selling Archives

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Valve made more than 27 million unique images for Counter-Strike listings as part of its new ‘major update’ to Steam’s Community Market

Valve has initiated a beta test for a significant update to the Steam Community Market, which now includes over 13,000 games and more than 700 with in-game items. The update features a new layout with a full-width grid display to enhance user navigation. Counter-Strike players will be the first to experience these changes, including specially generated images for individual items that showcase their characteristics. Valve has created over 27 million unique images for Counter-Strike listings. The updates are set to go live today, and all marketplace users can access the beta, with an option to opt out.

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Dead Space 4 looks unlikely as “companies are looking for the next Fortnite,” series producer says

Visceral Games created the horror game series Dead Space, which has a dedicated fan base but has not seen a new installment due to disappointing sales figures despite critical acclaim. Chuck Beaver, a producer of the original games, noted that while horror games have passionate fans, this enthusiasm does not always lead to substantial sales, which are crucial for franchise viability. The sales expectations have risen due to increasing production costs, and Dead Space has struggled to meet these expectations. The 2023 remake of Dead Space received a high rating but did not meet EA's sales expectations, hindering plans for a new entry. Glen Schofield, the original creator, mentioned that attempts to produce Dead Space 4 were blocked by EA due to a lack of interest. Future iterations would need to achieve sales comparable to successful titles like Resident Evil Requiem, which sold over seven million units shortly after release, to gain EA's attention.

Tech Optimizer

May 12, 2026

Trend Micro Inc stock (JP3180400008): Trading at premium to fair value estimate

Trend Micro Inc (TSE: 4704) is trading at ¥6,178.00, which is a 698% premium over Morningstar's estimated fair value of ¥8,415.77 for May 2026. The company specializes in cybersecurity solutions, including antivirus software and cloud security, with a subscription-based business model. Its core markets include Japan, North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, with significant revenue from enterprise security solutions like the Trend Micro Vision One XDR platform. The company has a Price/Earnings ratio of 20.02, a Quick Ratio of 1.10, and a Return on Assets of 13.52%. The rising demand for cybersecurity, particularly in North America, is a key revenue driver. Trend Micro's portfolio includes AI-powered threat intelligence and mobile security solutions, targeting sectors like finance and healthcare. The company is positioned favorably against competitors and offers U.S. investors access through American Depository Receipts (ADRs).

AppWizard

May 12, 2026

Game industry lobby group that argued against preservation efforts from libraries is now pushing back on Stop Killing Games, saying it could prevent ‘new games, features, and technology’

Stop Killing Games has evolved from a grassroots initiative to a significant international player, with presentations at the European Parliament and collaborations with global NGOs expected by 2026. In April, the organization endorsed the Protect Our Games Act (AB 1921), which aims to require game developers to inform consumers of server shutdowns and provide options such as offline versions, patches, or refunds. Smaller game studios are adapting their titles to remain playable post-server closure, with examples including Lunarch Studios and 1047 Games. The Entertainment Software Association (ESA) opposes the bill, claiming it burdens developers, while Stop Killing Games clarifies that the legislation does not require perpetual server maintenance. Historically, the ESA has lobbied against measures to preserve game access, including opposing a DMCA exemption for libraries and museums. The ESA's concerns mirror those of Video Games Europe, warning that Stop Killing Games' demands could lead to unsafe content and financial burdens on developers.

