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Essential Must Install APPS for New Gaming Computers
Whether you’ve just finished building your dream gaming rig or unboxed a powerful prebuilt system, installing the right software is key to getting the most out of your hardware. From monitoring temps to managing drivers and customizing lighting, these essential apps will help you optimize performance, clean up clutter, and take full control of your new gaming computer.
1. HWiNFO64 — Real-time hardware monitoring and diagnostics
HWiNFO64 is a professional-grade system information and monitoring tool used to inspect every detail of your PC hardware. When launched, it scans your system and presents a comprehensive report of every connected component—your CPU, GPU, motherboard, RAM, storage drives, sensors, BIOS version, fan speeds, voltage readings, and much more. It gives not just names and specs, but highly granular values such as CPU core temperatures, per-core usage percentages, memory timings, and disk throughput.
This tool is widely used by enthusiasts and professionals alike because of its unmatched detail and accuracy. It supports sensor monitoring in real-time, which means you can leave it running in the background during gameplay or stress tests to observe how your system responds under load. You can also set up alerts if certain components exceed thermal or voltage limits, helping prevent hardware damage.
HWiNFO64 also integrates with other programs, such as RivaTuner Statistics Server (RTSS) or Rainmeter, to feed sensor data into on-screen overlays or widgets. This makes it an excellent tool for identifying thermal throttling, diagnosing overheating issues, or simply optimizing your cooling setup. If you want to fully understand what’s going on inside your PC, this is the tool to start with.
2. Revo Uninstaller — Deep software removal
Revo Uninstaller is a utility designed to uninstall programs from your PC completely—removing not just the program’s core files, but also the leftovers that normal uninstallers often miss. When you uninstall a program via Windows' built-in system, it often leaves behind registry entries, user files, and folders buried in hidden directories. These remnants can accumulate over time and clutter your system.
Revo solves this problem by using a two-step process. First, it runs the program’s standard uninstaller. Then, it performs an advanced scan for leftover files, folders, registry keys, and other associated data. It allows you to review and delete these leftovers manually or automatically. The end result is a much cleaner and more complete uninstall process.
It also offers a “Forced Uninstall” feature for removing programs that won’t uninstall properly or are already partially deleted. Another unique feature is "Hunter Mode," where you drag a crosshair onto a running program's window or desktop icon and it identifies and offers to remove it.
Revo is ideal for cleaning up broken software, removing bloatware from prebuilt systems, or ensuring a program is fully gone before reinstalling a fresh copy.
3. MSI Afterburner — GPU overclocking and fan control
MSI Afterburner is the most popular GPU tweaking software in the world, and it works with both NVIDIA and AMD graphics cards—not just MSI-branded ones. It’s primarily used for overclocking, which means increasing your GPU’s performance by adjusting core clocks, memory speeds, and voltages.
The interface allows you to raise your GPU's core and memory clocks in small increments and test stability while observing real-time changes in performance, power draw, and temperature. If done safely, overclocking can result in noticeable performance gains in games and rendering workloads.
Beyond overclocking, Afterburner also lets you customize GPU fan curves. This is critical if your GPU runs too hot under default settings or if you prefer quieter operation when idle. By creating a custom fan profile, you can make your fans ramp up only when needed or become aggressive when high temps are detected.
Afterburner also includes real-time monitoring and logging for GPU and CPU temperatures, usage percentages, framerates, and more. These metrics can be displayed on-screen while gaming using RTSS (discussed below). The program also includes a built-in benchmarking utility and even basic screen/video capture functionality.
4. RivaTuner Statistics Server (RTSS) — On-screen display and frame limiting
RTSS is a powerful companion app, often used in tandem with MSI Afterburner or HWiNFO. Its main function is to display real-time performance metrics as an on-screen display (OSD) while you’re playing games or running applications. This overlay can show framerates, GPU and CPU temps, frametimes, VRAM usage, fan speeds, and more—highly customizable in terms of color, position, and formatting.
In addition to its monitoring overlay, RTSS includes a framerate limiter. Capping your FPS can be useful for reducing GPU usage, power consumption, or heat in scenarios where max performance isn’t needed (such as older games or when using VSync). This can also reduce screen tearing or stuttering in some cases.
Advanced users can make use of Scanline Sync, a feature that offers tear-free frame synchronization without the input lag of VSync, though it requires careful tuning.
RTSS runs silently in the background and uses minimal system resources. If you’ve ever seen a streamer or YouTuber with an FPS/temp overlay on the top corner of their game, they’re probably using RTSS in combination with Afterburner or HWiNFO.
5. Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) — GPU driver cleanup tool
Display Driver Uninstaller, better known as DDU, is a specialized utility for completely removing graphics drivers from your system. This includes drivers from NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel, as well as associated files, registry entries, cached settings, and services. Unlike standard uninstalls that leave fragments behind, DDU ensures a truly clean slate.
