sound design Archives

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.

AppWizard

February 28, 2026

Best Marathon settings for peak gaming PC performance

Bungie's multiplayer FPS, Marathon, is currently in an early Server Slam until March 2, with a full release on March 6. The game is designed to be accessible on mid-range PCs and does not require high-end GPU power. Initial settings for optimal performance include Vsync on, frame rate cap off, field of view at 90°, and high graphics quality. Players can expect an average frame rate of 84fps with 60fps for 1% lows. The game is not compatible with the Steam Deck due to BattleEye anti-cheat technology but runs smoothly on other Windows-based handheld devices. While an SSD is not required, it is recommended for better load times. Performance monitoring can be done via a built-in FPS counter or overlays from Nvidia and AMD.

AppWizard

February 22, 2026

With a sequel on the way, now is the perfect time to pick up a Stellar Blade Steam key at 30% off

Stellar Blade, released on PC in June, has received positive reviews and is currently available at a 30% discount on Fanatical. The game features engaging combat mechanics where players control Eve, a warrior fighting alien creatures on a post-apocalyptic Earth. The combat system combines elements of soulslike games and Devil May Cry. However, the narrative is considered weak, with characters lacking depth and the storyline described as "serviceable" but unremarkable. The game includes a 25-hour campaign with collectibles and impressive boss battles. The Standard Edition is priced at .99 / £41.99, while the Complete Edition, which includes additional DLC and cosmetics, is available for .99 / £55.99. This discount offer is valid until February 23, 2026.

AppWizard

February 20, 2026

2024 PC Game Now 100% Free for Everyone on Steam

Paragnosia is a new PC game released on October 24, 2024, available for free on Steam for a limited time. It is a horror-themed game where players act as a surveillance operator capturing images of paranormal anomalies. Developed by Sine Coda, the game has over 100 user reviews and a 92% approval rating, earning a “Very Positive” designation. It is priced at .99 and is compatible with the Steam Deck. This is Sine Coda's second game of 2024, following PathBlasters, and it is a strategic release to promote the upcoming sequel, Paragnosia: Museum. User reviews highlight the game's simplicity, replayability, and effective sound design, although there has been some negative feedback regarding AI-generated images.

AppWizard

February 15, 2026

Free PC Game Released on Steam Has a 100% Rating

A new free PC game titled Blemo has been released on Steam, developed by Blippin Bloppy Games, and has achieved a 100% approval rating from users. The game has received two dozen user reviews, all positive, and is described as a “casual interactive story” where players navigate a compact map and engage with NPCs to solve a secret puzzle. The gameplay can be completed in under ten minutes, though some players report longer playtimes. The game's compatibility with the Steam Deck is marked as “Unknown.” Players have praised its unique art style, sound design, and whimsical humor.

AppWizard

January 20, 2026

MIO: Memories in Orbit is a pleasant stroll after the brutal ultramarathon of Hollow Knight: Silksong — and I’m here for it

MIO: Memories in Orbit is set to release on January 20, 2026, and will be available on PS5, Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC. The main storyline takes approximately 14 hours to complete, with 100% completion estimated to take 25 to 40 hours. The game features engaging gameplay that balances challenge and accessibility, catering to both seasoned players and newcomers.

AppWizard

December 30, 2025

‘Friendslop’ dominated 2025 by proving time and time again that graphics are overrated

In 2025, the PC gaming industry has shifted away from the pursuit of cutting-edge graphics, as advancements have plateaued and often yield only marginal improvements. AI-generated enhancements have not generated the expected enthusiasm, especially given their high costs. Successful games like Peak and REPO demonstrate that engaging gameplay can thrive on budget-friendly PCs, some nearly a decade old. The term "friendslop" describes a genre of games that, despite being labeled low-effort, feature intentional design choices that enhance enjoyment. REPO involves transporting a fragile vase, creating tension and humor, while Peak utilizes immersive sound design and dynamic lighting to convey danger and adventure. Abiotic Factor, a survival game, runs smoothly on older hardware while using modern lighting effects. Larger productions like Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2 and Battlefield 6 prioritize performance over graphics, optimizing for mid-range and minimum-spec PCs. The common thread among these titles is that gameplay is prioritized over graphics, suggesting a potential turning point in the industry towards valuing engaging mechanics and narratives over visual fidelity.

AppWizard

December 29, 2025

The Changing Face of the Minecraft Zombie: How the Mob Works, Why It Matters, and What Players Should Know

Zombies in Minecraft spawn in dimly lit areas, pursue players, and are harmed by sunlight unless sheltered. They can break wooden doors on hard difficulty, pick up weapons or armor, and can chain-aggro when one groans. In Survival Mode, they motivate players to build defenses, provide rotten flesh for dogs, and offer experience points. In Creative Mode, they are used to test mob farms and traps, with customizable skins available. In Adventure Mode, they are utilized for scripted events and challenges. Recent updates have improved their pathfinding, spawn dynamics, sound design, and textures. Players can prevent spawns with light, use shields, gain height advantage, farm zombies for XP, and keep extra blocks for emergencies.

BetaBeacon

December 28, 2025

Atmospheric Diver Game SILT Coming to iOS & Android Devices

- SILT is a 2D platformer game with a creepy horror theme and excellent graphics. - The game features hand-drawn eerie visuals and immersive sound design. - The core gameplay feature is the "Possession Mechanic" which allows players to solve puzzles using sea creatures. - SILT is perfect for mobile devices due to its short length and pick-up-and-play nature. - The game can be played using touchscreen controls or mobile gamepads, such as the Backbone Pro controller. - SILT will be available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store, with a full game unlock available for .99.

AppWizard

December 27, 2025

A psychic baby and whacky control scheme undersell the mundane brilliance of one of my favourite games this year

Goodnight Universe is a game that utilizes webcam interaction to create an intimate connection with players, allowing them to step into the role of a six-month-old baby named Isaac, who has telekinetic abilities. The game features emotional family dynamics, where players experience tender moments and gain insight into their family's unspoken worries and dreams. Its sound design enhances the experience, and while it is not a traditional puzzle game, it offers light challenges and fosters reflection on family relationships. The gameplay encourages players to engage deeply with the narrative and the characters.