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	<title>Tane Wharekura, Author at Shane the Gamer</title>
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	<description>Gaming &#38; eSports News</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 22:20:30 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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	<url>https://www.shanethegamer.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/stg-play-final-cropped-black.png</url>
	<title>Tane Wharekura, Author at Shane the Gamer</title>
	<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/author/tane-wharekura/</link>
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		<title>ARK: Survival Ascended Gets Dragontopia Shadowdrop Plus Two More Updates Today</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/video-gaming/ark-survival-ascended-gets-dragontopia-shadowdrop-plus-two-more-updates-today/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/video-gaming/ark-survival-ascended-gets-dragontopia-shadowdrop-plus-two-more-updates-today/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 22:20:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Video Gaming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ARK: Survival Ascended]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dragontopia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[empty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Genesis Ascended]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Studio Wildcard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[survival games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tides of Fortune]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/video-gaming/ark-survival-ascended-gets-dragontopia-shadowdrop-plus-two-more-updates-today/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Studio Wildcard shadowdrops ARK: Dragontopia alongside Genesis Ascended Part 1 and paid Tides of Fortune DLC for Survival Ascended today.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/video-gaming/ark-survival-ascended-gets-dragontopia-shadowdrop-plus-two-more-updates-today/">ARK: Survival Ascended Gets Dragontopia Shadowdrop Plus Two More Updates Today</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Studio Wildcard has shadowdropped a major new expansion for <strong>ARK: Survival Ascended</strong>, and it landed alongside two other content updates on the same day. According to a press release from Studio Wildcard, the surprise release is called <strong>ARK: Dragontopia</strong>, and it&#8217;s an evolving expansion built around a brand-new legendary dragon that players can tame and ride.</p>



<p>The shadowdrop wasn&#8217;t alone. Studio Wildcard bundled Dragontopia&#8217;s launch with a free Genesis Ascended Part 1 update and a paid Tides of Fortune expansion, meaning ARK: Survival Ascended players logging in today are facing a substantial download and a lot of new content to dig through all at once.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What&#8217;s in ARK: Dragontopia</h2>



<p>Dragontopia centres on a legendary dragon named Eclipsar Umbra, which players can tame using a new mythic item called the Dragon Horn. Studio Wildcard describes the creature as capable of raining &#8220;precision plasma from the cover of darkness&#8221; or slipping through the void to ambush prey, according to the studio&#8217;s press release.</p>



<p>The expansion also adds a fresh skill tree focused on deepening the bond between tamers and their dragons, a new Drake Claw Grappler tool that lets players mount dragons mid-flight, and Draconic Armor for players who want to fully commit to the dragonrider fantasy. Studio Wildcard confirmed more dragons are planned in the coming weeks and months, with a dedicated Dragontopia-themed world map slated for release in December.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Genesis Ascended and Tides of Fortune round out the drop</h2>



<p>Alongside Dragontopia, Studio Wildcard has released Genesis Ascended Part 1 for free, adding a new ocean biome and a boss encounter against a creature called the Palaeoctopus. It&#8217;s a straightforward addition for existing owners with no extra cost attached.</p>



<p>The Tides of Fortune expansion is the paid option in this trio, priced at $19.99. It features voice acting from Karl Urban and Auli&#8217;i Cravalho, and tasks players with building a naval fleet, engaging in ship-to-ship combat, working through its own skill tree, and battling new creatures introduced with the update. Combined, Studio Wildcard notes the three updates add up to as much as 42GB on some platforms, so players should plan for a hefty download before jumping in.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why it matters for ARK players</h2>



<p>ARK: Survival Ascended has leaned heavily on live content drops since its 2023 launch as a remastered take on the original ARK: Survival Evolved, and Dragontopia is easily its most thematically bold addition yet. Dragon-riding mechanics tap into a genre trend that&#8217;s been popularised elsewhere by titles chasing the same fantasy, and the timing alongside House of the Dragon&#8217;s newest season is unlikely to be a coincidence.</p>



<p>What&#8217;s notable here is the structure of the rollout. Rather than a single finished expansion, Studio Wildcard is treating Dragontopia as a growing content pipeline, with more creatures arriving through the rest of the year and a full map dedicated to the theme not landing until December. That mirrors how the studio has handled other post-launch content for ARK: Survival Ascended, doling out systems and biomes in stages rather than one big drop.</p>



<p>For players still deciding where to spend their time, the free Genesis Ascended content is the low-risk entry point, while Tides of Fortune&#8217;s naval combat and celebrity voice cast make it the more premium proposition. Dragontopia itself sits somewhere in between as a shadowdrop that&#8217;s clearly designed to keep expanding rather than arrive complete.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What happens next</h2>



<p>With Studio Wildcard promising additional dragons in the coming weeks and a full Dragontopia map in December, ARK: Survival Ascended&#8217;s roadmap for the rest of 2026 looks set to revolve heavily around this new theme. Players who want the full Thrones-style dragonrider fantasy will likely need to keep checking in as the content set expands rather than expecting everything on offer today.</p>



<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/playstation/fallout-76-devs-talk-next-gen-update-tease-super-mutant-playable-race/">Fallout 76: Devs Talk Next-Gen Update, Tease Super Mutant Playable Race</a></p>



