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XCOM spiritual successor Warhounds dumps its gen-AI portraits, and I'm breathing a sigh of relief
AppWizard
April 19, 2026

XCOM spiritual successor Warhounds dumps its gen-AI portraits, and I’m breathing a sigh of relief

Everplay is developing a turn-based strategy game called Warhounds, inspired by classics like XCOM and Jagged Alliance. The game faced criticism during its Steam Next Fest demo for using generative AI for character portraits, which were described as "shiny, unrealistic, and completely at odds with the look of the game." In response to community feedback, Everplay clarified that the AI-generated portraits were temporary placeholders and announced plans to replace them with over 100 hand-crafted designs. The new portrait system will create images directly from each character's in-game 3D model, ensuring visual consistency and accommodating custom recruits. Warhounds features an accuracy system that calculates bullets individually, eliminating random misses, and introduces meaningful consequences based on player decisions. The game is set for release in 2026, with a wishlist option available on Steam and a free demo for players.
Microsoft reportedly redesigning Start Menu in Windows 11 after actually listening to user complaints
Winsage
April 19, 2026

Microsoft reportedly redesigning Start Menu in Windows 11 after actually listening to user complaints

Microsoft is updating the Start Menu in Windows 11, focusing on enhanced customization and improved performance. The update will allow users to disable specific sections, choose between small or large layouts, and toggle off elements like the recommended feed and pinned apps. The new Start Menu is expected to be more responsive, especially during heavy usage, and will improve search functionality. Feedback on the redesign has been mixed, with some users expressing dissatisfaction and nostalgia for the Windows 10 Start Menu.
The Backstage Experience with Ninja, Pokimane, Minecraft & more!
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

The Backstage Experience with Ninja, Pokimane, Minecraft & more!

This week, "The Backstage Experience" features actors Jack Black and Jason Momoa discussing MINECRAFT, comedian Adam Sandler reminiscing about classic arcade games, and actor Tye Sheridan exploring the virtual reality universe from Ready Player One. Twitch streamers Ninja and Pokimane share insights on online gaming and streaming, while Sonic and Tails make a special appearance.
Stop Killing Games delivers 'absolutely incredible' hearing in European Parliament: 'There was no [parliament member] that wasn't responding positively'
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Stop Killing Games delivers ‘absolutely incredible’ hearing in European Parliament: ‘There was no [parliament member] that wasn’t responding positively’

The Stop Killing Games campaign, founded by Ross Scott, aims to prevent the discontinuation of server-dependent video games once they are no longer financially viable. Recently, Scott and organizer Moritz Katzner presented their case to the European Parliament, receiving positive feedback from attendees, including MEPs and committee chairs. Consultant Daniel Ondruška clarified that the movement seeks reasonable guidelines rather than perpetual support for games. The hearing was seen as a significant step in the legislative process, with all present MEPs showing support for the initiative. Katzner noted plans to establish NGOs in the EU and US for long-term advocacy against game shutdowns and mentioned support for a lawsuit against Ubisoft regarding the discontinuation of The Crew.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
April 17, 2026

Microsoft plans major Start menu upgrades for Windows 11 with better customization and performance: Users will soon be able to resize it and toggle off entire areas of Start

Microsoft is enhancing the Windows 11 Start menu to provide users with greater control over its appearance and functionality through the forthcoming WinUI 3 Start menu. The redesigned Start menu will retain a familiar look while introducing advanced customization features, allowing users to toggle sections on or off and choose between small or large layouts. These updates are part of a broader initiative, codenamed Windows K2, aimed at improving the Windows ecosystem by focusing on user experience and stability.
The Future Games Show Summer Showcase, FGS Live, and the PC Gaming Show have been confirmed for June, with the Showcase to feature 'world premieres, exclusive trailers, and stealth demo drops'
AppWizard
April 17, 2026

The Future Games Show Summer Showcase, FGS Live, and the PC Gaming Show have been confirmed for June, with the Showcase to feature ‘world premieres, exclusive trailers, and stealth demo drops’

Future has announced the return of its summer gaming events, including the Future Games Show Summer Showcase and FGS Live from Los Angeles on June 6 at 12 PM PDT / 3 PM EDT / 8 PM BST. The PC Gaming Show will follow on June 7. Both events will be available on platforms like YouTube, Twitch, X/Twitter, and Steam. Last year's showcases had a combined viewership of 41.9 million. Anticipated titles include Fable, Phantom Blade 0, The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, and Grave Seasons, with Fable set to launch in Fall 2026.
Minecraft 2’s New Title Revealed by Warner Bros. 2027 & Beyond Slate
AppWizard
April 15, 2026

Minecraft 2’s New Title Revealed by Warner Bros. 2027 & Beyond Slate

Warner Bros. announced the title of the sequel to the Minecraft Movie as "A MINECRAFT SEQUEL" during the CinemaCon event on April 15, 2026. The film is scheduled for release on July 23, 2027, with director Jared Hess returning and Chris Galletta co-writing the screenplay. Kirsten Dunst has joined the cast, which includes Jack Black and Jason Momoa. Momoa expressed excitement about the script, stating it is very good and made him laugh out loud.
Like Baby Steps, the devs' speedrun reaction video is hilarious, unpredictable, and one giant troll
AppWizard
April 15, 2026

Like Baby Steps, the devs’ speedrun reaction video is hilarious, unpredictable, and one giant troll

Bennett Foddy, co-creator of Baby Steps, questioned the authenticity of reactions in developer react videos, referencing Markiplier's performances in Getting Over It as potentially exaggerated. During a speedrun commentary, the developers provided humorous insights, celebrating the player's skill and clever exploits. Conan O'Brien's appearance on Hot Ones showcased his comedic approach to the spicy challenge, emphasizing the blend of authenticity and performance in entertainment.
If you're finding Resident Evil: Requiem a bit scary, why not mod it to make the enemies tiny
AppWizard
April 14, 2026

If you’re finding Resident Evil: Requiem a bit scary, why not mod it to make the enemies tiny

Resident Evil: Requiem features a mod called the Enemies Scale Modifier, created by modder lucablight83, which allows players to adjust enemy sizes, making them smaller or larger, thus adding humor to the horror gameplay. This mod requires the installation of the RE Framework and enables players to scale enemies down to 10% or up to 300% of their original size. It introduces comedic elements while maintaining gameplay challenges, such as aiming at miniaturized foes. Additionally, there are other mods available that enhance the game with humorous elements, like transforming Leon's Porsche into a driveable hamburger, or introduce serious challenges, such as zombie bites that infect players. A VR mod is also available for an immersive experience.
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