This tool is critical when switching between GPU brands (e.g., from AMD to NVIDIA), performing a clean reinstall after a corrupted driver update, or troubleshooting GPU-related issues such as driver crashes, black screens, or failed updates. DDU can also help fix problems with games not launching or running properly after a GPU driver update.
DDU is best used in Windows Safe Mode, which the tool itself can help you boot into. This minimizes background interference during driver removal. After cleaning, DDU will prevent Windows from auto-installing drivers until you manually install your preferred version—ensuring you stay in control of what’s installed.
Important warning: DDU should be used responsibly. It’s a powerful tool and not meant for routine driver updates. Use it only when necessary.
6. OpenRGB — Cross-brand RGB lighting control
OpenRGB is an open-source RGB lighting controller that aims to replace all the proprietary, bloated, and often buggy software that comes with RGB-enabled hardware. Normally, RGB devices like your RAM, motherboard, GPU, fans, or peripherals all require different brand-specific apps—Aura Sync for ASUS, Mystic Light for MSI, iCUE for Corsair, etc. These apps often run in the background, consume resources, and can conflict with each other.
OpenRGB solves this by acting as a unified interface for most RGB-capable devices, regardless of brand. It lets you control lighting effects, colors, brightness, and patterns across supported components in one place—without needing to install or run any of the official tools from motherboard or peripheral vendors.
You can group multiple devices together for synchronized lighting, save and switch between profiles, or even script lighting behavior. For example, you could configure RGB to change based on CPU or GPU temperature.
It's also telemetry-free and doesn’t require background services, which appeals to privacy-conscious users or those who want a leaner system. That said, compatibility can vary depending on your hardware, and updates to BIOS or firmware may sometimes break support temporarily.
7. PredatorSense — Acer’s all-in-one control hub for performance, cooling, and RGB
PredatorSense is Acer’s all-in-one control hub designed specifically for its Predator and select Nitro gaming laptops and desktops. It gives users direct access to key performance and customization settings, including real-time monitoring of CPU and GPU temperatures, fan speeds, system usage, and overclocking options on supported models. With just a few clicks, you can adjust fan profiles for better cooling, apply safe GPU overclocks for extra performance, or activate pre-set modes tailored for gaming or quiet operation.
Beyond performance tuning, PredatorSense also handles system lighting customization. On RGB-enabled models, users can personalize keyboard backlighting by color, brightness, and effect—either per zone or per key depending on the device. The software also allows game-specific profiles, letting you assign unique fan, lighting, and performance settings to launch automatically with each title. For Acer users, PredatorSense strikes a balance between powerful hardware control and ease of use, without needing to rely on third-party apps.
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Best Animal Games to Play in 2025
Looking for the best animal games in 2025? Whether you're into games where you play as an animal, or you're simply curious about the growing popularity of animals and games, this year's lineup offers something for everyone. From photorealistic wildlife simulators to heartwarming games about dogs and cats, developers are leaning into the charm and personality of our furry (or feathery) friends. If you've been searching for standout video games about dogs or quirky games about cats, you're in the right place—we’ve rounded up the top titles that let you step into paws, claws, or even hooves.
1. Stray
One of the standout games where you play as an animal is Stray (2022), developed by BlueTwelve Studio. This beautifully crafted adventure puts you in the paws of a regular housecat exploring a neon-lit cyberpunk city inhabited by sentient robots. You’re not a magical or mutated creature—just a lost cat trying to find your way home. The game blends light puzzle-solving, exploration, and item collection with charming feline behaviors like meowing, scratching, and knocking things off ledges. Stray turns those small moments into something meaningful, making it one of the most memorable games about cats in recent years. The story is short but impactful, with a unique setting and a surprisingly emotional tone that sets it apart in the world of animal games.
2. Untitled Goose Game
For those who prefer their animal games with a dose of chaos and comedy, Untitled Goose Game (2019), developed by House House, is a must-play. In this offbeat stealth-puzzle title, you play as a honking, wing-flapping menace of a goose terrorizing a quiet English village. The concept is simple: you are a regular goose with a not-so-regular to-do list of mischief. From stealing keys to dropping rakes in lakes, every task is designed to let you cause as much playful mayhem as possible. It is not only one of the funniest games where you play as an animal, but also a clever take on open-ended gameplay that rewards creativity and timing. If you are looking for lighthearted video games about animals, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
3. Maneater
If you’ve ever wanted to play as the ocean’s most infamous predator, Maneater (2020), developed by Tripwire Interactive, delivers exactly that. In this over-the-top animal game, you take control of a bull shark as it grows from a pup to a megashark, devouring everything from fish to unsuspecting beachgoers. The game is equal parts satire and chaos, with a ridiculous upgrade system that lets you mutate your shark with bio-electric powers and bone armor. While the combat and objectives can get repetitive, the open-world setting is filled with quirky landmarks, underwater secrets, and absurd moments that keep things fun. It’s not your typical video game about animals, but for players looking for something wild, weird, and a little bit bloody, Maneater is a toothy thrill.
