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Most Popular Extraction Shooter to Play in 2025
What is an extraction shooter?
An extraction shooter is a subgenre of shooter games where the primary objective is to enter a map, gather loot, and safely extract—all while surviving against both AI enemies and other players (PvEvP). What makes it unique is the risk-reward loop: if you die, you lose all your carried gear, including what you brought in. But if you make it out alive, you keep everything you looted for future missions. This system adds a layer of tension and long-term progression that differs from traditional multiplayer shooters or battle royales.
Key features:
* Persistent inventory across matches (stash/gear system)
* PvEvP (AI enemies + real players)
* High-stakes permadeath (lose what you carry in)
Strategic extraction points (you choose when and where to leave)
* No shrinking safe zone like in battle royales
* Typically mission-based rather than kill-based win conditions
Think of it like a looter-shooter meets survival, where the win condition isn't who survives last, but what you take home.
If you're into high-stakes gameplay where survival and smart decision-making matter, 2025 has a strong lineup of extraction shooters worth checking out. Whether you're looking for gritty realism, fantasy twists, or sci-fi settings, these are the best extraction shooter to keep on your radar in 2025.
1. Hunt: Showdown 1896
Developer: Crytek | Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
Hunt: Showdown 1896 is a bold overhaul of Crytek’s cult-favorite extraction shooter. Rebuilt in CryEngine 5.11, the update introduces enhanced visuals, redone audio, and improved performance, bringing 4K at 60fps to current-gen consoles. While the refresh has been welcomed by many, the new UI and console aim assist features have divided the community. Crytek has acknowledged the feedback and is working to refine the experience.
At its core, Hunt remains one of the most distinctive PvPvE shooters available. Set in a grim 19th-century Southern gothic landscape, players track monstrous bounty targets, banish them, and extract with the reward while other teams do the same. The new Mammon’s Gulch map adds a large, mining-town environment with verticality and improved environmental design. The recently introduced Hellborn target further raises the stakes, acting as a deadly roaming boss that can disrupt encounters and force chaotic firefights between rival teams.
The game’s roguelike system still applies. When a hunter dies, players lose both their gear and progression. This creates high tension, but can be frustrating for newcomers or anyone on a losing streak. That said, the equipment economy, randomized perks, and steady unlocks provide a satisfying sense of risk and reward. The latest battle pass includes new hunters, weapons, cosmetics, and even audio logs that expand the game's narrative without locking story content behind a paywall.
Despite lingering matchmaking quirks and some growing pains with the UI, Hunt: Showdown 1896 delivers a tense and atmospheric shooter experience. With Crytek actively updating the game and more reworked maps on the way, this revamped version is one of the top extraction shooters to dive into in 2025.
2. Dark and Darker
Developer: IRONMACE | Platform: PC
Dark and Darker blends fantasy dungeon crawling with the high-stakes gameplay of a hardcore extraction shooter. Often described as Skyrim meets Escape from Tarkov, it drops players into tense PvPvE environments where adventuring parties explore hostile dungeons, collect loot, and attempt to extract before being taken out by enemies or rival players.
The game replaces modern firearms with swords, magic, and melee combat. Players can choose from a variety of distinct classes like Fighter, Cleric, Bard, or Wizard. Each class has its own abilities and gear loadouts, offering different playstyles and strategies. Combat is methodical and timing-based. Every swing, block, and spell cast has weight, and success relies more on precision and decision-making than speed or twitch reflexes.
Tension plays a central role in the experience. The dungeon environments are dark, filled with traps, environmental hazards, and AI monsters. Torchlight becomes essential for navigation. You can choose to leave early with modest loot or push deeper into the dungeon for better rewards, but doing so risks running into stronger enemies or players who are hunting the same objectives.
Boss fights, such as the Ghost King and Skeletal Warlord, serve as endgame content. The ranked High Roller mode offers greater rewards for players willing to take bigger risks. There’s also an in-game economy that allows you to trade and sell loot, and regular seasonal content brings in new gear, classes, and cosmetic unlocks.
Dark and Darker isn’t built for casual play. Death means losing your gear and progress, which can be punishing. However, for players who enjoy dungeon-crawler atmospheres, meaningful loot systems, and a strong sense of risk versus reward, this is one of the most unique and rewarding extraction shooters you can play.
3. Contractors Showdown: ExfilZone (VR only)
Developer: Caveman Studio | Platform: PC VR, Quest 2 & 3
ExfilZone is a new extraction mode within the VR title Contractors Showdown, and it might be one of the most ambitious virtual reality experiences in the genre. Building on the groundwork laid by Ghosts of Tabor, this mode brings a full Tarkov-style experience into VR with detailed survival mechanics, loot extraction, and high-risk gameplay.
What sets ExfilZone apart is its focus on physical realism. Players manually load magazines, apply healing items, and manage their character’s condition with precision. Each limb can be individually injured and must be treated accordingly. Whether you are bleeding, dehydrated, or suffering from a fracture, the game demands that you use the right item for the right problem. This level of detail can be overwhelming, but it also makes for one of the most immersive and stressful shooter experiences available.
