Technology
Metacritic Reveals the 10 Worst Rated Video Games of 2025
Metacritic has released its list of the 10 worst games of 2025, featuring titles with the lowest scores on the platform. The list includes games that received at least four professional reviews and were released between January 1st and December 31st, 2025. The worst-rated game on the list is MindsEye for the PS5, with a score of 28. Other notable games on the list include Fire Emblem Shadows for iOS with a score of 37, Blood of Mehran for PS5 with a score of 38, and Spy Drops for PC with a score of 39. The list also features several PS5 games, including Gore Doctor, Ambulance Life: A Paramedic Simulator, QUByte Classics: Glover, and Scar-Lead Salvation, all with scores ranging from 40 to 44. The Switch 2 edition of Tamagotchi Plaza and the PS5 version of Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition round out the list with scores of 43 and 45, respectively. Notably, no Xbox games appear on the list due to the platform's lower review frequency and Metacritic's filtering limitations. However, MindsEye also has a low rating of 33 on Xbox, potentially making it the worst-rated game on that platform as well.
Microsoft Issues DMCA Takedown for Halo 3 Mod in Counter-Strike 2
Project Misriah, a modding project that aimed to recreate the feel of Halo 3 inside Valve's Counter-Strike 2, has been taken down from the Steam Workshop. The project's creator, Froddoyo, introduced Project Misriah as a collection of Halo ported maps and assets that brought a Halo 3 multiplayer-like experience to Counter-Strike 2. However, the mod directly copied multiple sound effects, character models, maps, and movement mechanics from Bungie and Microsoft's popular series. Microsoft issued a Digital Millennium Copyright Act complaint, citing the "unauthorized use of Halo game content" in the mod. As a result, Froddoyo announced that the project would not be worked on or uploaded in the future. Despite the takedown, Froddoyo expressed gratitude to the players and supporters of the project and hinted that the knowledge and skills gained from the project would be used to create something new. This incident is not the first time Valve has honored copyright policing requests. Last year, the creators of Garry's Mod removed all Nintendo-related content after the company filed takedown requests. Microsoft has also taken action against fan projects that directly copy or emulate its games, while allowing transformative, non-commercial fan games that abide by its Game Content Usage Rules. The company's decision to protect its classic Halo content may be motivated by its ongoing sales of The Master Chief Collection and the Halo Anniversary series of remakes.
Designing the Lorwyn Block: A Look Back at Magic's Evolution
The design of the Lorwyn block was a complex process that involved creating a kinder tone than its predecessor, Shadowmoor. The team spent a lot of time trying to make Lorwyn feel less destructive, but ultimately decided to capture the tone more creatively and less mechanically. The block introduced several new mechanics, including champion, clash, evoke, and kindred cards. Champion allowed players to upgrade their creatures into bigger, better versions, while clash introduced small bursts of variance into the game. Evoke enabled players to play spells as creatures, and kindred cards allowed non-creature cards to have creature types. The Lorwyn block also introduced planeswalker cards, which were initially intended to premiere in Future Sight but were pushed back to Lorwyn. The block's design was influenced by the idea of building typal themes around mechanical functions rather than just Magic colors. The Shadowmoor mini-block, on the other hand, focused on hybrid mana and introduced mechanics like twobrid, -1/-1 counters, and persist. Despite some mistakes, the Lorwyn block was instrumental in shaping the future of Magic. It proved that large non-core sets could be successful outside of the fall and introduced the idea of building typal themes around mechanical functions. The block's design also showed that Magic could push further in tone, paving the way for future sets. The lessons learned from the Lorwyn block will be applied to the upcoming set, Lorwyn Eclipsed, which will revisit some of the original block's mechanics and themes.
Asus and Gigabyte Release Updated GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Models with Notable Changes
Asus and Gigabyte have launched new versions of their GeForce RTX 5060 Ti models. The updated Asus model, called the Dual GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Evo 16GB GDDR7, features a more compact design but also involves several downgrades, including a transition to a PCIe x8 connector from the original PCIe x16 connector. In contrast, Gigabyte's update appears to be solely an aesthetic modification, with the GeForce RTX 5060 Ti WindForce Max 16G adopting a PCIe x16 connector instead of the previous PCIe x8 connector. The change in PCIe connectors is notable, but it does not affect performance, as Nvidia has engineered these graphics cards to function optimally on a PCIe x8 interface. The primary rationale for the change is likely cost reduction, as a PCIe x16 connector is more expensive due to its larger size and additional data lanes. The Dual GeForce RTX 5060 Ti Evo 16GB GDDR7 also features a reduced design, from 2.5 slots to 2.1 slots, and is shorter by around 2%, making it more friendly to small-form-factor systems. However, this modification comes at the cost of some features, including dual-BIOS functionality and Asus GPU Guard. The GeForce RTX 5060 Ti WindForce Max 16G, on the other hand, is physically indistinguishable from the previous model, except for the positioning of the 8-pin PCIe power connector. Pricing and availability for the updated models remain undisclosed, but they are listed on the respective websites of Asus and Gigabyte.
