I Wish the D&D: Dragon Delves Adventure Anthology Delved Deeper into Dragons

As someone who has loved dragons for longer than I can remember, including rocking dragon button-up shirts in high school as my “style” and theming my son’s bedroom around the scaled creatures, I was happy as a wyrm and his hoard when Wizards revealed they were releasing Dragon Delves: Adventure Anthology for Dungeons & Dragons. This collection puts front and center one of the namesakes of the TTRPG, featuring 10 adventures, while also highlighting the legacy of the creatures in this long-running franchise. After peeling back the pages and seeing what it has to offer, I find this book to be a fine addition to my shelf, but I wish it went further to really give these mythical creatures the celebration they deserve.

Dragon Delves is a collection of 10 short adventures, each one focused around chromatic (Green, Red, Blue, White, Black) or Metallic (Gold, Silver, Brass, Bronze, Copper) dragons that can be dropped into your existing campaigns or played back-to-back in a campaign that takes players from novice level 1 heroes up to level 12. It would have been nice if the designers offered some manner or tips, or recommendations for GMs to adjust the included quests for higher levels, but worst case, you could always just choose higher level enemies of a similar style, young dragons instead of wyrmlings, for example, to raise the challenge. There is a good variety of quests in this anthology, from solving mysteries behind corruption, sentient bags of holding, or uncovering forgotten verses of a song, but all of them will, at some point, have you and your party cross paths with a dragon.

All but one really hit for me. The one that didn’t is the Gold Dragon’s adventure, “Baker’s Doesn’t,” which involves a golden dragon named Briochebane that bakes bread, and has the party dealing with animated candy creations and visiting places like Candied Apple Orchards and Taffy Factories. Outlandish and silly in TTRPGs isn’t an automatic turn-off for me. Hell, in my own homebrew campaign, the party encountered an island of sentient vegetables and took a cauliflower puppy back with them. But in the scheme of Dragon Delves, this quest just doesn’t feel like it belongs among quests like “Death at Sunset” or “Shivering Death”. That said, its whimsical nature could be perfect for a little jaunt in the Feywild or to add a bit of levity to your campaign after an emotionally-packed couple of sessions.

This book’s real strength is how easy it makes it to drop the adventures into a campaign. Each of the 10 stories has been designed to last only one or two sessions, with the first page of each one providing simple and clear directions on where these can be dropped in, the level of characters it is for, the general plot points, how to prepare, and what state blocks you will need.

This book’s real strength is how easy it makes it to drop the adventures into a campaign.

For example, the Silver Dragon’s “The Will of Orcus” adventure states, “It can take place anywhere there are mountains and settlements,” and is for level 4 characters. All of those important bits of information you need can be gleaned from just a quick glance. As a GM, the faster I can get the info, the better, and I think the layout and design are wonderfully done here in Dragon Delves (and honestly, all of the updated 2025 5th edition books).

One thing of note, while this anthology contains the details of the adventures, it does not have any stat blocks for the creatures, so whoever is running these will also need the Monster Manual (see it at Amazon) – either 5th Edition book will suffice. The fact that this book doesn’t contain any unique stat blocks is a bit of a bummer. I would have loved to have blocks for each of the 10 dragons that are the focus of each one, which would give them something slightly unique or tweaked from their stock counterparts in the Monster Manual. Also, where are my updated gem dragons at, Wizards?!

In addition to the quests, this book also showcases how the visuals and designs of each dragon have evolved over the course of Dungeons & Dragons’ nearly five-decade-long lifespan. I appreciate the two-page spread of artwork, but when I heard that this book would also showcase the history of the dragon types, I expected more. I would have loved to see blurbs from Wizards’ designers on how, if any, the approach and gameplay design of the various types have shifted or changed over the years. How has Wizards approached its stat blocks, or despite “dragons” being in the franchise’s name, why is the team as reserved in showcasing or highlighting them? Much of this art I could obtain simply by searching Google; give me the information or material that has been hoarded away in the Wizards’ vaults.

Whether they are spewing acid, lightning, or breathing the more traditional fire, dragons have been, and always will be, really, really cool. There is a reason that these scaled creatures have become so closely ingrained and intertwined with the fantasy genre. Dragon Delves: Adventure Anthology gives players some relatively quick outings to enjoy and drop into their story whenever parties have a hankering for some dragon goodness. That said, this book never reached the heights of excitement I had imagined when I first heard about it. The fact that it relies solely on the basic stat blocks from the Monster Manual and there aren’t any fun adventures for higher-level parties is a bit disappointing. The fact that Tiamat, arguably the most recognizable dragon in Dungeons & Dragons, is absent is also a strange omission.

