critique Archives

AppWizard

September 12, 2026

Modder adds 235 destructible Flock cameras to GTA 5 so you can ‘do whatever the flock you want’ to them

A new mod for Grand Theft Auto V allows players to target and "destroy" virtual surveillance cameras, specifically 235 Flock cameras, as a commentary on real-world surveillance culture. Flock operates over 100,000 cameras nationwide, with a significant number in Los Angeles County, the inspiration for the game's setting. The mod represents only one-tenth of the actual surveillance in the area. Players can engage in digital activism through this gameplay, but the modder warns that vandalizing real Flock cameras is illegal and offers no rewards. The mod is available for download on GitHub.

AppWizard

September 7, 2026

I use Samsung Reminder every day. These are my 10 favorite tips and tricks

Samsung's One UI includes the Samsung Reminder app, which offers various features that enhance productivity. Key functionalities include: - Location-based reminders that notify users upon arrival or departure from specific places, helping with errands like shopping. - Reminder suggestions that allow users to quickly access and modify previously set reminders by typing keywords. - The ability to create customizable checklists for shopping and task management, including recurring lists. - The option to add photos to reminders for additional context, useful for tracking items. - Custom categories for organizing reminders, making them easily accessible. - Customizable alert styles and wallpapers for reminders to enhance personalization. - Widgets that allow users to view and manage reminders directly from the home screen. - Integration with Samsung Calendar for creating and modifying reminders within the calendar interface. - Compatibility with the Gemini app for setting time-based reminders using voice commands. - A feature that allows reminders to persistently alert users until marked as complete, ensuring important tasks are not overlooked.

Winsage

August 24, 2026

Back to the Start: How Microsoft launched Windows 95 to the world

In 1995, Microsoft launched Windows 95, an operating system designed to transition users from 16-bit to 32-bit computing, with a marketing budget estimated between 0 million and 0 million. Windows 95 featured a 32-bit architecture capable of managing up to 4GB of memory, the Start button, taskbar, Microsoft Exchange, and Plug and Play technology. The global launch event occurred on August 24 at Microsoft's headquarters, featuring Bill Gates and a promotional campaign that included The Rolling Stones' "Start Me Up" and a videotape guide with Friends stars. In Malaysia, the official launch was on August 29, with some dealers organizing midnight sales, although turnout was disappointing. Microsoft hosted a Windows 95 Expo in Kuala Lumpur, leading to strong sales of additional products. By 1996, Microsoft announced the shipment of 40 million units of Windows 95 worldwide.

Winsage

August 19, 2026

Is VLC taking an agonizingly long time to start up on Windows 11? Microsoft Defender is to blame

Users of VLC on Windows 11 have experienced delays of up to 33 seconds for MP3 playback due to a bug in Microsoft Defender that interferes with VLC's plugin cache. VideoLAN has clarified that this issue is not a reflection of VLC's reliability. Affected users can resolve the problem by adding the VLC folder as an exception in Windows Defender or by regenerating the plugin cache. Jonathan Blow, a game developer, highlighted the issue in a tweet, prompting discussions about the state of open-source software. Other users have reported similar delays, even on Windows 10. VideoLAN emphasized that the problem lies with Microsoft Defender, not with VLC itself.

Winsage

August 16, 2026

Devs blame Windows for VLC media player bug that causes 33-second delay when playing MP3 files

VLC, the open-source media player, is experiencing delays of up to 33 seconds when playing MP3 files on Windows 11, attributed to a recent update to Microsoft Defender that conflicts with VLC’s plugin cache. Developer Jonathan Blow criticized VLC for this issue, prompting the VLC team to clarify that the problem stems from Microsoft Defender quarantining the plugins.cache file. Users can resolve the issue by reinstalling VLC or regenerating the plugin cache, although this will reset personalized settings. Adding an exception for VLC in Microsoft Defender may prevent future issues. Microsoft has not yet commented on the situation.

