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No More Steam for Chromebooks After Jan 2026, Says Google
Google has confirmed that Steam for Chromebook will officially shut down on January 1, 2026, marking the end of its beta experiment that let users install and play PC games natively on select Chromebooks. While the service technically remains available until then, its closure underscores the ongoing challenges of running high-performance games on Chromebook hardware and signals a shift toward cloud gaming as the future of play on ChromeOS.
What is Steam on Chromebook?
Steam for Chromebook was a beta program launched by Google and Valve that allowed certain Chromebooks to run PC games natively through the Steam client. Unlike cloud gaming, where titles are streamed from servers, this initiative let users download and install games directly onto their Chromebook, provided the device met minimum requirements: an Intel i3 or Ryzen 3 processor, 8GB of RAM, and at least 128GB of storage.
The goal was to bring a PC-like gaming experience to ChromeOS devices, with access to popular games like Portal 2, Hollow Knight, and Vampire Survivors. However, because only a small number of high-end Chromebooks met the hardware demands, the program never reached wide adoption and remained in beta.
Why did Google and Valve cancel steam for Chromebook?
The cancellation ultimately comes down to hardware limitations and shifting priorities. Most Chromebooks were designed for web browsing, schoolwork, and lightweight apps—not high-performance gaming. Only a niche group of models could run Steam games decently, which kept the user base small.
Google has also shown a pattern of winding down underperforming gaming projects. Its cloud gaming platform Stadia was shut down in 2023 after failing to attract enough players. Steam for Chromebook faced a similar challenge: while the idea was exciting, the hardware ecosystem and demand weren’t strong enough to justify further development.
At the same time, cloud gaming has become the more practical solution for Chromebooks. Services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming let users stream thousands of AAA titles with far better performance, regardless of local specs. This made it harder to justify Google’s investment in a native Steam client.
When will steam for chromebook end, and can you still use it now?
Google has confirmed that Steam for Chromebook will shut down on January 1, 2026. Until then, the service remains in beta and is still technically usable on supported devices. If you own a Chromebook that meets the requirements—Intel i3 or Ryzen 3 processor, 8GB RAM, and 128GB of storage—you can continue downloading and playing games through the Steam client.
To install it, you can search for the Steam installer in your Chromebook’s Launcher. If the installer doesn’t appear, your device likely doesn’t meet the minimum specifications. Once installed, you can launch Steam, sign in, and download compatible titles directly onto your Chromebook.
That said, it’s important to remember that the program never left beta. You may encounter bugs, limited title support, and performance issues, especially on devices that are only just meeting the minimum specs. After January 2026, the service will be discontinued completely, and Steam will no longer be supported on ChromeOS.
Alternatives to Steam for Chromebook
With Steam for Chromebook ending in January 2026, many users may be wondering what other options they have for gaming on ChromeOS. The good news is that cloud gaming services have become the go-to solution, offering access to massive game libraries without relying on high-end hardware. These platforms stream games directly to your device, meaning even budget-friendly Chromebooks can run demanding titles as long as you have a stable internet connection. Below are some of the best alternatives to keep playing games on your Chromebook.
1. NVIDIA GeForce NOW
GeForce NOW is one of the most popular cloud gaming platforms and arguably the best replacement for Steam on Chromebook. Instead of installing games locally, you stream them from NVIDIA’s powerful servers, which means even entry-level Chromebooks can handle AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 or Fortnite. The service supports your existing libraries from platforms like Steam, Epic Games, and Ubisoft Connect, making it an easy transition for players who already own PC games. With multiple membership tiers, including a free option, GeForce NOW delivers smooth gameplay as long as your internet connection is reliable.
2. Xbox Cloud Gaming
Xbox Cloud Gaming, included with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, lets Chromebook users stream hundreds of games directly from Microsoft’s servers. Unlike GeForce NOW, which relies on titles you already own, this service offers an all-you-can-play subscription model with access to popular franchises like Halo, Forza, and Minecraft Dungeons. You can play through a browser on ChromeOS, and since the games run on Xbox hardware in the cloud, performance is consistent even on lower-end Chromebooks. For players who want variety without buying individual games, Xbox Cloud Gaming is one of the most cost-effective solutions available.
3. Amazon Luna
Amazon Luna is another strong cloud gaming option for Chromebook owners. It uses a channel-based subscription model, where you can subscribe to different libraries such as Luna+ for indie and mid-tier games, or Ubisoft+ for access to major titles like Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry. Games stream directly through the Chrome browser, so no installation is required. Luna also integrates with Twitch, making it easy for gamers to stream or discover new titles. While its library isn’t as large as Xbox Game Pass or GeForce NOW, it’s a flexible and affordable way to enjoy a range of games on ChromeOS.
4. Shadow Tech
Shadow Tech takes a slightly different approach to cloud gaming by giving you access to a full Windows gaming PC in the cloud. Instead of just streaming individual titles, you get a virtual desktop where you can install Steam, Epic Games, Battle.net, or any other launcher you prefer. This makes it the closest experience to owning a powerful gaming rig, even if you’re on a lightweight Chromebook. The service does come with a higher monthly cost compared to other platforms, but for players who want complete freedom to run any PC game or mod, Shadow Tech is one of the most versatile alternatives available.
5. Google Play Store
While not a direct replacement for Steam, the Google Play Store remains the most accessible way to find games for Chromebook. Thousands of Android games are available to download, from casual hits like Among Us, Hearthstone, and Teamfight Tactics to more advanced titles optimized for larger screens. Many of these games also support controllers and cloud saves, making them surprisingly versatile. For users who want fun games to play on Chromebook without extra subscriptions or setup, the Play Store is the simplest option and works on nearly every ChromeOS device.
Can you still use steam on chromebook after 2026?
Even after Google shuts down the official Steam for Chromebook beta on January 1, 2026, you can still technically install Steam through ChromeOS’s Linux development environment (Crostini). This method lets you download the Linux version of Steam and, in many cases, run both native Linux titles and Windows games through Proton, Valve’s compatibility tool.
How to get Steam on Chromebook via Linux
* Turn on Linux support* Open Settings > Developers > Linux development environment (Beta).
* Click Turn On and follow the setup instructions.
* Update Linux packages* Once the Linux terminal opens, type: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
* Install Steam* In the terminal, type: sudo apt install steam
* Confirm the installation and wait for it to complete.
* Launch Steam* Open the App Launcher and select Steam from your Linux apps.
* Sign in with your Steam account.
* Enable Proton for Windows games (optional)* In Steam, go to Settings > Compatibility.
* Check “Enable Steam Play for all titles” to use Proton.
Important notes
* Performance depends heavily on your Chromebook’s hardware—Intel i5/i7 or Ryzen 5/7 models with at least 8GB RAM are recommended.
* Battery life may drain faster while gaming.
* Some games won’t run smoothly or may require extra troubleshooting.
So while Steam for Chromebook won’t be officially supported after 2026, Linux remains a workaround for those who still want to install and play PC games directly. For everyone else, cloud gaming is likely the more stable and user-friendly solution.
Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE: built for the future of gaming
With Steam for Chromebook ending in January 2026, the future of gaming on ChromeOS clearly belongs to the cloud. Acer’s Chromebook Plus 516 GE is a prime example of this shift. Built with gamers in mind, it offers a 16-inch WQXGA (2560 × 1600) 120 Hz display, Intel Core 5 120U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. Add in Wi-Fi 6E, Ethernet connectivity, and an RGB anti-ghosting keyboard, and you have a Chromebook purpose-built for cloud gaming platforms like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and Amazon Luna.
While it’s disappointing to see Steam support shut down, this marks a natural progression for ChromeOS. Local gaming on Chromebooks was always limited by hardware, but cloud gaming has removed those barriers—bringing AAA experiences to any Chromebook with a strong internet connection. The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE stands as the perfect device to carry that future forward, showing that even without Steam, Chromebooks are more ready than ever to play.
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Best Acer 4K Monitors of 2025
Welcome to the world of 4K monitors, the go-to display for gamers, creatives, professionals and computer users of the world. Today we’re going to explore 5 of the finest Acer 4K monitors, from gaming displays that were built to slay, to business monitors. We’ll also cover the essentials of 4K, and how to check if your computer can handle the reality-defying clarity of 4K monitor resolution. Let’s jump right in and discover the many benefits 4K has to offer!
What is 4K?
4K video, or 4K gaming monitor, you’ll likely have heard the term 4K applied to various displays. But what exactly does the 4 and this K stand for? Put simply, a 4K monitor has a horizontal pixel count (display resolution) of around 4,000 pixels. You’ll see that the 4K Acer monitors we’ll cover later in this article have (3840 × 2160) resolution, that’s approximately four times the resolution of full HD 1080p.
So what do all these pixels do? 4K delivers sharper, highly detailed images, as well as smoother visuals, higher color accuracy, and overall clarity. So, expect immersive viewing and gaming experiences, increased productivity, and of course more screen real estate for multitasking marathons. Sounds appealing? Before you rush out and buy a 4K monitor, do yourself a favor and check that your PC can handle the demands of a 4K display.
Can your PC handle 4K?
It’s a sad fact, but not everyone will be president, and not every computer can output 4K smoothly. Before you start checking the viability of your PC, consider what you potentially intend to use the 4K monitor for. Everyday PC based work like multitasking, photo and (basic) video editing put a lighter burden on your computer, while resource heavy tasks such as gaming and 3D modeling and rendering will tax your GPU and CPU.
So, GPU firepower is the key here - check that your GPU (graphics card) specs can handle 4K resolution and the tasks you intend to do. Next up, you’d be wise to check your video output ports: HDMI 2.0/2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 or newer are required for 4K at 60Hz+. If you’ve got a more mature PC, be sure to double check the above, as your device may well support 4K, but only at 30Hz, resulting in a choppy, less than smooth visual experience. Finally, think back to your intended workload, and ensure that your CPU and RAM are sufficient to take care of business.
Requirements for 4K video
If you intend to use your 4K monitor for entertainment such as streaming TV shows, the requirements will be lighter than if you plan to step up to the 4K gaming arena. So what do these requirements look like? For 4K video, you’ll ideally require:
* A recent GPU with 4K video decode support.
* A CPU that can handle HEVC/H.265 or VP9 decoding.
* HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.4 for smooth playback at 60Hz+.
* 15–25 Mbps Internet connection (if you are streaming).
While for the glory of 4K gaming, you’ll need:
* Powerful GPU such as NVIDIA RTX 5070ti/AMD RX 9070 XT+ for 60 FPS at high settings.
* CPU with solid single-thread performance: Intel i5/i7 or Ryzen 5/7.
* Minimum 16GB RAM
* SSD for faster game loading times
* For optimum refresh rates (120–144Hz in 4K), higher spec GPUs and HDMI 2.1/DP 1.4 connections are required.
Now that we’ve covered the basics of 4K and you’ve hopefully discovered that your trusty PC can handle the demands of high-res immersivity, let’s take a look at 5 of the best 4K monitors from Acer.
1. Predator SpatialLabs View 27
If you’re ready for your gaming and creativity to literally jump off the screen, then the Predator SpatialLabs View 27 is a 27" 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) 160 Hz display that delivers a brave new world of eye-gripping stereo 3D! With Advanced Hyper Viewing Angle (AHVA) (178°x178°), this AMD FreeSync Premium certified display comes in steel gray, and has a rapid response time of 5 ms and a brightness rating of 400 nits. If you’re tired of 2D gaming and want to step into 3D, an Acer SpatialLabs monitor like the View 27 may well be just what you require. Currently available for $1,999.99.
2. Predator X32 X
For total gaming immersivity, OLED curves are where it’s at. The 31.5" UHD (3840 x 2160) OLED Curved 240 Hz Predator X 32 X has recently been reduced from $1,199.99 to the wallet-friendly price of $799.99. As you’d expect, the X32 X features AMD FreeSync Premium and has a blisteringly fast game to game response time of merely 0.03ms. 1000 nit brightness means that even in the darkest of games, you’ll never walk alone, while Predator GameView allows you to make precise color adjustments and set up aim points as you please.
