Why Microsoft's Push for New PCs Frustrates Windows 10 Users: Exploring Solutions

In a that has left a number of users frustrated, Microsoft has advised Windows 10 users to consider purchasing new PCs to upgrade to Windows 11. This recommendation comes at a time when many people are struggling financially, making the prospect of buying a new computer an unwelcome suggestion. Even if they have the money, if there's nothing wrong with their system, why buy new? I can understand the security aspect as warned in the end of support notification, but you're not stuck!

For many users, the idea of having to buy a new PC just to upgrade to the latest operating system feels unnecessary and burdensome. The reality is that not everyone can afford to replace their current devices, especially when they are still functioning perfectly well. This situation has sparked a wave of frustration among Windows 10 users who feel that Microsoft should take a different approach.

Lenovo LOQ Gaming Laptop

Instead of pushing users to buy new hardware, Microsoft could take a page from their Xbox strategy. The Xbox ecosystem allows gamers to enjoy their favorite titles across different generations of consoles, ensuring a seamless experience without the need for constant hardware upgrades. A similar approach could be applied in a slightly different way, where a lite version of Windows 11 could be developed to run on older hardware. Heads get scratched when their specs are better than a number of systems fresh off the lot.

A number of these users we've spoken with believe that the push for new hardware has more to do with selling desktops and laptops than with providing a better user experience. While upgrading to the latest technology can offer benefits, it shouldn't come at the expense of those who are barely getting by.

Alternatives Routes to Consider

For those who are not ready to make the leap to a new PC, there are alternatives that can provide a Windows 10, Windows 11 or a Windows 11-like experience:

1. Windows 11 OS Deals: Looking for deals on the Windows 11 OS that might make the upgrade more affordable without needing new hardware? We have crazy good deals you can nab for $9.75... because why not?! (Windows 11 + Office Lifetime Bundles also available.)
   
   

2. Linux Distributions: Consider using Linux distributions like Ubuntu or Mint, which offer a user-friendly experience and can run on older hardware. If the programs you use can work on Ubuntu, and you could careless about staying on Windows... are you losing anything? By the way, you can have both operating systems on the same system... just decide on which one you'd like to use at start up:
   

   
   

   
   

   For gamers, no worries... Ubuntu has you covered. Ubuntu is a versatile operating system that supports a variety of gaming platforms. Here are some of the most popular ones:

   
   

   - Steam is one of the most popular gaming platforms and has extensive support for Linux, including Ubuntu. With Steam Play and Proton, you can play many Windows games on Ubuntu.

   
   

   - Lutris is an open-source gaming platform that allows you to manage and play games from different sources, including Steam, GOG, and Epic Games. It also supports Wine, which enables you to run Windows games on Linux. We use the Epic Games platform even more so than we use Steam nowadays (which includes titles beyond just... Fortnite), and if you do too, you're good!
   
   - Wine is a compatibility layer that allows you to run Windows applications, including games, on Linux. It's a powerful tool for playing games that don't have native Linux support.
   
   - PlayOnLinux is a graphical frontend for Wine, making it easier to install and manage Windows games and applications on Linux.
   
   - Heroic Games Launcher is an open-source game launcher for GOG and Epic Games Store. It provides a user-friendly interface to manage and play your games on Linux.
   
   ***You can use your Xbox Game Pass, but... take the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate route just like you would with Amazon Luna to stream to your hearts content without the headaches of a workaround.
   

While the push for new hardware may be frustrating, there are ways to navigate this challenge without breaking the bank... so hopefully you're able to adapt with the information we've provided by October 14, 2025. If it's the perfect opportunity for you to buy new, enjoy and... Game on!

Speak of gaming, Soulstone Survivors is coming soon to GOG!

 + Sophi 

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TankHead: The Indie Rogue-Lite Sleeper Hit of the Season

As the holiday season brings a slew of major AAA game releases, it's easy for indie gems to get overshadowed. However, TankHead is one indie game that deserves attention. This rogue-lite game is challenging, unforgiving, and incredibly engaging, making it a potential sleeper hit if it doesn't blast off!

TankHead offers a unique blend of tank combat and exploration (with survival elements). The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where players control a... tank (by way of their little bot). The rogue-lite elements mean that each run is different, with procedurally generated levels and permadeath adding to the challenge.

TankHead is not for the faint of heart, as it requires skill, strategy, and perseverance. The steering might take some getting used to, especially if you're not familiar with tank controls, but once you get the hang of it, the gameplay becomes... incredibly rewarding. The thrill of navigating through enemy-infested areas and completing missions keeps you coming back for more. Even the L's make you want to go back to the drawing board. I'm still thinking of how i'll make my next approach better, and I found some good stuff... but they got me.

What sets TankHead apart from other tank games is that it's not military based, it's more so robots and you're a small one about to attach and detach from a tank. This adds a nice dimension to the gameplay, allowing players to discover hidden areas, and gather resources outside the tank. The features enhance the replay value and keeps the game fresh and exciting.

TankHead's visuals are another highlight. The post-apocalyptic world is beautifully rendered, with detailed environments and atmospheric effects that draw you into the game. The combination of challenging gameplay, exploration, and visuals makes TankHead a kickass experience. I'm still getting into the story, but essentially humans can no longer survive in certain areas of the world, and Whitaker was one of them. This protagonist has a digestible personality and the dynamic between him and Command Unit 7 is something you may find yourself looking forward too in between the missions he presents you with after you transfer to a drone unit called, Needle.

