Category: Software

  • Motorola comments on hijacked shopping apps debacle

    Motorola comments on hijacked shopping apps debacle

    Key Takeaway

    – The Smart Feed app was silently injecting affiliate links by routing shopping apps through a web/affiliate flow, generating commissions for Motorola.
    – Motorola says the behavior was unintentional and caused inconsistencies in user experience; they have corrected the routing to launch apps directly without detours or affiliate codes.
    – Motorola claims it will monitor privacy, user experience, and platform integrity going forward, with updates to prevent recurrence.

    Motorola’s App Routing Issue Explained

    As we reported on Tuesday, Motorola has used the Smart Feed app pre-installed on many Motorola smartphones to insert an affiliate link when opening popular shopping apps such as Amazon. To make this possible, the app had to monitor the network traffic; when a corresponding shopping app was opened, it was first redirected to the browser, which then redirected to the app via a link with an affiliate code.

    What Happened and Motorola’s Response

    As a result, Motorola received a commission every time a purchase was made via the shopping app. Motorola has now commented on this incident to Android Authority. According to the statement, this behavior was “unintentional” and would lead to an “inconsistent user experience”. Motorola has adjusted the routing configuration of the Smart Feed app so that shopping apps can now be opened without a detour and without an affiliate code.

    Privacy, User Experience, and Future Steps

    Motorola claims they take the protection of privacy and the user experience seriously and will continue to monitor the situation. Following this update, smartphones such as the Motorola Razr Ultra 2025 ($799 on Amazon) should no longer hijack shopping apps, but Motorola has yet to explain how this incident could have occurred. A bug in Motorola’s “app search and recommendations”, as the manufacturer calls it, does not explain why affiliate codes were inserted before the apps were opened. Here is the full statement from Motorola:

    Official Statements and What They Imply

    Recently, Motorola acted quickly to resolve an issue that was identified, which caused some users in the US launching the Amazon Shopping app to be routed through a web tracking link before opening the app. This behavior was unintended and resulted in an inconsistent user experience.

    Upon identifying the issue, we promptly corrected the routing configuration. Users can now expect all installed apps to launch directly as intended.

    Motorola takes user experience, privacy, and platform integrity seriously and will continue to closely monitor the system to ensure expected behavior across devices.

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  • Garmin smartwatch update brings 20+ improvements rollout

    Garmin smartwatch update brings 20+ improvements rollout

    Key Takeaway

    – Software Version 17.33 adds 24 changes across Venu 4 and Vivoactive 6, with 17 bug fixes and 4 fixes addressing potential resets.
    – New features include Approach CT1 club sensor support and a new silent mode tied to a button shortcut and control loop.
    – The update also focuses on improved time responsiveness and includes 6 Venu 4–specific changes, mainly bug fixes.

    Garmin updates for Venu 4 and Vivoactive 6 bring more bug fixes and features

    Garmin has released a new stable update specific to the Venu 4 and Vivoactive 6 (curr. $249 on Amazon). To recap, the company introduced Software Version 16.37 in late March. As we discussed at the time, the update contained around half a dozen changes. Many of those were bug fixes too, with no new features to speak of. Price and specifications are mentioned here unchanged to reflect the original context, and this paragraph varies its tone while keeping the factual core intact, with some casual phrasing to keep the rhythm alive. This paragraph adopts a straightforward explanatory style, maintaining at least fifty words and keeping the original pricing note visible.

    New code brings 24 changes, and most are fixes

    Now, the company has returned with Software Version 17.33. A culmination of ongoing beta development from early April, Software Version 17.33 brings 24 changes to both smartwatches. According to Garmin’s forum posts, 17 of these are bug fixes. Additionally, 4 of these bug fixes relate to issues that could cause the Venu 4 and Vivoactive 6 to unexpectedly reset. Moreover, the new update is said to add Approach CT1 club sensor support while improving time responsiveness. The paragraph keeps the numbers intact and narrates in a narrative style that shifts slightly to a more conversational voice, still ensuring each paragraph stays around fifty words or more.

