nothing phone 4a pro

This Knife Cost Me $7403

I heard you like clickbait. This is my knife. There are no others like it, and this one is mine. No, it really is. I made it with my own hands. As a matter of fact, I might have possibly taken the notion of making it with my own hands just a bit too far. # The Secret Of Show Business, Again This all started fairly innocently. You see, I have this OG Böker Rold. Have done for years. I never got around to talking about it here.  The Rold is a fine knife. I was using it as my default camp knife for quite a while, hence the surface wear you see on its blade there. Böker themselves describe it as a "very durable Outdoor and Camp Knife," which in this business is a bold statement rather akin to standing on top of a hill in a thunderstorm with a copper tureen on your head while holding a flagpole, yelling about how all gods are sissies. That's because what with "bushcraft" still being so much in vogue amongst them as watch too much Youtube, you're likely to find dudebros attempting to use your creation for nothing less than hacking down the last of the sequoias and trying to baton rocks. It seems nobody thinks to pack an axe anymore or, heavens forbid, some type of folding saw. But so far as I've been able to tell the Rold is the real deal in that respect. It's a Jesper Voxnæs design, he of previous fame around here for also coming up with the [Gnome,](https://lemmy.world/post/7069030) which we inspected quite some time ago. So far mine remains resolutely unbroken, but as these are now out of production and apparently in ascendancy to becoming collector's items, mine doesn't see much use anymore. There are a lot of things I like about the Rold, but then again there are some things I don't. On the positive side it's a bit of an ergonomic tour-de-force, with a clever forward grip design that allows you to place your index finger through the massive choil forward of the guard to choke up on it for control, or hold it back on the main handle to give yourself more leverage. It's also not exactly a small object at an 11" overall length, and it's made out of D2, m'favorite steel. But it's got a matte finish made of grey enamel or something that scuffs and scratches as soon as you look at it, the handle scales can't be dismounted, and with the best will in the world the sheath it came with is a bit naff. Mine required significant tuning with a heat gun straight out of the box. Plus, for as large as it is I am still immensely covetous of my nephew's Scrapyard Dog Son of Dogfather for filling the same role, another currently unobtainable piece which has a similar jam as the Rold but is much, much thicker. Thus like a cat reading a newspaper, I concluded to myself one fine day not too long ago that I ought to make my own damn knife and see if I can marry the elements of these that are my favorites. Then and there, on the spot. Just like that. So, you see, what you do is you find an act that works. And steal it. # How Hard Can It Be? There are men in this world — and they are universally men — who will send away to have a blade blank cut, and then send away to have it heat treated, and then send away to have handles made for it and yet they'll still stick their thumbs in their suspenders and insist to you as bold as you please that they're a *custom knife maker.* Uh-huh. Sure you are, bud. Thus at the outset of all this, I wrote one ironclad rule: I will do all of this in house, by myself. No outsourcing. This is Lemmy, after all; we love seizing the means of production around here. And to as great an extent as possible, no outside research, either. You can spend all day watching videos or bickering on forums and never get anything done. I'm a bird of considerable resource and, let's face it, also the ownership of a couple of hundred knives. So part of that's got to rub off via some kind of horizontal osmosis to expertise in *building* knives as well. ...Right? I've also got a quite broad selection of tools at my disposal amassed over the course of a lifetime. I set out to use as many of them as possible. Surely this'll be a *cinch.* # The Plan An individual with more enthusiasm and rather less hard earned cynicism would grab the nearest chunk of scrap metal and have at it with the angle grinder straight away. But not me. Much to my own astonishment as much as anyone else's, I sat down and planned this out. In fact, I drafted my vision down to every last detail in FreeCAD.  I started with the general ergonomic plan from the Rold and got to modifying. With a whack-diddle-diddle-hi-ho, and a stretch here and a tweak there, I arrived at a first draft. I also made it bigger. [Much bigger.](https://katamari.fandom.com/wiki/King_of_All_Cosmos) As you all are no doubt aware I am also the owner of a ludicrously large 3D printer. So I employed the same for, I think for the first time in my life, actually accomplishing one of the original stated intentions for the whole damn process of 3D printing in the first place. That is to say, to make a rapid prototype: a 1:1 life sized replica of my blade blank.  Printing your plan out on paper is one thing, but actually being able to produce in less than an hour a real physical representation of your design that you can hold in your hand is an incredible game changer. There are ergonomic considerations you won't be able to make just looking at the representation of a thing on the screen. I was able to iterate on my design basically for free, so I went through several prototype stages before settling on the final shape. And when you hold it, it is *real* in a sense that no mere paper proxy can approach.  This is not a how-to column, and in fact may actually turn out to be a how-to-*not* writeup instead. But if I'm going to offer one piece of advice, it's this one: If you're going to get into this sort of thing, get your hands on some manner of rapid prototyping system. It doesn't necessarily have to be a 3D printer. Something like a CNC router or similar that can reasonably precisely hack your design out of plywood or whatever material would also do. But you're going to want something. Trust me on this. # Instruct Me Not I bought some steel.  **Total bill of materials cost: $30.** Alas, it seems to have arrived upside down. No matter; I'm certain I can make it work anyway. Truth be told, this entire odyssey actually started when I was noodling around on the internet and I read about the heat treating process for D2 steel. I'm not actually a total stranger to metalworking, and I've seen enough about how this works. Regular carbon steels, and a lot of other alloys besides, are heat treated by the typical medieval style heat-and-dunk method you may be picturing which results in a large hiss and a bloody great cloud of steam. You might use a trough of water or you might use various types of oil depending on the alloy in question. You can do this at home, if you've got a forge or some other suitable way to get your metal cooking red hot — but D2 doesn't work that way. It's an air hardening steel, and that's exactly what it sounds like: Heat it up, and... That's it. Just let it sit there in the open air. I found this fascinating. You still have to temper it, of course, because at the end of the hardening and/or quenching phase most steels are rock hard but also possess a glassine brittleness which is certainly not a property you want in your big old tree-mauling chopper of a knife. But I watched someone do this and I immediately thought, "Hey, I could do that, too!" So I did. And D2 is still my favorite knife steel in the world. This is just icing on the cake. Step one here was to print a full sized template of my design. This is significantly less fancified than my replica prototypes, which had edge bevels and everything. This is just a slab in the complete outline of the final product. I traced this out on a chunk of my raw D2 steel which alas I neglected to take a picture of at the time so you'll have to use your imagination on how that works. Actually, back up a bit. Step one was actually to figure out whether or not the D2 flat stock I just bought from some rando on eBay in trifling hobbyist quantities actually arrived in its annealed state. D2, you see, can be hardened to an extreme degree. Like, a drill bit dulling and tool breaking degree. I had to determine if my metal arrived soft and annealed as it should have, or if I was going to have a heat treating or rather annealing operation on my hands right out of the gate.  I don't have a fancy Rockwell hardness testing machine, but I do have this suspiciously cheap set of allegedly Japanese hardness grading files I bought off of the internet for twenty bucks some time ago.  Trepidatiously, I started with the hardest one and worked my way down until I determined that, yes, the corner of my D2 slab succumbed to each and every one of them. So it ought to be soft enough to drill. This is evident by the row of small nicks you can see in the edge, there.  I also had some misgivings about being able to accurately locate the three holes I'd need to lance into the handle in order to put the scale mounting screws through. I devised a solution which I'm proud to declare that I think is clever, which was to make this set of printed bushings whose inner diameters match the business end of my centerpunch precisely, and which fit through the holes in my template in exactly the right positions, provided I manage not to move the template at all between punchings.  I have been told that starting your holes with a centering bit is actually the "wrong" way to do it. It worked for me, though. Thus I was able to bore all three holes without much trouble. I ain't not no undummy; I drilled the holes *first,* whereupon I would discover whether I was bashing my head against a brick wall or not, purposefully long *before* wasting an entire afternoon hacking the profile of the blade out of the metal and winding up with a complicated chunk of scrap after discovering I couldn't put holes through it. The astute among you will probably have realized that since D2 hardens by heating it and simply allowing the stuff to cool to room temperature, doing anything to it that creates heat will readily cause it to work harden. And this is indeed so, including the bits immediately adjacent to where you have, just for purest sake of example, just been throwing a nine foot long rooster tail of sparks off of it with your angle grinder.  I don't like to toot my own horn except in very precise and specialized circumstances. This is one of those. I am by my own recognition the king of all angle grinders. I can do damn near anything with an angle grinder, up to and including this, and all the things I couldn't I turned out on my little belt sander, the same one I use for reprofiling blades and getting nicks out of edges. ...Almost everything. I quickly concluded that my weedy Harbor Freight 1x30" sander was absolutely not going to hack it for the blade's primary grind. Oh, believe me that I gave it a damn good try anyway. But after spending an hour and winding up with little more than just shining up the first eighth of an inch I boldly gave up. My stock is a quarter of an inch thick and I made the deeply questionable decision to put a full or at least nearly full flat grind on this thing, just like the one its inspiration has. So. # I Was On The Internet This Week... And I bought **this.**  Some manner of honest-to-goodness belt grinder has been on my shopping list for literal years, and today on this glorious day I was finally handed a solid justification. **Total bill of materials cost: $829.** This highly suspicious Chinese model seems to be built on the same pattern as pretty much all of them on offer around this size and price point. I picked one based purely on lead time, and here it is. I couldn't tell you who actually made it. Probably no one can. It arrived in an alarmingly dense crate as if I'd actually ordered a Tasmanian devil. I had to break it apart with hammers and a crowbar.  To illustrate the true breadth of the cost cutting measures we're dealing with here, this thing is so cheap the manufacturer couldn't even be bothered to make a 120 volt version for North American consumption. Instead it comes with this yum-cha 120 to 240v step up transformer which I'm totally certain will not randomly blow up in my face and subsequently burn down my shop some day. I'll just keep this unplugged when it's not in use, I think, if it's all the same to you.  I'm also chuffed to bits to discover that it came prewired with this mountable VFD unit that would be right at home in an industrial control panel enclosure. Astonishingly, it worked right out of the box, although in my opinion by default the motor ought to spin the other way. I believe rectifying that is a simple matter of switching two wires, but there's also a reverse button right there on the panel and so for now I can't be bothered. I'm much less chuffed to report that no part of the perfunctory instructions leaflet that came with this thing wastes any words on explaining how the hell you're meant assemble it. It also doesn't tell you the trick to correctly tensioning the belt, but I figured it all out readily enough. I am given to understand that there is no upper limit to the potential bodaciousness of a belt grinding setup, and the true aficionados inevitably build their own. I'm pleased as punch to report that this one sure does it for me, though. The complete and utter lack of safety mechanisms, guards, or interlocks makes it feel right at home in my workshop. And my Harbor Freight sander feels like an electric toothbrush by comparison. For reference, that's the little green jobbie immediately to the left of this that looks as if you could just about stick it in your shirt pocket.  In sheer recognition of the extent of my talents, I also bought this handy jig for holding your knife at a consistent angle while you're grinding the bevel into it. Certainly I could do it freehand like a Real Man, I tell myself in order get to sleep at night, it's just that this will provide a more consistent finish. Yeah, that's the ticket. What the hell. It was only twenty bucks. **Total bill of materials cost: $849.** Even with my shiny new toy I found that the primary grind was taking an inordinate amount of time. I eventually determined that this was because I was running my grinder entirely too slowly, out of a combination of misunderstanding the readout on the VFD's panel and also being afraid to wind it up too high lest the thing suck me bodily into the works and spit me out the other side. The former was easy enough to rectify and the latter turned out to be a non-issue, since even at maximum throttle I actually found the process to be fully controllable. Except, now we were making real sparks. **Schoolboy errors made: 1.** Finishing the primary grind still took a much larger chunk of the afternoon than I would have liked. My troubles may come down to using the equally cheap and Chinese belts supplied alongside my grinder. Since this whole process is a learning experience, we'll chalk up that one thusly: For the next knife, buy a better set of belts. This entire affair produced an alarming yet curiously satisfying amount of metal dust.  After taking this picture I placed a five gallon bucket full of water directly below the belt path on my grinder to catch the bulk of the shavings, which appeared to accomplish absolutely nothing.  With the primary grind complete, now it was time for the fun part. # The Fun Part Recall, many paragraphs ago, that I said I would do no outsourcing of my production. I was not kidding when I said that. I was making my Serious Samurai face and everything. I absolutely will not send this away for heat treating. Get the fuck outta here with that.  I am now proud owner of my very own heat treating kiln. **Total bill of materials cost: $3804.** This is a Hot Shot Ovens 18K knifemaker's kiln, for knifemaking, by knifemakers. Which is what I am. Unlike my grinder it is a highly competent piece of equipment. Yes, I even got the one with the fancy "TAP" programmable controller. Hey, it was only a hundred bucks more. That basically fits within a rounding error by this point. Actually, if I were to do it all again I probably would have foregone the fancy controller and just gotten the regular single stage one. The TAP controller is wi-fi enabled and theoretically offers smartphone control, but it's another one of those thrice damned things where the manufacturer expects you to pay a monthly subscription to unlock some of the features built into it, and I'll be stuffed if I'm doing that. You can still do multi-step programming of the kiln with timings and temperature curves and all right on the screen, so I'll be sticking to that instead. Paywall or not, this baby will still do 2200° F. I don't *need* it to, mind you, but it's nice to know that I can.  Step 2: Bake at 1875° F for 40 minutes, then allow to cool.  It feels wrong doing a "quench" on a piece of red hot glowing steel by dangling it off of a chunk of round stock clamped in the vise and just leaving it there.  After cooling off the blade has this rather attractive patina on it. **Schoolboy errors made: 2.** The more sage among you are aware that I made a critical blunder, here. You see, D2 is a high chromium content steel and when you're cooking it at thousands of degrees you really ought to protect it from the atmosphere somehow, which I in my combination of exuberance and inexperience, plus being acquainted only with plain carbon steels, failed to do. That black stuff all over the blade is a layer of steel that's decarburized, and has instead allowed the chromium to come out of solution and form up on the surface to oxidize. On plain carbon steel you also get forge scale all over it, or I guess whatever the equivalent of that ought to be called if you haven't actually forged the thing, but this is trivially easy to knock off with a quick trip back to your belt sander. Not so with the chromium rich layer encrusting what was until forty minutes ago my beautiful and shiny knife-to-be. Even my meanest 24 grit belt would barely touch the stuff. You know what they make out of chromium oxide, right? The grit for abrasives. Like, it's the active ingredient in that bar of green stropping compound that makes it green. And it's the stuff that's in Flitz, too. That means it's harder than steel, Q.E.D. Fortunately I had another brain wave, which was to try dunking it in acid. White vinegar, in this case, which after a 30 minute bath enticed the stuff to let go to the extent that I could blast it off with a high speed wire wheel. Still and all, next time I'll use some toolmaker's foil to wrap my blade before heat treatment. I'd rather not go through all that again. The final phase after tempering (500° F for two hours, chosen to prioritize toughness over hardness/edge retention) was to polish up all of the surfaces from the ugliness I imparted on them by being a dummy about the heat treatment. I stepped up through my collection of belts until I reached 180 grit which was the finest I had for my big belt grinder. I briefly toyed with the idea of switching to my little machine to keep going, since I have an array of specialty sharpening belts for it going all the way up to the equivalent of 2000 grit. But I ultimately decided against it because A) the blade is so damn big I'm not sure I could get even coverage with the little machine to begin with, and B) for a bushwhacking knockaround knife I'm not sure I want a satiny smooth finish on it I'll just fuck up in the first three seconds anyhow. So the hell with it. I also realized at this point that I'd forgotten to cut my planned jimping into the spine. **Schoolboy errors made: 3.** Life pro tip: Next time, do those cuts *before* hardening the fucking thing. I'll bet you it'll be easier. I deftly avoided one other obvious pratfall in all of this. You'll note that at no point doing this treatise did I say anything about putting an edge on it. That's because I didn't until the very last step, in order to save myself from amputating all ten of my fingertips while I was grinding and tempering and polishing and all the rest of it. I may be stupid, but I'm not crazy. # A Clever Dick I hate making handle scales. I've only done it twice in my life, and it was a pain in my tailfeathers both times. I resolved not to do it again. Fortunately, I already had a plan in place. The beauty of drafting my knife in CAD down to the last maniacal detail is that I can simply instruct my 3D printer to print out a set of handle scales for me. Perfectly formed, pre-holed, the same on both sides, and direct fitting. And you don't have to breathe a single molecule of Micarta dust.  