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The Marathon server slam consumed my weekend: 21 hours later, I've gone from 'meh' to believer
AppWizard
March 3, 2026

The Marathon server slam consumed my weekend: 21 hours later, I’ve gone from ‘meh’ to believer

Last year, Embark and Bungie conducted playtests for their extraction shooters, with Bungie's Marathon being their first project outside the Destiny universe in over 15 years. Arc Raiders, developed by Embark, launched as the first mainstream title in the genre, while Marathon faced delays. The author initially felt indifferent towards Marathon but grew enthusiastic after playing for over four days. The game features a PvP experience with looting mechanics, weapon upgrades, and unique gun modifications. Critics compare Marathon to Call of Duty and Apex Legends, but the author finds its pacing more similar to Halo, emphasizing positioning and timing. The game includes movement shooter elements, allowing creative navigation techniques. Weapon designs are visually appealing and feature a variety of modifications. The game's progression system encourages experimentation with builds, and the vendor system aids in resource management. The upcoming full version will include a third map, Outpost, and additional content like the Cryo Archive.
RedOctane's 'next evolution in rhythm gaming' sure looks a lot like 2007's Rock Band
AppWizard
March 3, 2026

RedOctane’s ‘next evolution in rhythm gaming’ sure looks a lot like 2007’s Rock Band

RedOctane became a significant player in the gaming industry in the early 2000s, peaking in 2005 with the release of Guitar Hero. Activision acquired RedOctane in 2006, but by 2010, the company was closed due to declining interest in rhythm games. In 2025, Embracer Group revived the brand as RedOctane Games, announcing a new title called Stage Tour, which resembles Guitar Hero but introduces new features and game modes. Stage Tour will function as a "band game" with solo play options, and a closed alpha test is planned ahead of its holiday season release. RedOctane Games aims to create a sustainable experience rather than a series of sequels, and there is uncertainty about the demand for a new rhythm game experience. Details on pricing and song availability are still pending.
12 Free PC Games to Play in March 2026, Thank You Steam
AppWizard
March 2, 2026

12 Free PC Games to Play in March 2026, Thank You Steam

In March 2026, a selection of free PC games includes: - Novel Haven: A management simulation where players transform a lighthouse into a bookshop and engage with villagers. - DJ Bunny: A 2D music-puzzle adventure where players craft tunes to help DJ Bunny perform at a music festival. - Metal Goose: A retro first-person shooter where players battle robotic birds as the MG-1 super soldier. - Vampire’s Fall 2: A 2D RPG where players rise as a vampire amid a civil war between humans and vampires. - Snowbot: A third-person adventure featuring a robot navigating snowy mountains and solving puzzles. - Witch You Want: A game where players create a witch character, engage in potion-making, and explore romance. - Another Day With You: An adventure game filled with mini-games set in a quaint city corner. - Where Winds Meet: A game that launched in November, returning with a free expansion titled Hexi, adding new maps, enemies, and quests. - D1AL-ogue: A cyberpunk game where players repair androids using a circular puzzle mechanic. - Hackinal: A browser-based hacking game with various difficulty levels for cracking passcodes. - Faehnor Online: An MMORPG developed by a solo creator, encouraging exploration with real paper maps. - A Date With Chester 2: A standalone story reflecting on memories while celebrating an anniversary with Chester.
5 Best Video Games Like Terraria
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

5 Best Video Games Like Terraria

"Terraria" fans have several similar gaming options. 1. Minecraft: Launched in 2011, it features procedurally generated worlds made of cubes, allowing players to gather resources, craft items, and engage in both cooperative and competitive play. It is the best-selling video game in history. 2. Starbound: Released in 2016, this sci-fi game allows players to explore various planets, terraform environments, and craft items while establishing settlements. It features procedurally generated worlds and character customization. 3. Forager: Released in 2019, this game emphasizes crafting over combat in a top-down perspective, allowing players to mine, farm, fish, and cook while exploring and developing their base. 4. Valheim: A fantasy survival game that gained popularity in 2021, where players act as fallen Viking warriors in an afterlife, combining survival elements with home maintenance and featuring a dynamic day-night cycle. 5. Core Keeper: An early access fantasy sandbox game where players explore a procedurally generated underground world, dig tunnels, and craft gear. It supports solo or cooperative play with up to seven friends.
Is Marathon's time-to-kill too fast, or am I too Arc Raiders-pilled?
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

Is Marathon’s time-to-kill too fast, or am I too Arc Raiders-pilled?

