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### The Latest in Video Game News: Elden Ring DLC, Perfect Dark Developments, and More

Good morning. Today is Tuesday, often deemed one of the more difficult days of the week, yet it presents a fantastic chance to get up to speed on the latest in gaming. Below is a summary of some of the most notable news in the industry, highlighting updates on *Elden Ring*’s DLC, a new studio associated with a shelved *Perfect Dark* project, and an unexpected crossover with *Stranger Things*.

#### Developers Behind Canceled *Perfect Dark* Reboot Allegedly Forming New 2K Studio

The excitement surrounding the reboot of *Perfect Dark* kicked off in 2020, but it has since transformed into a saga of suspense and letdown. Initially announced to much acclaim and followed by an exhilarating gameplay trailer in 2024, the project took a drastic turn when Microsoft canceled it in July. The group responsible for the reboot, The Initiative, was also dissolved soon after.

In a recent update, it has been revealed that two prominent figures from the now-abandoned project—former director Brian Horton and studio head Darrell Gallagher—have been recruited by 2K Games. They are set to create a new studio under the 2K umbrella. According to Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier, Take-Two Interactive’s interest suggests that the publishers were impressed by the *Perfect Dark* demo, leading to this new undertaking.

Gallagher, who affirmed the news on LinkedIn, is now part of a hopeful shift in the gaming industry, transitioning from a halted project to assembling a new creative team.

#### Reason Behind *Resident Evil 2* Lacking Returning Characters

In a recent conversation, Hideki Kamiya, the director of *Resident Evil 2* and the celebrated creator of *Bayonetta*, shared his rationale during the game’s production. Discussing his decision to exclude characters from the original game, he admitted that his earlier calls were ill-conceived. According to Kamiya, he intended to create a fresh start without accounting for the loyal fans’ attachments to familiar characters.

Ultimately, after a team member voiced concerns regarding this strategy, Claire Redfield, a pivotal character from the franchise, was incorporated into the sequel. Kamiya’s honest insights underscore the changing dynamics of game development and the significance of fan involvement.

#### *Elden Ring: Nightreign*’s First DLC Has Surpassed 2 Million Copies in Sales

In thrilling news for *Elden Ring* enthusiasts, the inaugural DLC named *Forsaken Hollows* has achieved outstanding success. Within a mere two weeks of its launch, it has sold over 2 million copies. FromSoftware publicly conveyed their appreciation to fans for their support during the ongoing battle against the Dreglord, emphasizing the DLC’s popularity and the franchise’s lasting allure.

#### And Now for One of 2025’s Strangest Crossovers

In an unexpected turn of events, *Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024* will include a crossover with the popular Netflix series *Stranger Things*. While the simulator is well-known for its genuine aviation experience and breathtaking depictions of real-world environments, the integration of elements from a series centered on supernatural phenomena diverges from its typical theme. This unforeseen partnership may captivate fans of both gaming and television as they navigate the skies with a splash of 80s nostalgia.

### ICYMI:
Stay tuned for additional updates on these intriguing developments and more as the gaming landscape continues to progress.

### Watch This:
The industry is in constant flux, with new ventures and expansions perpetually on the brink. Keep an eye out for more thrilling announcements and releases in the near future.

**Skate Story: An Engaging Adventure Within a Glass Realm**

An intriguing interplay exists regarding game critiques and individual beliefs. Occasionally, a game is first underrated, only to later gain acclaim from numerous esteemed critics, prompting a reassessment of one’s viewpoint. This was my experience with *Skate Story*. At first, I was unimpressed, suggesting it seemed more fitting as a screensaver than a complete game. However, I soon realized that I might have been missing something extraordinary.

After investing around 60 minutes into *Skate Story*, I became enchanted by its visual and auditory charm. The game showcases a stunning glassy, minimalist artistic approach that captures the essence of a city skyline at night, highlighted by contrasting hues of blue and red that amplify its surreal magnetism. Accompanying this vivid imagery is an atmospheric score by Blood Cultures, transitioning fluidly from calming tunes during leisurely skate sessions to more dynamic, beat-oriented soundscapes as the gameplay necessitates swift reactions.

Labeling *Skate Story* merely as “a vibe” fails to capture its complex blend of artistry and gameplay. Each rail grind and ramp jump is complemented by infectious tracks that elevate the dreamlike quality of the surroundings and the underlying existential themes of the story. The player takes on the role of a demon in search of redemption from a fragile glass life by devouring moons, traversing a realm where even slight impacts can result in a catastrophic shatter.

