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Instead of difficulty, Obsidian designer Josh Sawyer thinks in terms of 3 RPG player archetypes: 'What are they trying to get out of this game?'
AppWizard
January 27, 2026

Instead of difficulty, Obsidian designer Josh Sawyer thinks in terms of 3 RPG player archetypes: ‘What are they trying to get out of this game?’

Josh Sawyer, design director at Obsidian, discussed the concept of difficulty in game design on his YouTube channel, emphasizing the need to understand player expectations rather than viewing difficulty as a fixed set of challenges. He highlighted the benefits of offering detailed difficulty settings, as some players desire granular modifications to enhance their gaming experience. Sawyer categorized RPG players into three types: adventurers, survivalists, and explorers, noting that each type has different motivations and preferences. He suggested starting with complex mechanics that can be simplified based on player preferences, using bullet drop mechanics as an example. Sawyer concluded that providing granular difficulty options is advantageous for both players and developers and committed to prioritizing this approach in future projects.
For all the Divinity dev details Larian isn't ready to comment on, we got a firm answer about the game's controls: the studio's sticking to its guns on no WASD movement
AppWizard
January 10, 2026

For all the Divinity dev details Larian isn’t ready to comment on, we got a firm answer about the game’s controls: the studio’s sticking to its guns on no WASD movement

During Larian Studios' AMA session about their upcoming RPG, Divinity, it was confirmed that the game will use a mouse-driven control scheme on PC, and there will be no WASD movement option. This decision aligns with Larian's design philosophy, and while some players may be disappointed, there is potential for a WASD movement mod to be developed by the community.
Following Black Ops 7 woes, Call of Duty finally sees sense and says no more back-to-back series releases
AppWizard
December 10, 2025

Following Black Ops 7 woes, Call of Duty finally sees sense and says no more back-to-back series releases

Activision announced that it will no longer release back-to-back titles of Modern Warfare or Black Ops games, aiming to deliver a unique experience each year. The company acknowledged that the Call of Duty franchise has not fully met player expectations and promised to improve in the future. Black Ops 7 has underperformed, leading to this strategic shift, although Activision emphasized its commitment to providing significant post-launch support for the game. The multiplayer experience of Black Ops 7 is regarded as one of the best since Black Ops 4, despite criticisms of its content and similarities to previous titles.
Phasmophobia devs say all that live service malarkey can do one: they focus on making 'a fun game that people want to play because it's fun'
AppWizard
November 17, 2025

Phasmophobia devs say all that live service malarkey can do one: they focus on making ‘a fun game that people want to play because it’s fun’

Phasmophobia, developed by Kinetic Games, has become a popular ghost-hunting game on PC since its early access launch, earning around 340,000 "overwhelmingly positive" reviews on Steam. The developers emphasize that they do not consider it a live service game, offering only seasonal content without microtransactions or DLCs. They prioritize a healthy work environment and the freedom to release content when it is ready, focusing on player enjoyment rather than constant updates. The game aims to evoke nostalgia for childhood gaming experiences, encouraging players to engage for fun rather than feeling pressured by progression.
Civilization 7's new initiative lets you test features before they go live, including the one you've all been asking for
AppWizard
November 4, 2025

Civilization 7’s new initiative lets you test features before they go live, including the one you’ve all been asking for

Firaxis is launching the Firaxis Feature Workshop to enhance player engagement and satisfaction for Civilization 7 by incorporating community feedback. The studio is developing a mode that allows players to guide a single civilization through all three ages, responding to player criticism of the current gameplay. Creative Director Ed Beach mentioned that they are playtesting this feature and inviting community members to help refine it. Following the recent patch 1.3.0, which included a naval rework and new civilizations, the team will focus on larger features like the single-civ mode and the Workshop, with plans for smaller, less frequent updates. Early participants in the Workshop will test upcoming changes to Legacy Paths and Victories. Applications to join the Workshop are currently open, and successful applicants will have access to a private Discord server for feedback.
Pillars of Eternity's 10-year anniversary turn-based mode will sidestep the biggest issues I was worried it would have, and you can try it this week
AppWizard
November 3, 2025

Pillars of Eternity’s 10-year anniversary turn-based mode will sidestep the biggest issues I was worried it would have, and you can try it this week

Obsidian Entertainment announced that the open beta for the turn-based mode of Pillars of Eternity will begin on Wednesday, November 5. Director Josh Sawyer discussed the evolution of gameplay mechanics, noting the initial use of real-time with pause (RTWP) in the original game and the challenges posed by introducing a turn-based mode in Pillars of Eternity 2: Deadfire. The gaming landscape has shifted, with modern players expecting faster-paced action and greater tactical depth, prompting Obsidian to adapt its approach to meet these expectations.
The proof is undeniable: People will still pay for great shooters
AppWizard
November 1, 2025

The proof is undeniable: People will still pay for great shooters

The resurgence of paid multiplayer games, exemplified by titles like Arc Raiders and Battlefield 6, indicates that players are willing to invest in quality experiences. These games have quickly risen to the top of sales charts and received positive reviews, highlighting a shift in player expectations towards valuing complete packages over free-to-play models. Free games often come with pressure to spend, while paid titles provide a sense of completeness with rich content from the outset. Historically, free-to-play games launch with minimal content, leading to frustration among players. Purchasing a game typically ensures access to a comprehensive package without additional costs. However, there are complexities, as seen with Battlefield 6's introduction of pop-up ads for a battle pass, which has led to community dissatisfaction. In contrast, Arc Raiders offers a free battle pass with optional premium skins, easing the pressure on players. The revival of paid multiplayer games is enriching the shooter genre, suggesting a promising future for developers and players.
KCD2 publisher's stunning, troubled Norse RPG gets a whole new version just two months after launch, and it changes everything
AppWizard
October 31, 2025

KCD2 publisher’s stunning, troubled Norse RPG gets a whole new version just two months after launch, and it changes everything

The original Baldur's Gate was released in 1998, with its enhanced edition launched in 2012, 14 years later. The remastered version of Neverwinter Nights came out in 2018, 16 years after the original, while Aspyr Media's sequel enhancement was released 19 years post-launch. Echoes of the End was launched on August 12, 2023, and is set to receive an enhanced edition after only two months, despite having only 425 lifetime reviews and a mixed reception on Steam, with 68% positive reviews. The game features a cinematic, third-person action-adventure format inspired by Iceland. The enhanced edition will include significant changes such as updated animations, a revamped combat system, a new equipment system with 13 outfits and over 20 relics, and reduced puzzle complexity. These enhancements will be available at no extra cost to existing owners of the game.
Minecraft creator Notch says the Creeper was "anti-fun," backs Mojang lead who thinks it "probably" wouldn't be added today: "I tried to fix the Creeper"
AppWizard
October 28, 2025

Minecraft creator Notch says the Creeper was “anti-fun,” backs Mojang lead who thinks it “probably” wouldn’t be added today: “I tried to fix the Creeper”

Jens "Jeb" Bergensten, chief creative officer at Mojang, stated that if Minecraft were being developed today, the team "probably would not add" the Creeper character. Markus "Notch" Persson, the original creator of Minecraft, supported this sentiment in a Twitter post. This revelation surprised many long-time fans, as the Creeper has become a defining aspect of the game, adding tension and excitement. While some fans agree with Jeb and Notch's critique, others appreciate the Creeper's role in the game's success. Developers noted that player expectations for challenge and difficulty have evolved, influencing the design choices in Minecraft.
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