gaming industry Archives

Winsage

July 14, 2026

Thinking About Installing Windows on Your Steam Machine? Read This First

Valve has released Windows drivers for the Steam Machine, allowing users to replace SteamOS with Windows for greater software flexibility. This transition requires a complete OS overhaul and may result in performance issues due to reliance on generic AMD graphics drivers, as Valve does not provide official support for Windows on the Steam Machine. Users have encountered a hardware issue known as the “Red Bar of Death,” which can often be resolved through power resets and ensuring proper ventilation. The upcoming Steam Frame VR headset is designed to operate independently of a PC, featuring standalone capabilities and enhanced SteamOS integration, but its success will depend on competitive pricing and developer support. The Steam Machine faces challenges such as high pricing, aging hardware, and limited official support, impacting its competitiveness in the gaming market.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

You can currently buy three of my all-time favorite microstrategy games for $10

Steam's Games Made in Sweden sale features notable titles such as Vermintide, Darktide, Payday, Valheim, Amnesia, and Satisfactory, with many available at discounts. Vermintide 2 is priced at £2.34. Three microstrategy games highlighted in the sale are Bad North, Kingdom Two Crowns, and The Battle of Polytopia, all available for under £10. Bad North involves defending islands from Viking invasions, Kingdom Two Crowns combines town-building with exploration and co-op gameplay, and The Battle of Polytopia offers quick 4x gameplay with 16 civilizations and various modes. Some notable titles, like Arc Raiders, are not included in the sale.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

One week after going independent in the Xbox bloodbath, South of Midnight developer Compulsion Games is looking for work

Compulsion Games has regained its independence after layoffs at Xbox and is seeking new collaborations within the games and entertainment industry. The studio's game, South of Midnight, has won several awards, including a BAFTA Award, a Peabody Award, and seven Canadian Game Awards, and has been recognized on multiple 'Best Games of 2025' lists with an 83% review score. Despite its critical acclaim, the game did not achieve blockbuster sales, leading to concerns about the studio's long-term viability. Compulsion Games was founded in 2009 and has previously provided services to other studios. Before their independence announcement, several employees began exploring new job opportunities with the support of studio leadership, reflecting uncertainty within the studio.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

GTA 6 isn’t coming to PC at launch, but not because Rockstar doesn’t “care about PC,” says GTA 5 producer: “If you’re working on that, you’re not working on something else”

Many fans are concerned about the absence of a PC port for the upcoming release of GTA 6. Former Rockstar producer John Ricchio explained that while the studio is not against any platform, they evaluate the investment of resources for PC versions based on practical considerations. He noted that developing for console hardware first can be more efficient than scaling down from PC. Advancements in console technology have alleviated some challenges, but focusing on a PC port can divert resources from other projects. Additionally, Rockstar faces a potential million-dollar fine in Australia if it does not comply with new online safety laws requiring player identification to access the game.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Even though Old School RuneScape was ‘not built to have a LAN setup at all,’ it just had a live esports tournament with 4,000 attendees: ‘We were doubting at times whether we actually can pull it off’

On June 20, 4,000 fans attended the Deadman All Stars PvP tournament for Old School RuneScape in Chicago, with over one million viewers online. The tournament showcased a successful adaptation of the game for modern esports, featuring a combat system that requires quick item switching and strategic gameplay. Players used their own equipment for comfort and performance, often opting for a low-resolution display to enhance focus. The matches followed a format similar to crew battles, with players starting fresh accounts and a 120-hour playtime limit to prepare. Jagex faced logistical challenges in creating a LAN setup for the tournament, which was their first major event in North America and their largest to date, surpassing RuneFest in the UK.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Expensive Games Are Fueling Steam’s Most Lucrative Year