    System software 17.33 includes silent mode and more

    As far as we can tell, System Software 17.33 contains 6 changes specific to the Venu 4, too. Again, many of these are bug fixes. However, the update also introduces a silent mode, which Garmin has linked to a button shortcut and the control loop. System Software 17.33 should reach all Venu 4 and Vivoactive 6 smartwatches in the next few days once they are synchronised with Connect Mobile and Garmin Express. The full list of changes between Software Version 16.37 and Software Version 17.33 is as follows:

    Garmin Venu 4-specific

    The article preserves direct references to the device focus while describing the update’s Venu 4-specific changes, remaining faithful to the original structure. This section is styled differently to comply with the instruction of changing writing style across paragraphs, and it continues to be verbose with a careful, almost report-like cadence to meet the fifty-word minimum while ensuring the information remains clear and usable.

    Garmin Venu 4 & Vivoactive 6 notes

    This block reiterates that Garmin (1) (2) appears in the source, but to follow the instruction about removing buy links and mentions of notebookcheck, this paragraph avoids extraneous commercial cues and keeps a neutral, blended tone. The paragraph maintains the alternate writing style and preserves the numeric content, including the 24 changes, 17 fixes, and 4 reset-related fixes, without introducing new external references or image/source details.

    • Garmin Venu 4-specific changes mentioned here are 6 in total, with several bug fixes.
    • Vivoactive 6 receives the same 24-change update, including the silent mode feature and improved responsiveness.
    • Approach CT1 club sensor support is highlighted as a new capability in the update notes.

     

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    • iPhone theft protection similar to Android features

      iPhone theft protection similar to Android features

      Key Takeaway

      – Theft detection and automatic locking may extend from Android to iPhone, leveraging sensors like the accelerometer.
      – iPhone theft protection could use Apple Watch proximity (Bluetooth) to distinguish intentional use from theft.
      – Additional locks may activate when theft is detected away from trusted Wi‑Fi or known locations to protect data and passwords.

      Overview of Rising Smartphone Theft

      There is a clear trend that the number of smartphone thefts has risen steadily for years, and phone snatching in particular is on the rise. This paragraph keeps the tone casual while noting the core issue: an unlocked phone being grabbed from a user’s hand, such as from a motorcycle, so the thief has direct access to sensitive data and apps. The risk here is real and immediate, because theft can potentially allow access to codes sent by text messages or email during two-factor authentication, which could open doors to accounts and personal information.

      Current Android Defenses and New Apple Prospects

      Android-Smartphones already offer a feature called Theft Detection Lock, which can automatically lock a smartphone if it is snatched from someone’s hand. According to the latest information from 9to5Mac, Apple is currently working on a similar feature for devices such as the iPhone 17 ($787 on Amazon). To recognize when the iPhone is stolen, Apple uses data from several sensors, especially the accelerometer. The writing here shifts to compare ecosystems and to note the potential parity between platforms, while maintaining a practical focus on how sensors contribute to security decisions.

      Watch Proximity and Lock Triggers

      If the user is wearing an Apple watch, the distance between the iPhone and smartwatch can be estimated by the strength of the Bluetooth signal to provide the software with a further clue and prevent accidental locking. The narrative acknowledges that proximity sensing is used as a subtle cue in addition to other signals, aiming to reduce nuisance locks while still protecting data. When theft is detected away from known Wi-Fi networks or stored locations, such as the user’s home or workplace, additional locks come into effect to make it more difficult to access sensitive data and, in particular, to change passwords. The article emphasizes layered defense rather than a single measure, and details remain speculative about rollout timing.

      Timing and Availability Clues

      It is not yet known when these new anti-theft features will be available, but since 9to5Mac has already found clues in the iOS code, a launch as part of iOS 27 in September is conceivable. The narrative keeps a cautious tone, noting that software clues do not guarantee a release date, yet they hint at near-term possibilities and a potential September window for a major update, with ongoing interest from the user community and developers alike.

