gaming sector Archives

AppWizard

April 11, 2025

PC Players Spend More On Microtransactions Than Actual Games

Newzoo's report reveals that in 2024, microtransactions account for over 58 percent of spending in the PC gaming sector, while only 28 percent is allocated to full game purchases, reflecting a 2.6 percent decline from the previous year. Players dedicated only 8 percent of their gaming time to new releases, with over 60 percent spent on titles released more than six years ago. In contrast, console gaming shows microtransactions at 32 percent of player spending, a 4.5 percent increase year-over-year, while full game purchases still dominate. Subscription services like Xbox Game Pass and PS Plus Extra capture about 16 percent of the console market.

Winsage

April 11, 2025

Windows Weekly 927: Up to Stuff

Leo, Richard, and Paul discussed Microsoft's recent innovations, including the Windows 11 Feature Tracker, insights from Microsoft Build, advancements in consumer AI, and updates from the gaming sector, particularly Xbox. A new free newsletter offers three time-saving tips every Friday, and subscribers receive complimentary copies of Paul Thurrott's Windows 11 and Windows 10 Field Guides. The Windows 11 Feature Tracker aims to be a comprehensive resource and may evolve into a web app or wiki. The Windows Insider Program's Beta build for 23H2 introduces changes to file new tabs and new windows, while a nostalgic taskbar icon scaling feature is returning in the Dev and Beta (24H2) versions. Intel has discontinued its Unison app and service. The Build session catalog emphasizes AI developments, with sessions covering Windows Copilot Runtime and productivity enhancements. Microsoft unveiled new Copilot features at a consumer AI event, including web actions and memory personalization, and integrated Copilot Search into Bing. Concerns about AI's impact on human intelligence were discussed, particularly in relation to a Twitter debate on Microsoft's AI demo of Quake II. Microsoft announced an Xbox Games Showcase for June, with updates to the Edge Game Assist feature and GTA V available on Game Pass starting April 15. The Nintendo Switch 2 will support ray tracing and DLSS, though its release is delayed due to tariff challenges. Apple Music for Windows now supports Dolby Atmos, and notable software includes Notion, Typora/iA Writer, and Proton Pass. This week's RunAs Radio episode focuses on Application Risk in Security Copilot. The Heart Cut #02 from the East London Liquor Company is recommended for a unique tasting experience.

AppWizard

April 9, 2025

Newzoo: PC revenue flat for 2024 at $37.3bn

The PC games market generated .3 billion in revenue in 2024, with a forecasted increase to .4 billion by 2027, reflecting a growth of 2.6 percent. Microtransactions accounted for 58 percent of total spending, totaling .4 billion, with a year-on-year increase of 1.4 percent. Premium purchases contributed .7 billion, representing 28 percent of the market, but saw a decline of 2.6 percent. Downloadable content (DLC) generated .3 billion, accounting for 14 percent of overall revenue, with a slight increase of 0.8 percent. Gamers' playtime decreased by 1 percent in 2024 after a 12 percent increase the previous year.

Winsage

April 9, 2025

Holy smokes, something that might actually be useful is coming to Copilot on Windows

Microsoft's latest update to its Copilot application introduces two significant features: system-wide content search within files and enhanced support across various browsers and applications. These features are available through an update in the Microsoft Store for versions 1.25034.133.0 and higher. The integration of these capabilities with the Windows operating system aims to improve user productivity and streamline workflows.

Winsage

April 2, 2025

Forget the Nintendo Switch 2 – I’m more excited that Microsoft could be making Windows 11 gaming handhelds even better with a new ‘handheld mode’

Windows 11 may soon introduce a dedicated mode for gaming handhelds, as indicated by a leak from a source on Bluesky. This mode includes a new ‘GamingPosture’ category in settings, featuring options for a ‘full screen experience’ to improve usability on smaller screens. Microsoft is also removing HoloLens-related elements from the Windows 11 Settings app. Current Windows 11 interfaces are challenging for handheld devices, prompting speculation about a more portable-friendly interface. Recent enhancements include a ‘compact mode’ for the Xbox app and improvements to the Game Bar, as well as a gamepad keyboard layout for easier typing. Additionally, there are rumors of a potential Xbox-branded handheld device that could utilize the new UI experience in Windows 11.

Winsage

April 1, 2025

Asus’ latest video teases a possible Xbox gaming handheld

Microsoft has not confirmed plans for an Xbox-branded handheld gaming device, but unverified leaks suggest an announcement could occur this year. Asus is positioning itself as a potential partner, having launched devices like the ROG Ally and ROG Ally X. A recent promotional video from Asus hints at a new handheld device that may incorporate Xbox elements, featuring a silhouette resembling an Xbox configuration. Speculation exists that this device could be a modified version of the ROG Ally X, potentially running Windows 11 and supporting Game Pass streaming. The promotional video included phrases suggesting hardware enhancements, but the reality of the project remains uncertain. There is skepticism about the feasibility of a dedicated handheld Xbox, given that many Xbox titles are already available on PC. The video was shared on March 31st, adding to the speculation surrounding its authenticity.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

Eidos Montréal is cutting 75 jobs

Eidos Montréal has announced a reduction in its workforce, resulting in 75 employees facing redundancy. The layoffs are part of the conclusion of one of its operational mandates and are not a reflection of the employees' skills or dedication. The company stated it lacks the capacity to reallocate these employees to other projects. Eidos Montréal is committed to supporting the affected employees during their transition. This announcement follows a similar layoff of 17 employees at Crystal Dynamics, another studio under the Embracer Group, highlighting ongoing adjustments in the gaming sector.

AppWizard

April 1, 2025

EA alum Adolf Kristjansson is Starbreeze’s new CEO

Adolf Kristjansson has been appointed as the new CEO of Swedish gaming company Starbreeze, replacing interim CEO Mats Juhl, who held the position since May 2024. Kristjansson has extensive experience in the gaming industry, having worked at Electronic Arts for over a decade and previously held roles at Tæknival / BT and GAME. He has also served on the boards of Silverfox and Thunderful Group. Kristjansson expressed enthusiasm for Starbreeze's projects, including an upcoming Dungeons & Dragons title and the expansion of the Payday franchise. Starbreeze chair Jürgen Goeldner welcomed Kristjansson and thanked Mats Juhl for his contributions as interim CEO.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Warner reportedly axes Hogwarts Legacy expansion

Warner Bros has halted the development of an expansion for Hogwarts Legacy due to concerns that the amount of content did not justify the proposed price. The expansion was being developed by Avalanche Software in collaboration with Rocksteady Studios. Rocksteady has faced challenges, including layoffs and ceasing support for Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, which contributed to Warner Bros' admission of underperformance in its gaming division. The company also decided to close three studios, including Monolith Productions, and experienced a leadership change with the departure of gaming division head David Haddad.

AppWizard

March 28, 2025

Activision user research workers form union

Activision's user research division staff voted to form a union, named the Activision User Research Union-CWA, with a supermajority in favor of unionization. Microsoft has recognized the union as part of its labor neutrality agreement with the Communication Workers of America (CWA). The motivation for unionization was influenced by anticipated layoffs in 2023 and 2024. CWA Local 9400 president Maurice Washington emphasized the need for a protected voice for workers and expressed pride in welcoming the new members into the CWA. This development follows the establishment of the United Videogame Workers-CWA, reflecting a trend of unionization in the gaming industry.