4. Goat Simulator 3
Goat Simulator 3 (2022), developed by Coffee Stain North, takes absurdity to new heights as one of the most chaotic animal games ever made. You play as a goat turned agent of destruction, let loose in a sprawling open world filled with strange secrets, bizarre missions, and unpredictable physics. From launching yourself into traffic to dragging civilians into voting booths with your tongue, the game constantly throws ridiculous scenarios at you. It also features four-player co-op, allowing friends to wreak havoc together or sabotage one another in equal measure. With tons of pop culture references, outrageous cosmetics like rocket backpacks and shark skins, and no real consequences for failure, Goat Simulator 3 is a loud, dumb, and genuinely fun entry in the world of games where you play as an animal.
5. Lost Ember
Lost Ember (2019), developed by Mooneye Studios, is one of the most tranquil and emotionally resonant games where you play as an animal. You begin as a wolf, guided by a spirit through the remnants of a lost civilization, uncovering your past life through quiet exploration and reflection. The standout feature is the ability to possess other animals, each with their own unique movement and perspective. Whether you’re soaring as a parrot, diving as a fish, or rolling around as a wombat, each transformation brings a new layer of interaction with the world. With no combat, no real danger, and a story that unfolds with a gentle emotional touch, Lost Ember offers a peaceful, almost meditative experience that celebrates nature and self-discovery.
6. Phogs!
Phogs! (2020), developed by Bit Loom Games, is a joyful puzzle adventure starring a stretchy two-headed dog navigating three surreal worlds themed around sleep, food, and play. Whether you're tethering one head to a water fountain or stretching across a chasm to reach a cookie lever, the game thrives on charming physics-based puzzles and lighthearted chaos. Each level introduces new mechanics, from freezing yourself into a bridge to heating up with chillis to melt obstacles, all while wrapped in a colorful, oversized cartoon world. Phogs! can be played solo or in co-op, though coordinating both ends of your dog can lead to hilarious frustration. With no real danger, a minimalist control scheme, and plenty of quirky surprises, it’s one of the most cheerful and imaginative animal games you can play and a perfect palate cleanser after the heavier titles on this list.
7. Grounded
No game captures the thrill of being tiny in a massive world quite like Grounded (2022), Obsidian Entertainment’s backyard-sized survival adventure. You’re not just battling bugs, you’re building bases among blades of grass, ziplining through jungle-sized hedges, and crafting gear from the remains of defeated insects. While the premise leans into absurdity, the systems are impressively robust, blending resource management, environmental hazards, and RPG-style progression. With each zone acting as its own unique biome, lava-like grills, toxic pesticide clouds, and a koi pond filled with lurking danger, the map feels huge despite its suburban scale. Add in a wacky sci-fi story, plenty of crafting depth, and co-op support, and Grounded turns a childhood daydream into one of the most creative and replayable survival games in years.
8. Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey
Few games are as bold and as brutally opaque as Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey (2019), developed by Panache Digital Games. Set ten million years ago in prehistoric Africa, you guide a lineage of early hominids through evolution by exploring, experimenting, and slowly uncovering how to survive in an unforgiving world. There are no tutorials, no clear objectives, and little mercy. You learn by doing, failing, and trying again. The game demands patience as you piece together survival mechanics, discover new tools, and cautiously expand your territory while avoiding predators. While repetition and lack of direction can wear thin, the sense of discovery is genuinely rewarding, and the animations and environments bring a tangible realism to your tribe’s journey. It’s a game about progress through persistence, and while it can be frustrating, it offers a unique and thoughtful take on survival from an animal perspective that most games never attempt.
9. Endling - Extinction Is Forever
Endling – Extinction Is Forever (2022), developed by Herobeat Studios, offers a rare and gut-wrenching perspective in gaming: survival as the last mother fox on Earth. Set in a world devastated by human impact, you’re tasked with keeping your four cubs alive, navigating collapsing ecosystems, hostile predators, and deadly humans. Every night brings new risks, whether it’s scavenging for scarce food, dodging hunters, or tracking down the scavenger who kidnapped one of your cubs. The game strikes a powerful emotional chord, showing the harsh realities of survival while still giving you moments of beauty and tenderness. Watching your cubs grow, learn new skills, and face an increasingly dangerous world makes every decision feel personal. It’s not always easy to play, but that’s what makes Endling unforgettable.