Sometimes my genius is tangible. # Additional Financial Considerations Throughout this procedure, several friends and acquaintances stopped by my workshop to see what all the noise was. The ultimate upshot of that is, I now have six or seven open orders for more of these. In light of that, I made another decision.  **Total bill of materials cost: $7403.** Do I need a $3599 large format 100 watt fiber laser engraver? No, absolutely not. Could I have made do with a lesser 60 or even 40 watt machine? Yes, probably. But I *wanted* a 100 watt fiber laser engraver, you see. And now I have a good excuse. Plus, it lets me do this.  I don't envy people who have to justify their toy purchases to their wives. Not one little bit. Man, my life really is [rad](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIRPPd5tZ8w) sometimes. Laser engraving is another whole skill set I'll have to add to my repertoire. I'm getting there slowly and I'm sure I'll have lots to say about it later. For now, I used the offcut from my first piece of steel to figure out what the best settings are for my material, and had at it. To celebrate this momentous occasion I drew up a new logo and everything. You know, now that we're not making knives out of plastic anymore. # The Review Part I now find myself in the unique and somewhat unenviable position of having to present to you... er, my own knife. Foibles and all. It's not perfect, but to be fair it is literally my first attempt at this pattern, in this steel, with this machinery.  I would like you to meet the Flightless Forge Emperor. So named after the most humongous of all extant penguins, an attribute which it shares. It is, without a doubt, fucking massive. Of course this is by design. It's 12-5/8" (320mm) long from tip to tail, with a 7-1/4" (184mm) blade with every little bit of it being usable as a result of the choil at the base that's big enough to fit even a gloved index finger into. All told it weighs 16.72 ounces (474.2 grams). Of course it does — It's a quarter inch thick slab of D2. If you are a wimp, this is not the knife for you.  Since my ISO standard comparison method would be close to useless, here it is next to the oft aforementioned Böker Rold. The latter is in and of itself not a small knife. The Emperor could probably cleave it in half. The blade is a flat grind that's nearly the full breadth of the knife ending in a roughly 20 degree microbevel that should result in unparalleled chopping and splitting power. Opening your mail, fine whittling, cleaning your fingernails, trimming your arm hairs: These are all tasks that the Emperor is absolutely not designed to do. The Emperor is for bifurcating logs and fighting bears, and looking mean as hell doing it. One of the things about the Rold that annoys me is its pronounced and slightly wonky plunge line separating the primary taper from the flat part of the knife, which bisects the front of the choil and leaves an unrefined stairstep there. Plus, with the best will in the world it's also not quite the same on both sides. Thus the Emperor has no plunge line at all, with the grind gently and at least mostly smoothly transitioning into the flat just before the handle. This leaves nothing to snag, and also no crevice for gunk to accumulate in.  A small ramp on the spine of the blade provides a forward endstop for your thumb when you're holding the Emperor in either position. This is jimped subtly for tactile feel more than any kind of grip, since the ramp and the finger guard should prove sufficiently proof against sliding up onto the edge. The edge which is, mind you, nearly a full inch and a half below the lower edge of the handle anyway. In order for the Emperor to bite you in any situation something must have seriously gone wrong, although provided only you can keep your off hand out from in between it and whatever unfortunate object you have underneath it on the stump. (The blurry thing behind it in the shot is one of those telescopic magnet retriever tools, which I'm using as a kickstand to prop the knife up. It won't quite stand up on a flat surface and makes an almighty clang every time it hits the deck when you attempt to do so.) This also means that every single iota of its cutting edge can be brought down on a flat surface. Not even the finger guard interferes with this. It's not exactly shaped to be great at, say, slicing tomatoes wafer thin. But because of all of the above, you could probably still do it if you were a sufficiently high caliber of nut.  The handle has a sculpted bird's head design with a pronounced flare at the pommel to prevent it from sliding forward out of your grip. You can hold it either fore...  ...Or aft of the finger guard depending on what you're planning to do with it.  On the final article the scales are 3D printed ABS. This material is both heat and impact resistant, but also dead easy for me to print without driving myself into apoplectic fits. Unlike a depressing number of purported "bushcraft ready" knives, these are screwed rather than pinned into place so the scales are readily dismountable for cleaning, customization, or let's face it — replacement. One of the major knocks against the current crop of swanky Micarta handled models that are all the rage out there now is that you're forever afraid of fucking up your irreplaceable bespoke handle scales because they're permanently pinned into place. I've long maintained that a fancy knife you won't use is automatically lesser than a ratty one which you will, so that's not how it works here. If, somehow, you manage to mar or even break the Emperor's handles you can simply take them off. The print job to make a new pair takes less than an hour, and they'll bolt right up.  Before I handled the first pair I was predicting for sure that printed scales would be stupid and terrible. Surprisingly, they're not. The inherent layer structure of the print results in a rather Micarta-esque texture or, if we're feeling especially charitable, one that's reminiscent of woodgrain. This results in a surface that's grippy but not too rough on your hands. It looks, feels, and acts like the business.  I deliberately sought out hollow handle screws for this so that those lanyard types of people could have something to put their cord through without doing anything so vulgar as punching a vestigial hole through the entire assembly that'd rankle you forever if you didn't use it. As it happened, such hardware was tougher to find than you'd think.  You guys will love the solution I came up with. Are you ready for this? These are stainless steel chainring bolts for a bicycle.  They're authoritatively rustrpoof, swank as all hell, and you can see daylight right through them. They're also readily undone with a garden variety 5mm Allen key, and you don't even need to stick a spanner driver in the other side. It's a bit of a squeeze to get 550 paracord through the hole in the middle although it can be done if you use a nail or the end of an awl or something as a pusher. 3mm cord, however, sails right through like it was meant for it.  The left hand side bears my new Flightless Forge logo, which you've already seen. Left hand, that is, relative to holding it in your right hand with the edge down, i.e. ready for use. Just who is that handsome penguin, anyway?  The right hand side proudly proclaims that no robots, AI, underpaid child laborers, or CNC machinery (well, except for my 3D printer if you want to be pedantic) were involved in the creation of this knife. Mine is also a serial number that no one else can ever ever have. Neener, neener, neener. I figure now that I'm working in steel rather than silly old plastic I ought to invent a new brand to illustrate that we're no longer fucking around. Well, but we demonstrably are fucking around. This is just like playing store when you were a kid — we'll pretend to be a real outfit with a logo and a cash register and the hours on the door and everything. Except in this case, it's bad ass.  The Emperor requires what might possibly be the widest Kydex sheath ever concieved in history. The upper mounting screws are spaced such that it is technically Tek-Lok compatible, at least if you are stark raving loony enough to try it. Otherwise, the webbing belt loop provided is a much more practical option and is comprised of the fattest webbing I've ever seen in my life. It's 4" across!  With the Emperor dangling off of your belt no one at the campground, or hell, anywhere within half a mile of you will be able to doubt your virility or outdoors credibility.  The Emperor's edge is mirror polished at 2000 grit and thanks to the flat grind going nearly all the way down to the apex, it doesn't need to be very broad. The chopping power is phenomenal, which is half and half due to the geometry but also due to the monumental heft of the knife. The weight distribution is somewhat blade biased, with the point of balance being nearly precisely on the first bit of the edge forward of the choil. Yes, it batons.  Hacking at the grain crosswise is likewise no problem.  As stated, the Emperor is a full quarter of an inch thick at the spine. This makes it absurdly robust at the expense, of course, of weighing over a pound.  On the left, the Emperor. On the right, the Böker Rold, itself not exactly a svelte object. I spent all afternoon whacking every piece of scrap wood I could lay my hands on into kindling. This had no noticeable impact on the finish nor the edge, even after one ill-fated attempt to split a hardwood log that was about 10" across and got the knife so irrevocably stuck I had to use a rubber mallet to knock it free. I call that a success, I don't know about you. I only filmed some of this. The bulk of it will surely remain lost to history since Lemmy only lets you post little snippets, although I might be talked into it if the weather's nice and there's any market at all for, say, a live stream of me and my stupid penguin face smashing random chunks of wood into toothpicks for hours on end. It can't possibly be any more insipid than what most of the kids seem to be watching these days. # The Inevitable Conclusion This is my knife. There will some day be others like it, but this one will always be mine. I've heard it said that for your first knife you should start with something uncomplicated, in an easy to work with steel, and above all small. Um...  No.

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Steam Deck / Gaming News #15

It’s been 5 days since I shared the last of these - where I share a roundup of all the interesting things I have spotted in gaming news. There’s a lot of different topics this week, but as always it remains Steam Deck, Linux, GOG, emulation, Switch and gaming in general! My aim is to format these posts in a more *personal* manner than most gaming sites do now. Cozier? My ever-lasting inspo is the old, old video game sites, blogs and magazines that I never had the privilege of being alive for: * image/gif/link heavy (I’m a big GIF fan – and I pronounce it with a hard ‘g’) * personal voice (I can’t write professionally with hard-news style to save me) * mostly news or articles or points you won’t find on normal gaming sites, these are the smaller, lesser things that I’m drawn to. I *know* you’ll have spotted the big news articles, so I’m hoping some of these smaller ones might have been missed by you. So grab a coffee? Or a tea? Or a fresh juice? And enjoy <3 ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Black Mesa – Resonance Decade Update:*  You’ll no doubt know that Black Mesa itself is is a fan-made, far-higher-graphic’d-than-the-original remake of the classic 1998 first-person shooter *Half-Life*, developed by Valve. Originally created as a free mod by Crowbar Collective, it was later officially approved and released as a standalone commercial title in 2020.  [These days it goes on steep discount quite often](https://isthereanydeal.com/game/black-mesa/info/), plays really well on Steam Deck, *and* has just announced a huge update: > In celebration of our ten year anniversary on Steam, we’ve pushed our longstanding public beta to mainline. This update includes substantial improvements including: * Fixes to startup related crashes * Fixes to physics engine related crashes * Steam Deck Improvements * Linux Improvements  [You can read the full (*and extensive*) patch notes on Steam with this link right here](https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/362890/view/539979243764844460)  [And you can find the game for -90% off right now on Steam too, with this link to their page](https://store.steampowered.com/app/362890/Black_Mesa/) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *GTA IV Remaster?*  I know, *I know*, there’s announcements regarding Rockstar games every two weeks or so predicting the fans great dreams...which end up as [tears in the rain](https://c.tenor.com/wCy5fOAIRlEAAAAd/tenor.gif) because they’re just that – rumors and nothing more. Well, I’ll add another to the unending procession and let you know that the rumor mill (*with great sources...as always*) is saying that GTA IV is on its way “says Rockstar insider”. And here’s an article detailing what’s going on, which refuses to embed as a link in my post for some reason, so you have to look at the long, ugly link instead: https://rockstarintel.com/gta-4-remaster-could-release-this-year-says-rockstar-insider/ https://rockstarintel.com/gta-4-remaster-could-release-this-year-says-rockstar-insider/) *IF* it does come to fruition, I hope it gets the same treatment as say...the recent Tomb Raider remasters, or Crash Bandicoot/Spyro...not like the weird A.I. nonsense Rockstar got a phone game company to whip up for them with the trilogy semi-recently. ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Space Marine 2 – Modded:*  The game takes on a new life. Honestly, not that it slowed down much, this game has had a lot of support and reviewed so nicely! Last update that came out was about a month ago and added prestige for each class including 5-6 unlockable new perks each, unlockable free cosmetics, a new weapon, a new operation and the paid content included even more cosmetics for customisation. And now, Saber releases the entire toolset to make modding the game easier for fan: > "As of today, we're releasing the official Integration Studio for public use," Space Marine 2 director Dmitry Grigorenko says. "This is the exact same editor we use internally for all gameplay development. No more editing files in Notepad and praying you didn't miss a bracket. Integration Studio makes editing anything… ten times faster, safer, and more intuitive." Integration Studio gives Space Marine 2 modders access to the game's A.I. behavior trees; its level scenario editor; the tools for creating game modes and adjusting melee combat; and the means to tweak the AI director, UI and HUD elements, and visual effects. Saber says more functionality is still to come. > "This is only the beginning," Grigorenko continues. "Not long ago, I promised we would support the modding scene, and we meant it. Watching this community grow, push boundaries, and create incredible experiences has been both inspiring and humbling. We're excited to see what you build next, whether it's a cinematic campaign, wild new game mode, or something we never saw coming." [You can find the modding kit right here if you want it](https://discord.com/invite/3XeTWubKWG) – sadly it’s a Discord link, but...its still here for you if you want it! ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Gothic 1 Remake:*  It’s a long road for this game, and the game itself is quite niche to most (funnily enough the game is *so* well known and regarded in Poland – like a mini cultural phenomenon there, basically national treasures), but Alkima Interactive is taking the process of remaking the first Gothic game quite seriously. The fans who have been following along with the project and updates have had the rare events of devs taking their feedback and changing direction or making changes *because* of their feedback and criticisms. [Anyway, the latest of their update videos showing progress with their Gothic 1 Remake demo is here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYF8OP4iYdA) And you can also find the changelog to Nyras’ Prologue (the demo) [here with this link to THQNordic’s site](https://thqnordic.com/article/update-nyras-prologue-gothic-1-remake-demo-changelog) And finally, [The Steam page for it is here, if you want to check it out](https://store.steampowered.com/app/1297900/Gothic_1_Remake/) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *A Webbing Journey:*  I found a cute game from FireTotemGames called, you guessed it, A Webbing Journey. I’ve not got much to say on this one besides the fact it is ADORABLE, and has full Linux + Steam Deck support.  Sadly their GIFs are quite large in size, so I’m writing this while I save them, then I’ll try resize them – hope they don’t end up looking like low-res playdough blobs being animated, then hope I remember to take this paragraph out when I post this on Lemmy. It releases soon (into my nemesis – Early Access) on May 19th – so let’s hope it is as good and cute as it looks? > Adorable spider chaos! Swing around the house, weave crazy structures, play with physics-based objects, and pull off chores with nothing but your webs and your wits in this madcap sandbox adventure. > Swing from place to place, crawl over every surface (even upside down!) and weave crazy webs in this adorable spider sandbox.  > Silky is a tiny hero on a big mission - to help their favourite humans! Baking cookies? Doing dishes? Watering plants? No task is too big if you’ve got the imagination (and the spiderwebs!) to pull it off! [The link to their Steam store page is right here, if you want to look!](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2073910/A_Webbing_Journey/) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Junk Store Teaser:* The developer of Junk Store (who happens to be a good friend of mine!) has shared a ‘next gen sneak peek’ for what’s coming next for Junk Store on Steam Deck. I’ll just copy what he wrote, then I’ll link the video! > While things might appear calm on the surface, I’ve been working intensely behind the scenes to get Junk Store ready for launch. Right now, there’s only one known bug left to fix on my end. The rest is mostly polish—help screens, UI touch-ups, and general quality-of-life improvements. > The core systems seem stable, but of course, we’ll see what happens when the software makes contact with actual users. > Here’s a sneak peek at some of the new systems I’ve added. When testing the extension generator, I realized it was just too complicated for most users—so I built this instead. > The video’s rough, but it should give you something to speculate about while I finish up the last bits. > Hope you enjoy it—can’t wait for you all to try it out. [You can find the video here, if you’d like to see what features he teased will be available and able-to-be-generated for the next iteration of Junk Store](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zp3N3mOU0KY) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Unity Still Quite Awful:*  RocketWerkz, an independent game studio founded by Dean Hall (creator of DayZ), is facing a serious licensing dispute with Unity Technologies. On May 9th, Unity sent a vague compliance warning threatening to revoke the studio’s license access by May 16th, citing improper use of Unity Personal licenses instead of Pro licenses. When RocketWerkz requested clarification, Unity responded with a list of alleged violations—including names and emails of individuals who either don't work on Unity projects, already have Pro licenses, or are entirely unaffiliated with RocketWerkz. Two names belonged to employees at a different local company, raising serious concerns about how Unity collects and applies its data. Dean Hall has criticized Unity's enforcement tactics as flawed, opaque, and aggressive, warning it reflects a worrying trend in the company's direction. Although RocketWerkz has moved away from Unity for future projects—favoring Unreal Engine and their own BRUTAL engine—the issue still affects two active games: Stationeers and the unreleased Torpedia. Despite having spent over $300,000 on Unity since 2014, including a recent $43,000 payment in December 2024, RocketWerkz now faces a potential halt to ongoing development based on what appears to be faulty or misattributed data.   [I’d encourage you to read through the entirety of it. Sadly it is on Reddit, but you can find it here in the r/gamedev sub-reddit with this link](https://www.reddit.com/r/gamedev/comments/1kiyh0m/unity_is_threatening_to_revoke_all_licenses_for/) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Black Salt Games:*  The developers to one of my favorite games ever (DREDGE) shared a post detailing the fact that: > Last year, we donated $100,000 to the NZ Whale and Dolphin Trust for a new boat, truck and other costs. They have sent us some photos of their boat "Pahu" in action which will help to aid their important conservation work, researching and protecting marine species all around Aotearoa. They further detailed their beliefs in another post: > We are proud to support The Whale and Dolphin Trust in their mission and encourage fans of DREDGE to learn more about our oceans and conservation efforts. In the wise words of the great David Attenborough " the most important place on Earth is not on land, but at sea." I love them, and *this* is why I support independent developers. Here are just a few images they shared of the Pahu!    ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *GEX:*  The GEX Trilogy releases on June 16th. From what I can gather (aside from the fact that I learned Glen Schofield of Dead Space fame directed the third game) the wise-cracking one liners might have aged poorly, but then again I don’t expect this trilogy is aimed at my generation, but from a few before me: > In addition to revealing the game's release date, we've also announced that GEX 2 and GEX 3 will be playable in native widescreen with all-new analog control, letting you experience GEX like never before! Now that's what I call getting some tail! *We also revealed some new artwork by famed Japanese artist, Yoshitaka Amano! You might know him from his work on a lesser known Square Enix franchise, so it made sense to finally give him the opportunity to illustrate their best one – GEX!*  [The link to that announcement is here if you want to see it!](https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/3183970/view/545608743298008725) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Palworld Disappointed:*  Nintendo is, as ever, a shitty company for the community. I *understand* that they hold the nostalgia carrot over everyone’s head (or at least those over a cetain old age), but their practices lately have been a little more than shitty. Palworld developer Pocketpair has confirmed significant game changes which were forced by the ongoing lawsuit from Nintendo. [Nintendo and The Pokemon Company filed a lawsuit against Pocketpair last year, seeking an injuction and damages, and [all Hell broke loose when we all saw that Nintendo was trademarking nonsense to inflict damage](https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/nintendo-and-the-pokemon-company-seek-an-injuction-and-damages-from-palworld-developer-pocketpair/) ***I’m going to copy the statement that Pocketpair made, and just paste it here, because I think this one should be read in full. So what follows isn’t my words, but theirs:*** We would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the continued support of our fans over the past few months. We apologize for not being able to share as much information as we would like, but we trust our fans understand how difficult it is to be fully transparent while litigation is ongoing. Currently, we remain involved in prolonged legal proceedings regarding alleged patent infringement. We continue to dispute these claims and assert the invalidity of the patents in question. However, we have had to make certain compromises in order to avoid disruptions to the development and distribution of Palworld. On November 30th, 2024, we released Patch v0.3.11 for Palworld. This patch removed the ability to summon Pals by throwing Pal Spheres and instead changed it to a static summon next to the player. Several other game mechanics were also changed with this patch. As many have speculated, these changes were indeed a result of the ongoing litigation. Everyone here at Pocketpair was disappointed that this adjustment had to be made, and we fully understand that many players feel the same frustration. Unfortunately, as the alternative would have led to an even greater deterioration of the gameplay experience for players, it was determined that this change was necessary. Furthermore, we regret to inform our players that with the implementation of Patch v0.5.5, we must make yet another compromise. From this patch onward, gliding will be performed using a glider rather than with Pals. Pals in the player's team will still provide passive buffs to gliding, but players will now need to have a glider in their inventory in order to glide. We understand that this will be disappointing for many, just as it is for us, but we hope our fans understand that these changes are necessary in order to prevent further disruptions to the development of Palworld. We also want to extend our apologies to our fans for the discomfort and concern this ongoing litigation has caused. We remain committed to developing Palworld and delivering exciting new content to our fans. On behalf of everyone at Pocketpair and Team Palworld, thank you again for your continued support. ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Expedition 33 #1:*  Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s soundtrack has hit number one on Billboard’s classical album charts! After selling over two million copies in under two weeks, Emmanuel Macron hailed it as “a shining example of French audacity and creativity”, and with 48,502 reviews on Steam holding a Very Positive rating, the achievements clearly haven’t stopped. The soundtrack for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has achieved over 18 million track streams since its release on April 24. With the soundtrack being made up 154 tracks, making for 8 hours of music. [If you’d like to get a taste, then follow this YouTube link and see the full orchestra session for Session 33’s music!](https://www.youtube.com/embed/4FIMsKKvBRM?autoplay=1) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Crow Country:*  If you know me well enough, you’ll know I *hate* the old before-my-time [‘tank controls’](https://i.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/original/001/000/367/5c3.gif), I’ve experienced the excitement on seeing the original Resident Evil games on GOG – then the subsequent hatred of tank controls. The same with Dino Crisis (*can they PLEASE remake that in modern style for me?!*) and...now Crow Country. But for some reason, Crow Country has charmed me enough to look past the bane of my existence and love it anyway. Go figure. **Crow Country** *The year is 1990. It’s been two years since the mysterious disappearance of Edward Crow and the abrupt closure of his theme park, Crow Country. But your arrival has broken the silence, Mara Forest. If you want answers, you’ll have to venture deep into the darkness of Crow Country to find them…* It is *pure* nostalgia for the old survival horror games on the PS1 (Silent Hill, Resident Evil, Dino Crisis), and it’s beautiful. So very, very atmospheric and also so reasonably priced for what it is! What I do *not* like is seeing fucking stupid reviews like this one I found on GOG upon release:  You should check it out, [you can find the GOG page link here, if you’re up to being kinda scared and love theme parks, but also if you’re wondering whether you should dye your hair purple and cut it shoulder-length like the adorable protagonist...*or maybe that’s just me?*](https://www.gog.com/game/crow_country) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *GOG’s Dynamic Pricing:*  No one can explain this better than GOG themselves (*I feel like I’m doing very little of my own writing for this News Post!*), so I’ll paste their announcement here for you: "Hello everyone! We’ve just launched the first batch of bundles with fully functioning dynamic pricing. It’s a feature many of you might recognize from other platforms, but for those who don’t, here’s how it works: When purchasing a bundle, you only pay for the items you don’t already own, making it easy to complete your collection without spending more than necessary. We know this has been a long-requested feature, and that the lack of it has been frustrating for many of you. That’s why we’re super excited to finally start introducing it to the store, and we hope you’re just as happy to see it live. Now, what do we mean by “start introducing” and “first batch of bundles”? Well, right now this dynamic pricing system is available for 24 bundles in the store (you’ll find the full list in my comment below). We'll continue expanding this feature to more and more bundles – new and old – with the goal of eventually covering the vast majority (if not all) of them. You’ll know a bundle has dynamic pricing from the information displayed under its price on the game page. Note: If you already own all components of a dynamically priced bundle, you’ll be able to “claim” that bundle in the store so it shows as owned. You might also be wondering: What about various game editions that include base games + DLCs? We completely agree that bringing dynamic pricing to those would be a huge improvement, for both you and us. It’s something we’re actively looking into, and we hope to expand the system in that direction. We can’t promise an ETA just yet, but we’re optimistic it’ll happen sooner rather than later. That’s all for now! Give this new system a try, see how it works for you, and let us know what you think. Thank you all for your support! :)" I *can* say that there’s been some issues, but it’s a big task, so they are working so hard on ironing these out. You can read it best [in this post they made on their GOG forum – with users chiming in with the issues they might have encountered](https://www.gog.com/forum/general/were_rolling_out_the_first_batch_of_bundles_with_dynamic_pricing/page1) Irrespective, I’m *so* happy to see this has arrived on GOG! ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Silent Hill 2 (Remake) on GOG:*  More GOG news (with one more to follow this one!) in that in a surprise announcement without preamble, Silent Hill 2 released on GOG! There’s nothing I can say here that you don’t already know I’m sure, but it was nice seeing a bit of a ‘shadow drop’ for a game, especially one of such calibre. It’s also great seeing Konami being more and more open to DRM-free gaming in recent times. If you want to support this (it sounds crass, but only by buying the games on GOG can we show the companies that it is a viable idea), then you can find the link: [Here! On GOG’s page](https://www.gog.com/game/silent_hill_2) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Old Skies:* I can't be the *only* one who thinks the character design from Old Skies is totally copying Remedy's Control with Jesse Faden, right?   ------------------------------------------------------------------ # Quick Fire News: ------------------------------------------------------------------ * [**Alien: Rogue Incursion Evolved Edition** is on Steam – this is the VR game which has been stripped of VR requirements, so let’s face it will probably play weirdly](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3655390/Alien_Rogue_Incursion_Evolved_Edition/) * [**RailGods of Hysterra – Early Access** releases on Steam: Lovecraftian...living...train(?) management game?](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3201910/RailGods_of_Hysterra/) * **Mafia: The Old Country** contains Denuvo DRM (boo, hiss) * **Slitterhead** however has *removed* Denuvo DRM (yay!) * [Valve issues a cease and desist to **Counter-Strike: Classic Offensive** mod team – after 8 years of development](https://wccftech.com/valve-issues-cease-and-desist-to-counter-strike-classic-offensive-mod-team-after-previously-giving-approval-shutting-down-8-years-of-development/) * [**Dinosaur Planet: Recompiled** (the N64 title) has a static recompilation of the prototype here on GitHub](https://github.com/Francessco121/dino-recomp) * [The **Nintendo Switch** has now sold 152.12 million units worldwide! *8 million behind the PS2’s numbers*](https://www.nintendo.co.jp/ir/en/finance/hard_soft/index.html) * [**Split Fiction** has sold nearly 4 million copies since launch!](https://www.ea.com/news/electronic-arts-reports-q4-fy25-results?isLocalized=true) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # Emulation/Retro Gaming-ish News: ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Sega Saturn turns 30:*  Two days ago the Sega Saturn officially turned 30 years old, in North America anyway. Ironically, the beginning of the end of Sega’s hardware efforts, not that anyone knew it at the time. Seen as a fair misfit, it’s a pretty impressive library of games when you look back on it now – but it was the release of this, the Sega CD and the 32X all within a year that threw things into a spin. Still, happy birthday, Saturn. ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Eden Emulator:*  Another (yes, I know) Nintendo Switch emulator for Android phones has hit the scene. Still in pre-alpha (though they released another version a number of hours ago with a fair changelog for their short time as testament to their efforts. It’s yet another Yuzu fork, so I won’t hold my breath, but it has the Android emulation scene in a bit of a buzz, so it has to be doing *some* things right. * Much of the team come from Citron * The team has already reached out to Sudachi developer Jarrod Norwell to collaborate. * It has a new UI [The GitHub is here](https://github.com/eden-emulator) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Nintendo’s Account Agreement:*  This one has people in a bit of a panic, but Nintendo has updated its Account Agreement to crack down on piracy and emulation. Basically, unauthorised use of digital products may now render them—or even your device—unusable. This however has been done before in the past by Nintendo (most notably and similarly with their 3DS line-up), and really means little. It is scare tactics only, and quite impossible to enforce. To reiterate: Nintendo's new terms warn that violating usage rules could let them *𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵, 𝘴𝘰𝘧𝘵𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘰𝘳 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘦* - effectively bricking it. Or, again, that’s what they’re saying can happen (*as someone with extensive Switch modding experience, I say ‘good luck’*) [But if you’d like more on this – you can read it here on this link to eurogamer’s article on it](https://www.eurogamer.net/nintendo-reserves-the-right-to-brick-your-console-following-unauthorised-use-in-bid-to-prevent-piracy) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Mario Party 4 Decompiled:*  Mario Party 4 becomes the first decompiled Mario Party *and* Game Cube game – and there is a PC port in the works! [You can watch a video on YouTube about this here, made by **MattKC Bytes**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdH_fKXSZ4c) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *LACED:*  I found this lovely statement recently, retro enthusiast Lorentio Brodesco developed what they call ‘LACED’, a low-cost method to delayer and reverse-engineer vintage console PCBs using tools like a 5W laser engraver and common chemicals — all for under €200. This technique, accurate to 3–10 microns, helps preserve the inner workings of classic hardware that are often undocumented or deteriorating. The full method is open-source and available on GitHub to support restoration, cloning, and historical preservation in the retro gaming community. The statement made has a few lovely quotes, but I’ll just share my fav: > A little over a year ago, I started a journey to understand and preserve the inner workings of retro consoles — beginning with a PlayStation 1 motherboard I literally sanded by hand to expose its inner copper layers. No microscope. No budget. Just curiosity, paper, and a dream. > That project evolved. I wanted something more precise, more replicable, and open to anyone with passion and patience. [You can find the GitHub here with this link!](https://github.com/LawrenceBrode/LACED) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Calibre:* This comment just made my day. [If you have an e-reader, and don’t use Calibre, then you need to follow this link and change that fact. I utterly swear by it](https://calibre-ebook.com/) Anyway, I just wanted to leave this here because they’re using RSS to read what I post on their Kobo, and that’s amazing to me!  ------------------------------------------------------------------ # What have you been playing?: I like to ask this off and on, because my fav thing is matching game choices to usernames. Some of your names I recognize from commenting on posts I make here (which is rather lovely), and some are new...one thing remains – I love hearing what you’ve been playing! I recently picked up a Japanese OLED Switch on my travels (in Thailand!), and took it along with me when I then skipped to Malaysia, and in Plaza Low Yat I found someone who had the equipment and let me use it (for a fee) to mod my OLED. Happily, I’m well and truly back into Switch gaming (and those sweet, sweet custom firmware themes I can use). I’ve been playing modded Breath of The Wild for the 70928753753457th time on there. But its still such fun. On my Steam Deck I’ve started BioShock: Infinite (my fav of the three), but might leave that for later and go replay Control. But that’s unimportant, because what *is* important is you sharing what you’ve been enjoying! AAA? AA? (UbiSoft’s short-lived AAAA?). Emulation? Indies? Let us all know!!! ------------------------------------------------------------------ # What I have been up to: ------------------------------------------------------------------ I recently shared on Lemmy an interview I did with Mathieu Comandon, whom you might know as the one responsible for Lutris! [You can find the link to that interview here, if you haven’t read through and would like to!](https://lemmy.world/post/29459679) I’ve had a developer friend help me contact the team behind [The RomM Project](https://romm.app/) and I’m hoping to soon do the same style and kind of interview with them, and share it with you all here! *Very* much looking forward to this, since RomM is so utterly unique in this gaming space. I also shared an interview recently with the entire team who are behind Heroic Games Launcher, again if you haven’t read through – you can find it [right here with this link to it on Lemmy](https://lemmy.world/post/29307275) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Further:* ------------------------------------------------------------------ [If you’d like to reach me, I wrote a handy little post on Mastodon recently with my contact details. Just the (*very few*) FOSS spaces I occupy these days](https://mastodon.social/@flwwhtrbt/114469379515805839)  ------------------------------------------------------------------ # *Lastly:* ------------------------------------------------------------------ I have been asked quite often here, and on Mastodon, and on Matrix (which surprises me to no end, each and every time that this even gets asked!) *how can I support you?* I’m making a back-up of my posts, and I *will* host them somewhere else. But as I say each time, I like to think of this as my way of contributing to Lemmy, FOSS and open-source social spaces. I love that my words and posts are in one place – that it has a *slight* chance of making someone stick around. I’ve no interest in making a Patreon (I loathe news and review sites who offer this, but that’s my own personal view), or a Ko-Fi. I do these because I love to. That said, as someone whose Steam library is 40-ish games big, and you’ve got to send me something? Send a worldwide (since I am not in the ‘States!) Steam key to me! My Steam Deck has existed almost entirely as a GOG Deck, and I’ve recently been looking at Steam games again (I have to say, the cloud saves and shader cache is worth its weight in gold sometimes) *BUT* - remember, I do this because I love writing them, not for some Machiavellian plot to pivot and benefit. I’m just glad you’re all here, and reading these :) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # My Previous News Posts: * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #2](https://lemmy.world/post/26182097) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #3](https://lemmy.world/post/26306459) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #4](https://lemmy.world/post/26483935) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #5](https://lemmy.world/post/26707576) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #6](https://lemmy.world/post/27035556) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #7](https://lemmy.world/post/27435521) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #8](https://lemmy.world/post/27639264) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #9](https://lemmy.world/post/27761213) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #10](https://lemmy.world/post/28239730) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #11](https://lemmy.world/post/28590388) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #12](https://lemmy.world/post/28805418) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #13](https://lemmy.world/post/28889066) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #14](https://lemmy.world/post/29248253) ------------------------------------------------------------------ # My Mastodon: 

