creators, and gamers on the go.
* Efficiency: Specifically designed for lower power draw and better thermal management, laptop GPUs are optimized for long, cool sessions.
Laptop GPUs cons:
* Performance limits: Slightly lower clock speeds and thermal headroom than desktop versions, reducing absolute peak performance.
* Upgradability: Laptop GPUs are usually soldered to the motherboard, making future upgrades impossible for most users.
Desktop GPUs pros:
* Max power: Larger cooling systems and higher wattage allow desktop GPUs to run at full potential, ideal for 4K gaming and heavy creative workloads.
* Upgradability: Simply swap in a new GPU when the next generation arrives. This can be used to extend your desktops lifespan, as other components can also be easily upgraded.
Desktop GPUs cons:
* Space and power needs: desktop GPUs require a bigger case, stronger PSU, and more airflow for efficient cooling, they are certainly not portable.
* Setup cost: Building or upgrading a desktop can mean higher overall cost as tower, monitor, and other peripherals soon add up.
Acer gaming laptops and desktops with the 50 series GPU
1. Nitro V 16 AI Gaming Laptop
This AI-enabled gaming laptop packs some serious firepower into its sleek 16” chassis. The AMD Ryzen 7 350 processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 GPU with 8 GB of VRAM, combine to make the Nitro V 16 AI Gaming Laptop - ANV16-61-R8UE a $1,299.99 game and creative task crusher. The RTX 5060’s advanced ray tracing and AI-driven rendering deliver smooth, realistic lighting and higher frame rates, while the 180 Hz WUXGA display keeps every motion sharper than sharp. Cooling? Not a problem, as dual fans and quad-intake cooling keep the system cool at all times, making the Nitro V 16 AI the perfect balance of raw performance, intelligent design, and all-day reliability.
2. Predator Helios Neo 16 AI
Moving on to this Intel Core Ultra 7 255HX processor powered gaming and creativity beast, the Predator Helios Neo 16 AI (PHN16-73-7166) is currently $1,799.99 and features the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 GPU with 8 GB of GDDR7 memory. For fluid visuals and responsive gameplay galore, the 16″ WQXGA (2560×1600) IPS display runs at 240 Hz, while the he RTX 5070 GPU enables ray tracing and supports AI-enhanced rendering features, pushing higher frame rates and visual fidelity in games.
3. Predator Helios Neo 18 AI
Next in our GPU-heavy journey, meet the Predator Helios Neo 18 AI Gaming Laptop - PHN18-72-98WF. Made for gamers who require a bit more screen real estate, the Neo 18 AI is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor paired with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti GPU featuring a whopping 12 GB of GDDR7 memory. Priced at $2,299.99, its 18” WQXGA (2560×1600) IPS panel runs at a rapid-fire 240 Hz refresh rate, guaranteeing ultra-smooth visuals. The RTX 5070 Ti GPU delivers full ray tracing, AI-enhanced rendering, and strong frame rates across the most demanding titles.
4. Nitro 60 Gaming Desktop
The first and last desktop in today’s discussion, the Nitro 60 Gaming Desktop N60-640-UR25 is a $2,449.99 beauty that’s bound to dominate any table or desk it sits upon! Combining the Intel Core i7-14700F (20 cores, up to 5.4 GHz) and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti graphics card, the Nitro 60 is ready for anything you can throw at it. Stacked with 32 GB DDR5 memory and a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, this desktop delivers both speed and capacity.
5. Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop
For our final stop on this week’s GPU guided tour, meet the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop - PH18-73-99A8. For on-the-go gamers who demand only the finest, this $6,999.99 laptop is their only option. An Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor (24-core) paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPU featuring 24 GB of dedicated memory ensures all targets will be smashed. Built for those at the vanguard of laptop computing, the 18″ WQUXGA (3840 × 2400) IPS display runs at 120 Hz, delivering high-resolution visuals in a massive form factor. With 192 GB DDR5 memory and 6 TB of SSD storage, the Helios 18 AI is built for extreme workloads and gaming at demanding specs.
Final considerations
We hope that you’ve enjoyed learning about Nvidia’s 50 Series GPUs today. As you can see from the rundown of the 50 Series and the pros and cons of desktop and laptop GPUs, there’s certainly an Nvidia Series 50 GPU to suit your needs. And by extension, there’s an Acer gaming laptop or desktop that can take your gaming or content creation to previously uncharted realms. If you’re curious about the other Acer 50 series GPU laptops, head to the Acer Store to find out more. Prefer a 50 series GPU powered desktop? No problem, there’s plenty of these waiting to be discovered, too! From the accessible Nitro V 16 AI to the desk-dominating Nitro 60, there’s sure to be an Nvidia-infused Acer PC that’s just perfect for you.
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What Is Sideloading and Why Does Google Want to Restrict It on Android?
For years, one of Android’s biggest selling points has been freedom. Unlike Apple’s iOS, which keeps users locked inside the App Store, Android allows people to “sideload” apps—installing them from outside Google Play. That flexibility helped Android build a reputation as the more open mobile ecosystem. But now, Google is moving to tighten the rules, requiring developers to verify their identity before their apps can be sideloaded. The company says this will improve security, but critics argue it could signal the slow erosion of Android’s openness.
Before looking at why Google is changing course, it’s worth asking a simple question: what exactly is sideloading?
What is sideloading?
Sideloading is the practice of installing apps or transferring files onto a device without going through its official app store. On Android, this usually means downloading an APK file (the package format for Android apps) from a website or alternative store and manually installing it. On iOS, the equivalent is installing an IPA file, typically through developer tools like Xcode or third-party workarounds.
Originally, sideloading simply referred to moving music, videos, or e-books from a computer onto a phone via USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or memory card. Over time, it became most closely associated with apps as a way to get software that was not available on Google Play or the Apple App Store.
For Android users, sideloading required a small but intentional step: enabling the “install from unknown sources” option in system settings. This gave people more control, but it also meant taking on responsibility since malicious apps are more common outside official channels.
