### Joyful Saturday Eve: Video Game Suggestions for December

As December arrives and the chill sets in, it’s an ideal moment to cozy up indoors with a warm beverage and dive into some captivating video games. This weekend, we’re highlighting tactical and stealth-oriented third-person shooters, Marvel-inspired quests, and more to keep your entertainment levels high. Here are our top picks:

—

#### **Elden Ring Nightreign: The Forsaken Hollows**
– **Platforms:** PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Windows PCs (Steam Deck: Playable)
– **Current Goal:** Avoid getting lost

Explore the newest DLC for *Elden Ring* with friends or tackle the challenges solo. Players are uncovering the complexities of the new map, and while the beginning might feel daunting, prepare for thrilling discoveries as you traverse the game’s perilous terrains.

—

#### **Destiny 2: Renegades**
– **Platforms:** PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Windows PCs (Steam Deck: Unsupported)
– **Current Goal:** Take down temu-Kylo Ren

Revisiting *Destiny 2* over the holidays is a delightful nostalgia trip, especially with its fresh Star Wars expansion. Although it’s shorter than earlier expansions, the content remains engaging and offers unique gameplay experiences resembling a major episode from *Rick and Morty*.

—

#### **Arc Raiders**
– **Platforms:** PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PCs (Steam Deck: Verified)
– **Current Goal:** Enhance your PvP skills

If you’ve been immersed in *Arc Raiders*, you’re in good company. Many find its thrilling gameplay and level design irresistible. Participate in collaborative missions, provide overwatch for teammates, and explore a variety of playstyles—just remember to hone those competitive skills with the upcoming PvP emphasis.

—

#### **Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater**
– **Platforms:** PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PCs (Steam Deck: Unsupported)
– **Current Goal:** Team up for a game of Fox Hunt

The remake of *Snake Eater* introduces a multiplayer aspect that has yet to gain substantial traction. While waiting for matches can be dull, players can immerse themselves in the deeply engaging single-player narrative. Recent enhancements have revitalized the classic experience, making it essential for fans of the series.

—

#### **Marvel Tōkon: Fighting Souls**
– **Platforms:** PS5, Windows PCs (Steam Deck: Unknown)
– **Current Goal:** Explore character mechanics compatibility

This 4v4 anime fighting game offers a challenge for players who prefer mastering a couple of characters instead of managing an entire team. Nonetheless, the game’s creativity and potential for enjoyment make it appealing—particularly for Marvel fans who appreciate distinctive combat systems.

—

#### **Horses**
– **Platforms:** Windows PCs (Steam Deck: Not approved)
– **Current Goal:** Evaluate the hype’s legitimacy

*Horses* is a controversial horror title that has encountered bans from various storefronts due to its unsettling themes. The polarized views on its content offer a fascinating topic to explore, sparking conversations about censorship within the gaming industry. Get ready for an atmospheric experience that pushes the boundaries of conventional horror tropes.

—

With these suggestions, you’re ready for a weekend filled with immersive gameplay. Happy gaming!

Imagine a second, alternate version of our world. Everything is the same, on the surface. The sky is blue, the economy is in shambles; it’s the unnatural order of things. And yet, you cannot help but feel something is different. Like there’s something missing, or perhaps replaced. Ah, there it is – Slay the Spire 2 is not a game that even remotely exists. As it turns out, this world, our world, where the roguelike called Slay the Spire 2 does, or rather will, exist, is only the world we exist in thanks to the flip of a coin.

Read more

### Metroid Prime 4: A Title of Unexpected Visuals and Mature Themes

Metroid Prime 4, the eagerly awaited addition to the cherished Metroid series, has gained notice not only for its gameplay features and visuals but also for its surprising design decisions that reflect mature themes. Players were looking forward to the usual components of violence, sci-fi creatures, and shooting gameplay; nevertheless, many were surprised by a peculiar element: the doors in the game.

#### Design Inspirations and Aesthetic Choices

Remaining true to the tradition of its predecessors, Metroid Prime 4 significantly draws from the iconic styles of H.R. Giger, especially his contributions to the legendary sci-fi film *Alien*. The architectural design found within the game’s settings, particularly in the Volt Forge level, showcases this influence with its biomechanical visuals, resonating with Giger’s surreal and at times disquieting forms.

