### The Uneasy Attraction of Mega Starmie in Pokémon Horizons

The launch of Mega Starmie in the Pokémon series has triggered a variety of responses from fans and viewers alike. Initially seen as one of the more absurd transformations in the ongoing Pokémon Legends: Z-A, Mega Starmie has unexpectedly emerged as a powerful addition to the game. Nonetheless, its representation in the most recent episode of Pokémon Horizons has left some fans questioning the design decisions behind this distinctly strange creature.

In the episode titled “The Catcher in the Sky,” which aired in Japan, the character Friede captures a Starmie capable of Mega Evolving. This transformation notably amplifies the Pokémon’s physical form, enabling it to loom over its trainer and display eerily human-like movements. Referred to as “Instructor Starmie” by Friede, the implied function of the Mega Evolved form raises inquiries about its roles and significance within the storyline.

One notable feature of Mega Starmie that has caught significant attention is its shiny exterior. The Pokémon gives off a sleek sheen reminiscent of being polished, adding to its unsettling look. As it moves with exaggerated motions, the result is a visually awkward character that some viewers may find challenging to watch. The design team at Pokémon Horizons has undoubtedly succeeded in creating a figure that is both intriguing and grotesque.

Beyond the design of Mega Starmie, Pokémon Horizons as a whole has made significant progress in its storytelling. Unlike its predecessor, which frequently showcased disjointed episodes led by Ash Ketchum, Horizons strives for a more cohesive narrative structure. As it enters its third season, the series maintains a focus on character growth and narrative clarity, making it a refreshing addition to the Pokémon anime series.

As fans interact with the series on platforms like Netflix, many show a mix of nostalgia and curiosity regarding how Pokémon evolves in both gameplay and narrative depth. While views on the aesthetics of Mega Starmie may differ, its place in the series, along with the overarching storytelling techniques of Pokémon Horizons, indicates a fascinating development for the franchise as a whole.

# Thrilling News for Animal Crossing: New Horizons

**Animal Crossing: New Horizons** has captured the hearts of Nintendo Switch gamers since its launch in March 2020. Following the last significant update in 2021, many assumed that further enhancements to the game had halted. Yet, in an unexpected announcement made in October, Nintendo disclosed that **Animal Crossing: New Horizons** will not only be upgraded to a Nintendo Switch 2 version but will also receive a comprehensive 3.0 content update. On October 30, Nintendo released an extensive 12-minute video detailing new features and enhancements, followed by an early hands-on preview for the press in December.

## Launch Date and Pricing

The 3.0 update, along with the Nintendo Switch 2 version of **Animal Crossing: New Horizons**, is scheduled for launch on **January 15, 2026**. The Nintendo Switch 2 version will be available for **$64.99** for new customers, while current players can upgrade for **$4.99**. Notably, all users will be granted access to the 3.0 update content at no extra charge.

## New Features in the Nintendo Switch 2 Version

The Nintendo Switch 2 version features various quality-of-life improvements, especially in design and decoration. A significant enhancement is the addition of mouse controls, which simplifies the placement of decor across the player’s island. Utilizing Joy-Con 2s as a mouse makes clicking and dragging items much easier.

Furthermore, players will gain an exclusive item: a megaphone. This tool allows players to summon villagers and visiting characters by speaking their names into the microphone. However, this functionality is restricted to characters outdoors and does not apply to those inside structures.

The revamped multiplayer function permits up to **12 players** to convene on an island, but all participants must be equipped with a Nintendo Switch 2. Additionally, this edition presents a new camera system that showcases a player’s face alongside their character.

## Key Features of the 3.0 Content Update

The 3.0 update introduces substantial new content, including the debut of the **Kapp’n family’s hotel**. This element turns the island into a hub for both friends and visiting characters. Leilani, Kapp’n’s spouse, will oversee the hotel, allowing players to design up to **10 rooms**. This feature is unlockable and connects to the pier area, reminiscent of the **Happy Home Paradise** DLC where players can decorate according to themes instead of specific character desires.

### Designing Hotel Rooms

Players can customize hotel rooms around different themes, such as a coastal design, or they can choose complete creative freedom. The update grants access to a comprehensive catalog of items, including theme-related decor elements.