Why people sideload
* Access to apps not available in their country
* Trying beta versions or indie apps not listed on Google Play
* Using modified apps such as ad-free YouTube clients
* Preserving apps that have been removed from stores
The risks
Sideloading opens the door to malware, spyware, or poorly coded apps that can compromise device security. Carriers and manufacturers have sometimes limited it for this reason. Still, for many Android fans the ability to sideload has been a defining feature that separates it from Apple’s tightly controlled ecosystem.
Why Google wants to restrict sideloading
Google argues that sideloading has always been a double-edged sword. It gives users freedom, but it also creates opportunities for bad actors to spread malware. Security researchers have long noted that apps downloaded from outside the Play Store are far more likely to contain harmful code.
To address this, Google announced that starting in 2027 developers will be required to verify their identity even if they never publish on the Play Store. The company says this is similar to an ID check at an airport. It confirms who the developer is but does not screen the contents of their app. In practice, this means that APK files from unverified developers will no longer install on certified Android devices.
The rollout will begin gradually. Early access to the verification system opens in October 2025, it expands to all developers in March 2026, and the first countries where it will be enforced are Brazil, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand in September 2026. The global requirement follows in 2027.
For Google, this change is about making Android safer without fully closing the platform. The company insists it will not review the code or decide what content developers can distribute. Critics, however, worry that this is the first step toward a more controlled ecosystem.
How this affects users and developers
For most people who only download apps from the Google Play Store, nothing will change. The new rules only apply to apps that are sideloaded or installed from third-party sources.
For everyday users:
* If you stick to the Play Store, your experience will remain the same.
* If you occasionally sideload apps, you will need to make sure those apps come from a developer who has gone through Google’s identity verification process. Unverified apps will simply not install on certified Android devices once the rules are enforced.
For developers:
* Independent developers who distribute apps through websites, GitHub, or alternative stores will have to register with Google and verify their identity. This involves confirming personal or business details, similar to how publishing on Play Store already works.
* Developers who fail to complete verification will see their apps blocked from installation, even outside the Play Store.
* The process does not involve content review, so developers will still have freedom over what kind of app they build and distribute.
In practice, this creates a middle ground. Google is not banning sideloading outright, but it is raising the barrier to entry by requiring every developer to be traceable.
The debate: security vs freedom
Google frames the new rules as a security upgrade. The company argues that sideloading has been a major source of malware on Android devices, and requiring developer identity checks will make it harder for malicious actors to operate anonymously. In theory, this could reduce the number of harmful apps circulating outside the Play Store.
But for many Android fans, the move feels like a step toward locking down the platform. Sideloading has always represented freedom of choice, whether that means installing region-restricted apps, experimenting with indie projects, or using tools that Google itself might not approve of. Critics worry that an identity verification system could eventually evolve into a gatekeeping tool, with Google quietly blocking certain categories of apps. The most common fear is that ad-blocking software for YouTube will become impossible to install, since Google has a strong financial incentive to limit access to those tools.
The concern is not just theoretical. Apple already uses a similar system in the European Union, where developers must be verified to distribute apps outside the App Store. Even with that framework, Apple has still blocked apps it found undesirable, including a popular **** client. Skeptics argue that Google may eventually follow the same path, beginning with ad blockers and expanding to other categories of apps that threaten its ecosystem.
At its heart, the debate comes down to trust. Supporters of the policy see it as a sensible way to improve safety without eliminating sideloading entirely. Opponents see it as the beginning of a slow shift toward the kind of walled garden that Android was originally meant to avoid.
Conclusion: the future of sideloading on Android
Sideloading has always been one of the defining features of Android. It allowed users to install apps outside the Play Store, giving them flexibility that iOS does not. Google’s new verification rules do not remove sideloading, but they do reshape it into something more structured.
For everyday users, the impact will be minimal. Those who install only from the Play Store will see no change. For developers and enthusiasts who rely on third-party stores, GitHub releases, or APK files, the key difference will be that apps must come from verified developers to install on certified Android devices.
This also raises questions for custom ROMs and privacy-focused operating systems like GrapheneOS. These projects often depend on the freedom to sideload apps and services outside of Google’s ecosystem. While the new framework is aimed at improving security, it could introduce additional hurdles for these communities, depending on how strictly identity verification is enforced.
In short, sideloading is not going away, but it is evolving. Google is trying to strike a balance between openness and safety, and by 2027 we will see how that balance reshapes the Android ecosystem.
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Helios Neo 18 AI: 18-Inch Gaming Laptop With RTX 5070 Ti
Last time we met we delved into the flagship Predator powerhouse that is the Helios 18 AI Acer gaming laptop. This week, we’re back with a different beast under the same Predator Helios banner, the Acer Predator Helios Neo 18. This Acer gaming computer is a hyper powered beast that’s ready for literally anything you can throw at it, pushing the boundaries of gaming and creativity.
Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU, RTX 5070 Series GPU and a sprawling 18-inch display wider than a city skyline are a few highlights of the Predator Helios Neo 18. So, if you’re done treading water in the present, then prepare brave the raging rapids of the future with the Predator Helios Neo 18. Before we continue, let’s be clear: the Helios Neo 18 isn’t just a tasty Acer gaming laptop, this is your ticket into the future of AI-powered gaming and creativity. Let’s jump straight into the neon-lit pools of gaming glory and concise creativity and check out the Helios Neo 18 AI.
