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What's new on Xbox Game Pass? Check out the latest.
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

What’s new on Xbox Game Pass? Check out the latest.

Xbox Game Pass is evolving with a variety of gaming experiences. Forza Horizon 6 is set in Japan, features 550 cars, and allows players to race at speeds up to 100 mph. Hades 2 allows players to control Melinoë, expanding on the original's themes and gameplay while maintaining engaging combat and narrative. Vampire Crawlers combines gameplay from Vampire Survivors with roguelike deckbuilding, offering strategic gameplay and unique mechanics. Subnautica 2 is the most wish-listed game on Steam, enhancing exploration and survival mechanics from the original game. Mixtape is an indie game that offers a three-hour experience filled with nostalgic storytelling and a vibrant soundtrack reminiscent of the '90s.
Survival RPG Outward 2 will run just fine on 'potato' settings, and as proof, here's testimony from an actual potato
AppWizard
May 20, 2026

Survival RPG Outward 2 will run just fine on ‘potato’ settings, and as proof, here’s testimony from an actual potato

Outward 2, the sequel to Nine Dots' survival RPG, is set to launch in early access on July 17. The game is designed to run on a wide range of systems, maintaining visual quality even at lower settings. Maximum settings require a GeForce RTX 4080 and 32 GB of RAM, while medium settings can be played with a GTX 3060 and 16 GB of RAM. The "potato" settings can run on a GTX 750 Ti and 8 GB of RAM at 30 FPS. The minimum system requirements include Windows 10, an Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX-6300 processor, 8 GB RAM, and a GTX 750 Ti or AMD Radeon R7 260 graphics card. The recommended requirements are an Intel Core i7-3770 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600 processor, 16 GB RAM, and a GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX 580 graphics card. A closed beta will start on May 26, with more details to be announced.
Minecraft Updates Used to Feel Magical, Now They Don't Hit Like They Used To
AppWizard
May 18, 2026

Minecraft Updates Used to Feel Magical, Now They Don’t Hit Like They Used To

In the early days of Minecraft, major updates significantly transformed gameplay, introducing new dimensions and mechanics, with players eagerly anticipating these annual changes. Iconic updates included Redstone mechanics, the Nether overhaul, and the Ender Dragon boss. Recently, Mojang shifted to smaller, more frequent updates, which introduced new mobs and blocks but felt less impactful, leaving players wanting more substantial changes. The transition began with the Garden Awakens update, which set a precedent for subsequent updates that lacked transformative qualities. For example, the Minecraft 1.21 Tricky Trials update introduced new challenges and a mob but did not alter core gameplay significantly. Recent updates have focused more on building enhancements rather than survival challenges, with examples like the Chaos Cubed and Tiny Takeover updates prioritizing cosmetic changes over meaningful survival features. The frequency of updates has diluted their impact, making players feel overwhelmed and disconnected. Many recent updates exist independently without building on previous content, leading to missed opportunities for integration and deeper gameplay experiences. The community desires updates that enhance the survival experience and create memorable moments.
Subnautica 2 devs say it's 'an exploration game first,' expanding on the first game's 'masterclass' in designing player-driven discovery
AppWizard
May 1, 2026

Subnautica 2 devs say it’s ‘an exploration game first,’ expanding on the first game’s ‘masterclass’ in designing player-driven discovery

The Subnautica series is classified as a "Survival" game due to elements like resource gathering, crafting, and the threat of drowning. However, Anthony Gallegos, the lead gameplay designer for Subnautica 2, stated that the game is primarily focused on exploration, with survival mechanics serving to support this exploration. Unknown Worlds aims to refine survival systems while maintaining an emphasis on exploration in the upcoming release of Subnautica 2, which is set for early access on May 14.
Co-op pirate survival game Windrose: should you grab it in early access?
AppWizard
April 14, 2026

Co-op pirate survival game Windrose: should you grab it in early access?

