projects Archives

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

Xodus Cracks Xbox Authentication and Game Package Decryption to Bring PC Game Pass to Linux

Developers of the Heroic Games Launcher have announced Xodus, an open-source project aimed at enabling access to PC Game Pass on Linux and macOS. Launched on August 10, 2026, Xodus has successfully addressed Xbox identity authentication and the decryption of MSIXVC packages, allowing local play of Game Pass titles for Linux and macOS users. Currently, the only way to access Game Pass on non-Windows devices is through Xbox Cloud Gaming, which requires a Game Pass Ultimate subscription and introduces latency. Xodus employs a layered architecture, including an Xbox Authentication Library (xal-rs) for managing Microsoft account sign-ins and license verification, and a reimplementation of the xgameruntime.dll for license checks and Xbox service access. The project can retrieve MSIXVC game packages using a valid Game Pass subscription and decrypt executables for local storage. However, it does not yet support UWP-based titles and lacks a user-friendly interface for general users. The project is under pressure due to Microsoft's upcoming transition to the MSIXVC2 package format, which Xodus does not currently support. Xodus is in early development with only a command-line interface available, and the team is working on emulating the GDK Gaming Services layer necessary for game initialization. The project is legal as it reimplements Xbox runtime behavior without enabling piracy, but it faces risks if Microsoft alters its authentication infrastructure.

Winsage

August 11, 2026

Is this Microsoft’s canceled Surface Phone from 2014? Mysterious Windows Phone prototype appears in new photos

Microsoft had plans to launch a Windows Phone device under the Surface branding in 2014, which never materialized. A prototype, known internally as Raven, from the 2013-2014 era has been revealed, operating on an early version of Windows Phone 8.1. The device features an undisclosed Qualcomm chip, a 720p display, a Microsoft logo on the back, and a silver metal frame. It includes dedicated hardware navigation keys, individual volume buttons, a camera button, a power button, a micro-USB port, a headphone jack, and a SIM card slot. Microsoft later shifted focus to other projects, including the Surface Duo, while the Windows Phone platform was abandoned in 2017.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

1666: Amsterdam has the makings of something brilliant but I came away from its preview with a bad feeling as it’s early access release creeps too close for comfort

1666: Amsterdam is a game developed by Patrice Désilets at his indie studio, Panache Digital Games, after a legal battle with Ubisoft for the rights. The studio produces 15 to 20 builds a day, focusing on progression over perfection. The game features a vast map, a compelling narrative, and innovative exploration mechanics, with an early access launch scheduled for August 25. The protagonist, Noa, embarks on a quest with her feline companion, who contains the soul of a man named Aaron from the 1990s, to uncover demonic Originals and reclaim their powers while facing witch hunters.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

Xodus: Project to Run Xbox PC Games on Linux and Mac Hits Important Milestone

Gaming on Linux is experiencing a resurgence, with projects like Xodus aiming to enable Xbox PC games, including Game Pass titles, on Linux and Mac. Xodus is developed by a team of three, including a contributor from the Heroic Games Launcher. They have made progress in authorization and game downloads and are working on replicating Game Development Kit (GDK) functionality for Xbox services. The project currently uses technologies like Proton, dxvk, or Wine for game performance, focusing on GDK and MSIXVC format games, while older UWP titles are not supported. The Xodus project has a GitHub page and a Discord server for community engagement.

Winsage

August 11, 2026

Microsoft Word 1.1a Runs Natively on Windows 11 on x64

A developer has adapted Microsoft Word 1.1a, originally for 16-bit x86 systems, to run natively on modern 64-bit Windows PCs through a project called “Opus.” This adaptation compiles the original source code into a genuine x64 application, avoiding the use of emulators or virtual machines. The developer translated incompatible segments of the original code, including 16-bit assembly language, into C or C++, while mapping Win16 functions to modern Win32 APIs. The project retains original resources and copyright notices, and is hosted on GitHub without a broad open-source license. Automated testing has been implemented to ensure functionality mirrors the original application. Microsoft has previously published similar historic projects, but this port is an independent effort, providing insights into early Windows software architecture.

AppWizard

August 11, 2026

id Software dev says mass layoffs like Microsoft’s are weakening the games industry, because developers ‘don’t have the incentive to care anymore’

Chris Hayes, lead services programmer at id Software, expressed concerns about Microsoft's mass layoffs and their negative impact on the gaming industry. He argued that cost-cutting measures are stifling creativity and innovation, leading to a demotivated workforce. Developers feel unrecognized and disconnected from their projects, fearing job loss shortly after game launches. Hayes noted that this environment affects the industry's health, with gamers sensing something is wrong. He attributed the discontent to macroeconomic factors and a lack of long-term vision from industry leaders, emphasizing the need for a more sustainable management approach.

Winsage

August 10, 2026

Fixing Windows 11 now does not excuse letting it become a mess for decades

Windows 11 is undergoing enhancements, with many features currently exclusive to Windows Insiders and still in the mockup phase. Microsoft is overhauling the Windows 11 interface, integrating WinUI into components like the Start menu and File Explorer. Windows Insider participants must update their systems to a new build by August 11, 2026, to avoid expiration of builds and ensure automatic updates. Lenovo's latest BIOS update for the Legion Go gaming handheld has made some devices inoperable, prompting users to avoid the update. The modernization of Windows has been criticized for not being prioritized earlier, despite significant user feedback. The Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S is currently in short supply, and the Dell XPS 14 has a price reduction of 0.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

‘I am a big roguelike guy, but also a fan of minimalism and elegance’: Sam Barlow, creator of Her Story, guides us through the games in his Steam Library

Sam Barlow is the director of Half Mermaid and a notable figure in interactive fiction, known for his work on games like Arrival, Ghost Rider, Silent Hill: Shattered Memories, Her Story, Telling Lies, and Immortality. He has a fondness for the game D: The Game, appreciating its cinematography and atmosphere despite its design flaws. Barlow has dedicated over 500 hours to Shiren the Wanderer: The Mystery Dungeon of Serpentcoil Island, which he considers one of the greatest roguelikes. He also treasures Riven, keeping it installed at all times for its artistic value. On the non-gaming side, he relies on Fade In, a screenwriting software that he finds essential for his work. Barlow's desktop is chaotic, as he saves everything there, leading to a cluttered environment.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Lies of P studio reveals name change and hypes up sequel: ‘My goal has been to create the world’s greatest action game.’

Nough, formerly known as Round8, has released a 16-minute mini-documentary that explores its culture and the creative process behind the Lies of P series. The studio's name change reflects its commitment to a development philosophy centered on the motto 'Games by Gamers'. The documentary features behind-the-scenes insights, personal stories from developers, and highlights the challenges faced during the creation of Lies of P. The team is currently working on a sequel, with optimism stemming from the success of the original game and its Overture expansion. News writer Harvey Randall has noted the positive reception of the Overture expansion as a promising sign for Lies of P 2.

AppWizard

August 9, 2026

Donkey Kong Land PC Fan Remake Available for Download

A fan-made remake of the Nintendo Game Boy title Donkey Kong Land has been created by YouTube user ‘kasquez’ and is now available for PC. This remake features over 30 full-sized levels, refined controls, and updated graphics and sound that closely resemble the SNES version. It does not require the original ROM file and includes assets from the original game. The project is at risk of being taken down due to copyright concerns from Nintendo. Other notable fan projects in the gaming community include remakes of titles like Superman, Halo 3: ODST, and Metal Gear Solid, as well as various tech demos and ports.