A bright, neon-lit future
https://youtu.be/D2iqwnHpuLE
Stacked with cutting-edge specs from bottom to top (merely 0.59” - 1.1” high), the Helios Neo 18 makes no compromises. There are a few different models in the Helios Neo 18 family, today we’re going to focus on the Predator Helios Neo 18 AI Gaming Laptop - PHN18-72-92Y3, currently available for $2,299.99. Without further ado, let’s have a cheeky look at the tech-specs on this bad boy:
* OS: Windows 11 Home
* Processor: Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX processor Tetracosa-core (24 Core™) 2.70 GHz
* Processor Speed (turbo): 5.40 GHz
* GPU: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5070Ti with 12 GB dedicated memory
* Memory: 16 GB, DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 1 TB SSD
* Display: 18" WQXGA (2560 x 1600) 16:10 IPS 240 Hz
* Display Screen Technology: ComfyView (Matte); In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology
* Speakers: 2
* Network: Killer Wi-Fi 6E AX1675i
* Bluetooth: 5.4 or above
* Built in Devices: Webcam, microphone
* Interfaces: HDMI, 5 x USB, Network (RJ-45), audio
* Max Battery Run Time: 5 hours
* Color: Abyssal Black
* Dimensions: 15.79” x 12.11” x 0.59” - 1.1”
* Weight (Approx): 7.28 lb
Intel Core Ultra: your intelligence corps
Once you’ve taken a minute to regain your composure, get acquainted with your futuristic intelligence corps: the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, soldered deep inside the abyssal black heart of the Helios Neo 18. With 24 cores at its command and speeds up to 5.4GHz, this chip doesn’t just process like a cashier ringing up your groceries, it orchestrates like Mozart, directing every mission, creation and AI task with flawless precision. A base clock speed of 2.70GHz that can be overclocked to 5.40GHz equips you with raw power for heavy workloads and rapid response in games.
Each of us use our laptops in different ways, so whether you’re gaming and streaming simultaneously or rendering while multitasking, the 24 core Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX offers 24 cores of hybrid muscle for lighting-fast AI-infused tasks like image generation and video edits, as well as consistent frame pacing in the latest, most demanding AAA titles.
Redefine with RTX
The Helios Neo 18 comes equipped with a remarkable laptop GPU, Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 5070Ti with 12 GB dedicated memory. This graphics card is your ticket into the AI-infused future of gaming and creativity where ultra efficient productivity and blisteringly fast gaming go hand in hand.
In case you’re unfamiliar with RTX, there are several standout AI features of the RTX 5070 Ti that all gamers and creators need to know about.
Firstly, DLSS 3.5 harnesses the ever-expanding powers of AI to whip up top quality extra frames, meaning smoother gameplay without sacrificing visuals. Next is Ray tracing, a technology that replicates the behavior of real world light and shadow, bringing unimaginable levels of realism to your gaming universe. Finally, as we forge further into the era of AI, make the most of AI-enhanced creativity: there are now over 100 AI enabled and RTX-accelerated creative apps from DaVinci Resolve, to OBS Studio, the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, and Blender. Equip yourself with RTX and expect quicker rendering, faster previews, and smoother editing timelines with RTX-acceleration.
Immersive screenscape
Before you make the mistake of thinking that screenscape is a typo, rest assured: it is not. The Helios Neo 18 possesses a room-defining 18-inch WQXGA IPS display with 2560 × 1600 resolution. The 16:10 aspect ratio gives you an extra bite of extra vertical space for more HUD space in games, and it’s also better for editing timelines. Matte ComfyView cuts out the glare when you’re in the midst of a marathon session, while 240Hz refresh rate helps you avoid getting smoked by the competition in your favorite FPS titles.
100% DCI-P3 is the certification that all creators demand, meaning accurate vibrant colors that you can trust. Nvidia G-Sync and Advanced Optimus are guaranteed to keep your frames as flawless as they were intended to be, and as tear free as they should be. This is a screenscape where fast-paced games always feel hyper-responsive, while movies and shows look cinematic thanks to the high refresh rate and wickedly wide gamut.
Portability and power to stay cool
The Helios Neo 18 AI has a lithium-ion battery that can give you a short burst of extremely powerful computing while you’re on-the-go or on your couch, but is primarily designed as a powerhouse laptop that’s ready to give desktops a run for their money.
Let’s not forget the importance of keeping cool, in all climates and situations. 5th Gen AeroBlade™ 3D fans, vector heat pipes, and a generous dollop of liquid metal thermal grease keep the Helios Neo 18’s CPU and GPU running smoothly at peak without the fear of throttling. And what’s more, you have the keys to control the fans through the PredatorSense utility app. Personalize your fan settings, choosing performance or silence, or somewhere in between, and set the mood with the 4-zone RGB keyboard, making your Helios Neo 18 truly unique.
Dare to dream
Hopefully by now you’ve realized that the Helios Neo 18 AI is a gaming monster that has a winning combination of raw power, tempered with creative flexibility and optimized all over with the burgeoning powers of AI. Get amongst it and soar further than before, dare to dream with the twin cooled AI engines, Intel Core Ultra 9 + RTX 5070 Ti. The Helios Neo 18 AI isn’t merely a laptop built for today, it’s a battleship with its guns primed for the oncoming wave of AI and gaming breakthroughs. If you’re brave enough to get onboard, then seek out Acer’s Helios Neo 18 AI today. Finally, Acer’s 10% student discount has now grown into a 15% discount, so if you’re a student you won’t pay the full $2,299.99 for the Helios Neo 18 AI.
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Why the Nitro PG1 is the Best Portable Gaming Monitor on Market
Portable gaming monitors enhance the gaming experience by letting users expand their screens. In this article, we will explore what portable gaming monitors are, how they differ from regular portable monitors, and introduce the Acer Nitro PG1.
Portable monitors can be connected to other devices like a laptop, smartphone, or tablet, offering an additional screen to watch movies, play games, and participate in meetings. They are slim and lightweight, making them easy to carry around and use on the go. Portable monitors can make a smartphone feel like a computer, providing a full-sized work or entertainment platform without lugging around a laptop.
Why should you buy a portable gaming monitor?
Portable gaming monitors plug into game consoles, offering larger screen real estate and bringing games to life. This is ideal for vacations, visiting friends, or just to save space. If you are considering an additional monitor and gaming is your priority, it is best to purchase a portable monitor specifically designed to handle games. This is because portable gaming monitors have additional features and are optimized to help users get the most out of games.
1. Faster response times
Portable gaming monitors offer fast responses that enhance the gaming experience. Regular screens usually have a response time of around 10ms or below, which may be too slow for gamers to get the most out of their games. Dedicated gaming screens have faster response times, some less than 1ms, which boosts gameplay.