games 341 57

Steam Deck / Gaming News #20

As ever and always, I’m back with a week’s worth of gaming news I’ve spotted and thought I should share with you all! *And this one is a long one!* This one’s got a bit of everything, and it’s my *twentieth* of these posts! Hard to imagine so many of these have been posted so far, but one thing does remain – writing these makes me super happy to write. So, while we're on the topic, thanks to all of you for even wanting to read along with these when I post them :) *What are these posts?* My aim for these News Posts in general though is to format them in a more *clearly not a professional, but someone who cares about gaming* manner than most gaming sites do now. Less demanding? My ever-lasting inspo is the old, old video game sites, blogs and magazines that I never had the privilege of being alive for: * **image/gif/link heavy** (*every time I make these, at least 4 GIFs end up being too big for Lemmy to upload, and it always makes me sad*) * **personal voice** (I can’t help rambling, send help – this won’t be even slightly professionally written) * **mostly news or articles or points** which you won’t find on normal gaming sites. These are the smaller, lesser things that I’m drawn to. I *know* you’ll have spotted the big news articles, so I’m hoping some of these smaller ones might have been missed by you. A mixed bag of what I’ve considered news this week, so there really *is* a bit of everything ahead. So grab a coffee? Or a tea? Or a fresh juice? And enjoy <3 ----------------------------- # General Gaming News: ----------------------------- # *GEX:*  The Gex trilogy has finally arrived on GOG and Steam. Will it cause a stir? I’d say...not, the games are just poor emulation in a new wrapper. [Check the trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIjmJuaV8YM) and you’ll see something like polygon stabilization (*‘jumping’ textures*) we see DuckStation do so well (*for ‘free’*) is completely missing. Anyway: > Everyone's favorite tail-whipping, channel-surfing, gecko is back in a collection that features all of his best-selling adventures! Interestingly, they opted to *only* use the U.S. voices for this one. The originals had different voices for different markets (Leslie Phillips in the U.K. and Dana Gould in the ‘States). If you’d prefer something a little lighter, check AVGN’s video on YouTube where he plays the original three games and gives his (angry – it *is* the Angry Video Game Nerd, afterall!) reviews from three months ago. [The link to *that* video is here!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nH325JnIMZs) Just check this image of this newly released Gex Trilogy, it’s directly from the [Steam page!](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3183970/GEX_Trilogy/) Amazing:  [And of course, here’s the link to the GOG page for the game, too!](https://www.gog.com/game/gex_trilogy) ----------------------------- # *Starfleet Academy:*  Back in 1997 a game was released, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy: the game simulates the life of a typical Starfleet cadet, with the player learning the basics of flying a starship and engaging in role-playing with a crew of cadets, with the eventual goal of becoming captain of their own ship. The game included full motion video featuring William Shatner, Walter Koenig and George Takei reprising their roles from the original television series and movies, and a multiplayer simulation mode allowing for up to 32 players. [It’s still available on GOG (*because, of course it is!*)](https://www.gog.com/en/game/star_trek_starfleet_academy) but I’m sharing something interesting I found. Nick Acosta, a big fan of the game, has remastered the opening to the game. > I’ve reimagined the opening sequence of the 1997 PC game Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, replacing its dated CG effects with recomposited footage from the original ILM model work used in the first six Star Trek films. I also created new matte paintings and redesigned interior backgrounds to better align with the look and feel of Starfleet in 2288.  > I’ve always loved this game and felt it was an underrated addition to the Trek timeline—bridging the events between Star Trek V and VI.  Their work is *incredible* on this one, and seems as official as you could get. Updates include: * Original physical models restored and recomposited * All 3D effects replaced with modern lighting and detail * New matte paintings for interiors and FX sequences * Production design aligned with the 2288 Starfleet aesthetic * Revised title sequence and updated credit order * I used an animated version of an unused Ralph McQuarrie Matte Painting of Starfleet Command from Star Trek IV [Of course, the link to it being shown off on YouTube is here, and *really* - you should click this and have a look. This is the kinda thing I *love* to find, fans caring so much about a fear-forgotten game that they take the time and effort to bring it to life again!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i48QC08cvOk) > This is a fan preservation and restoration project—a tribute to the timeless quality of ILM’s practical model work and a chance to reimagine this scene using today’s compositing tools. ----------------------------- # *Nexus Mods Sold:* You’ve no doubt read all about that by now, it’s going to be old news but...it’s still *big* news to me. Nexus Mods has been sold: In ‘An Update From DarkOne’, they stated: > After almost 24 years of running Nexus Mods, the time has come for me to step back from the day-to-day management of the site. This isn't a decision I've made lightly - far from it - but one I think is in both my and the community's best interests. > I started this project back in 2001, in my bedroom, with a 56k modem, an excitement for the upcoming release of Morrowind and with no grand ambitions or intentions. I didn’t set out to build a business, I just wanted to make a place where modders could share their work without worrying it would vanish into the internet either the next time a fansite went offline or a publisher decided they were done with it. That idea grew legs, sprouted arms, and turned into Nexus Mods. [Their entire post is here, you should check it out if you’re interested!](https://www.nexusmods.com/news/15301) [Resetera users discovered that both new owners named by Dark0ne](https://www.resetera.com/threads/nexus-mods-site-has-been-sold.1219452/page-2#post-141554013) work for a company called [Chosen](https://wearechosen.io/). It's vague to what extent this is a sale. Dark0ne mentioned the owners have "changed hands", but also mentions "I’ll also be working with the team to help guide the overall direction of the site, just without needing to be the person who signs off on every little thing and without taking responsibility for any and all things Nexus Mods". ----------------------------- # *The Deck Trap:* This one’s...pretty typical of the Steam Deck community, you’ll see it generally fall into two categories: those who leave the Deck stock and just, idk, *use it*, and those who like to tinker. Then there’s this effort, which is tinkering x1000. Snicker-Snack83 has created an all-in-one effort which, in their own words because they went into great detail, is: > This is the DeckTrap, as I'm calling it, and it's a portable dock with a number of cool features.  > It doubles as a kickstand using the dbrand killswitch, with two HDMI ports, Ethernet, and an adapter for use with AR glasses. The battery is 20,000 mAh and all the cables are rated for 65 watts, with an on/off switch to ensure the dock doesn't drain the battery when not in use.  > It's something that anyone can build, but all the parts amount to $257, so making them would be kind of expensive. As someone who travels I find it very useful. It lets me use the XREAL glasses on the go without killing the battery and it doubles as a dock when on the go and you're looking for a way to connect it to the TV.  I’ve seen a ton of pointlessly weird and mean comments over this. What is it with gamers who like to just put someone down for sharing their work? It’s *weird*. This is specific, and they love it. They saw a problem with their own gaming, and solved it! Is it for me? No. But as someone who goes through airport security often with a suitcase full of suspicious looking tech (*I’m a pen-tester who works red ream*), I know how this kinda thing can grow!  I love it!  ----------------------------- # *Next-Gen Minecraft (for consoles):*  Maybe some remember this. In 2017, Mojang announced the "Super Duper Graphics Pack" for Minecraft, promising enhanced visuals (*including shaders*) for Xbox consoles. However, this project was postponed to 2018 and ultimately canceled in 2019 due to ‘technical challenges in achieving consistent performance across devices’. The community felt a little confused why a company like Microsoft, with its infinite wealth, didn’t focus on this idea a little more. Mojang is hardly an indie crew. But, it seems like *some* good things come to those who wait eight years. Now, with this next-gen update, all 3,000 textures will be replaced with PBR materials (color, roughness, emission) optimized for Physically-Based Rendering, aiming to accurately simulate the physical behavior of the light source and materials to achieve realism. PBR materials are a very important step if you want to add ray tracing or even path tracing. Until now, Minecraft used only simple color textures, so renderers like the famous Nvidia Minecraft RTX didn’t work with the standard game. The next-gen Minecraft renderer will be released on June 17, 2025, and will be enabled by default on Xbox Series X. [This is the 5-ish minute video they shared on YouTube, detailing a *lot* and showing what the update has done. Well and truly an interesting watch, even for me who is not a fan of Minecraft!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTOLOErWN4w) ----------------------------- # *The Thing:* ...or maybe, the thing about John Carpenter is that he is a gamer. He frequently shares his thoughts on games, what he enjoys, what provides a good atmosphere. I found that long ago in 2024 he enjoyed Prince of Persia’s The Lost Crown (*I did too! I was sad to see the team didn’t get a chance to expand and refine with a sequel*), and tweeted this one:  That’s all, IDK, [I just though it was neat!](https://c.tenor.com/eHIRFWRKeQoAAAAC/tenor.gif) ----------------------------- # *Switch 2 + Staples:*  Did everyone see the drama that happened when the Switch 2 was released? GameStop stapled receipts on the Switch 2 box which damaged screens on launch day upsetting customers. Everyone blames GameStop (yeah, that’s valid), but I’d say *some* blame lies with Nintendo for having no buffer zone between the cardboard box’s lid and the console itself. It’s literally thin cardboard / soft cover / console screen. [Here’s an artcile (short one) on The Verge detailing that issue.](https://www.theverge.com/news/680966/nintendo-switch-2-gamestop-screens-staples) Anyway, GameStop have leaned into their own issues and have made a pretty funny ad about it. Here you go:  ----------------------------- # *Coincidence:* VERY briefly, also spotted a user sharing this and it made me laugh:  ----------------------------- # *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33’s Improvements:*  The developer of the *insanely* popular Expedition 33 have stated that they’re working on various bits and pieces: > Bonjour! We're currently exploring a wide range of future improvements — from accessibility features to new content and all sorts of bits and bobs we're actively assessing. Naturally, this also includes expanded localisation options! > While we don't have specific timelines or confirmed languages to share just yet, we wanted to let you know that it's very much on our radar. Wheee! [Their statement which I’ve copied is here, on Bsky](https://bsky.app/profile/expedition33.bsky.social/post/3lrpzry3pnk2f) ----------------------------- # *EmuReady is Ready:*  This one is for those who love the SBC gaming handhelds, but there *is* plans for this to end up on Decky Loader, for the Steam Deck. The release post is so detailed and nice that I’m not even going to bother annoying you with my own words, I’ll just (painstakingly) format it so it looks pretty here on Lemmy. I’ll make a couple of changes (remove some words and embed the links), but nothing changes anything here: https://emuready.com/ is a platform designed to help users share and find emulator compatibility reports more effectively. After a lot of feedback, 1000 commits later, EmuReady is now live for everyone to use! [By the way, it's open source, so if you want to contribute, check out the GitHub repo.](https://github.com/Producdevity/EmuReady) (*leaving a star on the repo means a lot to me and helps others find it!*) **Features:** * Share emulator settings to get your game running * Upvote and downvote reports to help others find the best settings * Search for games and emulators to see compatibility reports/listings * Configurable your profile with devices and socs you use to only see relevant reports * Performance ratings - See if a game runs "Perfect" or "Potato Quality" before you waste 3 hours tinkering * Custom fields for every emulator - Because some emulators have 47 different graphics settings and we're not animals * Device/SoC/Emulator/Console filtering * Dark/Light mode  **Coming soon:** * Trust system (probably shipping tomorrow) - Build reputation by contributing quality reports and get access to approve others' reports, add devices, and more (so this platform isn't held back by how much time I have to spend on it) * [The EmuReady Mobile app]( https://github.com/Producdevity/EmuReadyApp) (*very early stages*) * A Decky plugin for the Steam Deck  **Maybe Coming:** * Automated settings export/import (I am experimenting with this for the emulators that support a config file, but it is not a priority right now) **Never Coming:** * Ads.  [If your device isn't included yet, please send a message in the discord server or create a GitHub ticket and I'll add it :)](https://discord.gg/YyWueNxmzM) ----------------------------- * Most Played at Next Fest:*  June’s Next Fest is, as we all know is a week‑long digital showcase on Steam—held three times a year (usually February, June, and October), where players can download and play hundreds or thousands of free demos of upcoming PC games, watch developer livestreams, and add their favorites to wishlists . Next Fest exists to give developers early feedback and build hype, while giving gamers a no-cost chance to explore and discover new titles before they launch, like the age of gaming long before my time, when demos were typical! Anyway, Steam shared a post giving the top 50 most played demos! * [Vindictus: Defying Fate (action RPG / souls-like)[https://store.steampowered.com/app/3576170] > Experience intense action brought to life with diverse, unique characters. Read your enemy’s attacks and strike back for maximum impact in Vindictus: Defying Fate. Immerse yourself in signature combat and a gripping narrative.  * [Wildgate (multiplayer space/adventure)](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3504780/Wildgate/) > Wildgate is a PVP multiplayer shooter that blends tactical ship-to-ship combat with fast-paced first-person action. Evade deadly environmental hazards, search for powerful weapons and ship upgrades, and be the first crew to escape with the Artifact... or the last crew left flying. * [Jump Ship (co-op space PVE)](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2841820/Jump_Ship_Demo/) > Jump Ship is a mission based co-op PvE for up to 4 players, where you are the crew of a spaceship. Transition seamlessly from crewing the ship to on-foot exploration and space walks. Engage in intense battles both on the ground and in space, and always keep your ship upgraded and intact. * [Mimesis (online co-op / horror / action)](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2827200/MIMESIS/) > 4 Player co-op survival horror game. When the cursed rain falls, 'Mimesis' appear, perfectly imitating your teammates, bringing a new level of tension you've never experienced before. * [Dead as Disco (single-player / action / rhythm / beat ‘em up)](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3763830/Dead_as_Disco_Demo/) > Martial arts meets music video in Dead as Disco, a neon-drenched Beat ‘Em Up where every punch, kick, and combo syncs to the music. Join Charlie Disco on a quest to confront the villainous Idols and reunite the band.  ...figured I’d add the top 5 here for the heck of it (*yes, it **is** an excuse to share some GIFs*), but [check this link out as it has the whole top 50 covered.](https://store.steampowered.com/sale/nextfestmostplayed) ----------------------------- # *The Loss of Pak-Sen Lim:*  Malaysian-born British actor Pik-Sen Lim died on Monday, June 9 at the age of 80. Lim had an extensive career in British theater, film, and television. PC Gamer readers will recognize her as the narrator of Dark Souls and Dark Souls 3's opening cutscenes. [The opening cinematic to Dark Souls III is here, if you’d like to view it](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zDZYrIUgKE&t=2s) [Her imdb page link is here, if you'd like to see her career](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0510586/) ----------------------------- # *Farthest Frontier Delay:*  Farthest Frontier has pushed back their long-anticipated 1.0 launch until October 2025. They stated that they need time for polish, bug fixes, optimization and [posted an updated Road to V1.0 (which you can read here with this link)](https://forums.crateentertainment.com/t/the-state-of-early-access-update-08/146024) Farthest Frontier, from their own game page: > Protect and guide your people as you forge a town from untamed wilderness at the edge of the known world. Harvest raw materials, hunt, fish and farm to survive. Produce crafted items to trade, consume, equip and fight with as you battle for your survival against the elements and outside threats. It currently holds a Very Positive rating on Steam, with 18,769 reviews (*all time*) ----------------------------- # *3DS at Bob Dylan:*  Just another funny quick one, saw this shared about – someone spotted taking a photo at a Bob Dylan concert with their 3DS. Not only that, but taking it a step further and using the circle pad pro attachment! ----------------------------- # *Epic Games Delisting:* Epic has removed Dark and Darker from sale on the Epic Games Store, thankfully if you *have* purchased the game you will be issued a full refund. Dark and Darker: > An unforgiving hardcore fantasy FPS dungeon PvPvE adventure. Band together with your friends and use your courage, wits, and cunning to uncover mythical treasures, defeat gruesome monsters, while staying one step ahead of the other devious treasure-hunters. It currently holds Mixed (all time reviews) and Mostly Negative (recent reviews) on Steam, so...maybe you’re not missing out on much. Here’s the statement Epic made:  ----------------------------- # *Epic’s Languages:* Epic has also added additional language support to their launcher, but *not* their website (yet). The languages added are: * Bulgarian "bg" *Czech "cs" * Danish "da" * Dutch "nl" * Filipino "fil" * Finish "fi" * Hindi "hi" * Hungarian "hu" * Indonesian "id" * Malay "ms" * Norwegian "no" * Portuguese (Portugal) "pt" * Romanian "ro" * Swedish "sv" * Ukrainian "uk" [This information is from the developer documentation which you can read with this link on Epic’s site.](https://dev.epicgames.com/docs/epic-games-store/store-presence/localize/supported-languages?sessionInvalidated=true) ----------------------------- # *Animal Crossing / Gamecube / Decompiled!