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I just heard about this free Windows 11 customization app despite it having 42 million downloads
Winsage
April 20, 2026

I just heard about this free Windows 11 customization app despite it having 42 million downloads

ExplorerPatcher is a free and open-source application that has over 42 million downloads and 32,200 stars on GitHub. It aims to restore legacy Windows shell components in Windows 11, allowing users to manage settings more comfortably. The app is compatible with both x86-64 Windows and Windows on ARM. Users can revert the Windows 11 taskbar to its Windows 10 design, disable the Windows 11 context menu, and restore the control ribbon in File Explorer. ExplorerPatcher offers additional features such as improved multi-display taskbar support and customizable settings. It includes preset configurations like the "Classic Windows 10" option and allows for custom configurations to be saved and shared. Despite its popularity, ExplorerPatcher is not widely recognized due to security warnings from Windows, which flag it as a potential threat, and potential disruptions following major Windows updates.
I tested this Windows 11 customization app with 42 million downloads — why aren't more people discussing it?
Winsage
April 20, 2026

I tested this Windows 11 customization app with 42 million downloads — why aren’t more people discussing it?

ExplorerPatcher is a free, open-source application that has surpassed 42 million total downloads and received 32,200 stars on GitHub. It allows users to customize their Windows 11 experience by restoring features from older Windows versions, such as reverting the taskbar to its Windows 10 counterpart. The app is compatible with both x86-64 Windows and Windows on ARM. It offers a simple settings menu for adjusting the Taskbar, File Explorer, Start menu, and System Tray, as well as advanced features like improved multi-display taskbar support and a customizable Win+X menu. Users can save and share custom configurations, and there are preset options like the "Classic Windows 10" preset. Despite its popularity, ExplorerPatcher faces challenges such as being flagged by Windows' security systems and potential disruptions after major Windows updates.
A YouTuber has unearthed Dark Souls 2's enormous cut sewers map, and it's another fascinating insight into the design of FromSoftware's most divisive work
AppWizard
April 19, 2026

A YouTuber has unearthed Dark Souls 2’s enormous cut sewers map, and it’s another fascinating insight into the design of FromSoftware’s most divisive work

Dark Souls II underwent a significant mid-development reboot that transformed its narrative and introduced unique level designs. One major cut content was an expansive sewer map, replaced by The Gutter. A fan named Doneda restored this lost sewer area, which features a hidden tavern and a traditional boss arena with unlit candles. The exploration reveals disconnected pathways, indicating ongoing design deliberations. Doneda's insights align with Hidetaka Miyazaki's view that Dark Souls II was crucial for the series' advancement, influencing future titles like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Elden Ring.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
April 19, 2026

Mirror’s Edge review (2009)

Wes Fenlon reflects on the evolution of the Mirror's Edge franchise, noting that only six years separated the original game from its sequel, Mirror's Edge Catalyst. Despite Catalyst's mixed reception, Fenlon maintains nostalgia for the original, particularly its vibrant cityscape and the iconic cloth physics supported by Nvidia's PhysX. A review by Graham Smith highlights the early levels of Mirror's Edge for their embodiment of free-running, with a design that emphasizes evasion over traditional combat, which can lead to frustration. The game's physicality and attention to detail enhance immersion, while the sensation of speed adds excitement to gameplay. Players navigate through jumping puzzles and environments that blend challenge and satisfaction, although the story mode is brief, taking about six hours to complete. Additional modes like Speed Run and Time Trial offer further challenges focused on movement. Overall, Mirror's Edge is recognized as a bold experiment in merging first-person platforming with traditional gameplay elements.
silver Android smartphone
Winsage
April 19, 2026

Zorin OS 18.1 adds guided migrations, stronger app compatibility and wider hardware support, making switching from Windows far more practical for millions [clone]

