Silent Hill f: hands-on report

Silent Hill f, a standalone spin-off of the Silent Hill series from developer NeoBards, comes to PlayStation 5 on September 25. We recently had the chance to play the game at its world premiere event in Tokyo, Japan.

Psychological horror set in 1960s Japan

The story begins when Hinako leaves her home to escape from her upset father. Silent Hill f utilizes the same over-the-shoulder perspective as Bloober Team’s 2024 Silent Hill 2 remake, allowing players to move the camera with the right analog stick. Sharing a similar perspective to Hinako adds to the immersion and tension of the game. When you look around the forest surrounding her, you become acutely aware of the danger closing in and feel the overwhelming sense of isolation and entrapment.

Navigate the fog-enshrouded town and survive the deadly horrors from an over-the-shoulder perspective

The sky darkens as Hinako approaches a row of houses along the forestline, and a mysterious fog descends. The authentic 1960s Japanese town, depicted in vivid 4K visuals, evokes a sense of beauty and nostalgia. However, things take a turn after you meet Hinako’s childhood friends. The fog completely engulfs the town, and “higanbana” (red spider lilies) begin blooming from the ground. Worse yet, tentacle-like plants begin creeping and overflowing from the walls. The town’s dramatic transformation enthralled me.

Navigating the maddening, twisting streets of Ebisugaoka

Ebisugaoka features an array of narrow streets intertwining between clustered houses. Blind corners and varying verticality create a complex, maze-like layout. Unlike Silent Hill 2, there are no radios or items to warn you of approaching enemies, so you must remain vigilant and alert to every sound.

Puzzles closely tied to the story

Puzzles are a defining feature of the Silent Hill series, and they feature prominently in this title. During our playthrough, we were able to try out a variety of puzzles inspired by Japanese culture, such as locating the correct “ema” (small wooden prayer tablets) or finding scarecrows that matched certain criteria. Many of these puzzles are deeply connected to the story written by scriptwriter Ryukishi07, and it was intriguing to find out how they were linked to the characters’ emotions and identity.

Close-range combat demands quick-thinking and strategy

Hinako is an average Japanese teenager, so unlike previous titles in the series firearms aren’t an option here. Instead, Silent Hill f has a heavier focus on melee combat. During our demo we got our hands on an iron pipe, a sickle, a dagger, and a naginata polearm. 

Combat features a new Sanity mechanic and counterattacks to target vulnerable enemies. Pressing the R2 button during combat openings combat activates a counter. This doesn’t consume stamina, and if successful, the enemy will get knocked down. You’ll see a special effect appear on the enemy when you can execute the counter. Although Focus mode consumes Sanity, this state can slow down time and create a longer opening, making it easier to deliver a surprise counter. Also, when Hinako’s Focus gauge fills up she can unleash a powerful Focus Attack with the R1 button, which inflicts significant damage. However, the current Max Sanity will decrease, making it harder to go into Focus mode, so you’ll need to determine the prime moments to take advantage of this attack.

Keep an eye on weapon durability

Weapons in Silent Hill f have levels of durability and will break faster the more they’re used. Make sure you carry spare weapons or toolkits to  repair their durability. However, weapons like the dagger and naginata, which can only be used in the Otherworld, have no durability and can be used to your heart’s content.

 Face-to-face with a formidable shrine maiden monster

The demo concludes with an intense battle between Hinako and a grotesque monster dressed as a shrine maiden. Hinako calls this monster “Sakiko” when she confronts it in the Otherworld. 

The shrine maiden’s attacks span a wide range and will keep you on your toes from long range. The monster launches a long-distance attack that makes Hinako flinch while it simultaneously vanishes to cut down her Sanity. However, if you’re able to locate the monster right after it reappears you’ll have a chance to dash and strike while it’s vulnerable.

I walked away from my time with Silent Hill f eager to confront more terrifying enemies and challenging puzzles, as well as explore new areas of the map when the game launches September 25 on PS5.

Here’s The 10 Most Affordable, But Still Awesome, Magic the Gathering x Final Fantasy Cards

Magic: The Gathering’s Universes Beyond set for Final Fantasy has been a huge success, and while there are a whole host of pricey cards, you don’t have to spend a ton of cash to get some great-looking items.

With that in mind, I’ve rounded up some of the best Final Fantasy cards from that set that cost less than $10. Below you’ll find cards that are great for putting in your deck for the way they play, or just fantastic collector’s items like Extended Art or Surge Foil cards.

Here are some affordable Final Fantasy cards, using data from TCGPlayer.

Squall, SeeD Mercenary (Borderless) – $7.72

Final Fantasy 8’s protagonist is available pretty cheaply, so you can add Squall, SeeD Mercenary (Borderless).

Not only does he have the borderless treatment that looks super slick, but he’s able to pull cards from your graveyard right to the battlefield.

Midgar, City of Mako (Borderless) – $5.95

One of the most iconic cities in all of gaming, this version of Midgar, City of Mako (Borderless) taps for black mana, but can also turn sacrifices into card draw.

