live service games Archives

AppWizard

August 23, 2026

EverQuest Legends dev says ‘I’m sure we would’ add new classes, races ‘in the longer-term vision of the game’

EverQuest Legends is set to undergo significant changes, including the introduction of new classes not found in the original EverQuest. David Youssefi, executive producer at Daybreak, mentioned the possibility of adding additional races and classes in the long term, although he indicated that it may not happen by the upcoming expansion Kunark. Eda Spause, CEO of Game Jawn, supported this vision for new content. The game has already introduced unique playable races and revamped zones, and the addition of new classes could enhance gameplay by allowing for diverse builds and playstyles. Players are eager for more information on potential new classes.

AppWizard

August 22, 2026

The latest cooperative craze is a physics-based fishing simulator where you can launch your catch into the air and no-scope it with a sniper rifle

How to Fish is a physics-based fishing simulator available on Steam for 1 to 4 players, allowing them to engage in absurd aquatic adventures. Players can launch fish into the air and shoot them with firearms, barbecue seagulls, and gamble their catches. The game features NPCs that provide quests and a variety of islands to explore, including larger marine life like sharks and king crabs. Feedback from the Steam community has been mostly positive, though some concerns about security issues have been raised. The game is currently offered at a discounted price of £4, down from £6.40, with the promotion ending on August 27.

AppWizard

August 19, 2026

Sony reportedly reverses course on live service co-op Horizon game after ‘negative player feedback’

Guerilla Games is rethinking their live service co-op game, Horizon Hunters Gathering, due to negative feedback from playtests. The game will shift from a live service model to a more traditional co-op format focused on storytelling. Sony has set a deadline for the team to present a milestone by December, or the project may be canceled. Many developers have been reassigned to other projects, with a smaller group working on the next single-player Horizon installment. Sony is moving away from live service games, with only Helldivers 2 and MLB The Show performing well. The future of another live service game, Fairgames, is uncertain due to development challenges.

AppWizard

June 13, 2026

How PlayStation And PC Games Shape Reward Systems

PlayStation and PC gaming ecosystems both aim to make progress feel worthwhile through various rewards, including trophies, cosmetics, and seasonal items. PlayStation rewards are typically clear and straightforward, linking effort to outcomes, while PC rewards offer more choice and personalization, often involving community-created content. Cosmetics play a significant role on both platforms, allowing for personal expression without affecting gameplay balance. The trophy system on PlayStation fosters social interaction and is integral to the console experience, while PC rewards can create a vibrant market culture based on item rarity and demand. Battle passes are bridging the gap between the two systems by introducing seasonal content and objectives. Random rewards, which rely on chance, require careful navigation to ensure players maintain control over their spending. Effective reward systems are characterized by generosity, clarity, and fairness, guiding players toward goals without creating a sense of entrapment. The divide between PlayStation and PC rewards is narrowing, with both platforms increasingly adopting elements from each other to enhance the gaming experience.

AppWizard

June 6, 2026

As someone with over 1,000 hours in Guild Wars 2, I hope ArenaNet has a better plan this time around

A sequel to Guild Wars 2, titled Guild Wars 3, was announced at the Summer Game Fest. The game has evolved through various updates and expansions, with ArenaNet alternating between seasonal updates and major expansions. Recently, they adopted an annual schedule for smaller expansions. The endgame structure has shifted from traditional raids to smaller-scale "strikes." Unlike World of Warcraft, which has a predictable update schedule, Guild Wars 2 has often left players uncertain about future content. The announcement of Guild Wars 3 aims to attract new players and rekindle interest among veterans.

AppWizard

May 27, 2026

Remedy’s CEO isn’t worried about Control Resonant launching close to GTA 6: ‘It’s going to put the spotlight even more on games than maybe in past years’

The release of Grand Theft Auto 6 is generating anticipation and anxiety among game developers, particularly regarding competition for upcoming titles in 2026, including Remedy Entertainment's Control Resonant. Jean-Charles Gaudechon, the new CEO of Remedy, remains calm about the competition and emphasizes the importance of cross-media partnerships to enhance the visibility of their franchises like Alan Wake and Control. His appointment has sparked mixed reactions due to his previous experience at EA, but he is focused on the future and confident in Remedy's ability to offer unique gaming experiences.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

PC Gamers React to Sony Making Its Narrative Single-Player Games PlayStation Exclusive

Sony is committing to keeping narrative single-player games exclusive to the PlayStation 5, with titles like Saros, Ghost of Yotei, Marvel’s Wolverine, and Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet confirmed for the platform. Multiplayer titles will still be available on both PC and PlayStation. The PC gaming community has reacted with disappointment, with many gamers expressing indifference toward purchasing a PS5 for a few exclusive titles. Industry analysts speculate that disappointing sales of PlayStation titles on PC and the emergence of the next Xbox may have influenced Sony's decision. Historically, Sony has taken a staggered release approach for its games, while Microsoft has favored simultaneous launches. The rising costs of the PS5 and its games are raising questions about the sustainability of Sony's exclusivity strategy.

AppWizard

May 16, 2026

Build a Modded Minecraft Server That Lasts

A modded Minecraft server often experiences a significant decline in player engagement, with many losing over 60% of active players within the first month due to sustainability challenges. Successful servers adopt a structured approach, starting with a focused modpack and gradually guiding players through early, mid, and late game stages. The technical infrastructure affects player retention, with consistent performance and uptime above 99% being crucial. Smaller servers with 20 to 50 players tend to have higher engagement rates. Community interaction is vital for server success, with shared goals enhancing player involvement. A staggered approach to content updates, introducing new mechanics every 2 to 3 weeks, helps maintain player interest without overwhelming them.

AppWizard

May 13, 2026

Sega has canceled its live service ‘Super Game’ due to ‘intensifying market competition,’ and I really, really hope it’s a sign that the industry is finally correcting itself

Sega has canceled its "Super Game" project, originally intended to redefine gaming by March 2026, and is redirecting around 100 developers to create traditional "Full Games" that require upfront payment. This decision reflects a reevaluation of the company's priorities in light of competitive market dynamics and the challenges posed by established titles. Sega aims to focus on nurturing existing franchises like Sonic, Crazy Taxi, and Jet Set Radio, avoiding layoffs or studio closures. The gaming industry is experiencing a shift towards a preference for quality single-player titles over live service models, as seen with other companies like Capcom and NetEase.

AppWizard

May 9, 2026

Valve’s Gabe Newell always understood what Steam does better than every other PC and console store: “The thing that we’ve been successful with are the Steam sales”

Steam is a leading platform in digital sales, known for its seasonal promotions and themed events that attract gamers. Valve's co-founder Gabe Newell noted that these sales generate excitement and encourage exploration of new titles. Chris Zukowski, a researcher at Steam, highlighted the platform's ability to turn purchasing into an engaging experience, with wishlists reflecting gamers' aspirations. Valve has cultivated a culture around its sales events, making the discovery and purchase of games enjoyable. Additionally, Valve has announced a reservation system for the latest Steam Controller stock, indicating its commitment to improving the gaming experience with new tools.