### A Moment for Luxury: The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 at an Incredible Price

The festive season may have reached its height, but there is always space for a late gift or a bit of personal luxury, especially if you have some gift cards or cash remaining from the celebrations. A premier selection is Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 8, presently offered on Amazon for an astounding price of only $250, reduced from its initial retail value. This deal, applicable for the 40mm Bluetooth version in graphite or silver, represents extraordinary savings that you won’t want to pass up.

#### Unmatched Pricing on a Cutting-Edge Smartwatch

The decrease in the Galaxy Watch 8’s price — noted during Black Friday and Cyber Monday — has unexpectedly continued throughout the holiday season. This specific model, launched in July 2025, has garnered outstanding reviews, emphasizing both its sophisticated technology and usability. It’s crucial to highlight that this isn’t a refurbished or clearance item; it’s a brand-new gadget that continues to impress users with its capabilities. For those uncertain, the best course is clear: take advantage of this offer without delay.

### The 8 Is Exceptional

The Galaxy Watch 8 series was launched to extensive praise, primarily due to significant upgrades over its predecessor, the Watch 7. Users can enjoy a more sleek design, featuring a slimmer structure and a screen brightness that reaches up to 3,000 nits — a 50% enhancement over the Watch 7’s top brightness of 2,000 nits. Additionally, the Watch 8 includes a larger, more resilient battery, and showcases improved integration with Galaxy AI.

The AI features are crucial to the watch’s fitness-tracking functions. The device not only tracks user performance but also contrasts it against past data. AI-enabled analytics provide tailored suggestions and reminders throughout your day, enhancing the overall fitness journey. Moreover, heart-rate monitoring is significantly improved on the Galaxy Watch 8, offering clearer and more precise readings by effectively filtering out body movements.

### Become Part of the Galaxy

While the Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 provides exceptional standalone capabilities, its true strengths emerge when connected to other Samsung devices. When paired with a Samsung smartphone, the watch effortlessly sends notifications, text messages, and alerts straight to your wrist, allowing for quick responses without having to grab your phone. With the amplified screen brightness, users can effortlessly read and interact with notifications, be it checking urgent news, weather alerts, or sports highlights.

The continued availability of this $250 price for such an advanced smartwatch is indeed surprising, yet it exemplifies Samsung’s dedication to value. Rather than questioning the rationale behind this incredible offer, view it as an exquisite year-end treat for yourself. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 8 on Amazon stands out as a prime gift choice for anyone eager to elevate their tech experience in the upcoming year.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6579/)

## The Advantages of the Kindle Paperwhite: A Contemporary Reading Experience

While holding a physical book has its charm, the advantages of an e-reader are irrefutable. The capability to carry countless books without the weight, access to immediate downloads, and the ease of reading anywhere at any time position digital readers like the Amazon Kindle as a clear option for modern readers.

Nevertheless, a frequent problem with numerous digital readers is that gazing at a backlit display for extended periods can be unpleasant, and no amount of backlighting can compare to the glare of bright sunlight. The Kindle Paperwhite overcomes this challenge. Now offered at an attractive price of $160 (20% off on Amazon), the Paperwhite is crafted to resolve these concerns.

### Read Anytime, Even in Direct Sunlight

The Kindle Paperwhite boasts a flush-front design and a 300 ppi glare-free screen that mimics the appearance of actual paper. Whether you’re at the beach or relaxing on your porch in bright sunlight, the Paperwhite lets you read with ease. Its adjustable warm light and auto-adjusting front light make it perfect for reading day or night.

The display extends to a comfortable 7 inches. This version even provides a higher contrast ratio than before and can turn pages (or rather load new pages) 25% quicker.

Concerned about reading next to the pool or at the beach? The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof, holding an IPX8 rating, meaning it can endure getting wet. In fact, it can withstand immersion in up to two meters of freshwater for an hour and up to a quarter meter of seawater for three minutes. No need to worry when bringing your reading to the poolside or even on a boat.

The remarkable battery life of the Paperwhite allows you to read for up to 12 weeks on a single charge. Whether you charge it through the USB-C port or a compatible Qi wireless charger (not included with the Kindle), you’ll remain free from frequent recharging concerns.

For devoted readers, Kindle Unlimited provides access to over two million titles and thousands of audiobooks, enabling you to listen to your favorite books as well. By connecting Bluetooth earbuds, switching from reading to listening is a breeze. The Kindle Paperwhite’s 32GB of storage can accommodate thousands of books and audiobooks, so you can carry your entire library with you wherever you travel.