3. Predator XB3
Moving swiftly on to the Predator XB3, meet a gaming monitor that represents insane bang for your buck! This is a 31.5” 4K UHD display that’s currently reduced from $749.99 to $549.99: the 160Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time will set you on a path to conquering the digital frontier without breaking the bank! IPS (178°x178°) AMD FreeSync Premium certified panel technology has a brightness rating of 400 nits, and features both DisplayPort and HDMI connections, so get set to hook up your PC and get on with what matters - the game.
4. Acer DA1 Smart Monitor
Enough fun and games, the bells are ringing and it's time to get smart with the 31.5” Acer DA1 Smart Monitor. Available in striking white, the 31.5" 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) 60 Hz is a unique monitor that stands out from the crowd, combining high performance and an impressively approachable price tag (reduced from $429.99 to $249.99). Yes, for less than 250 bucks you can equip yourself with the Acer DA1 Smart Monitor and enjoy 4 ms response time, 250 nit brightness, and connectivity galore: DisplayPort, HDMI, USB type C, USB Hub 2.0x2 (2down). So what are you waiting for?
5. Acer CB2 Business Monitor
So, you’ve got your business socks on, and possibly even a suit and tie -secure your seat in the boardroom with the Acer CB2 Business Monitor. The 31.5" 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) 60 Hz delivers incredible images edge-to-edge on the flat panel TFT display. Understated professionalism oozes out of the sleek, stylish silver framed IPS (178°x178°) panel, while a 4 ms response time and 350 nit brightness ensure that from 9-5 and after work, your display is impeccable.
Final thoughts on 4K
That’s about all we have time for today, folks. We hope that you’ve enjoyed discovering the joyful, immersive realm of 4K displays, and hopefully the benefits of going 4K are no longer a blur. Before purchasing a 4K monitor for gaming, work, or entertainment, be sure to check if your PC can handle the requirements of 4K, depending on your intended use. Check back to see the latest Acer 4K monitors, and find the perfect 4K fit for your gaming, creativity, and entertainment.
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Best Weapons in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
Metal Gear Solid Delta features a wide variety of weapons that go far beyond simple firepower. While rifles, pistols, and explosives make up the backbone of Snake’s arsenal, many tools serve non-lethal or tactical purposes, such as tranquilizer guns, distraction items, or even improvised gear like magazines and cigars. Knowing when to use the right weapon is just as important as having it in your inventory, since some enemies can be subdued without a fight, while others require heavy firepower.
This guide lists every weapon available in the game, then highlights the top five that stand out as the most useful or enjoyable to use.
All weapons in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
* AK-47 – Assault rifle found at Rassvet and Bolshaya Past Base.
* Gentlemen’s Magazine – Distraction item found in Graniny Gorki South.
* Cigarette Gas Spray – Non-lethal gas weapon found in Graniny Gorki Lab B1 West.
* Claymore – Land mine, first found in Bolshaya Past South.
* EZ Gun – Unlocked by earning the Markhor title or by default on Very Easy.
* Flashbang Grenade – Causes temporary blindness, commonly dropped by guards.
* Fork – Unlocked automatically through story progression.
* Frag Grenade – Standard explosive, can be found in most guard drops.
* Handkerchief – Sleep-inducing cloth, found in Graniny Gorki Lab B1 West.
* Incendiary Grenade – Sets enemies on fire, found in guard drops.
* Survival Knife– Default melee weapon.
* M37 – Shotgun, found in Rassvet and Chyornaya Peschera Cave.
* M63 – Light machine gun, found in Svyatogornyj East.
* M1911A1 – Standard pistol, obtained through story progression.
* Magazine – Distraction item obtained by emptying a weapon’s clip.
* Mk22 – Suppressed tranquilizer pistol, unlocked by default.
* Mosin Nagant – Tranquilizer sniper rifle, obtained by defeating The End nonlethally.
* Mousetrap – Placed as bait or trap, first found in Bolshaya Past Base.
* Patriot – Unlockable weapon obtained after completing the story.
* RPG-7 – Rocket launcher, found in Krasnogorje Mountainside.
* Scorpion – Found in Groznyj Grad Weapons Lab: East Wing.
* Single Action Army – Given to Snake, then unlocked permanently after completing the story.
* Smoke Grenade – Creates cover, can be found in most guard drops.
* SVD – Sniper rifle, found in Dremuchij North (Virtuous Mission) and Ponizovje West (Operation Snake Eater).
* Torch – Found in Chyornaya Peschera Cave Branch.
* TNT – Remote explosives, first found in Bolshaya Past Base.
* XM16E1 – Assault rifle, found in Dolinovodno (Virtuous Mission) and Graniny Gorki Exterior.
Top 8 weapons in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
1. Mk22 (Tranquilizer Pistol)
The Mk22 is one of the most important weapons in the entire game. It comes equipped with a suppressor and fires tranquilizer darts, making it the go-to tool for a non-lethal playthrough. Not only is it perfect for silently taking out guards, but it is also essential if you want to defeat bosses without killing them.
The Mk22 is unlocked by default, so you can rely on it from the start of Operation Snake Eater. It remains your main option for putting enemies to sleep until much later in the game, when you can earn the Mosin Nagant sniper rifle by defeating The End non-lethally.
2. Smoke Grenade
The Smoke Grenade is one of the simplest tools in the game, but it’s surprisingly versatile and fun to use. Tossing one creates a cloud that blinds and distracts enemies, giving you time to sneak past or set up a takedown. It’s especially useful in areas with multiple guards since the cover lets you slip by without raising an alert.
The Smoke Grenade also has a hidden bonus in boss fights. Against The Pain, throwing one disperses his hornet armor, making him far easier to damage. It’s quicker and more efficient than trying to chip away at the swarm with gunfire, turning a frustrating fight into something much more manageable.
For both stealth and combat utility, the Smoke Grenade is one of the best non-lethal tools in Snake’s arsenal.
3. XM16E1 (Assault Rifle)
The XM16E1 is one of the best early-game rifles you can grab, and it becomes available before the fight with The Fear. If you are doing a lethal playthrough, this is the gun to get. Compared to the AK-47 you pick up earlier, the XM16E1 has more reliable aiming, making it easier to control in both short bursts and sustained fire.
4. SVD (Sniper Rifle)
The SVD is the lethal counterpart to the Mosin Nagant. It’s a classic sniper rifle that delivers powerful long-range shots, making it ideal for players who prefer a lethal approach. What makes the SVD particularly interesting is that you can find it early, even before the fights with The Fear and The End. With some careful exploration, you can use it to snipe The End while he’s being wheeled out in his chair, skipping one of the toughest boss battles entirely.
For players who don’t want to go non-lethal, the SVD is the sniper rifle of choice. It gives you precision and stopping power in wide-open areas, and it’s one of the most satisfying guns to use when you want to take enemies out from a distance.
5. Handkerchief
The Handkerchief is a clever non-lethal tool that makes close-quarters encounters much easier. Normally, you can choke out enemies using CQC, but with the Handkerchief equipped, Snake knocks them unconscious much faster. This makes it perfect for quickly clearing out guards without wasting ammo or risking an alert.
It’s found in Graniny Gorki Lab B1 West, tucked away in a locker, and once you have it, it becomes one of the best utility items for stealth players. Simple, reliable, and efficient, the Handkerchief is a must-have for anyone who prefers knocking enemies out over killing them.
6. RPG-7 (Rocket Launcher)
The RPG-7 is the heavy weapon of choice and one of the most satisfying tools in the game when sheer firepower is needed. It’s found in the Krasnogorje Mountainside, just before you team up with EVA. From there, it becomes essential for big set-piece battles, especially against the Shagohod.
What makes the RPG fun is its raw destructive power. Unlike most weapons in the game, it can take down vehicles, blast through groups of enemies, and deal massive damage to bosses. Even though it doesn’t fit into a stealth playthrough, it’s one of those weapons that players can’t resist pulling out when the mission calls for pure chaos.
7. Mosin Nagant (Tranquilizer Sniper Rifle)
The Mosin Nagant is the reward for defeating The End non-lethally, and it’s one of the best weapons for players committed to a pacifist run. This sniper rifle fires tranquilizer rounds instead of bullets, letting you take down enemies from long range without killing them. Its stamina-draining shots make it especially effective against guards patrolling open areas.
What makes the Mosin Nagant fun is that it feels like a true sniper’s weapon but without breaking a non-lethal playthrough. Since you don’t get it until after the fight with The End, it comes late in the game, but it’s a perfect complement to the Mk22 for stealth-focused players.
8. Patriot (Assault Pistol)
The Patriot is The Boss’s signature weapon, and after the final battle she passes it on to Snake. In gameplay terms, it becomes available as a reward for New Game+, once you’ve completed the story. The weapon is a compact assault pistol chambered for 5.56mm rounds, and its biggest draw is infinite ammo, which makes it one of the most powerful guns in the game.
While it doesn’t fit into a stealth playthrough, the Patriot is perfect for unleashing chaos on a second run. It turns Snake into a one-man army, mowing down guards and bosses without ever having to reload. More than just a gun, it symbolizes Snake inheriting The Boss’s will, making it one of the most meaningful weapons in the series.
Conclusion
The weapons in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater cover everything from classic pistols and rifles to quirky gadgets that fit the game’s spy-thriller style. Whether you rely on the Mk22 and Mosin Nagant for a non-lethal run, unleash chaos with the RPG-7 and Patriot, or use creative tools like the Handkerchief and Smoke Grenade, there’s a weapon for every playstyle.
Choosing the right gear is part of what makes each playthrough feel unique. Some weapons are practical must-haves, while others are just plain fun to experiment with. Together, they add depth and variety to Snake’s mission in the jungle.
If you enjoyed this breakdown, make sure to check out my full ranking of the Hardest Bosses in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, where I cover every boss fight from easiest to most challenging.
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MGS Delta: Snake Eater Bosses Ranked Easiest to Hardest
Metal Gear Solid Delta brings back one of gaming’s most iconic boss lineups, from Ocelot’s flashy revolver duel to the legendary showdown with The Boss in the flower field. This guide ranks every boss fight in the remake from easiest to hardest, explaining what makes each encounter stand out and how they compare to the original Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater. Whether you’re looking for strategy tips, non-lethal rewards, or simply want to see where your favorite fight lands, this breakdown covers all nine bosses in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater.
A faithful remake of a Hideo Kojima classic
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a ground-up remake of the 2004 classic Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater, originally directed by Hideo Kojima. Although Kojima himself had no involvement in this 2025 remake, Konami made a deliberate choice to honor his work by keeping the game nearly identical to the original. Every boss fight, cutscene, and Codec conversation plays out as fans remember, with the main difference being a complete visual overhaul powered by Unreal Engine 5.
This approach makes Delta feel more like a preservation project than a reimagining. It keeps the Cold War setting, the quirky Cobra Unit villains, and the legendary relationship between Snake and The Boss intact. While the photorealistic graphics sometimes highlight the campier elements of the original, the upgraded environments from dense jungles to snowy mountaintops bring Snake Eater’s world to life in a way the PS2 never could.
For newcomers, this means they get to experience one of the best stories in the Metal Gear series without losing the original spirit. For veterans, Delta offers nostalgia wrapped in modern presentation, complete with optional “Legacy” settings that mimic the old controls and camera style.
All bosses in order and their non-lethal rewards
Every major boss appears during Operation Snake Eater, following the same order as in the original Metal Gear Solid 3. Players can choose to defeat each boss lethally or non-lethally. Opting for the non-lethal route often requires patience and creativity, but the reward is a unique camouflage pattern or item that cannot be obtained otherwise.