Players can choose between two approaches: a full-gear Contractor run or a lower-stakes scav run. Losing a raid means losing your gear, so managing risk becomes a key part of the loop. Scav runs help players recover without putting their best items on the line. Between matches, players return to a safe house where they can stash loot, buy supplies, and prep for the next raid. The loop is familiar to anyone who has played hardcore extraction shooters on flat screens.
While ExfilZone is just a game mode and not a full standalone title, it delivers a surprisingly robust experience. The Metro map in particular feels purpose-built for extraction gameplay, with tight layouts and smart design. Other maps are borrowed from the game’s battle royale mode, which can be hit or miss. Performance is another concern, especially on lower-end VR systems. However, the depth of interactivity and the overall ambition of the mode offer something genuinely compelling.
For players with the hardware and the patience, ExfilZone is one of the most immersive extraction shooters available in 2025. It is punishing, detailed, and physically demanding. For the right audience, that’s exactly what makes it worthwhile.
4. ARC Raiders
Developer: Embark Studios | Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S
ARC Raiders is a clear-cut example of what defines an extraction shooter in 2025. Built from familiar components of games like Escape from Tarkov, The Division, and Fortnite, it delivers an accessible experience that is instantly recognizable to anyone familiar with the genre. It doesn't push boundaries, but for players who enjoy PvPvE looter-shooters with survival mechanics, it's a dependable choice.
The gameplay loop is simple. Players enter the surface world, collect loot, and return underground with as much gear as possible. Along the way, two threats stand in the way: ARC robots and other players. ARC units, from spider-like scouts to massive combat drones, can be surprisingly dangerous and often show up in groups. Some encounters are deliberately set up to ambush players with layered enemy types, especially in enclosed or high-loot areas.
Human opponents are an even greater threat. Ambushing a distracted, well-equipped player near an extraction point is often more efficient than looting the environment. Playing in teams of three allows for better coordination. Teams can cover more ground, provide overwatch, and handle surprise encounters more effectively than lone players.
Combat is solid and responsive. SMGs feel fast but hard to control, assault rifles offer more balance, and sniper rifles deliver powerful hits. The weapon feedback feels reliable, and the game supports strategic movement and tactical play during engagements. Third-person controls are intuitive and on par with other modern shooters.
Environments are serviceable, consisting of abandoned buildings, overgrown fields, and industrial ruins. While the visuals aren't particularly memorable, they support the game's action-focused design. Loot includes crafting materials, gear, ammunition, and healing items. A special inventory pocket lets you retain key items even if you die, which helps ease the sting of early mistakes or bad luck.
Between matches, players return to an underground base where they can craft new equipment, sell loot, or upgrade their abilities through skill trees. The progression system is straightforward and allows you to specialize in combat, stealth, or mobility. Cosmetics are available through in-game purchases, but default character models are visually basic.
ARC Raiders doesn't try to redefine the genre. Instead, it assembles familiar parts into a functional, enjoyable shooter that gets the basics right. If you enjoy looting, surviving, and building your gear over time, this is an easy title to jump into.
Currently, the game is in invite-only testing. If you want to play on PC, visit the ARC Raiders Steam page and request access to the ongoing playtest.
5. Escape from Tarkov
Developer: Battlestate Games | Platform: PC
Escape from Tarkov is the blueprint for the modern extraction shooter. Often imitated but rarely matched, Tarkov established the genre's high-stakes loop: enter with gear, scavenge valuable loot, and extract without dying. If you do die, you lose everything you brought in, including your weapons, armor, and medical supplies.
Set in a fictional Russian city under lockdown, Tarkov is a hardcore, realism-driven PvPvE shooter. Bullet ballistics, armor penetration, ammunition types, and even dehydration or limb-specific damage are all part of the equation. Success depends on knowledge, awareness, and discipline. New players often struggle in their first hours, but those who persist will find a deep and rewarding sandbox.
Each raid is played on one of several sprawling maps, such as Customs, Interchange, and Lighthouse. Some are tight and urban, others open and rural. In every match, you'll face AI-controlled Scavs and potentially deadly player-controlled PMCs. You're free to explore, loot, or avoid combat, but extracting alive is the only way to bank your progress. The longer you stay, the more gear you might find, but the risk increases with every passing minute.
Tarkov’s inventory management is its own skill. Every item you find takes up physical space, and organizing your stash becomes a daily routine for dedicated players. Loadouts are fully customizable, down to scopes, suppressors, and ergonomics. The in-game economy is also player-driven, with a dynamic flea market and traders offering fluctuating stock based on availability and demand.
Progression involves leveling up your PMC, unlocking quests, building your hideout, and improving trade access. Over time, you’ll gain access to stronger gear and better options for survival. However, progression is not permanent. The game features periodic wipes that reset player inventories, hideouts, and quests. These wipes keep the game fresh and level the playing field but can be frustrating for players who prefer long-term accumulation.