### Shopping and New Items

As players embellish hotel rooms, they can collect hotel tickets to use at a hotel-exclusive shop. This shop, managed by a character named Gran, will feature a variety of new items, including Nintendo-themed furniture like the **Ultra Hand** and playable classic NES games (available with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription). Besides Nintendo-themed offerings, fresh merchandise inspired by **Splatoon**, **Lego**, and **The Legend of Zelda** will also be included.

### Crafting Enhancements

Quality-of-life improvements consist of the ability to craft multiple items at once using materials directly from storage, without needing them in the player’s inventory. This change aims to ease the former nuisances associated with crafting, particularly for players involved in large-scale item creation. Additionally, a **Resetti “reset” service** will enable players to swiftly clear sections of their island.

### Slumber Island Feature

A new feature titled **Slumber Island** will offer players “extra sandboxes” for their experimentation and creativity. This feature allows players to adjust the time of day and weather conditions for their designs without modifying their permanent islands. The interface appears more streamlined, providing immediate access to items from the in-game catalog and enhanced terraforming options, letting players construct bridges and adjustments without delays.

## Conclusion

With the revelation of the 3.0 content update and the Nintendo Switch 2 version, **Animal Crossing: New Horizons** fans have a lot to anticipate in early 2026. These updates promise to enrich the overall gameplay experience, enhancing both the design and social elements of the game. As fans look forward to these thrilling changes, it is evident that Nintendo is dedicated to revitalizing one of its most treasured titles.

**Arc Raiders Winter Update: Cold Snap Unveils New Features and Tweaks**

*Arc Raiders*, the latest Game Awards victor celebrated for its extraction shooter gameplay, has launched a notable winter-themed update named “Cold Snap.” This update brings forward a variety of new features that improve gameplay and player engagement.

Among the prominent enhancements is a new map condition featuring frostbite, which demands players to tread carefully to prevent health loss. Additionally, Cold Snap presents a time-sensitive event that enables players to earn rewards such as Raider Tokens. A new initiative called the Candleberry Banquet offers players opportunities to earn currency and cosmetics. Moreover, players can anticipate a rise in the frequency of blueprint drops, resulting in increased chances for gear enhancements.

A popular post on the official *Arc Raiders* subreddit pushes for a lasting change to the blueprint drop rates. The post suggests that such a modification would motivate players to utilize diverse loadouts, thereby encouraging a more daring gameplay style instead of relying solely on free loadouts with lower-quality loot.

In *Arc Raiders*, players have the option to traverse the perilous surface with either free loadouts or custom ones. Custom loadouts typically include a secure pocket for safeguarding valuable items. While a custom loadout ensures that players extract with at least something, it also comes with the peril of potentially losing higher-tier weapons or armor. This aspect adds layers to the strategy, with numerous players choosing a cautious, stealthy method to evade confrontations with other players.

The Cold Snap update has allegedly boosted blueprint availability, with many players noticing an increase in blueprint drops. One player’s testament highlights this shift: “Following the Cold Snap update, I acquired three blueprints over just a few matches, significantly more than before,” illustrating the elevated rewards that players can now anticipate.

Regarding the specifics of the update, *Arc Raiders* representatives confirmed two major changes in the patch notes: an increase in item and blueprint spawn rates within the Stella Montis region and broader spawn locations for blueprints to enhance availability. However, it is still unclear if these changes will be long-term or if the developers will modify the rates if they determine that acquiring blueprints becomes overly simplistic.

For the moment, the game assures players of more chances to obtain blueprints and elevate their gaming experience. As the *Arc Raiders* community delves into the newly modified mechanics, players are urged to take on the challenge of the winter update while aspiring for a welcoming gaming atmosphere.

### Holiday RPG Discounts: A Nostalgic Glimpse at Seasonal Gaming Promotions

As the festive season nears, numerous nostalgic gamers reflect on the thrill of unwrapping new RPGs during their childhood, immersing themselves in intricate worlds without the interruptions of online guides—simply pure fun. This year, with a plethora of titles receiving markdowns during the holiday sales, it’s an ideal moment to expand your physical collection. Here are some excellent RPG offers that are currently up for grabs:

#### **Visons of Mana**
A playful action-RPG, *Visons of Mana* is offered for **only $20** on both PS5 and Xbox Series X|S (physical copies exclusively). This game is a refreshing reimagining of the *Mana* series, delighting fans after an extended break.