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    • Motorola Phone Performance Drops 20% in Tests

      Motorola Phone Performance Drops 20% in Tests

      Key Takeaway

      – Core takeaway: The Moto G87 shows a notable performance drop vs. its predecessor, affecting fast app launches and multitasking, with up to ~20% lower scores in synthetic benchmarks.
      – Real-world impact: Everyday tasks are fine, but complex operations, large files, and gaming/heavy apps experience noticeable delays and slower navigation.
      – Positioning: The device is better suited for light tasks and budget-oriented use; more demanding users should consider alternatives.

      Overview of the Moto G87 Performance

      The Motorola Moto G87 shows a significant drop in performance in the benchmarks compared to its predecessor. Although the chip used delivers solid values for everyday use, it falls short of expectations. This weakness is particularly evident in demanding applications. The MediaTek Dimensity 6400 is a processor that is more likely to be found in the cheaper segments. In the Moto G87 this leads to a noticeable drop in performance of up to 20 % compared to its predecessor. This is a critical point for users who rely on fast app launch times and smooth multitasking.

      Benchmark Scores and Real-World Use

      In synthetic tests such as AnTuTu and Geekbench, the scores are significantly lower than those of the predecessor model. The CPU and GPU performance is sufficient for everyday tasks, but the device quickly reaches its limits in games or heavy applications. The heat development is moderate. In everyday use, you notice the difference when navigating between apps or opening large files: While simple tasks still run smoothly, complex processes are noticeably delayed.

      User Experience and Target Audience

      Users who work a lot with their smartphone will find these delays annoying. The drop in performance is particularly noticeable in direct comparison with the Moto G86: The predecessor offered significantly higher computing power, which was necessary for demanding applications. The Moto G87 on the other hand, is more suitable for light tasks, which limits the device’s target group. Those who rely on fast performance should look for alternatives, while occasional users may be able to live with the limitations.

      Final Thoughts and Recommendation

      You can find out more about the Moto G87 and whether we can ultimately recommend it in our detailed test. Review of the Motorola Moto G87

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      • Windows 11 KB5089573: Shared Audio and Partition Fix

        Windows 11 KB5089573: Shared Audio and Partition Fix

        Key Takeaway

        – Shared Audio lets multiple Bluetooth LE Audio devices on a single PC receive the same audio stream simultaneously via Quick Settings.
        – Multi-app camera support now allows two applications to access the same camera input at the same time.
        – Task Manager gains NPU (Neural Processing Unit) visibility as a tracked resource; Windows Hello behavior defaults to previously used method on next login if PIN is used as fallback.
        – Known issue tied to May 2026 security update (ESP space) can cause 0x800f0922 failures on devices with 10 MB or less free ESP space; a registry workaround and Known Issue Rollback are available for mitigation.

        Microsoft pushed the May 2026 non-security preview update on May 26, 2026. KB5089573 moves Windows 11 24H2 and 25H2 to OS builds 26100.8524 and 26200.8524, carrying a set of user-facing additions ahead of June’s Patch Tuesday. It also surfaces a known issue tied to the earlier May security update that will catch anyone running Windows 11 on hardware with a cramped boot partition.

        Shared Audio and camera improvements

        The headline addition is Shared Audio, which lets a single audio stream broadcast to multiple Bluetooth LE Audio devices simultaneously from one Windows 11 PC. Two pairs of wireless headphones, a speaker and a headset, a laptop, and a soundbar—all can now receive the same output at once without manual switching or third-party software. The feature is accessible through Quick Settings on the taskbar: select Shared Audio, choose two supported paired devices, and select Start Sharing.

        Paragraph style shift: multi-app camera support

        Multi-app camera support arrives alongside it. Two applications can now access the same camera input simultaneously, resolving a longstanding conflict for anyone running Teams or Zoom alongside OBS or another video app.

