gaming platforms Archives

AppWizard

April 19, 2025

Star Wars Zero Company shows off its first trailer and gameplay details

On April 14, 2025, EA announced a turn-based tactics game titled 'Star Wars Zero Company', set to launch in 2026 on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. The game features a secret war aimed at saving the galaxy, drawing inspiration from titles like Gears Tactics and Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader. Players will navigate strategic combat, utilize their environment, and develop bonds among squad members to unlock combat synergies. The game is set during the Clone Wars era and allows players to assemble a squad of iconic characters, including Jedi, Mandalorians, Clone Troopers, and Astromechs.

AppWizard

April 10, 2025

Women in Games and UK tech secretary call out Valve over sexual violence game on Steam

Dr. Marie-Claire Isaaman, CEO of Women in Games, has urged Valve to take action against a game on Steam that has been criticized for its disturbing themes, including incest and sexual violence. The game reportedly encourages players to "claim" their mother after an affair and contains graphic depictions of sexual activities, along with mentions of incest, blackmail, and non-consensual sex. Isaaman expressed that the game promotes themes of rape and misogynistic violence, contributing to the dehumanization of women and girls. She called for the game's removal and stronger content moderation policies from Valve. UK tech secretary Peter Kyle also stated that he expects Valve to remove the controversial title in accordance with legal requirements.

AppWizard

April 2, 2025

Call of Duty will finally let console players turn off crossplay to dodge PC cheaters, which is potentially terrible news for all the legit PC players

Activision will allow players to disable crossplay in regular unranked matches with the launch of Black Ops 6 Season 3 on April 2. Previously, crossplay limitations were only available in ranked modes. The new options will include enabling matchmaking with all platforms, with consoles only, or restricting to the current platform. This decision addresses concerns about cheating, which predominantly affects PC players, but 60% of reported cheaters are on console. Reactions to the change are mixed, with some players worried about potential impacts on queue times for PC gamers, while others suggest it may not significantly affect matchmaking. Some players also expressed a desire for more tailored matchmaking options.

BetaBeacon

March 27, 2025

Android Gaming: The Best Mobile Games and Accessories in 2025

Android gaming has evolved significantly in 2025, offering console-level titles, powerful chipsets, and higher refresh rate screens.

AppWizard

March 24, 2025

Malicious Game Infects Steam Users With Info-Stealing Malware

Steam removed the game Sniper: Phantom's Resolution due to a security breach involving malware designed to extract sensitive user information. The malware was disguised as a legitimate Windows process and employed tactics like executing Node.js scripts and establishing startup persistence. A month earlier, another game, PirateFi, was found to be spreading the Vidar infostealer, affecting up to 1,500 users. Both incidents highlight the risks associated with malware hosted on trusted platforms like Steam, which may exploit vulnerabilities in submission processes. Users often identified suspicious behavior before the platforms did, indicating delayed detection and response times. The lack of timely communication regarding breaches further exacerbates user concerns.

Winsage

March 18, 2025

Gaming on Windows on Arm is getting pretty cool

Linux offers a variety of distributions, each with unique features, such as NixOS, Pop_OS! for Nvidia compatibility, Debian for stability, and lightweight options like Q4OS. Many individuals rely on a few fingers for typing despite formal training, questioning the efficiency of using all ten fingers. Windows 11 integrates OneDrive for backing up essential folders, which some users find cumbersome. QD-OLED monitors can experience burn-in, affecting visuals after a year of use. The Dell Inspiron 8500 is often remembered as a first laptop that sparked interest in technology. The rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2 has users debating whether to upgrade, with some preferring to wait for broader availability. Alternatives to Windows File Explorer, such as OneCommander and Total Commander, are being explored by users. The purchase of a first graphics card, like the GTX 760, marks a significant moment in PC building for many. Music streaming preferences vary among users, with platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music being popular choices. Content creators often prefer tools like Greenshot for capturing screenshots due to reliability. Linux desktop environments, such as KDE, allow for aesthetic customization. Transforming an old PC into a smart home hub can enhance living spaces by integrating devices. The first app installed on a new system often reflects personal habits, with browsers like Firefox or gaming platforms like Steam being common choices.

BetaBeacon

March 10, 2025

Gamecube and Wii emulation on Android just got even better with new Dolphin Emulator update

The Dolphin Emulator has been updated to Release 2503 on all platforms, bringing enhancements such as improved cheat support with RetroAchievements, game-by-game graphical settings, and automatic game time tracking. The Android version does not yet support RetroAchievements, but the development team promises more exciting features in future releases.

AppWizard

February 26, 2025

Scottish children being ‘brainwashed’ by Neo-Nazis through popular video game

Concerns have arisen about the influence of far-right ideologies on Scottish children through the video game Minecraft, with experts warning that neo-Nazi groups may exploit the game's open design to spread extremist propaganda. These groups are reportedly using Minecraft's creative tools to create avatars and environments that glorify figures like Adolf Hitler and the Ku Klux Klan, as well as disturbing representations of historical atrocities. Ian Acheson from the Counter Extremism Project highlighted the ease of recruitment within gaming environments, while Ashton Kingdon described the situation as a "Wild West" for young gamers, noting that extremist groups utilize these platforms to target vulnerable players. A report from the Royal United Services Institute found that 34% of players encountered extremist imagery, and 25% felt encouraged to join extremist groups, with Minecraft specifically mentioned for the creation of Nazi death camp depictions. In response, Microsoft stated they have a dedicated team for player safety and moderation, implementing in-game reporting tools and filters to block inappropriate content, and maintaining a strict policy against terrorist and violent extremist content.

AppWizard

February 25, 2025

How the far right recruits children: making Hitler on Minecraft

Experts have identified that Minecraft is being used as a recruitment tool by far-right extremists to radicalize young players. Neo-Nazi groups have manipulated the game's creative features to spread propaganda and create disturbing imagery related to hate. The in-game chat functions have also become a platform for racist rhetoric. Ian Acheson from the Home Office has raised concerns about the game's environment being conducive to recruitment, while Ashton Kingdon emphasized the need for awareness and intervention to protect children from extremist influences in gaming.

AppWizard

February 24, 2025

Top 5 Websites to Download PC Games for Free in 2024

Steam is the most extensive digital distribution platform for PC games, offering robust security measures like Steam Guard protection and two-factor authentication. The Epic Games Store is known for exclusive titles and strong security protocols. GOG specializes in DRM-free gaming experiences, appealing to retro and indie game enthusiasts. Origin is EA's platform featuring a catalog of EA games and secure transaction systems. Humble Bundle allows gamers to purchase game bundles while supporting charitable causes. For safe game downloads, gamers should enable two-factor authentication, maintain updated antivirus software, examine user reviews, and stick to official platforms with established reputations.