Beyond a raft of upcoming DLC projects that have been confirmed to be in the pipeline, we're also now starting to see some base map reworks being teased. For American Truck Simulator, a reworked Nevada is on deck, while for Euro Truck Simulator 2 the UK is well in-progress.
Both of these games are pretty old at this point, at least so far as the base content goes. Euro Truck Simulator 2 has been with us since 2012, 14 whole years, while American Truck Simulator celebrates 10 years in 2026.
The newer content being released, be that Illinois on the American side or Nordic Horizons in Europe, are generally of better overall quality than the earliest maps. But these rework projects are designed to bring Nevada and the UK "up to the quality standards" of the newest map DLCs.
There's another reason this is great news, too. While PC players have been trucking for potentially a decade or more at this point, both games are confirmed for a console release. We don't actually know when that's supposed to be, but it would make an abundance of sense to show some love to the base game content before they drop, right?
Neither rework project is simply a lick of paint. New content is being added to the maps in the process. Here's what we know about each of them so far.
American Truck Simulator Nevada rework
Nevada's rework will see SCS return to one of the original locations in American Truck Simulator and rebuild many of its locations from the ground up.
Existing locations will be refreshed, but SCS is also going to be adding new ones and expanding the current road network. Nevada is a vast state, but it can also feel a little empty at times.
One new location confirmed is Fallon, to the east of Carson City. Its inclusion will also bring missing sections of US-95 that run through the city, where currently this area of the map is inaccessible.
Nevada's rework will also introduce a number of new depots to increase the opportunities for different delivery routes across the state. Previously, the iconic Route 66 had been reworked.
Euro Truck Simulator 2 UK rework
Similarly to Nevada, the UK's rework won't just be a splash of fresh paint. It was revealed earlier this month that with the rework, Inverness will be added as the latest new location in the very north of the map.
The UK rework was revealed in late 2025, so there has been significant effort already put into it. Other locations highlighted so far include Stonehenge, and Leeds will also be added to the map as a new city location, and the EuroTunnel will be getting a revamp, too.
SCS also says consideration will be made with regards to the planned Coaches DLC. The UK is a pretty significant part of the Euro Truck Simulator 2 map, and as a Brit myself, I hope they take as much time as they need. It's probably because I'm a Brit that I look at the current incarnation and feel it's lacking, but everything teased so far is looking really promising.
Euro Truck Simulator 2 and American Truck Simulator on console... eventually
The long-awaited arrival of both of SCS Software's truck simulators to both Xbox and PlayStation was revealed at last year's Gamescom during the Future Games Show. There's still no word on when that's expected to happen, but the most recent dev talk on the topic can be seen above.
However, there's no denying that reworking large chunks of the base game content is a great thing to see with the console releases still to come. After all, these will be the first impressions new players get.
Gamescom is almost around again for 2026, and SCS has already confirmed its presence with its biggest booth yet, an exclusive partnership on something with both Thrustmaster and Volvo, and the chance for attendees to check out some upcoming content.
The console version has not been discussed yet, but if there was a place to offer an update, there would be worse places to do it.
"Experience legendary American trucks and deliver various cargoes across sunny California, sandy Nevada, and the Grand Canyon State of Arizona"
"Travel across Europe as king of the road, a trucker who delivers important cargo across impressive distances! With dozens of cities to explore, your endurance, skill and speed will all be pushed to their limits."
Windows 11 includes dozens of useful features hiding in plain sight, and Reddit users are sharing the ones that make the biggest difference every day, or as the thread's title notes, "life-changing." A lot of users learn Windows through years of habits. They know how to open apps, browse files, and install programs, but Microsoft has accumulated dozens of small improvements that rarely receive attention.
The interesting thing about Reddit discussions around Windows 11 is that the "life-changing" features are rarely the flashy ones. Users aren't talking about the features Microsoft usually puts front and center. They're talking about small workflow improvements that remove friction dozens of times a day.
A clipboard manager may save only a few seconds each time, but when you use it 20 times a day, it becomes one of the most valuable features on the system.
In this guide, I'll list 10 features that, according to Reddit users, are "cool" and many people may know about.
1. Clipboard history turns copying into a productivity tool
One of the most repeated recommendations in the Reddit thread was Clipboard history.
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
Redditor yanni99 explained: "WIN + V, the most underrated and unused feature in Windows 11. I use this 20+ times daily."
This feature keeps a history of copied text and images, allowing users to retrieve something they copied earlier instead of losing it shortly after something else is copied.
Why it's useful
Traditional copy and paste assumes users only need one piece of information at a time. Modern work does not work that way. People constantly copy links, passwords, snippets of text, screenshots, and data between apps.
The hidden benefit is not just recovering old clipboard items. It changes how you work because you stop worrying about overwriting something important.
Insight
I have found this especially useful when writing, troubleshooting computers, or comparing technical information. Instead of repeatedly switching between browser tabs, documents, or notes to re-copy the same information, Clipboard history acts as a temporary workspace where I can quickly access multiple pieces of copied content.
Quick tip: Pin frequently used clipboard items so they survive restarts.
2. Snipping Tool is more than screenshots
A lot of users still think Snipping Tool is only a screenshot utility.
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
Reddit user picardo85 pointed out: "The snipping tool allows for screen recording." Another user highlighted: "Also does OCR! and the OCR is GOD TIER."
The Snipping Tool app on Windows 11 now combines screenshot capture, screen recording, text extraction from images, basic image editing, and GIF creation from short recordings.
Why it's useful
For years, users installed third-party apps for these tasks. Microsoft quietly turned a basic utility into a lightweight alternative for many everyday situations.
The text extraction capability is particularly useful. You can capture text from screenshots, scanned documents, error messages, or images without manually typing everything.
Insight
This is one area where the company has improved the operating system significantly but failed at communication. A lot of users still download third-party screenshot tools without realizing the built-in option has caught up.
Quick tip: Use the "Windows key + Shift + S" keyboard shortcut to bring up the Snipping Tool toolbar for quick access to the features.
3. End Task from the Taskbar finally fixes frozen apps
The popular Microsoft engineer jenmsft joined the Reddit discussion to highlight this feature: "In Settings > System > Advanced, you can enable showing an End Task option directly when right clicking apps in the taskbar."
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
This adds an "End Task" option directly to the Taskbar context menu. Previously, closing an unresponsive app usually required opening Task Manager, finding the process, and ending the task manually. However, now, users can terminate applications faster.
Why it's useful
It's a small feature, but it addresses one of the oldest frustrations, which is a frozen application blocking your workflow.
Insight
This feature is particularly useful for power users, developers, and anyone testing applications. It's faster than the traditional Task Manager approach and avoids navigating through multiple windows.
4. Windows Sandbox is a disposable PC inside your PC
Several Reddit users mentioned Windows Sandbox. For example, Redditor mikel_me wrote: "Windows Sandbox and I no longer need to have VirtualBox, lose dozens of GB of storage to test an .exe I don't trust."
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
Windows Sandbox creates a temporary Windows environment that disappears when closed.
