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Netflix closes Oxenfree developer Night School, just a month after praising its new game as one of the company's 'most successful cloud game debuts'
AppWizard
August 13, 2026

Netflix closes Oxenfree developer Night School, just a month after praising its new game as one of the company’s ‘most successful cloud game debuts’

Netflix has announced the closure of Night School Studios and its Helsinki-based Moonloot studio shortly after the launch of its latest title, Unhinged. Night School Studios, acquired in 2021, was known for its storytelling in games like Oxenfree and Afterparty. The closure follows the dissolution of Team Blue, indicating a strategic pivot for Netflix in its gaming operations. Additionally, Netflix is seeking a new Director of Generative AI for Games, offering a salary of up to 0,000, reflecting a trend towards integrating AI technologies in gaming. The company is also implementing broader cuts within its gaming division to streamline operations.
The design lead of Half-Life's biggest competitor says that its publisher was so 'pissed off' by the time the game launched that it didn't bother testing it properly: 'We got trashed in the press because of bugs'
AppWizard
May 24, 2026

The design lead of Half-Life’s biggest competitor says that its publisher was so ‘pissed off’ by the time the game launched that it didn’t bother testing it properly: ‘We got trashed in the press because of bugs’

In 1998, Ritual Entertainment launched the first-person shooter Sin, which was highly anticipated due to its backing by John Romero. However, just a month after its release, Valve's Half-Life debuted, overshadowing Sin with its innovative storytelling and design. Ritual faced internal struggles with its publisher, Activision, including a lack of support and a critical oversight where the gold master of Sin was not tested, resulting in a disabled first boss. This led to negative reviews and diminished success for Sin. Despite these challenges, a remaster titled Sin: Reloaded has been developed by Nightdive, although a release date is not yet confirmed.
14 years ago we published our Elder Scrolls 6 wishlist, and honestly? It still holds up
AppWizard
May 23, 2026

14 years ago we published our Elder Scrolls 6 wishlist, and honestly? It still holds up

The February 2012 "Armchair Designer" column in PC Gamer highlighted ten desired features for Elder Scrolls VI, shortly after Skyrim's release. The game is now projected for a 2026 release. Bethesda has since developed Fallout 4 and Starfield, incorporating new systems like settlement management. Fans hope for a return to Morrowind's flexibility and improved stealth mechanics, influenced by design director Emil Pagliarulo's background. The column proposed exploring Akavir, introducing colonial themes and diverse factions, with a narrative that allows for complex interactions between Tamriel and Akavir's cultures. The vision for TES 6 aims to blend nostalgia with innovative storytelling, enhancing player choices and consequences.
The rumours were true: Kingdom Come 2 studio is working on an RPG set in Tolkien's Middle-earth
AppWizard
May 21, 2026

The rumours were true: Kingdom Come 2 studio is working on an RPG set in Tolkien’s Middle-earth

Warhorse Studios is developing another installment in the Kingdom Come series and an open-world RPG set in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth. The studio's recent success with Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, which won PC Gamer's 2025 Game of the Year, has generated excitement. Speculative ideas for the Middle-earth game include settings in Beleriand during the First Age or a Fourth Age adventure. Concerns have arisen regarding the replacement of a translator with AI, raising questions about the quality of future English-language games. Warhorse plans to share more information in the future.
How I got 2 Microsoft job offers at once after more than 50 rejections
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

How I got 2 Microsoft job offers at once after more than 50 rejections

Business Insider focuses on innovative narratives in business journalism, highlighting emerging trends and the intricacies of the business world. It provides insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders through creative storytelling that blends factual reporting with a narrative style. The publication explores cutting-edge technologies, profiles visionary leaders, and analyzes economic trends and their implications for businesses.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
April 12, 2026

1000xResist developer added a video sequence ‘out of desperation’ but now they’re bringing FMV back for their next game

Players of 1000xResist navigate through chapters with new perspectives and mechanics, featuring a transition to video footage of Hong Kong, which was incorporated out of necessity by creative director Remy Siu using archival documentary footage. The game explores the theme of convincing an AI of its humanity and utilizes full-motion video (FMV) as a storytelling tool, with the team focusing on narrative-driven games for innovation. The resurgence of FMV in gaming is highlighted by titles like Her Story and Road to Empress, showcasing diverse storytelling possibilities. Despite its niche status, Siu believes their unique approach can contribute to the genre. Another title, Prove You're Human, is set to launch on Steam, further enhancing the narrative landscape.
1000xResist dev's new game has you convince an AI that they're not human, and my brain is already scrambled in the best way
AppWizard
April 9, 2026

1000xResist dev’s new game has you convince an AI that they’re not human, and my brain is already scrambled in the best way

Vancouver-based developer Sunset Visitor has announced its new project, Prove You're Human, during the Triple-i showcase. In this game, players take on the role of a digital copy of a person testing a corporate product called Mesa, a robotic AI that believes it is human. The objective is to convince Mesa of her artificiality while exploring themes of identity and existence. The game features a vibrant virtual world and unique interactions, including a twist on the CAPTCHA test. Players face a choice at the climax: to merge back with their real-life counterpart or embrace digital existence. A release date has not been announced, but anticipation is growing.
silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
February 16, 2026

The Hundred Line has changed how I think about choice and consequences in games, and I can’t put it back in the box

The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy immerses players in the consequences of their choices, allowing for significant alterations to the storyline through a time-rewind mechanic. The game features a linear narrative where players defend a school over a hundred days, gradually uncovering character stories. Each decision leads to distinct outcomes, creating a rich tapestry of branching narratives. Character development is emphasized, with companions evolving based on player choices. The game has achieved market success and is priced at .99 / £49.99 on Steam, with a demo available for players to experience its mechanics.
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