<p><em>Source: Insider Gaming.</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/video-gaming/ark-survival-ascended-gets-dragontopia-shadowdrop-plus-two-more-updates-today/">ARK: Survival Ascended Gets Dragontopia Shadowdrop Plus Two More Updates Today</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>Nintendo Switch Summer Sale: Zelda, Hades 2 and Persona 5 Royal Discounted This Week Only</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nintendo-switch-summer-sale-zelda-hades-2-and-persona-5-royal-discounted-this-week-only/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nintendo-switch-summer-sale-zelda-hades-2-and-persona-5-royal-discounted-this-week-only/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 22:09:40 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[empty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eShop sale]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Switch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Switch 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PlayStation Store]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Xbox Game Pass]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nintendo-switch-summer-sale-zelda-hades-2-and-persona-5-royal-discounted-this-week-only/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Nintendo's rare first-party eShop sale enters its final week, with PlayStation and Xbox also running weekend download deals worth checking before they expire.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nintendo-switch-summer-sale-zelda-hades-2-and-persona-5-royal-discounted-this-week-only/">Nintendo Switch Summer Sale: Zelda, Hades 2 and Persona 5 Royal Discounted This Week Only</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Nintendo&#8217;s eShop is running one of its rare first-party discount events this weekend, and gamers who missed it last week still have a chance to grab it before it ends. According to Shacknews, the Nintendo Summer Sale has one more week to run, with <em>The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild</em>, <em>Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity</em> and several other in-house titles marked down alongside the usual rotating cast of third-party bargains on PlayStation and Xbox.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why a Nintendo first-party sale is worth noticing</h2>



<p>Nintendo has historically been stingy with discounts on its own catalogue, so a sale event that actually touches flagship Zelda and Fire Emblem games is notable on its own. Shacknews lists <em>Breath of the Wild</em>&#8216;s Switch 2 edition at $48.99 (30% off), <em>Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity</em> at $41.99, <em>Fire Emblem: Three Houses</em> at $41.99, and <em>Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes</em> also at $41.99, all part of the same Summer Sale banner.</p>



<p>Other headline cuts in the Switch lineup include <em>Hades 2</em> on Switch 2 at $20.99, the original <em>Hades</em> at $7.49, <em>Persona 5 Royal</em> at $17.99, and <em>Persona 3 Reload Digital Deluxe Edition</em> for Switch 2 at $45.49. Anyone building out a Switch 2 library with recent ports will also find <em>Split Fiction</em> at $32.49, <em>Star Wars Outlaws</em> at $35.99 and <em>Assassin&#8217;s Creed Shadows Premium Edition</em> at $64.98, all discounted for Switch 2 specifically.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What it means for players</h2>



<p>For players who upgraded to Switch 2 but never finished (or never started) Nintendo&#8217;s back catalogue, this is one of the few windows where the platform holder&#8217;s own games get meaningfully cheaper rather than relying entirely on third-party publishers to cut prices. It is also a reminder, as Shacknews notes, that Switch 1 titles remain fully playable on Switch 2, so bargains like <em>Grand Theft Auto Trilogy: The Definitive Edition</em> at $19.79 or <em>Dark Souls Remastered</em> at $19.99 aren&#8217;t locked out of the newer hardware.</p>



<p>The sale isn&#8217;t isolated to Nintendo&#8217;s own storefront either. Shacknews&#8217; weekend roundup also flags PlayStation&#8217;s July Savings promotion, which includes <em>Ghost of Tsushima Director&#8217;s Cut</em> at $29.39, <em>Horizon Forbidden West</em> at $29.99 and <em>Tekken 8</em> at $23.99, plus PlayStation Plus-exclusive freebies such as <em>Grounded: Fully Yoked Edition</em> and <em>Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2</em>. On Xbox, Game Pass members can pick up <em>Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2</em> at $20.99 and <em>Session: Skate Sim</em> at $11.99, alongside general storefront cuts on <em>Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2</em> and the <em>Red Dead Redemption 1+2</em> bundle.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Prices, regions and what to check before buying</h2>



<p>All the figures above come from Shacknews&#8217; US listing, so they reflect the American eShop, PlayStation Store and Xbox storefronts rather than local pricing. Players in New Zealand and Australia should double-check the same titles on their regional storefronts, since Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft typically run equivalent but separately priced promotions in NZD and AUD rather than mirroring US discounts exactly.</p>



<p>It&#8217;s also worth remembering that Nintendo eShop sales, unlike Steam&#8217;s seasonal blowouts, tend to run for a fixed and often short window without much warning before they close. Shacknews&#8217; report frames this specific event as being in its final week, so anyone eyeing the Zelda or Fire Emblem discounts shouldn&#8217;t assume there&#8217;s time to wait for a bigger cut later in the year.</p>



<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/xenotilts-nintendo-switch-2-version-confirmed-for-july-16-free-upgrade-included/">Xenotilt&#8217;s Nintendo Switch 2 Version Confirmed for July 16, Free Upgrade Included</a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why it matters</h2>



<p>Discount events like this matter beyond the individual savings because they signal how each platform holder is managing its back catalogue heading into the back half of 2026. Nintendo discounting its own first-party output, even briefly, suggests a willingness to move older Switch 1 software alongside the growing wave of Switch 2 enhanced editions, rather than treating legacy titles as untouchable at full price indefinitely.</p>



<p>For cross-platform shoppers, the overlapping PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo sales this particular weekend also make it a reasonable moment to compare where a specific game is cheapest before committing, especially for multiplatform releases like <em>Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2</em> or <em>Warhammer 40K: Darktide</em>, which appear across more than one storefront&#8217;s current promotions.</p>


