NewApp Digest
search bot

measured approach

silver Android smartphone
AppWizard
December 10, 2025

A free Arc Raiders cosmetic is up for grabs thanks to Nvidia, but you’ll need to be quick as there’s a limited supply

Players in Arc Raiders can earn a variety of cosmetics through gameplay, with additional free gear available via the Nvidia app. A new backpack item, the Emerald Wave Electrician Backpack, will be available for claim starting Thursday, December 11 at 6am PT / 9am ET / 2pm GMT / 3PM CET. Players must launch the Nvidia app, navigate to the 'redeem' section, and link it to their Embark profile to secure the item, which will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. The backpack features a vibrant green hue and is a reskin of the existing Electrician Backpack.
Russian censorship agency threatens total block of WhatsApp citing terror links
AppWizard
November 30, 2025

Russian censorship agency threatens total block of WhatsApp citing terror links

Roskomnadzor, Russia's media regulator, has warned WhatsApp that it could be blocked unless it complies with local laws, citing concerns about the platform's use for terrorist activities and fraud. The agency highlighted WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption as an obstacle for law enforcement. Since August, Roskomnadzor has implemented gradual restrictions, including blocking voice calls and instructing telecom operators to stop text message verifications for new users, with a complete ban possible if compliance is not met. The regulator has suggested users switch to domestic alternatives, such as the state-backed MAX messaging app. WhatsApp has around 97 million users in Russia and has faced increasing scrutiny amid a broader crackdown on foreign messaging services. The company has reiterated its commitment to end-to-end encryption but has not publicly responded to Roskomnadzor's latest threats.
Arrowhead boss calls for middle ground in AI debate
AppWizard
November 18, 2025

Arrowhead boss calls for middle ground in AI debate

Shams Jorjani, head of Arrowhead Studios, discussed the polarized opinions on artificial intelligence in game development during an interview with The Game Business. He highlighted the significant debate surrounding AI's role in the industry, particularly following controversies related to Embark Studios' use of generative AI in their games. Jorjani noted that opinions on AI range from executives advocating for automation to developers fearing for their jobs. He suggested that a more balanced perspective might be necessary, questioning whether the reality of AI's impact could lie somewhere in between the extremes of the debate.
The proof is undeniable: People will still pay for great shooters
AppWizard
November 1, 2025

The proof is undeniable: People will still pay for great shooters

The resurgence of paid multiplayer games, exemplified by titles like Arc Raiders and Battlefield 6, indicates that players are willing to invest in quality experiences. These games have quickly risen to the top of sales charts and received positive reviews, highlighting a shift in player expectations towards valuing complete packages over free-to-play models. Free games often come with pressure to spend, while paid titles provide a sense of completeness with rich content from the outset. Historically, free-to-play games launch with minimal content, leading to frustration among players. Purchasing a game typically ensures access to a comprehensive package without additional costs. However, there are complexities, as seen with Battlefield 6's introduction of pop-up ads for a battle pass, which has led to community dissatisfaction. In contrast, Arc Raiders offers a free battle pass with optional premium skins, easing the pressure on players. The revival of paid multiplayer games is enriching the shooter genre, suggesting a promising future for developers and players.
China's ByteDance reportedly building a Steam competitor — 'GameTop' for overseas markets will distribute and publish games like any other store, while harboring a social space with AI-assisted creator tools
AppWizard
October 26, 2025

China’s ByteDance reportedly building a Steam competitor — ‘GameTop’ for overseas markets will distribute and publish games like any other store, while harboring a social space with AI-assisted creator tools

Steam's dominance in the PC gaming market is being challenged by new platforms, including the upcoming "GameTop," a gaming marketplace being developed by ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok. GameTop is aimed at overseas markets and is part of ByteDance's strategy to enhance its gaming division under new leadership. The initiative follows a shift from aggressive expansion to a focus on operational efficiency. There is an existing app named GameTop on the Google Play Store, which is unrelated to ByteDance. ByteDance has made progress in the Chinese gaming sector and is attempting to expand internationally, though it currently does not compete with Tencent, which has a significant stake in Epic Games.
Palworld studio Pocketpair says its new publishing division won't handle games that use generative AI: 'We don't believe in it'
AppWizard
October 22, 2025

Palworld studio Pocketpair says its new publishing division won’t handle games that use generative AI: ‘We don’t believe in it’

Pocketpair has launched its own publishing division, receiving over 150 pitches for publishing deals in the first week. John Buckley, head of Pocketpair Publishing, stated the division will honor developers' creative autonomy and focus on exceptional games for a global audience. The company has taken a firm stance against projects incorporating generative AI, with Buckley expressing that they do not believe in it and are upfront about their position. Despite facing skepticism regarding their claims of not using generative AI, Buckley aims to maintain transparency without engaging in conflict with critics. The gaming community is cautious about generative AI, with past instances of companies denying AI usage only to later admit to it.
A Minecraft Movie 2 release date, cast, plot, and everything else we know so far about the block-tastic sequel
AppWizard
October 16, 2025

A Minecraft Movie 2 release date, cast, plot, and everything else we know so far about the block-tastic sequel

Warner Bros. has confirmed that a sequel to A Minecraft Movie is in production, with a release expected two years after the first film, which performed well at the box office in spring 2025. Jack Black is anticipated to reprise his role as Steve, alongside Jason Momoa, Danielle Brooks, Emma Myers, and Sebastian Hansen. The sequel may explore new storylines, potentially involving characters being drawn back into the Overworld or facing challenges in the real world. Director Jared Hess has hinted at introducing Alex, a popular Minecraft character. No trailer has been released yet, but a teaser is expected by late January 2027, with a full trailer in April 2027.
There's a sidequest in Borderlands 4 based on a meme making fun of Soulsborne games and it's great
AppWizard
September 29, 2025

There’s a sidequest in Borderlands 4 based on a meme making fun of Soulsborne games and it’s great

Borderlands 4 has shifted its tonal direction to a more measured approach following the mixed reception of Borderlands 3, which was criticized for its crude humor. This change has resulted in villains that often lack depth. In contrast, side quests in Borderlands 4, such as "Forgive Me," incorporate contemporary memes and add personality to the game. The quest references a viral joke about Soulsborne games and was inspired by a tweet from Sam Winkler, the head writer, from 2022. Winkler clarified that his intent was to express admiration for FromSoftware's work, stating, "I am begging anyone who thinks I'm dunking on fromsoft to learn how to make fun of the things you love."
Search