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AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Is Minecraft down today on Monday, June 29? Latest updates

On June 29, 2026, players of Minecraft are experiencing difficulties connecting to the game, with widespread reports of issues across social media. There has been no official communication from Mojang about the game's status, and there are no definitive answers regarding when the game will be restored.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

A Disco Elysium writer once told Josh Sawyer that ‘we can do better than this now,’ and Sawyer agrees

Josh Sawyer, known for his work on Fallout: New Vegas, Pillars of Eternity, and Pentiment, discussed the collaborative nature of game development on the Human Can Opener Podcast. He expressed interest in critiques of his past work, particularly regarding narrative choice in RPGs. Sawyer shared that a writer from Disco Elysium reached out to propose a modern response to his earlier presentation, indicating progress in understanding narrative mechanics in the industry. He emphasized the importance of learning from each other and acknowledged the ongoing exchange of ideas among developers. Sawyer noted the traditional approach to branching dialogue in RPGs can feel constrained but believes there are always new methods to explore. He advocates for mutual respect and encouragement within the industry, emphasizing a shared goal of improvement and innovation.
An enthusiast built a Valve Steam Machine from an old PC for $200.
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

An enthusiast built a Valve Steam Machine from an old PC for $200.

Valve's new Steam Machine console, called the GabeCube, has a base price of ,049 and an upgraded version priced at ,428. A blogger demonstrated that a comparable gaming device could be built for 0 using a refurbished Dell Optiplex and a used Radeon RX 5500 XT graphics card. The custom case was designed as an 8-inch cube, and the software used was Bazzite Linux with the SteamOS interface. The homemade console achieved an average performance of 62.7 frames per second in Cyberpunk 2077 and over 300 FPS in Portal, with a total system power consumption of 200 watts under maximum load.
Windows 11 just changed the name of Xbox mode (kind of)
Winsage
June 29, 2026

Windows 11 just changed the name of Xbox mode (kind of)

The May 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 introduced "XBOX mode," replacing the previous "Xbox mode" as part of Microsoft's rebranding effort to align its gaming identity with the original console. This change was influenced by community feedback, with Xbox CEO Asha Sharma noting user preference for the all-caps version. XBOX mode is designed to optimize gaming performance by prioritizing gaming processes and can free up to 2GB of memory on a PC. Future iterations of XBOX mode are expected in the next generation of Xbox, referred to as Project Helix. Microsoft is also working on enhancements to Windows 11 through its K2 initiative to improve the gaming experience.
Microsoft keeps Windows Server 2022 hotpatching alive into 2027
Winsage
June 29, 2026

Microsoft keeps Windows Server 2022 hotpatching alive into 2027

Microsoft has extended the availability of Windows Server 2022 hotpatching until 2027, specifically for the Windows Server 2022 Datacenter: Azure Edition. Mainstream support for Windows Server 2022 will end on October 13, 2026, while extended support will last until October 14, 2031. Hotpatching allows administrators to apply security updates without server downtime, although quarterly cumulative updates requiring a reboot will still occur. This feature is exclusive to Azure Edition users, with no similar support for on-premises users of Windows Server 2022. Additionally, hotpatch updates are being introduced for Windows 11 24H2 Enterprise clients and are now the default for Windows Autopatch.
These 3 upcoming Gboard tweaks could make the app even better
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

These 3 upcoming Gboard tweaks could make the app even better

Google is enhancing its Gboard application for Android with new features in the beta version v17.7.4.932364120. A cursor mode is being developed, allowing users to long-press the spacebar or swipe on it to control the cursor. Gboard is also introducing an emoji customization option, enabling users to adjust emoji sizes independently with a slider that allows for five to nine emojis in a row, including larger options labeled “7+” and “8+.” Additionally, Gboard may offer full-sized keyboard keys on mobile devices, which can be toggled using the “Show accessibility layout” setting, with options for QWERTY, QWERTZ, and AZERTY layouts. The timeline for the public release of these features is uncertain.
Google is finally giving Android users control over app backups
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Google is finally giving Android users control over app backups

Google is rolling out per-app backup controls to select beta users, allowing individuals to toggle backups for each installed app instead of using a singular master switch. This feature aims to enhance user control over data management by enabling users to decide which apps' data should be included in their backups, addressing concerns about managing cloud storage and optimizing backup space.
Steam Machine reservations are already being resold on Ebay for up to $2900
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Steam Machine reservations are already being resold on Ebay for up to $2900