10. Okami HD
Ōkami HD (2012 re-release, originally 2006), developed by Clover Studio, is a masterpiece that blends classical action-adventure gameplay with timeless visual artistry. You play as Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess reborn as a white wolf, journeying through a mythic version of feudal Japan. The brushstroke-inspired art style isn't just stunning, it’s integral to gameplay, as you literally paint on the world using the Celestial Brush to solve puzzles, restore nature, and defeat evil. While it borrows elements from games like The Legend of Zelda, Ōkami stands apart with its distinct tone, elegant storytelling, and reverence for folklore. Amaterasu’s silent, divine presence adds emotional weight without a single word, and the game’s combination of humor, warmth, and mysticism creates a setting that feels both ancient and alive. Even with its slow pacing and hefty runtime, Ōkami HD remains a must-play for anyone who wants to experience a game where art, narrative, and design come together in perfect harmony.
Fans of the original will be glad to know that a full sequel is officially on the way. The upcoming Ōkami sequel is being developed in Capcom’s RE Engine, with Hideki Kamiya returning alongside talent from Machine Head Works and several ex-PlatinumGames developers. It will serve as a direct continuation of the original story, picking up where Ōkami left off. While the game is still in early development, the team has confirmed that Amaterasu is returning and that composer Rei Kondoh, who scored much of the original, is also involved. There’s no release date yet, but it’s clear the developers are aiming to honor the spirit of the original while finally delivering the long-awaited continuation fans have hoped for. Keep an eye out, this one’s worth the wait.
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How to Score Your PCs Health Using the Windows Experience Index
If you’ve ever wondered how your PC performs under the hood—how fast your processor is, whether your graphics card can handle modern workloads, or if your storage is slowing everything down—the Windows Experience Index (WEI) is a powerful tool to understand your system’s overall “health.” While it’s not as prominently featured in modern versions of Windows as it once was, the WEI is still accessible, and you can score your PC's performance easily using PowerShell.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
* What PC health really means in the context of performance
* How the Windows Experience Index ranks your PC
* How to generate your own WEI score using PowerShell
By the end, you’ll be able to assess your system and know exactly where its strengths and weaknesses lie.
What is PC health? (understanding the Windows Experience Index)
“PC health” can refer to a lot of things—system stability, security, update status—but in this context, we’re talking specifically about performance. Microsoft’s Windows Experience Index provides a score based on how well your computer’s key components perform. It measures:
* Processor (CPU) – Calculated based on how many operations per second your CPU can handle
* Memory (RAM) – How quickly your system can access data in memory
* Graphics – Performance of your desktop graphics, usually related to Windows UI rendering
* Gaming graphics (GPU) – Capability for 3D business and gaming graphics
* Primary hard disk (disk transfer rate) – Measures read/write speeds of your storage drive
Each component is scored from 1.0 to 9.9, and the overall base score is determined by the lowest subscore, not an average. This gives you a quick way to identify the weakest link in your PC’s performance.
Though the WEI interface was removed from the Control Panel after Windows 7, the scoring system still exists in Windows 10 and Windows 11—you just need a different way to access it.
How can I rank my PC’s healthiness?
To rank your PC’s performance using the Windows Experience Index, you can use a built-in Windows tool called WinSAT (Windows System Assessment Tool). This tool still runs behind the scenes in Windows and can be triggered manually to generate performance scores.
Here's the process:
* Run the WinSAT assessment
* Access the results
* Interpret your score
All of this can be done using Windows PowerShell, a command-line tool that comes with Windows.
Step-by-step: how to check your PC’s WEI score using PowerShell
Let’s walk through the process.
Step 1: Open PowerShell as administrator
* Press Windows + S and type PowerShell
* Right-click Windows PowerShell and choose Run as administrator
You need administrator privileges to run the WinSAT tool.
Step 2: Run the Windows System Assessment Tool
Type or paste the following command into PowerShell and press Enter: winsat formal
This command runs a full system assessment, testing your CPU, memory, graphics, and disk performance. It might take a couple of minutes to complete. If you are running it on a laptop, ensure that it is plugged in as a formal assessment cannot be run while running on batteries.
You’ll see various benchmarks being run, such as:
* CPU performance
* Memory throughput
* Video encoding
* Disk I/O
Once complete, the assessment results are saved to a system file.
Step 3: View the Windows Experience Index score
After the test finishes, you can retrieve the scores using PowerShell. Run: Get-CimInstance -Query "SELECT * FROM Win32_WinSAT"
You’ll see an output similar to:
Explanation:
* CPUScore: Processor performance
* D3DScore: 3D graphics performance (gaming)
* DiskScore: Disk data transfer rate
* GraphicsScore: Desktop graphics performance
* MemoryScore: RAM performance
* WinSPRLevel: The base score — the lowest subscore, which represents your PC's overall WEI
In the example above, the base score is 8.3, determined by the disk performance.
