online games Archives

AppWizard

September 26, 2026

The Elder Scrolls Online’s devs are pushing through hard times after layoffs and delays: ‘We didn’t want to rush to just hit a date’

The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) has faced significant challenges, including the cancellation of Project Blackbird in July 2025, which led to the layoff of 62 employees. In July 2026, Xbox's restructuring resulted in a reduction of 213 positions at Zenimax Online, shrinking the studio's workforce by approximately 60% within a year. Despite expressing optimism earlier in the year about refreshing animations and introducing new gameplay mechanics, the layoffs have led to the postponement of several updates until 2027. A representative from the development team emphasized the importance of maintaining quality over meeting deadlines.

Winsage

August 24, 2026

Windows 11 Now Suffering From BSODs And Instability Due To An Unlikely Culprit; RGB Peripherals, Microsoft Offers A Remedy To Users Experiencing Problems

Microsoft's update for Windows 11, designated “KB5121003,” has caused issues for users with RGB peripherals, leading to system freezes, game crashes, and Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) errors. The problems are linked to drivers associated with RGB lighting, particularly a driver named “inpoutx64,” which disrupts system stability when certain games are launched. Affected games include Arc Raiders, Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, and The Finals, with BSOD errors citing “EXCEPTIONACCESSVIOLATION.” Microsoft has suggested a workaround involving temporarily disabling the inpoutx64 driver via the Windows registry, but users are cautioned about potential complications. Disabling this driver may affect the functionality of RGB features on peripherals, and re-enabling it carries risks as well.

AppWizard

August 15, 2026

WoW’s haunted: Players report that their disconnected friends’ characters are starting to play the game on their own

Players of World of Warcraft (WoW) have reported that since the release of the Midnight's 12.1 patch, disconnected characters are exhibiting unexpected behavior by moving and engaging in combat autonomously. A YouTube video shared on the WoW subreddit shows an Evoker character continuing to fight after the player disconnected. Longtime players have expressed discomfort at seeing characters perform actions that contradict typical disconnection cues. Other players have shared similar experiences, leading to speculation that this may be an early version of a disconnect protection feature. WoW has previously used NPC dungeon follower technology, suggesting that Blizzard might have adapted this technology to allow disconnected characters to continue participating in combat. As of now, Blizzard has not commented on this phenomenon.

AppWizard

August 6, 2026

Starlink gaming: Can you really play online games via satellite internet?

Starlink uses a network of over 10,000 satellites in low Earth orbit to provide internet service, requiring users to have a clear view of the sky for optimal performance. It claims download speeds of up to 400 Mbps, which can be beneficial for gamers, although actual speeds may vary by location. Latency ranges from 25 to 60 milliseconds, which can impact performance in competitive gaming. Users can reduce latency by connecting devices via ethernet and ensuring the satellite receiver has an unobstructed view. The service has proven reliable for the author, who has experienced only one significant outage in over a year of use. Upload speeds are lower than traditional broadband, averaging 20-30 Mbps, which can be frustrating for tasks like 4K filming. Starlink is recommended for areas without fiber broadband, but 5G may be a better option where available due to higher potential speeds and lower latency. Starlink's hardware costs and subscription fees can be higher compared to 5G plans.

AppWizard

August 2, 2026

Question time: What makes a ‘good’ grind in an MMO?

Grinding in MMOs refers to the repetitive activities necessary to achieve specific objectives within the game. It is often debated among players, with some expressing aversion to it, while others find it an inherent part of the genre focused on progression and long-term goals. An example provided is the quest for relic weapons in Final Fantasy 14, where gathering 600 units of crystal paste from dungeons involves grinding low-level dungeons. The author reflects on their enjoyment of this grinding experience, suggesting that it may offer a sense of tranquility and could be beneficial within MMOs. The text invites readers to share their opinions on grinding, whether they find it enjoyable or frustrating.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

Question time: How long have you been playing MMOs?

A new bi-weekly column called Terminally Online from PC Gamer explores the world of massively multiplayer online games (MMOs), featuring insights, interviews, and guest writers. The design of contemporary MMORPGs has shifted towards seasonal structures to cater to "midcore" players who have limited time for gameplay. Popular MMOs like World of Warcraft and Final Fantasy XIV have been around for over 20 years and a decade, respectively, while newer games like Amazon's New World have struggled with player retention. The column encourages readers to share their experiences and reminisce about the MMO community.

AppWizard

July 15, 2026

What Do Pediatricians Really Think of Minecraft?

Minecraft is recognized by pediatric experts for its creative advantages, enhancing problem-solving skills and fostering teamwork when played with friends. However, excessive gaming can lead to obsessive behaviors, reduced physical activity, and potential health risks. Concerns about online safety and sleep disruption from gaming before bedtime are also noted. Experts recommend establishing clear limits on screen time and monitoring for signs of overuse, such as irritability. The American Academy of Pediatrics' 5 Cs of Media Use framework encourages parents to consider their child's individual needs, choose appropriate content, promote a balance of activities, and maintain open communication about online experiences.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

Remember Flash games? This Android app will let you relive your childhood

A developer named NaviVani-dev has launched an app called Swiff, which allows users to play over 100,000 Flash games and animations on Android devices by integrating with the Flashpoint Archive. Swiff features include gamepad mapping, on-screen controls, an offline proxy, frontend and Android shortcuts, save file export, and custom SWF content importing. It is powered by the open-source Ruffle engine and is committed to continuous improvement through updates based on user feedback. Other similar applications include Retro Flash Game Player and FlashArch.

TrendTechie

July 14, 2026

Steam, Dota 2 и Counter-Strike 2 снова столкнулись со сбоями по всему миру

On the evening of July 13, users of the Steam platform reported widespread connectivity issues starting around 20:00 MSK, affecting cloud saves and online game launches. Dota 2 players faced difficulties initiating match searches, while Counter-Strike 2 users encountered errors redirecting them to the main menu. The cause of the outages is unclear, but full access is expected to be restored within a few hours.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

Steam, Minecraft and Dota 2 simultaneously “went down” worldwide

Users globally are experiencing significant disruptions in the Steam service, with 46% facing server connection issues, 29% having login problems, and 14% encountering difficulties with downloading and updating games. Similar disruptions are reported in Minecraft and Dota 2. Additionally, the European Union has blacklisted members of a Russian intelligence group involved in espionage and cyberattacks against the EU and Ukraine since 2010.