You can use it to test unknown software, open suspicious files, and try settings without affecting your main installation.
Why it's useful
Some users download utilities, Registry tweaks, and scripts from the internet. The problem is that testing unknown software on your main system carries risk.
Sandbox provides a clean environment without maintaining a full virtual machine.
Limitation
Windows Sandbox is only available on Windows 11 Pro, Enterprise, and Education editions.
Also, since this is a limited Windows environment of around 100MB (not a full installation of the operating system), not every script may work correctly.
If you have to test complex scripts, the best approach is to use a virtual machine.
5. Winget command makes installing apps easier
Another feature mentioned by Reddit users that caught my attention was Windows Package Manager.
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
For instance, user relevant-frog explained: "I find it faster to install programs this way rather than looking for the program's website."
If you run commands like "winget install APP-NAME" and "winget upgrade --all" users can install and update applications from the command line.
Why it's useful
After reinstalling Windows 11, one of the biggest annoyances is rebuilding your software collection.
The winget command changes that. Instead of searching dozens of websites, users can restore many applications quickly.
Insight
This is one of Microsoft's most underrated changes because it brings Linux-style package management convenience to Windows.
6. Snap Layouts are better than dragging windows
Reddit user chella1cm highlighted: "Win+Z opens the Snap Layouts, even with number shortcut."
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
Windows 11 introduced improved window snapping, but many users still drag windows manually.
You only need to use the "Windows key + Z" to open the Snap Layouts menu, allowing you to quickly arrange apps on the desktop.
Why it's useful
Modern monitors are larger, ultrawide displays are common, and multitasking has become normal. Snap Layouts turns window management into a structured workflow.
7. Windows key + Shift + Arrow is a multi-monitor lifesaver
One commenter (AMonkeyAndALavaLamp) wrote: "win+shift+arrows to move stuff between monitors." This shortcut instantly moves the active window between monitors.
Why it's useful
Anyone with two or more displays knows the frustration of dragging windows across screens. This shortcut solves that instantly.
It's a perfect example of a feature that does not look impressive in Microsoft's marketing material but improves daily use.
8. Voice Typing works almost everywhere
A Reddit user (mrnedryerson) mentioned: "Win + H Voice Type Anywhere." This feature lets users dictate text in almost any text field.
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
Why it's useful
Voice input has improved significantly with newer speech models. It's useful for drafting emails, writing notes, accessibility, and quickly entering text.
A lot of users never try it because they assume speech recognition is still the same as older versions.
9. Reliability Monitor makes troubleshooting much easier
One Reddit user recommended running perfmon /rel, which opens the Reliability Monitor tool.
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
Unlike Event Viewer, Reliability Monitor presents crashes, failed updates, driver problems, and application errors on a simple timeline, making it much easier to identify when something started going wrong.
Why it's useful
When the system suddenly becomes unstable, many people immediately assume they need to reinstall Windows 11. Reliability Monitor often points directly to the update, driver, or app that triggered the problem, saving time and unnecessary troubleshooting.
10. Advanced Display settings: your monitor may be running slower than expected
One Reddit user shared a practical discovery: "Your screen might be more fluid than you think!"
(Image credit: Mauro Huculak)
A lot of monitors ship configured at 60Hz even when they support higher refresh rates.
Users can check Settings > System > Display > Advanced display and select a higher refresh rate.
Why it's useful
A 120Hz or 144Hz monitor running at 60Hz wastes the hardware users paid for.
This is one of the simplest performance upgrades available because it requires no hardware change.
Windows Central's Take
I've always found it interesting that some of the most useful features are also its least promoted. Reading through this Reddit discussion reinforced something I've noticed over the years, which is that people aren't asking for more big features as much as they're looking for tools that make everyday tasks faster and less frustrating. That's why Clipboard history, the Snipping Tool's OCR, Windows Sandbox, and winget kept coming up over and over again.
I also think Microsoft could do a better job of surfacing these capabilities. A lot of them have been built into the operating system for years or have quietly evolved into genuinely useful tools. Yet, they're still hidden behind keyboard shortcuts or Settings pages that most people never visit.
In my experience, discovering one of these features often has a bigger impact on your daily workflow than many of the headline additions.
If you haven't explored beyond the basics, it's worth taking a few minutes to try some of these recommendations. You might find that Windows 11 already includes a tool you've been downloading third-party software to replace.
What are your favorite underrated Windows 11 features? Let me know in the comments.
More resources
Explore more in-depth how-to guides, troubleshooting advice, and essential tips to get the most out of Windows 11 and 10. Start browsing here:
I've been keeping an eye on global PC shipments as part of the ongoing RAM crisis for more than a year, and it seems that the component shortage has finally caught up with markets.
Global PC shipments dropped 4% year-over-year in Q2 2026 according to a new study by Counterpoint Research. That drop resulted in roughly 65 million shipments for the quarter, ending a growth run that had held since Q1 2025.
This report lines up with what IDC predicted a few weeks ago: that global PC shipments will decline by 11.3% for the full year. In the same report, IDC analysts also predict that Q4 shipments could fall by a whopping 20% year over year.
Why are PC shipments dropping?
Counterpoint Research's handy graph demonstrating how PC shipments played out in Q2 2026. (Image credit: Counterpoint Research)
The culprit behind the drop in PC shipments is the same as the one driving tech prices up seemingly across the board: soaring DRAM and NAND prices, driven largely by the sudden glut of AI data centers around the world.
PC manufacturers have basically had to choose between raising consumer prices and eating raised component costs, and most have chosen the former. It's no wonder that PC shipments have finally started to drop off.
Counterpoint notes that commercial PC buyers are proving to be the most resilient, helped along by ongoing Windows 11 migration from Windows 10. Without this uptick in PC sales, the overall picture would likely look a lot worse.
ASUS gained the most out of all Windows PC makers
Two new ASUS ProArt laptops that were shown off at Computex 2026. (Image credit: Cale Hunt | Windows Central)
ASUS has undeniably been producing some of the best Windows laptops around lately, and I'm not exactly surprised to see it's the only Windows PC maker that saw a rise in global shipments.
It improved by 4% year-over-year in Q2 2026, as Lenovo, Dell, HP, and other brands fell by up to 9%. It's worth noting that Apple had the best quarter, seeing its MacBook shipments climb by an impressive 13%. The popularity of its budget MacBook Neo undoubtedly has something to do with that number.
What this means for you when shopping for a new PC
Surface PC prices have been on the rise due to inflated component costs. (Image credit: Daniel Rubino)
Counterpoint expects component prices to remain elevated throughout the second half of 2026. That's bad news for anyone who's on the lookout for budget PCs, as there are bound to be more price increases as OEMs struggle to maintain margins.
The memory shortage is no longer just a short-term supply problem. It has become a key factor changing the direction of the PC industry. As OEMs face higher component costs, the market will shift toward premium AI PCs, since their better performance and on-device AI features make higher prices easier to accept.