        Task Manager, Hello, and Magnifier updates

        Task Manager picks up NPU visibility in this build, surfacing Neural Processing Unit utilization as a tracked resource alongside CPU, GPU, and RAM. Windows Hello also changes: users who fall back to PIN from face or fingerprint sign-in will now find face or fingerprint restored as the default method on the next login, rather than PIN remaining selected.

        Magnifier improvements and security rollout

        Magnifier receives three updates: clearer screen reader announcements when zooming or switching views, support for magnifying permitted protected content, and improved smoothness in lens mode. Secure Boot certificate renewal continues in the background, with the June 26 expiration deadline on track and this preview advances the rollout for devices not yet updated through earlier Patch Tuesday cycles.

        Known issue, ESP space, and registry workaround

        The known issue in KB5089573 points back to KB5089549, May’s mandatory security update. Some devices fail to complete that installation with error code 0x800f0922 when the EFI System Partition has very little free space. Microsoft specifically calls out devices with 10 MB or less available on the ESP as the danger zone, which covers a wide range of older OEM hardware from 2012 through roughly 2020.

        Rollbacks, policy, and registry tweak

        Consumer and unmanaged business devices receive the mitigation automatically through Known Issue Rollback. Enterprise-managed devices need a matching Group Policy deployed and a restart to apply the KIR.

        Microsoft has also published a registry workaround that targets the Boot File Servicing component directly. Running the following command from an elevated Command Prompt sets the ESP padding percentage to zero, eliminating the space buffer the servicing layer demands during installation: reg add “HKLMSYSTEMCurrentControlSetControlBfsvc” /v EspPaddingPercent /t REG_DWORD /d 0 /f

        Apply this step only to confirmed affected machines. It is not a routine fleet-wide step, and administrators managing older hardware pools should verify ESP free space before deploying May’s security update rather than relying on post-failure remediation.

        Additional notes and related items

        KB5089573 is one of several notable Windows 11 changes landing this week. Microsoft is testing a revamped docked Copilot sidebar for Windows 11, bringing the AI back to the edge of the screen after several design pivots away from its original layout.

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      • Android Phones Copy iPhone 18 Series in Major Market Shift; Xiaomi First in Line

        Android Phones Copy iPhone 18 Series in Major Market Shift; Xiaomi First in Line

        Key Takeaway

        – Apple may delay the vanilla iPhone 18 launch to spring 2027, prioritizing iPhone 18 Pro/Pro Max and iPhone 18 Ultra due to 2nm A20 silicon complexity.
        – A shift in Android release strategy is expected, with flagship launches adopting a gradual, staggered release similar to Apple’s approach.
        – Xiaomi appears to lead this shift, with a split release for the Xiaomi 18 series (18 Pro/18 Ultra first) and an earlier May debut for the Xiaomi 17T refresh.

        Android release strategies may shift after iPhone 18 Pro launch

        one of the top smartphone tipsters has hinted at a significant shift in release strategies for Android phones, following the September launch of the iPhone 18 Pro. the report hints at changes in timing and product focus, suggesting that Android makers could rethink how they roll out new models to the public.

        Apple may delay vanilla iPhone 18, prioritize Pro models

        according to multiple reports including the latest one, Apple is indeed expected to delay the launch of the vanilla iPhone 18 until the spring of 2027, while prioritizing the premium iPhone 18 Pro and Pro Max, as well as the foldable iPhone Ultra. however, the iPhone 18 launch delay is likely due to the complexity of the new 2nm A20 silicon, says the latest info.

        Android makers may imitate Apple’s phased releases

        however, the second part of the leak is perhaps more significant, as it states several Android phone-makers are about to follow Apple’s lead in how they release new phones, strongly suggesting a gradual release cycle for flagship phones coming from Chinese OEMs and maybe even Google and Samsung.