Interestingly, the design touches more than just extraterrestrial structures. Critics have pointed out that several entrances in the game display designs that evoke female anatomy, notably vulvas. This has ignited a wave of conversations across social media, with players posting screenshots and insights regarding the striking resemblance of certain doors to female reproductive features. This aspect prompts fascinating inquiries about the confluence of video game design, gender imagery, and player interpretation.

#### Community Reactions and Discussions

Critics and gamers have both recognized this distinctive feature. Aidan Moher, a critic, notably remarked on the abundance of “vagina-like” doors, which encouraged others to share their own experiences with these designs in-game. The discussions highlighted not only the artistic decisions but also the implications of such imagery in a platform like Nintendo, traditionally viewed as family-friendly.

Numerous posts on social media platforms like Twitter and Bluesky have brought attention to this trend, with users humorously reflecting on their responses and encounters. The contrasts between the game’s adult themes and its legacy as a Nintendo title have inspired light-hearted, yet reflective conversations within the gaming community regarding visual design and symbolism in video games.

#### A Deep Dive into Visual Symbolism

The presence of yonic imagery in Metroid Prime 4 stands out when considered through Giger’s influence. His work in *Alien* can be interpreted as exploring issues of sexuality and body horror, mirrored in the creature designs and environments’ visceral essence. By incorporating similar imagery, Metroid Prime 4 may be entering a conversation with these themes, providing an inverse view on gendered imagery in gaming.

This contrast gives players a chance to contemplate not just the artistic decisions but also the deeper intentions behind such designs. As many fans have noted, it’s hard to overlook these elements once recognized, leading to extensive speculation about the creative choices made during the game’s development.

#### Conclusion

Metroid Prime 4 continues to challenge the limits of what players expect from a Nintendo release, blending gameplay with daring artistic choices that encourage significant discussion. While many anticipated a rich sci-fi journey, the rise of themes related to anatomy and femininity compels players to explore deeper meanings behind visual elements often ignored in mainstream gaming. As the game receives attention for its unforeseen choices, it ultimately enhances the dialogue surrounding artistic expression and identity in the gaming realm.

I can see it now… in the near future, the review embargo for Suda51’s next game Romeo is a Dead Man, and as far as the eye can see the digital realm is scorched with 7/10s. Its maximalist shenanigans, techno-blasting soundtrack, and ridiculous premise puts it in a position where it couldn’t possibly be for everyone, even if such a score is actually ideal for such a game, but when has that ever been the case for a Suda51 game? However, as I said, this vision I have is in the near future, because the hyper-violent action game now has a release date.

Read more

Black Friday occurred weeks ago, yet December remains Amazon’s peak month for sales with fresh deals available daily. The Lenovo V15 G2 laptop is priced at an unprecedented low of $599 instead of its typical $2,599, and you won’t discover any bargains near this on Lenovo’s official site. This laptop boasts 32GB of DDR4 RAM and a 1TB PCIe SSD, making it an efficient everyday machine capable of supporting work and leisure without a hefty price tag.

### Why This Memory Configuration Matters

In the realm of budget laptops, where 8GB is often standard and 16GB is a notable upgrade, the 32GB RAM capacity truly distinguishes itself. This additional memory allowance enables you to maintain numerous browser tabs open concurrently alongside Office applications, video conferencing tools, photo editing software, and background tasks without experiencing slowdowns.

The 1TB PCIe SSD provides ample storage for extensive document libraries, photo collections, downloaded courses, and application installations without the need for external drives or cumbersome cloud management. The PCIe technology allows for significantly faster read and write speeds compared to older SATA SSDs, ensuring that Windows starts in mere seconds and applications launch immediately upon clicking. This storage capability is essential for students archiving lecture recordings and project files, professionals overseeing client documents and presentations, or families sharing a single laptop among various users with distinct requirements.

The Intel Celeron N4500 processor is sufficiently robust for routine computing tasks and consumes minimal power, which is beneficial for battery longevity when you’re in class or working away from a power source. This dual-core processor features a 4MB cache and can reach speeds up to 2.8GHz, delivering ample power for web surfing, document creation, spreadsheet manipulation, streaming video, and making calls. However, the processor isn’t designed for video editing, 3D rendering, or modern gaming beyond basic titles, yet it can manage standard school and office tasks without excessive delays.

