game mechanics Archives

AppWizard

September 15, 2026

Arc Raiders Expeditions may not come back: ‘Maybe we’ll scrap the whole system’

Embark Studios has announced a "pause" on the Expeditions feature in Arc Raiders, with plans to revisit it until early 2027 due to persistent player feedback. Executive producer Aleksander Grøndal indicated that the feature may be overhauled or eliminated entirely. Expeditions serve as a prestige system where players reset their progress for unique benefits, but many have criticized the extensive grind for minimal rewards. The fifth Expedition, ending in September, will be the last until the feature is reworked or potentially scrapped. The studio aims to make significant changes based on community concerns regarding departure windows, reward structure, and accessibility. A major update, Frozen Trails, is set to launch in October.

AppWizard

September 13, 2026

Beneath a Steel Sky review (1994)

The review of "Beneath A Steel Sky" gives it an impressive score of 81%. The game is set in a dystopian future where corrupt corporations have taken control after the collapse of the world government. The protagonist, Robert Foster, is abducted and stranded in this chaotic environment. The gameplay features around 100 locations, numerous puzzles, and a robotic companion named Joey. Players must navigate the city to uncover a conspiracy while evading security forces. The game follows conventional adventure mechanics but is noted for its rich storytelling and design. However, it faces criticism for inconsistencies in tone, with some elements feeling out of place. Despite these issues, it is regarded as a solid entry in the adventure genre.

AppWizard

September 9, 2026

How to make money fast in Wardogs

Players in Wardogs navigate a military simulation that requires strategy and resource management, investing in their own gear. Effective methods to boost earnings include: - Using binoculars to spot enemy units, earning cash for each identification and additional rewards for teammate eliminations. - Constructing a Forward Operating Base (FOB) to earn cash through building and enhancing it. - Reviving teammates for 0 each, maximizing earnings with resuscitators and healing bonuses. - Driving the spawn vehicle to the action zone to collect royalties. - Acting as a taxi driver with helicopters for cash from drop-offs and tips. - Adopting a frugal playstyle by using inexpensive weapons to engage in combat and loot better gear. - Being present in the Hot Zone to earn passive income and bonuses for kills and assists.

AppWizard

September 5, 2026

8-year Old School RuneScape saga comes to a close with former dev sentenced for stealing $400K in gold and items from players

Former Jagex employee Andrew "Mod Jed" Lakeman received a suspended prison sentence of three years for exploiting game mechanics for personal gain by using developer tools to remove items from player accounts and selling them online, amassing over £100,000. He joined Jagex in 2015 and manipulated the game's moderation and account recovery systems to steal valuable items and gold from players. The Cambridge Constabulary stated that the justice system needs to adapt to online crimes. Lakeman previously filed an unfair dismissal counter-complaint in 2022 but did not regain his position at Jagex. In 2023, Lord Justice Popplewell ruled that Lakeman could be held liable for theft of digital assets like RuneScape gold.

AppWizard

September 3, 2026

A multi-month delay for Deus Ex turned into a huge payoff for one of its best characters, says designer Harvey Smith

Harvey Smith discussed the development of Deus Ex on the NoClip podcast, emphasizing the benefits of allowing extra time for game development, particularly in post-production. He noted that Ion Storm Austin received additional time, which enabled the team to refine the game and enhance the character Gunther Hermann, who initially had a limited role. Smith creatively integrated Gunther into a mission in a Paris cathedral, allowing for a more dynamic interaction and a dramatic moment where Gunther's presence added emotional weight to the gameplay. He highlighted the importance of providing game development teams with extra time to improve quality and creativity, suggesting that this approach could lead to greater success and recognition in the industry.

AppWizard

August 25, 2026

Paradox’s next grand strategy game is taking cues from Fallout and Mad Max

Paradox Development Studio is developing a new game titled Afterworld, set in a post-apocalyptic North America. Players will lead a tribe of survivors, choosing their tribe's origins and focusing on survival by gathering resources. The game allows players to rebuild civilization or create new societal structures, including religions and laws, while utilizing pre-collapse technology. A unique tech tree evolves through exploration, with procedural generation ensuring varied experiences in each playthrough. Dan Lind, the game director, emphasizes that Afterworld is Paradox's first non-historical setting in a decade, offering a fresh perspective for a grand strategy game. A preview of the game mechanics will be released in the coming weeks.

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

This newly announced soulslike has a main character inspired by Dark Souls’ most heartbreaking boss fight

Parry Frames Studio has announced their new project, Stray Dog: Nobody Cares, inspired by the Dark Souls series. The game features a four-legged protagonist, a devoted hound on a quest to rescue its captured master in a dark fantasy realm. It will include a combat system with multiple styles for parrying, backstabbing, and executing deathblows, along with stealth elements. The game gained unexpected popularity on social media after early test footage was released. Parry Frames' previous title, Crimson Oath, was released earlier this year and received a 'very positive' rating on Steam. The development of Stray Dog's combat framework is complete, but the release timeline is uncertain.

AppWizard

August 14, 2026

Studycat cites back-to-school surge in top children spanish language android app downloads

Studycat has reported a significant increase in downloads for its Spanish language app on Google Play during the back-to-school season, reflecting a seasonal trend where parents seek educational tools as they establish new routines. The rise in downloads is attributed to increased searches and installations on Android devices, consistent with historical patterns of heightened interest in educational apps during this time. The Studycat Spanish app, designed for children aged two to eight, features interactive games, songs, and stories to teach vocabulary and pronunciation. It allows parents to create multiple learner profiles and includes a VoicePlay feature for real-time pronunciation feedback. Parents can monitor their children's progress through a dashboard that displays completed lessons and badges earned. Studycat develops language-learning apps for various languages and offers additional educational resources on its website.

AppWizard

August 13, 2026

2D toybox fighting game Knock Off: The Battle for Imagination launches in 2027 for PS5, Xbox Series, and PC

Bit Bot Media has announced its collaboration with Mechaghidora to publish the 2D toybox fighting game, Knock Off: The Battle for Imagination, set to launch in 2027 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam. The game features fast-paced combat, a roster of unique characters inspired by '80s and '90s toys, an arcade mode, online multiplayer battles, and a retro soundtrack. Players will control Johnny, who faces off against Maximus, his first brand-name action figure. The game aims to evoke nostalgia while providing an engaging gaming experience. A new trailer and screenshots have been released.

AppWizard

August 12, 2026

Inspired by the Minecraft Redstone system, minimalist puzzler ‘Pight’ is a real gem

Pight is a minimalist puzzle game developed by Mindlabor, known for titles like Quadrata, Lovux, and Netoo. The game features gameplay mechanics that involve solving grid puzzles using elements like pistons, sticky blocks, and portals. It includes 90 levels with eight unique mechanics introduced every ten levels, and it has no text or penalties, allowing for unlimited undos and no time constraints. The game is designed to be relaxing, with a soothing soundtrack. The gameplay duration varies based on individual problem-solving skills, with puzzles becoming more challenging as players progress. Pight is priced at £3.59 and has a review score of 4 out of 5. The release date is August 8, 2026.