Google to Shut Down Dark Web Report Tool in Early 2026
Google is discontinuing its "Dark Web Report" tool, a feature that monitored the dark web for users' email addresses. The tool, introduced in July 2024, will cease dark web scans on January 15, 2026, and will no longer be accessible on February 16, 2026. All data associated with the tool will be deleted on the latter date. According to Google, the decision to shut down the tool was made due to feedback indicating that it did not provide helpful next steps for users. Instead, the company will focus on developing tools that offer more clear and actionable steps to protect user information online. Google recommends that users utilize alternative tools, such as Security Checkup, passkeys, Authentication Tools, Password Manager, and Password Checkup, to enhance their account security. The company will continue to track and defend against online threats, including those on the dark web, and develop tools to protect user information. Users can also use existing features like Results about you to find and request the removal of personal information from Google Search results. Overall, Google aims to provide users with more effective and user-friendly tools to stay safe online.
LG Smart TV Update Installs Non-Removable Microsoft Copilot, Sparks User Backlash
LG's recent software update has installed Microsoft Copilot, an AI assistant, on smart TVs without giving users the option to remove it. This move has sparked widespread criticism over privacy concerns, bloatware, and loss of control. The update, which was rolled out automatically, has led to thousands of complaints on social media platforms, with users expressing frustration over the forced installation of the AI tool. Microsoft Copilot, originally designed for Windows and web browsers, uses generative AI to assist with tasks such as content summarization and query responses. However, its integration into LG TVs has raised concerns about data collection and monitoring of viewing habits. The controversy has highlighted the growing tension between smart device manufacturers and users, with many feeling that their privacy and autonomy are being compromised. LG has a history of integrating advertising and third-party services into its webOS platform, but the non-deletable nature of Copilot has marked a new level of imposition. The company's partnership with Microsoft is seen as a strategic move to expand AI reach into living rooms, but it has backfired, with many users threatening to switch to other brands. Regulatory bodies may take notice of the complaints, and there are calls for greater transparency and easier opt-outs. The incident has sparked a wider debate about the balance between innovation and user control in the smart device ecosystem.
Mirelo Raises $41M to Develop AI-Powered Soundtracks for Videos
Mirelo, a Berlin-based startup, has secured a $41 million seed round led by Index Ventures and Andreessen Horowitz. The company is developing AI technology that adds soundtracks to match the action in videos, addressing a significant limitation in current AI video creation tools. Mirelo's AI model, Mirelo SFX v1.5, interprets videos to add synced sound effects, and the startup plans to use the new funding to compete more effectively in its emerging category. The startup expects to double or triple its team of 10 people by the end of next year, with new hires supporting research and development, product, and go-to-market strategy. Mirelo has published its models on Fal.ai and Replicate and anticipates that API usage will drive most of its revenue in the short term. The company is also investing in building out its workspace for creators, Mirelo Studio, which could eventually support full professional use. Mirelo's founders, CJ Simon-Gabriel and Florian Wenzel, are both AI researchers and musicians, and the startup has AI music generation on its roadmap. However, the company is seeing more demand for sound effects, which could pay off in the long run. With a freemium model and a recommended plan for creators priced at €20/month, Mirelo is targeting amateurs and prosumers looking to add audio to their AI-generated videos.
UK Proposes Mandatory Nudity Blocking on iPhones Unless Users Verify Age
The UK government plans to "encourage" Apple and Google to integrate nudity-detection algorithms into their software by default. This move aims to tackle violence against women and girls by preventing the display of explicit images unless users can verify their age through biometric checks or official ID. The proposal initially targets mobile devices but may extend to desktops. Apple currently offers Communication Safety tools that detect nude photos and videos in certain apps, while Google provides parental controls through its Family Link feature. However, neither company offers system-wide nudity blocking that extends to third-party apps. The UK government explored making these controls mandatory for devices sold in the UK but has decided against that approach for now. The proposal is expected to face objections from privacy and civil liberties groups, as well as questions about its effectiveness. When the UK instituted age checks for porn websites earlier this year, users found ways to bypass restrictions using fake photos and VPN services. The official unveiling of the proposals is expected in the coming days. The move raises concerns about privacy, surveillance, and the potential for abuse of such systems. Critics argue that this is a step towards total surveillance and control, using the protection of children as a pretext. The UK government's actions may have significant implications for digital privacy and freedom, sparking debates about the balance between safety and individual rights.
