drone Archives

AppWizard

February 28, 2026

Is Marathon’s time-to-kill too fast, or am I too Arc Raiders-pilled?

The author completed the original Mass Effect and shifted focus to extraction shooters, particularly Marathon, influenced by experiences in Arc Raiders. During the first 24 hours with Marathon, the author compared it to Arc Raiders, noting the challenging gameplay dynamics, including a fast time-to-kill (TTK) and the importance of teamwork. Initial frustrations with Marathon's pace shifted to appreciation as the author adapted strategies with friends. The game emphasizes sound and teamwork, with a TTK that feels punishing but manageable with squad support. The author reflected on the need for better resource management, expressing concerns about inventory issues and the early loss of loadouts. They suggested that Bungie should streamline gameplay to enhance the PvP experience.

AppWizard

February 24, 2026

Putin’s MAX messenger app banned in the Russian army due to “insufficient security”

Russian forces are facing communication challenges that have allowed Ukraine to reclaim hundreds of square kilometers of territory. The difficulties stem from regulatory actions by Russia's communications authority, Roskomnadzor, which has limited access to the messaging app Telegram and proposed a complete ban on it by April 1. This decision has faced backlash, with military personnel expressing concerns about the impact on coordination. Russian troops have been advised against using the state-run messaging app MAX due to security concerns. Additionally, the loss of access to the Starlink network, previously used by Russian forces for communication, has further complicated their operational capabilities, contributing to Ukraine's territorial gains.

AppWizard

February 22, 2026

With a sequel on the way, now is the perfect time to pick up a Stellar Blade Steam key at 30% off

Stellar Blade, released on PC in June, has received positive reviews and is currently available at a 30% discount on Fanatical. The game features engaging combat mechanics where players control Eve, a warrior fighting alien creatures on a post-apocalyptic Earth. The combat system combines elements of soulslike games and Devil May Cry. However, the narrative is considered weak, with characters lacking depth and the storyline described as "serviceable" but unremarkable. The game includes a 25-hour campaign with collectibles and impressive boss battles. The Standard Edition is priced at .99 / £41.99, while the Complete Edition, which includes additional DLC and cosmetics, is available for .99 / £55.99. This discount offer is valid until February 23, 2026.

AppWizard

February 12, 2026

Telegram restrictions: How limits on the messaging app will hit Russian soldiers

Russia has imposed further restrictions on Telegram, citing insufficient action against "criminal and terrorist" activities, following earlier limitations on voice and video calls. A Russian court has fined Telegram approximately 11 million roubles for not removing content deemed illegal by the state. Telegram serves as a critical communication tool for military personnel and has been utilized by both Russian and Ukrainian forces since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The new restrictions are expected to disrupt communication among soldiers, who have appealed for the state to reconsider its stance. The Kremlin has suggested users transition to the state-owned messaging service MAX, which critics claim enables government surveillance. Other platforms like WhatsApp and YouTube have also faced restrictions from the Kremlin.

AppWizard

February 12, 2026

Moscow moves to throttle Telegram as Kremlin pushes its own messaging app

Russia's communications regulator, Roskomnadzor, has throttled Telegram's service, affecting nearly 90 million local users, due to the platform's non-compliance with Russian law. A Moscow court has initiated seven legal cases against Telegram in 2026 for not removing content related to "extremist" activities and pornography, potentially resulting in fines exceeding ,000. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that restrictions will continue as long as Telegram violates regulations. Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, criticized the actions as authoritarian and compared them to Iran's previous ban on the platform. Telegram previously faced a ban in 2018 for refusing to provide encryption keys to the FSB, but the ban was lifted in 2020. Russian officials are promoting a national messaging service called Max, developed by the creator of VKontakte. The restrictions have drawn criticism from state officials and military personnel, particularly in conflict-prone regions, where Telegram is essential for timely news and emergency updates. Pro-war military bloggers have also expressed dissatisfaction with the restrictions, noting Telegram's role in military logistics and communications. The Telegram restrictions are part of a broader trend of internet disruptions in Russia, including mobile internet access cuts and the inaccessibility of major Western platforms without VPNs.