The extended artwork is really nice, too, showcasing the opening of Final Fantasy 7 with Cloud preparing to leap from the train.

Joshua, Phoenix’s Dominant (Borderless) – $5.55

One of Final Fantasy 16’s most powerful characters, Joshua, Phoenix’s Dominant (Borderless) can flip over to become the Phoenix, and it’s less than $6.

For your Boros deck, he could be great fun.

Aerith Gainsborough (Extended Art) – $5.19

Not only can you buy Aerith Gainsborough (Extended Art) for just over $5 (and dropping), but this artwork from NAKAMURA8 is incredible.

She’s also got a great effect which can build her up and then send her +1 counters elsewhere. I’m not crying, you’re crying.

Kefka, Court Mage – $7.03

Kefka, Court Mage doesn’t come with any fancy treatments for your seven dollars, but you do get one of the Final Fantasy series’ most enduring bad guys, and a transforming clown/demon/thing in Grixis colors.

Zidane, Tantalus Thief (Borderless) (Surge Foil) – $4.77

A borderless surge foil for under $5? Sure, Zidane, Tantalus Thief (Borderless) (Surge Foil) might not be the most powerful card in the set, but his ability could turn the tide of battle in a Boros deck.

The artwork looks incredible, too.

Jill, Shiva’s Dominant (Borderless) – $5.27

She may not have gotten much of the limelight in Final Fantasy 16’s campaign, but Jill (and iconic Summon, Shiva) is a fun card to use.

Jill, Shiva’s Dominant (Borderless) is pretty low cost, can bounce things back to your hand, and turns into a fearsome control tool when she starts preventing blockers and tapping opponents’ lands.

The Darkness Crystal – $3.88

I’m always looking for fun cards in black, and The Darkness Crystal is well worth the sub-$4 pricing here.

It turns opponents’ creatures dying into life gain for you, lowers the cost of black spells, and can even bring an exiled creature back for some big swings.

Kain, Traitorous Dragoon (Borderless) – $3.78

I mean, come on, just look at it. This Kain, Traitorous Dragoon (Borderless) looks incredible.

It’s a relatively low-cost card that has a really interesting mechanic that sees Kain betray you just like he does in Final Fantasy 4. Useful? Maybe, but unique? Yeah!

Summon: Leviathan (Borderless) – $3.53

One of my favorite Final Fantasy Summons, this version of Summon: Leviathan (Borderless) looks amazing.

It’s also a sort of board wipe that can swing as a 6/6 and draws cards, which is an ideal combo, really.

Lloyd Coombes is an experienced freelancer in tech, gaming and fitness seen at Polygon, Eurogamer, Macworld, TechRadar and many more. He’s a big fan of Magic: The Gathering and other collectible card games, much to his wife’s dismay.

Magic: The Gathering’s Latest Expansion Edge of Eternities Looks Almost Completely Sold Out at Amazon On Its Release Day

Fans of Magic: The Gathering have been waiting months to explore the cosmic reaches of the Blind Eternities, and the big day has finally arrived. Edge of Eternities has launched worldwide today, ushering in a new era of space fantasy for the traditionally high-fantasy trading card game.

But if you were hoping to snag your boosters or bundles from Amazon, you’d better hurry, because stock’s selling fast.

The highly anticipated set, which launched today and introduces mechanics like Warp, Void, Station, and Lander tokens alongside the long-awaited return of Slivers and Eldrazi, appears to have flown off Amazon’s digital shelves within hours of release. As of this morning, only a handful of listings remain, and prices are climbing fast, compared to other stores.

For instance, Amazon’s listing for the standard Play Booster Box (30 packs) is hovering at around $163.50, while Bundles, including nine Play Boosters, a foil promo, and a set of borderless Basic Lands, are available from $58.00.

The Pre-release Kit (six packs, dice, and a Traditional Foil Rare/Mythic card) can still be found for about $50.95, but it’s marked with low stock at the time of writing, with there only being a handful of units left.

Outside of Amazon, though, several major US retailers are currently filling the gap for players eager to get their hands on the new set, some at far better prices. Walmart is offering Play Booster Boxes for a slightly lower $159.99, Bundles for $55.99, and both Commander Decks, World Shaper and Counter Intelligence, for around $49 each.

Target has Bundles at $57.99 and Commander Decks for $49.99, while Best Buy is stocking Bundles for $57.99, individual Play Boosters at $5.49, and Collector Boosters for $26.99.

For collectors chasing the new Shock Lands or a chance at borderless planets, these bundles and booster boxes remain the best value, with Walmart’s pricing edging out Amazon’s inflated resales today.

TCGplayer also has similar listings available, but keep in mind that some do come with higher shipping costs.

For UK players, Amazon UK still has Play Booster Boxes listed at around £141.45 with next-day delivery available, making it one of the few regions where stock is not yet under heavy pressure.

With interstellar hype around the new mechanics and stunning card art, demand has clearly blasted past expectations, leaving those hoping for Amazon US stock likely needing to scramble to other retailers to avoid paying aftermarket markups.

Ben Williams – IGN freelance contributor with over 10 years of experience covering gaming, tech, film, TV, and anime. Follow him on Twitter/X @BenLevelTen.

