MakeUseOf - Gaming

What Is Keyboard Polling Rate and How Much Does It Matter?

Gavin Phillips — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 11:01:30 GMT

Ever wondered if your keyboard could understand your keypresses quicker? Well, you might be surprised to find out that it can.

How to Download and Install Minecraft Maps

Amir M. Bohlooli — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 21:31:33 GMT

Playing Minecraft can be a fantastic outlet for your creativity. However, the game can start to feel a little stale and repetitive after a while. One way that you can resolve this is by installing new Minecraft maps. These maps are easy to find, and they make playing Minecraft feel fresh again.

How to Wirelessly Update Your DualSense Controller

Chifundo Kasiya — Mon, 16 Oct 2023 19:31:33 GMT

In the old days, when Sony released a new controller update, you had to plug your DualSense controller into your PlayStation 5 using a USB-C cable in order to install it. Now you no longer have to leave the comfort of your seat to do it. That's right, you can update your PS5 controller wirelessly, and we're going to show you how to do it.

How to Request a Refund for a Digital Game on the Xbox Series X|S

Laura-May Randell — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 21:00:32 GMT

There are many incredible games on the Xbox Series X|S, but for every hit, there are bound to be some misses. So what happens if you accidentally order the wrong game package or you’re just not happy with your purchase? If that happens with a physical product, you would usually take it back to the store and get your money back if you’re eligible.

9 Settings That Every Nintendo Switch Owner Should Use

Laura-May Randell — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 20:31:29 GMT

The Nintendo Switch is already a very user-friendly and convenient console, but there are several settings you might be sleeping on that could make your experience with it even better. None of these settings are activated by default, so if you don’t know about them, you are likely not using your Switch to its full potential.

How to Fix Your Broken Xbox Series X|S and Send It In for Repair

Joshua Free — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 19:30:30 GMT

Being faced with a hardware fault with one of your consoles can be quite a headache and even more troublesome if you have to send your console off for repair. However, if your Xbox Series X|S develops a fault and needs to be sent for an official repair, the process can be eased if you know the right details.

The Old PS5 vs. the New (Slimmer) PS5: What Are the Differences?

Chifundo Kasiya — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 18:22:59 GMT

With Sony releasing a slimmer version of the PlayStation 5, many people are quite excited. However, others are understandably wondering what this newer and slimmer version of Sony's current-gen console brings to the table when compared to the older and fatter PS5. Here's everything you need to know about their differences.

The Best PS3 Emulators for Your PC

Joshua Free — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 20:30:31 GMT

PC emulation can be the most customizable and nostalgic form of gaming. But with so much of modern emulation being inaccessible or locked behind nefarious sites, it can be a bit of a mind field. This is especially true of PlayStation 3 emulation.

What to Do if Your Nintendo Switch Needs Repairing or Replacing

Joshua Free — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 18:30:33 GMT

It's inevitable that, at some point, you will experience hardware issues with your consoles. Luckily, If you happen to be experiencing problems with your Nintendo Switch, the process for booking an official repair with Nintendo is straightforward and may even be free.

How to Use Steam’s Storage Manager to Quickly Manage Your Games

Jhet Borja — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 16:31:31 GMT

Steam finally has the storage management feature we’ve needed for a long time. It takes some looking around to find it, but gone are the days of using an external application or searching through forums, videos, and sketchy websites just so you can move a game without corrupting it.

What Are Gaming IEMs and Are They Any Good?

Gavin Phillips — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 21:00:32 GMT

In-ear monitors, commonly known as IEMs, have become a popular audio choice for many gamers. But are dedicated gaming IEMs the right pick for your needs? Let's dive into the pros and cons of using IEMs for gaming and how they compare to traditional gaming headphones.

Cyberattacks on Gaming: Why the Risks Are Increasing for Gamers

Sead Fadilpašić — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 19:01:32 GMT

As we embark on another thrilling adventure through virtual worlds, fighting dragons, conquering galaxies, and outwitting our opponents, there's a serious challenge lurking in the shadows—cyberattacks on gaming.

