skins Archives

Winsage

June 28, 2025

7 tools I use to customize my Windows 11 desktop

Microsoft Windows has a range of customization features, with third-party utilities emerging to restore lost functionalities and enhance user personalization. - Wallpaper Engine: Offers motion-reactive wallpapers and allows users to create dynamic backgrounds; available on Steam for a one-time purchase. - Rainmeter: A utility for creating desktop widgets that display system performance metrics; can be integrated with HWInfo for detailed monitoring. - Nexus Dock: A Mac-style desktop dock alternative that enhances desktop organization; available in free and Ultimate editions with various themes. - Translucent Taskbar: A lightweight utility that adds translucency to the Windows taskbar, allowing dynamic appearance changes based on user activity. - Custom Pointers: Users can enhance their experience with creative cursor designs available online, particularly on DeviantArt. - Tabbed Navigation for Windows: Stardock's Groupy 2 allows users to group applications into a tabbed interface, improving workflow; available for a one-time fee. - Hiding Your Icons: Users can hide desktop icons for a minimalist workspace, with a macro option for quick access. These third-party applications provide tools for users to tailor their Windows experience, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

AppWizard

June 28, 2025

I asked the man in charge of a major live service game if ugly crossover skins are a problem, and I didn’t care for his answer

Alex Karpazis, the creative director of Rainbow Six Siege X, discussed the impact of crossover skins on the gaming experience, noting a significant shift in the game's aesthetic since its launch. Initially focused on realistic tactical gear, the game has incorporated eclectic cosmetics influenced by franchises like The Boys, Iron Maiden, and Rick & Morty since 2018. Karpazis highlighted the new elite skin for Clash as a return to tactical roots, while also defending the Paragon skin for Valkyrie as a blend of tactical and fantastical elements. He acknowledged community concerns about the disjointed aesthetic and mentioned that the idea of an "immersion mode" allowing players to use default skins is under discussion, though no plans have been finalized.

AppWizard

June 27, 2025

Rainbow Six Siege X director says free currency gain has been ‘buffed’ after complaints: ‘The goal wasn’t to make it a harder grind for players’

Ubisoft is implementing changes to the Renown currency in Rainbow Six Siege X in response to player feedback about reduced Renown rewards, especially after match losses. This decline in rewards has raised concerns among veteran players regarding a potential shift towards monetization in the game's free-to-play model. Renown is crucial for unlocking new operators and acquiring skins without additional costs. Ubisoft's Karpazis acknowledged the community's concerns and stated that they are analyzing data to ensure XP boosters remain effective. Players can expect further adjustments as the developers listen to feedback. Siege X features a new 6v6 mode called Dual Front, which allows for respawns and combines attackers and defenders on the same team.

AppWizard

June 27, 2025

Rainbow Six Siege X director says free currency gain has been ‘buffed’ after complaints: ‘The goal wasn’t to make it a harder grind for players’

Ubisoft is responding to player feedback about changes in Renown currency in Rainbow Six Siege X, which has seen diminished payouts, particularly after match losses. This change coincided with the game's transition to a free-to-play model. The introduction of a new cosmetic bundle available only with premium R6 Credits has raised concerns about increased monetization. Ubisoft is also aware that XP boosters have become less effective under the new progression system and is evaluating player feedback on this issue. Siege X is an evolution of the existing game, featuring a new 6v6 mode called Dual Front that allows for respawns and includes both attackers and defenders on the same team.

Winsage

June 21, 2025

This open-source tool gave me the Windows desktop I’ve always wanted

JaxCore is an open-source suite designed to enhance the Windows 11 experience through customization. It operates as a collection of plugins and tools built on the Rainmeter platform, providing users with various widgets for their desktops. JaxCore simplifies the customization process with pre-made tools and allows for deeper customization for those familiar with coding. The suite includes modules like YourFlyouts, YourMixer, ValliStart, Keylaunch, and IdleStyle, as well as widgets such as ModularVisualizer, ModularClocks, ModularPlayers, and Plainext. Although JaxCore is no longer under active development, users can still utilize it, though they may encounter bugs. The author successfully customized their desktop with a media player, clock, and revamped start menu, enhancing their workflow and aesthetic experience. They express a desire to further explore JaxCore and other customization tools.

