first-person shooters Archives

AppWizard

December 2, 2025

Sometimes, an FPS really is better with a controller

The text discusses the ongoing debate between using a mouse and keyboard versus a controller in first-person shooters (FPS). The author reflects on their experiences with various games, noting that gameplay dynamics can differ significantly based on the input method. In particular, they found that while playing Halo with a mouse and keyboard was enjoyable, it lacked the immersive intensity experienced with a controller. The design of Halo's enemies is noted to complement controller use, enhancing combat engagement. The author also mentions their experience with Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, where they found the controller more intuitive due to design choices favoring controller users, such as analog movement and aim assist. They express surprise at how well classic titles like Doom adapted to controller play, leading to a reevaluation of input preferences in FPS games.

AppWizard

November 29, 2025

Call of Duty Warzone is planning “frequent meta shake ups” with weapon balancing up to four times a season

Raven Software has announced its strategic vision for balancing gameplay in Call of Duty Warzone, focusing on a dynamic meta and prioritizing trade-offs over universal dominance. The developers plan to introduce open matchmaking and a new experience inspired by Blackout on the Avalon map in spring. They aim to implement up to four meta updates each season, enhancing build diversity and ensuring meaningful loadout choices. Attachments will now be limited to five per weapon, and the Overkill Wildcard will be a default benefit for all players. Raven is committed to balancing Warzone attachments independently from BO7 multiplayer, fostering meaningful trade-offs and preserving weapon category identities. The largest magazines for assault rifles will be capped at 60 rounds, and slug ammo for pump-action shotguns will allow for one-shot headshots within range. As of December 4, pistols will be removed from ground loot to improve recovery satisfaction.

AppWizard

November 29, 2025

A new Half-Life game has just launched a demo on Steam, but Valve’s not involved

Half-Life: Element 64 is a community-driven mod developed by Dark Vector, which has released a demo on Steam. Players need to own a copy of the original Half-Life to access the mod, which takes place in the Black Mesa Research facility and features gameplay inspired by classic first-person shooters like Doom and Quake. The mod consists of four episodes, beginning with players fighting through medical bays and research facilities overrun by alien invaders and zombified staff. The demo is available for free on Steam, and while a full release date has not been announced, it captures the essence of the original Half-Life game from 1998.

AppWizard

November 25, 2025

This fishing game awards bonus XP for no-scoping an airborne mackerel, and I think that’s beautiful

How to Fish is a co-op angling game that combines traditional fishing with absurd and action-packed elements, allowing players to use unconventional methods, including firearms, for fishing. Players can quickly transition from serene fishing to chaotic action, such as shooting fish with an Uzi and engaging in activities like launching sharks for fistfights or sniping seagulls. The game features skill bonuses for precise shots and includes a playful gambling aspect with in-game currency. The developers, Dazed Games, aim to create more advanced character models than typical indie games, though there is currently no demo or release date available.

AppWizard

November 23, 2025

Borderlands 4’s new, free DLC hasn’t moved the needle at all, and I think I know why

Gearbox released a free DLC for Borderlands 4 titled 'How Rush Saved Mercenary Day,' which includes a new boss fight, legendary loot, cosmetics, and story missions. The game's peak concurrent users on Steam this week was 15,887, unchanged from the previous week and down from earlier this month. Despite improvements over its predecessor, player engagement has declined, with many players feeling a lack of motivation to return. The DLC is perceived as a lighter addition, and Gearbox's promotion of it has been insufficient. Players who purchased the deluxe edition will receive an additional bounty pack. Performance issues on lower-end PCs further deter players. Upcoming content, including a full Story Pack DLC featuring Mad Ellie and a new Vault Hunter, C4SH, is anticipated to boost interest.

AppWizard

November 23, 2025

Doom: The Dark Ages’ latest update overhauls its customisable arena mode, and id Software wants to add the best player-made slaughter-fests as selectable presets

The update version 2.3 for Doom: The Dark Ages enhances the Ripatorium feature, refining the wave-based mode that allows players to create their own demonic encounters. It includes rebalancing of combat encounters with adjustments to enemy presence, and introduces a new option for the "Brink of Death" feature, allowing players to modify its impact on survival rates. The update aims to foster community engagement around the Ripatorium despite the absence of the Snapmap system from Doom 2016.

AppWizard

November 20, 2025

Epic Games Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2025 Sale

Epic Games will hold its Black Friday and Cyber Monday sale from November 18, 2025, at 11 AM ET until December 2, 2025, at 11 AM ET, offering discounts of up to 80% on premium, deluxe, and complete editions of popular PC games. Featured titles include Battlefield 6 Phantom Edition, Alan Wake 2 Deluxe Edition, HITMAN World of Assassination Deluxe Edition, and Dying Light: The Beast Deluxe Edition, among others. The sale introduces a gifting feature for players to send games and add-ons to friends, and Epic Rewards will be temporarily boosted to 20% during the sale, applicable to future purchases. Players will continue to earn 20% back in Epic Rewards for select games even after the sale ends.

AppWizard

November 20, 2025

Grab brutal FPS Escape From Tarkov at its cheapest price for a special 1.0 launch discount

Escape From Tarkov has officially launched on Steam after nine years of development, coinciding with the 1.0 update. This update includes a branching narrative with multiple endings, an essential tutorial for new players, and an expanded arsenal of weapons and gear. The game features a steep learning curve, requiring strategic gameplay and awareness of surroundings. Currently, it is available for .49 / £32.99 at Fanatical with a 25% discount, valid until November 29, 2025, at 11 PM PT.

AppWizard

November 8, 2025

The weirdest FPS of the decade just got a free, standalone PvP mode that’s a blast if you can keep your lunch down

Hyper Demon is a first-person shooter that builds on its predecessor, Devil Daggers, featuring a captivating art style and fast-paced gameplay. It shifts the focus from survival to aggressive combat, reminiscent of Doom Eternal. Sam Greer rated the game 95, describing it as "virtually, and visually, euphoric." The PvP mode allows two players to battle as biblically accurate angels on a disc of energy, using purple daggers and a projectile-deflecting energy shield. Players can execute charged shots or piercing shots, adding depth to the gameplay. The game includes a tutorial and CPU practice mode for newcomers, but its unique visual style may affect those prone to motion sickness. Hyper Demon PvP is recommended for players seeking a compact competitive shooter experience.

AppWizard

November 2, 2025

PSA: Look out sweaty PvPers, Arc Raiders’ foliage looks a little different depending on your graphics settings

Adjusting graphics settings in Arc Raiders can significantly affect player visibility and survival, influencing competitive play. The presence or absence of foliage alters gameplay, with higher settings obscuring opponents and lower settings providing clearer sightlines. This disparity can impact gameplay, especially in visually complex environments. While the effects are less pronounced in third-person shooters compared to first-person shooters, concerns about fairness and competitive integrity persist. The gaming community has reacted with mixed feelings, often maintaining a friendly demeanor despite the implications for player-versus-player interactions. Players desire a level playing field where skill determines victory, rather than technical advantages.