Batocera vs. RetroPie: Which Is Better for Raspberry Pi Retro Gaming?

Tomisin Olujinmi — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 15:30:30 GMT

Retro gaming and Raspberry Pi single-board computers are a pretty common combination. You will hardly find a list of Raspberry Pi projects without at least one retro gaming project in the mix.

What You Need to Know About the New PS5 Slim Model

Brad R. Edwards — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 23:07:51 GMT

Sony has released slim models of its games consoles for years, beginning with the PS2. And the company is continuing the trend with the PlayStation 5, releasing a "Slim" model just in time for the 2023 holiday season. It should be noted however, that Sony isn't officially branding this as a PS5 Slim.

Can You Use a PS5 Controller on a PS4?

Chifundo Kasiya — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 17:00:28 GMT

You can use a DualSense controller to play PS4 games on a PS5 console, but can you use a PS5 controller on a PS4 console?

Xbox One Controller Not Recognizing Headset? Try These 4 Fixes

Ali Adnan — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 18:00:30 GMT

A game's audio holds the power to make or break an entire gaming session. And that's why an Xbox One controller that is unable to recognize your headset can be a real bummer. There are various reasons why your game controller isn't connecting to the headset.

Steam Not Recognizing Installed Games? How to Fix It

Tashreef Shareef — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 16:30:31 GMT

The Steam client has a built-in backup and restore feature. You can use it to create a backup of your existing Steam library and restore your game files from the backup.

5 Ways You Can Maintain Your Nintendo Switch (and Extend Its Lifespan)

Joshua Free — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 20:01:29 GMT

Keeping your hardware up to scratch and avoiding repair centers can be an unfortunate necessity of being a console gamer. No matter what platform you choose, your console will always have a cell-by-date whether through new technology releases or functional issues with the console.

3 Ways to Redeem Digital Codes for Your Xbox

Joshua Free — Sat, 07 Oct 2023 18:31:30 GMT

Redeeming gift cards, digital content, or even entire games via digital codes can be a bit of a pain, especially when the process of doing so is hidden among a myriad of settings. On Xbox, this is no different.

5 Settings to Make a PS5 Safer for Kids to Use

Dreamchild Obari — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 18:30:31 GMT

Most kids love games. It’s an excellent avenue for their imagination and a great way for them to develop certain mental and motor skills. That’s why they could be attracted to playing video games on the PS5.

How to Fix Error Code 262 on Roblox

Shan Abdul — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 15:15:31 GMT

Have you suddenly been disconnected from Roblox and received an error code 262 saying, "There was a problem sending data, please reconnect"? The error usually occurs when your internet connection or Roblox's servers go down.

6 Reasons Your Retro Gaming Project Needs a Raspberry Pi 5

Tomisin Olujinmi — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 14:30:29 GMT

The Raspberry Pi 4 Model B has been the top dog in the Raspberry Pi line-up for quite some time, but now that title belongs to the upcoming Raspberry Pi 5. This little single-board computer boasts some impressive specs and may just offer the very upgrade your retro gaming project needs.

How to Fix the Steam Remote Play Feature Not Working on Windows

Tashreef Shareef — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 14:15:29 GMT

Steam's Remote Play is a useful feature that allows you to play your favorite Steam titles from any modern handheld and other devices. You can use the Steam Link app on your phone or another computer to stream games you have installed on your primary computer.

The 3 Best GPU Alternatives to Nvidia's GeForce RTX 4060 Ti 16GB

Koushik Das — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:45:30 GMT

Nvidia got off to a pretty rocky start with the launch of its mid-range RTX 40-Series GPUs. Both the RTX 4060 and 4060 Ti deliver marginal performance improvements over their previous-gen counterparts while also suffering from a restrained memory capacity and absolute bandwidth.