David Naranjo, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research
My best advice for anyone holding out for a cheap Windows PC? Don't. Just don't. As I've explained in my previous RAM crisis coverage, relief on pricing isn't expected anytime soon ... at least not before the end of 2027.
If your current PC doesn't seem like it's going to live through another couple of years of dutiful service, it might be best to buy sooner rather than later despite the inflated costs already hitting consumers.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
JLab, one of the most popular headset manufacturers, has been known to make keyboards and mice from time to time, some of which are so good they rank up with some of the best PC accessories out there for a fraction of their competition's budget.
"A solid effort from JLab to produce a mid-range wireless keyboard, the JLab Epic Wireless is comfortable to use and lightweight enough to carry with you." ~ Christian Guyton, Editor (Computing)
It's not hard to see why, as the JLab Epic Wireless keyboard features a lightweight, sturdy, and clean design that's easy on your wrists despite not having a bundled wrist rest support.
It also has rapid responsiveness when it comes to input detection for typing (while being near-silent so it doesn't cause any distracting noises), an intuitive JLab Work App to help you remap its keys, a 2000 mAh rechargeable battery that will last you two years, and a pleasing Smart Media Knob dial to let you adjust the volume or playback of any media you're watching on your PC.
Add on top a reasonable MSRP of $69.99 that's regularly on sale, and you've got yourself a sweet wireless keyboard fit for any hard-working typist looking for a straightforward tool to help get typing reports or homework done in a jiffy on a budget.
FAQ
Is it good for gaming?
Not really as this keyboard has membrane keys and scissor switches, which don't offer snappy-enough speeds for fast-paced games compared to keyboards with mechanical switches.
What connections does this keyboard have?
This keyboard connects to most devices via Bluetooth 5.2 or USB.
What devices is it compatible with?
This keyboard is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Apple Max computers, iOS, Android, iPhone and smartphone mobile devices, Smart TVS, Chrome OS, and Linux hardware.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
However, if you're planning on playing this game on PC or Steam or Xbox on PC, but are stuck with old hardware thanks to rising prices on newer PC components caused by the ongoing RAM Crisis, we have good news.
I've been squirrelled away in the PC Gamer office all week testing Halo: Campaign Evolved on all manner of hardware, including a beastly rig with an RTX 5080 and Ryzen 7 7700X3D. To my surprise, the difference between Low and Ultra is incredibly subtle and, frankly, not worth the performance hit.
James Bentley, Hardware Writer at PC Gamer
For further context, PC Gamer tested Halo: Campaign on several PCs running NVIDIA RTX 3070, NVIDIA RTX 4070, NVIDIA RTX 5080, and AMD RX 9070 GPUs, and noticed there were very few differences between Low and Ultra settings when it comes to the graphics.
The biggest differences were blood textures and weapon lighting being slightly more detailed on Ultra, whereas foliage details, lighting softness, and shadow textures were only barely more detailed.
As for the game's framerate performance, PC Gamer noted that differences are much more prominent in this regard. Running Halo: Campaign Evolved on Ultra settings cuts the performance down by at least 20% across multiple rigs, particularly if the DLSS upscaling setting is set to Ultra.
Meanwhile, keeping the game at low graphical presets keeps the game's framerates somewhat high without a dip in their consistency, without the need for DLSS upscaling.
For example, running the game on Ultra graphical presets at 1440p with Ultra DLSS settings saw Halo Campaign Evolved achieve 60fps (RTX 3070), 84fps (RTX 4070 Super) , and 127fps (RTX 5080).
Whereas running the low graphical presets at 1440p with low DSLL settings saw Halo Campaign Evolved achieve 82fps (RTX 3070), 148fps (RTX 4070 Super), and 172fps (RTX 5080), giving much higher framerates with minimal changes in graphical fidelity.
PC Gamer even tested Halo: Campaign Evolved out on the Xbox ROG Ally X and discovered that running the game on Ultra or Native upscaling tanks its performance hard. PC Gamer recommends running the game using the Xbox Rog Ally X's Very Low preset option to get the performance out of it.
PC Gamer concluded that unless you have a monster PC rig that can push hundreds of frames per second or if you don't mind playing the game at around 30fps, they recommend playing the game on Low settings for the best balance of performance and appearance.
Though they also recommend turning off the motion blur, as it makes the game look pretty terrible.
Now, while I plan on playing Halo: Campaign Evolved on Xbox Series X after hearing how awesome it is from my colleague Brendan Lowry, who gave it 4/5 stars, I'm glad PC players won't be forced to upgrade their rigs to play it at acceptable levels.
We are living in a dire age of tech where it's getting harder for PC gamers to play the latest games without scouring the internet for increasingly scarce and pricey components needed to run them, so any AAA game that's optimized enough to be played on older hardware without losing too much graphical fidelity is a blessing we'll gladly take.
Halo: Campaign Evolved is available in early access and will be released to the general public on July 28, 2026, for Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Windows and Steam.
Relive the original epic campaign that kicked off the legendary Halo franchise, now reborn with next-gen graphics, 4-player online co-op, new missions, and more.
LG found itself in hot water after its monitors were spotted automatically installing adware onto PCs. Using certain LG monitors would result in a monitor app being installed silently. That app would then show pop-up ads for McAfee.
Backlash against LG was so strong that Microsoft had to step in. While it's quite common to see McAfee preinstalled on a PC or bundled with other software, LG took things further.
We’ve connected with the team at LG and as an immediate next step, they have agreed to disable the McAfee pop-up from their app. We appreciate LG working with us toward a shared goal of a better experience for our mutual customers. We will keep improving here with our ecosystem partners.
Windows chief Pavan Davuluri
The situation was placed in the spotlight because of an investigation by Gamers Nexus. That outlet did an excellent job breaking down the situation. The title of their video, "DO NOT BUY: LG’s Spyware TVs, Monitors, and Wiretapping Concerns," made me curious if people will stop buying LG monitors.
I've seen outrage pointed at LG across the web, but will that lead to an actual boycott or just complaints on social media?
People may be upset by the McAfee ads LG forced onto PCs, but will the outrage be enough to shift buying habits? Take a look at this quick roundup of LG monitor reviews from our sibling sites:
That's a lot of stars to overlook. I understand people's concerns about LG installing an app without notification then showing ads on PCs. I just doubt it will change people's buying habits.
I predict a chorus of "I can turn the ads off" from those who choose to stick with LG monitors. And honestly, I don't blame them. If you've had a monitor work well for years and are looking for a new one, it makes sense to stick with what you know works.
Others will claim that the problem is fixed since Microsoft stepped in and LG stopped pushing McAfee.
The flip side of all this is that as good as LG monitors are, they have to compete with the best computer monitors from other companies. Competition is fierce in the monitor segment, and it won't take much to sway some customers to look at a different brand.
LG is often one of the first companies to make monitors with certain specs. I've covered loads of UltraGear monitors that are the first in one category or another. But the reality is that many monitor companies buy components from the same sources. Heck, quite a few get their displays from LG.