#### **Final Fantasy 16**
Another wonderful bargain is *Final Fantasy 16*, similarly priced at **$20** at most stores. As a strong contender for Game of the Year 2023, it showcases top-notch music, performances, and cinematic boss battles, along with an exhilarating, though occasionally repetitive, action gameplay.

#### **Unicorn Overlord**
This strategic RPG from Vanillaware is presently **$25** for both PS5 and Switch. While it might become monotonous in its latter stages, the narrative and art are outstanding, justifying the purchase.

#### **Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2**
Warhorse Studios’ immersive sim comes in at a surprisingly low price of **$40 for PS5** and **$30 for Xbox**. A contender for the 2025 Game Awards, this sequel surpasses the bar set by its predecessor, providing a captivating open-world experience.

#### **Fantasian Neo Dimension**
Despite its origins on mobile platforms, *Fantasian Neo Dimension* is an impressive turn-based adventure that evokes memories of early *Final Fantasy* games. It’s currently available for **$30** on both PS5 and Switch.

#### **Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection**
For those who cherish retro gaming, this collection is priced at **$20** on Amazon. It reintroduces the nostalgic hybrid strategy gameplay that many gamers adored during the Game Boy Advance era.

#### **Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age**
Often overlooked, *Final Fantasy XII* delivers a rich experience with complex job systems and refined visuals. Now is a perfect opportunity to secure it for **$25** on both PS5 and Switch.

#### **Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster**
While some might consider the Pixel Remaster collection to be overpriced, possessing a piece of gaming history holds significant value. It’s currently on sale for **$40**.

#### **Super Mario RPG**
The remastered edition of *Super Mario RPG* for Switch is an exceptional deal at **$25**, particularly in light of the steep prices of original SNES copies, which begin at $50.

#### **Persona 3 Reload**
Finally, *Persona 3 Reload* is a fantastic remake available for **$17** at Amazon and **$25** at Best Buy. It’s a profound and captivating title that appeals to fans of the franchise.

As the holiday season advances, more bargains may surface. Keeping a lookout for discounts can enable gamers to recapture the thrill of yesteryears while accumulating new titles. Feel free to share any great discoveries you find in the comments!

### James Ohlen: A Legacy in Game Development and New Endeavors

James Ohlen, a significant personality in the gaming realm, has made considerable impacts throughout his extensive journey, notably spending an impressive 22 years at BioWare. Celebrated as the lead designer for iconic games such as *Baldur’s Gate 1 & 2*, *Dragon Age: Origins*, and *Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic*, Ohlen has earned the title of the “godfather of BioWare design.” In 2019, he moved to Wizards of the Coast to create a new intellectual property (IP) for the Hasbro-owned tabletop gaming titan.

After cofounding Archetype Entertainment, he and his team initiated the development of a role-playing game named *Exodus*, which has been likened to the cherished *Mass Effect* franchise. Although he played an essential role in its early stages, Ohlen recently declared that he would resign as head of the studio before the game’s expected launch in 2027.

In this regard, Hasbro’s VP of Communications, Abby Hodes, remarked that Ohlen believed his contributions to *Exodus* were fulfilled, enabling him to redirect his creative energy while still participating as a consultant for tabletop gaming projects.

As *Exodus* prepares for its debut, new trailers and gameplay elements have unveiled thrilling mechanics, including character dynamics reminiscent of *Mass Effect*, alongside an innovative time dilation concept that permits players to observe the consequences of their choices over centuries. This ambitious undertaking, which commenced during the pandemic, aims to provide a complex and visually breathtaking gaming experience.

The potential influence of *Exodus* reaches beyond the scope of interactive entertainment; it is set to act as a springboard for a wider array of products. Wizards of the Coast has already launched a related tabletop role-playing game (TTRPG) book and is pursuing avenues in trading cards and possible television adaptations, contingent on the game’s commercial success, akin to titles like *Clair Obscur: Expedition 33*.

Ohlen’s exit from the head position at Archetype Entertainment aligns with the appointment of Blizzard veteran Paul Della Bitta as the head of Wizards’ Digital Ventures division, further positioning Wizards of the Coast to innovate under new guidance. Nevertheless, numerous former BioWare talents, including Chad Robertson and Drew Karpyshyn, continue to support the creative vision at Archetype.

As the gaming community looks forward to *Exodus*, Ohlen’s journey underscores a lasting legacy in game design and narrative, and his future pursuits are likely to keep inspiring gamers and creators alike.