The 7 Best Bots for Twitch Streamers

Laura-May Randell — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:00:30 GMT

Streamers have approximately one million and one things to think about when streaming. They have to make sure everyone is feeling heard, welcomed, and entertained, all while focusing on whatever game or music they’re playing. Streamers are human too, and juggling all the different aspects of streaming can become overwhelming or even take the enjoyment out of it.

Workstation vs. Gaming PC: What’s the Difference?

Jayric Maning — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 11:30:31 GMT

Have you ever wondered how a gaming PC differs from a workstation PC? After all, PC gaming hardware has become so good that people have no problem using it for everyday workloads. Even for intensive tasks such as video editing, modeling, and CAD, many people seem fine using their gaming rig as their workstation PC.

How to Report a Player for Inappropriate Behavior on Xbox Series X|S

Joshua Free — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 18:00:33 GMT

Online gaming on any platform can come with its fair share of unwanted social experiences, or even online abuse. Gaming with an Xbox Series X|S is unfortunately no different. What can set each platform apart, however, is the tools and systems in place to help you avoid, navigate, and deal with inappropriate online behavior.

How to Use ChatGPT as a Detailed and Interactive Text-Based RPG

Dreamchild Obari — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 16:30:34 GMT

OpenAI’s ChatGPT is arguably the most advanced AI currently freely available to the public. Thanks to the large data subsets it has been trained on, it can do a lot of amazing things, from programming to accounting. But perhaps, one of its most underestimated abilities is its storytelling.

How to Run Android Apps and Games on Linux

Hannah Knight — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 14:45:30 GMT

While you might not be able to install Bluestacks, there are a few fantastic methods you can use to run Android apps and games on your Linux PC. You can create an Android virtual machine, install Waydroid, emulate with Android Studio, or even purchase Genymotion and enjoy a highly supported emulation experience.

OLED vs. AMOLED vs. IPS LCD: Which Is the Best Display?

Ayush Jalan — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 11:31:30 GMT

OLED, AMOLED, and IPS LCD are the three most common display technologies used in smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices.

What Is AMD RDNA 3.5 and When Will It Launch?

Yadullah Abidi — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 10:15:30 GMT

As the latest generation of AMD and Nvidia GPUs battle for market share in 2023, both companies are already hard at work building the next generation of GPUs for 2024. As is generally the case, these bring performance and efficiency gains mainly stemming from changes in the GPU architecture.

How to Manage Your Nintendo Account From Your Nintendo Switch

Joshua Free — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 16:30:29 GMT

Accessing and managing your various accounts for gaming platforms straight from your consoles is an overlooked but highly convenient feature of modern gaming.

How to Fix the Error 30005: Create File Failed With 32 on Windows

Shan Abdul — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 18:15:31 GMT

When you launch a game on your PC or Steam client, do you encounter a message that reads "error 30005: CreateFile failed with 32"? It mostly occurs when running games protected by Easy Anti-Cheat, an anti-cheat service used by multiplayer games to prevent hacking.

How to Compress Your Retrogame ISOs With CHDMAN (and Keep Using Them)

Odysseas Kourafalos — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 15:46:27 GMT

If you're collecting ROMs like Pokémon, you surely have noticed that the ones for newer platforms take up a significant chunk of your storage. A single game might require multiple gigabytes of storage. Keep over a dozen, and your ROM collection can quickly expand to many Terabytes. That's where the MAME project's CHDMAN tool can help.

How to Fix the Epic Games Library When It Doesn’t Show Your Games

Razvan Mihaila — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 16:00:30 GMT

Has Epic Games stopped showing the games within your library? Most of the time, it’s a minor glitch that you can fix by restarting Epic Games Launcher or re-authenticating your account.

The Best Nintendo Switch Controllers

Brady Klinger-Meyers — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:00:29 GMT

If you're a Switch owner, there's a great range of wired and wireless controllers out there that can offer you a whole host of gameplay improvements.

5 Ways to Customize the Xbox Game Bar on Your Windows PC

Laura-May Randell — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 21:00:28 GMT

The Xbox Game Bar allows you to access things quickly and easily without having to exit your game completely to do so. It may seem like a small addition to your PC gaming experience, but it has the potential to become massively helpful if you customize it to suit your needs perfectly.