Tech Optimizer

August 15, 2026

A Windows Defender bug is making VLC take 30 seconds to open an MP3 file

Jonathan Blow criticized the VLC media player for significant performance issues, specifically a 33-second delay in loading MP3 files, and announced his intention to switch to Microsoft Media Player. The VideoLAN team responded, attributing the delays to a known issue with Microsoft’s Windows Defender antivirus software, which quarantines the VLC plugin cache. They suggested users could resolve the issue by reinstalling VLC or regenerating the plugin cache. VLC has been downloaded over 6 billion times across various platforms. Microsoft Defender has been known to cause false positives and interfere with third-party applications. Some users have found success using alternative antivirus solutions like Bitdefender Antivirus Free to avoid conflicts with VLC. Additionally, there are suggestions that using VLC for MP3 playback may not be practical, and switching to Microsoft Media Player is viewed unfavorably compared to alternatives like Foobar2000.

Winsage

August 15, 2026

Devs blame Windows for VLC media player bug that causes 33-second delay when playing MP3 files — creators allege Microsoft Defender blocking plugin cache is to blame

VLC, an open-source media player, is experiencing delays of up to 33 seconds when playing MP3 files on Windows 11, attributed to a bug in Microsoft Defender from a recent update that affects VLC's plugin cache. The VLC development team suggests that reinstalling VLC or regenerating the plugin cache can resolve the issue.

Winsage

August 14, 2026

Did the Surface Phone FINALLY leak? The Windows Central Podcast breaks down what we know about the mysterio…

In the latest episode of the Windows Central Podcast, hosts Zac Bowden and Jez Corden discuss several topics related to Microsoft. They explore a 2013 Windows Phone prototype, reflecting on its potential impact had it been released. They examine the new unified Microsoft Copilot experience, noting the removal of certain features and discussing the current state of AI. The hosts also cover the announcement of Xbox backward compatibility for original Xbox and Xbox 360 games on Windows, addressing potential licensing challenges. They provide updates on rumors regarding The Elder Scrolls VI and critique the Halo franchise amid project cancellations. Additionally, they highlight upcoming Xbox console features and improvements in audio for Game DVR captures.

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

Beast of Reincarnation director apologizes for not providing ‘a sufficiently enjoyable experience,’ but promises Game Freak is working on it

Game Freak's latest title, Beast of Reincarnation, has received a mixed reception, with an aggregate score of 73/100 on Metacritic and a similar score of 73% in reviews. Players have expressed that the game feels "close, but not quite," prompting game director Kota Furushima to apologize for certain aspects that need refinement. He acknowledged the need for updates to improve story pacing, introduce frame generation, and allow players to skip cutscenes, while noting that difficulty adjustments are not a primary focus. Despite the critiques, co-op combat and the game's atmosphere have received positive feedback, with a unique post-apocalyptic vibe resonating with players. PC Gamer's Shaun Prescott praised the game's mature presentation, highlighting its commitment to a serious and immersive ambience.

AppWizard

August 8, 2026

Ambrosia Sky: Act Two Launches on PC, Split Critics Praise Story Over Systems

Toronto's indie game studio, Soft Rains, has released Ambrosia Sky: Act Two on PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. The game has received mixed reviews, with two-thirds praising it as an emotional journey, while one review questions its gameplay and the "immersive sim" label. Owners of Act One receive Act Two for free, while new players can purchase the full game for .99 USD, with a 20% discount available until around August 14, after which the price will increase to .99 USD. Ambrosia Sky is a first-person game where players control Dalia, a field scientist returning to her home colony after a fungal outbreak. Players use an upgradeable chemical sprayer to cleanse space stations and uncover a conspiracy. Act Two focuses on Dalia's search for her ex-girlfriend Maeve and introduces new locations, exo-fungus species, a revamped progression system, and new equipment. The Corruptor fungus adds a new mechanic that has received mixed reviews. The total playtime for both acts is approximately six to seven hours. Critics debate the game's classification as an immersive sim, with some arguing it lacks the open-ended environments typical of the genre. The narrative has been positively received, with praise for its emotional depth and storytelling. The full game is priced competitively for narrative-driven indie games, and the current pricing offers good value for players interested in the story and atmosphere. As of now, Ambrosia Sky has received two critic reviews on Metacritic, scoring 80 and 60.