Here is the full boss order along with their non-lethal rewards:
* Ocelot – Animals Camo
* The Pain – Hornet Stripes Camo
* The Fear – Spider Camo
* The End – Moss Camo (if you hold him at gun point) and Mosin Nagant sniper rifle
* The Fury – Fire Camo
* The Sorrow – Spirit Camo
* Colonel Volgin – Cold War Camo
* The Shagohod – No non-lethal reward available
* The Boss – Snake Camo
Not only do these items encourage replayability, they also serve as a mark of skill for players who take on the added challenge of pacifist strategies. Choosing the non-lethal approach can also make The Sorrow fight easier, since it shortens the river of ghosts that Snake must walk through.
Ranking the bosses in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
Every boss offers something unique, from flashy duels to surreal psychological encounters. Some fights are brutal tests of endurance, while others are more about spectacle or clever tricks. Here is my personal ranking of all nine bosses in the game, listed from easiest to hardest based on both mechanics and overall challenge.
9. The End
* Non-lethal reward: Mosin Nagant sniper rifle (tranquilizer)
* Hold-up reward: Moss Camo (photosynthesis stamina recovery)
The End is both the easiest and one of the hardest bosses, depending entirely on how you approach him. If you take advantage of the game’s tricks, you can beat him without ever actually fighting. Sniping him early in Ponizovje West while he sits in a wheelchair, or saving mid-battle and fast-forwarding your system clock to make him die of old age, instantly removes the encounter. In other words, The End can literally be defeated by not playing at all.
However, if you choose to face him head-on, the fight becomes one of the toughest tests in the entire series. The sniper duel spans three large forest zones where The End uses jungle camouflage, relocates silently, and fires tranquilizer darts that drain Snake’s stamina until he passes out. Finding him requires patience, awareness, and the smart use of tools like the Thermal Goggles, Directional Mic, or by tracking his footprints. Played fairly, this is easily one of the hardest battles in Metal Gear Solid Delta, rivaling The Boss herself.
If you do decide to fight him the “manly” way, you can also be rewarded for your efforts. A non-lethal takedown grants the Mosin Nagant sniper rifle, which fires tranquilizer rounds, while holding him up at gunpoint long enough earns the coveted Moss Camo, one of the best camouflage patterns in the game thanks to its stamina-regenerating effect in sunlight.
The End is legendary for a reason. He can be the easiest boss in the game if you exploit his weaknesses, but if you take him on the hard way, he becomes one of Snake’s greatest challenges.
8. The Sorrow
* Non-lethal reward: Spirit Camo (earned automatically after the encounter)
The Sorrow is one of the most unique encounters in the game, but in terms of difficulty he barely qualifies as a boss fight. Instead of combat, Snake is forced to walk down a long river while being haunted by the ghosts of every soldier he has killed up to that point. If you have played a non-lethal run, the river will be short and almost empty. If you killed many enemies, it becomes much longer and filled with hostile spirits that can knock Snake down.
The only real danger comes from The Sorrow’s ghostly projectiles, which can be avoided by diving underwater. At the end of the river, Snake collapses, and the only way to proceed is to use the Revival Pill hidden in his inventory. Without it, the game appears to end, which can trick first-time players.
The Sorrow is conceptually brilliant, turning your previous actions into the fight itself, but he is never difficult. At most, he acts as a punishment for players who relied too heavily on lethal tactics. Because of its minimal challenge, The Sorrow ranks near the bottom of the list, even if it remains one of the most memorable sequences in the entire series.
7. The Shagohod
* Non-lethal reward: None
The Shagohod is an intimidating piece of Cold War machinery, but the fight itself is surprisingly straightforward. It begins with a lengthy chase sequence where EVA drives and Snake mans the turret. During this phase, you mostly focus on clearing out soldiers while EVA handles the escape, so there is little real danger.
The real battle comes in the final arena, but even here the strategy is simple. Using the RPG with its unlimited ammo supply, you just need to disable the Shagohod’s treads, then fire into the exposed core. Repeat this process while avoiding its missiles and machine gun fire, and the massive tank will eventually break down. Volgin emerges for a short rematch, but the fight still follows the same pattern until the machine is destroyed for good.
Despite the scale of the encounter, the Shagohod is more of a spectacle than a challenge. Its sheer size and dramatic presentation make it memorable, but the lack of complexity or serious threat keeps it from ranking higher.
6. Ocelot
* Non-lethal reward: Animals Camo
Ocelot is the first major boss you face, and his duel sets the tone for the rivalry that runs through the entire series. The fight takes place across a chasm, with Ocelot darting between cover and unloading with his revolvers. The key is to wait for him to reload, which leaves him wide open. Beehives in the arena can also be shot down to flush him out, and grenades or captured animals can force him into the open as well.
While flashy, the fight is mechanically simple. Ocelot’s revolvers give him limited firing windows, and once you learn his rhythm he becomes predictable. His inexperience compared to Snake is part of the story, and it reflects in the gameplay: this is more about setting up his character than testing the player’s skills. Ocelot is fun, memorable, and iconic, but as a boss challenge he’s on the easier side.
5. The Pain
* Non-lethal reward: Hornet Stripes Camo
The Pain is more annoying than difficult. He commands swarms of hornets that form both his armor and his weapons, allowing him to create a buzzing shield or fire volleys like a living machine gun. The fight takes place in a water-filled cave, and the easiest way to deal with him is to dive underwater so he loses track of you, then surface behind him for clean shots.
His hornet armor can be broken with sustained gunfire, but there is a faster method. Throwing a gas grenade will immediately disperse the swarm, leaving him wide open. The hornets eventually regroup, but this tactic is much easier than whittling down his shield with bullets. Bug Juice also reduces the effectiveness of his attacks, and while he sometimes creates decoys, they are easy to spot once you recognize the patterns.
The Pain earns his name because of how drawn out and clumsy the encounter feels, not because of its difficulty. With the right tools, he quickly becomes one of the more forgettable members of the Cobra Unit.
4. Colonel Volgin
* Non-lethal reward: Cold War Camo
Volgin is a powerhouse who relies on brute force and electricity to dominate the battlefield. The fight takes place in a confined room with a strict time limit, since the facility is rigged with explosives. His electrical aura blocks most frontal attacks, forcing you to outmaneuver him. The best strategy is to bait him into a big attack, then circle behind him or use CQC throws to leave him vulnerable.
He occasionally recharges his powers at an electrical panel, which creates a perfect opening to strike. Equipping the Raikov mask can also confuse him for a short time, giving you a window to land extra damage. While his punches and electric blasts are devastating, going prone or rolling to the side lets you avoid most of his moves.
What makes Volgin tricky is the combination of his raw aggression and the countdown timer that pressures you to finish the fight quickly. Even so, once you learn his patterns and use positioning to your advantage, the fight becomes manageable.
3. The Fear
* Non-lethal reward: Spider Camo
The Fear is fast, unpredictable, and one of the more frustrating members of the Cobra Unit. He leaps from tree to tree with inhuman agility, using an optical camouflage that makes him nearly invisible — almost like the Predator from the Predator movies. All the while, he peppers you with poisoned crossbow bolts that drain stamina and force you to stop and heal.
He also sets traps around the battlefield and has the unnerving ability to heal himself back to full by eating food he finds in the forest. The best counter is to use Thermal Goggles, which completely nullify his stealth, and to litter the arena with rotten or poisonous food so that he poisons himself when he gets hungry. Staying aggressive is the key, since giving him time to reset makes the fight drag on.
2. The Fury
* Non-lethal reward: Fire Camo
The Fury is one of the most dangerous Cobra fights, thanks to his flamethrower, blast-proof suit, and jetpack. The battle takes place in narrow, dimly lit corridors, which makes avoiding his fire attacks even more stressful. He patrols the aisles, igniting everything in his path, and if he spots you, it only takes seconds before the flames engulf the area.
The safest tactic is to stay low, roll through gaps in the walls to change lanes, and shoot the water pipes overhead to put out the fires he creates. Damaging the fuel tanks on his back or tearing his suit with a knife slash will make him far more vulnerable. Even with these tricks, his raw damage output is punishing, and the confined space gives you very little room for mistakes.
The Fury’s intensity comes from both his attacks and the suffocating environment. He’s relentless, overwhelming, and one of the hardest bosses to take down without taking heavy damage.
1. The Boss
* Non-lethal reward: Snake Camo
The Boss is the ultimate test of everything you’ve learned. The fight takes place in the white flower field, a setting as beautiful as it is symbolic. She uses expert CQC, closing the gap instantly and countering most of your attacks. If she catches you with a weapon equipped, she’ll disarm you and scatter your ammo, forcing you to recover it under pressure.
Her camouflage blends seamlessly with the field, making her hard to track if you aren’t careful. When she spots you, she rushes with ruthless precision, and the only way to avoid taking damage is to perfectly time your CQC counters. Staying mobile and using cover helps, but this fight is about skill and reaction speed more than gadgets or tricks.
What makes the battle so difficult isn’t just her mechanics, but the emotional weight behind it. Facing your mentor after everything Snake has endured is a brutal climax, and the ten-minute timer amplifies the pressure. The Boss is both the hardest encounter and the most unforgettable moment of the game, a fight that lingers long after the credits roll.
Conclusion
The bosses in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater are a huge part of what makes the game so memorable. Some encounters are cinematic showpieces, others test your patience or your mastery of stealth mechanics, and a few are easier than their reputation suggests. Whether you cheese The End, struggle through The Fury, or face your mentor in the flower field, each battle leaves a lasting impression that has helped cement Snake Eater as one of the most iconic entries in the series.
If you enjoyed this ranking, be sure to check out my upcoming guide on the Best Weapons to Use in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, which will cover the most effective tools for every situation.
FAQ
How many bosses are in Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater?
There are nine main bosses in total: Ocelot, The Pain, The Fear, The End, The Fury, The Sorrow, Colonel Volgin, The Shagohod, and The Boss.
Can you defeat every boss non-lethally?
Yes, all bosses except the Shagohod have a non-lethal path. Doing so usually rewards Snake with unique camouflage patterns or special gear.
What is a non-lethal takedown?
A non-lethal takedown means defeating a boss without killing them. This is usually done with tranquilizer weapons, stamina depletion, or special methods unique to each fight. The reward is often exclusive camo gear that cannot be earned through lethal victories.
What is the hardest boss fight in the game?
The Boss is generally considered the hardest due to her aggressive CQC and the emotional weight of the encounter. However, The End is just as tough if fought without using shortcuts.
What is the easiest boss fight in the game?
The Sorrow is mechanically the easiest since it’s more of an interactive sequence than a fight. If you use the in-game tricks to bypass The End, he can also be considered the easiest.
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Official 2025 Acer Copilot+ PC Buyer’s Guide
If you’re shopping for a new laptop in 2025, you’ve probably seen the term Copilot+ PC. These are Microsoft’s next-generation Windows devices built with powerful AI features, faster performance, and longer battery life.
In this official Acer Copilot+ PC buyer’s guide, we’ll explain what a Copilot+ PC is, highlight the key benefits, and show you which Acer models stand out in 2025. Whether you’re deciding between ARM-based Snapdragon processors or traditional x64 systems, this guide will help you choose the right Acer Copilot+ laptop for work, creativity, or everyday use.
What is a Copilot+ PC?
A Copilot+ PC is Microsoft’s new standard for next-generation Windows 11 laptops and desktops. These devices are designed to bring advanced AI features directly into your everyday computing experience, powered by specialized hardware that goes beyond what traditional PCs can deliver.
At the core of every Copilot+ PC is a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) capable of at least 40 trillion operations per second (TOPS). This makes it possible to run AI tasks like real-time translation, image generation, and intelligent search directly on the device without always relying on the cloud.
What is an NPU?
