exploration Archives

AppWizard

June 22, 2025

Pathologic 3’s time travel system will let players ‘explore the unknown boldly and without fearing permanent ruin’ and that makes me way more inclined to play it

Pathologic 2 is a challenging immersive sim from Ice-Pick Lodge that has a dedicated following but may not cater to players seeking a more balanced experience. The upcoming Pathologic 3 will redefine the player experience by starting at the point of failure and allowing players to backtrack through time to correct past mistakes. The narrative follows protagonist Dankovsky, who faces dire consequences for his actions, and players will have two key mechanics: "Amalgam," which enables time jumps to alter past events, and the "Mind Map," which visually represents decision interconnections for strategic planning. These mechanics are integral to the gameplay, with specific locations and endings accessible only through particular causal combinations, promoting exploration and creativity without forcing players into fail states.

AppWizard

June 22, 2025

Weekend PC Game Deals: Rhythm bundles, fishing festivals, and DRM-free summer sales

The Humble Store has launched its June Tunes collection, which includes three pricing tiers: the first tier features Wanderson, Everhood, and Onde; the second tier includes Rhythm Fighter, One Btn Bosses, and Oddada; and the top tier showcases Trombone Champ, DJMAX RESPECT V, and Ragnarock. Additionally, Humble has introduced the Serenity Forge Storyteller's Bundle, consisting of 12 indie games like LISA the Joyful, LISA the Painful, Neversong, Death's Gambit, and Smile for Me, divided into three pricing tiers. The Epic Games Store is offering The Operator for free until June 26, replacing Two Point Hospital. Three games are available for free weekend access: Victoria 3, Len's Island, and Dead by Daylight. The GOG store has started its summer sale with thousands of DRM-free games at reduced prices.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

‘Monster Hunter Wilds’ Now Has Overwhelmingly Negative Reviews on Steam – How One of 2025’s Best Games Is Crashing on PC

Monster Hunter Wilds has received an "Overwhelmingly Negative" rating on Steam, despite being Capcom's fastest-selling title earlier this year. Players have expressed dissatisfaction primarily due to performance issues with the PC version, including frequent crashes, sluggish server response times, and high system requirements for smooth gameplay. Many negative reviews come from players with significant hours logged in the game, indicating that the discontent is not impulsive. While some players appreciate the gameplay, others criticize the narrative-driven approach and simplified mechanics, which have disappointed long-time fans.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

Grounded 2: All the key details on the shrunken survival-crafter

Grounded 2 is a sequel to the original game, announced at the Xbox Games Showcase, and is set to expand the gameplay beyond the backyard. The game takes place in 1992, two years after the first game, where four teenage protagonists have disappeared while shrunken down to the size of ants. Players will navigate dangers in the park and work to regain their original size. The game hints at the identity of a fifth child, whose fate is uncertain and may play a significant role in the story. Grounded 2 features a map three times larger than its predecessor, introduces insect mounts called buggies for faster travel and exploration, and includes a new Omni-tool that combines multiple tools into one for easier inventory management.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

These 7 games need a remaster, and they need it now

Fallout: New Vegas, released in 2010 by Obsidian Entertainment and published by Bethesda Softworks, is a unique RPG praised for its player agency, writing, and world-building, making it a candidate for a remaster to fix technical bugs and improve visuals. Dragon Age: Origins, released in 2009 by BioWare and published by Electronic Arts, is regarded as the best in its series, but a remaster seems unlikely due to a lack of familiar staff. Black & White, a 2001 game by Lionhead Studios and published by Electronic Arts, is not available on major platforms, and a remaster could enhance its AI and gameplay. Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines, released in 2004 by Troika Games and published by Activision, is a classic RPG with bugs and unfinished elements that could benefit from a remaster to fix glitches and restore content. No One Lives Forever, a 2000 game by Monolith Productions and published by Fox Interactive, is unavailable due to rights disputes, but a remaster could modernize its visuals and controls. Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2, released in 2004 by Obsidian Entertainment and published by LucasArts, is an unfinished narrative that could be improved with a remaster to restore missing content. Freedom Force, a 2002 game by Irrational Games and published by Electronic Arts, could benefit from a remaster to improve compatibility and support user-generated content.