Dragon Devles comes off more as a great introductory package for dragons, and for newer or younger players just learning how to play D&D, it’s a fun collection of quick stories. But for more experienced players, or those hoping for setups for big confrontations with some ancient dragons, you may want to look elsewhere. Personally, I was hoping for and expecting more, but hopefully this anthology just marks the beginning of more dragon-centric books and campaigns to come.

Scott White is a freelance contributor to IGN, assisting with tabletop games and guide coverage. Follow him on X/Twitter or Bluesky.

Random: Donkey Kong Bananza Players Are Already Skipping Layers And Transformations

It’s a race to the top, no wait, the botto…no wait, the core!

We’ve been absolutely addicted to Donkey Kong Bananza over the past week or so and various members of the team are, as expected, at different points along the way in the adventure. Some, like this writer, are still fairly early on in DK’s latest outing, whilst others, such as our very own Liam Doolan, are already done with the thing. No messing around there!

Now, very mild spoilers ahead, but by way of some of the old ‘water-cooler’ banter (proving once and for all that such a thing can even exist betwixt online colleagues), Liam shared with us that he’d actually managed to complete the game without unlocking one of Donkey Kong’s transformations.

Read the full article on nintendolife.com

Asphalt Celebrates 20 Years on the Track!

Asphalt Anniversary Hero Image

Asphalt Celebrates 20 Years on the Track!

The Asphalt series is kicking off its 20 year anniversary, and celebrating two decades of spectacular races with a season full of surprises!

Since its first start on the track with Asphalt GT, back in 2005, the Asphalt series has been constantly at the frontline of arcade racing for 20 years! Over the course of 9 main line titles, including 12 spin-offs and adaptations, we’ve helped define the meaning of speed alongside our fans, who have gone behind the wheels of over 1,000 cars through the series.

It’s been a wild ride and, this year, we want to take some time to celebrate 20 years of racing alongside our fans and across the entire franchise, including both Asphalt Legends and Asphalt 8: Airborne!

Asphalt Legends will be the first to kick off the celebrations and is gearing up for a whole season of celebration, including devising some special surprises that will both bring nostalgia and something radically new to the racetrack.

Anniversary Track

Our first new track of the year will teleport you through time, as we visit some iconic locations for our series’ long-time fans – all contained within a single race.

Coming straight from memory lane, we’ll warm things up with an updated version of San Diego Harbor. Our fans will definitely be able to recognize its layout as it is one of the main tracks of Asphalt 8! We’ve brought it back to life and taken advantage of our more powerful engine to also give it a more cinematic feel, as you’ll now find yourself riding down a rained down and overcast San Diego.

Then, we’ll take a further step back in time and race down the LA river, which was also featured in Asphalt 6 & 7. A brand new re-imagining of Sunny LA, bringing all the level of detail (and water effects!) that we could only dream of creating back in the day. It’s definitely a more niche call-out for our fans, but it really comes to show how far we’ve come!

And of course, we’d be remiss not to include one of our players’ favorite tracks from Asphalt Legends: Cairo! We’ve also slightly altered the time of day on this one from our usual version, to give it a slightly different air and feel, and it’s the perfect capstone for our travel through time.

A unique challenge for the team, not only did we have to rebuild all three of these tracks from scratch to take advantage of Asphalt Legends’ more powerful engine, but we also had to devise the technology which allows us to switch between such drastically different environments mid-race. This one-of-a-kind track will offer a medley of fan-favorites, as racers will teleport seamlessly from track to track while chasing their own nostalgia.

Season of Celebration

The entire season will be a celebration of Asphalt’s legacy, and will be jam-packed with amazing events, such as an all-new Drive Syndicate! It’s our star event of the year, as it offers a new chapter in the story of the Drive Syndicate, and features the most powerful cars of the year! This edition will feature the new Arash Imperium, whose speed will do more than just turn heads.

We’re really pulling all the stops for this one – our team created a fantastically intricate series of events that will feature 20 cars for players to chase after and collect for their garages, featuring some powerful new additions alongside some fan-favorite classics. And don’t miss out on joining our community celebrations either, as we’ll have special editions of our ACE Challenges, pitting the best of the best against one another in some live races and rewards, and daily redeemable codes that will feature free goodies for you to claim during the anniversary!

