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January 9, 2026

Steam Workshop just got version control, hopefully making it less of a headache when game updates break all our mods

A significant update for a popular game has disrupted the ecosystem of mods and saved games. Valve has introduced new version control options for Steam Workshop to help players select compatible mod and game versions more easily. These options include new Steam APIs that allow developers to define past game versions and enable mod authors to specify compatibility with specific game versions. The new features can automatically manage version mismatches, allowing Steam to close the game, switch to the appropriate version, and relaunch it if a player attempts to use an incompatible mod. This requires cooperation from developers and mod authors to implement the necessary configurations.

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January 7, 2026

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AppWizard

January 5, 2026

After 200,000 Mobile Downloads, Classy Games Brings Orbital to PC

Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in the gaming industry to become a key player in the global market. The government has allocated resources for local game developers and is attracting international companies. Investment funds have been established to support startups and established firms in the gaming sector. Educational programs and partnerships with universities are being developed to train future game developers. The kingdom plans to host major gaming events to showcase local talent and enhance its reputation as a gaming hub. Additionally, there is a focus on integrating gaming into Saudi culture by promoting games that reflect local heritage and values, encouraging developers to explore themes related to Saudi culture, and fostering community involvement in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

January 2, 2026

The most important PC gaming news stories in 2026

In 2026, the gaming industry is experiencing a push for unionization among developers, highlighted by a legal dispute involving Rockstar Games and former developers of GTA 6. The proposed billion-dollar acquisition of Electronic Arts (EA) could reshape North American gaming, potentially leading to significant cuts and debt for EA. A healthier dialogue about the portrayal of sex in gaming is emerging amid a crackdown on adult-themed games. Microsoft faces job cuts and project cancellations while announcing record profits, raising ethical concerns about its partnerships and creative stagnation. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine presents challenges for developers, influencing future game narratives. Additionally, the generative AI boom is disrupting RAM availability and pricing, potentially increasing costs for gaming hardware.

AppWizard

December 31, 2025

Eric Barone makes $125,000 donation to the C# framework Stardew Valley uses, as well as ‘an ongoing monthly commitment’ in what the team behind it calls an ‘extraordinary show of support’

Eric Barone has made a significant contribution to the open-source C# framework MonoGame, donating ,000 and committing to ongoing monthly support. MonoGame expressed gratitude for his support, highlighting its importance for game developers. Barone has also previously supported other open-source game engines like Godot and FNA, reflecting his commitment to fostering innovation and accessibility in the gaming industry.

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

Millennium Whisper and the case for ethical, on-device AI in games

A recent survey by Google Cloud found that 90% of game developers are exploring generative AI. Millennium Whisper, a dating sim by Parable Studios, is the first game on Steam to run a large language model entirely on-device, avoiding cloud-based inference. This approach allows for unique in-game conversations and addresses ethical data usage, as actors retain ownership of their data and receive royalties. The game uses actor-led role-play sessions for character behavior, ensuring high-quality data. Running AI locally enhances energy efficiency and sustainability, contrasting with traditional server-based models that incur ongoing costs. Millennium Whisper received grant funding from Innovate UK and is currently in Early Access. Ambrose Robinson, the founder of Parable Studios, emphasizes the importance of energy savings and the sustainability of their AI approach.

AppWizard

December 25, 2025

2025 saw game developers scrambling to avoid heavy hitters like Grand Theft Auto 6 and Hollow Knight: Silksong

The timing of video game releases has become increasingly complex for developers, with major publishers traditionally launching titles between one and three months before the holiday season. However, in recent years, many have shifted to releasing games from February to April, and even into May and June, creating a crowded market. Rockstar's announcement of Grand Theft Auto 6, initially set for 2024 but delayed to May 2026 and then to November 2026, has prompted developers to reconsider their release strategies. Team Cherry's announcement of Hollow Knight: Silksong disrupted the release schedule, forcing other developers to scramble for safer dates. Microsoft’s surprise release of Oblivion Remastered in April negatively impacted sales for indie titles like Rosewater, highlighting the challenges of coordinating release schedules in an increasingly crowded market. Upcoming releases such as Resident Evil: Requiem on February 27 and the potential launch of Fable could further complicate the landscape for developers in 2026.

AppWizard

December 25, 2025

Minecraft criticized for calling solo players “sad” in promo message for multiplayer subscription service

Minecraft allows players to engage in various gameplay styles, including solo or multiplayer experiences, and offers both vanilla gameplay and mod enhancements. A recent advertisement for the Realms Plus subscription, which includes a notification referencing the song "One is the loneliest number," has drawn criticism for suggesting that playing alone is sad and encouraging players to invite friends. The backlash includes concerns about the advertisement's insensitivity towards players who prefer single-player experiences, particularly children, and its potential negative impact on mental health. Minecraft Realms provides private server access for a monthly fee, with basic and enhanced subscription options available. Players have expressed that the advertisement could lead to feelings of inadequacy and has sparked discussions about empathy in marketing strategies.

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December 24, 2025

Siliconera’s PC Game of the Year 2025

The PC platform has become a supportive environment for indie game developers, allowing innovative titles to thrive before expanding to other systems. Siliconera's PC Game of the Year selections showcase games that have succeeded due to the unique PC ecosystem. The awards reflect the opinions of the Siliconera team, with multiplatform games assessed based on the platform that received the most support. Hades II continues the legacy of its predecessor, showcasing the developers' commitment to quality during its Early Access phase, resulting in a seamless gameplay experience. Monster Train 2 expands on the original by introducing more factions, increasing strategic possibilities and providing fresh challenges for players. Blue Prince, the winner, offers engaging puzzles with clear solutions, making it accessible for players who may struggle with traditional exploration puzzle games.

AppWizard

December 21, 2025

3 New Free PC Games Include Certified Banger, 100% Steam Discount Confirmed

The Steam platform is set to launch its autumn sale, offering deep discounts on popular titles, exclusive bundles, and limited-time offers. This annual event is expected to boost revenue for game developers and publishers while fostering community discussions among gamers about deals and strategies. Developers are preparing marketing campaigns to promote their titles during the sale.