influence Archives

AppWizard

July 22, 2026

Developer of Burnout spiritual successor Wreckreation has formed a new studio working on a sequel

The Burnout series is influential in the arcade racing genre, inspiring many imitators. Wreckreation, a successor developed by Three Fields Entertainment and released in 2025, received mixed reviews. The team announced a sequel, Wreckreation 2, focusing on player feedback to enhance the experience. The initial trailer features unique vehicles and gameplay reminiscent of Burnout. The developers have formed a new studio, When Tides Turn, to continue the project while maintaining the original team. They plan to engage the community through updates and playtesting opportunities.

AppWizard

July 21, 2026

X Android app rebuilt from scratch with faster loading, smoother scrolling and improved reliability

X has launched a completely redesigned Android app after nearly a year of development, emphasizing faster loading times, smoother scrolling, and improved notifications. The app has been rebuilt from the ground up, allowing for enhanced reliability and the potential for quicker feature rollouts. X is also working on optimizing the app for older Android smartphones and expanding functionalities, including enhanced hosting features for Spaces. The updated app is available globally on the Google Play Store for existing users to update.

Winsage

July 21, 2026

Ditching Windows is the loudest feedback you can ever give Microsoft

Frustration with Microsoft's data collection practices has increased, particularly since the transition from Windows 7, where the amount of user data collected has significantly risen. Microsoft gathers extensive data points, including device IDs, user IDs, operating system information, and application usage data. Many users are turning to Linux as an alternative, as it respects user privacy and does not collect personal data without consent. Microsoft has also employed manipulative design tactics to influence user behavior, such as persistent prompts and misleading visuals. Additionally, the introduction of ads in Windows 11 has been viewed as disrespectful to paying customers, while Linux remains ad-free. Users are encouraged to switch to Linux to express dissatisfaction with Microsoft's practices and to reclaim their digital autonomy.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

Steam Week in Review: Take cover, because it looks like more than half of Steam games will have an AI-disclosure by 2027-2028

In June 2017, Valve introduced Steam Direct, changing the platform's game release process from manual curation to a more open system. Before this, game releases were limited, with only one month—December 2016—exceeding 500 releases. By February 2025, monthly game launches on Steam surpassed 1,500. A study by Sulka Haro analyzed around 53,600 Steam titles released between mid-2023 and mid-2026, noting that in 2024, 10.9% of new games included an AI disclosure, rising to 19.9% in 2025, and reaching 30.8% by July 2026. Non-AI flagged launches increased from about 1,030 to around 1,320 per month, while AI-flagged launches grew from approximately 13 to about 530 monthly. Projections suggest that by 2027 or 2028, nearly half of all games on Steam will have an AI flag. Despite the increase in AI-flagged titles, many struggle financially and receive mediocre reviews. The gaming industry is seeing a rise in generative AI technologies, particularly in management simulation genres. Recent notable releases on Steam include Granblue Fantasy: Relink and Palworld, with anticipation for Star Wars Zero Company on August 27.

AppWizard

July 20, 2026

New Steam Game is Minecraft Meets Stardew Valley

Glintseeker Island is an upcoming game from Half Soup Labs that combines exploration mechanics similar to Minecraft with pixelated aesthetics inspired by Stardew Valley. The game features relaxed exploration, charming visuals, and engaging gameplay mechanics. It aims to create a captivating world filled with charming characters and activities for players.

Winsage

July 18, 2026

Windows 11’s massive July 2026 update fixes 570 vulnerabilities and shows how AI is quietly reshaping Patch Tuesday itself

Microsoft's July 2026 Patch Tuesday update for Windows 11, identified as KB5101650, addresses 570 vulnerabilities and upgrades Windows 11 to version 25H2 (build 26200.8875) and version 24H2 (build 26100.8875). The update includes critical fixes for BitLocker and File Explorer, targeting vulnerabilities that could enable remote code execution. Microsoft's MDASH tool, which uses AI for vulnerability analysis, has helped uncover 16 vulnerabilities in networking and authentication components. The update also introduces non-security enhancements like Point-in-time restore and improved Bluetooth reliability. Microsoft emphasizes the need for users to install updates quickly due to the rapid evolution of AI technology that benefits malicious actors.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

PC Gamer magazine’s new issue is on sale now: Duke Nukem special anniversary celebration

PC Gamer is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Duke Nukem 3D and the 15th anniversary of Duke Nukem Forever with a special issue featuring exclusive interviews with key developers and never-before-seen development images. The issue also highlights the influence of Duke Nukem 3D and other "boomer shooters" on the FPS genre, showcasing the finest retro-style FPS games. Additionally, it includes a preview of the free-to-play MMO Soulframe from Digital Extremes and hands-on impressions of upcoming titles like 1666: Amsterdam and Castlevania: Belmont's Curse. The magazine reviews various games, including Gothic Remake and Warhammer 40,000: Mechanicus II. Digital editions are available in PDF and EPUB format through Pocketmags.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

5 Classic PC Games That Are Unplayable Today

"Dune II," released in 1992, is credited with laying the foundation for real-time strategy games, featuring base-building and military maneuvers on the planet Arrakis. It has not been re-released due to licensing issues after Westwood Studios closed in 2003. Interplay Entertainment released two video games based on "The Lord of the Rings" in the early '90s, allowing players to guide Frodo Baggins through Middle-earth. Low sales led to the cancellation of a planned trilogy, and both titles have since faded into obscurity. "Star Trek: The Next Generation — A Final Unity," a point-and-click adventure from 1995, features Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his crew on a mission to recover an ancient scroll. It has not received a modern re-release. Sid Meier's "Civilization II," released in 1996, has not been officially re-released, despite the series' significant evolution and availability of later entries. The absence of these formative titles leaves a gap in strategy gaming history. "Black & White," released in 2001, is a god simulator that allows players to influence tribes on islands. It has not been optimized for modern platforms following the acquisition of Lionhead Studios by Microsoft, limiting access to those with original discs.

AppWizard

July 17, 2026

Overwatch’s attempt at bringing back 6v6 feels like a bad compromise—it just doesn’t work

Overwatch introduced a 1-3-2 flex mode, allowing one tank, three DPS, and two support characters, with the option for one DPS to switch to tank. Early experiences indicate that teams with two tanks often dominate those with one, raising concerns about the format's balance. Adjustments to tank health and abilities do not sufficiently address the advantages of having two tanks. The exploration of this hybrid format does not resolve the ongoing debate between the 5v5 and 6v6 setups, as each has distinct characteristics that complicate finding a viable compromise.

AppWizard

July 17, 2026

As a PC Gamer Who Hasn’t Bought a Disc in a Decade, I Think PlayStation All-Digital Future Was a Long Time Coming – but There Are Still Reasons To Be Wary

Rockstar has decided not to release a physical version of its upcoming game, GTA 6, while Sony plans to stop producing discs for PlayStation consoles by January 2028. The gaming community has reacted strongly, but it is unlikely that either company will change its decision. The transition to a discless future is seen as inevitable. In the PC gaming sector, physical discs have largely become obsolete, with platforms like Steam dominating the market. The initial skepticism towards Steam has shifted as it became a reliable digital marketplace, leading to a decline in physical media. The absence of physical discs raises concerns about consumer autonomy, pricing, and game preservation, as digital ownership is often limited to licenses rather than full ownership. The shift away from physical media has been ongoing, with modern gaming increasingly reliant on digital downloads and updates.