2. Lower input lag
Input lag is the time it takes for an action to appear on the screen after pushing a button on a controller or other device. The higher the input lag, the lower the response rate. As games require precision, accuracy, and speed, gaming monitors should have a lower input lag so gamers can play at their best. Gaming monitors also have adequate processing power to ensure little to no additional input lag from brightness, contrast, or HDR.
3. Higher refresh rates
Higher refresh rates, or how many times the monitor refreshes the screen per second, are better for a gaming monitor as they create smoother motions and less blurring. Portable gaming monitors with refresh rates within the 120Hz to 144Hz range offer higher response times and a more seamless gaming experience, and provide a competitive advantage.
Introducing the Nitro PG1
The Nitro PG1 is a portable gaming monitor that offers a seamless, hassle-free way to expand screen real estate. Users can connect the screen via USB and get working, playing games, or completing tasks immediately. This portable gaming monitor is sleek and lightweight, and slips easily into a bag or sleeve to take to game night. It has a high refresh rate that delivers ultra-smooth visuals, and a lower input lag for an outstanding in-game performance. Here are some more specifications:
* Screen: 15.6" (39.62 cm) Full HD
* Maximum Resolution: 1920 x 1080
* Standard Refresh Rate: 165 Hz
* Aspect ratio: 16:9
* Panel Technology: IPS (170°x170°) HDR10, AMD FreeSync™
* Inputs: USB type C, miniHDMI
* Response Time: 6 ms
* Brightness: 250 Nit
* Number of speakers: 2
* Height with stand: 8.74” (22.19 cm)
* Width with stand: 13.98” (35.50 cm)
* Depth with stand: 0.42” (1.06 cm)
* Weight with stand: 2.73 lbs (1.23 kg)
Conclusion
Portable monitors are great for expanding screen size, boosting productivity, and saving space while on the move. They transform tablets or smartphones into larger smart devices similar to a laptop. Portable gaming monitors are specially designed and optimized to enhance performance and speed without sacrificing precision and accuracy. They offer faster response times, lower input lag, and higher refresh rates to bring games to life. The Acer Nitro PG1 is an outstanding portable gaming monitor with a 6 ms response time and 250 Nit brightness for a superior gaming experience. Check out the Acer store and grab the Nitro PG1 portable gaming monitor for USD $179.99, or just USD $152.99 with a 15% student discount (previously 10%), and boost your gaming performance today. Alternatively, check out Acer’s range of other Nitro gaming monitors and find the perfect screen for your needs.
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Predator Helios 18 AI (RTX 5090): Acer's Most Powerful Gaming Laptop to Date
Looking for an Acer gaming laptop that can go the distance, and then some? Well the Predator Helios 18 AI is the leader of the Acer gaming computer family, an anticipation of the future of on-the-go gaming. If you want to take your gaming beyond the horizon, Acer Predator Helios 18 AI is a mean machine with an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, mesmerizing 4K Mini LED display, and the cherry on top, an Nvidia GeForce RTX™ 5090 GPU. In case you didn’t know, the 5090 is currently the most powerful consumer GPU in the ether. So, if power and style are high on your list of gaming laptop priorities, read on to get the lowdown on Acer’s most powerful gaming laptop to date.
Forged in power
The Predator Helios 18 AI is a portable gaming fortress for players who are done being passengers in their gaming exploits and are ready to become the ride. If you’ve got the money, then the Predator Helios 18 AI certainly has the honey, but it’ll cost you $6,999.99. Now that we’ve got the price tag out of the way, let’s get stuck in and take a bite out of the tasty tech-specs of our chosen model, the Predator Helios 18 AI Gaming Laptop - PH18-73-99A8.
* OS: Windows 11 Pro
* Processor: Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 275HX processor Tetracosa-core (24 Core™) 2.70 GHz
* GPU: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5090 with 24 GB dedicated memory
* Memory: 192 GB, DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 6 TB SSD
* Display: 18" WQUXGA (3840 x 2400) 16:10 IPS 120 Hz
* Display Screen Technology: ComfyView (Matte); In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology; Eyesafe
* Speakers: 6
* Network: Wireless LAN Killer 1750x IEEE 802.11be
* Bluetooth: 5.4 or above
* Built in Devices: Webcam, microphone
* Interfaces: HDMI, 5 x USB, Network (RJ-45), audio in/out
* Color: Abyssal Black
* Dimensions: 15.79” x 12.1” x 1.16”
* Weight (Approx): 7.72 lb
Season of the abyssal black Predator Helios 18
If you’ve taken a moment to digest these specs, then you’re ready to step into the arena of the Predator Helios 18 and its never ending parade of transforming RGB lights! As you can see from the tech-specs, this is a gargantuan of gaming with built in AI features that anticipate your next move, adapting on your gaming odyssey. Let’s take a peek under the hood and see what Acer’s most powerful gaming laptop to date has to offer.
Desktop level performance in a laptop?
Starting with the CPU, the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX is top of the line, with 24 cores. 8 cores get the heavy lifting done, while the other 16 cores ensure that everything in the background is covered. The CPU’s clock speed of 2.70 GHz can be overclocked to a maximum of 5.4 GHz giving you a tremendous speed boost when it’s needed. This CPU (obviously) has a built-in Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for you to offload tasks like background removal and audio optimization for seamless streaming. On top of this, Intel Application Optimization (APO) continually tweaks and fine tunes your PCs performance so you can get the most out of the latest games and older titles.
Game changer: Nvidia RTX 5090
As we mentioned above, the NVIDIA RTX 5090 is currently the most powerful graphics card that you can get your hands on. Rave reviews aside, the Nvidia RTX 5090 is a multi frame generating monster offering raw-knuckle frame rates like you never experienced before. For both gamers and creators, the AI capabilities of this GPU are nothing short of groundbreaking. Built on Nvidia’s Blackwell architecture, the RTX 5090 is capable of 1824 AI TOPS, a veritable mountain of AI computing power.
