studios Archives

AppWizard

May 5, 2026

PlayStation 5 Linux Tested: Steam PC vs Native PS5 Games

Linux has been successfully implemented on the PlayStation 5, allowing users to run an open operating system on the console. This implementation, led by security researcher Andy Nguyen (TheFlow), utilizes an exploit for PS5 consoles with system software versions up to 4.5. Users can boot Linux from a USB or SSD, with Ubuntu 26.04 LTS providing around 15GB of usable memory. The PS5's hardware, including its Zen 2 processor and GPU, is fully accessible, with CPU speeds reaching up to 3.5GHz and GPU speeds up to 2.23GHz when boost mode is activated. However, running Linux on the PS5 presents challenges, such as sourcing a unit with the required firmware and limitations in resolution, as users cannot exceed 1080p. Performance tests showed that Linux can match the PS5's performance in some titles, but issues with memory management were noted, leading to stuttering and crashes in certain games. For example, reducing texture quality improved performance in games like Pragmata, while rendering issues were observed in Crimson Desert. The implementation allows for a unique gaming experience, but it also highlights the complexities and limitations of running Linux on a gaming console.

AppWizard

May 4, 2026

Hack-and-Slash “SoulQuest” Vows Retribution Against the Gods Today on PC

SoulQuest, a hack-and-slash action adventure game developed by TomasJPereyra and published by Indie.io, was released on PC via Steam on May 1, 2026. Players control Alys, a widowed warrior seeking to reclaim her husband's soul from the Celtic gods, battling undead foes and confronting the goddess Morrigan. The game features fluid combat mechanics, a retro-styled world inspired by Celtic folklore and Arthurian legends, and a medieval soundtrack. SoulQuest is priced at .99 with a 20% launch discount and supports multiple languages. It is compatible with Steam Deck and can be wishlisted on Steam. SoulBlade Studios, founded in 2023, is the developer behind SoulQuest.

AppWizard

May 4, 2026

Former Elder Scrolls Online boss was told in 2001 that ‘There’s already enough MMOs out there, no one is ever gonna play a new one’

Matt Firor, founder of ZeniMax Online Studios, discussed the gaming industry's challenges, particularly following the cancellation of their MMO, Project Blackbird. He expressed skepticism about analyst Matthew Ball's report on the industry's state but remains optimistic about its potential, citing a diverse range of developers contributing to creativity and innovation. Firor believes the industry is too expansive and dynamic to fail entirely, although he raised concerns about the sustainability of careers in game development and the romanticized notion of making games versus the reality of the field.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

In the 33 months since Baldur’s Gate 3 launched, it’s hardly ever fallen out of the top 5 most-played games on Steam Deck

Baldur's Gate 3 has been a popular game on the Steam Deck for 33 months, only dropping out of the top five most-played games for four months. It has consistently remained in the top ten during its absences. The Steam Deck features a public leaderboard for most-played games, updated regularly. Despite hardware limitations, Baldur's Gate 3 offers a satisfactory gaming experience, particularly due to its turn-based mechanics. Historical data on its performance is sourced from Gaming on Linux, Steam Deck HQ, and Steam Deck Gaming.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

Hytale boss doesn’t want its mod browser to feel like “a shopping mall,” but is exploring ways to support creators

Simon Collins-Laflamme, founder of Hytale, has addressed the issue of paid mods, emphasizing that in-game mods will be free to install with no price tags in the browsing experience. He aims to support mod creators while maintaining an enjoyable player experience. Collins-Laflamme is open to feedback from the community regarding the monetization of mods and acknowledges the concerns from both supporters and opponents of paid mods. He envisions a mod browser that resembles a community library rather than a shopping mall, highlighting the importance of accessibility for players. Hypixel Studios plans to explore ways for players to support mod creators financially, potentially through a system similar to Patreon, where the core mod remains free but players can opt to pay for additional benefits. If creator payments are implemented, Hypixel Studios would take a minimal cut to cover costs. Collins-Laflamme prioritizes a vibrant and open modding ecosystem over a profit-maximizing approach. He invites ongoing input from players and modders as the mod browser develops.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

There’s an extreme lack of good quality, easy-to-find video game figures, and after seeing people make their own I’m tempted to try it myself

The author is new to figure collecting and enjoys searching for figures, particularly Hatsune Miku, at shops like Surugaya and Book Off. They highlight the creativity in customizing figures, mentioning a transformation of a Mizuhara Chizuru figure into Mari from Omori by yumenikkis, which involved detailed alterations. Another creator, Fallen Petal Studios, makes clay figures from scratch, including characters from various video games and shows, showcasing intricate details and craftsmanship. The author considers the possibility of customizing some of their own figures, particularly those that are less visible in their collection.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

Xbox Game Pass Users Hail Day One Exclusive Game As “Insane 10/10”

A recent addition to the Xbox Game Pass lineup, Replaced, is a 2.5D cinematic platformer developed by Sad Cat Studios and published by Thunderful Publishing. Released last month as a console exclusive for the Xbox Series X, it is currently not available on other platforms and retails for .99, but is accessible at no additional cost to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers. The game has received significant attention on Reddit, with many praising its atmosphere and storytelling, although it holds a 4/5 star rating on the Xbox Store and an 83% approval rating on Steam. Some players have criticized its pacing, noting an average playtime of 10 to 15 hours.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

Steam’s Most-Wishlisted Games Forced Into Early Release As Subnautica 2 Pulls A Hollow Knight: Silksong

Developers are adjusting their release schedules due to the impending launch of major titles like GTA 6 and Hollow Knight: Silksong. The release date for Hollow Knight: Silksong in September 2025 has caused over eight games to delay their launches, with some moving to November and others, like Aeterna Lucis, postponing until 2026. The early access release of Subnautica 2, confirmed for May 14, has led other games, including Outbound, to change their release dates. Outbound, originally set for May 14, will now launch on May 11 for Steam and Xbox, while keeping May 14 for Epic Games Store and PlayStation.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

After 9 years and 2 new Mortal Kombats, it looks like NetherRealm is finally making Injustice 3

Mortal Kombat 1 has seen a decline in post-launch support despite strong sales, while reports suggest that Injustice 3 may be in development by NetherRealm Studios. A Warner Bros. Games employee's resume listed Injustice 3, supporting ongoing rumors about the game's development. Voice actors for characters like Aquaman and Superman have also hinted at the possibility of Injustice 3. NetherRealm Studios has a history of releasing new titles every few years, indicating that an official announcement could be forthcoming.

AppWizard

May 3, 2026

Review: ‘Minecraft’ is still getting better with version 26.1

Minecraft was developed by Markus "Notch" Persson in May 2009 and led to the establishment of Mojang Studios a month later. The official version was released for Mac and PC in November 2011. By September 2014, it had sold 54 million copies and had 100 million registered users, prompting Microsoft's acquisition of Minecraft and Mojang Studios. Under Microsoft's ownership, the game has continued to grow, with the latest version, Minecraft 26.1, released in March, featuring new blocks, mechanics, mobs, and challenges.