<p><em>Source: Shacknews.</em></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nintendo-switch-summer-sale-zelda-hades-2-and-persona-5-royal-discounted-this-week-only/">Nintendo Switch Summer Sale: Zelda, Hades 2 and Persona 5 Royal Discounted This Week Only</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>NYT Strands #851 Answers and Hints for July 2, 2026: Today&#8217;s Spangram Solved</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nyt-strands-851-answers-and-hints-for-july-2-2026-todays-spangram-solved/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nyt-strands-851-answers-and-hints-for-july-2-2026-todays-spangram-solved/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 18:07:56 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[daily puzzle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[empty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New York Times Games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NYT Strands]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[puzzle games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[word games]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nyt-strands-851-answers-and-hints-for-july-2-2026-todays-spangram-solved/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Stuck on today's NYT Strands? Here are the hints, spangram, and full answer list for puzzle #851 on July 2, 2026, themed around cooking sauces.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nyt-strands-851-answers-and-hints-for-july-2-2026-todays-spangram-solved/">NYT Strands #851 Answers and Hints for July 2, 2026: Today&#8217;s Spangram Solved</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Players hunting for today&#8217;s NYT Strands solution can find the full breakdown here. According to Insider Gaming, puzzle #851 for July 2, 2026 centers on a theme built around popular cooking sauces, and the outlet has shared hints, the spangram, and every answer needed to complete the grid.</p>



<p>Strands, the New York Times&#8217; word-search spinoff, asks players to locate a set of themed words hidden inside a 6&#215;8 letter grid, along with one special word called the spangram that ties the whole puzzle together. Since its 2024 launch, the game has built a loyal daily following similar to Wordle and Connections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Today&#8217;s Theme and Hints</h2>



<p>Insider Gaming reports that the theme for Strands #851 revolves around sauces commonly used in cooking and dining. To nudge players in the right direction without giving everything away, the outlet offered a trio of clues: one sauce made with a Greek yogurt base often served with gyros, an Italian tomato-based sauce, and a sauce frequently found on the menu at Chinese restaurants.</p>



<p>For those who like to warm up before diving into the themed words, Insider Gaming also listed a handful of starter words that can help unlock in-game hints, including GETS, MECHA, MECH, RITE, and KITE. Finding three unrelated words in the grid triggers a bonus hint from the game itself, a helpful safety net for anyone stuck early on.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Full Answers and Spangram for Strands #851</h2>



<p>For readers who want the complete solution rather than just hints, Insider Gaming confirmed the following themed words for July 2, 2026: SRIRACHA, TZATZIKI, TERIYAKI, MARINARA, and BECHAMEL. The spangram tying the sauces together was revealed as GETSAUCY.</p>



<p>As with every Strands puzzle, all of the letters in the grid are used across the themed answers and the spangram, meaning there&#8217;s no leftover filler once the board is fully solved. Players who correctly identify the spangram see it highlighted in yellow, while the themed words turn blue once found.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How Strands Works and What&#8217;s Next</h2>



<p>Strands is accessible exclusively through the New York Times website or the NYT Games app, and new puzzles roll out daily at midnight local time. Insider Gaming notes that the game&#8217;s original concept came from Juliette Seive, a research director on the NYT Games team, who designed it to capture the kind of viral success Wordle achieved. Tracy Bennett has served as the puzzle&#8217;s editor since launch, overseeing the daily themes and word selections.</p>



<p>Anyone who solves today&#8217;s grid without assistance can look forward to Strands #852, which arrives on July 3, 2026. For players who miss the hints in time, Insider Gaming&#8217;s rundown of the sauce theme, starter words, and full answer list should make catching up on #851 straightforward.</p>


<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/contexto-answer-today-hints-and-solution-for-july-3-2026/">Contexto Answer Today: Hints and Solution for July 3, 2026</a></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/nyt-strands-851-answers-and-hints-for-july-2-2026-todays-spangram-solved/">NYT Strands #851 Answers and Hints for July 2, 2026: Today&#8217;s Spangram Solved</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>Xenotilt&#8217;s Nintendo Switch 2 Version Confirmed for July 16, Free Upgrade Included</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/xenotilts-nintendo-switch-2-version-confirmed-for-july-16-free-upgrade-included/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/xenotilts-nintendo-switch-2-version-confirmed-for-july-16-free-upgrade-included/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:42:56 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Demon's Tilt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[empty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Flarb]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Switch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Switch 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pinball]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Xenotilt]]></category>
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					<description><![CDATA[<p>Flarb and Wiznwar confirm Xenotilt is heading to Nintendo Switch 2 on July 16, 2026, with a free upgrade for existing Switch owners.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/xenotilts-nintendo-switch-2-version-confirmed-for-july-16-free-upgrade-included/">Xenotilt&#8217;s Nintendo Switch 2 Version Confirmed for July 16, Free Upgrade Included</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Developers Flarb and Wiznwar have confirmed that their frenetic pinball shooter Xenotilt is coming to Nintendo Switch 2, with a launch date set for July 16, 2026. As reported by Nintendo Everything, players who already own the original Nintendo Switch version will be able to upgrade to the new edition for free.</p>



<p>The announcement builds on Xenotilt&#8217;s original Switch release, which arrived on October 9, 2025 after being confirmed in September of that year. The Switch 2 edition marks the next step for a game that has already carved out a following among fans of the studio&#8217;s earlier pinball hit, Demon&#8217;s Tilt.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A sequel that leans into bullet-hell chaos</h2>



