Park Archives

AppWizard

October 13, 2026

Google Adds YouTube Background Playback to Android Automotive Cars

Google is updating Android Automotive with a redesigned Play Store that enhances user experience for drivers, accommodating various infotainment screen sizes and orientations. The new Play Store will feature improved categorization and a refreshed storefront, with over 700 apps available, including new additions like STARZ, Firefox, Ludo King, and JioHotstar. A new YouTube playback feature allows users to watch videos while parked, with audio continuing seamlessly when driving, requiring a YouTube Premium subscription. This functionality confirms the previously hinted park-to-driving capability for Android Automotive systems. Android Automotive operates directly on the car’s infotainment system, while Android Auto mirrors apps from a connected smartphone. Google has not clarified if the new automatic switch from video to audio will be available on Android Auto.

AppWizard

October 11, 2026

Deadlock’s City Never Sleeps update makes Valve’s MOBA my favorite videogame setting in years

Deadlock is a game currently accessible through beta invites distributed by Valve. The recent update, City Never Sleeps, features a transformed map with new neutral monsters and a redesign that enhances its landscapes. The update introduces new characters, including Deadman Danny, Nurse Harrow, Rat King, Solomon, and Baba, each with unique designs and voice lines. The update also expands the existing cast with new conversations and lore, contributing to the game's depth. The author has invested over 350 hours into Deadlock and recommends it for its captivating atmosphere, despite it being in the MOBA genre.

AppWizard

October 9, 2026

Wardogs will bribe players with cash and XP to pick Blue team in Season 2

- Lonestar cash and XP bonuses are introduced for Season 2, along with a new Bakurani spawn. - Bulkhead CEO Joe Brammer stated they are looking to improve the win rate of the Blue team. - Players have historically avoided the Blue team due to balancing issues, such as poor camouflage and spawn points. - The stigma surrounding the Blue team may be self-perpetuating, as players who struggle with it tend to avoid it, leading to a cycle of less experienced players choosing Blue. - The introduction of XP and cash incentives aims to change the dynamics of team selection, with expectations that Blue will become more popular in Season 2. - Recent observations indicate that the Blue team is becoming more competitive, scoring points and achieving victories on NA West servers. - The October 15 patch for Wardogs will introduce new firearms, vehicles, rainy weather across all maps, and will reset player progress, marking the first progression wipe.

AppWizard

October 7, 2026

I had 3 hours with Arc Raiders Frozen Trails update and spent most of it playing with the new grapple hook

Morgan Park discusses the recent gaming session of Arc Raiders, highlighting the introduction of a grapple hook that operates with a simulated rope, allowing players to climb, swing, and descend with versatility. The grapple hook can adhere to various surfaces and be redeployed midair without cooldown, enhancing movement options significantly. The Frozen Trail update also includes a launcher that tethers objects and a grenade for pulling down Arc bots, though testing of these features is limited. The skill tree has been reworked, allowing players to invest XP points in abilities, but the changes provide only incremental boosts rather than transformative gameplay alterations. The focus remains on loot and crafting rather than combat enhancements. Pendola Pass is visually appealing but feels familiar compared to other maps like Marathon, lacking unique gameplay elements. The snowy landscape introduces some challenges, such as flash freezes and a new enemy, the Bully Arc, but overall, the gameplay revisits familiar territory. The Emperor is mentioned as a significant draw for players, though it was not explored during the preview.

AppWizard

October 4, 2026

The Simpsons Game Unofficial PC Port Released

The unofficial PC version of The Simpsons Game has been released nearly two decades after its original console launch in 2007. It is based on the Xbox 360 version and is compatible with Windows, Linux, and Steam Deck. The game has been rebuilt for x86-64 architecture, allowing it to run without CPU emulation, and supports Direct3D 12 and Vulkan. Players can experience fluid gameplay at 60 FPS, with menus and loading screens capped at 30 FPS. The port includes adjustable render scales for improved graphics and supports both controllers and customizable keyboard and mouse controls. The launcher features a new theme, automatic settings saving, and improved user interface. Performance enhancements include a refined timer setting for audio issues, increased frame rates on the Steam Deck, and reduced video memory usage. The game is available for download, but players must provide their own Xbox 360 ISO. Additionally, there is a growing library of unofficial PC ports of console-exclusive games, including titles like Super Mario 64 and Crash Team Racing.

AppWizard

October 4, 2026

Time Crisis Arcade-Perfect PC Port Is Now Available for Download

An unofficial PC version of the arcade classic Time Crisis has been released as part of the “Namco System 22 games for PC” initiative, which aims to bring several arcade games to the PC platform. The namco22-decompile project currently supports five titles: Time Crisis, Rave Racer, Dirt Dash, Tokyo Wars, and Prop Cycle. These games run more efficiently than traditional emulators and support widescreen formats and resolutions up to 4K. The Time Crisis port features mouse control support and compatibility with light guns. Players need to supply their own ROM files to enjoy the games, as the project does not include in-game assets. Other unofficial PC ports include titles such as Super Mario 64, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Donkey Kong Country games. September 2026 has seen various unofficial PC ports, including Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link, GTA: Liberty City Stories, and Super Mario Strikers.