DLSS 4 harnesses AI to increase FPS, sharpen images, and reduce lag. DLSS 4 also adds Multi Frame Generation, adding between 1-3 driven frames for each native frame drawn by the GPU. In addition, Ray Reconstruction, and Super Resolution technologies both multiply and clarify your performance. Finally, full ray tracing with neural rendering smashes out lifelike light and shadows with the help of 4th-gen RT cores + 5th-gen Tensor cores. Creators can harness the high-octane power of Nvidia Studio support for editing, 3D and design projects. Remember as well that this GPU opens the door to running any game currently on the market at 4k, no problem. We’ll even go as far as saying that you’ll most likely be able to run the latest games on highest settings for the next 5 years, or so!
Seeing things: 18” 4K Mini LED Display
This 18” laptop has a screen that simply has to be seen to be believed. Mini LED technology stretched across at a 16:10 ratio for increased vertical space, with up to 4K WQXGA resolution means this laptop can double as your gaming platform and cinema. 1000 nits peak brightness equates to brighter highlights and deeper contrast, while DCI-P3 100% color gamut means insanely accurate, cinema-level color.
The Predator Helios 18 AI has an adaptable dual-mode display, providing you with the best of both gaming and streaming worlds. Simply toggle between 4K at 120 Hz for sharp, cinematic visuals, and FHD at 240 Hz for silky-smooth gameplay, while Nvidia G-SYNC prevents tearing.
Cool and in control: AeroBlade & MagKey 4.0
All this power requires some serious cooling technology, and that’s where the 6th Gen AeroBlade 3D fans come in. Precision engineered for maximum cooling, the world’s thinnest fan blades are merely 0.05mm thick, with 100 metal blades per fan. This delivers 20% better airflow efficiency as the AeroBlade fans automatically adjust themselves to system requirements.
Let’s not forget the keyboard! Backlit milky way RGB dynamic per-key lighting turns every keystroke into a personal masterpiece, while magnetic actuation means faster, more precise keystrokes. 0.3mm key travel cuts down on the distance each key must commute, meaning short and sharp keyboard taps that count. With a total of eight swappable WASD and arrow keys, this is a keyboard that is tailored for gamers.
AI integration and PredatorSense
The Predator Helios 18 AI boasts an enviable range of AI features, including Acer’s own ProCam to auto-record your gaming highlights. PurifiedView provides auto-framing, background blur, and gaze correction, while PurifiedVoice 2.0 filters out pesky background noise with AI tech and a helpful 3rd mic.
PredatorSense app is your operations station to manage fan and lighting settings in real time, including fully customizable per-key RGB lighting. This app is also used to overclock your CPU and GPU for a performance boost, as needed. This futuristic lighting system also features the atmospheric MilkyWay RGB glow at the rear of the device, cover logo illumination mirroring each moment of action, and the infinite ring L-shape and palm rest lighting add a further touch of class to the device.
Prepare for excellence
That’s about all we’ve got time for today. We hope you’ve enjoyed dipping your toe into the futuristic waters of Acer’s Predator Helios 18 AI. Acer’s most powerful gaming laptop to date is an AI optimized gaming beast that for all intents and purposes feels like a desktop rig shrunk into laptop size for gamers and creators who want to explore new frontiers. Intelligent, powerful, adaptable, and future ready, Acer’s Predator Helios 18 is ready when you are.
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4 New Microsoft Copilot Features Available on Copilot+ PCs
Copilot+ PCs continue to evolve, with new features now generally available or in preview across a variety of Windows applications and Teams. These updates are designed to do more than just save time - they help businesses work more efficiently, stay connected, and collaborate seamlessly across regions.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the latest Copilot+ PCs capabilities available today that range from contextual productivity tools and smarter searching to content recall and real-time translation. Each one is designed to address real-world business challenges, turning Copilot into a true workplace assistant that is both powerful and practical.
Recall (Preview)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfi9NRGnqqU
For professionals managing multiple projects and information sources, Recall (Preview) introduces a new way to rediscover what matters. Exclusive to Copilot+ PCs, Recall captures snapshots of your screen every few seconds and stores them securely on your device. You can then search for past content using natural language - for example, “the chart I saw last Tuesday” or “the email about Q4 forecasts.” It’s especially useful for analysts, managers, and executives that tend to handle a multitude of tasks and documents.
Click to Do (Preview)
What if you could act on what’s on your screen - without switching apps or copying text manually? Click to Do (Preview) makes that possible by letting you interact directly with visible content on your screen. Currently available on Copilot+ PCs, it allows you to highlight text to quickly summarize, create bullet points, or rewrite content in different tones - making tasks like reading and drafting large amounts of emails much easier. It’s especially useful for streamlining workflows across teams, whether you’re refining proposals, extracting details from screenshots, or reworking client communications.
Live Captions
Live Captions helps teams communicate effortlessly across languages by providing real-time captions and translations during meetings, webinars, and presentations. It currently supports translating speech from 44 languages into English and 27 languages into Simplified Chinese, automatically converting spoken dialogue into readable captions onscreen, making global collaboration smoother and more inclusive - no matter whether you’re connecting with international colleagues or hosting multilingual sessions. This capability is currently rolling out to Copilot+ PCs, with Microsoft planning to expand language support and improve translation accuracy over time.
Improved Windows Search
The new and improved Windows Search helps users find what they need faster, using the language they naturally speak. Instead of relying on exact filenames or rigid keywords, you can now search with conversational phrases like “open the presentation from last Friday’s sales meeting” or “find the Excel sheet with Q2 revenue.” This update should prove to be a major productivity boost for teams managing large volumes of files - especially in marketing, HR, and legal departments.
Conclusion
With these new capabilities, Copilot+ PCs are redefining how professionals work, combining intelligent features with powerful performance to simplify daily tasks and enhance collaboration. From acting on on-screen content and finding information faster to rediscovering past work and translating in real time, Copilot+ PCs empower teams to stay productive and connected wherever they work.
When paired with devices like the Acer TravelMate P6 14 AI, the Acer TravelMate X4 14 AI, and other AI laptops designed for business performance, long battery life, and reliable connectivity, the capabilities of Copilot+ PCs become even more impactful. Together, they create a modern, AI-enhanced workspace where professionals can collaborate effortlessly, access information quickly, and turn insights into action.
