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Videogame 'beta versions' are anything but, says veteran RPG dev—real games are 'sh***y, sh***y, sh***y, sh***y, slightly less sh***y, and it skyrockets' at the end
AppWizard
May 8, 2026

Videogame ‘beta versions’ are anything but, says veteran RPG dev—real games are ‘sh***y, sh***y, sh***y, sh***y, slightly less sh***y, and it skyrockets’ at the end

Prokop Jirsa, the lead designer for Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, argues that the term "beta" in video game marketing often misrepresents the actual state of game development. He points out that what players experience in public betas is typically much more polished than the internal alphas or betas, which are less refined. Jirsa humorously suggests that these pre-release versions could be more accurately labeled as gammas or deltas. He emphasizes the non-linear progression of game quality, noting that significant time and effort are required to achieve a polished final product, which can take months or even years. Jirsa reflects on the challenges faced during the development of the original Kingdom Come: Deliverance, given the limited resources and tight timelines.
Ex-Escape From Tarkov devs say their new shooter "won't be another clone lost in a gray zone," but don't want it labeled as an "'X' killer"
AppWizard
April 27, 2026

Ex-Escape From Tarkov devs say their new shooter “won’t be another clone lost in a gray zone,” but don’t want it labeled as an “‘X’ killer”

Rush is Real is an upcoming shooter game developed by Dmitri Ogorodnikov and German Terekhov under Nomion Games, who previously worked on Escape From Tarkov. The game is currently in the prototyping phase and aims to differentiate itself from generic multiplayer experiences by being fast-paced and structured, avoiding slow gameplay typical of extraction shooters or battle royales. It will feature clear objectives and promote player skill, with a design philosophy focused on simplicity and clarity. Rush is Real intends to merge elements from games like Call of Duty and Escape From Tarkov while appealing to a broad audience, balancing casual and hardcore gaming. The development team emphasizes the importance of human creativity in the game's final design, despite the potential use of artificial intelligence in the process.
Ex-Escape From Tarkov devs will "ride the wave" of AI, but stress "the finishing touch must always come from a human hand"
AppWizard
April 21, 2026

Ex-Escape From Tarkov devs will “ride the wave” of AI, but stress “the finishing touch must always come from a human hand”

Nomion Games was founded by Dmitri Ogorodnikov and German Terekhov, former contributors to Battlestate Games. They believe that "creative potential, accumulated experience, and ambition should not be put on hold." Their upcoming title, Rush is Real, will incorporate AI as a crucial tool in game development. Ogorodnikov views AI as essential, comparing it to a sculptor's chisel, and emphasizes its role in speeding up the ideation process. He acknowledges AI's ability to alleviate tedious tasks in game development but insists that final decisions must come from humans. He warns against over-reliance on AI, particularly in critical areas like level design and gameplay mechanics, to avoid losing creativity and identity. The gaming community has raised concerns about AI-generated content, and Ogorodnikov recognizes the need for vigilance in maintaining unique artistic vision while using AI to enhance efficiency.
A YouTuber has unearthed Dark Souls 2's enormous cut sewers map, and it's another fascinating insight into the design of FromSoftware's most divisive work
AppWizard
April 19, 2026

A YouTuber has unearthed Dark Souls 2’s enormous cut sewers map, and it’s another fascinating insight into the design of FromSoftware’s most divisive work

Dark Souls II underwent a significant mid-development reboot that transformed its narrative and introduced unique level designs. One major cut content was an expansive sewer map, replaced by The Gutter. A fan named Doneda restored this lost sewer area, which features a hidden tavern and a traditional boss arena with unlit candles. The exploration reveals disconnected pathways, indicating ongoing design deliberations. Doneda's insights align with Hidetaka Miyazaki's view that Dark Souls II was crucial for the series' advancement, influencing future titles like Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Elden Ring.
We polled PC gamers on how much generative AI is acceptable in games, and here’s what they said
AppWizard
February 28, 2026

We polled PC gamers on how much generative AI is acceptable in games, and here’s what they said

Generative AI is increasingly integrated into video game development, with applications ranging from art assets to gameplay mechanics. A poll of approximately 1,000 respondents revealed that over 40% prefer traditional game development with no AI involvement. More than half of participants are open to generative AI to varying degrees: 20% oppose its inclusion in final products but accept its use as a productivity tool, while 21% approve of some AI involvement if disclosed. Additionally, 14% would engage with heavily AI-utilized games if enjoyable. Concerns about AI-generated code have been raised by developers, particularly regarding its quality. Despite skepticism, there is agreement on the benefits of AI-accelerated rendering techniques for performance improvements.
Nothing has finally given its phones a truly essential feature
AppWizard
February 13, 2026

Nothing has finally given its phones a truly essential feature

Android Central Labs highlights Nothing's new tool, Essential Apps, which allows users to create personalized applications, aiming to move away from traditional app ecosystems. The tool operates from the home screen and features an intuitive interface that prompts users with context-aware questions. CEO Carl Pei stated that Essential Apps aims to eliminate the constraints of conventional app stores, enabling customization without ads or generic designs. However, there are concerns that users may revert to established apps due to convenience, despite the initial appeal of customization. The Nothing Phone 3, featuring the Glyph Interface, is positioned as a fresh option in the smartphone market, with Essential Apps potentially reshaping user engagement.
'Don’t toil away on the things that don’t really matter': Peak creator says its rapid development cycle has 'proved that there are definitely different, but maybe better ways to make games'
AppWizard
January 11, 2026

‘Don’t toil away on the things that don’t really matter’: Peak creator says its rapid development cycle has ‘proved that there are definitely different, but maybe better ways to make games’

Red Dead Redemption 2 is known for its realistic portrayal of horses, including details like the protagonist's horse testicles shrinking in cold weather, reflecting the meticulous attention to detail in triple-A game production. In contrast, Peak originated from a four-week game jam and gained success, leading its creators to invest more time in its development. Co-creator Nick Kaman noted the increasing demand for smaller-scale games and emphasized that while financial challenges exist, there is still a vibrant player base for innovative experiences. He remarked that opportunities for mid-sized and small studios are diminishing, highlighting a trend in the gaming industry between large-scale projects and smaller creative endeavors.
CD Projekt Sells DRM-Free PC Storefront GOG to Original Co-Founder for $25.2 Million, Insists It's Financially Stable
AppWizard
December 29, 2025

CD Projekt Sells DRM-Free PC Storefront GOG to Original Co-Founder for $25.2 Million, Insists It’s Financially Stable

CD Projekt has sold its DRM-free PC storefront, GOG, to co-founder Michał Kiciński for 90.7 million Polish złoty (approximately .2 million). Kiciński, who co-founded GOG in 2008 and holds a 10% stake in CD Projekt, will lead GOG independently while maintaining its DRM-free philosophy. A distribution agreement between CD Projekt and GOG has been established for future collaboration, including the release of upcoming CD Projekt Red titles on the GOG platform. CD Projekt aims to focus on video game development, including The Witcher 4 and Cyberpunk 2, following the sale. GOG has remained financially stable and continues to attract gamers with its mission. CD Projekt previously employed 1,335 staff.
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