handheld devices Archives

AppWizard

December 22, 2024

6 reasons I’m excited for the future of PC gaming

PC gaming has experienced a surge in popularity, with both established studios and indie developers producing exceptional titles. Linux gaming has improved significantly, particularly with Valve's Proton compatibility layer allowing Windows games to run on Linux without requiring ports. Handheld devices like the Steam Deck have transformed gaming by enabling play on the go. The distinction between PC and console gaming is diminishing, with more console titles being ported to PC and subscription services like Xbox Game Pass providing access to console games on PCs. Display technology has evolved, offering monitors with vibrant colors and high refresh rates, enhancing the gaming experience. Apple Silicon has made Macs more viable for gaming, allowing demanding games to run smoothly, although more game ports are needed. There is a growing focus on accessibility in gaming, with studios prioritizing features for inclusivity. Despite concerns about rising graphics card prices, the PC gaming platform remains strong, supported by millions of users on platforms like Steam and Epic Games.

Winsage

December 21, 2024

Predicting the (actually very exciting) future of Xbox hardware

A game analyst predicts that the high-end console market may not support both PlayStation and Xbox, suggesting a possible exit for Xbox. However, the relevance of console exclusives is diminishing as PlayStation expands to platforms like Steam, and Valve allows manufacturers to create consoles based on its operating system. Xbox is likely to increase its device variety, with Microsoft appointing Roanne Sones to lead its hardware ecosystem. Under her leadership, Xbox is expanding beyond traditional consoles, showcasing devices like the ASUS ROG Ally handheld gaming PC and mobile controllers. The upcoming CES 2025 will feature discussions on enhancing Windows for gaming handhelds. Both Xbox and PlayStation rely on x86 AMD architecture, and the industry is exploring monetization strategies amid rising costs and stagnant user growth. Microsoft aims to align Xbox more closely with Windows for easier game deployment and potential integration of third-party stores. There is speculation about eliminating the paywall for premium multiplayer gaming in the next generation. Successful execution of this vision is uncertain, as Microsoft must navigate regional marketing and distribution complexities while ensuring a smooth gaming experience and backward compatibility.

Winsage

December 18, 2024

Elevate your PC gaming experience with Windows 11 this holiday season

Windows 11 offers new gaming experiences for PC Game Pass subscribers, including titles like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle™. Key features include: - Auto HDR: Enhances SDR games to HDR for improved colors and contrasts. - DirectStorage: Reduces load times using NVMe SSDs, optimizing data loading for better performance. - Game Bar Compact Mode: Simplifies navigation on smaller screens, providing quick access to games and performance metrics. - Dynamic Lighting: Allows synchronization and customization of RGB lighting across devices. - Optimizations for Windowed Games: Introduces Variable Rate Refresh (VRR) to reduce tearing and stuttering in windowed modes. - Advanced Hybrid (CASO)/UMA: Improves performance on hybrid laptops with integrated and discrete GPUs. - Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 support: Enhances online gaming with faster speeds and lower latency. - Color filters for colorblind players: Helps colorblind players differentiate colors while improving frame rates. - Automatic Super Resolution for Arm Copilot+ PCs: Upscales lower-resolution content in real-time. - Xbox app on Windows PC: Manages PC gaming content and facilitates cloud gaming and cross-platform connections.

Winsage

December 11, 2024

Xbox app adds quickbar for convenient game launches on Windows handheld PCs

The Xbox app has introduced a "jump back in" feature that allows players to quickly access their recently played games on Windows handheld PCs. This feature is designed for devices like the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally, enhancing convenience for on-the-go gaming. It provides a quick launch carousel for the last nine games played, reducing navigation through menus. Players can click on any game card to return to gameplay from the game's hub, and controller users can access gameplay directly through a right-click or menu button.

Winsage

December 11, 2024

Microsoft adds 400 games to its Xbox app on Windows PC, along with this key feature I’ve wanted for years

Microsoft's Xbox app for Windows PC has been updated to include approximately 400 new games, enhancing the gaming library. The update features a redesigned Home menu for improved navigation and user engagement. Over 100 of the new games support the Xbox Play Anywhere feature, allowing progress transfer between Xbox consoles and PCs. The update also includes cross-play capabilities for many titles. The new Home experience, initially available to Xbox Insiders, is now accessible to all users. Microsoft plans to introduce casual games like Candy Crush Soda Saga and Angry Birds 2 in December. Despite improvements, some users report performance issues with the app.

