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Proton got so good I keep forgetting which of my games were even built for Windows
AppWizard
July 19, 2026

Proton got so good I keep forgetting which of my games were even built for Windows

Linux gaming has gained popularity, especially after the release of Valve's Steam Deck, which shows that many PC games can run well on Linux despite not being designed for it. Proton, Valve's compatibility layer, allows Windows games to run efficiently on Linux without developer intervention. Most games lack specific Linux versions, but many Windows titles, including Elden Ring and Horizon: Zero Dawn Remastered, perform better on Linux through Proton, achieving frame rates up to 75% higher. Shadow of the Tomb Raider, which has a native Linux version, shows similar performance to those relying on Proton. Microsoft is reportedly using SteamOS as a benchmark to improve Windows gaming performance, indicating a shift towards aligning with Linux capabilities. Overall, gaming on Linux has become more accessible and enjoyable, often outperforming Windows.
Tired of free-to-play trash? These 6 Android games are worth paying for in 2026
BetaBeacon
July 19, 2026

Tired of free-to-play trash? These 6 Android games are worth paying for in 2026

- Minecraft Bedrock for Android offers full cross-play gameplay support with Bedrock PC and console users, as well as the same marketplace and servers. - Stardew Valley on Android has a more stable multiplayer scene and supports extensive modding, but there is no official mod support for the Android version. - Animal Crossing Pocket Camp Complete offers a mobile-first design focused on a cozy camp experience, and progression is tied to leveling up friendships with villagers. - Balatro is an addictive rogue-like deck builder game that feels like a cross between poker and solitaire. - Siralim Ultimate is a monster-catching RPG with over 1,200 creatures to engage with and places an emphasis on strategic squad-building. - Dead Cells is a unique game with smooth and responsive combat that can be challenging and addictive, offering a decent narrative and dark humor.
Weekend PC Game Deals: Satisfactory, Space Marine 2, Assassin's Creed, and more
AppWizard
July 19, 2026

Weekend PC Game Deals: Satisfactory, Space Marine 2, Assassin’s Creed, and more

The Epic Games Store is offering two free PC games: Echo Generation and Luto, available until July 23, when Foretales will be the next free game. Humble has released three new game bundles: the Liminal Spaces bundle featuring titles related to the Backrooms genre, the Humble Handhelds Bundle including Children of Morta and Amid Evil, and the 2K Megahits Bundle with popular games like BioShock Infinite and Borderlands 3. The GOG store is also providing DRM-free discounts. Availability and pricing may vary by region.
“This is the gaming handheld we’ve been waiting for” — MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ review of a masterpiece priced for the few
Winsage
June 24, 2026

“This is the gaming handheld we’ve been waiting for” — MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ review of a masterpiece priced for the few

The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is a gaming handheld powered by Intel's Arc G3 Extreme processor, priced at 9.99. It features an 8-inch FHD+ display (1920x1200) with 500 nits brightness and supports variable refresh rates from 48Hz to 120Hz. The device includes Hall-Effect analog sticks, tactile buttons, and dual front speakers with Bluetooth Core 6.0 support. It scored 6,726 on the 3DMark Time Spy benchmark. The 80Whr battery lasts approximately 3.5 hours on demanding games and over five hours on lighter titles. It has Wi-Fi 7 connectivity and dual Thunderbolt 4 ports for desktop functionality when docked.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 22, 2026

“Nintendo will not be challenged at all” — Surging prices have damaged the PC gaming handheld market, and our readers did not hold back

The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ is priced at ,799, reflecting increased component costs due to the AI boom and its premium build quality. In comparison, the Steam Deck started at 9, allowing consumers to buy multiple gaming consoles. Nintendo has shipped nearly 156 million Switch units and 19.86 million Switch 2 units, while the Steam Deck has sold an estimated 4 million units. The Nintendo Switch's sales surged after a price hike in Japan but later declined, with a similar price adjustment expected in the US, Canada, and Europe. Users distinguish the Steam Deck as an "enthusiast device" for PC gamers, while the Switch is the exclusive platform for Nintendo titles. The PC gaming handheld market is viewed as hibernating rather than over, with optimism for future developments despite current challenges. The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ features Intel's Arc G3 chips, which have generated excitement about its performance. There is a significant audience interested in the right combination of price and specifications for handheld PC gaming.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
June 2, 2026

Forget AI: Nvidia RTX Spark could be game-changing for gaming handhelds

Nvidia unveiled the RTX Spark chips at Computex 2026, featuring a 20-core Nvidia Grace CPU and an Nvidia Blackwell RTX GPU with 6,144 CUDA cores, comparable to the GeForce RTX 5070 desktop GPU. The chips utilize NVLINK technology for faster data transfer than PCI Express. They support DLSS 4.5 upscaling technology, which enhances performance without the issues of DLSS 5. Currently, the gaming handheld market has limited DLSS support, with the Nintendo Switch 2 being an exception. Community feedback indicates a preference for DLSS 4.5 over native visuals. RTX Spark chips are expected to debut in laptops and mini PCs by the end of 2026, with potential for handheld gaming devices. Pricing and power consumption remain uncertain, and Nvidia's DGX Spark mini PC retails for ,699, suggesting high costs for RTX Spark systems. Nvidia claims these laptops will run AAA games at 1440p and over 100 frames per second, but details on power draw and battery life are unclear.
Behold The New Big PC Gaming Device You Probably Can't Afford
AppWizard
May 30, 2026

Behold The New Big PC Gaming Device You Probably Can’t Afford

The MSI Claw 8 EX AI Plus is a new handheld gaming device featuring Intel’s Arc G3 Extreme processor, 32GB of dual-channel LPDDR5x memory, and an eight-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1920 x 1200. It will be available in Void Purple and Glacier Blue colors, with pricing expected to be around ,200, and potentially below ,500. 007 First Light sold 1.5 million copies in its first 24 hours, indicating strong sales for IO Interactive. New DLC is coming to Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, including a new class set for release in the first half of 2027, which will feature a unique Champion Skin. AMD’s Dr. Lisa Su delivered a commencement address at MIT, emphasizing the role of humanity in shaping technology's future. Infinity Ward has committed to more grounded cosmetic skins in Modern Warfare 4, aligning with the game’s narrative. The Rockstar Game Workers Union (RGWU) has been formed to advocate for game developers' rights following the termination of 31 staff members. CD Projekt Red's Michał Nowakowski has indicated that there will not be significant expansions for The Witcher 4, as the company plans to release three Witcher titles within six years.
Friday’s best Android app deals and freebies: Seoul Exorcist, WindWings, Farm Invasion, more
BetaBeacon
May 9, 2026

Friday’s best Android app deals and freebies: Seoul Exorcist, WindWings, Farm Invasion, more

The Android app price drops include TripleFantasy Premium, Seoul Exorcist 1111, Ghost In The Mirror, WindWings: Galaxy attack Pro, Farm Invasion USA – Premium, Aeon’s End, Zombie Age 2 Premium: Shooter, Devils & Demons Premium, Greendiant – Icon Pack, Mikan Orange – Icon Pack, Ichigo Red – Icon Pack, Weather Live, Sky Wings VIP : Pixel Fighters, Sproggiwood, and Ninja Hero Cats Premium.
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