The game is enriched with eccentric characters who deliver witty and thought-provoking dialogue that resonates with the central theme of skating as a means to escape a beautiful yet eerie reality. There’s a distinct Suda51-like irreverence that contrasts the meditative aspects of skating against more intense challenges, showcasing a duality that enhances the overall experience.

However, while *Skate Story* reflects a singular artistic vision, it also introduces gameplay difficulties that can be exasperating. The delicacy of the glass character demands accuracy, and the controls may feel unwieldy. Early stages consist of narrow pathways strewn with obstacles that require quick reflexes. Regrettably, the game’s camera mechanics complicate navigation, as sharp turns frequently lead to a loss of momentum and potentially disastrous impacts with obstacles.

The decision to keep the camera closely tied to the player’s movements can be disorienting and amplify the challenge, making it hard to sustain speed while skillfully avoiding hazards. The sound of the skateboard scraping against the glass surface also detracts from the otherwise mesmerizing audio experience.

Despite these challenges, the charm of *Skate Story* persists. After engaging with it, I find myself returning to its soundtrack and replaying scenes in my thoughts, contemplating the impressions—both favorable and unfavorable—it has left on me. Perhaps it merits a second chance to fully understand what it offers, as it appears to navigate the boundary between artistic genius and gameplay execution.

In summary, *Skate Story* is a captivating journey into the realm of artistry within gaming, encouraging players to embrace its visual and auditory richness while contending with its gameplay hurdles. Whether the experience ultimately inspires admiration or frustration remains a personal journey for each participant.

**King of Meat: Glowmade’s Challenges and Impending Job Cuts**

Developer Glowmade is preparing for major shifts in the upcoming year, as reports reveal that the studio intends to lay off “approximately a dozen individuals” at the start of next year. This choice follows the release of their multiplayer party game, *King of Meat*, which debuted on Steam just two months ago but has struggled to achieve essential player engagement metrics. Originally targeting a concurrent player base of 100,000, the game reached a peak of only 320 players on PC, failing to sustain even 1,000 players across all platforms.

Numerous developers from Glowmade have recently turned to LinkedIn to declare their pursuit of new job prospects. Glowmade, a studio located in the U.K., launched *King of Meat* in October with support from Amazon Game Studios. Conversations regarding potential layoffs started in early December, despite prior assurances from management that the studio had “the runway to keep going.”

Amazon Game Studios first revealed in 2021 its collaboration with Glowmade to enhance its publishing initiatives, focusing on an investment in what was characterized as “exciting new IP.” At that time, Glowmade had a team consisting of 25 staff members, reflecting their aim to develop innovative gaming experiences.

Even with a substantial marketing push surrounding *King of Meat*, which included a notable appearance with the animated version of Geoff Keighley at Gamescom 2024 and a prominent video from content creator MrBeast, the game has not gained lasting traction. The promotional activities, which featured a large-scale event with many content creators and a considerable cash prize, ultimately did not convert into ongoing player interest, as evidenced by the game’s recent 24-hour peak on Steam being just 23 players.

In conclusion, Glowmade’s *King of Meat*, despite lofty ambitions and ample marketing resources, has not connected with players as anticipated. The forthcoming layoffs herald a tough time for the studio as it reevaluates its strategies and course after the game’s underwhelming launch. With the gaming community observing closely, it remains uncertain how Glowmade will steer through this challenging environment and what the future entails for its development initiatives.

**McDonald’s AI-Created Christmas Advertisement: A Disputed Holiday Promo**

Earlier this month, McDonald’s Netherlands unveiled a Christmas advertisement produced with AI generation tools that swiftly attracted negative feedback online. The ad, designed to connect with audiences during the festive season, showcased various AI-generated scenes highlighting the less favorable experiences tied to the celebrations. Regrettably, its execution was lacking, resulting in its ultimate withdrawal following public outrage.

This move into AI marketing by McDonald’s mirrors a similar experiment by Coca-Cola, which also ventured into AI-generated ads. The Christmas commercial sought to offer a humorous perspective on the difficulties of the holiday season but ultimately fell short due to its evident dependence on artificial intelligence, which diminished the overall viewing pleasure.

The advertisement was first shared on platforms like YouTube, but after facing considerable backlash, the fast-food chain removed it entirely from the web. Before its deletion, McDonald’s had already turned off comments on the ad to limit negative reactions.

The studio behind the advertisement, Sweetshop, asserted that they devoted seven weeks to meticulously crafting the project, utilizing a broad range of advanced methods and technologies. In a now-removed statement, the studio detailed their complex process, which included the use of Google Earth plates, style transfer, and extensive editing in an effort to produce what they deemed a top-tier cinematic experience.

