Most smartphone users do not require antivirus applications, as the primary threats are scams rather than traditional viruses. iPhones have a secure operating system that limits antivirus functionality, focusing on scams like deceptive texts and phishing links. Android devices allow sideloading, increasing the risk of malware from unofficial sources. Best practices for smartphone safety include downloading apps from official stores, using trusted developers, avoiding dubious links, keeping the operating system updated, using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and refraining from installing apps from unknown sources. Antivirus apps may be beneficial for users who frequently click on links, download files from unfamiliar websites, install many applications, engage in Android sideloading, or seek additional protection against scams. Reputable security apps prioritize scam detection and unsafe website identification over traditional virus scanning.
MercurySteam has announced a workforce adjustment following the launch of its game, Blades of Fire, on Steam. The game has faced commercial challenges, with its sales performance described as "underperformed," leading to an anticipated write-off of €8 million by its parent company, Digital Bros. Blades of Fire initially launched as an Epic Store exclusive but struggled against major titles and received mixed reviews, scoring 74. The recent Steam release includes a significant 2.0 update with new features such as a New Game Plus mode, a new difficulty level called Titanium, an arena system for boss battles, expanded death animations, and full Steam Deck support.
Windows 11's April update includes performance boosts, a refined File Explorer, and a revamped Settings app, but primarily addresses existing issues rather than customization preferences. Users still face challenges with the lack of easily accessible customization options, leading many to rely on registry tweaks to adjust settings not available through the standard Settings menu. Key registry modifications include restoring the classic right-click menu, adding an "End Task" option to the taskbar's right-click menu, disabling Bing search in the Start menu, and removing the Recommended section from the Start Menu. These tweaks enhance functionality and convenience, as the updates do not sufficiently address user customizability concerns.
A 155 GB unencrypted build of Forza Horizon 6 has leaked online ahead of its release, confirmed by Playground Games to have originated from a reviewer, influencer, or industry insider, not a Steam employee or technical glitch. The leak includes thousands of assets, granting unauthorized early access to the game's content. This incident raises concerns about the handling of unreleased game builds and could impact future release plans and the game's success. Playground Games may be able to identify the source of the leak through attached identifiers in the early access copies sent for review.
Researchers at Cyfirma have identified a cyberattack campaign named Operation SilentCanvas that targets Windows systems using deceptive JPEG files to infiltrate devices. The attack begins with victims receiving a file named sysupdate.jpeg, which contains a PowerShell script instead of an image. This script establishes staging environments and downloads additional malicious components while avoiding detection. The malware reconstructs command strings at runtime and downloads a secondary payload called access.jpeg, executed in memory. It exploits Microsoft's .NET compiler to create a custom launcher named uds.exe on infected machines. The malware takes control of a registry key to create a hidden desktop environment for undetected execution of malicious tools and installs a persistent Windows service, OneDriveServers, to maintain activity after reboots. Additionally, it can intercept usernames and passwords at the Windows login screen and create hidden local administrator accounts for long-term access. Security teams are advised to monitor the execution of commonly abused Windows binaries like csc.exe and ComputerDefaults.exe to mitigate risks.
- The Roguelite genre of gaming is thriving with games that have randomly generated maps, grid-based movement, and permadeath.
- Modern game designers often add twists to the classic roguelite tropes, such as upgradable characters, weapon changes, and diverse gameplay.
- Balatro is a game where players collect cash to purchase new cards with special effects, encouraging cheating to win.
- The Binding of Isaac is a classic roguelite game where players control a young boy using strange weapons like tears to escape his abusive mother.
- Skul: The Hero Slayer follows a skeleton named Skul who can switch out his skull for different powers and abilities, making him stronger.
- Vampire Survivors is a game where players face a monstrous horde of enemies and upgrade their character with stronger weapons and armor.
- Hades is a roguelite game where players control Zagreus, the son of Hades, trying to escape the underworld to meet his mother in the world of the living.
Several new titles are set to be released in the World of Darkness universe, including Hunter: The Reckoning - Deathwish, Vampire: The Masquerade - Oaths and Ashes, and Werewolf: The Apocalypse - Rageborn. Werewolf: The Apocalypse - Rageborn will feature a Diablo-style perspective and action-adventure gameplay with Metroidvania elements. Players will control Tyler, the pack leader of Gaia, as he navigates Alaska to confront the Wyrm. Tyler can switch between three forms: Homid (human), Lupus (werewolf), and Crinos (berserker), each offering unique abilities. The game emphasizes collaboration, allowing players to establish a den for recruiting allies to enhance gear and craft equipment. Werewolf: The Apocalypse - Rageborn is scheduled for release in 2027.
LINE Games will host an online showcase titled 'LINE Games Beyond' on the 14th of this month at 6:00 PM, streamed live on their YouTube channel. The event will reveal five new game titles, including 'Ember and Blade,' 'QUIET,' and 'CODE EXIT,' alongside a casual gaming lineup featuring 'Come to my party!' and 'Hamster Talk.' The showcase will focus on content scalability and platform diversification, expanding offerings to PC and console games. Additionally, LINE Games will participate in the '2026 PlayX4' event from the 21st to the 24th, featuring demo booths for four of the showcased PC titles.
MOTORSLICE is an action-adventure game developed by Regular Studio that combines hack-and-slash mechanics with parkour elements. The game features a ten-hour storyline where players control P, a Slicer, accompanied by a drone named Orbie. P's mission is to infiltrate "the Megastructure" and dismantle its machines. The game is noted for its intricately designed world, low-poly graphics, and unique parkour mechanics, including the Motorslice feature that allows P to traverse walls using a chainsaw. Players face various challenges and boss battles, though some encounters may feel limited. The game includes collectibles in the form of drones but lacks deeper lore integration. It has some bugs that can disrupt gameplay. Overall, MOTORSLICE is recommended for those who enjoy challenging parkour experiences.