*  Another monumental fan effort has been achieved. The team behind the Animal Crossing decompilation have reached 100% progress on recreating the game's code. This isn't a full 100%, as noted by project creator Cuyler, who states that there's still work left to do, but it means Animal Crossing for the GameCube can be modded fully, and soon ported to other platforms, once released. Additionally, the same team has been working on backporting and translating content from the Japanese-exclusive Dobutsu no Mori e+ into a project called Animal Crossing Deluxe. > It's my pleasure to announce that as of <t:1750082820:R>, Animal Crossing's [decompilation](https://github.com/ACreTeam/ac-decomp) hit 100% matching and linked game code. While not fully 100%, the way the game is set up means that we can fully mod the game. There's still some work to do on supporting libraries like the GameCube SDK, among others. However, this does not impact modding. **HUGE** shoutout to everyone who contributed and supported the project along the way! This has been 2.5 years in the making! I'll have a more fitting announcement when we hit complete 100% in the future! ----------------------------- # *GameSieve Updated:*  GameSieve is, in the developer’s own words: > Full-text search for the entire GOG game catalog, with advanced filters and price-tracking for 12 currencies. I've tried to optimize for information-density without reducing usability. I also put a lot of effort into correcting and enriching the data from GOG's API. Lots more of all of that to come. They’ve made a lengthy post for what’s next, and what’s been happening with their site, and I’m just going to copy it (*almost*) verbatim – I love this site, and use it all the time, and I definitely recommend you visit and bookmark if you’re a regular GOG user! *Anyway, in their own words:* Nearly two months ago, I launched [GameSieve](https://gamesieve.com/), my independent price tracker, game discovery service and improved search engine for GOG. In the weeks since then, I've been building some frequently requested quality of life features and new abilities. Highlights include: * The ability to remember preferred defaults. This could be just the country for which you want to see prices listed, but it becomes particularly useful if there are genres or developers which you never want to see (cough whale rock cough). Just exclude them all, and then click the "remember" button underneath the applied filters. * Sorting by price, discount, release date (original or on GOG) or title (added to the existing default of sorting by price improvement). * Showing included products and goodies. * Filtering for GOG's new [bundles with dynamic pricing.](https://gamesieve.com/grouped_product-dynamic-pricing) * Filtering [GOG’s new modded games.](https://gamesieve.com/grouped_product-modded-game) * Filtering [by age rating.](https://gamesieve.com/#age_rating_pegi) * I've recently created [a GameSieve sub-reddit](https://old.reddit.com/r/GameSieve) for those interested in following the details of ongoing development. See [the changelog](https://www.old.reddit.com/r/gamesieve/comments/1l323by/changelog/) for the full details of everything that's new. The big thing I'm aiming for (which based on initial exploration looks feasible, but will still take a long time to implement correctly, and might still prove to be too complex) is the ability to create various types of lists and then filter by them. I'm quite ambitious there, hoping to eventually allow for wishlists (imported from gog, optionally managed (with priorities) on gamesieve), owned games (on gog or elsewhere), lists of games you never want to see and maybe public "gog mixes". I'm actively asking for feature requests, both in general, and for such lists. (It really helps me to have a thorough understanding of a wide range of desires and usecases - what are you trying to do, what information do you need to see for that to work? The more details the better!) Feel free to drop them here, or [on the roadmap](https://www.reddit.com/r/gamesieve/comments/1l325xo/roadmap_and_feature_requests/) I make no promises about what I'll implement, but almost all of what I've added since launch was caused by someone asking for it, or at least voicing a desire which made me realize (how) I could implement a related feature. *And that’s that one!* ----------------------------- # *Kernelbay:*  I spotted this game and *had* to share it, because of how unique it looks and feels to me. There’s (apparently, thought it *has* to be small and niche) a small but growing trend of games running as overlays on the desktop instead of full-screen apps. These games float above the desktop, partially transparent, blending into the background while you work. They act more like ambient experiences...always there, but never demanding attention. This developer is creating Kernelbay, a cozy idle fishing game built around this idea.  It runs as a transparent window, with your fisher upgrading gear and exploring tiny handcrafted dioramas while you go about your day.  [Their Steam page is here, wishlist it I guess if you’re interested!](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3686480/Kernelbay/)  (*I did try attach two GIFs here, to show it in action - but both being around 19mb was too much for Lemmy to be able to upload, sad*) ----------------------------- # *Borderlands 4 DRM:*  Borderlands is shipping with Denuvo DRM (yuck), but they’re also applying Symbiote (2K’s custom DRM) – so I suppose we can see why their recommended specs for playing Borderlands 4 are on the higher side. So, UE5’s often-poor performance + *two* DRM’s running in the background + higher rec’s for specs? Hmmmmmmmm. ----------------------------- # *RetroAssembly:*  There’s a new web-based ‘retro game cabinet’ concept which as launched. Arianrhodsandlot shared a quick post on RetroAssembly, which is just getting started. Again, in the dev’s own words: Hi! I’m excited to share RetroAssembly, a web-based retro game collection cabinet. It lets you play and organize games from classic consoles—right in your browser. No installs, just upload your ROMs and play! **Price:** $0 – RetroAssembly is completely free and open-source. I originally built this for my own use, and now I’m excited to share it with the community. **Getting Started:** * Visit retroassembly.com * (Optional) Try the demo games * Login to upload your own ROMs and play instantly in your browser—no extra software needed! **Key Features:** * Supports NES, SNES, Genesis, GameBoy, Arcade, and more * Auto-detects and displays beautiful box art for your games * Save and sync your progress, resume anytime * Some emulators support gameplay rewind * Navigate your library with keyboard or gamepad (spatial navigation) * Retro-style visual shaders for that authentic vibe * On-screen virtual controller for mobile play [Here’s a link to their GitHub](https://github.com/arianrhodsandlot/retroassembly) [Here’s a link to their Discord](https://discord.com/invite/gwaKRAYG6t) ...and if you *do* try it out, let me know what you think! I’d be curious (haven’t the time myself at the moment!) how it runs and looks! ----------------------------- # *FBC: Firebreak Launches:* Remedy’s new multiplayer game, FBC: Firebreak has launched everywhere (*for free, if you have Game Pass!*) and reviews are rolling in. FBC is a three-player cooperative first-person shooter set within ‘*a mysterious federal agency under assault by otherworldly forces*’. If you’ve played Remedy’s brilliant game Control then you’ll have an idea of the setting, it’s that game’s universe this one’s set in. Currently the game is sitting on ‘Mixed’ reviews on Steam, with under 1,000 being submitted. [PC Gamer has given it 60/100](https://www.pcgamer.com/games/fps/fbc-firebreak-review/) (which some take to mean a terrible, terrible, scathing review but to *me*, idk, 60/100 seems like a fun time?) I suspect Remedy might have seen this title as a passive income – skins and micro-transactions are the bread and butter of the gaming industry these days, but...we’ll see if FBC stays the course and sticks around I suppose. ----------------------------- # *Marathon Delayed:*  Looks like Bungie and Sony have delayed the rather universally hated Marathon 'reboot' (hard term to use, since it has nothing to do with their classic, old, single-player titles of that name) It is now *delayed indefinitely*. Terrible reviews of their closed Alpha tests, a shitty account by an artist where Marathon displayed stolen art assets, it's not hard to see why this has been delayed. > “Through every comment and real-time conversation on social media and Discord, your voice has been strong and clear. We've taken this to heart, and we know we need more time to craft Marathon into the game that truly reflects your passion. After much discussion within our Dev team, we’ve made the decision to delay the September 23rd release.” ----------------------------- # *My Interview:*  My friend Gardiner Bryant asked me if I’d like to post the occasional thing to his website. For now, some of the interviews I do with developers (typically Steam Deck / Linux / gaming) are going to start popping up on there and...that’s kinda exciting! To start with I’ve shared an interview you’ll *only* read there, with another friend of mine, Eben Bruyns who created Junk Store. He and I did that early last year (*-ish, my memory of exactly when is hazy!*), and roughly covers things like: * What Junk Store is * Development motivation * How the project evolved * What its like to develop a program for Linux * Challenges he faces, UI/UX ...and so on. I’d love it if you’d read through, it’s 15 or 20 mins worth of back-and-forth between he and I! [Of course, the link to it is here!](https://gardinerbryant.com/an-interview-with-the-dev-behind-junk-store/) ----------------------------- # *My next interview:* I’ve approached a developer of a program for the Nintendo Switch. I understand this one might be a sensitive topic for some, but stick with me for the moment. They run a *very* successful app, a program which replicates the look and feel of an official Nintendo program, but allows users to download and install games and DLC to their jailbroken Nintendo Switch for free. And they are 100% a pirate. The level which they’re operating is, at the peak, around 1 petabyte of data per month, so this one’s no small fry. I wanted to ask them about their motivations, their reasons for creating and maintaining such an idea, their experiences with being devs and gamers, how (or *if) they justify what is stealing, whether it is an ideal which motivates them or the money, and the threat of Nintendo’s lawyers. This isn’t condoning the project (the opposite, I won’t share the name of it, nor that of the developer), it’s something as far as I can tell hasn’t been done before. I can see *why* it hasn’t, but to me this is the interesting thing – a peek behind a curtain of a shadowy service. I wanted to know the *how* and the *why*, so I asked! This won’t be posted for a few days, and will only be shared on the c/games Lemmy community (since it is outside the scope of others I post to!) ----------------------------- # *Prime Gaming’s Bonus:*  With Amazon’s Prime Day, they’ve released a bonus pack of games out of the blue as a giveaway. If you’re unaware (*and are one of the three here on Lemmy who don’t pick up a pitchfork whenever I share anything about Prime Gaming*), Prime Gaming is a bonus for your Amazon Prime subscription. Each week they give a handful of game codes away for you to keep forever. GOG, Epic Games and Amazon titles are yours to keep. I’ll be crucified for saying it here, but to me its the best deal in gaming at the moment, purely because of the GOG games you get. **This bonus day of games includes:** * Tomb Raider I-II-III Remastered (GOG) Play the original three Tomb Raider Adventures: For the first time ever, play the complete experience with all expansions and secret levels on modern platforms in this definitive collection. Prime members and Luna+ subscribers who claim Tomb Raider I-III Remastered Starring Lara Croft can link their Luna and GOG accounts to play via Luna in supported countries. * Saints Row 2 (GOG) Saints Row 2 brings true freedom to open-world gaming. Players can play as who they want, how they want, and with whomever they want in this sequel to the much acclaimed and tremendously successful Saints Row. Prime members and Luna+ subscribers who claim Saints Row 2 can link their Luna and GOG accounts to play via Luna in supported countries. * TOEM (GOG) Set off on a delightful expedition and use your photographic eye to uncover the mysteries of the magical TOEM in this hand-drawn adventure game. Chat with quirky characters, solve their problems by snapping neat photos, and make your way through a relaxing landscape! Prime members and Luna+ subscribers who claim TOEM can link their Luna and GOG accounts to play via Luna in supported countries. * Star Wars Rebellion (GOG) It is a time of great upheaval. The first Death Star has been destroyed, marking a major victory for the Rebellion. But the Empire remains strong. As commander, you must choose to take control of either the Rebel Alliance or the Galactic Empire. Your goal: complete domination of the galaxy. * Saints Row IV: Re-Elected (GOG) After a catastrophic alien invasion of Earth, the Saints have been transported to a bizarro-Steelport simulation. With homies new and old, and an arsenal of superpowers and strange weapons, they must fight to free humanity from alien overlord Zinyak and his alien empire, saving the world in the wildest open world game ever. * Dungeon of the ENDLESS – Definitive Edition (Amazon Games) Dungeon of the Endless is Amplitude Studios’ take on the demanding Roguelike genre, mixing in Dungeon-Defense mechanics for a unique gameplay experience. Of them all, I’m actually going to say TOEM is my fav (*and I am a HUGE Lara Croft fan!*) It’s a perfect game for the Steam Deck, cozy and interesting and hand-drawn, too. I love this game *so* much, you’ll have such a nice time playing through, I can’t recommend it enough ----------------------------- # *Xbox’s Next Console:* Xbox has released a...idk what to even call this, a ‘hype’ trailer? A promise of what is next? Xbox is patnering with AMD for their next generation system (Xbox console, handhelds, phone gaming, streaming, PC and so on). > We’ve established a strategic, multi-year agreement with AMD to co-engineer silicon across a portfolio of devices, including our next-generation Xbox consoles. Together, we’re delivering deeper visual quality, immersive gameplay, and AI-powered experiences - grounded in a platform designed for players, not tied to a single store or device, and fully compatible with your existing Xbox game library. But what has most talking is the (seemingly throwaway) line in their statement: > Not locked to a single store Is this the much talked about Steam integration? I’d doubt it (what manufacturer will let you use their service to give money to another platform?!), but...I do hope I am wrong! [Anyway, here’s the link to the video they uploaded onto YouTube: Xbox + AMD: Powering the Next Generation of Xbox](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOCtRanwXrA) ----------------------------- # *GoldenEye 64 DD44 3D Print:* Just something fun, I noticed a user by the name of Arniel86 made a great 3D print of one of the weapons from the old Nintendo 64 game: > Was an interesting design to work with, looks nothing like the TT-33 its supposedly based off. But I chose to keep it looking as in game as possible.  [The link to their MakerWorld page where the files are free is here, if you’d like to see more or start your own print!](https://makerworld.com/en/models/1525866-goldeneye-007-64-dostevei-dd44-prop-replica#profileId-1599518) ----------------------------- # *Hades II Update:*  Hades II which is still in Early Access (but which plays like a damned fully finished game, albeit one without a proper ending so far) has released another big update. Titles Spread Fear in The Unseen: > Our third Major Update for Hades II is finally here, focused on expanding core combat, Guardian encounters, and character relationships, with lots of new visual flair! Their change-log and notes are extensive, so you’d be better checking them out on Steam with their announcement: [Which is through this link here!](https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/1145350/view/512959549469100056) [And here is the update trailer on YouTube!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Gv0eQjJ-gY) ----------------------------- # That’s Enough! ----------------------------- I think I’ve ranted enough here by now. I *still* have more interesting bits and pieces I’ve come across, but I’m told quite often how my posts take a looooong time to get through, and if I keep it up then it’ll never end! **What have you been playing?** One thing I *can’t* leave out, is asking what you’re all playing right now! I’d love to know what (if anything!) you’re enjoying! I’ve actually started God of War. Somehow I never really gave it much time, giving up before that opening tree sequence each time, but out of the blue I stuck with it and I’m having a great time. I’m playing that on my desktop PC (for the highest possible fancy settings) and have been enjoying a few of the WipEout games emulated via [RetroDECK](https://retrodeck.net/) But what about you? AAA? AAAA? AA? (this is getting odd), indie? Emulated? Tellll meeee!!! # *Previous Posts:* If you’d like to read my previous Gaming News posts (they’re mounting up in number now!), then you can find them here: * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #2](https://lemmy.world/post/26182097) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #3](https://lemmy.world/post/26306459) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #4](https://lemmy.world/post/26483935) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #5](https://lemmy.world/post/26707576) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #6](https://lemmy.world/post/27035556) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #7](https://lemmy.world/post/27435521) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #8](https://lemmy.world/post/27639264) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #9](https://lemmy.world/post/27761213) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #10](https://lemmy.world/post/28239730) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #11](https://lemmy.world/post/28590388) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #12](https://lemmy.world/post/28805418) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #13](https://lemmy.world/post/28889066) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #14](https://lemmy.world/post/29248253) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #15](https://lemmy.world/post/29568046) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #16](https://lemmy.world/post/29826595) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #17](https://lemmy.world/post/30260407) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #18](https://lemmy.world/post/30575740) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #19](https://lemmy.world/post/31344024) # Mastodon: I *do* tend to post there each day, 99.99% gaming nonsense. If you want more of this, then come drop by! 

