AIM Archives

AppWizard

August 10, 2026

Project Xodus Brings Native Xbox PC and Game Pass Games to Linux

Project Xodus is an open-source initiative focused on reverse-engineering Xbox PC and Game Pass titles to enable their use on Linux and Mac systems. The project has made significant progress in Microsoft authentication and package decryption, allowing Linux users to download and process Xbox subscription games locally. The team has successfully reverse-engineered Microsoft’s identity services and license verification systems, unlocking encrypted MSIXVC game files and enabling the verification of game licenses and decryption of installation packages on non-Windows operating systems. Xodus serves as a translation bridge for Microsoft’s proprietary ecosystem services, providing custom proxy libraries for games to function as if they are running in a native Windows environment. It specifically targets modern games built on Microsoft’s GDK framework, excluding older titles using the Universal Windows Platform and those dependent on kernel-level anti-cheat mechanisms. The project aims to improve access to Xbox Game Pass on devices like the Steam Deck by facilitating direct local hardware execution, reducing reliance on cloud streaming and enhancing portable gaming experiences. Community feedback has been positive, with developers actively sharing updates and engaging with inquiries.

Winsage

August 9, 2026

Windows 11’s built-in Weather app wastes more than 1 GB of RAM

Windows Latest and Wccftech reported significant updates in the Windows ecosystem aimed at enhancing user experience. Key features include enhanced security protocols to protect against threats, an improved user interface for smoother navigation, and performance optimizations for faster load times and better responsiveness. The community response has been positive, with users eager to explore the benefits of these updates.

AppWizard

August 8, 2026

PC Game Permanently Removed From GOG in Sudden Delisting

Circle Empires has been permanently removed from the GOG digital storefront, following a wave of delistings that included six other games on July 31. Developed by Luminous and published by Iceberg Interactive, Circle Empires was released in 2018 and has over 1,000 user reviews on Steam with an 88% approval rating, qualifying it for the “Very Positive” distinction. On GOG, it has a score of 3.8 out of 5. The reasons for its delisting are unclear, as it remains available on Steam. GOG announced the delisting on August 6, providing only 48 hours' notice. Circle Empires is currently priced at .99 on Steam. A sequel, Circle Empires 2, was launched earlier this year but is not available on GOG. Despite the delisting, a classic PC game was recently added to GOG for free.

AppWizard

August 8, 2026

Blocky zombie survival sim Unturned releases its source code so players can build a ‘lasting legacy’ for the game ‘regardless of the changes we make’

Smartly Dressed Games has released the source code for their free-to-play zombie survival simulator, Unturned, for non-commercial use, encouraging community creativity. They emphasized the importance of their passionate community and hope to empower players to expand the game. Modifications must be non-commercial and free for players, with some code elements excluded due to licensing restrictions. Unturned is not classified as open source, and the developers aim to re-license the U3 SDK under the MIT License in the future. Unturned was created by Nelson Sexton and entered Steam early access in 2014, reaching full release in 2017. A significant update in April expanded the game's California map and introduced over 100 new quests.

AppWizard

August 8, 2026

Steam Giving Away $25 PC Game for Free Until August 9

A free game, Breathedge, is available on Steam until August 9, after which it will revert to its original price of .99. The game is categorized as “Unsupported” for Steam Deck users, who can still claim it but may face difficulties playing. Breathedge, developed by Red Ruins Softworks and published by HypeTrain Digital, is a space survival adventure game with over 5,300 user reviews and a 72% approval rating. Players take on the role of a space traveler delivering his grandfather’s ashes, encountering a larger conspiracy. The game offers approximately 15 to 30 hours of playtime. The giveaway is part of a promotional strategy for the upcoming sequel, Breathedge 2, which will not be free.

Winsage

August 7, 2026

Moving the Microsoft Edge extensions ecosystem forward with Manifest Version 3

In 2020, Microsoft committed to Manifest Version 3 (MV3) for the Chromium extensions platform. As of now, 95% of the top MV2 extensions have transitioned to MV3 in the Edge Add-ons store. Starting in August 2026, Microsoft Edge will begin transitioning consumers away from MV2 extensions, aiming to complete this by the end of 2026, with enterprise deprecation expected in early 2027. Currently, only 58 MV2-based extensions show meaningful usage, and three of these lack an MV3 version. Notifications will be sent to users and developers regarding the transition, and MV2 extensions will gradually be disabled by default. Developers are encouraged to finalize their transition to MV3 and submit updates via Microsoft Partner Center.

Winsage

August 6, 2026

Microsoft is updating even more parts of the Windows 11 UI with modern designs: Here’s what’s next on the list of overhauls

Windows has faced user dissatisfaction due to inconsistent user interface designs since Windows 8, which worsened with Windows 10. Windows 11, launched in 2021, introduced a consistent design language through the WinUI framework, modernizing various UI components and replacing older elements. Enhancements included a more consistent dark mode and updates to features like volume controls and context menus. Microsoft is revamping the File Properties dialog and the Start menu for improved speed and responsiveness while optimizing resource consumption. Context menus are also being redesigned for better customization and quicker access. Ongoing efforts aim to modernize legacy components of the OS, with a focus on performance and reduced memory usage.

AppWizard

August 6, 2026

New Kingdom Come trademark filings mention ‘online’ virtual worlds—but we shouldn’t assume Warhorse is making a multiplayer game just yet

Warhorse Studios has filed trademarks for their upcoming title, Kingdom Come Salvation, in both Europe and the United States. The filings include references to "services for matching users with computer games," suggesting potential online features. The trademarks are categorized under IC 009, related to video games, and IC 041, which covers entertainment services, including online gaming. An expert noted that while the filings imply possible online capabilities, fans should manage their expectations regarding multiplayer features until an official announcement is made.

AppWizard

August 5, 2026

Minecraft 26.3 Snapshot 7 patch notes: Concrete Stairs, Concrete Slabs, and more

Mojang has released Minecraft 26.3 Snapshot 7, introducing Concrete Stairs and Concrete Slabs for all 16 colored Concrete blocks, and overhauling Explorer Maps into distinct items with unique icons. The new map items include various explorer maps and are not available in Creative Mode. Existing Explorer Maps will convert to the new items upon loading older worlds. Other changes include adjustments to Cushions, loot table updates, and expanded Realms support. Technical changes involve new data components for attack and interaction animations, and density functions now use single-precision floating point values. Bug fixes address issues with Cushions, Armadillos, Sniffers, and various map-related problems.

AppWizard

August 5, 2026

Why Minecraft Bedrock Is Still the Ultimate Mobile Sandbox in 2026

Minecraft Bedrock is a mobile sandbox game that remains popular in 2026 due to its blend of survival, exploration, building, and multiplayer features. It offers regular updates, cross-platform play, and community-generated content, enhancing player engagement. Community resources like MCPE Planet help players discover new maps, add-ons, and enhancements. The game allows for quick gaming sessions or extensive projects, with cross-platform multiplayer enabling users on different devices to play together. Regular updates introduce new content that keeps old worlds relevant, while custom maps allow for diverse gameplay experiences across various genres. Players can customize their experience with add-ons that introduce new elements without switching to Java Edition. Resource packs can refresh the game's visuals, and touch controls make it accessible on mobile devices. The game serves as a creative platform, fostering community and collaboration among players.