Escape from Tarkov is not designed for casual play. It’s punishing, tactical, and opaque by design. Yet for many, that’s the draw. The intensity of each raid, the satisfaction of extracting with rare loot, and the thrill of outsmarting other players create a loop that is hard to replicate. If you're looking for the most complex and demanding extraction shooter on the market, this is it.
Final Thoughts
Extraction shooters continue to evolve in 2025, offering a diverse range of experiences for players who enjoy high-stakes looting, strategic combat, and the constant threat of loss. Whether you prefer historical horror in Hunt: Showdown, fantasy dungeon crawling in Dark and Darker, full-body immersion in VR with ExfilZone, or a more accessible sci-fi entry like ARC Raiders, the genre has something to offer nearly every type of competitive player. For those who want maximum realism and complexity, Escape from Tarkov still sets the bar.
One notable absence from this list is Marathon, Bungie’s (the legendary team behind the Halo series) upcoming extraction shooter. Once slated for a 2025 release, the game has hit significant setbacks. Following a series of controversies, including the lack of proximity chat and a confirmed case of art plagiarism, Bungie has reportedly canceled its main marketing push. Internal reports describe low morale, and while no official delay has been announced, it now seems unlikely that Marathon will launch on schedule.
Despite these challenges, the extraction shooter genre shows no signs of slowing down. As developers continue to experiment with structure, setting, and progression systems, 2025 may become a defining year. Whether you're a veteran scavenger or new to the format, there's never been a better time to jump in.
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Best Coworking Spaces that Have Worldwide Access
Coworking spaces are an alternative to traditional offices, allowing people to work within a shared environment. These spaces tend to provide communal facilities like printers, lounges, and a kitchen area. Coworking spaces offer workers, digital nomads, and company employees flexibility and a sense of community, which is important when working independently. Moreover, workers can gain networking opportunities with people from diverse backgrounds, which may not be possible in traditional office environments. Working from a coworking space is a cost-effective alternative, as users usually only pay for a seat at a desk or a small office cubicle.
Here are some of the best coworking spaces with worldwide access.
1. WeWork
With coworking spaces in 125 cities worldwide, including New York City, Tokyo, Lima, and London, WeWork is a popular digital nomad coworking space. WeWork offers flexible options like a pay-as-you-go or monthly global membership. There are even private office spaces with shared amenities for daily operational support. WeWork is used by well-known companies like Slack, Microsoft, and IBM, making it a great choice for individuals and companies alike. Costs vary by location and individual requirements, so be sure to check out the WeWork website for more details.
2. Regus (IWG)
Regus, owned by parent company IWG, offers a range of workspace options to fit various needs. From a customizable office rental by the hour or day, to a dedicated coworking desk, Regus has over 4000 offices worldwide. They also offer virtual offices, where companies can register a business address and obtain a telephone answering and receptionist service. Regus is trusted by large companies like Samsung, PayPal, and Spotify, offering monthly or daily packages at competitive rates. Depending on the contract, a US-based office space could cost between $15 USD and $1,015 USD monthly per person.
3. The Hive
The Hive is a popular coworking space within the Asia-Pacific region, operating in Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, and Taiwan. Depending on the specific area, these workspaces may provide private offices, hot desks, dedicated desks, meeting rooms, and even podcast and photo studios. Prices vary by location; for example, a hot desk in Singapore starts from $275 Singapore Dollars (approx. $213 USD). Check out The Hive website to find out more.
4. Mindspace
Mindspace offers virtual office memberships, dedicated desks, and team suites across multiple locations, from Amsterdam to Miami. They deliver a personalized service, including community engagement and events like tech talks and hackathons, creating a unique experience for members. Rooms include ultra-fast internet, 24/7 access, kitchens and lounges, and refreshments. Enquire online to arrange a tour or make a booking.
5. Croissant
A coworking space with multiple global locations, Croissant is on a mission to inspire the lives of remote workers. Croissant was founded in New York City by a group of friends who used to work together in coffee shops, buying croissants and coffee just to stay a bit longer. Now, Croissant is active across cities like Berlin, Chicago, and Barcelona, offering clear pricing ranges for a specific number of hours per month. Croissant also has an app that lets users search for and check in to open seats nearby. For pricing information, simply select your location on the Croissant website.
6. Impact Hub
Impact Hub connects entrepreneurs and innovators to organizations, partners, and investors. Alongside coworking spaces, they also offer community events to bring people together. Coworking spaces include private offices and dedicated desks, and membership benefits such as access to regular business clinics and workshops, modern workspaces, and free worldwide access for three days a year. Find more information, including locations and pricing, on the Impact Hub website.