Offered in black, jade, and raspberry, the Kindle Paperwhite is a flexible and budget-friendly choice for anyone passionate about reading. Snag it now for just $160, a $40 reduction from its standard price, and relish reading on the move.

For the past month we have been shouting about the games we consider to be the best games of 2025. As is tradition, our choices for the RPS Advent Calendar haven’t appeared in an order from least good to best – to us, they’re all special.

However, that’s not true of the game behind door number 24. When the team’s votes were counted, it was a close thing, with only five points in it, but there was a winner.

RPS’s favourite game of 2025 is Hades 2.

Now, perhaps someone would like to explain why we didn’t give Supergiant’s roguelite wonder a Bestest Best sticker?

Read more

If you haven’t acquired your own Nintendo Switch yet, now is an excellent opportunity to make a purchase. Not only can you save some money, but you can also secure a model featuring white controllers and an impressive OLED screen.

You won’t need to search far to find it. [Amazon currently offers the Nintendo Switch – OLED Model with White Joy-Con for $359](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6578/), which reflects a $41 discount and a 10% price reduction, down from the standard cost of $400.

### Nintendo’s Top-Selling Console/Handheld Hybrid

The Nintendo Switch has been a premier gaming console for Nintendo for many years, thanks to its fusion of portable gaming with the option to enjoy your favorite titles on a large screen. Additionally, it boasts an extensive library of games. Even though the Switch 2 has arrived, the original is still not outdated.

The OLED Model introduces an enhanced display to the already successful basis of the original Switch. The bigger and brighter screen delivers more vibrant colors and clearer images than ever, significantly elevating the gaming experience, especially in handheld mode.

If you’re unfamiliar with the Switch, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its versatility. It can be utilized in three distinct modes: Docked (hooked up to a TV), Tabletop (using the kickstand), or Handheld Mode (on-the-go). Regardless of how you opt to play, you’ll enjoy the complete experience with each configuration, particularly when connected to a TV for optimal performance and visuals.

The Switch also offers handy connectivity and storage options. In addition to housing games and saved data internally, the console can enhance its storage via a Micro SD Card if needed. The docking station enables a seamless switch from portable to Big Screen Gaming by simply placing the console in the dock. This functionality allows for prolonged gaming sessions on your television when at home. Setup is straightforward and quick, and the interface is intuitive, making it easy to find and launch your games, check your friends list, and modify your settings.

With its vivid OLED display, multiple gameplay methods, and vast game library, this Switch is an excellent choice for both newcomers and seasoned gamers alike. With the holidays approaching, it could serve as a last-minute gift (although it will arrive post-Christmas) or a treat for yourself for making it through the year. Regardless of how you decide to use it, you can be confident that you’ll enjoy a wide range of games throughout 2026.

[Check it out on Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6578/)

### Lego’s Transformation: From Traditional Blocks to Contemporary Wonders

Lego has experienced a remarkable evolution over the years. Currently, the brand is closely associated with expansive, detailed sets inspired by famous licensed intellectual properties (IPs) from the film and entertainment worlds. Renowned designs such as the Death Star from *Star Wars*, Thanos’ Infinity Gauntlet from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and Hogwarts Castle from the *Harry Potter* franchise prevail in the scene. Furthermore, for those builders who are more creative and nature-focused, the botanical collection presents breathtaking floral arrangements that have become widely popular.

Nonetheless, at its heart, Lego is fundamentally about the bricks—the core components that enable limitless creativity and imagination. The spirit of Lego is grounded in the capacity to construct anything one can dream up. This article showcases a wonderful chance to dive into that creativity with a fantastic deal on a classic Lego set: a generous assortment of bricks that promotes freeform building.

### Ignite Your Child’s Imagination

This Lego collection is a goldmine featuring bricks in 33 unique colors, spanning all forms and dimensions. With nearly 800 pieces in total, the set is crafted to support a wide range of building possibilities.

Beyond standard building blocks, this assortment includes special pieces that broaden construction opportunities. It comes with Lego wheels, ideal for those wishing to design vehicles, whether they want to build a car, scooter, or even heavy machinery. The only limit is what can be envisioned and constructed.

For those aiming to build edifices, a selection of windows and doors is included, offering the fundamental parts needed to create homes, castles, or any kind of structure your child imagines. The sole boundary is the power of imagination—create with or without roofs, as preferred.

