moves Archives

AppWizard

January 16, 2026

Riot moves to stamp out League of Legends duo queue abuse as “a few bad actors ruin things for everyone”

Riot Games has introduced new duo queue restrictions in League of Legends, disallowing duo play up to Grandmaster rank, even for players with Grandmaster MMR. The company has increased the duo penalty to reflect the advantages of playing in pairs. The current season has seen an increase in exploitative behavior, prompting these changes. Riot plans to implement an indicator to show when a player's actual MMR exceeds their displayed rank. Additionally, there is a delay in improvements to the autofill matching system, which aims to reduce mismatched roles for players.

Winsage

January 15, 2026

Windows Server 2008 is finally gone, after Microsoft pulls support at last

Microsoft concluded all support for Windows Vista and Server 2008 as of January 13, 2026. Most customers lost support in January 2020, but Extended Security Updates were available until January 2023 for most users and until January 2024 for Azure customers. Free security updates, non-security updates, and support options are no longer accessible for the retired codebase. Organizations are encouraged to migrate to Azure for additional security updates. Windows Server 2012 will also reach the end of its ESU on October 13, 2026.

Winsage

January 12, 2026

Tech Bloggers Switch to Linux Over Windows Privacy Woes in 2026

In early 2026, many prominent technology writers are transitioning from Windows and macOS to Linux-based systems, citing frustrations with Windows 11's mandatory updates, privacy concerns, and software bloat as key reasons for the shift. The appeal of Linux is bolstered by advancements in gaming compatibility, user-friendly distributions, and a growing open-source community. While some users face challenges such as a steep learning curve and software incompatibilities, the overall sentiment is positive, with predictions suggesting significant growth for Linux desktops in 2026. Economic factors, including the cost of proprietary software and hardware demands, are also driving users towards Linux, which remains free and efficient. Community support plays a crucial role in easing the transition, and there is optimism about Linux's potential to capture more market share in various fields, despite some realism regarding the need for proprietary software in certain workflows.

Tech Optimizer

January 7, 2026

Fake error popups are spreading malware fast

A new cybercrime tool called ErrTraffic has emerged, simplifying malware dissemination through deceptive fake error messages that prompt users to address non-existent issues. The attacks begin on compromised websites, where users encounter distorted text and pop-ups suggesting a browser update or font installation. Clicking the provided button copies a command to the clipboard, instructing users to paste it into PowerShell, which triggers the malware infection. ErrTraffic automates this process, requiring minimal investment for attackers to access a control panel and scripted payload delivery. It operates via JavaScript injection, adapting to the user's operating system and browser to display tailored messages. This method effectively bypasses traditional malware defenses, achieving high conversion rates, with nearly 60% of users following through with the instructions. Infected devices may deploy infostealers or banking trojans, with the system designed to evade law enforcement by excluding certain regions. To mitigate risks, users should avoid copying commands from websites, trust built-in update notifications, use robust antivirus software, and regularly remove personal information from data broker sites.

BetaBeacon

January 3, 2026

What’s Next for Augmented Reality and Casino Games on Android?

- AR in casino gaming refers to digital elements appearing in a real environment, not replacing it - AR casino games on Android rely on ARCore and engines like Unity or Unreal for stability - Early AR casino experiences on Android are about curiosity and low commitment - Most AR casino projects on Android focus on adjusting existing games rather than introducing new concepts - Benefits for players include familiar games feeling different and enhanced social features - Challenges for AR casino gaming on Android include device performance variations and legal considerations - Tips for developers include prioritizing reliability over visual ambition and testing across a broad range of hardware - Tips for players include preparing their environment with good lighting and keeping ARCore and system software up to date - Progress in Android-based AR casino games is expected to come from slow improvements rather than sudden leaps - Wearable AR devices and hands-free interaction through movement and voice capabilities are expected to be the future of AR casino gaming on Android

AppWizard

January 2, 2026

Utawarerumono: ZAN Game Review

The Utawarerumono series shifted towards action gameplay with the release of Utawarerumono Zan in 2018, which has now been reintroduced to the American PC market after a six-year hiatus. The game adapts the narrative from the sequel, Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception, featuring a different cast and focusing on Haku, who becomes involved in a nationwide conspiracy. The storytelling is criticized for being heavily truncated, leading to a disjointed structure. Combat mechanics are engaging, allowing players to assemble teams with unique abilities, though the absence of a comprehensive movelist complicates learning. Missions are relatively simple, and the upgrade system uses a gacha-style mechanic for character enhancements. The visual presentation captures AQUAPLUS's art style effectively, and the soundtrack offers a rich array of music.

