Saturdays are for waking up early, stretching out, and realising with horror that you left it very late to ask people what they would be playing over the weekend. Then, when you are just about recovered from the first shock, realising with even bigger horror that you didn’t ask them what they would be playing over Christmas.
Oh dear. Oh my. Oh criminy!
## Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM: The Premier Gaming Display
High-end gaming displays frequently necessitate a trade-off between refresh rates and color precision. The Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM defies this trend, offering an impressive array of features tailored for dedicated gamers. This 32-inch behemoth presents a genuine 4K resolution, groundbreaking QD-OLED technology, a remarkable 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time, and a swift 240Hz refresh rate, making it a fantastic option for both casual and competitive play.
### Outstanding Price Tag
Currently offered at a historic low of $899, down from its usual $1,299, the ROG Swift PG32UCDM provides high-end OLED gaming capabilities at a more reachable price. This not only boosts its value but also makes it an enticing choice for gamers aiming to enhance their gaming setup ahead of the holiday season.
### QD-OLED Advancements
The quantum dot OLED (QD-OLED) display achieves perfect blacks by allowing each pixel to emit its own light and turn off entirely. This leads to boundless contrast, surpassing conventional LCD displays. In darker game scenes, delicate shadows unveil concealed details rather than blending into drab gray. The monitor achieves 99% DCI-P3 color coverage with authentic 10-bit color depth, enabling colors to vividly leap off the screen.
### Perfect Size and Definition
The 32-inch display size is an ideal match for 4K resolution, yielding clearer visuals than 1440p without rendering text and UI elements overly small. Users can comfortably sit at an average desk distance, observing onscreen details without straining their necks. The display’s 16:9 aspect ratio guarantees compatibility with most games and software without the inconvenience of black bars or distortion.
### Rapid Refresh Rates and Response Metrics
Featuring a 240Hz refresh rate and an ultra-fast 0.03ms gray-to-gray response time, the PG32UCDM significantly improves motion clarity. Fast-moving shooters profit from diminished blurring, allowing gamers to identify opponents and react swiftly. This capability revolutionizes gameplay, where previous lower refresh rates felt like sluggish presentations.
### Enhanced Cooling Mechanism
To avoid burn-in and sustain peak performance, Asus implements a custom cooling system with a distinctive airflow design and graphene film backing. This mechanism maintains stable OLED panel temperatures even during extended gaming sessions featuring static UI components. The monitor also ensures consistent brightness levels across the display, eliminating common brightness fluctuation issues with contrasting visuals.
### Certified HDR Capabilities
The PG32UCDM meets the VESA DisplayHDR 400 True Black certification, ensuring adherence to stringent HDR performance criteria. With elevated peak brightness levels, in-game explosions and light sources can illuminate brilliantly while preserving the deep, rich blacks inherent to OLED technology. Furthermore, the monitor’s matte finish reduces reflections without compromising clarity, allowing for use in well-lit settings.
### Comprehensive Connectivity Options
Fitted with a 90W USB-C port, the monitor seamlessly transmits display signals while charging your laptop with a single connection. By incorporating Display Stream Compression, users can achieve the full 4K 240Hz signal through DisplayPort 1.4, along with HDMI 2.1 support for next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X at 4K 120Hz.
### Competitive Pricing Structure
Priced at $899, the PG32UCDM is $400 less than its suggested retail price, providing a budget-friendly option compared to similarly equipped OLED gaming displays, which typically range from $1,200 to $1,500. Instead of opting for VA or IPS panels that may lag in contrast, gamers can choose this flagship panel technology and benefit from enthusiast-grade refresh rates paired with outstanding color precision.
In summary, the Asus ROG Swift PG32UCDM emerges as a top selection for gamers in search of the best of both realms—rapid performance and breathtaking visuals. Its features and competitive pricing position it as a leading contender in the gaming monitor arena.