To kickstart the creative journey, the set comes with larger green base plates, evoking grassy lawns, which act as perfect bases for various construction endeavors. It’s a fantastic toolkit for any child just starting their Lego adventure, inspiring countless hours of engagement and discovery.

Additionally, unique features like building suggestions contained within the set are designed to further fuel creativity. Best of all, the packaging intentionally replicates a giant Lego brick, adding an extra element of enjoyment and simplifying clean-up.

As a superb investment in your child’s creative growth, this Lego set serves not just as a source of fun but also as a pathway to learning problem-solving skills and nurturing imagination.

For a limited duration, this box of opportunities is available at 47% off, reducing the cost from $60 to just $32.

Seize this chance to bring a joyful creative outlet into your child’s life today!

[**View at Amazon**](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/4300/)

# The Bose SoundLink Max: A Mobile Powerhouse for Music Enthusiasts

For those who savor sharing their beloved tunes while traveling, a portable speaker is indispensable. The Bose SoundLink Max stands out as a top-tier option that delivers robust, rich sound no matter where you are—be it at home, in the backyard, or at the office.

## Current Pricing and Availability

If you’re seeking a sturdy and reliable portable Bluetooth speaker, the SoundLink Max deserves your attention. [It is currently on sale at Amazon for $279](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6564/), offering a significant reduction of $120 (30% off) from its original retail price of $399.

[purchase link]: [See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6564/)

## Remarkable Sound Quality

This speaker has the capability to envelop any space with well-balanced audio. It produces clear, detailed highs complemented by distinct mids and lows, resulting in profound, tight bass without overpowering the sound. Whether you’re into smooth jazz, hip-hop, or an eclectic mix, the SoundLink Max guarantees a dynamic and immersive listening experience, outperforming many competing models available today.

## Simple Bluetooth Connectivity

Connecting your phone, tablet, or computer to the SoundLink Max is an effortless task, courtesy of its built-in Bluetooth technology. Once linked, you can distance yourself from your device without losing the signal, maintaining control over playback directly from your device while relishing the freedom of wireless enjoyment.

## Extended Battery Life and Convenient Recharging

The SoundLink Max boasts impressive battery longevity, enabling hours of listening from a single charge. This means you won’t have to hunt down a wall outlet often. Additionally, recharging is straightforward, as the included charging cable easily connects to the device for quick charging.

## Conclusion

In summary, the Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth Speaker merges outstanding sound quality, dependable connectivity, and a robust design in a highly portable format. [With its ongoing sale price of $279 on Amazon, providing a $120 discount](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6564/), it represents an attractive option for anyone in search of an exceptional portable Bluetooth speaker that offers remarkable sound quality and durability. Enhance your audio experience today.

[purchase link]: [See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6564/)

**The Potential Acquisition of EA by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund: A Comprehensive Examination**

Electronic Arts (EA), a prominent gaming enterprise with a legacy that spans more than 40 years, stands at a pivotal moment as its investors pursue a buy-out that could significantly alter the company’s ownership framework. This intended acquisition seeks to place the company under the predominant control of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), carrying vital consequences for stakeholders, the gaming sector, and geopolitical interactions.

### Buy-Out Specifications

The expected acquisition could reach fruition as soon as early 2027, subject to governmental approvals. Recent votes from public shareholders have indicated overwhelming backing for the agreement, reflecting investor eagerness for immediate financial benefits. If this buy-out is executed, EA would shift from a publicly traded corporation to a private enterprise, representing a considerable transition in its operational framework after 37 years as a publicly listed company.

The ownership distribution would be notably lopsided; approximately 93.4% of EA would fall under the Saudi government’s ownership, while the private equity firm Silver Lake would possess 5.5%, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners would control the remaining 1.1%. Shareholders are positioned to reap substantial rewards, receiving a remarkable $210 per share, indicative of the inflated valuation of the firm.

### Economic Consequences

The financial intricacies of the transaction unveil a more troubling aspect, especially the weight of $20 billion in debt that EA would take on following the buy-out. This considerable debt load could substantially influence EA’s credit ratings and financial viability, prompting concerns about the long-term endurance of its operations. Although franchises such as *FC26* and *Battlefield 6* have seen success, the industry’s shifting focus towards mobile gaming, which can provide faster returns than conventional console or PC offerings, may pose difficulties for EA as it adjusts to its new financial circumstances.

