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"Subscription-based gaming is the final boss of piracy": Why I think we're on track to own nothing and be happy we get to play at all
AppWizard
June 21, 2026

“Subscription-based gaming is the final boss of piracy”: Why I think we’re on track to own nothing and be happy we get to play at all

A study published in the Entertainment Computing journal analyzed 86 games released on Steam from 2014 to 2022, finding that games with cracked versions available within the first week of launch experienced a 20% drop in revenue. If DRM delayed cracks by at least six weeks, the revenue decline was only 5%, and if DRM withstood cracks for three months, there was no significant loss in revenue. Denuvo's defenses have been breached within hours of game releases, and the future of DRM may rely more on contractual agreements than technology. Subscription-based gaming models, like Xbox's PC Game Pass, are emerging, allowing players to access games without owning them, which raises concerns about game ownership and the potential for titles to be removed from libraries. The rise of cloud gaming is seen as a solution to affordability issues for gamers, but it also leads to questions about the future of game ownership and piracy.
Weekend PC Game Deals: Cyberpunk 2077, Split Fiction, Sonic Racing, and more
AppWizard
June 20, 2026

Weekend PC Game Deals: Cyberpunk 2077, Split Fiction, Sonic Racing, and more

The Epic Games Store is offering Robobeat and Citizen Sleeper for free until June 25. Humble has introduced two bundles: the June 2unes bundle for rhythm game enthusiasts, starting at a low price, and a VR bundle featuring Among Us 3D: VR and Zero Caliber VR. Valve's Next Fest is showcasing gameplay snippets from upcoming indie titles until June 22, along with free events for Stellaris, Two Point Museum, Dead by Daylight, and MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries. The Steam Summer Sale is approaching, prompting publishers to offer discounts. GOG has launched its own summer sale with various highlights.
Even more games on Steam are using AI: there are over 8,600 demos in this week's Next Fest event, and nearly 1,700 use AI
AppWizard
June 17, 2026

Even more games on Steam are using AI: there are over 8,600 demos in this week’s Next Fest event, and nearly 1,700 use AI

The second installment of Steam Next Fest for 2026 is running until June 22 and features a total of 8,682 demos, nearly double the entire library of PlayStation 2 games. Approximately 1,700 of these demos incorporate AI technology, leading to concerns about the quality of some titles, often labeled as "shovelware." Various digital storefronts are struggling to maintain quality amidst the influx of AI-generated content, with Sony recently removing a publisher known for low-quality releases. The reaction to AI in game development has been mixed, with backlash against certain titles. Additionally, early Geekbench results for Valve's upcoming Steam Machine suggest a potential launch next week.
PC Bundle Offering 39 Games At $61 Saving For Limited Time Only
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

PC Bundle Offering 39 Games At $61 Saving For Limited Time Only

PC gamers can celebrate Pride Month with the Townsqueer Vol. 1 bundle, which includes 39 games and zines focused on LGBTQ+ themes. The bundle is priced at a significant discount compared to purchasing the games individually, and proceeds are shared among creators. Notable titles in the bundle include "Tell Me Why," featuring a trans protagonist, and various other games and zines that highlight diverse queer experiences. The bundle is available on itch.io, with options to purchase individual titles.
FromSoftware boss Hidetaka Miyazaki references 'yet to be announced' games while commenting on controversy at parent company Kadokawa
AppWizard
June 14, 2026

FromSoftware boss Hidetaka Miyazaki references ‘yet to be announced’ games while commenting on controversy at parent company Kadokawa

Hidetaka Miyazaki, head of FromSoftware, indicated that several unannounced projects are in development. He expressed general satisfaction with the development environment provided by Kadokawa, FromSoftware's parent company, highlighting the studio's creative freedom. Meanwhile, Kadokawa is experiencing changes, as the hedge fund Oasis Management has acquired a majority stake and is advocating for significant changes, including the removal of the current CEO. Despite corporate turbulence, anticipation for FromSoftware's future projects remains high.
Vanillaware seemingly want their other games on PC too, but if you want that to happen, talk to their publishers
AppWizard
June 13, 2026

Vanillaware seemingly want their other games on PC too, but if you want that to happen, talk to their publishers

Vanillaware has announced that Muramasa: The Demon Blade will be released on PC, addressing the long-standing issue of their games being inaccessible on this platform. George Kamitani, Vanillaware's founder, expressed a desire to see more of their titles on PC, but stated that the decision depends on the publishers who finance the ports. Fans are encouraged to express their interest in bringing other titles like 13 Sentinels, Dragon’s Crown, Unicorn Overlord, and Odin Sphere to PC. There was some confusion regarding Atlus's statement about Unicorn Overlord, which led to misconceptions about Vanillaware's interest in PC ports; however, it was clarified that Vanillaware is not reluctant to pursue this option. Community support may play a crucial role in the future of these potential PC ports.
'Make some noise': Vanillaware reportedly wants more of its games on PC, but it's up to the publishers
AppWizard
June 13, 2026

‘Make some noise’: Vanillaware reportedly wants more of its games on PC, but it’s up to the publishers

Vanillaware's latest game, Muramasa: Revenant Blades, has been released on Steam, while many of its past titles remain on outdated consoles. Founder George Kamitani is interested in bringing these classic games to PC, despite some conflicting reports. Fans are particularly interested in titles like Dragon's Crown and Grimgrimoire for potential PC releases. The success of these ports depends on finding the right publishing partner, and fans are encouraged to express their interest through social media and community forums.
GTA 6 PC release date leaks, and it's much sooner than we thought
AppWizard
June 13, 2026

GTA 6 PC release date leaks, and it’s much sooner than we thought

GTA 6 is scheduled to launch on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S on November 19, 2026. A potential PC version may be released as early as February 2027, according to claims from three individuals with alleged ties to Rockstar. Rockstar aims to release the PC version before the end of the fiscal year. Historically, the gap between console and PC releases for Rockstar games has been significant, with previous titles like GTA 5 and Red Dead Redemption 2 experiencing delays of nearly two years and one year, respectively. Take-Two's CEO, Strauss Zelnick, stated that Rockstar prefers to launch games on consoles first to serve the core consumer.
Dutch non-profit set to take Valve to court for keeping game prices high
AppWizard
June 12, 2026

Dutch non-profit set to take Valve to court for keeping game prices high

The Netherlands' Consumer Competition Claims Foundation (CCCF) has launched a campaign against Valve, the parent company of Steam, alleging unfair commercial practices related to Valve's 30% commission on game sales, which they claim inflates prices across all PC storefronts. The CCCF argues that this commission structure pressures publishers and developers to raise prices, affecting competitive pricing on other platforms like the Epic Games Store and Microsoft Store. They also allege that Valve prohibits publishers from offering lower prices on competing platforms and has engaged in "geo-blocking" to restrict the activation of Steam keys purchased in Eastern Europe for use in Western Europe. Valve president Gabe Newell denies these allegations, asserting that there is no policy preventing lower pricing on other platforms. The CCCF claims that Dutch gamers may have overpaid by more than 220 million euros due to these practices. Legal challenges against Valve are mounting, including a class-action lawsuit concerning loot boxes and an antitrust suit from Wolfire Games.
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