level design Archives

AppWizard

October 18, 2026

Review

Minecraft Dungeons II is a sequel that builds on the original's accessible loot-driven action role-playing game (ARPG) formula, appealing to both younger players and families. The narrative involves mysterious rifts in the Overworld and the Supreme Evoker seeking to conquer it. The game features an interconnected open world with side quests, but the story lacks emotional depth. Gameplay enhancements include new mechanics like jumping, an expanded equipment system, and the introduction of Talisman slots, though it has limitations such as only three Artifact slots. Arrow regeneration improves gameplay flow, while the world design fosters a cohesive experience. Visually, it retains the voxel style with vibrant colors, but the sound design lacks a memorable soundtrack. The game is available on PC, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch 2.

AppWizard

October 7, 2026

2026 is a low-key revolutionary year for player movement in games

Several iconic titles from over a decade ago, such as Mirror's Edge, Titanfall 2, Dishonored 2, Doom Eternal, and ARMA 3, have set high standards for in-game mobility, each offering distinct approaches to player movement. At GDC 2026, designer Gabe Cuzillo discussed his game Baby Steps, which draws inspiration from the challenging mod Stratocubulus for Mirror's Edge, encouraging players to rethink movement and level design. This year's standout titles, including Cairn, Control Resonant, Vholume, Doom: The Dark Ages' Revelations DLC, and Cicadamata, continue to innovate in movement mechanics. Big Walk focuses on traversing a vast map with friends, emphasizing nuanced movement mechanics. The evolution of movement in gaming has shifted from complex actions to simplified controls, as seen in Grand Theft Auto 3, influencing games like Assassin's Creed and Uncharted. However, new titles like Cairn, Baby Steps, and Big Walk challenge this trend by inviting deeper engagement with movement mechanics. The future of movement in gaming suggests potential for more granular explorations of human movement, offering immersive experiences.

AppWizard

September 2, 2026

Good reviews are a ‘great relief,’ says Blood of Dawnwalker director, as former CD Projekt coworkers line up to offer congratulations

The Blood of Dawnwalker is set to launch on September 2, with early reviews being largely favorable, including an 83% rating from our publication and an aggregate score of 83/100 on Metacritic. Creative director Mateusz Tomaszkiewicz expressed relief about the reviews on social media, highlighting the emotional toll of waiting for them. He has a significant background at CD Projekt, having worked on The Witcher 2, The Witcher 3, and Cyberpunk 2077. His announcement received congratulations from industry peers, fostering a sense of camaraderie among developers. The game will be available on platforms like Steam and GOG at 6 PM ET on September 2.

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

I’m a decade-plus FromSoftware sicko, and these are my 5 takeaways from the first Duskbloods gameplay

Veteran Soulsborne YouTubers VaatiVidya and Oroboro have shared gameplay videos for The Duskbloods, an exclusive PvPvE title for the Switch 2. Hidetaka Miyazaki, the project lead, has discussed the game with IGN and Automaton. The design of Duskbloods resembles the level layouts of Nightreign, emphasizing verticality and exploration, contrasting with Elden Ring's landscapes. Visuals in Duskbloods evoke Bloodborne, featuring hooded ogres similar to Church Giants, a map reminiscent of Yharnam, a boss encounter in a cathedral, weapons akin to those in Elden Ring and Bloodborne, and thematic elements like a battle in a field of white flowers. The map's vertical density is compared to Shadow of the Erdtree and Nightreign. Concerns exist regarding FromSoftware's ability to maintain multiplayer balance and support, as well as the game's single-player content and potential PC release. The gaming community is eager for updates leading up to the network test.

AppWizard

August 21, 2026

I’m a decade-plus FromSoftware sicko, and these are my 5 takeaways from the first Duskbloods gameplay

Veteran Soulsborne YouTubers VaatiVidya and Oroboro have shared gameplay videos and insights about The Duskbloods, an exclusive PvPvE title for the Switch 2. The game features design elements reminiscent of Nightreign and evokes the aesthetics of Bloodborne, including hooded ogres, a map similar to Yharnam, and a cathedral roof boss resembling those from Dark Souls. Duskbloods is characterized by vertical level design, akin to Shadow of the Erdtree and Nightreign. Concerns exist regarding the game's multiplayer sustainability and the desire for a PC version, as many believe it would better capture the essence of Bloodborne.