After any LG monitor sits alone as a unique combination of refresh rate, size, or curvature for a while, other companies catch up.
Does LG's adware move cross a line for you, or is it a non-issue now that the pop-ups are gone? Vote in our poll and sound off in the comments below.
Recently, I've found myself a bit irritated by my dbrand Xbox Ally Killswitch case. It's not bad, but its bulk and sandpaper-feeling finish made me wonder if there are viable alternatives out there. I found myself hitting up an old friend, JSAUX, who steered me right during my Steam Deck and ROG Ally days, to see what they had on offer.
I purchased the latest JSAUX ModCase from the company's website last week, and it arrived promptly a few days later. My dbrand case set me back $75 when I picked it up; this JSAUX option cost $38 on Amazonby comparison. Despite how much I'd paid for the dbrand case, it adheres so tightly to the chassis that removing it felt virtually impossible without scissors ... so I thought I'd go all in and risk it on JSAUX's option. Turns out that I have no regrets whatsoever.
The JSAUX ModCase for Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X is by a country mile far better value, with superior features and a far better feel in the hand than dbrand's apparently more "premium" offering. I would argue that this is, without a doubt, the best Xbox Ally accessory probably every owner should buy.
The Xbox Ally / X Modcase from JSAUX is easily the best option I've found so far, with a great feel, light weight, impressive array of features, and well-defined ergonomics. JSAUX continues to be a leader in this space.
It's lighter, doesn't have that awful sand-paper feel, and is noticeably less bulky. (Image credit: Windows Central | Jez Corden)
The JSAUX ModCase continues the firm's long-standing tradition of supporting handheld gaming PCs, with accessories for everything from the Steam Deck to the Nintendo Switch. At the time I'd purchased the dbrand option, JSAUX wasn't offering an Xbox Ally case, but since they've finally jumped on board, I thought I'd give it a try.
Immediately you'll notice the better feel here. The ModCase has smoother, less abrasive texturing on the grips. For some reason, dbrand insists on using a sandpaper-style finish on its grips, which feels very unpleasant. The JSAUX ModCase is also noticeably lighter, although that'll likely be because it uses more rubber over hard plastics. The dbrand Killswitch would probably win in a ballistics test, given that it has hard plastics at more pressure points within the shell, but I think the JSAUX option is more ergonomic.
The JSAUX option is by no means a slouch in the hardiness department, though. The back panel is hard plastic, rather than rubber, and the corners and grips adhere closely to the Xbox Ally's most vulnerable corners. It also comes with a detachable front cover shell to protect the screen in travel.
The connector port is incredibly useful, and comes with a kickstand option and battery strap in the case. Windows Central | Jez CordenThe cover is easy to apply, with detailed instructions. It's a case of seating the handles in the bottom, then using the tabs to pull the back over the bumpers. Windows Central | Jez CordenAll the buttons and functions are easily accessible, and the grip feels far nicer than dbrand's notorious "sand paper" finish. Windows Central | Jez CordenThe battery strap is included for expanded power, but you can also find a lot of 3D printable options online too. Windows Central | Jez CordenThe case fits incredibly snug, and reduces the plastic "creak" notorious on the Xbox Ally. Windows Central | Jez Corden
If you have an Xbox Ally or Ally X, this is the case you should pick
(Image credit: Windows Central | Jez Corden)
The Xbox Ally's weird shape likely makes it odd to develop products for; it's definitely designed with ergonomics in mind above all, and that's ideally what a PC gaming handheld should do. However, it does have some somewhat irritating design flaws. The soft plastics creak and groan under strain, and although I've been using it for a year, I'm not exactly confident to take it on the go without some form of protection.
Given how expensive these devices can be, you absolutely should consider putting a case on it if you are a frequent user and heavy traveler/commuter. The JSAUX option is something I will personally guarantee to not disappoint. It simply has a better feel than alternative options; its modular nature makes for a lot of additional functionality for enthusiasts, and it's just simply better value. I'm not sure I could ever recommend alternatives that cost over 33% more for little to no discernible gain.
JSAUX has a banger here, and every Xbox Ally / Xbox Ally X owner should take note.
JSAUX
Xbox Ally Modcase
The Xbox Ally / X Modcase from JSAUX is easily the best option I've found so far, with a great feel, light weight, impressive array of features, and well-defined ergonomics. JSAUX continues to be a leader in this space.
The gaming rumor mill has recently spun one of the biggest yarns in gaming and tabletop history, if it's to be believed, for a supposed leak has been spotted for an upcoming crossover between the popular MMORPG World of Warcraft and the historic tabletop RPG Dungeons & Dragons.
According to tabletop RPG news fansite ENWorld, this 'leak' comes from a post on Roll20, an online virtual tabletop website that is a partner of Dungeons & Dragons.
It reveals that Dungeons & Dragons is making a tabletop RPG version of World of Warcraft titled 'D&D World of Warcraft', which was planned to be announced at a tabletop gaming convention called Gen Con next week on July 30, 2026.
The post was quickly removed, but ENWorld managed to save a preview image and images related to the announcement via its web page, including the title post saying "Pre-order D&D World of Warcraft!".
ENWorld has reached out to Dungeons & Dragons' publisher, Wizards of the Coast, for confirmation of this supposed 'leak' of validity and will post an update when they have received word back from them.
Windows Central's take
The lead title of the supposed leak of 'D&D World of Warcraft'. (Image credit: EDWorld)
A good chunk of World of Warcraft's lore, setting, characters, and monsters are very heavily inspired by Dungeons & Dragons, and in turn, World of Warcraft even influenced Dungeons & Dragons, particularly its 4th Edition, where a lot of its game mechanics became very gamified (speaking from experience here when I saved my group countless times as a healing-focused Cleric in D&D:4e).
Now Wizards of the Coast is no stranger to crossing its franchises over with others, as Dungeons & Dragons' sister game, Magic: The Gathering, has had crossovers with Final Fantasy, Warhammer 40,000, Stranger Things, Tomb Raider, Ghostbusters, Hatsune Miku of all things, and many more.
So the idea of a D&D World of Warcraft tabletop RPG would make total sense and would make for one heck of a crossover game, that is, if it turns out to be true. I know I would be down for roleplaying sessions where the DM would allow us to enact goofy fanfiction adventures where we could change events of Warcraft's lore in hilarious ways.
Either way, we will have to wait and see if this supposed leak turns out to be true at Gen Con next week on July 30, 2026, and remember, always take rumors and leaks with a grain of salt.
Do you think this supposed leak of a Dungeons & Dragons tabletop RPG adaptation of World of Warcraft is true, and if it is, would you be up for it?
If you have any thoughts on the matter, please let us know in the comments, on Reddit, or in the poll.
Join us on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral to share your insights and discuss our latest news, reviews, and more.
In a new video, Microsoft Executive Vice President of Windows+Devices Pavan Davuluri, and Corporate Vice President of Surface Brett Ostrum have sat down to talk about what's next for Surface, including more details about the upcoming Surface Laptop Ultra, hints at more surprises to come this year, and even acknowledges people's want for a Surface Studio monitor and Surface Mini.
