Many Windows 11 PCs experience performance decline over time due to background processes and unnecessary files. To enhance performance without reinstalling Windows, consider the following strategies:
1. Uninstall unnecessary software (bloatware) via the Start menu or Installed Apps section.
2. Limit startup processes using Task Manager to disable rarely used applications.
3. Clean up disk space by enabling Windows' Storage Sense for automatic cleanup.
4. Check for viruses and spyware using Microsoft Defender or dedicated malware removal software.
5. Change power settings to Best Performance in Settings > System > Power & Battery.
6. Identify and fix resource-hogging processes using Task Manager.
7. Keep Windows updated by checking Settings > Windows Update.
8. Run troubleshooting utilities by searching for "troubleshoot" in the Start menu.
9. Use Microsoft PC Manager for a one-click performance optimization.
10. Consider adding more RAM if your device allows it.
11. Install an SSD for faster application launches and improved startup times.
12. Adjust system appearance settings for Best Performance.
13. Ensure adequate cooling to prevent overheating.
14. Turn off search indexing to free up system resources.
15. Disable Windows' Tips and manage notifications to reduce processing demands.
16. Enable Game Mode in Settings > Gaming for optimized gaming performance.
Fanatical has launched the Best of Cozy bundle, featuring a selection of cozy games that are Verified and Playable on the Steam Deck. The bundle allows users to build their own collection with pricing incentives: three to four games cost .85 each, five to six games cost .75 each, and seven or more games cost .65 each. Purchasing all 18 games in the bundle is priced at , representing an 85% discount from the original total of 2. The bundle includes various titles, each with a Steam key for redemption, and their compatibility with the Steam Deck is noted. Prices are accurate as of July 10th, 2026, but may fluctuate.
Alt-pop artist Au/Ra has released her debut album, ‘Heartcore,’ inspired by her childhood experiences and escapism into fantasy worlds. The album reflects her journey of healing from childhood traumas, which she began addressing through therapy. Growing up between Ibiza and Antigua, she found solace in video games and creative writing, particularly influenced by titles like Final Fantasy 15 and The Lord Of The Rings. Au/Ra debuted with the track ‘Concrete Jungle’ at age 14 and faced challenges with her label, Sony, which affected her music release. Despite these obstacles, she maintained a connection with her fans through gaming and community engagement. The first song she wrote for ‘Heartcore’ was ‘Blah,’ expressing her feelings of betrayal and abandonment, which helped her gain clarity for the album's creative process.
The Humble Bundle Squad Goals bundle offers a collection of ten games for a minimum contribution, with a total retail value exceeding 0. Notable titles include TMNT: Splintered Fate, PlateUp!, and Human Fall Flat. The bundle also includes a 30% discount code for the game Pratfall and is available for purchase at the starting price until August 1, 2026.
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.
ASUS Republic of Gamers has launched the ROG Raikiri II Pro PC gaming controller, featuring an 8K polling rate for high responsiveness. It includes customizable hot-swappable TMR joystick modules with two actuation force options (120gf and 50gf), four removable rear buttons, and two extra claw bumpers that can be remapped. A full-color panel allows for on-the-fly adjustments, and ASUS Gear Link software offers detailed customization, including Turbo mode for rapid auto-repeat. The controller boasts up to 79 hours of battery life on a single charge using 2.4 GHz wireless. It comes with premium accessories, including a protective charging case, charging stand, rear button cover plates, a module removal tool, TMR modules, and detachable joystick caps.
The REDMAGIC Astra 2 features a 9.06-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2.4K, a refresh rate of 185Hz, and a peak brightness of up to 1,600 nits. The tablet is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor and the REDMAGIC RedCore R4 gaming chip. The device also includes visible liquid cooling, Liquid Metal 3.0, and a large vapor chamber for heat management. The global model is listed with 75W charging, while the domestic model in China has 80W charging.
The gaming landscape of 2026 features a variety of free-to-play titles catering to diverse tastes. Notable games include:
- Escape Up: A side-scrolling platformer where players eliminate enemies to ascend a tower, refining the platforming experience for modern audiences.
- 2XKO: A 2v2 fighting game from the "League of Legends" universe, released in January 2026, featuring fast-paced brawls and a revenue model based on in-game cosmetics and battle passes.
- Neverness to Everness: A third-person action RPG developed by Hotta Studio, available on mobile, PC, and PlayStation 5, allowing players to switch between heroes with unique abilities in a fantasy open world.
- Skillwood: A lo-fi life simulator where players act as a lumberjack, chopping trees and mining resources, developed by sshulin and available on Steam and itch.io.
- Forward Assault: An indie first-person shooter inspired by "Counter-Strike," featuring tactical gameplay and accessible mechanics for mobile and PC players.
Woot has launched a sale for Prime Day featuring discounts on Razer peripherals, with savings up to 76% and prices starting at .99 for Prime members. Customers can use the promo code RAZERWOOT for additional discounts, particularly for new customers. The Razer Huntsman V2 Analog Gaming Keyboard is highlighted in the sale, priced at .99 with Prime shipping, and can be reduced to .99 with the promo code. This keyboard typically retails for 0 on Amazon, representing a significant savings opportunity. It includes features such as rapid trigger mode, doubleshot PBT keycaps, Razer Chroma RGB lighting, and an ergonomic magnetic wrist rest.