[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6526/)
**Nintendo Switch 2 Promotion at Microcenter: Key Information to Consider**
If you’re thinking about buying a Nintendo Switch 2 and live close to a Microcenter, this is an excellent moment to seize a time-sensitive deal. The renowned tech store has recently slashed the console’s price to only $400, offering a surprising $50 reduction from its standard price. This promotion is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with the first holiday season for the Switch 2, making it an appealing option for both gamers and those looking to give gifts.
### Offer Details
Microcenter is prominently promoting the Nintendo Switch 2 at $399.99, creating a timely chance for those eager to acquire the newest gaming equipment. However, it’s important to note that this reduced price is available solely in-store and there is no shipping option. Therefore, customers will either need to reside nearby or be ready to travel to the store. At the time of this writing, several Microcenter locations have confirmed stock availability, with around 25 units in stock.
### Console Compared to Packages
It’s essential to understand that the discount is applicable only to the standalone Nintendo Switch 2 console, independent of any game packages. If you were contemplating buying the console along with the well-known game *Mario Kart World*, which costs an extra $80, the total savings would lessen. Essentially, the bundle would provide only a $20 discount off the regular price of $450, a deal that some retailers, such as Walmart, had previously offered during sales earlier in December.
### Current Trends in the Market
In spite of the favorable reception and strong sales of the Switch 2, the broader market for gaming consoles has faced difficulties this holiday season. Recent data from Circana reveals that November 2025 was a lackluster month for gaming hardware sales, with only 1.6 million units of various consoles—including the Nintendo Switch (both models), PS5, and Xbox Series X/S—being sold. This marks the lowest pre-holiday sales volume for consoles since 1995. The increasing average price of new consoles, even with promotions like Black Friday, has contributed to this downturn.
### Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the $400 price point at Microcenter offers a significant opportunity for anyone seeking a Nintendo Switch 2. Although the deal is limited to in-store purchases, the discount is attractive, especially within the context of a challenging holiday season for console sales. For gamers wanting to upgrade their setup or gift someone special, prompt action may be wise to secure this offer.
**KPop Demon Hunters: A Deep Dive into the Soundtrack and Its Influence**
Since its launch six months ago, KPop Demon Hunters has emerged as a cultural sensation, enchanting viewers with its combination of narrative, music, and dynamic characters. Central to this cinematic adventure is the film’s soundtrack, masterfully developed by Ejae, who takes on the roles of songwriter and lead vocalist for the protagonist, Rumi. The film’s music effectively embodies its themes and character arcs, playing a crucial role in its overall achievement.
Ejae recently collaborated with YouTuber Daniel Wall for an extensive interview, where she presented demos for several tracks featured in the film. These preliminary recordings showcase Ejae’s vocal talent and served as a conceptual basis before the final versions were completed and performed by the full ensemble, including Rei Ami and Audrey Nuna, who portray fellow Huntr/x teammates.
A standout piece on the soundtrack is “What It Sounds Like,” the film’s concluding number. In the finale, Rumi and her fellow Huntr/x girls deliver a stirring anthem, exchanging apologies amidst a packed stadium as they confront and ultimately vanquish the demon king Gwi-ma. This concluding scene represents a culmination of themes woven throughout the film, rendering it a profoundly emotional and impactful ending. The demo version of this track reveals a fascinating element—the earlier arrangement included a complete medley, blending melodies from other tracks in the soundtrack, such as “Free” and “How It’s Done,” enriching the auditory experience further.
However, it is essential to recognize that the award-winning lead single “Golden” was absent from the demo mix, as it had yet to be composed at that time. This underscores the evolving nature of songwriting and how distinctly the final output can differ from its preliminary stages.
In the demo, the harmonies exhibited a remarkable interplay between Rumi and her Huntr/x friends, producing a layered sound that some fans feel is less pronounced in the final cut. While the produced track emphasizes Rumi’s vocals, the multi-part harmonies in the demo deliver a unique auditory experience that highlights the group’s synergy, which many fans have grown to appreciate.
Ejae’s examination of these themes and the evolution of the songs has struck a chord with audiences, as reflected in fan-sharing metrics. The emotional resonance of “What It Sounds Like” is significant, with numerous listeners identifying it as a favorite—Ejae herself revealed it was her leading track on her Spotify Wrapped for the year, displaying an impressive streaming count.