7. Talent Garden
Providing a unique ecosystem of opportunities like meeting rooms, a relaxation area, and a cafe, Talent Garden is a coworking space that oozes community. Talent Garden has coworking spaces in countries like Italy, Spain, and Denmark, boasting a network of over 326,000 innovators, professionals, and tech enthusiasts. They offer fixed desks, hourly packages, or access to the digital community, and prices depend on the location.
8. Google Startup
Google for Startups Campuses provide physical locations for tech startups to enjoy training, mentoring, and access to a community of problem solvers. With various worldwide locations, such as Seoul, Madrid, Tel Aviv, and Warsaw, members benefit from mentoring and networking alongside comfy coworking spaces. Coworking spaces are reserved for Google for Startups participants. Find out more about these programs and locations on the Google for Startups website.
Is a coworking space right for me?
Coworking spaces are beneficial for digital nomads, company employees, or whole teams. They provide flexibility and unique networking opportunities due to the array of people using them. Whether you are looking for a space to work from during a short trip or a more long-term dedicated desk or small office, the coworking spaces in this article have something for everyone.
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Coolest Custom PC Builds From Computex 2025
Computex 2025 put custom PC builds in the spotlight, with modders transforming hardware into works of art, from a pygmy hippo–inspired case to a bow-and-arrow rig and a fully functional drink dispenser. These ten standout creations demonstrate how imagination and engineering can merge to create functional machines that are as visually striking as they are powerful.
1. Moo Deng by Suchao Prowphong
Modder Suchao Prowphong from Thailand transformed a Thermaltake TR100 Hydrangea Blue mini-tower into a three-dimensional tribute to Moo Deng, the Bangkok Zoo’s beloved pygmy hippo. The front panel’s layered steel and acrylic forms recreate the hippo’s snout, while two welded pink metal discs serve as rosy cheeks. I didn’t catch any details about the internal components, but sometimes a build’s personality matters more than its specs. Its whimsical charm earned it a spot on our list, proving that cuteness can be just as captivating as complexity.
2. Gallardo Custom PC Case by Manli
In a bold partnership with Lamborghini’s Gallardo division, Manli unveiled a build drenched in signature orange, its circular chassis split by a brushed-metal spine that doubles as a GPU mount. The “moon-and-metal” aesthetic isn’t just for show, the rig packs a Manli GeForce RTX 5090 Gallardo edition, an AMD 9800X3D processor, 32 GB of DDR5-8000 memory (2×16 GB), an x870 ITX motherboard, a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and a 1 000 W SFX-L power supply. Between its eye-catching silhouette and serious hardware, this collaboration hits the sweet spot between automotive flair and desktop performance.
3. Afternoon Tea by TechLinMod
The build’s delicate pastel palette and café-inspired details give it an unmistakably feminine charm. Modder TechLinMod transformed a Hyte Y70 Pink chassis into a miniature tea shop, complete with a porcelain-style teapot “pouring” resin tea into a matching cup atop the case. Inside, an AMD Ryzen 7 7700X on an ASUS ROG Strix X870 motherboard is tamed by a custom Bitspower water-cooling loop. A Palit GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Gaming Pro White OC handles graphics, backed by 64 GB of G.Skill Trident Z5 Royal DDR5-6400 (4×16 GB), a 2 TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and an 850 W Seasonic Focus GX White PSU. The result is a cutesy yet powerful build that blends café-style whimsy with serious performance.
4. RoboBox 07 by Alseye
Of the three showpieces Alseye unveiled, the RoboBox 07 stood out to me most. It blends the sleek minimalism of EVE from WALL·E with the utilitarian grit of the Interstellar robots. The tiny astronaut figurine perched atop its “head” adds a playful flourish. Although no component list was available, the build’s futuristic silhouette and clean lines made it a standout on the Computex floor, proof that compelling aesthetics can captivate even without a spec sheet.
5. Luminarch by AK Mod
AK Mod, in collaboration with Klevv, delivered a standout build with Luminarch, a PC sculpted into the form of a drawn bow and arrow. The curved “bow” chassis was CNC-machined to bear its own weight, while 3D-printed outer panels conceal the support structure and lend the build a sense of graceful suspension. Klevv Urbane V RGB modules double as stylized arrow fletching, and the GPU tucks neatly along the central riser that serves as the “arrow” shaft. Under the hood, it houses an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition, 16 GB of DDR5-6000 RAM, an ROG Strix Z890-I motherboard, Thermaltake Swafan EX ARGB fans, a Bitspower custom water-cooling loop and a 1 000 W ROG Loki SFX-L PSU. Two months of design followed by a month of meticulous assembly resulted in a build that marries medieval inspiration with cutting-edge performance.
6. Egg Shaped Super Hero Robot by Apacer
Apacer’s showstopper took the form of a glossy, egg-shaped chassis complete with tiny arms, legs and two glowing green “eyes,” all mounted on a slender support rod to give the illusion of flight, serious Astro Boy vibes. I didn’t catch any specs, but its impeccable finish and clever presentation made it one of Computex’s most delightfully whimsical custom builds.