Get the Best with Game Pass

Of course, you can complete the victory lap by claiming even more rewards with your Game Pass!

Just make sure to link your Asphalt account to your Xbox account with an active Game Pass subscription and you’ll be able to claim the following rewards from July 30 to August 28:

  • Unlock the Acura NSX GT3 Evo for free.
  • 10 Card packs.
  • 500,000 Credits.

You can easily link accounts directly in-game, by heading over to the “CONNECT” section of the settings menu and making sure you’re logged in to your active Xbox account. This will work for Game Pass members on console or PC and give you a nice boost to get you started – or to help you continue upgrading your favorite cars!

Don’t miss out on the celebrations and race to the track with Asphalt Legends Unite!

Xbox Play Anywhere

Asphalt Legends Unite

Gameloft


1997

PC Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass

Spark your competitive soul with Asphalt Legends UNITE and feel the collective heartbeat of the road! Join forces with other players to speed through intense arcade races, perform jaw-dropping stunts, and charge towards victory while driving the finest hypercars!

Take On the World
Gear up and dive into the international arena of Asphalt Legends UNITE’s online multiplayer mode. Challenge up to 7 opponents from every corner of the world across platforms in thrilling cross-play races. Engage in split-screen competitions with friends (up to 4 players). Get ready to group together, dominate, and leave your mark on the asphalt!

Join Global Racing Legends
Embrace the global racing community where camaraderie fuels the pursuit of victory. Connect with friends through the friend list, create private lobbies for personalized races and rally with Asphalt titans! Join or establish racing Clubs, unlocking exclusive rewards as you climb the leaderboards. Experience a new cooperative multiplayer mode where you can be a Security agent chasing down Syndicate members or one of the outlaws evading capture.

Pick Your Ride and Dominate the Competition
Harness the power of the pack: Over 250 hypercars await, from elite manufacturers such as Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini, each meticulously crafted to push the boundaries of speed and performance. Conquer tracks inspired by iconic locations across the world, cherished by racers worldwide.

Feel the Rush of Absolute Control
Feel one with the beat of the track as you and your teammates dive into electrifying races, perform gravity-defying stunts, and power to victory with adrenaline-fueled boosts. With precise manual control or streamlined TouchDrive™, Asphalt Legends UNITE puts you in the driver’s seat, ready to steal the show!

Arcade Racing at Its Finest
Dive into the thrilling world of high-speed racing, where detailed vehicles, stunning effects, and vibrant dynamic lighting await.

Kick-Start Your Racing Legacy
Take the wheel on your journey to racing greatness in Career mode. Maneuver through endless seasons and conquer diverse challenges at every turn. Feel the thrill of pulse-pounding events, with a constant stream of limited-time challenges and activities to keep you on the edge of your seat. This is your chance to carve out a legacy that echoes throughout the racetrack!

Customize Your Ride, Own the Road
Personalize your vehicle and show off your style to your rivals with unique body paint, rims, wheels, and body parts!
_____________________________________________

Please note that this game contains in-app purchases, including paid random items.

Visit our official site at http://gmlft.co/website_EN
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The post Asphalt Celebrates 20 Years on the Track! appeared first on Xbox Wire.

Cozy road trip adventure Outbound is coming To PS5

Hi there. Square Glade Games here! We’re excited to share that we’re bringing Outbound, our cozy open-world exploration game, to PlayStation 5. Alone or with up to four players, Outbound starts you off with an empty camper van and sets you off on a journey to scavenge, craft, and build up your dream home as you adapt to the changing environment. 

I’m Marc Volger, co-founder of our studio, and I’m here to introduce Outbound to our wonderful PlayStation community, giving a deeper look into what you can do in our title, along with help from my fellow co-founder, Tobi Schnackenberg, who will share a bit about the inspiration behind our upcoming game.

Outbound is a “cozyvival,” a term our team started using after Alpha testing when we stepped back and took a look at what players found enjoyable. We found that they fell in love with the satisfying survival mechanics, like managing energy, gathering materials, and growing food, paired with the cozy, low-pressure vibe of living in the van. Other titles tend to lean further into one end of the spectrum or the other, but we feel cozyvival perfectly expresses that balance our players enjoy — that’s the sweet spot where Outbound is found.

Chill solo adventure or cheery multiplayer road trip?

