projects

AppWizard
July 4, 2025
Custom NPC+ is a mod for Minecraft 1.7.10 that enhances player interaction by adding non-player characters (NPCs) and includes features such as the creation of NPCs with customizable skins and items, a quest creation system, a dialog system, a faction system, and distinct roles for NPCs. The author conducted an error analysis using the PVS-Studio static code analyzer, discovering several issues: 1. Localization issues in GuiMailbox.java related to singular and plural forms for minutes. 2. Integer division in JobHealer.java that caused loss of precision in Y-coordinate calculations. 3. Flawed regular expression in TextContainer.java for replacing line-break characters, leading to handling issues across platforms. 4. A logical error in ScriptDBCPlayer.java where a variable was compared to itself, causing unexpected behavior. 5. A mix-up between "and" and "or" operators in Availability.java that rendered certain exception conditions unreachable. The analysis aimed to improve the quality of the Custom NPC+ mod and highlighted the importance of attention to detail in software development.
AppWizard
July 4, 2025
Romero Games, co-founded by Brenda and John Romero in 2015, announced that funding for their latest project has been abruptly terminated, resulting in layoffs within the company. CEO Brenda Romero stated that the publisher canceled funding for their game and other unannounced projects at various studios, a decision made at a high level within the publisher. While the specific publisher has not been disclosed, former employees suggest Microsoft may be responsible, coinciding with Microsoft's layoffs affecting 9,000 employees and project cancellations at several studios. The future of Romero Games is uncertain, with indications from some employees that the studio may close. The studio was previously working on a first-person shooter, which had been described as a significant new direction for them.
AppWizard
July 4, 2025
Romero Games has lost funding for its in-development project, leading to potential layoffs or significant changes within the organization. The studio was developing a first-person shooter using Unreal Engine 5, which had received backing from an undisclosed major publisher, speculated to be Microsoft. Studio head Brenda Romero announced the funding cancellation in a message, emphasizing that the team's dedication and performance were not at fault, as they consistently met all milestones and received positive feedback. The news has had an emotional impact on the team, many of whom have long-standing relationships.
Winsage
July 1, 2025
A hardware modder has transformed a PlayStation 2 into a functioning PC by installing the Windows 95 operating system. This project, showcased by the YouTube channel MetraByte, reflects a trend in the tech community of repurposing older hardware for new applications. The endeavor contrasts with the typical use of emulators to run classic games on modern PCs, instead aiming to revitalize an aging console as a basic computing device.
Winsage
July 1, 2025
Jace, the host of the YouTube channel MetraByte, attempted to install Windows 95 and run Doom on a Sony PlayStation 2. He faced significant challenges due to the differences in architecture between the PS2's MIPS processor and the x86 code of Windows 95. Initially using DOSBox, he made "47 attempts" before switching to Bochs, an emulator for x86. The process was fraught with technical difficulties, including limited I/O capabilities, read and write errors, and missing files. After approximately "14 hours," he successfully reached the Windows 95 setup screen and launched Paint, but was unable to run Doom95.
Winsage
June 29, 2025
Explorer 7 is a customization tool designed to restore the Windows 7 taskbar and Start menu for users of Windows 8.1, Windows 10, and Windows 11. It allows users to modify accent colors and integrates familiar Windows 7 UI elements, although it lacks the Aero effect in app windows and retains a modern appearance in File Explorer. Setting up Explorer 7 requires registry edits and Windows 7 installation files, with no built-in method to revert changes. Limitations include compatibility issues with UWP apps, lack of support for multiple taskbars on different monitors, and potential inconsistencies with autoplay features. The project is aimed at enthusiasts seeking a Windows 7 experience, but its compatibility with future updates of Windows 10 and 11 may be uncertain.
AppWizard
June 29, 2025
JustWatch is an app that helps users find specific films or series across multiple streaming platforms. Skyscanner is a flight aggregator that finds affordable travel options and offers information on hotels and car rentals. Paprika Recipe Manager compiles recipes, manages pantry ingredients, and generates grocery lists. Coolors generates harmonious color palettes for design purposes. Too Good To Go connects users with restaurants selling unsold food at reduced prices, promoting sustainability. Spin the Wheel is a decision-making tool that randomly selects options for various choices. Splitwise tracks shared expenses among friends or family, simplifying financial interactions.
AppWizard
June 27, 2025
The Very Big Indie Pitch (VBIP) at PG Connects Barcelona 2025 showcased a variety of PC and console games, marking a significant milestone for the VBIP format and highlighting the indie game development scene in the city. Indie developers had five minutes to present their games to rotating panels of judges from publishing, development, and media sectors, receiving valuable feedback. The event featured dedicated pitches for PC, console, and mobile games, fostering networking opportunities among developers at different project stages. The pitching sessions are a key feature of PG Connects conferences, providing insights into global development scenes. A curated list of games presented during the event was available, with details for future participation on the Big Indie Pitch website.
AppWizard
June 27, 2025
Valve's "Early Access" initiative on Steam currently features 14,056 titles. Successful games like Kerbal Space Program, ARMA 3, Prison Architect, and Kenshi have received positive reviews. However, many players have become disillusioned with the program, particularly due to experiences like the prolonged development of DayZ, which spent nearly five years in Early Access. The program's guidelines require developers to maintain transparency and accountability, but some exploit these rules for financial gain without completing their projects. The Early Access program is intended to gather player feedback, provide funding, and support development, but issues with unfinished games and unmet promises have raised concerns about its integrity.
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