The 15.6-inch FHD display at 1920×1080 resolution presents text clearly for prolonged document work while alleviating eye strain. The anti-glare coating lessens reflections from overhead lighting or windows, and the slim bezels maximize screen area, giving it a contemporary appearance. Dolby Audio processing through dual speakers guarantees crystal-clear sound for video calls and a pleasant auditory experience for YouTube and Netflix.

Wi-Fi 6 compatibility enables quicker wireless connections and enhanced performance in dense networks with multiple devices. This standard supports simultaneous streaming, gaming, and video calls in shared living or working environments. Bluetooth 5.2 enhances connectivity with wireless peripherals like mice, keyboards, and headphones, offering greater range and stability compared to older iterations. The array of connections includes USB-A ports for older peripherals, USB-C ports for modern accessories, HDMI ports for external displays or projectors, and an ethernet port for wired connections when Wi-Fi is unavailable or unreliable.

This remarkable discount from the standard retail price renders a well-equipped laptop with abundant RAM and storage reasonably priced while sustaining specifications that would typically range from $800 to $900 elsewhere. Users benefit from double the memory and storage compared to most other budget laptops, and the device’s lifespan will surpass that of lower-cost alternatives due to its advanced connectivity capabilities.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6256/)

Convention tells us that to be a PC gamepad, the gamepad in question must follow the layout – or, at least, match the button glyphs – of the Xbox controller’s ABXY design. Even the new Steam Controller is doing it. To convention, though, I say: appreciate you’re an important component of usability design but also get lost. One of the best PC controllers right now is the PS5-pattern DualSense, which today’s Black Friday deals have brought down to its lowest price in months.

Read more

### Dyson V11 Origin: An Unrivaled Cleaning Experience at an Unprecedented Low Price

Black Friday might be behind us, but December continues to be an excellent period for bargains, especially on Amazon, renowned for its substantial discounts this month. Presently, the Dyson V11 Origin can be purchased for $399, significantly lower than its regular price of $629, achieving a historic low for this robust cordless vacuum. With its outstanding suction capacity, the V11 Origin transforms cleaning habits for users.

#### Remarkable Suction Capacity

A key highlight of the V11 Origin is its impressive **185 air watts of suction power**, which is vital for an efficient cleaning experience. This specification goes beyond simple promotional language regarding motor wattage, concentrating on actual cleaning effectiveness. The V11 Origin extracts **60% more power** compared to earlier Dyson V-series models, guaranteeing a cleaning capability that effectively removes embedded dirt from carpets and pulls debris from grout lines on hard surfaces.

#### Flexible Power Modes

The vacuum features **three power settings** to suit different cleaning chores without unnecessarily depleting the battery. The **Auto mode** automatically adjusts suction strength according to floor type and dirt quantity, striking a balance between thorough cleaning and extended battery duration. In **Eco mode**, users can take advantage of up to **60 minutes of cleaning capability** for larger spaces, while **Boost mode** provides maximum suction for demanding jobs like deep-cleaning plush carpets. The built-in LCD screen displays real-time information about battery life and power settings, ensuring users are fully aware of the remaining cleaning time.

#### Innovative Design for Effortless Cleaning

The Dyson V11 Origin features a **Motorbar cleaner head** specially designed to prevent long hair and pet fur from getting caught in the brush bar. Unlike conventional brush rolls that often require regular maintenance to remove tangled hair, this inventive design ensures continuous cleaning, channeling hair directly into the dustbin. This characteristic is especially beneficial for homes with long-haired residents or shedding pets.

#### Sophisticated Filtration System

Another significant feature of the Dyson V11 Origin is its **whole-machine HEPA filtration**, capable of trapping **99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns**—including allergens and dust mites. This sealed filtration system prevents particles from re-entering the air, making it an ideal choice for those with allergies or respiratory issues.

#### Adaptability and User-Friendliness

Transitioning to **handheld mode** is simple, allowing users to easily detach the wand and attach tools directly to the main unit. This adaptability negates the need for a separate handheld vacuum, making quick cleanups in spaces like cars or on furniture effortless. The lightweight design and well-balanced structure enable prolonged use in handheld mode without discomfort.

#### A Commitment to Quality

The current **$230 price cut** renders the Dyson V11 Origin a strong contender among mid-range cordless vacuums, which generally do not provide the same degree of suction power, run time, or filtration. Choosing the V11 Origin means investing in a cleaning device built to endure for years instead of months—confirming that the quality of materials and workmanship warrants the premium price.