And why players hesitate

The post Genshin Impact 6.3 Banner Decisions – Which Characters Are Worth Pulling appeared first on Gamezebo.

**Jonathan Bailey: From Stage to Screen and the Realm of Final Fantasy XIV**

Jonathan Bailey has quickly risen as a significant presence in the entertainment realm, especially through his performances in major film and theater projects. One of his standout roles is as Fiyero in the eagerly awaited *Wicked* film adaptations. His interpretation has not only earned him considerable praise but also established him as a well-known figure to viewers globally. Moreover, he was recognized as *People* magazine’s “Sexiest Man Alive” for 2025, further cementing his celebrity status.

In addition to his role in *Wicked*, Bailey has provided his voice for the character of G’raha Tia in the massively successful MMORPG *Final Fantasy XIV*. This character resonates deeply with fans, enhancing its importance within the game’s storyline. Since taking on the role of G’raha Tia, Bailey has experienced a swift upward trajectory in his career, securing roles in both *Wicked: For Good* and *Jurassic World: Rebirth*. By 2025, he had positioned himself as the highest-grossing actor of the year, showcasing his adaptability and charm.

Nevertheless, recent alterations in the voice acting for G’raha Tia have incited speculation among fans about Bailey’s continued involvement with the character. With the launch of *FFXIV*’s update 7.4, some have observed a change in the tone and quality of G’raha’s voice. Various theories have circulated within the community, suggesting causes ranging from possible illness during recording sessions, the use of inferior recording equipment, to the possibility that Bailey has been recast due to his hectic promotional schedule for *Wicked: For Good* and *Jurassic World*.

To this point, neither Square Enix, the creators of *Final Fantasy XIV*, nor Bailey have confirmed any official modifications regarding the voice role. Fans who have followed G’raha Tia over the years are split; although some detect the differences as slight, for dedicated players, any alteration in the character’s voice can be striking. Comparisons between voice recordings from earlier updates and the newest have sparked debates, with some listeners attributing the disparity in sound quality to lower recording standards, suggesting that Bailey may have utilized a less professional setup for his lines.

In a prominent Twitter exchange, one fan highlighted that despite the noticeable changes, it is feasible that Bailey has not been recast but may have encountered logistical issues during the recording sessions. Another fan voiced their disappointment at the potential change in the character’s voice, emphasizing G’raha Tia’s significance to the *Final Fantasy XIV* community.

Bailey has expressed his passion for voicing G’raha Tia, reflecting on the difficulties of balancing his recording tasks with his stage performances, particularly during his stint in the revival of *Company*. This dedication showcases his devotion to the role and his bond with the character, further endearing him to supporters.

As speculation persists, many remain optimistic that if Bailey’s character has been temporarily recast, it will only be until he can return to his role. With ongoing projects highlighting his skill and star power, fans of both *Wicked* and *Final Fantasy XIV* eagerly anticipate updates that will clarify G’raha Tia’s future in the game while also celebrating Bailey’s remarkable accomplishments in the entertainment industry.

**Every Timeless Game Needs a Bold Game Boy Adaptation**

The convergence of nostalgia, gaming, and collectible markets remains a trending topic, particularly as recent trends indicate a heightened interest in reimagining classic games. A prime example is an unfinished port of *Resident Evil* for Game Boy Color that has emerged, providing an intriguing snapshot of what might have been. Kept alive by gaming aficionados, this demake not only serves as evidence of the creativity of the early 2000s but also ignites curiosity about revisiting these cherished titles across various platforms.

**Roblox’s Platform Exploitation Issue**

The online gaming platform Roblox has come under fire for its safety protocols, especially concerning its content. Prominent companies like Disney have expressed apprehensions, leading to a cautious stance on any upcoming collaborations. Disney’s choice to refrain from licensing its IP to Roblox highlights the current climate where platform security is crucial. The outcry is not singular; prohibitions in certain areas have triggered protests, signaling a rising tension between corporate decisions and gamer rights.

**The Variability of the Collectible Card Market**

The collectibles market once again captured attention with the sale of a pristine Charizard card for $550,000. This occurrence raises compelling questions about the worth of collectibles in a swiftly shifting environment. With echoes of discarded paper gems now haunting previous owners, many ponder which of today’s toys and collectibles might soar in value. Nonetheless, the nostalgia-driven market also confronts doubts, with some experts warning it could be a financial bubble on the verge of bursting.

