narrative-driven games Archives

AppWizard

April 12, 2026

1000xResist developer added a video sequence ‘out of desperation’ but now they’re bringing FMV back for their next game

Players of 1000xResist navigate through chapters with new perspectives and mechanics, featuring a transition to video footage of Hong Kong, which was incorporated out of necessity by creative director Remy Siu using archival documentary footage. The game explores the theme of convincing an AI of its humanity and utilizes full-motion video (FMV) as a storytelling tool, with the team focusing on narrative-driven games for innovation. The resurgence of FMV in gaming is highlighted by titles like Her Story and Road to Empress, showcasing diverse storytelling possibilities. Despite its niche status, Siu believes their unique approach can contribute to the genre. Another title, Prove You're Human, is set to launch on Steam, further enhancing the narrative landscape.

AppWizard

March 28, 2026

Soren Johnson on keeping his game studio small: ‘You get better games if you take longer to make games’

Mohawk Games, established in 2013 by former Firaxis developers, is preparing to launch new downloadable content (DLC) for their 2021 grand strategy game, Old World. The studio, which employs 15 individuals, has sustained its operations through revenue from Old World. The upcoming expansion, titled Empires of the Indus, will introduce three new civilizations and is scheduled for release on March 30. Co-founder Soren Johnson expressed a desire to explore creative avenues beyond grand strategy and has ambitions to develop a light tactical RPG. While there are no immediate announcements for new projects, Johnson has a list of game ideas he finds exciting.

AppWizard

February 21, 2026

Highly Rated PC Vampire Game Now Available on PS5 & Nintendo Switch (& Xbox Is Coming Soon)

Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines and V Rising are notable vampire-themed video games, while Vampire Therapist has gained attention for its narrative-driven adventure and therapeutic themes. Launched on PC via Steam in July 2024, it has received an Overwhelmingly Positive rating and various awards. The game features a gunslinger turned therapist helping vampires with cognitive behavioral therapy techniques and includes voice actors from titles like Hades and Baldur’s Gate 3. As of February 17th, Vampire Therapist is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch for .99 USD, with a 15% launch discount until March 3rd. An Xbox version is set to release on March 5th. The game is not yet supported on the Switch 2 due to progression issues.

AppWizard

February 16, 2026

The Hundred Line has changed how I think about choice and consequences in games, and I can’t put it back in the box

The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy immerses players in the consequences of their choices, allowing for significant alterations to the storyline through a time-rewind mechanic. The game features a linear narrative where players defend a school over a hundred days, gradually uncovering character stories. Each decision leads to distinct outcomes, creating a rich tapestry of branching narratives. Character development is emphasized, with companions evolving based on player choices. The game has achieved market success and is priced at .99 / £49.99 on Steam, with a demo available for players to experience its mechanics.

AppWizard

November 29, 2025

From Oblivion Remastered to Civ 7, here are the best deals in the Humble Bundle Black Friday sale

The Humble Bundle Black Friday sale offers significant discounts on various PC games, including: - Civilization 7: Available for .99 / £68.24, down from .99 / £104.99, reflecting a 35% discount. - The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered: Priced at .49 / £33.49, reduced from .99 / £49.99, with a 33% discount. - Life is Strange Remastered Collection: Available for .19 / £10.19, down from .99 / £33.99, representing a 70% discount. - Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds: Priced at .49 / £45.49, reduced from .99 / £64.99, offering a 30% discount. - Persona 3 Reload: Available for .74 / £24.74, down from .99 / £54.99, reflecting a 55% discount. These deals are time-sensitive and will expire after Monday, December 1st, 2025.

AppWizard

November 14, 2025

If you love No Man’s Sky, this life-changing single-player space game is now cheaper than ever

Outer Wilds is currently available at a low price of .49 / £9.99 on Fanatical, marking the lowest price ever for the game. The Echoes of the Eye expansion is priced at .24 / £6.59. The discounts will expire on Sunday, November 16, 2025, at 4 PM PT / 7 PM ET, or Monday, November 17, 2025, at 12 AM GMT in the UK.

AppWizard

August 24, 2025

Dawn of War 4 developer King Art knows what you all really want: ‘Overwhelmingly, it’s singleplayer content and the campaign’

The RTS game genre has shifted focus from high-quality singleplayer campaigns to competitive multiplayer and esports, leaving some fans feeling neglected. Stormgate, a recent title, struggled with an incomplete campaign, failing to capture player attention. In contrast, Dawn of War 4 is prioritizing narrative-driven experiences, with a commitment to delivering compelling singleplayer content. The game will feature four substantial campaigns, each dedicated to a different faction, along with a tutorial and over 70 missions. While multiplayer will be included, the developers emphasize the importance of singleplayer experiences in evoking nostalgia and impacting player preferences.

AppWizard

August 16, 2025

What my first five Steam purchases say about me

Users on Bluesky are sharing their first purchases on Steam, prompting nostalgia and reflection on their gaming evolution. The author’s first purchases on Steam were on December 25, 2010, including Amnesia: The Dark Descent, the Left 4 Dead bundle, and Team Fortress 2. The author later purchased DC Universe Online and Rift in early 2011, influenced by their gaming experience with MMOs and a relationship. The author purchased Dragon Age: Origins on March 19, 2011, which marked a significant turning point in their gaming identity, introducing them to narrative-driven games and leading to lasting friendships and a career in game journalism. Steam's record of early purchases has allowed the author to trace their growth as a gamer and individual.

AppWizard

June 1, 2025

Painkiller RTX is a path-traced upgrade to a classic but almost forgotten shooter

Nvidia's RTX Remix is a tool that allows game modders to enhance classic PC games with path-traced visuals. One notable project is the transformation of the 2004 game Painkiller into Painkiller RTX, currently at version 0.1.6. This project utilizes a custom rendering technology called PainEngine, replacing the original Direct X 8.1 rendering with a path tracer, resulting in improved visuals such as real-time shadows and moving lights. The gameplay retains its fast-paced action focus, with enhanced mechanics through Havok physics, allowing for dynamic interactions with the environment. Painkiller RTX features significant upgrades in lighting, including dynamic lighting that interacts with moving objects and improved texture quality using Quixel megascan assets. However, the path-tracing technology requires robust hardware for optimal performance, and even mid-range GPUs like the RTX 4060 may struggle with frame rates during intense gameplay.

AppWizard

May 31, 2025

Two Great Games That Couldn’t Be More Different Are Free Right Now

The Epic Game Store is offering two free PC titles: Limbo and Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, available until June 5. Limbo, released in 2010, is a black-and-white 2D platformer known for its eerie atmosphere. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, launched in 2022, is a fantasy-themed spin-off from the Borderlands series, featuring melee combat and exploration. The ongoing Mega Sale includes significant discounts on various titles and will continue until June 12, with more free games expected in the coming weeks.