Whitaker was a real person, but like other humans his spirit was infused with a robot. Whitaker's goal is to reach Highpoint, but enemies await that require you to wield the take with Whitaker and break them down part by part. Try taking on multiple tanks and drones that shoot electric pulses that leave you stunned. Learn those controls, not only in ways to evade, but also to shoot more accurately, repair your tank, and protect yourself outside the tank.

In a season dominated by big-budget titles, TankHead stands out as a must-play for fans of rogue-lite games and indie titles. That said, check out the First 30 of TankHead:

 + Sophi 

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Slitterhead: A Spine-Chilling Adventure Horror Game

Slitterhead for PC | PS5

Slitterhead, developed by Bokeh Game Studio, is a 2024 action-adventure horror game that has taken the gaming world by storm. Set in the densely cluttered streets of "Kowlong," the game casts players as "Hyoki," an entity devoid of memory and physical form, whose sole mission is to eradicate the monstrous beings known as "Slitterheads". These creatures disguise themselves as humans, lurking in the shadows of a neon-lit cityscape. The game's unique mechanics, including body possession and using blood as weapons, create a chilling and immersive experience. Leave it to the makers of Silent Hill to deliver a new adventure horror to creep us out.

Slitterhead actually reminds me of those J-horror films, especially the way it starts. Japanese horror films, or "J-horror," have a unique style that sets them apart from Western horror. Here are some fun facts:

1. Psychological Horror: Japanese horror often focuses on psychological horror and tension building, rather than relying on jump scares.

2. Ghosts and Spirits: Many J-horror films feature ghosts (yurei) and poltergeists, drawing from traditional Japanese folklore.

3. Cultural Icons: Characters like Sadako from "Ringu" have become cultural icons in Japan, similar to Freddy Krueger in the US.

4. Historical Roots: The origins of Japanese horror can be traced back to the Edo and Meiji periods, with ghost stories known as "kaidan".

5. Influence on Western Films: A number of J-horror films have been remade in the West, such as "The Ring" and "The Grudge".

First 30: Slitterhead

Playing Slitterhead was an unforgettable experience, especially when I had to get away from the initial monster. The game's atmosphere, with its eerie neon-lit streets and unsettling sound design, had me on edge from the start. As Hyoki, I found myself navigating through dark alleys, constantly looking over my shoulder for the lurking Slitterheads. The moment I encountered the first monster, I was gripping the controller a little more as I frantically tried to escape. The game's ability to create such intense moments of chills and adrenaline is a testament to its design and storytelling.

Slitterhead is a game worth considering for fans of horror games, offering a nice blend of action, suspense, and psychological terror. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the genre, this game will keep you on the edge of your seat. This game is rated M for Mature 17+!

 + Sophi 

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The Game Awards Recap 2024: A Night of Nostalgia, New Beginnings, and Empowerment!

"We have to hand it to Geoff Keighley, he's been holding it down since 2014 with The Video Games, that celebrated it's 10 year this year. E3 officially retired this time last year (December 2023) and no one exactly noticed because Geoff softened the blow. Things were already changing, but... he was there to usher fans of video game shows forward, so... we have to salute that." -  Blu 

The Game Awards 2024 was a spectacular celebration of the gaming industry's finest, blending nostalgia with exciting new installments of beloved franchises. This year's event was not just about honoring the best games but also about highlighting the importance of inclusivity and empowerment in the gaming community.

The night was filled with thrilling announcements and well-deserved accolades. Astro Bot took home the coveted Game of the Year award (+ Family Game of the Year award), while Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth and Metaphor: ReFantazio also shone brightly, winning multiple awards.

Fans of classic franchises were treated to new installment reveals, such as Onimusha: Way of the Sword and Virtua Fighter 6, which brought a wave of nostalgia and excitement.

Virtua Fighter Project

One of the more inspiring segments of the show was Death Row Games, a game studio founded by Snoop Dogg and his son, Cordell Broadus. This venture aims to provide opportunities for talented minority creators and artists who face challenges getting into the gaming industry. The studio will leverage the power of the Unreal Engine to develop and publish their games, ensuring the voices of their dev team members are heard and their stories are told.

Snoop Dogg's commitment to opening doors for others is not new. His Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL) has been a beacon of hope for many young athletes, providing them with opportunities to excel in sports and life. The league has helped a dozen athletes make it to the NFL, showcasing Snoop's dedication to nurturing talent and giving back to the community. Snoop's mini-concert in celebration of his new album was amazing, I wasn't aware of his large catalog of music. He has 19 studio albums and over 30 additional projects. For the record, his contribution to the Olympics is proof that he should consider more work in comedy, and he dropped a line during The Game Awards that prompted laughter.

The Game Awards 2024 was a night to remember, filled with appreciation for the developers who bring our favorite games to life along with the amazing reveals. We hope that player appreciation continues to rise just as much, as it plays a crucial role in the gaming community that benefits the industry. When gamers are considered and their feedback is valued, it helps developers create better experiences and avoids leaving a bad taste in anyone's mouth. If gamers rejoice and feedback isn't just from Yes-Men, everyone wins. Now, let's jump into the recap of The Game Awards 2024!

Stay tuned for more updates and exciting developments in the world of gaming. Until next time, game on!

Sophima

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