The soundtrack’s progression from demo to film illustrates the creative blend of K-Pop and cinematic storytelling, as evidenced by the critical praise and vibrant fan engagement surrounding KPop Demon Hunters. As discussions about this film persist, the music remains a powerful narrative device, enriching the viewing experience and leaving a profound impression on its audience.
Amazon is transforming the manner in which consumers acquire laptops by providing substantial savings on a diverse selection of models from reputable brands like HP, Dell, Asus, Lenovo, and Apple. Among the notable promotions, one of the most remarkable is the present deal on a 15.6-inch HP touchscreen laptop, now available for only $650—signifying an extraordinary 70% reduction from its original price of $2,200.
This visually striking moonlight blue laptop not only highlights an impressive reduction but also comes with a generous 6-in-1 accessory package worth nearly $200, boosting the overall appeal of the offer. However, purchasers should act swiftly, as this limited-time promotion is anticipated to conclude shortly.
### Advanced Features and Design
The HP laptop showcases a vibrant 15.6-inch Full HD display, framed in an ultra-slim 6.5 mm micro-edge bezel that optimizes screen area while reducing distractions. The anti-glare finish guarantees that users can enjoy clear visuals without putting strain on their eyes, and the touchscreen capability simplifies navigation and boosts interactivity. Users can easily scroll through documents, draw, and type directly on the display with the provided touchscreen pen.
Besides the impressive visuals, the laptop features a full-sized keyboard and a dedicated numeric keypad, ensuring a comfortable typing experience, which is crucial for extended tasks. The inclusion of a dedicated Copilot key grants instant access to the AI assistant, while an integrated webcam and built-in microphones allow for seamless video communication.
### Performance and Storage
At its core, the HP laptop utilizes the power of an Intel Core i3-N305 processor paired with 16GB of RAM. This setup is crafted to efficiently manage various tasks, whether for professional or leisure purposes. The ample 1TB SSD provides abundant storage capacity, allowing users to keep all their important files and documents organized without fear of running low on space.
### Long-Lasting Battery Life
Another major highlight of this laptop is its strong battery performance. Users can anticipate over 9 hours of usage on a single charge, enabling uninterrupted work throughout the day. Furthermore, the device supports quick charging, reducing downtime and maintaining user mobility.
### Comprehensive Accessory Bundle
To further enhance the acquisition, the laptop includes a 6-in-1 accessory bundle comprising a touchscreen pen, a 128GB thumb drive, a laptop bag, a cleaning cloth, camera protector, dust plugs, and Windows 11 Pro pre-installed. This package ensures that users have everything needed to commence their work or entertainment experience promptly.
### Final Thoughts
At a price of $650, this HP laptop emerges as a premier option for anyone in search of a powerful yet reasonably priced device. With its current price marking one of the lowest seen in recent times, prospective buyers should take advantage of the opportunity before the offer expires. It is a perfect deal for students, professionals, or anyone requiring a dependable computing solution.
For those interested in this outstanding deal, additional details can be found [here](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6521/).
# Steam Winter Sale: Unmissable Bargains on Games, Highlighting *Arc Raiders*
The Steam Winter Sale has commenced, offering a multitude of price cuts on well-known video games, alongside the Xbox Countdown Sale. This yearly occasion serves as an ideal moment for gamers to save significantly on titles they’ve been longing for all year. Among the diverse offers, one game emerges as essential: the breakout extraction shooter sensation, *Arc Raiders*. Having debuted on October 30, 2025, this game is now discounted for the first time since launch, available for an incredible price of just $32, after a 20% reduction from its original $40 tag.
## Overview of *Arc Raiders*
*Arc Raiders* has garnered overwhelmingly favorable reviews, marking a high point in the gaming world due to its captivating first-person survival gameplay, multiplayer PvP interactions, and thrilling cooperative PvE features. The game’s design encourages collaboration and strategic thinking, enabling players to join forces while maneuvering through tough terrains filled with adversaries and challenges. Yet, one significant critique has been its reliance on AI-generated voices, which many players find insufficient. Enthusiasts remain optimistic that the game’s success will inspire the developers at Embark Studios to reinvest in recording these lines with human voice actors for an enhanced gaming experience.