The video game industry is experiencing closures and cancellations, yet Steam is set for its most profitable year, having generated a billion in gross revenue in the first half of 2026. Steam's performance has nearly matched that of 2021, with blockbuster titles like Resident Evil Requiem, Forza Horizon 6, and Crimson Desert each earning nearly 100 million in sales. Premium pricing for new releases is a key factor in revenue growth, although new releases account for less than 20% of total sales. Asian markets, especially China, are increasingly embracing Steam, and many studios are adapting to align with its ecosystem. A significant portion of Steam's revenue comes from its back catalogue, which has seen a 6% decline in new release contributions compared to the previous year, indicating a trend towards long-tail publishing strategies.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

We’re not quite done with 2026, but here are 9 videogame bangers that have defined the year so far

In 2026, the gaming landscape is marked by industry challenges, including layoffs and anticipation for major releases like GTA 6. Notable game soundtracks include: - Arcade – Screamer: Features a fusion of rock and electronic elements, particularly in the Arcade mode selection track. - Eatin' Rats – Mewgenics: Has whimsical lyrics and catchy melodies about cats on a culinary adventure. - Lone Wolf – Crimson Desert: Stands out with haunting choral elements. - Club Arch DJ set – 007 First Light: Includes a virtual DJ set by Chase & Status, adding gritty British charm. - Blood Moon – Life is Strange Reunion: Blends licensed music with original compositions, featuring haunting vocals and atmospheric instrumentals. - Inner Child – Paralives: Evokes nostalgia with a twangy melody and whimsical undertones. - In Death We've Just Begun – Marathon: Showcases Poppy's ethereal voice with Son Lux's melancholic composition. - Cryogenic – In Falsus: Features a standout track by Camellia, combining dreamy vocals with an electronic beat. - Under the Lights – People of Note: Early impressions suggest it enhances gameplay and motivates exploration.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Black Flag Resynced certainly scratches my nostalgia itch, but do you know what else does? Assassin’s Creed Black Flag

Ubisoft's Black Flag Resynced features enhanced visuals and quality-of-life improvements but raises questions about the essence of the original game. The revamped stealth mechanics allow players to crouch anywhere, eliminating fail conditions from stealth missions and diluting the sense of accomplishment. The original game's combat retains its fluidity with a classic control scheme, while Resynced departs from this style. The movement and climbing mechanics in the original require thoughtful navigation, whereas Resynced allows for a more reckless approach. The ship combat in Resynced is improved with new firing modes and officer upgrades, making naval battles more challenging. The narrative of the original remains compelling, with new quests in Resynced feeling lacking in comparison. Modern additions like an in-game shop and a battle pass mechanic create dissonance between old and new elements. Overall, players driven by nostalgia may prefer the original Black Flag over Resynced.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Obsidian game director is sick of hearing bad takes about the state of the studio: ‘The through line from KotOR2 to our current games is pretty clear’

Microsoft has restructured Xbox, resulting in significant layoffs affecting thousands of employees and the disbanding of four game studios, including Double Fine and Compulsion Games returning to indie status, while Ninja Theory and Undead Labs were sold. Obsidian Entertainment, initially thought to be unaffected, also faced layoffs but is reportedly developing a new Fallout game with Josh Sawyer as director. A member of Obsidian's leadership, Adler, expressed frustration over misconceptions about the studio's evolution, emphasizing that key figures from its past successes remain. He reassured fans that the core essence of Obsidian is unchanged, despite recent challenges. Adler acknowledged the emotional toll of the layoffs and expressed support for departing employees. Anticipation for Obsidian's new Fallout title is growing.

AppWizard

July 11, 2026

After Space Marine 2 ‘literally changed everything’, Saber Interactive has been inundated with offers from major licenses: ‘We are in a very fortunate position to turn down more than we can accept’

Saber Interactive has transformed from primarily focusing on vehicle simulators and action titles to gaining significant success with Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2. This game has reshaped the studio's internal development perspectives and external perceptions, boosting confidence and ambition within the team. The success has attracted interest from major license holders for potential collaborations, allowing Saber to turn down more opportunities than they can accept. Tim Willits, Chief Creative Officer, notes that established franchises like Hellraiser provide a safer bet for game development, enhancing the appeal of their projects and solidifying Saber's position in the industry.