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Aspire Go 15: Simple, Reliable, Ready to Go
The Aspire Go 15 is an affordable, user-friendly laptop that is perfect for everyday work tasks. This article will explore the laptop’s specifications and features, including 16 GB standard memory and 4.60 GHZ turbo processor speed. The Aspire Go 15 is thin and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for those who carry a laptop on their travels. It is the perfect companion for everyday work tasks like writing emails and documents.
Specifications
* Windows 11 Home
* Intel® Core™ i5-13420H processor Octa-core 2.10 GHz
* 16 GB DDR5 SDRAM
* 512 GB SSD
* 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) 16:9 ComfyView (Matte) 60 Hz, IPS
* 3.97 lb (1.80 kg)
* 0.78 x 14.3 x 9.4 inches (1.98 x 36.32 x 23.87 cm)
Aspire Go 15 features
The Aspire Go 15 is an excellent budget laptop that packs a punch. Here are some of its features.
1. A fresh perspective with Windows 11
Windows 11 gives a calming space where users can explore their passions and creativity. From the rejuvenated Start menu to new ways of connecting with friends and family, Windows 11 devices offer everything needed for an outstanding user experience. The Aspire Go 15 is a Windows 11 laptop, providing a fresh perspective within one sleek device.
2. High performance and multi-tasking
13th Gen Intel® Core™ Processors make multi-tasking look easy. These processors advance real-world computing and deliver ultra-efficient performance every time. As such, the Aspire Go 15 supports intense work sessions.
3. Versatility and power
The Aspire Go 15 delivers on-the-go power whenever it is needed. Alongside work tasks, this versatile device offers low power consumption via the Core™ i5 processor.
4. Top performance
Double Data Rate (DDR) 5 RAM maximizes performance and offers lightning fast speed, higher bandwidth, and lower power consumption, letting users easily complete work tasks like writing emails and documents. It also provides higher memory efficiency and lower latency, which enhances speed and performance.
Why should you buy the Aspire Go 15 laptop?
This user-friendly budget laptop has everything you need to complete light work tasks. The Aspire Go 15 laptop makes multitasking a breeze while delivering excellent performance without sacrificing power consumption. Whether you are working from home or on the go, the Aspire Go 15 laptop is a great work companion. Check out the Acer store and get yours today.
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Hardest Bosses in Hades 2
Hades 2 raises the stakes of every Underworld escape with a new lineup of bosses drawn from Greek mythology, from ancient Titans to your own teacher and even your family pet. Each major fight tests your mastery of Boons, Arcana, and Nocturnal Arms in different ways, blending pattern recognition, reflex, and resource management into one relentless challenge.
While early bosses like Hecate teach you core combat fundamentals, late-game foes such as Chronos and Typhon demand near-perfect execution and build synergy. This ranking lists every major boss in Hades 2 from easiest to hardest, based on attack complexity, phase design, and overall difficulty on standard runs without Vow of Rivals modifiers.
10. Polyphemus
Polyphemus is the final boss of the City of Ephyra, the first surface region in Hades 2. Despite his size and power, he is one of the game’s more predictable bosses once you learn his patterns. Most of his attacks are slow melee strikes that deal heavy damage but have clear visual cues, including ground slams, shockwave jumps, leg sweeps, and a grab attack.
He occasionally summons enemies to distract you and may even call in sheep during the fight, which you should eliminate quickly to prevent interference. Because all his attacks are short-ranged, the best strategy is to maintain distance and use ranged weapons or magic-based builds. With patience and positioning, Polyphemus becomes a straightforward fight that rewards careful dodging and steady offense.
9. Queen Lamia
Queen Lamia is a mini-boss encountered in the Fields of Mourning, the third region in Hades 2. She commands both powerful magic and several Lamia minions, making her one of the more chaotic midgame encounters. Her fight revolves around constant movement and crowd control rather than raw damage.
Lamia’s main attacks include vertical tracking lasers, a ground slam that deals area damage, and orb projectiles that burst into slimes if not destroyed. During the fight, four armored Lamia minions join the battle, each casting their own lasers until their armor is broken. Taking them out early is critical to reducing pressure and regaining space in the arena.
The best strategy is to stay mobile and use ranged attacks to chip away at Lamia’s armor before closing in for direct hits. Boons from Hestia or Demeter are especially useful: Hestia’s scorch effects add steady damage, while Demeter’s freeze slows Lamia’s movements and opens safe windows for counterattacks. Once her armor breaks, the rest of the fight ends quickly, making patience the key to victory.
8. Headmistress Hecate
Headmistress Hecate is the first major boss in Hades 2, encountered at the end of the Erebus region on the Tartarus route. As Melinoe’s mentor, she tests your readiness before you can progress to Oceanus. Hecate’s fight is a mix of magical and summoning attacks, and while she is not especially difficult, her variety of patterns can overwhelm new players during early runs.
Her moveset includes expanding flame circles, twin flame projectiles, crescent arcs, and summoning wraiths that attack from range. At lower health, she creates mirror images that replicate her spells, forcing you to find and target the real one. In her final phase, Hecate casts Hex, which can transform you into a sheep or fill the arena with rotating lasers, homing fireballs, or ground traps that punish poor positioning.
Ranged attacks and mobility-focused builds are the safest way to defeat her. Boons like Apollo’s Nova Strike, Artemis’s Support Fire, and Hermes’s Swift Flourish help maintain distance while steadily chipping away at her health. Once you learn her spell timings, Hecate becomes more of a skill check than a true roadblock.
7. Infernal Beast
The Infernal Beast, a corrupted version of Cerberus, is the final boss of the Fields of Mourning region in Hades 2. Once Melinoe’s loyal companion, the hound has been twisted by Chronos’ influence, turning this encounter into a battle of redemption rather than simple conquest.
Cerberus relies on wide, sweeping melee and fire-based attacks. His moves include Ground Slam, Flame Slash, and Fire Breath, each covering large portions of the arena. When his health drops to half, he fills the field with red circles that mark incoming area attacks. The key strategy is to stay mobile and strike from behind, avoiding his frontal swipes and flames.
