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AppWizard
July 30, 2026

OneBlock Online

OneBlock is a Minecraft game mode where players start with a single block that evolves through 29 phases, offering valuable loot. It includes multiplayer features, daily and weekly quests for XP, and the ability to own multiple islands. Players can engage in monster islands for rare drops, unlock custom enchantments, and utilize worker minions for automation. The game also offers extensive customization options for islands and characters, a player-driven economy, a leaderboard system, and server-wide events. Future updates are expected to introduce more phases, blocks, and items.
This is my 3rd time playing EVE Online's upcoming extraction shooter little brother, and it finally feels like it's coming together⁠—all without the ambitious crossover features it was made for
AppWizard
July 14, 2026

This is my 3rd time playing EVE Online’s upcoming extraction shooter little brother, and it finally feels like it’s coming together⁠—all without the ambitious crossover features it was made for

In 2013, CCP Games launched Dust 514, a first-person shooter for PlayStation 3 that aimed to complement EVE Online but struggled due to its exclusivity. The developer, now known as Fenris Creations, is revisiting this concept with EVE Vanguard, which combines extraction gameplay with cross-game integration. The game features engaging gameplay and allows players to deploy immediately from the "war barge" menu. Initial objectives focus on eliminating foes and looting, promoting exploration. The playtest revealed solid mechanics, satisfying weapon feedback, and a core gameplay loop of exploration, combat, and survival. Fenris aims to create an experience that players will miss if canceled, reminiscent of the nostalgia for Dust 514. Players can follow updates on Fenris' official website or Steam.
How do you reconcile your lore-heavy, dark sci-fi MMO with mod tools that might let people get way too goofy? 'Everything's canon,' say the developers of EVE Frontier
AppWizard
July 7, 2026

How do you reconcile your lore-heavy, dark sci-fi MMO with mod tools that might let people get way too goofy? ‘Everything’s canon,’ say the developers of EVE Frontier

EVE Frontier is an early access space survival MMO that features a contrast between its dystopian narrative and a vibrant modding ecosystem. Players inhabit cloned bodies known as "shells," which can be traded, upgraded, or sacrificed, adding strategic layers to gameplay. The origins of these consciousnesses are mysterious, possibly containing remnants of human culture. The game embraces player creativity, with everything created by players considered canon within the universe. The latest cycle of EVE Frontier launched on June 25, introducing fully modular ship building, an enhanced new player experience, a five-day free trial, and innovative gamepad controls.
'An evolved game of cat and mouse:' Alien: Isolation 2 leads on taking the alien outside, the good kind of AI, and why a sequel took so long
AppWizard
June 10, 2026

‘An evolved game of cat and mouse:’ Alien: Isolation 2 leads on taking the alien outside, the good kind of AI, and why a sequel took so long

Two years ago, Sega and Creative Assembly announced a sequel to Alien: Isolation, which won game of the year in 2014. The original game has maintained a strong reputation in the stealth genre, known for its unique enemy AI that enhances the horror experience. As the game nears its 10th anniversary, it continues to attract new fans. The sequel's development team includes veterans from the original game and new members, fostering innovative gameplay design. The team aims to create a "survival sandbox" that offers players multiple choices and paths, enhancing player-driven narratives. They are also addressing pacing issues from the original game and integrating mechanics from the start for a cohesive design. The team is committed to delivering an authentic Alien experience while exploring the franchise's lore and connecting the game to broader narratives.
Subnautica 2 devs say it's 'an exploration game first,' expanding on the first game's 'masterclass' in designing player-driven discovery
AppWizard
May 1, 2026

Subnautica 2 devs say it’s ‘an exploration game first,’ expanding on the first game’s ‘masterclass’ in designing player-driven discovery

The Subnautica series is classified as a "Survival" game due to elements like resource gathering, crafting, and the threat of drowning. However, Anthony Gallegos, the lead gameplay designer for Subnautica 2, stated that the game is primarily focused on exploration, with survival mechanics serving to support this exploration. Unknown Worlds aims to refine survival systems while maintaining an emphasis on exploration in the upcoming release of Subnautica 2, which is set for early access on May 14.
After 23 years, CCP is about to do the unthinkable: add a non-PvP zone to EVE Online
AppWizard
April 18, 2026

After 23 years, CCP is about to do the unthinkable: add a non-PvP zone to EVE Online

EVE Online is introducing a new non-PvP zone called Exordium, aimed at providing a welcoming entry point for new players. This zone will allow rookies to begin their journey in a space designed specifically for them, with PvP against inexperienced players discouraged and rookie griefing prohibited. Exordium is set to open for exploration ahead of EVE Fanfest in May, with a full rollout expected during the summer.
Portal writer Erik Wolpaw is "not worried about AI taking over creative writing," but it could be the straight-faced foil to GTA's chaos
AppWizard
March 25, 2026

Portal writer Erik Wolpaw is “not worried about AI taking over creative writing,” but it could be the straight-faced foil to GTA’s chaos

Erik Wolpaw, known for his work in game writing at Valve, shared insights on generative AI tools during a podcast. He has been experimenting with AI alongside colleagues, emphasizing that this is a personal exploration rather than a Valve initiative. Wolpaw is skeptical about AI's ability to create compelling narratives, stating it is currently ineffective in creative writing. He sees potential for AI to enhance character interactions in games, particularly in real-time responses to player actions, citing Left 4 Dead as an example. He believes AI should improve player experiences rather than serve as a cost-cutting measure. Wolpaw has also experimented with AI-generated voices but finds them inferior to real actors. He acknowledges the dual nature of AI, which can be both creatively destructive and pose existential risks. Wolpaw recognizes the challenges of game development and is realistic about his future in the industry.
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.
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