offering Archives

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

“Average Steam Deck framerate” graph shows PC game developers how their Verified titles really run on Valve’s handheld — Will users ever see this data

Valve has introduced new beta Steamworks tools for game developers as part of its Steam Deck Verified Games initiative. These tools allow developers to monitor average framerates over the past 30 days and access user survey results regarding the Verified status of their games. Participation in data collection is opt-in, ensuring user privacy. The user survey appears after at least ten minutes of gameplay, allowing users to agree or disagree with a game's Verified status and provide feedback on various criteria. The Steam Deck Verified program assesses game compatibility based on four criteria: Controller input, Display, Seamlessness, and System support. Games are rated as Verified, Playable, Unsupported, or Unknown, with these ratings displayed in the Steam store. Valve may potentially make the collected data accessible to the public in the future.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

I feel like my screenshots are coming to life through the oil paintings created by ArtbyEri

ArtbyEri is an artist who transforms gaming screenshots into oil paintings, elevating them to art pieces. Her portfolio includes works inspired by games like Valorant, Call of Duty, Hello Kitty Island Adventure, and Animal Crossing: New Horizons. One notable painting, titled "Just 5 More Minutes," depicts a Sim from The Sims 4, capturing the relatable experience of gaming. ArtbyEri shares her creative process through TikTok videos, showcasing the transformation of colors into vibrant artworks and encouraging viewers to appreciate their own screenshots as potential art.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

Microsoft Looks Ready To Stop Forcing Windows Updates At The Worst Time

Microsoft announced a new feature for Windows 11 on April 24, 2026, allowing users to select a pause date for updates, extending up to 35 days, which can be reset as needed. This update experience aims to give users more control over when updates occur, addressing frustrations related to the timing of updates. Additionally, the power menu will include options for "Update and restart" and "Update and shut down" when an update is pending. The new model is currently in testing, and it is unclear when it will be available to all Windows 11 users or if it will apply uniformly across all device categories and update types.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

The Pragmata mods are starting to roll in, and thank the stars they’re largely focused on the dad bod

Capcom's Pragmata has seen a surge in creative video game modifications, particularly focusing on the protagonist, Hugh. Modders have introduced several character skins for Hugh, including a Dead Space outfit by user FokeyT26, a Doom Guy skin from Doom: The Dark Ages, and a Master Chief skin that was previously exclusive to a deluxe edition. Additionally, players have swapped Hugh for characters from various genres, such as the protagonist of Wuthering Waves and Minecraft's Steve, and even replaced a game enemy with Shrek. The modding community continues to explore new possibilities, with characters like CJ from GTA: San Andreas and Optimus Prime also appearing in the game. Pragmata is available for .99 on Steam, and using REFramework is necessary to unlock these modifications.

Winsage

April 26, 2026

“Your apps should update themselves” — Winget-AutoUpdate is the missing piece for automatic app updates on Windows 11

The Windows Package Manager (winget) traditionally requires users to manually execute commands like "winget upgrade --all" to update applications, while the Microsoft Store only provides automatic updates for Store apps. The WAU Settings GUI enhances the winget experience by introducing a graphical user interface that allows users to configure automatic updates without scripts. Users can set schedules, manage allowlists and blocklists, and receive notifications for completed updates. Winget-AutoUpdate (WAU) is designed for users who frequently install applications via winget and want a maintenance-free system, operating quietly in the background to automate updates.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

Age of Empires 2: The Age of Kings retrospective – The millennial medieval masterwork proves that there’s more to RTS than killing and destruction

Age of Empires II features four primary resources: wood, gold, food, and stone, simplifying the strategic landscape. The game is known for its rich visual design, captivating soundtrack, and blend of historical fact with storytelling. It allows players to engage in both military strategy and city-building, creating a tranquil atmosphere despite the looming presence of war. The game's music, composed by Stephen Rippy, enhances the gameplay experience. Historical accuracy is emphasized, with campaigns narrated from unique perspectives and missions reflecting real historical events. Players gain strategic gameplay while absorbing historical knowledge through compelling narratives.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

With Silent Hill 2’s source code still MIA, a dedicated fan has decided to restore the game’s CGI renders: ‘Takayoshi’ Sato’s work was incredible for its time’

Bloober Team's 2024 remake of Silent Hill 2 has introduced significant changes, leading fans to desire a remastered version of the original game. However, Konami has reportedly lost the source code for the final version, making a remaster challenging. A user from the r/silenthill community, Rashmunchel, is upscaling the game's CGI art, restoring various assets including model renders and cutscene stills. They confirmed the use of a generative AI upscaler but emphasized the importance of manual editing to maintain the original aesthetic. Rashmunchel's project aims to preserve the legacy of Silent Hill 2 in the absence of official efforts.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

Lineage Piece codes April 2026

Lineage Piece is a Roblox game where players can choose to be either a pirate or a marine, featuring a lower level cap compared to similar games. Players can engage in battles against bosses and rival factions. The game has several codes that provide various rewards, including: - TYFOR1KLIKES - Both rerolls and $ - TYFOR300CCU - Both rerolls and $ - TYFOR100LIKES - Trait rerolls and $ - Release - G$ and regular $ - LineageIsHere - ten of each reroll To redeem codes, players must log in, close the game, like the game page, join the game group, reopen the game, access the 'Settings' icon, enter a code, and click 'Enter'. Players can unlock permanent rank buffs by progressing through ranks, with each rank providing a 10% enhancement to earned currencies and experience points. More codes can be found by verifying the Roblox account for chat privileges, accessing the Lineage Piece Discord, or checking the Lineage Piece Trello for updates.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

Train Sim World 6 and a bunch of DLCs are 89% off in this new Humble Bundle

Train Sim World 6 was released in mid-2025 and has received significant updates, including new downloadable content (DLC). The game features new tracks such as the Exeter-to-Plymouth and Paignton Riviera Line in Devon, enhanced graphics that approach photo-realism, and additional routes like the US Morristown line and a revamped Bahnstrecke Leipzig-to-Dresden. It includes train announcements to improve immersion. The Train Sim World 6 First Class Ticket Bundle offers the base game and seven DLCs at an 89% discount, with a 50% discount on premium editions. Notable DLCs include the Flying Scotsman steam train and a remastered Great Western Express route. The bundle is available until May 8 for £13.40.

AppWizard

April 26, 2026

LEGO Minecraft book exclusive minifigure revealed

LEGO Minecraft: Craft Your Quest will be released on October 8, 2026, with pre-orders currently open on Amazon. The book includes over 40 LEGO elements, a play scene, a poster, and stickers, and features an Ori minifigure resembling the one on the cover. The hardcover edition is priced at £19.99, and pre-order customers will benefit from a price guarantee. A list of book-exclusive LEGO minifigures for 2026 will also be available, featuring themes like Marvel, DC, and NINJAGO.