## Gameplay and Features
The gameplay in *Arc Raiders* delivers an exhilarating blend of cooperative and competitive aspects. Players can collaborate to tackle missions, gathering resources and engaging in battles against powerful enemies. The game’s architecture fosters teamwork, making it a superb option for those who relish playing alongside friends or teaming up with other players online. Despite its initially low price point, the game features a variety of in-game cosmetic options for players wishing to customize their characters. Importantly, these purchases are completely optional and do not influence gameplay, permitting players to relish the core experience without feeling obliged to spend additional money.
## Personal Experience
Numerous players, including those who generally avoid online gaming or tactical shooters, have found themselves enthralled by *Arc Raiders*. The game’s immersive atmosphere and captivating gameplay have converted skeptics into eager participants. Players have shared accounts of thrilling gaming sessions where they achieve multiple successful runs, conveying a gratifying sense of accomplishment despite the difficulties presented by the game.
## Current Availability
For gamers eager to seize this limited-time deal, *Arc Raiders* is now accessible on both Xbox and PC for $32. The sale offers a fantastic opportunity to discover this innovative title while reaping substantial savings. However, as players delve into their gaming experiences, a recurring message has surfaced urging Embark Studios to reassess their use of AI voices, indicating a stronger dedication to improving the game’s overall quality.
In summary, the Steam Winter Sale provides a distinctive opportunity for gamers to enhance their collections with remarkable offers. *Arc Raiders* shines as an excellent selection, both for its gameplay and discounted price. For those who appreciate value and seek adventure, now is an optimal moment to dive into this outstanding title.
### The Influence of High-Quality Headphones on Media Experience
An excellent set of headphones can significantly elevate how you enjoy your preferred media. Putting money into superior audio equipment can revolutionize daily listening, but it’s important to select a trusted brand that provides great value without costing a fortune. Sony has consistently excelled in both quality and affordability, and their newest products are no different.
#### Sony ULT WEAR Over-Ear Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones
Now available for $148, reduced from their usual price of $250, the Sony ULT WEAR headphones are an outstanding option for individuals seeking quality audio and comfort. This notable discount of $102 represents a 41% reduction, making these headphones an attractive choice.
[A preview of the offer on Amazon can be accessed here.](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6523/)
#### Remarkable Comfort for Long Wear
One of the distinguishing characteristics of these Sony headphones is their comfort. The ear cups feature soft padding, making prolonged wear comfortable—a vital aspect for those who favor headphones over earbuds. The adjustable headband provides a personalized fit, preventing the common issue of tightness that can lead to discomfort during lengthy listening periods.
#### Active Noise Cancelling Capability
The active noise cancelling (ANC) function is especially impressive, effectively reducing distractions from ambient sounds such as traffic, conversations, and airplane noise. This feature enables users to concentrate on music, podcasts, or audiobooks, or simply relish a more peaceful setting. Moreover, the headphones include a setting to allow ambient sound in without the need to take them off, offering awareness of surroundings when needed.
#### Notable Battery Longevity
Battery life is another key benefit, providing many hours of playback on a single charge. This is beneficial for travelers and commuters who require reliable audio throughout the day. With quick recharge capabilities, users can swiftly power up their headphones, ensuring minimal interruptions between uses.
### Summary
The Sony ULT WEAR Over-Ear Noise Canceling Bluetooth Headphones blend comfort, sound quality, and state-of-the-art features, making them a superb choice for various listening situations. At the current promotional price of $148, they constitute a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a dependable and feature-rich audio experience.
[Seize the opportunity to take advantage of this offer before it disappears. Check it out on Amazon.](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6523/)
### The Comfort of Multi-Port Charging Options
Carrying individual chargers for each of your gadgets—smartphones, laptops, tablets, earbuds, and smartwatches—can be quite cumbersome, particularly when trying to pack light. A multi-port charger can greatly simplify your charging requirements, making it a crucial accessory for modern tech enthusiasts. Right now, there’s a fantastic chance to upgrade your charging arrangement with a premium multi-port choice.