AppWizard

June 11, 2025

Experts warn GTA and Minecraft being used to lure in cyberattack victims – here’s how to stay safe

Cybersecurity experts have reported a significant increase in game-themed malware targeting the gaming community, especially younger players. From April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2025, there were over 19 million attempts to download malicious files disguised as popular games, affecting around 400,000 individuals globally. Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) was the most targeted game, with nearly 4.5 million attack attempts, followed by Minecraft with 4.1 million, Call of Duty (CoD) with 2.6 million, and The Sims with 2.4 million. Cybercriminals exploit established games and lure victims with fake offers, often leading to infostealers, cryptocurrency hijackers, backdoors, and Trojans. Kaspersky advises gamers to avoid pirated content and be cautious of suspicious offers.

AppWizard

June 9, 2025

PC Gaming Show: Warhammer 40,000: Darktide

During the PC Gaming Show, a new trailer for Warhammer 40,000: Darktide was revealed, showcasing the Arbites class and their Cyber-Mastiff companion. The Arbites navigate the streets of Tertium, demonstrating their combat abilities. Fat Shark announced a Deluxe Edition of the game, which includes the Arbites Class, a unique class outfit, a companion outfit, a portrait frame, and four exclusive weapon skins. Both versions of the Arbites class are available for wishlisting on PC and consoles, with purchases starting June 23rd. The Deluxe Edition will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.

Winsage

June 9, 2025

5 Windows XP features I miss dearly on Windows 11

Microsoft's Windows operating system has evolved significantly, with Windows 11 featuring enhanced multitasking and modern functionalities. However, nostalgic elements from older versions, particularly Windows XP, are missed. 1. The Disk Defragmenter in Windows XP had a visually appealing interface that represented data on the disk, which has been replaced by a text-based interface in later versions. 2. Built-in games like Solitaire, Hearts, and 3D Pinball in Windows XP provided straightforward enjoyment, while their modern counterparts have become cluttered and commercialized. 3. Windows Media Player in XP allowed users to customize with quirky skins, which added personality, a feature that is lacking in today's streamlined media players. 4. Windows Movie Maker was a user-friendly video editing tool that has been replaced by Clipchamp, which many find less intuitive and more patronizing. 5. Windows Messenger and Windows Live Messenger offered a personalized messaging experience with group organization and unique emoticons, which is not matched by current platforms like Skype and Microsoft Teams.

AppWizard

June 4, 2025

‘Why are they so greedy’: Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 players are in disbelief to find bundle ads but Activision claims it’s simply a ‘UI feature test’ that was published ‘in error’

A player of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 discovered embedded bundle advertisements in the weapon select menu, leading to frustration among the gaming community. Activision removed the ads, stating they were an oversight and part of a test that unintentionally went live. This incident sparked outrage, with players expressing dissatisfaction over rising costs and unresolved bugs in the game. The controversy reflects ongoing concerns about Activision's monetization strategies, including a costly Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles crossover and overpriced Squid Game skins, raising questions about the balance between gameplay and corporate profit motives.

AppWizard

May 31, 2025

OK Google, it’s time to support app icon packs on Pixel phones

The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update introduces new features, including Material 3 Expressive and a "Themes" tab in the Wallpaper and Style app, indicating potential customization through unreleased "Pixel Customization Packs." While the full capabilities of Pixel themes are unclear, they may include new wallpapers, fonts, and app icon designs, addressing the current limitations of app icon customization on Pixel phones. Future updates promise customizable app icon shapes, but lack of support for third-party icon packs remains a significant drawback compared to competitors like OnePlus and Samsung. The introduction of Pixel themes raises hopes for enhanced personalization, particularly regarding icon pack support, which has been a long-standing request from Pixel users.