AppWizard

February 12, 2026

Russia blocks Meta’s WhatsApp messaging service

Millions of Russians were disconnected from WhatsApp after Russian authorities removed the app from the online directory managed by Roskomnadzor. This action is part of a campaign to restrict access to foreign messaging platforms and encourage the use of a state-sanctioned app called Max, which lacks encryption. Concurrently, Meta's Facebook and Instagram were also removed from the directory and designated as “extremist,” limiting their access to VPNs. Reports indicate that access to YouTube has been impaired. Telegram has gained popularity and faced restrictions, with concerns raised by officials about the impact on information flow. Since last summer, Russia has systematically degraded access to WhatsApp and Telegram, implementing measures that have significantly slowed performance and limited functionalities.

AppWizard

February 12, 2026

Spy Drops Gaiden Demo Launches On Steam Next Fest With New Gameplay Trailer

A demo for Spy Drops Gaiden has launched on PC via Steam during the Steam Next Fest. The game, developed by Dadako and published by Rainy Frog, is a 2D stealth action title set in the Spy Drops universe. Players take on the role of special agent Ripley, tasked with infiltrating enemy bases on an island off the coast of Japan. The gameplay emphasizes stealth, with missions involving rescuing prisoners, gathering intelligence, and executing drone strikes. The demo features eight missions with rank-based performance goals, weather effects, and mission-specific gadgets. The game has a Game Boy-inspired aesthetic, with monochrome visuals and chiptune soundtracks.

AppWizard

January 19, 2026

Battle Suit Aces review

Trinket Studios has released a new game called Battle Suit Aces, featuring Captain Heathcliff on a cosmic journey against the Frenzied, an alien enemy. The game is a deckbuilding title where players assemble a crew of characters with unique battle suits and engage in turn-based combat across two rows. Players must manage resources and strategize to defeat opponents with distinct abilities. Progressing through the game rewards players with crafting materials for suit and drone enhancements, allowing for diverse customization options. Between battles, players can interact with their crew, adding personality to the game and enriching the narrative, which evolves from a clichéd premise to a humorous and creative story with absurd side missions. The game includes a puzzle mode for tackling scenarios in a single turn and optional crew missions that deepen the narrative and provide rewards like additional mod slots for suits. Visually, the game features a vibrant art style and embraces queerness, presenting a refreshing narrative with diverse characters and scenarios. While it has some flaws, such as a predictable opening and lack of challenge at standard difficulty, the overall experience is enjoyable, making Battle Suit Aces a notable addition to the gaming landscape.

AppWizard

January 16, 2026

Quarantine Zone: The Last Check review

Players assume the role of a zombie plague "doctor" in the first-person simulation game Quarantine Zone: The Last Check, set to release on January 12, 2026, for £17. Developed by Brigada Games and published by Devolver Digital, the game allows players to screen survivors at a military outpost during a zombie apocalypse, ensuring they are free from the zombie virus and other ailments while also checking for hidden explosives. Players examine survivors for signs of infection, using various tools to inspect their bodies, but the repetitive nature of tasks may lead to monotony. Additionally, players manage supplies and upgrade tools, although these tasks lack depth. Occasional minigames provide brief diversions, but the core gameplay focuses on conducting medical exams. The game will be available on platforms like the Steam Deck.

AppWizard

January 15, 2026

Marathon fully unveils all seven of its Runners, and I’ll take the one with the grappling hook and loot-stealing drone, please

The author initially lost interest in Marathon due to its challenges and competition from Arc Raiders, but recent updates, including enhanced visuals and the introduction of Runner Shells, have rekindled their enthusiasm. The Runner Shells are highly customizable, offering more flexibility than traditional hero selections in other games. Various Runner Shells, such as Destroyer, Assassin, Recon, Vandal, Triage, and Thief, have unique abilities inspired by Destiny, with Thief particularly appealing for its loot-gathering capabilities. The author expresses optimism about Marathon's potential and intends to engage with the game at launch.