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There's one game Don't Nod narrative designer Nina Freeman won't ever uninstall from her PC, because it's banned on Steam: 'It's tragic, because everyone should play this game'
AppWizard
May 31, 2026

There’s one game Don’t Nod narrative designer Nina Freeman won’t ever uninstall from her PC, because it’s banned on Steam: ‘It’s tragic, because everyone should play this game’

Nina Freeman's first gaming experience was with the 1991 game Rodent's Revenge, which she played on a friend's computer or at school. She has developed autobiographical games like Cibele and Last Call, and worked as a level designer on Tacoma and Open Roads. Currently, she is working on an undisclosed project with Don't Nod and developing an indie horror game titled Size Zero with her husband. Freeman recently played Angeline Era on her Steam Deck and completed Scarlet Hollow, which she describes as a masterpiece with a complex branching narrative. The oldest game installed on her PC is Rollercoaster Tycoon Deluxe, released in 1999. She has logged over 2,101 hours in Dota 2, which she and her husband enjoy together. Freeman considers Devotion by Red Candle Games one of the best horror games and will never uninstall it from her library. She relies on OBS for her work as a game developer and Twitch streamer, and maintains a tidy desktop for streaming purposes, although her external hard drives are less organized.
Subnautica 2 could become a chilling horror game, if only it would shut up
AppWizard
May 22, 2026

Subnautica 2 could become a chilling horror game, if only it would shut up

Subnautica 2 features players as the sole survivor of a failed expedition on an alien planet, awakening disoriented after a disaster. The game incorporates an AI assistant named NoA, which provides constant reminders about survival needs, often causing frustration. The narrative heavily relies on audio logs that interrupt exploration and detract from the immersive atmosphere, as they auto-play at inconvenient times and often spoon-feed information rather than allowing for organic discovery. This reliance on audio logs diminishes the thrill of exploration and the sense of agency for players. Despite its potential, the game's narrative structure undermines the overall experience.
Combing through a house full of a dead loved one's possessions to figure out who they were feels like the anti-Unpacking
AppWizard
April 21, 2026

Combing through a house full of a dead loved one’s possessions to figure out who they were feels like the anti-Unpacking

A Storied Life: Tabitha is an interactive storytelling game that allows players to explore the belongings of a deceased relative, uncovering her identity and history through personal effects in her cottage. The game begins with a letter inviting players to sort through items that reflect the life of an elderly woman, including a collection of cat accessories and other intriguing possessions. This narrative structure encourages personal interpretation and reflection on the significance of objects and memories. The game is available on Steam, with a demo option for players.
The Hundred Line has changed how I think about choice and consequences in games, and I can't put it back in the box
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 is a video game that emphasizes player choice and branching narratives, allowing for a varied storytelling experience. It begins with a linear narrative where players defend a school over a hundred days, gradually uncovering character backstories. The game features a time-rewind mechanic that enables players to explore alternative choices, leading to significant changes in the storyline and character outcomes. Each decision can result in different scenarios, evolving boss encounters, and character development based on player actions. The game has gained traction since its release and is available on Steam for .99 / £49.99, with a demo also accessible. The developers express aspirations for future expansions that could extend the narrative significantly.
After the Minecraft Movie, Jason Momoa Joins a Highly Anticipated New Video Game Adaptation
AppWizard
February 15, 2026

After the Minecraft Movie, Jason Momoa Joins a Highly Anticipated New Video Game Adaptation

Jason Momoa is set to star in a cinematic adaptation of the cooperative shooter game Helldivers, developed by Arrowhead Game Studios. The film, directed by Justin Lin and co-written by Gary Dauberman, is scheduled for release on November 10, 2027. Helldivers, launched in 2015, has gained popularity for its challenging gameplay and satirical humor, reminiscent of Starship Troopers. Sony is actively adapting video games into films, following the successes of Uncharted and The Last of Us.
Code Vein 2 is largely more of the same despite its story reset, but I think I'm okay with that
AppWizard
January 5, 2026

Code Vein 2 is largely more of the same despite its story reset, but I think I’m okay with that

Code Vein 2 has been announced and is set to launch on January 29, priced at .99 / £54.99. The game retains core mechanics from the original, including checkpoints called Mistles and a system for reclaiming lost currency called Haze. It features extensive character customization, with a detailed editor and various Blood Codes that influence play style. Combat dynamics include faster-paced encounters and new weapon types, such as twin blades and rune blades, with over 200 Formae to master. The narrative involves Blood-drinking Revenants and human hunters in an apocalyptic setting, with players awakening 100 years after a catastrophic event. Companions can assist in combat and revive players upon death, adding strategic depth. Exploration has improved, with more complex dungeon layouts and navigation aids.
Larian reveals its Divinity, its 'biggest game ever,' that will be 'even larger than Baldur's Gate 3'
AppWizard
December 12, 2025

Larian reveals its Divinity, its ‘biggest game ever,’ that will be ‘even larger than Baldur’s Gate 3’

Larian Studios has officially announced a new entry in its fantasy series titled "Divinity" at The Game Awards, following the success of Baldur's Gate 3. The game is described as Larian's "biggest game ever" by industry veteran Geoff Keighley and features a darker narrative, as shown in a pre-rendered trailer. The title "Divinity" suggests a fresh start, but it is not intended to alienate fans of Baldur's Gate 3. The game is designed to be accessible to newcomers while rewarding players familiar with previous titles. This is the first game in the series simply named "Divinity," and there are currently no plans for a new Divinity: Original Sin 3. The release date is not yet announced, and it is unclear if an early access model will be adopted.
Psychological Adventure Game Sublustrum Announced for Consoles and PC
AppWizard
December 1, 2025

Psychological Adventure Game Sublustrum Announced for Consoles and PC

Publisher Brickworks Games and developer Phantomery Interactive are releasing a psychological adventure game titled Sublustrum, set to launch in fall 2026 for consoles and PC via Steam. The game is a reimagining of the 2008 cult classic Outcry, known as Sublustrum in Russia and Poland. The narrative follows a writer investigating the disappearance of his brother, a scientist, while exploring a liminal space that blends reality and dreams. Players will navigate a 3D environment featuring Victorian melancholy, industrial aesthetics, and early-20th-century retrofuturism. Sound plays a crucial role in the game, with audio-driven puzzles and a dark ambient score shaping the narrative. The game includes a mix of new and reimagined puzzles that require associative and lateral thinking.
The Long Dark's final episode has been pushed back yet again, but at least it has an actual release date now
AppWizard
November 30, 2025

The Long Dark’s final episode has been pushed back yet again, but at least it has an actual release date now

Hinterland Studio is in the final stages of production for Episode 5 of The Long Dark's story mode, Wintermute, but has announced a delay, pushing the release to next year. The studio cited challenges in completing the remaining cinematic work, soundtrack, and mission polish as reasons for the delay. Episode 5 is expected to have two to three times as much cinematic and story content as Episode 4, and will feature a more linear narrative structure while exploring new territories. Additionally, the sequel, Blackfrost: The Long Dark 2, was announced and is set for early access in 2026, causing mixed feelings among fans regarding the original story's conclusion.
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