Game Mode Archives

Winsage

May 17, 2025

Windows 11 Home vs Pro for Gaming: Which One Should You Choose?

Upgrading from Windows 11 Home to Windows 11 Pro does not yield significant benefits in gaming performance, compatibility, or features for most gamers. Both editions provide identical gaming performance, supporting the same core gaming technologies such as DirectStorage, Auto HDR, and Game Mode. Windows 11 Home supports up to 128 GB of RAM and one CPU socket with 64 cores, while Windows 11 Pro supports up to 2 TB of RAM and two CPU sockets with 128 cores. Pro includes additional features like BitLocker encryption, Remote Desktop hosting, Hyper-V virtualization, and Group Policy management, which are not typically utilized by gamers. The price of Windows 11 Home is lower than that of Pro, making it a more cost-effective choice for gaming. Both editions meet the hardware requirements for modern gaming, and compatibility with major games and platforms is consistent across both versions.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Save On Hundreds Of Awesome PC Games During Humble’s Spring Sale

The Humble Spring Sale 2025 is ongoing until May 28, offering significant discounts on various PC games, primarily Steam keys. Notable deals include: - Borderlands 3: Ultimate Edition available for .99, down from .99, including the base game and Season Pass content. - Our Metaphor: ReFantazio, rated 10/10, priced at .99, reduced from .99. - Persona 5 Royal available for .99, down from its usual price. - Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Complete Edition for .99, reduced from .99, including the base game and additional content. Other games on sale include Bomb Rush Cyberfunk, Cyberpunk 2077, and Space Marine 2, with their prices not specified.

Tech Optimizer

April 30, 2025

5 Free Antivirus Programs To Eliminate Malware and Viruses (2025)

Users are increasingly seeking effective malware protection without the cost of premium software, leading to the emergence of free antivirus programs that offer robust security features. This trend is particularly beneficial for Windows 11 users who want real-time protection while staying within budget. Several leading cybersecurity firms provide free antivirus solutions equipped with advanced features such as real-time scanning, phishing defenses, cloud-based malware detection, and system optimization tools. These free programs can adequately protect a diverse audience, including gamers, remote workers, students, and casual users. Top free antivirus programs for Windows 11 in 2025 include: 1. Bitdefender Antivirus Free: Utilizes the same malware engine as its paid version, offers real-time detection, anti-phishing protection, and is ultra-light on system resources. 2. Microsoft Defender Antivirus: Integrated into Windows 11, provides cloud-delivered protection and built-in ransomware mitigation without ads. 3. Avast Free Antivirus: Offers additional tools like network scanning and a Do Not Disturb mode for gaming. 4. AVG AntiVirus Free: Features a simpler interface, link and attachment protection, and fewer pop-ups. 5. TotalAV Free Antivirus: A newer option with a clean interface, real-time protection, and a junk file cleaner. Key factors to consider when selecting free antivirus software include real-time protection, low resource usage, minimal intrusion, and extra security tools. While free solutions are suitable for most users, premium protection may be necessary for small businesses or those handling sensitive data. For gamers, Bitdefender and Avast are recommended for their low system impact and gaming modes. For remote workers, Microsoft Defender and TotalAV are highlighted for their ease of use and integrated protections. Essential features of effective antivirus programs include robust virus protection, real-time scanning, and a behavior shield to detect new threats. Performance should not significantly slow down the system, and the interface should be user-friendly. Experts recommend Windows Defender for basic protection, with AVG and Avast receiving endorsements for their feature balance, while Bitdefender Free is noted for its detection rates and minimal system impact. Free antivirus programs may lack advanced features and technical support compared to paid versions.

BetaBeacon

April 24, 2025

VR brought out the kid in me again

Plastic Battlegrounds is a sandbox toy-based battle simulator game that allows players to embody a plastic soldier and engage in battles and scenarios in different parts of a house. The game focuses on creativity and imagination rather than advanced AI or cutting-edge graphics.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Is Windows 11 Finally Better Than Windows 10 For Gaming?

