### Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Home Speaker: A Portable Speaker Ideal for Any Event

Searching for a portable speaker that excels for on-the-go use? The Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Home Speaker is an excellent option. Like all Marshall speakers, the Stanmore III features the iconic Marshall aesthetic, making it a chic addition to a bookshelf, desk, or entertainment center.

Presently, you can purchase the Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Home Speaker on Amazon for **$299**, significantly reduced from its former price of **$400**. This offer signifies a discount of **$101** and a **25% markdown**.

#### Outstanding Sound Quality

The Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Home Speaker produces high-fidelity, rich-sounding music output. It accomplishes this through a blend of tweeters and woofers that collaborate effectively to deliver crisp, defined highs and deep, resonant lows. The audio experience is well-balanced, making it delightful for any music genre. The woven-grille fabric cover at the front not only shields the speakers from dust and minor impacts but also complements its classic rock-inspired aesthetic.

#### Seamless Bluetooth Connectivity

Linking your mobile device to the Stanmore III is quick and straightforward via Bluetooth. Once connected, you can manage your playlists from anywhere in the room without the clutter of cables. The speaker accommodates multiple connections simultaneously, enabling several users to alternate between devices without needing to unplug and re-connect. This function is particularly advantageous for parties or gatherings where guests wish to share their favorite tunes.

#### User-Friendly Controls

For those who value a more tactile experience, the controls located on the top of the speaker facilitate easy adjustments of volume, bass, and treble. With just a few quick turns, you can enhance the bass for an invigorating workout playlist or boost the treble for clearer vocals, customizing the sound to your preference.

#### Superior Design and Longevity

Marshall crafted the Stanmore III using high-quality materials to ensure that it feels robust and durable while still being portable. The speaker is designed to rest securely on a shelf or table and remains steady even during vigorous music playback. Its construction reduces wear and tear, making it suitable for daily usage.

#### Conclusion

In conclusion, the Marshall Stanmore III Bluetooth Home Speaker merges appealing aesthetics, user-friendliness, and powerful performance, providing remarkable value at its price. With a current sale price of **$299 on Amazon**, down from **$400**, the Stanmore III is the perfect choice for anyone in search of superior sound combined with classic style. At this price, the performance it offers feels extremely worthwhile.

For more information or to buy, visit [Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6553/).

### The Player Backlash Against Generative AI in Gaming: A Case Study of Battlefield 6

As 2023 comes to an end, the gaming community faces a notable pushback against the use of generative AI by game developers. The most recent title to receive backlash is *Battlefield 6*, with players expressing their worries over allegations of subpar content produced through AI-generated assets. This caution has led Electronic Arts (EA) to initiate an inquiry into the cosmetic items released in Season 1, with a particular emphasis on the winter cosmetics, aiming to determine the specific extent of AI technology’s involvement in their production.

#### Origins of the Controversy

The discord among players erupted when *Battlefield 6* enthusiasts distributed images of new stickers from the Windchill bundle, which could be purchased for nearly $10. One particularly notable sticker portrayed a character with a dubious double-barreled rifle aimed through the scope of an M4A1 assault rifle. Frustration surged within the community, highlighted by a popular Reddit comment stating, “I’d rather not have any sticker at all than some low-quality AI generated junk.” This feeling underscored the escalating doubts about AI’s influence in the gaming creative processes.

Further community-led investigations resulted in an informal AI “vibe check” on other cosmetics in the game. Although there were no overt signs of AI involvement as shocking as the six-fingered Santa Zombie in *Call of Duty: Black Ops 6*, concerns were raised regarding overall quality assurance and the authenticity of in-game content. An example included a bear sticker with an implausibly large number of claws, sparking questions about whether such mistakes were due to careless human oversight or reckless use of generative AI tools.

#### Promises vs. Reality

The controversy arises following a commitment made by EA Vice President Rebecka Coutaz, who heads DICE, the developer of the *Battlefield* series. During an earlier interview this year, Coutaz reassured fans that no AI-generated images would be present in the final game. Nevertheless, she admitted to utilizing AI in initial production phases to enhance creative possibilities.

As generative AI technology evolves, there are credible scenarios explaining how such so-called ‘AI slop’ could make its way into a game of *Battlefield 6*’s stature. One scenario is that concept artists might employ AI for initial design references that are subsequently fine-tuned manually. Alternatively, designs could be provided by external contractors, escaping through a rushed quality assurance process in the haste to produce content after launch.