How to Make a Club on the Xbox Series X|S

Laura-May Randell — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 19:30:27 GMT

Everyone has their own interests and hobbies. It’s part of what makes people unique. But when your hobby is gaming, and the people you know in real-life don’t share the same interests as you, it can be difficult to find enough people to fill up your lobby. Especially if you prefer to play with people you know.

How to Fix Steam's "Files Failed to Validate and Will Be Reacquired" Error

Pankil Shah — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 18:30:29 GMT

Steam for Windows has a useful tool that can verify the integrity of game files to ensure they are all there and in good condition. This makes it easy to fix crashes and performance issues with games installed through Steam.

How to Fix a PS4 Controller Disconnecting Itself on Windows

Chifundo Kasiya — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 17:15:33 GMT

If you have a PlayStation 4 controller, you can connect it to your PC with an app called DS4Windows and use it to play PC games. But sometimes, you can run into issues where the controller constantly disconnects.

PS5 vs. Budget Gaming PC: Which Is Better?

Dreamchild Obari — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 19:01:32 GMT

The exact price of a “budget gaming PC” is not fixed. Depending on who you ask, a budget PC could be $500 or $1000. However, in most cases, people on a budget aren’t willing to pay more than $800 to build a setup.

4 Achievement Hunting Sites to Improve Your Gamerscore

Joshua Free — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:30:29 GMT

One of the biggest pulls of sticking with or owning an Xbox console is the need to earn Gamerscore. And with Xbox Gamerscore being so intrinsically linked to gaming on the Xbox platform, obtaining Gamerscore on your Xbox can be both addictive and rewarding.

The Complete Guide to Shiny Hunting in Pokémon Scarlet and Violet

Laura-May Randell — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 14:31:26 GMT

There are few things more exciting than finding a shiny Pokémon, especially if it happens to be one of your favorites. Fans have been figuring out ways to crack the shiny code and drastically improve the chances of finding one of these rare Pokémon for years, and Pokémon Scarlet and Violet are no exception.

Xbox Series X vs. Gaming PC: How Do They Compare?

Ankush Das — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 20:00:28 GMT

Xbox vs. PC is a discussion that sparks every time a new generation Xbox comes to the light. With the Xbox Series X leading this generation of Microsoft's gaming consoles, it is yet again something to think about.

How to Fix the Pending Purchase Issue on Steam

Shan Abdul — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 18:30:28 GMT

Have you encountered an error message while trying to make a new purchase on Steam saying that your last purchase is still pending? The pop-up sometimes warns users that Steam may cancel their previous purchase if they make a new one, even if their bank has already charged them. This makes the situation more complicated.

How to Play Classic Xbox Games on Your PC With Xemu

Odysseas Kourafalos — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 15:46:27 GMT

Thanks to advances in the Xemu emulator's compatibility and performance, you can play classic games made for the original Xbox on your PC.

How to Enable or Disable the Game Overlay in Discord

Shan Abdul — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 14:31:28 GMT

Discord's overlay allows users to keep track of Discord activity while playing a game, even in full-screen mode. Whether you want to monitor newly received messages or get notifications for incoming calls, the overlay lets you stay on top of Discord communications without closing the game.

8 Easy Ways to Fix Steam When It Won't Open

Mahesh Makvana — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 17:15:27 GMT

Does Steam refuse to open on your computer? There are many reasons why this might happen.

The Best 144Hz Ultrawide Monitors for Gaming

Elvis Shida — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 14:46:27 GMT

If you want to ascend into ultrawide immersion, there are plenty of gaming monitors available, ranging from affordable 60Hz screens to high-end 240Hz behemoths. While most of these options will provide excellent immersion and the ability to see more of your game at once, we think 144Hz is that sweet spot where ultrawide monitors offer the best balance of performance and affordability.