Step 4: Understand what your scores mean
Each component of the Windows Experience Index is scored on a scale from 1.0 to 9.9. Here's how to interpret the scores in plain text:
* Scores between 1.0 and 3.9 indicate low performance. A PC in this range may struggle with modern applications, multitasking, or high-definition media. It's best suited for very basic tasks like web browsing or word processing.
* Scores between 4.0 and 5.9 are considered moderate performance. These systems can handle general productivity tasks such as email, light web browsing, and office work, but they may not perform well with gaming, content creation, or multitasking under load.
* Scores between 6.0 and 7.9 reflect good performance. Most modern applications, including some light gaming or creative tools, will run smoothly. This is typical for mid-range desktops or laptops with SSDs and decent CPUs.
* Scores between 8.0 and 9.9 indicate high performance. These systems are built for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, and heavy multitasking. If your system is in this range, it’s considered high-end.
Use these benchmarks to decide where upgrades might be beneficial. For example:
* A low disk score usually means your storage drive is a bottleneck—an SSD upgrade can help.
* A low graphics or gaming score points to a weak GPU, especially for gamers or creative professionals.
* A low memory score suggests upgrading or expanding your RAM for better multitasking.
Bonus: where are the raw results stored?
If you're curious or want to save the results, you can navigate to the XML file where WinSAT saves its data:
* Location: C:\Windows\Performance\WinSAT\DataStore
* Look for a file named similar to: [Date] Formal.Assessment (Initial).WinSAT.xml
You can open this with a web browser or XML viewer to get detailed benchmarking data.
Final thoughts
Even though Microsoft no longer displays the Windows Experience Index in the UI, it’s still a useful tool buried inside Windows. With just a few PowerShell commands, you can get a reliable snapshot of your PC’s performance, identify bottlenecks, and determine where to focus your upgrade efforts.
By learning how to check your WEI score, you’re taking the first step toward optimizing your system, whether you’re a casual user, gamer, or content creator.
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Best Windows 11 Settings to Eliminate Distractions and Stay Focused
With advertisements, smartphones, and other external factors, it can be challenging to maintain focus while working on important tasks. Studies show that it takes around 23 minutes to refocus each time we are distracted, making it crucial for us to minimize distractions for maximum productivity. Workers in the United States lose an average of 1 hour 18 minutes per day, or almost 340 hours per year, to distractions, costing businesses an estimated USD 650 billion annually. Luckily, Windows 11 has various settings to eliminate interruptions and boost focus either at home or in the office.
1. Enable and customize Do Not Disturb mode
Do Not Disturb mode helps users focus on tasks by temporarily disabling notifications and alerts. Users can choose to switch on Do Not Disturb mode during certain hours of the day, allowing them to concentrate on tasks without unwanted interruptions.
Users can activate and customize Do Not Disturb mode by clicking Settings > System > Focus > and selecting the relevant options, such as hiding badges and flashing on taskbar apps. To review notifications received while Do Not Disturb was activated, simply open the Notification Center by pressing the Windows key + N.
2. Set priority notifications for essential apps
Notifications inform users about important updates and messages like new emails or calendar reminders. This makes it easy to remember commitments and task deadlines without manually checking. Notifications can be annoying and distracting during times of intense focus, making the Do Not Disturb function a handy tool. However, it may be necessary to activate notifications for essential calls, reminders, and apps. To do this, click Settings> Notifications > Set priority notifications.
3. Use Focus Sessions with the Pomodoro technique
Windows 11 Focus Sessions help users curb distractions while working. When a focus session is underway, a timer will appear on the screen, app alerts will not flash, and Do Not Disturb will turn on. Users can set the clock for the number of minutes they wish to concentrate on a specific task, helping to boost their focus in short bursts.
The popular Pomodoro technique includes a 25-minute stint of deep work, followed by a five-minute break, repeating 2-4 times before taking a longer break of 15-20 minutes. This helps to prevent burnout and increases productivity during structured and focused work intervals.
4. Hide the taskbar to minimize visual temptations
While the taskbar is a crucial component of Windows, it can also be incredibly distracting when notifications pop up. Users can hide the taskbar by right-clicking a space on the taskbar, clicking Taskbar settings > Taskbar behaviors > Automatically hide the taskbar. To show the taskbar again, follow these instructions and uncheck the Automatically hide the taskbar option.
5. Hide desktop icons for a cleaner workspace
Just like a messy room can prevent us from relaxing or concentrating, a disorganized desktop can hinder our productivity. An organized and streamlined workspace helps us navigate our devices more efficiently and improves the overall user experience. Hiding desktop icons creates a more professional appearance and can boost our focus. Users can temporarily hide desktop items by right-clicking the desktop > view > uncheck Show desktop icons. To show them again, follow these instructions and re-check Show desktop icons.
