modifications Archives

Winsage

March 10, 2025

5 Start menu alternatives and Windows tweaks that will speed up your workflow

The Start menu in Windows 11 has undergone changes that some users find less familiar compared to previous versions. Alternatives to enhance the Start menu experience include: - StartAllBack: A paid utility that restores the classic Windows 7 Start menu while offering customization options like themes, layout, and taskbar modifications. It has a 100-day free trial. - Open-Shell: A free, open-source tool that allows users to revert to classic Start menus from Windows 7 and earlier, with extensive customization and improved search functionality. It receives regular updates but may have slight performance lags. - Start11: A premium alternative by Stardock that provides a modern Start menu with styles reminiscent of Windows 7 and Windows 10, allowing for icon modification and app pinning. It offers a 30-day free trial. - Windhawk: A free modular tool for customizing the Start menu and other Windows interface elements, allowing users to install specific mods for tailored modifications. - Windows built-in settings: Users can enhance the Start menu by changing the layout, adding folder shortcuts next to the power button, and pinning favorite apps for quick access.

Winsage

March 9, 2025

8 Windows 11 features that should never have been added

Windows 11 features a centered Start menu, which can be reverted to the left through Settings. The taskbar search box can be disabled in Settings if not needed. The Widgets board can be toggled off to prevent it from opening unintentionally. The taskbar's position is restricted to center or left, and third-party applications like Start11 can provide more flexibility. Users can manage overwhelming desktop notifications in Settings and minimize the presence of Microsoft’s Copilot. The right-click context menu requires an extra click for more options, and users can explore Registry edits to restore the traditional menu. Changing default applications for file types is cumbersome, requiring individual adjustments for each type. Many features in Windows 11 may feel unnecessary and can be modified or disabled through system settings.

Tech Optimizer

March 5, 2025

Digest #162: IBM Acquires HashiCorp, No TCP/UDP, GitHub Data Theft, FinOps Future, Postgres Graph, AWS Config, Airflow, Kubernetes, Nginx, Terraform & More!

IBM has finalized its acquisition of HashiCorp. Concerns have emerged about the security of GitHub modifications, with reports indicating that thousands may compromise user data. A recent court case involving SQL injection highlights the importance of robust security measures in database management. CPU usage has surged by 3,200%. The tutorials section includes guides on utilizing Postgres as a graph database, automating cost checks with AWS Config, reducing AWS Glue expenses, navigating Kubernetes audit log challenges, mastering slicing SLOs, implementing advanced Nginx hardening techniques, exploring Amazon EKS auto mode with Terraform, leveraging GitHub Copilot for Azure DevOps, and enhancing infrastructure provisioning skills. Open-source projects highlighted include Yaak, Telescope, AtomixDB, PG Capture, TFBuddy, Globstar, and Tach.

AppWizard

March 4, 2025

Everything about GTA 5 Enhanced Edition PC, release date, content and specs

Rockstar Games is set to release an Enhanced version of Grand Theft Auto 5 on March 4, 2025, available for free to all PC players. Preloading for the update has begun. The updated system requirements include: Minimum Specs: - OS: Windows 10 (latest service pack) - CPU: Intel® Core™ i7-4770 or AMD FX-9590 - RAM: 8GB - GPU: NVIDIA GeForce® GTX 1630 (4GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon™ RX 6400 (4GB VRAM) - Storage: 105GB, SSD required - Sound Card: 100% DirectX 10 compatible Recommended Specs: - OS: Windows 11 - CPU: Intel® Core™ i5-9600K or AMD Ryzen™ 5 3600 - RAM: 16GB Dual-Channel Configuration - GPU: NVIDIA GeForce® RTX 3060 (8GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon™ RX 6600XT (8GB VRAM) - Storage: 105GB, DirectStorage-compatible drive - Sound Card: Windows Spatial Sound-compatible audio system; Dolby Atmos support required The update will feature graphical improvements such as ray tracing, DLSS support, and enhanced compatibility for high-performance PCs. It will also support PS5 controllers and introduce new vehicles to the game.

