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Google researcher explains why Windows NT "puts Linux to shame," and imagines an alternate history where it won
Winsage
September 27, 2026

Google researcher explains why Windows NT “puts Linux to shame,” and imagines an alternate history where it won

Laurie Kirk, a Google researcher and former Microsoft reverse engineer, argues that the Windows NT kernel is superior to Linux in several aspects, particularly in its architecture for managing resources and access permissions. She emphasizes that her critique focuses on the system architecture rather than the user interface of Windows 11. Kirk raises concerns about Linux's suitability for AI agents due to its complex security model, while praising NT's object-based design and security framework. She speculates on an alternate history where Microsoft had created an "Open NT," allowing for customizable components, but acknowledges the challenges of maintaining forks in operating systems. Critics of NT highlight its performance and reliability issues, while Linux's open-source nature has contributed to its dominance in servers and cloud computing. Kirk suggests that future operating systems may need to balance the defined resource types of NT with the flexibility of Linux, especially as AI technology evolves.
It took CD Projekt two years to design Phantom Liberty's Chimera Tank boss fight: 'We were iterating over and over'
AppWizard
September 26, 2026

It took CD Projekt two years to design Phantom Liberty’s Chimera Tank boss fight: ‘We were iterating over and over’

The Chimera Tank boss fight in Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty features protagonist V and President Myers against a spider-tank inspired by Ghost in the Shell, set in a Barghest facility. Game director Gabe Amatangelo and creative director Igor Sarzyński discussed the challenges of its production on CD Projekt's AnsweRED podcast, highlighting it as an example of collaboration across gameplay, narrative, art, and worldbuilding. Art director Paweł Mielniczuk noted that it took two years to develop the boss fight, which went through four iterations. Sarzyński described the Chimera as one of the most expensive art assets ever created. Some players felt the fight could have been better balanced, comparing its difficulty to a battle in The Witcher 3: Hearts of Stone.
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Winsage
September 26, 2026

Microsoft just rethought its entire AI strategy: What the new Copilot means for Windows & your everyday workflows

Microsoft is evolving its offerings in artificial intelligence, particularly with updates announced at its Copilot event, which signify a shift towards a more integrated Microsoft 365 experience. The latest version of Copilot aims to create a cohesive workspace that connects documents, conversations, data, and tasks, making AI more accessible for everyday users and enterprise customers. CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the importance of keeping humans "in the flow of work" and creating systems that learn continuously. Key features include Autopilot, a digital teammate that manages tasks across Microsoft Teams, Outlook, and other applications, allowing users to focus on strategic initiatives. At the core of these advancements is Microsoft IQ, a unified intelligence layer that connects data and workflows throughout the Microsoft ecosystem. Microsoft is also introducing a plugin registry for custom integrations and implementing FinOps for AI to optimize spending. Regular consumers can access these features based on their M365 Premium or Pro subscriptions, with further developments expected at Microsoft Ignite in November.
8 strong Elder Scrolls opinions: With over 2,500 combined hours (and not all as stealth archers), we shout at each other about Skyrim, Morrowind, and Oblivion
AppWizard
September 25, 2026

8 strong Elder Scrolls opinions: With over 2,500 combined hours (and not all as stealth archers), we shout at each other about Skyrim, Morrowind, and Oblivion

Players in The Elder Scrolls series have taken on roles such as the Nerevarine and defeated characters like Dagoth Ur and Mehrunes Dagon. They have collectively spent over 2,500 hours reflecting on the franchise's past and future. Notable quests include Oblivion's The Ultimate Heist, Morrowind's atmosphere, and Skyrim's side quests, particularly A Night to Remember. Some players prefer older RPGs for their depth, while there are mixed feelings about Bethesda's recent titles, with calls for improved storytelling in games like Starfield. The editors advocate for a focus on interactivity, highlighting the immersive experience of manipulating the game environment. They also express interest in an Elder Scrolls television series, suggesting it could explore the franchise's lore while fans await The Elder Scrolls 6.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
September 25, 2026

14 days in Dragon Shelter: A play by play of my first season in the Stardew-style farm sim where dragons help bake pies

