guides Archives

AppWizard

September 1, 2026

One of Elden Ring’s top sleuths has already unmasked its new DLC characters

Zullie the Witch has released a video showcasing two new NPC invaders in the Tarnished Edition DLC of Elden Ring: Knight Leontiel and Noble Broken Mask. Knight Leontiel is a homage to Lucatiel of Mirrah from Dark Souls 2, featuring a high-definition remaster of her attire and a burn mark over her left eye. Zullie provides character creation slider information for both NPCs, enabling players to recreate them accurately. The Tarnished Edition is generating excitement in the gaming community, with an increase in player activity expected on the servers.

AppWizard

August 30, 2026

New Roguelikes & Roguelites in September 2026: The Monthly Update

- Serious Sam: Shatterverse was released on August 31 for PC (Win). - Moonlighter 2: The Endless Vault was released on September 2 for PC (Win), PS5, Switch 2, and Xbox. - Cosmo Tales entered Early Access on September 3 for PC (Win). - Rutrum was released on September 3 for PC (Win). - Mewgenics was released on September 8 for PS5, Switch 2, and Xbox Series. - Wanderburg entered Early Access on September 8 for PC (Win). - Ex Sanguis entered Early Access on September 10 for PC (Win). - Roguecraft DX was released on September 10 for PC (Win). - Forsworn was released on September 10 for PC (Lin, Win). - Fresh Tracks VR was released on September 10 for PC VR. - Shroom and Gloom entered Early Access on September 11 for PC (Mac, Win). - Dunebound Tactics was released on September 14 for PC (Win). - Cloudbreaker was released on September 15 for PC (Lin, Win). - Fleetbreakers entered Early Access on September 15 for PC (Win). - Sublight was released on September 15 for PC (Win). - Two Sides of Hell was released on September 17 for PC (Win). - Furyball: Rogue Revenge entered Early Access on September 23 for PC (Win). - Stick It to the Stickman was released on September 23 for PC (Win).

Winsage

August 28, 2026

Windows picks the wrong CPU cores for your games, and your processor has been telling it which ones to use

Modern processors, such as those from AMD, feature distinct cores with varying capabilities, allowing them to communicate their performance potential to the operating system via the Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI). This enables efficient resource allocation, particularly important for gaming, where a game may rely heavily on one or two threads. While Windows generally manages CPU resources effectively, issues can arise if the firmware fails to accurately convey core capabilities, leading to performance problems. Regular BIOS updates are crucial to ensure the CPU's preferred-core hierarchy is correctly communicated. Manual core assignment is usually unnecessary and can be counterproductive, as Windows' built-in scheduling is typically sufficient for most users.

AppWizard

August 27, 2026

7 Things to Check Before Installing a Messaging App on Your Laptop in 2026

Many students, remote workers, freelancers, and office professionals are integrating desktop messaging into their daily routines due to the efficiency of larger screens for longer conversations and document management. Installing a messaging app on a laptop requires checking compatibility with the operating system, available storage, and necessary permissions. Users should verify the legitimacy of the app's source and decide whether a desktop or web version is more suitable for their needs. Language settings should be configured early to avoid confusion, and notification settings must be adjusted to minimize distractions. Users should monitor storage for accumulated files from messaging apps and regularly review connected devices to maintain account security.

Tech Optimizer

August 24, 2026

Bitdefender vs Avast: Which is the right antivirus software package for you

Antivirus software is essential for protecting PCs from threats, with Windows 11 including Microsoft Defender. Bitdefender offers a range of plans, including family plans for up to 25 devices, while Avast provides a free antivirus option and cheaper Premium Security. Bitdefender's basic antivirus starts at £17.99 for one device, with Premium Security at £59.99, Total Security at £49.99, and Ultimate Security at £69.98. Avast Premium Security is priced at £39.99 for one device. Bitdefender includes unlimited VPN with Premium Security, while Avast requires an upgrade for VPN access. Both offer scam protection, but Bitdefender is noted for its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface. Bitdefender provides 24/7 support, while Avast offers live chat and toll-free support but has a less appealing support layout. Overall, Bitdefender is preferred for its features, ease of use, and support options.