AppWizard

December 11, 2024

Microsoft wants to make the Xbox app the home of PC gaming

Microsoft is enhancing the Xbox app on Windows by introducing nearly 400 previously unavailable PC games and a revamped user experience. This update includes contributions from Japanese studios like Kemco and Kairosoft, as well as notable titles such as The Invincible by Double 11. Over 100 of these games are classified as Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing seamless play across Xbox consoles and PCs. Features like universal Xbox ownership, cloud saves, and cross-play capabilities are emphasized to improve the gaming experience. Microsoft has lowered its revenue share from 30 percent to 12 percent to attract game developers to its Windows-based store. Future updates regarding the Xbox app are expected at an upcoming game developers conference in March, which will also introduce a new home UI showcasing featured content and a “jump back in” section for quick access to recent gaming sessions.

Winsage

November 17, 2024

Microsoft Weekly: one dead Insider Channel, a big drop of Windows updates, and more

November 2024's Patch Tuesday updates have been released for Windows 11 and Windows 10, including KB5046617 and KB5046633 for Windows 11, and KB5046613, KB5046615, KB5046612, and KB5046665 for Windows 10. These updates address security vulnerabilities and resolve app crashes on Windows 10 and Task Manager issues on Windows 11. Microsoft has introduced new group policies to prevent auto-upgrades for Windows Server 2022 and 2019. Both Windows 10 and 11 will see a reduction in updates starting December 2024. Official Windows 11 ISO files for ARM devices have been released. The Microsoft Store will remove instant games from the Arcade tab on November 14, 2024, but will introduce Android games through a partnership with Tencent. A new "Edit with Paint" context menu option has been added for Windows Insiders. Windows 10's Beta Channel has been discontinued, transitioning users to the Release Preview Channel. Microsoft has reintroduced the MSN brand with a new logo. Microsoft Edge has been updated to version 131, and notable driver updates include Intel's 32.0.101.6297 and Nvidia's 566.14 WHQL. Upcoming game releases include Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on December 9 and S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl on November 20. Blizzard announced remasters of Warcraft I and II. Age of Empires II's fifth anniversary has led to unlocked DLC packs for existing owners and Game Pass subscribers. The Game Pass library has added three Spyro games. Discounts on Xbox Series X|S consoles and controllers are available for the holiday season, along with a software update for Xbox consoles introducing new features. The Epic Games Store is offering free games, including Castlevania Anniversary Collection and Snakebird Complete.

Winsage

November 4, 2024

Windows 11’s feature to allow typing with your Xbox controller has vanished in a blow for owners of handheld gaming PCs

Windows 11 users will not receive the new gamepad keyboard layout for the on-screen keyboard as it has been temporarily shelved. Microsoft announced this pause in rollout due to unresolved issues, which was communicated through a recent Beta channel preview build. The feature had been in testing since early September 2024 and was expected to be available with the Windows 11 24H2 update at the end of October. The gamepad on-screen keyboard was designed to enhance typing convenience using an Xbox controller, incorporating shortcuts for functions like backspace and spacebar.

AppWizard

November 4, 2024

Respawn blocks Linux users from Apex Legends

Respawn Entertainment has announced that Linux users will no longer have access to Apex Legends due to significant cheating issues associated with the operating system. This change affects Steam Deck users, as the device operates on Linux by default. Players can still access the game on the Steam Deck if they install Windows instead of using Linux. The decision does not impact players using Steam on Windows or other supported platforms.

AppWizard

October 31, 2024

Red Dead Redemption’s PC port is — surprisingly — the perfect Halloween game

The original Red Dead Redemption, first launched in 2010, is now available on PC, coinciding with the Halloween season. The game includes the Undead Nightmare expansion, offering a zombie-themed adventure. This marks the first significant release for PC and modern consoles, aside from a minimal Nintendo Switch version. Players assume the role of John Marston, tracking down former gang members to protect his family. The game features cinematic storytelling, heart-pounding missions, and a refined slow-motion shooting mechanic. The PC port allows for enhancements such as ultra-high resolutions up to 4K, refresh rates up to 144Hz, and support for ultrawide monitors. The Undead Nightmare expansion includes unique weaponry and the ability to tame the four horses of the apocalypse. The pricing for the port is set at £39.99 / .99.