Brawl Stars

Skyball Run Rolling Ball Game

PUBG MOBILE

War Thunder Mobile

Roblox

Bus Simulator: City Coach Game

Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas

Bus Simulator Indonesia

Pokémon GO

Superhero Car Stunt Mega Ramps

OneState RP - Role Play Life

Sonic Dash Run

HouseCraft 3D

Kooply Run™: Play and Create!

Snake Clash!

Paper.io 2

Happy Color®: Color by Number

Vita Mahjong

Skat Treff: Werde Skat Meister

Toca Boca World

Jexxa FFF Emotes Tools

糖果傳奇

Fruit Diary - Merge & Match 3

Wool Frenzy

Red Dead Redemption 2

Ghost of Tsushima

Far Cry 6

Days Gone

Mad Max

Mafia Definitive Edition

Sleeping Dogs Definitive Edition

Run Rich 3d

Hole Swallow All - Eat All

Need for Speed Heat

Portal 2

Just Cause 4

Watch Dogs Legion

Overwatch 2

Destiny 2

Android

<h3>🔥Fortnite V - Bucks Craze!</h3>
Tired of shelling out real cash for V - Bucks in Fortnite? Keen on learning How To Earn Free V - Bucks In Fortnite? Let's dig into the solution!
<h3>🎮What's This App All About?</h3>
- Quiz Challenges: Put your knowledge to the test via a bunch of quizzes and score free V - Bucks in Fortnite.
- Reward System: Finish tasks and be rewarded with V - Bucks, making it a breeze to increase your Fortnite currency.
- User - Friendly Interface: Navigate the app smoothly to kick off your journey of earning free V - Bucks in Fortnite.
<h3>😍Why Is It So Attractive?</h3>
- 🌟Fun Quizzes: Have a ball with various quizzes that bring a fun factor to earning V - Bucks.
- 💸Free Rewards: Grab V - Bucks without spending a cent, a major win for Fortnite players.
- 👥Community Engagement: Chat with other players and share your experiences of getting free V - Bucks.
Some users rave that it's the top way to get V - Bucks, while others say it's super easy to use.
<img src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/79320fb2415d4e5beef6aa1a21ab4a582a1f5f154ab7779a6338adb843d9db93.png"/>
<h3>🚀Get in on the Action!</h3>
This app is a total  game - changer for those wanting to How To Earn Free V - Bucks In Fortnite! Don't sit on the sidelines. Jump in and start earning those V - Bucks right away!

🎯How To Earn Free V - Bucks In Fortnite With This Cool App?

Cut The Rope, a puzzle game that was only released in early October 2010, was launched by Chillingo Ltd. Just launched less than a month ago, it was then the champion game to pick off the horse, this "Cut The Rope" game and "Plants vs Zombies" the biggest difference is the degree of puzzle is higher, it is not as frequent as "Plants vs Zombies" in the operation, but is more challenging to think before doing, often seemingly complex The scenes that seem complicated can be easily completed by just finding the trick. Today's recommended game "Cut The Rope" is only a puzzle game, but the relaxing music can ease the player's tension. The designers won't give you useless organs.




A mysterious package arrives, and the elf inside the box is our lovely No Nom, and what it wants most: candy! Players need to go through various wonderful levels to deliver the candy to No Nom's mouth and collect the golden stars, using a 2D interface with gorgeous colors, sparkling stars and realistic image of soap bubbles. Our lovely No Nom will keep blinking and blinking during the game, and will also point to its mouth with its claws from time to time, urging you to feed it candy. If the player accidentally loses or breaks the candy, it will also put on a very pathetic look, very cute. The game also handles the details very well, each theme of the box will be carefully arranged, the effect of the confetti on the box is cut by the knife is also made very realistic, in this physics puzzle game chase endless fun!




This game has colorful themes, each with 25 cleverly designed levels and different content to discover hidden rewards and unlock new levels to help No Nom eat candy. The main physics knowledge used in the game is the "pendulum movement", using the contact control method, the game will also have a simple and simple operation of various graphic descriptions to help players understand the operation of the game. The game is mainly a test of the player's thinking skills and operational proficiency, such as cutting two ropes at the same time and so on. After all, the theme is to cut the rope, in addition to soap bubbles that provide buoyancy, balloons that provide reasoning and ropes that provide elasticity, etc. Players need to make reasonable use of the characteristics of each detail in order to better and faster delivery of candy to No Nom's mouth, the game as long as No Nom eat candy to pass, get all three stars to get the highest rating. The number of stars is also a prerequisite for unlocking new levels, so try to get as many as possible.




Cut The Rope is a cute and beautiful puzzle game with rich theme and clever level settings, which is a great game for those who like puzzle games. Each level of the game does not take too long, so it's perfect for you to spend some time in your short leisure time.

A once-popular mobile smart game Cut The Rope

There are a variety of browsers on the market today. For example: QQ browser, uc browser, cheetah browser and so on or foreign brave browser and yandex browser, most of them are using the chromium kernel. In the speed are not bad. But each browser has a point of attraction to the user, so let's look at why Google Chrome is so popular today!




First of all, Google Chrome is a free web browser launched by Google, it is known that the software produced by Google is not like the domestic software that is full of advertisements, the general feeling of the Google series of software is simple without messy things, very elegant design, good user experience, etc., so the browser produced by Google because of its simple and refreshing interface by the major users who have used it like.

Fast speed. After removing those unimportant features and ads, Google Chrome starts much faster than other browsers and opens web pages faster. Users can quickly start from the desktop and quickly load web pages, in the run very complex web pages can also be very smoothly open and run, its high-speed characteristics is also one of the reasons why users like.

strong compatibility. The core function of a browser is compatibility. As long as there is no Flash on the web, whether it's your school's lesson plan system that hasn't changed a single line of code since it came online in the late 1990s, or a modern website built with recent HTML5 + CSS3, Chrome can display it accurately. By contrast, the same web page often opens completely differently in IE8 than in IE11. If you are a programmer this type of player is usually the first choice, don't ask why, the most powerful factor is that Google Chrome is more compatible.

Security. Google's SPDY protocol provides an additional layer of protection for websites that enable this protocol, which requires SSL (a secure encryption protocol), making it more secure than websites of the same type that just use HTTP. However, only 2.8% of websites support this protocol, so user security is still not well guaranteed. But Google Chrome's services all use the SPDY protocol, so all users can use it with confidence.

Google Chrome extensions are very rich, whether it is office, entertainment, daily life or other needs, basically you can download and install the corresponding extensions in Google's online application store, using these extensions, you can make Google Chrome a very powerful tool set to meet your various needs.


It has all the features it should have, and none of the features it shouldn't have. Simply put, it will not pop up some useless ads or news at any time.

The really good products, never in your invisible place to arrange everything in order. As soon as you call, what you need will be placed in front of you. As long as you sign in with your Google account, the content you fill out on the website form, your website access cookies, your browsing history, can be seamlessly synchronized. No matter what computer you're on, you can open Chrome and feel like you're on the same computer.

What is a truly great product design? Maybe Google Chrome is it!





They say Google Chrome is good, so what's so good about it?

True Skate is a skateboarding game that has taken the gaming world by storm. The game has been developed by True Axis, a company known for creating realistic skateboarding games. True Skate was first released in 2012 for iOS devices and has since been released for Android devices as well. It has received critical acclaim and has been downloaded by millions of players around the world.

True Skate: The Ultimate Skateboarding Experience

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How long is No Sleep for Kaname Date?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How many Achievements does No Sleep for Kaname Date have?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Is No Sleep for Kaname Date on PlayStation or Xbox?</li></ul></nav></div>
The latest installment in the AI: Somnium Files franchise was released last month, offering a shorter experience than its predecessors. No Sleep for Kaname Date is a spin-off set between the first two games, AI: The Somnium Files and AI: The Somnium Files -Nirvana Initiative-, and marks the return of our original hero, Kaname Date. This time, Kaname Date embarks on a mission to rescue our beloved idol Iris, who has been kidnapped by a UFO and must navigate a series of escape games to stay alive. Directed by Kazuya Yamada and supervised by the original series creator Uchikoshi, No Sleep for Kaname Date introduces escape room puzzles reminiscent of the Zero Escape series, which Uchikoshi also developed. These escape room challenges add depth to No Sleep for Kaname Date despite its notably shorter duration. <h2>How long is No Sleep for Kaname Date?</h2> No Sleep for Kaname features five chapters to explore, with numerous "dead-end" endings to discover.

Throughout the game, you'll encounter "Somniums" (distinct from the escape rooms), which are pseudo puzzles that must be solved to advance the narrative. During these Somnium investigations, time is of the essence, so you won’t have the leisure to inspect every object. However, examining each item grants "eyeballs," an in-game currency used to unlock bonus content after completing the main story (rest assured, there are no real-world microtransactions involved). You can also gather more eyeballs by discovering collectibles hidden throughout the game. Some unlockable bonuses include concept art and special endings known as "alternate alternate endings." These require a certain number of eyeballs to access, and some bonuses might only appear after achieving specific alternate endings within the story. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000618125" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000618125"><img alt="Characters look at a puzzle." class="size-full wp-image-2000618125 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283480839449216441.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000618125">© Screenshot: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.</figcaption></figure> You will need to replay certain chapters, Somniums, and escape room puzzles to uncover the alternate endings, but thankfully, the game’s flowchart indicates which chapters contain them. This way, you won’t have to search aimlessly.

Considering everything, a full playthrough of No Sleep for Kaname Date is estimated to take approximately 12-15 hours, depending on your skill at solving the escape puzzles. <h2>How many Achievements does No Sleep for Kaname Date have?</h2> No Sleep for Kaname Date is available on both Switch and Steam. While the Switch version lacks an achievement system, the Steam version includes one. Due to the game’s shorter length, you can expect to spend an additional five hours to unlock all of the achievements. <h2>Is No Sleep for Kaname Date on PlayStation or Xbox?</h2> At present, No Sleep for Kaname Date is only available on Switch and Steam. While the previous games were released across all platforms, including PC, PlayStation, Switch, and Xbox, No Sleep for Kaname Date has not yet been announced for PlayStation and Xbox.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000618126" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000618126"><img alt="Characters chat with one another." class="size-full wp-image-2000618126 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283480863490966969.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000618126">© Screenshot: Spike Chunsoft Co., Ltd.</figcaption></figure> However, this does not rule out the possibility of developer Spike Chunsoft expanding its availability in the future. For example, 2026's Master Detective Archives: Rain Code was initially a Switch exclusive before being released on all other platforms over a year later. Given the history with AI: The Somnium Files, it's certainly feasible that No Sleep for Kaname Date might eventually be released on additional platforms. <hr/> No Sleep for Kaname Date – From AI: The Somnium Files is set to launch on July 25 for both Switch/Switch 2 and PC.
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The Latest Somnium Files Game Might Be Short, But You’ll Want To Play It More Than Once

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Soccer, also known as football, is the most beloved sport worldwide, so it's no surprise that an engaging online multiplayer game capturing the essence of this sport would be widely embraced. Developer Sloclap has hit the mark with Rematch, scoring big with its fans. Following the legacy of cherished games like Rocket League, with its lively, arcade-style play that brings teams together in intense competitions, Rematch offers everything one could desire in a soccer game. 
If you’re diving into the high-energy matches of Rematch and are curious about teaming up with friends across different platforms, you’re probably wondering about the game’s crossplay capabilities. Here's the information you need regarding crossplay in Rematch. 
Regrettably, Rematch does not support crossplay at the moment. However, don't be too disheartened, as Sloclap has some promising news for soccer enthusiasts eagerly waiting for this feature. It has been confirmed that crossplay will be introduced around the end of August with Patch 3:

<blockquote>“Patch 3 is expected to arrive by the end of August, addressing some lingering issues and, most importantly, finally introducing Crossplay to the game. Some gameplay adjustments may also be included in Patch 3 (we're looking at you, Ippy Slide), but that is yet to be confirmed. More updates will be coming soon!”</blockquote> 
Upon launch, the studio stated, “It's crucial for us that our players can enjoy Rematch with their friends, so along with bug fixes, crossplay is our top priority. We are dedicated to delivering this feature swiftly and will provide a more specific timeline as soon as possible.” 
Therefore, we can anticipate more updates on this feature in the near future as Sloclap continues to work diligently on this popular game. Meanwhile, you'll need to continue playing Rematch with friends within your current gaming environment. It’s a bit of a letdown, but at least you know it’s a temporary situation! 
<hr/> 
Rematch is currently available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Here’s When Rematch Will Finally Get Crossplay

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Rainbow Six Siege X is a free-to-play shooter that continues to thrive even after more than a decade of updates, and it shows no signs of slowing down. With its free-to-play model, it has become more popular than ever in the tactical shooter genre, attracting new players eager to test their skills. If you're intrigued by Rainbow Six Siege X and want to know if you can play with friends or share your progress across different platforms, I'm here to help you sort it all out. Join me as we explore the details. For those wanting to team up with friends on different platforms, I've got fantastic news: Rainbow Six Siege X fully supports crossplay. No matter where you or your friends are playing, you can confidently connect and play together.

By default, this feature is disabled on consoles. If you're on PlayStation or Xbox and wish to connect with friends who are playing on PC, you'll need to adjust your settings to enable crossplay matchmaking. For PC players, this setting is already active, so there's no additional step required to play with console users. <h2>Does Rainbow Six Siege X support cross-progression?</h2> Let’s clarify this: Yes, Rainbow Six Siege X does offer cross-progression. However, there are details about its functionality that you can explore on the official website. The key point is that when you link platforms via your Ubisoft Account, your progress across all platforms is combined and updated to reflect the highest level you've achieved. For instance, if you've reached Clearance Level 10 on one platform and Level 25 on another, your overall Clearance Level will be set to 25 once linked. So, indeed, you can enjoy playing with friends and carry your progress in Rainbow Six Siege X. If you're ready to jump in, this strategic shooter is available for free on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Rainbow Six Siege X: How To Enable Crossplay On Consoles

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PUBG: Battlegrounds was among the first battle royale games to be released and is largely credited with bringing the sub-genre to the forefront of gaming. Despite its long tenure, it continues to keep its update momentum going, attracting both new and returning players eager to stealthily loot and fight their way to that coveted chicken dinner. Whether you're returning after a long hiatus or exploring the game for the first time, you might be curious about its cross-platform capabilities. Here's everything you need to know about crossplay and cross-progression in PUBG: Battlegrounds. Regrettably, the crossplay feature in PUBG: Battlegrounds isn't entirely straightforward. While the game does support crossplay, it adopts a more restricted approach compared to many other multiplayer games. Let me clarify the details for you below.

<ul> <li aria-level="1">Crossplay is available between PlayStation and Xbox consoles.</li> <li aria-level="1">Crossplay is not available between consoles and PC.</li> <li aria-level="1">Crossplay is not available between any platforms and PUBG: Mobile, as it is a separate game altogether.</li> </ul> So, as you can see, PlayStation and Xbox are the only platforms that can play together. This means that if you're on console and have friends on PC, unfortunately, you won't be able to play with them. <h2>Does PUBG: Battlegrounds have cross-progression?</h2> When it comes to cross-progression in PUBG: Battlegrounds, things are more straightforward. Unfortunately, PUBG: Battlegrounds does not support cross-progression at all. This means that if you start playing the game on one platform and make significant progress, you'll need to create a new account and start over if you switch to a different platform. It's certainly disappointing that cross-progression isn't available in one of the most cherished battle royale games globally. However, considering it was launched before cross-platform features became standard, it's somewhat understandable. <hr/> PUBG: Battlegrounds is currently available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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What The Heck Is Going On With PUBG’s Crossplay Situation?

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">What’s going on with the current season?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Who are the best heroes right now?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does Overwatch 2 have crossplay support?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does Overwatch 2 have cross-progression?</li></ul></nav></div>
Overwatch 2 continues to hold its place as one of the most beloved games in the multiplayer sphere. Its charming roster of characters, engaging strategic gameplay, and regular updates keep the game invigorating for both newcomers and returning players alike. If you're new to the game or haven't played in a while, you might be curious about what's currently happening in this enduring hero shooter. Let's delve into everything you need to know about Overwatch 2 as we approach the end of summer in 2026. <h2>What’s going on with the current season?</h2> Right now, Overwatch 2 is in the final stages of season 17. This season has introduced some reworks to New Junk City and Suravasa, along with a sneak peek of what's coming in season 18, including a preview of a new support hero named Wuyang. You can currently try out Wuyang as his Hero Trial is available until August 18. Season 18 is set to officially launch on August 26, bringing Wuyang into the roster as a permanent addition. Additionally, Sojourn is set to receive a new mythic hero skin for the new season. For more details, you can check out the dev livestream here.

<div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qBK1JI1Vjeg?start=1814&amp;feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Dev Livestream: Season 18 Mythic Hero Reveal" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qBK1JI1Vjeg?start=1814&amp;feature=oembed" title="Dev Livestream: Season 18 Mythic Hero Reveal" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> It has also been revealed that Sojourn will receive some exciting new abilities. The Deceleration Field will replace the Extended Mag, slowing down enemies by a quarter of their maximum speed. Sojourn’s Adhesive Siphon will make way for her new Friction Generators, allowing her to gain up to 50 energy while sliding. To read more about these updates and changes to Juno, check out this official preview of season 18. <h2>Who are the best heroes right now?</h2> While season 18 is poised to shake things up, currently Orisa and Ramattra are leading the charge in the tank category, with Tracer and Cassidy proving to be the top choices for DPS, and Baptiste and Kiriko reigning supreme among the support heroes. Of course, given the critical role of teamwork, identifying the best heroes can be challenging. If you've been away from the game for a while, it might be worthwhile to jump back in with a familiar main. Should they no longer meet your expectations, consider trying one of the mentioned heroes.

<h2>Does Overwatch 2 have crossplay support?</h2> For those eager to team up with friends on different platforms, there’s good news: Overwatch 2 fully supports crossplay. This feature allows you to join forces with friends on any platform by simply adding each other’s Battle.net accounts, which is a straightforward process. The only exception to this crossplay feature is in Competitive matches, where console and PC players are kept separate due to the perceived advantage of mouse and keyboard users. While this might be a letdown for hardcore players aiming to prove their skills, most players will find enjoyment in casual modes like Quick Play, Arcade, and Custom Matches. It's not too shabby!

<h2>Does Overwatch 2 have cross-progression?</h2> The positive news continues, as Overwatch 2 also offers complete cross-progression support. This feature allows you to seamlessly switch between platforms while maintaining your account's progress. So, if you want to enjoy a few matches on your PC and then relax with your Nintendo Switch 2 in bed, nothing is stopping you. Just make sure you're logged into the same Battle.net account on each device, and you're all set! <hr/> Overwatch 2 is currently available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and Windows PCs.
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Everything You Need To Know About Overwatch 2 Before Season 18 Arrives

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">What’s the deal with the current season?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">What are the best guns in the game right now?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">What got vaulted/unvaulted?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does Fortnite have crossplay?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does Fortnite have cross-progression?</li></ul></nav></div>
Few games achieve the widespread recognition that Fortnite enjoys. Even your grandmother is familiar with it, having spent $700 on V-Bucks for your cousin last month so he can transform into a hot dog or something equally quirky. This adored battle royale shows no signs of losing momentum anytime soon. Perhaps it's been some time since you last played, or you haven't yet experienced your first leap from the party bus. Here’s what you need to know to dive into Fortnite in 2026. <h2>What’s the deal with the current season?</h2> As of now, Fortnite is in Chapter 6, Season 4, which began on August 7, 2026. This season introduces new characters from Halo and Power Rangers. Expect it to last until the autumn before the next season kicks off. This season brings a pest-control theme to the island. Across the map, you'll encounter various unsightly nests, eggs, and similar elements. You'll also need to defeat three queen insects to acquire a mythic weapon. For comprehensive details on these pests and their locations, check out the official blog post.

<h2>What are the best guns in the game right now?</h2> Currently, it’s all about SMGs, folks. The Veiled Precision SMG stands out as a top contender for taking down enemies swiftly. However, the Deadeye DMR is also a fantastic choice for those who prefer precise shooting. And if you're looking to make a unique impression while eliminating multiple adversaries, the Bug Blaster is worth trying. <h2>What got vaulted/unvaulted?</h2> This season brings several updates to the game’s arsenal, as noted by Osirion on X. <div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 500px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe allowfullscreen="true" allowtransparency="true" class="" data-tweet-id="1953357145140809934" frameborder="0" id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?creatorScreenName=Kotaku&amp;dnt=true&amp;embedId=twitter-widget-0&amp;features=eyJ0ZndfdGltZWxpbmVfbGlzdCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOltdLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X2ZvbGxvd2VyX2NvdW50X3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9iYWNrZW5kIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19yZWZzcmNfc2Vzc2lvbiI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZm9zbnJfc29mdF9pbnRlcnZlbnRpb25zX2VuYWJsZWQiOnsiYnVja2V0Ijoib24iLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X21peGVkX21lZGlhXzE1ODk3Ijp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRyZWF0bWVudCIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZXhwZXJpbWVudHNfY29va2llX2V4cGlyYXRpb24iOnsiYnVja2V0IjoxMjA5NjAwLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X3Nob3dfYmlyZHdhdGNoX3Bpdm90c19lbmFibGVkIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19kdXBsaWNhdGVfc2NyaWJlc190b19zZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdXNlX3Byb2ZpbGVfaW1hZ2Vfc2hhcGVfZW5hYmxlZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdmlkZW9faGxzX2R5bmFtaWNfbWFuaWZlc3RzXzE1MDgyIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRydWVfYml0cmF0ZSIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfbGVnYWN5X3RpbWVsaW5lX3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9mcm9udGVuZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9fQ%3D%3D&amp;frame=false&amp;hideCard=false&amp;hideThread=false&amp;id=1953357145140809934&amp;lang=en&amp;origin=https%3A%2F%2Fkotaku.com%2Ffortnite-chapter-6-season-4-halo-power-rangers-bugs-crossplay-2000618095&amp;sessionId=ab7ef2f155753a3945704a0b70846a33226ba096&amp;siteScreenName=Kotaku&amp;theme=light&amp;widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&amp;width=500px" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 500px; height: 959px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post"></iframe></div> <script async="" charset="utf-8" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>   <h2>Does Fortnite have crossplay?</h2> In a world where bad news is often prevalent, here's a bright spot: Fortnite supports full crossplay! This feature allows you to effortlessly join friends on other platforms, ensuring nobody misses out on the fun. Whether you're gaming on console, PC, or mobile, just add your friends through Epic Games to start playing together. It’s that simple!

<h2>Does Fortnite have cross-progression?</h2> I've got even more positive news: Fortnite offers full cross-progression. This means you can play on your account across any supported device you own. Win a few matches on PS5, Xbox, or PC, then continue the fun on your Nintendo Switch 2. And if you prefer not to carry a dedicated portable gaming device, simply use your phone for some mobile matches. Yes, it's truly that seamless. In essence, wherever you go, Fortnite follows. Watching. Waiting. Anticipating your return. Needing your attention. It craves your spending. You desire that new skin. Purchase it. Wear it. Your current skin is inadequate. Theirs is superior. Anyway. <hr/> Fortnite is currently accessible on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Windows PCs, and mobile devices.
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Everything You Need Know About Jumping Back Into Fortnite For Chapter 6, Season 4

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Donkey Kong Bananza marks the return of Nintendo's iconic ape in a 3D adventure, the first since the release of Donkey Kong 64 back in 1999. Naturally, the anticipation for Donkey Kong's latest journey was immense. This exciting adventure teams Donkey Kong with a young Pauline, as they navigate through expansive levels brimming with secrets and challenges. But how long will it take to uncover all the game has to offer? Let’s delve into the duration of the Donkey Kong Bananza campaign and explore additional activities beyond it. <h2>How long does it take to complete Donkey Kong Bananza?</h2> If your goal is to quickly power through Donkey Kong's latest adventure, you should plan on spending roughly 10-15 hours to complete the Donkey Kong Bananza campaign. This provides a substantial experience, especially in an era where many 3D platformers are significantly shorter. And that's just the main adventure! There's still plenty of monkey business to enjoy beyond that. Read More: Discover What Amiibos Can Unlock in Donkey Kong Bananza The world of Donkey Kong Bananza is richly packed with additional activities beyond just finishing the main campaign. Being a 3D platformer, it wouldn’t be complete without a plethora of collectibles—though let's hope it doesn't evoke any unpleasant memories of Donkey Kong 64 and its myriad of items to collect.

You can choose to seek out everything in Donkey Kong Bananza during your first playthrough, or return for more after completing the main storyline. Regardless of your approach, there's plenty of enjoyment to be had in tracking down all the Golden Bananas, Banandium Gems, music discs, and fossils within the game. Read More: Don’t Miss Out on Donkey Kong Banana’s Co-Op Mode While all these collectibles are entertaining to find, be sure not to overlook any fossils, even if you're focused on the main campaign. They're particularly exciting as they allow you to unlock new outfits for DK and Pauline, which you can customize to your style. More importantly, they often provide beneficial passive bonuses such as enhanced swimming speed or reduced damage from poison. Any advantage for survival is welcome, right? Whether you're speeding through the campaign or aiming for 100% completion, you can start smashing your way through Donkey Kong Bananza immediately. The game is available now exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2.
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How Long Is Donkey Kong Bananza?

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 support crossplay?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 support cross-progression?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How many skaters are in the games?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How long is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Getting 100-percent in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4</li></ul></nav></div>
After the phenomenal success of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 in 2026, it was inevitable that more of the iconic skater's cherished games would receive the remake treatment. Now, nearly five years later, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 has finally arrived on the scene, boasting a fresh, vibrant look and a multitude of enhancements, making it the ultimate way to enjoy these two skating classics. However, if you have friends playing on different platforms, you might be wondering if you can join them in multiplayer matches in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4. You may also be curious about the duration these two games will entertain you. Let’s explore everything you need to know about this timeless skating adventure. <h2>Does Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 support crossplay?</h2> If you're eager to jump online and skate with friends who are on other platforms, you're in luck! Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 fully supports crossplay across all platforms. This means you can effortlessly join multiplayer games with up to seven other players across all consoles and PC, providing ample opportunities for grinding rails and executing tricks together.

<h2>Does Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 support cross-progression?</h2> While the ability to play with anyone online is a significant advantage for virtual skaters everywhere, cross-progression fans won’t find the same level of support. Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 does not offer cross-progression at all. This means any progress you make on one platform will not transfer to another, necessitating a fresh start if you choose to play on multiple devices. <h2>How many skaters are in the games?</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000618079" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000618079"><img alt="Bam Margera pulls a trick." class="size-full wp-image-2000618079 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283481425410262457.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000618079">© Screenshot: Iron Galaxy Studios</figcaption></figure> THPS 3 + 4 provides a total of 29 skaters to select from, with several hidden ones available for unlocking. <ul> <li aria-level="1">Andrew Reynolds</li> <li aria-level="1">Aori Nishimura</li> <li aria-level="1">Aurélien Giraud</li> <li aria-level="1">Bob Burnquist</li> <li aria-level="1">Bucky Lasek</li> <li aria-level="1">Chad Muska</li> <li aria-level="1">Chloe Covell</li> <li aria-level="1">Elissa Steamer</li> <li aria-level="1">Eric Koston</li> <li aria-level="1">Geoff Rowley</li> <li aria-level="1">Jamie Foy</li> <li aria-level="1">Jamie Thomas</li> <li aria-level="1">Kareem Campbell</li> <li aria-level="1">Leo Baker</li> <li aria-level="1">Leticia Bufoni</li> <li aria-level="1">Lizzie Armanto</li> <li aria-level="1">Margielyn Didal</li> <li aria-level="1">Nora Vasconcellos</li> <li aria-level="1">Nyjah Huson</li> <li aria-level="1">Rayssa Leal</li> <li aria-level="1">Riley Hawk</li> <li aria-level="1">Rodney Mullen</li> <li aria-level="1">Rune Glifberg</li> <li aria-level="1">Shane O’Neill</li> <li aria-level="1">Steve Cabellero</li> <li aria-level="1">Tony Hawk</li> <li aria-level="1">Tyshawn Jones</li> <li aria-level="1">Yuto Horigome</li> <li aria-level="1">Zion Wright</li> </ul> You can also unlock: <ul> <li aria-level="1">Andy Anderson</li> <li aria-level="1">Bam Margera</li> <li aria-level="1">Birdman</li> <li aria-level="1">Constable Richard (Officer Dick)</li> <li aria-level="1">Michelangelo</li> </ul> The Doom Slayer and Revenant from the recent Doom games are also available through the Digital Deluxe Edition.

<h2>How long is Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4?</h2> Regrettably, THPS 4 doesn’t include a Career mode, but you can still complete certain objectives in various parks like Foundry and Shipyard. In THPS 3, there are 9 parks to explore and 10 in THPS 4. Each park features ten Standard goals and five Pro goals. Completing all of the Standard goals typically takes about 4-5 hours. Once all Standard goals are achieved, Pro goals will be unlocked. After finishing Pro goals, you’ll gain access to Platinum goals. Each park has one, usually involving executing a specific move somewhere within the park. These additional tasks should take around another 5 hours.

<h2>Getting 100-percent in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000618080" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000618080"><img alt="Tony Hawk pulls a trick." class="size-full wp-image-2000618080 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283481460071990713.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000618080">© Screenshot: Iron Galaxy Studios</figcaption></figure> After completing all the Pro goals, Solo Tour is unlocked, and this is where the true time investment begins. One trophy/achievement, called Flying Solo, requires you to complete the Solo Tour with all 35 characters. Yes, you’ll need to play through this mode at least 35 times. This is undoubtedly the most time-intensive aspect of obtaining all achievements. However, it’s crucial to know that you do not have to achieve 100% with every skater, which includes optional challenges. You only need to complete each skater’s unique career path for it to count towards Flying Solo. You do NOT need 100% with each skater. Simply finish their unique career path once.

Fortunately, there are no missable trophies/achievements, allowing you to pursue them in any order you choose. Additionally, there are no difficulty-based ones, so you can adjust the settings to your preference without concern. Overall, acquiring all of the trophies/achievements should take between 25-35 hours. However, certain assist mods like Perfect Rail Balance and Instant Quick Recovery can void trophies/achievements. There are two of them, which are “Extra Ball” and “Unprecedented.” Their descriptions specifically state that you cannot have assist mods activated.

Extra Ball: “Without Assist Mods, score 1,000,000 or over in Pinball.” Unprecedented: “Without Assist Mods, earn a score of 10,000,000 in any park in a 2-minute session or single combo.” It appears these two are the only ones affected by assist mods, so you can activate them when pursuing other trophies/achievements. Good luck, and have fun! <hr/> If you’re ready to team up with friends and explore skateparks and beyond in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4, you can dive in right away. The game is currently available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2, and Windows PCs.
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Everything You’d Want To Know About Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4

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The Gears of War franchise holds a significant place in the hearts of Xbox fans, yet the landscape is evolving. While the series has been accessible on PC before, Gears of War: Reloaded marks a new chapter as it expands to a Sony platform. Indeed, this comprehensive remaster of the original game in the series is now available on PS5, in addition to Xbox and PC, complete with all the enhancements you’d anticipate. It’s the perfect moment to grab a chainsaw and dive into the battle against the Locust horde. If you’re eager to take your Gears of War: Reloaded experience online, teaming up with your gaming squad might be the way to go. After all, there’s nothing quite like shredding through enemies with shotguns alongside friends. So, let’s explore whether Gears of War: Reloaded supports crossplay and if you can transfer your progress across different platforms. <h2>Does Gears of War: Reloaded have crossplay support?</h2> If you’re excited to engage in intense gunfights with friends, there’s fantastic news in store for you! Gears of War: Reloaded fully supports cross-play, allowing you to join forces with players on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. No matter the platform, each player will need to log into their Microsoft accounts to make crossplay possible, but setting this up is straightforward.

Crossplay is available for both cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes, so you and your friends can either tackle the campaign or face off against opponents online. Just remember, whatever you do, don’t take me out. I’m notoriously bad at Gears multiplayer, so go easy on me. Mom insists. <h2>Does Gears of War: Reloaded have cross-progression?</h2> In yet another piece of uplifting news amidst a sea of challenges, Gears of War: Reloaded also features cross-progression. This means your progress can seamlessly transfer across any platform where you own the game. If you begin your journey on PC and later decide to switch to PS5, you can do so effortlessly! You’d just need to purchase the game again on Sony’s platform, and you can continue right from where you paused. Cross-progression is applicable to both your campaign and multiplayer progress, ensuring you don’t lose a thing when switching between platforms. As with crossplay, a Microsoft account is necessary to utilize this feature, but that’s pretty standard. <hr/> Gears of War: Reloaded will be available starting August 26 on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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With Gears Of War: Reloaded Emerging On PS5 Soon, Will It Support Crossplay?

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If you're someone who enjoys quirky platformers filled with charm and whimsy, then Ruffy and the Riverside might be the game for you. In this unusual 3D platformer, you play as the titular character who has the unique ability to copy and paste textures, allowing you to alter the environment to solve puzzles and explore new areas. Ruffy and the Riverside offers a delightful experience if you're up for its frenetic gameplay and distinctive art style. You might be curious about how long it will take to complete this lively adventure and what additional content is available to explore. Let's delve into those details for you. If you focus solely on the main campaign of Ruffy and the Riverside, you can probably finish the game in about 6-8 hours. This makes it relatively shorter than some other 3D platformers, but its whimsical gameplay and inventive puzzles ensure that every moment is engaging. However, you might wish for a few more hours when you realize how short the main quest is, especially if you really enjoy using the Swap ability to scatter textures across the map.

Fortunately, Ruffy and the Riverside offers plenty of optional activities that can prolong your experience, especially if you're aiming to collect all the trophies or achievements. You'll need to discover various optional secrets and collectibles and swap textures over a thousand times. Given that the Swap ability is a core part of the gameplay loop, you'll naturally progress towards that goal anyway. Whether you're eager to complete the campaign or uncover every secret, you can dive into the adventure right away. Ruffy and the Riverside is now available on PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and Windows PCs.
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You Can Knock Out This Fun 3D Platformer In Under 10 Hours

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When you first come across Ratshaker on the PlayStation store, it might seem like just another piece of shovelware, crafted for easy trophy acquisition. I initially thought the same. However, I noticed the game gaining attention on various subreddits, with many users agreeing that it's a surreal horror experience worth its modest price. Curious, I decided to give it a try. I'm glad I did. 
Despite its low-res graphics, short duration, and relatively simple trophy achievements, Ratshaker transcends the usual limitations of shovelware. It offers something truly intriguing for dedicated horror enthusiasts. The game involves shaking and squeezing a rat to solve basic adventure-style puzzles in a house where something terrible has occurred. Yes, it’s bizarre. 
Although Ratshaker’s straightforward concept initially seems quirky and humorous, don’t be deceived. As you delve deeper into the house and uncover its dark history, Ratshaker presents genuinely disturbing events that may linger in your mind. If that piques your interest, here's how long it will take to complete this unique experience.

<h2>How long does it take to beat Ratshaker?</h2> 
Ratshaker is an inexpensive game with a brief runtime, so don't anticipate a grand adventure. Instead, you'll experience a profoundly strange horror mystery that takes about an hour to unfold. The short time spent with Ratshaker feels just right. The game doesn't require much time to convey its narrative, which is more unsettling than you might predict, even after its disturbing beginning. 
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000618068" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000618068"><img alt="A man holds a rat in a hallway." class="size-full wp-image-2000618068 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283481695422776761.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000618068">© Screenshot: Sunscorched Studios</figcaption></figure> 
For those also interested in Ratshaker for its relatively simple platinum trophy, be aware that some trophies can be missed during the adventure. To achieve the platinum trophy, you'll need to experience both the true ending and a secret ending, but this can be accomplished in one playthrough with careful save management. A guide can help ensure you don't miss these trophies if you prefer not to play Ratshaker twice. 
Even if you're not pursuing the easy platinum trophy, I'd suggest that the game's low price and eerie atmosphere make Ratshaker a worthwhile choice for any horror fan who appreciates the unusual. It's currently available on PS5 and Windows PCs, with plans for release on additional platforms later this summer. Go ahead, shake that rat.
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If You’re On The Lookout For A Short, Worthwhile Horror Game, Check Out Ratshaker

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">What don’t folks like about FBC: Firebreak?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How many people are playing right now?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does FBC: Firebreak have crossplay support?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Does FBC: Firebreak have cross-progression support?</li></ul></nav></div>
The Remedy Connected Universe is expanding at a rapid pace these days, and its latest installment is a Control spin-off called FBC: Firebreak. In this cooperative shooter, players venture back into the strange and eerie Oldest House of the Federal Bureau of Control, accompanied by up to two friends. Read More: Alan Wake Devs Plan A Big Relaunch For Failing Co-Op Flop Unfortunately, the game hasn’t become the success that many had hoped for. Developer Remedy is working hard on revamping the co-op shooter. However, you can still play it if you wish. Let’s delve into all the essential details you need to know if you’re considering playing it in the summer of 2026. <h2>What don’t folks like about FBC: Firebreak?</h2> Firebreak has unfortunately not lived up to the expectations of critics or players. Common complaints include a “lifeless” gameplay experience and an overabundance of chaos and monotony. It’s a disappointing start for a game set in such an intriguing environment with a promising concept.

<h2>How many people are playing right now?</h2> While you might find ways to entertain yourself in Firebreak, it’s evident that most people aren’t doing so. At this moment, SteamDB reports a player count in the low teens, with an all-time peak of 1,992 players. These numbers are not encouraging for the PC platform, to say the least. <h2>Does FBC: Firebreak have crossplay support?</h2> The brief answer is yes, FBC: Firebreak does include crossplay support. Players can team up across different platforms by sharing a party code. So, if you’re a console enthusiast with friends who prefer playing on PC, or vice versa, you can join forces for some first-person shooting action in either duos or trios. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000618048" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000618048"><img alt="An FBC agent stands in a multiplayer lobby." class="size-full wp-image-2000618048 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283481857222247865.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000618048">© Screenshot: Remedy</figcaption></figure> <h2>Does FBC: Firebreak have cross-progression support?</h2> The good news concludes with crossplay, unfortunately. FBC: Firebreak does not support cross-progression at launch. Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean the game won’t incorporate cross-progression in the future.

Speaking to MP1ST, community manager Julian Fondum addressed a question about cross-progression, stating, “Not at launch. Maybe way down the line. It’s a maybe. A lot of things we’re doing on the back end [are] definitely built in the way that we can do a bunch of things down the line when we have more resources and so on.” That sounds promising to me! However, as with any feature that hasn’t been officially confirmed yet, it’s best not to get too hopeful. I suspect there are numerous elements on the game’s roadmap that Remedy considers more critical for the game at this stage. If you’re a fan of the Remedy Connected Universe and are curious to see what the excitement is all about, even if the game didn’t make a strong impression at launch, FBC: Firebreak is available now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X, and Windows PCs.
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So, Uh, Is It Worth Playing FBC: Firebreak Right Now?

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How many new weapons are in Lies of P: Overture?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How many new bosses are in Overture?</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How long does it take to beat Lies of P: Overture DLC?</li></ul></nav></div>
Lies of P: Overture is the highly anticipated DLC for the 2026 Pinocchio-themed soulslike game, Lies of P. Though it serves as a prequel, players will still need the base game to fully engage with this exhilarating additional campaign. Unlike some brief and straightforward DLCs, this one offers a significant amount of content to explore, including expansive new levels, numerous fresh weapons, formidable bosses, and further story progression. How much time will it take to experience it all, and what can you anticipate in this new chapter? Let's delve into it. <h2>How many new weapons are in Lies of P: Overture?</h2> Lies of P: Overture introduces 10 new weapons, including the remarkable Royal Horn Bow. Within the DLC, you can expect to acquire these armaments: <ul> <li aria-level="1">Arche’s Guardian (Sword)</li> <li aria-level="1">Death’s Talons (Sword)</li> <li aria-level="1">La Vendetta (Blunt)</li> <li aria-level="1">Lorenzini’s Bolt (Greatsword)</li> <li aria-level="1">Maniac’s Pinwheel (Greatsword)</li> <li aria-level="1">Monad’s Rose Sword (Sword)</li> <li aria-level="1">Pale Knight (Greatsword)</li> <li aria-level="1">Puppet of the Future’s Welder (Greatsword)</li> <li aria-level="1">Royal Horn Bow (Dagger*)</li> <li aria-level="1">Silent Evangelist’s Mace (Large Blunt)</li> </ul> *Though primarily a ranged weapon, the Royal Horn Bow is categorized as a Dagger blade type. <h2>How many new bosses are in Overture?</h2> The DLC for Lies of P introduces eight new bosses for you to conquer. These include: <ul> <li aria-level="1">Tyrannical Predator</li> <li aria-level="1">Markiona, Puppeteer of Death</li> <li aria-level="1">Veronique, Leader of the Sweepers</li> <li aria-level="1">Two-faced Overseer</li> <li aria-level="1">Premetamorphic Green Hunter</li> <li aria-level="1">Anguished Guardian</li> <li aria-level="1">Lumacchio, Leader of the Bastards</li> <li aria-level="1">Arlecchino, the Blood Artist</li> </ul> <h2>How long does it take to beat Lies of P: Overture DLC?</h2> Lies of P: Overture is downloadable content that enriches the base game experience, so it isn't expected to last as long as the main campaign. Nonetheless, there's plenty to explore as you navigate through a past version of the world.

Seasoned players who are well-acquainted with the base game should be able to complete the Overture DLC and uncover all of its secrets in approximately 12-15 hours. There's much to do, but familiarity with the game's mechanics should assist returning players in comfortably tackling the challenges that await. For those less experienced with Lies of P, or perhaps those who have taken an extended break and need to reacquaint themselves with the game's mechanics, a bit more time may be necessary to thoroughly explore every aspect of this expansive DLC. Even then, most players should manage to complete it in under 20 hours. Of course, you can make things a bit easier by utilizing the new difficulty modes the game offers. You now have the option to adjust the difficulty to make it either easier or more challenging if you find yourself overwhelmed or not challenged enough. If everything feels just right, you can simply keep it set to “Legendary Stalker,” which is the default difficulty.

If you're eager to immerse yourself once again in this dark and enigmatic role-playing world, you would be making an excellent choice. Lies of P: Overture is an exciting prequel packed with some of the game's coolest weapons and adversaries, and it significantly expands the world and lore that dedicated fans have come to cherish. Lies of P: Overture is available now on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs. And once again, yes, you’ll need to own the base game to play it!
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Everything You’d Want To Know About Lies Of P’s DLC, Overture

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">The best karts for Birdo</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How to Unlock Birdo</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">All Outfits for Birdo in Mario Kart World</li></ul></nav></div>
Birdo is among the key characters you can unlock in Mario Kart World. Despite being a familiar face in the Super Mario spin-offs since the Gamecube era, it's somewhat unexpected that she isn't part of the initial lineup. However, considering other beloved characters like Donkey Kong and Daisy also need to be unlocked, it's not entirely shocking. Fortunately, bringing Birdo into your team requires minimal effort: just complete four brief races and she'll be yours! Here’s the essential information to help you add this unique character to your roster. <h2>The best karts for Birdo</h2> Reel Racer is often considered an excellent choice for Birdo, much like it is for many other characters. However, you might also want to experiment with the Biddybuggy, which offers enhanced acceleration and handling compared to the Reel Racer. <h2>How to Unlock Birdo</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617863" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617863"><img alt="Birdo looks behind her while racing forward. " class="size-full wp-image-2000617863 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283482092589811129.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617863">© © Screenshot: Nintendo</figcaption></figure> To unlock Birdo, simply complete the Banana Cup! Interestingly, even if you don't aim to unlock her, she will automatically join your roster once you finish the Banana Cup. Your placement in the races is irrelevant; whether you win every race or never climb higher than 24th place, Birdo will become part of your crew after the Grand Prix concludes.

Birdo shares the middleweight category with Yoshi, making her a well-balanced character. She doesn't particularly excel in any one area, but she doesn't fall short in any either. <h2>All Outfits for Birdo in Mario Kart World</h2> At launch, Birdo has two outfits available. While this might seem limited, it's worth noting that Donkey Kong received an even shorter end of the stick with just a single outfit. To unlock these outfits, you'll need to collect the following foods: <ul> <li aria-level="1">Pro racer: pancakes, donut, cake, burger, fruit salad, curry, ice cream</li> <li aria-level="1">Vacation: takoyaki, sushi, pizza, kebab, naan, fish and chips, popcorn</li> </ul> Venture into the open world in free roam, or explore the Mushroom Kingdom in modes like Knockout Tour. This will give you access to a variety of foods, boosting your chances of finding what you need to unlock these costumes. Soon enough, you'll acquire what you need and expand Birdo’s wardrobe with these outfits! <hr/> Mario Kart World is currently available on the Nintendo Switch 2.
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Mario Kart World: The Best Karts For Birdo

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">The best kart for Rosalina</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">How to Unlock Rosalina in Mario Kart World</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">All Unlockable Rosalina Costumes</li></ul></nav></div>
Rosalina, one of the most remarkable racers in the Galaxy, has made her splendid return to Mario Kart in the latest installment, Mario Kart World. However, she isn't available for selection at the beginning. You'll need to do a bit of searching to unlock her. 
Fortunately, it won't require much effort. Here's a guide on how to add Rosalina to your lineup of playable drivers and which kart will give her the edge to outpace the competition. 
<h2>The best kart for Rosalina</h2> 
Fortunately, selecting the optimal kart for Rosalina is straightforward: The Reel Racer provides exceptional speed, keeping you at the forefront of the race. Alternatively, the Baby Blooper serves as a decent second option if the Reel Racer's less favorable handling isn't to your liking. 
<h2>How to Unlock Rosalina in Mario Kart World</h2> 
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000617859" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000617859"><img alt="Rosalina waves while driving by." class="size-full wp-image-2000617859 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283482180502422969.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000617859">© Screenshot: Nintendo</figcaption></figure> 
Rosalina becomes available after you successfully complete the Star Cup in the Grand Prix mode, which is a fitting location to find the queen of the cosmos. Your performance in the races doesn't matter; whether you leave with a gold trophy or just a participation ribbon, finishing all four tracks in the Star Cup is sufficient to add Rosalina to your roster of playable characters.

As a heavyweight character, Rosalina can easily knock other racers around and boasts a higher top speed. However, this comes at the cost of lower acceleration and handling. 
<h2>All Unlockable Rosalina Costumes</h2> 
There are four unlockable costumes for Rosalina: Touring, Aero, Aurora, and Pro Racer. Each costume can be unlocked by consuming specific foods. Below is a list of some of these foods and the corresponding costumes they unlock: 
<ul> 
<li aria-level="1">Touring: Burger, Fish and chips, pancakes, milk, chicken, kebab, pizza</li> 
<li aria-level="1">Aero: Donuts, curry</li> 
<li aria-level="1">Aurora: Ice cream, bread, popcorn</li> 
<li aria-level="1">Pro Racer: cake, fruit salad</li> 
</ul> 
Explore the open world during free roam or in races to discover as many foods as possible, enabling you to unlock each costume! Remember, once a costume is found, it becomes permanently unlocked and available for selection from the character select screen at the start of any future race. 
<hr/> 
Mario Kart World is now available on Nintendo Switch 2.
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The Best Karts For Rosalina In Mario Kart World

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Since making its debut in December 2026, Marvel Rivals has firmly established itself as a staple in the hero shooter arena. Since its launch, each new season has introduced fresh maps, costumes, and, perhaps most crucially, new heroes. With the roster continually expanding and a plan for monthly hero releases soon, keeping track of all the playable characters in Marvel Rivals can be quite a challenge. Fortunately, we have you covered. Our comprehensive collection of guides highlights some of the most popular heroes in Marvel Rivals. And as the game evolves, so does our guide collection. Rest assured, if they ever introduce Howard the Duck, we'll make sure to include that guide here as soon as possible. <h2>Healers 101: Support Heroes</h2> <ul> <li aria-level="1">Rocket Racoon Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Invisible Woman Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Cloak and Dagger Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Luna Snow Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Loki Guide</li> </ul> <h2>Damage Demons: DPS Heroes</h2> <ul> <li aria-level="1">Hela Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Magik Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Psylocke Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Iron Man Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Spider-Man Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Human Torch Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Scarlet Witch Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Moon Knight Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Mr. Fantastic Guide</li> </ul> <h2>Super Soakers: Vanguard Heroes (Tanks)</h2> <ul> <li aria-level="1">Emma Frost Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Thor Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">The Thing Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Hulk/Bruce Banner Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Captain America Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Doctor Strange Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Groot Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Magneto Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Peni Parker Guide</li> <li aria-level="1">Venom Guide</li> </ul> <hr/> Marvel Rivals is available for free on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Suit Up With All Of Our Marvel Rivals Hero Guides

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Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker offers a delightful and distinctive experience in the Mario universe. This puzzle platformer is a must-try for enthusiasts of the genre or newcomers curious about the treasure-hunting excitement. It respects your time while being as charming and lovable as you'd anticipate from anything featuring the beloved mushroom-headed character. Even better, it includes a two-player co-op option, making it ideal for playing with children or as a fun date-night activity. Whether you're embarking on this puzzle adventure solo or with a friend, you're probably curious about how long it takes to complete Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker and whether you'll notice any significant improvements when playing on the Switch 2. Let's delve into that. <h2>How does Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker perform on Switch 2?</h2> Captain Toad was among several games to receive a welcome free update to enhance performance. Both portable and docked modes benefit from a resolution boost, resulting in crisper visuals. The framerate remains unchanged, but the original already ran at a stable 60 frames-per-second. You can compare some direct differences between the OG Switch and Switch 2 versions here:

<div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0L8GMsUtl9k?start=1455&amp;feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Switch 2 Free Upgrades For Switch 1 Games Tested: Link's Awakening, Mario Odyssey, Splatoon 3 +More!" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0L8GMsUtl9k?start=1455&amp;feature=oembed" title="Switch 2 Free Upgrades For Switch 1 Games Tested: Link's Awakening, Mario Odyssey, Splatoon 3 +More!" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> <h2>How long does it take to complete Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker?</h2> Given the relaxed nature of Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, estimating the exact time it takes to complete can be challenging. There's so much to explore, yet the game never pressures you to rush. With this in mind, it can be quite enjoyable to leisurely explore each level, discovering hidden gems and tackling challenges at your own pace. If you're not aiming to master every stage, you'll likely spend about 7-10 hours playing Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker. That's a substantial duration for a puzzle platformer, ensuring it remains engaging without becoming tedious before reaching the end. If you decide to achieve 100% completion in Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker, you can extend your playtime to around 20 hours, especially if you take your time with each stage. And if you miss anything, you can revisit any level to wrap up challenges or collect any overlooked items. That being said, while I might understand overlooking hidden items at times, I couldn't forgive missing out on this endearing treasure hunt. Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker is now available on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
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Everything You Need To Know About Playing Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker On Switch 2

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The second-best thing about being a Mario fan is the rarity of bad Mario games. Yet, the very best part of being a Mario enthusiast is the existence of Super Mario Odyssey. Wow, what an incredible game. It’s a franchise entry that is both marvelously inventive and comfortably familiar, setting an almost impossibly high standard for any platformer that attempts to follow it in the years to come. At this moment, Super Mario Odyssey remains my all-time favorite platformer—and if you’ve experienced it, you’re likely to agree. If not, you might be curious about what our favorite plumber’s most ambitious game entails. Along with that curiosity comes the question of how long it might take to fully explore it. Well, here’s some good news: It’s expansive! Let’s delve into just how expansive it is. But first, let’s discuss whether you can anticipate an improved experience on the newer Switch 2. <h2>How does Super Mario Odyssey perform on Switch 2?</h2> We have exciting news if you’re planning to enjoy Odyssey on the Switch 2. Thanks to a free update for the Switch 2, Odyssey has never looked better. On the original Switch, handheld mode sometimes suffered from a low resolution, resulting in a less-than-ideal image. The enhanced hardware of the Switch 2, coupled with the new update, provides a significantly improved experience. The framerate is also more stable in the game’s bustling, open-world city environments. Check out the game in action here:

<div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x1LHbNiErbo?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Switch 2 Enhanced Super Mario Odyssey: A Night &amp; Day Improvement" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x1LHbNiErbo?feature=oembed" title="Switch 2 Enhanced Super Mario Odyssey: A Night &amp; Day Improvement" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> <h2>How long does it take to beat Super Mario Odyssey?</h2> Mario’s worldwide adventure not only offers a vast number of collectibles to discover, but it also introduces unique mechanics and exciting new features faster than you can say “Wahoo!” However, how much of this you choose to explore is entirely up to you. You don’t need to collect all 999 Power Moons or every purple coin in each world to finish Super Mario Odyssey, but they’re there for you to pursue if you wish. For a basic playthrough, you’ll need about 12-14 hours. If you’re like me and want to acquire every costume in the game (they’re all fantastic) and get that Power Moon count just one shy of a thousand, you have a lot more game to experience. Completing Super Mario Odyssey entirely can take over 40 hours—possibly even longer for those who take a relaxed approach or find some sequences particularly challenging. Whether you want to casually explore or aim for 100% completion, you should dive into Super Mario Odyssey right away. It receives my highest recommendation. Trust me, my dad works at Nintendo. <hr/> Super Mario Odyssey is currently available on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
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Everything You Need To Know About Playing Super Mario Odyssey On Switch 2

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 The Nintendo Switch boasts a variety of games from The Legend of Zelda series, including the acclaimed open-world adventures of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, the innovative Echoes of Wisdom featuring Zelda herself, and several classic titles available through a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. Additionally, there’s a remake of a sometimes-overlooked entry: The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening. Featuring a brand-new chibi art style and enhanced quality-of-life features like improved menu navigation and button mapping, The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening on Nintendo Switch preserves the essence of the 1993 Game Boy classic, ensuring both new players and long-time fans can enjoy the fourth game in the series as it was originally intended. With everything intact as you’d hope, you can be assured of experiencing a game with the same duration as the original. But just how long does it take to complete The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening on Nintendo Switch? And does it perform better on Switch 2? Let’s delve into the details.

 <h2>How does Link’s Awakening perform on Switch 2?</h2> Unlike Tears of the Kingdom and many other original Switch games, Link’s Awakening does not have a specific Switch 2 upgrade available for purchase. Nevertheless, the game received some attention when Nintendo's new console launched. On June 3, 2026, Link’s Awakening received a patch that enhances the game’s visuals, increasing the resolution and improving HDR support. Link’s Awakening initially faced some challenging framerate issues on the original Switch. However, when played on Switch 2, the issue has been significantly improved, if not entirely resolved. If you’re contemplating upgrading to a Switch 2 before diving into this remake, your patience will be rewarded with enhanced performance. Take a look at a direct comparison here: <div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e2kBayO4bqY?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Zelda: Link's Awakening - Switch/Switch 2 Comparison" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e2kBayO4bqY?feature=oembed" title="Zelda: Link's Awakening - Switch/Switch 2 Comparison" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> <h2>How long is The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening?</h2> The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening will take the average player between 12-15 hours to reach the credits. Much of this time will be dedicated to solving puzzles, interacting with NPCs, and locating essential items necessary to complete your adventure. This estimate doesn’t account for finding every heart piece and seashell, finishing every trading sequence, or engaging with other optional tasks.

 If you’re eager to collect all of that content and explore every bit of additional material, you’ll be looking at closer to 20-25 hours of gameplay in The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening. That’s quite a substantial amount of Hyrulian entertainment, but it will require some patience (or a handy guide), as there are numerous well-hidden secrets scattered throughout this vibrant and colorful rendition of Hyrule. If you’re undecided about this title, just remember it’s a remake of a Game Boy game, for better and worse. It offers some unforgettable dungeons, a unique story, and toy-like visuals that will captivate both newcomers and returning fans. However, its relatively linear structure and occasionally challenging old-school design may be a bit divisive, particularly for those who discovered the franchise during the Breath of the Wild era. If The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening sounds like your kind of game, it’s available now on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
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Everything You Need To Know About Playing The Legend Of Zelda: Link’s Awakening On Switch 2

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Let’s be honest, how many people dive into a real-time strategy game just for its campaign? Well, I do. For me, it's like a warm-up before jumping into a pub stomp or, more often, going head-to-head with the AI, since I'm not as quick on the clicks as I was in my StarCraft 2 days. Fortunately, Broken Arrow is a bit more strategic, focusing less on speed and more on overall tactics. You’ll find ample time to refine your strategies with its comprehensive campaign and several additional game modes! <h2>How long does it take to complete Broken Arrow’s singleplayer campaign?</h2> If you're set on tackling the main campaign in Broken Arrow, which will introduce you to the game's units and mechanics—acting as a tutorial for both multiplayer and AI adversaries—then prepare to invest around 20 to 25 hours across its 19 main missions: <ul> <li aria-level="1">Showtime</li> <li aria-level="1">Peacekeeper</li> <li aria-level="1">Airbase Heist</li> <li aria-level="1">The Big Wave</li> <li aria-level="1">Tracked and Furious</li> <li aria-level="1">Blackout</li> <li aria-level="1">Papers Please</li> <li aria-level="1">We Own the Night</li> <li aria-level="1">Self Service</li> <li aria-level="1">Operation Cold Harbour</li> <li aria-level="1">Vampires!</li> <li aria-level="1">Heavy Rain</li> <li aria-level="1">Search &amp; Rescue</li> <li aria-level="1">Forbidden Waters</li> <li aria-level="1">Hunting Season</li> <li aria-level="1">With a Little Help From My Friends</li> <li aria-level="1">The Ride of the VDV</li> <li aria-level="1">Road to The Fiddler’s Green</li> <li aria-level="1">Broken Arrow</li> </ul> <h2>What to do after finishing Broken Arrow’s campaign</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000616869" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000616869"><img alt="A tank battalion firing at targets on a range in Broken Arrow." class="wp-image-2000616869 size-full cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283482796108809657.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000616869">© Screenshot: Steel Balalaika / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Beyond the extensive campaign, which we’ll consider as the game’s preliminary challenge, you gain access to a skirmish mode against AI, a full-fledged multiplayer mode against other players, and a scenario editor where you can create and share your own scenarios. Many will likely spend countless hours refining their units in the army customization suite. <ul> <li aria-level="1">Skirmish Mode: Engage in skirmish mode against AI on 19 different maps, each with varying difficulty levels for endless replayability.</li> <li aria-level="1">Multiplayer: If you’re eager to test your skills online against real players, multiplayer matches featuring 5×5 gameplay let your competitive spirit shine as you compete for leaderboard dominance.</li> <li aria-level="1">Scenario Editor: The scenario editor in Broken Arrow is a robust toolset identical to the mission editor used by the developers, allowing you to create custom scenarios complete with visual scripting, cutscenes, and dialogues.</li> <li aria-level="1">Army Customization: With over 300 units in Broken Arrow and more than 1,500 combinations, you can customize your entire army to fit your strategy and needs. From reconnaissance units to combat vehicles, helicopters, and missile-equipped jets, the battlefield is yours to conquer using modern warfare tools.</li> </ul> <hr/> Broken Arrow is now available on Windows PCs.
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Broken Arrow Has A Healthy Campaign Runtime, But The Real Challenge Comes After The Credits

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Monster Hunter Wilds doesn’t solely introduce new content through Title Updates and seasonal events. In the intervals, stronger adversaries like Arch-Tempered Rey Dau have been introduced, along with some entertaining cosmetics. Among these is the Sealed Dragon Cloth armor, a long, dramatic scarf making a return from Monster Hunter World: Iceborne. Here’s everything you need to know about crafting this anime-inspired scarf and how to farm the limited-time event quest it’s linked to when it makes its comeback. As of now, crafting this armor is not possible, so remember to bookmark this page for when the “Running Wild” event quest becomes available again. 

<h2>How to Forge Sealed Dragon Cloth</h2> 

I initially thought that crafting this headpiece would require Sinister Cloth, similar to the Sealed Eyepatch introduced during the Blossomdance Festival. Fortunately, there’s no need to gather that elusive material this time. Nearly all necessary items can be obtained from the “Running Wild” event quest, including a material exclusive to it. Here are the materials needed to forge the Sealed Dragon Cloth armor: 

<ul> 
<li aria-level="1">Tough Guardian Bone x5</li> 
<li aria-level="1">Guardian Fulgur Nosebone+ x3</li> 
<li aria-level="1">Guardian Blood+ x2</li> 
<li aria-level="1">Sealed Dragon Cloth x3</li> 
</ul> 

Outside of low-rank story hunts against Arkveld and Zoh Shia, Tough Guardian Bone can only be obtained from Guardian Seikrets or bone piles within Wyveria. The remaining three materials are conveniently obtainable from the Running Wild event quest. You can talk to Alma or access the Quest counter menu from your tent to embark on this quest whenever it’s active. New quests are added or rerun weekly, so it's wise to check periodically.

<h2>How to Farm Running Wild Event Quest</h2> 

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000616627" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000616627"><img alt="A hunter uses their Long Sword’s Focus Strike against a Guardian Fulgur Anjanath." class="size-full wp-image-2000616627 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283482954536060345.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000616627">© Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> 

There’s some randomness involved in earning rewards after a hunt. You might need to repeat this Hunter Rank 21 quest a few times to acquire everything. Thankfully, it’s a manageable hunt if you’re prepared. Guardian Fulgur Anjanath is a Construct monster with the Thunder element. To avoid Thunderblight, it’s best to equip a build with high thunder resistance. Ice weapons are most effective, especially those that deal slicing damage. 

Despite its aggression, dodging the physical attacks of this beast is relatively straightforward. Countering with an Offset Attack is also simple once you learn the patterns following certain animations. Navigating past the lightning is your primary challenge. Most of Guardian Fulgur Anjanath’s attacks are thunder-based when it’s charged. You can identify a charge when the wing-like appendages protrude from its back. 

Adding to the difficulty, similar to Zoh Shia and other Guardian monsters, this creature can create Wylkrystals. Any attack with a glowing white mouth may spawn these. The danger lies in Guardian Fulgur Anjanath often following up with Thunder attacks that cause Wylkrystals to explode, dealing widespread Thunder-element damage. You can detonate the Wylkrystals with your element pods, but it’s advisable to dodge them instead.

Avoid all this by removing Guardian Fulgur Anjanath from its charged state. Destroy its wounds and continuously knock it down. Be sure to mount and utilize environmental or crafted traps to weaken the monster for easier damage. Without its charge state, Thunder attacks, Wylkrystals, or pesky wound regeneration are no longer concerns. The battle becomes significantly easier with such a powerless opponent. Remember, though, it will consume Wyvern Milk and regain its charge upon moving to a new location. 

If you only need the Sealed Dragon Cloth for crafting the identically named armor, capturing your opponent is an excellent way to conclude this hunt early. The quest-exclusive material is awarded for completing the hunt rather than slaying the monster. I’ve found that the time it spends drinking Wyvern Milk is perfect for hitting it with Tranq items and setting up your crafted trap. 

The Running Wild event quest originally ran from May 20th to June 3rd. It’s expected to return in the future, albeit likely with limited availability. You won’t be able to acquire the Sealed Dragon Cloth material by any other means, so seize the opportunity while you have the chance!
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A Beloved Scarf Is In Monster Hunter Wilds, But Only Through Limited-Time Events

How To Beat Curse Mode In Blue Prince

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Bravely Default HD provides nearly endless possibilities for team customization, thanks to its unique interpretation of the classic Final Fantasy job system. Fancy having a Monk who can also heal the team? You got it. Need a tank to absorb damage while wielding dual shields? Easily done. Perhaps you want your Black Mage to wield swords and wear heavy armor—it's all in your hands! Beneath this comprehensive job system, there's an incredibly subtle layer of customization that might just influence how you build your party. Bravely Default centers around four primary characters: Tiz, Agnes, Ringabel, and Edea. Each character has slightly varied base stats, which can make some of them more suited for particular jobs than others, albeit in a minor way. While a character's strength will mostly depend on their job and equipment, stats still play a role, and any RPG fan knows it's about maximizing every advantage to boost those damage numbers. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each character's strengths and how you might want to develop them. <h2>Base Stats of Characters in Bravely Default</h2> Both the 3DS version of Bravely Default and the HD Remake on Switch 2 adhere to the same principles regarding character stats. Here's a breakdown of each character's strengths:

Edea: Possesses the highest STR and VIT among the group. Ringabel: Boasts the highest DEX and AGI, with well-rounded stats and a high INT. Agnès: Excels in INT and MND. Tiz: Has the highest HP, with strong STR, VIT, and MND. What insights can we derive from this? Let’s dive deeper: <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614614" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614614"><img alt="A screenshot of Bravely Default for the Nintendo Switch 2. The victory screen after a battle is pictured, with each hero showing off their outfits as the Knight, Black Mage, Monk, and White Mage jobs." class="size-full wp-image-2000614614 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483314591892921.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614614">© Square Enix</figcaption></figure> 1: Edea is ideally suited for a physical attacker or tank role. 2: Agnès is your premier source of magical damage. She also shines as a healer, though in my view, the best defense is a strong offense. 3: Ringabel makes an excellent Thief or Ninja, but he can also be a formidable magic attacker. With his naturally high AGI, Ringabel often strikes before the rest of your team, especially in the early stages. 4: Tiz can be envisioned as a Paladin, even if you choose a different build for him. He’s a top choice for healing if Agnès is occupied and serves as a robust tank or physical attacker alongside Edea. Tiz trails behind in INT and AGI, making him almost a counterpart to Ringabel. This mirrors the contrast seen in Edea and Agnès’s stat distribution as well.

<h2>Optimal Jobs for Each Character in Bravely Default (up to Chapter 1)</h2> Consider this section with some flexibility, as explained below. If you’re in the early game where these stat differences are most pronounced, you might want to assign the following jobs to each character: Tiz: White Mage, Knight, Merchant, Monk Agnès: Black Mage, White Mage, Time Mage, Thief Ringabel: Thief, Monk, Black Mage, Spell Fencer Edea: Knight, Spell Fencer, Monk, Merchant <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614615" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614615"><img alt="A screenshot of Bravely Default for the Nintendo Switch 2. Tiz, Agnès, and Edea are looking at a Black Knight who has boarded their ship." class="size-full wp-image-2000614615 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483360024593849.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614615">© Square Enix</figcaption></figure> Caption: A screenshot of Bravely Default for the Nintendo Switch 2. Tiz, Agnès, and Edea are confronting a Black Knight who has boarded their ship.

<h2>Beyond the Opening, Don’t Confine Your Job Choices to Character Roles</h2> As you begin exploring the game, your job choices may initially align with the jobs a character has previously held. For instance, if Agnès is your magic user, you'll likely keep her in a caster role, allowing her to smoothly transition her spellcasting skills to future jobs. A balanced party is beneficial early on, but as more jobs become available, you'll discover how the game rewards creative thinking. Does assembling a party of four Black Mages sound impractical? Perhaps, until you realize the Black Resonance ability boosts magic damage for every Black Mage, potentially allowing you to obliterate bosses in a single, brave-boosted move. Alternatively, you might level everyone as a Knight to learn the Two-Handed ability and effortlessly handle random encounters. Remarkably, if a character masters every job, they can become formidable as a Freelancer due to the Late Bloomer ability! This highlights the immense value of experimenting with jobs, even those that don’t traditionally suit a character’s role. As previously mentioned, a character’s power is mostly derived from their build, not just their base stats. While Edea may not match Agnès as a Black Mage, she won’t feel underpowered if you decide to train her as one. So, please, please explore various job combinations as you progress—you might be surprised by the synergies you discover. Considering how lengthy Bravely Default is, you'll have ample time to level up your team before your adventure concludes. <hr/> Bravely Default: Flying Fairy HD is available on the Nintendo Switch 2.
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These Are The Best Jobs For Each Bravely Default HD Character

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What does it require to "conquer" the single-player Grand Prix and Knockout Tour modes in Mario Kart World? For some players, merely completing Rainbow Road and watching the credits roll is sufficient. For others, the goal might be to secure gold trophies in every cup on 150cc, or even Mirror Mode if you know the unlocking secret. But what if that's not quite enough? What if you seek the ultimate bragging rights that truly declare to the world, "I've mastered this"? That's where your Star Rank comes into play. In essence, your Star Rank represents the additional stars that appear next to your gold trophies in both the single-player Grand Prix and Knockout Tour. The better your performance during a specific challenge, the more stars you'll earn (up to a maximum of three). If this sounds simple, that's because... it somewhat is. However, the game doesn't explain critical details about this system, so if you're aiming for a three-star rank on every cup in single-player mode, here's what you need to know. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614605" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614605"><img alt="A screenshot of Mario Kart World. The Shell Cup is shown as being selected in the Gran Prix mode, and three stars are visible next to the 50cc, 100cc, 150cc, and Mirror modes." class="wp-image-2000614605 size-full cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483458305525177.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614605">© Nintendo / Timothy Monbleau / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> <h2>How can you achieve three stars in Grand Prix in Mario Kart World?</h2> As with previous Mario Kart games, your star rank in Grand Prix mode is determined by your final point total at the end of the last race. Earning 54 points grants you one star, 57 points awards two stars, and 60 points secures the full three stars. To simplify, obtaining three stars necessitates finishing first in all four races of a single cup.

<h2>How can you earn a three-star rank in Knockout Tour in Mario Kart World?</h2> As Knockout Tour is a new feature in Mario Kart World, the rules differ slightly from the traditional Grand Prix mode. Instead of using a point system, your Star Rank is determined by your position as you pass through each checkpoint that eliminates the bottom four players. To achieve three stars in Knockout Tour, you must be in first place when you pass through each checkpoint. Yes, that includes the very first one, so you'll need to dash from 24th to 1st quickly! <h2>Your Star Rank in a higher difficulty will count as completion for all lower difficulties as well</h2> If your goal is to achieve three stars in every cup in Grand Prix and Knockout Tour modes, your initial instinct might be to begin at 50cc and progress upward. After all, saving the hardest challenges for last seems logical, right? However, if you have enough confidence in your abilities to increase the difficulty level immediately, all Star Ranks are retroactive across all previous difficulties. This means that if you secure three stars in a cup on 150cc, your 50cc and 100cc completions will also display three stars. Conversely, if you achieve three stars on 50cc and only one star on 150cc, your previous record remains unchanged.

Mirror Mode also provides retroactive star rankings. This is a departure from previous Mario Kart games, but achieving a max Star Rank in Mirror Mode in Mario Kart World will also apply to 50cc, 100cc, and 150cc if you haven't already completed them. In essence, if you're eager to claim your bragging rights as swiftly as possible and feel ready, you can jump straight into Mirror Mode. <h2>What reward do you receive for achieving three stars in every cup in Mario Kart World?</h2> Nothing! Absolutely nothing! This has been referred to as a bragging right for a reason. Much like many tasks in Free Roam mode, earning a max Star Rank is a challenge that exists solely for its own sake. This might be disheartening for longtime Kart enthusiasts, as previous games often recognized your accomplishment with some form of reward. However, here you won't even receive a congratulatory message for accomplishing this feat.

<h2>Tips for securing three stars in Mario Kart World</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614608" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614608"><img alt="" class="size-full wp-image-2000614608 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483485954377145.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614608">© Nintendo / Timothy Monbleau / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> If you're determined to achieve a full set of maxed-out Star Ranks despite the lack of a reward, here are a few quick tips to help you secure first place (most of the time). 1: Practice. While it may sound obvious, the more familiar you are with the twists and turns of a track, the better prepared you'll be to outpace the competition without crashing into walls. Time Trial mode includes ghosts for each track that you can study, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can load the ghost data of the track's world record holder as well.

2: Focus on collecting coins at the start. The more coins you have, the faster you'll go. And the faster you go, the more you'll... well, I don't need to explain why speed matters in a racing game, right? Once you've collected 10-15 coins, you can stop going out of your way for them, and by the final lap, you should focus on taking tight corners as you approach the finish line. 3: Prioritize shortcuts. This is particularly crucial for Knockout Tour, as you'll need to make up significant ground to move from 24th to 1st before reaching the first checkpoint. Fortunately, players in lower positions receive better items from item boxes, and the first item you'll typically get in Knockout Tour is a Mushroom (or another speed-boosting item). Look for turns you can speed across, and don't hesitate to hold onto your item until the opportune moment arises.

4: Manage your items. As mentioned earlier, racers further back receive better items. If you're blazing past competitors with three red shells surrounding you, consider using them strategically to target opponents you can't catch. Alternatively, you might want to hold back in second place to avoid being targeted by a Blue Shell. Once you're in 1st, the key is defense. Shells and feathers can protect you from red shell hits, and the Superhorn can destroy Blue Shells before they reach you. Try to keep at least one defensive item ready at all times. 5: Be patient. Regardless of your skill level or racing prowess, you may occasionally fail to achieve a three-star rank due to being hit with the wrong items at the wrong time. After all, there's a reason the term "Mario Karted" is popular internet slang. It can be incredibly frustrating when it happens, so accept that a few instances of bad luck are inevitable and try again later. Remember, this challenge exists purely for enjoyment, and it's wise to take a break if you're not having fun. Spend some time collecting coins or performing impressive stunts, and return when you feel ready. Earning three stars wouldn't be a bragging right if there was nothing to boast about!
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Everything You Need To Know About Getting Three-Star Gold Trophies In Mario Kart World

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Street Fighter 6’s Year 3 DLC reveal was not only thrilling due to the reappearance of familiar characters but also because it closely followed Elena's introduction. The notorious healing threat concluded the Year 2 DLC with enhanced abilities and a fresh appearance. Yet, for those who favor a more classic style, her original outfit is available to unlock. The fastest method to obtain it is by purchasing it from the in-game store using premium currency. For players who wish to avoid spending on cosmetics or who have recently acquired the new Street Fighter 6 Years 1-2 Fighters Edition, increasing Elena’s bond level to the maximum in the World Tour mode is necessary. By engaging in specific dialogues and sparring matches with Elena as a master, you can earn points. However, selecting the appropriate gifts for her will rapidly elevate the bond level to 100. <h2>How to Obtain Elena’s 40-Point Gift</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614596" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614596"><img alt="The Mission Complete pop-up for Narumi’s Task, with the Earrings gift item at the top." class="size-full wp-image-2000614596 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483600039445945.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614596">© Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> While most gifts offer just a point or two, each fighter has a specific item granting a significant 40-point boost. These items are single-use and cannot be collected repeatedly. Elena’s 40-point gift is the simply-named Earrings, awarded for completing the “Narumi’s Task” sub-mission. Obtaining this is less challenging compared to other characters. Not only do you interact with Elena through a unique scenario similar to Terry and Mai, but the opponents you face are in the 20-30 level range.

After engaging in battles and elevating Elena’s style to level nine, return to Reniala Remains to speak with her. She will discuss a special training regimen that forms the core of the “Friends of Nature” sub-mission. Simply converse with the nearby NPC named Adhiambo and defeat them in an Extreme Battle involving a rampaging hippo. Speak with Elena again to complete the mission. Engage with more NPCs in this area to elevate her style to level 10. Once accomplished, fly back to Metro City and proceed to the wide staircase in the middle of Beat Square. Initiating a conversation with Narumi will commence the “Narumi’s Task” sub-mission, where you must defeat a level 35 NPC named Mr. Mussal three times. Triumphing over him the third time will conclude the mission, rewarding you with some Energy Drink items and the Earrings. <h2>How to Acquire Elena’s 5-Point Gift</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614597" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614597"><img alt="The Pause Menu’s Battle Information tab is displayed during a fight against the NPC Kiptanui." class="size-full wp-image-2000614597 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483625154938297.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614597">© Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Providing her with the 40-point gift significantly aids in unlocking her second outfit, but your journey doesn’t end there. The next optimal gift for Elena is the Stone Statue, which elevates her bond level by five points. These can be easily acquired by battling nearby NPCs on the Reniala Remains map and fulfilling their bonus objectives. Ensure to verify these before engaging in combat to understand what to prioritize.

Both Narumi and Shopkeeper Biz in the Metro City map can also present a bonus objective that awards a Stone Statue. Following the completion of the previously mentioned Narumi’s Task sub-mission, Narumi will relocate from the Metro City map to Reniala Remains, simplifying the process of accumulating this item in one area. Between the points accrued from sparring, specific dialogue options, and completing Elena-related missions, you may not need to collect numerous Stone Statues. You’ll have maximized Elena’s bond level swiftly as long as you continue interacting and bestowing her with gifts. Reaching a bond level of 100 will unlock Elena’s original outfit for free use in the Fighting Ground and Battle Hub-adjacent modes. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for her or any character’s Outfit 3 – that will require some real money.
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Street Fighter 6: How To Unlock Elena’s Original Outfit For Free

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While you might not be orchestrating the movements of thousands of units, Broken Arrow still demands a fundamental understanding of combined arms tactics. You'll find yourself soaring through the skies with attack helicopters, stealthily navigating the underbrush with sniper units, and commanding a battalion of armored tanks across the plains. Your army acts as an extension of your strategic intent. Mastering the effective use of each unit, overpowering opponents, and securing control of sectors can spell the difference between another defeat and a sought-after victory. <h2>Start with a beginner deck</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614585" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614585"><img alt="The US starter deck option in Skirmish in Broken Arrow." class="size-full wp-image-2000614585 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483714644608441.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614585">© Screenshot: Steel Balalaika / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> With a long-standing history in real-time strategy and tactics games, I often find myself struggling with deck creation in titles like Warno, Steel Division 2, and now Broken Arrow. My tendency to want every tool at my disposal often leads to decision paralysis. Ultimately, I end up choosing the most powerful or visually appealing units, which often proves to be my downfall. For newcomers, particularly those unfamiliar with the genre, Broken Arrow might feel daunting due to its complex mechanics and macro/micro tactics. Diving straight into deck-building could lead to disastrous results.

There are two starter decks: US and Russian. Both come close to the 10,000 point limit, with the Russian deck hitting the cap immediately. They offer a diverse range of units from various disciplines, such as recon, infantry, helicopters, and air support, making them well-rounded for beginners. <h2>Strategically deploy your recon units</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614586" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614586"><img alt="A US sniper recon unit in Broken Arrow." class="size-full wp-image-2000614586 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483728435479993.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614586">© Screenshot: Steel Balalaika / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> I can't count how many players I've encountered online who choose to charge headlong at opponents rather than using all available tools, particularly recon units, effectively. Your recon units can hide in dense forests and, provided they have a line of sight, offer early warnings when enemy units approach. Position your recon units wisely. Examine the map to identify chokepoints and entry points, then determine key cover locations for your recon. Deploy them swiftly to these positions.

Position your recon at the forest's edge, then hold ‘Alt’ on your keyboard to activate the line of sight tool, ensuring your units have a clear view. Next, disable the ‘Return Fire’ command to prevent auto-fire, allowing them to maintain stealth. <h2>Infantry can be a powerful asset, but only with proper use</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614587" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614587"><img alt="Infantry units firing anti-tank missiles in Broken Arrow." class="size-full wp-image-2000614587 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283483749708989881.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614587">© Screenshot: Steel Balalaika / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Many new players opt for a "safe" approach by deploying large groups of infantry, assuming that sheer numbers will secure control points. Managing infantry is simpler than coordinating tanks, helicopters, and infantry simultaneously, correct? Yes, but also no. Grouping your infantry makes them susceptible to being wiped out by a single aerial bombing run or a well-aimed artillery/mortar strike. Instead, deploy your infantry as a pseudo-guerrilla force. Direct your infantry to multiple control points to create the illusion of being spread across the map, compelling your opponent to redirect their forces. Then, once the enemy's forces are dispersed, flank with your most potent units like tanks and helicopters. If your micro-management skills are sharp, you can lure enemies with your infantry to keep them at bay until reinforcements arrive. A classic bait and switch tactic! <hr/> Broken Arrow is currently available exclusively on Windows PCs.
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3 Essential Tips For Getting Started In Broken Arrow

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Monster Hunter Wild’s Title Update 2 was thrilling not just for the inclusion of Seregios and Lagiacrus. Beyond the new cosmetics and balance tweaks, Photo Mode has received notable upgrades. While the new Effects tab offers customizable image options and filters, the highly anticipated feature of removing NPCs and effects in Photo Mode is what truly stands out. If you're looking to eliminate Alma from your snapshots or get rid of the Dragon Ball Z-like auras that skills and talismans provide, we're here to guide you. <h2>How to Stop Alma From Ruining Photos</h2> Let’s be honest, this is probably why you’re here. The only thing more certain than a Tempered Mizutsune taking you out with one blow is Alma and her Seikret photobombing your perfect shots. Luckily, we now have a way to prevent that. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614497" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614497"><img alt="A Hunter and their Palico posing near Alma’s default camp location, with the Handler toggle turned off." class="size-full wp-image-2000614497 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484360298988985.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614497">© Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Follow these steps to make your handler disappear while snapping photos: <ul> <li aria-level="1">While in Photo Mode, press L1/LB to open the Edit Menu</li> <li aria-level="1">Press R1/RB to navigate to the Character Display tab</li> <li aria-level="1">Toggle “Handler” to remove Alma or Eric (and their Seikret) from the photo mode</li> </ul> This change takes effect instantly, whether you're using live Photo Mode or accessing it after pausing the game. Simply flip that toggle, and your handler will vanish. The two toggles below it perform the same function for your Palico and Seikret.

<h2>How to Remove Glowing Buff Effects</h2> Though Alma can be a major hindrance in taking pictures, the glowing buff effects can be equally bothersome at times. Monster Hunter Wilds visually represents many buffs by adding a colorful aura to your character. While these can be useful, they often become an eyesore during battles and particularly when taking pictures. To disable glowing buff effects in pictures, go to the Character Display tab in the Edit Menu and toggle off both Hunter Lighting Effects and Hunter Talisman Effects. Doing so will specifically eliminate glowing effects from skills and talismans. You're not restricted to removing these effects solely in Photo Mode. They can also be turned off during gameplay, though you'll need to navigate through some menus first. Here's how to remove the glowing effect during gameplay:

<ul> <li aria-level="1">Open the Options Menu</li> <li aria-level="1">Go to the third page</li> <li aria-level="1">Toggle the Activate Skill/Item Effects and Equipped Talisman Effect options to Do Not Display</li> </ul> <h2>What are Scoutfly Effects and Hunter Outline?</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614499" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614499"><img alt="A white outline of a Hunter can be seen on the bottom half of a Lagiacrus." class="size-full wp-image-2000614499 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484386773435833.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614499">© Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> You might have noticed that Monster Hunter Wilds sometimes lacks detailed explanations. Most of the Character Display toggles are straightforward when switched off and on, but adjusting Scoutfly Effects and Hunter Outline might seem ineffective. These options are context-specific, similar to the glowing buffs. Turning off Scoutfly Effects will only remove the highlight over any nearby resources your Scoutfly automatically marked. It's a handy option if there's an unwanted green glow from a random bush in your photo, though it unfortunately doesn't eliminate the bright Scoutfly line leading to a waypoint. The Hunter Outline toggle pertains to the outline that appears around your hunter when obstructed by a monster. If you're aiming to capture pictures of a monster during combat and prefer not to have the conspicuous outline of your hunter, disable this for a more natural-looking photo. <hr/> Monster Hunter Wilds is currently available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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How To Remove Alma From Photos In Monster Hunter Wilds

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 <nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Guillermo Del Toro (Deadman) – Blade II [2002]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Nicolas Winding Refn (Heartman) – Bronson [2008]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Fatih Akin (Dollman) – In The Fade [2017]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">George Miller (Tarman) – Three Thousand Years of Longing [2026]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Mike Flanagan (Mike Northcote) – The Life of Chuck (2026)</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Danny and Michael Philippou (Mr. Impossible) – Talk To Me [2026]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">S.S. Rajamouli (The Adventurer) – RRR [2026]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Yusaku Matsumoto (The Architect) – Winny [2026]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Kevin Ko (The Ghost Hunter) – Incantation [2026]</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Mamoru Oshii (The Pizza Chef) – Ghost In The Shell [1995] / Ghost In The Shell: Innocence [2004]</li></ul></nav></div>
 It may come as a surprise to some, but Hideo Kojima has a profound passion for films. An immense passion. For those few who might not have been closely following Kojima's nearly four-decade-long career in the gaming industry, even during the Metal Gear / Snatcher days, he drew direct inspiration from iconic films like The Terminator, Blade Runner, and Escape from New York long before it became mainstream. Fast forward to 2026, and Kojima has fulfilled numerous cinematic dreams, including meeting some of the world's best filmmakers and featuring their likenesses in his imaginative games centered on themes of mortality and societal breakdown. Read More: Kojima On Whether Or Not He’ll Play Metal Gear Solid 3 Remake: Lol, Nope The presence of renowned film talent was a significant element in the first Death Stranding, and it is even more pronounced in Death Stranding 2. Amazingly, many of these filmmakers agree to participate in Kojima's projects. Truly, game recognizes game. Kojima stands as one of the rare game developers who can justifiably be labeled an auteur—defined as a creator whose vision shapes a project, not someone who does all the work single-handedly; this distinction is crucial. The directors invited for cameos in the Death Stranding series share a similar creative bent in their work.

 In an era teeming with games and films lacking clear artistic direction, acknowledging the filmmakers Kojima holds in such high regard is essential. TL;DR: Kojima possesses exquisite taste in cinema, a fact that is even more evident in the second installment of the game. Once Sam Porter-Bridges completes his final delivery in Death Stranding 2, it would be a disservice to yourself and to Kojima not to delve into the cinematic rabbit hole he proudly showcases. Here is a guide to the real-world film directors featured in Death Stranding 2 and the key films from their portfolios you should explore. <h2>Guillermo Del Toro (Deadman) – Blade II [2002]</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614425" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614425"><img alt="Blade" class="size-full wp-image-2000614425 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484483426977209.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614425">© 2002 New Line Cinema</figcaption></figure> Del Toro is perhaps the most renowned and cherished filmmaker within the Death Stranding universe, making it almost unnecessary to mention that yes, you should definitely watch the extraordinary film where the mother from Paddington falls in love with a fish man, winning the Best Picture Oscar for the unique and captivating The Shape of Water (2017). This also applies to Pan’s Labyrinth, a film whose visuals have been emulated countless times in both games and movies (but it's worth a re-watch regardless). For a late summer blockbuster experience, treat yourself to Blade II. Firstly, because it's uncertain when we'll see the Daywalker in theaters again (Deadpool &amp; Wolverine is not the same, and you know it). Secondly, because you get an extra Death Stranding connection with Norman Reedus portraying Scud, Blade’s temporary tech support before Whistler returns. Thirdly, because it's simply amazing. It's an ideal, intense sequel to one of the coolest action films of the modern era, elevated by Del Toro's addition of genuinely disturbing horror elements. Before Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu last year, Blade II's Reapers represented the last instance when vampires weren't just fascinating or tragic or alluring, but truly horrifying. Watch it repeatedly, and the iconic reveal of a Reaper’s mouth will remain an unforgettable, spine-chilling moment.

 <h3>Honorable Mention: The Devil’s Backbone [2001]</h3> If you're seeking something more sophisticated, The Devil’s Backbone is a hidden gem in Del Toro's filmography that deserves more attention. Consider watching it in October as the spooky season gets underway; it offers a unique take on a ghost story without resorting to the facial stabbings seen in Crimson Peak. Not that there’s anything wrong with Crimson Peak's many, many facial stabbings. <h2>Nicolas Winding Refn (Heartman) – Bronson [2008]</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614426" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614426"><img alt="Bronson" class="size-full wp-image-2000614426 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484501395375545.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614426">© Vertigo Films</figcaption></figure> Returning from the first Death Stranding, Refn represents an intriguing introduction to understanding how arthouse cinema diverges from mainstream multiplex offerings. On the surface, he operates within familiar genres. If you've seen any of Refn’s films, it's likely Drive with Ryan Gosling, which is an ideal example. You might pitch it to friends as a slow-burn action thriller/crime drama, but in reality, it’s an unconventional, introspective deconstruction of the archetypal action hero; you either resonate with its wavelength or you don’t. Or perhaps you’re someone who has adopted Gosling’s jacket as a personality trait and could benefit from some introspection. The point is, Refn’s films defy expectations.

 However, Bronson doesn’t disguise its intentions: it’s a visceral journey through the life of Charles Bronson, one of the most destructively notorious individuals to pass through the British prison system. The film is delirious, punch-drunk, and vicious, capturing the essence of its subject. This role marked Tom Hardy’s breakout, undoubtedly leading to his casting as Bane in Dark Knight Rises. It’s a haunting portrayal of an articulate psychopath. <h3>Honorable Mentions: Only God Forgives [2013] / My Life Directed By Nicolas Winding Refn [2014] </h3> Only God Forgives is a mixed experience, to put it kindly. It’s Refn’s attempt to deconstruct Asian crime epics, akin to what he did for American gangster films with Drive, but with less success beyond the visuals and brief action. It’s like watching The Raid 2 on sedatives.

 Nevertheless, it’s worth watching to provide context for the far more intriguing My Life Directed By Nicolas Winding Refn. This one-hour documentary, directed by Refn’s wife, Liv Corfixen, focuses less on the day-to-day filmmaking process and more on Corfixen’s life upheaval as she moves herself and their two children to Bangkok for six months to support her husband’s manic-depressive tendencies and his polarizing film. It’s a compelling angle. Plus, there's a solid reason to check it out: Death Stranding 2 is a family affair for Refn. Corfixen plays The Hydrologist, and their daughters Lizzie and Lola portray The Chronobiologist and The Metagenomicist, respectively. <h2>Fatih Akin (Dollman) – In The Fade [2017]</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614427" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614427"><img alt="Fade" class="size-full wp-image-2000614427 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484525051250105.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614427">© Warner Bros. Pictures</figcaption></figure> Beyond Fatih Akin’s exceptional directing skills and his remarkable command over tone—his use of tense silence surpasses some directors’ orchestral efforts—Akin offers a cultural perspective as a German-born Turk that is rarely seen in Western media. This makes him a unique talent, even before considering his infectious enthusiasm for life and art in interviews. On a side note, I highly recommend this Cannes interview with Kojima and Akin, where they discuss their artistic philosophies. Kojima’s decision to make Dollman a key part of Sam’s journey was brilliant, enriching the entire game (though I’m aware the Tranq Sniper Rifle lacks a suppressor, thanks for reminding me).

 <div class="not-prose video-container"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" data-lazy-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9HnOlLQce4k?feature=oembed" data-rocket-lazyload="fitvidscompatible" frameborder="0" height="281" loading="lazy" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="about:blank" title="Technological Constraints &amp; Freedoms – Technology &amp; Storytelling feat. Hideo Kojima &amp; Fatih Akin" width="500"></iframe><noscript><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9HnOlLQce4k?feature=oembed" title="Technological Constraints &amp; Freedoms – Technology &amp; Storytelling feat. Hideo Kojima &amp; Fatih Akin" width="500"></iframe></noscript></div> For those new to Akin’s work, In The Fade is a compelling starting point: it’s Akin’s most accessible film (currently on HBO Max) and tragically relevant. A reformed drug addict named Katja (Diane Kruger, fun fact, married to Norman Reedus in real life) marries a reformed Turkish ex-con named Nuri (Numan Acar). When Neo-Nazis detonate a nail bomb outside Nuri’s workplace, killing him and their young son solely for being immigrants, Katja’s life unravels, and Germany’s justice system offers little help, prompting her to seek justice herself. It’s a difficult watch, but once you’re engaged, it’s impossible to look away. <h3>Honorable Mention: Head-On [2004]</h3> After In The Fade, if you desire another intense narrative, Head-On is an excellent choice. A Turkish woman (Game of Thrones’ Sibel Kekilli) encounters a suicidal, aging punk named Cahit (Birol Ünel) at a mental health facility and, desperate to escape her traditional Turkish family, proposes marriage on the spot. The outcome is as chaotic as expected. Despite the rom-com setup, complete with a Greek chorus of Turkish musicians, it is as fatalistic and grim as it is humorous and hopelessly romantic. <h2>George Miller (Tarman) – Three Thousand Years of Longing [2026]</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614430" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614430"><img alt="3000" class="size-full wp-image-2000614430 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484545922106809.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614430">© Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures</figcaption></figure> If you first heard of George Miller through Mad Max: Fury Road, you're in for a revelation with “Holy Shit, The Guy Who Made Fury Road Directed THAT?!” Miller's career is remarkably diverse, spanning the Mad Max saga, beloved children’s films like Babe and Happy Feet, and emotional dramas like Lorenzo’s Oil. I could easily recommend Furiosa because it deserves more recognition, especially for Chris Hemsworth's wild performance. However, you’re not getting off that easy. Furiosa not making a splash is nothing compared to the exquisite Three Thousand Years of Longing being left to languish by Amazon.

 To be fair, it’s unclear how much more money could have been earned by not marketing a romantic fantasy from the Mad Max director about Tilda Swinton finding a genie in a bottle, but living such a fulfilling life that she refuses to make a wish. Surely, many would have paid to hear Idris Elba try to persuade her with enchanting tales of love, desire, greed, and power gone awry throughout time, especially when these stories are as beautifully directed as they are and culminate in a modern love story unlike any other. It’s a $60 million film that looks like it cost $300 million, with one of the most achingly beautiful scores in recent years by Junkie XL. If nothing else, come to develop a craving for those pistachio cookies Tilda and Idris enjoy in their hotel room throughout the film. <h3>Honorable Mention: The Witches of Eastwick [1987]</h3> If that sounds too sentimental, consider the time The Guy Who Made Fury Road directed a romantic horror comedy about three witches (Susan Sarandon, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Cher) in a polyamorous relationship with Satan (Jack Nicholson). Remarkably, John Williams scored it. If that premise doesn’t intrigue you, I’m not sure what will. <h2>Mike Flanagan (Mike Northcote) – The Life of Chuck (2026)</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614431" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614431"><img alt="Chuck" class="size-full wp-image-2000614431 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484570064520633.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614431">© Intrepid Pictures</figcaption></figure> Mike Flanagan may be the best thing to happen to Stephen King. Flanagan adeptly distills King’s work, extracting problematic elements while amplifying the profound poetry and dark insight present even in King’s weaker works. This is not to mention Flanagan’s own creations like Haunting of Hill House, the remarkable adaptation of Edgar Allen Poe’s Fall of the House of Usher, and Midnight Mass (ironically, a superior Salem’s Lot remake to last year’s lackluster version). It’s frustrating that Flanagan finally broke free from Netflix to release a new King adaptation in theaters only for it to have zero impact. Not even a whisper. What’s more frustrating is that Life of Chuck is easily one of the year’s best films, if not one of the most moving and heartfelt in recent memory at a time when such stories are desperately needed. It lacks a linear narrative, or even a reverse chronological one, instead presenting seemingly disconnected vignettes from the life of a man named Chuck (portrayed at various ages by Cody Flanagan, Benjamin Pajak, Jacob Tremblay, and Tom Hiddleston), spiraling from the haunting moment Chuck learns supernaturally exactly how and when he will die.

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From The Directors Featured In Death Stranding 2: 10 Incredible Films To Check Out

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It's widely known that fashion is a highly appealing aspect of Monster Hunter Wilds. Beyond the thrill of defeating gigantic beasts, transforming their parts into stylish armor and weapons adds a unique allure. While the Layered Armor feature served as a transmog option, there was no similar feature for weapons. Fortunately, the extensive Title Update 2 has finally introduced Layered Weapons. The system is considerably more intricate than the armor mechanic, so let's delve into how it operates. <h2>How to Unlock Layered Weapons</h2> Unlocking this new feature doesn't necessitate completing any missions. You'll be able to alter the appearance of your gear as long as your game is updated. However, this doesn't imply it's a simple task. To unlock a layered weapon, you must have forged the final level of its Weapon Tree. This means crafting a weapon to Rarity 8 for everything. Achieving this grants you access to the ultimate Rarity 8 design, as well as any earlier designs if the weapon evolves. The Lala Barina weapons are a prime example of this. Be ready to grind for specific monster parts and Hunter Symbols as well.

The process for your Palicos is much more straightforward and functions similarly to Layered Armor. Once you've crafted a high-rank Palico weapon, the option to use the layered weapon becomes available. <h2>How to Unlock Layered Artian Weapons</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614400" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614400"><img alt="The Equipment Appearance menu, showing off the three designs for an Artian Hammer." class="size-full wp-image-2000614400 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484841419212217.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614400">© Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Artian Weapons can also utilize this transmog system. If you prefer custom weapons but wish to avoid the stark green sci-fi design, you can now swap them for something different! Conversely, if you want your hunter to appear as if they're wielding advanced technology, you have that option too. Unlocking these choices requires extensive grinding and a stroke of luck. To unlock the Layered version of an Artian Weapon, you must forge the Rarity 8 variant and then fully reinforce it. Since Tempered Monsters drop Hunter Symbols and Artian Materials, you'll undoubtedly be hunting them more frequently if you aim to expand your Layered Weapon collection. A significant issue with this system is the inability to alter weapon colors. It's frustrating to freely color my Rathian armor but not the Rathian weapons. Here's hoping the Layered Weapons system will receive some updates in the future.
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How To Transmog Your Weapons In Monster Hunter Wilds

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Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 offers a diverse roster of skaters to select from. Whether you opt for one of the 29 skaters available from the start or decide on an unlockable skater like Bam Magera, each skater provides a unique experience due to their distinct stat layouts. This could pose a challenge if your preferred skater doesn’t match your play style. Thankfully, you can collect Stat points in each level to enhance everyone on the roster. Let’s delve into what each stat represents and identify which ones you should prioritize upgrading first. <h2>Understanding each stat</h2> Newcomers to this series may find themselves overwhelmed by the numerous terms and actions. The tutorial covers a lot, and the ten skater stats can add to the confusion. Here’s a breakdown of what each stat influences:

<ul> <li aria-level="1">Air: The peak height achieved when jumping off a half pipe</li> <li aria-level="1">Hangtime: The duration you remain airborne after jumping off a half pipe</li> <li aria-level="1">Ollie: The height of your jump on flat ground</li> <li aria-level="1">Speed: The top speed attainable on the ground</li> <li aria-level="1">Spin: The rate of rotation while airborne</li> <li aria-level="1">Switch: Affects performance in the alternate stance</li> <li aria-level="1">Flip Speed: The speed at which flip tricks are executed</li> <li aria-level="1">Rail Balance: The stability of the grinding rail meter</li> <li aria-level="1">Lip Balance: The stability of the Lip Trick meter</li> <li aria-level="1">Manual Balance: The stability of the Manual meter</li> </ul> <h2>Which stats should you prioritize?</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614382" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614382"><img alt="The Edit Stats screen for a skater." class="wp-image-2000614382 size-full cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283484920356013497.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614382">© Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Given the vast array of tricks and possibilities, each player’s skating style will vary. This becomes more evident with the different maps available. Nevertheless, certain stats prove more beneficial when you’re just beginning. If you're unsure about which stats to allocate points to, we recommend focusing on Air, Speed, and Rail Balance. The ability to move swiftly and achieve greater heights off half pipes is crucial, and grinding rails more efficiently is undeniably satisfying. If your Skater already has high values in other stats, Manual Balance and Hangtime are excellent alternatives to consider. It’s also important to note that point allocation is flexible. You can remove points and redistribute them as you wish. Simply pause the game, navigate to the Skater tab with R1/RB, and select the Stats box to make adjustments. This flexibility even applies during a run, which is convenient if you need to tweak your stats for a competition level or require additional Speed to reach a Secret Tape. <hr/> Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 is currently available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and Windows PCs.
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Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4 Is A Lot Easier If You Invest In The Right Stats

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RimWorld has evolved significantly since its debut in November 2013. In its early days, the game was much simpler and lacked many of the features that define it today. Thanks to regular updates and several expansions, the developers at Ludeon Studios have created one of the most engaging story-driven colony simulation games within this niche genre. However, it’s the modding community that truly propels the game forward. They have brought about complete overhauls, intriguing new additions, and, of course, the ever-popular quality of life mods. Let's delve into a few mods that many veteran players find indispensable! <h2>Neat Storage</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614367" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614367"><img alt="A Neat Storage layout in RimWorld." class="wp-image-2000614367 size-full cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="404" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485011573736889.jpg" width="717"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614367">© Screenshot: Ludeon Studios / seobungzu</figcaption></figure> One of the first rooms you should build for your base—or at the very least, prioritize—is a storage area for everything salvaged from the crash landing. Leaving items exposed to the weather and wildlife can quickly spoil your packaged food. Plus, no one wants to navigate through clutter on the floor, right? Neat Storage offers organized and visually appealing storage solutions for everything from raw materials to clothing, weapons, and even body parts. The shelves are simply, mwah, delightful to behold.

<h2>Character Editor</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614368" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614368"><img alt="A character made with Character Editor in RimWorld." class="size-full wp-image-2000614368 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485035900700089.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614368">© Screenshot: Ludeon Studios / VOID</figcaption></figure> During character creation, you’ll encounter a diverse array of pawns, each with unique traits, skills, passions, and even injuries. The process is random, which can sometimes lead to unfavorable outcomes from the in-game character generator. If you prefer more control over your colony's inhabitants, a tool like Character Editor lets you transform a pawn into whatever you envision. Whether you want a pyromaniac with god-like abilities or a young warrior-turned-scientist who refuses to clean or perform menial tasks, the choice is yours! <h2>Smarter Construction</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614369" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614369"><img alt="An example of the Smarter Construction mod in RimWorld." class="size-full wp-image-2000614369 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="576" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485052476589497.jpg" width="1017"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614369">© Screenshot: Ludeon Studios / Hultis</figcaption></figure> Let's be honest, pawns in RimWorld are not the brightest. They can handle their basic needs autonomously, but for most tasks, you need to actively guide them. Planning is essential for construction, food sourcing, and more.

Pawns often build structures haphazardly, sometimes causing roof collapses that devastate entire colonies or trap a pawn in an airtight room. With Smarter Construction, these issues are mitigated. The mod ensures pawns build intelligently, leaving paths open for escape and constructing walls and supports to stabilize buildings. <h2>Filth Vanishes With Rain and Time</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614370" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614370"><img alt="The cover screenshot for the Filth Vanishes with Rain and Time mod in RimWorld." class="size-full wp-image-2000614370 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="358" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485068498830777.jpg" width="637"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614370">© Screenshot: Ludeon Studios / FrozenSnowFox</figcaption></figure> On rare occasions, I play a peaceful colony focused on farming, ranching, or trading crafted goods like a merchant. However, more often than not, RimWorld descends into its usual chaotic, war-torn state. After battles, blood, mud, and scorch marks persist until your pawns clean the mess.

Not anymore! With Filth Vanishes With Rain and Time, when rain clouds gather, they help cleanse the environment, leaving your settlers feeling refreshed and free from dirty, germ-laden thoughts. <h2>Color Coded Mood Bar</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614371" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614371"><img alt="A look at the mood screen and color coding in RimWorld." class="size-full wp-image-2000614371 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485087490639289.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614371">© Screenshot: Ludeon Studios / CrashM / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Every event in the game, big or small, impacts your pawn’s mood. From a food shortage to a lack of entertainment options, raids, or discovering a bug-infested tunnel network under your base, your pawns will either cope or collapse. To help them navigate these challenges, you need to understand their mood clearly.

Instead of diving into the mood tab of their character HUD, who has the time for that? With Color Coded Mood Bar, a quick glance at the top of the screen tells you everything. If your pawn’s portrait is red, beware!   <hr/> RimWorld is currently available on Windows PCs, with its latest expansion, Odyssey, launching on July 11.
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Improve Your RimWorld Odyssey Experience With These Excellent Quality-Of-Life Mods

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If you've been eagerly awaiting Monster Hunter Wilds to introduce a challenge comparable to Gore Magala, even in its Tempered forms, then you're in for a treat with Lagiacrus and Seregios. This guide will focus on the latter, which has certainly become one of the more formidable foes in my view. Experiencing dive kicks and being tossed around after conquering other beasts is quite a reality check. Here's what you need to know to defeat this razor-sharp creature. <h2>Locating Seregios</h2> Seregios first appears in the “Clear with a Chance of Sandstorm” mission, unlocked after finishing “A World Turned Upside Down” in Chapter Five. You can then find Seregios in the Windward Plains, Ruins of Wyveria, and Wounded Hollow. <h2>Seregios’ Vulnerabilities</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614044" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614044"><img alt="Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614044 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485173339653561.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614044">Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Seregios' quick maneuvers make it a challenging monster to handle. Concentrating on its weaknesses will help conclude this hunt much quicker. Elemental Weaknesses: Thunder, Ice Weapon Type Weaknesses: Cut, Blunt Breakable Parts: Head, Tail (can also be severed), Wings x2, Legs x2 (weak point)

Susceptible Status Ailments: Blastblight, Exhaust, Paralysis (less effective), Poison, Sleep, Stun Items and Traps: Flash Pod, Pitfall Trap, Shock Trap <h2>Strategies to Defeat Seregios</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614045" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614045"><img alt="Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614045 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485198891353529.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614045">Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Many winged adversaries prefer attacking from above, but few are as fierce as Seregios. This is because Seregios often makes a small leap or quick ascent before descending with force. Sometimes it will execute a tail swipe, but most attacks involve its legs. Expect to be stomped and kicked numerous times while you learn the fight's rhythm. Guarding is an excellent way to shield yourself from aerial attacks, especially when you trigger a Power Clash. Perfect Guards are invaluable here due to the frequent chaining of flying kicks. Evading (though not diving) can also be effective, although you might find yourself disoriented while tracking it. Stay in open areas to avoid battling with the camera in addition to the monster.

Keeping Seregios grounded should be a top priority, though it's easier said than done given its frequent hopping. Setting traps is extremely beneficial if you can lure the monster into attacking them. If you don't have any traps, don't worry—Seregios often moves to Area 8 and rests near the Vine Traps. It occasionally shifts to Area 5, which features Sharp Crystal Pillars that can be toppled with your slinger. Use these opportunities to deal significant damage and keep the beast stunned. If you're looking for a simpler method, deploying Flash Pods while Seregios is airborne will cause it to crash down and remain stunned for a few crucial seconds. This is arguably the easiest way to secure some free damage. Focus on its legs, as they are its weak point.

Speaking of vulnerabilities, Seregios occasionally offers a prime chance to target its weak spots. Some diving attacks will expose a glowing red area that you can Focus Strike. Capitalizing on this can lead to a knockdown, which is always advantageous. Another threat to be aware of is Seregios' ranged scale-flinging attacks. It can launch scales while shaking its head on the ground or swiping its tail in mid-air. These scales cause the rarely seen Bleeding effect, inflicting damage every time you attack or move. Given how frequently you'll be dodging, this can become a significant issue. Bringing skills or talismans with high Bleeding Resistance will be very helpful. Alternatively, carry items like Wild Jerky, Well-Done Steak, and Sushifish Scale to treat bleeding.

Tempered Seregios poses an exceptionally tough challenge. Its attacks are more frequent and take large chunks out of even the strongest armors. Perfect Guards are essential due to the substantial chip damage you might receive. Similarly, the Evade Extender or Evade Window skills are crucial if you cannot guard. Being knocked down when the monster has multiple kicks ready is not ideal. Avoid being overly aggressive with long combos, maintain your health, and appreciate anyone assisting you with a Hunting Horn. You'll need all the buffs you can get to overcome the Tempered version. <h2>Seregios’ Rewards</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614046" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614046"><img alt="Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614046 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485220718511545.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614046">Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Seregios balances the line between frustrating and thrilling to hunt, making these rewards all the more satisfying. Below is a list of every Seregios material drop, organized by drop frequency. Seregios Carver (100% chance for breaking the Legs) Seregios Scraper (100% chance for breaking the Wings) Seregios Slavescale Seregios Airblade Seregios Breacher (100% chance for breaking the Head) Seregios Impaler (100% chance for breaking the Tail) Seregios Certificate S Seregios Dissenter As with Lagiacrus, some drop rates are extremely low. Saving an investigation that offers a Seregios Dissenter as a Bonus Reward is the most reliable way to obtain this rare material. <hr/> Monster Hunter Wilds is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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How To Overcome The Deadly Divekicks Of Monster Hunter Wilds‘ Seregios And Emerge Victorious

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While Mizutsune presents a challenging battle in Monster Hunter Wild, it pales in comparison to the newly introduced Lagiacrus. Known as the “Lord of the Seas,” Lagiacrus wields formidable attacks with significant reach and features a unique underwater combat phase. Below are some strategies to help you overcome both the regular and Tempered versions of this aquatic adversary. <h2>Locating Lagiacrus</h2> Your initial opportunity to hunt Lagiacrus arises with the “Trembling Blue Currents” mission, accessible after completing “A World Turned Upside Down” and “Forest Doshaguma” in Chapter Five. Following this, Lagiacrus will begin appearing in the Scarlet Forest, Ruins of Wyveria, and the Wounded Hollow. <h2>Exploiting Lagiacrus’s Weaknesses</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614049" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614049"><img alt="Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614049 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485309637756345.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614049">Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Despite its toughness, this foe has several vulnerabilities that can be exploited. Consider these points to enhance your hunting efficiency: Elemental Weaknesses: Fire, Ice Weapon Type Weaknesses: Cut, Blunt Breakable Parts: Head, Back (weak point), Tail (can also be severed), Foreleg Susceptible Status Ailments: Blastblight, Exhaust, Paralysis (less effective), Poison, Sleep, Stun (less effective)

Items and Traps: Flash Pod, Pitfall Trap, Shock Trap <h2>Strategies for Defeating Lagiacrus</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614050" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614050"><img alt="Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614050 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485438906205625.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614050">Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Lagiacrus may initially seem perplexing if you’re unacquainted with this colossal leviathan. Despite taking a Rathalos fireball to the face in its introductory scene, Lagiacrus is susceptible to Fire. Unlike other aquatic creatures, it isn’t weak to Thunder and instead uses Thunder attacks. Therefore, Fire-based weapons and Thunder-resistant armor are highly recommended. Maintaining a +20 Thunder resistance has proven advantageous in my experience. This hunt isn’t as relentless as Arch-Tempered Rey Dau’s nearly infinite lightning strikes, but over half of Lagiacrus’s attacks are electric. Without sufficient resistance, you’re likely to suffer Thunderblight and subsequent stunning. Apart from a few ranged attacks, Lagiacrus’ physical strikes resemble Mizutsune’s, involving substantial ground coverage as it lunges and sweeps its entire body. Unlike hiding beneath Zoh Shia, no area feels particularly safe. Mastery of well-timed guards and evasions is crucial for this battle.

Focusing attacks on the back is an effective strategy to limit some of Lagiacrus’ Thunder assaults and to acquire the rare Lagiacrus Shockspike material. Heavy Bowguns and other long-reach weapons perform well, but Dual Blade users like myself must often rely on traps and mounting. A solid tactic for inflicting damage to the back is dodging through the monster’s massive discharge attack, revealing a Focus Strike opportunity for a brief moment afterward. The environment can be a valuable ally in this encounter. Don’t hesitate to lure Lagiacrus towards Poisoncups, Sporepuffs, or into a turf war with another monster. If it moves to Area 15, activate the Dam Rubble with your slinger for substantial damage and a temporary knockdown.

As the battle progresses, Lagiacrus will retreat to the newly added Area 19. It briefly surfaces at the edge of Area 13, where triggering Unstable Rubble can knock it out of the water. Regardless of whether you disrupt its path, you’ll eventually track it to Area 19. Continue the assault to force the creature to dive into the nearby water, allowing you to engage the “Lord of the Seas” in its natural habitat. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614051" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614051"><img alt="Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614051 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485458887869881.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614051">Screenshot: Capcom / Samuel Moreno / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Remember that underwater combat lacks the depth of standard encounters. While you can move freely and use the Evade button, your primary tool is the slinger. Use it to drop Submerged Rubble, gather Piercing Pods, or latch onto Lagiacrus similarly to Mounting. This approach is the most effective for dealing significant damage during this phase.

Inflict sufficient damage on Lagiacrus during this stage to trigger an impressive cinematic where your hunter delivers a powerful blow, shifting the battle back to land. If not enough damage is dealt, the aquatic serpent will quickly generate a whirlpool, releasing a massive electrical discharge. Swim away swiftly to avoid losing most of your health or fainting. Either way, the fight will resume on land for the final showdown. Play strategically, and victory will be yours soon enough. Tempered Lagiacrus significantly escalates the challenge. Attacks are often chained together and inflict considerable damage. Evasion tends to be a more effective strategy than blocking these assaults. I’ve found success with the Rey Dau Gamma armor, crafted from battling Arch-Tempered Rey Dau. In addition to high Thunder Resistance, it provides numerous useful skills for both offense and defense. Incorporate Evade Window and Partbreaker decorations to enhance your combat capabilities.

<h2>Lagiacrus’s Material Drops</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614052" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614052"><img alt="Screenshot: The Obtainable Materials page for Lagiacrus, highlighting the Lagiacrus Claw+ material." class="size-full wp-image-2000614052 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485485999850937.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614052">Screenshot: The Obtainable Materials page for Lagiacrus, highlighting the Lagiacrus Claw+ material.</figcaption></figure> Defeating the “Lord of the Seas” is rewarding not only for the victory but also for the parts you can collect. Below is a list of all Lagiacrus materials, organized by their drop frequency. Lagiacrus Claw+ (100% chance for breaking the Foreleg) Lagiacrus Hide+ Lagiacrus Scale+ Lagiacrus Shockspike (100% chance for breaking the Back) Lagiacrus Horn+ (100% chance for breaking the Head) Lagiacrus Tail (100% chance for breaking the Tail) Lagiacrus Certificate S Lagiacrus Sapphire I must emphasize that the drop rates for the rarer materials from the new Title Update 2 monsters are quite low. If obtaining the Lagiacrus Sapphire with its minimal 1%-2% drop rate proves challenging, it might be wise to wait for a hunt that offers the material as a Bonus Reward and then save that investigation. This increase in difficulty is precisely what the community has been requesting. Hopefully, Capcom will continue to deliver even more challenging monster battles in the future.
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Monster Hunter Wilds‘ Lord Of The Sea Represents A New Level Of Challenge

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In today's gaming world, numerous video games either narrate a grand story that you experience once before moving on, or they push you to spend money on cosmetics and battle passes in free-to-play models, seemingly indefinitely. However, if you explore the indie gaming scene, you'll discover true gems. One such gem is RimWorld. As described by its creator, Tynan Sylvester, it’s a story-generator where the pawns you manage and the decisions you make weave an ongoing narrative. With the release of its latest expansion, Odyssey, featuring gravships, additional biomes, new creatures, and more quests and rewards, now is a fantastic time to dive into RimWorld. I might be a bit biased, having spent nearly 700 hours playing it. But join me, and you might also realize what makes this game so unique. <h2>What exactly is RimWorld?</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614061" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614061"><img alt="Screenshot: Ludeon Studios" class="size-full wp-image-2000614061 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485687779427769.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614061">Screenshot: Ludeon Studios</figcaption></figure> The colony sim genre experienced a revival with the advent of RimWorld. Previously, it was somewhat niche yet had a dedicated following, largely thanks to Dwarf Fortress. RimWorld isn’t about a fixed storyline; it’s about the narratives you create in real-time. In this game, intelligent AI storytellers, such as Randy Random, modify your experience based on your current situation. If you're thriving with plenty of food and resources, you might soon face a swarm of man-eating chinchillas devastating your base and its crops. It’s all part of the unique experience. This unpredictability is why those who love RimWorld truly adore it. They don't play for just ten or twenty hours; they play for thousands of hours. They want to see what unfolds in the next episode of a cannibal colony meets The Sims!

To give you a glimpse of what might occur in a colony, here's an excerpt from a review I wrote on Steam about the game, which I believe perfectly captures the essence of the RimWorld experience: “I embarked on an ice sheet challenge with a lone colonist. Thanks to the multitude of mods, my colonist soon encountered a talking tree in the barren land. His mind was forever changed. It wasn’t long before the friendly Lafayette was muttering to himself and chanting in strange tongues. He began to worship Cthulu in the mountains—alone and with dwindling supplies. It didn’t matter. The ancient god demanded sustenance of his own. Raiders came to plunder; none survived. They were placed upon the sacrificial table and offered to the tentacled one.” <h2>Tips for new players to avoid a colony crisis</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614062" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614062"><img alt="Screenshot: Ludeon Studios" class="size-full wp-image-2000614062 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485705160623545.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614062">Screenshot: Ludeon Studios</figcaption></figure> If you’re a new player who recently bought RimWorld on sale, I offer my condolences. No, not a welcome or ‘nice to have you here’. Just, I’m sorry. You’re either about to lose countless hours of your free time or experience such frustration as your first colony collapses that you might never play the game again.

If you fall into the former group, here are some tips to help you withstand the challenges of Randy Random and Cassandra Classic: Don’t hesitate to pause the game. Although the default game speed isn’t overwhelmingly fast, there's a lot of terrain to explore, including areas beneath mountains, colonists to manage, animals to hunt, and monsters to evade. Your attention will be pulled in multiple directions simultaneously every few seconds, so pause to give yourself some breathing room.

Defend your colony at all costs. After crash-landing on the planet, there are a few essentials to address first: food, shelter, and safety. These three pillars are crucial to your colony’s success, yet many new players overlook safety. They assume building within a mountain like a dwarf ensures their survival. It doesn’t. You’ll want to consider traps, sandbags, and other defensive measures. Build for efficiency, not aesthetics. Once you gain more experience, you can start designing bases with style or whatever Reddit suggests these days. For now, focus on efficiency. Wood burns, granite doesn’t. Your refrigerator and kitchen may remain in the same room to eliminate wasted time. Your Research Bench, unlike other workbenches, requires a sterile environment to boost your colonists’ research rate, so separate it from the rest of the crowd.

I could continue indefinitely, but these tips will give you a strong start. <h2>Exploring the wild side of RimWorld: modding</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614063" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614063"><img alt="Screenshot: Valve / Ludeon Studios / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614063 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="718" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485721770067385.jpg" width="1145"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614063">Screenshot: Valve / Ludeon Studios / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> RimWorld attracts tens of thousands of players daily and has an all-time peak player count exceeding 62,000. It’s safe to say people love the game. And being on PC, the modding community is fervently active. Truly, you can find total conversion mods that transform RimWorld into Warhammer 40,000 or The Witcher 3. Whatever you need or desire, the modding community provides! Quality of Life mods, such as enhanced storage solutions, improved pawn control, pawn editors, a better camera, and must-haves like interaction bubbles that add flavor to your characters.

Content mods, including additional weapons, vehicles, animals, workbenches, hygiene, oil production industries, sushi cooking, fishing, mining, refrigerators, a Roomba, giant crops reminiscent of Stardew Valley, and of course, anime characters. Total conversion mods, such as those for Dune, The Witcher, Warhammer 40,000, Killzone, a medieval setting, a zombie apocalypse, and much more. Adult mods, such as…you know what, I explored the offerings at Loverslab specifically for this point, and I feel uneasy. There’s a lot, from furry content to animated features for colonists. <h2>What do people think about RimWorld?</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000614064" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000614064"><img alt="Screenshot: Valve / Ludeon Studios / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000614064 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485744167650745.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000614064">Screenshot: Valve / Ludeon Studios / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> To start with, it's one of the highest-rated games on Steam. But if you seek a professional's perspective, Rock Paper Shotgun describes it as a “wonderful fiasco. But it doesn’t take long to realise that this is something special.”

Would you like to hear from everyday players? On Steam, a user named Detrail commented: “This is quite simply, the best game ever made. Nothing will top it.” Another user, Black Dog, says, “2,000 hours in, I can say it’s okay.” As someone with roughly 700 hours and counting, I can vouch for its captivating nature. No two games are alike, with some colonies disintegrating within days of planetfall, while others endure significant and minor disasters until your pawns feel almost godlike. <hr/> RimWorld is currently available on Windows PCs, and its latest expansion, Odyssey, was released on July 11.
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You Owe It To Yourself To Play RimWorld In 2026

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<nav><ul class="ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1"><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Blight</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Burn</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Corruption</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Despair</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Frostbite</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Paralysis</li><li class="ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2">Poise Break</li></ul></nav></div>
In Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, there are seven distinct status effects. Five of these are timed debuffs, while the remaining two are applied immediately upon infliction. However, each is equally perilous under certain circumstances. It’s crucial to always equip gear that shields you from the status effects prevalent in your current environment. Additionally, there are specific items you can resort to when necessary. Let’s delve into these status effects and explore how to counteract them. <h2>Blight</h2> Blight is a particularly annoying status effect that continuously reduces your maximum health as long as the debuff persists. To combat Blight, consider the following approach: Utilize an Emerald Lotus Seed to either reduce Blight buildup or completely cure the status. <h2>Burn</h2> Burn ignites you, causing rapid health loss while the debuff remains active.

The following measures can cure Burn: Employ a Fire Lotus Seed to either alleviate Burn buildup or eliminate the status. Take a Flameward Pill to temporarily boost your fire resistance. Move swiftly to reduce the duration of the debuff. <h2>Corruption</h2> Corruption acts similarly to a typical poison effect, slowly sapping your health while the debuff is active. To rid yourself of Corruption, you can: Use a Purple Camellia to either lessen Corruption buildup or cure the status entirely. <h2>Despair</h2> Despair causes instant death upon application. To handle Despair, you should: Use a Mind Lotus Seed to diminish Despair buildup. <h2>Frostbite</h2> Frostbite halves your maximum stamina while the debuff is active. Here are some ways to manage Frostbite: Use a Sapphire Lotus Seed to either reduce Frostbite buildup or cure the status. Consume a Spicy Soup to not only alleviate Frostbite buildup and cure the status but also provide temporary immunity to environmental frostbite. Take a Kong Wine or Everblend Brew to enhance your resistance to frostbite temporarily and instantly restore all your HP. 

 <h2>Paralysis</h2> Paralysis reduces your overall damage through lightning while the debuff is active. To deal with Paralysis, you can: Use a Stormward Pill to temporarily boost your lightning resistance. <h2>Poise Break</h2> Poise Break inflicts damage immediately upon application. To address Poise Break, consider the following: Utilize a Topaz Lotus Seed to reduce Poise Break buildup. Apply an Arnica Ointment to both lessen Poise Break buildup and heal a small amount of HP. Ultimately, you can also use a Fixed Origin Pill to cure all status ailments and bolster your resistance to them, so it’s wise to keep some in reserve. Ideally, though, you’ll be able to avoid these status effects by equipping armor that defends against them. Remember, it’s smarter to work efficiently than to work harder! <hr/> Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is currently available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Wuchang: Fallen Feathers: Every Status Effect And How To Cure It

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Donkey Kong Bananza stands as the latest installment in one of Nintendo’s most enduring franchises, offering a thrilling experience for fans eager to smash through obstacles. This time, players exclusively control Donkey Kong, with familiar allies like Diddy and Dixie appearing as non-playable characters in supporting roles. So, what does this mean for the potential of co-op gameplay? Let's delve into it. <h2>Is there co-op in Donkey Kong Bananza?</h2> For those hoping to enjoy Donkey Kong Bananza alongside a friend or family member, there’s exciting news: The game includes a co-op feature! Another player can join in to help conquer levels, though it may not be in the way you’d expect. So, what exactly can you do with this feature? In Donkey Kong Bananza, co-op doesn’t involve splitting the screen or giving the second player full control over a separate DK-like character in the game world. Instead, it allows them to take charge of Donkey Kong’s charming companion, Pauline, as she rides on his shoulder. Consequently, the second player has a more limited range of actions and doesn’t get to experience the rolling, punching, or momentum that comes with playing as the game's main star.

Nevertheless, Pauline’s role is far from insignificant. She’s quite valuable! When controlling Pauline, the second player can duplicate materials found throughout a level and then hurl them at enemies or obstacles to inflict damage. This ability is useful for clearing paths and is particularly advantageous when dealing with bosses. You can dive into Donkey Kong Bananza through local co-op or online play. Even better, with GameShare, you can temporarily invite a friend or family member (especially younger players) to join your game on their own Switch or Switch 2, even if they don’t own the game. The player controlling Pauline doesn’t need to worry about ability cooldowns and can freely engage, adding an extra layer of fun and chaos to the game. Like many Nintendo titles, this creates ample opportunities for playful interactions and delightful discoveries. It’s an absolute blast. While the co-op mode in Donkey Kong Bananza might be somewhat limited compared to other full-fledged co-op games, it’s still a fantastic way for younger or casual gamers to get in on the action. Whether you’re playing solo or inviting a friend along, Donkey Kong Bananza is available now for the Nintendo Switch 2.
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Don’t Sleep On Donkey Kong Bananza‘s Co-Op Mode

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Accumulating coupons in the Zone was already quite simple. However, for those of us who have invested tens or even hundreds of hours in S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, repeatedly tackling the same side quests for cash can become more tedious than battling the mutants themselves. Fortunately, update 1.5 introduces a new way to make money: Hunting! Now, you can hunt and skin mutants for rare resources like fangs, tusks, and tentacles, which you can sell for a profit. It might seem straightforward to just head out and start hunting, but there’s a more profitable, albeit riskier, method to trophy hunting in the Zone! <h2>Understanding mutant hunting</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000571972" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000571972"><img alt="Screenshot: GSC Game World / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000571972 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283485979921089977.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000571972">Screenshot: GSC Game World / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Upon securing your first mutant trophy, such as a Boar Fang, you might notice the item card suggests its value is about 2,000 coupons. Sadly, you won't actually receive 2,000 coupons. My excitement turned to disappointment when I brought my first trophy to a trader, and Huron (Garbage) offered a mere 700 coupons—less than half of the expected value. This pattern holds true for most hunts: You’ll track down mutants across the Zone, perhaps one in three will drop an item, and you’ll earn a few hundred coupons. So, how can you boost your earnings? <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000571985" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000571985"><img alt="Screenshot: GSC Game World / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000571985 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486001563698617.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000571985">Screenshot: GSC Game World / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Depending on your progress in the game, unlocking STC Malachite can open up a wealth of opportunities. The scientists there pay well and always have tasks available. In particular, Viktoria Dorozhnyuk, a local merchant, offers contracts for mutant parts, which the local scientific community will pay handsomely for to study the Zone’s fauna. For instance, she’ll reward you with thousands of coupons for a collection of eyeballs. It’s a much more profitable and engaging option than freelance hunting in the wilderness. <h2>Identifying which mutants to hunt</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000571998" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000571998"><img alt="Screenshot: GSC Game World / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000571998 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486024061945273.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000571998">Screenshot: GSC Game World / Brandon Morgan / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Many of the game’s adversaries, such as the Blind Dogs, Fleshes, and Boars, spawn randomly across the Zone. You might find yourself wandering through an abandoned town, only to be ambushed by Fleshes. Or, while navigating the woods, you could be charged by a group of Boars. If you’re aiming for more profitable mutant encounters, consider these options: Pseudo Giants (Duga) Bayuns (Duga) Bloodsuckers (Rostok) Rodents (Rostok) Poltergeist (Burnt Forest) Controller (Cordon) Stalker 2 is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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You Could Be Earning So Much More For Hunting Mutants In Stalker 2

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As you journey through Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, you will occasionally encounter items or locations that emit a shimmering blue mist. These are known as Faces of the Past. By interacting with these areas, you'll be presented with a simple gesture puzzle. Successfully performing the correct gesture will reward you with valuable items, including useful consumables and additional Red Mercury Essences for acquiring skills. Here is a comprehensive guide to all the gesture spots in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers and the gestures required for each one. <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 1</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572332" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572332"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572332 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486114474362297.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572332">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This statue is located just down the stairs outside Shu Sanctum. Dialogue: Pay your respects before the God of Shu’s statue to connect with faces of the past. Solution: Worship Gesture <hr/> <h2> </h2> <h2>Face of the Past 2</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572346" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572346"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572346 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486138281231801.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572346">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This statue is situated in Worship’s Rise and can be found by following the path past the tree you kick over to create a shortcut back to the second floor of Shu Sanctum.

Dialogue: Look to the horizon to connect with faces of the past. Solution: Gaze Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 3</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572363" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572363"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572363 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486156820055481.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572363">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is a vase located on the edge of a cliff in the cave you enter after using the Reverent Temple Key. Dialogue: Master Tai Chi to access the Primordial Deity’s Wisdom. Solution: Tai Chi Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 4</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572377" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572377"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572377 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486175895750073.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572377">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This wooden marker is located right by the shortcut ladder that leads back down to the Hillswatch shrine. Dialogue: The Tomb of the Apothecary; it seems you can investigate the loose mound of dirt.

Solution: Examine Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 5</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572392" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572392"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572392 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486198326887865.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572392">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This shrine is built into a cliffside and can be found by leaving the Snowy Passage shrine, sticking to the bottom route, then crossing a wooden bridge. Dialogue: Pay your respects at the tomb to connect with faces of the past. Solution: Worship Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 6</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572408" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572408"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572408 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486219180967353.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572408">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This vase is situated on the edge of a cliff near the third beacon tower in Cloudspire Outskirts.

Dialogue: Dance with grace to unlock the Primordial Deity’s wisdom. Solution: Water Dance Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 7</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572423" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572423"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572423 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486238843864505.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572423">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is a scratched table located inside a tiny room found along the main path of the Bride’s Boudoir. Dialogue: Examine the marks here to connect with faces of the past. Solution: Examine Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 8</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572436" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572436"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572436 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486254882883001.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572436">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is a jar of incense found along the main path while exploring Zhenwu Temple.

Dialogue: Pay your respects before the divine statue to connect with faces of the past. Solution: Worship Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 9</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572450" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572450"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572450 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486274008909241.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572450">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is a pinwheel in the area directly behind the Bai Mansion shrine. Dialogue: Examine the marks here to connect with faces of the past. Solution: Examine Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 10</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572466" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572466"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572466 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486305969505721.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572466">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is a massive, blood-filled goblet found by taking the path to the right of the Bo Capital Entrance shrine.

Dialogue: Pay your respects to the Primordial Deity’s teachings. Solution: Worship Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 11</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572480" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572480"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572480 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://kotaku.com/app/uploads/2026/07/561e8250b1a2c80963fd2d737361e3e5.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572480">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This pinwheel is found beside He Youzai just before the elevator to the Featherfall Marsh in the Bo Capital. Dialogue: Ring the belled pinwheel to connect with faces of the past. Solution: Twirl the Pinwheel Gesture <hr/> <h2>Face of the Past 12</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572496" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572496"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572496 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486339926590905.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572496">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is a large gravestone located in the area where you face and defeat Zhao Yun in the Mt. Zhenwu region. Dialogue: Pay your respects at the gravestone and heed the hero’s final will. Solution: Worship Gesture <hr/> Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Every ‘Face Of The Past’ Location In Wuchang, And Which Gestures To Use On Them

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One thing almost every soulslike fan can agree on is that fashion often takes precedence over stats. It’s true! Many of us will wear subpar armor just to maintain a stylish appearance. That's what makes it so fantastic when a game offers transmog without any drawbacks, allowing us to equip the best armor for our character without compromising on style. Similar to its respeccing system, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers excels with its transmog feature. You have access to this feature right from the start, enabling you to change your appearance as soon as you acquire new armor. Even better, you can do this at any time by accessing the equipment menu, and it doesn't cost anything—no materials required! Here’s how you can transmog your gear in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers. <h2>How to transmog your gear in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers</h2> To transmog your gear in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, first open your menu and navigate to the equipment tab. Here, you’ll find four types of armor: Head, Chest, Bracers, and Legs. As long as you have a piece of gear equipped, you’ll see an option at the bottom of the screen that says “Alter Equipment.” Press the corresponding button to access a list of all your available armor, then press “Confirm” on the option you wish to use as a transmog for your equipped gear.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572529" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572529"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572529 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486448055748025.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572529">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> If you wish to remove any transmog applied to a piece of gear, simply return to the alteration menu and look for an option at the bottom of the screen that says “Remove Alteration,” then click the corresponding button. This will reset the piece of gear to its default appearance. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572546" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572546"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572546 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486469748688313.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572546">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> As for whether or not you should experiment with transmog, my answer is a definite yes! This game features some of the most impressive armor I've seen in a soulslike in quite some time, and it's certainly worth mixing and matching pieces to achieve the perfect look. More importantly, transmog proves especially useful because you’ll likely want to change equipment frequently in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, as many areas contain dangerous status effects. If you require Corruption protection but dislike the appearance of the armor, just transmog it to resemble your preferred armor set.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572559" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572559"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572559 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486492632810937.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572559">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> For example, in the photo above, I'm wearing armor with excellent Corruption protection, but you wouldn’t guess it. Instead, I'm rocking the Pirate Set recently gifted by an NPC. I look awesome while still having all the protections needed for the game area I'm currently exploring. Cool, right? So, go ahead and experiment with Wuchang: Fallen Feathers’ transmog until you find something that truly matches your style. And since you can change it on the fly, you're not limited. If you grow tired of a look, switch it up. You're the master of your aesthetic now. Go forth and fashion with confidence. <hr/> Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is available now on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Don’t Like Your New Armor In Wuchang? Transmog It!

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Occasionally, you need to rethink your strategy by resetting all your skill points. This is particularly relevant in engaging role-playing adventures like Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, which offers a wide array of build possibilities. Fortunately, this soulslike game encourages creativity and experimentation within its skill system, granting you immense freedom to explore various builds and styles. The game never penalizes you for exploring new approaches. Here’s why respeccing in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is truly remarkable. <h2>Respeccing in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers feels revitalizing</h2> Unlike the respec systems in many similar games, you won't need any rare items or resources, nor will you have to spend your hard-earned money or experience when you decide to change things up. Instead, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers allows you to respec whenever you wish with just a few quick button presses. Even better, there are no drawbacks to respeccing. Any Red Mercury Essence or upgrade materials you've used will be fully refunded to you without any negatives. This means you can respec as frequently as you desire, experimenting with entirely new builds or strategies on a whim. Given that the game includes a variety of weapons and numerous options for magic and enhancements, it's wise to try new things as you progress through the adventure.

While most games in the genre feature upgrade paths that make you feel confined to a certain weapon due to the limited availability of higher-tier materials, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers eliminates this by integrating weapon upgrades into the skill tree. This significantly reduces FOMO during your first playthrough. You'll upgrade weapons using Red Feathers, which serve as a universal material applicable to any weapon when slotted into a mastery node. So, if you want to switch from longswords to axes, you can simply respec your Red Feathers to the mastery nodes of that weapon type. Just like that, any axe you wield will have a mastery level equivalent to the Red Feathers you've invested. Want to revert? Just transfer them back to the longsword tree instead. The same applies to magic, skills, and more. It's so refreshing that I might just shed a tear. Whew. Anyway, here's how to make it all happen.

<h2>How to respec in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers</h2> When you're ready to respec in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, visit the Impetus Repository at any shrine to access the game's extensive branching skill tree. You'll find “Reset Points” at the bottom of the screen, so you'll need to press the corresponding button on whichever node you'd like to refund. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000572597" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000572597"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000572597 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486598127945145.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000572597">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Locate a node you wish to refund, press the required button based on your platform of choice, then confirm the prompt that appears. Keep in mind that any nodes placed beyond that one will also be refunded, meaning you'll lose access to any skills or upgrades from them as well. You can even refund all of your skill points by selecting this option at the large Starting Point node in the center of the tree

As previously mentioned, any Red Mercury Essence or upgrade materials you've used will be refunded entirely, allowing you to enhance the mastery of a completely different weapon and redistribute your overall stats however you choose. So, if you find that a particular weapon or build isn't working for you, dive in and try something else entirely. You can always return to your previous build later. What an incredible game. <hr/> Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is available now on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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Respeccing In Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Is Great, Here’s Why

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The gaming landscape seems inundated with soulslikes these days. Yet, for diehard fans of the genre, the thrill of tackling a new, challenging experience nearly every month is exhilarating. Personally, I'm thrilled about it, and you should be too. If you’re a fan eagerly anticipating Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, you're likely captivated by its sleek combat and the rich backdrop of ancient China. You might also be curious about the game’s length—wondering if it's too brief to justify your time or too extensive to manage alongside other soulslikes you're currently engaged with. Let’s delve into it. <h2>How long does it take to finish Wuchang: Fallen Feathers?</h2> If you aim to breeze through Wuchang: Fallen Feathers’ campaign without lingering too long on side activities, you can likely wrap it up in approximately 40-50 hours. The main storyline offers a substantial journey with numerous expansive, maze-like areas to navigate—not to mention a slew of formidable bosses that you must overcome to proceed to new locations. However, if your goal is to fully immerse yourself in everything Wuchang: Fallen Feathers has to offer, prepare for a significantly larger time commitment. The game boasts multiple endings, encouraging multiple playthroughs, and includes an extensive trophy and achievement list that challenges you to reach your utmost potential.

To earn all the trophies or achievements, you'll need to acquire every weapon and accessory, locate and deliver all items necessary to expand the merchants' inventories, and visit every shrine in the game. Additionally, you’ll need to defeat all bosses and fully upgrade your weapon and healing vessel. That’s a substantial amount of content, so it’s time to dive in. Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs. Plus, it’s a day one release for Game Pass, so if you're subscribed, there's no need to purchase it!
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Wuchang: Fallen Feathers Has A Healthy Runtime You’ll Want To Experience More Than Once

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Wuchang: Fallen Feathers boasts an extensive skill tree brimming with nodes to invest in, offering passive boosts to your stats, enhancements to your special attacks, or even upgrades to the number of healing charges available from your Manna Vase. The best part is that every skill you purchase can be refunded effortlessly with a simple button press, allowing you to freely experiment with various builds and strategies. 
As you progress through the game, you might be inclined to try new things, but you'll face limitations during the initial hours. This is why I strongly recommend unlocking the early skills listed below to be well-prepared for the challenges Wuchang: Fallen Feathers has in store for you. 
Note: These skills can be easily acquired in the early stages of the game when your weapon selection is limited. I chose to focus on the Longsword skill tree due to its significant potential for stunning enemies and delivering relatively fast damage compared to the heavier weapons you might find in the initial areas. If you later discover a preference for a different weapon, rest assured there are comparable skills early in their respective skill trees as well.

<h2>Skyborn Call I</h2> 
Skyborn Call I is the node situated directly to the left of Illusive, which is unlocked by default. 
This skill boosts your maximum Skyborn Might charges by one. Given that Skyborn Might is a crucial component of your arsenal, you'll want to obtain this as soon as possible. With more Skyborn Might at your disposal, you can wield magic more frequently, utilize stronger spells, or unleash multiple powerful melee skills in succession. 

<h2>Manna Capacity &amp; Manna Potency</h2> 
The Manna Capacity and Manna Potency nodes are positioned directly above and below Skyborn Call I, respectively. 
These skills perform exactly as expected: increasing the number of uses and healing power of your Manna Vase. They don’t require Red Mercury Essence for purchase. Instead, you'll need special items found during exploration: Forgotten Remembrance and Lost Remains. You can find a good number of these throughout your journey, and I highlighted two early locations in our beginning tips guide. Check it out if you haven't located them yet.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283279" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283279"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283279 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486758031590841.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283279">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> 
You'll encounter multiple other Manna Capacity and Manna Potency nodes throughout the skill tree, each offering three tiers of upgrades (meaning three upgrades per node), providing ample opportunities to enhance your capacity and healing power. 

<h2>Sword Saint</h2> 
Sword Saint is a node in the Longsword tree, located directly beneath Blink Kick. 
This skill provides a single stack of Skyborn Might after the second hit of your Longsword light attack combo. Since this combo is quick and easy to execute, it serves as an excellent early acquisition to ensure you maintain a steady flow of Skyborn Might stacks. You'll be particularly pleased to have this when combined with the skill below.

<h2>Windforce</h2> 
Windforce is a node in the Longsword tree, available for purchase after acquiring Sword Saint and two Strength upgrades. 
This skill allows you to execute a charged heavy attack much faster if you have a stack of Skyborn Might. With Sword Saint helping you consistently build stacks, along with those gained from skillful dodging, you can perform these charged heavy attacks frequently. This will enable you to stun enemies for critical attacks more swiftly, especially effective against small-to-medium-sized human foes.

<h2>Strong Blade</h2> 
Strong Blade nodes are found in the Longsword tree, accessible on either side of Windforce after purchasing an adjacent node (either Vitality or Endurance). 
<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283280" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283280"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283280 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486780294956473.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283280">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> 
No matter which node you select, this skill will enhance the mastery of the Longsword and boost its damage. It doesn’t require Red Mercury Essence for purchase. Instead, you'll need Faint Red Feathers, which you can find by exploring thoroughly and defeating specific enemies. One example is a small creature in a jar that spits poison at you, often found down optional pathways or hidden in corners among debris.

You will discover more Strong Blade nodes throughout the skill tree, each offering three tiers of upgrades (meaning three upgrades per node), giving you more opportunities to increase your weapon's damage as you delve deeper into the game. As you level these higher, however, you'll require more advanced upgrade materials (feathers). 
<hr/> 
Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is now available on PS5, Xbox Series S/X, and Windows PCs.
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Wuchang: Fallen Feathers: 5 Essential Skills To Unlock Early On

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Wuchang: Fallen Feathers challenges both soulslike newcomers and seasoned players with its demanding combat and perilous world. It's inevitable that you'll experience numerous defeats throughout your journey. Nevertheless, after delving into this captivating and distinctive entry in the genre, I've gathered some tips that might assist you during the initial stages of Wuchang: Fallen Feathers. Let’s explore them. <h2>Experiment with skills and weapons initially</h2> Regarding skills, you should definitely invest in the tree immediately to the left of the Starting Point orb. There are some essential skills to focus on early, such as the Manna Capacity and Manna Potency upgrades for your healing item (more on that below). However, your skill investments should largely depend on your chosen weapon type. As you discover unfamiliar weapon types, the skill tree will present branches for them. Feel free to purchase the first skill for any new tree that appears, then refund it immediately (if desired). This keeps the tree open, allowing you to explore the skills without committing to any yet.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283278" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283278"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283278 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486946204845497.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283278">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> It takes a while to grasp the entire scope of the skill tree, and it’s deeper than you might expect; feeling overwhelmed initially is normal. Since you can respec your skills anytime, spend the first few hours experimenting with different builds using new weapon types you encounter to determine what suits you best. You can always make adjustments later. <h2>Secure these Manna Vase upgrade materials promptly</h2> The rechargeable Manna Vase serves as your main healing source in Wuchang: Fallen Feathers, so capitalize on any skills that offer upgrades as you progress. The Manna Capacity and Manna Potency skills are accessible in the skill tree almost from the start, but require special materials to purchase — Forgotten Remembrance and Lost Remains. The first is located right after defeating the Tang Palace Maid along the main path. Before proceeding through the upper exit, descend to the bottom of the arena and outside to find a chest containing a Forgotten Remembrance.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283288" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283288"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283288 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486970380813753.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283288">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Later on, you'll reach the Lightzen Temple shrine. Proceed through the door behind the shrine to enter an open courtyard with several enemies (one is hiding to the right as you enter). On the courtyard's right side, find a building with a visible chest. Open it to obtain the Lost Remains. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283289" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283289"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283289 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283486993600480697.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283289">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> With these materials, you can acquire the first tier of Manna Capacity and Manna Potency skills from the skill tree, giving you a slight edge in forthcoming battles. Keep an eye out for more Forgotten Remembrances and Lost Remains to continue upgrading your Manna Vase.

 <h2>Refine Red Mercury essence at every opportunity</h2> Refined Mercury Essence is crucial for purchasing most skills in the skill tree, making it one of the game's most valuable resources. Every time you accumulate enough Red Mercury (EXP), return to a shrine and refine it in the Impetus Repository. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283290" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283290"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283290 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487015863846329.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283290">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> This is vital because if you perish before refining Red Mercury, you risk losing a substantial amount. You'll have to return to the spot where you died to reclaim it. If you die again before retrieving it, the Red Mercury is lost permanently. That's quite unfortunate.

Therefore, even if you don't immediately use the Refined Mercury Essence (for whatever strange reason you might have), it's far better to have this permanent resource than to carry unrefined Red Mercury around. Only fools neglect to refine their Red Mercury. Don’t be foolish. <h2>Eliminate those pesky birds you keep hearing</h2> If you hear an annoying bird chirping nearby, search the area to locate the bothersome creature. You'll want to eliminate them—and not solely due to their irritating nature.

These birds often perch on rocks, trees, or structures above you, making them difficult to reach with melee weapons. In such cases, use a spell or throwing knife to dispatch them in one hit. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283291" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283291"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283291 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487034251675065.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283291">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> For defeating these feathered nuisances, you'll receive a consumable item called an Aurum Feather. While you shouldn't use them indiscriminately, they can be invaluable against challenging bosses by temporarily boosting a random attribute—such as health, stamina, or damage dealt by any source. It's a rewarding outcome for dealing with a pesky bird. <h2>You can traverse the broken bridge with the glowing object</h2> Outside the Shu Sanctum, there's a crumbling bridge with a glowing object floating between the two broken sides. While "glowing object" isn't an ideal descriptor, you'll recognize it when you see it, so bear with me.

<figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000283292" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000283292"><img alt="Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000283292 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1080" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487054585660857.jpg" width="1920"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000283292">Screenshot: Leenzee / Billy Givens / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Anyway, there's an invisible path here that you can walk across. That's all. While you'll reach the other side through other routes as part of the area's natural progression, shortcuts are always welcome. It's just a cool little feature. You're not obligated to use it. <hr/> Wuchang: Fallen Feathers is now available on PS5, Xbox Series S/X, and Windows PCs.
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Five Tips For Starting Out In Wuchang: Fallen Feathers

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We've reached the height of summer, marking perhaps the most significant lull in the release schedule until the holiday season. However, this doesn't mean there hasn't been a slew of fantastic releases this week. What it does offer is an opportunity to shine a light on some gems that might otherwise be overlooked. Two games not featured in this week's roundup are the new Soulslike Wuchang: Fallen Feathers and the innovative space pirate heist shooter Wildgate. The former is unexpectedly impressive, and you can read more about it here. The latter is a PVP shooter crafted by former Blizzard developers, and we're still in the process of fully understanding it. Hopefully, more insights will be available next week. Another class-based PVP shooter? In today's market? Yet this one stands out by allowing you to pilot spaceships and pilfer artifacts. I hope it can achieve the "Sea of Thieves in space" adventure I've envisioned for it ever since Wildgate was initially unveiled last year. Meanwhile, here are five other games we suggest you explore this weekend.
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Kotaku’s Weekend Guide: 5 Great Games We Can’t Wait To Get Back To

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The Nintendo Switch 2 is already among the most successful consoles ever released, and its launch was accompanied by a selection of exclusive games that, quite frankly, felt a bit underwhelming. Don’t get me wrong, I am exactly the kind of person who would jump at the chance for a new Mario Kart or a remastered version of a classic 3DS RPG. With Donkey Kong now available, the system is steadily enriching its library. However, once the excitement of rock-smashing and Blue Shell-throwing subsides, the Switch 2 experience largely revolves around backwards compatibility. Nintendo is well aware of this, which is why the company has chosen a select number of titles to receive patches that utilize the enhanced capabilities of the Switch 2. Classic Switch games now run better than ever thanks to these free patches—what more could you want? This isn’t just a rhetorical question, as the answer is actually “several additional improved games that never received Switch 2 patches.” Indeed, many original Switch games actually look and perform better than they ever did, even without specific patches for the new system! It’s not exactly the same as diving back into your Steam backlog with a special edition high-end Toy Story gaming PC, as most games remain constrained by their developers’ hard-coded settings. However, games with uncapped frame rates or performance hiccups generally benefit from more powerful hardware. For instance, the notoriously problematic original Switch port of Batman: Arkham Knight performs significantly better now, even though it remains capped at 30 FPS (Frames Per Second). On the other hand, the RPG cult classic Trials of Mana now achieves 60 FPS on the Switch 2, despite appearing to run at 30 FPS on the original Switch.

While this is impressive, performance enthusiasts have likely already played these third-party games on more powerful systems. But what about games that were only playable on the original Switch and now run noticeably better on the Switch 2? I'm excited to tell you that you’re in the right place, dear Nintendo fan. If you’re eager to explore more ways to make the most of your new handheld gaming device, try these five unpatched games for some surprisingly enhanced experiences. <h2>1: Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282969" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282969"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo" class="size-full wp-image-2000282969 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487229152593337.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282969">Screenshot: Nintendo</figcaption></figure> Overall, games from Koei Tecmo’s Warriors series greatly benefit from the enhanced hardware. Games like Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity were known for experiencing severe slowdowns, which are largely resolved when played on the Switch 2. However, I specifically want to highlight Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition, as it achieves a smooth 60 FPS during gameplay, whether in Docked or Handheld mode. Moreover, Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition is a delightful tribute to the Zelda series and stands out as one of the best Warriors games ever created. The Switch 2 will soon have its own Hyrule Warriors game, but for those eager for some classic hacking-and-slashing now, the first entry in this spinoff series is an excellent choice.

<h2>2: Pokémon Sword &amp; Shield</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282970" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282970"><img alt="Screenshot: The Pokemon Company" class="size-full wp-image-2000282970 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487246953219513.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282970">Screenshot: The Pokemon Company</figcaption></figure> Pokémon Scarlet &amp; Violet are among the most notable games to receive Switch 2 patches, because…well, they really needed it. However, these monster-catching adventures were not the first in the series on the Switch, nor were they the first Pokémon games with performance issues. The previous generation, Pokémon Sword &amp; Shield, experienced performance drops in the Wild Area, and various effects and battle transitions exhibited noticeable slowdowns. These issues appear to be resolved on the Switch 2, though some of the more infamous graphical imperfections persist. Either the tree bothers you or it doesn’t. While other Pokémon games on the system aren’t as notoriously problematic in terms of performance (despite frequent criticism of the series’ visual fidelity), they all generally benefit from the Switch 2 upgrade. Even the Pokémon Let’s Go games run a bit smoother in areas like Viridian Forest. Although it would be great if all the mainline games in Gamefreak’s monster-catching franchise received proper Switch 2 upgrades, for now, it’s an excellent time to catch up on any past generations you might have missed.

<h2>3: Xenoblade Chronicles 2</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282971" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282971"><img alt="Screenshot: Monolith Soft" class="size-full wp-image-2000282971 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487262690248121.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282971">Screenshot: Monolith Soft</figcaption></figure> This spot could honestly belong to any Xenoblade Chronicles game—Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is just the one I have available to test. Monolith Soft’s flagship RPG series has consistently pushed the boundaries of Nintendo’s hardware, fitting expansive and vibrant worlds into hardware that lags a generation behind other home consoles. The results are typically impressive, albeit somewhat compromised. Xenoblade Chronicles 2 in particular suffered from image quality drops due to dynamic resolution scaling, and performance didn’t always maintain 30 FPS either. While I’m not completely certain these issues are entirely resolved after observing Xenoblade Chronicles 2 on my Switch 2 with the naked eye, they are at least significantly reduced. Overall, the experience is just better on the new hardware. The resolution doesn’t appear to dip in the game’s usual trouble spots, and the frame rate doesn’t seem to suffer noticeable hits either. I hope the Xenoblade series gets proper Switch 2 upgrades, as the game could certainly look much sharper if it weren’t limited to such a low resolution (especially in handheld mode). That said, this series offers over 500 hours of content if you aim to complete each game 100%, so it’s perfectly fine to dive into it now.

<h2>4: Super Mario RPG</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282972" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282972"><img alt="Screenshot: Nintendo" class="size-full wp-image-2000282972 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487281799497145.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282972">Screenshot: Nintendo</figcaption></figure> To address the technicalities right from the start, technically Super Mario RPG isn’t a Switch-exclusive game since it originally launched on the Super Nintendo. However, the remake of the game is, and it didn’t always maintain 60 FPS throughout its runtime on the original Switch. This was most noticeable in the game’s opening, but occasional slowdowns could be felt elsewhere too. Fortunately, the Switch 2 smooths out these issues effortlessly. Between the remaster of Paper Mario: The Thousand-Year Door and the brand new Mario &amp; Luigi: Brothership, recent years have been fantastic for Mario RPG fans. That latter title also benefits from the Switch 2 hardware! If you’ve never tried these quirky adventures, you’re in for a delightful experience whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore RPG enthusiast.

<h2>5: Bayonetta 3</h2> <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282973" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282973"><img alt="Screenshot: Platinum Games" class="size-full wp-image-2000282973 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="1434" loading="lazy" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487300858414521.jpg" width="2550"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282973">Screenshot: Platinum Games</figcaption></figure> Up to this point, we’ve discussed performance improvements in games that were mostly okay without them. However, in a fast-paced action game like Bayonetta 3, you’ll truly appreciate the difference that extra frames can provide. On the original Switch, Bayonetta 3 generally aimed for 60 FPS but often fell short. Instead, the game hovered around 50 FPS and could drop significantly lower during certain attack animations. It wasn’t unplayable, but there was clearly room for improvement. This is exactly what Bayonetta 3 on the Switch 2 delivers. Not only do you get those smooth 60-FPS graphics (where possible in the game), but the Switch 2 even resolves some audio desync bugs that occasionally appeared in the original. Load times are also significantly faster. Even if we weren’t limiting this list to Switch-exclusive games, Bayonetta 3 would still be one of the most improved titles on Nintendo’s next-generation hardware. As with Xenoblade Chronicles, it would be great for Bayonetta 3 to receive a proper Switch 2 upgrade. If nothing else, the visuals would be more vibrant if the resolution were increased, especially in handheld mode. But even if that never happens, there’s no denying that Bayonetta 3 is better than ever before.
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5 Switch-Exclusive Games That Run Better On Switch 2 (Without A Patch)

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 Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 proudly displays its Final Fantasy influences, and as expected, it includes a selection of optional super bosses. Among these, Simon stands out as a particularly challenging adversary at the game's conclusion. Simon is encountered in the initial expedition, eventually succumbing to the Curator in the Abyss, where he resides within Renoir’s Drafts dungeon. As the toughest boss in the game, defeating him grants a special trophy/achievement. His battle is a two-part encounter with three distinct phases. Although formidable, Simon is not unbeatable. Let’s discuss a strategy to efficiently defeat him, bypassing his third phase entirely. This method remains effective even after the developers weakened Maele, the game's strongest character.

 <h2>Team Composition and Setup</h2> Our team will consist of Verso, Maele, and Sciel. Ensure that both Verso and Maele reach at least level 90. Allocate skill points to maximize their Might, Agility, and Defense attributes. This setup ensures they inflict maximum damage. For Verso’s Picto setup, equip: Death Bomb Breaking Death SOS Power This configuration elevates his Luck stat to around 70 percent, enhancing his critical hit rate. Equip him with the Contoroso weapon, which allows Verso to enter S Rank mode upon breaking an enemy at weapon level 20. For Maele’s Picto setup, equip her with: The One Cheater Energy Master The One reduces her HP to just 1, but grants a 108% critical rate. While this might seem risky, our goal is to prevent Simon from attacking. Equip her with the Medalum weapon, crucial for starting Maele in Virtuose Stance, providing a 200 percent damage bonus on her next attack.

 Ensure Maele has Last Chance and Stendhal skills equipped. Sciel’s role is purely supportive, without dealing damage. However, it’s essential to equip her with the Cheater Lumina. Customize the rest as you see fit, but boost her Agility stat to expedite her turns. Achieve this by equipping Pictos like Energising Turn, Augmented First Strike, and Energising Attack I. Also, make sure she has the Intervention skill equipped For Luminas, prioritize those that enhance damage output, especially for Maele. Verso, conversely, requires specific Luminas to survive this boss battle.

 If you lack sufficient LP (Lumina Points) to equip all recommended Luminas, equip as many as possible, prioritizing the essential ones. Painted Power is indispensable as it allows characters to surpass the game’s initial 9,999 damage cap (Editor’s note: Equip Painted Power to every character as soon as you acquire this Picto). With this strategy, expect to deal millions in damage. Verso’s required and highly recommended Luminas include: Auto Death (required) Breaker (required) Breaking Attack (required) Burning Death (required) Break Specialist (required) Painted Power (required) Revive Paradox (required) Cheater (required) Energy Master (required) Second Chance (required) At Death’s Door Augmented Aim Breaking Shots Burn Affinity Burning Mark Burning Shots Confident Fighter Critical Break Critical Burn Critical Stun Critical Vulnerability Critical Stun Critical Weakness Double Mark Double Burn Energising Powerful Energising Revive Energising Shots (required) Energising Start Energising Start II Energising Start III Energising Start IV Exposing Break First Offensive First Strike Fueling Break Glass Cannon Immaculate Piercing Shot Powerful Revive Protecting Shots Quick Break Shortcut Slowing Break Sniper Staggering Attack Stay Marked Teamwork Warming Up Maele will have a similar Lumina setup, albeit with some notable differences:

 Accelerating Last Stand At Death’s Door Augmented First Strike Auto Rush Confident Fighter Critical Burn Critical Vulnerability Energising Start I Energising Start II Energising Start III Energising Start IV Energising Turn First Offensive First Strike Full Strength Glass Cannon Immaculate In Media res Inverted Affinity Painted Power (required) Powerful Mark Revive Paradox Roulette (highly effective, yet risky) Rush On Powerful (required) SOS Power (required) SOS Rush (required) Shortcut Staggering Attack Stay Marked Stun Boost Tainted Teamwork Warming Up The primary distinction between Verso and Maele’s Lumina setups is that Maele lacks the ones enhancing the Free Aim ability, which is Verso’s main role. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282990" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282990"><img alt="Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / George Yang / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000282990 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487396891198905.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282990">Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / George Yang / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Roulette is an optional Lumina for Maele due to its gamble nature. It makes Maele’s attacks either deal 50 percent or 200 percent of their intended damage. If you’re fortunate and hit the extra 200 percent, Simon will fall quickly. If not, Sciel’s Intervention skill can transfer her next move to Maele, enabling another attack if necessary.

 <h2>Attack Plan</h2> The battle with Simon is divided into three phases. Our aim is to eliminate him during the first two. At the fight’s onset, Verso’s Auto Death activates, causing his demise and triggering Death Bomb, Breaking Death, Breaker, Breaking Attack, Burning Death, and Break Specialist. This leaves Simon vulnerable to Breaking, allowing more damage. However, Second Chance revives Verso immediately, activating Revive Paradox, and allowing him to act first. <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282991" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282991"><img alt="Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / George Yang / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000282991 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487418986792377.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282991">Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / George Yang / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Enter Free Aim mode with Verso and shoot Simon until he’s Broken. With the Energising Shots Lumina equipped, Verso has a chance of recovering an extra AP with every shot he fires. When you’re left with five AP, you can use his Phantom Star skill to do some extra damage. Do as much damage as you can before Maelle’s upcoming turn where she’ll do a vast majority of the remaining damage to take out Simon’s first phase. Next up should be Maelle. Thanks to Medalum, she’ll start in Virtuose Stance, giving her next attack an extra 200% damage boost. Immediately use

 <figure aria-describedby="caption-attachment-2000282992" class="wp-caption alignnone" id="attachment_2000282992"><img alt="Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / George Yang / Kotaku" class="size-full wp-image-2000282992 cursor-pointer" decoding="async" height="720" sizes="(max-width: 639px) 100vw, (max-width: 1023px) calc(100vw - 2rem), (max-width: 1258px) calc((100vw - 3.68rem) * 2 / 3), 800px" src="https://asserts.gameseeks.com/icon/283487435646567865.jpg" width="1280"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text" id="caption-attachment-2000282992">Screenshot: Sandfall Interactive / George Yang / Kotaku</figcaption></figure> Stendahl. That should cleanly defeat Simon in one hit, especially with the further 200% boost if you’re lucky. However, if Simon still stands, Maelle can act twice in a row thanks to the Cheater Picto she has equipped. You can enter Virtuose Stance again with Last Chance and use Stendahl once more. A cutscene will play and Simon will enter his second phase. The strategy to take him out is exactly the same as the first phase. After Verso breaks him, have Maelle use Stendahl and hope that you get the lucky 200% Roulette bonus on top of Virtuose Stance’s initial 200% damage output. That should be able to take Simon out immediately without him ever even having a chance to move. If Simon still stands at this point, you can try the Last Chance and Stendhal combo again with Maelle. As a last resort, have Sciel use Intervention to pass her turn off to Maelle. At around 30 percent health, Simon will enter his third phase. Here, Simon will forcibly remove Verso, Maelle, and Sciel from the battlefield. This will call in your backup members, Lune and Monoco, to finish off the battle. While it’s certainly still possible to win with these two, as that’s exactly what happened to me, you’ll want to beat Simon as quickly as possible with the strategy outlined in this guide. After defeating Simon, you’ll unlock a trophy/achievement, as well as find a diary entry next to where he was. You’ll also receive 50x Colour of Lumina and 2x Perfect Chroma Catalyst, as well as the Simiso weapon for Verso. It’s one of his best weapons and at weapon level 20, Verso cannot die if he’s currently at A rank during battle. <hr/> Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is now available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows PCs.
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