### Moral Considerations

Beyond the financial effects, the ramifications of a company predominantly owned by the Saudi government raise significant moral questions. Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, especially regarding LGBTQ+ rights, freedom of expression, and gender parity, casts a pall over the acquisition. Both employees and consumers could find the partnership with a regime accused of egregious acts profoundly unsettling. The degree to which this ownership might affect EA’s corporate policies, game content, and workplace culture remains uncertain and could foster considerable unease among staff and gamers.

### Oversight and Regulation

Global scrutiny relating to the acquisition is expected, paralleling the stringent review experienced during Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard King. While regulatory obstacles may emerge, particularly due to the contentious nature of the Saudi government, the landscape in the United States might evolve favorably for the acquisition. The involvement of political figures such as Jared Kushner, with connections to the Saudi leadership, could aid in streamlining the process, especially in a supportive political environment.

### Final Thoughts

From the viewpoint of EA’s investors, the proposed buy-out represents a chance to secure profits amid worries regarding the company’s stagnation and lack of innovation in recent years. However, the pursuit of immediate financial benefits seems to eclipse the long-term ramifications for the firm, its workforce, and the ethical issues surrounding collaboration with a regime notorious for human rights abuses. As developments unfold, the consequences for EA and the wider gaming industry will require careful monitoring.

**The Anker Prime 250W USB-C Charger: An Answer for Multi-Device Charging**

Running out of power outlets is a common issue in residences, dormitories, and workplaces. With smartphones, laptops, tablets, earbuds, and smartwatches all requiring frequent charging, it frequently seems like your devices are competing for the sole available socket on the wall. Choosing whether to power up your smartphone or your laptop shouldn’t be a routine struggle. While you could seek out another outlet across the room, that option is inconvenient and far from perfect. A more effective solution is to utilize a robust, multi-device charging station that can support all of your gadgets at once.

The Anker Prime 250W USB-C Charger is crafted to address this precise concern. Designed to rapidly and efficiently charge several devices, this high-capacity charging hub eliminates the hassle of swapping plugs or carrying multiple bulky adapters. Even better, it’s now being offered at a considerable discount. Typically priced at $170, it can currently be snagged for just $100, which represents a 41% reduction.

### Universal Compatibility

The Anker Prime 250W USB-C Charger operates flawlessly with a diverse array of devices, ranging from Samsung smartphones and JBL earbuds to Apple Watches and MacBooks. The charging hub features multiple ports to meet various requirements, including four USB-C ports and two USB-A ports. When utilizing a single USB-C port independently, it can deliver up to 140 watts of power, sufficient to charge a smartphone at remarkable speeds or rapidly replenish larger devices. A 16-inch MacBook Pro can achieve 50% battery in approximately 25 minutes from a complete discharge.

One noteworthy aspect is its adjustable power delivery system. An integrated LED display indicates precisely how much power each port is supplying, providing users with transparent insight into their charging arrangement. A smart control dial on the side allows you to manually assign priority to specific ports, enabling effortless redirection of more power to a device that requires a speedy charge—ideal for quick phone recharges before you leave.

### Clutter Reduction and Safety Features

In addition to performance, the charger also aids in diminishing desk and workspace clutter. With multiple charging ports consolidated into one compact unit, there’s no requirement for additional wall adapters or power bricks. Everything connects to one centralized station, keeping your setup organized and tidy without occupying excessive space.

Safety is another domain in which Anker shines. The charger comes equipped with ActiveShield 3.0 technology and complies with the latest safety standards. This system monitors temperature 80 times every second—over six million evaluations daily—to prevent overheating and safeguard connected gadgets. It’s twice as responsive as the former ActiveShield 2.0, granting even greater reassurance.

For a limited period, the Anker Prime 250W USB-C Charger is offered at a 41% discount, reducing the price from $170 to just $100. For anyone weary of outlet conflicts and sluggish charging speeds, this offer is difficult to overlook.

### Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025: Your Compact Smart Entertainment Solution

The Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 is a cutting-edge and efficient streaming device that converts any television into a smart entertainment center. Slim in design yet powerful in capabilities, this device provides a smooth interface to access a broad selection of streaming applications and channels.

#### Incredible Price and Accessibility

Now priced at only $19 on [Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/3957/), the Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 is a fantastic deal, reduced from its original $40. This $21 drop represents an impressive 52% discount, making it a desirable choice for individuals looking to elevate their TV experience without overspending.