How to Install and Play Epic Games and GOG Titles on Your Steam Deck

Christian Cawley — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 13:16:25 GMT

It’s fair to say that the Steam Deck has redefined PC gaming, by making the once desktop-bound experience portable. But while you might believe that you’re limited to games in the Steam library, you’re not.

4 AI-Powered Online Murder Mystery Puzzles and Games to Play Detective

Mihir Patkar — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 08:30:27 GMT

Sherlock Holmes and Miss Marple had it easy. You see, when they encountered a murder mystery, they only ever had to deal with the logic of a human mind and the complexities of a human heart. But what if the murder was masterminded by artificial intelligence?

How to Finally Get Rid of Games From Your Steam Account

Razvan Mihaila — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:01:26 GMT

For a long time, once you downloaded a game from Steam, you owned it forever. For most people, just ignoring a game is easy enough—you can just go about your gaming schedule and ignore it. But sometimes, you just want a game gone.

How to Apply for a Refund for Unwanted Fortnite Purchases

Aya Masango — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 12:57:30 GMT

Were you tricked into paying for in-game goods in Fortnite? The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is holding Epic Games accountable. As a result, the gaming giant has agreed to pay a $245 million settlement, which you can get a share of.

How to Share Your PC's Mouse and Keyboard With Your Steam Deck Using Barrier

Odysseas Kourafalos — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 19:31:28 GMT

Valve's Steam Deck is fantastic for gaming on the go (or from the couch). Its semi-hidden killer feature, though, is how it also offers an actual desktop with access to countless apps. The catch is that the Steam Deck's inputs are optimized for gaming, and using a desktop with them can be a painful experience.You could purchase a USB hub, mouse, and keyboard, and stick them to your Deck for an authentic desktop experience. But why waste your money on redundant hardware when you're at your home base? If you already have a PC, Barrier allows you to "share" its mouse and keyboard with your Steam Deck. Let's see how.

What Is Corsair's iCUE LINK? 4 Reasons to Upgrade

Jayric Maning — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 19:00:27 GMT

Cable management is one of the most time-consuming and least exciting parts of building a gaming PC. With gaming rigs often equipped with six or more RGB fans, managing over a dozen cables just for cooling can be challenging. Although solutions such as fan controllers can be helpful, they can still be a headache to properly configure.

12 Reasons Why Your Games Keep Crashing (And How to Fix Issues)

Christian Cawley — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 16:00:27 GMT

When you buy a new game, you expect it to simply work. In most cases that's what happens. But sometimes, games crash. Sometimes it's a fault with the game itself, while other times it's due to inadequate hardware or a slow internet connection.

How to Play Game Boy Games in Your Linux Terminal

David Rutland — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 20:46:49 GMT

The Linux terminal, while certainly a fun place, isn't especially well known as a console gaming platform—largely thanks to its limited ASCII and Braille output. But its Spartan interface is almost perfect for replicating the display of an original 1989 Nintendo Game Boy. Here's how to play Game Boy games in your terminal.

How to Use a Graphics Tablet to Play a Rhythm Game

Ademilade Shodipe-Dosunmu — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 17:00:36 GMT

Rhythm games are almost as old as the concept of gaming itself and predominantly featured in arcades. People often think of bulky rigs when they picture rhythm games. However, that has changed a lot in recent years.

How to Fix the GPS Signal Not Found Error in Pokémon GO

Laura-May Randell — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 16:31:35 GMT

Pokémon GO allows you to see Pokémon and Gyms around you in real-time, so you can defeat or catch them to complete your Pokédex. But the app completely relies on your GPS location to work. If your Pokémon GO app is showing the GPS Signal Not Found (11) error, your game is rendered totally unplayable.

8 Ways to Fix Big Picture Mode Not Working or Crashing in Steam for Windows

Pankil Shah — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 22:00:25 GMT

Steam's Big Picture mode on Windows enhances your gaming experience by providing a console-like interface that is simple to navigate with a controller. However, if Steam's Big Picture mode stops working or crashes frequently on your Windows PC, you may be wondering what to do.