In the 20 minute video, Davuluri and Ostrum discuss the year so far for Surface PCs. They recap recent announcements around Surface Pro 12 and Surface Laptop 8 with Intel and Snapdragon SoCs, along with the surprise announcements around Surface Laptop Ultra and RTX Spark back in June.
In regards to what's next for Surface, Ostrum clarifies that Surface is going to continue doing what it has always done; validate platform advancements through hardware. Just like it validated touch, pen, and Windows Hello with Surface in the past, the company is currently focused on using Surface to validate Windows on Arm, as recently seen with the RTX Spark.
"We are there to help show what is possible from an experience perspective in terms of technology and experiences and help to lead the way for the ecosystem. These days, oftentimes it shows up in the form of helping to stand up brand new platforms like the, RTX Silicon from NVIDIA. And so I think for us that work will continue."
Ostrum also reminds viewers that Surface still has the Surface Laptop Ultra and RTX Spark to come this year, and teases that there's more announcements to come, though doesn't dive into details as to what that might entail, "We have a few more surprises coming before the end of the year, so I'm looking forward to that."
In a segment answering community submitted questions, Microsoft also touches on fans' want for more Surface peripherals, including a Surface Studio monitor. Ostrum acknowledges that the Surface Studio is the most beautiful display they've ever shipped, but doesn't confirm plans to address the want for a standalone monitor.
"My history is in mouse and keyboards, and I do believe that the Surface Studio screen is the most beautiful screen we have ever shipped," Ostrum says before the video is jarringly cut to the next question. Could Microsoft be hinting that a Surface Studio monitor is finally in the works?
Another question also asks about the infamous Surface Mini, a device that Microsoft came very close to shipping in 2014 before being canceled at the last minute. The user submitted question asks if they can have a Surface Mini, and Davuluri jokingly says "We've got a few laying around somewhere, I think." Ostrum follows up with "We typically don't comment on future looking Surface roadmaps, Pavan."
If you're a fan of Surface and Windows on Arm, this month's episode of Inside Windows is a great watch. Be sure to check it out on the official Windows YouTube channel.
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I have good news for those PC gamers. Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition is currently testing a new "The Baltic Powers" expansion in open beta. The test runs from July 23 until August 6, after which the expansion will officially launch on September 10, 2026.
This is the first expansion of Age 3 since 2022's Knights of the Mediterranean, which added Italian and Maltese civilizations, as well as plenty of new maps, new minor civs, new game modes, and new achievements.
The Baltic Powers was actually a previously planned DLC that got canceled. It's not clear exactly why it was canceled, but I guess the game has proved resilient enough in terms of player count to warrant new content. For reference, SteamDB lists the game as having a 24-hour player peak of 5,470. Not bad at all.
Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition's latest DLC is "The Baltic Powers," and it's expected to launch on September 10, 2026. You can pick it up ahead of time at the Microsoft Store or on Steam.
Age of Empires 3: DE's new DLC adds two new civilizations
A screenshot from the new Age of Empires 3: Definitive Edition "The Baltic Powers" DLC. (Image credit: Xbox Game Studios)
The biggest addition to the game is undoubtedly the two new civilizations: Poles and Danes.
In the former case, you'll take control of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth with a focus on economic perks and cavalry armies.
For the latter, you're looking at taking control of the Kingdom of Denmark-Norway to foist naval control and strong defenses on your enemies.
A look at the new Havana Heat challenge scenario. (Image credit: Xbox Game Studios)
The DLC comes with new challenge scenarios as set pieces to test your skills, as well as Regicide and Independence game modes. Regicide, as most Age veterans know, is a race to kill the enemy's king. Independence is a new one for me, and it involves a lack of Home City support.
And finally, if you're feeling burned out on the current map selection, The Baltic Powers is adding 20 new maps to the pool.
Can I still join the open beta test on Steam?
The open beta testing period for the new Age 3 expansion runs until August 6. To get in on the advance fun, just make sure you have the game downloaded on Steam.
Right-click Age of Empires 3: DE in your Steam library, click Properties, click the Game Versions & Betas tab, then click open_beta. An update with the open beta files should begin automatically.
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The dedicated Copilot key on your PC is finally useful. Recently, Windows 11 gained the option to remap the Copilot key to act as the Context menu key or Right Ctrl key. It's also possible to disable the key entirely.
Which key do you use the least on your PC? Is it Scroll Lock? Maybe the Insert key feels like a waste of space. I don't normally pay much attention to unused keys on a keyboard, but the Copilot key is an exception because it replaced a key people actually use.
Any laptop or keyboard that ships with a dedicated Copilot key lacks a Right Ctrl key. People have complained about the Copilot key since it was introduced and Microsoft has responded.
At some point this year, Windows 11 shipped an update that allows you to remap the Copilot key to the Right Ctrl key or the Context Menu key.
We've known about this change for a while. A Microsoft support document outlines the plans of the tech giant:
"Microsoft is committed to enabling customers to select options for how the Copilot key functions. A Windows 11 update will ship later this year that will add a setting option to let you remap the Copilot key to act as the Context menu key or Right Ctrl key. When available, you can find this setting in:
Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Keyboard"
The change is finally here. X user @phantomofearth shared a screenshot of the setting on Windows 11.
Also hidden in recent Windows 11 Experimental builds: a new "Do nothing" option for the Copilot key in Settings, letting you easily disable it! pic.twitter.com/2qoPcmaGDsJuly 23, 2026
Up to this point, the feature has appeared inconsistently on Windows 11. In a follow-up post, @phantomofearth noted that the option does not appear on their system until enabling a feature ID.
My PC is running the latest version of Windows 11 and I see the option to customize the Copilot key. I did not see that option earlier this year, but I honestly can't say which day the toggle was added to my system.
I'm happy that Microsoft responded to feedback about the Copilot key, but there has been a way to remap the key for years. PowerToys has had a keyboard manager utility for years that lets you remap keys. If you use that tool, you aren't limited to the options Windows 11 gives you.
This collection of utilities includes a large library of features to enhance the Windows experience. PowerToys is designed with power users in mind, but it has handy features for people who just use their PC for everyday computing too.
We now have a full picture of the situation and would like to share the verified details with you.To get straight to the point: The game itself is 100% SAFE and virus-free. This incident was strictly limited to a single admin account's Discord being compromised.What Happened:…July 25, 2026
"To get straight to the point: The game itself is 100% SAFE and virus-free. This incident was strictly limited to a single admin account's Discord being compromised.
What Happened: While investigating and patching a malicious MOD map issue, a system engineer's PC was infected with malware. The hacker bypassed the engineer's Discord 2-Factor Authentication (2FA), took over server permissions, and banned all official staff members from the server.
Game File Security: The infected PC was a spare testing machine, and it is physically impossible to access or edit game source files from it (which we have re-confirmed via logs). The affected PC has already been completely wiped and reformatted.
