Follow ZDNET:  Add us as a preferred source  on Google. Often, when I begin reviewing a new gaming laptop, I get lost in the experience. I'm a big gamer, and there have been many times when I've fired up one of these machines outside of work simply because I enjoy playing my favorite titles on them. My budget desktop can't compare. I had that experience over the past few weeks while testing the MSI Raider 16 Max HX , one of the company's latest flagship models. Also: Best VPN services 2026: Expert tested and recommended What makes this laptop particularly interesting is the meaningful hardware improvements. It still suffers from some of the same drawbacks common to its category, but the Raider 16 does a commendable job at minimizing those issues while providing the experience gamers expect. Best laptop deals of the week Deals are selected by the CNET Group commerce team, and may be unrelated to this article. Smarter design To me, it seems like MSI has taken inspiration from recent design trends.…