game content Archives

AppWizard

April 19, 2025

It looks like Tempest Rising accidentally launched early on Steam for everyone, despite withholding advanced access as a Deluxe Edition pre-order bonus

Base-building real-time strategy game Tempest Rising was released on Steam a week earlier than planned, with a new launch date set for April 17 instead of April 24. The game has received an 85% rating in early reviews. Deluxe Edition buyers lost their early access privilege due to the early release, but the developer plans to create exclusive in-game content for them as compensation. The early launch has been positively received by the broader gaming community.

AppWizard

April 11, 2025

PC Players Spend More On Microtransactions Than Actual Games

Newzoo's report reveals that in 2024, microtransactions account for over 58 percent of spending in the PC gaming sector, while only 28 percent is allocated to full game purchases, reflecting a 2.6 percent decline from the previous year. Players dedicated only 8 percent of their gaming time to new releases, with over 60 percent spent on titles released more than six years ago. In contrast, console gaming shows microtransactions at 32 percent of player spending, a 4.5 percent increase year-over-year, while full game purchases still dominate. Subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus Extra capture about 16 percent of the console market.

AppWizard

April 11, 2025

Microtransactions Made Up 58% of PC Video Game Revenue in 2024, Research Shows

Microtransactions account for 58% of total revenue for game companies, with a 1.4% increase in 2024, contributing .4 billion to overall PC gaming sales of .3 billion. Downloadable content (DLC) generated .8 billion in revenue last year, while microtransactions represent 32% of console revenue, amounting to .9 billion out of .8 billion in console sales. Subscription services have risen by 14.1%. PC gaming sales grew by 0.1%, but console gaming revenue declined by 3.9%. Major franchises like Fortnite, Roblox, and Call of Duty exemplify the popularity of microtransactions. The report also notes the trend of "recursive nostalgia," where established franchises reintroduce vintage content to engage players.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

How Gaming Is Regulated On Android’s App Store

The Google Play Store offers millions of mobile games and enforces strict regulations to ensure user safety and legal compliance. These regulations cover content policies, monetization practices, data protection, technical requirements, and regional compliance. Games must adhere to content policies that prohibit hate speech, excessive violence, and misrepresentation, and must be rated by the International Age Rating Coalition (IARC). Monetization strategies require developers to use Google’s payment system for in-app purchases and disclose pricing and refund policies. Gambling games must have the necessary licenses and disclose odds for loot boxes. Data privacy guidelines mandate clear communication about data collection and user consent. Technical standards require games to function well across devices and be free from security threats. Google employs automated and manual reviews to enforce compliance, with consequences for violations ranging from warnings to permanent bans. Regional compliance is necessary, particularly in areas with strict regulations like China and the EU.

AppWizard

April 9, 2025

Fury over rape and incest game that tells players to be ‘women’s worst nightmare’, as Tech Secretary slams PC giant

The computer game "No Mercy" features a male protagonist who is encouraged to adopt a predatory mindset, promoting themes of violence and non-consensual acts. The game has received criticism from various figures, including Technology Secretary Peter Kyle, who described it as "deeply worrying" and called for its removal from the gaming platform Steam. Despite its disturbing content, "No Mercy" has received 'very positive' user reviews on Steam. The game includes elements of violence, incest, and blackmail, and features "unavoidable non-consensual sex." Concerns have been raised about the lax age verification process on Steam, which allows children to easily access the game. Child mental health expert Nova Eden noted that many parents mistakenly view Steam as a safe environment. Although LBC reported the game's inappropriate content to Steam, it remains available for purchase. The situation raises questions about Ofcom's ability to moderate online content, as it cannot investigate individual complaints. The Games Rating Authority clarified that while physical games must carry a PEGI age rating, digital games are not subject to the same requirement, leaving gaps in consumer protection.

BetaBeacon

March 29, 2025

Nintendo Has A Dedicated News App For Its Games

Nintendo has launched a news app called Nintendo Today, which functions as a daily calendar delivering news, events, and content related to the company's games and characters. The app is available on Android and iOS for users with a Nintendo account.