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Arc Raiders dev says Marathon alpha was "good A/B test"
AppWizard
October 21, 2025

Arc Raiders dev says Marathon alpha was “good A/B test”

Virgil Watkins, design director at Embark Studios, discussed the similarities between their upcoming game Arc Raiders and Bungie's Marathon during a conversation with PC Gamer. Both games are in the extraction shooter genre and had coinciding alpha tests, which allowed Embark Studios to conduct an informal A/B test comparing design choices. Arc Raiders is set to launch on October 30th, while Marathon's release has been delayed from its initial September schedule. Embark Studios was founded by Patrick Soderlund, a veteran from DICE and Electronic Arts, and is also known for the free-to-play team shooter, The Finals.
Codev Airship Interactive assets acquired by Airmergent
AppWizard
July 15, 2025

Codev Airship Interactive assets acquired by Airmergent

UK-based co-development firm Airship Interactive has entered administration, and its assets have been acquired by a newly established studio named Airmergent. Airmergent has retained all 78 employees from Airship Interactive, in compliance with UK TUPE regulations, ensuring ongoing contracts remain unaffected. Airship Interactive officially entered administration on July 1st.
We Love Every Game wants to solve Steam's discoverability problem
AppWizard
June 30, 2025

We Love Every Game wants to solve Steam’s discoverability problem

We Love Every Game is a platform created by Boston-based Totally Human Media to help players discover quality PC games on Steam, which sees nearly 20,000 new titles each year. The initiative is led by Ichiro Lambe, a game developer with 30 years of experience, including founding Sony Online Entertainment Denver and Dejobaan Games. The platform recommends games that have at least an 80% positive review rating on Steam with a minimum of 30 reviews. It aims to connect gamers with titles that match their preferences and is exploring the use of generative AI to summarize game content. The founders plan to expand the platform to include other forms of entertainment media and are seeking a sustainable business model that respects user experience.
Microsoft is trying to get antivirus software away from the Windows kernel
Tech Optimizer
June 27, 2025

Microsoft is trying to get antivirus software away from the Windows kernel

Microsoft is engaging with third-party companies to establish new standards for collaboration and address concerns. The company is implementing security enhancements for Windows, including a redesign of the "blue screen of death," now called the "unexpected restart screen," which will change from blue to black. This redesign aims to improve readability and align with Windows 11 aesthetics. A new feature, "quick machine recovery" (QMR), will help users recover from multiple unexpected restarts or boot loops by transitioning to Windows Recovery Environment (RE). QMR will be enabled by default on Windows 11 Home, with configuration options for Pro and Enterprise versions. Both QMR and the redesigned screen will be included in the Windows 11 24H2 update, set to launch later this summer, with additional customization options planned for later in the year.
HOW DISGUISE BUILT OUT THE VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS FOR A MINECRAFT MOVIE
AppWizard
June 25, 2025

HOW DISGUISE BUILT OUT THE VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS FOR A MINECRAFT MOVIE

A Minecraft Movie, directed by Jared Hess, utilizes 3D voxel art to create its unique visual style, moving away from photorealistic graphics. The production involved a collaboration with Disguise, led by Dan Lemmon, and features a cast including Jason Momoa and Jack Black. Talia Finlayson, a Senior Unreal Artist at Disguise, emphasized the integration of the Virtual Art Department (VAD) throughout production, allowing for real-time live-compositing of the Minecraft world using Simulcam. Set designs were created in Rhinoceros 3D and transformed into interactive environments with Unreal Engine, incorporating assets from talented artists and the game itself. Flexibility was crucial, enabling rapid iteration based on feedback, with adjustments made to accommodate filming needs, such as removing a second story from a building. The design process considered practical aspects like camera movements and stunt choreography, ensuring cohesion with the Minecraft aesthetic. The use of Simulcam allowed for the merging of physical and virtual environments, enhancing production efficiency and creativity.
Linux users are finally realizing what it takes to help others make the switch
Winsage
June 23, 2025

Linux users are finally realizing what it takes to help others make the switch

Microsoft will cease all support for Windows 10 on October 14, including software and security updates. In response, advocates have launched the End of 10 website to assist users transitioning to Linux, highlighting advantages such as no new hardware costs, enhanced privacy, environmental benefits, community support, and greater user control. The Linux community, including organizations like GNOME and Debian, supports this initiative, emphasizing local community resources for users. Despite its appeal, Linux remains intimidating for many, but distributions like Ubuntu and Pop!_OS aim to create user-friendly environments. Valve's Proton has improved gaming on Linux, allowing users to play thousands of games easily. Linux powers a wide range of devices beyond desktops, and while not every user may switch, the community's efforts are increasing its adoption as an alternative to Windows 10.
Parries and timed blocks are the future of action games—and they've got a place in turn-based RPGs like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, too
AppWizard
May 27, 2025

Parries and timed blocks are the future of action games—and they’ve got a place in turn-based RPGs like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, too

Nine Sols is a standout gaming experience of 2023, noted for its stunning art direction, compelling narrative, and finely tuned combat mechanics. It represents a shift within the "soulslike" genre, leaning towards the intricate design seen in Sekiro, which redefined combat expectations by focusing on breaking an enemy's posture rather than just depleting health. The game emphasizes timing and precision in blocking, enhancing player engagement.
Entertainment Marketing Summit to Gather Major Industry Leaders, Lessons Learned From ‘A Minecraft Movie’ and ‘Longlegs’
AppWizard
April 24, 2025

Entertainment Marketing Summit to Gather Major Industry Leaders, Lessons Learned From ‘A Minecraft Movie’ and ‘Longlegs’

Variety’s Entertainment Marketing Summit will be held on April 24 at NeueHouse Hollywood in Los Angeles, sponsored by Deloitte. The event will feature in-person panels discussing topics such as impact marketing, the gaming economy, artificial intelligence, and sports fandom, with speakers including Issa Rae and Nicholas Sparks. Cameron Curtis from Warner Bros will present on leveraging social media content creators for marketing, while Christian Parkes from Neon aims to learn about innovative strategies from major studios. This is the eighth year Deloitte has sponsored the summit, emphasizing the importance of research and industry discussions. China Widener from Deloitte highlights the growing influence of Gen Z consumers. Warner Bros is focusing on enhancing its social media presence for upcoming films. Parkes expresses a desire for studios to present more unique and engaging marketing strategies.
Minecraft-Themed 4DX Auditorium Opens in Antwerp, Belgium
AppWizard
March 31, 2025

Minecraft-Themed 4DX Auditorium Opens in Antwerp, Belgium

Companies are increasingly recognizing the value of sustainability as a core component of their operational strategies. Organizations are adopting innovative approaches to reduce carbon footprints, including investing in renewable energy sources, scrutinizing supply chains for responsible sourcing, and implementing circular economy principles to minimize waste. The integration of sustainability into corporate culture enhances employee engagement and productivity. Investors are considering sustainability practices as key indicators of long-term viability, holding companies accountable for their environmental impact. Businesses embracing sustainability are positioning themselves as industry leaders and contributing to a more sustainable future.
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