#### EA’s Position on AI in Gaming

In spite of the backlash, EA has remained positive about the disruptive capabilities of AI in game development. CEO Andrew Wilson stressed AI as a “formidable accelerator of creativity, innovation, and player engagement” in recent discussions with investors. Different departments have been urged to investigate AI tools in their workflows, as reported by *Kotaku*, which noted that AI technologies were used for designing promotional materials for games like *NHL 26*.

Yet, while the deployment of AI can provide creative advantages, it simultaneously raises concerns regarding the quality and craftsmanship of game content. A double-barreled rifle in a *Battlefield* game is an evident irregularity that suggests potential AI involvement, while other inconsistencies, such as variations in asset quality, might merely reflect a decline in thorough quality assurance amid heightened demands for fresh content and microtransactions.

#### Conclusion

The accusations concerning *Battlefield 6* mirror a wider conversation about generative AI in gaming, especially about its repercussions on quality and community trust. As players persist in expressing their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as shortcuts in the creative processes, the responsibility lies with developers like EA to elucidate their usage of AI technologies and uphold high standards in the games they create. As the industry progresses, achieving the right equilibrium between innovation and quality assurance will be vital for maintaining gamer trust and satisfaction.

# The Finest Video Games of 2025: A Year of Exceptional Creativity and Thrills

My word, 2025 has emerged as an impressive year for video games, displaying a wide array of titles across multiple sizes and budgets. This year has not only given rise to blockbuster releases but has also seen indie games making a notable impact, making it quite an effort to narrow the abundant talent and innovation down to a top ten list. Nevertheless, after thorough deliberation, a list has surfaced that encapsulates the finest of what the year had in store, revealing some unexpected selections along the way.

## 10) Eclipsium

Crafted by Housefire, *Eclipsium* grabs attention with its breathtaking visuals and story concept. As a walking simulator horror game, it intertwines stunning environments with disturbing body horror, crafting an organic and immersive experience. The game’s distinctive re-rendering approach onto a 320×180 canvas enhances its surreal charm, rendering it a must-play for fans of inventive gameplay aesthetics.

## 9) The Drifter

*The Drifter* from Powerhoof is an exhilarating point-and-click journey that initially appears as a standard tale. Yet, it rapidly unfolds into a gripping storyline involving enigmatic forces at work. The control system brings a refreshing twist to classic adventure games, and despite a less satisfying conclusion, the journey leading up to it is filled with captivating voice acting, striking art, and clever puzzles.

## 8) MotionRec

*MotionRec* presents a unique spin on traditional platform gaming with its engaging movement recording feature. Players can document their actions and replay them to navigate puzzles across diverse landscapes. Although it might seem brief with 15 levels, the game cleverly expands this with a demanding second act, positioning it as an exemplary entry in the platform-puzzler genre.

## 7) Escape from Duckov

Initially mistaking *Escape from Duckov* for a simplistic parody or achievement farm, players swiftly uncover a hidden treasure in this single-player extraction shooter. Created by Team Soda, it merges thrilling twin-stick shooting with base-building mechanics, all set against a humorous backdrop of ducks. The game’s rich exploration and quest framework keep players engrossed in this unique and enjoyable title.

## 6) Old Skies

*Old Skies* is a time travel adventure from Wadjet Eye that gradually enchants through its remarkable narrative. Players assume the role of Fia Quinn, a time agent ensuring that historical events remain intact. The game’s innovative approach to time travel, concentrating on the consequences of alterations rather than strict preservation, creates a fresh narrative experience that resonates profoundly.

## 5) Strange Antiquities

In *Strange Antiquities*, players are offered a wide inventory of distinctive items within an interactive shop environment. It enhances the original game’s formula, promoting exploration and discovery through various clues and an intricately designed hint system. This sequel brims with clever puzzles and engaging mechanics that maintain a fresh and delightful experience.

## 4) Donkey Kong Bananza

Nintendo’s *Donkey Kong Bananza* delivers an exhilarating experience unlike any other platformer. With a variety of vibrant levels crafted to maximize enjoyment, it encourages players to explore and relish each moment. The game serves as a refreshing reminder of the pure joy that can be found in gaming, creating a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation.

## 3) The Beekeeper’s Picnic

As a heartfelt tribute to the classic tales of Sherlock Holmes, *The Beekeeper’s Picnic* finds Sherlock reuniting with Dr. Watson in a charming countryside setting. The game excels not only in its storytelling but also in its introspective examination of themes such as friendship and reflection, making it a deeply personal and enchanting experience that is sure to resonate with fans of the detective genre.