In summary, as December progresses, the Dyson V11 Origin emerges as an outstanding vacuum that integrates cutting-edge technology, user-centric features, and exceptional cleaning performance, all offered at an unparalleled value.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/4478/)

It’s after 5pm on a Friday, but no force on this Earth can stop me hurrying back to my desk to report on a large financial transaction. Also, we should have written this up earlier, but we were busy deciding which are the objectively correct 100 best PC games.

I’m not… sure we put any Warner Bros games in that list. I’ve just done a CTRL-F for “Batman” and got zero results. I know, WTF – Arkham Asylum is amazing. Mark needs to stop driving things and think about capes for a change. I’m sure Warner Bros aren’t too bothered about this gross oversight right now, though. Netflix have just revealed plans to buy their entertainment business for $82.7 billion in stock and cash.

Read more

**Amazon Echo Dot: The Budget-Friendly Smart Speaker for Any Home**

Amazon’s dedication to maintaining low prices on Alexa-enabled speakers enables consumers to easily explore the realm of smart technology. Within its well-liked selection, the **Echo Dot** emerges as a top pick, striking a remarkable balance between cost and capability. Currently priced at **$31 rather than the regular $49**, this model has secured its status as the best-selling speaker in the Echo lineup. Its small form factor masks an impressive sound quality that can effortlessly fill a space, whether it’s a bedroom, office, or dining area, without needing extensive setup or counter space.

### Why This Echo Dot Sounds Superior to Your Expectations

The newest Echo Dot boasts major enhancements in speaker design, improving sound quality and bass response compared to earlier versions. Amazon has reworked the internal drivers, allowing the speaker to produce richer sound, making it apt for a range of listening activities like music, podcasts, and audiobooks. While it may not substitute for high-fidelity audio systems for critical listening, the Echo Dot demonstrates effectiveness for ambient sound, news updates, and alarm notifications, highlighting its adaptability beyond simply responding to voice prompts.

### Alexa Integration and Smart Home Management

One of the prominent features of the Echo Dot is its seamless integration with **Alexa**, enabling users to manage thousands of compatible smart home devices, streaming services, and information requests easily via voice commands. Users can adjust smart lights, tweak thermostats, and control smart plugs without needing to handle their phones. Thanks to its far-field voice recognition technology, the Echo Dot effectively captures commands even in noisy environments, ensuring clarity while you enjoy music or engage in other tasks.

Its compact design—similar in size to a tennis ball—makes it a perfect fit for any environment, especially in bedrooms where it can wake users gently with tunes or news instead of jarring alarms. Alexa can also deliver updates on the time, weather, or calendar events without needing to interact with any devices, boosting convenience in everyday routines.

### Personalized Smart Home Routines

The Echo Dot allows users to create tailored smart home routines that make daily activities easier. Users can design morning sequences that gradually change lighting, brew coffee, and present calendar events with a single command or set schedule. Likewise, evening routines can promote security by locking doors, adjusting temperatures, turning off lights, and playing soothing sounds, all aimed at enhancing relaxation before bedtime. These automation scenarios can be easily configured in the Alexa app and are reliably executed thereafter.

### Privacy Features

Taking user privacy seriously, the Echo Dot is equipped with a physical microphone mute button that disconnects the microphones when pressed, along with a red light ring indicating that the device is not actively listening. Users are also provided with options to manage data retention and regulate access to voice recordings, ensuring that privacy remains intact.

### Conclusion

With a **$18 discount**, the Echo Dot stands as an appealing choice for anyone eager to explore the benefits of a smart home without overspending. It provides complete Alexa functionality alongside commendable sound quality, allowing for the outfitting of multiple rooms with smart speakers for less than the cost of standard Bluetooth speakers. Whether embarking on a smart home adventure or simply desiring hands-free voice control, the Echo Dot represents an excellent investment in contemporary living.

[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/4514/)

Waking up at the crack of dawn today, I felt a great disturbance in the Force, as if millions of voices did not have a comments thread in which to badger us to play Troubleshooter Colon Abandoned Children. I burst from the covers, ran weeping to my PC (this happens most mornings, to be fair) and discovered that I had forgotten to finish the intro for our latest What Are We All Playing This Weekend article. And now I have. So, what are you all playing this weekend?

Read more