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McDonald’s Unveils New Grinch Meal, Introducing Shake Shake Fries to the U.S.

**McDonald’s Launches Festive Holiday Grinch Meal Featuring McShaker Fries**

McDonald’s has made a vibrant impact this holiday season with the launch of its new limited-time Grinch Meal, which debuted on December 2. This special meal not only appeals to aficionados of the fast-food chain but also unveils an exciting new offering: Dill Pickle McShaker Fries.

### Grinch Meal Overview

The Grinch Meal comes in a distinctive package showcasing the beloved character from Dr. Seuss’s cherished Christmas story. In addition to the festive wrapping, customers will receive a pair of exclusive holiday socks with their purchase. The meal includes a choice of either 10 McNuggets or a Big Mac, paired with a medium beverage. The standout feature of the meal is the McShaker Fries, which are elevated with a unique Dill Pickle seasoning referred to as “Grinch Salt.”

### Launch of McShaker Fries

McShaker Fries are a US version of the popular Shake Shake Fries concept that has thrived in various global markets, such as Hong Kong, the Philippines, Taiwan, Canada, the United Kingdom, and India. The preparation process is straightforward yet enjoyable: customers get a bag along with a seasoning packet, enabling them to shake the fries for an even coating of the seasoning. This interactive aspect adds a playful twist to savoring French fries.

### Consumer Feedback

Initial reactions to the Grinch Meal and the Dill Pickle McShaker Fries have been largely favorable, especially among those who appreciate pickle-flavored treats. Many are optimistic that McDonald’s will continue to offer McShaker Fries after the holiday season and unveil additional flavor choices similar to those available in other regions. While tastes differ regarding the Dill Pickle flavor, the arrival of Shake Shake Fries in the US market has generated excitement.

### Additional Limited-Time Fast Food Promotions

On a related note, fans of seasonal fast food deals can also explore Burger King’s newly introduced menu inspired by the latest *SpongeBob* movie. This menu features a slice of pie and an authentic Krabby Patty, presented in whimsical *SpongeBob*-themed packaging, which is likely to become a collector’s item among enthusiasts.

The holiday season is turning out to be an exhilarating time for fast-food lovers, with unique offerings from both McDonald’s and Burger King catching the attention of consumers and generating buzz. As the Grinch Meal launches, fans can enjoy a fun and flavorful dining experience that embodies the festive spirit.

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The God Slayer: A Review of Fight Scenes and Potential for Enhanced Gameplay Mechanics in Element-Bending RPG

I’ll forgive you if you’ve not clocked The God Slayer. While it’s always been vaguely curious in an Inside Baseball sort of way, its action-RPGness being a stark departure for My Time at Sandrock/My Time at Portia lifesim devs Pathea Games, the project’s been in hiding since its 2023 reveal as an apparent PS5 exclusive. Yet it’s still in the works, release date TBD but with a PC version confirmed, and has successfully caught my eye after a hands-off preview session last week – even with said preview being shy about its most intriguing, immsim-influenced openness.

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Windows 11 Pro Offered at 94% Off in Microsoft’s Black Friday to Cyber Week Promotion

**Cyber Monday Promotions Continue: Elevate to Windows 11 Pro at an Incredible Price**

Cyber Monday has passed, yet several enticing offers remain, particularly for those aiming to enhance their operating system experience. One noteworthy opportunity is the option to elevate to Windows 11 Pro at an astounding discount. This upgrade is especially attractive for users in search of advanced features and interface improvements, now available as a lifetime license at an exceptionally low cost.

Normally priced around $200, Windows 11 Pro can now be acquired for merely $10 through StackSocial. This limited-time deal signifies an incredible 94% reduction from the regular price, making an upgrade more budget-friendly than ever. The Pro edition is perfectly tailored for remote professionals, creative individuals, and gamers. With over 20,000 licenses sold already, interest in this offer is soaring, and it is anticipated to run out swiftly.

### Filled With Security and Productivity Tools

Windows 11 Pro has been carefully crafted with today’s professionals in mind. It comprises an extensive array of built-in security and productivity tools that encourage team collaboration and enhance creativity. Its interface remains intuitive, featuring significantly improved search functionalities and tools like voice typing that assist in managing demanding workloads. Snap layouts enable users to effortlessly open and arrange multiple windows into specified configurations, boosting productivity while ensuring key tasks stay visible. Snap groups further enhance the user experience by retaining these arrangements, allowing users to continue from where they left off. Furthermore, users can establish virtual desktops customized for various assignments and projects.

For remote professionals, Windows 11 Pro presents several exceptional features, including Azure Active Directory (Azure AD), Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. Azure AD streamlines access to corporate assets through a single sign-on and offers tools for managing cloud devices. Hyper-V facilitates running virtual machines seamlessly, while the Sandbox feature permits users to execute untrusted applications within a secure environment, protecting the primary system. Gamers will also gain from the superior graphics performance powered by DirectX 12 Ultimate, maximizing hardware capabilities for a more engaging experience.