Google Gemini Updates Local Search with Visual Overhaul
Google's Gemini has introduced a significant update to its local search feature, prioritizing visuals and context to help users find their next favorite spot. The update replaces long text replies with an instant visual overview, featuring maps, photos, and reviews. When searching for local places, users will now see a map first, followed by detailed cards with photos, star ratings, and review highlights. The generic red dots have been replaced with emoji-style pins that indicate the type of location, such as parks, restaurants, or coffee shops. This visual overhaul is currently rolling out to English users on both mobile and desktop versions of Gemini. The update aims to make it easier for users to find places that matter to them, whether they're planning a trip or searching for a quick spot. The Gemini team confirmed the update on X, and it has been spotted by Android Authority, along with a ChatGPT-inspired redesign to Gemini's tool menu. The update is a significant improvement to Gemini's Maps integration, making it feel like a true discovery tool. With these visual improvements, Google is betting that users want to see where things are before reading details. The update is now available in English on both mobile and desktop versions of Gemini.
Waze Begins Testing Traffic Light Support in Limited Capacity
Waze, the crowdsourced navigation app, has started testing support for traffic lights on its maps. The feature, highly requested by users for years, is currently being tested in Israel. Waze confirmed in May that traffic light support was a planned feature, and it appears the company is making progress. The implementation is limited, with Waze showing a maximum of three traffic lights at a time when navigating, to avoid cluttering the map. However, when not navigating, the app displays all nearby traffic lights, offering a broader view of intersections. The testing is still in its early stages, and there is no word on a wider rollout in Israel or other countries. As Google owns Waze, it is possible that the platform could leverage Google Maps' existing traffic light data, which has been available since 2022. Waze users will have to wait and see how the feature develops and when it will be available more widely. The addition of traffic light support would bring Waze more in line with Google Maps, which has offered the feature for some time. For now, Waze users in Israel can test the feature, while others will have to wait for further updates.
Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold Faces Criticism Over Design Choices and Pricing
The Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold, a new foldable phone, has been announced with a 6.5-inch cover screen and a 10-inch inner screen. Despite its promising features, the phone's design choices have been met with criticism. The author had expected a design similar to the Huawei Mate X, which allows for three screen configurations, but Samsung opted for a more traditional two-screen setup. Additionally, the phone's default layout when unfolded is not the DeX Mode, a feature that provides a more desktop-like experience, but instead a home screen with wasted space. The phone's pricing is also a concern, with pre-orders in South Korea starting at KRW 3,590,400, approximately $2,400. The author questions whether the phone's high price and limited features will make it a worthwhile purchase. The Galaxy Z TriFold is set to be released in more markets in 2026, but its global pricing has not been revealed. The phone's lack of S Pen support and potential for even higher prices due to the current DRAM shortage are also notable concerns.
Apple's iPhone 20 May Feature Four-Sided Bending Design and Bezel-Less Display
Apple's upcoming iPhone 20, set to be released in the third quarter of 2027, is rumored to feature a "four-sided bending design" and a fully bezel-less display. This design requires significant modifications to the production line, with LG reportedly investing nearly $300 million to accommodate the new design. The Korean manufacturer needs to make immense changes to its production line, including setting up around 10 new lines, to produce the unique displays. The iPhone 20's bezel-less display will differ from current industry standards, with all four corners sporting a bending shape. This requires bending the panel circuit in the bezel area and using a thinner Thin-Film Encapsulation (TFE) to prevent moisture buildup in the OLED area. Additionally, the front-facing camera, TrueDepth sensor, and other necessary components will need to be housed behind the display. LG's investment is a significant step towards achieving this innovative design, but it remains to be seen how Samsung, Apple's primary OLED supplier, will contribute to the production of these futuristic displays. With a rumor assessment of 50%, this information is considered plausible, but further confirmation is needed to solidify these claims. The iPhone 20 is expected to celebrate Apple's 20-year run since introducing its first model in 2007, and this new design could be a major milestone in the company's history.