A Warning to Players: The perpetrator who took over the Discord server will likely continue to release fake statements and announcements. Please do NOT click any links, join fake servers, or follow any instructions posted on that Discord."
Worse, if you've already downloaded some custom maps for the game, I strongly suggest you A) finish reading about the issue, and B) check your Steam library.
A security researcher who goes by Feint on Medium.com recently posted a lengthy analysis breaking down their findings. They posit that some workshop maps associated with Meccha Chameleon are quietly being rigged to drop malicious scripts (aka malware) onto players' PCs.
Feint began the investigation after friends noticed a command prompt window flashing briefly as Steam downloaded a custom workshop map for the game. These downloads are handled automatically as you load into certain game lobbies.
On the surface, the custom map's files looked totally normal, with standard Unreal Engine 5 asset containers and a lack of evident executables or scripts.
Digging deeper, however, Feint discovered the real problem: a Blueprint actor with a naming mismatch buried inside the map's metadata. It was built to look like an ambient controller, but an outdated internal name tipped off the researcher.
According to Feint, the Blueprint is built to run automatically the moment the map loads. When it does, it injects a batch file into the gamer's Documents folder on their Windows PC. Not good.
Once triggered, the batch file sneakily launches a hidden PowerShell process with bypassed execution policy before calling out to an outside server to download a second script.
Feint's testing resulted in that download failing, so it remains unclear what exactly was intended to be sent to infected PCs.
No name for the malware, but a map shouldn't act like this
A look at Meccha Chameleon's Steam Workshop page. (Image credit: Valve)
Although the final goal of the odd script is debatable, a game's map should never involve writing and executing scripts outside of the game's folder. This is a clear sign of malware.
Feint also notes that there are some red flags surrounding the account that uploaded the map to Steam Workshop. The Steam account is only about a week old and has comments/ratings disabled on the listing, making it much harder for savvy victims to share their woes.
The malware-infused map has been reported to Steam, though it's unclear whether any actions have been taken yet.
What you should do if you've downloaded Meccha Chameleon Workshop maps
Meccha Chameleon is all about hiding from your friends for as long as possible. (Image credit: lemorion_1224)
Until Valve confirms that the map is malicious and pulls it from the Workshop library, your best bet is to avoid any new Meccha Chameleon maps, especially if they lack reviews and/or have comments disabled.
If you've downloaded custom maps recently, it's probably worth running a PC scan with your favorite antivirus. You can also check your Documents folder for any strange .batfiles hanging around.
To be clear, this isn't the fault of the developers. Rather, this is another bit of potential malware that slipped past Steam's Workshop screening process.
Just last month, Steam's most popular PC background app, Wallpaper Engine, was discovered to be infecting users with malware. Valve, owner of Steam, took the necessary steps to remove the infected files, but added that this sort of thing could inadvertently happen again.
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À partir d’avant-hierWindows Central - News, Forums, Reviews, Help for Windows 10 and all things Microsoft.
A few days ago, LG was discovered to be automatically installing adware via their monitors when connected to a Windows PC, resulting in popups for apps like McAfee appearing on screen that users are forced to dismiss. Naturally, this has caused outrage online, and appears to have even caught the attention of Microsoft.
Now, Microsoft has confirmed that it has intervened and reached out to LG to see what can be done about stopping this. Windows chief Pavan Davuluri says that LG has agreed to stop McAfee from appearing within their LG monitor popups.
"We’ve connected with the team at LG and as an immediate next step, they have agreed to disable the McAfee pop-up from their app," Davuluri said in a post on X. "We appreciate LG working with us toward a shared goal of a better experience for our mutual customers."
It's good to see Microsoft stepping up to help here, as OEMs often get away with gross practices on their hardware. Many Windows PCs ship with adware and bloatware out of the box, and Microsoft has done little in the past to reduce this.
With the company reaching out to LG directly, it's clear that Microsoft thought LG's practices here were a step too far, and is eager to improve the overall health of the Windows ecosystem by ensuring OEMs are dialing back on the amount of bloatware and adware that appears on third-party hardware.
PSA: Do NOT buy an LG monitor, it automatically downloaded an app that gives me pop ups for their own apps and McAfee. This cant be legal😭 pic.twitter.com/ETu7mYxp9QJuly 17, 2026
McAfee is one of the most pre-installed OEM bloatware apps you can find. Almost all major Windows OEM hardware will include a free-trial of McAfee, along with other demo or trial apps like Dropbox, Microsoft Office, and more.
Unlike actual PC hardware, LG's adware is being installed through a monitor app that is automatically downloaded onto a Windows PC when you connect an LG monitor to it. The app is designed to allow you to control functions and settings of the monitor, but it includes a popup that previously displayed ads for things like McAfee.
It's unclear if LG is planning to stop showing ads there permanently, if it it's only doing so temporarily until the outrage dies down. Hopefully, this change is a permanent one, as most users are not interested in being advertised to via a popup appearing because of the monitor they've chosen to use.
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When Diablo 2 launched in 2000, it essentially took over my gaming life. Never before had I played something so addictive. It was (and still is, to a certain degree) impossible to put down. Little did I know that I'd still be playing it 26 years later.
My love for action RPGs with isometric graphics and oodles of loot was indeed borne from my love of Diablo 2, and trust me when I say that I've tried almost every other game similar to the best there is.
Grim Dawn. Titan Quest. Nox. Torchlight. Last Epoch. Path of Exile. I could go on and on.
The thing is, none of these Diablo 2 competitors ever gripped me in the same way as Blizzard's opus. Hell, even Diablo 3 and Diablo 4 failed to get me to keep coming back in the same way that Diablo 2 continues to do today.
I've thought a lot about exactly what Diablo 2 does differently than its competition to make it so compelling, and I've never really been able to pin it down.
This mental block was recently lifted. In a video on his personal YouTube channel, Path of Exile co-creator Chris Wilson dropped some serious ARPG knowledge that made Diablo 2's appeal finally click.
Diablo 2's eternal appeal is all about ... breakpoints?
Chris Wilson helped create what is arguably the best non-Diablo ARPG around with the Path of Exile series. To say he knows a lot about the genre is an understatement, and the wisdom he shares in the video is proof.
Wilson argues that it's Diablo 2's breakpoints that make it particularly compelling.
In Diablo 2, rather than each piece of superior gear making a tiny change to your character's power level (as we see in most modern ARPGs), the effects are only felt once the numbers reach a certain threshold, aka a breakpoint.
Block rates, cast rates, attack rates, and hit recovery rates all depend on breakpoints. Diablo 2 was designed to run at an internal 25 frames per second no matter how many frames your PC is outputting, and each of the actions I just mentioned has to fit into that metric.
A faster cast rate breakpoint chart as found on the Diablo 2 wiki. (Image credit: Diablo 2 Wiki)
Wilson uses the Amazon's base faster cast rate number as an example. It takes 19 frames to complete, which eats up a big chunk of those 25 frames, and it only goes up by equipping new gear.