What Is a Procedural World in Video Games?

Jowi Morales — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 21:00:35 GMT

You might have heard of a procedural world if you're an avid gamer. But what exactly is it? And how does it affect your gameplay?

What Is Xbox Game Pass? Everything You Need to Know

Joshua Free — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 16:00:27 GMT

If you are a big console or PC gamer, it might be worth buying Xbox Game Pass. Game Pass is a digital subscription service that gives you access to an ever-expanding catalog of over 250 games, plus exclusive discounts and deals.

How to Appear Offline on Steam (Even When You’re Online)

Laura-May Randell — Sun, 17 Sep 2023 16:00:25 GMT

Sometimes after a long hard day, you just want to game in peace with no interruptions, even from your closest friends. And that’s okay. Everyone deserves a little alone time every once in a while. But you don’t want to seem rude and just flat-out ignore your friends as you see their chat box pop up on Steam.

How to Block and Unblock Someone on Twitch

Simon Batt — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 13:30:24 GMT

If someone is getting on your nerves on Twitch, it's very easy to block them to prevent their messages from appearing on your screen.

Should You Upgrade to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?

Joshua Free — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:30:24 GMT

Xbox Game Pass comes with numerous tiers, benefits, and costs, and there are many differences between the standard tiers of Xbox Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. And with each subscription tier offering unique benefits, it may get quite confusing to know which one is best for you.

How to Connect a Controller to an Android Phone or Tablet

Christian Cawley — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 14:46:27 GMT

Touch controls for mobile games aren't always great. Perhaps they're poorly implemented, or maybe your device doesn't handle multitouch well. The solution? Play Android mobile games with a game controller!

How to Install Discord on a Mac

Dreamchild Obari — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 12:30:27 GMT

Discord is the number one communication app for gamers. And while macOS might not be the number one platform for gamers, it can still run Discord just fine.

Smartphone vs. Tablet Gaming: Which Is for You?

Jhet Borja — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 20:30:26 GMT

Mobile gaming has proven itself to be a serious business and not just something to be overlooked. Whether you’re a competitive gamer or want to be immersed, picking the right device is pretty important to your gaming experience.

PlayStation Plus vs. Xbox Game Pass: Which Is Better?

Ben Stegner — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 18:30:27 GMT

All-you-can-stream services like Netflix and Spotify have largely replaced owning media in the movie and music spheres, and video games are slowly moving towards this new standard as well. Both Sony and Microsoft offer their own game subscription services in the form of PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass, respectively.

Xbox Game Pass Core vs. PlayStation Plus Essential: Which Is Better?

Ben Stegner — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 16:31:25 GMT

Both the PlayStation and Xbox platforms offer great games and plenty of features out of the box. But to get the most out of your PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, or Xbox One, you need to sign up for their premium services: PlayStation Plus and Xbox Game Pass, respectively.

How to Fix Low Game FPS in Windows

Ben Stegner — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 21:00:25 GMT

Part of the beauty of PC gaming is enjoying the best graphics and performance the industry has to offer. But when you're suffering from a low frame rate, it's hard to enjoy a game at all.

Unable to Join a LAN World in Minecraft for Windows? Here Are 7 Ways to Fix It

Shan Abdul — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:45:25 GMT

Users occasionally experience issues when joining or playing in a Minecraft LAN world, and there could be several reasons for this. Connected devices may not be on the same network, the type of connection could be different, the game version may differ, the firewall could block incoming connections, or the network settings might be misconfigured.

How to Give Old Games Access to the "My Pictures" Folder on Windows 11

Jason Currie — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:15:25 GMT

If you play older games on Windows 11, you're bound to run into some compatibility issues. Sometimes the game might not work at all, and other times, you'll run into problems with the game interfacing with modern Windows installs. One possible problem may arise if an old game needs to access the My Pictures folder on Windows 11.

The Top 5 Frustrating Foddian Games to Test Your Skills

Ademilade Shodipe-Dosunmu — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 16:30:25 GMT

The Foddian game genre has grown over the years, piquing the interest of skilled gamers worldwide. These challenging platformers provide the right amount of dopamine when defeated. However, one mistake could take away hours of progress.

