science fiction Archives

Tech Optimizer

January 27, 2026

PostgreSQL for WMS: a DBMS selection strategy in the era of import substitution

Choosing a Database Management System (DBMS) for Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) is a strategic decision that impacts security, budget, and adaptability. PostgreSQL is identified as a safe, cost-effective, and future-proof solution for Russian warehouse systems, especially following the withdrawal of foreign vendors like Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server. Starting September 1, 2025, foreign software usage in government bodies and companies with over 50% state ownership will face legal restrictions, posing regulatory risks for those using Oracle. Financial risks include high licensing fees and the potential for legal prohibitions on current technologies. Business continuity risks arise from the possibility of vendors ceasing support and updates. PostgreSQL, both in its vanilla form and commercial derivatives like Postgres Pro, is presented as a robust alternative capable of handling high loads and providing necessary features for modern WMS. It supports real-time analytics and advanced capabilities such as intelligent search and automatic classification using neural networks. Key considerations when choosing a DBMS include estimating data volumes, checking legal requirements, and calculating total cost of ownership (TCO).

AppWizard

January 18, 2026

Slipknot’s Clown built fantasy ‘Minecraft’ realm to help him grieve

Shawn ‘Clown’ Crahan has been a key figure in Slipknot for three decades and recently launched his first fully playable game, Vernearth, inspired by Minecraft. The game allows players to build structures, engage in battles, and embark on quests, and it officially launched on December 1. Clown's passion for gaming began in his youth, and he faced challenges in game development due to financial barriers. He developed Vernearth over four years with his daughter and a drum tech, creating a unique version of Minecraft with new gameplay elements and a darker atmosphere. The game serves as a personal outlet for Clown, helping him cope with grief related to family losses. He is also exploring online therapy integration within the game and has launched The Auction House for players to trade items. Additionally, he is working on an original soundtrack for Vernearth while taking a break from new material with Slipknot.

AppWizard

January 6, 2026

Terra Invicta Finally Enters Full Release, Day One On Game Pass And PC

Terra Invicta has officially launched on PC and is available on Game Pass. Developed by Pavonis Interactive and published by Hooded Horse, the game focuses on humanity's response to an impending alien invasion, featuring seven factions with distinct ideologies. The game includes political maneuvering, space colonization, and hard science fiction elements, emphasizing realistic mechanics in space combat and resource management. It is priced at £34.99 for standalone purchase and has received a "Very Positive" rating on Steam. Currently, there are no plans for an Xbox console version.

AppWizard

November 24, 2025

With elements of Fallout and Escape From Tarkov, this brutal FPS is about to signal the end of my MMO hiatus

Pioner is a post-apocalyptic MMOFPS set on a 50km² island that combines PvP and PvE combat, developed by GFA Games. It features social hubs and allows player choices to influence the game's world. The game has over half a million wishlists on Steam and is set to release in Early Access on December 16. A deluxe edition will include exclusive rewards such as a unique character skin, weapon skins, a weapon charm, a Japanese watch, premium currency, and an exclusive player title.

AppWizard

November 21, 2025

Arc Raiders players have been trading guns for binoculars, and it’s making for some incredibly cinematic on-field reporting that’s hauntingly good

Arc Raiders is a multiplayer game that features thrilling encounters with terrifying robots, fostering both camaraderie and betrayal among players. The game creates a cinematic atmosphere, with players documenting their experiences using binoculars and framing their recordings as in-world reports. These recordings mimic war correspondents' styles, utilizing claustrophobic angles, shaky camera work, VHS noise, and retro color correction to enhance the 70s sci-fi aesthetic. Players capture intense battles against robotic foes and other players, with notable moments including a massive Matriarch and a stealthy Leaper. The trend of cinematic storytelling is also seen in other games like Helldivers 2. There is excitement for future Arc Raiders documentaries, with suggestions for unique press costumes and 35mm film cameras to enhance player storytelling.

AppWizard

September 27, 2025

35 Years Ago, An Ambitious PC Game Finally Let You Be ‘Top Gun’ in Space

Wing Commander, released on September 26, 1990, was created by Chris Roberts at Origin Systems and is set in the year 2654, featuring a conflict between humanity and the Kilrathi alien race. The game combines spaceflight dogfights with an immersive role-playing experience, allowing players to interact with crew members and make choices that influence the narrative. It features a dual gameplay structure, requiring players to manage speed, orientation, and tactical orders during combat. The game is known for its complexity and steep learning curve, and it remains available for purchase at GOG.

AppWizard

September 23, 2025

Starfield’s latest discount is out of this world, so grab it while you can

Bethesda's Starfield is a new science fiction RPG that allows players to embark on an interstellar journey with human and alien adversaries. Players start as a miner and join the Constellation crew, engaging in various side missions and character-driven narratives. The game is designed for extensive play, with the main storyline taking 15-20 hours to complete, but offering much more through side quests. Starfield has a vibrant modding community that enhances the experience, and it is currently available at a discounted price of .19/£31.19, reflecting a 48% reduction. The Premium Edition, including the Shattered Space expansion and additional perks, is priced at .99/£49.01.

AppWizard

September 16, 2025

Atomfall just got a new DLC and, like any good sci-fi game, it lets you recruit robots

The Red Strain is the latest downloadable content (DLC) for Atomfall, featuring new gameplay enhancements, including the ability to hack and command robots as companions in battle. The DLC introduces a narrative involving an infested rocket launch, offering players the choice to thwart or support the launch. It also includes balance updates, enhanced blood effects for a more intense combat experience, and is available for .99/£14.99 on Steam. Players are encouraged to provide feedback in the community Discord server.

Winsage

September 10, 2025

Windows 95 game could hit 5,000 FPS by accident

3D Pinball for Windows – Space Cadet is a nostalgic game for many gamers from the late 90s. The gaming landscape has evolved significantly, with the potential for future games to run at 5,000 frames per second. Dave Plummer has contributed to the evolution of Windows gaming through his work on the Media Center and Task Manager, enhancing user experience and system performance. The future of gaming promises unprecedented frame rates and resolutions, leading to richer and more engaging experiences.

AppWizard

September 4, 2025

Russian lawmaker says new mandatory messenger app will not use AI to report users to authorities

Anton Nemkin, a member of the Russian State Duma’s Information Policy Committee, has refuted claims that the national messenger app, Max, will use artificial intelligence for surveillance, calling it “pure science fiction.” He clarified that Max functions like other messaging apps, allowing users to send messages, make calls, and share files. Nemkin noted that there have been no instances of AI being used for monitoring in similar apps. He expressed concern that rumors about AI surveillance are intended to undermine trust in domestic digital products. Since September 1, the Russian government has mandated that Max be pre-installed on all smartphones sold in the country, although brands like Apple and Samsung still sell devices without it. The Kremlin's promotion of Max comes as it blocks calling features on popular apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, but there is skepticism regarding Max's acceptance and viability.