6. Use PowerToys Awake to prevent sleep interruptions
The Windows 11 PowerToys Awake function is designed to keep a computer awake without manually managing its power and sleep settings. This prevents the device screen from turning off unexpectedly during long work sessions. To activate PowerToys Awake, check the Enable Awake toggle in the PowerToys Settings. There, users can also choose to keep the device awake indefinitely or during a specific time interval.
7. Create and use virtual desktops for task separation
Desktops contain different groups of apps or content for specific purposes. Users can set multiple desktops to keep activities separate and enhance productivity. This puts clear boundaries between work and personal applications, making it easier to switch off after hours. Moreover, users can use separate desktops to manage projects more efficiently by dedicating a desktop to each task. Compartmentalizing the desktop in this way reduces clutter and distractions, making it a handy way to remain focused. To create a new desktop, open task view by pressing the Windows key + Tab > New desktop > rename the desktop if required.
8. Turn off notification badges on taskbar apps
Taskbar badges are small notifications or icons that appear on taskbar buttons to alert users about an update within an application. This could be, for example, a message or a missed call on Microsoft Teams, and is a quick way to check for activity without opening the app. However, notification badges can also be distracting. Users can disable notification badges on taskbar apps by right-clicking the taskbar and selecting Taskbar settings > Taskbar behaviors > uncheck Show badges on taskbar apps.
9. Enable Night Light to reduce eye strain
Computer screens emit blue light which is harmful to our eyes. Digital eye strain from prolonged computer use can be uncomfortable and cause discomfort, fatigue, and blurry vision. The Night Light function in Windows 11 helps protect the eyes during long computer sessions by changing the colors on the screen. To activate the night light, go to Settings > System > Display > Night light. Here, users can also manually adjust the strength and timing of the night light.
Skyrocket your focus with Windows 11
Committing to long periods of intense focus is hard when surrounded by distractions. Even offices and designated workspaces are rife with non-stop interruptions like office chatter, phones ringing, and music. Windows 11 devices offer various settings to eliminate distractions like notifications, alerts, and disorganized desktops. This enhances focus and productivity, while the Night Light setting protects our eyes from harmful blue light. Check out these helpful settings and skyrocket your focus today.
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How to Disable Superfetch (Sysmain) in Windows 11
Windows 11 is built for speed and efficiency, but not every background service helps every user. One service that often comes up in performance discussions is Superfetch, now known as SysMain. While it’s designed to improve performance on most systems, some users find it causes high disk or CPU usage instead. If you're one of them, disabling Superfetch could be a helpful tweak.
This guide covers:
* What Superfetch is and what it does
* Whether it’s safe to disable Superfetch
* How to disable it using the terminal (Command Prompt or PowerShell)
* How to disable it via the Services Manager
What is Superfetch and what does it do?
Superfetch, renamed SysMain in newer versions of Windows, is a Windows background service that analyzes your usage patterns over time and preloads frequently used apps into memory. The idea is to make programs launch faster by having them partially loaded into RAM before you even open them.
Key functions of Superfetch/SysMain:
* Preloads commonly used applications into memory
* Improves boot times over time by optimizing startup processes
* Continues to run in the background to adjust preloading based on changing user behavior
While this can be helpful on systems with abundant RAM, it may become problematic on lower-end machines or those using slower storage, such as HDDs. Many users report high disk usage caused by SysMain, especially immediately after boot-up.
Is it safe to disable Superfetch?
Yes, it is safe to disable Superfetch (SysMain)—especially if you're experiencing high disk or CPU usage. Disabling it won’t harm your system or cause instability. However, you might notice:
* Slightly slower launch times for frequently used apps
* A marginally slower boot time, especially if your system previously benefited from SysMain's optimizations
If your PC has a modern SSD and plenty of RAM, you’re unlikely to notice any negative impact from disabling it.
How to disable Superfetch (SysMain)
You can disable Superfetch in two ways:
1. Disable Superfetch via the terminal
You can use either Command Prompt or PowerShell for this method.
Step-by-step:
* Press Windows + S, type PowerShell, then right-click and choose Run as administrator.
* To stop the service immediately, enter: Stop-Service -Name "SysMain" -Force
* To prevent it from starting again on reboot, run: Set-Service -Name "SysMain" -StartupType Disabled
This stops SysMain instantly and disables it from starting automatically in the future.
2. Disable Superfetch via Services Manager
If you prefer a graphical interface:
Step-by-step:
* Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog
* Type services.msc and press Enter
* In the Services window, scroll down and find SysMain
* Right-click SysMain and select Properties
* In the Startup type dropdown, select Disabled
* Click Stop to halt the service immediately
* Click Apply, then OK
This method is especially useful if you want to re-enable the service later without using the terminal.
How to enable Superfetch (SysMain)
If you want to turn Superfetch back on later, you can easily re-enable it using the same tools.
