PC port Archives

AppWizard

July 19, 2026

18 years later, Gears of War 2 finally comes to PC as a free download

Gears of War 2: Hollow is an unofficial PC port of the 2008 game Gears of War 2, developed by Helios, nearly two decades after its original Xbox 360 release. This custom community build includes the original campaign, multiplayer, horde, and cooperative modes, along with all downloadable content maps. The port is based on a flawed, previously unreleased PC development build and incorporates all content from the Xbox 360 version for single-player gameplay. The multiplayer aspect is still in testing and is advised to be treated as a beta version. The port is compatible with Windows and has been reported to work on Linux-based systems like the Steam Deck. Players can use either a controller or keyboard and mouse, although the user interface defaults to controller prompts. The port features a launcher for customizing settings such as resolution, frame rate limits, and graphical details. Players are encouraged to have a legally obtained copy of Gears of War 2 to respect intellectual property rights.

AppWizard

July 18, 2026

After 15 years, I’ve got Microsoft’s shunned Fable 3 port to work on PC – and it feels like a new RPG

The author reflects on their experience with Fable 3, suggesting it feels fresh despite being a 16-year-old RPG. They express concerns about the future of the Fable series, particularly Fable 4, in light of rising console prices and recent layoffs at Microsoft. The author highlights the visual appeal of Fable 3 when played on a modern PC setup, noting the game's charm and the enhanced graphics at 4K resolution. They emphasize the importance of preserving gaming experiences and worry that new players may not access the superior PC version of Fable 3. The author questions whether Microsoft might release an updated version of the game in the future.

AppWizard

July 17, 2026

The best Mario Kart game gets free PC port, includes 200 tracks

Mario Kart Wiicompiled, an unofficial port of the original Mario Kart Wii, is set to be released next month by YouTuber Patchzy. This adaptation is designed for PC and features both controller and keyboard controls, moving away from the original's motion controls. Players will have access to all 32 classic tracks from Mario Kart Wii and over 200 additional tracks through the Retro Rewind feature. The port aims to maintain the original's graphics while allowing for potential enhancements, supporting uncapped framerate and 4K resolution. Mario Kart Wii was originally released in 2008, received a Metacritic score of 82/100, and sold over 37.38 million copies, making it one of the most successful titles on the Wii.

AppWizard

July 15, 2026

GTA 6’s Lack of a PC Port Isn’t Out of Greed, According to a Former Rockstar Producer

Former Rockstar Games producer John Ricchio discussed the development timeline for PC versions of games in relation to console releases. He explained that starting with console development is advantageous due to their limited hardware capabilities, making it easier to create a game within specific constraints. Ricchio noted that while a PC build of Red Dead Redemption existed during its development, the decision to delay its release was influenced by prioritizing resources for Grand Theft Auto 5. He emphasized the need for a strong business rationale for porting games to different platforms, as the complexity of development often requires significant resource allocation. As Rockstar prepares for the launch of Grand Theft Auto 6 on November 19th for Xbox Series X|S and PS5, the focus is on delivering a polished product.

AppWizard

July 15, 2026

GTA 6 isn’t on PC at launch because it’s ‘always better to start with the constraints’, suggests former Rockstar producer

Rockstar Games is launching Grand Theft Auto 6 without a simultaneous PC port, which has disappointed some PC players. Former Rockstar producer John Ricchio explained that the decision is based on resource allocation and the need for a compelling business case for PC ports. He noted that past hardware limitations favored console development, but the performance gap between consoles and PCs has narrowed recently. Despite the delayed PC version, 39% of players are willing to wait for it. The game, titled Phantom Vice Auto, is set to launch on November 19.

AppWizard

July 14, 2026

You can now get Nintendo Switch’s rarest Mario game cheaper on PC

Nintendo released Super Mario 3D All-Stars, a collection featuring Super Mario 64, Super Mario Sunshine, and Super Mario Galaxy, but it was limited and lacked significant enhancements. Super Mario 64 is available through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, and Super Mario Galaxy has a standalone release, while Super Mario Sunshine is only available in the discontinued collection, making it costly for players. The market for Super Mario 3D All-Stars shows varied pricing, with some sellers inflating prices significantly. An alternative, Super Mario Sunshine ‘ReShine,’ is being developed for PC through decompilation efforts, requiring a physical copy of the original game. Gameplay footage has been shared, demonstrating that the port is fully playable and resembles the original. The ReShine version is not yet publicly available but is expected soon. Playing on PC allows for mods and performance enhancements but may lose the authentic experience. Nintendo has released a Bluetooth GameCube controller for the Nintendo Switch 2, which can be used to recreate the original gameplay feel. The decision to restrict Super Mario Sunshine to the collection raises questions about its availability on the Nintendo Switch Online service.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

GTA 6 isn’t coming to PC at launch, but not because Rockstar doesn’t “care about PC,” says GTA 5 producer: “If you’re working on that, you’re not working on something else”

Many fans are concerned about the absence of a PC port for the upcoming release of GTA 6. Former Rockstar producer John Ricchio explained that while the studio is not against any platform, they evaluate the investment of resources for PC versions based on practical considerations. He noted that developing for console hardware first can be more efficient than scaling down from PC. Advancements in console technology have alleviated some challenges, but focusing on a PC port can divert resources from other projects. Additionally, Rockstar faces a potential million-dollar fine in Australia if it does not comply with new online safety laws requiring player identification to access the game.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

A Silent Hill fan is making a PC port of Silent Hill: Downpour that restores a cut boss battle and plenty more

Silent Hill: Downpour is a semi-open world installment of the Silent Hill franchise, focusing on a prison escapee and featuring engaging side quests that explore the town's ghostly lore. One notable quest involves following color-coded ribbons to find a missing girl. The game has been compared to Silent Hill 2, though some consider it derivative. Anticipation is building for Silent Hill: Townfall, a new project from Screen Burn Interactive, which aims to bring a fresh Scottish perspective to the series, following mixed reactions to Silent Hill F's arena battles.

AppWizard

July 13, 2026

Super Mario 64’s superior version is finally getting a PC port

Super Mario 64 is considered one of Nintendo's best games and is essential for Nintendo 64 owners. It was reimagined for the Nintendo DS, which introduced new playable characters (Yoshi, Luigi, and Wario) and levels, as well as multiplayer experiences. However, the DS version has drawbacks, including graphics that may not perform well on larger screens and controls that are less effective for a 3D platformer. A PC decompilation project led by tangosdev aims to improve these issues, potentially combining features from both the original and DS versions. Progress is ongoing, and while completion is not imminent, it may resolve the debate over which version is superior.

AppWizard

July 12, 2026

Console-exclusive Silent Hill game finally gets PC release 14 years later

Aleksey Shevchenko, a Russian developer, has announced an unofficial PC port of Silent Hill Downpour, originally released in 2012 for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. This port will feature enhanced graphics with resolutions up to 1440p and support for 60 frames per second, along with improved lighting and shadow effects. It will include both controller and keyboard/mouse support, quick-save and quick-load options, and the ability to skip cutscenes. The port will also restore previously cut content, including deleted cutscenes, dialogues, notes, quests, 3D models, weapons, and a teased deleted boss fight. A specific release date has not been provided, but it is expected to launch in autumn. Players will need to own the original game to access the port. The original Silent Hill Downpour received mixed reviews, with criticism of its combat mechanics and technical issues but praise for its character depth and storytelling.