Winsage

June 20, 2025

Windows 10 is dying as scams skyrocket. We asked a security expert for advice

In this week's episode of The Full Nerd, hosts Adam Patrick Murray, Alaina Yee, Will Smith, and guest Mike Danseglio discuss the end of Windows 10 and its security implications, the rise of scams, and various online security concerns. They explore user transitions to Windows 11, Linux, and vulnerabilities in communication methods. A recent vulnerability allows hackers to steal encryption keys from AMD Ryzen CPUs, prompting firmware updates for users of the Ryzen 3000 series or newer. Asus Armoury Crate users are advised to update due to a critical flaw that could grant hackers administrative rights. Cloud gaming is gaining traction among gamers under 40, provided latency issues are resolved. DDR4 memory prices are rising, indicating a decline of AMD’s AM4 platform. Anker has recalled older power banks due to fire hazards, and Framework has launched a new 2-in-1 DIY laptop. AMD has shared promising benchmarks for its upcoming Ryzen Threadripper 9000 series.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

18 Minecraft secrets that will help you beat the game

- Minecraft has 204.33 million monthly players. - Llamas can be used as pack mules, with inventory capacity varying from three to fifteen slots based on strength. - Breaking a block reveals a pattern on its north side, aiding navigation. - Lava is a more durable fuel than wood and coal in furnaces. - Diamonds are commonly found between levels 15 and 63, with deeper mining increasing discovery chances. - Players can change a blue sheep to red by bringing it near an Evoker. - Torches can be used to farm sand and gravel blocks by placing them right after block removal. - Mushroom biomes provide safety from hostile mobs at night. - Wearing a carved pumpkin prevents Endermen from attacking. - Players can create Iron Golems for protection by arranging iron blocks and a carved pumpkin. - Cats deter Creepers, making them useful companions. - Doors can create air pockets underwater for breathing. - Snowballs can be used against Blazes in combat. - Placing torches around mob spawners can stop enemy production without destroying them. - The Swift Sneak enchantment allows faster movement while crouching. - Mooshrooms can be milked for mushroom stew. - Players can dye their dogs' collars for customization. - Glass panes can protect pixel art designs on maps from modifications. - Zombies are attracted to turtle eggs, providing a distraction tactic for players.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

NetEase Games announces AAA single-player action adventure game Blood Message for consoles, PC

NetEase Games, in collaboration with 24 Entertainment, is developing a single-player action-adventure game titled Blood Message, which is set to be released on various consoles and PC. The game is powered by the Unreal 5 Engine and marks NetEase Games' first AAA single-player title. Blood Message features a narrative-driven gameplay experience set during the final years of the Tang Dynasty, where players assume the role of a nameless messenger and his son during Dunhuang’s uprising. The game emphasizes themes of loyalty, survival, and the impact of ordinary individuals on history, with gameplay that includes visceral combat and exploration of expansive landscapes inspired by East and Central Asia. A trailer and screenshots have been released, but no specific release date has been announced.

AppWizard

June 20, 2025

Sword of the Sea fuses Journey with Tony Hawk to make a pro skater game that feels as good as it looks

At the Summer Game Fest, players experienced Sword of the Sea, where they navigate desolate dunes as the Wraith, a magical hero on a hoversword, working to restore ancient ocean life. The gameplay allows for a free, mood-based approach without rigid formulas, inspired by the Tony Hawk series and snowboarding. Creative director Matt Nava emphasized that players can recover from mistakes without harsh penalties, enhancing the surfing experience. The game encourages exploration with seamless instructional breaks and features a vibrant aesthetic reminiscent of Nava's previous titles, particularly with its use of the color orange. The design integrates graceful movement and dynamic action, creating a harmonious connection between gameplay and environment.

AppWizard

June 19, 2025

PC Gamer magazine’s new issue is on sale now: Painkiller

PC Gamer has provided an exclusive look at Anshar Studios' reimagining of the FPS game Painkiller, featuring insights from creative director Damian Wyspiański. The game is set in Katowice, Poland, and boasts a weapon arsenal that aims to attract both new and veteran players. Painkiller is noted for its significant impact on the Polish gaming landscape, comparable to The Witcher. Additionally, the magazine discusses the role of choice in Cyberpunk 2077, consulting various developers and academics on its importance in RPGs. The issue includes previews of upcoming titles like Anno 117: Pax Romana, Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream, and others, along with features such as a group test of CPU air coolers, a revisit to Redneck Rampage, and a deep dive into a mod for Streets of Rage. The issue is available in print and digital formats, with subscription options offering exclusive covers.