1. Enable Superfetch via the terminal
Steps:
* Open PowerShell or Command Prompt as Administrator
* Set the service to start automatically: Set-Service -Name "SysMain" -StartupType Automatic
* Then start the service immediately: Start-Service -Name "SysMain"
SysMain will now run and load at startup like before.
2. Enable Superfetch via Services Manager
Steps:f
* Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter
* Locate and double-click SysMain
* Set Startup type to Automatic
* Click Start to launch the service
* Click Apply, then OK
This reactivates the service and allows it to run normally.
Final thoughts
Superfetch (SysMain) is a legacy performance optimization tool designed to improve app responsiveness over time. But on some systems, especially those with older hardware, it can cause more harm than good. If you’re dealing with persistent disk usage issues or system slowdowns after startup, disabling SysMain is a safe and effective troubleshooting step.
With both command-line and graphical instructions provided, you now have everything you need to take control of SysMain on your Windows 11 PC.
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Best Farming Simulator to Play in 2025
If you enjoy planting crops, raising animals, and building your dream farm, 2025 has some great games for you. Whether you want a relaxing escape or a more hands-on farming adventure, there’s something for everyone this year. From cozy indie titles to big-budget releases with stunning graphics, farming games keep getting better. In this article, we’ll look at the best farming games to play in 2025—new favorites and returning classics alike.
1. Echoes of the Plum Groove
Echoes of the Plum Grove is a cozy farm sim with a darker twist, blending traditional mechanics with survival elements and emergent storytelling. While it looks charming—thanks to its paper cutout visuals reminiscent of Paper Mario—this game doesn’t pull punches. Players must manage seasonal crops, raise livestock, and court villagers, but also face hunger, disease, tool decay, and weekly taxes. Winters are harsh, requiring stockpiles of preserved food, and if your character dies, the game continues through your children.
Fortunately, nearly all of the survival elements—like hunger, item decay, or player aging—can be toggled off for a more relaxed experience. But for those who leave them on, Echoes of the Plum Grove offers an unusually gritty, consequence-heavy experience for a cozy sim. NPCs can be befriended, insulted, or influenced based on their traits. This opens up absurd yet compelling interactions—like insulting 20 villagers for coal, only to end up best friends with the town’s cruelest characters.
Romance is less about heartfelt story arcs and more about quirky, goal-driven gameplay. Dialogue is limited and often repetitive, but the emergent outcomes—like befriending one brother while sabotaging your chances with another—make for some entertaining tales.
While it lacks the emotional depth of Stardew Valley, Echoes of the Plum Grove embraces a more unpredictable and often hilarious approach to the genre. With upcoming updates promising pets, mod support, and a family tree system, it’s a farming game that rewards chaos just as much as cultivation.
2. Farm Together
Farm Together is a casual, grind-heavy farming game designed for players looking to relax and zone out rather than chase goals or storylines. You plant crops, raise animals, and slowly expand your farm through repetition—without the pressure of microtransactions or time limits. While the game’s core loop can become tedious due to limited automation tools and clunky mechanics like slow tractors and overpriced sprinklers, it remains oddly satisfying. The visuals are charming, and the online mode lets you visit other players’ farms for bonus XP, though the real appeal lies in slowly building your own space at your own pace. It’s not deep or particularly efficient, but it’s a cozy, low-stress time sink that many find cathartic.
3. Coral Island
Coral Island is a robust farming sim that blends elements of Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing, though it leans more toward the former in gameplay and structure. While it offers a bustling world full of things to do—farming, cleaning the ocean, exploring town expansions—it lacks the distinctive charm and emotional pull that define the best in the genre.
The game shines in its inclusivity. It features 28 romanceable characters without restrictions on gender or body type, and the character creator includes multiple body types and custom pronouns. Representation extends to the townsfolk as well, with characters shown with prosthetics, stretch marks, and various body sizes.
Despite the volume of content, the world feels more busy than immersive. The visuals meet modern standards but lack a cohesive art direction, and technical issues, like frequent crashes, detract from the experience. Some mini-games and mechanics are poorly explained, leading to frustrating early gameplay moments.
Coral Island doesn’t reinvent the genre, but it provides a solid, feature-rich option for fans of farming sims. Its dedication to diversity is commendable, even if the overall package feels more like a polished product than a passionate labor of love. Players looking for a fresh take on the farming sim formula may find it worth trying, especially if representation is a key interest.
4. Roots of Pacha
Roots of Pacha brings a refreshing twist to the farming sim genre by setting its story in the Stone Age and focusing heavily on community and cooperation. Instead of chasing individual wealth, players contribute to a shared prosperity pool that upgrades village infrastructure for everyone.
You’ll tame animals, grow crops, and develop tools, all while unlocking new ideas by building relationships with fellow clan members. With a deep, interconnected progression system and charming character arcs, the game makes even mundane tasks feel meaningful. It’s a cozy, collaborative experience that stands out as one of the most creative farming sims in recent years.