The author completed the original Mass Effect and shifted focus to extraction shooters, particularly Marathon, influenced by experiences in Arc Raiders. During the first 24 hours with Marathon, the author compared it to Arc Raiders, noting the challenging gameplay dynamics, including a fast time-to-kill (TTK) and the importance of teamwork. Initial frustrations with Marathon's pace shifted to appreciation as the author adapted strategies with friends. The game emphasizes sound and teamwork, with a TTK that feels punishing but manageable with squad support. The author reflected on the need for better resource management, expressing concerns about inventory issues and the early loss of loadouts. They suggested that Bungie should streamline gameplay to enhance the PvP experience.
RedOctane Games announces rhythm action game Stage Tour for consoles, PC
AppWizard
February 27, 2026

RedOctane Games announces rhythm action game Stage Tour for consoles, PC

RedOctane Games has announced its new rhythm action game, Stage Tour, set to launch this fall for consoles and PC via Steam. The game combines traditional note-highway gameplay with modern elements and will feature partnerships with brands like Gibson, Epiphone, and Kramer. Stage Tour aims to enhance the rhythm game experience with new instruments, intricate charting systems, and a focus on community engagement. Players can build their bands, customize their ensembles with official designs, and compete for high scores while unlocking unique bandmates and rewards. Further details about supported platforms will be revealed later.
Minecraft enjoyers, this spectacular-looking voxel game from a solo dev should probably be on your radar
AppWizard
February 25, 2026

Minecraft enjoyers, this spectacular-looking voxel game from a solo dev should probably be on your radar

Lay of the Land is set to be released on April 8 on Steam. The game features vibrant visuals created through procedural techniques, a Creative Mode for unrestricted building, and a survival mode that requires resource gathering. Players can manipulate terrain with various tools and engage in combat using magical abilities. The game is developed by a single developer known as 'Tooley1998' or Southern Cross Interactive. Pricing details have not been announced, but players can wishlist the game for updates.
7 Free PC Game Offerings To Keep You Busy This Weekend
AppWizard
February 22, 2026

7 Free PC Game Offerings To Keep You Busy This Weekend

Steam Next Fest is approaching, and several developers have released demos ahead of schedule. - Fate Trigger by Saroasis Studios features hero-based tactical shooting with three maps, ten heroes, and four game modes. - Romestead by Three Friends allows players to rebuild a post-apocalyptic Rome overrun by zombies, including two biomes, 15 dungeons, three bosses, and an eight-player co-op mode. - The Witch’s Bakery by Silver Lining Interactive is an adventure and puzzle game where players run a bakery in Paris, offering one to two hours of gameplay in the first chapter. - 1348 Ex Voto by Dear Villagers is set in Medieval Italy, following a knight's quest to rescue a loved one, with a demo showcasing the game's opening chapters and combat mechanics. - Denshattack by Fireshine Games is a fast-paced arcade game featuring a gravity-defying train, with the demo including the first three levels. - Witchspire by Envar Games is a survival-crafting adventure allowing players to reach level 7 and choose from two familiars and coven options, playable solo or in co-op mode. - John Carpenter's Toxic Commando by Focus Entertainment is a cooperative shooter with two demo levels, featuring character selection and combat mechanics.
The 15 Best Steam Deck Games
AppWizard
February 21, 2026

The 15 Best Steam Deck Games

Valve’s Steam Deck is a leading handheld PC known for its user-friendly design and gaming capabilities. It supports a range of games, including: - Vampire Survivors: Affordable, engaging gameplay, and seamless performance. - Stardew Valley: A beloved farming simulator that supports modding. - Balatro: Combines poker mechanics with rogue-like elements, low battery consumption. - Dave the Diver: Quick gaming sessions with charming 2D art style. - Blue Prince: Cozy exploration game with puzzles, suitable for bedtime play. - Dredge: Eerie experience with a day-based structure for brief sessions. - Deep Rock Galactic Survivor: Sci-fi elements and mining challenges, engaging gameplay. - Hades / Hades 2: Action roguelikes with stunning visuals and compelling gameplay. - Sektori: Fast-paced twin-stick shooter, smooth performance. - Elden Ring: Expansive RPG that performs well on the Steam Deck. - Resident Evil 2: Smooth-running remake with a gripping narrative. - Big Hops: 3D platformer with charming visuals and fluid performance at 60FPS. - Warframe: Live-service game offering fast-paced combat, requires internet. - TMNT Shredder’s Revenge: Pixel art brawler with solo and multiplayer options. - Megabonk: 3D version of Vampire Survivors, steady framerate and intuitive controls.
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