<p>Xenotilt is billed as the sequel to the cult favorite Demon&#8217;s Tilt, and it keeps the same formula of blending traditional pinball mechanics with shoot-&#8217;em-up intensity. According to the official overview shared by the developers, the game takes place aboard the Samaritan, a derelict ship overrun by a hostile infestation known as the Xenophage swarm.</p>



<p>The table itself spans three stories, giving players a sprawling playfield to navigate while fending off nightmarish bosses. Flarb and Wiznwar describe a turret system that lets players blast enemies and incoming volleys, alongside a perk system offering nine unique upgrades for weapons, defense, and scoring.</p>



<p>Perhaps the standout mechanic is the Multiball Matrix, which can hold up to nine balls simultaneously while triggering perks and fresh multiball opportunities. For players seeking an extra challenge, the game also includes a Crisis Mode time attack with a multiball twist, plus a Hardcore mode that strips things down to a single ball with maximum firepower.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bosses, visuals, and a retro-inspired soundtrack</h2>



<p>The Xenophage swarm brings a rogues&#8217; gallery of enemies to the table, including Hera the Rogue Pirate A.I., a sentient malware that has seized control of the Samaritan, and Chrysalis, a hulking bug tasked with protecting the swarm. Other foes named in the developers&#8217; overview include Tiger Supreme, Star Pilot, Mecha-Neko, Olmech, and the Brood Mother.</p>



<p>Visually, Flarb and Wiznwar describe their approach as &#8220;Hi-Bit,&#8221; using oversized, colorful sprites inspired by the 16-bit and 32-bit console eras, complete with scaling, rotation, and camera zoom effects. The soundtrack, composed by EC2151, aims to capture the guttural, mega-driven sound associated with that same retro period.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Switch owners need to know</h2>



<p>For those who already picked up Xenotilt on the original Nintendo Switch, the transition to Switch 2 should be straightforward. Nintendo Everything confirms that current owners will receive the upgraded version at no additional cost when it launches on July 16, 2026.</p>



<p>New players interested in jumping into the pinball fantasy for the first time can look forward to picking up either version, with the Switch 2 release likely to take advantage of the newer hardware. No further technical specifics, such as resolution or frame rate targets for the Switch 2 edition, have been detailed yet.</p>


<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/star-fox-tops-japans-switch-2-charts-as-tomodachi-life-holds-steady-at-no-2/">Star Fox Tops Japan&#8217;s Switch 2 Charts as Tomodachi Life Holds Steady at No. 2</a></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/xenotilts-nintendo-switch-2-version-confirmed-for-july-16-free-upgrade-included/">Xenotilt&#8217;s Nintendo Switch 2 Version Confirmed for July 16, Free Upgrade Included</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>Intel&#8217;s Nova Lake-S Leak Reveals Two 18-Core Chips With Big Cache, 125W and 65W Variants</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/intels-nova-lake-s-leak-reveals-two-18-core-chips-with-big-cache-125w-and-65w-variants/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/intels-nova-lake-s-leak-reveals-two-18-core-chips-with-big-cache-125w-and-65w-variants/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 13:08:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AMD Ryzen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Core Ultra]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CPU leak]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[intel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nova Lake-S]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PC hardware]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/intels-nova-lake-s-leak-reveals-two-18-core-chips-with-big-cache-125w-and-65w-variants/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>A new leak details two 18-core Nova Lake-S desktop CPUs with Intel's bLLC cache tech, arriving in 125W and 65W power configurations for 2027.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/intels-nova-lake-s-leak-reveals-two-18-core-chips-with-big-cache-125w-and-65w-variants/">Intel&#8217;s Nova Lake-S Leak Reveals Two 18-Core Chips With Big Cache, 125W and 65W Variants</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<p>Fresh details about Intel&#8217;s upcoming Nova Lake-S desktop processors have surfaced, pointing to two new 18-core models that will pack the company&#8217;s large last-level cache technology. According to a report from Wccftech, these chips are expected to belong to the Core Ultra 5 family and will ship in both 125W and 65W power configurations.</p>



<p>The leak comes from hardware leaker Jaykihn and was highlighted by Wccftech&#8217;s Hassan Mujtaba, who has been tracking Intel&#8217;s next-generation desktop lineup for months. Nova Lake-S, officially branded as the Core Ultra 400S series, is shaping up to be one of Intel&#8217;s most segmented desktop launches yet, with configurations spanning single-compute tile and dual-compute tile designs alongside various cache and power options.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What the New 18-Core Chips Bring</h2>



<p>Per the leaked information, the two 18-core Nova Lake-S chips will each carry a 6 P-Core, 8 E-Core, and 4 LP-E Core arrangement, adding up to 18 cores and 18 threads. The Performance cores are said to use Intel&#8217;s Coyote Cove architecture, while the Efficiency cores rely on the newer Arctic Wolf design.</p>



<p>Both variants reportedly include Intel&#8217;s bLLC, or &#8220;Big Last Level Cache,&#8221; technology, which on single-compute tile models can reportedly scale up to 144MB. One version is listed at 125W and unlocked for overclocking, while the other is a 65W, non-K part aimed at more power-conscious builds. Wccftech notes these sit within a broader single-compute tile family that also includes 8-core and 16-core configurations, some with bLLC and some without.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How Nova Lake-S Compares to AMD&#8217;s Next Chips</h2>



