mentions

Winsage
September 16, 2026
David Plummer, a former Microsoft engineer, was the primary author of Windows XP's Product Activation system, which included the infamous product key FCKGW. This key became widely used on pirated copies of the operating system. Plummer created the activation system by compressing and encrypting disc data, ensuring its security. The FCKGW key was specifically tied to certain data configurations, making it ineffective on standard XP CDs. A piracy group, Devils0wn, leaked a complete Windows XP Pro Corporate ISO and the valid FCKGW key just five weeks before the official launch, allowing unauthorized installations. Microsoft responded by blacklisting product IDs associated with the compromised keys in Service Pack 1 and blocking updates for installations using the FCKGW key in Service Pack 2. Valid, un-leaked Volume License Keys (VLKs) remained functional for years after the incident. Plummer noted that the media and the key were leaked before the product reached stores, preventing the intended hardware-binding from functioning.
AppWizard
September 9, 2026
Google Play has mid-week offerings featuring classic titles from Square Enix, including CHRONO TRIGGER, Secret of Mana, Legend of Mana, and FINAL FANTASY VII. Other notable games include Actraiser Renaissance, COLLECTION of SaGa FF LEGEND, Trials of Mana, Adventures of Mana, Romancing SaGa3, and CHAOS RINGS Ⅲ. Additionally, there is a significant price drop on the Galaxy Z Fold 8 and the Moto Tag 2 trackers is priced at .50. Other ongoing deals include discounted rates on various apps and games, exclusive offers on in-app purchases, and promotions on subscription services.
AppWizard
September 3, 2026
A tree instructs the narrator to deliver a note to the King, despite the absence of a monarch in the current playtest of A Short Quest. The playtest reveals various mysteries, including a pond that offers blueberries for jumping, a hidden note about a glyph cipher, and an encounter with a ghost wizard. Players engage with the environment to discover item functions without a quest log or map, leading to potential unintended consequences. The narrator finds a broken sword that allows parrying and hints at undiscovered uses, while even a simple rock can serve as a defensive tool. The Steam page mentions upcoming tools and companions, such as axes, daggers, and a pet dog. Skill trees for weapons and spells suggest diverse combat strategies, and a bandit advises targeting enemy knees. The developer, Silent Moon, describes the experience as a brief adventure, serving as a precursor to the anticipated The Elder Scrolls 6.
AppWizard
September 1, 2026
Google has introduced a collaborative checklist feature in Google Messages, allowing chat participants to create, edit, and mark items as completed within conversations. This feature is powered by Google Keep and can be initiated by tapping the (+) icon next to the message input box. A smart suggestion feature prompts users to create a list when items are mentioned. The checklist syncs back to Google Keep, though it is unclear if a backup will be saved there. The rollout begins today for most recent Android devices.
AppWizard
August 17, 2026
Warner Bros. Discovery has indicated the development of a sequel to the successful 2023 game, Hogwarts Legacy, in a communication to shareholders, expressing optimism about the gaming division's future profitability. The letter mentioned that the company expects games to contribute more significantly to segment profitability as their pipeline expands, including the second installment of Hogwarts Legacy. However, this announcement is complicated by the controversial views of J.K. Rowling, the franchise's creator, which have sparked backlash and raised ethical questions about engagement with the brand. The ongoing discourse surrounding Rowling's stance on transgender rights may affect the anticipation for the sequel and the future of the franchise.
AppWizard
August 17, 2026
Astraeos, a DLC for Ark Survival Ascended inspired by Greek mythology, was initially a free mod created by modder 'Nekatus' and became a full DLC in collaboration with Studio Wildcard. It launched in February 2025 and will receive its final update in August 2026, introducing a new creature called the Boaratos, or 'the burning hog.' The Boaratos, designed by modder 'Dragonheart,' is characterized by its physical strength and fiery attacks, making it a formidable opponent. It also has the ability to burn trees, providing players with charcoal. The final update for Astraeos is scheduled for August 26, and the expansion is priced at .99 / £12.79, requiring a base copy of Ark Survival Evolved.
AppWizard
August 15, 2026
The Kingdom Hearts series has officially become a billion-dollar franchise for Disney. The article highlights Disney's achievements in gaming, including a strengthened partnership with Epic Games and the popularity of Marvel Rivals among Gen Z. It also mentions the upcoming Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer, set to debut in June, four years after its initial announcement in 2022, which could lead to significant revenue growth.
AppWizard
August 13, 2026
The author reflects on their writing for PC Gamer, noting that their work includes interviews, editorials, explorations of PC gaming history, and news updates, rather than just personal recommendations. To combat the fleeting nature of online content, they plan to create a lasting repository of personal favorites, including games, movies, gadgets, recipes, and life tips. The author is Wes Fenlon, who humorously mentions using WASD incorrectly for his entire life.
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