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XCOM designer Jake Solomon announces surprise closure of his studio alongside a first look at its canceled life sim, 'the game we poured our hearts into'
AppWizard
February 20, 2026

XCOM designer Jake Solomon announces surprise closure of his studio alongside a first look at its canceled life sim, ‘the game we poured our hearts into’

Jake Solomon, founder of Midsummer Studios, announced the studio's closure and shared a gameplay video of "Burbank," a life simulation game. The game aimed to empower players as storytellers and was described as a blend of "Life Sims + The Truman Show." Despite receiving an 88% review score and being a Game of the Year runner-up for "Midnight Suns," the studio struggled with sales. Midsummer Studios had secured funding from various venture capital partners and Krafton but was seeking additional funding rounds. The gameplay footage of Burbank featured a polished aesthetic, with plans to use generative AI for character voices while ensuring visual art was created by human artists.
Best PC Sports Games for 2026
AppWizard
December 30, 2025

Best PC Sports Games for 2026

Sports games on PC in 2026 showcase a diverse array of titles that blend arcade excitement, intricate simulations, and innovative concepts. Modern PC hardware enhances the gaming experience, allowing titles that once required specialized setups to run seamlessly on contemporary devices. Arcade-style sports games benefit from lower system requirements and simplified controls, while simulation-heavy titles are better suited for desktops. Standout games include Baseball Stars 2, which maintains its charm with engaging mechanics, and RetroMania Wrestling, which focuses on recognizable gameplay rather than realism. Fire Pro Wrestling World offers extensive customization and online play, appealing to players who enjoy fine-tuning their matches. Mutant Football League reimagines American football with fictional teams and exaggerated violence, while Super Mega Baseball 3 combines stylized visuals with intricate statistical systems. Rocket League remains popular for its skill-based multiplayer, and Windjammers 2 emphasizes strategic gameplay. Turbo Golf Racing merges golf with kart racing, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 & 2 remasters classic skateboarding titles. The PC platform thrives on variety, offering arcade-style action, intricate simulations, and experimental hybrids. Notable sports games in 2026 include Rocket League, Super Mega Baseball 3, Fire Pro Wrestling World, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 & 2, and Windjammers 2. Many sports games are suitable for the Steam Deck, especially arcade-style titles. While there are fewer officially licensed simulations on PC, some titles cater to simulation-focused players. Current trends include hybrid designs, enhanced community tools, and growing interest in customization systems.
It was a good year for survival crafting sickos, and I'll be playing some of these well into 2026
AppWizard
December 27, 2025

It was a good year for survival crafting sickos, and I’ll be playing some of these well into 2026

The author is actively involved in a community focused on survival crafting games, exploring various titles such as Dune: Awakening, Grounded 2, and Abiotic Factor. They have a nostalgic connection to Pax Dei, which features a grind-heavy, player-driven universe but faces challenges in player retention. Misery, currently in early access, offers a melancholic atmosphere with potential for future development. Recent updates to Rust, including a new jungle biome and blueprint system, have sparked renewed interest. Abiotic Factor, recognized as the Best Co-op Game of 2025, remains the author's favorite due to its charm and homage to the Half-Life series.
PUBG creator says he "100% expected" negative reactions to his new survival game, but its Steam reviews are improving fast
AppWizard
December 7, 2025

PUBG creator says he “100% expected” negative reactions to his new survival game, but its Steam reviews are improving fast

A 20-second teaser for Prologue, the debut title from Brendan Greene's studio, was showcased at the 2019 Game Awards. The game recently launched in early access, generating excitement from Greene, who noted its unique design allows for millions of different map seeds, making each exploration distinct. Prologue does not include quest markers, NPCs, or enemies, focusing instead on survival against the wilderness. Upon launch, it received a 'Mixed' user score on Steam, with some players dissatisfied with its perceived emptiness. Greene anticipated such reviews, emphasizing that the game encourages players to craft their own adventures. Prologue features three game modes and extensive replayability, but lacks traditional survival game elements. Greene acknowledged the trend of early access being misused by some studios and expressed his commitment to engaging with the community for feedback. Players have achieved notable survival feats within the game, such as surviving for 18 or 19 days and creating self-imposed challenges. Greene also mentioned community activities, like weekly challenges based on game seeds.
Baldur's Gate 3 is 'an inspiration' for CD Projekt, but it's all-in on big open worlds: 'We are definitely not going to make a game like Larian did'
AppWizard
November 24, 2025