After three deafening hours of its multiplayer, Battlefield 6 sure looks like a Battlefield game

Battlefield 6 releases on October 10th with the unenviable task of being both a quality combined arms FPS, and a successful apology letter to those burned by the series’ previous missteps. To try out its multiplayer ahead of yesterday’s big reveal event, I had to pass through two separate metal detectors at the venue’s doors, which I can only assume were there to prevent infiltration by disgruntled Battlefield 2042 players armed with tins of orange paint.

Still, try it out I did, with most signs pointing towards BF6 being genuine about its promised return to Battlefield staples. The classic four classes instead of specialists. Destruction that has a point beyond spectacle. And most importantly, large-scale multivehicular warfare that isn’t nearly as organised and cinematic as the choreographed trailer.

Read more

Guide: Upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 Games & Accessories For August & September 2025

Star-Crossed lovers.

As the Switch 2 enters its third month in the wild, the new games are coming in slow but steady. The wealth of Switch 1 games old and new that benefit from the new console’s extra power is helping us pass the time between totally brand new S2 games following launch.

Most players have probably still got their hands full with the excellent Donkey Kong Bananza, but Nintendo has a first-party pair lined up for August: the digital-only Drag x Drive arrives mid-month followed by Star-Crossed World, the Switch 2 upgrade and expansion of Kirby and the Forgotten Land.

Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Next Week on Xbox: New Games for August 4 to 8

Next Week on Xbox Hero Image

Welcome to Next Week on Xbox! In this weekly feature we cover all the games coming soon to Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Xbox PC, and Game Pass! Get more details on these upcoming games below and click their profiles for further info (release dates subject to change). Let’s jump in!


Mafia: The Old Country

2K


2

$49.99

Mafia: The Old Country – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Uncover the origins of organized crime in Mafia: The Old Country, a gritty mob story set in the brutal underworld of 1900s Sicily. Fight to survive as Enzo Favara and prove your worth to the Family in this immersive third-person action adventure set during a dangerous, unforgiving era.


GRADIUS ORIGINS

KONAMI


$39.99

$35.99

Gradius Origins – August 7

This collection features 18 versions across all 7 arcade titles in the series, including the first-ever appearance of Gradius III AM Show Version on home consoles: Salamander III, Gradius, Salamander, Life Force, Gradius II: Gofer no Yabou, Gradius III: Densetsu kara Shinwa e, and Salamander II.


Dark Steel Legends

Ocean Media

Dark Steel Legends – August 5

When ambitions clash and destinies are written in blood, combat mastery has its price. That’s why mercenaries flock to the city of Ravenfell, seeking fortune and fame. Enter the world of Fight Legends, a fast-paced, action-packed medieval combat game where your skills and strategy will decide your fate.


Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2

SEGA

$59.99

Demon Slayer -Kimetsu no Yaiba- The Hinokami Chronicles 2 – August 5

Destroy demons with the power of forged bonds and Tanjiro Kamado’s battle continues to unfold on console. Play as Tanjiro and relive the Entertainment District Arc, the Swordsmith Village Arc, and the Hashira Training Arc from the TV anime, “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba!”


Little Helper Cafe Xbox + Windows Bundle

Afil Games

Little Helper Café – August 5
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

In Little Helper Cafe, you control a friendly pet hedgehog who loves helping in the café by pushing sugar cubes into coffee cups, filling holes with macarons, and sliding across honey-covered tiles. After all, every café needs a spiky little helper!


Lost & Found Agency Collector’s Edition

Ocean Media

Lost & Found Agency Collector’s Edition – August 5

Search for missing objects and go to fascinating locations full of riddles and mysteries. Explore dangerous places, decipher clues and uncover the secrets leading to the solution. Find the missing objects and solve the crime, confirming your abilities and intuition. This Collector’s Edition is filled with exclusive bonuses that you won’t find in the standard version.


Witch It

Barrel Roll Games

Witch It – August 5
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

A multiplayer hide & seek game. Hunters are tasked with seeking hidden witches that blend in with the environment – trust no furnishing, grocery, or utensil! Explore and hide within humble villages, exotic islands, and peculiar forests brimming with secrets and surprises for you to discover. Each map contains a variety of prop arrangements, keeping matches unique and exciting every time you play!


Alien Breakout

Eastasiasoft Limited

Alien Breakout – August 6
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Step into the green-skinned role of an extraterrestrial as he attempts to escape from a human lab! Alien Breakout is a side-scrolling precision platformer presented in retro pixel art style. Run, leap and wall jump through 100 puzzling stages of increased complexity as you try to reach the door at the far end of each level.


Bonk ‘N Bash (Xbox Series X/S)

Synnergy Circle Games

Bonk ‘N Bash – August 6
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

A small and hard-headed dinosaur sets off on an adventure to break obstacles, defeat enemies and gather all the lost dinosaur eggs lost after the eruption started. Help our little friend continue the mighty dino lineage by saving all the eggs and avoiding total extinction!