Zorin OS has released version 18.1, enhancing hardware compatibility and introducing fingerprint reader support for older devices. The update recommends native Linux alternatives when detecting Windows applications, making it easier for users transitioning from Windows. Since the end of support for Windows 10, Zorin OS has gained popularity, reaching 3.3 million downloads. The update supports over 240 Windows applications, suggesting compatible Linux versions, and includes improvements to desktop features and pre-installed applications. Zorin Lite has also been updated to version 17.3 with fingerprint reader support and a redesigned File Manager. Meanwhile, Windows 11 is facing challenges in adoption due to hardware requirements and design issues, prompting discussions about the potential need for Windows 12. Alternative operating systems like Zorin OS are becoming more appealing to users dissatisfied with Windows.
Marathon's most popular shotgun is getting nerfed a second time, as Bungie worries it is 'eclipsing a lot of the other short range options that exist in the game'
AppWizard
April 19, 2026

Marathon’s most popular shotgun is getting nerfed a second time, as Bungie worries it is ‘eclipsing a lot of the other short range options that exist in the game’

The WSTR shotgun is a popular weapon in the game Marathon, known for its effectiveness in close-quarters combat despite a recent nerf that reduced its range. A forthcoming update will change its capabilities, ensuring players with blue shields can no longer be taken down in two shots, while it will still down players with green shields in two shots. This aims to encourage more tactical gameplay. The game is also experimenting with sponsored kits that limit players to a free loadout and has introduced Mercy Kits, which players often use to eliminate opponents instead of reviving them.
France has ditched Windows 11 for Linux on 2.5 million government PCs — here's why Microsoft should worry that millions more could follow by the end of 2026
Winsage
April 18, 2026

France has ditched Windows 11 for Linux on 2.5 million government PCs — here’s why Microsoft should worry that millions more could follow by the end of 2026

Dissatisfaction with Windows 11 is widespread, prompting the French government to transition from Windows to Linux for its computer systems, aiming for 'digital sovereignty.' French officials, including Minister David Amiel, emphasize the need to reduce reliance on American tools and regain control over digital infrastructure. The transition is mandated to be completed by fall 2026, with GendBuntu, a variant of Ubuntu, likely being adopted. Over 100,000 PCs currently run GendBuntu, and an additional 2.5 million government workstations will migrate from Windows. Other regions, such as Schleswig-Holstein in Germany and Denmark, are also moving away from Windows. Users have reported issues with Windows 11, leading to a backlash and prompting Microsoft to promise fixes. However, the effectiveness of these improvements remains uncertain, and if unresolved, users may increasingly consider alternatives like Linux or macOS. Microsoft has revamped its Windows Insider program to gather user feedback but lacks clarity on internal quality assurance improvements. The company's ability to regain user trust hinges on addressing ongoing concerns effectively.
Xbox Game Pass is your key to some of the year's most nominated games
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Xbox Game Pass is your key to some of the year’s most nominated games

Award season for Xbox Game Pass highlights six standout games of 2025. 1. Doom: The Dark Ages - Introduces melee-centric combat with a battle axe, praised for its visceral gameplay, and received recognition for Innovation in Accessibility at the Game Awards. 2. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle - Features voice talent Troy Baker, who has received accolades for his portrayal of Indiana Jones, with the game being recognized as "MachineGames' best game to date." 3. No Man's Sky - Transformed through 35 updates, enhancing base building, space combat, and exploration, showcasing fluidity and creativity in gameplay. 4. Rematch - A five-on-five soccer game from the creators of Sifu, noted for its addictive arcade-style gameplay that is easy to learn yet challenging to master. 5. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 - Acclaimed RPG that won PC Gamer's Game of the Year, known for its intricate interactions and challenging difficulty, being hailed as a classic.
Forza Horizon 6 has reportedly already sold 500k on Steam a month before launch, while my beloved Motorsport has crashed into a brick wall
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 has reportedly already sold 500k on Steam a month before launch, while my beloved Motorsport has crashed into a brick wall

Forza Horizon began in 2012 and has since redefined the franchise, leading to the upcoming release of Forza Horizon 6, set in Japan. The game features the return of the wristband career mode and has received positive early reviews. It has sold over 500,000 copies on Steam before its official launch, generating nearly a million in revenue, with projections suggesting it could exceed two million sales within the first 24 hours post-launch on May 19. Over 50,000 players pre-ordered the game on its release day on Steam. The Motorsport series has faced challenges, including a significant staff reduction at Turn 10, which may affect its future compared to the more successful Horizon series.
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