developer support Archives

AppWizard

December 25, 2025

Epic Games Store Christmas PC free game defies expectations, hailed as a masterpiece

The Epic Games Store has introduced several new features aimed at enhancing user experience, including: - A revamped user interface for easier navigation and game discovery. - Enhanced social features allowing gamers to connect with friends, share achievements, and receive game recommendations. - Developer support initiatives such as a more favorable revenue-sharing model, increased marketing assistance for indie developers, and access to resources for game development. - Exclusive titles and promotions through partnerships with major developers and regular promotional events. - Enhanced security measures to protect user data and ensure a safe gaming experience.

AppWizard

December 4, 2025

Horses, the Upsetting Horror Game Previously Banned on Steam, Gets Last Minute Ban From Epic Games Store Too

Humble has reinstated the game "Horses" on its platform after a temporary delisting for reevaluation. Developer Santa Ragione stated that the game's content, while heavy, did not warrant removal. However, Humble later decided to delist "Horses" again. The game was previously banned from Steam and Epic Games Store due to violations of content guidelines, with Epic citing "Inappropriate Content" and "Hateful or Abusive Content." Santa Ragione's appeal to Epic was denied without further explanation. The game has received attention for its unsettling premise, which critiques societal acceptance of morally horrifying actions. Despite facing bans, "Horses" is currently available on Humble, itch.io, and GOG.

AppWizard

November 27, 2025

Epic Games Store opens December 2025 PC free games lineup with two acclaimed hits

The Epic Games Store has announced updates to enhance user experience and expand its offerings, including a revamped user interface, enhanced search functionality, and improved social features. Additionally, Epic is supporting developers through a competitive revenue sharing model, funding for indie developers via the Epic MegaGrants program, and access to Unreal Engine technology. These initiatives aim to create a user-friendly platform and nurture a thriving developer community.

AppWizard

November 19, 2025

Fortnite for Xbox PC and Xbox Ally devices is currently broken for many — but a fix is on the way

A recent 50% price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has prompted Microsoft and Epic Games to integrate Fortnite Crew into the service, offering in-game benefits and monthly V-Bucks. Fortnite has also joined Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing access through the Xbox app on Windows 11, but some users are facing issues due to a delayed update causing a version mismatch. Sources indicate that the problem is with Epic Games, and a resolution is expected soon. Microsoft is working on improving the Microsoft Store's user interface and addressing ongoing technical challenges. The inclusion of popular titles like Roblox, Minecraft, and Fortnite suggests a positive future for Microsoft's gaming platform, although there are still hurdles to overcome for new users.

AppWizard

November 18, 2025

The ’80s and ’90s PC games unbelievably still being updated today

The life cycle of video games can vary greatly, with some experiencing rapid success followed by decline, while others remain relevant for decades due to dedicated players and ongoing developer support. As of 2024, several enduring games continue to thrive, having received updates since 2018. - Klondike: Developed on a Lisa computer, it has been maintained by Michael Casteel for 40 years, with updates including color in 1988, animations in 1989, and high-resolution cards in 2004. - NetHack: Launched in 1987, it has received updates as recently as February 2023 and has an active community with leaderboards available on nethack.alt.org. - Gemstone IV: Launched in 1988, it is one of the oldest MMORPGs, continuously updated by a dedicated team, and has a subscription model to maintain its player base. - Kingdom of Drakkar: Since 1989, it has evolved from a text-based game to a graphical RPG, maintained by creator Brad Lineberger. - Genesis: A MUD and fantasy RPG since 1989, it has expanded significantly and continues to receive updates. - UnReal World: Released in 1992, it is a roguelike RPG inspired by Finland's late Iron Age, with continuous updates since 2018. - Meridian 59: Released in 1996, it remains active with volunteer developers and annual updates, despite ownership changes. - Furcadia: Launched in 1996, it emphasizes user-generated content and was revitalized in 2016 after a successful Kickstarter campaign. - Ultima Online: Since 1997, it has maintained an active community and continues to receive updates and expansions. - Utopia: A text-based fantasy strategy game launched in 1998, it has seen ongoing development and community engagement. - Age of Empires 2: Released in 1999, it was revitalized by a Definitive Edition in 2019 and continues to receive expansions and updates.

Winsage

September 4, 2025

SteamVR Beta Restores Windows VR Headset Support on Windows 11 Thanks to Third-party Driver

The SteamVR Beta has introduced an automatic installation of the third-party 'Oasis' driver for Windows Mixed Reality (WMR) headsets, responding to Microsoft's discontinuation of support for these devices in Windows 11. This update allows WMR users to regain compatibility with SteamVR without the Mixed Reality Portal application, although the Oasis driver currently only supports NVIDIA GPUs. Valve has integrated this driver into SteamVR Beta (v2.13.1) to assist WMR users on unsupported Windows 11 versions. Additionally, Valve aims to enhance user experience by ensuring compatibility across various VR devices, including making Half-Life: Alyx compatible with all SteamVR-supported headsets.

AppWizard

August 25, 2025

Microsoft begins testing Android app continuity features designed for Windows 11

Microsoft is testing a new feature in Windows 11 that allows users to resume Android apps directly on their PC, currently limited to Spotify. When a user is listening to music on their Android phone and sits at their desk, a notification will prompt them to "Continue on this PC," opening Spotify on their computer at the same point. This feature aims to enhance device continuity, similar to Apple's Handoff, and could eventually extend to productivity apps, browsers, and messaging tools. Currently, it is available only to Windows Insiders in the Dev and Beta Channels, and Microsoft has not specified which additional apps will be included in the future.

AppWizard

August 22, 2025

Google TV and Android TV to Transition to 64-Bit Apps, Promising Enhanced Performance

Google will transition to 64-bit app compatibility for Google TV and Android TV starting in August 2026. All new applications and updates submitted to Google Play for these platforms must support both 32-bit and 64-bit ARM architectures. Google will provide developers with tools to assist in this transition, including support for various Nvidia Shield models and a 64-bit Google TV emulator for macOS devices with Apple Silicon. 32-bit support will remain available for older devices during this transition.

AppWizard

July 24, 2025

Epic Games Store releases new PC free game of the week in latest limited time deal

The Epic Games Store offers a unique digital distribution platform that features regular free games to attract users and foster community. It has a favorable revenue-sharing model for developers, allowing them to retain more earnings, which appeals to both indie developers and major studios. The store has formed strategic partnerships with various developers and publishers, enhancing its library and providing exclusive content. Community engagement is emphasized, with user feedback actively sought to improve the gaming experience. The store's focus on innovation and support for developers positions it for future growth in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

June 13, 2025

Google to Shut Down Android Instant Apps by December 2025

Google has announced it will phase out Android Instant Apps by December 2025. Launched in 2017, Instant Apps allowed users to access parts of applications without full installation but struggled with developer adoption due to technical limitations and a maximum size constraint of 15MB. Participation was limited, with few developers like Vimeo and Wish adopting the feature. The shutdown was revealed in the latest Android Studio canary build, which indicated that all Google Play Instant APIs and publishing capabilities will be discontinued by the end of the year. There has been minimal investment in Instant Apps over recent years, leading to a decline in user interest and signaling the feature's end. Google is expected to focus on enhancing web-based app discovery and developing alternatives similar to Play Store App Clips.