Destination Paradise Collector’s Edition

Ocean Media

Destination Paradise Collector’s Edition – August 6

Players are invited on an immersive hidden object adventure across 20 meticulously crafted chapters, each unfolding in beautiful locations around the world. As you progress through the game, you’ll encounter three distinct scenes within each chapter, presenting a delightful array of challenges.


Ringo’s Roundup

©RedDeer.Games

Ringo’s Roundup – August 6

Meet Ringo, the fluffiest post bunny this side of the mailbox! In Ringo’s Roundup, you’ll plan wild delivery routes by placing wacky Effect Tiles that twist, turn, and toss Ringo’s mail car through vibrant puzzle-packed landscapes!


Parking World

Aerosoft GmbH

Parking World – August 7
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Finally, you are in charge, conquering the toils of car travel – create your perfect parking garage and carefully manage its operation and staff, overcome dynamic events, and get ready to solve everybody else’s parking problems in this sandbox economy simulator for automotive enthusiasts. But fear not eager entrepreneur, if you outgrow the sandbox, the world of parking has problems to solve plenty in stock!


Slopecrashers

byteparrot

Slopecrashers – August 7

Calling all freeriders, powder fanatics, and party-game lovers! Whether you’re chasing nostalgic snowboarding vibes or the thrill of epic races with friends, Slopecrashers has got you covered. Jump into easy-to-play, exhilarating-to-master snowboarding mayhem with a chaotic cast of customizable animal riders.


Jewel Match Solitaire: Winterscapes 2 Collector’s Edition

Ocean Media

Jewel Match Solitaire Winterscapes 2 – August 7

Clear icy tableaus in frosty levels with classic and new solitaire variants like Genghis Khan, Lullaby, or Mammoth! Build fantasy locations in a picturesque winter wonderland with enchanting backgrounds, from a cozy cottage to a snow-covered palace. Undertake quests to collect exclusive winter decorations that bring festive life to the frozen scenes.


Unicorns – The Troll Adventure

Joindots GmbH

Unicorns – The Troll Adventure – August 7
Optimized for Xbox  Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Immerse yourself in an epic fantasy adventure full of magic, courage and unforgettable heroes! In a magical kingdom, noble unicorns guard the powers of light – until dark trolls led by the sinister Gruclock plunge everything into chaos. With Troy’s magical attacks and Sly’s flying skills, you will face dangerous opponents. Together they embark on a journey to save their kingdom and free their friends.


Candy Trail Xbox Bundle

Afil Games

Candy Trail – August 7
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

In Candy Trail, your mission is to guide smiling ice creams along the sweet trails of an enchanted kingdom to the most delicious celebrations of the year! Get ready to solve puzzles on a hexagonal map, where every tile you rotate or swap can mean the difference between a flavor explosion… or a sugar disaster.


Detail Hunter

Gametry LLC

Detail Hunter – August 7

Dive into Detail Hunter, the premier spot-the-difference game that will put your attention to detail to the test! Experience a world of vivid, cartoon-style visuals and challenging puzzles. Explore a variety of dynamic environments, select your difficulty level, and use hints wisely as you race against the clock. Reveal hidden secrets and sharpen your detective skills to become the ultimate detail hunter. Whether you’re aiming to unwind or challenge yourself, this game offers an immersive and exciting experience for keen observers everywhere.


Fruitbus

Silver Lining Interactive


$19.99

$17.99

Fruitbus – August 7
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Fruitbus is a cute culinary adventure, set in an open world where taste is everything. Upgrade your trusty truck and visit a whole world of new destinations together. Discover fresh fruits and vegetables on each island of the Gustum archipelago, learn their customs and cook meals that will make someone’s day.


Mystery Hotel: Hidden Objects (Xbox One & Series)

Two Cakes Studio


$9.99

$8.49

Mystery Hotel: Hidden Objects – August 7
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Try out the role of a detective – solve the riddle of the Hotel Noir! A quiet, picturesque nook, hidden in the highlands of Western Europe. Your arrival at Hotel is clouded by a mysterious murder and only you can get to the truth!


CASE RECORDS: Fear of Abduction

VALNAT LLC

$9.99

Case Records: Fear of Abduction – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A psychological horror game that is part of the universe of the games CASE: Animatronics and CASE 2: Animatronics Survival. The player must play as a 17-year-old female student and solve missing person mysteries by volunteering at the police station of Crowvale, a suburb of Aurora. Patrol and explore the dark corners of the city to solve its terrifying mysteries.


DeviLevel: Try Again

Kanuni Games Oyun Yazılım Pazarlama ve Ticaret Limited Şirketi

DeviLevel: Try Again – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

A trial of patience even hell would give up on! Are you ready to survive a dark world filled with demonic traps and deadly platforms? In this 2D hellish platformer, every step tests your reflexes, memory, and will. One wrong move… and it’s all over. But every death makes you stronger!


Genopanic

Mobirate

Genopanic – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Explore a mysterious, abandoned space station crawling with mutated creatures and hidden dangers. Solve challenging puzzles, discover dark secrets, and uncover the truth behind genetic experiments that have gone wrong.