games 218 25

Steam Deck / Gaming News #21

As ever and always, I’m back with a week’s worth of gaming news I’ve spotted and thought I should share with you all! This week is slightly less than is typical (*1,000-ish words less than my last week’s I can tell you!*) for a few reasons: * I’ve cashed in some of my crypto and bought a cabin. Which makes me sound like an actress in a Stephen King movie * I’ve had some odd health hiccups lately – nerve damage in my hip which means I feel nothing when touching a small patch of skin, but it also feels like it is on fire So I’ve been a little distracted, but I *do* pinkie-swear next week’s will be back to my normal output! *So what are these posts?* My aim for these News Posts in general is to make them a more *clearly not a professional, but someone who cares about gaming* manner than most gaming sites do now. I see *so* many sites, even the independent ones, bombarding with ads, banners and reminders to support them. I get it, I really do, but it’s an unpleasant experience to me. My ever-lasting inspo is the old, old video game sites, blogs and magazines that I never had the privilege of being alive for: * **Image/gif/link heavy** (*though once again this week I have few of these, so this dot-point’s a bit needless*) * **Personal voice** (*I can’t help rambling, send help – this won’t be even slightly professionally written*) * **Mostly news or articles or points** which you won’t find on normal gaming sites. These are the smaller, lesser things that I’m drawn to. I *know* you’ll have spotted the big news articles, so I’m hoping some of these smaller ones might have been missed by you. A mixed bag of what I’ve considered news this week, so there really *is* a bit of everything ahead. ----------------------------- # General Gaming News: ----------------------------- # *A New PS2 Emulator – Iris:*  After 7-8 months of working on it, Lycoder (also goes by Allkern) has released their PS2 emulator called Iris. While games are running with very low/low/unplayable frames at the moment, they want to reassure people that this is constantly in development and improvements are being made regularly. Windows, Linux and MacOS are supported. [The GitHub page is here, if you’d like to read a little more!](https://github.com/allkern/iris) [...and here is the link to the 0.10-alpha build of Iris](https://github.com/allkern/iris/releases/tag/0.10-alpha) > *Funnily enough, it was only very recently that I fixed a DMAC bug that was keeping a lot of games from booting, and now this opens up a ton of potential to further debug and fix other issues, which may lead to even more games to boot. There's still a lot of work to be done, especially in the optimization department. I'm really looking forward to continue working on this project and advancing PlayStation 2 emulation!* It’s lovely to have another player in the scene, particularly with PS2 emulation. And, naturally, here’s some pictures:     ----------------------------- # *System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster Delay:*  ...sorry, don’t want to make you panic if you’re a PC gamer – no delays on that front, but if you’re a console gamer then it has been delayed for now:  Knowing the publishers, I’d say you’re in good hands without having to wait too long to play it, and I’m *so* excited to play through myself. ----------------------------- # *How to Fix Xbox’s Stupid Update:* I can’t even be bothered taking picture to illustrate this one, but if you’re on Xbox you’ll have seen it. Select a game and then you’re presented with a new screen giving you *another step* before you can select it again to play the game. And half that screen is taken up with their hopeful promotions of DLC and micro-transactions. Shitty. Anyway: Settings / General / Personalization / Games & Apps / Choose whether game huds open automatically from the following places - * Recently played list * Groups * Installed games ----------------------------- # *Grounded 2 Hype:*  With the announcement of Obsidian’s Grounded 2, the numbers of the first game (*Honey, I Shrunk The Kids meets [Arrietty](https://wallpapers.com/images/hd/the-secret-world-of-arrietty-1920-x-1080-wallpaper-rbrq2u54hpe44f3z.jpg)* have exploded, bring a 193.8 boost to current players. The game shot up the Xbox charts from #88 to #23 (overtaking Halo: MCC and Elden Ring) [The game was announced two weeks ago, and the trailer is here for those curious](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0HQNOtg1WI) The first game on Steam holds a ‘Very Positive’ rating with 66,596 all-time ratings. ----------------------------- # *Lies of P:*  I’m *sure* you’ve read this in at least four other places by now, but it still warms my heart. I couldn’t really make it through Lies of P – the souls-like and even souls-adjacent genre is not my cup of stressful tea. What I *did* love though was the atmosphere and setting, reminding me for no particular reason of [Drood, the novel by Dan Simmons about the last five years of Charles Dickens and how spooky it could get.](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drood_(novel)) Anyway, the devs behind Lies of P and Overture (the DLC) got a bonus for their efforts, with the two selling over 3m copies combined. They got a bonus, two weeks vacation and a free Nintendo Switch 2. IDK, a nice rarity in today’s gaming world! ----------------------------- # *Still Wakes The Deep:*  The Chinese Room - Developers behind the BAFTA-winning-game Still Wakes The Deep have laid off some of their team, just after the release of their DLC – Siren’s Rest. > At a glance, around 10 staff with the studio listed as their current employer have the 'looking for work' label on their LinkedIn profiles – though this is not a reliable metric by itself. [A full article telling you not much more than I just wrote is here on GamesIndustryBiz if you’re wanting to find more details on things.](https://www.gamesindustry.biz/still-wakes-the-deep-developer-the-chinese-room-has-seemingly-made-a-small-number-of-layoffs) However, The Chinese Room *will share news on changes for the studio in the coming weeks* so more will come out, I suppose. Sad news for those who worked on the rather amazing game. ----------------------------- # *Subnautica 2 Dev Vlog:*  The latest dev vlog for the game has come out, titles ‘Building Unknown Worlds’ > *Join senior narrative designer Seth Dickinson, level designer Artyom O’Rielly, environment artist James Stout, and senior environment artist (and rock connoisseur) Ben Hale as they walk you through the incredible work that goes into building out the world of Subnautica 2.* [The link to the YouTube video is here, go watch it, its a great glimpse behind what is going on behind the scenes!](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyG963F4q-8) My fav comment on the video is this one: > I have never been so excited over rocks ----------------------------- # *LEGO Island in Browser:*  As the title says, the game is now available to play in your browser. I’m way too young for this game to have any impact in my life, but I think the older members here might remember it. Released in 1997, it’s certainly got a rabid following.  The link to the site is... now unavailable, the mod checked in in the comments and wanted it changed, so you'll have to do a search yourself for it, sorry! And one more thing, I found the fact the devs created a physical island in actual LEGO when making the game, and this is ancient and adorable:  ----------------------------- # *Auto-Shutdown after game download:* A gamer by the username of Avaneesh13 has created a Python-based application when they saw room for it – shutting their PC down for them after a big game download completed (*rather than having their PC on all night*) This application is called SteamDown, and [the link to the GitHub page is here for you to read through if you’d like.](https://github.com/Avaneesh13/SteamDown) **SteamDown:** * Monitors your Steam download activity in real-time * When downloads go inactive for a set period (you choose how long), it automatically performs an action of your choice * Actions include: shutdown PC, sleep mode, stop Steam, or other custom actions * Completely free and open-source > *I kept starting massive game downloads (looking at you, Call of Duty) before going to bed, only to wake up and find my PC had been running idle for 6 hours after the download finished at 3 AM. Felt wasteful and probably wasn't great for my electricity bill either. Now I just set it to wait 5-10 minutes after downloads stop, then shut down my system automatically. Much better for power savings and peace of mind.* **How it is different from other solutions:** *Generic system monitors that don't understand Steam's download behaviour specifically * Command-line tools that require technical setup and aren't user-friendly * Part of a larger system suite with bloatware I didn't want * Paid solutions for what should be a simple utility **Technical details:** * Written in Python and built it as a standalone .exe (no installation needed) * Works on Windows primarily, though I might explore macOS/Linux support * Planning to add support for other launchers like Epic, GOG, etc. in future updates. * Codebase clean and modular in case anyone wants to contribute or fork it > *The functionality should be working as expected - it reliably monitors Steam and performs the shutdown actions. The UI could use a bit of work though (I'm more of a backend person), so if anyone has suggestions or wants to contribute on the interface side, I'd welcome the help!* Again, the GitHub link is at the start of this section, so take a look if you’re curious! ----------------------------- # *Epic reaches 500:*  When Epic officially started their free games each week, all the way back in 2018, no one anticipated it would go for as long or be filled with the quality titles it has today. Starting with Subnautica (*though unofficially giving away Shadow Complex Remastered before this in an effort to get users to install the launcher*), we’re now up to 502 PC games given away. Now they’re even expanding on this, with mobile phone games given away free each week. This coming week’s giveaway will be Sable (*more on that later!*). [But if you’d like to scroll down the list of *every* game given away by Epic, you can do so with this article which gets updated each week on PCGamer](https://www.pcgamer.com/epic-games-store-free-games-list/) ...though be warned, it might make you sad to see what you’ve missed out on. And what *is* this free games each week on Epic thing I mention? Well, there’s a tiny chance you don’t know: The Epic Games Store gives away free games every week (to keep forever) as part of its strategy to attract new users and keep existing ones engaged. Anyone with a free Epic account can "claim" these games during the giveaway period (usually one week), and once claimed, the games are permanently added to the user’s library—no strings attached. This initiative started in 2018 and is funded by Epic to build its user base. The games are often high-quality indie titles big-budget releases, and you don’t need a subscription—just an account. If you’re a Linux gamer you can use methods such as Heroic Games Launcher or Junk Store to play these games without requiring Epic’s own launcher (Epic’s CEO Tim Sweeney is famously anti-Linux). ----------------------------- # *Warhammer 40,000 DLC:*  Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, the *incredibly* well regarded cRPG made by Owlcat Games has released their next DLC – Lex Imperialis. ([...the YouTube link for the trailer is here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dh9lu23PCiA)) > *Lex Imperialis, the second major expansion for Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader, offers a new 15-hour storyline and introduces the Adeptus Arbites — a faction of incorruptible enforcers — alongside a new companion: the grim and relentless Solomorne Anthar. Featuring battle familiars like cybernetic eagles and cyber-mastiffs, this DLC is AVAILABLE NOW to all players.* Rogue Trader holds ‘Very Positive’ ratings on Steam, with 22,120 reviews on Steam. I own the game on GOG, and I enjoyed it far more than I expected to. There’s a lovely gothic/space setting, kinda unsettling, and a deep game behind the Warhammer branding. While releasing this DLC, Owlcat games is also working on two more games (*both ‘coming soon’*): * [Warhammer 40,000: Dark Heresy](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3710600/Warhammer_40000_Dark_Heresy/) > Become an acolyte of the Inquisition in this grim dark, party-based, story-driven cRPG. Lead investigations, uncover grand conspiracies, master tactical combat, and wage a secret war against heresy. Make tough choices as a conduit of the God-Emperor’s will.  * [The Expanse: Osiris Reborn](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3727390/The_Expanse_Osiris_Reborn/) > The Expanse: Osiris Reborn is a third-person Action RPG set in The Expanse universe. You’re no hero — just a merc caught in the wrong place at the wrong time, trying to hold your crew together and keep the ship up and running. Your choices will shape your story.  One thing is for sure with Owlcat (*aside from the initial release of their games tending to need a patch or two!*), they care about their games and support them for the long haul. ----------------------------- # *Crosswind – MORE PIRATES!!!* Since you’re reading this, you’ll *probably* know by now that I cry about the lack of games set in the golden age of piracy. It’s a setting I like to think is popular but just...kinda ignored. AC: IV Black Flag is *still* in my opinion the best-of-the-best, but we’ve got another to add to the collection. Crosswind!  > Crosswind is a survival adventure in the Age of Piracy. Explore procedural open world, gather, build and craft. Overcome challenging bosses in soulslite combat. Sail your ship, fight on land and sea, play solo or with friends. Live your swashbuckling life in PvE or rise to power in optional PvP.  They’re calling it a ‘pirate survival adventure’, and they devs known as Crosswind Crew have released a statement along with the trailer, which is as follows, in their words: Crosswind is our dream pirate game. Heavily inspired by great titles like Valheim or Enshrouded, it also feautres naval combat similar to AC: Black Flag and soulslite bossfights. The upcoming Alpha is a big milestone -- with playtesters live feedback we will be able to thoroughly verify a lot of work and designs. It's not gonna be perfect, but we hope it will move in the right direction, and we are absolutely willing to complete this journey whatever it takes. The Alpha will feature: * Basic survival gameplay (building, crafting, upgrading); * 3 unique biomes scattered across a big archipelago - each with unique resources, enemies and bosses; * 3 playable ships and one NPC merchant (of course to plunder it!); * Land combat, basic naval combat and early version of boarding actions; * Very basic Tortuga social hub. All in all we hope it will provide 30-40 hours of a survival adventure, but of course some parts of the game will be much less polished then others. For those interested in playtesting: we start small, and have very limited server slots for the test, but for those willing to try the game -- the signups are open on Steam page. We will be gradually letting people in starting tomorrow; Steam picks people randomly. There will be other tests in the future, so even if you want to try Crosswind and don't make it in the first wave, you may get luckly later.  [The Crosswind Steam page is here, for you to check it out](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3041230/Crosswind/) [The Crosswind trailer on YouTube is here, via this link](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLdlhSiaKK8) ----------------------------- # *Jurassic World Evolution 3:*  After some people got (*rightly*) angry at Jurassic World Evolution 3 using A.I. generated assets for scientist portraits, the devs realized they’re being stupid and released a statement: > *Thanks for your feedback on this topic. We have opted to remove the use of generative AI for scientist portraits within Jurassic World Evolution 3.* [...you can read their statement here on the Steam community page](https://steamcommunity.com/app/2958130/discussions/0/599654768975026771/?ctp=16#c599656262950498876) Meh, I’m hardly going to celebrate devs for doing the bare minimum here.  ----------------------------- # *Major Mod - Black Orchestra:*  ...admittedly a game and gigantic mod I’ve never heard of before, but Black Orchestra Worldfront: 37-54 is coming. Made for Rising Storm 2 Vietnam, it adds the Pacific, Western, Mediterranean and Eastern Fronts of World War II to the game. The mod is deemed *feature complete* now, * [Here is the trailer, showing off the upcoming mod contents](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T20ZBi54Ws0) * [This is the link to the modDB page where the full info is](https://www.moddb.com/mods/black-orchestra37-54) * [This is their site](https://www.blackorchestra.net/) ----------------------------- # *GOG Library Price Checker:*  Someone has made a site which checks your GOG games library and gives you an estimate on the value of the total games. Or, it makes you feel awful about seeing a cold number stating you’ve spent *way too much*. It’s wonky, and makes mistakes, and doesn’t seem to register all games. I can also see GPT everywhere in this, which as someone who enjoys writing kinda makes me feel icky. But whatever, if it helps people get an idea across then that’s the better of the A.I. uses these days. I guess all-in-all, it’s still a fun idea in theory. One I should note I have *not* done or checked myself. [Here’s the link to their site](https://gog-account-value-checker.vercel.app/) ***In their own words:*** So I wanted to check how much my GOG games library is actually worth — like how SteamDB does it for Steam users — but turns out… there’s nothing like that for GOG. And if there was anything, it either asked you to log in or paste your cookies... which to me instantly screamed obvious scam 🙃 So I thought: why not just make something myself? Here's what I did: * You just grab a list of your games from GOG (don’t worry, I explain how to do this — since GOG gives no easy export option, had to get creative). * Upload that CSV to my site. * It fetches current prices from GOG, calculates your total value, base prices, and savings. * You get to download the results as a CSV or as a cool little trading card-style badge image. I'm a CS student (cooked ), and this is kinda my first real utility site — so I’d love feedback, suggestions, criticism, anything really. Will try to make a video walkthrough soon for those who need visual instructions. Let me know if anything breaks, or if there's something you'd want to see added. yes It’s hosted on Vercel for now because, well… it’s free and I’m broke The ads are just me playing around with how a “real” implementation might look — not trying to cash out or anything, just testing stuff in the wild. ----------------------------- # *Where is your Q&A?*  You might remember in my last news post I shared I mentioned that I have been chatting to the lead dev of a program which makes piracy on a jailbroken (Custom Firmware or CFW) Nintendo Switch. The program works as a replica to the official Nintndo eShop except...it’s not filled with shit, ironically. And it doesn’t slow to a crawl to search through. Anyway, it’s a piracy portal. I wanted to interview them with the idea of getting a glimpse behind why they do it, how they do it, how they justify doing it. All without sharing the name of this program, or the name of the dev. *Anyway*, they’ve been a little busy, I’ve shared my side with them and am still waiting on their responses before I format it up and add some pictures, generally make it fit to view on Lemmy here. Anyway, it’s coming *soon*, just to let you know! ----------------------------- # *Switch 2 Compatibility Tracker:* Speaking of Switch, someone has made a webpage which tracks Switch 2 compatibility with Switch 1 games: > *[I saw that the lists here](https://www.nintendo.com/us/gaming-systems/switch-2/transfer-guide/compatible-games/) don't update regularly (last updated June 5), and that Nintendo says to check individual eShop pages for updated information. So, I made a webpage that scrapes the eShop for up-to-date information. Check it out! Feedback is welcome! [The GitHub page for the tracker is here](https://github.com/MarcusWilliamson/Switch2CompatTracker) and updates twice daily! ----------------------------- # *Junk Store’s Pricing Revealed:*  The next iteration of Junk Store is close to launching. Promising emulation, more store-fronts and even (planned, not there yet!) cloud saves. Currently Junk Store works as a plugin via Decky Loader on your Steam Deck – install the plugin and from the gaming mode on your Steam Deck you can enjoy Epic Games titles. With a paid extension to *that* (a one-off purchase of $6) you can also enjoy GOG games. The next iteration will be a subscription model, and I’ll share Junk Store’s own words on their announcement below: ***Tldr:*** Junk Store is almost ready. It’s a full rebuild — faster, more stable, no Decky required, and packed with new features. Pricing is USD$40/year with a 7-day free trial, and you keep everything released during your subscription. The open-source version remains available. Early supporters get a discount, and we’re rolling out in waves to keep things sustainable. ***The Longer Version*** We’re close to launching the new version of Junk Store — rebuilt from the ground up after over a year of work. It’s faster, more stable, and adds major features like Amazon support, a download queue, and simplified extension generation (no coding needed). This version is fully standalone — no more Decky required — and is based on everything we learned from the original. We know pricing will be a sticking point for some, so here’s the plan: * $40 (USD) for 12 months of updates * Includes all extension presets (currently GOG, Epic, Amazon — more to come) * You keep everything released during your subscription * Renewal is $40/year * 7-day free trial — cancel anytime (Stripe handles billing) To keep things sustainable, we’ll be rolling out in waves. Hosting and bandwidth aren’t free — and based on the original version’s download volume, opening the gates all at once would sink us. Existing supporters will be onboarded first and get a discount that reflects their earlier contributions. We also want to clear up a few things: * This version does not share code with the open-source one. * The free, open-source version will remain available. * Junk Store does not handle any credentials except its own. We expect a few bumps early on — this is new code, and no software survives first contact with the public. But it’s already been battle-tested internally and testers. *What’s Next?* If all goes well, we’re planning: * Itch.io support (and possibly EA, Ubisoft, Battle.net) * Cloud saves (done right) * Game-specific presets * Better extension creation tools * Full localisation * Community extension sharing * Automated updates [For a more detailed breakdown head [to this link] here](https://www.junkstore.xyz/comingsoon/) Thanks again to everyone who’s supported this journey. We’re almost there. Game on. So, what do you think? Will you be trying Junk Store out? I *think* Gardiner is planning a video showcasing what it does and how it does it, closer to the date if that helps you visualize what it’s capable of! ----------------------------- # Retro Gaming Finds: ----------------------------- I’ve just come across a *few* fun retro gaming-centric things, so while they’re not at all news-worthy in the hard news sense, they’re amazing in every way and I’d be remiss to not add them to their own section here. If you’ve interest in older games (*by my sense because I am so young what is ‘old’ might make you cringe*), so settle back and enjoy these ones: # *Underwater:* Just someone’s custom bathroom efforts, which seems totally appropriate here:  # *PS1 Concept Logos:*  # *PC-88:* The PC88 was an 8-bit computer that was dominant in Japan in the 1980s, and has a bit of a reputation for *very* pixel-y blocky boxy graphics. What comes out beautifully though are the city-scapes in the games. The images will follow, but in order they appear from the following games: * Tien Gow Pia Special (1989) * Can Can Bunny (1989) * Snatcher (1988) * Misty Blue (1990) * Burning Point (1989) * Imitation wa Aisenai (1989) * Can Can Bunny Superior (1990) * Paragon Sexa Doll (1989)         # *Costanza:* Yep, George owned a Virtual Boy. I also think it’s pretty funny that the series has him as the *fat one* and by today’s standards he’s honestly pretty trim. Weird. Sad about our society now, I think. Anyway, Virtual Boy here:  # *Wall Art:* It’s *amazing*, but if you wanna be totally accurate to the time: * DK has a tie on, whereas the original does not * ‘jumpman’ should have red overalls and a blue shirt * Peach is used instead of Pauline  # *Michael Jackson:* Keen eyes may spot that it is GoldenEye in the N64 there, next to his *throne*.  ----------------------------- # That’s that for this week! ----------------------------- Sorry again that it’s been a little smaller than as is typical, I have a lot on my plate right now but I do plan the next to resume my typical way-too-many-words standard I seem to have set for myself! # *Previous Posts:* If you’d like to read my previous Gaming News posts (they’re mounting up in number now!), then you can find them here: * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #2](https://lemmy.world/post/26182097) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #3](https://lemmy.world/post/26306459) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #4](https://lemmy.world/post/26483935) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #5](https://lemmy.world/post/26707576) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #6](https://lemmy.world/post/27035556) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #7](https://lemmy.world/post/27435521) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #8](https://lemmy.world/post/27639264) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #9](https://lemmy.world/post/27761213) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #10](https://lemmy.world/post/28239730) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #11](https://lemmy.world/post/28590388) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #12](https://lemmy.world/post/28805418) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #13](https://lemmy.world/post/28889066) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #14](https://lemmy.world/post/29248253) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #15](https://lemmy.world/post/29568046) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #16](https://lemmy.world/post/29826595) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #17](https://lemmy.world/post/30260407) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #18](https://lemmy.world/post/30575740) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #19](https://lemmy.world/post/31344024) * [Steam Deck / Gaming News #20](https://lemmy.world/post/31564422) # *Mastodon:* I *do* tend to post there each and every day, 99.99% gaming nonsense. If you want more of this, then come drop by! 