#### Setup Made Simple

Installing the Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 is a breeze. Simply plug the device into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to your Wi-Fi network, and follow the on-screen instructions. The user-friendly menu enables users to swiftly navigate through numerous popular streaming services, such as Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and Prime Video, among others. Frequent app switching is not required, as the stick centralizes access to all your preferred content.

#### Diverse Content Discovery

One of the exceptional features of the Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 is its easy-to-use content discovery options. Users can browse various categories, search for specific titles, or look into currently trending shows. Moreover, the device grants access to many free channels, making it a superb choice for viewers wanting to enjoy quality entertainment without needing subscriptions.

#### Convenient Casting Features

The Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 also comes with a casting feature that enables users to easily send videos, photos, or music from their smartphones or tablets straight to their TV. This function is ideal for sharing memories, like holiday videos or party playlists, on a bigger screen without the hassle of messy cables.

#### Conclusion

With its blend of extensive streaming options, user-friendliness, and high performance, the Roku Streaming Stick Plus 2025 emerges as an outstanding choice for anyone in need of a straightforward yet effective streaming solution. At its current reduced price, it provides unmatched value, making it an essential item for any entertainment enthusiast.

For more details, check it out on [Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/3957/).

### Lil Wayne Surprises in KOTOR II Legal Dispute

In a surprising turn within a legal conflict with Aspyr, the firm recognized for the Nintendo Switch adaptation of *Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic II*, attorney Ray Kim referenced Lil Wayne’s lyrics to emphasize his argument. The case centers on players litigating Aspyr for absent downloadable content (DLC). Here, Aspyr was referred to as the “goons,” while the players were called “goblins”—an astute analogy highlighting the significant contrast in power dynamics as per Kim. Recently, both sides arrived at a settlement, though the extensive legal documents revealed intriguing insights, including implications of a possible *KOTOR II* remake.

### Director of Divinity Discusses Past Games and Future Experiences

Swen Vincke, the head of Larian Studios, indicated that players might not have to revisit previous installments in the *Divinity* series prior to engaging with the forthcoming title. While he acknowledged nods to older *Divinity* games, he pointed out that those particularly interested in gameplay elements such as combat or cooperative play should commence with *Divinity: Original Sin 2*. Vincke’s remarks reflect the growth of the franchise and its widening lore, stressing accessibility for newcomers without sacrificing regard for the series’ legacy.

### *Call of Duty* Expected to Reappear on Switch

After a prolonged absence from Nintendo consoles, speculation indicates that *Call of Duty* will return to the Nintendo Switch, with reports suggesting the initial version will be available soon. Activision has affirmed its dedication to reinstating the franchise, though it remains uncertain whether this will be a port of an existing title or an entirely new venture. The anticipated launch is set for 2026, marking a pivotal moment for series enthusiasts on the Switch.

### The Forgotten Project: *Grand Theft Auto: Tokyo*

Former tech director at Rockstar North, Obbe Vermeij, recently revealed that *Grand Theft Auto* was once set to venture into global cities, including a variant located in Tokyo. Despite the potential of the concept, it ultimately did not come to fruition due to business concerns. Vermeij remarked that while ambitious ideas frequently circulated within the studio, the apprehension of jeopardizing the franchise’s considerable financial support led to a return to more conventional locales, chiefly in the United States.

### Ubisoft North America Sees Unionization

A significant occurrence in the gaming sector transpired as Ubisoft Halifax, a studio dedicated to mobile games, successfully unionized—becoming the first Ubisoft studio in North America to achieve this. Following a vote that validated their choice, programmer Jon Huffman expressed hope that their action might motivate other peers to consider unionizing. This is a crucial juncture for labor representation within the gaming field and sparks conversations regarding worker rights.

### Bloober Team Hints at New Horror Title

Bloober Team’s CEO Piotr Babieno has teased their forthcoming project, provisionally named Project M, which aims to attract fans of legendary horror series such as *Resident Evil*, *Silent Hill*, and *Eternal Darkness*. Although Babieno refrained from sharing detailed information, he guaranteed a distinct twist that would differentiate it within the genre, suggesting that this creative vision will leverage the capabilities of Nintendo hardware.

### ICYMI (In Case You Missed It)

This summary mirrors a varied landscape in the gaming field, ranging from groundbreaking legal disputes and union efforts to the thrilling evolution of cherished franchises. Each element depicts the continuously transforming essence of gaming culture and the industry’s pledge to confront both corporate and player interests.