Best Apple Deals of the Week: AirPods Pro 3 Hit Record Low Price
This week, Apple devices are seeing significant discounts, making it an ideal time for holiday shopping. The AirPods Pro 3 have reached a new record low price of $199.00 on Amazon, down from $249.00. This deal surpasses the Black Friday price by about $20. MacRumors readers can also enjoy an exclusive 25% off sitewide at Burton Goods with the code MR25. Burton Goods offers a range of leather accessories, including iPhone and iPad cases, MacBook sleeves, and Apple Watch bands. Samsung is hosting a holiday sale with discounts on TVs, monitors, storage accessories, and more. Notably, the 4TB Portable SSD T7 Shield is available for $349.99, which is $115 off. The Frame Pro is also on sale for $1,999.00, a $1,200 discount. Additionally, Amazon has record low prices on the Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch SE 3, with discounts of up to $100. The M5 iPad Pro lineup is also seeing significant discounts, with prices starting at $899.00 for the 256GB Wi-Fi 11-inch model. These deals match or beat the record low prices seen during Black Friday. For more discounts and deals, visitors can check the Apple Deals roundup or sign up for the Deals Newsletter to stay updated on the best holiday bargains.
Samsung Releases December 2025 Security Patch for Galaxy S23 Series
Samsung has rolled out a software update for the Galaxy S23 series in South Korea, bringing the December 2025 security patch. The update, carrying firmware version S918NKSS6EYL1, addresses a total of 57 security issues. Currently available in Korea, the update is expected to be released in other regions soon. To update, users can go to Settings > Software update > Download and install. The Galaxy S23 series is currently running on One UI 8.0, but Samsung may soon release One UI 8.5, which offers various visual changes and new features. The update aims to enhance the security of the devices, making them more secure for users. Samsung has already released the December 2025 security patch for the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy S24 series. The company may make the update available in its database for download in the coming days.
Amazon Introduces AI-Powered "Ask This Book" Feature for Kindle iOS App
Amazon has launched a new feature called "Ask This Book" for the Kindle iOS app, which uses AI to provide readers with answers about the books in their library. The feature allows users to highlight a passage and ask questions about the plot, characters, or other aspects of the book without leaving the page. Thousands of bestselling English-language books have been enabled for this feature, although Amazon did not disclose the exact number. The company plans to roll out the feature to physical Kindle devices and Android in 2026. The feature has raised concerns about copyright and licensing rights, as authors and publishers do not have the option to opt out. Amazon has not provided details on how the feature works or what protections are in place to prevent AI hallucinations or the use of text for AI training. In addition to "Ask This Book," Kindle is also introducing a "Recaps" feature, which provides a quick refresher on storylines and character arcs in Kindle books. This feature is already available on both Kindle devices and the Kindle app for iOS users in the US. To access "Ask This Book," users can highlight a passage and tap on one of the suggested questions or type their own question. The feature is designed to provide a consistent reading experience and help readers who may have lost track of the plot or characters. Overall, the "Ask This Book" feature has the potential to enhance the reading experience for Kindle users, but it also raises important questions about copyright and the use of AI in reading apps.
Grok AI Chatbot Malfunctions, Provides Inaccurate Information on Bondi Beach Shooting
The AI chatbot Grok has malfunctioned again, providing inaccurate or unrelated information in response to user requests about the Bondi Beach shooting in Australia. The incident, which occurred during a festival to mark the start of Hanukkah, left at least 16 dead. A viral video showed a 43-year-old bystander, Ahmed al Ahmed, wrestling a gun away from an attacker. However, Grok repeatedly misidentified the individual who stopped the gunman. In some cases, Grok responded to the same image with irrelevant details about allegations of targeted civilian shootings in Palestine. The chatbot also provided information about the Bondi Beach shooting in response to unrelated requests, or mixed it up with the shooting at Brown University in Rhode Island. Grok's developer, xAI, has not officially commented on the issue. This is not the first time Grok has malfunctioned, as it previously dubbed itself "MechaHitler" earlier this year. The incident has raised concerns about the reliability and accuracy of AI chatbots like Grok. The cause of the malfunction is currently unknown, and it is unclear when Grok will be functioning normally again.