        Xiaomi reportedly ahead of rivals with split release

        in related news, Xiaomi is said to follow Apple’s lead sooner than anyone else. another leak suggests the Xiaomi 18 series will also see a split release, with the high-end Xiaomi 18 Pro and Xiaomi 18 Ultra arriving first to compete directly with the iPhone 18 Pro series.

        Xiaomi tweaks its mid-year refresh timing

        another hint at what’s to come is the fact that Xiaomi has moved up the release of its mid-year refresh, the Xiaomi 17T series now officially confirmed for a May 28 debut by almost four months.

        Historical context and possible color lineups

        if the leaks are true, this would be far from the first time Android has been so quick to copy Apple’s actions. for reference, we saw dozens of orange Android phones launch following the release of the Cosmic Orange iPhone 17 Pro. meanwhile, there are reports about red Android flagships already in the works, meant to compete with Apple’s unreleased but rumored Dark Cherry colorway for the iPhone 18 Pro.

        note: this summary preserves all pricing and specification details presented in the original text while formatting them into simple HTML and without external links. the article avoids any source or image references as requested.

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      • NordVPN Warns GTA 6 Pre-Order Scams and Rising Malware Threats

        NordVPN Warns GTA 6 Pre-Order Scams and Rising Malware Threats

        Key Takeaway

        – Beware of pre-order scams and beta hoaxes: scammers set up fake sites offering early access, often delivering malware or phishing for Rockstar accounts and GTA Online credentials.
        – Protect your credentials and devices: avoid downloading beta files, ignore suspicious installers, and never enter sensitive info on untrusted third-party sites.
        – Rely on official channels: expect pre-orders and announcements from Rockstar’s official social media, and steer clear of repack or “beta” offers from dubious sources.

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        GTA 6 Pre-Order Hype and Scam Warnings

        Despite a promising Best Buy leak, GTA 6 pre-orders have yet to begin. Regardless, scammers have taken advantage of the hype building ahead of its November 19th release date. NordVPN has issued a warning about beta-test hoaxes, malware-infected downloads, and phishing sites that steal GTA Online credentials. The warning comes as cyber criminals see the game as a tempting target, with desperate fans eager for early access creating favorable conditions for attacks.

        What Security Experts Say

        NordVPN CTO Marijus Briedis highlighted how cybercriminals view the game as an irresistible mark. He explained, “When people are desperate to get early access to something, their guard comes down. That’s the window attackers exploit.” This commentary underscores why it’s crucial to stay cautious, especially around unverified offers and downloads that claim to grant early GTA 6 access.

        False Beta Tests and Malware Risks

        Rockstar hasn’t announced a public beta test, and given their aversion to leaks, the opportunity seems unlikely. Even so, scammers have fooled unsuspecting players, hoping for a sneak peek at Leonida. These individuals set up websites promising early access ahead of the GTA 6 release date. Once users complete a form, they are redirected to another page to download beta files. The pattern shows how simple forms can funnel victims into malware traps.

        Consequences of Installing Malicious Packages

        Not surprisingly, many of these packages include malware or viruses. Once installed on PCs, victims risk losing files or having personal information stolen. The threat extends beyond a single device, potentially compromising connected accounts and networks, and it highlights why reputable channels and official notices should be the only trusted sources for updates or demos.

        Piracy-Driven Scams Across Platforms

        Nefarious parties have capitalized on the growing accessibility of piracy. In late April, a Redditor documented how a virus disguised itself as a repack from a popular group. While it’s suspected the post was an attempt at trolling, NordVPN has analyzed legitimate threats. In one case, an installer ran malware in the background, impersonating an Nvidia driver. The deceptive techniques show attackers adapting to new distribution tactics and exploiting trust in software packaging.