An NPU (Neural Processing Unit) is a chip built specifically to handle AI tasks. Unlike a CPU that manages general processing, or a GPU that focuses on graphics and gaming, an NPU runs things like speech recognition, background noise removal, and image editing faster and with less power. In short, it acts as the AI engine inside a Copilot+ PC.
What are the requirements of a Copilot+ PC?
To qualify as a Copilot+ PC, Microsoft requires every system to meet the following baseline:
* Minimum 16 GB of DDR5 or LPDDR5 of RAM
* At least 256 GB of SSD/UDS storage
* An NPU with 40+ TOPS of performance. This currently includes these CPUs: * AMD Ryzen™ AI 300 series
* Intel® Core™ Ultra 200V series
* Snapdragon® X series
These specifications ensure enough memory and storage for multitasking, along with a powerful NPU that can unlock advanced AI features while maintaining long battery life.
The result is a new class of Windows devices that Microsoft calls “the fastest, most intelligent PCs ever built.” They combine AI acceleration with all-day battery life and deep integration with Windows Copilot.
Both ARM-based processors, such as Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Plus, and newer Intel and AMD chips with built-in NPUs can meet these requirements. This gives buyers a choice between ARM systems optimized for battery life and x64 systems better suited for compatibility with existing apps.
Notable features of Copilot+ PCs
Microsoft has built several exclusive features into Copilot+ PCs, powered by the NPU for faster performance, lower power use, and on-device AI. Here are the key ones to know:
1. Click to Do
This feature lets you interact with text and images directly on your screen. By pressing Win + Q, you can select content and instantly summarize, rewrite, or turn it into a list. For images, you can quickly remove backgrounds, blur objects, or run a visual search.
2. Recall
Recall periodically saves snapshots of your activity so you can search through past content as if your PC had a photographic memory. It is opt-in and can be paused or filtered to protect sensitive data, though some users have raised privacy concerns.
3. Windows Studio Effects
Studio Effects improve your video calls with background blur, eye contact correction, and auto-framing. On some ARM-based Snapdragon devices, additional options like portrait lighting and creative filters are also available.
4. Improved search
Copilot+ PCs support semantic indexing, which goes beyond file names. Search can understand what is inside a document, image, or video and return results based on meaning, not just keywords. This makes it easier to find files even if you do not remember their exact name.
5. Live captions with translation
All Windows 11 devices can generate live captions, but Copilot+ PCs add real-time translation (up to 44 different languages) into English. This works automatically without needing to set the source language, making it useful for videos, meetings, and global content.
6. AI in Windows apps
Copilot+ PCs unlock advanced tools in core apps:
* Paint: Co-Creator (generate images from text and sketches) and Generative Fill (replace objects in a scene with AI results).
* Photos: Restyle Image (apply creative filters), Relight (improve poor lighting), and Super Resolution (AI upscaling for sharper photos).
* Snipping Tool: Snip to Prompt, which lets you take a screenshot and ask Copilot to analyze or reformat the data.
7. Voice access
Expanded voice access lets you control your PC entirely through speech. It improves accessibility and hands-free operation. Currently, it is available first on ARM-based Snapdragon devices, with Intel and AMD support rolling out later in 2025.
Disclaimer: Not all Copilot+ features are available on every device. ARM-based systems with Qualcomm Snapdragon processors often get new features first, while Intel and AMD Copilot+ PCs may receive them later. Microsoft has said it intends to bring feature parity across platforms, but the rollout is still staggered.
The two types of Copilot+ PCs
Not all Copilot+ PCs are built the same. While they all meet Microsoft’s requirements for AI performance, there are two main categories based on the processor inside.
1. ARM-based Copilot+ PCs
These use Qualcomm Snapdragon X processors, designed around ARM architecture. Benefits include:
* Longer battery life, often exceeding 20 hours on a single charge
* Always-connected design with built-in 5G and Wi-Fi optimizations
* Better thermal efficiency, making them thinner and quieter
* Exclusive access to some Copilot+ features first, such as Creative Filters and advanced Studio Effects
ARM-based Copilot+ PCs can be thought of as Windows’ equivalent to Apple’s M-series MacBooks. They are built for efficiency, integrate AI acceleration directly into the chip, and deliver impressive battery life. However, compatibility remains a limitation compared to traditional x64 systems. Most modern apps run smoothly through Windows emulation, but some older or highly specialized software may not. The same applies to games: while Snapdragon laptops can play certain titles, such as Baldur’s Gate 3 running at around 30 FPS on a Snapdragon X Elite, overall gaming performance and support are still stronger on x64. Broader ARM optimization may improve this in the future.
2. x64-based Copilot+ PCs (Intel and AMD)
These use the latest processors like Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen AI, built on the familiar x64 architecture. This is the standard processor design used in most Windows laptops and desktops for the past two decades, so virtually all apps and drivers are built to run on it.
Benefits include:
* Broad software compatibility, especially with legacy Windows apps
* Higher performance ceiling for gaming, content creation, and demanding tasks
* Growing support for AI workloads with integrated NPUs (40+ TOPS)
* Future updates will bring additional Copilot+ features. Some new tools are released on ARM-based systems first, but Microsoft is gradually rolling them out to x64 models as well.
Battery life is typically shorter compared to ARM models, but these devices are often favored by power users who need maximum performance and compatibility.
Acer Copilot+ PCs: The 2025 lineup
Acer has embraced the Copilot+ PC revolution with a diverse lineup of laptops designed for different users, from students and professionals to gamers and creators. Each model meets Microsoft’s Copilot+ requirements, with powerful NPUs, fast processors, and smart AI integration built into Windows 11.
In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at five standout Acer Copilot+ models for 2025: the Swift 14 AI, Aspire 14 AI, Swift Go 14 AI, Nitro V 16S AI, and the Predator Triton 14 AI. Together, they best showcase Acer’s approach to blending portability, performance, and next-generation AI features, giving buyers plenty of options no matter their budget or workflow.
1. Acer Swift 14 AI (SF14-61T-R49D) - $1,199.99*
The Acer Swift 14 AI is one of Acer’s flagship Copilot+ laptops, designed for users who want a balance of portability, power, and AI-driven performance. Weighing just 2.91 lbs and measuring under an inch thick, it’s built for professionals, students, and creators who need speed and flexibility without carrying extra bulk.
Key specifications
* Processor: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 365 (10 cores, up to 5.0 GHz turbo)
* Memory: 16 GB LPDDR5X
* Storage: 1 TB PCIe NVMe 4.0 SSD
* Graphics: AMD Radeon™ 880M
* Display: 14" WUXGA (1920 × 1200), IPS touchscreen with Eyesafe, 120 Hz refresh rate
* Battery: 75 Wh Lithium-ion
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB-C, USB-A, Gigabit Ethernet
* Security: Fingerprint reader, webcam with privacy features, biometric login
* Weight: 2.91 lbs
Why choose the Swift 14 AI?
* AI-ready power: With an AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 processor and integrated NPU, the Swift 14 AI handles advanced Copilot+ features like Recall, Studio Effects, and AI-powered search with ease.
* Display versatility: Multiple screen options, including IPS, 2K touchscreen, or OLED with HDR True Black 500, ensure sharp visuals whether you’re working, streaming, or creating.
* Ultra-portable design: Slim and stylish, the laptop’s 180-degree hinge adapts to different work modes, from typing at your desk to presenting on the go.
* Smart productivity: Copilot+ integration helps streamline daily workflows, from generating summaries and translations to enhancing video calls with AI-driven effects.
* Long-lasting reliability: All-day battery life, strong connectivity with Wi-Fi 7, and comprehensive hardware-level security make it a dependable partner for both work and travel.
Best for
The Swift 14 AI is ideal for students, mobile professionals, and creatives who want a premium ultrabook with the latest AI tools built in. It delivers the speed and flexibility of a modern Copilot+ PC in a lightweight form factor that can easily handle work, study, and entertainment.
2. Acer Aspire 14 AI (A14-52M-72FH) - $1,049.99*
The Acer Aspire 14 AI is a versatile Copilot+ laptop that balances performance, portability, and value. With an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and integrated Intel Arc graphics, it’s well-suited for everyday productivity, light creative work, and AI-driven tasks. At just over 3 lbs, it offers mobility without sacrificing power.
Key specifications
* Processor: Intel® Core™ Ultra 7 256V (8 cores, up to 4.8 GHz turbo)
* Memory: 16 GB LPDDR5X
* Storage: 1 TB PCIe NVMe 4.0 SSD
* Graphics: Intel® Arc™ 140V GPU (integrated)
* Display: 14" WUXGA (1920 × 1200) IPS, ComfyView matte screen
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, HDMI, 4 USB ports, Gigabit Ethernet
* Battery: 65 Wh Lithium-ion
* Security: Microsoft Pluton Security Processor (firmware-based TPM)
* Weight: 3.09 lbs
Why choose the Aspire 14 AI?
* Intel AI performance: Powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 with built-in NPU support, the Aspire 14 AI is optimized for Copilot+ features like Studio Effects, enhanced search, and AI-powered captions.
* Everyday versatility: With 16 GB of memory and a 1 TB SSD, it has more than enough headroom for multitasking, large files, and long-term storage needs.
* Graphics boost: The integrated Intel Arc GPU handles productivity tasks with ease and can support light gaming or creative work.
* Solid connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E and a full suite of USB ports keep you connected at home, in class, or on the go.
* Secure by design: The Microsoft Pluton Security Processor adds another layer of hardware-based protection for peace of mind.
Best for
The Aspire 14 AI is a smart choice for students, professionals, and everyday users who want an affordable entry point into the Copilot+ PC ecosystem. It balances portability with performance, making it a reliable all-rounder for work, study, and casual use.
3. Acer Swift Go 14 AI (SFG14-01-X006) - $999.99*
The Acer Swift Go 14 AI brings Copilot+ power to an affordable, ultra-portable package. Powered by the new Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor, this ARM-based laptop is designed for efficiency, long battery life, and seamless AI performance. At under 3 lbs, it is one of the lightest options in Acer’s Copilot+ lineup, making it a great travel companion for students and professionals alike.
Key specifications
* Processor: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ X Plus Oryon (8 cores)
* Memory: 16 GB LPDDR5X
* Storage: 1 TB PCIe NVMe 4.0 SSD
* Graphics: Qualcomm® Adreno GPU (integrated)
* Display: 14" WQXGA (2560 × 1600) IPS, ComfyView matte screen
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth, HDMI, 4 USB ports, Gigabit Ethernet
* Battery: 75 Wh Lithium-ion, designed for all-day use
* Security: Fingerprint reader, camera shutter, discrete TPM
* Weight: 2.91 lbs
Why choose the Swift Go 14 AI?
* ARM-powered efficiency: With Snapdragon X Plus, this laptop prioritizes battery life and portability while still meeting Microsoft’s Copilot+ requirements.
* Crisp, high-resolution display: A 14" WQXGA screen delivers sharp visuals and extra screen space compared to standard 1080p displays.
* Travel-ready design: Weighing just 2.91 lbs and less than 0.71" thick, it is easy to carry between home, office, and school.
* Next-gen wireless: Wi-Fi 7 support ensures faster and more reliable connectivity, especially in crowded networks.
* Smart security: Features like a fingerprint reader with on-chip matching and a physical camera shutter keep your privacy protected.
Best for
The Swift Go 14 AI is perfect for students, frequent travelers, and professionals on the move who want an affordable entry point into Copilot+ without sacrificing portability. While ARM-based systems are less suited for heavy gaming, this laptop excels in battery life, AI features, and everyday productivity.
4. Nitro V 16S AI (ANV16S-41-R2AJ) - $1,299.99*
The Acer Nitro V 16S AI is a Copilot+ gaming laptop built for players who want serious performance with next-gen AI capabilities. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 260 processor with integrated Ryzen AI and paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 GPU, it delivers smooth frame rates, advanced AI-enhanced graphics, and reliable multitasking. With its 16-inch 180 Hz display and 32 GB of DDR5 memory, this laptop is designed to keep up with both competitive gaming and creative workflows.