<p>Looking at the full picture painted by Wccftech&#8217;s die configuration breakdown, Nova Lake-S will top out with a 52-core dual-compute tile flagship, combining two 28-core dies each with 8 P-Cores, 16 E-Cores, and bLLC. That top-end part is said to support up to 320MB of combined L2 and L3 cache and up to 288MB of bLLC cache specifically.</p>



<p>Wccftech&#8217;s comparison table also pits Nova Lake-S against AMD&#8217;s rumored Ryzen &#8220;Olympic Ridge&#8221; lineup built on Zen 6. Intel&#8217;s chips reportedly max out at 52 cores and 52 threads versus AMD&#8217;s 24 cores and 48 threads, though both platforms are said to be manufactured on TSMC&#8217;s N2P process node. Nova Lake-S is expected to use Intel&#8217;s new LGA 1954 socket, while AMD&#8217;s next chips are expected to stick with the existing AM5 platform, and both companies&#8217; new CPUs are currently pegged for a 2027 launch window.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Longer Road Before Launch</h2>



<p>Wccftech points out that single-compute tile Nova Lake-S models are expected to arrive in early 2027, with dual-compute tile parts following several months later. That means enthusiasts still have a considerable wait ahead before these chips reach retail, though leaks like this one are expected to keep trickling out throughout the rest of 2026.</p>



<p>For PC gamers watching the CPU market, the timing matters. With both Intel and AMD apparently readying substantial architectural upgrades for roughly the same window, the next desktop CPU generation could bring one of the more competitive matchups in recent memory, assuming both companies deliver on their current roadmaps.</p>


<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/steam-machine-owner-reports-first-red-line-of-death-gpu-failure-just-20-minutes-in/">Steam Machine Owner Reports First &#8220;Red Line of Death&#8221; GPU Failure Just 20 Minutes In</a></p><p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/intels-nova-lake-s-leak-reveals-two-18-core-chips-with-big-cache-125w-and-65w-variants/">Intel&#8217;s Nova Lake-S Leak Reveals Two 18-Core Chips With Big Cache, 125W and 65W Variants</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>Lucky Block Rush Codes for July 2026: Free Luck Potions and Rewards</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/lucky-block-rush-codes-for-july-2026-free-luck-potions-and-rewards/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/lucky-block-rush-codes-for-july-2026-free-luck-potions-and-rewards/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 10:42:51 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gacha games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[game codes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[idle games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lucky Block Rush]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Roblox]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Roblox codes]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/lucky-block-rush-codes-for-july-2026-free-luck-potions-and-rewards/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Here's every active Lucky Block Rush code for July 2026, including how to redeem them for free Luck Potions and other in-game rewards on Roblox.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/lucky-block-rush-codes-for-july-2026-free-luck-potions-and-rewards/">Lucky Block Rush Codes for July 2026: Free Luck Potions and Rewards</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<p>Roblox experience Lucky Block Rush has a fresh batch of redeemable codes for July 2026, giving players free Luck Potions and other bonus items to speed up progression. According to Insider Gaming, the codes can be swapped for in-game freebies through the title&#8217;s built-in redemption menu, though the list of active codes remains fairly short this month.</p>



<p>Lucky Block Rush tasks players with battling increasingly tough enemies to raise their luck stat, with victories rewarding Lucky Blocks that contain collectible Brainrots. These items generate passive income even while players are offline, blending active combat with idle-style progression, as detailed by Insider Gaming.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Active Lucky Block Rush Codes for July 2026</h2>



<p>As of this month, Insider Gaming lists two working codes for Lucky Block Rush:</p>



<p><strong>TOY</strong> — redeems for 1x Luck Potion<br><strong>release</strong> — redeems for 1x Hacked Frulli Frula</p>



<p>There are currently no expired codes to report, meaning both of the above should still work for players jumping into the experience this month.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Redeem the Codes</h2>



<p>Redeeming codes in Lucky Block Rush follows the same straightforward process found in most Roblox titles. Insider Gaming outlines the steps as follows:</p>



<p>Launch Lucky Block Rush on Roblox, then locate the &#8220;Shop&#8221; button on the right side of the screen. From there, select the &#8220;Codes&#8221; tab within the menu, type or paste in a working code, and hit verify to claim the reward.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where to Find New Codes</h2>



<p>Because Lucky Block Rush doesn&#8217;t notify players when new codes drop, staying updated requires checking the right channels. Insider Gaming notes that the game&#8217;s official Discord server, run by developers xFrozen and Dudes, is typically the first place new codes and update announcements appear.</p>



<p>Developers also occasionally share codes through social media and Roblox group pages, often tied to milestones like player count goals, content updates, or community celebrations. Since these drops can appear without warning and codes may expire quickly, checking back regularly is the best way to avoid missing out on free Brainrots and Luck Potions.</p>



