PC configurations Archives

Winsage

March 12, 2026

How to Block Windows Upgrade for Good

Recent reports indicate concerns among users about automatic upgrades of Windows PCs, particularly for those who prefer to stay on Windows 10 or a specific feature update. Despite these fears, there is no evidence that Microsoft upgrades PCs without user consent; many users may unintentionally accept upgrade prompts or face bugs that trigger updates. Microsoft's upgrade approach can feel aggressive, especially when feature updates are bundled with regular updates. If the option to receive the latest updates is enabled, automatic installations may occur, particularly when a version reaches its end of service. Users can prevent unwanted upgrades through several methods: 1. Group Policy Editor: For Windows Pro or Enterprise users, they can lock in a specific feature update by accessing the Group Policy Editor and setting the desired OS edition and feature update version. 2. Windows Registry: Windows Home users can modify the Windows Registry to restrict upgrades. This involves creating specific DWORD and String Values to set the target OS edition and feature update version. 3. InControl App: A user-friendly application that allows users to freeze their current OS edition and feature update version, preventing upgrades while still allowing monthly updates. These methods enable users to maintain control over their operating systems and avoid unexpected upgrades.

AppWizard

February 19, 2026

Minecraft Java is switching from OpenGL to Vulkan for the Vibrant Visuals update

Work is progressing on the Vibrant Visuals update for Minecraft Java Edition, which involves a transition from OpenGL to Vulkan rendering technology. This change, announced by Mojang on February 18th, aims to enhance visual fidelity and performance while maintaining accessibility across various operating systems, including macOS and Linux. Mojang plans to use a translation layer for macOS users due to the lack of direct Vulkan support. Modders are advised to prepare for the transition, as it will require significant effort to update from OpenGL to Vulkan. Mojang encourages modders to move away from OpenGL and utilize internal rendering APIs. The rollout of Vulkan alongside OpenGL is expected to begin in development snapshots "sometime over the summer," allowing players to toggle between the two until Vulkan's performance and stability are confirmed. OpenGL will eventually be phased out.

AppWizard

January 29, 2026

Four classic Final Fantasy games get the DRM-free treatment from GOG, and they’re 60% off if you’re fast

Four Final Fantasy titles have been released on GOG, offering a DRM-free experience and a 60% discount until February 7. The titles are Final Fantasy 9, FF8 Remastered, FF4 3D Edition, and FF3 3D Edition, priced at .39 / £4.49 for FF3 and FF4, .39 for FF8, and .39 for FF9. These games are compatible with current Windows PC configurations and include tech support.

AppWizard

November 17, 2025

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 PC Performance Analysis

Activision has released Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, utilizing the IW Engine. Performance benchmarks were conducted using high-end hardware, including the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D and various graphics cards such as the AMD Radeon RX 6900XT and NVIDIA RTX 4090, on a Windows 10 system. The game features over 300 customizable settings for PC gamers and supports Intel XeSS and AMD FSR 4.0. Ray Tracing is available in Multiplayer and Zombies modes but not in the Campaign. All tested GPUs achieved over 60 FPS at 1080p on maximum settings, with AMD hardware showing superior performance. At 1440p, most GPUs maintained smooth gameplay, except for the NVIDIA RTX 2080Ti. At Native 4K, the top five GPUs exceeded 60 FPS, with AMD GPUs performing well against NVIDIA counterparts. The game has visual appeal but suffers from pop-in issues and inconsistent texture quality. Gameplay is smooth with minimal stuttering and responsive controls. Overall, the game performs well across various PC configurations, though its visual quality may not meet franchise expectations.

AppWizard

November 13, 2025

While we eagerly await the second coming of Steam Machines, it’s worth remembering what a gloriously awful mess Valve got itself in over a decade ago

Valve is reintroducing Steam Machines, a concept that initially faltered nearly a decade ago. The original Steam Machines were announced in 2013 alongside SteamOS and the Steam controller but faced challenges due to Valve's partnership model with various vendors, leading to a disjointed consumer experience. The gaming landscape shifted with the success of Windows 10, which solidified its dominance over Linux. Despite the original Steam Machines' failure, Valve launched the Steam Deck in February 2022, taking direct control of hardware and software, which proved successful. The new generation of Steam Machines will feature a custom AMD APU with a Zen 4 CPU and RDNA 3 GPU, aiming to provide a better big-screen gaming experience, although it may have limitations in upgradeability. The reception of this new iteration remains uncertain as it approaches its market debut in 2026.

Winsage

October 1, 2025

Windows 11 25H2 update is out now, but be warned – this is one of the strangest upgrades ever

Microsoft has rolled out the Windows 11 annual update, designated as version 25H2. This update is described as an "enablement package," allowing users on version 24H2 to access new features, including a revamped Start menu with a layout change and the option to disable Microsoft's recommendations. These enhancements are also available to users on 24H2, potentially even before those who upgrade to 25H2. The update includes improvements in security features, such as build and runtime vulnerability detection and AI-assisted secure coding. It also removes legacy features like PowerShell 2.0 and the Windows Management Instrumentation command line. Users can enable the 'Get the latest updates as soon as they’re available' setting to position themselves for the update, although compatibility checks may delay rollout for some PCs. Microsoft advises against bypassing the standard update process to avoid complications.

AppWizard

September 7, 2025

Official PC requirements for Vampire: The Masquerade

Paradox Interactive and The Chinese Room have released the official PC system requirements for Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2. Minimum Requirements: - 64-bit processor and operating system - OS: Windows 10 (64-bit) - Processor: Intel Core i3-8350K or AMD Ryzen 3 3300X - Memory: 8 GB RAM - Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 (6GB), AMD Radeon RX 480 (8GB), Intel Arc A580 (8GB, Resizable BAR enabled), or AMD Radeon 780M - DirectX: Version 12 - Storage: 30 GB available space Recommended Requirements: - 64-bit processor and operating system - OS: Windows 11 - Processor: Intel Core i5-12600K or AMD Ryzen 5 5600X - Memory: 16 GB RAM - Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti (8GB) or AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT (12GB) - DirectX: Version 12 - Storage: 30 GB available space The game will be powered by Unreal Engine 5 and will feature advanced technologies such as Lumen, Virtual Shadows, and Nanite. Paradox is also considering offering two clans, initially planned as paid DLC, as free DLC due to community feedback. The release date is set for October 21st.