## 2) Arc Raiders

Despite initial doubts about *Arc Raiders*, players are quickly captivated by its engaging world of extraction-based gameplay. This title is lauded for its stunning visuals and heart-pounding tension as players interact with an environment brimming with unpredictable encounters. The excitement of solo play intertwined with cooperative elements keeps the gameplay captivating and addictive.

## 1) Avowed

Obsidian’s *Avowed* distinguishes itself as the unparalleled best RPG of 2025. Set in the vibrant world of *Pillars of Eternity*, it merges a compelling narrative with deeply developed characters and substantial player choices that influence the game world. Its breathtaking environments and captivating mechanics make it feel less like playing a game and more like existing within a meticulously crafted universe.

## Honorable Mentions

Numerous other remarkable titles have captured gamers’ affections this year, including:
– *Dawnfolk*
– *Slender Threads*
– *Wizordum*
– *Crashlands 2*
– *Doom: The Dark Ages*
– *Ooo*
– *Project Warlock II*
– *The Supper: New Blood*

### Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition and Nintendo’s Holiday Promotion

In an unexpected and thrilling development for enthusiasts of open-world RPGs, **Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition** has risen as a highlight in Nintendo’s Holiday Promotion. This highly acclaimed game, now accessible on the Nintendo Switch 2, is being provided at a fantastic discount, slashed from its initial price of $70 to a mere **$17.50**. This offer is part of a larger holiday event, continuing until January 5, making it an ideal time for gamers wishing to expand their collection at a minimal cost.

#### Noteworthy Aspects of Cyberpunk 2077

**Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition** encompasses not just the core game but also the highly revered **Phantom Liberty** expansion. The Switch 2 adaptation has been recognized for its striking graphics and performance, showcasing it as one of the most visually captivating titles available on the platform. The substantial price reduction has sparked considerable enthusiasm among the gaming community, with many players eager to delve into the intricate storyline and immersive universe that Cyberpunk presents.

#### Sale Information

The **Nintendo Holiday Promotion** commenced today, featuring a variety of discounts across multiple games. Alongside Cyberpunk 2077, several other prominent titles have seen price cuts, offering a diverse selection for gamers. Some of the notable deals available in the sale include:

– **Star Wars: Outlaws** – now **$40** (was $60)
– **Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate** – now **$13** (was $33)
– **Survival Kids** – now **$33** (was $50)
– **Street Fighter 6** – now **$20** (was $40)
– **Cronos: The New Dawn** – now **$45** (was $60)
– **Dave The Diver** – now **$12** (was $20)
– **Hollow Knight: Silksong** – now **$16** (was $20)
– **Sid Meier’s Civilization VII** – now **$46** (was $70)

This variety of discounts underscores Nintendo’s dedication to offering value to its audience, particularly during the holiday period.

#### Seize the Opportunity

While Cyberpunk 2077 stands out as the flagship title of the promotion, it’s crucial to recognize that many of these offers may be subject to limited availability due to overlapping sales events. Gamers are urged to act swiftly to avoid missing out on these exceptional deals. With a broad spectrum of genres and gameplay experiences represented, there’s something for everyone in this year’s Holiday Promotion.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan of the Cyberpunk franchise or eager to discover new gaming adventures, this sale offers a fantastic chance to engage with some of the finest titles available on the Nintendo Switch 2.

### Heartbreaking Death of Vince Zampella in Vehicle Accident

On Sunday, Vince Zampella, a key figure in the gaming sector and executive vice president at EA, was fatally injured in a vehicle accident in Southern California. Zampella, instrumental in the formation of the hit series *Call of Duty*, was involved in a single-car crash on December 21 at around 12:45 PM local time. The event took place on a roadway north of Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Mountains.

According to NBC4 reports, the California Highway Patrol reported that Zampella’s car lost control and struck a concrete barrier. The accident led to a vehicle fire, leaving Zampella trapped inside, where he ultimately perished. A passenger in the car was thrown from the vehicle during the impact and later succumbed to injuries at a local hospital. The exact cause of the crash is still unclear, and it has not been verified if Zampella was behind the wheel at the time.

Vince Zampella, aged 55, was a significant player in the video game realm. After aiding in the triumph of *Call of Duty*, he co-founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010, alongside fellow *CoD* developer Jason West. Respawn’s debut project was the widely praised *Titanfall*, which was succeeded by a sequel and the immensely popular battle royale title *Apex Legends*. The studio also created two successful *Star Wars* action games, *Jedi: Fallen Order* and *Jedi: Survivor*.