Winsage

January 1, 2026

Windows Reborn: Microsoft Moves Copilot into the Kernel, Launching the Era of the AI-Native OS

Microsoft is transitioning its Windows operating system to an "AI-native" platform, embedding AI capabilities directly into the Windows kernel, marking a significant architectural shift not seen in three decades. This new approach, called the "Agentic OS," allows AI to manage files, system settings, and workflows proactively. The updated kernel, partially rewritten in Rust, includes a new NPU-aware scheduler that treats the Neural Processing Unit as a primary resource. Microsoft has introduced "Agent Workspace" and "Agent Accounts" for autonomous agents, ensuring actions are logged and audited for compliance. Communication between agents and the system is facilitated by the Model Context Protocol (MCP). Hardware requirements for the new OS have increased, with benchmarks set for NPUs achieving 80 to 100 TOPS. Major PC manufacturers are adjusting their portfolios to accommodate "Agentic PCs." The competitive landscape is evolving, with companies like Alphabet and Apple developing their own AI-native platforms. The introduction of the AI-native kernel raises privacy and security concerns, with Microsoft implementing measures to restrict third-party access to the kernel. Future updates may include "self-healing" capabilities and "Cross-Device Agency," leading to a more integrated personal AI experience.

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

Best PC Sports Games for 2026

Sports games on PC in 2026 showcase a diverse array of titles that blend arcade excitement, intricate simulations, and innovative concepts. Modern PC hardware enhances the gaming experience, allowing titles that once required specialized setups to run seamlessly on contemporary devices. Arcade-style sports games benefit from lower system requirements and simplified controls, while simulation-heavy titles are better suited for desktops. Standout games include Baseball Stars 2, which maintains its charm with engaging mechanics, and RetroMania Wrestling, which focuses on recognizable gameplay rather than realism. Fire Pro Wrestling World offers extensive customization and online play, appealing to players who enjoy fine-tuning their matches. Mutant Football League reimagines American football with fictional teams and exaggerated violence, while Super Mega Baseball 3 combines stylized visuals with intricate statistical systems. Rocket League remains popular for its skill-based multiplayer, and Windjammers 2 emphasizes strategic gameplay. Turbo Golf Racing merges golf with kart racing, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 & 2 remasters classic skateboarding titles. The PC platform thrives on variety, offering arcade-style action, intricate simulations, and experimental hybrids. Notable sports games in 2026 include Rocket League, Super Mega Baseball 3, Fire Pro Wrestling World, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 & 2, and Windjammers 2. Many sports games are suitable for the Steam Deck, especially arcade-style titles. While there are fewer officially licensed simulations on PC, some titles cater to simulation-focused players. Current trends include hybrid designs, enhanced community tools, and growing interest in customization systems.

AppWizard

December 29, 2025

CD Projekt Sells DRM-Free PC Storefront GOG to Original Co-Founder for $25.2 Million, Insists It’s Financially Stable

CD Projekt has sold its DRM-free PC storefront, GOG, to co-founder Michał Kiciński for 90.7 million Polish złoty (approximately .2 million). Kiciński, who co-founded GOG in 2008 and holds a 10% stake in CD Projekt, will lead GOG independently while maintaining its DRM-free philosophy. A distribution agreement between CD Projekt and GOG has been established for future collaboration, including the release of upcoming CD Projekt Red titles on the GOG platform. CD Projekt aims to focus on video game development, including The Witcher 4 and Cyberpunk 2, following the sale. GOG has remained financially stable and continues to attract gamers with its mission. CD Projekt previously employed 1,335 staff.

AppWizard

December 29, 2025

Daemon Bride: Additional Gain for PC launches December 30

Developer Team ARCANA will release the PC version of the 2D fighting game Daemon Bride: Additional Gain on Steam on December 30, priced at 2,980 yen, with a 10 percent promotional discount until January 14, 2026. The game will be available in English and Japanese. Daemon Bride: Additional Gain is an enhanced version of the original Daemon Bride, which was first released in Japanese arcades on November 24, 2011. Set in 2025, the game features 17 angels and demons in combat, with online play supported by rollback-compatible net code. Notable enhancements include the first home port from the arcade version, the introduction of the boss character Dies Irae Deus as a playable character, support for both 16:9 and 4:3 screen ratios, high-resolution custom upscaling, a comprehensive training mode, and an in-game guidebook titled “Primer of Duel.”