Hex Cats

Gray Boss Game Studio

Hex Cats – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Twist and move hex pieces to connect yarn threads for playful felines. A charming twist on classic hex pipes puzzle! Featuring 50 handcrafted levels, an original soundtrack, five different scenarios, cute cats, and more.


Xbox Play Anywhere

Knowledge, or know Lady

NiuGamer

Knowledge, or know Lady – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere

Knowledge, or Know Lady is a live-action romance simulation where you, by some ridiculous twist of fate, become the only guy at an all-girls university! Step into this first-person love comedy adventure, where sweetness and chaos await on campus.


Xbox Play Anywhere

Pet Show

QubicGames S.A.

Pet Show – August 8
Xbox Play Anywhere

Take control of a brave little animal and uncover the adorable world hidden beneath the surface! As you move, you draw a line behind you—close the shape to reveal a piece of the cute picture underneath. From fluffy kittens to curious piglets, each level holds a surprise waiting to be uncovered.


Xbox Play Anywhere

Pocket Rockets

Entity3 Limited

Pocket Rockets – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery / Xbox Play Anywhere

Strap in and get ready for Pocket Rockets, a retro-inspired arcade challenge where precision and strategy are key. Navigate your rocket through hazardous courses, avoid obstacles, collect coins, and manage your fuel to survive. With simple yet precise controls, every move counts as you race to the finish line.


Mortal Glory 2

Redbeak Games

Mortal Glory 2 – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Manage a team of traveling gladiators in this turn-based fantasy roguelike. Find the best recruits, discover powerful item combinations and come up with clever tactics on the battlefield. The tournament awaits those who desire mortal glory!


Sokocat: Dungeon – Remastered

Rising Moon Games

Sokocat: Dungeon – Remastered – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

Embark on a challenging feline adventure in the style of Sokoban, moving blocks, avoiding traps, and collecting precious artifacts with our furry protagonist! Get ready to unravel puzzles and explore dungeons full of surprises!


Therapist Simulator

Kanuni Games Oyun Yazılım Pazarlama ve Ticaret Limited Şirketi

Therapist Simulator – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

In this simulation game you work as a psychiatrist and try to help your clients solve their mental problems. However, this process is not just about conversations; each client has his/her own story, secrets and deep wounds waiting to be opened to you.


Windborn – Wings of Fate

EpiXR Games

$6.99

Windborn – Wings of Fate – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S

Embark on an exhilarating journey as a bird navigating the skies alongside your flock. In this beautifully crafted adventure, you will soar through 11 vibrant and diverse levels, each offering unique challenges and breathtaking landscapes. Your mission isn’t just about speed—it’s about staying connected with your flock as you all journey together, guided by instinct and unity.


Zooparasite

Ratalaika Games S.L.

Zooparasite – August 8
Optimized for Xbox Series X|S / Smart Delivery

As a heroic agent, you’ve been assigned to investigate the toxic sewers below the city, and to cleanse the environment of strange, dangerous chemicals. Armed with only your wits and a flashlight, outmaneuver and outsmart grotesque mutated creatures lurking around every turn. As you progress deeper into the darkness, uncover the chilling truth behind the chemical spill and the horrifying experiments conducted in the shadows. Beware, the more you learn, the more sinister the truth becomes.


The post Next Week on Xbox: New Games for August 4 to 8 appeared first on Xbox Wire.

My Best Pokémon TCG Deals For Today: Black Bolt, White Flare and Destined Rivals ETBs Price Drops

Amazon finally has more realistic pricing on recent Pokémon TCG Elite Trainer Boxes, with Black Bolt and White Flare both down to $79.97 and Destined Rivals sitting at $88.

The White Flare Binder Box is $47.99, which still feels steep for what you get, but it’s better than the inflated listings we’ve seen lately. Shining Fates is becoming harder to find sealed, so the Pikachu V Box at $55.93 is worth grabbing before stock dries up completely.

TL;DR: Deals For Today

For Magic: The Gathering fans, the Final Fantasy VI Revival Trance Commander Deck is a top deal at $54.43.

If you’re eyeing up the full Final Fantasy crossover set, the four‑deck bundle at $233.41 works out at around $58 per deck, which is much better value than buying each one separately overall.

Black Bolt, White Flare and Destined Rivals ETBs Near MSRP

After a weeks worth of ridiculous pricing from Amazon, we’re finally seeing the latest Elite Trainer Boxes from Black Bolt, White Flare and Destined Rivals fly under $80 at a big box retailer.

The White Flare Binder Box isn’t bad for $47.99, but still way to expensive for five boosters and a binder at retail. Shining Fates booster packs are also getting rarer and rarer, so the Pikachu V box is always a good shout.

MTG: FF Commander Deck Deals

Final Fantasy VI – Revival Trance MTG commander deck is the star of this discounted lineup, rocking up at $54.43 today. The rest are really over the odds, with the four commander deck bundle working out at $58.35 per deck. After the full set, the bundle is by far the best value for money.