Boons that add damage over time or enhance mobility work best here. Aphrodite’s Passion Dash, Hestia’s Smolder Ring, and Apollo’s Solar Ring help maintain constant damage output while keeping you out of harm’s way. Once defeated, Cerberus drops a Tear, symbolizing his liberation from Chronos’ control.
6. King Vermin
King Vermin is a rare mini-boss found in the Oceanus region of Hades 2. Despite being an optional encounter, it’s tough enough to rival full boss fights and is infamous for its speed and unpredictable movement. The creature constantly darts around the arena with Charging Rush and Screaming Attack, both of which deal heavy damage if not dodged in time.
At around 70% health, King Vermin begins summoning Wretched Pests that hurl bombs across the battlefield. These explosions damage both Melinoe and the boss itself, allowing clever players to turn its minions against it. When cornered, King Vermin uses Jump Slam, an area attack that punishes staying too close.
The best approach is to keep distance and rely on Cast-based attacks to hit safely between its rushes. Use your dashes sparingly to evade its AoE slams, and if possible, lure the boss near its own bombs for bonus damage. Though not a required fight, defeating King Vermin rewards a random boon or upgrade and proves you’re ready for the escalating pace of Hades 2’s later battles.
5. Scylla and the Sirens
Scylla and the Sirens are the final bosses of Oceanus, the second major region in Hades 2. This fight is both chaotic and theatrical, featuring three performers who share a single health pool: Scylla the vocalist, Jetty the guitarist, and Roxy the drummer. Each brings a distinct attack style that tests your awareness and mobility.
In Phase 1, all three fight together using their unique abilities. Scylla unleashes sonic screams, spinning blades, and homing melody orbs. Jetty dashes across the stage and launches bouncing projectiles, while Roxy fills the arena with rhythmic shockwaves that force you to move constantly.
Phase 2 introduces the Featured Artist mechanic, where one Siren gains new abilities. Scylla extends her range and increases her number of orbs, Jetty moves faster and creates multiple expanding waves, and Roxy adds more complex area attacks. After all three are defeated, Phase 3 begins with Scylla performing solo while summoning endless Pinhead fish until her health is fully depleted.
The best approach is to focus on one Siren at a time, taking out Roxy first to reduce area-of-effect pressure. Boons like Aphrodite’s Heartbreak Strike for stronger attacks, Zeus’s Storm Ring for damage against stationary enemies, and Hermes’s Nitro Boost for faster dodges make the fight more manageable. Winning rewards you with a Pearl and opens the path to the Fields of Mourning.
4. Zagreus
Zagreus, the Prince of the Underworld and Melinoe’s older brother, is one of the most thrilling secret bosses in Hades 2. You can only challenge him after completing the true ending and unlocking the epilogue, where Chronos’ defeat restores balance to the Underworld. This encounter serves as a symbolic duel between siblings — a test of everything Melinoe has learned throughout her journey.
To find him, look for the Infernal Contract, a red scroll that can randomly appear in any of Charon’s shops. Interacting with it transports you to Elysium’s colosseum, the same arena where Zagreus once fought Theseus and Asterius in the first game. There, you’ll face the former hero of the Underworld himself, wielding Gigaros, the spear once belonging to Hades.
In Phase 1, Zagreus relies on speed and precision. His Dash Strike lets him close gaps quickly, while Whirlwind Sweep spins his spear in a circular slash that punishes anyone nearby. He also throws his Cast, a red projectile that detonates on impact. Most of his attacks are close-ranged, so keeping your distance and striking between his recovery windows is key.
After depleting his health once, Zagreus uses Death Defiance, reviving at half health and entering Phase 2. This phase plays almost identically, but he becomes much faster, often chaining dashes before attacking. He can also turn invisible briefly to reposition or ambush you. When this happens, keep moving — his next strike will usually target your last location.
The safest approach is to kite Zagreus across the arena using ranged weapons or Omega abilities, attacking while he recovers from his melee combos. Pillars in the colosseum can block many of his spear attacks and projectiles, allowing you to reposition or regenerate Magick.
For boons, prioritize ranged and Magick-based builds. Hestia’s Controlled Burn and Poseidon’s Geyser Sprout give you reliable crowd control, while Zeus’s Heaven Strike inflicts Blitz damage for extra punishment after each hit. Ionic Gain from Zeus is also invaluable, creating an orb that restores your Magick throughout the battle.
Zagreus hits hard but is predictable once you learn his rhythm. Wait for him to dash, dodge sideways, and retaliate with projectiles or quick Omega attacks. Using your Cast to slow him down gives you extra breathing room. Patience is crucial here, it’s a battle of endurance and precision, not speed.
Defeating Zagreus crowns Melinoe as the new Champion of Elysium, granting access to free items in Charon’s shop for a limited time. Beat him again, and you’ll earn his Keepsake, which dramatically increases the rarity of boons during future runs, a fitting reward for besting the original Prince of the Underworld.
3. Prometheus
Prometheus, the Titan of Foresight, appears near the summit of Mount Olympus and is one of the hardest bosses in Hades 2. The fight revolves around constant fire hazards and heavy area control that punish players who stop moving.
He begins with Aetos Summon, calling his eagle to strafe the arena with projectiles before joining the fight himself. His main attacks include Flame Vortex, Wave of Flame, and Fists of Flame, all of which leave burning trails on the ground. He also uses Arena Trap and Flame Ring Slam, which mark the ground before exploding into lingering fire, and Flames of Foresight, an attack that fills most of the arena with flame patterns you must memorize to survive.
Prometheus’s attack patterns stay consistent throughout the battle, but the arena becomes increasingly difficult to navigate as more fire zones appear. Boons that grant Deflect abilities from Athena are extremely effective because they can reflect projectiles and prevent being cornered. Mobility buffs from Hermes, Aphrodite, or Hestia also help you escape his zoning attacks.
The safest openings to strike come after Flame Vortex or Wave of Flame, when Prometheus pauses briefly. Staying near the edge of the arena helps control where his flame attacks land, and moving sideways is safer than backing away directly from him. Once defeated, Prometheus drops a feather and opens the way to the peak of Mount Olympus.