Key specifications
* Processor: AMD Ryzen™ 7 260 (8 cores, 16 threads, 3.8 GHz base)
* NPU: AMD Ryzen AI (16 TOPS)
* Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5060, 8 GB GDDR7 VRAM
* Memory: 32 GB DDR5 SDRAM
* Storage: 1 TB PCIe NVMe 4.0 SSD (M.2)
* Display: 16" WUXGA (1920 × 1200), IPS, 180 Hz, 16:10 aspect ratio
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Gigabit Ethernet, microSD card reader
* Ports: HDMI, RJ-45 Ethernet, USB (including USB 4), audio jacks
* Keyboard: 4-zone RGB backlit keyboard with NitroSense control
* Battery: 76 Wh Lithium-ion
* Weight: 4.6 lbs
Why choose the Nitro V 16S AI?
* AI-powered performance: AMD Ryzen AI enables Copilot+ features like Recall, Studio Effects, and AI-powered search, while the RTX 5060 GPU supports NVIDIA DLSS 4, Reflex 2, and ray tracing for next-gen gaming visuals.
* High refresh gaming: The 16-inch 180 Hz IPS display with a 16:10 aspect ratio provides smooth motion and extra screen real estate.
* Max memory and storage: With 32 GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1 TB SSD, it has more than enough headroom for games, creative projects, and multitasking.
* Cooling built for gaming: A dual-fan, quad-intake cooling system keeps performance stable during long play sessions.
* Gaming-first design: The 4-zone RGB keyboard, NitroSense controls, and AI-enhanced features like PurifiedVoice 2.0 and ProCam make it a true gamer’s laptop.
Best for
The Nitro V 16S AI is a great choice for entry PC gamers, streamers, and creators who want a Copilot+ PC that combines the latest AI tools with the performance of an RTX 50-series GPU. It delivers a balance of speed, graphics power, and Copilot+ intelligence in a slim, travel-ready gaming chassis.
Note: This configuration (PN ANV16S-41-R2AJ) is part of Amazon’s Handpick program and is exclusively available through Amazon.
5. Predator Triton 14 AI - €2,999* (USA price pending)
The Predator Triton 14 AI is a high-end Copilot+ laptop engineered for gamers and creators who want maximum power in a portable form. Set to launch soon, it pairs an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU, combining cutting-edge AI acceleration with stunning visuals on a 14.5-inch OLED display. At just 3.5lbs, it delivers workstation-level performance in a slim and portable chassis.
Key specifications
* Processor: Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 288V (AI Boost up to 48 TOPS)
* Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 5070 Laptop GPU, 8 GB GDDR6, up to 110 W
* Memory: Up to 32 GB DDR5
* Storage: Up to 2 TB PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD
* Display: 14.5" OLED (2880 × 1800), 120 Hz, 1 ms, 16:10, touch-enabled, Calman Verified, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut
* Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
* Ports: 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A, HDMI, microSD, 3.5 mm audio
* Cooling: 6th Gen AeroBlade 3D fans, vapor chamber, graphene TIM for advanced thermal management
* Keyboard: Per-key Mini LED RGB lighting
* Touchpad: Haptic glass touchpad with active stylus support (MPP 2.5, USI 2.0, AES 2.0)
* Audio: 6-speaker DTS:X Ultra system
* Battery: 76 Wh Lithium-ion
* Weight: 3.5 lbs
Why choose the Predator Triton 14 AI?
* Creator-ready performance: RTX Studio certification and NVIDIA GPU acceleration enable lightning-fast 3D rendering, video editing, and design workflows.
* OLED brilliance: The 14.5" OLED touch display offers vibrant HDR visuals, deep contrast, and 100% DCI-P3 accuracy, ideal for both gaming and creative projects.
* AI-accelerated gaming: RTX 5070 support for DLSS 4, Reflex 2, and full ray tracing ensures ultra-smooth performance in the latest titles.
* Portable powerhouse: Despite its slim 17 mm profile and lightweight chassis, it delivers workstation-class performance with efficient cooling.
* Advanced controls: PredatorSense and the Experience Zone give users precision over system performance, lighting, and AI tools.
* Premium extras: Features like the haptic touchpad with stylus support, anti-fingerprint coating, and DTS:X Ultra audio round out a truly premium experience.
Best for
The Predator Triton 14 AI is the ultimate choice for gamers, streamers, and creative professionals who want uncompromising performance in a portable Copilot+ PC. It is Acer’s flagship model for those who demand cutting-edge AI power, stunning OLED visuals, and maximum versatility.
*Price and availability may vary. Visit store.acer.com for more information.
Conclusion: Is it time to switch to a Copilot+ PC?
Copilot+ PCs mark a major shift in the Windows ecosystem, bringing AI directly into the heart of everyday computing. With NPUs powering features like Recall, Studio Effects, advanced search, and real-time translation, these devices go beyond speed and storage to deliver smarter, more adaptive experiences.
Acer’s 2025 lineup shows just how versatile this new category can be. From the lightweight Swift Go 14 AI to the creator-focused Predator Triton 14 AI, there’s a Copilot+ PC for every type of user. Students, professionals, gamers, and creatives alike can find a model that matches their needs, whether they prioritize portability, performance, or graphics power.
If you’re still on an older Windows 10 or even a non-AI laptop, now is the time to consider upgrading. Copilot+ PCs are not only future-ready, but they also redefine how you interact with your computer. Choosing an Acer Copilot+ PC ensures you’ll be equipped for both today’s demands and tomorrow’s AI-driven possibilities.
Frequently asked questions about Copilot+ PCs
1. What makes a laptop a Copilot+ PC?
A Copilot+ PC is a Windows 11 device that meets Microsoft’s requirements for AI computing. This includes at least 16 GB of RAM, 256 GB of storage, and an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) with 40+ TOPS of performance. The NPU allows AI features like Recall, live translation, and advanced Studio Effects to run directly on the device.
2. Are Copilot+ PCs worth it?
Yes, if you want a laptop that’s more future-ready. Copilot+ PCs aren’t just faster — they bring new ways to work and create. Features like AI-powered search, real-time captions with translation, and smarter app integration help improve productivity and creativity.
3. What’s the difference between ARM and x64 Copilot+ PCs?
* ARM-based Copilot+ PCs (like those with Snapdragon processors) are similar to Apple’s M-series MacBooks: they excel in battery life and efficiency but have limited compatibility with certain apps and games.
* x64-based Copilot+ PCs (Intel or AMD) offer broader software and gaming support, though usually with shorter battery life.
4. Can you game on a Copilot+ PC?
Yes, especially on models with NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics like the Acer Nitro V 16S AI or Predator Triton 14 AI. ARM-based Copilot+ laptops can run some games, but most titles are still optimized for x64 processors, so performance is better on Intel and AMD systems.
5. Which Acer Copilot+ PC is best for students?
The Swift Go 14 AI is an excellent choice for students. It’s affordable, lightweight, and has long battery life, making it ideal for lectures, travel, and daily productivity.
6. Should I upgrade if I already have a Windows 11 laptop?
If your current laptop doesn’t have an NPU, you won’t be able to use Copilot+ exclusive features like Recall or AI-powered translation. While standard Windows 11 devices will continue to work, upgrading to a Copilot+ PC ensures you’ll benefit from Microsoft’s AI roadmap moving forward.
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Why the Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 Works for Your Business
The Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 is ideal for business life, delivering outstanding performance to support intense workloads and multitasking. It is robust and is made to withstand demanding conditions, including commutes and warm office environments, making it one of the best Chromebooks for work. In this article, we will examine why the Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 is a good Chromebook for business and take a deeper dive into its specifications and features.
What are Chromebooks and why are they good for office work?
Chromebooks are a budget-friendly alternative to laptops that run on Google’s ChromeOS. They primarily support online work such as web browsing, checking emails, watching videos, and using Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides. They have a comparatively lower storage capacity compared to traditional laptops, as they encourage users to save documents on the cloud. Chromebooks are user-friendly, have a long battery life, and include integrated virus protection and software updates to ensure ultimate security.
Chromebook Plus devices include all this and more. They offer up to double the speed, storage, and memory of Chromebooks, and are fast enough to support multitasking. Chromebook Plus devices also have AI-powered tools to streamline workloads while encouraging creativity and productivity. This makes them an excellent choice for businesses, letting employees breeze through tasks without unnecessary applications, files, or software bogging them down. Here are some more reasons why using a Chromebook for work can benefit businesses and teams.
1. Low-cost, high-performance
Chromebooks are known for being low-cost alternatives to traditional laptops. Their reliance on the cloud means that the majority of their processing and storage requirements are taken care of outside of the device, thus reducing hardware costs. Moreover, they are not weighed down by unnecessary files and applications, background processes, or bloatware, meaning they are fast and efficient. Chromebook Plus devices are equipped with a minimum of 8 GB RAM and 128 GB storage space, and are powered by an Intel® or AMD Core processor. Moreover, Chromebooks power up in approximately five seconds, so workers can get started on tasks quickly.
2. Safe and secure
Chromebooks are notoriously secure, which is great for users who are handling sensitive company data. This is largely because of their automatic updates, built-in virus protection, and sandboxing, meaning that software is isolated and cannot interact with other applications, containing potential threats and preventing them from working around the Chromebook. In addition, Chromebooks perform a self-check upon start-up and immediately address any issues or threats. Just like any device, Chromebooks are still susceptible to malware infections, but their intrinsic security measures make them extremely secure.
3. File sync for convenient access
Chromebook Plus laptops let users access their files on- and offline, so they can tweak Google Docs, Sheets, or Slides while on the go. This is handy for workers with long commutes or frequent business travel requirements, as they can still meet deadlines or collaborate on documents remotely. An internet connection is required initially for downloads and enough storage space is required.
4. High quality video calls and visuals
High-quality video calls are guaranteed with a full HD webcam and enhanced picture clarity and lighting. Chromebook Plus devices ensure employees look their best wherever they are calling from. Chromebooks’ crystal-clear display lets users focus on the details while making games and videos appear more realistic and immersive.
Chromebook Plus devices are a great addition for businesses looking for productivity, speed, and convenience. The Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 offers all this and more.
Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 specifications and features
The Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 is built to boost productivity and streamline multitasking. Let’s take a look at its specifications.
* Intel® Core™ Ultra processor, Intel 5 and 7 mode CPU
* 14” display up to WQXGA+ 2880 x 1800 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate
* 400 nits brightness and 86% screen-to-body ratio
* Up to 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM
* Up to 512 GB SSD storage
* 1.23 kg (2.73 pounds)
* 16.95 mm (0.67 inches) thin
* USB-C ports (Thunderbolt™ 4), USB-A ports, HDMI 1.4b port (8.26 Gbps), and a Gigabit Ethernet port
* 1440p QHD webcam
* Wi-Fi 7 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be
The Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 offers many excellent features that help workforces operate with ease and efficiency.
1. Google AI features
ChromeOS has integrated AI features that boost productivity, such as writing tools to create inspiring content, and meeting enhancements to increase professionalism. Google’s AI assistant, Gemini, turns words into video, answers complex questions, and creates images almost instantly. Moreover, Gemini Live also lets users brainstorm ideas, prepare for meetings, or practice presentations. These handy AI tools help users do more in less time, which is ideal for packed work days.
2. Enhanced security
Chromebooks have never had a virus thanks to their superior built-in protection and Titan C2 security chip. But did you know they also offer enhanced physical security? The Kensington Nano-type lock slot keeps the Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 physically secure by preventing theft, while the integrated fingerprint sensor ensures secure access. These aspects provide extra peace of mind and security for the most sensitive business data.
3. Clear audio and video
The Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 includes DTS audio that enhances business communications with sound and spatial precision for immersive sound. Moreover, the triple microphone array removes background noise and enhances the main speaker’s voice, so meeting attendees can share ideas confidently.