#### The Anker Prime 67W USB-C Charger
Anker is famous for its portable charging solutions, and the **67W Anker Prime USB-C charger with three ports** stands out as a top-tier product. Available for **$37** on Amazon, this charger is currently offered at a **25% discount**. The deal is accessible to both Prime and non-Prime customers, with complimentary shipping for all buyers.
##### Important Features
– **Compact Structure**: The Anker charger is roughly **51% smaller** than the original 67W MacBook charger, resulting in exceptional portability. The prongs fold in when not in use, ensuring safe and convenient storage.
– **Multiple Ports**: This charger features **two USB-C ports** and **one USB-A port**, enabling you to charge several devices at once. You can achieve an efficient output of **67W** when connecting a single device, while **65W max two-port charging** can decrease charging times by as much as **34%**.
– **Broad Compatibility**: The charger works with various devices, including **iPhone Series 12 to 17**, **Samsung Galaxy phones**, **MacBooks**, **Pixel phones**, and **iPads**.
– **Stable & Secure**: Advanced features like **GaNPrime Tech** and **ActiveShield 2.0** offer improved heat management and safety, ensuring your devices won’t overheat during charging.
#### Perfect for Any Scenario
The Anker Prime charger is ideal for anyone in search of a hassle-free power solution. Its compact size makes it easy to transport, allowing you to plug it into an outlet at cafes, coworking areas, or airports, ensuring your devices stay charged and ready for use.
Currently listed at **$37**, this charger is a sensible investment given its functions and the convenience it provides. The package includes the charger, a welcome guide, and a **24-month warranty** for additional peace of mind.
For those intending to travel during the holidays, ordering this charger today guarantees delivery before Christmas, enabling you to streamline your charging setup without needing multiple adapters.
[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6524/)
**The Speculation Around “Avengers: Doomsday” and the Surge of Misinformation**
The chatter among fans regarding superhero films is not a recent event, and the imminent *Avengers: Doomsday* has emerged as a hotspot for conjecture, doubt, and misinformation, surpassing ordinary conversations associated with other Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) entries. The shroud of secrecy around *Doomsday* has resulted in a plethora of cryptic teasers and trailers, many of which the average fan might not even recognize as being in circulation before *Avatar: Fire and Ash*. This shroud of doubt complicates matters for both fans and casual viewers, making it hard to differentiate between what is real and what is merely the result of fan-driven enthusiasm.
The MCU serves as one of the most prominent elements of contemporary pop culture, partially propelled by a media environment geared towards engagement and swift information spread. In such a landscape, numerous people disseminate information without confirming its validity, leading to the expansive spread of theories about *Doomsday* that are posited as truths. The nostalgia-driven allure of the film—featuring beloved characters and actors—has especially paved the way for misinformation, allowing fan speculation to flourish without substantiated facts.
Instances of this misinformation consist of alleged AI-generated images claiming to be screenshots from trailers, some of which have yet to debut. For example, there have been spoof trailers proposing new storylines or character developments, like a plot focused on Chris Hemsworth’s Thor. Humorous interpretations of this phenomenon have surfaced, with profiles asserting the introduction of characters such as Sigourney Weaver’s Ellen Ripley into the MCU, merging elements from various franchises in a manner that is both amusing and deceptive.
Additionally, the conjecture that Doctor Doom might function as a multiverse version of Tony Stark, with Robert Downey Jr. taking on a new role as the antagonist, has only intensified further speculation. This notion illustrates a widespread trend where deepfakes, altered images, and unverified assertions flourish on social media platforms, often accompanied by questionable source citations. This unchecked circulation nurtures a culture where misinformation can prosper, even when users are sincere in their interactions.
