features Archives

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Minecraft for Switch 2 has a closed beta available to selected players

The enhanced version of Minecraft for the Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch in October. Mojang and Microsoft are conducting a closed beta test for this version to refine gameplay and address bugs before the official release. The number of beta testers is undisclosed.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Minecraft just got a Nintendo Switch 2 closed beta, here’s a first look

Minecraft will be released on the Nintendo Switch 2 on October 27, 2026. A closed beta is currently underway, with select players receiving notifications to download the beta version. The Nintendo Switch 2 version features support for Vibrant Visuals, allowing a maximum render distance of 16 chunks, while disabling this feature increases the render distance to 28 chunks. The performance target is set at 60 frames per second, with stable performance reported when Vibrant Visuals are off, though enabling them may cause fluctuations.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Minecraft has been transformed into a full ARPG, with endgame maps and bosses inspired by Path of Exile 2

Craft to Exile 2 is a mod for Minecraft that transforms the game into an action RPG, drawing inspiration from titles like Path of Exile and Diablo 2. It features an overhauled combat system with classes, talent trees, a randomized gear system, and dodge rolls. Players can choose a class, earn stats and skills, and specialize through an 'ascendancy' system. The mod includes over 250 quests, dungeons, shops, and a comprehensive endgame with a mapping system and repeatable dungeons. The 2.0 update introduces new classes, mechanics, and interface enhancements, including Uber bosses, Shrines for temporary buffs, Strongboxes for loot, and new crafting materials. The update is available for download.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Titan Quest 2’s new class is a dream for lovers of the Diablo Necromancer

Titan Quest 2 has introduced its sixth Mastery, Spirit, which focuses on minion manipulation and is appealing to fans of the Necromancer archetype. Players can summon Eidolon Guards and a greater summon called Athanekros, with skills that allow for healing and buffing allies. The update also includes a skill called Soul Vortex, which draws enemies in and supports minions. Additionally, update 0.7.0 increases base movement speed, introduces a basic crafting system with four actions, and includes balancing adjustments across existing Masteries. The patch aims to enhance gameplay while maintaining the thrill of item hunting.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

‘I am a big roguelike guy, but also a fan of minimalism and elegance’: Sam Barlow, creator of Her Story, guides us through the games in his Steam Library

Sam Barlow is the director of Half Mermaid and a notable figure in interactive fiction, known for his work on games like Arrival, Ghost Rider, Silent Hill: Shattered Memories, Her Story, Telling Lies, and Immortality. He has a fondness for the game D: The Game, appreciating its cinematography and atmosphere despite its design flaws. Barlow has dedicated over 500 hours to Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island, which he considers one of the greatest roguelikes. He also treasures Riven, keeping it installed at all times for its artistic value. On the non-gaming side, he relies on Fade In, a screenwriting software that he finds essential for his work. Barlow's desktop is chaotic, as he saves everything there, leading to a cluttered environment.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Fields of Mistria’s cast has me head over heels in a way no farm sim has since Stardew Valley

Players can transform an overgrown property into a flourishing industrial vineyard within a year in the game Fields of Mistria. The game features a diverse cast of characters, including the blacksmith March, the witch Juniper, the town leader Adeline, and the carpenter Ryis. It offers a narrative depth that emphasizes community and relationships, showcasing connections like the friendship between rancher Hayden and doctor Valen, and the memories of bartender Hemlock and his wife Josephine. The game's 1.0 launch allows players to complete the main story and marry, enhancing engagement with the evolving narrative and character growth.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Lies of P studio reveals name change and hypes up sequel: ‘My goal has been to create the world’s greatest action game.’

Nough, formerly known as Round8, has released a 16-minute mini-documentary that explores its culture and the creative process behind the Lies of P series. The studio's name change reflects its commitment to a development philosophy centered on the motto 'Games by Gamers'. The documentary features behind-the-scenes insights, personal stories from developers, and highlights the challenges faced during the creation of Lies of P. The team is currently working on a sequel, with optimism stemming from the success of the original game and its Overture expansion. News writer Harvey Randall has noted the positive reception of the Overture expansion as a promising sign for Lies of P 2.

Winsage

August 9, 2026

x64 port of Microsoft Word for Windows 1.1a arrives — you can now run this seminal 1990 word processor natively in Windows 11

A developer named JMarshall23 has ported Microsoft Word for Windows 1.1a to x64 architecture, allowing it to run natively on Windows 11. This port uses the original source code and resources, with modern adaptations to address the limitations of the 16-bit assembly and segmented-memory architecture. Microsoft Word for Windows 1.1a was originally launched over 25 years ago and introduced features like WYSIWYG editing, graphics incorporation, and table insertion. Microsoft has made the source code publicly available through the Computer History Museum, which includes a 7MB bundle with C source files, x86 assembly, build tools, and documentation. Users need the Windows 11 SDK, CMake 3.25 or newer, and PowerShell to build and run this version. The code release is governed by a license that permits only non-commercial use, restricting software redistribution.

Winsage

August 9, 2026

Linux finally gave me back the joy of tinkering that Windows killed

Windows 11 has become a "one-size-fits-all" operating system, lacking excitement and robust features, especially for power users. In contrast, Linux offers a diverse range of distributions, each tailored to specific needs, allowing users to choose one that aligns with their preferences. The exploration of Linux continues beyond the initial choice of distribution, with extensive customization options available, such as different desktop environments and unique updating methods. Overall, Linux provides a more vibrant and engaging experience compared to the predictable routine of Windows.

Winsage

August 9, 2026

Windows 11’s built-in Weather app wastes more than 1 GB of RAM

Windows Latest and Wccftech reported significant updates in the Windows ecosystem aimed at enhancing user experience. Key features include enhanced security protocols to protect against threats, an improved user interface for smoother navigation, and performance optimizations for faster load times and better responsiveness. The community response has been positive, with users eager to explore the benefits of these updates.