7. Japanese Straw House by Toru Sekiguchi
This build’s cultural homage is impossible to miss. Toru Sekiguchi, from Japan, wrapped a Tower 600 Matcha Green mid-tower chassis in a miniature traditional Japanese straw house, complete with a thatched roof, carefully placed white garden stones, delicate faux cherry blossoms and a handful of playful toy cats perched among the eaves. I didn’t catch any internal specs, but the way it marries functional hardware with authentic vernacular architecture makes it a standout: equal parts craftsmanship and cultural storytelling.
8. Black Myth: WuKong’s Bull King Armor Set by Narinsorn Rattanabuppha
As a huge fan of Black Myth: Wukong, I was blown away by Narinsorn Rattanabuppha’s homage to the Bull King Armor set. Built on a Tower 600 mid-tower chassis, the case is sculpted to echo the armor’s ornate plating, topped with the Bull King’s fearsome mask and Wukong’s iconic Jing Gu Bang. A miniature figurine of The Destined One stands guard beside it, adding a perfect narrative touch. Inside, an ASRock Phantom Gaming Z890 motherboard hosts an Intel Core Ultra 7 265K CPU paired with a Palit GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Super, TOUGHRAM XG RGB DDR5 memory, and a Seagate FireCuda 520 SSD. Cooling duties fall to Thermaltake’s Swafan EX RGB and a Pacific SWI Plus loop, all powered by a 1 200 W TOUGHPOWER GF A3 PSU. This build merges rich lore with top-tier components, making it as powerful as it is visually striking.
9. Manta Ray by Modding Cafe
Modding Cafe outdid themselves with this breathtaking Robotic Manta Ray PC, its motorized fins gently undulating to mimic a creature gliding through the depths. Every curve and surface detail evokes the manta’s graceful form, turning a high-end rig into kinetic art. Inside, an Intel Core Ultra 9 285K powers tasks on an ASUS ROG Strix Z890-I motherboard, backed by 48 GB of G.Skill Trident Z5 Royal DDR5-7200 (2×24 GB) and an ASUS TUF RTX 5070 Ti. Storage is handled by a Lexar NM800 PRO SSD, cooling comes from Modding Cafe’s bespoke liquid loop, and everything runs off an 850 W FSP Dagger Pro PSU. This build marries arthouse flair with top-tier performance, and those swimming fins are simply mesmerizing.
10. Beverage Dispenser Mod by KM Studios
KM Studio raised the bar by combining your gaming rig with a four-tap drink dispenser: choose beer, Coke, red wine or soju without ever leaving your seat. The same custom Bitspower cooling loop that chills your beverages also keeps the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K running smoothly on an ASUS ROG Strix Z890-E Gaming Wi-Fi motherboard. Memory comes in at a generous 96 GB of G.Skill Trident Z5 Royal DDR5-8000 (4×24 GB), storage and GPU details weren’t listed, and power is handled by a 1000 W FSP Vita GM PSU. It’s a clever fusion of refreshment and performance that ensures both your thirst and your framerate stay quenched.
Computex 2025 proved that the modding scene is alive and well, and these ten builds are just the beginning. Whether you’re after performance, flair or outright novelty, there’s always something new to discover. Be sure to check out Computex 2026, you won’t want to miss the next wave of custom PC innovation.
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Disable Windows 11 Password: Should You Do It and How
Passwords keep our data from prying eyes. They are used to access laptops, unlock cell phones, and even to access chats or applications. Passwords are the only thing stopping a stranger from using your device and accessing sensitive files. Still, it is possible to disable passwords for easier access, although this should be done with caution. Removing the password for a laptop that does not leave the home is safer than one carried to and from the workplace, for example, as the latter may be vulnerable if lost or stolen. With that in mind, here are some ways to disable your Windows password.
Option 1: Remove your Windows 11 password completely
This option is available to local accounts only. Local accounts are specific to one device, whereas Microsoft accounts can be used across various devices. Local accounts do not require an internet connection to sign in, but settings, files, and applications are limited to one device. Microsoft accounts are linked to an email address and password, allowing access to Microsoft services like Outlook, Hotmail, Office, and Xbox.
Follow these instructions to change from a Microsoft account to a local account:
* Open the Settings app
* Select Accounts > Your info
* Click Sign in with a local account instead
* Type the username, password, and password hint
* Select Next > Sign out and finish
* Try signing back in with your new local account.
