launch Archives

Tech Optimizer

February 11, 2026

If you’re struggling to play tactics sim Menace, it could be because your antivirus is randomly deleting files

Menace, a turn-based tactics game, has launched in early access with notable updates. Players are advised to whitelist the 'GameAssembly.dll' and 'Menace.exe' files due to some antivirus programs incorrectly classifying the former as malware. The first update introduces new adversaries, including pirate veteran scavengers and a pirate heavy machinegun truck. Enhancements include an optimized splash screen for ultra-wide monitors and significant balancing changes, such as a new heat mechanic for laser and plasma rifles and the addition of motion scanners to pirate EMP units.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Google’s sentimental Gemini Super Bowl ad is a visionary showcase for your projects

Google's latest Super Bowl advertisement showcases its advanced AI tool, Gemini, through a narrative of a mother and son preparing to move into a new home. The ad demonstrates Gemini's image generation capabilities by retrieving cherished photos and visualizing their future space. The Super Bowl LX will air on February 8 at 6:30 PM ET on NBC. Additionally, the ad highlights a feature called Nano Banana, an intuitive image editing tool that allows users to create scenes by combining elements from various photos. Google also launched Gemini 3 last year, enhancing the AI's understanding and reasoning abilities. The advertisement aims to illustrate the practical applications of AI in helping individuals visualize their aspirations.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

“A New Chapter of Horror”: Supermassive’s Directive 8020 Arrives on PC and Consoles in May 2026

Supermassive Games has announced that their narrative-driven horror adventure, Directive 8020, will be released on May 12, 2026, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Pre-orders are now available for PS5 and Xbox Series, with Steam pre-orders coming soon. The game was initially announced in 2024 after being hinted at in 2022, and its release was delayed from October 2025 due to layoffs at Supermassive. The last showcase of Directive 8020 took place at Gamescom 2025, where it was noted for its real-time threats and enhanced graphics.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Xbox Game Pass Could Be Merged with PC Game Pass and Expanded with More Third-Party Services

Microsoft is reportedly considering merging the Xbox Game Pass Premium console subscription with the PC Game Pass. This information has been corroborated by multiple sources, indicating substantial interest in this direction. The current features of both subscriptions differ in price, platforms, first-party day-one access, EA Play inclusion, cloud gaming capabilities, online multiplayer options, and game library size. The potential merger could introduce a new subscription tier that includes cloud gaming, EA Play, and first-party day-one access, likely at a higher price point. Additionally, Microsoft is speculated to be exploring bundled third-party services to enhance Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. There are also rumors about a next-generation Xbox console launching in 2027, which may be a hybrid model capable of running PC applications.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Newly Released Tactical RPG Is an Instant Hit on PC (And It Could Be a Game of the Year Contender)

Mewgenics, a tactical cat RPG created by Edmund McMillen and Tyler Glaiel, launched on Steam on February 12th and quickly attracted over 58,900 concurrent players. The game has received overwhelmingly positive initial reviews, achieving a Metacritic score of 89, making it the highest-rated game of the year so far. Players engage in building a cat army and face strategic decisions through a tactical breeding system. The main campaign offers over 200 hours of gameplay with a roguelite progression system. Mewgenics is currently available exclusively on Steam for PC and Steam Deck, priced at .99 with a 10% introductory discount until February 24th.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

‘FreeTube Android’ is an Android app that allows you to play YouTube videos for free without ads or login.

The FreeTube Android app, launched on February 9, 2026, allows users to stream YouTube content without advertisements or a Google account. It is a soft fork of the original FreeTube, emphasizing user privacy and ad-free viewing. The app is available on GitHub, with the current version being 0.23.12.1, and is still in beta, which may result in bugs and missing features. Users must enable 'Installation of unknown apps' in their Android settings to install the APK file named freetube-0.23.12.1-Android.apk. Upon launching, users encounter a clean interface and can customize settings, including data acquisition methods, theme, player display modes, and privacy controls. The app allows straightforward content searching and channel subscriptions, although the order of displayed videos may sometimes be unexpected. Overall, FreeTube Android offers a privacy-conscious alternative for watching YouTube videos without needing an account.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Android desktop will put Gemini front and center — just as you’d expect

Google is integrating its Gemini feature into Android to enhance its desktop capabilities. Gemini will be pinned to the top right corner of the upcoming Android desktop interface and can be launched using a keyboard shortcut with the Google key and Space. The latest beta version of the Google app (version 17.5) confirms this setup. Additionally, an animation featuring Gemini appears during the setup phase of PCs running the new Aluminium OS, suggesting a streamlined user experience.

AppWizard

February 1, 2026

Epic Games Store quietly offers two PC free games ahead of usual gieaway schedule

The Epic Games Store has established itself as a strong competitor in digital distribution by securing exclusive deals with developers, enhancing its library with titles like Fortnite and Control. The platform engages users through regular giveaways of popular titles and seasonal events, fostering community interaction. It continues to grow its user base and library while investing in technology and user experience to maintain its market position.

AppWizard

February 1, 2026

February is surprisingly light on cozy game launches but we’re looking forward to these chill picks you shouldn’t miss

Cozy gaming is gaining popularity within the PC gaming community, characterized by charming aesthetics and relaxing gameplay. A special section is dedicated to cozy games, highlighting smaller titles. The Steam Next Fest on February 23 will feature many cozy game demos. Notable cozy game picks for February include: - Reigns: The Witcher: A game that parodies Tinder's swiping mechanics with moral dilemmas faced by Geralt. - Creature Kitchen: A puzzle game where players cater to whimsical characters through cooking and problem-solving. - Bento Blocks: A puzzle game focused on slicing and arranging sushi ingredients into lunchboxes, evoking nostalgia. - Reanimal: A game with horror elements that offers a captivating experience, diverging from typical cozy aesthetics.

AppWizard

February 1, 2026

One of BioShock Infinite’s best narrative devices is its music

BioShock Infinite's soundtrack has had a lasting impact since its launch thirteen years ago, particularly through its innovative use of music that blends different time periods. A significant moment features the Bee Sharps, a barbershop quartet performing the Bee Gees' "God Only Knows," juxtaposing a 1912 setting with a song from over fifty years later. Another poignant scene includes Booker and Elizabeth discovering an acoustic guitar, where Elizabeth sings lines from the hymn "Will the Circle Be Unbroken." The music enhances the game's emotional depth and storytelling, making it a crucial part of its legacy and gameplay experience.