<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/lineage-piece-codes-for-july-2026-free-rerolls-coins-and-more/">Lineage Piece Codes for July 2026: Free Rerolls, Coins and More</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/lucky-block-rush-codes-for-july-2026-free-luck-potions-and-rewards/">Lucky Block Rush Codes for July 2026: Free Luck Potions and Rewards</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>T1&#8217;s Worlds 2025 Skins Hide Faker&#8217;s Six Stars and Doran&#8217;s &#8220;Krug Lord&#8221; Meme</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/t1s-worlds-2025-skins-hide-fakers-six-stars-and-dorans-krug-lord-meme/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/t1s-worlds-2025-skins-hide-fakers-six-stars-and-dorans-krug-lord-meme/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 08:08:03 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[empty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[esports skins]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Faker]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[League of Legends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Riot Games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[T1]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Worlds 2025]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/t1s-worlds-2025-skins-hide-fakers-six-stars-and-dorans-krug-lord-meme/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Riot's new T1 Worlds 2025 championship skins pack personal easter eggs, from Faker's six title stars to Doran's beloved Krug Lord meme.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/t1s-worlds-2025-skins-hide-fakers-six-stars-and-dorans-krug-lord-meme/">T1&#8217;s Worlds 2025 Skins Hide Faker&#8217;s Six Stars and Doran&#8217;s &#8220;Krug Lord&#8221; Meme</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<p>Riot Games has unveiled the full set of T1&#8217;s Worlds 2025 championship skins, and as dotesports.com reports, each design is stuffed with personal references, inside jokes, and career milestones tied to the players themselves. The five-champion &#8220;Ascended Warriors&#8221; collection celebrates T1&#8217;s historic three-peat, reimagining the roster as legendary figures wrapped in wings, gold armor, and celestial effects.</p>



<p>Beyond the flashy visual upgrades typical of championship skins, Riot worked directly with each T1 player to fold in details only longtime fans of the team would immediately catch, according to dotesports.com. From a beloved community meme to a literal recreation of a Worlds celebration, the line reads like a scrapbook of T1&#8217;s championship run.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Doran&#8217;s Ambessa Pays Tribute to the &#8220;Krug Lord&#8221;</h2>



<p>Ambessa became Doran&#8217;s first championship skin after the community voted for the champion in a fan poll, dotesports.com notes. Doran reportedly asked for a lion&#8217;s mane hairstyle, dark clothing, and bright red weapon accents to give Ambessa a warrior-like presence rather than a standard armored look.</p>



<p>The skin&#8217;s recall animation hides one of the collection&#8217;s funniest touches: Ambessa pulls the Doran&#8217;s starter items from the Worlds trophy while a Krug looks on nearby. That detail directly nods to Doran&#8217;s long-running &#8220;Krug Lord&#8221; meme within the community, according to dotesports.com. An earlier version of the ultimate ability reportedly displayed Doran&#8217;s face, but that element was removed at his request in a later update.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Oner&#8217;s Xin Zhao Recreates His Title-Winning Champions</h2>



<p>Oner kept his requests simple, asking for a jacket-style cape inspired by how he wears his jacket on stage, plus bold red weaponry matching T1&#8217;s colors, dotesports.com reports. Instead of a traditional cape, Riot&#8217;s artists built a dynamic jacket silhouette that moves during gameplay.</p>



<p>The recall animation doubles as a tribute to his championship path, with Xin Zhao mimicking signature moves from Lee Sin, Poppy, and Pantheon — the three champions Oner piloted en route to his World titles. At his request, the animation also ends with the T1 team jacket appearing, according to dotesports.com.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Faker&#8217;s Galio Marks Six World Championships</h2>



<p>Faker&#8217;s Galio skin has long been one of the community&#8217;s most requested designs, and dotesports.com details how Riot reshaped Galio&#8217;s wings so their silhouette echoes the T1 logo, requiring brand-new animation work. The recall sequence shows six stars orbiting Galio before he ascends skyward, a direct reference to Faker&#8217;s six World Championship victories, with the T1 logo appearing beneath him at the finish.</p>



<p>According to dotesports.com, Faker even suggested enlarging the cosmic backdrop, though Riot scaled it back to keep the effect readable in matches. Galio&#8217;s Q ability also incorporates the Summoner&#8217;s Cup into its visuals, while his taunt recreates Faker&#8217;s iconic &#8220;shush&#8221; gesture — the same celebration he&#8217;s used in cinematics to silence doubters. The skin brings Faker&#8217;s in-game skin total to ten.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gumayusi&#8217;s Yunara and the Team&#8217;s Personal Touches</h2>



<p>Gumayusi picked Yunara partly because her designer, Max Perlman, had said the champion was essentially built around his playstyle, dotesports.com reports. Leaning into her softer side, Gumayusi asked for a twin-bun hairstyle inspired by the Korean character Pucca and a more stylish overall look.</p>



<p>One easter egg hides inside Yunara&#8217;s orb, where T1&#8217;s mascot Ati appears in different colors. Gumayusi also conceived the recall animation himself, depicting Yunara meditating through hardship before an emotional payoff, according to dotesports.com. The report also references a Prestige Miss Fortune variant loaded with additional nods to Gumayusi&#8217;s career, alongside Keria&#8217;s Seraphine skin, which recreates his emotional Worlds celebration moment.</p>



