future releases Archives

AppWizard

February 10, 2025

Take-Two chief says PC has become a ‘more important part of what used to be a console business,’ but he’s still not committing to a Grand Theft Auto 6 release

Take-Two Interactive's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, emphasized the growing importance of PC gaming in the industry, noting that it significantly contributes to sales for multiplatform titles. He mentioned the recent launch of Sid Meier's Civilization 7 on multiple platforms simultaneously but indicated that this strategy may not apply to all games. Speculation exists that the release of Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) on PC may be delayed to maximize revenue by initially launching on consoles. Zelnick acknowledged that PC has become a crucial part of the gaming landscape and hinted that the release of GTA 6 on PC might not occur until after the next console generation. He also predicted an increase in console sales in 2025 due to a strong release schedule. The timeline for a PC release of GTA 6 remains uncertain, with speculation suggesting a possible 2026 launch.

Winsage

February 4, 2025

Microsoft wants you to understand why “deprecation” of Windows features is good for you

Microsoft periodically announces the deprecation of certain features, functionalities, or services within its Windows operating system, which are detailed on the official Microsoft Learn feature deprecation web page. Deprecation indicates that a feature or service is no longer under active development and is planned for removal in future releases, but it does not signify the end of a product's lifecycle. During the deprecation period, deprecated products continue to receive support, although they will not be developed further. The timeline for this can span several years, allowing users to adapt. The end of support for Windows 10 is scheduled for later this year, and Microsoft has revised its offer for a "limited-time free upgrade" to Windows 11.

AppWizard

February 4, 2025

Spectator Mode Podcast Ep. 176 – PC Games PSN Requirements Slashed, and the Future of Xbox

The latest episode of the Spectator Mode Podcast discusses several key topics in the gaming industry. The PlayStation Network has adjusted its PC game requirements, potentially enhancing accessibility for developers and gamers. The launch of Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 on PC has faced significant challenges, raising concerns about quality control. Additionally, Forza Horizon 5 is set to be released on PlayStation 5, prompting discussions about the implications for Xbox's exclusivity strategy. The hosts also analyze the potential effects of ongoing tariffs on pricing and production in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

December 27, 2024

Alan Wake 2 set such a high technical bar last year that few games in 2024 came anywhere near, but it wasn’t all abject disappointment

Alan Wake 2 debuted late last year, leading to assumptions of a 2024 release. Dragon's Dogma 2 launched in March but had excessive hardware demands and inconsistent performance. Nixxes Software's port of Horizon Forbidden West showcased effective traditional rendering. In May, Nixxes also released the Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut, which lacked ray tracing but was well-executed. June saw the release of Shadow of the Erdtree, the first expansion for Elden Ring, which did not include engine updates, causing performance issues for PC gamers. In August, Black Myth: Wukong and Star Wars Outlaws featured ray tracing but faced performance issues. September brought a port of God of War Ragnarök and Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2, both performing well. The Silent Hill 2 remake encountered glitches and performance issues on PC, while Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 struggled at launch. Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl had visual appeal but suffered from performance problems and required patches for stability. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle performed well on lower-end hardware but was glitchy. High-profile titles like Marvel's Spider-Man 2 and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth are anticipated for 2025.

Winsage

December 27, 2024

Microsoft flags Windows 11 24H2 install media issue

Users who installed Windows 11 24H2 via removable media may not receive security updates if the installation media contains the October or November 2024 security updates. Microsoft advises using installation media that includes the December 2024 monthly security update or later to avoid this issue. Devices receiving updates through Windows Update or the Microsoft Update Catalog are not affected. Microsoft is working on a resolution for the installation media problem, which is one of several known issues with the Windows 11 update.

AppWizard

December 26, 2024

Best PC Games Graphics of 2024

- Empire of the Ants, developed by Tower Five using Unreal Engine 5, showcases innovative technology like Lumen and Nanite, delivering a visually stunning experience without stutters. - Dragon Age: The Veilguard features a unique art style and striking visuals powered by the Frostbite Engine, despite not meeting long-time fans' expectations. - S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, despite its troubled development and some graphical glitches, is visually captivating, especially with HDR, and modding communities have helped enhance its environments. - Horizon: Forbidden West translates beautifully to PC, offering impressive visuals without ray tracing effects, and is considered superior to titles like God of War: Ragnarok. - Final Fantasy 16 shines on PC with gorgeous environments and character designs, and the absence of major pop-ins enhances the immersive experience. - Tekken 8 is noted as the most visually impressive 3D fighting game, with meticulously crafted character models and stage designs that run smoothly on various PC configurations. - Black Myth: Wukong utilizes path tracing technology for a visually rich experience, though it has some limitations in environmental design. - The Silent Hill 2 Remake features expansive environments and exceptional use of Lumen and Nanite, showcasing impressive 3D models and an elevated horror art style. - Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, utilizing Unreal Engine 5, presents some of the most realistic 3D characters and environments, with high-quality textures and particle effects. - Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is recognized as the best-looking PC title of 2024, featuring path tracing effects that enhance lighting and detail, despite minor texture issues.

AppWizard

December 6, 2024

Overthrown is a unique sandbox game “relative to most of the genre,” with an ever-changing world that separates itself from genre giants like Minecraft

Overthrown has officially launched as a city-builder sandbox hybrid, allowing players to manipulate their environment by tossing objects. Developer Brimstone has removed traditional mechanics like fall damage and inventory management to enhance gameplay. NPC citizens automate resource gathering, enabling players to focus on exploration and combat. The game features flexible gameplay, allowing players to switch between gathering and combat. Overthrown includes a dynamic procedural world that evolves with changing seasons, introducing new plants, creatures, and outlaw camps. Environmental changes, such as pollution, will affect the game world, adding realism. The game is currently in early access on Steam, with plans for future releases on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5.

Winsage

November 27, 2024

Download Microsoft’s Windows 365 Link wallpapers. They’re stunning

Microsoft unveiled Windows 365 Link, a mini PC that streams the upcoming Windows CPC/NXT operating system from the cloud. Windows 365 serves as the service, Windows 365 Link as the hardware, and Windows CPC/NXT as the software. Windows CPC/NXT is designed with a web user experience, focusing on efficiency and simplicity, distinguishing itself from Windows 11. It features unique wallpapers in light and dark modes, characterized by a blue color palette and a glossy finish, which differ from the vibrant "Bloom" wallpaper of Windows 11. The light wallpaper has a bright blue backdrop, while the dark variant has a deep blue background with glowing edges. The design of the Windows 365 Link wallpapers aims for a professional aesthetic, suitable for professional environments.

BetaBeacon

November 15, 2024

All upcoming mobile games (iOS, Android): 2024, 2025, and beyond

2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year for mobile gaming, with new games set to cater to all types of gamers. Some games have confirmed release dates, while others are still in development, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation.