The world could certainly do with another game about slapping up Swastika-wearers right now. Thankfully, having finished off Indiana Jones And The Great Circle, Machine Games are reportedly working on the previously teased Wolfenstein 3.
### Smartwatches: Your Companion for Health and Connectivity
Smartwatches have progressed remarkably, providing features that transcend mere step counting and heart rate tracking. Contemporary devices aim to keep you linked while aiding you in sustaining your health and fitness routines, all from your wrist. Among the top choices available presently is Google’s newest creation, the Pixel Watch 4.
#### Google Pixel Watch 4: Features and Offer
The Pixel Watch 4 is now offered at a lowered price of $350 (from $450) on Amazon, reflecting a 22% discount applicable to all color variants. Options include an elegant black case with an obsidian band, a champagne case paired with a lemongrass band, and a silver case with an iris band, catering to diverse style preferences.
#### Abundance of Health and Fitness Features
The Pixel Watch 4 features a remarkable Actua 360 domed display that is 10% larger and 50% brighter than its predecessor, the Pixel Watch 3. Users can appreciate clear visibility in both bright sunlight and dimly lit areas. Constructed with scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass and aerospace-grade aluminum, the watch is built for resilience to endure daily wear and tear. It also carries an IP68 rating, making it suitable for various weather scenarios, including rain and vigorous workouts.
In terms of fitness monitoring, the Pixel Watch 4 provides over 40 exercise modes, accommodating a variety of workouts—from stretching to cardio running. It includes personalized running plans and real-time guidance with advanced form tracking to optimize training effectiveness. Furthermore, it tracks your heart rate and monitors sleep patterns, offering insights that promote better rest and overall wellness.
#### Connectivity and Features
Connected to your smartphone, the Pixel Watch 4 enables you to receive notifications, answer calls, reply to texts, and manage your music without needing to reach for your phone. Remarkably, the Satellite SOS feature keeps your friends and family updated on your location, even in remote areas. Additionally, it includes Gemini, a smart AI assistant that provides support throughout your day, helping with tasks like seeking information, brainstorming ideas, and organizing schedules.
With a battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge, and the capability to extend it to 48 hours in Battery Saver mode, users can confidently go days without recharging. A quick 15-minute charge can yield an extra 15 hours of usage, ideal for busy individuals.
#### Advanced Features Through Fitbit Premium
While core health and fitness functionalities are complimentary, advanced metrics are available through a Fitbit Premium subscription. This membership offers AI-generated suggestions based on user objectives, deeper insights, and access to energizing workouts led by Peloton trainers.
As a limited-time deal, potential purchasers can take advantage of a $100 discount on the Pixel Watch 4 across all color options. With the promotion poised to end soon, prompt action is advisable for interested buyers.
In summary, the Google Pixel Watch 4 distinguishes itself as a holistic smartwatch that not only monitors fitness and health metrics but also keeps you connected, making it an essential accessory for those aiming to elevate their lifestyle.
[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6609/)
A preliminary employment tribunal hearing has seen the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) request that a judge grant interim relief to the 31 UK-based GTA 6 developers fired by Rockstar, reportedly following discussion of changes to Rockstar’s company Slack policies by staff on Discord. The union, which filed legal claims against the company over the dismissals last year, continue to assert that they were a form of union busting. Rockstar, meanwhile, have released a fresh statement claiming that the root of this is simply stopping info about GTA 6 from leaking.
The Epic Games Store is ushering in 2026 with an appealing selection of complimentary games, continuing its holiday giveaway tradition. Gamers can anticipate claiming two notable titles throughout January.
The first significant free title is the critically lauded strategy game, **Total War: Three Kingdoms**. Regularly priced at $60, it is accessible for free to anyone logging in via the PC Fortnite launcher. This game, renowned for its vast gameplay and rich historical context, is part of the esteemed Total War series. With comparatively modest system requirements—only a GTX 650 equivalent needed—it guarantees accessibility for a broad spectrum of PC gamers. The game will remain free for the whole of January, presenting a fantastic opportunity for both newcomers and long-time enthusiasts.
In addition to **Total War: Three Kingdoms**, players can also claim **Wildgate**, a sci-fi PvPvE multiplayer shooter created by former Blizzard staff. While the idea of combining aspects from *Sea of Thieves* with a MOBA-style experience is compelling, the game’s realization has fallen short of expectations, resulting in dwindling player numbers on Steam. Both titles will be free until January 8, allowing gamers to experience them before any possible changes to Wildgate’s availability.
### Prime Gaming Free Games for January 2026
Besides the free offerings from the Epic Games Store, Amazon Prime members can savor a selection of free games throughout January. The month kicks off with **Civilization VI**, alongside:
#### Available Now
– **Reflections of Life: Dark Architect Collector’s Edition**
#### January 15
– **Deathkeep**
– **Brigador: Up-Armored Deluxe**
– **Gunslugs: Rogue Tactics**
#### January 22
– **Harold Halibut**
– **D&D Stronghold: Kingdom Simulator**
#### January 29
– **Elderborn**
– **Technotopia**
– **Al-Qadim: The Genie’s Curse**
With **Civilization VII** still striving to please its committed fanbase following last year’s release, **Civilization VI** serves as an excellent starting point for both returning and new players to the 4X genre. Similarly, **Brigador: Up-Armored Edition** provides an engaging experience reminiscent of the classic *Jungle Strike* games, crafted for mech fans.
Overall, the blend of these free offerings from the Epic Games Store and Amazon Prime Gaming ensures an exciting beginning to the gaming year, supplying players with a variety of quality titles to enjoy.
### Upgrade Your Work Environment with the ASUS ZenScreen 16″ Portable Monitor
Fed up with lack of display space when using your laptop? The ASUS ZenScreen 16″ (with a viewable area of 15.6″) is a portable monitor that converts your laptop or tablet into a full desktop setup, no matter where you are. This mobile monitor offers supplementary screen area for your work, education, and entertainment, all without the burden of lugging around a cumbersome extra display. It boosts your multitasking skills at home, in the workplace, or while traveling.
#### Budget-Friendly Dual-Screen Option
At present, the ASUS ZenScreen 16″ is available for only $119 on Amazon, representing a notable reduction of $30 from its regular price of $149. This 20% price drop presents an excellent chance for those wishing to enlarge their workspace without stretching their budget.
[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6687/)
#### An Ideal Partner for Efficiency
The 15.6-inch viewable display is perfectly sized for use as a secondary monitor. It enables you to keep your email, chat, or reference materials visible while focusing on your main task. Whether you’re a student working on research papers, a professional handling spreadsheets, or someone who enjoys watching streaming videos or engaging with social media simultaneously, the ZenScreen supports multiple windows side-by-side with clarity and simplicity.
#### Exceptional Portability
One of the most impressive aspects of the ASUS ZenScreen 16″ is its mobility. The monitor is thin and lightweight, allowing it to be easily stored in a backpack or laptop bag without adding weight. Whether you’re constantly on the move or simply need extra workspace, the ZenScreen is a fantastic option for gaming, browsing, or work-related activities.
#### Effortless Setup
Setting up the ASUS ZenScreen 16″ is straightforward and effective. You connect the monitor using a single USB-C cable, which supplies both power and video. This removes the necessity for extra power adapters and cables, leading to a neat workspace that can be easily transported between locations. With such a simple setup, you’ll likely make use of the monitor rather than having it sit idle.
#### A Wise Purchase
In a landscape where technology can frequently be excessively costly, the ASUS ZenScreen offers an affordable choice for those looking to improve their workspace. While extra monitors often come with high prices, this offer makes it a more feasible financial choice.
This portable monitor has the capacity to revolutionize how you manage your digital space. It helps optimize your online experiences by minimizing mess. Whether you’re designing graphics, keeping notes visible during online classes, or tracking chat windows while gaming, the extra screen substantially boosts your productivity. Make sure to seize this discount while it remains available.
[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6687/)
### The Collaboration Between Pokémon and the Natural History Museum: Optimism for a Seamless Experience
Following the chaotic occurrences linked to the 2023 partnership between Pokémon and Amsterdam’s Van Gogh Museum, numerous fans were left questioning whether prestigious institutions would keep collaborating with the beloved franchise. The public outcry, primarily driven by footage of scalpers overwhelming the museum’s shop as if it were Black Friday, raised red flags about potential future partnerships. Nonetheless, the unveiling of a new Pokémon exhibit at the Natural History Museum in London has ignited cautious hope among fans that precautions may be implemented to avert another fiasco.
#### The “Pikachu at the Museum” Promotional Card
A central feature of the forthcoming exhibit is the “Pikachu at the Museum” promotional card, showcasing Pikachu happily roaming a museum filled with fossils, including those of Aerodactyl and Tyrantrum. Although the card’s stats may lack competitiveness, this oversized “jumbo” card stands in stark contrast to standard Pokémon cards, which might discourage scalpers who generally go after items with a higher resale potential.
The scarcity of this promotional card might still lure some resellers, but its large format—rendering it unusable in gameplay or difficult to store in collector binders—has resulted in a collective breath of relief among the community.
#### Reactions from the Community
Fans have shared a variety of opinions about the oversized card, with some praising the artistic design while lamenting its impracticality for collection purposes. Remarks on platforms such as Reddit underscore this divide, with users valuing the distinctive artwork yet wishing for a standard-sized variant for easier storage. Comments like “I hope someone creates a nice normal-sized replica of it” highlight a desire for greater accessibility, even among those who value their collections.
#### Concerns Regarding Exclusive Merchandise
In spite of the generally positive reception to the promo card, apprehension still looms over the potential scalping of exclusive merchandise tied to the event. The Natural History Museum plans to provide a variety of limited-edition products, including art, stationery, clothing, and a unique Pikachu plush that features the character hugging a miniature rendition of the museum. These items will be available both in-person and online, inciting concerns that scalpers might target this exclusive merchandise as well.
The Pokémon Company and the museum appear to be implementing measures to sidestep the issues witnessed in prior collaborations, yet whether these strategies will suffice to prevent scalping remains uncertain. The main objective seems to be fostering a positive experience for fans eager to enjoy the exhibit free from the turmoil that overshadowed the Van Gogh event.
#### Details of the Event
The Pokémon x Natural History Museum collaboration is scheduled to operate from January 26 to April 19, granting ample opportunity for fans to visit the exhibit and explore the corresponding offerings. As excitement builds, one can hope that both the collaborative initiatives and protective measures will lead to a successful and delightful experience for all attendees, enabling fans to connect with Pokémon and natural history in a treasured setting.
## Think About Investing in a Mini PC: The Acemagician Mini Gaming PC
Not keen on large, clunky PCs dominating your workspace? You might want to think about getting a mini PC. These devices deliver impressive performance in a small package and are lightweight for portable use. For example, the mini gaming PC by Acemagician provides a powerful option for both everyday tasks and demanding projects at a reasonable price. Currently priced at $599, reduced from $856 due to a 30% discount on Amazon, it offers great value.
### Outstanding Performance, Ample Storage
This mini PC features the powerful Intel Core i9 13900HK processor, which has 14 cores (6 P-cores and 8 E-cores) with 20 threads, capable of turbo boosting up to 5.4GHz. Built using Intel 7 process technology and equipped with 24MB Smart Cache and a 54W TDP, it provides fast and dependable performance for all kinds of tasks—from office duties to creative projects. Its capabilities exceed those of CPUs such as the i9 12900HK, 7840HS, and 6800H, making it ideal for content creation, 4K video editing, business applications, studying, and gaming.
With a generous 32GB DDR4 RAM, multitasking is effortless. Users can handle several applications, browse numerous tabs, participate in consecutive video calls, and stream games without experiencing any significant lags. The storage is also notable, featuring a 1TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, which supports everything from media files to critical applications. Notably, both memory and storage can be upgraded—allowing enhancements up to 64GB RAM and 4TB SSD—ensuring adaptability as user needs progress.
The specifications also improve gaming experiences, as this mini PC can effectively run well-known titles like Fortnite, League of Legends, and Valorant on medium settings. Users with more extensive setups will value the capability to connect up to three monitors at the same time. Connectivity options like WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and a 2.5GbE LAN port are provided. USB4 ports also offer remarkable transfer rates, enabling 3GB 4K video transfers in roughly one second.
### Silent and Compact Design
Despite its strong specifications, the mini PC runs quietly thanks to a sophisticated dual fan system that ensures efficient performance, regardless of the workload. Its compact design means it can be mounted behind a monitor, helping to create a neater workspace. Additionally, it comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, ready for immediate use.
In conclusion, if your desktop arrangement needs an upgrade, now is a great moment to shift to a mini PC. The Acemagician mini gaming PC, retailing for under $600, aims to improve both work efficiency and gaming pleasure.
[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6688/)
### The Evolving Landscape of AI in Consumer Technology: Dell’s CES 2026 Announcement
As we near 2026, a noticeable evolution is occurring in how prominent tech firms are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their offerings and promotional strategies. A significant update comes from Dell, a top technology company that has garnered attention for its recent stance during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026. Kevin Terwilliger, Dell’s leading product executive, candidly recognized a fundamental shift in consumer perceptions regarding AI, indicating a substantial change in the tech sector’s narrative.
#### Consumer Perception of AI
In a discussion with *PC Gamer*, Terwilliger stated that consumers are becoming more apathetic or perplexed by the prominence of AI in technology products. “What we’ve learned over the course of this year,” he shared, “is they’re not purchasing based on AI. In fact, I think AI likely confuses them more than assists them in grasping a particular outcome.” This honest acknowledgment reflects a broader trend where eye-catching AI features, once heralded as revolutionary, seem to complicate purchasing choices rather than facilitate them.
#### A Move Away from AI-Focused Marketing
Throughout Dell’s CES 2026 presentations, a clear shift occurred away from AI. The term “AI” was rarely mentioned, and when it was, it was presented unfavorably by vice chairman Jeff Clarke, who spoke of the “un-met promise of AI.” This stood in stark contrast to the messaging of previous years, which heavily emphasized AI-focused products, reinforcing the notion of a “shift from a year ago where we were all about the AI PC.”
The reduction of AI in product positioning indicates that Dell is aware of an increasing fatigue among consumers regarding AI hype. Conversely, the focus was redirected towards concrete technological advancements, including new laptops, desktops, and displays, which resonate more with consumer preferences.
#### The Ambiguity of “AI”
The term “AI” has become omnipresent, yet frequently misapplied across various contexts. In gaming, for example, it traditionally referred to the programmed behavior of non-player characters (NPCs). Nevertheless, it has recently transformed into a catch-all term encompassing a variety of technologies, from generative AI by firms like OpenAI and Google to machine learning applications that enhance performance through experience-driven adaptations.
This broad and often unclear usage contributes to consumer bewilderment, diminishing the term’s significance and inciting skepticism regarding its genuine utility. Terwilliger’s remarks emphasize a rising sentiment that AI, in its current marketing presentation, represents a “grift” rather than a meaningful progression.
#### Conclusion: Towards a New Era of Technology
Dell’s choice to minimize AI in its newest products might signify a pivotal moment in how technology firms approach product innovation and marketing. As consumer awareness and skepticism grow, it appears that a resurgence in celebrating authentic innovation—whether AI-enhanced or not—could be imminent.
This shift may inspire a renewed valuing of creativity and originality in technology, guiding the industry away from what some analysts have identified as the AI bubble. As 2026 unfolds, the expectation is that consumers will experience an era where substance triumphs over mere trends.
**Ubisoft Halifax Unionization and Studio Closure Controversy**
Ubisoft Halifax, a segment of Ubisoft’s expanding collection of gaming studios, made its intention to unionize public in December 2023, partnering with the Game & Media Workers Guild of Canada. This unionization initiative witnessed 61 out of the studio’s 71 employees embarking on this important journey towards collective bargaining. Nonetheless, only weeks after the union’s official recognition, Ubisoft surprised the gaming community by declaring the shutdown of the Halifax studio, which had a substantial effect on the newly formed unified workforce.
In a formal statement, Ubisoft asserted that the closure of the Halifax studio was not a retaliatory act towards the recently established union, but a decision stemming from a long-term cost-cutting strategy that the company has been executing over the previous 24 months. They stressed that this action was part of a wider plan aimed at optimizing operations and enhancing efficiency throughout the organization. Ubisoft promised to provide support to the impacted employees, including extensive severance packages and career counseling to facilitate the transition.
This sequence of events, however, has sparked concerns and questions among observers regarding the rationale behind the studio’s closure. Ubisoft has been under scrutiny in recent years due to substantial layoffs and restructuring, which includes workforce reductions at their subsidiaries and the departure of prominent staff. The company has been restructuring following a major investment and bailout from Tencent, which contributed $1.25 billion to stabilize its financial condition.
Ubisoft Halifax played a key role in the development of two prominent free-to-play games: “Rainbow Six Mobile” and “Assassin’s Creed Rebellion.” The studio’s closure has prompted inquiries about the future of these titles, especially “Rainbow Six Mobile,” which was anticipated for a global launch shortly after the announcement.
In response to the studio’s sudden closure, CWA Canada, representing the union members, voiced strong disapproval of the decision, labeling it “devastating.” CWA Canada president Carmel Smyth noted that they would explore all possible legal avenues to advocate for the rights of the affected workers, insinuating that the timing of the closure appeared questionable and deserved further scrutiny.
As the situation develops, the consequences of Ubisoft Halifax’s closure reach beyond its direct effect on employees, initiating crucial discussions surrounding labor rights, corporate governance, and the duties of large gaming firms towards their workforce—particularly following unionization attempts.
Fallout 3‘s at its best during your first trip into the war-torn ruins of downtown DC. Rather than an open and desolate expanse, you’re navigating tight underground passageways by Pip-Boy light, occasionally emerging into the daylight to fight through patches of ruined city often littered with battered landmarks. Bethesda had initially envisioned this urban jungle to be even more of an expansive labyrinth, and a group of modders have now had a crack at resurrecting the cut areas to create their own version of that more expansive DC.