5 Text-Based Adventure Games You Can Play in Your Browser

Ben Stegner — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 21:15:24 GMT

Text-based adventure games (also known as interactive fiction, or IF) are a classic game genre where all the interaction takes place through on-screen words. Despite their primitive origins born from hardware limitations, this type of adventure is still alive today and enjoyable on modern devices.

Mouse vs. Graphics Tablet: Which Is Better for Rhythm Games?

Ademilade Shodipe-Dosunmu — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 20:16:25 GMT

Some of the biggest rhythm game titles with an aiming component often rely on either a mouse or a tablet for aim, while the keyboard is used to tap along to the beat. One of the biggest examples of such a game is Osu!.

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Trust Game Reviews or Review Scores

Dreamchild Obari — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 16:00:25 GMT

Reviews are important metrics for products because they help us decide what to pick when there are so many options out there. This logic still applies to video games—especially because there are many games to choose from.

What to Do if Your Joy-Con Won’t Connect to Your Nintendo Switch

Joshua Free — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 20:16:26 GMT

Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controllers are one of the most versatile controllers ever made. This does not, however, mean that you will never experience issues with your Joy-Con. On the contrary, there are quite a few common issues you can have with Joy-Con as a Nintendo Switch owner.

22 Quick Web Games to Play Online When You're Bored

Joe Keeley — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 19:15:25 GMT

If you're bored or have time to kill, perhaps when you're at work or in class, playing a web game is the perfect way to keep you entertained. To help ease the boredom, we've put together a list of the best quick web games to play online.

7 Essential Xbox Controller Tips

Laura-May Randell — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 17:30:24 GMT

The Xbox is a brilliant console that is capable of many amazing feats, but so is the humble controller that goes along with it. The Xbox controller has many secrets of its own, and there's a good chance you may not even be using it to its full potential.

How to Fix a Mouse Scroll Wheel Jumping Up and Down

Shan Abdul — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:31:26 GMT

Is your mouse scroll wheel always jumping up and down and making it hard to control the cursor when you scroll? An ill-fitting scroll wheel can easily ruin your gaming experience (or work productivity). Most often, the mouse encoder causes your mouse scroll to be unstable and jumpy. In some cases, the scroll wheel itself is to blame.

How to Fix the “We Encountered an Error” Oculus App Installation Issue in Windows 11/10

Jack Slater — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 18:00:26 GMT

The Oculus Windows app is essential software for Rift users who must connect their virtual reality headsets to PCs. It’s also important for Quest 2 users who want to utilize apps and play games from the Rift storefront within their VR headsets.

5 Ways You Can Maintain Your Xbox Series X Hardware

Joshua Free — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 16:01:27 GMT

There are tons of ways you can utilize your Xbox Series X to get the most out of the games available for its generation, but it's all well and good using your Xbox, just so long as you also maintain it.

Why Is My Ping So High? How to Get the Best Ping Rate

Shan Abdul — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 11:00:27 GMT

Do you experience constant lag when playing online games? Do bullets from the enemy hit you even when you successfully hide behind the cover?

6 Ways to Cope With Gaming Burnout

Jhet Borja — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 21:30:26 GMT

If you’ve been playing games for a long time, and you’ve been feeling like it hasn’t been the same, you might be experiencing burnout. More severe cases of gaming burnout can be detrimental to your mental and even physical health.

How to Hide Your Steam Activity

Razvan Mihaila — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 19:31:25 GMT

Steam does a great job at creating gaming communities and helping you connect with your friends. But sometimes it can be a bit too much, and you might want more privacy regarding your Steam activity.

How to Search Steam for Specific Users

Brad R. Edwards — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 17:45:26 GMT

Steam is a massively popular platform with over 120 million registered users. Some of them might even be users you want to play with.