Here's the catch. The Amazon, in this case, only starts casting faster spells once those frames drop to a certain breakpoint. You need a total of 152% faster cast rate from gear in order to hit the lowest 11 frames per second casting speed, with several stops along the way.
If you aren't hitting those breakpoints, there's no actual difference in speed.
The consequence of this is that there are arbitrary sweet spots of attack speed, cast speed, and hit recovery that players want to reach because the jump in animation speed happens all at once. Players created tables of speed breakpoints and optimized their characters around these thresholds. [...] This behavior occurred because Diablo 2 measured animations in whole numbers of simulation frames. An animation would begin on one frame and finish a fixed number of frames later.
Chris Wilson
Wilson explains that modern ARPG systems "preserve a fractional time and carry it into the next action." This results in your toon acting at an average speed.
Diablo 2 does the opposite. It rounds "up to a whole number of frames and just discards that fractional time. " The result of this system is a series of meaningful power spikes that actually make your character feel so much more powerful.
Any Diablo 2 player who has slotted in a piece of Hammerdin gear that helps finally hit the final casting breakpoint knows exactly what I'm talking about.
Wilson explains the drawback to how modern ARPGs operate.
There are no particular values that suddenly grant a jump in power, because each incremental bonus already has an incremental effect. Despite this modern system being smoother and more predictable, I still see players asking if each new ARPG has speed breakpoints like Diablo 2 did.
Chris Wilson
The modern approach to ARPG power is indeed smoother and requires far fewer spreadsheets with listed breakpoints, but it's also far less rewarding.
Speaking from personal experience I have with Diablo 4, this seems to be the game's biggest problem. Everything feels the same all the time, and character progression is not even slightly engaging. Oh, look, a new piece of gear that's marginally better. Guess I'd better equip it.
Diablo 2's addictive qualities were not an accident
Diablo 2: Resurrected is about as good of a remake as one could possible hope for. (Image credit: Blizzard Entertainment)
Wilson wraps up his video by stating that David Brevik, one of the original Diablo 2 creators, confirmed that breakpoints were an intended mechanic.
He confirmed that speed breakpoints were completely intentional and that he knew such rounding was occurring and did the math on it while developing the game.
Chris Wilson
Wilson adds that he doesn't think players "love inaccurate timing," but he does agree that "many players love systems where reaching a target requires planning and produces a noticeable payoff."
I've pored over breakpoint spreadsheets for so many hours it's probably better to measure in days, but for whatever reason, this mechanic never crossed my mind as what makes Diablo 2 so exciting.
For my other Diablo 2 diehards out there, do you agree with Wilson's analysis? What else do you think contributes to the game's lasting appeal? What are modern ARPGs lacking that would make them as compelling as Diablo 2? Let me know in the comments section below!
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Creative Assembly, the developers behind the upcoming strategy game Total War: Warhammer 40,000, has recently concluded its first Alpha Strike Livestream, which showed their first unedited look at its real-time strategy combat system.
The developers demonstrated this gameplay through several 1v1 skirmishes, playing as the Astra Militarum faction defending their cities from the savage Ork faction.
As seen in the PC Gamer trailer, the combat system is fast-paced and chaotic, where you will need to command massive armies to blast enemies with sheer, overwhelming firepower while taking care not to get overwhelmed by making strategic use of cover and making sure enemies don't flank your units.
You must also decide which units are best suited to take down foes, when to use limited-use Stratagem abilities to lay waste to enemies to give your army breathing room, and make liberal use of your army's special abilities.
The Astra Militarum, in particular, have unique abilities where commanding officers within a squad unit can issue special commands to move faster, fire faster, and employ other unique tactics similar to how they operate in the original Warhammer 40,000 tabletop game.
The developers demonstrate these mechanics expertly as they command their light infantry units to take cover and lay down suppressing fire to slow down the Ork infantry's advance, leaving them open for their heavy units and strategems (which in this case are tanks) to blow them to smithereens.
Windows Central's take
I thought I'd seen my fair share of large-scale carnage in Warhammer 40,000 games before, like Dawn of War or Battlesector, but they're nothing compared to Total War: Warhammer 40,000.
Taking control of over 40 units (some of which consisted of 100-man squads), charging across the battlefield, watching them rain down a hail of gunfire upon the enemy, and seeing Orks explode in a shower of blood and guts is an awesome sight to behold.
Now, whether I'll be able to pull off such glorious spectacles without getting massacred in the first seconds of deploying my units is another matter, as I'm woefully inexperienced with real-time strategy games.
But I'm willing to learn because, even this early in development, Total War: Warhammer 40,000 looks awesome, and I can't wait to play it when it comes out on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam.
Take command of the Space Marines, Astra Militarum, Aeldari, or Orks factions and wage a bloody war to conquer the galaxy in the grandest Warhammer 40,000 strategy game to date, which mixes turn-based tactical gameplay with chaotic real-time warfare.
So how do you feel about Total War: Warhammer 40,000? Does it make you excited as a longtime Warhammer 40,000/strategy game fan, or does it make you want to try the Total War series for the first time if you're a newcomer?
If you have any thoughts on the matter, please let us know through the poll below, the comments section, or our Reddit page.
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Valve has recently announced a major improvement for the Steam digital storefront.
As of now, Steam has new and improved features to help PC gamers send digital gift cards and games to their friends and family with greater ease, and we've got the patch notes on how they will work.
Guest checkout
First off, the patch notes on Steam describe changes to the guest checkout system. Before, it allowed family members or friends to make gifts without needing a Steam account, but it was limited to digital gift cards and hardware.
Now, it's been updated so people can buy and gift any game on Steam. You just send a wishlist share to a friend or family member, and they buy gifts directly from the wishlist without needing to make a Steam account on their end.
If a guest user wants to send a surprise gift, they can send it to any email address instead.
Gift to email
Next up, we have the new gifting via email feature, which allows players to send digital gift cards and games directly to a recipient's email account in case they don't know their Steam account.
Additionally, if the recipient's email address is linked to their Steam account, the email they'll receive will include a link to sign into their account and accept a player's gift.
However, any gift email not accepted within 30 days of being sent will automatically be refunded, so it can't be scheduled for future delivery, plus the recipient of the gift must live in the same country as the gift purchaser.
Cross-region gifting
Next we have improvements for cross-region gifting. Previously you couldn't buy Steam games for friends and family overseas on Steam, and you had to send digital gift cards to get around that, while also doing research on how much games cost in different regions due to currency conversion.
However, this update will now allow you to gift games directly to people so long as they're on your Steam friends list, while Steam automatically calculates how much a game you're sending to a person in a different region will cost during checkout.
Direct from wishlist
Finally, Steam has implemented improvements for its wishlist share link feature.
With this, you can send digital gift cards or gift games directly from a person's wishlist without needing to be friends with them on Steam. You can also create a shared wishlist that's been filtered to specific games.
Additionally, when a friend or family member clicks on your shared wishlist link, if they decide to buy you a game, the gift recipient in the cart during checkout will be automatically filled with your information.