**New Game Launches and Revivals on the Horizon**

Beyond nostalgic franchises, the gaming scene is perpetually advancing with fresh releases and revived series. *Dispatch*, a title originally released solely on PlayStation, is set to arrive on the Nintendo Switch soon, reflecting a broader trend toward cross-platform access. At the same time, the revival of the classic game *Painkiller* is igniting debate among the original creators, who contend that the redesigned game deviates significantly from its origins, leading to discussions about the meaning of intellectual property in contemporary gaming.

**Warner Bros. vs. Paramount: Corporate Relationships**

In the business world, Warner Bros. has recently turned down a buyout proposal from Paramount, illustrating the volatile nature of ownership and partnerships within the entertainment sector. A recent statement from Warner Bros. illuminated the intricacies of media financing and raised concerns about the future of collaborations in the streaming and film industries.

**Conclusion: Looking Forward**

As we progress, the fusion of nostalgia-driven innovation and the continuously shifting gaming landscape continues to generate conversation around worth—both emotional and financial. The intersection of classic games, commerce, and corporate policies exposes a complex yet intriguing ecosystem influencing both gamers and collectors. Whether determining which collectibles will retain value or how platforms will ensure safety, the future of gaming and nostalgia brims with potential.

I don’t know about you, but I plan to spend Christmas pinned to the sofa by a 15 tog duvet, watching through the family’s boxset of Poirot mysteries. The duvet alone won’t be sufficient, and like a modern day Giles Corey, I’ll cry “More weight!” at a nearby sibling until they crush me with extra blankets. Only one arm will be free from the blanket stricture. This is for operating the remote, reaching for selection box chocolates, and petting the dog. After all, nothing says cosy like ensconcing yourself before a grisly murder at a country house.

Which is of course why The Seance Of Blake Manor is just as apt a recommendation today as it would have been when it was released at Halloween.

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**Kick Teams Up with Xbox: A New Chapter for Controversial Streaming**

Earlier today, the streaming platform Kick, recognized for its ties to contentious content and gambling connections, revealed a partnership with Xbox via its official X account. This collaboration marks a crucial advancement for Kick, which has thrived by offering a venue for creators often considered too contentious for mainstream streaming platforms like Twitch.

The announcement featured a graphic showcasing two individuals shaking hands, one of whom held a console box labeled “video game system,” with the Kick logo prominently displayed. The accompanying text simply read “kick 🤝 xbox,” denoting a formal alliance.

**Kick App Debuts on Xbox Consoles**

Kotaku verified the presence of a specialized Kick app on Xbox consoles. The app’s overview underscores Kick as a live streaming platform where creators connect with their audiences, highlighting its appealing 95-5 subscription split for content creators, an incentive scheme, and the capacity to multistream. Prominent streamers like xQc, Asmongold, and Max Holloway are noted as significant personalities opting to stream on Kick.

Over time, Kick has earned a reputation as a haven for banned and canceled Twitch streamers. It implements minimal moderation and relaxed community guidelines, fostering an environment where problematic conduct can thrive. This strategy has enabled Kick to secure lucrative deals with controversial figures such as Felix “xQc” Lengyel, Nick “Nickmercs” Kolcheff, and Kaitlyn “Amouranth” Siragusa.

Adin Ross, another notable presence on the platform, previously endured an indefinite suspension on Twitch due to challenges with controlling hate speech. Upon transitioning to Kick, he famously livestreamed high-profile interviews, including one with former President Donald Trump.

Nevertheless, Kick’s controversial reputation encompasses incidents like the livestreamed violence and humiliation by streamers such as Raphaël “Jeanpormanove” Graven, who tragically passed away during a stream. The platform is also closely associated with gambling through Stake, a co-founded site that has attracted significant viewership for its casino-related content, especially following Twitch’s gambling ban in 2022.

**Platform Constraints and Future Opportunities**

At present, there is no available Kick app for PlayStation consoles, marking a possible growth opportunity as the streaming industry continues to develop. Despite the controversies that surround its content policies and creator practices, the collaboration with Xbox could enhance Kick’s visibility and engagement within the gaming community.

Thus far, Xbox has not offered any remarks concerning the partnership or its potential ramifications for the gaming sector and its content creators. The industry’s reaction to this collaboration will be keenly observed, particularly in light of Kick’s reputation and the nature of the app’s offerings.