narrative Archives

AppWizard

May 7, 2025

I pride myself on keeping up with Steam’s under-the-radar gems, but April was packed with enough new games to keep me busy for the rest of 2025

In April 2025, over 100 games launched, with notable titles including Blue Prince and Clair Obscur, the latter receiving significant attention. Clair Obscur was released on April 22nd and has a 94% rating from 39 reviews. Maliki: Poison Of The Past, inspired by a French comic, was released on April 20th. Mythical Concept Starnaut, a narrative-driven game, was released on April 28th with a 97% rating from 45 reviews. Bionic Bay, a stylish platformer, was released on April 17th and has a 90% rating from 264 reviews. Asura The Striker, released on April 23rd, has a 93% rating from 49 reviews. Traveler's Refrain, an action RPG, was released on April 11th with a 92% rating from 26 reviews. Voidborn, a low-fi shooter, was released on April 7th with a 90% rating from 262 reviews. I, Robot, a reimagining of an arcade classic, was released on April 17th and has a 95% rating from 20 reviews. Lab Rat, a dystopian comedy, was released on April 15th with a 97% rating from 188 reviews. Peppered: An Existential Platformer, released on April 7th, has a 95% rating from 266 reviews. Repose, a workplace horror game, was released on April 14th and has a 90% rating from 74 reviews.

AppWizard

May 7, 2025

A Minecraft Movie; Arrives On Digital May 13 & On 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray & DVD June 24, 2025 From Warner Bros

Warner Bros. Discovery Home Entertainment will release A Minecraft Movie digitally on May 13, 2025, followed by physical formats including 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on June 24, 2025. The film, directed by Jared Hess and featuring a cast that includes Jason Momoa and Jack Black, is the first live-action adaptation of the Minecraft video game. It has grossed over 2 million and achieved the largest domestic opening for 2025, becoming the highest-grossing film based on a video game. The film's running time is 101 minutes and it is rated PG for violence/action, language, suggestive/rude humor, and some scary images. Special features will include several featurettes exploring the film's production and music.

AppWizard

May 7, 2025

‘A Minecraft Movie’ Available Digitally May 13, on Disc June 24

The Minecraft Movie is in development, aiming to blend the game's pixelated world with cinematic storytelling. It will explore themes of adventure, friendship, and creativity, featuring familiar elements of crafting and exploration along with original characters. While casting details are not yet available, there is speculation about high-profile talent involved in the project. The production team is considering innovative marketing strategies to engage the Minecraft community, including interactive experiences and collaborations with content creators. The film has the potential to influence future video game adaptations in cinema.

AppWizard

May 7, 2025

‘He’s very good at finding really cool people’: Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s director found its composer on Soundcloud and lead writer on Reddit

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 features a soundtrack composed by Lorien Testard, who created 154 tracks totaling over eight hours of music. The soundtrack has surpassed 1.5 million streams and was the number one selling album on Bandcamp last week. Testard was discovered by the game's director, Guillaume Broche, through Soundcloud. Lead writer Jennifer Svedberg-Yen initially auditioned for a voice acting role after responding to a Reddit post by Broche and later transitioned to her current role. Broche credits the Covid-19 pandemic for helping him find talented individuals online, allowing the game to compete with larger-budget titles despite having a mostly junior team.

AppWizard

May 7, 2025

Grand Theft Auto 6 gets a second trailer but there’s still no date for a PC version

Rockstar Games has released the second trailer for Grand Theft Auto 6, featuring dual protagonists Jason and Lucia. The trailer highlights their relationship, showcasing action and humor, while some viewers have expressed mixed feelings about its presentation. Jason Duval is on a mission to rescue Lucia Caminos from incarceration, after which she displays her combat skills. The narrative involves them facing challenges in a criminal conspiracy in the state of Leonida. The game will introduce various characters, including Cal Hampton, Raul Bautista, Dre'Quan Priest, and Real Dimez. The release date for the game has been delayed to May 2026.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: LIMBO, Underground Blossom, Rusty Lake Roots, more

- Google Play store has new deals, including a 0 reduction on the 1TB unlocked Pixel 9 Pro smartphone. - Samsung's 2024 The Frame TVs have discounts up to ,600. - Galaxy Watch 7 models are available with direct 0 savings. - Notable apps on sale include LIMBO, Underground Blossom, Rusty Lake: Roots, and Milo and the Magpies.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

Rockstar just revealed more about GTA 6—but left PC gamers hanging

Grand Theft Auto 6 is now scheduled for release on May 26, 2026, after being delayed from its original 2025 launch. A new trailer was released, garnering over 1.5 million likes within two hours, and the dedicated game page briefly crashed due to high traffic. The trailer introduces characters Jason and Lucia, who become involved in criminal activities after Lucia is released from prison. The game is set in Leonida, a parody of Florida, featuring locations such as Leonida Keys, Grassivers, Port Gellhorn, Mount Kalaga, and Ambrosia. Currently, GTA 6 will launch exclusively on PS5 and Xbox Series consoles, with no confirmed PC release date. Speculation suggests a potential two-year wait for PC gamers, similar to the release pattern of GTA 5. Pricing details for the game remain unconfirmed, but it is expected to be higher than traditional new title prices due to its estimated budget nearing a billion dollars.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

Analyst claims Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is selling twice as fast as any other recent JRPG has on Steam—and it’s got me wondering what the secret sauce is

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, developed by Sandfall Interactive, is a strong contender for Game of the Year in 2025, resonating with RPG fans and achieving significant sales success. It outsold major titles like Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Persona at a 2:1 ratio, selling over 785,000 copies on Steam in its first week and reaching a peak concurrent player count of 145,063. The game has garnered attention for its engaging opening hours, innovative parry-based combat system, and relatable characters, appealing to PC gamers. It combines elements of JRPGs with Western aesthetics, distinguishing itself from other titles in the genre.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

Exploring ChromeOS – A New Era In Android App Support

ChromeOS has introduced significant enhancements, particularly in Android app support, improving functionality and integration. The latest updates include upgraded Bluetooth technologies, improved content search capabilities, and the integration of Android 11 changes using virtual machines for better app performance. The initiative "Start building apps for ChromeOS" provides guidance for developers to optimize applications for these devices. Accessibility features like Face Control, Bounce Keys, and Slow Keys have been added to assist users with various needs. Security improvements include theft detection and quick locking, while usability enhancements like Fast Pair simplify device connections. Recent updates also focus on integration and compatibility with existing file systems and support for Android and Linux applications, aiming to create a cohesive ecosystem.

AppWizard

May 6, 2025

This game has 100 endings, and it’s pushing the creators to the brink of bankruptcy

The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy is a visual novel and turn-based tactics hybrid developed by Too Kyo Games, a studio formed by the creators of Danganronpa and Zero Escape. Despite positive reviews and notable sales, studio CEO Kazutaka Kodaka has expressed concerns about the studio's financial future, stating that the chances of further console releases for the game are "very slim." The game features a complex narrative with an estimated 80% narrative to 20% action ratio, requiring over 130 hours for 100% completion. The production process took over five years, including a complete reboot, and Kodaka described it as a gamble where he invested his skills and money. The game is currently available on Steam for £50.