Despite their assertions of purposeful artistry behind the AI-generated material, many viewers deemed the final output unattractive and disjointed. The combination of highly advanced digital techniques with the ad’s mediocre visual quality fostered doubt regarding the efficacy of AI in creative fields.

The conversation surrounding this advertisement provokes inquiries about the function of technology in marketing and storytelling. While the idea of employing AI can be viewed as groundbreaking, the result stood as a cautionary tale about the potential drawbacks of embracing novel approaches without necessary human supervision. Critics argue that conventional filmmaking methods, which incorporate human skill and creativity, could be more effective than relying exclusively on artificial intelligence.

In closing, McDonald’s venture into AI-generated marketing has turned out to be an unfortunate blunder, igniting discussions about the future of commercial creativity. This incident illustrates the persistent challenge of harmonizing technological progress with authentic artistic expression, particularly in an industry so centered on audience engagement as advertising.

Apple seldom reduces prices on its products, particularly soon after their release, but this year, Amazon is leading the way with considerable discounts on items such as the AirPods Pro 3, perfectly timed for the holiday season. These third-generation AirPods Pro are available for $219, down from the standard $249, matching the lowest prices recorded during Black Friday. While previous versions like the AirPods Pro 2 might attract buyers because of their lower cost, the enhancements in the AirPods Pro 3, driven by Apple Intelligence, offer essential improvements that can significantly elevate the user experience.

### Efficient Noise Cancellation

The AirPods Pro 3 claims to block double the noise of the Pro 2 model, effectively muting distractions like subway noises, airplane sounds, and café conversations. This is accomplished through active noise cancellation that adapts dynamically to the distinct shape of your ear canals and the ear tips’ fit. To enhance this experience, the new version comes with five ear tip sizes, enabling a tailored fit that greatly enhances sound isolation and bass output.

Additionally, the audio experience has been revamped to create what Apple refers to as “three-dimensional sound.” This establishes an auditory landscape where music feels as though it’s enveloping the listener instead of merely coming from the earbuds. With enriched bass depth and clarity in mid to high frequencies, listeners can truly savor each element of intricate musical compositions. The spatial audio feature, equipped with dynamic head tracking, guarantees that sound sources remain anchored in relation to devices like iPhones or iPads, enriching the experience during movies or gaming.

### Health and Fitness Features

A notable feature of the AirPods Pro 3 is its ability to sense heart rates. This turns the earbuds into fitness partners, enabling users to monitor heart rate and calorie burn across 50 types of physical activities. The data syncs with the Activity app on the iPhone, contributing to daily activity stats and providing valuable insights through the new Workout Buddy feature powered by Apple Intelligence.

Moreover, the Live Translation feature utilizes Apple Intelligence for real-time language processing, allowing for naturally flowing translations during conversations. This feature removes the necessity for a different translation app while traveling, enabling effortless communication in various languages. The Active Hearing Protection feature tracks ambient noise levels and adjusts the volume accordingly to prevent potential harm from loud surroundings, such as bustling streets or concerts.

### Hearing Aid Functionality

The AirPods Pro 3 also functions as a clinical-grade hearing aid, utilizing the snug fit and sophisticated noise processing technologies. It boasts an automatic Conversation Boost feature that enhances speech frequencies for improved clarity. Users can even perform a hearing test at home via their iPhone, leading to customized audio profiles for enriched listening experiences.

Battery life is commendable, providing eight hours of use with active noise cancellation engaged and up to ten hours when using Transparency mode and hearing aid features.

### Conclusion

The chance to buy AirPods Pro 3 at a lower price is significant, as Apple products typically maintain their full price shortly after launch. This season, Amazon’s price matching offers a unique opportunity for consumers to acquire premium earbuds that serve as fitness trackers, translation tools, and high-fidelity audio devices all in one. The array of features available makes the purchase worthwhile, particularly in anticipation of the holidays.

For those interested, you can check the offer on Amazon [here](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/4214/).

**Magic: The Gathering’s Marvel Super Heroes Set: A Fresh Era of Thematic Gameplay**

Next June, amidst the buzz surrounding the *Avengers* returning to cinemas and the premiere of *Doomsday*, Magic: The Gathering will unveil its eagerly awaited Marvel Super Heroes set. This expansion is a part of the ongoing Universes Beyond series, designed to weave cherished franchises into the Magic universe while preserving the core gameplay experience that fans love.

In a recent episode of WeeklyMTG, Wizards of the Coast offered a preview of 38 new cards featured in this set. The reveal emphasized several Legendary Creatures and inventive mechanics, ensuring that the set delivers more than mere nostalgic connections to the Marvel franchise. Among the highlighted characters are legendary heroes and villains, each exhibiting unique abilities that mirror their comic book origins.

