set Archives

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Gamers compress 80TB map of Minecraft’s oldest anarchy server down to a 15TB download

A team of Minecraft enthusiasts has mapped the entire 2b2t server, resulting in a 15TB compressed download that can expand to an 80TB archive. The project, known as the 2b2tplace preservation initiative, began in 2024 and concluded in April 2026 after 22 months of work using 28 bot accounts to map over one million blocks across the Overworld, Nether, and End dimensions. The team developed a custom compression format (.zvcr) to achieve an 81.25% space savings, allowing the data to be stored more efficiently. The 2b2t server, which has been operational since 2010, is known for its lack of rules and moderation, fostering a unique anarchic environment. Despite preservation efforts, concerns exist among players about the server drifting from its original spirit.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Minecraft’s future could change forever as XBOX CEO outlines bold new vision

XBOX CEO Asha Sharma has announced plans for significant investments in Minecraft as part of a restructuring within Microsoft's gaming division. The strategy focuses on the "four Cs": Core, Content, Creation, and Connection, with the aim of enhancing the game and making it the leading platform for content creation globally. Sharma stated the goal is to strengthen player experiences while expanding creator tools. She also set a target for a significant player-count milestone by 2030, aiming for sustained double-digit growth in players and engagement. Additionally, Mojang and King will now report directly to Sharma, reflecting their importance in the gaming landscape. Minecraft has become the best-selling game of all time since its acquisition by Microsoft in 2014 for .5 billion.

Winsage

July 31, 2026

Microsoft Ended Windows 10 Support, but You Don’t Necessarily Need a New PC

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft ceased support for Windows 10, which means it will no longer receive technical assistance, feature updates, or security patches. Microsoft has introduced the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program, which has been extended to October 2027, allowing users to continue receiving essential security updates if their device meets specific criteria. Eligibility for ESU includes running Windows 10, version 22H2 Home, Professional, Pro Education, or Workstations edition, having the latest Windows update installed, being signed in with an administrator Microsoft account, and enabling Windows Backup. ESU is free for users utilizing Windows Backup; otherwise, a one-time fee or redeeming 1,000 Microsoft Rewards points is required. For devices not qualifying for ESU, alternatives include installing third-party antivirus software, upgrading to Windows 11, or switching to Linux. To enroll in ESU, users can navigate to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, where an Enroll Now link will appear if eligible.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

‘We are not looking to just maintain’ Elder Scrolls Online, new ZeniMax boss says, but a bunch of updates have been delayed into 2027 and possibly beyond

Nick Giacomini, the new co-head of ZeniMax Online Studios, addressed changes following layoffs at Xbox, affecting over 200 employees, including his predecessor Joseph Burba. He reassured fans that The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) remains a priority and emphasized a shift in focus from meeting deadlines to ensuring quality in development. Upcoming projects include a Class and Combat Refresh and a new Trial, which the studio aims to deliver to high standards. The studio has also seen notable departures, including original TESO director Matt Firor, marking a significant transition for ZeniMax Online Studios.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Blizzard is keeping secrets about Diablo 4’s next season until BlizzCon, but you can still try some of it out next week

Blizzard will reveal detailed patch notes for Diablo 4's upcoming season 15 at BlizzCon in September, marking a departure from their usual practice of providing advance details. The season will introduce new seasonal items, returning favorites, and adjustments to the Mythic Unique item system. New features include "Challenge Dungeons," which are boss encounters with customizable difficulty in the open world, and "Overland Ambushes," where players must react quickly to being hunted by a demon. Players can expect new items called "Soul Splinters" that enhance jewelry with damage buffs, and revamped Unique items from previous games, such as Leoric's Crown. The season will also see the return of the "Rebirth" system from Diablo 3 and changes to the Mythic Uniques, including the introduction of weaker, Unique versions of Iconic Mythics. A public test realm (PTR) for these features will be available from August 4 to August 11.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Line Games to Globally Publish PC Game ‘A.S.S.’… Targeting Early Access This Year

Line Games has partnered with indie studio TWOMENGAMES to publish the upcoming PC game Amazing Slot Survivor (A.S.S.). This marks the debut title for TWOMENGAMES, co-founded by Hwang Gyu-min and Lee Geon-soo, both with over 20 years of gaming industry experience. Amazing Slot Survivor is a roguelike survival game where players battle waves of monsters called 'Spawners' while upgrading weapons. It features a unique growth path, weapon crafting, support antennas, and a 'strategic reversal system' that allows character enhancements and revivals. The game will be available on Steam, the Epic Games Store, and STOVE, with an Early Access release planned for this year.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Valve finally gives Deadlock a proper ranked mode, warns that matches will be ‘very rocky’ to start

Valve has introduced a revamped ranked mode for Deadlock, featuring a new match balancing system aimed at enhancing the competitive experience. This update marks a significant transformation from the previous straightforward ranked mode, which allowed players to select heroes and compete for ranks. Players should prepare for an adjustment period as the community adapts to these changes. Additionally, there are indications that Valve may consider expanding access to Deadlock beyond its current invite-only format.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

The mod we called ‘the best Fallout game you’ll play this year’ back in 2018 just launched on GOG

Upcoming releases in the Fallout franchise include a remaster of Fallout 4, a remaster of Fallout: New Vegas, Fallout 5, a prequel to Fallout 3 set in Fallout 76, and the third season of the Fallout television series. Fallout: New California, a full conversion mod for Fallout: New Vegas, has been released on GOG after nearly a decade of development. The mod features a narrative set in 2260, where players assume the role of a character from Vault 18 and make decisions that impact the New California Republic. The story includes various factions such as the New California Republic, the New Reno Mob's Bishop Family, the Shi Clans, the Enclave Leonidas Squadron, the Super Mutant Army, and the Raider Alliance. Critics have praised Fallout: New California as a significant achievement in modding. The mod is easily installable for players with Fallout: New Vegas Ultimate Edition via GOG.

AppWizard

July 31, 2026

Dark Sun, D&D’s most heavy metal setting, will be back in 2027

In the 1990s, the Dungeons & Dragons setting known as Dark Sun emerged, depicting a world ravaged by exploitative sorcerer-kings and featuring warriors with psychic abilities. Dark Sun briefly returned during D&D's 4th edition, and there has been growing demand for its revival in the 5th edition. At Gen Con's D&D keynote, Wizards of the Coast announced the return of Dark Sun, along with a new rulebook titled Blood and Power, a setting guide called Edge of Oblivion, and a special edition of the Player's Handbook. All three publications are set for release next year. Due to mature content, these books will be shrink-wrapped and rated 18+ for profanity, bloodshed, nudity, and sexuality.

BetaBeacon

July 31, 2026

Musou Classic in Your Pocket: Dynasty Warriors: Overlords Unexpectedly Released on iOS and Android

NEOCRAFT LIMITED surprised fans by releasing Dynasty Warriors: Overlords mobile game earlier than expected. The game, licensed by Koei Tecmo, was initially set to launch on July 1 but launched servers on July 30. It features classic musou gameplay, story campaigns, cooperative raids, and boss battles. Players can download the game for free on iOS and Android devices.