4. Long battery life
The 53 watt-hour (Wh) fast charging battery lets users focus on their tasks without worrying about how they can reach the nearest power outlet in time. This gives them the freedom to work remotely during commutes or business travel, even if they leave the charging cable in the hotel.
Why you should consider a Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 for your business
The Chromebook Plus Enterprise 714 is a solid choice for businesses that want a device that prioritizes security. They are also suitable for remote teams that are comfortable working alone or collaboratively on Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides, and facilitate working offline. Its long battery life and durability make it a viable option for employees on the go or working in challenging environments, while its built-in AI features ooze productivity and professionalism. Check out the Acer store today and find a Chromebook Plus that suits your team.
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How to Fix a Corrupted File in Windows 11
If you’ve ever tried to open a document, photo, or video in Windows 11 only to see an error message, you may be dealing with a corrupted file. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about corrupted files — what they are, how to recognize them, why they happen, and most importantly, how to fix corrupted files in Windows 11 using reliable methods. By the end, you’ll know the exact steps to repair or recover your files without guesswork.
What is a corrupted file?
A corrupted file is a file that has been damaged so that Windows 11 or the program associated with it can no longer read it correctly. Instead of opening as expected, the file may trigger errors, freeze the application, or appear blank or incomplete.
It’s important to note that file corruption does not always mean permanent loss. Sometimes only a small part of the file’s data is damaged, which can often be repaired. In more severe cases, however, the corruption may make the file unusable, and recovery tools or backups may be the only solution.
How can you tell if a file is corrupted?
Windows usually gives clear warning signs when a file is corrupted. Some of the most common indicators include:
* Error messages such as “The file is damaged and cannot be opened.”
* Applications freezing or crashing immediately when trying to load the file.
* Strange content inside the file, such as missing images in a document or garbled characters in a text file.
* File icons or thumbnails not displaying properly, showing as blank or generic.
* Inability to move, copy, or delete the file because Windows says it’s unreadable.
If you see these symptoms, it’s a strong indication that the file itself is corrupted rather than the application or device.
Why do files get corrupted?
Files can become corrupted for many reasons. Here are the most common scenarios:
* Power failures or forced shutdowns: If your computer turns off while saving or transferring a file, the writing process may be interrupted, leaving the file incomplete.
* Bad sectors on storage drives: Hard drives and SSDs sometimes develop faulty areas where data cannot be stored reliably, which leads to corruption.
* Software crashes: If a program freezes or closes unexpectedly while a file is being edited, the file may not save correctly.
* Malware or viruses: Malicious software can deliberately damage or overwrite parts of a file.
* File transfer issues: Copying files between drives, USBs, or cloud storage can sometimes result in partial transfers that corrupt the file.
* Overheating hardware or sudden system errors: Hardware instability can also damage files being used at the time.
Knowing the cause matters because it can help you prevent the problem from happening again. For example, if power outages are frequent, using an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can protect your system, while regular backups ensure you have a safe copy of important files.
How to fix a corrupted file in Windows 11
Before you begin, make sure you’re signed in with administrator privileges on Windows 11. Several of the repair tools you’ll be using (like Command Prompt, SFC, and DISM) require admin rights to run. Without them, the commands won’t work and you won’t be able to properly repair corrupted files.
Once you’re ready, follow these methods in order — starting with Windows’ built-in tools and moving to advanced options if needed.
1. Use the System File Checker (SFC) tool
The System File Checker scans your Windows installation for corrupted or missing system files and replaces them with fresh copies. While SFC primarily repairs Windows files, fixing those can also solve problems with apps and documents that rely on them.
Steps:
* Press Start, type cmd, then right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
* In the Command Prompt window, type: sfc /scannow
* Press Enter and wait for the scan to finish (this can take several minutes).
What happens next:
* If issues are found, Windows will automatically repair them.
* If nothing is found, move on to the next method.
2. Run the DISM tool (deep system repair)
If SFC doesn’t solve the issue, use Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM). This tool repairs deeper system-level corruption, such as damage to the Windows image itself.
Steps:
* Open Command Prompt as administrator.
* Enter the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:* DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
* DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
* DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
* Wait for the process to complete (it may take 10–20 minutes).
Tip: After DISM finishes, rerun sfc /scannow to make sure all repairs are complete.
3. Try system restore in Windows 11
If your corrupted file issue started recently, rolling your system back to an earlier restore point may resolve it. This works best if you had System Restore enabled before the corruption occurred.
Steps:
* Press Start, search for Create a restore point, and open it.
* In the System Properties window, click System Restore.
* Choose a restore point created before the file corruption happened.
* Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore.
Note: System Restore won’t delete your personal files, but it may remove recently installed programs or drivers.
4. Use third-party repair software
If Windows tools fail, specialized recovery programs can sometimes repair corrupted files. Examples include Stellar Repair, EaseUS Data Recovery, or Hetman File Repair. These tools are designed to fix or rebuild damaged documents, photos, videos, and archives.
When to use this:
* If the corrupted file is personal data (like a Word document or photo).
* If built-in tools couldn’t restore it.
Tip: Always download repair software from official sites to avoid malware.
5. Reset or repair the app linked to the file
Sometimes the issue isn’t the file itself but the app used to open it. Resetting or repairing the application can solve these cases.
Steps:
* Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
* Find the app (e.g., Word, Photos, or Excel).
* Click the three dots > Advanced options.
* Select Repair first. If that doesn’t work, select Reset.
6. Get professional help
If you’ve tried everything and the corrupted file is still inaccessible, it may be time to seek professional help. Data recovery specialists can sometimes restore files that software cannot.
When to consider this:
* The file contains critical work or personal data.
* You suspect physical damage to your hard drive or SSD.
* The corrupted file is tied to hardware failure.
Professional services can be costly, so it’s important to weigh the value of your data against the expense. If you are using an Acer device, your warranty or an extended service plan may cover repairs or hardware-related issues that cause file corruption. Acer provides options for added protection, such as the Acer Care Extended Service Plans, which offer extended coverage and expert support when you need it most.
How to prevent files from getting corrupted in Windows 11
Fixing corrupted files can be stressful, but a few simple practices can greatly reduce the chances of it happening again:
* Back up your files regularly: Use Windows Backup, OneDrive, or an external drive so you always have a safe copy.
* Shut down your PC properly: Avoid forced shutdowns or unplugging your device while files are in use.
* Keep your system updated: Install Windows updates and driver updates to reduce system crashes and compatibility issues.
* Protect against malware: Run Windows Security or another trusted antivirus to prevent malicious software from damaging files.
* Monitor your storage drive’s health: Tools like CrystalDiskInfo or built-in SSD utilities can warn you of failing hardware.
* Use a UPS if possible: A backup power supply can protect your PC from sudden power outages that lead to corruption.
By following these steps, you’ll significantly lower the risk of dealing with corrupted files in the future.
Conclusion
Corrupted files are frustrating, but they don’t have to mean permanent data loss. With the right approach, from using built-in Windows tools like SFC and DISM to restoring your system or trying third-party repair software, most corrupted files can be repaired or replaced. If the issue turns out to be hardware-related, professional support or extended warranty coverage may be the best solution.
The key is to act quickly, repair what you can, and set up good prevention habits going forward. That way, you’ll not only know how to fix corrupted files in Windows 11 when they appear but also reduce the chances of running into the problem again.
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Acer ProCreator PE0 and Upcoming ProCreator Line
Attention creators of the world! Forget 4K, step into the brilliant future of 6K Acer OLED monitors, namely the Acer ProCreator PE0 desktop monitor. Join us on our journey today, as we introduce this groundbreaking Acer desktop monitor designed strictly for creators. We’ll illustrate the many ways it can empower your creativity with ultra-sharp clarity, beyond life-like color accuracy, and of course flawlessly fluid motion. After we’ve given you the lowdown on the Acer ProCreator PE0, we’ll take a look at some of the other upcoming Acer monitors and portable projectors in the AcerProCreator family.
Designed to enhance creative workflows, Acer ProCreator Series monitors are Calman-verified, high-res displays. With select models in OLED and touchscreen, all ProCreator displays are AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatible. With wide color gamut coverage, up to Delta E<1 color accuracy levels, and the Acer Creator Hub software, ProCreator Series monitors also feature built-in webcams. The ProCreator family also includes portable, dual-screen foldable monitors, as well as compact LED projectors, perfect for a diverse range of applications.
Introducing the Acer ProCreator PE0
Creators know that color and clarity are key. Whether you’re a designer, animator, editor, or photographer, utmost precision in color accuracy combined with stunning visual clarity should be high on your list of must-haves when selecting a monitor. The Acer ProCreator PE0 ticks all the boxes for your creative projects, so let’s get into the nitty-gritty and check out all the features of this first-rate monitor so you know what you’ll be working with.
Picture perfect
The Acer ProCreator PE0 is a desktop display designed to maximize creative workflows, with Calman-verified, high-res 6K (6016 x 3384) resolution. Let the pixels work for you, not against you, emboldening your journey as you create, edit, and forge ahead with your work. 6K simply has to be seen to be believed, delivering precision, clarity, and depth to bring your work to hi-res life.
Outstanding OLED
In case you missed the memo, OLED is where it's at for displays today. The Acer ProCreator PE0 is technically a QD-OLED display (quantum dot organic light emitting diode). To better understand the function of this style of display, let’s quickly cover how the QD-OLED monitor works.
QD-OLED monitor technology uses an OLED panel in combination with quantum dots to create top quality images, tailored for creators. As you may know, in OLED display technology, each pixel generates its own light when the organic compounds are energised by electric current, resulting in high contrast ratios, vibrant colors and ultra deep blacks. In QD-OLED, light is provided by blue OLEDs, which are layered with quantum dots. These quantum dots convert portions of the blue light into red or green light, resulting in all of the sub pixels required for a full-color display. This quantum dot infusion adds even more life and accuracy to the colors you create with.
Certified colors
The Acer ProCreator PE0 features enough color credentials to make Vincent van Gogh blush with envy.
Firstly, Delta E <1 color accuracy means that this display is beyond accurate. The image color from the input (photo, video, etc), is displayed on the monitor, without any color distortion at all, generally considered imperceptible to the human eye. Next, Calman Verified color calibration ensures that what you see on the display is true to the original creation: every Acer ProCreator PE0 display is precisely tuned to Calman’s recommended technical color specifications and standards. Calman Verification guarantees reliable color performance and consistency for all creative workflows.
Finally, running the gamut of all colors, or the color gamut, is the range of colors that can be accurately displayed on a device. The ProCreator PE0 has 99% DCI-P3, as well as 99% Adobe RGB color gamut, ensuring that you’ll be the CEO of color accuracy with the PE0.
Frame by frame fluidity
Whatever form your creative process follows, invest in the Acer ProCreator PE0 and you’ll never need to think about lagging visuals again! With a 240Hz refresh rate, and an insanely rapid pixel response time of 0.01 ms, prepare for precise, uninterrupted visuals, delivering a viewing experience as smooth as your creative process. Furthermore, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and NVIDIA G-SYNC compatibility offer silky-smooth, flicker-free visuals with a variable refresh rate.
Unleash your creativity
Further features at your fingertips include MPP 2.0 tilt-enabled stylus support for the touchscreen, enabling you to design, draw, sketch, and edit with natural precision, and panache. Finally, the Acer ProCreator PE0 is equipped with Acer Creator Hub, the software that beats all other creative software suites. Click into Acer Creator Hub to optimize your creative workflow with seamless multitasking, and split screen functionality, or choose the color space for each of your unique projects with the color space function. Or take things a step further with the Color Calibrator, where you can fine-tune colors with multiple profiles to tweak color temp, brightness, and even color space.
More ProCreator choices
Before we leave you, let’s have a brief peek at a couple of the other upcoming Acer ProCreator products. While the Acer ProCreator PE0 may be a tidy choice for your desk, some creators require the freedom of the open road, or a local cafe to ply their trade. But what if your creative process demands dual-screens?