Before proceeding with the upgrade, it’s crucial to confirm that your device meets the prerequisites for Windows 11 Pro. At a minimum, your device should run Windows 10 or a later version, possess 4GB of RAM, and have 64GB of storage. It must be compatible with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) version 2.0, and the graphics card should support DirectX 12 or newer, utilizing a WDDM 2.0 driver. Additionally, you will need a high-definition display of at least 720p that measures over 9 inches diagonally and supports an 8-bit per channel color depth. While most contemporary devices should satisfy these requirements, it is recommended to check your system’s specifications before purchasing.

Upon completing your purchase, StackSocial will promptly send you a redemption code via email, along with instructions for its use. This code must be activated within 30 days post-purchase. The offer also includes updates, ensuring you have access to the latest features from Microsoft.

This outstanding deal empowers users to obtain lifetime access to Windows 11 Pro for just $10, a small investment for such a comprehensive operating system. For those looking to upgrade for casual home utilization, the Windows 11 Home edition is also available at $10. Act swiftly to take advantage of this limited-time offer, as stocks are rapidly depleting and may not last long.

For further information and to finalize your purchase, visit [StackSocial](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/4452/).

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Aerith from Final Fantasy VII Asks Fans to Avoid Sending Inappropriate Material to Actors

**The Influence of Fan Art and Limitations on Content Creators**

The convergence of fandom and artistic expression has consistently ignited passionate debates, particularly about the suitability of content disseminated within these domains. A significant example emerged when Ken Levine, the primary developer of the renowned game *BioShock*, publicly requested fans to refrain from sending him explicit artwork featuring the character Elizabeth from *BioShock Infinite*. He conveyed that encountering such visuals felt similar to “seeing NSFW images of a daughter,” highlighting the unease creators may feel when their characters are portrayed in sexualized manners by fans.

In recent times, this trend has only escalated. With the advent of social media platforms, artists are becoming increasingly audacious in presenting explicit art directly to creators, frequently tagging or mentioning them in unsolicited contributions. This shifting dynamic sparks discussions about consent, respect, and the limits between creators and their audiences.

One prominent voice in this debate is Briana White, the voice actress for Aerith in the *Final Fantasy VII Remake* trilogy. White has candidly expressed her dissatisfaction regarding the tagging of actors in pornographic representations of their characters. She addressed a colleague’s encounters with similar dilemmas, making it evident that such actions can undermine the community spirit and connectivity that many creators strive to nurture. She stated, “It’s really unfortunate when [voice actors] wish to engage with the individuals who cherish the characters on social media, but just a few inappropriate individuals spoil it for all.”

White’s viewpoint underscores a frequently overlooked facet of fan interactions: consent. She articulated the challenge in determining what is suitable or acceptable to each individual creator based solely on their online identity. Her reflections resonate with numerous content creators who find themselves in comparable situations, navigating the ambiguous boundaries between fan adoration and intrusive actions.

Fans often convey their enthusiasm through artistic expressions, including fanfiction and drawings, which can bolster community engagement and appreciation for the original material. However, the distinction between celebration and harassment becomes unclear when unsolicited explicit content is introduced. As White noted, while many appreciate adult-themed artwork, sending such material to creators without prior context or consent equates to harassment.

Ultimately, the crux lies in honoring boundaries. Fans are encouraged to create and share their creations, but it is crucial to consider the sentiments and comfort zones of the people behind the characters. Ensuring that interactions are consensual and respectful not only aids in maintaining a nurturing community but also permits creators to engage positively with their fans.

In conclusion, the dialogue surrounding fan art and its limitations is vital for fostering a dynamic yet respectful fandom culture. By acknowledging the significance of consent and recognizing the potential discomfort that explicit content may cause creators, fans can nurture a more constructive environment that benefits all participants.

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Investigating the Idea of Merging Personal Life with Stock Market Investments

### The Future of Prediction Market Betting: A Look at Kalshi and Its Vision

Kalshi, established in 2018 by Tarek Mansour and Luana Lopes Lara, is generating considerable excitement in the financial sector with its groundbreaking approach to prediction markets. Mansour’s optimistic view on the future of prediction market betting centers on its ability to settle disputes and monetize diverse opinions — fundamentally transforming every facet of life into a tradable commodity.

#### A Billion-Dollar Vision

Recently, Kalshi secured $1 billion in funding, attaining a remarkable valuation of $11 billion. This increase has left investors enthusiastic about the anticipated growth and extensive application of prediction markets. Mansour noted that these markets are already approaching a $100 billion annual asset class and believes they could see substantial expansion, envisioning a marketplace where any disagreement can turn into a viable bet.

“The long-term vision is to financialize everything,” Mansour elaborated during a Citadel Securities conference. He suggests that a powerful, general-purpose exchange capable of settling differing opinions could reveal a total addressable market significantly larger than the existing stock market.

#### Prediction Markets as Information Solutions

Mansour emphasizes the widespread problem of information overload in contemporary society, asserting that while data inundates us, the real challenge is separating truth from falsehood. He contends that prediction markets act as a remedy, skillfully highlighting and refining crucial truths from the noise. This feature positions prediction markets as essential instruments for mitigating risk across a range of uncertain future occurrences, such as elections or international crises.