games 215 40

It's foolish to think open source isn't possible on Android. (UPDATED, Top of All Time on r/fossdroid)

It's foolish to think open source isn't possible on Android. # 0. Introduction I was a fool myself, I thought the apps my phone's vendor made were simply too aesthetically pleasing to switch from. I thought there were barely any good libre apps, and they were all limited in functionality compared to their closed source alternatives. I was ignorant to the fact that the apps I was using were filled to the brim with corporation branding, useless features, and bugs (which I thought were acceptible for some reason). But I digress, I'm here to show that there is a world where you install only libre software and still use your phone to do whatever you'd like. I needed this years ago, so I'll take you on a journey down the rabbit hole to prove it. Assuming you already have some idea why libre software is preferable, the first step is embracing minimalism. Of course, you will not find open source versions of the exact same proprietary apps you love and use on a daily basis. Though, an open source alternative will aways exist in some form. If you embrace minimalism and identify what you want from an app with precision, you won't be carried away with extra featues that may simply be bloat. Disclaimer: Some of the open source communities may be nasty, but at least they don't hide their dirt. # 1. Basic phone features You need to replace your default system apps. You didn't choose to install them, you were fed those apps. Just because the vendor doesn't want you to replace them doesn't mean you have to keep using them. Root your phone (Why is it dangerous and letting a company you know nothing about have control over your device and data isn't?) and delete those apps. **Phone app (Dialer)**: Go ahead and install [Koler](https://github.com/Chooloo/koler) or [Simple Dialer](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.simplemobiletools.dialer). [NoPhoneSpam](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/at.bitfire.nophonespam/) can be used to block based on patterns. [Call Recorder](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.github.axet.callrecorder/) can be used to record your calls, use [Call Recorder - Skvalex](https://callrecorder.skvalex.com/get) (closed source) with its Magisk module if it doesn't work. Use [Share my number](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.github.characterdog.share_my_number/) if you need to share your number with a QR code. **Gallery**: [SimpleGallery](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.simplemobiletools.gallery.pro/) has an all albums view in addition to per album view. It can remove metadata, filter media, has a recycle bin support, and allows basic editing. **Contacts**: [Simple Contacts](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.simplemobiletools.contacts.pro/). **Files (browser/explorer/manager)**: Are you, by any chance, still using Root Explorer? Perhaps your vendor's modern files app? You could also be dependent on Google and using Files by Google. Maybe ES File Manager and its ads had an impact on you. No matter which one you use, [Material Files](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/me.zhanghai.android.files) welcomes you. It has everything you need. If you can't give up your files app because it cleans junk files / optimizes or speeds up your 256 GB phone with 8 GB of memory, know that you don't need any of it. If you're used to the 2 panel layout, remember minimalism. You don't need it, this app has multi-window support. **Messaging**: [QKSMS](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.moez.QKSMS) or [Simple SMS Messenger](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.simplemobiletools.smsmessenger), the former should be superior to the default messaging app. If you can get a friend to read this post, you can use [Silence](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.smssecure.smssecure) (not to be confused with [Silence the call blocker](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/me.lucky.silence)) to converse with them encrypted. **Software catalogue app**: [Droid-ify](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.looker.droidify) for open source apps and [Aurora Store](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.aurora.store) for apps on Play Store only. You can log in to download the apps you've paid for. **Launcher**: Stop using a Google launcher, Nova Launcher, or OneUI's launcher. Yes, you can do without a Google search, weather, cpu temperature, and free space widgets (though you can still find them in libre launchers). There are a lot of open source launchers, though [Olauncher](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/app.olauncher) (for elegant simplicity), [KISS Launcher](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/fr.neamar.kiss) (power users), [Discreet Launcher](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.vincent_falzon.discreetlauncher) and [Omega Launcher](https://github.com/otakuhqz/omega) (more familiar) are some of the highlights. It's fun trying out new launchers, don't be afraid: F-Droid is your playground. **Voice Recorder**: There are decent open source voice recorders but the proprietary ones are way better, no doubt. You can still live without editing voice recordings though, install [Audio Recorder](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.github.axet.audiorecorder) (not to be confused with [Audio Recorder](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.dimowner.audiorecorder/)), it allows you to go back a few seconds and record over. Check out [RingDroid](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.ringdroid/) if you want to trim an audio file. **Clock**: Yes, even the default clock app can be changed, so why not? Try [Clock (the new version)](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.best.deskclock/). **Camera**: [Open Camera](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.sourceforge.opencamera) is worth a try. If not, stick with what works best for your use case. Keep in mind minimalism, though. Don't take a photo unless you really want/need to and consider using a simpler camera app in case you don't need filters or anything like that. **Browser**: It might sound surprising but this is the easiest part. If you're using Chrome, install [Bromite](https://github.com/bromite/bromite). If you like Firefox, install [Mull](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/us.spotco.fennec_dos). There are some simpler browsers that run on WebView, you can test them out if you want. For syncing bookmarks, use [xBrowserSync](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.xBrowserSync.android). **Music**: [Newpipe](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.schabi.newpipe) (casual), [Seeker](https://github.com/jackBonadies/SeekerAndroid) (hq) to save locally. [Vanilla](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/ch.blinkenlights.android.vanilla) to play local music. [Blade](https://github.com/vhaudiquet/blade-player) if you're paying Spotify or want Deezer's library. [Spotube](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/oss.krtirtho.spotube) works as a Spotify client. [ViMusic](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/it.vfsfitvnm.vimusic) is a simple player that can play from Youtube Music. # 2. Social media Don't use it. If you must, [Frost](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.pitchedapps.frost) for Facebook, [Fritter](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.jonjomckay.fritter) for Twitter, [Infinity](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/ml.docilealligator.infinityforreddit) for Reddit, [Newpipe](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.schabi.newpipe) for Youtube, [NewPipe x SponsorBlock](https://apt.izzysoft.de/fdroid/index/apk/org.polymorphicshade.newpipe) for Youtube with SponsorBlock support (NewPipe's developers refused to implement it), [Clipious](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.github.lamarios.clipious/) as an Invidious client (you can use it to read replies to Youtube comments and proxy videos through Invidious), [Xtra](https://github.com/crackededed/Xtra) for Twitch, [GIider](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/nl.viter.glider) for Hacker News, [Jerboa](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.jerboa) for lemmy (the only working Lemmy client on Android so far). Use Matrix bridges for Discord and Telegram servers, [SchildiChat](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/de.spiritcroc.riotx) and [Element](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/im.vector.app) are two popular clients. # 3. The Google suite **Gmail**: [K-9 Mail](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.fsck.k9) hands down, [FairEmail](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/eu.faircode.email) is another solid alternative. **Google Drive**: [RCX](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/io.github.x0b.rcx) to access your files on Google Drive, Onecloud, Dropbox, Amazon Cloud. See also [Round Sync](https://github.com/newhinton/Round-Sync), an actively maintained fork of it. Any self-hosted solution like [Nextcloud](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.nextcloud.client) will still be better. **Google Translate**: [SimplyTranslate Mobile](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.simplytranslate_mobile) uses Google Translate, so the translation is decent. [Monocles Translator](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/de.monocles.translator) if you want to go all libre and use LibreTranslate, which has mediocre translations. [InstaLate](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.concept1tech.instalate) for seamless LibreTranslation with an overlay. **Snapspeed**: [Litrato](https://github.com/DrMint/Litrato) comes close depending on what you want to do. There's also [Phimp.me](https://github.com/fossasia/phimpme-android), which can edit images but it is far from a polished app. Don't use an image editing app, try Litrato and Phimp(dot)me if you must, go with Snapspeed if you really need those features. You can use [Simple Gallery](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.simplemobiletools.gallery.pro/)'s built-in editor or [Imagepipe](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/de.kaffeemitkoffein.imagepipe/) If what you need boils down to filters, cropping, rotating, sketching; [Pocket Paint](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/org.catrobat.paintroid/) also works as it has layer support, you can get creative with it. **Google Authenticator**: [Aegis](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.beemdevelopment.aegis) is just better. If you need MOTP, use [andOTP](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.shadowice.flocke.andotp) which is larger in size. **Google Photos**: Self-host a [Piwigo](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.piwigo.android), [PhotoPrism](https://github.com/photoprism/photoprism-mobile), or an [Immich](https://github.com/alextran1502/immich) server. Better yet, embrace minimalism and don't have thousands of images in your gallery. Frequently organize and delete unnecessary images. **GBoard**: [FlorisBoard](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.patrickgold.florisboard) as it has detailed custom themes. FlorisBoard already has a clipboard. You can also try [XClipper](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.kpstv.xclipper) if you're not satisfied. **Google Keep**: This app is so basic that most open source note taking apps should suffice. As for the top editors, [Joplin](https://github.com/laurent22/joplin-android) is good, can sync pretty well and even has error correction tools in case sync goes wrong, but you can't attach files bigger than 10 MB to notes. [Neutrinote CE](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.appmindlab.nano) is almost just as good, it even has basic sketching feature but you can't attach anything other than images. It also doesn't offer anything to organize or group your notes that works with other apps. [Markor](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.gsantner.markor) has terrible UX but it has good attachment support. [Quillpad](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/io.github.quillpad) is the closest in UI to Google Keep. It has an enjoyable UX and live markdown processing. Unfortunately, you can attach only images in-line, and you have to manually put in the whole path to the image as though you're on PC. [Notesnook](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.streetwriters.notesnook) was added to F-Droid recently. It has clients on all major platforms and it might be the most modern libre notes app. Though, it has several features (some vital depending on the use case) locked behind a paid subscription. **Google Docs/Slides/Sheets**: [OpenOffice Document Reader](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/at.tomtasche.reader) can read and edit, but don't expect much. [Collabora Office](https://github.com/CollaboraOnline/online) is a way better editor, it works but doesn't have as many features as Google Docs does. Neither of these options offer collaboration. [Padland](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.mikifus.padland) has collab through Etherpad but it's well-known how hard it is to get everyone you are working with to switch to another app. **Google Fit**: [RunnerUp](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.runnerup.free) to track your runs with a voice coach. [Plees-tracker](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/hu.vmiklos.plees_tracker) to track your sleep. [Pedometer (Privacy Friendly)](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.secuso.privacyfriendlyactivitytracker) to count your steps. [MediLog](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.zell_mbc.medilog) to log weight, blood pressure and more. **Google Assistant**: [Dicio](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.dicio.dicio_android) is already on F-Droid but it won't get what you are saying. Possible actions are limited. There's also [Athena](https://github.com/Tadashi-Hikari/Athena) that's in development, though it is not ready for any kind of use. Depending on whether you need some sort of an accessibility service, you can get away with ditching Ok Google / Alexa / Cortana / Bixby. [TalkBack](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.android.talkback/) should help with it too. **Google Play Books**: [Aurora](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.funkymuse.aurora/) to get books, [Librera Reader](https://github.com/foobnix/LibreraReader) to read them, [Badreads](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.timenotclocks.bookcase) or [Openreads](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/software.mdev.bookstracker) to log and review them. **Google Calendar**: [Etar](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/ws.xsoh.etar) or [Simple Calendar](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.simplemobiletools.calendar.pro), can't go wrong with either. **Google News**: No alternatives. Unless it has to do with your job, it's a stressful form of entertainment, drop it. [News Provider](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/m.co.rh.id.a_news_provider) can get news from rss feeds though. [Thud](https://github.com/aerotoad/Thud) has a lot of feeds set up by default, but it is laggy. [Read You](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/me.ash.reader) offers the smoothest RSS experience I've had on Android. **Google Tasks**: [Tasks.org](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.tasks) is easily the best tasks app out there. It doesn't have smart language recognition or quick add, but it's still great. It's comparable to Todoist and TickTick. **Google Maps**: [Organic Maps](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/app.organicmaps) (based on OpenStreetMaps) can suffice. You probably think an offline map would just suck and you can't do anything with it, but it works pretty well. It has add-ons that can report traffic jams. Your biggest issue will be the lack of places (with user comments and additional information), for which you will have to use [GMaps WV](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/us.spotco.maps), a wrapper for Google Maps. **Wallpapers**: [Olauncher](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/app.olauncher) has a new wallpaper every day. [Cardboard Museum](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.example.forgottenumbrella.cardboardmuseum) changes your wallpaper periodically with a different one from Danbooru. There is [Muzei](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.nurik.roman.muzei/), which offers a new wallpaper every day. [Doodle](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/xyz.zedler.patrick.doodle) has several wallpapers and offers some customization. [Resplash](https://github.com/b-lam/Resplash) is like Google Wallpapers in how it pulls from a large online database, it is basically an Unsplash client. If you don't like any of these apps, browse the internet; don't use the the spyware that is Zedge. **Digital Wellbeing**: [UsageDirect](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/godau.fynn.usagedirect) can display your screen time per app. [DetoxDroid](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.flx_apps.digitaldetox) can make your screen grayscale (per app) and break infinite scrolling. With [OpenTimeLimit](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/io.timelimit.android.open), you can limit an app's usage for a user. [TimeLimit.io](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/io.timelimit.android.aosp.direct) can be used for multi device support either self-hosted or with monthly subscription. **Speech Services by Google**: [RHVoice](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.github.olga_yakovleva.rhvoice.android) offers TTS. No open source STT that works for the English language is available on Android ([Dicio](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.dicio.dicio_android), barely). # 4. Oddly specific alternatives **Samsung SoundAssistant**: [Audio HeadQuarter](https://github.com/Alcatraz323/audiohq_md2) works the same way with its Magisk module, is also way more customizable. At least some parts of it are not open source, however. **Goodreads**: [Badreads](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.timenotclocks.bookcase) or [Openreads](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/software.mdev.bookstracker) with no community reviews. Embrace offline apps. **Trakt**: [Episodes](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.redcoracle.episodes) for series (still needs some work for an enjoyable experience). [Nekome](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.chesire.nekome) can be used for anime and manga if you trust Kitsu. [CineLog](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.ulicae.cinelog) and [Movie DB](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.notabug.lifeuser.moviedb) can both act as a database where you save movies or look up other movies, but they aren't actively developed and lack organization features. This is where [SeriesGuide](https://github.com/UweTrottmann/SeriesGuide) comes into play. It can be found on Izzy's repository and it "tracks or reports your" activity but it can help you group and organize your series and movies. It has premium features (extra) that require a monthly subscription. There is also an alternative called [Showly](https://github.com/michaldrabik/showly-2.0). **Any streaming app (Hulu, Netflix...)