Windows 11 has introduced several gaming-focused enhancements that are not present in Windows 10, including: - DirectStorage: Optimized for Windows 11, this technology allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD to the GPU, reducing load times. - Auto HDR: Enhances older games by automatically applying high dynamic range lighting effects for users with HDR-capable monitors. - Improved Scheduling for Hybrid CPUs: Offers better task scheduling for Intel's 12th or 13th generation CPUs, resulting in smoother frame rates during CPU-intensive gaming sessions. Benchmark tests show minimal performance differences between Windows 10 and Windows 11, with slight FPS improvements in some titles on Windows 11, especially when using advanced hardware and DirectStorage. As of March 2025, over 55% of Windows users on Steam have transitioned to Windows 11, indicating growing confidence in the operating system among gamers. Windows 11 has addressed many early bugs and driver issues, providing robust stability on compatible systems. Windows 11 has stricter hardware requirements than Windows 10, including the need for TPM 2.0 and UEFI secure boot. Windows 10 remains supported until October 2025, making it a viable option for users with older hardware. Windows 11 features a redesigned interface with a centered Start Menu and Taskbar, rounded corners, and expanded personalization options. It also simplifies the update process with annual feature updates and smaller, faster security updates. Windows 11 enhances integration with Microsoft services, supports Android apps through the Amazon Appstore, and introduces productivity tools like Snap Layouts and improved Task View. Security improvements include mandatory TPM 2.0, enhanced Windows Defender, and a redesigned privacy dashboard for better user control over app permissions. Despite its advancements, Windows 11 has limitations such as ongoing stability issues, driver compatibility concerns, and a simplified taskbar that lacks certain functionalities from Windows 10. Windows 11 is available as a free upgrade for eligible Windows 10 devices through Windows Update.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Windows 11 leak hints at a new UI designed for gaming handhelds

Microsoft is tailoring Windows 11 for the handheld gaming market by exploring a dedicated game mode for portable devices. The latest preview build includes references to a gaming-centric interface that allows users to select their preferred system layout at startup, featuring a fullscreen experience with customizable home apps and shortcuts. Users can activate this mode through OS settings, establishing it as the default interface. The build includes options like “Boot into the full screen experience at device startup” and “Choose your full screen experience,” resembling Steam’s Big Picture mode. These changes may also be integrated into a rumored Xbox handheld, potentially leading to a Windows 11 device rather than a standalone portable Xbox. The new features are linked to the existing Game Bar, which provides essential gaming functionalities. This shift towards a dedicated UI for handheld devices is seen as necessary, as Windows has historically prioritized keyboard and mouse interactions. The evolution could position Windows handhelds as a compelling option for gamers, especially in light of competition from Valve's SteamOS.

AppWizard

March 11, 2025

PCG’s best city builder of 2024 is adding a map with a gigantic hill in the middle: the perfect spot for your next castle

Manor Lords, a city builder game by Slavic Magic, has sold over three million copies since its early access launch. The next major update will introduce a new map called Devil's Hill, featuring a central hill that will serve as a strategic battleground and a site for castle construction. The update may include a game mode with valuable resources atop the hill to encourage competition among players. Additionally, there will be a reworked progression system and enhancements to the castle planner. The game initially garnered over 2 million wishlists, exceeding early expectations.

AppWizard

March 10, 2025

Overwatch 2 is launching another Le Sserafirm collab with ‘more transformative’ skin designs, guided by Blizzard Korea’s keen eye for Korean trends and street style

In 2023, Overwatch collaborated with K-Pop group Le Sserafim, launching a debut song, five unique hero skins, and a new game mode. A new Le Sserafim event is set to debut next week. The Overwatch team, led by Aimee Dennett, is open to future collaborations, emphasizing innovation and creativity. The introduction of mythic skins, such as Reaper's Anubis and Widowmaker's Spellbinder, has enhanced the game's visual appeal and allowed for new creative exploration. Rogers from the design team highlighted a shift towards a more transformative approach in skin design, breaking away from previous limitations. Overwatch is known for its exceptional skins, with iconic examples like Ana's Wasteland skin, Genji's Oni skin, and D.Va's Shin-Ryeong skin, and continues to explore diverse styles for innovative designs.

AppWizard

March 10, 2025

Unlock the Fun at Prosper Prison – A Minecraft Server Worth Exploring

Prosper Prison is a newly launched OP Prison server in Minecraft that emphasizes fast-paced progression, unique rewards, and a dynamic community experience. Key features include quick leveling, custom rewards, exclusive plugins, a welcoming atmosphere, optimized lag-free gameplay, and frequent updates. Players can join Prosper Prison at the IP address Play.prosperprison.com or visit the website https://www.prosperprison.net.

AppWizard

December 13, 2024

Making Minecraft all their own

Students at Skidmore College engaged in a project where they took on roles of ancient Romans, such as bakers, farmers, and miners, to explore daily life in ancient Rome. Assistant Professor Amy Oh emphasized the importance of everyday individuals in Roman society, who made up 99% of the population. In collaboration with environmental studies major Kate Manor, Oh utilized the educational version of Minecraft for her course, "The Romans in Their Environment," to create a fictional town named 'Skidrome.' Students researched Roman urban planning and geography to construct the town and developed backstories for their characters. They hosted a festival to showcase their work, which included political engagement and a simulated natural disaster. Oh noted that the immersive gameplay fostered collaboration and allowed students to express their creativity and engage more freely than in a traditional classroom setting. She highlighted the potential of using Minecraft as a teaching tool across various disciplines.