In 2017, Respawn was acquired by EA, reinforcing its position as a vital element of the publisher’s studio lineup. Zampella’s influence reached beyond Respawn as he took the helm of the *Battlefield* series in 2021, aiding in its revival with the launch of *Battlefield 2042*, which is now considered one of the major games of 2025.

Zampella’s impact on the gaming industry, especially through franchises like *Call of Duty* and *Battlefield*, has created a lasting legacy. His sudden departure is profoundly felt by colleagues, fans, and the wider gaming community.

This is an ongoing story, and additional information will be provided as investigations into the accident continue.

### Timothée Chalamet: From YouTube Modder to Prominent Film Star

Timothée Chalamet has risen to prominence as one of Hollywood’s top talents, featuring in critically lauded hits like *Dune* and *Wonka*. Yet, prior to his rise to fame on the big screen, Chalamet was a teenager expressing his creativity on YouTube, where he demonstrated his abilities in modding and customizing Xbox 360 controllers. This foundational experience would later benefit him in his role in the forthcoming film *Marty Supreme*, helmed by Josh Safdie.

#### A Path from YouTube to Cinema

*Marty Supreme*, which is set to hit theaters across the nation on Christmas Day, stars Chalamet as Marty Mauser, an aspiring professional table tennis player confronting various hurdles on his path to achievement. The character draws inspiration from a real-life table tennis athlete, and Safdie urged Chalamet to tap into his earlier years as a YouTuber to capture the essence of Mauser.

In a recent conversation with the BBC, Chalamet shared his thoughts on Safdie’s advice, mentioning, “He was always emphasizing how I modded controllers on YouTube when I was younger. He’s like that aspect of you. He’s like the entrepreneurial part of you. The confident part of you.” This perspective allowed Chalamet to resonate with the drive and tenacity that characterized his character.

#### Looking Back at ModdedController360

Chalamet’s YouTube journey began around 2010 with the launch of a channel named ModdedController360, aimed at showcasing his videos of personalizing Xbox 360 controllers. Although the channel has since been taken down from YouTube, several videos remain available, highlighting the young actor’s creative pursuits. In 2021, Chalamet candidly recognized his participation in the channel, describing it as a medium to channel his enthusiasm for gaming and art.

In his own words, he stated, “I had a YouTube channel that people discovered. It’s YouTube dot com back-slash ‘ModdedController360.’ And I used to paint-mod controllers, I did three, and I spray-painted them and…opened them up, and I would charge people $10.” While he did not find significant success, Chalamet earned $30 from three clients, a modest earnings reflective of his early entrepreneurial spirit.

#### A Hidden Gem for Collectors

For those who might still possess one of Chalamet’s custom controllers, they could now be valued significantly more than the initial $10 price. As Chalamet’s career continues to ascend, these rare items of memorabilia may carry substantial worth, reminding fans of a time when he was a budding artist striving to establish his presence in the digital arena.

### Conclusion

Timothée Chalamet’s evolution from a minor YouTuber to a Hollywood luminary illustrates his inventiveness, dedication, and zeal for his craft. As he embraces the character of Marty Mauser in *Marty Supreme*, both fans and newcomers can anticipate a performance that draws on his youthful aspirations and the early stages of his artistic path. The film is set to be more than just a story of sports and ambition; it will also reflect how early experiences can influence one’s journey to success.

**Fortnite Chapter 7: The Ascendance of Kim Kardashian’s Renowned Skin**

Fortnite, the highly acclaimed battle royale experience, keeps enthralling gamers with its continually changing offerings. Chapter 7 has unveiled numerous new elements and cosmetics, with one of the most discussed arrivals being the Kim Kardashian skin, a member of the game’s Icon series. Released on December 13, this skin has quickly established itself as a favorite among users, reportedly adopted by around 5% of the player base, based on data from Fortnite.GG, an independent platform that organizes game statistics into easily understandable formats.

### Analyzing the Popularity

The Kim Kardashian skin has attracted considerable attention and use in a remarkably short span. For reference, it stands as the leading skin in Chapter 7 and ranks 70th in the all-time usage of Fortnite cosmetics. This astonishing ranking is particularly noteworthy considering its limited time availability and the competitive array of character skins available in the game. Trailing Kardashian in popularity is the Backlash skin, recognized for its perceived tactical benefits due to its camouflage attributes in specific game zones.

