game mods Archives

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

Hytale boss doesn’t want its mod browser to feel like “a shopping mall,” but is exploring ways to support creators

Simon Collins-Laflamme, founder of Hytale, has addressed the issue of paid mods, emphasizing that in-game mods will be free to install with no price tags in the browsing experience. He aims to support mod creators while maintaining an enjoyable player experience. Collins-Laflamme is open to feedback from the community regarding the monetization of mods and acknowledges the concerns from both supporters and opponents of paid mods. He envisions a mod browser that resembles a community library rather than a shopping mall, highlighting the importance of accessibility for players. Hypixel Studios plans to explore ways for players to support mod creators financially, potentially through a system similar to Patreon, where the core mod remains free but players can opt to pay for additional benefits. If creator payments are implemented, Hypixel Studios would take a minimal cut to cover costs. Collins-Laflamme prioritizes a vibrant and open modding ecosystem over a profit-maximizing approach. He invites ongoing input from players and modders as the mod browser develops.

AppWizard

April 30, 2026

Minecraft Players Targeted by LofyStealer Using Node.js Loader and In-Memory Browser Injection

A new infostealer malware called LofyStealer is targeting the gaming community, particularly Minecraft players, by disguising itself as a cheat tool named “Slinky.” It employs a two-stage attack to extract sensitive information from eight major web browsers, including Chrome and Firefox, while evading detection by security software. The malware siphons off cookies, saved passwords, payment card information, and session tokens. Researchers at Zenox.ai identified LofyStealer, linking it to the Brazilian cybercrime group LofyGang, which has been active since October 2022. The malware uses social engineering tactics to appear legitimate and operates as a Malware-as-a-Service platform, offering both Free and Premium tiers to buyers. Its technical sophistication is evident in its method of in-memory browser injection, which allows it to bypass security defenses. The stolen data is compressed and sent to a command-and-control server. Users are advised to avoid downloading unofficial game mods and enable multi-factor authentication to reduce the risk of credential theft. Security teams should monitor for specific behavioral indicators related to the malware's operations.

BetaBeacon

April 5, 2026

Wine 11.6 Begins Reviving Its Android Driver

Wine 11.6 has been released with a focus on reviving its Android driver, updating the build system for Android, and enhancing the DLL loader order heuristics to better support game mods.

Winsage

April 4, 2026

Wine 11.6 is an exciting release to make modding Windows games on Linux simpler

Wine version 11.6 enhances the experience of running Windows games on Linux through Proton, focusing on game modding capabilities. Key features include the revival of the Android driver, implementation of DLL load order heuristics for better mod support, improved compatibility with VBScript, and 28 bug fixes for application and game performance. The update allows Wine to prioritize DLLs provided with mods over its own versions, facilitating the use of a wider array of mods without additional tweaks. These changes are expected to be integrated into Proton for Steam users.

BetaBeacon

January 28, 2026

Phantom Malware in Android Game Mods Hijacks Phones for Ad Fraud

A malware strain known as Android.Phantom is being distributed through popular titles and unofficial app sources, operating silently alongside games to conduct click fraud. The malware can mimic user behavior, interact with ads through automated clicks, and establish peer-to-peer connections to allow remote controllers to interact with the user's screen in real time. It is recommended to avoid installing apps from third-party stores to reduce the risk of encountering malicious software.

AppWizard

December 3, 2025

One of the biggest and best game mods of all time is now a one-click install on GOG — but there’s one huge downside

The "One-Click Mod" system on GOG allows users to install and play mods with a single click, including the STALKER GAMMA modpack for STALKER Anomaly. To use this feature, players must own either STALKER: Call of Pripyat or STALKER 2 on GOG. Call of Pripyat is priced at .99, while STALKER 2 is priced at .99, both with current discounts. Players who own these titles on Steam may find it unappealing to repurchase them on GOG and can alternatively install GAMMA through Discord. Users are advised to download mods from reputable sources to ensure safety.

Tech Optimizer

August 21, 2025

The Best Antivirus for Gaming PCs in 2025: 6 Top Picks Compared

McAfee has enhanced its offerings for gaming PCs, providing robust real-time protection and firewall capabilities that block threats without affecting performance. The Gamer Security version is now integrated within McAfee+ tiers and prioritizes CPU resources during gaming sessions. However, it uses more system resources compared to alternatives like Malwarebytes and Panda Dome, and some features, such as VPN and identity monitoring, are only available in higher-tier plans. The McAfee plans include: - McAfee Free Tools: Limited tools like web protection and password manager trials (Free) - McAfee+ Premium Individual: Real-time protection, VPN, password manager (.99 first year) - McAfee+ Advanced Individual: Adds identity monitoring and personal data cleanup (.99 first year) - McAfee+ Unlimited Individual: Adds identity theft coverage and security freeze tools (.99 first year) Key considerations for antivirus software for gaming PCs include performance impact, robust threat detection, dedicated gaming mode, resource usage, false positives, user interface, cross-device security, and customer support. Gaming PCs are susceptible to malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks, making reliable antivirus solutions essential. Panda Dome is highlighted as a suitable option for gamers, offering real-time protection, a dedicated gaming mode, and minimal resource usage. Free antivirus options can be used while gaming but may lack advanced features. It is not advisable to disable antivirus software during gaming, and running antivirus can slightly reduce FPS. Gaming mode enhances the gaming experience by pausing background scans and notifications. The best antivirus for gaming should have real-time protection, low resource usage, a gaming mode, robust threat detection, ransomware protection, a VPN, and password managers. Some antivirus software may block online game servers, but most have an allowlist function. Streamers should also use antivirus software while live to protect against additional risks. Antivirus programs can detect cheat software or malicious mods, especially if they contain malware.

AppWizard

June 17, 2025

These crazy mods can turn one of the best PC games of 2025 into the ultimate Final Fantasy x Pokémon crossover, guest starring Keanu Reeves

YouTube revealed key plot details about Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, leading to the installation of an Edge Extension to avoid spoilers. The game is anticipated to be one of the best Xbox and PC games of 2025 and a strong contender for Game of the Year. The modding community on Nexusmods has produced various mods, including cosmetic mods that enhance character appearances. Notable mods include 'Mewtwo Lune,' which replaces the character Lune with Mewtwo from Pokémon, and Digimon mods featuring characters like Wargreyman and Leomon. Mods inspired by Final Fantasy include outfits for characters like Tifa and Tidus, while a unique mod replaces Gustave with Keanu Reeves, complete with custom facial animations. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is available on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Game Pass, and PC via Steam.