This is where the Acer PD3 family of portable monitors come in. The Acer PD163QT and Acer PD243Y E are both dual-screen portable monitors with enviably wide viewing angles perfect for on-the-go creativity and multitasking. Full HD resolution, and foldable as far as 315° for presenting, reading, and collaborating, both of these portable monitors incorporate Acer VisionCare tech to keep your peepers comfortable during extended sessions. The PD163QT has touch capability for user-friendly, intuitive interaction, while the PD243Y E delivers smooth viewing thanks to its 100 Hz flicker-free refresh rate.
Finally, Acer’s PD1520Us is an insanely portable ultra-short-throw smart projector for anyone eager to project far and wide. Naturally, the PD1520Us has Full HD resolution projected on a 100-inch display with 44 cm projection distance, and 2,000 LED lumens. Weighing only 730-grams, the projector breaks through the boundaries of portable entertainment, transforming any room and surface into a full HD display.
Creativity on your own terms
We hope that you’ve enjoyed today’s voyage into the 6K world of Acer ProCreator PE0. Remember: your path to becoming the CEO of creativity begins with the PE0. Trust us, do yourself a favor and check out this display in the flesh. With a multitude of user-friendly features, and top-of-the-line resolution, color accuracy, and refresh rate, the Acer ProCreator PE0 is the monitor you need to take your creativity to the next level.
And lastly, don’t forget -if you’re interested in the other ProCreator Series monitors and space-saving LED projectors, check back for updates as they’re released from Q3 this year across the globe.
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Best Pixel Art Games to Play in 2025
Pixel art has never gone out of style. In 2025, the best pixel art games are not just retro throwbacks. They prove that charming visuals and creative design can rival even the most realistic 3D graphics. Whether you are looking for an rpg pixel game with rich storytelling, a quirky indie adventure, or a fast-paced action title, this year offers something for every type of player. From award-winning hits like Octopath Traveler to new cult favorites like Animal Well, the pixel aesthetic is alive and thriving.
What is a pixel art game?
A pixel art game uses graphics made up of visible, blocky pixels to create characters, environments, and animations. This style became popular during the 8-bit and 16-bit eras of gaming, when hardware limitations shaped the look of classics from the NES, SNES, and Sega Genesis. Today, developers choose pixel art not out of necessity, but for its distinct charm, nostalgic appeal, and artistic flexibility.
Modern pixel games often combine old-school visuals with contemporary gameplay mechanics, high-resolution effects, and deep storytelling. The result is a style that feels both familiar and fresh, making it perfect for rpgs, puzzle adventures, platformers, and more.
10. Octopath Traveler
Octopath Traveler blends the nostalgia of classic 16-bit RPGs with modern visual and gameplay innovations. Its distinctive HD-2D art style places detailed 2D sprites in lush, three-dimensional environments, where pixelated grass sways in the breeze and sunlight filters through windows to create a dreamlike world. From deserts that sparkle under the sun to snowy peaks shimmering in candlelit towns, every location feels alive.
The game tells eight separate character stories, from the redemption arc of knight Olberich to the cunning adventures of thief Therion. While each narrative is self-contained and there is no overarching plot to unite the heroes, the writing and voice acting give every tale personality. Players are free to focus on a single story or explore them all at their own pace.
Combat builds on traditional turn-based battles with a break system that rewards exploiting enemy weaknesses. Strategic use of attacks, abilities, and items keeps even small encounters engaging, while the flexible job system allows characters to adopt secondary classes and gain new skills. This opens up endless possibilities for experimenting with party setups and battle strategies.
For fans of rpg pixel games who value freedom, strategy, and a striking visual style, Octopath Traveler delivers a deeply satisfying experience. If you enjoy it, you should definitely check out Octopath Traveler II for an expanded adventure with even more refined gameplay.
9. The Case of the Golden Idol
If Agatha Christie had a mischievous streak and a fondness for pixel art, you might end up with something like The Case of the Golden Idol. It is an 18th-century murder mystery where every crime scene is frozen in time, waiting for you to poke around and figure out what happened. You will rifle through pockets, read incriminating letters, and slowly piece together a tangled family history that drags in cults, political squabbles, and a mysterious artifact with supernatural powers.
The Golden Idol itself is more than just a shiny trinket. As the cases progress, it becomes clear it can perform “miracles,” such as accelerating someone’s age or turning objects into gold. That mix of grounded intrigue and absurd magic keeps the tone unpredictable. The art style helps too. Grotesque yet charming caricatures with bulging eyes and exaggerated features make even grisly murders oddly playful.
Mechanically, it is all about deduction. Each scene gives you clues to slot into scrolls, building a complete account of who died, who did it, and how. Some puzzles are straightforward, others will have you scribbling notes like a real detective, and a few late-game ones might overwhelm if you try to play too many in one sitting.
It is short enough to finish in an evening or two, but this is a game best savored with a cup of tea and a bit of patience. Solve a case, take a break, and return with fresh eyes. Once you finish, The Rise of the Golden Idol is ready with even stranger mysteries to untangle.
8. Blasphemous 2
Blasphemous 2 is a brutal, beautiful Metroidvania that knows exactly what it wants to be and executes on it with confidence. You play as the Penitent One, a silent warrior in a pointed helmet who wakes to find the world changed and the mysterious Miracle calling again. The setting is steeped in Spanish Catholic imagery, mixing haunting beauty with grotesque detail. One moment you are walking through cathedrals bathed in candlelight, the next you are exploring a wax-dripping castle turned upside down, its architecture as unsettling as its enemies.
The combat feels weighty and satisfying from the start. You choose one of three weapons (a heavy flail, quick rapiers, or a balanced sword) and eventually gain all of them, swapping freely in the middle of fights. The more you progress, the more mobility options you unlock, letting you chain combos, dash through the air, and handle boss fights that fill the screen with chaos. Every encounter pushes you to master your tools, and experimenting with different weapon and relic combinations keeps battles fresh.
Exploration is classic Metroidvania with a touch of Souls-like design. Hidden rooms, breakable walls, and optional side quests are everywhere, often rewarding you with relics and rosary beads that tweak stats and resistances. The game is tough, but it rewards persistence and curiosity. Even when the story hides behind cryptic item descriptions, the world is so richly designed that you want to hunt down every collectible just to see more of it.
At around 20 hours for a first playthrough, Blasphemous 2 delivers a dense and rewarding adventure. Whether you come for the challenging combat, the layered exploration, or the grim yet captivating art style, it is one of the strongest 2D action games in years.
7. Wandering Sword
At first glance, Wandering Sword might look like it is borrowing heavily from Octopath Traveler or Live A Live, with its HD-2D-style pixel art and grid-based battles. Spend a little time with it, and it becomes clear it is a distinct wuxia RPG built around exploration, martial arts mastery, and a richly interconnected world.
You play as Yuwen Yi, a young martial artist drawn into a conflict between rival sects after a tragic attack. Once you leave the opening village, the game gives you freedom to explore Jianghu at your own pace. Towns have their own local dramas, and wandering off the main path can lead to new allies, side stories, or hidden dangers. Recruiting party members often ties into these side quests, each with their own personality and backstory.
Progression is the game’s most unique feature. Instead of leveling purely through battles, you grow stronger by finding martial arts masters and learning their techniques. Some skills are taught freely, while the most powerful require you to defeat their owner in one-on-one combat. This gives exploration a clear sense of purpose, making every remote temple or secluded courtyard worth visiting.
Combat takes place on a grid and can be switched between turn-based and real-time. Strong abilities have cooldowns, so careful timing and positioning matter. Alongside fighting, there are crafting, gifting, dueling, and faction systems that add depth to your travels.
Wandering Sword does have rough edges. The interface can feel clunky, the localization is uneven, and some dialogue runs long. The story leans on familiar tropes, but its lighthearted tone and engaging mechanics keep it enjoyable. With its flexible structure and rewarding skill system, it offers something fresh for fans of pixel art games and RPGs alike.
6. Dave the Diver
Dave the Diver is a delightfully unexpected adventure that combines deep-sea exploration with cozy restaurant management in a charming pixel art world. By day you dive into the Blue Hole, hunting fish and discovering secrets with your harpoon. By night you manage a sushi restaurant, juggling orders, serving customers, and upgrading your operation. The mix of action and hospitality gives the game endless momentum.
The game’s world is alive with vibrant characters, mini games, and ongoing narrative surprises. The more you play, the deeper it sinks in that this is not your typical sim. It has won over players and critics alike for its creativity, humor, and balance of gameplay styles.
Content-wise, Dave the Diver features a range of well-done DLC. The DREDGE content pack, released in December 2023, added a free, atmospheric encounter. The Godzilla pack from May 2024 brought a playful monster mash to the Blue Hole and, after being temporarily removed, has returned for free with availability guaranteed until at least the end of 2026. The crossover with Like a Dragon, titled Ichiban’s Holiday, also remains available through the end of 2026 and is currently discounted following fan feedback.
Looking ahead, In the Jungle promises to be the next big story DLC. It will introduce a brand-new island with a freshwater lake, along with new fishing opportunities and expanded restaurant mechanics. While originally planned for 2025, the release is now expected in early 2026 as the developers take extra time to refine the experience.
5. Deltarune
Deltarune takes the spirit of Undertale and reshapes it into something bigger, stranger, and more unpredictable. You play as Kris, a human teen in a town of monsters, who along with their reluctant classmate Susie stumbles into the Dark World, a parallel realm where everyday objects turn into whimsical or dangerous beings called Darkeners. Joined by the mysterious prince Ralsei, you set out to seal dark fountains and uncover what is really going on between the two worlds.
Battles mix classic turn-based RPG combat with bullet-dodging challenges and the ability to “Act” to win over enemies instead of defeating them. Choosing mercy can lead to sparing foes who later repopulate your hub town, adding a sense of consequence to each encounter. The variety of enemy personalities and the creative ways your party interacts with them keep battles fresh and often hilarious.
The writing blends absurd comedy with moments of genuine warmth, especially in the relationship between Kris and Susie. They are equal parts chaotic and endearing, and their evolving friendship is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the game. Humor is everywhere, from ridiculous item descriptions to bizarre side characters, yet the game also hides deeper mysteries about who really controls Kris and what that means for the story’s themes of freedom and agency.
Visually, Deltarune uses detailed pixel art to create vibrant and varied Dark World locations, each paired with an outstanding soundtrack composed by creator Toby Fox. From funky battle tracks to emotional piano pieces, the music elevates every scene.
Chapters 1 and 2 set the stage, while the newly released Chapters 3 and 4 expand the world and experiment with new gameplay twists. More chapters are planned as free updates, and if the first four are any indication, the rest of the journey will be just as surprising.
4. Shogun Showdown
Shogun Showdown is a turn-based roguelike that rewards patience and planning over reckless action. At first, it can feel punishingly simple: a small 2D battlefield with just a handful of spaces and enemies that can overwhelm you in a few turns. Stick with it, though, and its clever mechanics reveal themselves as a satisfying blend of tactical depth and streamlined design.
Your mission is to defeat the evil shogun by progressing through increasingly difficult stages, each fought on a side-scrolling grid. You start with basic attacks like sword strikes and long-range arrows, then add more specialized moves such as lightning bolts that target specific enemies or dashes that reposition you behind enemy lines. Consumables like healing potions and shields add more layers to your strategy, and between fights you can buy upgrades or expand your deck.
The game’s most distinctive feature is its spatial control. Enemy attacks are telegraphed in advance, giving you time to reposition or dodge. The starting Wanderer class can pass through an opponent once every few turns, turning careful movement into a potent offensive tool. As you unlock more classes and cards, you can string together chains of moves that clear the field in a single turn, making you feel like a master swordsman in complete control of the fight.