Now, follow these instructions to remove the password completely:
* Open the Settings app
* Select Accounts > Sign-in options
* Click Password > Change
* Enter your current password, then leave the new password boxes blank
* Click Finish
Option 2: Use the netplwiz method
This method lets users automatically sign in without removing the password. To get started,
* Open the Start menu and select Settings
* Select Accounts > Sign-in options
* Find For improved security, only allow Windows Hello sign-in for Microsoft accounts on this device (Recommended), and turn that toggle off
* Type netplwiz in the Start menu search bar
* Click Open
* Uncheck the box Users must enter a user name and password to use this computer
* Select Apply
* Enter your username and password, then click OK
Option 3: Remove PIN or Windows Hello sign-in methods
To complete this option, be sure to first sign in to the account from which you would like to remove the PIN. Then,
* Open the Start menu and select Settings
* Select Accounts > Sign-in options
* Click Windows Hello PIN > Remove
* When asked to confirm, click Remove again
You can also remove other Windows Hello sign-in methods, like facial recognition, using the above method.
So, should you remove your Windows 11 password?
Removing your Windows 11 password is a personal choice. Passwords are designed to safeguard files and data and can be useful if a device is lost or stolen. However, some may feel that entering a password to log in to a personal laptop is tiresome or unnecessary. In this case, choosing one of the above options may be beneficial to disable a Windows password.
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Blue Light from Screens: Benefits, Risks, and When to Limit Exposure
Blue light is a wavelength of light emitted by electronic devices, fluorescent light, and the sun, contributing to around one-third of visible light. It has short but high-energy waves that may be as powerful as UV rays. Although blue light occurs naturally in our environment, we are being exposed to an increasingly high level of blue light every day because of the widespread use of electronic devices that use LED technology. Moreover, these devices are often used within a short range, sparking debates about the impact of blue light on our eyes.
The potential benefits of blue light exposure
Exposure to blue light has some potential health benefits. It can help us stay alert, boost cognitive function, and even improve symptoms of seasonal depression. Blue light also enhances our body’s natural rhythm, helping us sleep well after dark. Sunlight is crucial for the growth and development of vision in children, as well as providing a key source of vitamin D.
Which health risks are linked to prolonged screen time and blue light?
Almost all visible blue light passes the front of our eyes. It then reaches the retina and creates the images we see. An estimated 80% of American adults use devices for more than two hours a day, resulting in 59% experiencing symptoms of eye strain from overuse. Although blue light exposure does have benefits, there are also health risks from prolonged screen time.
Prolonged exposure to blue light can damage retinal cells. In extreme cases, this can contribute to vision issues like cataracts, eye cancer, and abnormal growths. Other health-related symptoms of blue light exposure include eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, and blurred vision. Blue light also suppresses the release of melatonin, a hormone that makes us feel sleepy, which impacts our sleep. These disturbances to our body’s internal clock can lead to metabolic disorders and even depression.
When should you reduce blue light exposure?
Blue light tricks the brain into thinking it is daytime, which disrupts sleep patterns and makes us alert instead of tired. In fact, a study conducted by Harvard researchers showed that 6.5 hours of blue light exposure suppressed melatonin and impacted circadian rhythms for around 3 hours, which was twice as much as green light. As such, digital devices should be avoided around two to three hours before bed.
Anyone experiencing discomfort due to overuse of electronic devices should limit their exposure to blue light or consider seeking medical help.
How to limit blue light from screens
An effective way of reducing digital eye strain is to take a 20-second break to look at something far away every 20 minutes. Wearing widely available blue light glasses while using devices can also reduce the negative effects of blue light by 10% - 23% while ensuring users can still see their screens. Similarly, blue light filters for computer screens and digital devices protect the eyes without impacting the display.
Windows 11 Night light for reduced blue light exposure
The Windows 11 Night Light function reduces blue light and encourages a more restful sleep. To activate Night Light:
* Open Settings
* Click System > Display
* Switch on the Night light toggle
* Adjust the lighting by clicking the right arrow next to the toggle
* Click Schedule night light to choose when this function should switch on and off
Blue light: the lowdown
Blue light occurs naturally in the sun and can help to regulate our body’s internal clock, boost our mood, and promote alertness. While there are benefits to blue light, overexposure can impact our eye health and sleep quality, and even cause depression. Widely available glasses or screen filters can limit the effects of blue light, and regular eye breaks are recommended during heavy screen sessions. Windows 11 Night light is a handy feature that reduces blue light and promotes better sleep.
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Best Metroidvania Game to Play in 2025
Metroidvania games are perfect for players who enjoy getting lost in big, mysterious worlds. These games let you explore at your own pace, find hidden paths, and unlock new powers as you go. In 2025, the selection is better than ever. From older classics to fresh indie hits, the genre keeps growing in exciting ways. Whether you love detailed pixel art, deep stories, or tough boss fights, there’s something here for you. This list will guide you to the best Metroidvania games you can play this year.
1. Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is the game that helped define the Metroidvania genre. First released in 1997, it remains one of the most influential and widely praised action-platformers of all time. You play as Alucard, the son of Dracula, exploring a sprawling, interconnected castle filled with secrets, monsters, and power-ups. Unlike earlier Castlevania titles, this game ditched the linear level design in favor of open-ended exploration. You gain new abilities over time, such as double-jumping or turning into mist, which let you reach previously blocked areas and encourage constant backtracking and discovery.