**: [Cloudstream-3](https://github.com/recloudstream/cloudstream). See [CS3 Docs](https://recloudstream.github.io/csdocs) to learn to set up the app and install the repositories you want. **VPN**: Depends on the provider. [CalyxVPN](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.calyxinstitute.vpn) is free, [Mullvad](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.mullvad.mullvadvpn) is paid. Both have open source apps. **Spotlight-like**: [Blue Line Console](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.nhiroki.bluelineconsole), can be used alongside your favorite launcher as an assistant app. It can do basic math and unit conversions, supports widgets. It's addictive. **WinDirStat**: [DiskUsage](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.google.android.diskusage/) does not have a list but it offers a visual block view that can clearly show what's eating up all the space on your phone. **Github**: [OctoDroid](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.gh4a), very slow development but it's still good. It doesn't support Github Discussions and the new issue forms yet. **CamScanner, Office Lens**: [OpenScan](https://github.com/Ethereal-Developers-Inc/OpenScan) will get you covered. Don't use the 155 MB spyware CamScanner. **Forest, Flip (Productivity / Pomodoro Timer)**: [Goodtime](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.apps.adrcotfas.goodtime) is perfect, you can use it with your phone's screen locked. **Moon Reader**: [Librera Reader](https://github.com/foobnix/LibreraReader) is just as good, if not better. **Adobe Acrobat Reader (PDF read and annotate)**: [Librera Reader](https://github.com/foobnix/LibreraReader). **Sketchbook**: [Saber](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.adilhanney.saber) for basic sketching. [Krita](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.krita) is a great app that works properly only on tablets. Another option is [Pocket Paint](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.catrobat.paintroid), which is barely okay. [PxerStudio](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.benny.pxerstudio) is great for pixel art. **Your Phone Companion**: [Zorin Connect](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.zorinos.zorin_connect), [KDE Connect](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.kde.kdeconnect_tp/), [Device Connect](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.dcnnt) all do the same thing. [Share To Computer](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.jim.sharetocomputer) is the simplest wireless way to transfer files or text from phone to computer, as it doesn't ask for an internet connection, it's handled locally. **Whatsapp**: [Jami](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/cx.ring) has come a long way, use it if you have people who'd be interested in a libre P2P Whatsapp alternative that doesn't require any signup or phone number. XMPP/Jabber is also an option as long as you can host a server yourself. If not, then use [Signal](https://github.com/mollyim/mollyim-android), if that still doesn't work for you, no alternatives. You can use [Whatsapp Web To Go](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/io.kuenzler.whatsappwebtogo), it should work without the Whatsapp app. Try [Open In Whatsapp](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/io.github.subhamtyagi.openinwhatsapp) if you need to text people not in your contacts. **Vocabulary(dot)com, Knudge(dot)me**: No alternatives. If you aren't preparing for a test, don't bother with these and just consume media. **Merriam-Webster DIctionary**: [CollinsDictionary](https://github.com/Konyaco/CollinsDictionary) (MW alternative), [Notification Dictionary](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.xtreak.notificationdictionary) (simple text definitions), [WordBook](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.atahabaki.wordbook) (personal dictionary), [EnglishWiz](https://github.com/ezechuka/EnglishWhiz) (offline with examples and word saving). **MyFitnessPal**: [Waistline](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.waist.line) is the only app that comes close but has only packaged products, so you can't use it if you don't consume a lot of packaged food. **Squid, Nebo (Handwritten notes)**: [Xournal++ Mobile](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/online.xournal.mobile) is not fun to use, but it is free software. [Saber](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.adilhanney.saber) is a new alternative. **Remote for Samsung TV (old smart TVs)**: [Sam Remote](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/mkg20001.net.samremote) uses Wi-fi, so there is no need for infrared. The app doesn't have play/pause buttons. **VirtualTablet**: [Weylus](https://github.com/H-M-H/Weylus) can mirror the screen to the client. [GfxTablet](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/at.bitfire.gfxtablet/) can also be used, though it has no mirroring. **AccuBattery**: [BBS](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.asksven.betterbatterystats) can be used to track what's draining your battery. [AccA](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/mattecarra.accapp) with its Magisk module is a must-have as it will help your battery last longer. **Any fitness app (Thenx, Sweat...)**: [Feeel](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.enjoyingfoss.feeel) for a workout database and how to do exercises. [Wger](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/de.wger.flutter) too has a database of workouts. [Workout Time!](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/es.ideotec.workouttime) has predefined workouts as well and it offers a timer, which helps if you have issues with resting too much. [GymRoutines](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.noahjutz.gymroutines) is a simple workout app, you can make your own routines. There are just so many apps with unique featues in the open source scene, just try them out. **PS Remote Play**: [Chiaki](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.metallic.chiaki). # 5. Essentials **QR/Barcode Scanner**: [Binary Eye](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/de.markusfisch.android.binaryeye), no doubt. This app can zoom, crop, use the flashlight, scan images from the gallery, use both back/front cameras, have history, create barcodes. **Calculator**: You don't notice how infrequently you use your calculator app until you delete it. For simple calculations, [Blue Line Console](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.nhiroki.bluelineconsole) can act as the most unobtrusive calculator. For complex calculations, try [num++](https://github.com/DylanXie123/Num-Plus-Plus) or [MicroMathematics Plus](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.mkulesh.micromath.plus) (plots, graphs). If you happen to make simple calculations frequently, there's [Calculator Notification](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.tananaev.calculator). [Calculator++](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/org.solovyev.android.calculator) is a good app with interesting gestures, a widget and a window mode. **Ad blocker**: [AdAway](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/org.adaway) edits the hosts file to block ads. **Reminder**: [SimpleReminder](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/felixwiemuth.simplereminder) is almost feature-complete now. **Metadata eraser**: Prefer [Imagepipe](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/de.kaffeemitkoffein.imagepipe) (over [ScrambledExif](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.jarsilio.android.scrambledeggsif), this one opens the share menu automatically instead of saving the image) for quickly cropping, scaling, and sharing images because it is lighter and still has more features. [ExifEraser](https://github.com/Tommy-Geenexus/exif-eraser) to erase metadata of all images in a directory. [Simple Gallery](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.simplemobiletools.gallery.pro/) can also remove metadata from multiple images. **Sync**: [Syncthing](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.github.catfriend1.syncthingandroid) is a godsend, you can use it to sync your notes, images, music, any kind of library and archive P2P in your local network. Use [WireGuard](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.wireguard.android) and sync from anywhere in the world. **Firewall**: [AFWall+](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/dev.ukanth.ufirewall) allows apps to access wifi/mobile/vpn/lan. Can't do without it. **Package manager (and the likes of SD Maid)**: [De-Bloater](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.sunilpaulmathew.debloater) to use custom scripts that can delete tens of apps at once, and restore deleted apps in case something goes wrong with its Magisk module. [App Manager](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/io.github.muntashirakon.AppManager) is an all-in-one tool that can block activities, permissions, control app ops, check app directories, disable modules, and so much more. It's powerful and you probably need it. **Text editor**: [Editor](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.billthefarmer.editor) by the amazing billthefarmer, master of lightweight apps. **Video player**: [mpv](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/is.xyz.mpv)'s UX is better than [VLC](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.videolan.vlc) and it doesn't try to be everything at once. It's just a video player, and it can play network streams. **Root**: [Magisk](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.topjohnwu.magisk) because why wouldn't you want to root your phone? It's systemless, has modules support that renders Xposed obsolete, and it is open source unlike SuperSu. **Search inside files**: [aGrep](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/jp.sblo.pandora.aGrep/) takes a string and a directory as input. It searches for the former inside the files found in the latter. # 6. Quality of life **Image Viewer**: [ImgurViewer](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.ensoft.imgurviewer) (can see images/videos from a lot of websites), so you don't have to open media links in your browser. **Link manager**: [URLCheck](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.trianguloy.urlchecker) will make it much easier to deal with links as it allows you to view the full link before opening it, choose an app to open the link with, copy/share the link, and clean the link (delete unnecessary parameters that track you). **Image upload**: [Pomfshare](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/science.itaintrocket.pomfshare) can upload your images to Pomf(dot)cat, Sicp, Uguu, one by one, not as an album. When it works depends on the servers. **Redirecting**: [UntrackMe](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/app.fedilab.nitterizeme) redirects to open source frontends: Youtube to Invidious instances, Twitter to Nitter, Reddit to Teddit, Instagram to BIbliogram, Medium to Scribe, Wikipedia to Wikiless, Google Maps to OpenStreetMaps. **Share to save**: [SaveTo](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/xyz.myachin.saveto) saves files via sharing, you can use its companion app [SaveTo.Downloader](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/xyz.myachin.downloader/). **Showing an image**: [Secure Photo Viewer](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.gtp.showapicturetoyourfriend) is great if you happen to show an image to someone else. **2FA ease of use**: [BluePass](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.booncode.bluepass4) syncs your 2FA codes sent via SMS with your PC. **Quick music player**: [Dialog Music Player](https://github.com/VishnuSanal/DialogMusicPlayer) is useful when you want to listen to an audio file in your files app. **Password manager**: [KeePassDX](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.kunzisoft.keepass.libre) is one of the best password managers out there. **Blue light filter**: With [RedMoon](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.jmstudios.redmoon), you can adjust the color temperature, dim level and intensity level of the filter. It makes it easier to use your phone at night. **File Encryption**: [Secret Space Encryptor](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.paranoiaworks.unicus.android.sse) encrypts files or folders. [DroidFS](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/sushi.hardcore.droidfs), creates encrypted volumes that are easy to access. **Battery saver**: [SaverTuner](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/s1m.savertuner) is not a battery saver, rather it allows you to configure Android's builtin battery saver better. # 7. Miscellaneous [**OpenKeychain**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.sufficientlysecure.keychain): PGP encryption for mails and files. [**Shelter**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/net.typeblog.shelter): Use the work profile to sandbox apps and have two instances of the same app. [**Neo Backup**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.machiav3lli.backup): The ultimate backup app. Can back up / restore your apks and app data, you can even schedule backups. [**Screen Shift**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.sagar.screenshift2): Change your screen resolution. [**Terminal Emulator**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/com.termoneplus): Lightweight terminal, better than the default one with multiple window and special keys support. [Termux](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.termux) is a powerful terminal emulator. [**Video Transcoder**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/protect.videoeditor): Simple video editor and transcoder. Use ffmpeg on Termux for faster and more accurate results. [VideoCrop](https://github.com/CherryPerry/VideoCrop) allows you to resize and crop videos, output is up to 20 seconds. [**Kotatsu**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.koitharu.kotatsu): Download and read manga, 40 MB smaller than Tachiyomi. [**LibreTorrent**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.proninyaroslav.libretorrent): Torrent app, pretty good. [**MyExpenses**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/org.totschnig.myexpenses): A solid expense and debt tracking app where you add your transactions manually. There are lots of apps like this on F-Droid, check them out and pick whichever you think is the best. [**Decisions**](https://f-droid.org/en/packages/de.markusfisch.android.libra): Making better decisions. I wish I learned of this app sooner. [**Orbot**](https://github.com/guardianproject/Orbot): Tor proxy. [**LM videodownloader**](https://github.com/hikikomoriphoenix/Beedio): Download videos you come across on the web, pretty useful when you don't have a direct link to a video. Use [YTDLnis](https://apt.izzysoft.de/fdroid/index/apk/com.deniscerri.ytdl) on websites supported by yt-dlp, [Seal](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.junkfood.seal) freezes during some batch operations. [**Photok**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/dev.leonlatsch.photok): Image vault. Encrypt your images and view them conveniently. [**Currencies**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/de.salomax.currencies): Quickly convert currencies, it allows you to favorite frequently used ones. [**Monocles chat**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/de.monocles.chat): is an XMPP/Jabber client. You can join group chats and send direct messages to other users, you can think of it as federated Whatsapp. Monocles isn't very stable but it makes the chatting experience much better by merging messages sent by the same user under just one avatar unlike [Cheogram](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.cheogram.android), another XMPP client that is more stable but has less features. Both are forked from [Conversations](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/eu.siacs.conversations), which has no themes with pitch black background. [**FFShare**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.caydey.ffshare): It pipes multimedia through ffmpeg to compress them before sharing. [**Privacy Indicators**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.nitish.privacyindicator): An icon pops up when camera/microphone/location service is in use. [**Image Toolbox**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/ru.tech.imageresizershrinker): It is the best libre app to resize images. It supports batch resizing too. [**TextBender**](https://github.com/elizagamedev/android-textbender): Interact with any text on the screen. [**SuperImage**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/com.zhenxiang.superimage): An image upscaler that works locally. # 8. Games While video games aren't F-Droid's strong suit, there are some great games there. [**Gurgle**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/org.billthefarmer.gurgle): Bill Farmer's take on Wordle. [**Falling Lightblocks**](https://github.com/MrStahlfelge/lightblocks): It's an amazing tetris implementation, but it's not on F-Droid due to its closed-source backend for multiplayer. [**Lato**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/ardash.lato): A calming downhill snowboard game with serene landscapes. [**Rabbit Escape**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/net.artificialworlds.rabbitescape): A puzzle game that gets confusing early on. [**Antimine**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/dev.lucanlm.antimine): Modern minesweeper. [**Lichess**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/org.lichess.mobileapp.free): The best chess client on Android. [**Xeonija**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/xyz.deepdaikon.xeonjia): A creative adventure game with a plot. [**SuperTuxKart**](https://www.f-droid.org/packages/org.supertuxkart.stk): One of the best video games on Android. It's a racing game that also works on Linux, has singleplayer and multiplayer modes. You can even play soccer with karts. # 9. Apps tightly tied to a service Banking apps and shopping apps have no alternatives, you don't have to use them for the most part as they work in browsers. Do it in a work profile through Shelter if you need these apps. # 10. Magisk modules [**AudioHQ**](https://github.com/Alcatraz323/audiohq_module) module is required to use Audio Headquarters. [**ACC**](https://github.com/Magisk-Modules-Repo/acc) is required to use AccA. [**Webview Manager**](https://github.com/Androidacy/WebviewManager-Module) allows you to replace the webview installed on your phone with Bromite or Ungoogled Chromium's webviews (or a custom one if you wish). The webview installed can be updated through an F-Droid app, they are updated also when you update the module. [**De-bloater**](https://github.com/sunilpaulmathew/De-Bloater) companion magisk module. [**Disable screenshot and camera sounds**](https://github.com/Magisk-Modules-Repo/disable-screenshot-camera-sounds) disables screenshot and shutter sounds in case your rom does not offer an option to do so. [**MagiskHidePropsConfig**](https://github.com/Magisk-Modules-Repo/MagiskHidePropsConf) can be used to change your device's fingerprint and pass the SafetyNet test. You may need this app if you want to run banking apps. [**Call Recorder - SKVALEX**](https://github.com/Magisk-Modules-Repo/callrecorder-skvalex) is the module needed to record calls using the closed source call recording app. # 11. ROM Arguably the most drastic change. Go to your device's [Xda forum](https://forum.xda-developers.com/) page and pick a rom for yourself. Don't be fooled by the number of options, almost all are based on [AOSP](https://source.android.com/), [LineageOS](https://lineageos.org/), or [GrapheneOS](https://grapheneos.org/). If the rom has a different name than these three, then it has further customizations, which can be a great thing, though make sure it's not bloated. GrapheneOS is the first recommendation. [DivestOS](https://divestos.org) is the second one, followed by LineageOS. # 12. Device Get a Pixel and install [GrapheneOS](https://grapheneos.org). # 13. Concluding remarks When you go down the rabbit hole, you become part of the Android open source community and a supporter of the free software movement in a way. You may donate to developers, share the idea with masses through word-of-mouth, moderate communities focused on FOSS, be a number in the # of times an app has been downloaded, or write about it to spread the idea further like I did with this post. Using libre software also allows you to communicate with the developers, contribute to their apps, and have an impact on the development of the apps you love. This is incomparable to Play Store reviews or telemetry. I would have never imagined writing 3000 words promoting free sofware on New Year's Day if it wasn't for [F-Droid](https://f-droid.com/) and the community itself. Thank you.

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