<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/why-gaming-crossovers-like-fortnite-x-marvel-keep-winning-over-players/">Why Gaming Crossovers Like Fortnite x Marvel Keep Winning Over Players</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/t1s-worlds-2025-skins-hide-fakers-six-stars-and-dorans-krug-lord-meme/">T1&#8217;s Worlds 2025 Skins Hide Faker&#8217;s Six Stars and Doran&#8217;s &#8220;Krug Lord&#8221; Meme</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>Switch 2 Co-Op Puzzler Orbitals Gets Physical Cartridge Release on Sept 3</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/switch-2-co-op-puzzler-orbitals-gets-physical-cartridge-release-on-sept-3/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/switch-2-co-op-puzzler-orbitals-gets-physical-cartridge-release-on-sept-3/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 07:07:57 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[co-op games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[indie games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo eShop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Switch 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Orbitals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physical games]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/switch-2-co-op-puzzler-orbitals-gets-physical-cartridge-release-on-sept-3/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Orbitals, the retro-anime co-op puzzle adventure exclusive to Switch 2, confirms a physical cartridge release arriving September 3, plus a Deluxe Edition.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/switch-2-co-op-puzzler-orbitals-gets-physical-cartridge-release-on-sept-3/">Switch 2 Co-Op Puzzler Orbitals Gets Physical Cartridge Release on Sept 3</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<p>The team behind Orbitals, the retro anime-styled co-op puzzle adventure exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, has confirmed its physical edition will include a full game cartridge. As reported by Nintendo Life, the developers showcased the physical release via the game&#8217;s social media account, asking fans &#8220;So who&#8217;s grabbing one of these on September 3rd?&#8221;</p>



<p>The announcement lands just days after Sony revealed it plans to phase out disc-based physical releases for PlayStation by 2028, a decision that has sparked widespread debate across the gaming industry. According to Nintendo Life, several developers have used the moment to spotlight their own upcoming physical releases, with Orbitals among the titles capitalising on the renewed conversation around game ownership and cartridges versus digital-only formats.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What&#8217;s Included in the Physical Release</h2>



<p>Orbitals&#8217; physical version was originally confirmed back in June, with the development team stating at the time that the release would ship with the &#8220;full game on cartridge,&#8221; according to Nintendo Life. This means players picking up the physical copy won&#8217;t need a day-one download to access the complete experience, addressing a common concern among Switch 2 owners after some other titles launched with minimal data on the cartridge itself.</p>



<p>Nintendo Life also notes that a &#8216;Deluxe Edition&#8217; is currently available for pre-order on the Nintendo eShop. That bundle includes extra in-game cosmetic skins alongside a digital artbook and soundtrack, giving fans an option beyond the standard physical cartridge for those who want additional collectible content.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Switch 2 Console Exclusive Launching in September</h2>



<p>Orbitals is set to launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on September 3, 2026, per Nintendo Life&#8217;s reporting. The game has been positioned as a co-op puzzle adventure with a distinct retro-anime art style, and its console-exclusive status makes it one of the more notable third-party titles built specifically around Switch 2&#8217;s hardware capabilities.</p>



<p>The timing of the physical release promotion, arriving right after Sony&#8217;s disc-free PlayStation announcement, has not gone unnoticed by fans and commentators following the story. With physical media increasingly becoming a talking point in the console space, Orbitals&#8217; full-cartridge approach offers a contrasting example of how some developers are still committing to traditional physical formats on Nintendo&#8217;s newest hardware.</p>


<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/sonys-disc-free-playstation-shift-could-fuel-a-pc-gaming-and-esports-boom/">Sony&#8217;s Disc-Free PlayStation Shift Could Fuel a PC Gaming and Esports Boom</a></p>


<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why This Matters for Switch 2 Owners</h2>



<p>For collectors and physical media enthusiasts, Orbitals represents another addition to the growing library of Switch 2 exclusives receiving full cartridge releases rather than &#8220;code in a box&#8221; solutions. As the industry grapples with Sony&#8217;s shift away from discs, Nintendo&#8217;s continued support for physical game cards may become an increasingly distinguishing factor for players choosing between platforms.</p>



<p>Fans interested in Orbitals can pre-order either the standard physical edition or the Deluxe Edition ahead of the game&#8217;s September 3 release date on the Nintendo eShop, as detailed by Nintendo Life.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/switch-2-co-op-puzzler-orbitals-gets-physical-cartridge-release-on-sept-3/">Switch 2 Co-Op Puzzler Orbitals Gets Physical Cartridge Release on Sept 3</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>Roguelike Window-Cleaning Sim SKY THE SCRAPER Heads to PS5, Switch 2, Switch</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/roguelike-window-cleaning-sim-sky-the-scraper-heads-to-ps5-switch-2-switch/</link>
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		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 06:43:32 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chorus Worldwide]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Switch]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nintendo Switch 2]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PS5]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[roguelike]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sky the Scraper]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/roguelike-window-cleaning-sim-sky-the-scraper-heads-to-ps5-switch-2-switch/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Chorus Worldwide will bring the PC roguelike SKY THE SCRAPER to PS5, Switch, and Switch 2, with console builds playable at OPEN GAME FEST 2026.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/roguelike-window-cleaning-sim-sky-the-scraper-heads-to-ps5-switch-2-switch/">Roguelike Window-Cleaning Sim SKY THE SCRAPER Heads to PS5, Switch 2, Switch</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Chorus Worldwide has announced that it will bring the roguelike action game SKY THE SCRAPER to PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and the original Nintendo Switch. As reported by Gematsu, the publisher did not share a specific release date for the console versions of the Ryo Kobuchi-developed title.</p>



<p>SKY THE SCRAPER originally launched on PC via Steam on July 30, 2025, published by HYPER REAL and Toydium. According to Gematsu, players will get an early chance to try the upcoming console builds when they are made playable at OPEN GAME FEST 2026 in Kyoto, Japan, on July 11.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Roguelike About High-Rise Window Cleaning</h2>



<p>SKY THE SCRAPER casts players as Sky, a young man chasing an uncertain future while working as a high-rise window cleaner. Per the game&#8217;s Steam page, as cited by Gematsu, players must scrub as much grime as possible within a time limit to earn better rewards and reviews, using wire and wall movement mechanics for fast, precise cleaning.</p>