AppWizard

August 17, 2026

Mortal Shell 2 review: A monumental heavy metal sequel with the spirit of a ’90s PC game

Mortal Shell 2 features a tavern called The One Legged Wolf, where patrons gather amidst a chaotic environment, enjoying music from a lute-player. The game blends modern dark fantasy with humor and classic PC gaming elements, enhancing its predecessor's gameplay and lore. Players control the Harbinger, who can inhabit eight different Shells, each with unique abilities and skill trees. Combat mechanics have evolved to allow for a more aggressive playstyle without a stamina bar, offering various damage mitigation methods. The game includes an easy mode, the Slayer Seal, and a secret hard mode for different player preferences. Level design pays homage to classic gaming, with intricate dungeons and hidden passages. Despite some bugs and a focus on specific Shells, the game is praised for its creativity and engaging experience.

AppWizard

August 17, 2026

5 Best Video Games Like Quake

In 2021, interest in the first-person shooter "Quake" from the '90s surged, leading to discussions about similar games. "Doom II," released in 1994, featured larger levels, new enemies, and enhanced multiplayer options, becoming one of the best PC games of the '90s. "Heretic," also from 1994, allowed players to control Corvus, an elven warrior, and included multiplayer combat, with innovations like an inventory system and secondary fire options. "Duke Nukem 3D," released in 1996, introduced a humorous protagonist and featured cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, becoming a nostalgic classic. "Turok 2: Seeds of Evil," the 1998 sequel to "Turok: Dinosaur Hunter," included multiplayer modes and showcased advanced graphics and level design, remastered in 2017. "Unreal Tournament," launched in 1999, emphasized multiplayer combat in an arena shooter format, marking a significant moment for Epic Games and showcasing impressive visuals and performance.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

The designer of Diamond City, Little Lamplight, and Starfield’s Neon thinks Bethesda’s galaxy was just too big: ‘I would have done a handful of planets with bespoke layouts’

Nate Purkeypile, a former environment artist at Bethesda, discussed his experiences and insights from his time at the studio on The Examined Game podcast. He contributed to the design of Starfield, particularly the city of Neon, and has also worked on locations in Fallout 3 and Fallout 4. After leaving Bethesda during Starfield's development, he began independent game development and plans to release his first solo project, The Axis Unseen, in 2024. He is looking forward to the remaster of Fallout 3.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Bulletstorm is the stupidest game ever made, and also one of the cleverest shooters ever

Bulletstorm is often referred to as the "stupidest game ever made," featuring a narrative centered on Hunt, a flawed leader dealing with the loss of squadmates and a friend's transformation into a RoboCop-like existence. The game includes self-aware dialogue, with characters like Trishka openly criticizing Hunt. It incorporates modern mechanics such as regenerating health and aiming-down-the-sights, but lacks a jump function, limiting player movement. The environmental design is visually impressive, though the level design is primarily linear. Despite its crude humor, Bulletstorm is recognized for its inventive gameplay and complex characters.

AppWizard

July 27, 2026

Fit For a Spartan: Win a 1:18 Replica of a Special Halo-Inspired Ride

Halo and Automobili Lamborghini have launched the Lamborghini Urus SE Master Chief 117 Edition to commemorate the global launch of Halo: Campaign Evolved on July 28, 2026. The vehicle features gold-tinted windows, visor-inspired headlights, a signature armor-green exterior, and the iconic “117” number on both sides. The Master Chief 117 Edition will be available in Forza Horizon 6 starting July 30, 2026, for download through the in-game Message Center. Limited 1:18-scale collectible replicas will be produced, and fans can enter a sweepstakes to win one by following Xbox on X and using the hashtag #MasterChief117Sweepstakes. Halo: Campaign Evolved launches globally on July 28, 2026, with early access from July 23 for Premium Edition owners, and will be available on multiple platforms, including Xbox Series X|S and PC, with cross-play and cross-progression support. Pre-purchasers will receive the Foundry Armory Pack, which includes classic armor and weapon skins. The game features a complete campaign with high-definition visuals, new cinematics, expanded combat options, and online co-op gameplay for up to four players.