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Minecraft Officially Launches The Chaos Cubed Content Drop
AppWizard
June 17, 2026

Minecraft Officially Launches The Chaos Cubed Content Drop

Minecraft has introduced an expansion called Chaos Cubed, featuring a new sulfur cave biome with sulfur springs and survival challenges. The update includes new mobs called sulfur cubes that absorb blocks and interact with the environment, as well as potent sulfur blocks that create bubbling pools and release noxious gas. The sulfur caves contain shallow water pools, glowing lichen, and abundant sulfur and cinnabar blocks. New block sets allow for creative building, while sulfur spikes and geysers add gameplay mechanics. Players can experiment with TNT and sulfur cubes for unpredictable results. The beta version of Parties for Bedrock Edition allows multiplayer experiences for up to 14 friends.
Xbox is reportedly closing South of Midnight studio Compulsion Games after bragging about its award-winning developers earlier this year
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

Xbox is reportedly closing South of Midnight studio Compulsion Games after bragging about its award-winning developers earlier this year

Compulsion Games, known for titles like We Happy Few and South of Midnight, may be facing imminent closure as Microsoft’s gaming division undergoes significant layoffs and restructuring. Reports indicate that Compulsion and Double Fine are in negotiations to potentially spin off to avoid shutdown. Employees have expressed concern over job security, with many searching for new opportunities. Compulsion Games, founded in 2009 and based in Montreal, received critical acclaim for its recent title, South of Midnight, which won several awards. Despite previous praise from Xbox executives for the studio's achievements, the future remains uncertain amid corporate changes.
Xbox Game Studios head and chief of staff step down as 'Xbox reset' looms
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

Xbox Game Studios head and chief of staff step down as ‘Xbox reset’ looms

Craig Duncan has announced his departure from the role of head of Xbox Game Studios after a tenure of just over a year and a half. He previously led Rare and guided the development of Sea of Thieves for nearly 13 years. His promotion in 2024 placed him in charge of all Microsoft’s gaming studios, including Double Fine, Halo Studios, inXile, Obsidian, Playground Games, and The Coalition. Concerns have been raised about the sustainability of Xbox's rapid studio acquisitions, with speculation about upcoming restructuring efforts and significant layoffs anticipated, potentially affecting studios like Compulsion Games, Double Fine, and Ninja Theory.
Minecraft Dungeons 2 is a breath of fresh air after the horrors of Diablo 4
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

Minecraft Dungeons 2 is a breath of fresh air after the horrors of Diablo 4

The author, a long-time fan of action role-playing games (ARPGs), took a break from the genre after spending extensive time on Diablo 4 and Path of Exile 2. This hiatus was interrupted by the announcement of Minecraft Dungeons 2, which is designed to be an accessible introduction to dungeon crawling for newcomers while allowing experienced players to share their love for ARPGs. The game is set to launch on Xbox Series X, PC, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, with more information to be revealed during the GamesRadar+ Summer Preview. Minecraft Dungeons 2 aims to provide a more enjoyable journey in gaming, contrasting with the complexity of other titles in the genre.
PC Bundle Offering 39 Games At $61 Saving For Limited Time Only
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

PC Bundle Offering 39 Games At $61 Saving For Limited Time Only

PC gamers can celebrate Pride Month with the Townsqueer Vol. 1 bundle, which includes 39 games and zines focused on LGBTQ+ themes. The bundle is priced at a significant discount compared to purchasing the games individually, and proceeds are shared among creators. Notable titles in the bundle include "Tell Me Why," featuring a trans protagonist, and various other games and zines that highlight diverse queer experiences. The bundle is available on itch.io, with options to purchase individual titles.
Soulslike Game The Relic: First Guardian Sets July 31 PC and PS5 Launch, with Xbox and Switch 2 to Follow
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

Soulslike Game The Relic: First Guardian Sets July 31 PC and PS5 Launch, with Xbox and Switch 2 to Follow

Publisher Perp Games and developer Project Cloud Games announced that The Relic: First Guardian will be released on July 31 for PC (Steam) and PlayStation 5, moving up from its initial 2025 release date. Ports for Xbox Series S and X, as well as Nintendo Switch 2, are expected later in the summer. An exclusive retail version for PlayStation 5 will be available on September 4. The game is set in the world of Arsiltus, where players act as a First Guardian to combat a blight. It features over 70 boss encounters, five weapon types, and twelve skill trees, allowing for personalized builds. The stamina system is designed for dodging and blocking only, freeing players to attack without resource constraints. Progression is based on collectible items called Relics, which offer over 70 passive effects that enhance combat dynamics. PC system requirements have not yet been disclosed.
PC Free Game Giveaway Includes 2025 Hit And Saves You $30, But Time Is Limited
AppWizard
June 15, 2026

PC Free Game Giveaway Includes 2025 Hit And Saves You $30, But Time Is Limited

A new selection of free games is available on the Epic Games Store until 4 PM BST on Thursday, June 18. Players can claim these games for free, and once acquired, they are theirs to keep indefinitely, playable on PC or compatible devices. The featured game, Warhammer 40K Speed Freeks, is a combat racing game that typically retails for .99 and has an 85% player score on Steam. It allows customization of vehicles and supports cross-play with PlayStation and Xbox users. Another game, The Ouroboros King, a roguelike for chess fans, offers a saving of .99 and has an 81% rating on Steam. It combines chess strategy with roguelike elements. A new selection of free games will be released on June 18, including Citizen Sleeper and ROBOBEAT.
Should Xbox CEOs have term limits, and did this week show why the question matters?
Winsage
June 15, 2026

Should Xbox CEOs have term limits, and did this week show why the question matters?

Microsoft's Xbox division is facing significant challenges, including a margin crisis and the need for substantial organizational changes, as stated by the head of Xbox. The company is preparing for significant layoffs and budget cuts while emphasizing its commitment to console gaming despite the evolving landscape. Xbox is struggling to articulate its value to potential players and is dealing with the impact of rising RAM prices and recent game failures. Phil Spencer, the CEO, has been instrumental in revitalizing the brand but is also associated with the current difficulties, raising questions about leadership transitions in the future.
Sony pulling back from PC also means it's pulling back from China
AppWizard
June 14, 2026

Sony pulling back from PC also means it’s pulling back from China

Sony has shifted away from porting singleplayer PlayStation titles to PC, raising concerns about competition with Valve. Alinea Insights reported that 42% of Death Stranding 2's PC sales came from China, its largest market on Steam. Approximately 39.48% of Steam users have their language set to English, while 21.85% prefer Simplified Chinese, representing over 30 million players. Shift Up, developer of Stellar Blade, announced they will not partner with Sony for the sequel, focusing on a global market strategy. Alinea's analysis shows that releasing games on PC does not harm PlayStation sales; Death Stranding 2 saw increased PS sales following its PC launch, and Stellar Blade also experienced a rise in PS5 sales despite not being discounted. Launching games on PC broadens the player base and enhances marketing opportunities.
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