Tech Optimizer

May 10, 2026

Avast Antivirus: What US Users Need to Know Right Now

Avast Antivirus is a widely used security tool for Windows, macOS, and Android in the U.S., functioning primarily as a real-time malware scanner that protects against threats like viruses and ransomware. The free version for Windows includes on-access scanning and web-shield protection, while paid versions offer additional features such as a firewall, ransomware shield, and VPN. On macOS, it focuses on malware detection and web protection, and on Android, it includes app-permission monitoring and device location features. Avast has faced criticism for its data-collection practices, particularly its past monetization of user data through a subsidiary, Jumpshot, which was discontinued in 2020. Despite improvements, it still collects telemetry and usage data. Avast is suitable for users looking for an easy-to-use antivirus solution at low cost, particularly those using Windows PCs for everyday tasks. However, it may not be ideal for privacy-conscious users or those with older hardware, as it can slow down system performance. Avast competes with other antivirus providers like Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky, each offering various features and performance levels. The company is a subsidiary of Gen Digital, which consolidates multiple cybersecurity brands, and its growth potential is influenced by user retention and regulatory scrutiny. Users should weigh their priorities regarding cost, privacy, and performance when deciding on antivirus solutions.

AppWizard

May 9, 2026

Steam Best-Selling Game Review Bombed by PC Gamers

Slay the Spire 2 has experienced a significant review bombing on Steam, dropping from an “Overwhelmingly Positive” rating to “Mostly Negative” due to contentious updates and the involvement of consultant Anita Sarkeesian. Over the past month, 65% of the game's reviews, totaling 51,859, have been negative. The controversy has largely remained confined to Steam, as the game is in early access and lacks user reviews on Metacritic. Mega Crit has not yet commented on the situation.

BetaBeacon

May 9, 2026

Top 5 Must-Play Roguelite Games You Can’t Miss in 2023

- The Roguelite genre of gaming is thriving with games that have randomly generated maps, grid-based movement, and permadeath. - Modern game designers often add twists to the classic roguelite tropes, such as upgradable characters, weapon changes, and diverse gameplay. - Balatro is a game where players collect cash to purchase new cards with special effects, encouraging cheating to win. - The Binding of Isaac is a classic roguelite game where players control a young boy using strange weapons like tears to escape his abusive mother. - Skul: The Hero Slayer follows a skeleton named Skul who can switch out his skull for different powers and abilities, making him stronger. - Vampire Survivors is a game where players face a monstrous horde of enemies and upgrade their character with stronger weapons and armor. - Hades is a roguelite game where players control Zagreus, the son of Hades, trying to escape the underworld to meet his mother in the world of the living.

AppWizard

May 8, 2026

Valve opens Steam Controller reservations, but it’s “limited to one” per person, so you better act fast

Reservations for the Steam Controller are open, allowing gamers to join a waiting list. Valve will notify registrants via email when they can purchase the controller. Each customer is limited to one controller per transaction and must complete their order within 72 hours of notification. This new system was implemented due to high demand that caused the initial batch to sell out quickly. Previously, customers could buy two controllers, leading to scalping on reseller platforms.

AppWizard

May 7, 2026

This week’s Epic Games freebie includes two gorgeous cozy games that will hook you in no time

The Epic Games Store is offering two free titles this week: Arranger, a puzzle-driven adventure, and Trash Goblin, a shopkeeping experience. Arranger has a Steam review score of 92% and features a unique gameplay mechanic where players shift rows and columns of the map to solve puzzles. Trash Goblin has a Steam review score of 88% and focuses on restoring and selling curiosities in a relaxed shopkeeping environment. Both games are available for free from May 7 to May 14.

AppWizard

May 7, 2026

Minecraft in new Partnerships, Experiences and Initiatives

Minecraft is expanding its global licensing strategy with over 200 partners, preparing for Licensing Expo 2026. Highlights include the success of the A Minecraft Movie, which grossed nearly a billion at the global box office in 2025. Key partnerships involve Cool Shirtz, adidas, and OppoSuits, along with new product launches like Actimel in Europe and Sticki Rolls globally in August 2026. STEM-focused products from Horizon Group USA and a plush partnership with Ty Inc. are also in development. The Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue debuted in Dallas in 2024, with plans for global expansion and a new attraction, Minecraft Experience: Moonlight Trail, launching in May. Minecraft World, a theme park land in collaboration with Merlin Entertainment, is set to open in 2027 in London. A sequel to the original movie and a new animated series for Netflix are also in development, aiming to engage fans with new stories and characters.