game Archives

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

North Koreans Spy on Defectors Via Android Game Apps

A North Korean hacking group has targeted a digital gaming platform popular among the Korean ethnic enclave in China, using a sophisticated strategy to infiltrate Android applications. Researchers from Eset discovered that an app on the platform contained a backdoor known as BirdCall, linked to North Korea. The official website for the gaming platform hosted the same suspicious APK file. A second Android file associated with another game on the same site was also found to contain the BirdCall backdoor. This supply-chain attack was attributed to the threat actor ScarCruft (APT37), active in Asia and extending into Europe and the Middle East since late 2024. The hackers likely compromised the web server to recompile original APKs with the backdoor, which can collect sensitive information such as contacts, SMS messages, call logs, documents, media files, and private keys, and can take screenshots and record audio. The malware disguises its command and control traffic among regular internet traffic, primarily using Zoho WorkDrive for operations.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Xbox Releases A Game-Changing Update For PC

Microsoft has begun the phased rollout of Xbox Mode for Windows 11 PCs, enhancing the gaming experience. Xbox Mode provides a full-screen user interface optimized for controller use, displaying only one application at a time to minimize distractions. Players can switch between Xbox Mode and the traditional Windows 11 desktop and Xbox Game Pass subscribers can navigate their game libraries easily. Xbox Mode was initially available for testing in late 2025 and officially started its public rollout on April 30, with deployment occurring in waves across various regions.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Turn up Your Airwaves with the Horizon Festival’s Biggest Line-Up Yet

Forza Horizon 6 will feature a variety of accessibility options, including controller remapping, screen reading narration, subtitles, adjustable camera field-of-view settings, color-blind filters, and Offline Game Speed modification for PC players. It will also maintain difficulty settings and driving assists. A post-launch update will introduce American Sign Language (ASL) and British Sign Language (BSL) options for cinematics, allowing players to view an interpreter during scenes. Pre-orders are available on the Microsoft Store and Steam, with early purchasers receiving a pre-tuned Ferrari J50. Players can join the Forza Discord server for discussions and follow @ForzaHorizon on social media for updates.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Subnautica 2 Coming to Xbox Game Preview on May 14

Subnautica 2 will debut in Game Preview on May 14 for Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, ROG Xbox Ally, and through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass. Players will assume the role of a crew member aboard Alterra’s CICADA ship, tasked with creating a home for themselves and 40,000 passengers. The game will feature multiplayer capabilities, allowing exploration solo or with up to three friends. The developers have optimized the game for Xbox, focusing on performance and controller experience. The ROG Xbox Ally's performance was considered during development, with a default graphics preset and customization options. The game is a result of years of development, with ongoing updates planned for new biomes, creatures, and craftables. Players can add Subnautica 2 to their Xbox Store wishlist and join the Official Discord for updates.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Classic First-Person Shooter PC Game Now 100% Free on GOG

A classic first-person shooter from 1995, Citadel Remonstered, is now available for free download on the GOG platform, celebrating its 31st anniversary. This remastered version retains original assets and maps while incorporating modern gameplay mechanics and graphic enhancements. It features updated level graphics, rebalanced difficulty settings, additional training levels, quicksave and quickload functionality, mouse wheel support, and full-screen mode compatibility. The game was originally developed by Virtual Design and published by Arrakis Software for the Amiga 500. The remaster is exclusive to GOG and has received positive feedback from the gaming community. Speculation exists about the future of the Citadel franchise and the ownership of its license.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

PlayStation 5 Linux Tested: Steam PC vs Native PS5 Games

Linux has been successfully implemented on the PlayStation 5, allowing users to run an open operating system on the console. This implementation, led by security researcher Andy Nguyen (TheFlow), utilizes an exploit for PS5 consoles with system software versions up to 4.5. Users can boot Linux from a USB or SSD, with Ubuntu 26.04 LTS providing around 15GB of usable memory. The PS5's hardware, including its Zen 2 processor and GPU, is fully accessible, with CPU speeds reaching up to 3.5GHz and GPU speeds up to 2.23GHz when boost mode is activated. However, running Linux on the PS5 presents challenges, such as sourcing a unit with the required firmware and limitations in resolution, as users cannot exceed 1080p. Performance tests showed that Linux can match the PS5's performance in some titles, but issues with memory management were noted, leading to stuttering and crashes in certain games. For example, reducing texture quality improved performance in games like Pragmata, while rendering issues were observed in Crimson Desert. The implementation allows for a unique gaming experience, but it also highlights the complexities and limitations of running Linux on a gaming console.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

I got to play Dead as Disco early, and it’s a vivid, unrestrained romp that lets you brawl through music videos like a kung-fu Baby Driver

Harvey Randall has discovered a passion for the rhythm action game Dead as Disco, which features beat-driven combat against colorful adversaries and an emotional narrative about fame and personal connections. The game includes stunning visuals and an original soundtrack from professional musicians. Players can upgrade their skills and hideouts, and an endless mode offers various challenges. Users can also add their own music to the game. Future updates will introduce multiplayer features, genre challenges, and level creation tools. The game is set for early access launch on May 5.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Chicken Jockey! Buildable LEGO Minecraft Baby-Zombie & Chicken with little chick (21582) officially revealed

The LEGO Chicken Jockey (21582) set will launch on August 1, 2026, with a retail price of .99 / €29.99. It consists of 344 pieces and features a buildable baby zombie riding a chicken, along with a brick-built chick. The baby zombie measures 15 cm (6 in) in height and 5 cm (2.5 in) in width. The set does not include any minifigures and is designed for ages 9 and up. It is inspired by the Minecraft video game and the 2025 film adaptation.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

“If people are saying ‘dead game,’ that means our game is alive:” how Apex Legends is winning back players

Apex Legends has achieved its highest player count in a year and a half, particularly following the launch of Season 28, which saw a 50% increase in player counts on Steam. This resurgence is attributed to years of collaboration with the community and changes in internal processes at Respawn Entertainment. The upcoming Season 29 will introduce Axle, the first new Legend in over a year, aimed at attracting new players. Additionally, changes to the ranked mode for solo players will be implemented, placing them in slightly easier lobbies based on skill level to create a more balanced competitive environment. Apex Legends aims to reclaim its peak player count of over 620,000 from 2023 by continuing to innovate and engage its player base.

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

Microsoft ended MS-DOS support 20 years ago, but the latest update for the best roguelike ever made still supports it anyway

On September 14, 2000, Microsoft released the Windows Millennium Edition, marking the end of MS-DOS. In 2006, Microsoft ended long-term support for Windows 98 and Me. Recently, a new update for NetHack was released, which continues to support MS-DOS. NetHack has been consistently updated since its launch in 1987. The game has an open-source philosophy and features various iterations, including a modern 3D version that offers a visually appealing interface while retaining the classic ASCII format. The latest update provides an accessible entry point for new players, with options for both 2D tilesets and ASCII mode. NetHack is recognized for its intricate gameplay and has influenced many other titles, earning a place in the Museum of Modern Art.