AppWizard

March 2, 2025

Full Xbox 360 decompilation for PC debuts with Sonic Unleashed Recompiled

Sonic Unleashed has been ported to PC as Unleashed Recompiled, nearly sixteen years after its original release in November 2008. This port was developed by fans using XenonRecomp and XenosRecomp tools to convert PowerPC code and Xenos shaders into x86 PC-compatible C++ and HLSL code. This breakthrough allows for the possibility of recompiling any Xbox 360 title for native PC play, including those not supported by Xbox Backward Compatibility. Players must have legally obtained copies of the original Xbox 360 titles to use this port. Unleashed Recompiled features advanced graphics and gameplay modifications through tools like HedgeModManager, making the PC platform a more customizable option for playing Xbox 360 games.

AppWizard

February 28, 2025

Monster Hunter Wilds live launch coverage: Server status, hunting tips, and all the latest release day news

Monster Hunter Wilds has maintained its position among the top 100 bestselling titles on Steam for 12 weeks and is currently the most wishlisted game on the platform. The game is set to unlock on Steam shortly, with players preparing for its release. There are already 26 mods available for Monster Hunter Wilds on Nexus, indicating early interest from modders. Daisy Ridley has narrated an overview of the Monster Hunter series. A performance analysis suggests that while the game is less taxing on CPUs than its predecessor, upscaling is recommended for mid-range hardware. The first major update for Monster Hunter Wilds is scheduled for early April, introducing harder monsters. Nvidia has released a new Game Ready driver for optimal performance. Initial reviews praise the game's combat mechanics while noting a streamlined gameplay experience.

Winsage

February 27, 2025

This Windows app is like File Explorer on steroids

File Explorer has been criticized for its sluggish performance and cumbersome interface, leading some users to explore alternatives. File Pilot has emerged as a new file management application that offers remarkable speed, opening folders almost instantaneously and providing a seamless browsing experience. It features a slider-based system for smooth transitions between viewing modes and includes productivity enhancements such as tabbed browsing, split-screen view, and an inspector mode for previewing folder contents. The app also boasts a fast search capability and extensive customization options, allowing users to remap shortcuts, adjust fonts, and toggle animations. However, File Pilot currently lacks support for network browsing and cannot be set as the default file manager without registry modifications, although developers are working on improvements.

AppWizard

February 26, 2025

Deadlock gets a massive map overhaul that shrinks its map from four lanes to three: ‘This has a large range of accompanying map-wide changes’

Valve has announced a comprehensive update for its third-person MOBA, Deadlock, which includes a complete overhaul of the game’s map, redesigning it from 4 lanes to 3 lanes. The update features visual upgrades, revamped building layouts, new pathways, neutral camps, air vents, breakable objects, power-up buffs, juke spots, and a mid-boss area. An 'Explore map' feature has been introduced for players to familiarize themselves with movement and navigation mechanics. Additional features include new skybridges, a relocated mid-boss, new jungle camps, and aesthetic enhancements. The update also adds support for DLSS, reworks soul orbs, enhances damage reporting, and introduces “curved ziplines.” Nearly every playable character has received updates, including new animations and voiceover remasters. Access to Deadlock requires an invitation from an existing player.

AppWizard

February 25, 2025

Why People Still Love Minecraft After 15+ Years — What Makes the Game Timeless?

Minecraft has been popular for over 15 years, appealing to millions due to its creativity and community-driven experience. It features an open-world sandbox that allows players to build freely without strict objectives. The game evolves continuously through regular updates that introduce new content, ensuring fresh experiences. Players can choose from different modes, including survival, creative, and hardcore, catering to various playstyles. The vibrant community enhances the game through content creation and modding, offering extensive customization options. Nostalgia plays a role in attracting returning players, while ongoing innovation keeps the game relevant. Minecraft is accessible at affordable prices through digital marketplaces.

AppWizard

February 24, 2025

Microsoft’s Nadella reckons Xbox will have “catalog” of gen AI games

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella discussed the transformative potential of generative AI for gaming on the Dwarkesh Podcast, highlighting the company's Muse generative AI model. This model is designed to create intricate game visuals and facilitate controller actions. Nadella emphasized its ability to use gameplay data to produce games that are consistent yet diverse, allowing for user modifications to enhance player engagement. He anticipates the upcoming release of a catalog of games utilizing this technology. Nadella described a demonstration where the Muse model generated outputs based on controller inputs, marking a significant moment in gaming similar to the introduction of ChatGPT and DALL-E.