KAMRUI Mini PC

KAMRUI Mini PC is $199.00 right now, down 9% from its $219.00 list price. It runs on the new Intel Twin Lake N150 processor, which is about 15% faster than the N100 and N95 models. With 16GB DDR4 RAM and a 512GB M.2 SSD, it handles everyday tasks smoothly and boots quickly. Dual HDMI 2.0 and DP1.4 ports allow for dual 4K display setups, and the compact size with a VESA mount makes it easy to tuck behind a monitor for a clean workspace.

LEGO Game Boy

I can’t believe i’m still seeing this available for preorder considering how popular it’s been. The nostalgia is real with this LEGO Game Boy kit, which tops it off with a Super Mario Land and the Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening game paks and inserts for in-game screenshots. For me this is one of the smarter LEGO sets we’ve seen in a while.

Fallout: Season One 4K Ultra HD Steelbook

Fallout Season One is up for $39.99 in a 4K Ultra HD steelbook edition that goes beyond just great packaging. Alongside the sturdy case and collectible cards, this release includes commentary on Episode 1 from Jonathan Nolan and Walton Goggins, a full Inside Season 1 feature, a behind‑the‑scenes look at Becoming The Ghoul, and animated shorts with the Vault Seller’s Survival Guide. It’s a more complete way to own the show, adding context and extras that expand on the world and production.

Sealed Pokémon TCG For Less

I can’t believe I was singing Amazon’s parises last week for some near MSRP deals on sealed Pokémon TCG product, as this week they’re back up to ridiculous pricing. You should stay away until they lower their prices and stick to TCGPlayer and eBay right now, which in some cases are a clean $15 below Amazon’s current pricing. The benefit of buying from TCGPlayer is the vetted sellers and full transparancy on market values, but if you can save even more on eBay then go for it. All links are above to make your life easier.

The Most Expensive Black Bolt / White Flare Pokémon Cards

Black Bolt and White Flare is quickly becoming the most expensive Scarlet and Violet era set, which is fitting seeing as it’s the final set before moving over to Mega Evolution base set ahead of Pokémon Legends: Z-A. Granted it’s not going to top the chase cards of Prismatic Evolutions, and there’s every chance values could drop slightly as Mega Evolution comes in, but Black Bolt and White Flare is the flashiest set we’ve seen in Pokémon TCG for a while.

Last Week’s Pokémon Card Crashers and Climbers

Scarlet and Violet base set card prices have been volatile, with some Illustration Rares like Ralts and Kirlia climbing about 28% this month while Gardevoir ex has risen 25% to $54.99.

Miraidon ex and Koraidon ex have also increased to around $23.99 and $18.99. At the same time, Fidough, Armarouge, Pachirisu, Dondozo and Starly have dropped between 11% and 37%, with Starly now just $8.99.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin hardcover is $19.49 and tells the dark, final chapter of the TMNT saga from co‑creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird. Set in a ruined future New York, it follows the last surviving Turtle on a mission for justice after his family’s fall. The story reveals what led to the city’s collapse, with betrayals, shifting alliances, and one Turtle’s fight to finish what his brothers could not.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin II – Re-Evolution

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin II—Re‑Evolution hardcover continues the story more than a decade after the Foot Clan’s defeat. New York has fallen into chaos as gangs battle for control, leaving Casey Marie and her students to take up the mantle of the Turtles. The book follows the rise of a new generation of heroes trying to restore order to a city on the brink, expanding on the world first introduced in The Last Ronin.

The Secret of Secrets: A Novel

The Secret of Secrets: A Novel is the sixth Robert Langdon book from Dan Brown, releases September 9, 2025. This time Langdon travels to Prague for a lecture by Katherine Solomon, a noetic scientist he has grown close to, only for her to vanish after a brutal murder tied to her explosive manuscript. As Langdon is hunted by a mysterious figure linked to Prague’s mythology, the search for Katherine takes him through London and New York while uncovering a secret project that could redefine human consciousness.

Anker iPhone 16 Charger, 2-Pack 20W

Anker iPhone 16 Charger 2-Pack is down to $12.99, 28% off the regular $17.99 price. Each charger offers 20W fast charging with included 5ft USB-C cables, making it a solid pick for powering up iPhones, iPads, and other USB-C devices quickly. The compact design makes it travel friendly, and the dual-port setup allows you to charge two devices at once without sacrificing speed.

Amazon Steelbook Sale

There are a ridiculous number of Steelbooks deals on Amazon today, slashing prices on classics such as the theatrical and extended releases of The Lord of the Rings movies, Sonic 2 and 3 and to deep 4K cuts like Army of Darkness. There’s literally something here for everyone!

Studio Ghibli Steelbooks

Ok, they’re not 4K, but they are crystal clear Blu Ray limited edition steelbooks of cult classic Animé films. Bangers such as Ponyo, My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away are all here, so this is a great chance to buff up your Studio Ghibli collection with over 30% off each of these stunning steelbooks.

Animé and Animated Movie Steelbook

From Coraline in 4K to the cult classic Batman Ninja, there are some cool picks here. The good thing about animated film and specials is you don’t really notice much of a difference in 4K, so finding a standard Blu Ray Steelbook release looks amazing on your shelf and looks fantastic. Everyone wins.

