Fortnite Archives

Winsage

August 14, 2025

Microsoft commits to improve gaming on Arm-based Windows 11 PCs — “We’re developing new features that will enable more games to be played on Arm”

Microsoft has released a preview update for the Xbox app on Windows 11, allowing users of Arm-based devices, such as those with the Snapdragon X SoC, to download Xbox PC games directly. Previously, the app only supported game streaming through Xbox Cloud Gaming and did not allow downloads from the Xbox platform, although users could download from third-party platforms. The update includes an enhanced emulation layer to improve x86 application performance on Arm devices, but many games still face compatibility issues, particularly due to anti-cheat services that are not natively supported on Arm. NVIDIA is rumored to be developing an Arm-based chip that could enhance gaming performance on these devices. Microsoft is also working on updates to improve the gaming experience on Windows 11, including a dedicated interface for handheld gaming PCs.

Winsage

August 13, 2025

Latest Windows 11 update packs a great new feature – but I hope I never have to use it

Windows 11's August update introduces several enhancements, including the Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) tool (KB5063878) to help users recover from boot failures by diagnosing and resolving issues. The update also addresses stability problems for gamers, particularly for popular games like Fortnite, reducing crashes and interruptions. An AI agent is added to the Settings app for Copilot+ PCs, allowing natural language queries to simplify navigation. Additionally, the update officially introduces the Black Screen of Death as a modern version of the Blue Screen of Death. QMR will be enabled by default for Windows 11 Home users, and while some users may have privacy concerns about sharing diagnostic data, the benefits of resolving boot issues may outweigh these apprehensions.

Winsage

August 12, 2025

Windows 11 KB5063878 (24H2) boosts performance, direct download links (.msu)

Windows 11 KB5063878 is a mandatory update that introduces features such as Quick Machine Recovery, improved stability, and enhanced system performance. The update will automatically download and install, identified as the 2025-08 Cumulative Update for Windows 11 Version 24H2 for x64-based Systems (KB5063878), advancing systems to Windows 11 Build 26100.4946. It addresses stability issues reported after the May 2025 updates, particularly in gaming scenarios. Direct download links for offline installers (.msu) are available on the Microsoft Update Catalog. The update includes a new Settings UI with an AI-powered search bar, enhancements for handheld gaming, a redesigned Black Screen of Death (BSOD), and Quick Machine Recovery for unbootable systems. Users in Europe with Copilot+ PCs gain new AI features like Recall, which can be disabled through Privacy & Security settings. Fixes in this update include resolving Windows Firewall errors, issues with the Local Security Authority Subsystem Service (LSASS), visibility problems in File Explorer, and bugs affecting the Settings app and laptop lid options. Microsoft is unaware of any current issues with the update and will continue testing.

AppWizard

August 9, 2025

Blizzard’s ex-CEO says Battlefield 6 will “boot stomp” Call of Duty this year because the franchise has “gone downhill” — calls it a victory for players as COD “won’t be lazy” anymore

Mike Ybarra, former president of Blizzard Entertainment, expressed on social media that he believes "Battlefield will boot stomp CoD this year," suggesting that the competition will push Call of Duty to improve. Battlefield 6 is taking a back-to-basics approach and has shown strong interest with over 250,000 players in its open beta. Critics have noted Ybarra's bias against Call of Duty, which is now owned by Microsoft, and pointed out that despite criticisms, Call of Duty has outsold Battlefield 1. Ybarra described Call of Duty as "a mess," citing issues like cheating and large installation sizes. Battlefield 6 is set to release on October 6 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with modest hardware requirements and a default 60 FPS mode on Series S consoles.

AppWizard

August 7, 2025

From Disney’s Magic Kingdom in Minecraft to Roguelite Raids: Everbloom Games Unveils Nullpoint Protocol

Everbloom Games is transitioning from creating content for Minecraft to indie game development with their first title, Nullpoint Protocol, a co-op roguelite set for release in 2026. The game focuses on MMO-style boss encounters without the grind of traditional RPGs and will feature a playable demo at PAX West 2025, Booth #648. Everbloom's origins trace back to a 2016 PlanetMinecraft competition, leading to successful collaborations with major franchises. Co-founder Tom van Berkel emphasizes the need for creative freedom as a driving force behind their shift to indie development, reflecting on the potential for growth in the industry through user-generated content platforms.

AppWizard

August 7, 2025

Games that try to sneak bots into multiplayer matches are automatically trash

Morgan Park discusses the controversial presence of bots in multiplayer gaming and their impact on player experience and game integrity. In titles like Fortnite, an analysis showed that up to 90% of players in a typical lobby could be bots, leading to a false sense of security for seasoned players. In NetEase’s Marvel Rivals, players report being matched with bot-filled games after losing two consecutive matches, which undermines competition and misleads players about their skills. Some publishers exploit bots for dubious purposes, while others, like Rainbow Six Siege and Call of Duty, label bots and restrict their use to practice modes, promoting transparency and maintaining competitive integrity. The gaming community is encouraged to share experiences regarding the presence of bots.

BetaBeacon

August 5, 2025

Epic Games wins again against Google in court — Android could change dramatically

A US appeals court upheld a jury verdict in the Epic Games v. Google case, declaring Google Play and the company's payment system to be illegal monopolies.

BetaBeacon

August 2, 2025

The Epic Games ‘total victory’ doesn’t mean as much as it wants you to think

Google lost its appeal against a 2023 verdict that found its app store and payments system to be illegal monopolies. The company must make changes such as allowing app developers to advertise other app distribution platforms and limit perks for installing its own apps. Epic Games' relationship with the Chinese state and Microsoft's potential foothold in the mobile world are also mentioned. The outcome of the case may result in changes to how apps are installed and the profits made by companies like Google and Epic Games. Appeals, injunctions, and new cases related to the issue are expected to continue.

AppWizard

August 2, 2025

Google Merely Stalls Epic-Ordered Play Store Overhaul With Emergency Stay, Delaying Inevitable Crack In Its Tight Control Over Android Apps And Billing

Google is required to change its app distribution model following a U.S. appeal court ruling that upheld a December 2023 verdict deeming its Play Store an illegal monopoly. The ruling mandates that Google allow third-party billing systems and alternative app stores, with a compliance deadline of fourteen days. Google is seeking an emergency stay to delay the implementation of these changes, arguing that they could disrupt operations and affect revenue, as well as compromise security and user experience. Critics believe Google's actions are aimed at maintaining its market dominance rather than ensuring user safety. An emergency stay has been granted, providing temporary relief but delaying inevitable changes.

BetaBeacon

August 2, 2025

Google loses appeal in antitrust battle with Fortnite maker

A federal appeals court has upheld a jury verdict condemning Google’s Android app store as an illegal monopoly, paving the way for a federal judge to enforce a potentially disruptive shakeup aimed at providing consumers with more choices.