AppWizard

August 24, 2026

This week in PC games: Gamescom and GTA 6 fight for our attention, but don’t forget Folk Emerging, MGS4 and the horror game about balancing a cake

This week marks the arrival of Gamescom, featuring a highly anticipated documentary on GTA 6 set to stream on August 27th via Rockstar and Netflix. Notable new PC releases include: - Burned Horizons (early access): A military simulation game set in a fictional 2002 war in Europe. - Money for Girls: Amortized: A horror detective visual novel by Porpentine. - 1666: Amsterdam (early access): A time-bending witch game from Patrice Désilets. - Aliens: Fireteam Elite 2: A cooperative game for 1-4 players. - Astral Court DX: A bullet hell game with 189 levels. - Blood Dungeon: A frantic platformer by the creators of Nidhogg. - Sokogram: A hybrid puzzler with sokoban mechanics. - Western Rye (early access): A survival game combining cowboy simulation and zombie encounters. - the cabin game (early access): A multiplayer experience in a haunted cabin. - Lou's Lagoon: An adventurous platformer on an archipelago. - Star Wars: Zero Company: A squad tactics game set in the Ahsoka era. - Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2: A remastered package featuring MGS4 and Peace Walker. - Resonance: A Plague Tale Legacy: An installment set on an island with light-based puzzles. - Captain Tsubasa: A return to the football franchise. - Don't Drop The Cake: A game where players balance a tray in a chaotic environment. - Alice's Gaze: A blend of autobattling and spooky mansion exploration. - A Little Age: A laid-back city-building game. The coverage approach for Gamescom this year will focus on in-depth stories rather than liveblogging, with a team on-site in Cologne and others covering news from home.

BetaBeacon

August 24, 2026

PPSSPP vs Dolphin vs RetroArch Android: 127 Cores

PPSSPP is a dedicated PSP emulator that does not require a BIOS file to boot a game. Dolphin emulates GameCube and Wii consoles and requires newer Android versions for better performance. RetroArch is a frontend that loads separate cores for different systems, offering a wide range of emulation options.

Winsage

August 23, 2026

I think Microsoft is finally fixing the customization problems that held Windows 11 back

Windows 11 is evolving into a more user-centric operating system, with recent updates enhancing customization options like moving and resizing the Taskbar and improving Start menu control. This change is part of Microsoft's Windows K2 initiative, which aims to boost performance and user experience. Initially, Windows 11's design aimed for simplicity but reduced user choices, leading to frustration. The context menu was simplified but became cluttered again, prompting updates that allow users to customize its organization. Microsoft recognizes that users have varied preferences for interacting with the OS, and the flexibility in Taskbar positioning enhances satisfaction. While the updates are positive, there is criticism that Microsoft should not be overly praised for restoring previously removed features. The goal is to maintain a modern interface while enhancing user experience without sacrificing functionality. Recent changes reflect an understanding that the issues with Windows 11 arose from removing options rather than having too many choices, guiding future updates to balance user-friendliness with customization.

Tech Optimizer

August 22, 2026

Bitdefender vs McAfee: How to pick the right antivirus for you in 2026

Viruses and malware pose ongoing threats to personal computers and sensitive data. Windows Defender is a free antivirus option, but dedicated solutions like Bitdefender and McAfee offer enhanced security. Bitdefender was established in 2001 and McAfee in 1987. Bitdefender Premium Security has a rating of 4.5/5, offers various plans, and is user-friendly with minimal system impact. Its pricing includes £59.99 for the Premium Security plan, which features a password manager, unlimited VPN, and other protections. McAfee+ Premium also has a rating of 4.5/5, is visually appealing, and includes a smart scan feature. Its pricing starts at £49.99 for the Premium plan, which protects unlimited devices and includes various security features. Bitdefender's pros include an affordable standard plan and a basic VPN, while cons include a requirement for a family plan for more than five devices and significant price increases in subsequent years. McAfee's pros include unlimited device protection and excellent security monitoring, with cons being potential high costs. Both antivirus solutions offer significant first-year discounts, with Bitdefender's basic protection starting at £17.99 for one device and McAfee's basic package starting at £29.99 for one device. In terms of features, Bitdefender includes a comprehensive suite with a password manager, while McAfee offers scam detection and a social privacy manager. Bitdefender's dashboard is user-friendly but may feel cluttered, while McAfee's dashboard is visually appealing and organized. Both provide 24/7 support, but Bitdefender's phone support may incur charges. The evaluation criteria included ease of use, features, value for money, and performance.

Tech Optimizer

August 22, 2026

Bitdefender vs Norton: An expert comparison of the two antivirus services

Bitdefender Premium Security has a rating of 4.5/5 and offers features such as antivirus protection, unlimited VPN access, a SecurePass password manager, and scam protection, priced at £59.99. Norton 360 Deluxe has a rating of 5/5, protects up to five devices, includes a VPN, password manager, parental controls, and dark web monitoring, priced at £24.99. Bitdefender's entry-level plan starts at £17.99, while Norton Antivirus Plus is £24.99 for one device. Norton 360 Standard is available for £19.99 for up to three devices. Both antivirus solutions have a similar pricing strategy with attractive introductory rates that increase after the first year. Bitdefender provides 24/7 live chat and phone support, while Norton offers freephone support and additional paid support options. The evaluation of both products involved assessing ease of use, features, value for money, and performance.