The set showcases Captain America as a 3/2 white creature, equipped with a shield counter for additional protection, highlighting the tactical nature of this hero. Bruce Banner is represented as a 1/1 blue creature, capable of transforming into the Incredible Hulk under certain conditions, acquiring a +1/+1 counter when damaged and granting him an extra attack phase. This transformation mechanic underscores the duality of Banner’s characters, merging strategy with narrative depth.

Doctor Doom is prominently featured as a powerful 3/3 black creature whose arrival on the battlefield is accompanied by Doombot tokens. Players can take advantage of his ability to draw cards while incurring damage at the end of their turn, introducing an element of risk and reward. Moreover, Doctor Doom remains indestructible as long as an artifact creature or Planeswalker is present, making him a formidable presence.

Key reprints in this set include Heroic Intervention, granting permanents hexproof and indestructibility until the end of the turn—an effect capable of significantly altering the course of battle. The set also brings new and exciting cards like Horn of Greed, adorned with whimsical artwork that resonates with Doctor Doom’s character.

Collectors and players will enjoy the full-art variants of cards such as Widow-Making Infiltrator, Dig Through Time, and Elektra, Deadly Assassin, which enhance both aesthetic appeal and gameplay richness. For those steeped in Magic lore, the Saga cards like World War Hulk and The Coming of Galactus will provide exhilarating narratives; the former boosts a creature’s power and toughness, while the latter introduces a formidable 16/16 Elder Alien with flying and trample.

Initial responses to the Marvel set were varied, particularly considering its launch following the Spider-Man expansion and numerous other crossovers in the Universes Beyond series. However, the early reveals indicate a depth and originality that may rekindle interest among players and collectors. The fusion of Marvel’s iconic storytelling with Magic’s strategic gameplay could yield a successful combination, positioning the Marvel Super Heroes set as one to keep an eye on as fans gear up to explore its features next June.

### Anker Solix C1000 (Gen 2): A Strong Contender in Portable Power Solutions

Anker, well-regarded for its dependable chargers and power banks, has expanded into the sector of portable power stations, competing with renowned brands such as EcoFlow and Jackery. The new model, the **Solix C1000 (Gen 2)**, showcases remarkable features, offering 2,000W of continuous power and a peak output of 3,000W—an upgrade from the first-generation model which provided 1,800W.

#### Pricing and Value Proposition

Currently priced at $371, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 is not only more powerful than the earlier version, but it also comes at a better price point compared to the original, which is now lowered to $436 from its typical price of $799. This pricing approach makes the Gen 2 an exceptional value in the market, delivering an unmatched price-to-wattage ratio, positioning it as one of the leading portable power stations available on Amazon today.

#### Power Output Capabilities

The Solix C1000 Gen 2’s 2,000-watt continuous output enables users to power significant appliances that are typically beyond the reach of less capable power stations. This includes crucial items like **full-size refrigerators, microwave ovens, power tools, and space heaters**. Furthermore, its 3,000-watt surge capability is vital for initiating devices that demand an initial power boost, ensuring that equipment like refrigerators and circular saws function seamlessly without interruptions.

With a powerful LiFePO4 battery offering 1,024 watt-hours, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 can sustain a standard refrigerator for **12 to 15 hours during an outage**, or supply power to a laptop for several days when operating off-grid.

#### Advantages of LiFePO4 Battery Technology

A primary advantage of the LiFePO4 battery technology utilized in this power station is its durability and longevity. These batteries boast a longer life cycle and can be recharged more than **3,000 times** before experiencing a decline in capacity. They also perform better in extreme temperatures, maintaining efficiency in colder conditions where standard lithium-ion batteries could struggle. Anker claims that the battery can be routinely used for years with minimal degradation.

#### Quick Charging Features

A notable characteristic of the Solix C1000 Gen 2 is its rapid charging ability, enabling it to achieve a full charge in just **49 minutes**. This fast recharge time enhances convenience, allowing users to plug it into a wall outlet and have it ready for action in less time than it takes to enjoy a meal. This feature is particularly advantageous for impromptu outdoor adventures or emergencies, as it eliminates the need for overnight charging. Additionally, solar charging options are available, although users must acquire solar panels separately.

#### Versatile Connectivity Options

The Solix C1000 Gen 2 provides a variety of connectivity options, including several **AC outlets, USB-C, USB-A ports**, and a **12V car outlet**, allowing it to handle an extensive array of devices. The built-in LCD screen displays real-time data on power consumption, battery life percentage, and estimated runtime, empowering users to effectively monitor their power usage.