Valve's Steam Machine has faced challenges due to scalpers exploiting its limited availability. Despite measures like a randomized queue and one-unit purchase limits, resellers have listed the device at inflated prices on platforms like eBay. For example, a 2TB Steam Machine bundled with a controller is priced at ,899.99, over double its retail cost of 8. Listings for 2TB models range from ,700 to ,899.99, while a 512GB model without a controller is offered for ,800. Resale practices mirror those seen during the Steam Controller launch, where buyers could purchase multiple units for resale. The Steam Machine's higher starting price of ,049 makes reselling less feasible for many. Valve has indicated that as they process reservations, cancellations may open opportunities for others on the waiting list. Additionally, there is speculation about the demand for Valve's upcoming VR headset, the Steam Frame, amid existing competition.
This week in PC games: a new King's Field-like RPG, an American Revolutionary War sim, and a dreaming megacity full of cool architecture
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

This week in PC games: a new King’s Field-like RPG, an American Revolutionary War sim, and a dreaming megacity full of cool architecture

This week in gaming features a mix of nostalgia and innovation. "The Message from Deep Space" is a narrative set in the 1970s about translating signals from an asteroid, inspired by the Voyager Interstellar Record project. The arcade classic "Ninja Masters" returns on Steam with nine-player lobbies and rollback netcode. "Feed the Pit" invites players to explore cursed forests for sacrifices, while "Forgotten Blood" offers a dark journey through a valley with peculiar creatures. "Telluricene" is a visual novel with romantic choices involving a janitor and a plant creature. "Oblivion Maiden" is a dreamy mystery game, and "Cartesian Battle" teaches math through bullet trajectory challenges. "Cat Squeeze" is a lighthearted maze puzzler, and "Mosaic Garden" focuses on cultivating flower patterns. "Mycofall" is an early access bullet heaven adventure, while "Hollow Ground" offers a 90s-style action experience. "Laballatory" allows players to create Newton's Cradle toys, and "American Revolutionary War" is a turn-based wargame featuring strategic battles against George Washington. The RPS team is preparing for various topics, including insights on the Steam Machine and Tennocon.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
June 29, 2026

Microsoft reveals Windows 11 taskbar feature that Windows 10 never had, two ways to shrink in testing

Microsoft is enhancing Windows 11 to potentially surpass Windows 10, including the introduction of a feature that allows users to restore a smaller taskbar, addressing user requests. The new Taskbar size setting enables users to adjust the taskbar's overall size, with options for "Small" resulting in a thinner taskbar and smaller icons. Additionally, Windows 11 will receive at least ten new features, including a movable taskbar that allows positioning on any side of the screen. The Start menu is also being improved, allowing size adjustments and the removal of ads, with changes such as renaming the “Recommended” section to “Recent.”
OEMs reveal Windows 11 Secure Boot fix after deadline passes, here's how to update your PC
Winsage
June 29, 2026

OEMs reveal Windows 11 Secure Boot fix after deadline passes, here’s how to update your PC

Major PC manufacturers, including HP, Dell, ASUS, Lenovo, MSI, Acer, Samsung, LG, and Microsoft’s Surface division, have provided guidance on transitioning to new Secure Boot certificates as the expiration of Microsoft’s 2011 certificates approaches. The expiration will occur in three phases: Microsoft Corporation KEK CA 2011 expired on June 24, 2026; Microsoft UEFI CA 2011 expired on June 27, 2026; and Microsoft Windows Production PCA 2011 is set to expire on October 19, 2026. Microsoft has begun rolling out replacement certificates through Windows Update, contingent on OEMs providing compatible BIOS updates. ASUS offers detailed documentation for both consumer and commercial devices, confirming that most users will receive updates automatically. Lenovo provides direct download links for BIOS updates organized by product family and specifies which products will not receive updates. Dell's support article covers its entire product lineup, noting that devices with an End of Service Life before January 1, 2026, will not receive updates. HP outlines a dual-track approach for updates, with specific timelines for commercial PCs. Microsoft's Surface devices receive updates directly from Microsoft, while MSI categorizes guidance based on processor generation for its laptops. Acer emphasizes backing up the BitLocker recovery key and provides a model table for confirmed BIOS release dates. Samsung confirms that all PCs running Windows 10 or 11 will function normally post-expiration, but security updates will cease. LG has released a guide for checking BIOS updates for its PCs. To verify if a PC has the 2023 certificates, users can check the Secure Boot section in Windows Security. A green checkmark indicates successful application, while yellow or red icons indicate pending updates or incompatibility. Microsoft has pushed the certificates to all eligible devices as of June 2026.
Mina the Hollower will make her fighting game debut in a crossover next year
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Mina the Hollower will make her fighting game debut in a crossover next year