The 6 Best Games for Variety Streamers to Play

Ademilade Shodipe-Dosunmu — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 17:00:27 GMT

Live streaming is a great medium through which creators can reach their fans in real time for maximum engagement. But like any endeavor, it requires a good strategy for maximum effectiveness.

Two Ways to Play Tetris Competitively on Android and iPhone

Dustin Wright — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 15:00:26 GMT

Want to play Tetris competitively on your smartphone? The Royale mode in Playstudio’s official Tetris app used to be the answer. But as of August 2023, the mode wasn’t available for new players for some strange reason, leaving those that'd rather T-Flip other players on a mobile device feeling shortchanged.

How to Redeem Digital Direct Offers on Your Xbox Series X|S

Joshua Free — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 14:45:25 GMT

When any new console is released, it's inevitable that a ton of different bundle offers for each version of the console are released, each with its own collection of games or accessories to entice you in.

8 AR Mobile Games That Will Get You Moving Outdoors

Christine Romans — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 12:30:26 GMT

If you want to live a happier and healthier life, then you should make an effort to spend more time outdoors. Not only does time outside mean you can breathe in some fresh air, but it can offer excellent benefits such as decreased stress levels, improved sleep, and an energy boost.

How to Fix League of Legends Not Opening or Stuck on the Loading Screen on Windows

Shan Abdul — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 21:10:26 GMT

Are you having trouble opening League of Legends on your Windows device? Do you click on the game icon, but nothing happens, or does the loading screen continue to load indefinitely? This can be extremely frustrating, especially if you're in the mood to play the game. Why does this issue occur?

How to Use Playnite's Fullscreen Mode on Your TV

Odysseas Kourafalos — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 21:00:27 GMT

So what if consoles are easy to use with a joypad without requiring a finicky mouse and bulky keyboard? You can also do that on a PC and launch all your games, from your titles on Steam to your emulated retro favorites, using Playnite's easily accessible Fullscreen Mode.

9 Important Tips for Traveling Gamers

Dreamchild Obari — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 18:00:26 GMT

By default, there aren’t many provisions for traveling gamers. In most scenarios, gaming is a resource-intensive hobby that is difficult to optimize on the go.

How to Save and Report In-Game Voice Chat on Xbox Series X|S

Joshua Free — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 16:00:26 GMT

Online gaming can be one of the best social forms of entertainment available, but at the same time, encountering unsavory people online can completely ruin your experience of a game. Because of this, you may see online gaming communities for certain games as toxic and unapproachable.

How to Change Your Time Zone on Xbox Series X|S

Joshua Free — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 15:45:25 GMT

Catering your Xbox Series X|S to your preferences is essential to making a console experience your own. And whether you need to set up unique security settings, alter device preferences, or customize the look of the HUD, your Xbox Series X|S can more than often oblige.

How to Manage Your PS5 Gaming Subscriptions

Dreamchild Obari — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 14:45:26 GMT

Subscriptions can make gaming a lot cheaper by giving you huge discounts and offering you game bundles for a small recurring fee. Sony has integrated this into the PS5 by creating a section for gaming subscriptions in the PlayStation Store and a way to manage them all in Settings.

How to Fix Xbox One Controller Drift

Joshua Free — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 21:00:24 GMT

Xbox Wireless Controllers have been utilized for both the Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S generations of Xbox consoles. And while the design has changed over time, the base model of the wireless pad has remained the same. However, despite little alterations, Xbox Wireless Controllers are not without fault.

How to Find the Best Discord Servers Worth Joining

Joe Keeley — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 19:45:24 GMT

Discord started as a voice chat program for gamers, but has since grown to become a popular platform for hosting an assortment of communities. There are Discord servers for every interest, including games, movies, and music. To find these great Discord hangouts, all you have to do is look.

How to Play Steam Games on an External Drive Using the Steam Storage Manager

Jhet Borja — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 18:30:26 GMT

Did you know that you could play Steam games from an external drive without needing to transfer them to your local drives? If you haven’t, this feature could save you hours of transfer time that you could’ve spent playing instead.