Blockbusters and Cult Classic Steelbooks

Transpotting, Lethal Weapon, The Naked Gun, Platoon and more classics are here in 4K and standard Blu Ray steelbook collections. No matter what your tastes are, these movies belong in your steelbook collection with these prices on show.

Samsung Gaming Monitor Sale

There’s some ridiculously good deals happening on the Samsung official website today. Need one of the best gaming monitors on the market right now? Samsung is usually the best port of call for console and PC gaming (We’re looking at you 1440p). There’s something for everyone in this sale, from budget yet rapid response times and refresh rates that will outperform any TV to massive 4K curved and ultrawide options.

Fallout Funko Pop! Preorders

If you’re as excited about Fallout season two as I am, you’ll probably want to preorder these three new Fallout Funko Pops. They’re $14.99 each and set to release in December 2025, the same month as the new season as confirmed by Amazon. The lineup includes The Ghoul with CX404, Lucy MacLean, and a Vault Boy figure with a 1 in 6 chance of being a rare Chase variant featuring Cooper Howard. Each figure stands around 3.75 inches tall, made from durable vinyl, and is designed to display easily on a shelf or desk.

Lexar 1TB Play PRO microSD Express Card

Lexar 1TB Play PRO microSD Express card is now available for $219.99 and is built for next‑gen handheld gaming on devices like the Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck, and ASUS ROG Ally. It offers read speeds up to 900MB/s and write speeds up to 600MB/s, making it around four times faster than typical UHS‑I microSD cards. That means faster game loading and quicker downloads when paired with the Lexar microSD Express reader. It’s backward compatible with UHS‑I and UHS‑II devices, but it’s really designed to future‑proof your setup with storage that keeps pace with newer hardware. Yeah it’s not on sale, but it’s one of the cheapest way to get 1TB worth of MicroSD Express storage for Switch 2 right now.

INIU USB C to USB C Cable 2-Pack

INIU USB C to USB C Cable 2‑pack is down to $9.48, saving 41% off the usual $15.99 price. Each 6.6ft braided cable supports up to 240W fast charging, making it powerful enough to top up laptops, tablets, phones, and handhelds like the Steam Deck or Switch 2 at full speed. INIU claims it can charge an iPhone 15 to 71% or a MacBook Pro to 88% in around 30 minutes when paired with a suitable high‑wattage charger. I always grab some when they go down to this price, really good quality and handle anything I throw at them.

Tire Inflator

Tyred of flat tyres (Not sorry)? JUSUOX portable tire inflator is down to $29.98, 40% off its $49.99 list price. It can inflate a standard car tire from 28 to 33 PSI in about a minute and supports pressures up to 150 PSI, making it useful for cars, bikes, motorcycles and sports balls. It works cordlessly with a built‑in battery but can also run off a car’s 12V DC outlet if needed. A dual LCD screen shows real‑time and preset pressure, and it automatically stops inflating once the target PSI is reached.

Samsung EVO Select 1TB microSD Memory Card + Adapter

Samsung EVO Select 1TB microSD card is down to $67.49, which is one of the better prices we’ve seen for this capacity lately. It hits transfer speeds up to 160 MB/s, making it perfect for 4K video recording, storing big game installs on a Switch, Steam Deck or ROG Ally, or just expanding your phone or tablet storage without having to juggle files. It comes with an SD adapter in the box, so it works with laptops and cameras too.

Lilo & Stitch (2025) Steelbook

The live action Lilo and Stitch is up for preorder in a 4K UHD and Blu-ray combo steelbook edition with a digital copy included for release on August 26, 2025. It packs the full movie in 4K along with a Blu-ray version, making it easy to watch on anywhere.

INIU 45W Power Bank

INIU 45W Power Bank is down to $24.29 with 19% off, which is a great price for a 10,000mAh charger that can push out up to 45W. It can charge an iPhone 16 to 63% or a Samsung S24 Ultra to 73% in around 25 minutes. The built‑in USB‑C cable means you don’t need to carry extra wires, and its slim design makes it easy to throw in a pocket or bag.

Clair Obscur Expedition 33 OST 6LP Vinyl

This special edition of the The Clair Obscur Expedition 33 original soundtrack is up for preorder as a 6LP box set for $145, covering 63 tracks from Lorien Testard’s breakout RPG score. The collection includes fan favorites like Our Painted Family and the piano version of Nocturne pour Lumière, with tracks sequenced to match the game’s three-act structure. It comes in a rigid slipcase with gold foiling, printed inner sleeves, and features artwork by Nicholas Maxson-Francombe. For anyone who loved the game or just wants a standout modern video game score on vinyl, this is the definitive way to own it.

Clair Obscur Expedition 33 OST 2LP Vinyl

The 2LP version of the Clair Obscur Expedition 33 soundtrack is a more affordable option at $42 compared to the $145 6LP box set, but it includes only 20 specially mastered tracks instead of 63. It still features key pieces like Lumière, Une vie à peindre, and the main character themes, and it has the same artwork style and gold-foiled packaging. If you just want the highlights on vinyl without committing to a full collector’s box, this version covers the essentials while keeping the price and size down.