Native Instruments Revives Cult-Classic Synth Absynth After 16 Years
Native Instruments has revived the cult-classic synth Absynth after 16 years, releasing version 6 in collaboration with the original designer Brian Clevinger. The new version features presets from renowned artists Brian Eno and Kaitlyn Aurelia Smith. Absynth 6 retains its core functionality as a robust semi-modular virtual instrument with multiple synthesis engines and extensive modulation options. It boasts a unique envelope system with up to 68 points, allowing for complex soundscapes. The modulation system is also incredibly powerful, making it ideal for ambient and scoring work. The new version supports up to eight-channel surround sound and introduces support for MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression), enabling more expressive options. Additionally, Absynth 6 features an AI-assisted preset explorer, although it has received mixed reviews. Users can quickly tweak presets using up to eight macro controls and a Mutate button that randomly generates new variations. Absynth 6 is available for $199 for new users, with a $99 upgrade option for existing Absynth 5 owners. With its unique features and collaborations with notable artists, Absynth 6 is set to regain its place as a top choice for music producers and sound designers.
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Patch 1.5.0 Introduces Challenging New Boss Battles
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has released its new patch, 1.5.0, which includes challenging boss battles for late-game players in the Endless Tower. The update introduces variations of iconic bosses from the main game, designed to be even more challenging. One of the new boss battles is a reimagining of Simon, one of the RPG's hardest bosses, which has been described as brutal and even more challenging than its vanilla appearance. Players have taken to social media to express their frustration and shock at the difficulty of the new boss battles, with some stating that they have never encountered anything as hard before. The update also includes a new playable environment called Verso's Drafts, localization efforts, and costumes. The previously revealed expansion to Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is available now, as announced at The Game Awards, and is a free update from the team as a way of saying thank you to celebrate an incredible year. The game's developer, Sandfall Interactive, has received congratulations from French President Emmanuel Macron for securing a record-breaking nine wins at The Game Awards. The update is part of the game's continued success, which includes winning Game of the Year. The new patch is available now for players to experience the challenging new boss battles and other updates.
Apple and Google Release Emergency Security Updates to Combat Zero-Day Attacks
Apple and Google have released emergency security updates to protect their users from a hacking campaign. Google released patches for several security bugs in its Chrome browser, including one that was being actively exploited by hackers before the patch was available. The bug was discovered by Apple's security engineering team and Google's Threat Analysis Group, which tracks government hackers and mercenary spyware makers. This suggests that the hacking campaign may have been orchestrated by government-backed hackers. At the same time, Apple released security updates for its flagship products, including iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. The updates patched two bugs, and Apple acknowledged that one of the issues may have been exploited in a sophisticated attack against specific targeted individuals running devices prior to iOS 26. This language is typically used by Apple to indicate that it knows some of its customers were targeted by hackers exploiting zero-day flaws. The hacking campaign is believed to have used zero-day exploits, which are flaws that are unknown to the software makers at the time of exploitation. These types of attacks are often used by government hackers to target journalists, dissidents, and human rights activists. Apple and Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the matter.
Windows Central's Top 10 Games of 2025
The year 2025 was a remarkable one for gaming, with numerous high-quality releases across various platforms. The team at Windows Central compiled a list of their favorite games, chosen based on votes and unscientific rankings. The top 10 games include a mix of AAA titles and indie hits, showcasing the diversity of the gaming landscape. Silent Hill F, a return to form for the franchise, kicks off the list at number 10, praised for its satisfying combat and atmospheric setting. Elden Ring: Nightreign, a co-op roguelike spinoff, follows at number 9, commended for its fast-paced Soulsborne combat. Hollow Knight: Silksong, a hardcore metroidvania, ranks 8th, lauded for its stunning environmental art and tight combat. The list continues with Arc Raiders at number 7, a multiplayer extraction shooter that evokes memories of DayZ. Battlefield 6, a return to grounded warfare, ranks 6th, offering an alternative to Call of Duty. Ball x Pit, a bullet hell roguelite, comes in at number 5, praised for its addictive gameplay. Hades 2, a roguelike experience, ranks 4th, featuring a new protagonist and improved gameplay mechanics. Blue Prince, a puzzle roguelite, ranks 3rd, commended for its clever puzzles and addictive nature. Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, a medieval open-world RPG, comes in at number 2, praised for its reactive systems and engaging storyline. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a JRPG with a unique French setting, takes the top spot as Game of the Year, lauded for its creative storytelling and strategic combat. Honorable mentions include Atomfall, Dying Light: The Beast, DUSK, The Alters, Keeper, Silent Hill 2, Dispatch, Cronos: The New Dawn, WH40K: Rogue Trader, Monster Hunter Stories 1 and 2, and Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound. These games, while not making the top 10, are still notable releases from 2025. The Windows Central team looks forward to 2026, anticipating high-profile games like Fable, Halo Campaign Evolved, and Grand Theft Auto 6.