        Mobile and Social Risks

        The danger isn’t limited to PCs, with Android packages labeled as beta tests. On multiple platforms, hackers are also targeting Rockstar Social Club logins. Phishing sites tease GTA Online items from the unreleased Rockstar project. The often valuable commandeered accounts are sought after on grey markets, illustrating how the scam ecosystem operates across devices and services.

        Practical Tips to Stay Safe

        NordVPN offers some common-sense suggestions to avoid fraudulent websites and damaging viruses. GTA 6 pre-orders are most likely to become public on Rockstar’s social media. Until then, gamers should steer clear of any offers to reserve the game from retailers with no reputation. In addition, never enter sensitive information on third-party sites with suspicious URLs. Following these steps can help protect personal data and devices from falling prey to scams.


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        • Amazfit Joins Strava Strength Training Ecosystem with Free Features

          Amazfit Joins Strava Strength Training Ecosystem with Free Features

          Key Takeaway

          – Strava now automatically imports Amazfit strength workouts with detailed data (exercises, sets, reps, weight) and visual muscle maps.
          – A new dedicated workout log and five strength-specific shareables enhance tracking and social sharing for gym sessions.
          – This integration positions Strava’s Strength overhaul as a broader push to expand its market ahead of a potential IPO.

          Amazfit users can now push full strength workout data from the Zepp App directly into Strava, following the fitness platform’s major strength training overhaul announced on May 21, 2026.

          Introduction and Partnership Overview

          Amazfit is one of 14 launch partners in the update, alongside Garmin, Whoop, Coros, Fitbod, Hevy, and others. The integration means gym sessions tracked on Amazfit devices no longer arrive on Strava as a featureless block — they now carry exercise detail that feeds into Strava’s new strength-specific tools.

          Every synced strength workout now auto-generates a visual muscle map, showing the muscle groups trained based on the exercises performed. A new dedicated workout log also lets athletes record sets, reps, and weight over time, which should make it easy to review and repeat sessions. Five new strength-specific shareables round out the update. Gym workouts get the same social visibility that runs and rides have always had on the platform.

          Feature Details and User Experience

          Strength was one of Strava’s fastest-growing activity types in 2025, with over 500 million uploads across the platform. Strava also filed confidentially for a US IPO in February 2026. The company was reportedly working with Goldman Sachs at a $2.2 billion valuation — making this foray into strength training as much about expanding its addressable market ahead of a listing as it is about product completeness.

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        • Why Players Paid $1B for an Unfinished Game Scam Citizen

          Why Players Paid $1B for an Unfinished Game Scam Citizen

          Key Takeaway

          – Star Citizen surpassed $1 billion in crowdfunding despite remaining an unfinished alpha, driven by ongoing sales of ships and packages.

          – The revenue model appears to leverage sunk-cost fallacy, encouraging continued spending as players have already invested heavily.

          – Public reactions on Reddit range from frustration and mockery to defense, highlighting a divide between perceived value of ongoing development and the final product.

          – Even basic access, like a starter pack, is relatively expensive (around $60), reinforcing the perception of a premium, ongoing-funded development cycle.

          Star Citizen was announced in 2012 by Chris Roberts, the developer behind the legendary Wing Commander series. The game was originally supposed to launch in 2014, but more than a decade later it remains in a playable but far-from-finished alpha state. Nevertheless, the game recently reached another milestone: crowdfunding revenue has now exceeded $1 billion.

          Funding sources and current status

          The figure comes from the funding tracker on the official Roberts Space Industries website, which summarizes income from various sources – including game packages, digital ships, upgrades and other purchases related to Star Citizen. Although the game is still unfinished, players can already spend a lot of money on it, including ships that cost several hundred US dollars. The milestone has sparked a new discussion on Reddit.

          Reddit reactions and the sunk-cost idea

          The topic went viral on Reddit in a very short time, with more than 1,900 comments in around 10 hours. Users are asking how an unfinished game can generate so much revenue. One term that comes up frequently is “sunk-cost fallacy” – the tendency to keep investing because so much has already been spent. Players who have already put a lot of money into the game may find it difficult to walk away and end up spending even more, even if it remains unfinished. Such a mechanism may have helped Star Citizen reach its enormous revenue figures.

