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Valve's Steam Machine will have "fewer constraints" for games to be Verified than Steam Deck — plus, an explanation for that weird Steam Controller puck
AppWizard
January 16, 2026

Valve’s Steam Machine will have “fewer constraints” for games to be Verified than Steam Deck — plus, an explanation for that weird Steam Controller puck

Valve announced the Steam Machine, set to release in early 2026, which will be powered by SteamOS and designed for living room integration. It aims to bridge the gap between PC gaming and consoles, boasting hardware specifications that rival current-generation consoles like the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. The Steam Machine will have a streamlined process for games to achieve the "Verified" badge, making it easier for developers to secure this status compared to the Steam Deck. The Steam Machine is expected to have a larger library of Verified games due to its enhanced capabilities. Additionally, the new Steam Controller will feature a puck accessory that serves as a wireless receiver and charger, designed to reduce Bluetooth interference.
Wine 11 runs Windows apps in Linux and macOS better than ever
Winsage
January 15, 2026

Wine 11 runs Windows apps in Linux and macOS better than ever

Wine 11.0 has been released, allowing users to run 16-bit, 32-bit, and 64-bit Windows x86 binaries on Unix-like operating systems without distinguishing between 32-bit and 64-bit commands. It introduces support for the Linux kernel's NT synchronization primitive, enhancing performance for Windows binaries. Wine 11 is compatible with older kernels, though with reduced performance. It supports x86-to-Arm translation on Arm64 Linux systems through FEX-Emu and works on Apple Silicon Macs via Rosetta 2. The version simplifies command usage to a single wine command and eliminates 32-bit support libraries. Enhancements include improved clipboard handling over Wayland, full-screen mode functionality, Direct3D support, native Vulkan video decoding for H.264, and better handling of SCSI devices and game controllers. Wine 11 downloads are available for Linux and macOS, with a FreeBSD port expected. Testing on Ubuntu 25.10 under GNOME using Wayland showed positive results for both 32-bit and 64-bit applications.
2026 Shift: Professionals Ditch Windows 11 for Linux’s Speed and Savings
Winsage
January 12, 2026

2026 Shift: Professionals Ditch Windows 11 for Linux’s Speed and Savings

Professionals are increasingly moving away from Windows 11 to various Linux distributions due to dissatisfaction with performance issues and intrusive features in Windows. A 2025 analysis showed Linux distributions outperforming Windows by an average of 19.5% in everyday tasks. Performance tests indicated that SteamOS, a Linux-based platform, often matched or exceeded Windows 11 in gaming performance. Linux's lightweight nature and superior system administration tools appeal to those managing servers and virtual environments. Security concerns regarding Windows 11, including privacy issues and forced updates, have led users to prefer Linux's open-source model, which allows for greater transparency and customization. Economic factors also play a role, as Linux is free and open-source, eliminating licensing fees associated with Windows 11. User-friendly distributions like Linux Mint facilitate the transition for new users, and community support helps address common challenges. Large organizations are increasingly adopting Linux for its stability and responsiveness, while the Linux community fosters rapid improvements and adaptability. User feedback highlights privacy, performance, and customizability as key benefits of switching to Linux.
Ark Survival Ascended's future DLC tests "every risky feature" in its far-off sequel, but I'm wondering if we already have Ark 2
AppWizard
January 2, 2026

Ark Survival Ascended’s future DLC tests “every risky feature” in its far-off sequel, but I’m wondering if we already have Ark 2

As of late 2025, Ark Survival Ascended released the Lost Colony DLC, its first expansion featuring new content instead of remastered elements from Survival Evolved. Studio Wildcard announced a roadmap for the next two years, promising seven releases, including revamped game modes and expansions leading to Ark 2's launch, now expected in 2028. Jeremey Stieglitz, co-founder of Studio Wildcard, noted improvements in meeting deadlines, with Lost Colony now managed by the live-support team and a pirate-themed expansion, Bob's True Tales: Tides of Fortune, set for late Q2. A World Editor tool for user-generated content is also in development for early Q3. The reboot of Survival of the Fittest aims to enhance player experience with features like meta progression and background matchmaking. Upcoming expansions include Dragontopia in late 2026 and Atlantis in 2027, created with modder 'Nekatus.' The final expansion, Legacy of Santiago, will test new gameplay features in a live environment, potentially bridging to Ark 2.
Windows Registry Tweak Unlocks 80% SSD Speed Boost on Consumer PCs
Winsage
January 1, 2026

Windows Registry Tweak Unlocks 80% SSD Speed Boost on Consumer PCs

A modification in the Windows Registry can enable a native NVMe driver, potentially doubling the performance of solid-state drives (SSDs) by enhancing random read and write speeds by up to 80%. This driver is typically reserved for enterprise environments and is not officially available for consumer versions of Windows 11. The modification carries risks, including the possibility of rendering a system unbootable and disrupting features like BitLocker encryption. Early adopters have reported mixed results, with some experiencing significant performance improvements while others face stability issues. The tweak highlights the disparity between consumer and enterprise hardware capabilities and reflects ongoing discussions within the tech community about optimizing SSD performance.
This Desktop Doohickey Will Bring Your Physical SNES Games to Your PC
AppWizard
December 29, 2025

This Desktop Doohickey Will Bring Your Physical SNES Games to Your PC

Epilogue is launching the SN Operator, a device that connects Super Nintendo cartridges to modern PCs, scheduled to ship in April next year. Preorders will open on December 30 at noon ET. The SN Operator is compatible with PC, Mac, and Steam Deck, allowing users to back up games and save progress through the Playback app, which also supports co-op gameplay and RetroAchievements. It reads data directly from cartridges instead of using hardware emulation and supports mouse controls for classic accessories. Epilogue plans to expand its product line, potentially creating an Operator device for NES games in the future.
Adidas expands its Minecraft collaboration again.
AppWizard
December 29, 2025

Adidas expands its Minecraft collaboration again.

Adidas has launched a new line of footwear and apparel in collaboration with Minecraft, featuring designs inspired by the game's pixelated world. The collection emphasizes both style and comfort, catering to gamers' active lifestyles. Many products are made from eco-friendly materials, reflecting Adidas's commitment to sustainability. The brand plans to engage the Minecraft community through interactive events and promotions. This partnership aims to strengthen Adidas's presence in the sportswear market while tapping into the growing gaming industry.
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