The art design, music, and RPG-like progression system still hold up remarkably well. Even after nearly three decades, few games match its balance of atmosphere, gameplay depth, and freedom. Fans of the Castlevania Netflix series will find plenty of familiar faces and lore threads woven throughout the game. It's available on modern platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and mobile, making it easy to experience or revisit in 2025.
2. Metroid Dread
Metroid Dread is a modern revival of Nintendo’s classic sci-fi series, released in 2021 for the Nintendo Switch. It continues the story from Metroid Fusion, placing you once again in control of Samus Aran as she explores a dangerous alien planet teeming with secrets, hostile lifeforms, and ancient Chozo technology. The game blends smooth movement, responsive combat, and a steady stream of upgrades that gradually open up new areas.
A major addition is the E.M.M.I. robots, relentless, nearly indestructible machines that patrol specific zones. Their presence creates a tense cat-and-mouse dynamic that adds urgency to the usual exploration. The map design is tight and layered, rewarding curiosity while rarely feeling aimless.
With clean visuals, sharp design, and a strong sense of momentum, Metroid Dread succeeds at both honoring its roots and pushing the formula forward. It’s a standout in the genre and a great showcase of how well 2D Metroidvanias can still evolve.
3. Animal Well
Animal Well is a different kind of Metroidvania that replaces combat with curiosity and trades boss fights for brain-teasers. You play as a small, silent blob emerging from a flower bud into a dark, beautifully pixelated world. There’s no map at first, no clear guidance, and no explanation of your purpose. You explore, experiment, and gradually piece together meaning from the cryptic surroundings. Every item you find, like a frisbee, firecracker, or slinky, becomes a strange new tool for solving puzzles and reaching hidden areas.
This is also the first title published by Bigmode, the label founded by YouTuber Video Game Dunkey. While his name helped bring early attention, the game shines entirely on its own. Nearly every screen holds a secret, and the further you explore, the more complex and rewarding the mysteries become. Even after the credits roll, you're far from finished.
For players who love solving puzzles, experimenting with mechanics, and trading discoveries with others, Animal Well is one of the most original Metroidvania experiences available
4. Blasphemous 2
Blasphemous 2 is a grotesque and gorgeously crafted Metroidvania that leans fully into its themes of religious horror, unsettling imagery, and cryptic lore. You once again take control of The Penitent One, a silent warrior navigating a nightmarish world shaped by suffering and devotion. While the sequel doesn't reinvent the genre, it builds confidently on the foundation of the first game with tighter mechanics, more varied exploration, and a richly disturbing atmosphere.
This time around, you’re given three distinct weapons early on: a heavy flail, a fast rapier and dagger set, and a balanced greatsword. Each weapon offers a unique movement ability that helps you access new areas and adds variety to both combat and platforming. The world is packed with detailed pixel art and grotesque scenes that linger in your mind long after you’ve put down the controller.
With its unforgettable visuals, refined gameplay, and oppressive yet captivating tone, Blasphemous 2 is a standout title for anyone looking to get lost in a dark and deeply unsettling Metroidvania.
5. Dead Cells
Dead Cells is a fast-paced, stylish blend of Metroidvania exploration and roguelike progression. Released in 2018 and still actively updated years later, it remains one of the most addictive and replayable entries in the genre. You play as a mysterious creature inhabiting a headless corpse, fighting your way through a shifting series of biomes filled with deadly traps, challenging enemies, and secrets around every corner.
Unlike traditional Metroidvanias, Dead Cells features procedurally generated levels that change with each run. But it still keeps the core of the genre intact, with branching paths, ability-based progression, and new zones becoming accessible as you collect permanent upgrades. Combat is quick and fluid, with dozens of weapons, skills, and mutations that let you tailor your build to your playstyle. Whether you prefer long-range traps or up-close brutality, the game gives you plenty of tools to experiment with.
It also features post-launch expansions that have added new content and even crossovers with other indie games. In 2023, Return to Castlevania brought a full DLC that paid tribute to the series that helped define the genre. With tight gameplay, gorgeous pixel art, and near-endless variety, Dead Cells continues to stand as a must-play action-platformer.
6. Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is often considered a modern classic of the Metroidvania genre. Developed by Team Cherry and released in 2017, it set a new benchmark for world-building, atmosphere, and emotional depth in 2D exploration games. You play as a silent, masked knight delving into the ruined kingdom of Hallownest, a vast underground world filled with decaying civilizations, haunting lore, and brutal enemies.
The game blends tight, responsive combat with rich environmental storytelling. Each area feels distinct and interconnected, rewarding players who take the time to explore every hidden path. Progression is tied to acquiring new abilities like wall-jumping, dashing, and double-jumping, which slowly open up deeper layers of the map. Despite its challenge, Hollow Knight is never unfair. Every boss fight, secret, and upgrade feels earned.
