rivals Archives

Winsage

June 14, 2025

Will your Mac or Windows PC still get security updates in 2026? Check this chart

Microsoft's Windows 11 operating system has introduced stringent compatibility requirements, making many PCs, some as young as six or seven years old, ineligible for security updates and upgrades. Apple's MacOS update policies are similarly restrictive, with security updates provided for the three most recent versions. When a new version is released, older systems may become unsupported and stop receiving updates. The upcoming MacOS 26 Tahoe is expected to launch in September, at which point MacOS 13 Ventura will cease to receive updates, affecting older Macs. Unsupported models include MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, or Mac Mini from 2017 or earlier, and iMac and Mac Pro models from 2018 or earlier. For Windows PCs, compatibility with Windows 11 generally requires a CPU released in 2019 or later, though some older Intel CPUs may qualify. Microsoft offers a PC Health Check app to assess compatibility, and users can bypass certain checks to install Windows 11. Windows 10 users can pay for security updates for up to three years after support ends in October 2025, a feature not available for Mac users. Security updates for both Mac and Windows PCs are typically available for eight to ten years after the release date.

AppWizard

June 11, 2025

What we know about Russia’s plans to develop a new messaging app to compete with WhatsApp and Telegram

The Kremlin supports the establishment of domestic messaging services in Russia, aiming for them to exceed the quality of foreign alternatives. Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized the need for a competitive landscape with the emergence of multiple national messengers, stating that competition is essential for innovation. This initiative aligns with the broader digitalization agenda of the Russian government, which includes proposed amendments in the State Duma for a multipurpose digital service that would integrate various state, financial, and commercial services into a single application to simplify citizens' interactions.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

Hands-On With the Xbox Ally X, the New Gaming Handheld from Asus and Microsoft

PC gaming handhelds, including the Xbox Ally X and Xbox Ally, are designed for the Xbox platform through a collaboration between Asus and Microsoft. The Xbox Ally X features an AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme APU, 24GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD, while the base Xbox Ally has a Ryzen Z2 A chip, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Both models have a 7.0-inch 1080p IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate and support VRR and FreeSync technology. The Xbox Ally X was tested with Gears of War: Reloaded at 1080p and 60 fps. The systems run a streamlined version of Windows with an optimized Xbox app that allows game imports from other platforms. The ergonomic design resembles a split Xbox controller, but its size may affect portability. Pricing details are not yet disclosed, but the Xbox Ally X is expected to be premium-priced.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

New ‘Game of Thrones’ PC Strategy Game ‘War for Westeros’ to Launch in 2026

PlaySide Studios, in collaboration with Warner Bros. Interactive, announced a new video game titled “Game of Thrones: War for Westeros” during the Summer Game Fest in Los Angeles. This PC real-time strategy game is inspired by George R.R. Martin’s “A Song of Ice and Fire” series and allows players to command factions such as House Stark, House Lannister, House Targaryen, or the Night King. Players will engage in battles, forge alliances, and utilize unique strategies and heroes from each faction. The game features skirmish matches and a campaign across the Seven Kingdoms, where decisions impact the struggle for dominance. This marks a shift for Warner Bros. Interactive, which has primarily focused on mobile titles for the “Game of Thrones” franchise. A trailer for the game has been released.

AppWizard

June 7, 2025

Game of Thrones: War for Westeros Is a Premium PC RTS Due in 2026

Playside Studios announced the upcoming release of "Game of Thrones: War for Westeros," a premium PC real-time strategy game set in George R.R. Martin's fantasy universe. Players can command armies from House Stark, House Lannister, House Targaryen, or the Night King, engaging in strategic battles that require forming alliances and outsmarting opponents. The game features unique strategies and mechanics for each faction, allowing players to deploy various units and utilize hero abilities. Players can participate in skirmish matches or a larger campaign across the Seven Kingdoms, with decisions impacting the struggle for dominance. The game is set to launch in 2026, and players can wishlist it on Steam.

AppWizard

June 6, 2025

Dune’s New Multiplayer RPG Just Broke A Major PC Gaming Record

Dune Awakening, a survival MMORPG, attracted nearly 100,000 players within 24 hours of its advanced access launch on PC, with a peak concurrent player count of 93,634. The game has an 81.57% approval rating from approximately 4,000 reviews and is currently the top trending and second best-selling game on Steam. Players have reported server stability issues, prompting Funcom to implement hotfixes. The game features a unique narrative where Lady Jessica gives birth to a daughter instead of Paul Atreides, allowing for new storylines and political dynamics on Arrakis. Funcom plans to provide regular free updates and new features, avoiding a monthly subscription model.

AppWizard

June 6, 2025

Neptunia Game Maker R:Evolution coming to PC in 2025

Idea Factory International will release Neptunia Game Maker R:Evolution for PC via Steam in 2025. The game launched in Japan on August 10, 2023, for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Switch. It will be available globally on those consoles on May 14, 2024, and for Xbox Series on October 29, 2024. Players will assume the role of Older Nep, managing a game studio, developing games, and navigating challenges in the world of Gamindustri. The game features party management, an enhanced battle system, and motorcycle navigation through dungeons. A new trailer showcasing the game has been released.

BetaBeacon

June 6, 2025

‘FIFA Rivals’ Game Launching Next Week on iOS, Android

FIFA Rivals, a mobile soccer game, is set to launch on iOS and Android on June 12. Adidas will be featured in the game with branded kits, jerseys, shoes, and a training facility.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

CHARTS: Elden Ring Nightreign debuts at Steam No.1

Nightreign, an Elden Ring spin-off, became the highest-grossing game on Steam for the week ending June 3rd, having sold over 3.5 million copies since its release on May 30th. Pre-orders for Nightreign ranked sixth on the Steam charts. Counter-Strike 2 was in second place, followed by the Steam Deck in third. Pre-orders for Stellar Blade, set to release on June 11th, were fourth, while F1 25 debuted at fifth. Helldivers 2 dropped to sixth, Marvel Rivals returned to seventh, Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time fell to eighth, The Last of Us Part 1 was ninth, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 rounded out the top ten.

Winsage

June 2, 2025

The Tech Circus: AI’s Grand Finale, Elon Musk’s Punchline, and Microsoft’s Notepad Bold Move

Mary Meeker has released a comprehensive 340-page AI report highlighting rapid advancements and widespread adoption of artificial intelligence. Venture capitalists are heavily investing in AI across various sectors, including healthcare and coffee shops. Elon Musk recently left Washington, D.C. with a black eye from a playful encounter with his son, reflecting his unpredictable standing. The DOGE project has left behind issues such as water damage and pests. Microsoft has updated Notepad to include text formatting features like bold, italics, hyperlinks, and Markdown support, currently available for Windows 11 Canary and Dev Channel testers.