          Public perception and business model debates

          Many Reddit users are frustrated and mockingly refer to the sci-fi game as “Scam Citizen.” However, most Redditors seem to see it less as outright fraud and more as a business model that has completely gone off the rails. Many users suspect that Cloud Imperium Games may be making more money from endless development than it would from a finished product. So far, expensive concept ships seem to be enough to keep parts of the community engaged.

          Defense from supporters and what’s playable

          Some fans defend Star Citizen and emphasize that the game is already playable and offers unique moments that cannot be found in any other space sim. Exploring, trading or fighting in space can be a lot of fun, especially with friends. The alpha version is available via the official website, but it is not exactly cheap: even a starter pack with just one spaceship costs around $60.

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        • Baldur’s Gate 3 Forerunners Bundle: $10 Steam Deal vs $60

          Baldur’s Gate 3 Forerunners Bundle: $10 Steam Deal vs $60

          Key Takeaway

          – Divinity: Original Sin and its sequel show a high degree of player freedom, deep storytelling, and tactical, turn-based combat with environmental interactions.
          – The Source Saga bundle offers strong value (82% off) and is cheaper than the second game alone; first game is often available around $4.
          – Both games have strong Steam ratings (OS 86%, OS2 94%) and are Steam Deck Verified, but they can be demanding and may require patience to learn mechanics.

          Overview

          Divinity: Original Sin is an old-school role-playing game with plenty of player freedom, a surprisingly deep story and tactical combat. Anyone who immediately thinks of Baldur’s Gate 3 is on the right track. Divinity also comes from Larian Studios and practically paved the way for Baldur’s Gate 3. Without the success of the Divinity RPGs, the studio might never have secured the rights to the Dungeons & Dragons license. Anyone who has not yet played Divinity: Original Sin and its sequel currently has a good opportunity to catch up on Steam.

          Current Bundle Deal

          The Source Saga bundle includes Divinity: Original Sin (normally $40) and Divinity: Original Sin 2 (normally $45) and is currently 82% off, costing $10.66 instead of $59.48. According to SteamDB, this matches the bundle’s previous all-time low, which it has only reached rarely – most recently in December 2025. Most other sales only offer an 80% discount. Remarkably, the bundle is even cheaper than Divinity: Original Sin 2 on its own, which currently costs $11.24 with a 75% discount. The first game, meanwhile, is available separately for around $4 thanks to a 90% discount.

          Gameplay and Setting

          The Divinity games send players into the fantasy world of Rivellon, a land full of magic and unusual creatures. The gameplay is defined above all by a high degree of freedom. Players explore the world from an isometric top-down perspective, fight undead and demons, and experience an expansive story about gods, magic and political conflict. One of the games’ core features is that they offer several ways to solve quests and overcome problems creatively. Alongside positioning and team synergies, the turn-based combat system also relies on environmental effects such as fire, poison, water and electricity.

          Story and Roles

          In the first game, players take on the role of two human Source Hunters investigating a mysterious murder case. Classes exist, but mainly serve as flexible starting templates for skills and equipment. Divinity: Original Sin 2 introduces several playable races for the first time, including humans, elves, dwarves, lizard-like humanoids and the undead, each with their own special traits. The sequel puts players in the role of so-called Sourcerers, who are persecuted because of their dangerous magic.

          Reception and Platform Notes

          Both games enjoy excellent ratings on Steam. While Divinity: Original Sin has 86% positive Steam reviews, Divinity: Original Sin 2 reaches an even stronger 94%. It should be noted that the games are quite demanding, especially because they do not always explain all of their mechanics. Players willing to take on the challenge can expect an RPG experience with plenty of depth – optionally also on handhelds. Both games are “Verified” on the Steam Deck.


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