The Kardashian bundle is priced at 3,000 V-Bucks (approximately $19), providing not only the Iconic Kim Kardashian skin—which showcases a black latex catsuit reminiscent of her SKIMS collection—but also a standard skin variant, a variety of accessories, emotes, and a glider. In spite of some views on Kardashian’s style being lackluster, the design is distinguished by its meticulous attention to detail and diversity.

### Customization and Community Interaction

What notably distinguishes the Kim Kardashian skin is the vast array of customization possibilities offered. Players can modify her appearance using a variety of styles and colors. The Iconic skin can assume multiple variations, from tank tops to turtlenecks, and players can choose from an assortment of hair styles and shades. This degree of personalization resonates with Fortnite’s varied community, especially among female gamers and LGBTQ+ participants, who value the chance to showcase their creativity within the game.

Additionally, the gameplay experience has been enriched by the whimsical cultural references associated with Kardashian. Creative interpretations, such as recreating memorable moments from her reality series, have been widely disseminated across platforms like TikTok, further enhancing the skin’s allure. The community flourishes on the playful nature of these exchanges, promoting shared experiences as players team up, each showcasing different interpretations of the Kim aesthetic.

### Conclusion

The introduction of Kim Kardashian’s skin to Fortnite highlights the game’s nimble capacity to weave pop culture into its fabric. With an ideal fusion of customization, community engagement, and cultural significance, the skin has rapidly secured popularity and tangible use among players. Available until December 28, the Kardashian bundle exemplifies how collaborative and immersive Fortnite continues to be, attracting players and nurturing profound, meaningful interactions within the vibrant game universe. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to observe how this trend shapes future cosmetics and collaborations.

Greetings traveller, and welcome to Burning Springs! You may know it as the latest location in the newly updated Fallout 76, but to me, a recently defrosted Ohioan historian from the ancient past of 2025, it’s home.

The tour will start shortly. I just need a moment to get my bearings. I swear Fort Steuben was 120 miles over that way…? It seems in the years between my big freeze and today, in 2105, the geography got moved around a little. Let’s return to that wrinkle later.

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# Elevate Your Gaming Experience with the UGREEN 6-in-1 Steam Deck Dock

If you possess a Steam Deck, you might not be taking full advantage of its features. A frequently neglected aspect is its capability to connect to your television, and the UGREEN 6-in-1 Steam Deck Dock simplifies this task significantly. This dock enhances the Steam Deck’s functionality by providing extra ports and connectivity choices for a superior gaming experience. Currently, it is on sale for $29.97, offering a discount of 35% from the regular price.

### A Compact Steam Deck Dock that Unlocks Extra Features

The UGREEN dock offers a variety of adaptable features tailored for gamers looking for a more powerful setup. A key highlight is its Ethernet port, which allows for a wired internet connection that boosts stability during online gaming. Additionally, the dock is equipped with a USB-C port, enabling you to supply power to your Steam Deck while using other ports.

With two USB-A ports, the dock lets you connect controllers, external hard drives, flash drives, and other peripherals. Whether you prefer to game with a familiar controller or plug in a keyboard and mouse for a more conventional PC experience, this dock will meet your needs.

An HDMI port further enhances the functionality of the UGREEN dock by permitting you to connect your Steam Deck to a monitor or a large-screen television. This feature ensures a crisp video signal, allowing you to enjoy a top-notch gaming experience on a bigger display. You can effortlessly switch between handheld and docked modes, making the transition smooth.

### Simple Setup and Compact Design

Setting up the UGREEN 6-in-1 Steam Deck Dock is easy—just connect the dock to your Steam Deck and any devices you wish to use. No complicated software downloads or configurations are required. Its compact design ensures it won’t clutter your workspace or entertainment area, seamlessly integrating with your current gaming accessories.

The build quality of the UGREEN dock is well-aligned with its reasonable price point. The connectors are securely attached to keep cables firmly in place, and its lightweight design allows for convenient portability.

### Conclusion

For gamers who often alternate between handheld and docked modes, the UGREEN 6-in-1 Steam Deck Dock is an excellent and budget-friendly enhancement to your gaming setup. At just $29.97, the dock upgrades your Steam Deck by offering additional connectivity options and a more flexible gaming environment.

[Discover the UGREEN 6-in-1 Steam Deck Dock on Amazon here.](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6343/)

But first, time to enjoy your lovely joke!

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