building Archives

AppWizard

April 12, 2026

This developer squeezed a full Minecraft server onto an ESP32, and it actually works

A developer named angelthebox has created a Minecraft server called Macerun that runs on the ESP32-S3 microcontroller, using Minecraft version 1.16.5 rewritten in C. Key features include the ability for players to join the server, explore the world, place and break blocks, procedural world chunk generation, basic crafting mechanics with 2x2 recipes, in-game chat, and tracking of basic physics, health, and hunger. Changes to blocks are saved to the chip's flash memory. However, the server lacks mobs, 3x3 crafting recipes, and the ability to retain player inventories and positions after exiting. The source code is available on the Macerun GitHub page.

BetaBeacon

April 11, 2026

Your Amazon Luna library is about to get a lot more restricted

Amazon Luna has removed individual game purchases and third-party store integrations like GOG, Ubisoft, and EA. Users have until June 10, 2026, to play purchased or linked titles before they vanish from the Luna platform.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

This ‘highly realistic’ city-builder could be the first real competition Cities: Skylines has seen in over a decade

City Masterplan is a newly unveiled metropolis simulator that offers expansive environmental canvases measuring 24x24 km, allowing players to design urban landscapes in various architectural styles. The game features a visual aesthetic similar to Cities: Skylines 2, with realistic skies, dynamic lighting, and immersive weather conditions. It is built on the Unreal Engine, which may present performance challenges. As Cities: Skylines approaches its twelfth anniversary, there is a demand for a fresh city-building experience, with City Masterplan potentially revitalizing the genre. There is no official release date, but speculation suggests a launch not before 2027.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

Former Escape From Tarkov dev says “no amount of millions of dollars can save a weak product”

The shooter game market is currently saturated with both successful and unsuccessful multiplayer titles, making it challenging for developers to stand out. Dmitri Ogorodnikov, co-head of Nomion Games, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the complexities of creating a successful shooter. He points to the failures of games like Concord and Highguard, which struggled due to lackluster character design and muddled identities. Ogorodnikov believes that many big studios lose the essence of their games by relying too heavily on marketing and formulas. In contrast, Nomion aims to focus on quality gameplay and a clear vision for their upcoming title, Rush is Real, which is still in the prototyping phase. He asserts that the game will not be just another generic shooter and will prioritize unique ideas and quality over following market trends.

AppWizard

April 11, 2026

Minecraft Chaos Cubed update: Release date, features and more

Mojang Studios is releasing the Chaos Cubed update, version 26.2 of Minecraft, in mid to late June 2026. This update introduces the Sulfur Caves biome and the Sulfur Cube mob, enhancing the underground experience of the Overworld. The Sulfur Caves feature toxic gases, hot pools, and new building blocks, including vibrant yellow Sulfur and deep red Cinnabar. The Sulfur Cube is a passive mob that changes its properties based on absorbed blocks, enabling new gameplay mechanics. This update follows the Tiny Takeover update and is part of Mojang's quarterly release schedule.

AppWizard

April 10, 2026

Long-Awaited Open World Survival Game Finally Sets Release Date for PC & Consoles

Solarpunk, a survival game developed by Cyberwave and rokaplay, is set to launch on June 8th, 2026, across multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game has been in development since its unveiling in 2023 and has become one of the most wishlisted games on Steam. It features crafting, farming, exploration, and base-building mechanics, set in a charming 3D world with floating islands. Players can engage in single-player or optional multiplayer co-op, crafting airships to explore and gather resources. Solarpunk will launch without Early Access, providing the complete experience from day one. Pricing details have not yet been announced.

AppWizard

April 10, 2026

Review: Forza Horizon 6 Is a Racing Game That’s Fun without a Sim Rig

Forza Horizon 6 is set to launch on Xbox and PC on May 19, 2026, with a later release for PlayStation 5. The game emphasizes enjoyment over complexity, allowing players to engage in casual racing without intricate setups. It features a garage customization option that rivals city-building games, extensive vehicle aesthetic upgrades, and an immersive representation of Japan with diverse biomes and seasonal changes. Players can drive various impressive cars, including the 641-hp Toyota GR GT and a widebody Nissan Silvia. The game is available for preorder through the Microsoft Store, Steam, or for wishlisting on PlayStation, with early access for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers starting May 15.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

Why Russia is looking to China’s WeChat model for its Max messenger

Russia is developing the messaging app Max into a multifunctional "super app" inspired by Chinese platforms like WeChat and Douyin. The transformation aims to integrate messaging, payments, e-commerce, digital services, and content consumption into a single platform. The initiative is supported by the Russian government to enhance digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on foreign apps. Key features include a unified platform for services, payment systems, support for businesses, and content-driven commerce. However, Max faces challenges from established competitors, privacy concerns, and the need for a robust ecosystem. The success of Max could position it as a central hub for digital activity in Russia.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

Hope you’re hungry ’cause Don’t Starve is back with a new co-op survival crafting adventure for Wilson and the gang

Klei Entertainment announced Don't Starve Elsewhere during the 2026 Triple-i Initiative Showcase, building on the foundations of Don't Starve Together and enhancing the multiplayer experience. The game features returning characters such as Wilson, Willow, Wendy, and WX-78, while retaining core multiplayer survival mechanics. It aims to expand the universe of its predecessors with new environments and experiences. The world premiere trailer, available on Steam, showcases the game's rich, sketchbook-style aesthetic.

AppWizard

April 9, 2026

1000xResist dev’s new game has you convince an AI that they’re not human, and my brain is already scrambled in the best way

Vancouver-based developer Sunset Visitor has announced its new project, Prove You're Human, during the Triple-i showcase. In this game, players take on the role of a digital copy of a person testing a corporate product called Mesa, a robotic AI that believes it is human. The objective is to convince Mesa of her artificiality while exploring themes of identity and existence. The game features a vibrant virtual world and unique interactions, including a twist on the CAPTCHA test. Players face a choice at the climax: to merge back with their real-life counterpart or embrace digital existence. A release date has not been announced, but anticipation is growing.