Christian Wait is a contributing freelancer for IGN covering everything collectable and deals. Christian has over 7 years of experience in the Gaming and Tech industry with bylines at Mashable and Pocket-Tactics. Christian also makes hand-painted collectibles for Saber Miniatures. Christian is also the author of “Pokemon Ultimate Unofficial Gaming Guide by GamesWarrior”. Find Christian on X @ChrisReggieWait.

The Pokémon Company Calls on Fans to Stop ‘Attacking or Slandering’ Illustrator Embroiled in TCG Pocket Plagiarism Scandal

The Pokémon Company has stepped in to ask fans to stop harassing a Pokémon TCG Pocket artist embroiled in a plagiarism scandal.

It’s been a long week for the folks at The Pokémon Company, which has been dealing with the fallout of a very public plagiarism accusation. It all started when Wisdom of Sea and Sky’s card designs were datamined and examined online earlier this week, sparking a wider discussion over The Pokémon Company’s legal terms for fanart, which appear to suggest the company could, if it wanted, do whatever it liked with fan-made designs. A day later, The Pokémon Company pulled the design of a new Pokémon TCG Pocket trading card.

“After internal review, we discovered that the card production team provided incorrect materials as official documents to the illustrator commissioned to create these cards,” it said at the time. “As a result, both cards have been replaced with a temporary placeholder that the team is actively working to replace with new artwork as soon as it’s ready.”

Despite claiming responsibility, though, TPC said it had become aware of “criticism” of the illustrator and has called for fans to refrain from attacking or slandering the artist, once again insisting the blame lied internally.

“Regarding the previously announced issue with the Ho-Oh EX (3-star) and Lugia EX (3-star) illustrations – it has come to our attention that there is criticism towards the cards’ illustrator circulating online,” reads a statement posted to Twitter/X, as translated by Automaton.

“The illustration errors were caused by the production teams of The Pokémon Company and Creatures Inc, who provided incorrect materials as official documents to the illustrator, and we intend to take full responsibility for it.”

As Automaton explains, the The Pokémon Company commissions art in one of two ways: either by inviting illustrators to provide direct input into a design, or by giving them reference materials that they must follow. In this case, it was the latter, so all the illustrator did was follow the materials they were provided with.

The statement closed on “once again offer[ing] our deepest apologies” and a promise the team will “continue to work harder than ever to ensure thorough quality control and prevent recurrence.”

Speaking to IGN this week, video game industry legal expert Richard Hoeg, host of the Virtual Legality podcast, said The Pokémon Company’s legal terms on fan art act as an acknowledgement that fans will create their own Pokémon art — but that ultimately, from a legal standpoint, any publicly-shared designs fall under the ownership of The Pokémon Company.

“It effectively says ‘Look, we (TPC/Nintendo) are legally still the only ones allowed to make derivative works (fan art included), but we all know you’re going to do it,” Hoeg said of the terms, “so if you do, on the off-chance it’s special, we can use it without otherwise paying you (since it was ours to begin with).'”

Vikki Blake is a reporter for IGN, as well as a critic, columnist, and consultant with 15+ years experience working with some of the world’s biggest gaming sites and publications. She’s also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.

In praise of one-job RPGs, the greatest antidote to FOMO

We have all known the profound sorrow of getting two hours into an RPG and deciding that actually, Mum, I don’t want to be an elven druid anymore. Being an elven druid sucks ass. There’s barely any plantlife in the opening dungeon, so half my support skills are useless, and the only animal companion I’m qualified to conjure right now is a cranky squirrel. I’d much rather be a rogue. Look at all these elevated paths and pickable locks hereabouts! Look at all these shadows I could be skulking in, these precarious chandeliers directly opposite crawlspaces with rusty grills! Ugh, if only I weren’t a stupid diluted floral wizard!

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EA Confirms Battlefield 6 Is Getting Battle Royale, Releases Chaotic Teaser Trailer

Confirming rumors that have swirled for months, Battlefield 6 will indeed have a battle royale mode.

Battlefield global community manager Kevin Johnson took to social media to confirm that battle royale arrives on Battlefield Labs for testing soon.

EA had teased the battle royale mode with a short clip also posted to social media, which shows chaotic, explosive gameplay.

This is not Battlefield’s first foray into battle royale territory, of course. 2019’s Battlefield V had a battle royale mode called Firestorm, although it failed to catch on and was eventually blown out of the water by Call of Duty’s battle royale mode, Warzone.

According to previous leaks, Battlefield 6’s battle royale features a map set in California, with insertion via CH-47 Chinook. The destructive ring is apparently made out of a compound called “NXC.”

EA, then, will be hoping for a better return from this new attempt, although it remains to be seen exactly when and how it will be released in the context of Battlefield 6’s October 10 launch date.

While we wait, check out IGN’s Battlefield 6 hands-on preview, and comments from its developers who are insisting it won’t go down the goofy skin route Call of Duty has taken.

Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.