At The Game Awards 2017, Hollow Knight was nominated for Best Independent Game and Best Debut Indie Game. It didn’t take home a trophy, but it left a lasting impact on the genre and the indie scene as a whole. With Silksong still on the horizon, now is the perfect time to experience this beautifully crafted adventure.
7. Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a visually stunning and emotionally rich Metroidvania that expands on the tight platforming and heartfelt storytelling of its predecessor. Developed by Moon Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios, this 2020 follow-up to Ori and the Blind Forest trades simplicity for scale, offering a much larger world, deeper mechanics, and more combat-focused gameplay. You guide Ori through ten beautifully crafted biomes filled with secrets, upgrades, and increasingly tricky platforming challenges.
The game introduces a host of new movement abilities, from grappling through the air to burrowing through sand, and these skills make traversal a constant joy. While the combat can feel clunky at times, especially compared to how fluid the platforming is, it doesn’t overshadow the game’s core strengths. The escape sequences and multi-phase boss fights can be frustrating, but the satisfaction of mastering them is undeniable.
At its best, Will of the Wisps delivers moments of pure flow, where movement, music, and animation come together seamlessly. It's not without flaws, but its charm, emotional weight, and breathtaking art direction make it one of the most memorable Metroidvania experiences still worth playing in 2025.
8. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is a love letter to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, crafted by none other than Symphony’s assistant director, Koji Igarashi. Marketed from the start as a spiritual successor, Bloodstained delivers on its promise with gothic flair, satisfying progression, and a massive castle teeming with secrets. You play as Miriam, a shardbinder who can absorb the powers of demons she defeats, creating endless options for building a combat style that fits your preferences.
From floating familiars and magical shields to martial arts and greatswords, Bloodstained offers a staggering variety of weapons and abilities. The world itself is equally diverse, moving beyond classic cathedral and dungeon aesthetics into surreal, unexpected environments that feel alive with detail and menace. Hidden walls, fast-travel rooms, and impressively lit vistas reward careful exploration at every turn.
Despite some technical hiccups on release, especially on the Switch, Bloodstained stands as one of the finest modern Metroidvanias. It’s a long-awaited return to form for the genre's golden era and a reminder that Igarashi's brand of exploration-heavy, loot-driven gameplay still has plenty of life left in it.
9. Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown reimagines the long-dormant franchise by fusing its classic platforming roots with the depth and exploration of a modern Metroidvania. Developed by Ubisoft Montpellier, this 2.5D action-platformer shifts away from the cinematic 3D entries of the past and returns to a side-scrolling perspective, one that allows for sharp combat, precise traversal, and one of the most polished gameplay experiences in the genre today.
You play as Sargon, a member of the elite Immortals, who is sent to the mythological Mount Qaf to rescue the kidnapped prince. The story taps into Persian mythology and time distortion, though some of its more intriguing narrative threads don’t fully develop. Still, the core gameplay is what makes this title shine. From the start, Sargon is fast, deadly, and equipped with a wide array of melee abilities that make every encounter feel intense and stylish. The game’s combat evokes the rhythm and complexity of titles like Sekiro, with parries, combos, and cinematic finishers giving each fight dramatic weight.
Platforming is just as satisfying. Classic Metroidvania upgrades like double jumps and grapples gradually open up a sprawling, interconnected world full of secrets, optional challenges, and cleverly layered obstacles. One standout feature is the photo map system, which lets you tag points of interest by taking snapshots, an elegant solution to the genre’s often-tedious backtracking.
While its story may leave a few threads hanging, The Lost Crown excels where it counts: refined combat, fluid movement, and intricate level design. It’s a bold return for the series and one of the strongest Metroidvania titles available to play in 2025.
10. Hollow Knight: Silksong
Hollow Knight: Silksong remains one of the most anticipated Metroidvania games in the world, and after years of near silence, 2025 finally feels like the year it arrives. Originally announced in 2019, the sequel to Hollow Knight puts players in control of Hornet, the agile and sharp-tongued warrior who played a key role in the first game. This time, she steps into the spotlight as the main character, navigating a new haunted kingdom filled with danger, mystery, and vertical exploration.
While there is still no confirmed release date, Team Cherry has announced a 2025 launch window. With Silksong scheduled to be playable at Australia’s ACMI Game Worlds exhibition starting September 18, there’s a strong chance it will be released to the public before then. If so, it could easily become the biggest indie launch of the year.
Early footage highlights a faster, more combat-oriented experience. Hornet’s acrobatic movement and needle-based attacks promise a distinct feel from the original. With new biomes, dozens of enemies, and a reworked quest system, Silksong has all the makings of another modern Metroidvania classic.
If you’re diving into Metroidvanias for the first time or revisiting old favorites, 2025 offers some of the strongest entries the genre has ever seen. To get the most out of these richly detailed worlds and split-second platforming challenges, high-performance gear makes all the difference. Acer Predator computers, monitors, and accessories deliver the speed, clarity, and responsiveness serious players demand.
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