Dragon Shelter features a vibrant art style that combines cooking and dragon-themed gameplay. The player arrives at their grandfather's cottage, where they begin learning survival skills and gathering resources. The town is in decline, and the player must earn the townsfolk's trust by completing tasks like delivering baked potatoes. Daily activities include watering crops, cooking, and assisting villagers with various requests. Despite the engaging gameplay, the player feels the world is small and lacks depth, with shops having no interiors and villagers lacking distinct personalities. The game focuses on chores and cooking but may not meet all players' expectations for complex storytelling or mechanics.
Survival RPG Everwind introduces a Minecraft-style sandbox mode in major new update
AppWizard
September 24, 2026

Survival RPG Everwind introduces a Minecraft-style sandbox mode in major new update

Everwind's latest update, Winds of Creation, introduces a sandbox mode that allows players to explore creativity without survival constraints. The update enhances the game with new features such as a revamped starting island for Arcanists, Wolverine-style claws for melee combat, and a Steamer Localizer device for locating points of interest. It also includes quality-of-life improvements like health and stamina restoration upon leveling up, streamlined item placement, and refreshed item icons and enemy names. The update is available as of September 24, and future developments are planned, including inter-ship teleportation and modding support.
RuneScape: Dragonwilds (PC) Review
AppWizard
September 21, 2026

RuneScape: Dragonwilds (PC) Review

RuneScape: Dragonwilds introduces players to the new continent of Ashenfall, where they face the Dragon Queen Kuldra amidst a significant dragon threat. The game features a new biome called the Scorned Wilderness and a raid-style dungeon, requiring 40 to 60 hours of gameplay to complete its story content. It includes a sophisticated crafting system that allows for extensive customization of the game world. The combat system has been modernized, incorporating various weapon types and a nuanced parrying system, while the magic system offers unique runes that alter spell effects. Players experience skill progression through the use of tools or weapons, but the early game lacks healing potions, making it challenging. The game encourages exploration with a robust crafting system and in-game mounts, as well as the ability to create travel routes using loadstone teleporter panels. It also features dungeons with platforming elements and diverse enemy encounters. RuneScape: Dragonwilds supports full crossplay for consoles and has a roadmap for future updates.
Time-loop horror action adventure game Noroi Ayashi: The ∞th Oddity announced for Switch 2, Switch, and PC
AppWizard
September 16, 2026

Time-loop horror action adventure game Noroi Ayashi: The ∞th Oddity announced for Switch 2, Switch, and PC

Game Source Entertainment, in collaboration with SuperNiche and Clover Lab, is set to release a game titled Noroi Ayashi: The ∞th Oddity in 2027. It is a "time-loop horror RTA stealth action adventure" available on Switch 2, Switch, and PC via Steam, supporting English, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, and Simplified Chinese. The protagonist, Seira, explores her school at night, facing seven mysteries and the curse of a doll named Aya. The narrative is told through Yuriko, a member of the U High School News Club, who investigates the urban legend of the Cursed Doll Aya. Key characters include Seira, Hime, and Tae, each with distinct traits and backgrounds. Gameplay involves navigating the school, avoiding and sealing the Seven Mysteries, and learning from repeated deaths to develop survival strategies. The development team includes Rensuke Oshikiri, known for his work in manga, and Sohei Niikawa, a former Nippon Ichi Software contributor. An announcement trailer has been released.
Iranian spies hit Windows machines with Chosen Brick data-stealing malware
Winsage
September 15, 2026

Iranian spies hit Windows machines with Chosen Brick data-stealing malware

Iranian state cyber actors are targeting individuals through popular messaging applications, using surveillance and data-stealing malware known as "Chosen Brick," which has been in use since at least 2025. This malware is designed for Windows systems and enables the theft of personal data, allowing Iranian spies to monitor perceived threats such as dissidents, activists, and journalists. The attacks typically begin with messages sent via WhatsApp or Telegram, impersonating trusted contacts. Attackers conduct extensive research on their targets to craft convincing messages that encourage victims to download malicious files disguised as legitimate applications. Once executed, Chosen Brick operates stealthily, evading detection and establishing a connection for command-and-control communications. It can enumerate processes, capture screen and audio content, extract sensitive information, and even wipe infected systems. Organizations suspecting compromise are advised to engage IT providers for investigations and to inform staff about potential risks. Recent alerts follow cyberattacks on water and energy sectors linked to Iran, with ongoing concerns about the implications for cybersecurity amid escalating military tensions. Additionally, five US agencies have reported that attackers are using AI-generated scripts to exploit vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure systems.
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