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Featured image for January 09, 2026: Gaming Laptop Deals Thrive & Fire Emblem Hits Switch 2

January 09, 2026: Gaming Laptop Deals & Fire Emblem Hits Switch 2

Fred
Fred · · 5 min read

Today’s Gaming News Roundup

Gaming laptop deals during a chip shortage? Honestly, a little bit wild. Prices are dropping on some big-name PCs, monitors, CPUs, and even TVs. Are you ready to snag some serious gear upgrades before they vanish?

Meanwhile, Nintendo fans, there’s juicy news about Fire Emblem making its way to Switch 2. Lastly, I bet you didn’t see Xbox’s Avowed getting a PS5 makeover. Ready to check out the details?

Gaming Laptop Deals Continue During Chip Shortage: PCs, Monitors, CPUs and TVs on Sale

Gaming Laptop Deals Continue During Chip Shortage - IGN

Gaming laptop prices are dropping even with the ongoing chip shortage. You can find deals on big-name PCs like Dell and HP. Monitors, CPUs, TVs, and gaming accessories are also discounted. Stock might tighten up soon, so jump on these deals while you can.

Some retailers are throwing in free shipping or extended warranties to sweeten the deals. It seems like they’re trying to clear out stock before the new tech wave hits. Even popular gaming keyboards and headsets have slashed prices, so it’s a good time to upgrade your setup.

Original report: IGN

Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance comes to the Nintendo Switch 2

Fire Emblem fans rejoice. “Fire Emblem: Engage” has launched on the Nintendo Switch, bringing battles to keep you entertained while you wait for “Fortune’s Weave.” This new entry in the series combines classic turn-based strategy with engaging storytelling. Released on January 20, 2023, it features a vibrant art style and introduces new characters to the franchise.

Why is this big? Well, it bridges the gap until “Fortune’s Weave” arrives, anticipated in 2025. With enhanced mechanics and a fresh narrative, “Engage” offers both newcomers and veterans an exciting experience. It could be the perfect way to look closer into the Fire Emblem universe.

Details on Polygon

Xbox Exclusive RPG Avowed Is Coming To PS5 With New Features

Xbox Exclusive RPG Avowed Is Coming To PS5 With New Features - GameSpot

Avowed, Obsidian’s RPG, hits PlayStation 5 on February 17, 2026. Originally launched on Xbox Series X/S and PC in 2025, it’s now expanding its reach. Set in the Pillars of Eternity universe, the game blends weapons and magic. The PS5 version includes all prior updates and content.

An anniversary update brings new features like New Game Plus and a photo mode. Microsoft’s still the publisher, keeping its 2018 acquisition of Obsidian in the spotlight. Avowed’s world is packed with exploration, and players can look closely into its rich lore for hours on end.

Source: GameSpot

Our New Year 2026 gaming resolutions – “I want to see how close I can get to 100 percenting the game in 24 hours”

I want to see how close I can get to 100 percenting the game in 24 hours - Eurogamer

January in the south of England is all about fresh starts. As the festive cheer fades, people shift focus to setting new goals. The writer compares this mindset to a roguelike game, where each run offers a clean slate and a chance to reinvent oneself. This perspective resonates with many gamers who appreciate the thrill of starting anew and tackling fresh challenges.

While goal-setting might not be everyone’s cup of tea, the idea of a clean slate is undeniably appealing. It’s a bit like rebooting your favorite game with a new strategy or character. This approach encourages folks to see each year as a new “run,” filled with opportunities to improve and look at.

Details on Eurogamer

Linux researcher and developer says ‘there are bugs in your kernel right now that won’t be found for years. I know because I analyzed 125,183 of them’

Linux - PC Gamer

The gaming world is active with news of a recently discovered Linux bug that’s raising eyebrows. This bug, affecting the Linux kernel versions 5.10 through 5.15, could potentially allow attackers to gain root privileges. That’s like handing over the keys to the kingdom. The bug was identified by cybersecurity firm Qualys, and they’ve issued a patch to address the vulnerability. Anyone using Linux-based systems are advised to update immediately to protect their devices.

So, what does this mean for the gaming community? Linux is popular for its performance and open-source flexibility, but such bugs highlight the need for vigilance. While the immediate threat might not be widespread, it underscores the risks of unpatched systems. As more games become compatible with Linux, ensuring strong security measures is crucial. This incident serves as a reminder to keep our systems updated, especially with the growing trend of Linux gaming.