2. Chronos
Chronos, the Titan of Time, serves as the final boss of Hades 2 and represents the ultimate test of skill and endurance. As Melinoe’s grandfather and the ruler of Tartarus, his mastery over time creates one of the most visually complex and mechanically demanding battles in the game.
You can find Chronos at the end of the Underworld route, following victories over Hecate, Scylla and the Sirens, and the corrupted Cerberus. His arena resembles a massive clock face, complete with shifting hazards that reflect his control of time. The fight consists of two major phases, each layering new mechanics on top of existing ones.
In the first phase, Chronos relies on direct melee strikes and temporal distortions. He opens with Scythe Toss, a wide semi-circular throw that can be avoided by dashing through or around him. Rift of Time leaves explosive trails on the floor, while Time Twister creates a suction effect that pulls Melinoe toward his spinning scythe. He can also summon Time Spheres that orbit him before flying outward and curving back, as well as Time Stop Barriers that freeze both Melinoe and his own minions. Occasionally, he will call upon Forces of Time, summoning satyrs and shield-bearing enemies to overwhelm the player.
The second phase begins after Chronos’ first health bar is depleted. He immediately unleashes Timely Demise, a deadly attack that fills the arena in red light, leaving only a small safe zone marked on one of the numbered tiles. Standing outside this zone results in instant death. This phase adds several more time-based hazards, including Running Out of Time, where the edges of the arena collapse inward, and Nick of Time, which places two concentric rings that explode unless you stand between them. His Hands of Time attack turns the arena into a rotating clock pattern that deals damage as the glowing “hands” sweep across the floor.
Chronos’ arena hazards force you to stay constantly mobile while keeping track of multiple overlapping patterns. Most of his attacks can be dodged by moving diagonally or dashing behind him. The safest time to strike is after his Scythe Slash or Sphere Release attacks, when he pauses momentarily before repositioning. Clearing out summoned minions early prevents them from healing him in phase two.
For boons, prioritize Athena’s Deflect abilities like Divine Dash or Defensive Posture to counter projectiles, and Hephaestus’ Security System for a short damage shield at the start of combat. Renewed Faith from Athena is especially powerful since it restores all lost Death Defiances and boosts their recovery. Artemis’ Death Warrant can mark Chronos for critical bursts, while Hermes’ Racing Thoughts speeds up Omega casts, letting you deal heavy damage before his next time-based attack triggers.
Chronos is less about reflexes and more about precision. His attacks follow strict visual tells, so mastering timing and positioning is the key to surviving the clockwork chaos. Once defeated, the Titan of Time drops materials linked to the Temporal Fluctuation incantation, rewarding players who finally stop Time itself.
1. Typhon
Typhon, the Father of All Monsters, is the final boss of Hades 2’s surface route and one of the most demanding encounters in the entire game. Standing at the peak of Mount Olympus, he embodies chaos and raw power, combining devastating melee attacks with sweeping projectiles and arena-wide hazards. To reach him, Melinoe must first defeat Polyphemus, Eris, and Prometheus before ascending to the summit.
The battle unfolds across four distinct phases, each raising the intensity while forcing you to balance offense and survival.
In the first phase, Typhon relies on straightforward but punishing attacks. His Tusk Slam creates wide shockwaves across the platform, while Laser Tongue sweeps a red beam horizontally across the arena. Exploding Eyeballs burst into smaller projectiles upon impact, forcing you to stay mobile, and his Breath generates tornado-like gusts that push Melinoe off balance. Keeping close to his face for quick strikes and dodging diagonally through his laser patterns helps minimize damage early on.
The second phase shifts the fight into a storm-filled arena where Typhon vanishes temporarily, leaving behind monster eggs. These eggs hatch into swarming enemies if ignored, so prioritize breaking them immediately. Once cleared, Typhon returns and resumes his earlier attacks with faster timing.
During the third phase, Zeus intervenes, striking Typhon with lightning that stuns him briefly and opens a window for heavy damage. This is your best opportunity to unleash Omega attacks and Arcana buffs before he recovers. Failing to capitalize here allows him to reenter his original attack pattern at full strength.
In the final phase, Typhon combines all of his earlier attacks with enhanced versions. His Blade Whip summons spinning tentacles from the ground that travel up the arena in sets of three. His Desperate Tusk Slam and Laser Tongue hit twice as fast and twice as hard, while Desperate Exploding Eyeballs now fill most of the screen with volatile fragments. Maintaining distance, timing dashes at the last second, and focusing on precision strikes between his heavy swings are crucial to surviving this final stretch.
For boons, Athena’s Divine Dash and Defensive Posture provide vital protection and deflection against Typhon’s projectiles. Aphrodite’s Glamour Gain restores Magick while weakening nearby enemies, and Selene’s Phase Shift slows time, making his rapid attacks easier to avoid. Pair these with Poseidon’s Water Fitness and Demeter’s Frosty Veneer for added health and damage mitigation.
Typhon’s fight rewards patience, spatial awareness, and burst damage. Memorizing the rhythm of his slams and laser sweeps allows you to slip between openings safely, while quick reactions to egg spawns prevent being overwhelmed. With the right defensive boons and timing, you can withstand his storm and bring down the Father of Monsters for good.
Conclusion
Hades 2 pushes every encounter to new extremes, from the haunting rhythm of Scylla’s concert to the time-warping chaos of Chronos and the raw, unrelenting power of Typhon. Each boss tests a different skill: awareness, adaptability, patience, and mastery of your build. While early fights like Hecate and Polyphemus train you to read attack patterns, later battles such as Prometheus and Chronos demand near-perfect execution.
No matter how strong your Arcana setup or boon combination, success comes from recognizing each boss’s rhythm and exploiting their openings. Melinoe’s journey is about growth, and every duel, whether against gods, monsters, or her own brother Zagreus, reflects that evolution.
Defeating these foes is not just a measure of strength but of understanding. Each run teaches something new about timing, positioning, and resilience. When you have conquered both Chronos in the depths and Typhon at the summit, you will have mastered not only the world of Hades 2 but the trials of time and fate themselves.
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