Rivals of Aether 2 is a fighting game on Steam that has not yet introduced any guest characters, unlike its predecessor, which featured Shovel Knight. A new shark character has been added to the roster, and Mina the Hollower, from Yacht Club Games, will join the game in 2027. Mina's inclusion was teased at the EVO event, and she will be part of a cast that includes the shark character and various anthropomorphized animals. Additionally, a new character named Gouie, a whimsical platypus with a unique fighting style, will be introduced on August 4. Gouie can swallow opponents and launch parts of his body as projectiles, and his voice varies between cheerful and deep growl. Yacht Club Games has seen success with the launch of Mina the Hollower, which received a 90% rating from PC Gamer and has been praised for its combination of combat and visuals.
Fallout: New Vegas director Josh Sawyer says Obsidian has 'Karma Police' who go through games making sure every skill gets enough cool stuff to do: 'We're not gonna leave you out to dry'
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Fallout: New Vegas director Josh Sawyer says Obsidian has ‘Karma Police’ who go through games making sure every skill gets enough cool stuff to do: ‘We’re not gonna leave you out to dry’

Josh Sawyer, Obsidian's design director, discussed the studio's focus on balance in Fallout: New Vegas, emphasizing the importance of allowing various character builds to thrive and engage meaningfully through skill checks in dialogue. He expressed a desire for players to enjoy their character choices without feeling they have built a "fundamentally bad character." Obsidian differentiates itself from other studios by enabling diverse skills in conversations, as seen in quests where players can use skills like Science, Barter, or Speech to influence outcomes. Sawyer explained the decision to eliminate the Big Guns skill to enhance gameplay fluidity and prevent underutilization of skills. He highlighted the importance of making each skill useful in unique ways to build player trust, referencing the design of Goodsprings and the variety of skills available in quests. Sawyer acknowledged the challenges of anticipating player needs in RPG design compared to tabletop games, aiming to provide players with rich experiences that celebrate their character choices. Obsidian employs measures like the "Karma Police" to ensure all skills receive attention in gameplay.
Half-Life Sets Historic Price Record Among PC Games
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Half-Life Sets Historic Price Record Among PC Games

A sealed copy of the game Half-Life sold for 2,725 at a Goldin auction, receiving 70 bids and starting at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: A remarkable event unfolded recently at a Goldin auction, where a sealed copy of the iconic game Half-Life fetched an impressive ,725. This particular copy, which garnered a total of 70 bids, began its journey at a modest starting price of 0 last month. The auction not only highlighted the enduring popularity of this classic title but also set a new benchmark in the realm of PC gaming collectibles. Record-Breaking Sale This sale marks a significant milestone, as Half-Life has now become the highest-priced PC game ever sold at auction. The sealed copy received an impressive "85+" rating from the Video Game Authority, underscoring its pristine condition and collectible value. According to the lot description on the Goldin website: VGA registry reports confirm only one copy of this edition with a higher grade. Released in 1998 by Sierra On-Line, this sealed copy of Half-Life is a first-person shooter for PC (for Windows 95/98/NT) and the first game in the series. Before this auction, the record for a PC game was held by Akalabeth: World of Doom (1979), which sold for ,211 several years ago. The achievement of Half-Life is a testament to its lasting impact on the gaming community. However, the ,725 price tag, while impressive, still pales in comparison to the staggering amounts commanded by some titles from the Nintendo Entertainment System. Earlier this month, a sealed copy of Super Mario Bros. made headlines by selling for an astonishing million at a Heritage Auctions event, illustrating the vast differences in collectible values across gaming platforms." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"]. This sale makes Half-Life the highest-priced PC game ever sold at auction. The copy received an "85+" rating from the Video Game Authority and is one of only two copies of this edition with a higher grade. Released in 1998 by Sierra On-Line, it is a first-person shooter for PC. The previous record for a PC game was held by Akalabeth: World of Doom, which sold for ,211.
Steam Week in Review: Steam sales are the best time to hoard dozens of forgotten '90s PC gaming oddities
AppWizard
June 29, 2026

Steam Week in Review: Steam sales are the best time to hoard dozens of forgotten ’90s PC gaming oddities

In 2026, Valve's Steam Summer Sale features significant discounts on popular games, such as Red Dead Redemption 2 at a 75% discount for the 14th time since January 2025, and The Witcher 3 with its fifth 95% discount since July 2024. Cyberpunk 2077 has reached a 75% discount after eight previous markdowns of 65% since June 2025. The sale includes major publishers like Ubisoft and indie titles such as Terraria and Satisfactory. Notable retro games available include I Have No Mouth And I Must Scream, Operation Body Count, Interphase, Corpse Killer, and The Dame Was Loaded. Steam's weekly sales charts show top sellers, with Meccha Chameleon achieving 10 million sales, aided by the PUBG PNC 2026 tournament.
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