Unlike many roguelikes, Shogun Showdown minimizes randomness. Attacks never miss, and you are not at the mercy of a bad card draw, which makes victory feel entirely earned. The crisp pixel art and rock-infused chiptune soundtrack round out the experience, keeping each run engaging even after repeated attempts.
It may take time to click, but once you master its rhythm, Shogun Showdown offers a tight, rewarding challenge worth revisiting to try new classes and strategies.
3. Back to the Dawn
Back to the Dawn is a prison escape RPG that gives you 21 in-game days to decide your fate. Framed for a crime you did not commit, you play as either Thomas, a resourceful journalist, or Bob, an undercover cop, each with their own storylines, abilities, and narrative beats. Your goal could be to clear your name, find a way out, or climb the ranks of one of three prison gangs. The choice is entirely yours, and the game rewards creative problem-solving and adaptability.
The prison is full of opportunities and obstacles. Forty-six other inmates have distinct personalities and backstories, and building relationships can lead to valuable allies or unique quests. Many actions rely on dice rolls, adding an element of chance to successes and failures, but setbacks often open the door to new approaches. A time-based structure means events happen on set days whether you are ready or not, creating urgency and encouraging careful planning.
Exploration reveals a surprising variety of outcomes. Thomas reportedly has more than a dozen potential escape methods, and side plots often play out differently from run to run. A New Game+ mode and a “Memory Recall” feature let you refine strategies in future attempts, though the 10-hour length of a full run can make failure in the final days sting.
Not every element lands equally well. Female characters are few and often underdeveloped, serving more as romantic or functional roles than fully fleshed-out figures. Some story beats feel thin compared to the richness of the inmate interactions.
Despite its flaws, Back to the Dawn offers a dynamic and replayable experience. The mix of social mechanics, branching outcomes, and player freedom makes each playthrough feel unique, and with future expansions planned, its potential is even greater.
2. Animal Well
Animal Well, published by Bigmode, the indie label founded by popular gaming YouTuber Video Game Dunkey, is a metroidvania that trades combat for curiosity, layering its pixel art caverns with secrets upon secrets. You begin as a small blob in a dim flower bud, with only the ability to move and jump. From there, every mechanic, tool, and objective must be discovered through experimentation. The game never explains much, but rewards creative thinking at every turn.
Each area of the sprawling underground map hides multiple secrets, whether it is a hidden passage in the background, a strange creature behaving oddly, or an object that reacts to a newly found tool. Progress comes from collecting and using items in unexpected ways — a frisbee might distract a dog, a slinky could reach an out-of-the-way switch, or a firecracker might scare off a ghost. The map is large and open enough that you are rarely stuck in one place, and key items can be found in any order, often making earlier areas easier to revisit.
Visually, every screen is meticulously crafted. Pixel-perfect details, dynamic lighting, and subtle motion make the world feel alive, while thoughtful use of color draws the eye toward points of interest or hides treasures in plain sight. The tactile feel of moving through the world, enhanced by haptics and physics, makes even small interactions satisfying.
The main objective can be reached in around five hours, but that is only the beginning. Most of Animal Well’s magic lies in its post-credits treasure hunts, where solving one mystery often leads to another. Some puzzles are devious enough to inspire community collaboration, and the thrill of cracking them is what makes the game so compelling.
It can be exhausting to scour the map for elusive secrets, and a few puzzles are fiddly in execution, but the joy of discovery far outweighs the frustration. Animal Well is a dense, clever, and beautiful puzzle box that keeps surprising you long after you think you have seen it all.
1. Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake
Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake is a faithful yet modernized retelling of the 1988 RPG classic. Rather than reinventing the original like Final Fantasy VII Remake, it preserves the core adventure while enhancing it with rich HD-2D visuals, orchestral music, and quality-of-life features that make the journey smoother without losing its old-school charm.
The heart of the game remains its turn-based combat and open class system. You control a fixed Hero and three additional party members whose classes, names, and appearances are entirely customizable. New to this version is the Monster Wrangler class, which recruits friendly monsters to fight alongside you and encourages more thorough exploration. Reclassing mid-game allows you to carry over learned abilities, opening the door to creative team builds and replay value.
Visually, the remake is stunning. Akira Toriyama’s monster designs are lovingly recreated with detailed sprites and fluid animations, while towns, dungeons, and the overworld shine in the HD-2D art style first popularized by Octopath Traveler. Lighting effects, like the warm glow of your lantern in dark caves, enhance the atmosphere, and the sweeping orchestral score perfectly matches the lighthearted yet adventurous tone.
Difficulty is flexible, offering multiple settings and the option to toggle quest markers for either a guided or classic experience. Combat pacing can be adjusted, and automated battle commands help with grinding while keeping boss fights strategic and intense.
Not every system has aged gracefully. Inventory management still requires juggling items between individual character bags, and your party members remain silent protagonists, lacking the personality seen in later Dragon Quest entries. Yet these quirks are part of the remake’s commitment to authenticity.
For both newcomers and long-time fans, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake stands as one of the best examples of how to modernize a classic while respecting its original vision.
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Windows 11 Registry Editor Changes to Improve Your PC's Performance
This article will show you how to use the Windows 11 Registry Editor to unlock hidden features, improve performance, and personalize your PC. The registry editor is a built-in tool that stores many of Windows’ low-level settings, from how menus look to how your system prioritizes tasks. While powerful, it should be used carefully, changing the wrong value can cause errors or instability. Before making any tweaks, it’s always a good idea to back up your computer so you can restore it if something goes wrong. Once you understand what the registry editor does and how to open it, you can safely try a few useful hacks to make your Windows 11 experience faster and more tailored to your needs.
What is the windows 11 registry editor and how does it work?
The Windows 11 registry editor is a built-in tool that lets you access the Windows Registry, a large database where the operating system stores all its configuration settings. Every change you make to your computer—installing software, changing wallpaper, adjusting network settings, or even disabling startup apps—creates or modifies entries in the registry. In short, the registry is what Windows uses to remember how your system is set up.
The registry editor is simply a way to view and edit these entries directly. Instead of relying only on the Settings app or Control Panel, you can use the registry editor to:
* Unlock hidden customization options.
* Adjust system performance settings.
* Turn off features you don’t use.
Because the registry holds core Windows instructions, edits apply immediately after you change them—no extra software is needed. But this also makes it risky: deleting or modifying the wrong value can cause apps to stop working, slow down your PC, or even prevent Windows from booting. For this reason, it’s recommended to back up the registry or create a system restore point before making changes.
In short, the Windows 11 registry editor is a powerful tool that works by giving you direct control over how the operating system behaves. When used carefully, it can help you customize your PC in ways that aren’t possible through the normal settings menus.
How to open registry editor in windows 11
There are several ways to open the Windows 11 registry editor, and all of them are straightforward.
Method 1: Using Run
* Press Windows key + R on your keyboard.
* Type regedit into the Run box.
* Press Enter or click OK.
* If prompted by User Account Control (UAC), select Yes to allow access.
Method 2: Using Windows Search
* Click the Start button or press the Windows key.
* Type Registry Editor into the search bar.
* Select Registry Editor (regedit) from the results.
* Confirm the UAC prompt to launch it.
Method 3: From Command Prompt or PowerShell
* Open Command Prompt or Windows PowerShell.
* Type regedit and press Enter.
Once opened, the registry editor will display a tree-like structure on the left, with folders called keys. These keys contain values and data that control how your system works. You can expand folders, navigate to specific paths, and double-click entries to modify them.
Always make a backup of your registry before editing. To do this, go to File > Export in the Registry Editor and save a copy of the entire registry or just the section you plan to change.
The dangers of tweaking the registry editor
Editing the Windows Registry Editor in Windows 11 gives you powerful control over system behavior, but it comes with serious risks if you make mistakes. The registry contains the instructions Windows relies on to run properly, so even small errors can lead to problems.
Some common risks include:
* System instability: Incorrect changes can cause apps to crash or Windows to behave unpredictably.
* Startup failures: Deleting or altering critical keys may prevent Windows from booting at all.
* Lost settings: Modifying the wrong entry can reset or disable features unintentionally.
Because of these risks, it’s essential to create a safety net before making any edits. At minimum, you should back up your computer or export the specific registry keys you plan to change. This way, if something goes wrong, you can restore your system to a working state.
Useful registry editor hacks for Windows 11
Now that you know what the registry editor is and how to open it safely, here are some practical tweaks that can make your PC feel faster or more personalized.
1. Disable network throttling
By default, Windows limits network bandwidth for certain background tasks. This can slow down online gaming or video streaming. Disabling network throttling can help ensure your network speed is fully available.
Path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\WindowsNT\CurrentVersion\Multimedia\SystemProfile
* Find the key NetworkThrottlingIndex.
* Double-click it and set the value to ffffffff (eight f’s).
* Click OK and restart your PC.
This allows Windows to use maximum network bandwidth without artificial limits.
2. Disable Bing search in the Start menu
Windows 11 integrates Bing into Start menu searches, which can feel unnecessary if you only want local results. Disabling Bing can make searches faster and more private.
Path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Search
* If the Explorer key doesn’t exist, right-click Windows and select New > Key, then name it Explorer.
* Inside Explorer, right-click and create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value called DisableSearchBoxSuggestions.
* Set its value to 1 and restart your PC.
Now Start menu searches will only show local files and apps, not web results.
3. Restore the old right-click context menu
Windows 11 introduced a simplified right-click menu, but some users prefer the classic full menu. This tweak restores the old style.
Path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID
* Right-click CLSID and select New > Key.
* Name the new key: {86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}
* Inside it, create another key named InprocServer32.
* Leave the default value empty.
After restarting, you’ll see the classic right-click menu again.
4. Disable the lock screen
If you don’t want to see the lock screen every time you start your PC, you can disable it with a registry edit.
Path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Personalization
* If the Personalization key doesn’t exist, create it.
* Inside, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value called NoLockScreen.
* Set the value to 1.
The next time you start or lock your computer, Windows will take you straight to the login screen.
5. Add seconds to the system clock
By default, Windows 11 shows only hours and minutes in the taskbar clock. If you want more precision, you can enable seconds.
Path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Advanced
* Find or create a DWORD (32-bit) Value named ShowSecondsInSystemClock.
* Set its value to 1.
* Restart Windows Explorer or your PC to see seconds appear in the taskbar clock.
This tweak is useful if you need exact time tracking without opening another app.
6. Reduce resource allocation to background tasks
Windows 11 often gives system resources to background services, which can affect performance in games or demanding applications. You can adjust this balance so more resources go to the foreground.
Path: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Multimedia\SystemProfile
* Find the key SystemResponsiveness.
* Double-click it and set the value to 0.
This ensures Windows prioritizes active tasks over background services, improving responsiveness in performance-heavy scenarios.
7. Disable Windows Copilot
Some users find Windows Copilot unnecessary or prefer not to have it running in the background. You can turn it off through the registry.
Path: HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows
* Right-click Windows and create a new key called WindowsCopilot (if it doesn’t exist).
* Inside, create a new DWORD (32-bit) Value named TurnOffWindowsCopilot.
* Set its value to 1.
After restarting, the Windows Copilot button will no longer appear on the taskbar, and the feature will be disabled.
Final thoughts and best practices
The Windows 11 registry editor gives you direct control over how your PC looks, feels, and performs. With the right tweaks, you can remove unnecessary features, improve responsiveness, and personalize your system in ways that aren’t possible through standard settings. The hacks we’ve covered, from disabling Bing search to adjusting system resource allocation, are safe when applied carefully and can make your Windows 11 experience smoother.
That said, the registry is a critical part of Windows. Always create a backup or system restore point before making changes, and only edit keys you fully understand. If you encounter issues, restoring your backup will quickly undo any mistakes.
By following best practices and applying these registry editor hacks responsibly, you’ll be able to unlock hidden functionality in Windows 11 while keeping your system stable and reliable.
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