AppWizard

October 4, 2026

Deadlock is the king of MOBA character designs, and it’s all thanks to Valve’s embrace of New Yorkyness

In Valve’s MOBA, Deadlock, players explore The Cursed Apple, an urban setting inspired by New York City. The game features new characters that embody the essence of city life, including Solomon, an elderly chess player, Baba, a whimsical grandmother, and the Rat King, who commands rats. Other characters include a reimagined Chinese immigrant construction worker as Sun Wukong, Vyper, a flirtatious criminal, and Seven, a pulp villain with a softer side. Deadlock distinguishes itself with character depth, contrasting with typical MOBA heroes. The game has over 100 unique names for the Rat King's rats and more than 10,000 voice lines. Recent reports indicate a peak in concurrent players, reflecting its growing popularity. The focus on New York archetypes opens possibilities for future characters, such as a ghost journalist or a witch with a hot dog cart.

AppWizard

October 4, 2026

Launched in 2020, Minecraft’s Uncensored Library held around 300 books; RSF continues adding censored journalism

The Uncensored Library is a digital archive created by Reporters Without Borders and BlockWorks within Minecraft to combat censorship by providing access to banned journal articles. It features approximately 300 books across twelve wings, representing countries with restricted information. The library is accessible through a dedicated Minecraft server or by downloading it for Windows and Mac users. The selection of countries and articles is based on Google Analytics and the Press Freedom Index, with contributions from journalists. The library continues to grow, with recent updates adding new content from various countries, including the United States, Egypt, Belarus, and Russia. Since its launch in 2020, it has attracted over one million visitors and its books have been read ten million times.

AppWizard

October 3, 2026

The latest planning applications in Trafford from last week

Trafford Council has received the following planning applications: - Land Off Bold Street, Old Trafford: Application for approval of details reserved by conditions of planning permission 114786/FUL/24, including landscape maintenance, remediation strategy, and sustainable drainage scheme. Ref. No: 120058/CND/26. - 170 Lostock Road, Davyhulme, Manchester M41 0TB: Certificate of proposed lawful development requested for the formation of a rear dormer. Ref. No: 120063/CPL/26. - 39 Green Walk, Timperley, Altrincham WA15 6JN: Application for the demolition of an existing garage and erection of a single-storey front extension, two-storey side extension, and part single/part two-storey rear extension. Ref. No: 120043/HHA/26. - Bridge Works, 2 Bridgewater Embankment, Altrincham WA14 4RL: Non-material amendment proposed to planning permission 111563/FUL/23 to vary wording of condition 4 and extend timescale to within 31 months. Ref. No: 120049/NMA/26. - White House, Booth Road, Altrincham WA14 4AU: Application for the demolition of an existing detached garage and construction of a single-storey rear and side extension with first-floor access, basement car parking with external car lift, and landscaping. Ref. No: 120044/HHA/26. - T G I Fridays, Cross Street, Sale M33 7JR: Application for approval of details reserved by condition 5 (landscaping) of planning permission 118058/FUL/25. Ref. No: 120053/CND/26. - 22 Oulton Avenue, Sale M33 2WA: Application for the erection of a single-storey rear and side extension, along with a new front porch. Ref. No: 120046/HHA/26. - 1 Bow Green Road, Bowdon, Altrincham WA14 3LZ: Proposal for the erection of a two-storey front extension and part single-storey/part two-storey side and rear extensions, with external alterations. Ref. No: 120036/HHA/26. - 54 New Street, Altrincham WA14 2QP: Application to demolish a conservatory and erect a rear extension with external alterations including replacement windows and a rooflight. Ref. No: 120038/HHA/26. - 1 Trafford Wharf Road, Trafford Park, Manchester M17 1BY: Non-material amendment proposed to planning permission 114818/FUL/24 to amend wording of conditions 3 and 4 and change the phasing plan. Ref. No: 120041/NMA/26.

AppWizard

October 1, 2026

How to conquer Kuttenberg

Companion Squad, created by Steam user Triget, allows players to summon an army of 30 mercenaries for an assault on Kuttenberg. Allies such as Hans Capon and Radzig join, increasing the force to 43 soldiers. Henry, the protagonist, is humorously pantless due to a save transfer issue. The army, initially defensive, engages in a skirmish with the city guard and eventually overwhelms them. However, the situation spirals out of control as the army indiscriminately attacks nobles and townsfolk, leading to chaos. By nightfall, seven soldiers are dead, and Henry reflects on the violence. He ultimately takes control of Kuttenberg, but faces severe repercussions for the destruction caused during the coup.