gaming innovation Archives

AppWizard

June 26, 2025

How to add non-Steam games to your Steam Deck with Heroic Games Launcher

Valve's Steam Deck allows access to games from platforms like GoG, Amazon, and Epic Games through the Heroic Games Launcher, which can be integrated into the Steam Library. To install the Heroic Games Launcher, users need to switch to Desktop mode, search for and install the launcher via the Discover app, and set up their gaming accounts. After installation, users can add the Heroic Games Launcher to their Steam library and customize its appearance using artwork from the steamgriddb website. This integration enhances the gaming experience on the Steam Deck by providing access to a wider range of games.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

Microsoft & ASUS Reveal Xbox Handhelds

ASUS has launched two handheld gaming devices, the ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X, inspired by the Xbox controller. The ROG Xbox Ally features an AMD Ryzen Z2 A processor and a 60Wh battery, while the ROG Xbox Ally X is equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor for improved graphics and framerates. Both models have displays with a peak brightness of 500 nits, a 120Hz refresh rate with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR), and utilize AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), Radeon Super Resolution (RSR), and AMD Fluid Motion Frames (AFMF) for enhanced frame generation. The Xbox Ally X includes impulse triggers for advanced haptic feedback.

AppWizard

November 3, 2024

AI-powered Minecraft runs without a game engine — game rendered in real-time at a continuous 20 FPS

DecartAI has launched a world model called Oasis, resembling Minecraft, but it features low resolution (360p) and framerate (20 fps), similar to Nintendo 64 games. The gameplay includes numerous AI hallucinations, making interactions difficult, such as digging resulting in players being returned to the surface. The experience lacks permanence and coherence, raising doubts about its appeal as a survival-building RPG. Despite advancements in AI for games like Counter-Strike: GO and Doom, traditional game engines on robust hardware are deemed more viable for enjoyable gaming experiences. AI-generated content relies on existing material for training, limiting originality, with the closest example being a derivative version of Angry Birds that fails to match the original's quality.

AppWizard

October 21, 2024

Multiplayer focus aside, the Steam Next Fest demo charts reveal the weird unpredictability of PC gaming

The Steam Next Fest featured a variety of games, highlighting the unpredictable nature of PC gaming. Notable titles included the revival of the tactical shooter Delta Force, which has been modernized for PvP gameplay; Supervive, a rising MOBA amidst a declining genre; Strinova, which allows toggling between 3D and 2D gameplay; Rivals of Aether 2, a combat game with charming creatures; Popucom, a match-3 platformer; Fast Food Simulator, a co-op simulation game; Gladio Mori, a melee fighter with unique mechanics; and KLETKA, a co-op survival horror game inspired by Lethal Company. Additionally, single-player titles like The Precinct and Sultan's Game gained traction despite the multiplayer focus.

AppWizard

October 19, 2024

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 arrives on PC January 2025

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 will be released on PC on January 30, 2025, available through Steam and the Epic Games Store. The PC version is being developed by Nixxes Software in collaboration with Insomniac Games, PlayStation, and Marvel Games. The game will be offered in two editions: Standard Edition and Digital Deluxe Edition (DDE). The Standard Edition includes the complete game and all updates since the PS5 launch, while the DDE includes additional exclusive suits, early unlocks, and extra skill points. The game continues the story of Peter Parker and Miles Morales, featuring new abilities, iconic adversaries, and an expanded Marvel’s New York. The Fly N’ Fresh Suit Pack will be available for both PS5 and PC players at no extra cost. The PC version will support keyboard and mouse controls, ultra widescreen, and various graphical options.

AppWizard

September 26, 2024

PC Gamer at Tokyo Game Show 2024 Day 1 report: PC gaming on the rise and a strong indie game showing

The Tokyo Game Show (TGS) is celebrating its 28th anniversary at the Makuhari Messe exhibition center in Tokyo. TGS has successfully expanded its influence post-Covid, showcasing major game developers and indie studios. There is a notable increase in interest in PC gaming, with major Japanese developers like Konami, Capcom, Sega, and Bandai Namco prioritizing PC releases. The trend of simultaneous releases across platforms is growing, as seen with Capcom's "Monster Hunter Wilds." However, the AAA landscape from Japanese studios is contracting, focusing more on remasters rather than new titles. Sega's "Metaphor: ReFantazio" is now featured on Steam, reflecting this shift. Sony is also pivoting towards PC and remasters, with titles like "Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut" and "Horizon: Zero Dawn Remaster" making their way to PC. TGS 2024 highlights several standout titles, including "Sonic X Shadow Generations" and "Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero." In contrast, indie studios are thriving with shorter development cycles and a dedicated Indie Game show at TGS 2024, featuring titles like "Nightmare Operator" and "Platform 8." The visibility of PC gaming at TGS 2024 marks a significant turning point in the gaming narrative.

AppWizard

August 21, 2024

Virtuos moves into the UK with Third Kind Games acquisition

Virtuos has acquired Third Kind Games, a UK-based studio established in 2016, known for its contributions to titles like Fable and Far Cry 5. Third Kind Games currently employs over 70 professionals and aims to double its workforce in the next two years. This acquisition marks Virtuos' first operation in the UK, with both companies expressing enthusiasm for future growth and collaboration on triple-A projects.

Winsage

May 4, 2024

My favorite game of all time is the cheapest it’s ever been on Xbox and PC, and so is its prequel remake

- NieR: Automata is a 2017 RPG game developed by PlatinumGames, Square Enix, and Yoko Taro. - The game is set in a distant future where humanity's last hope lies with a trio of androids: 2B, 9S, and A2. - NieR: Automata offers a unique gameplay experience that combines melee action with bullet hell elements. - The game has an unconventional structure, profound storytelling, exceptional voice acting, and an award-winning soundtrack. - NieR: Replicant, a prequel to Automata, was remade in 2021 with revamped gameplay and visual overhaul. - Both NieR: Automata and NieR Replicant are currently available at discounted prices until specific dates.

Winsage

April 24, 2024

Blizzard is hiring for a brand new project. What could it be? StarCraft 3? Warcraft RPG?! Overwatch dating sim?!!

Blizzard Entertainment is looking for new creative talent to fill the roles of Design Director, Narrative Director, Creative Director, and Senior Art Director for a mysterious new project announced on April 24, 2024. This decision follows the cancellation of their survival game, Odyssey, after being acquired by Microsoft. Speculation is high about what this new project may entail, with fans hoping for a return to classic franchises like Starcraft or Warcraft. The nature and genre of the game remain a mystery.