game launcher Archives

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

Game Pass titles will receive unofficial support on Linux

Enthusiasts are working on the Xodus project, an unofficial open-source initiative aimed at enabling Xbox PC games, including those from Game Pass, to run on Linux and Mac systems. The project is a reverse-engineering effort that allows users to log in, download packages, and obtain game licenses for Xbox titles. The team has experience from previous projects like the Heroic Games Launcher and aims to support a wide range of Xbox games formatted in GDK and MSIXVC. While Xodus can download and run these games, additional patches may be required for optimal performance.

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

Modders are working on porting Xbox and PC Game Pass to Linux

Xodus is an open-source project aimed at enabling Linux and macOS users to access Xbox PC and PC Game Pass subscriptions without Windows. Developed by the team behind the Heroic Game Launcher, Xodus builds on existing functionalities to allow gameplay from various platforms. The project has successfully created an Xbox authorization system for users to log in, verify licenses, and identify available Game Pass titles. However, challenges remain in launching games, requiring reverse engineering of Microsoft technologies like the Game Development Kit (GDK) and MSIXVC format. Compatibility issues are anticipated, particularly with older Universal Windows Platform (UWP) games, such as Forza Horizon 3. Additionally, launching games will necessitate the use of Linux technologies like Wine, DXVK, or VKD3D-Proton, complicating full compatibility with the Game Pass catalog.

AppWizard

July 4, 2026

Remember your Paradox account? No? Well you might want to look into that because it could be deleted next year

Paradox Interactive announced plans to clean up inactive accounts starting in March 2024, targeting accounts that have not shown any activity since September 2025. This maintenance event aims to enhance performance and minimize clutter. Accounts can remain active by logging in through the game launcher, not just the website. Affected users have eight months to log in at least once to avoid deletion.

AppWizard

June 8, 2026

Pirated PC games are delivering password-stealing malware

A surge in Windows malware campaigns has been identified, with malicious software hidden in pirated PC games and modified installers for popular franchises like Far Cry, Need for Speed, FIFA, and Assassin’s Creed. Over 400,000 devices globally have been affected, with around 30,000 cases in the United States. The malware, known as the "RenEngine loader," is disguised as a legitimate game launcher and infects systems when users download cracked games. It aims to deploy an infostealer called ARC, which can capture sensitive information such as passwords and cryptocurrency wallets, and may also install other harmful payloads like the Rhadamanthys stealer and Async Remote Access Trojan (RAT). Users often remain unaware of their infection until significant damage occurs. Recommendations for safety include avoiding unofficial downloads, using up-to-date anti-malware protection, and regularly updating software.

BetaBeacon

May 8, 2026

The Best Mobile Gaming Controllers for iPhone and Android (2026)

- The Backbone One is a mobile gaming controller that is easy to recommend and comfortable for long gaming sessions. - The Backbone Pro is an upgraded version of the Backbone One with additional features such as Bluetooth connectivity and programmable back buttons. - The ohsnap! Mcon Mobile Gaming Controller is a magnetic controller that attaches to the back of phones and has a unique design. - The GameSir G8 Galileo is a mobile gaming controller with a cradle style that holds smartphones and has Hall-effect sticks and triggers. - The Razer Kishi Ultra is a sliding controller designed for tablets and large phones with USB-C connectivity. - The 8Bitdo Pro 2 is a traditional mobile controller with a retro design, Hall-effect sticks, and customizable features. - The Gulikit KK3 Max is an upgraded version of the King Kong controller with Hall-effect joysticks and programmable buttons. - The Viture x 8Bitdo Ultimate Mobile Gaming Controller is designed for smart glasses and offers a comfortable gaming experience.

AppWizard

April 2, 2026

Amazon is giving away one of the best strategy games ever, plus loads of other PC games for Prime members

Amazon Luna offers Amazon Prime members a monthly selection of complimentary PC games, allowing them to acquire game keys for platforms like GOG and the Epic Games Store at no additional cost. Unlike services such as Xbox Game Pass, the games claimed through Amazon Luna remain owned by the user even after the Prime membership ends. To access this feature, users can log in to the Amazon Luna claim page with their Amazon account.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

It Is Easier Than Ever To Find All Native PC Ports Of Retro Games, Thanks To N64RecompLauncher

In recent months, retro game recompilations from the Nintendo 64 have gained attention, particularly due to their decompilation into native PC ports, offering benefits like enhanced frame rates and mod support. The N64RecompLauncher, developed by SirDiabo and available on GitHub, helps users track and download these recompilations. It supports various platforms, including Nintendo 64, GameCube, and Xbox 360 titles. Installation is straightforward, especially for Steam Deck users, but requires legally obtained game copies. While the launcher can be cumbersome in game mode, using touch navigation improves the experience. The tool is seen as an efficient way to manage and stay updated on new releases in retro gaming.

BetaBeacon

March 6, 2026

Razer’s latest Kishi V3 Pro USB-C controller grip for Android and iPhone/iPad just hit a new $120 all-time low

An exciting deal on Amazon for the Razer Kishi V3 Pro USB-C game controller grip, now priced at .99 with free shipping.

Winsage

February 1, 2026

5 Essential Free Apps That Aren’t Available On The Microsoft Store

The Microsoft Store has recently added applications like VLC, Foobar2000, Firefox, and Brave, but several essential applications are still missing, leading users to download installers from developers' websites. Microsoft has discontinued support for Office installations via the store, and the transition to allowing Win32 app formats has introduced more applications, although many developers may find this shift too late, with full support for Win32 apps not expected until 2025. Notable applications currently unavailable on the Microsoft Store include: - Steam: A critical gaming platform with over 140 million users, absent from the store due to Valve's competition with Microsoft. - Notepad++: A popular text and code editor known for its simplicity and versatility, requiring direct download from its official website. - Calibre: An open-source e-book manager that allows users to organize, convert, and enrich e-books, also needing to be downloaded from its official site. - qBittorrent: A free and open-source torrent client offering a clean interface and extensive features, available only through direct download from its official website. - Paint.net: While available on the Microsoft Store for a fee, it can be downloaded for free from the developer's website, providing robust image editing features.

BetaBeacon

January 13, 2026

Samsung just abandoned this mini-game you never heard of, but there’s good news

Samsung has removed the Creature Collection feature from its Gaming Hub app, which allowed players to unlock collectible "monsters" by progressing through games and hatching virtual eggs. Despite this change, all the unlockable monsters are now available for users to set as their display pictures inside the app without having to complete specific missions or reach certain progress levels.