legacy Archives

Winsage

March 28, 2026

Microsoft design chief shares new update on Windows 11’s dark mode

Microsoft is working on enhancing the dark mode in Windows 11, with Marcus Ash, the head of Windows Design and Research, indicating efforts to expand the dark theme across more areas of the operating system. Improvements are being made to legacy system panels and dialogs to enhance consistency, although no specific timeline for updates, including for Regedit, has been provided. Additionally, Microsoft is responding to user feedback by refining the user experience, which includes plans to improve the file explorer and reintroduce taskbar customization options. Currently, dark mode is only partially integrated, with key features like File Properties in File Explorer, Regedit, and Disk Management lacking support.

Winsage

March 28, 2026

A critical Windows security fix puts legacy hardware on borrowed time

Microsoft is enforcing a new kernel trust policy affecting Windows versions 11 24H2, 25H2, 26H1, and Windows Server 2025 to enhance security and integrity. This policy follows the deprecation of a previous program in 2021, which expired associated certificates, although third-party drivers signed by that program remain broadly trusted. Initially, systems will enter an evaluation mode to monitor and audit driver loads for compatibility issues, lasting until a runtime of 100 hours and 2-3 boot-start restarts are achieved. If all drivers are deemed trustworthy, the new policy will be activated; otherwise, the system will stay in evaluation mode until compliance issues are resolved.

Winsage

March 27, 2026

Yes, your office admin can fully remove Microsoft’s Copilot app from your work PCs — if you follow this strict criteria for 28 days

In January, Microsoft released an update for Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7535, allowing administrators to uninstall the Copilot app on managed devices. This update addresses previous criticism regarding the lack of a mass-uninstall feature for administrators. Individual users have been able to remove Copilot from personal devices, but the new feature enhances user experience for managed devices. Microsoft also plans to improve user sentiment by reintroducing a movable and resizable Taskbar, reducing the visibility of Copilot and AI features, allowing indefinite postponement of updates, and eliminating the mandatory Microsoft Account requirement during setup. CEO Satya Nadella acknowledged public skepticism towards AI and emphasized the need for technology to demonstrate its value. Despite limitations on completely uninstalling Copilot, there is a desire for better user control over these features.

Winsage

March 27, 2026

Microsoft tells crusty old kernel drivers to get with the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program

Microsoft is enhancing the security of the Windows kernel by eliminating trust for kernel drivers not certified through the Windows Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP) starting with the April 2026 Windows Update. This change specifically targets kernel drivers signed by the now-obsolete cross-signed root program, which has been associated with security vulnerabilities. The new policy will initially be introduced in an "evaluation mode" to monitor and audit driver loads for potential compatibility issues. Custom kernel drivers can still be used under the Application Control for Business policy, but must be signed by an authority within the device's Secure Boot Platform Key or Key Exchange Key variables. The changes will impact Windows 11 versions 24H2, 25H2, 26H1, and Windows Server 2025.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

There’s nothing ‘euro’ about ‘eurojank,’ says Stalker dev—after all, what are some of the 2000s’ best RPGs if not beautiful all-American jankfests?

Many gamers are attracted to "eurojank," a term describing beloved but imperfect games that emphasize creativity and ambition, such as Stalker, The Witcher, and Mount & Blade. The 2004 RPG Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines remains popular due to fan patches, highlighting its lasting impact. Andrii Verpakhovskyi, a designer from the original Stalker series, mentioned his fondness for Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines and Arcanum, both created by Troika Games, which had ties to the Fallout series. The discussion around eurojank encourages appreciation for the quirks and imperfections that make these games memorable and foster community among players.

AppWizard

March 27, 2026

Owlcat is using generative AI for The Expanse Osiris Reborn, but the final game will be “100% human made”

Owlcat has admitted to using generative AI in the development of The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, specifically for prototyping and placeholders, which will be replaced before final assets are created. PR manager Katharina Popp clarified that this approach is intended to streamline development, allowing for rapid iteration. However, this decision has sparked debate among fans, many of whom prefer human creativity over AI-generated content. Owlcat previously stated that generative AI was not used in their other titles, raising questions about their commitment to originality. The community has expressed resistance to the technology, with some players stating they do not want to play games that incorporate generative AI.

Winsage

March 27, 2026

Microsoft Confirms Dark Mode Expansion For Windows 11 Legacy Interfaces

Microsoft is working to enhance dark mode support in Windows 11, focusing on older system components, particularly legacy interfaces. Marcus Ash, head of Windows Design and Research, stated that efforts are underway to incorporate dark mode into more areas, including the Windows Registry Editor, although no timeline has been provided. Dark mode remains inconsistent across various system areas, such as File Properties dialogs, Registry Editor, Run dialog, Device Manager, and Disk Management. While some aspects of File Explorer have received dark mode support, others still display light-themed interfaces. Users should expect inconsistencies and are advised to use the system dark mode setting while regularly checking for updates. Microsoft has not disclosed specific details or timelines for future updates related to dark mode enhancements.

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

Serious Sam is being turned into a run-based roguelite multiplayer shooter later this year, and seriously—this one might not suck

Devolver Digital announced Serious Sam: Shatterverse during the recent Xbox showcase, introducing a run-based multiplayer first-person shooter for up to five players, where each player takes on a different version of Sam in a multiverse affected by the villain, Mental. The game features expansive battlefields and a variety of weapons, maintaining the series' tradition of absurdity. Notably, John J. Dick returns as the voice of Sam. Serious Sam: Shatterverse is being developed by Behaviour Interactive, not Croteam, which is focused on Talos Principle. Croteam supports this collaboration, expressing excitement for a fresh take on the franchise. A release date is yet to be announced, but it is expected later this year, and gamers can wishlist it on Steam. The entire Serious Sam franchise is currently discounted during the Steam Spring Sale.

Winsage

March 26, 2026

Microsoft provides much needed update on Windows 11’s dark mode in refreshing moment of transparency

Marcus Ash, head of Windows Design and Research at Microsoft, stated that the development of Windows 11's dark mode is ongoing, with efforts to expand it across various parts of the operating system, including legacy user interface elements. He mentioned no specific timelines for implementing dark mode in Regedit. Microsoft is also working on a comprehensive plan to improve the overall user interface and experience of Windows 11.

AppWizard

March 26, 2026

Fallout megamod maker says there were ‘moments of uncertainty’ about how okay Bethesda was with it, but gives props to Todd for staying cool about the whole thing

Fallout: London (FOLON) is a significant mod for Fallout 4, described as a "DLC-sized" expansion that takes players to a post-apocalyptic London. It is the largest single-player Fallout release in over a decade. The development team, led by Dean "Prilladog" Carter, faced challenges during the five-year project, particularly regarding Bethesda's acceptance of the modification. Despite uncertainties, the team was invited to Bethesda's office, indicating a positive relationship with the original developers. Todd Howard from Bethesda expressed interest in the mod team's approach to recreating elements from Oblivion. The gaming community is eagerly anticipating the release of FOLON.