5. Sun Haven
Sun Haven stands out as one of the most distinctive and content-rich farming sims in recent years. Blending traditional farming gameplay with RPG elements and high fantasy, it offers a unique twist on the genre. Players take on the role of a magical hero working to save Sun Haven from a looming darkness, with the option to explore, battle enemies, and manage up to three farms across different regions.
One of the game’s biggest strengths is its multiplayer support for up to eight players, far exceeding other farming sims. Its fantasy setting also introduces seven playable races, each with unique traits and spells that evolve throughout the game. Romance is robust and inclusive, allowing relationships with any character regardless of gender or race.
However, Sun Haven isn’t without flaws. The lack of basic tools like sprinklers, an overly forgiving relationship system, and a somewhat grindy skill tree can frustrate some players. Despite these issues, its strong story, magical world-building, and deep customization make it a standout title.
For fans of farming sims or newcomers seeking a fresh take, Sun Haven delivers variety, charm, and freedom in how you play. It’s easily one of the best farming games of its kind.
6. Fae Farm
Fae Farm aims to blend cozy life sim staples with a touch of magic, offering farming, crafting, bug-catching, and dungeon crawling in a fairy-inspired world. While it’s visually charming and mechanically accessible, it leans heavily on well-worn genre formulas without adding much innovation.
The combat and tool upgrades offer light variety, but shallow dialogue, repetitive tasks, and a lack of meaningful progression hold the game back. Despite its magical setting, Fae Farm struggles to stand out in a crowded genre, delivering a polished but ultimately forgettable experience that plays it too safe for players seeking something deeper or more original.
7. Immortal Life
Immortal Life, a traditional farming sim mechanics with Chinese mythology and cultivation lore, offers a refreshing twist on the genre. Instead of the usual inheritance trope, you join a sect recovering from disaster and help rebuild its home through farming, crafting, and cooking.
Magical elements like rain clouds, flying swords, and talismans enhance both daily tasks and combat. The game features beautifully detailed visuals, distinct NPCs, and a strong sense of community. Despite occasional bugs and some awkward dungeon controls, Immortal Life stands out for its depth, cultural uniqueness, and satisfying gameplay loop.
8. Song of the Prairie
Song of the Prairie is a vibrant 3D farming simulator that combines classic life-sim elements with a rich, fantasy-infused narrative. Players step into the role of a retired hero seeking tranquility in a magical prairie town, engaging in activities like farming, animal care, and community building. The game offers a vast open world with seamless exploration, allowing for customization of farms and interaction with over 20 unique NPCs, each with their own stories and potential for romance.
Since its full release on August 1, 2024, the game has introduced significant updates, including same-sex marriage options and expanded storylines. While the anime-inspired art style and Japanese voice acting add charm, some players have noted translation issues that can affect the narrative experience. Despite these minor drawbacks, Song of the Prairie provides a deep and engaging experience for fans of the genre, offering a blend of traditional farming gameplay with immersive storytelling.
9. Farming Simulator 25
Farming Simulator 25 is the most refined entry in the long-running series, offering new crops like rice and legumes, expanded livestock options including goats, and quality-of-life improvements across the board. The game gives players the freedom to run their farm however they like—whether that’s managing crops, raising animals, logging, or outsourcing tasks to AI.
Visually, it features upgraded graphics and dynamic weather effects, though performance and texture quirks still exist. While it’s an excellent choice for newcomers thanks to its depth and sandbox-style gameplay, returning players may feel the $75 price tag is steep, especially with mod support for older entries still outpacing the new one.
10. Little-Known Galaxy
Little-Known Galaxy takes the familiar charm of farming sims and rockets it into space, offering a pixel-art, sci-fi take on the genre. As a captain-in-training of the Space Alliance, players balance managing a dysfunctional crew, restoring a rundown ship, and exploring alien planets—all while farming, crafting, and building relationships.
The game offers staples like day/night cycles, romanceable characters, and resource collection, but adds its own twist through quirky mechanics like laser-blasting alien critters, caring for alien pets called Xenos, and uncovering ancient relics on distant planets. Story-driven objectives help pace the game, and there's over 40 hours of narrative content alongside endless side activities.
That said, the game isn’t without issues. The in-game map is limited, making it frustrating to track down crew members, especially in such a large ship. Days also feel short, which can make it hard to get things done efficiently. Dialogue can be repetitive, and some tasks feel like filler.
Despite these quirks, Little-Known Galaxy maintains a wholesome, cozy atmosphere with a lot to explore and personalize. From decorating your captain’s quarters to building friendships and unlocking upgrades, it’s an easygoing farming sim with a cosmic twist. For players looking for a relaxed but content-rich farming experience with a sci-fi flair, Little-Known Galaxy is a strong pick.
