UK Archives

AppWizard

May 22, 2026

Lara Croft’s Remastered Tomb Raider Trilogy is free on the Epic Games Store

This week, the Epic Games Store is offering the Tomb Raider I-III Remastered trilogy and the indie puzzler Down in Bermuda for free until May 28th at 4 PM UK time. The Tomb Raider trilogy includes classic graphics, enhanced visuals, all expansions, bonus content, and a new challenge mode. Down in Bermuda features an isometric puzzle experience where players help an aviator escape a time bubble in the Bermuda Triangle. Users can claim these titles until next Thursday, after which they will be replaced by two new games.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Binance’s Android app privacy fight is back in the spotlight

Binance is facing scrutiny regarding the data collection practices of its Android app, which some users believe functions more as a data collection tool than a trading platform. Concerns have been raised about the app's extensive permissions and tracking capabilities, with a report indicating the presence of numerous tracking components, including SDKs from TikTok and WeChat, and over 50 system permissions. Binance's privacy portal states that data is collected for account management, security, marketing, fraud prevention, and legal compliance. Despite this, there are questions about whether the data collection practices are proportionate to the app's intended functions. Binance has a history of legal issues, including a guilty plea in November 2023 that resulted in a .32 billion penalty for anti-money laundering violations. The exchange claims to tailor its privacy framework to regional regulations, but user concerns about the app's tracking capabilities persist. As of early 2026, Binance has over 300 million registered users, making any privacy-related disputes potentially impactful. The ongoing scrutiny may lead to gradual adjustments in Binance's practices rather than a complete overhaul.

AppWizard

May 21, 2026

Valve moves to dismiss gambling lawsuit against Counter-Strike 2 cases

Valve is facing a lawsuit from New York Attorney General Letitia James, filed in February 2026, which claims that the sale of Cases in Counter-Strike 2 constitutes unregulated gambling aimed at underage players. The lawsuit seeks to stop Valve's promotion of these features and impose financial penalties. Valve argues that opening a Case is similar to purchasing randomized items, a common practice in collectibles, and is urging the court to dismiss the case. The Attorney General is seeking damages amounting to three times Valve's profits from Case sales and a ban on selling these items in New York. Additionally, Valve is involved in a separate lawsuit in the UK regarding competition restrictions imposed on publishers.

BetaBeacon

May 20, 2026

The Best Android Games to Download This Summer 2026

Balatro is a poker-inspired roguelike deckbuilder game that has no aggressive monetization or energy systems, allowing players to pay once and own it.

AppWizard

May 20, 2026

Nationwide banking app update ahead of Fairer Share £100 decision

Beginning Thursday, Nationwide customers can conceal payment references on incoming bank transfers within the app. This feature aims to help prevent abusers from using banking systems to maintain unwanted contact and control over survivors. Domestic abuse charities have raised concerns about payment references being used for harassment, with some abusers sending messages or threats through these references. Nationwide's initiative empowers customers to control what is visible in their accounts. Approximately 4.2 million women in the UK have experienced economic abuse, which can include controlling bank accounts and monitoring financial activity. Nationwide's vulnerability support team assisted 312 customers facing abuse in 2025, an increase from 213 the previous year. The organization has also established “safe spaces” in hundreds of branches for domestic abuse support. Campaigners urge other banks to assess how banking features might be exploited by abusers, and Nationwide is considering extending similar functionalities to Virgin Money customers in the future.

AppWizard

May 18, 2026

All Will Rise devs ‘definitely expect some pushback from Western audiences’ over its depiction of violent resistance and ecoterrorism

All Will Rise is a narrative-driven deckbuilder that explores themes of activism, environmental degradation, and accountability through gameplay. It draws inspiration from real-world activism and contrasts peaceful methods with more radical tactics. The game is set in the fictional city of Muziris, inspired by India, and emphasizes the struggles of Adivasis and the complexities of their movements. The creators encourage debate and dissent among players, aiming to challenge stereotypes about activists. Comparisons are made to other games like Final Fantasy 7, but All Will Rise focuses on reflection and discussion rather than direct action. A demo is currently available, although no release date has been announced.

Winsage

May 18, 2026

Steam Controller Reservation Emails Begin Going Out With 72-Hour Purchase Windows

Valve has started contacting individuals on the Steam Controller waitlist by sending reservation emails to finalize purchases. Recipients have until May 18 to confirm their orders, or their reservations will be canceled. The first batch of controllers began arriving this week after the reservation system launched on May 8, following the controller's sellout in 30 minutes on May 4. Those with reservations should check their email and spam folder, as Valve is not sending reminder messages. The purchase window is 72 hours from when the email is received. Fulfillment will start in the United States and Canada, followed by the UK, Europe, and Australia. The reservation system does not strictly follow chronological order for email distribution. Users not included in the current wave of reservations will remain in line for future batches, though Valve has not announced when these will be dispatched. Resale prices for the Steam Controller on platforms like eBay are significantly higher than the retail price, despite anti-scalper measures in place. The Steam Controller features TMR magnetic thumbsticks, dual trackpads, gyro support, four rear grip buttons, and a Puck accessory that functions as a charger and 2.4GHz wireless receiver.

AppWizard

May 17, 2026

Demigod review (2009)

Demigod, reviewed in PC Gamer issue #201 (June 2009), features a unique art direction characterized by a "Video Game Beige" color palette. The game allows players to utilize Generals to command minions in chaotic battles, though the visuals can sometimes obscure unit status. It includes four game types, with Conquest and Fortress modes requiring direct assaults on turrets, which can lead to drawn-out matches. Players can upgrade their minions at the Citadel, enhancing their capabilities. The game incorporates RPG elements, allowing players to invest in team benefits or personal enhancements through in-game currency. However, it has minor flaws, including pathfinding issues and inconsistent netcode, affecting online play. Despite these issues, players find enjoyment in the blend of strategy and RPG mechanics.

AppWizard

May 16, 2026

GTA roleplayers built a secret Boiler Room rave beneath Los Santos, complete with DJs, club photographers, biker security, and a custom party drug

An underground rave event in GTA Online has been organized in collaboration with Roleplay.co.uk, featuring an interactive elevator leading to a hidden bunker transformed into a club. The event included a roleplayed custom drug smuggled from overseas and was secured by the Arms of Outcasts motorcycle club. The first event attracted 96 attendees, and the organizer expressed hopes for a larger crowd at future gatherings. Community engagement was highlighted through photography and discussions about the event's fictional elements.

AppWizard

May 14, 2026

Forza Horizon 6 launch times and release date in your region

Forza Horizon 6 will be set in Japan and features a new Horizon Festival with street racing, drifting, and kei trucks. The early access launch for the Premium edition will be at 12:01 AM local time for Xbox and Xbox App users, and at 9:01 PM PDT for US Pacific timezone players on May 14. Steam users will have access at 4:01 AM UTC. Global release times include: 12:01 AM EDT (US Eastern), 5:01 AM GMT (UK), 6:01 AM CEST (Europe), 2:01 PM AEST (Australia), 4:01 PM NZST (New Zealand), and 1:01 PM JST (Japan). Preloads are available, requiring 160 GB on PC and at least 135 GB on Xbox, and PC gamers must update their Gaming Services for optimal performance.