In this edition of the overkill Digest newsletter, we finally look at the Switch 2 spec sheet, Valve's new rating system, and why I suddenly need a 3D Printer.
Hi, hello, and welcome to the 100th overkill Digest newsletter.
I somehow didn't realize we're already 100 issues in. This means I've been doing this newsletter for two years now, knowing I took a few Sundays off here and there. That being said, I wouldn't do this if I didn't know someone was reading it on the other side, so I have to especially thank you for being a subscriber and reading this, whether you joined recently or a while ago. To 100 more issues!
After sharing Thursday's premium comment on how I take notes, I ended up spending way too much money, picking up a bunch of new pens, pencils, notebooks, and accessories. This rabbit hole goes DEEP! Which made me wonder: while it's not tech, would you be interested in my analogue note-taking setup, what pens I use, why I prefer certain types of notebooks, and all that? Or should this go to my personal blog? Thankfully, we have a poll feature:
Where should I publish my analogue note-taking setup
But since we're doing a survey, I have one more question. I'm currently thinking a lot about AI (see here and here). And while I am generally critical towards AI when it comes to replacing creativity, I still follow the industry closely and use certain AI use cases very frequently. So I was wondering, is this something you care about? Do you want me to start linking (and writing) some AI-content on overkill (knowing that you currently can't escape it, since everyone and their mother is talking about it)? Let's use the poll feature again:
Shall I start sharing AI news, comments, and more?
Ok, enough questions, let's get to this week's news!
🚀 Big Moves
- Zotac will show their next handheld at Computex. And probably the most intriguing change is that it will now use Manjaro Linux as its operating system. Which brings me to...
- Valve is sharing how SteamOS compatibility works. Valve is gearing up for the launch of SteamOS on other platforms (like that Zone, it's probably easy to just replace Manjaro Linux) by launching a new rating system. And all this says is whether a game runs on SteamOS or not, including a few details. Sounds good enough.
🎮 Platform Updates
- The Nintendo Switch 2 tech spec sheet is finally live. Richard from Digital Foundry wrote this one, so you know it'll be nerdy. But in summary: 2× faster CPU, 6× more powerful GPU, and triple the memory for games. And of course, it supports DLSS.
- GE-Proton 10.1 released. It's based on the Proton 10 update released by Valve, and adds a whole bunch of additional fixes and changes.
💻 Hardware & Software
- I reviewed the reMarkable Paper Pro. It's the third e-ink device after the Scribe 2 and the Manta. So far, it's the one I ended up using the most, simply because it makes the most sense for my workflow. I'll do a little comparison post in the future to help you decide which one to pick. And on that note, I had a call with Daylight Computer this week, so maybe I am not done testing tablets just yet.
- This deskmate can charge your phone. Something new for your desk battlestations! If I weren't a fan of glass mousepads, I'd probably get this.
- You can 3D print a Steam Deck work case. I originally discovered this project thanks to Minimachines (yes, I speak French), and it looks very cool. It transforms the Steam Deck into an on-the-go work machine by using a Logitech Pebble 2 Keyboard. There's even a "backpack" to bring a charger and a mouse. I think I need a 3D printer???
- AYANEO is teasing a new Flip. Not much is known, except it'll be called Flip 1S. Normally, '1S' is what AYANEO calls minor hardware bumps, but going by that tweet, they might plan to change more.
🎲 Playthings
- Nintendo shared what free upgrades Switch 1 games will get. It's mostly improved graphics, performance tweaks, and new features such as GameShare. I'm getting hyped, the release is cloooooose!
- The Final Fantasy x MTG set looks so good. The number of people who are into this set is crazy. I know hardcore Magic players might not be overly happy, but I am excited to play these cards. I've been planning two commander decks already. Here are all the cards shown so far.
- Epic and Apple are still fighting over Fortnite. "I'm tired, Boss."
- Stellar Blade is coming to PC on June 11. And it doesn't require a PSN account. Also, any bets on how long it'll take for the first mods to be released??? You know exactly which ones I am talking about.
📌 Quick Hits
- In case you forgot, we launched a WhatsApp channel.
- Someone 3D printed Mini Motorways. And one more reason to get a 3D printer, the last one being this.
- How video game sex scenes are made. File this one under "for research".
Ok, that's all. Thanks for reading!
See you,
Kevin