Windrose is a co-op pirate survival game that combines base-building, ship-to-ship combat, and open-world exploration. Players begin the game shipwrecked on a desolate island after an encounter with Blackbeard, where they gather resources, craft a base, repair their ship, and rescue their crew. Key features include: - Hunger and thirst mechanics, where food buffs attributes but does not cause death from starvation. - Weather effects present, but no negative impacts observed. - Health is managed through a single meter, with potions and bandages for healing. - Only online co-op is available; no PvP. - PvE interactions with animals, zombies, and enemy pirates. - Crafting system that pulls from nearby storage chests. - Base-building similar to Palworld's system. - Custom settings for health and damage adjustments. - Limited farming options currently available. - No NPC companions, but players can hire NPCs to assist at crafting stations. - Death results in dropping raw resources but retaining crafted items. - Crew members sing sea shanties during voyages. - Shared progress allows joining friends' games. Fishing is not yet implemented, but planned for future updates. The ship-to-ship combat is engaging, while melee combat can feel repetitive. Windrose is expected to remain in early access for one to three years, with about half of the planned content currently available. The game is priced reasonably, with a 10% discount at launch, but players should anticipate a wait for additional content. Performance is generally stable, though there are occasional slowdowns.
Long-Awaited Open World Survival Game Finally Sets Release Date for PC & Consoles
AppWizard
April 10, 2026

Long-Awaited Open World Survival Game Finally Sets Release Date for PC & Consoles

Solarpunk, a survival game developed by Cyberwave and rokaplay, is set to launch on June 8th, 2026, across multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch 2, PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game has been in development since its unveiling in 2023 and has become one of the most wishlisted games on Steam. It features crafting, farming, exploration, and base-building mechanics, set in a charming 3D world with floating islands. Players can engage in single-player or optional multiplayer co-op, crafting airships to explore and gather resources. Solarpunk will launch without Early Access, providing the complete experience from day one. Pricing details have not yet been announced.
Hope you're hungry 'cause Don't Starve is back with a new co-op survival crafting adventure for Wilson and the gang
AppWizard
April 9, 2026

Hope you’re hungry ’cause Don’t Starve is back with a new co-op survival crafting adventure for Wilson and the gang

Klei Entertainment announced Don't Starve Elsewhere during the 2026 Triple-i Initiative Showcase, building on the foundations of Don't Starve Together and enhancing the multiplayer experience. The game features returning characters such as Wilson, Willow, Wendy, and WX-78, while retaining core multiplayer survival mechanics. It aims to expand the universe of its predecessors with new environments and experiences. The world premiere trailer, available on Steam, showcases the game's rich, sketchbook-style aesthetic.
PC Gamers Have 2 More Days to Play One of the Best Survival Games For Free
AppWizard
April 4, 2026

PC Gamers Have 2 More Days to Play One of the Best Survival Games For Free

From April 2nd to April 6th, players can download and play Subnautica for free on Steam and the Epic Games Store. After this period, a 75% discount will be available until April 9th on Steam and April 7th on the Epic Games Store. Subnautica will also be featured in Xbox Free Play Days from April 9th to 12th. The game is accessible on multiple platforms, including PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices.
Pacific Drive is an excellent driving sim with horror vibes, and you can get the full experience cheaper than ever
AppWizard
March 25, 2026

Pacific Drive is an excellent driving sim with horror vibes, and you can get the full experience cheaper than ever

Pacific Drive is a game that combines eerie atmospheres reminiscent of Stalker or Chernobylite with survival mechanics in a driving simulator format. Set in the Olympic Exclusion Zone, players use vehicles to navigate supernatural events while gathering resources and upgrading their cars. The environment poses challenges such as radiation damage, requiring repairs for safe returns. The recent expansion, Whispers in the Woods, focuses on the occult practices of the zone's former inhabitants. Critics have praised the game, with a notable 9/10 review highlighting its sound design and narrative. Pacific Drive is currently available for .94 / £9.12, a 64% discount, and the Whispers Edition bundle, including the DLC, is priced at £17.99.
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