Windows hot-patching on Itanium uses a simpler approach than AArch64, overwriting the first instruction bundle with a nop and a 64-bit long branch instruction to redirect execution. Itanium's fixed-size instruction bundles eliminated the need for spare patching space, and contrary to appearances, function-preceding breakpoint bundles serve alignment purposes rather than hot-patching.
PC gaming software offers significant savings compared to console games, with discounts frequently available below £45 even at launch. The article recommends maintaining a Steam wishlist, using price-tracking sites like IsThereAnyDeal, exploring bundle storefronts, claiming free games from platforms like Epic Games Store, and organizing your library across multiple launchers to maximize savings.