#### Conclusion

With its remarkable features and favorable pricing, the Solix C1000 Gen 2 stands out as an excellent choice for those in need of a trustworthy portable power station. With enhanced power output and better cost efficiency compared to its predecessor, it is an excellent option for consumers in search of a high-performance power solution. The fusion of cutting-edge battery technology, swift charging capabilities, and versatile connectivity confirms its status among the leading portable power stations available today.

For anyone in pursuit of a reliable and effective portable power source, the Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 is an enticing option well worth considering.

Pay up then. Sorry, I’ve been sent on behalf of The Yolf, a giant horned cat creature who sits on a branch demanding payment in Mandrake. This folklore-infused gardening sim from Sunless Sea and Fallen London devs Failbetter games has just had a fresh outing at today’s Wholesome Snack showcase, putting centre-stage the The Yolf’s need for you to get your affairs in order.

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**DJI Mini 5 Pro: A Fresh Chapter for Compact Drones**

The DJI Mini 4 Pro has been a top contender in the compact drone market, but with the launch of the Mini 5 Pro in September, DJI has introduced substantial enhancements that redefine sub-250-gram drone capabilities. Staying below the 250-gram threshold is essential for avoiding FAA registration in the United States, rendering this drone an excellent option for novices and enthusiasts who prefer a seamless flying experience.

**Bundle and Pricing**

The Mini 5 Pro comes in an all-inclusive Fly More Combo package that equips you with everything necessary for serious aerial photography right from the start. This bundle features the DJI RC 2 controller with an integrated screen, along with three batteries to prolong your flying sessions. Presently, Amazon is offering a remarkable price of $1,099, down from the standard $1,599, making it an ideal moment for photographers and videographers to invest in this lightweight powerhouse.

**Professional-Quality Video**

The addition of a 1-inch CMOS sensor represents a major upgrade from earlier Mini models, providing improved light capture and detail in each shot. This sensor enables 4K video recording at 60 frames per second with HDR capabilities, guaranteeing footage with a wide dynamic range that maintains details in bright skies and dark landscapes alike. The Mini 5 Pro achieves color depth and clarity comparable to larger, pricier drones, making it an invaluable tool for content creators looking for professional-quality results without the burden of heavy gear.

**Innovative Gimbal Rotation**

A standout aspect of the Mini 5 Pro is its 225-degree gimbal rotation, offering creative options beyond conventional fixed-angle gimbals. This feature allows users to capture authentic vertical content ideal for social media, tilt the camera for dynamic shots, and smoothly transition to various filming angles. Such adaptability is perfect for real estate, action sports, and travel videos, where engaging content is essential. The advanced gimbal stabilization technology ensures steady video quality, even in breezy conditions, countering the common problem of shaky amateur drone footage.

**Safety Features**

The Mini 5 Pro boosts flying safety with its omnidirectional obstacle sensing, employing forward-facing LiDAR and vision sensors to identify obstacles from all directions. This integrated safety feature is crucial for pilots who may be more focused on securing the ideal shot than on their surroundings. Moreover, the Nightscape feature enhances obstacle detection during nighttime flights by utilizing LiDAR to map the environment when traditional vision sensors struggle in low-light settings.

**Improved ActiveTrack Technology**

ActiveTrack 360° has undergone substantial enhancements, enabling the Mini 5 Pro to follow individuals with increased reliability and speed. It offers multiple tracking modes, including options for flying around subjects or maintaining a specified distance. This upgraded system effectively keeps cyclists and runners centered in the frame, even as they navigate turns or accelerate.

**Extended Battery Life and Storage**

Equipped with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, the Mini 5 Pro provides up to 52 minutes of battery life, facilitating extended flight times without interruptions. With three batteries included, pilots can enjoy over two and a half hours of flight time before recharging is needed. The charging hub efficiently powers all three batteries in approximately 193 minutes, optimizing the process between flight sessions. Furthermore, the internal storage capacity of 42GB eliminates the hassle of microSD cards, ensuring ample space for multiple shots without concerns of running out of memory.

**User-Friendly Controller**

The DJI RC 2 controller, featuring a bright built-in screen designed for visibility in direct sunlight, enhances the flying experience by removing the need to connect a smartphone, thereby conserving its battery life. Intuitive controls provide easy access to camera settings and intelligent flight modes without having to sift through menus. Both the drone and controller are collapsible, making them easy to transport on various adventures requiring aerial footage.

**Conclusion**

At a price of $1,099, the Mini 5 Pro offers superb value given the features it provides. DJI has generally maintained consistent pricing for new items, making the current 31% discount on this latest release a compelling opportunity for potential buyers in search of high-quality drone technology.