skepticism

AppWizard
July 8, 2025
Borderlands 4 is set to release with a promise of improved storytelling, moving away from the "toilet humor" and meme culture of previous titles. Episode two of Beyond the Borderlands has generated optimism about the game's narrative potential, suggesting a more refined approach to storytelling. While the series has faced criticism for execution, it has maintained engaging gameplay. If Borderlands 4 successfully integrates a compelling story, it could enhance the overall experience for both new and returning players.
AppWizard
July 8, 2025
Jack Dorsey, former CEO and co-founder of Twitter, is developing a Bluetooth-based messaging application called Bitchat, which enables communication without internet connectivity, Wi-Fi, or cellular service, using peer-to-peer connections over distances up to 300 meters. The app is currently in the testing phase on TestFlight, which has reached its capacity of 10,000 users. Dorsey has expressed interest in learning about Bluetooth mesh networks and related technologies through this project. The app has sparked discussions about mesh networks and resilient communication, but it has also received mixed reactions, with some users expressing skepticism and concerns about potential misuse.
Winsage
July 7, 2025
As of July, Windows 11 has surpassed Windows 10 in global market share, claiming 52% compared to Windows 10's 44.59%. Microsoft has changed the extended support program for Windows 10, allowing users to sync their PC settings to the cloud using the Windows Backup app to receive an additional year of security updates at no cost. This option provides users more time to decide on upgrading to Windows 11, particularly for those with PCs that do not meet its system requirements. Users are cautioned against remaining on Windows 10 without security updates due to potential vulnerabilities. There is speculation that Microsoft may extend support options further in response to concerns about older PCs.
Winsage
July 7, 2025
Microsoft is introducing widget recommendations on the Windows 11 lock screen to suggest widgets that may interest users. This feature, called the Discover Widget, is currently in a preview build and does not have a specific rollout date. The initiative aims to increase user engagement with widgets, which have seen slow adoption on Windows 11 compared to other platforms. The reception of this feature is uncertain due to past user skepticism towards recommendation systems in Windows 11.
AppWizard
July 6, 2025
Developer Unknown Worlds has announced a leadership transition, with co-founder Max McGuire departing and Steve Papoutsis appointed as the new head of the studio. This change has led to mixed reactions from the Subnautica community, including calls for a boycott of Subnautica 2. The announcement did not provide details about the reasons for the departures of key figures. The studio reassured fans that Subnautica 2 will not shift to a live service model or change its monetization strategy. Unknown Worlds emphasized the commitment of the remaining development team and requested patience from fans as they navigate this transition.
AppWizard
July 3, 2025
Simon Collins-Laflamme, founder of Hytale and Hypixel Studios, is attempting to reacquire the canceled adventure game from Riot Games. He is concerned that this venture could complicate his life in the short term. Collins-Laflamme is gauging community interest in the project, stating that negative feedback would lead him to reconsider pursuing it. He also noted the technical limitations of Hytale's legacy engine, which is currently exclusive to PC and not suitable for cross-platform play. Eric Barone, creator of Stardew Valley, expressed openness to engaging with Hytale's revival if opportunities arise.
Winsage
July 2, 2025
Microsoft has introduced alternatives to the fee for extended support for Windows 10, including the option to pay for an additional year of security updates and using the Windows Backup app to sync settings to OneDrive. However, the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) argues that these measures are insufficient to address the e-waste crisis, as the hardware requirements for Windows 11 may render millions of functional PCs obsolete by October 2025. PIRG's Lucas Rockett Gutterman stated that Microsoft's options are unlikely to help the estimated 400 million Windows 10 PCs that cannot upgrade to Windows 11. He called for longer-term support for Windows 10 or relaxed hardware requirements for Windows 11. Currently, businesses have access to a three-year extended security update program, while consumers only have one year. The disparity raises concerns about the environmental impact of discarding usable devices. Gutterman suggested that one additional year of support, even if fee-based, could help consumers, and proposed exploring a non-paying option like ad-supported Windows 10 to fund continued security updates.
AppWizard
July 2, 2025
Deus Ex is a classic PC game known for its innovative approach to the first-person shooter genre and as a pioneer of the immersive sim, allowing players to explore a non-linear world with moral complexities. The game's designer, Warren Spector, initially pitched it as "Troubleshooter" to Origin Systems before joining Ion Storm in 1997. He faced skepticism regarding the mix of shooter, stealth, and RPG elements. The protagonist's name, JC Denton, was chosen during development, contributing to the game's legacy. An interview with Spector will be published in PC Gamer on July 15.
AppWizard
June 30, 2025
We Love Every Game is a platform created by Boston-based Totally Human Media to help players discover quality PC games on Steam, which sees nearly 20,000 new titles each year. The initiative is led by Ichiro Lambe, a game developer with 30 years of experience, including founding Sony Online Entertainment Denver and Dejobaan Games. The platform recommends games that have at least an 80% positive review rating on Steam with a minimum of 30 reviews. It aims to connect gamers with titles that match their preferences and is exploring the use of generative AI to summarize game content. The founders plan to expand the platform to include other forms of entertainment media and are seeking a sustainable business model that respects user experience.
AppWizard
June 30, 2025
This week, several new PC gaming releases are available as a way to escape the heat in the UK. Notable titles include: - LEO: Low Earth Orbit: Features lounge jazz and unique gameplay where guns propel players away from targets. - Rekindled Trails: Focuses on wilderness exploration and grid-puzzle trading. - Monster Hunter Wilds: An update is launching today for this title. - Seven Days Until Morning: An artsy horror game set on Pluto, exploring the end of humanity. - Mecha Break: A free-to-play game about dismantling mechs with customizable anime girl pilots. - FLOWorlds: Players terraform hexagonal planets by dropping frozen shards from orbit. - No ICE in California Charity Bundle: Launching today, proceeds will benefit organizations supporting migrants in the USA. Additionally, the Treehouse team is dealing with various challenges during the heatwave, including investigating the fall of Hytale and exploring new features.
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