<p>The stakes are notably physical for a cleaning game. If Sky loses suction, falls off the edge of a building, or crashes into birds mid-job, he plummets, ending the workday and potentially triggering game-over injuries. The official description stresses a simple rule: safety first.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Roguelike Progression and Daily Life Balance</h2>



<p>According to the Steam listing shared by Gematsu, no two cleaning jobs are identical, with grime types, building layouts, weather, time of day, and obstacles all varying to keep players adapting on the fly. Outside of work, Sky must balance workdays with days off, choosing his shifts from company options while still shaping how he spends his free time.</p>



<p>Players can also upgrade Sky&#8217;s cleaning equipment and unlock new abilities through a &#8220;Skill Synapse&#8221; system, building out an optimal setup as his ambitions grow. Relationships with other characters factor into the story too, and failing to complete tasks may force players to abandon Sky&#8217;s dream altogether.</p>



<p>The core loop revolves around surviving a two-month stretch by hitting benchmarks tied to money, ambition, and trust. Gematsu notes that the ending players reach depends heavily on how that two-month period is spent, with different outcomes unlocking new stories, game modes, or even playable characters with distinct skill sets, adding replay value to subsequent runs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What This Means for Console Players</h2>



<p>The console expansion gives SKY THE SCRAPER a chance to reach a wider audience beyond its original PC release, particularly on Nintendo&#8217;s newly launched Switch 2 hardware. While Chorus Worldwide has not confirmed pricing or a firm launch window, the OPEN GAME FEST 2026 demo in Kyoto should offer the first hands-on look at how the roguelike&#8217;s physics-driven cleaning mechanics translate to console controllers.</p>



<p><strong>Read also:</strong> <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/hoa-2-confirmed-for-physical-release-on-nintendo-switch-2/">Hoa 2 Confirmed for Physical Release on Nintendo Switch 2</a></p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/roguelike-window-cleaning-sim-sky-the-scraper-heads-to-ps5-switch-2-switch/">Roguelike Window-Cleaning Sim SKY THE SCRAPER Heads to PS5, Switch 2, Switch</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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		<title>Wordle #1840 Answer and Hints for July 3, 2026</title>
		<link>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/wordle-1840-answer-and-hints-for-july-3-2026/</link>
					<comments>https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/wordle-1840-answer-and-hints-for-july-3-2026/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Tane Wharekura]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 06:13:35 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[eSports News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[daily puzzle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[NYTimes Games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[puzzle games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[word puzzle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wordle]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/wordle-1840-answer-and-hints-for-july-3-2026/</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Stuck on today's puzzle? Here are hints, starter word suggestions, and the full answer for Wordle #1840, released July 3, 2026.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/wordle-1840-answer-and-hints-for-july-3-2026/">Wordle #1840 Answer and Hints for July 3, 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Wordle players looking for a boost on July 3, 2026 can find both hints and the full solution for puzzle #1840 right here. According to Insider Gaming&#8217;s daily Wordle breakdown, today&#8217;s answer sits at a moderate difficulty level, with the New York Times Wordle Bot review noting it typically takes players around 4.2 guesses out of a possible six to land on it.</p>



<p>For those unfamiliar, Wordle is the viral five-letter word game created by Josh Wardle that eventually made its way to The New York Times in early 2022. Players get six attempts to guess the correct word, with the game providing colour-coded feedback after every try: green for a correct letter in the right spot, yellow for a correct letter in the wrong spot, and gray for letters that don&#8217;t appear in the answer at all.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hints for Wordle #1840</h2>



<p>If you&#8217;re not ready for the full answer just yet, Insider Gaming has shared a handful of clues to help narrow things down without spoiling the puzzle outright. The word refers to a long, thin object used for a specific purpose, and it&#8217;s commonly linked to both sports and music.</p>



<p>Another hint notes that the object can be passed between people or used to direct a group, with a final clue pointing toward something you&#8217;d spot in a relay race or gripped by an orchestra conductor. Those clues together should be enough for seasoned players to crack the puzzle without needing the answer spelled out.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Good starter words to try</h2>



<p>For players who want a head start without jumping straight to the solution, Insider Gaming suggests a few opening words that could help reveal useful letters early on. Recommended starters include ABOUT, TANGO, BANJO, BOAST, and BLOAT.</p>



<p>These words share overlapping letters with today&#8217;s answer, making them solid picks for narrowing down possibilities in your first couple of guesses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Today&#8217;s Wordle answer, revealed</h2>



<p>For anyone who&#8217;s exhausted the hints and starter words and still needs the answer, Insider Gaming confirms that the solution to Wordle #1840 for July 3, 2026 is BATON.</p>



<p>As defined in the source material, a baton can refer to a twirled rod carried by a drum major or majorette, a thin stick used by an orchestra conductor to indicate rhythm, or a staff carried by an official as a symbol of authority — fitting neatly with today&#8217;s clues about sports and music.</p>



<p>Wordle refreshes every day at midnight local time, so players can look forward to puzzle #1841 arriving right after today&#8217;s game wraps up. Whether you solved it unaided or needed a nudge, checking back daily for hints remains a solid way to keep your streak alive.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com/esports-news/wordle-1840-answer-and-hints-for-july-3-2026/">Wordle #1840 Answer and Hints for July 3, 2026</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.shanethegamer.com">Shane the Gamer</a>.</p>
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