Google has announced Gemini for Google TV, which includes features like photo memory searches, customizable edits, and interactive content across devices. The new features will be available on select TCL models and require Android TV OS 14 and a Google account for access.
Fallout 4 features a more vibrant and cheerful atmosphere compared to its predecessor, set in a post-apocalyptic world. The Commonwealth is designed to evoke a sense of hope and the possibility of rebuilding, contrasting with the grim Capital Wasteland. The game's autumnal aesthetic, characterized by a bright sun against a clear blue sky and grey landscapes, was a deliberate choice by art director Istvan Pely. He emphasized themes of hope and rebuilding while maintaining a sense of melancholy, stating that the world should still feel lifeless despite humanity's efforts to recover. The design team drew inspiration from the late fall season, reflecting the devastation of the nuclear fallout on nature. Pely and studio design director Emil Pagliarulo found the creative process of reimagining cities transformed by catastrophe enjoyable.
PC Gamer features an exclusive look at the evolution of the Fallout franchise, highlighting its transformation from a cult classic to a global sensation. The narrative covers early titles like Fallout 1 and 2, through to Fallout: New Vegas, and culminates with the Anniversary Edition upgrade of Fallout 4. The issue also includes insights from key figures behind the franchise and a preview of the upcoming Fallout TV show. Additionally, the magazine discusses Valve's new game, Deadlock, which combines movement shooter elements with MOBA strategy, offering initial impressions and a guide for new players. Digital editions of PC Gamer are available in PDF and EPUB format through Pocketmags.
In 2026, the gaming industry is experiencing a push for unionization among developers, highlighted by a legal dispute involving Rockstar Games and former developers of GTA 6. The proposed billion-dollar acquisition of Electronic Arts (EA) could reshape North American gaming, potentially leading to significant cuts and debt for EA. A healthier dialogue about the portrayal of sex in gaming is emerging amid a crackdown on adult-themed games. Microsoft faces job cuts and project cancellations while announcing record profits, raising ethical concerns about its partnerships and creative stagnation. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine presents challenges for developers, influencing future game narratives. Additionally, the generative AI boom is disrupting RAM availability and pricing, potentially increasing costs for gaming hardware.
Com2uS has announced the development of GACHIAKUTA: The Game, a survival action RPG inspired by the manga and anime franchise, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, and PC via Steam. A trailer showcasing in-development graphics has been released, but no specific release date is available. The game aims to capture the series' gritty aesthetic and battles, utilizing graffiti art by Hideyoshi Ando. Additionally, a second season of the Gachiakuta anime is in production following the first season's success. The manga, created by Kei Urana, launched in February 2022 and continues to be serialized.
The 134th edition of Blocks magazine will be available in UK stores on January 2, 2026. It features insights into the 76344 Iron Man Mark 3 Collectors’ Edition, highlights from the Minecraft series, and new sets launching in January 2026. Subscribers can win the 75419 Death Star by subscribing before December 23, 2025. The issue includes exclusive Quick Build instructions for four projects and reviews of various LEGO sets. Subscriptions in the UK are priced at £64.90 annually, offering a savings of £52.10. Each month, subscribers have the chance to win prizes, and existing subscribers are automatically entered into the prize draw.
The US edition of PC Gamer magazine awarded The Temple of Elemental Evil a score of 79% in 2003. The game faced criticisms for issues such as NPC companions hoarding loot, poor pathfinding mechanics, and various bugs. The re-release of the game on Steam serves as a bridge between classic RPGs and modern user-friendly experiences, offering a faithful representation of D&D's 3.5 ruleset. The gameplay features deep tactical options, strategic movement considerations, and unique skills that enhance encounters. The new release is described as a thoughtful repair rather than a mere remake or remaster, with curated improvements that maintain the charm of the original.
Jeff Parsons has created a fully functional emulation of Windows 3.1 accessible through modern web browsers, allowing users to explore the iconic Program Manager interface and various retro applications like File Manager, Paintbrush, and Media Player. The emulator operates seamlessly using JavaScript, requiring no installation, and offers both full-screen and windowed views with nostalgic elements like a floppy-disk dropdown. It includes classic shareware, vintage Microsoft Word versions, digitized PC Magazine issues, and games such as King's Quest and The Oregon Trail. This project highlights the slower pace of computing in the early 90s and serves as a reminder of advancements in hardware over the years. Previous attempts to run vintage operating systems on actual hardware have faced limitations, contrasting with Parsons' success in running Windows 95 in a browser.
Browsing without essential utilities like VPNs and antivirus software can be risky. Not all security applications are equally effective; some, like Bitdefender and ESET, offer superior performance, while others may overwhelm users with alerts or upsell subscriptions. Effective security applications prioritize functionality and provide tools such as firewalls, password managers, VPNs, and virus scans.
ESET is recognized for its robust protection against sophisticated cyber threats and is suitable for advanced users, small businesses, and remote workers, earning the 2025 Editor's Choice Award for Best Antivirus for Advanced Users. Avira is a budget-friendly option with a free version that offers essential malware protection and an ad-blocker, named the best antivirus for ad-blocking in 2025 by Techradar. Surfshark, primarily a VPN service, offers antivirus protection and breach alerts through its Surfshark One subscription, recognized as the 2025 Best Value Antivirus. AVG provides comprehensive security features with a lightweight presence and was awarded the 2025 Editor's Choice for Best Performance and Speed Antivirus. Bitdefender is consistently ranked among the top choices for comprehensive protection, recognized as the best overall antivirus of 2025 by multiple publications, offering various paid packages and an Autopilot function. The applications mentioned were selected based on positive endorsements from reputable tech and security publications.