As a reminder, friends and family members can checkout as guest users without needing a Steam.
Windows Central's take
Example of the updated Steam Gift system where you can now send gifts to people without needing them to be in your Steam friends list. (Image credit: Valve)
These new changes sound really cool, but the change I'm liking most is being able to directly buy games for my friends overseas without needing to guess how much it will cost due to regional currency conversions.
This is more than I can say for Xbox, because, as of right now, you can only gift games on the Xbox ecosystem to people who live in the same region as you. Which is really inconvenient for me as I have family overseas who I would love to send Xbox games to but can't.
So I hope that Microsoft takes notes from Steam and copies this update so I can more easily buy Xbox games for my family overseas for Christmas and birthdays without having to use circumventing tactics like sending gift cards.
What do you think? Do these improvements to sending gifts on Steam sound cool? Would you like to see Xbox copy this update?
If you have any thoughts on the matter, please let us know in the comments, on Reddit, or in the poll.
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This has been confirmed by Microsoft via Xbox tech support on X, which states, "We are aware that some users are encountering errors when attempting to connect to Xbox services and features. Our engineers are actively working to mitigate the issue."
We are aware that some users are encountering errors when attempting to connect to Xbox services and features. Our engineers are actively working to mitigate the issue. We'll update as soon as we have more — keep an eye on https://t.co/gW4rn6nrjb.July 23, 2026
As of right now, according to the Xbox Support website, Xbox Live's outage currently affects Store & subscriptions, Friends & social activity, Cloud gaming & remote play, Games & gaming, and Apps & mobile, leaving players unable to access these online features on Xbox Series X|S and Xbox on PC, and Xbox Cloud Gaming-compatible handhelds.
Maybe this outage is the reason why players can't enter Halo: Campaign Evolved's early access? I know I've certainly noticed something's wrong, as I've been unable to look at any Xbox games on the Xbox app's store today.
Either way, we will keep an eye on Xbox Live's status updates and let you know when things are back up and running properly.
Have you been affected by these recent Xbox Live Outage issues? Have you been unable to access Halo: Campaign Evolved's early access period because of this?
If you have any thoughts on the matter, please let us know in the comments, on Reddit, or in the poll.
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Today should've been a joyous day for Halo fans as Halo: Campaign Evolved is now available for people who purchased the Premium Edition or Premium Edition Upgrade, and it's received many glowing reviews on Metacritic (including one from us, which gave it a high score of 4/5 Stars).
Unfortunately, people who bought the Premium Edition or Premium Edition Upgrade via the Xbox Series X|S's store or the Xbox on PC App aren't so lucky because they've been unable to access the game despite paying money for it.
⚠️ We're investigating reports that some players on XBOX consoles and the XBOX app for PC who purchased the #HaloCE Premium Edition or Premium Edition Upgrade are unable to access the game. We will share updates as soon as more information is available. Thank you for your…July 23, 2026
This has been confirmed by Halo Studio's tech support team on X, which says they are aware of the situation and is working on fixing it. They will let players know status updates on their progress as soon as more info is available.
Fans are especially upset over this because if they couldn't get the Premium Edition through Xbox Game Pass subscriptions. You have to shell out $69.99 separately for it, and it promised players up to five days of early access to the game. This isn't the first time Xbox has failed to deliver early access for one of its products, and it's frankly getting odd at this point.
Since this is one of Xbox's flagship franchises, I have no doubt the developers are scrambling as fast as they can to fix this issue, and we'll be sure to let you know when they do, so stay tuned for further updates.
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One of the big existential crises facing Xbox and other platforms is "how do we find new users?"
The memorypocalypse has driven Xbox console hardware to record highs. While that has led to an Xbox hardware bounce in the short term as people buy hardware before price hikes, longer term it's looking like fewer consoles will be sold than we've seen in a long time.
As free-to-play platforms like Roblox and Fortnite capture audiences on the younger end, and older gamers become aged and priced out, Microsoft and other companies are trying to figure out how to find new users in a tough climate.
What's cheaper than a $699.99 Xbox Series X? Well, free Xbox gaming, of course. And that's what Xbox is beginning to test today. Say hi to the long-rumored Xbox Cloud Gaming free tier, powered by ads, featuring all of your digital content.
Xbox Cloud Gaming is available practically anywhere a modern web browser lives. Samsung TVs, iPad and iPhone, Android devices, and even your Xbox consoles. And now, you can jump in completely for free. With some ads, of course. (Image credit: Xbox )
"Today, we’re starting to test an ad-supported way to stream select games from your library for a limited time, available to XBOX Insiders," the Xbox Wire post reads. "During this test period, XBOX Insiders with an XBOX account will be able to stream games they own for free with ads. Players will have one-hour session limits across supported devices and regions."
Microsoft says that ads will only run before the session starts, and won't interrupt gameplay during the one-hour session slots. The ads won't be inserted into games, and it'll remain entirely optional, focused on Xbox Cloud Gaming. The paid tiers of Xbox Cloud Gaming (associated with Xbox Game Pass) will continue to be ad-free in perpetuity.
Microsoft's blog post is clear on its approach to ads, with an attempt to put forward a player-first approach. The idea entirely revolves around improving access to Xbox content, without having to buy a (now, very expensive) console. Xbox One users can gain access to titles that have dropped past-gen versions, and developers can potentially access an all-new audience. Indeed, any digital game you've purchased that is available on Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available to play through this free tier. There are well over 1,500 titles in the pool as of writing.
Microsoft outlined its policy approach to Xbox Cloud Gaming free-tier ads as thus:
We start with the player. Ads should create value.
We do not interrupt the flow of gameplay.
We hold ads to the same quality bar as our content.
We’re clear about what’s advertising.
We make sure ads fit what players expect on each platform.
Indeed, Microsoft wants to emphasize that it is imposing some strict rules on the types of ads that can show up here, too. Given that increasingly YouTube and Meta feature ads that are often wildly beyond irrelevant, this is a refreshing take.
Providing Microsoft remains principled ... of course.
If it helps Xbox and devs find new users and compete with free-to-play mobile games, I'm all for it
Microsoft is testing a new Xbox Cloud Gaming interface as well, which looks like a big improvement over the current version. (Image credit: Windows Central | Jez Corden)
Being completely honest, I've discovered a metric ton of hidden indie gems via Steam advertising on Reddit, Instagram, and X in recent months. If ads actually feature high-quality games or relevant products, I'm personally all for it.
Too many companies went way too hard on ads, and it led to a degraded experience overall. It's a piece of feedback I'm constantly sharing with higher-ups, even here at our parent company, about ads on the site, as we explore models that will help you guys avoid ads here while continuing to support our work.
Developers in the gaming industry, particularly on Xbox, are starving for new users willing to move beyond the CODFIFAFORTNITE triptych. If allowing free access with ads helps Xbox and core game devs find new users in a world dominated by free-to-play mobile titles, I'm all for it. But we'll have to keep an eye on it as a community, to stop the ads eventually appearing in other places ... let's hope Microsoft remains principled on this one.
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