For ardent Marvel fans, this environment can seem daunting, yet casual viewers often evade the weight of misinformation. Nevertheless, with *Doomsday* creating authentic buzz—especially through theater-exclusive teasers that aren’t easily accessible online—average consumers find themselves navigating a terrain cluttered with rumors and unreliable sources. As trailers are withheld from official sources, audiences depend on an imperfect network of leaks and speculation.
The rise of bogus and AI-created movie content has compelled platforms like YouTube to take measures against channels that produce misleading trailers, underscoring the thin line between fan creations and potential financial consequences for larger entities within the film sector. This reaction highlights the intricacies of maneuvering through a landscape where fan excitement can bleed into the domain of misinformation.
To sum up, the anticipation surrounding *Avengers: Doomsday* signifies a broader challenge within the superhero media landscape, where speculation frequently eclipses reality. Amid the thrill, fans should remain discerning, questioning the origins of the information they consume and share while navigating a world characterized by swift rumors and speculations.
**Morning Checkpoint: Gaming News Roundup**
The gaming universe is alive with new updates and captivating developments. Here’s what you should be aware of from the recent discussions, forthcoming content, and significant events.
### The New Voice of Lara Croft Talks About Losing *Perfect Dark*
Alix Wilton Regan, recognized for her performances in *Dragon Age* and *Cyberpunk 2077*, has recently disclosed her thoughts on the cancellation of the eagerly awaited *Perfect Dark* reboot. After having recorded considerable content for the game, she voiced her disappointment at being “blindsided” by the sudden halt of the project. Regan is currently contributing her skills to the upcoming *Tomb Raider: Catalyst* and *Legacy of Atlantis*, although she expresses worries about the reliability of these new releases. “The silver lining for me when *Perfect Dark* fell through was that I’d already been working on Lara for about a year at that point,” she reminisced, admitting to a lingering anxiety about severing her connection to the character of Lara Croft.
### The Rats Engaging with *Doom*
In an unusual twist on gaming, *Tom’s Hardware* reveals that researchers are advancing in training rats to play the classic first-person shooter, *Doom*. Using a distinctive setup that incorporates air blasts to indicate when the rats collide with walls and a button for shooting, these rodents are being given the opportunity to interact with the game like never before. Their entire visual field is filled with the game, creating a strange yet intriguing experiment in learning and interaction.
### Upcoming DLC for *Dave the Diver*: *In The Jungle*
The widely loved game *Dave the Diver* is about to be revitalized with its *In The Jungle* DLC, incorporating features reminiscent of *Animal Crossing*. This significant update will introduce a new jungle village named Utara, where players can engage with villagers, collect resources, and take on quests. The DLC is anticipated to add approximately ten hours of extra gameplay and will also unveil a new restaurant mechanic, permitting players to prepare fish and enjoy enhanced movement capabilities.
### No Xbox Wrapped for 2025
Gamers anticipating the annual Xbox Wrapped report will be dismayed to find out that Microsoft will not be delivering this well-liked summary of player activity for the year 2025. As reported by *Windows Central*, all marketing efforts are currently being directed toward organizing the company’s 25th anniversary celebrations. This choice has prompted speculation about Phil Spencer’s possible gaming hours for the year, with aspirations for a potential record-setting performance.
### *Adventure Time* Joins *PowerWash Simulator 2*
In a charming crossover, *PowerWash Simulator 2* is preparing to incorporate *Adventure Time* content in its first of three paid DLCs. Scheduled for release in the spring, this expansion will bring five new cleaning locations from the cherished cartoon, featuring iconic spots like the Tree House and Ice King’s castle.
### Sony Submits Patent for AI Censorship
In a noteworthy development, Sony has submitted documentation for a new AI technology aimed at implementing “custom content edits” in video games. This censorship technology could adjust language or gore levels according to the context, raising questions about its impact on artistic expression and game ratings. As the gaming sector evolves, such advancements may alter how content is handled and regulated.
### Conclusion
With partnerships and technologies advancing rapidly, the gaming landscape remains as vibrant as ever. Whether it’s new launches, innovative gameplay experiments, or industry trends toward AI, there’s an abundance of excitement in the gaming world. Stay tuned for more updates in this dynamic gaming universe.