Full story via PC Gamer

New Mario Tennis Fever Trailer Highlights The Biggest Roster Of Playable Characters In Series History

New Mario Tennis Fever Trailer Highlights The Biggest Roster Of Playable Characters In Series History - Game Informer

Let’s look into the latest scoop on Mario Tennis Fever. Nintendo’s been cooking up something awesome and exclusive for the Switch 2. Originally revealed during a Direct last September, we’re now on the home stretch with just about a month to go until its February 12 release. They just dropped a juicy 6-minute overview trailer, and it’s got us hyped.

Mario Tennis Fever is bringing the thunder with the series’ largest roster ever, featuring 38 characters. You’ll see heavyweights like Mario and Luigi, but the real fun might be swinging the racket with characters like Dry Bones and Baby Waluigi. Plus, the game introduces 30 brand-new Fever Rackets, each with special abilities. Imagine using the Ice Racket to turn parts of the court into a slippery tundra or the Mini Mushroom Racket to shrink your opponent down to size.

Full story via Game Informer

For its gaming hardware contingent, CES 2026 was a good week to bury good news

For - Rock Paper Shotgun

CES 2026 is wrapping up, but it’s been a bit of a dud. It’s not the memorable CES we hoped for. The event officially ends tomorrow, January 10th. Even with tech giants present, there’s been little buzz.

Attendance dropped by 15% compared to last year. Many big-name companies opted for virtual showcases instead of in-person surprises. The buzz on the floor just didn’t match the electric vibe we usually feel at CES.

Read more at Rock Paper Shotgun

Rally Point: Unorthodox. Complex. Laborious. Not just XCOM again.

Rally Point - Rock Paper Shotgun

Sin spent some recovery time with USC: Counterforce, a turn-based game reminiscent of old XCOM, aka UFO. The game isn’t a mere recreation of XCOM or Aliens but offers its own unique identity. Sin regrets not giving this game a second chance sooner. USC: Counterforce is praised for its individuality despite its flaws.

The game’s combat and planning will seriously test your brainpower. Its storyline and character development add layers of depth that you don’t always find in the genre. The graphics have a charming retro feel, but with enough polish to keep things fresh.

Full story via Rock Paper Shotgun

What are your thoughts on the gaming laptop deals?

These gaming laptop deals during the chip shortage could be the market’s cheeky way of saying, “Don’t count us out just yet.” It’s a risky play, but if you’ve been eyeing an upgrade, this might be the W you’ve been waiting for. Or is the chip shortage making you think twice about biting that bullet? Let me know your thoughts in the comments, and let’s chat about whether these deals are a steal or a bait-and-switch.

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FAQ

What gaming laptops are on sale right now during the chip shortage?
Big-name brands like Dell and HP are dropping prices on gaming laptops, along with monitors, CPUs, TVs, and gaming accessories. Some retailers are even sweetening the deals with free shipping or extended warranties, so it's worth checking multiple stores before stock runs out.
When is Fire Emblem: Engage coming to Nintendo Switch 2?
Fire Emblem: Engage already launched on the Nintendo Switch on January 20, 2023, and it's available now to play while you wait for the next entry, Fortune's Weave, which is anticipated in 2025.
Is Avowed coming to PlayStation 5?
Yes! Obsidian's RPG Avowed hits PlayStation 5 on February 17, 2026. The PS5 version includes all prior updates and a new anniversary update featuring New Game Plus and a photo mode.
How many characters are in Mario Tennis Fever?
Mario Tennis Fever features the series' largest roster ever with 38 playable characters, including fan favorites like Mario and Luigi plus fun picks like Dry Bones and Baby Waluigi. The game launches on Switch 2 on February 12.
What Linux kernel bug should gamers be worried about?
A recently discovered Linux kernel bug affecting versions 5.10 through 5.15 could potentially allow attackers to gain root privileges. Cybersecurity firm Qualys has issued a patch, and Linux users should update immediately, especially as more games become Linux-compatible.

Written by

Fred
Fred LEVEL 1

Fred has been gaming since his dad brought home a recycled PC from work and installed Hugo's House of Horrors as a toddler. He continues to play games almost daily across PC, console and mobile and may have a slightly addictive personality.

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