Baldur’s Gate 3 is ‘an inspiration’ for CD Projekt, but it’s all-in on big open worlds: ‘We are definitely not going to make a game like Larian did’

CD Projekt's joint CEO Michał Nowakowski acknowledged the success of Baldur's Gate 3 and its influence on classic CRPG elements, but emphasized that CD Projekt Red (CDPR) is pursuing its own direction for future projects. He stated that while they find inspiration in Baldur's Gate 3, CDPR will not create a game similar to Larian Studios' work and intends to innovate beyond their previous titles like The Witcher 3 and Cyberpunk 2077. Nowakowski mentioned a strategic shift towards focusing on core pillar games rather than spinoffs, indicating that CDPR aims to prioritize the development of main titles that enhance open-world gaming.
The '80s and '90s PC games unbelievably still being updated today
AppWizard
November 18, 2025

The ’80s and ’90s PC games unbelievably still being updated today

The life cycle of video games can vary greatly, with some experiencing rapid success followed by decline, while others remain relevant for decades due to dedicated players and ongoing developer support. As of 2024, several enduring games continue to thrive, having received updates since 2018. - Klondike: Developed on a Lisa computer, it has been maintained by Michael Casteel for 40 years, with updates including color in 1988, animations in 1989, and high-resolution cards in 2004. - NetHack: Launched in 1987, it has received updates as recently as February 2023 and has an active community with leaderboards available on nethack.alt.org. - Gemstone IV: Launched in 1988, it is one of the oldest MMORPGs, continuously updated by a dedicated team, and has a subscription model to maintain its player base. - Kingdom of Drakkar: Since 1989, it has evolved from a text-based game to a graphical RPG, maintained by creator Brad Lineberger. - Genesis: A MUD and fantasy RPG since 1989, it has expanded significantly and continues to receive updates. - UnReal World: Released in 1992, it is a roguelike RPG inspired by Finland's late Iron Age, with continuous updates since 2018. - Meridian 59: Released in 1996, it remains active with volunteer developers and annual updates, despite ownership changes. - Furcadia: Launched in 1996, it emphasizes user-generated content and was revitalized in 2016 after a successful Kickstarter campaign. - Ultima Online: Since 1997, it has maintained an active community and continues to receive updates and expansions. - Utopia: A text-based fantasy strategy game launched in 1998, it has seen ongoing development and community engagement. - Age of Empires 2: Released in 1999, it was revitalized by a Definitive Edition in 2019 and continues to receive expansions and updates.
8 years later, Manor Lords publisher reveals its surprise sequel to one of the most brutal horror games ever
AppWizard
October 29, 2025

8 years later, Manor Lords publisher reveals its surprise sequel to one of the most brutal horror games ever

The narrator recalls a childhood memory of playing the horror game F.E.A.R with their cousin at age 18, which left a lasting impact on them. They describe a specific moment involving a jumpscare from the character Alma that caused them to panic and flee. As an adult, the narrator's partner is playing Darkwood, prompting the narrator to relive their past trauma. Darkwood 2 is being developed by Ice-Pick Lodge, with Acid Wizard consulting, and is designed as a hardcore survival game set in the marshlands of the former Aral Sea. The game features a top-down perspective, resource management, and player-driven narrative choices. It will be available on PC and Game Pass, but currently lacks a release date.
SolrynMC Redefines Minecraft Survival Servers with Unique Player Abilities and Crossplay Support
AppWizard
October 15, 2025

SolrynMC Redefines Minecraft Survival Servers with Unique Player Abilities and Crossplay Support

SolrynMC is a Minecraft server that offers a custom survival mode featuring innovative gameplay mechanics, including player mutations and abilities that enhance gameplay. It has a player-driven economy allowing participants to create shops and trade goods, fostering interaction and competition. The server emphasizes community engagement through daily events and challenges, supported by an active management team. SolrynMC supports cross-platform play for both Java and Bedrock editions of Minecraft, enabling a larger player base. Future game modes are in development, indicating ongoing expansion and content updates. Players can connect to the server at play.solrynmc.net.
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