Game Mode Archives

Winsage

July 9, 2025

Deal Alert: Get Windows 11 Pro for Just $9.97 Before Windows 10 Support Ends

A lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro is available for .97, a 95% discount from the standard retail price of 9.99, until July 15 at 11:59 p.m. PT. Windows 10 support will end in October 2025. Windows 11 Pro features include BitLocker device encryption, Secure Boot, Microsoft Defender Antivirus, DirectX 12 Ultimate support for gaming, Microsoft Copilot AI for productivity, and optimized performance for Intel and AMD chips.

Winsage

July 2, 2025

I made 21 tweaks in Windows 11 to increase gaming performance

Windows 11 provides several adjustments to enhance gaming performance, including: 1. Enable Game Mode: Prioritizes gaming processes. 2. Disable Memory Integrity: Can improve performance during gaming. 3. Disable Virtual Machine Platform: Turns off virtualization for better performance. 4. Change Power Mode: Set to "High Performance" for maximum resource allocation. 5. Enable Auto HDR: Enhances visuals for HDR-capable displays. 6. Enable Automatic Super Resolution: Upscales games using AI for better frame rates and image quality. 7. Change Game Default GPU: Set a specific GPU for individual games. 8. Install Games on Secondary Drive: Improves loading times, especially with SSDs. 9. Optimization for Windowed Games: Reduces input latency for windowed mode games. 10. Change Refresh Rate: Adjust to the highest available for smoother gameplay. 11. Disable Apps at Startup: Frees up system resources by minimizing startup applications. 12. Free Up Storage Space: Enhances system speed and gaming performance. 13. Install System Updates: Resolves performance issues and improves compatibility. 14. Update Graphic Drivers: Ensures optimal performance in games. 15. Debloat Setup: Uninstall unnecessary applications to free up resources. 16. Enable GPU Scheduling: Reduces latency by offloading tasks from the CPU. 17. Use DirectStorage: Allows faster asset loading from NVMe SSDs. 18. Enable Variable Refresh Rate: Synchronizes refresh rate with frame rate to reduce screen tearing. 19. Change Settings in Games: Adjust in-game settings for optimal performance. 20. Reset Your Computer: Restores system to optimal performance if issues persist.

AppWizard

June 28, 2025

Hellblade 2 is getting an enhanced edition that brings back the fake permadeath system from the first game, but there’s every chance it’s real this time

Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 will receive an enhanced edition on August 12, featuring improved graphics, including a new "very high" graphics setting. The update will reintroduce the Dark Rot mechanic from the first game, which grows with each death and can lead to losing all progress if it reaches Senua's head. The enhanced edition will be Steam Deck Verified and will include improvements to the photo mode and developer commentary. Critics have noted concerns about the game's focus on gameplay mechanics and Senua's character feeling disconnected from the story.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

CHARTS: Elden Ring Nightreign debuts at Steam No.1

Nightreign, an Elden Ring spin-off, became the highest-grossing game on Steam for the week ending June 3rd, having sold over 3.5 million copies since its release on May 30th. Pre-orders for Nightreign ranked sixth on the Steam charts. Counter-Strike 2 was in second place, followed by the Steam Deck in third. Pre-orders for Stellar Blade, set to release on June 11th, were fourth, while F1 25 debuted at fifth. Helldivers 2 dropped to sixth, Marvel Rivals returned to seventh, Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time fell to eighth, The Last of Us Part 1 was ninth, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 rounded out the top ten.

BetaBeacon

May 29, 2025

AI Dating Game ‘Pick Me Pick Me’ Now In Free Early Access On Steam And Android

- Game mode called Pick Me Pick Me where the goal is to get picked in a game-show-like structure - Players can play solo in PvE or compete against friends in PvP rounds - Workshop Mode allows custom character creation for dateable contenders - Players use skill cards for interactions and sabotage tactics - Crossplay enabled between mobile and PC, supports multiple languages - Global leaderboard available for competitive players

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.