#### The Appeal of Gamification in Financial Markets

The attraction of turning real-world outcomes into marketable bets aligns with the increasing popularity of trading applications like Robinhood for stocks and DraftKings for sports wagering. Mansour imagines a reality where everything from personal discussions to major world events can be converted into betting chances. This transformation could cultivate a culture where individuals more frequently partake in prediction betting, independent of the setting.

Nevertheless, such a significant transition raises concerns about the repercussions of treating serious matters as gambling ventures. This notion recalls previous incidents in the financial sphere, notably the FTX collapse, prompting caution and doubt among some observers regarding the sustainability and ethical implications of such markets.

#### Cultural Acceptance and Potential Risks

Despite his aspirations, Mansour’s vision may not be universally accepted. The idea of commercializing casual dialogues or disagreements could appear alien to many, as the average person may hesitate to view their opinions or relationships as assets. This potential cultural dissonance raises questions about whether society can accept this change.

Additionally, as prediction markets expand, there is a crucial need for suitable regulations and moral considerations to ensure these platforms do not encourage harmful behaviors or unforeseen outcomes.

#### Conclusion

Kalshi stands at the cutting edge of a new financial landscape where prediction markets might fundamentally alter how individuals understand and interact with uncertainty. While Tarek Mansour advocates for the opportunities for growth and innovation in this arena, the challenge will be to cultivate widespread acceptance and navigate the intricacies of converting personal opinions into concrete financial instruments. As the landscape progresses, investors and consumers will need to thoughtfully evaluate the effects and feasibility of this gamified approach to life’s uncertainties.

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Weekly Overview of Sunday Newspapers

Sundays are for writing your first ever Sunday Papers. Though your excitement, like mine, may slip a little when you realise you’ve been reading almost anything but gaming articles this week. So, I shall be leaning quite heavily into the “(mostly)” in the column’s mission of rounding up “great writing about (mostly) videogames”.

I hope you’ll be able to find as much joy in writing about bacteria, lighthouses, and life after a nuclear war as I have.

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A New Twin-Stick Shooter Surfaces, Eliciting Parallels to Geometry Wars

**Discovering the Excitement of Sektori: A Roguelike Twin Stick Shooter**

In the vast realm of video gaming, certain titles connect with players in a distinctive manner, capturing their interest and providing an exhilarating retreat. One such recent title is *Sektori*, a roguelike twin stick shooter that is generating buzz among enthusiasts of the genre, especially those who delight in the vibrant and chaotic worlds of games like *Geometry Wars*.

Now accessible on various platforms including Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam, *Sektori* delivers an engaging yet user-friendly experience that can easily captivate players for extended periods. The core concept is straightforward: direct a lively shape on the screen, blasting away at equally vivid opponents threatening your survival. Armed with a laser cannon, players must navigate the arena, dodging enemy projectiles while collecting power-ups to boost their combat prowess.

**Gameplay Dynamics and Experience**

What distinguishes *Sektori* from its competitors is not only its rapid-fire action but also its intricate mechanics that draw inspiration from critically acclaimed games like *Vampire Survivors* and *Halls of Torment*. As you take out shapes on the battlefield, each enemy shatters, leaving behind sparkling orbs that can lead to worthwhile upgrades. These enhancements can restore your shield, unlock new weapon types such as missiles, or amplify your laser cannon’s firepower, fostering a gratifying gameplay loop that motivates players to further test their limits.

The game also brings in perk cards that enhance your skills during playthroughs. While the tutorial provides a basic foundation, the intricacies of these mechanics unfold through actual gameplay, inviting players to experiment and find optimal strategies. This element of unpredictability keeps the experience vibrant, leading players to the timeless temptation of “just one more run,” often resulting in longer gaming periods.

**Visuals and Sound**

Visually, *Sektori* impresses with its neon-infused art style and stunning particle effects, creating a visual feast for gamers. The design is polished and sharp, harmonizing perfectly with the high-energy gameplay, ensuring that each encounter is as thrilling visually as it is action-packed. Complementing its striking graphics, *Sektori* features an engaging soundtrack that matches the frantic rhythm, enhancing the immersive experience.

**Final Thoughts**

*’Sektori’ represents an enticing mix of simplicity and complexity, making it a must-experience for anyone who loves quick, action-focused gameplay. Its vivid visuals, robust mechanics, and addictive qualities create a journey that is enjoyable whether playing for a few minutes or several hours. As players plunge into this neon adventure, the desire to keep playing intensifies, establishing *Sektori* as a prominent title in the twin-stick shooter realm.*

For those primed to embark on this colorful adventure, you can grab your copy of *Sektori* [here](https://www.gimblll.com/sektori/#:~:text=Store%20Links%20(Game,Steam). Accept the challenge, enhance your arsenal, and prepare to immerse yourself in a game that guarantees hours of fun and excitement.