NewApp Digest
search bot

restructuring

I crashed out reading layoff condolence letters in this shop sim about a laid-off adventurer made by a laid-off Xbox developer
AppWizard
March 24, 2026

I crashed out reading layoff condolence letters in this shop sim about a laid-off adventurer made by a laid-off Xbox developer

In Dungeon Bodega Simulator, players are greeted with a message reflecting on job loss and resilience. Solo developer Alien Fruit, previously at Turn 10 Studios, experienced layoffs and the emotional toll that comes with it. Harrison, the creator of the game, struggles with imposter syndrome after being laid off and acknowledges the impact of job loss on identity. He is currently working on Dungeon Bodega Simulator as a way to navigate the indie market while also holding an entry-level QA position to manage finances. Harrison expresses a desire to find another role in systems or gameplay design, valuing teamwork and collaboration in his career.
Windows & Devices boss now reports directly to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella
Winsage
March 13, 2026

Windows & Devices boss now reports directly to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella

Microsoft has announced leadership changes affecting its Windows & Devices, Office, and LinkedIn divisions. Rajesh Jha, executive vice president of the Experiences & Devices division, will retire on July 1 after over 35 years. Four new leaders have been promoted to executive vice president roles: Pavan Davuluri (Windows & Devices), Ryan Roslansky (Office and LinkedIn), Perry Clarke (Microsoft 365 Core), and Charles Lamanna (Business and Industry Copilot). Jha will remain in an advisory role post-retirement. CEO Satya Nadella emphasized the opportunities ahead for Microsoft and the importance of a smooth transition. The restructuring aims to revitalize Windows 11 and address past criticisms, with a focus on quality updates and customer feedback under Davuluri's leadership.
Microsoft may soon merge PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Premium
AppWizard
February 11, 2026

Microsoft may soon merge PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Premium

Microsoft is planning to restructure its Xbox Game Pass tiers to simplify the subscription model. The current Game Pass structure includes the Essential tier at £6.99, the PC Game Pass at £13.49, the Xbox Game Pass Premium at £10.99, and the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate at £22.99. Reports suggest a potential merger of the Premium and PC Game Pass tiers into a streamlined subscription. Microsoft is also focusing on enhancing the Ultimate experience by integrating third-party services like EA Play and Ubisoft+ Classics. Additionally, there are indications that the next-generation Xbox, expected in 2027, may operate on a Windows 11 hybrid environment, which could change the subscription model by eliminating the need for separate PC and console categories.
The Outer Worlds and Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey are being delisted from GOG
AppWizard
December 11, 2025

The Outer Worlds and Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey are being delisted from GOG

GOG's representative confirmed that "The Outer Worlds" and the "Spacer's Choice Edition" will not be delisted. However, "Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey" is still on track for delisting, though GOG is working to resolve this issue. "Ancestors" is currently available at an 80% discount until January 3, 2026. Both games were initially set to be removed from the GOG store on December 15, and the decision to delist them was made by their parent company, Haveli Investments, which is undergoing restructuring.
'We actually didn’t attribute any value' to Warner's game studios, Netflix boss says about the acquisition deal: 'They’re relatively minor compared to the grand scheme of things'
AppWizard
December 10, 2025

‘We actually didn’t attribute any value’ to Warner’s game studios, Netflix boss says about the acquisition deal: ‘They’re relatively minor compared to the grand scheme of things’

Netflix has acquired Warner Bros. Discovery in a deal valued at nearly billion, which includes assets such as HBO, HBO Max, the DC Universe, and game studios. Despite this acquisition, Netflix's interest in expanding its gaming initiatives appears limited, as the company is shifting focus towards investments in generative AI. Warner Bros. has experienced both successes and challenges in its gaming division, with notable titles like Hogwarts Legacy and failures such as Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League leading to restructuring and project cancellations. The future of Warner Bros. Discovery and its gaming division remains uncertain amidst ongoing industry changes.
Here's a list of PC games coming to Xbox Game Pass in December, many now available on the cheaper tiers
AppWizard
December 3, 2025

Here’s a list of PC games coming to Xbox Game Pass in December, many now available on the cheaper tiers

Microsoft is set to release a variety of games on Xbox Game Pass in December 2025, with many transitioning from the Ultimate tier to the Premium tier. The games include: - December 2: Lost Records: Bloom & Rage (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 3: Monster Train 2 (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 3: Spray Paint Simulator (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 4: 33 Immortals (Game Preview) (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 4: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 4: Routine (Game Pass Ultimate, PC Game Pass) - December 9: A Game About Digging A Hole (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 9: Death Howl (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 9: Dome Keeper (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 10: Mortal Kombat 1 (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) - December 11: Bratz: Rhythm & Style (Game Pass Premium, PC Game Pass) Routine is exclusively available to Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers. The subscription pricing is as follows: - Xbox Game Pass Ultimate – .99/month - Xbox Game Pass Premium – .99/month - Xbox Game Pass Essential – .99/month - PC Game Pass – .49/month New games recently added include CloverPit, Marvel Cosmic Invasion, Total Chaos, and Young Suns, with the latter being a Day One title on Ultimate and PC Game Pass. The Essential tier has also added Stellaris, World War Z: Aftermath, and Medieval Dynasty.
A 'Minecraft' Inspired Action RPG Just Returned From The Dead
AppWizard
November 22, 2025

A ‘Minecraft’ Inspired Action RPG Just Returned From The Dead

Riot Games canceled the game Hytale in June, leading to the closure of developer Hypixel. Nearly five months later, Hypixel co-founder Simon Collins-Laflamme acquired the rights to Hytale and released a 16-minute gameplay video. The footage, described as "raw and broken," showcases a combat-oriented world reminiscent of Minecraft, with intricate combat mechanics and creation tools for player customization. Collins-Laflamme has shifted the game's vision to include robust support for mods and player-generated content. Although the game has been in development since 2015 and lacks a specific release date, there are indications that an early access launch date will be announced soon. Over 30 developers from the previous Riot Games team have been rehired, and Collins-Laflamme is looking to expand the team to expedite the early access version of Hytale.
Crystal Dynamics makes third round of layoffs this year
AppWizard
November 14, 2025

Crystal Dynamics makes third round of layoffs this year

Developer Crystal Dynamics has reduced its workforce by "under 30" employees across various departments. This decision is part of a series of job cuts made throughout the year, with previous reductions occurring in August and March. The company is reorganizing its studios and teams to optimize the development of its flagship title, Tomb Raider, and to prepare for future projects. Crystal Dynamics expressed gratitude to the affected employees for their contributions and committed to providing support during the transition.
Search