As a solo player, Outbound gives you a wonderful off-grid feeling, where you’re gathering resources and building up your camper van at your own pace. You’re the captain of your own ship, so to speak, and it gives you a sense of calm and empowerment. Outbound can also be played with up to three other friends; however, it changes the DNA of the experience in a significant way.

With others along for the ride, friendly cooperation can turn Outbound into more of a high-energy road trip, very much like when you go on road trips with friends in real life. We loved to see that energy change, so while not required, multiplayer is a key addition from our perspective. We also recognized, as we brought Outbound over to PS5, that we had an opportunity to take advantage of the PlayStation Portal, as the PlayStation ecosystem doesn’t require any optimization to be Portal ready. We absolutely love the idea of a group of friends sitting together with Portal devices, playing together. The ease of carrying it with you (on a road trip, maybe) is something we hope our players will cherish.

Grand fields of inspiration

“Part of the inspiration for Outbound came when I was on a road trip of my own from Germany to the Netherlands,” says Tobi. “And I saw a beautiful old-school camper van as it drove by a field of solar panels and windmills. We were in the prototyping stage at that point, and this moment sparked the idea of building it around an electric van with sustainability in mind.”

“Thus, sustainability is a huge theme that we’ve woven into the design,” Tobi continues. “The sun, wind, and rain are key sources of energy, and recycling litter earns you new blueprints for van upgrades. Those are merely a couple of ways Outbound shines a light on sustainability through gameplay, and we inject that energy aesthetically, as well, like how we show sailboats on the horizon as opposed to massive tankers and cargo ships.”

Pet that good pup

For the dog fans out there, you do have one with you on your Outbound journey, and, yes, you can pet the dog. This functional companion, which you adopt and name yourself, brings another layer to the cozyvival experience — players can teach them to fetch resources, carry them back to the vehicle, and more. They’re not there just to be an incredibly cute face.

Video games are often platforms that catapult us into far-reaching fantasies, dropping us into glorious worlds where we take on fantastic creatures with weapons and magic. Other adventures tap into fantasies that are a bit more grounded in our reality, and that is where Outbound lives. We’re looking forward to setting you all off on a glorious adventure when Outbound comes to PlayStation 5.

Battlefield 6’s Big Reveal Teases Campaign, but Doesn’t Show Multiplayer or Confirm Release Date

The official Battlefield 6 official reveal trailer has debuted in a cacophony of explosions, but wrapped up without providing the game’s release date. Instead, today’s look simply ended with word of a further reveal next week — this time of the game’s multiplayer modes — on July 31.

Still, for Battlefield fans, today’s big reveal provided some welcome reassurance that series staples such as large-scale destruction and vehicle-based combat featuring planes, trucks and tanks would once again return. We also got to see at least three helicopters crash in under three minutes.

But today’s trailer did not include confirmation of the game’s now-leaked release date. As IGN reported this morning, Battlefield 6 is widely-expected to arrive on October 10 — something that eagle-eyed fans have now seen is backed up by the game’s own terms and conditions on EA’s website, which note that date as when the game’s pre-launch offers will end.

Instead, today’s trailer was focused on Battlefield 6’s campaign. Picking up on yesterday’s tease of a new global mercenary group, Pax Armata, which has threatened the world and targeted NATO, this fresh trailer saw the US fighting back amid attacks on its own soil.

“For the Pax Armata mercenaries who are watching now, I have a message,” the US president states, after nervously stepping up to the White House podium. “It’s over.”

After a lengthy development and an array of development studios working on the project, it was intriguing to see Battlefield 6’s first proper trailer begin with a nervous-sounding US leader behind the microphone. For him, as with EA itself, this is something of a big moment.

Quick shots of warfare across an array of countries follow, including explosions around New York’s Brooklyn Bridge, dozens of soldiers leaving a mountainous airbase, fighter jets flying over snow-capped peaks, and tanks rolling out across a desert.

Fans of Battlefield’s big destructive setpieces get to see a huge dam being exploded, Brooklyn Bridge being exploded, and a skyscraper being exploded.

There’s also a few quick shots of a character that looks to be played by Daredevil and Doctor Who actor Tony Curran. He looks grizzled, angry, and holds a knife. I think he’s a bad guy?

In recent months, footage of Battlefield 6 from various closed playtests has started leaking online, showing the game’s modern setting, various firefights, destructible environments, quality of life improvements, and the start of a battle royale match. Presumably we’ll get to see more of all this next week — and maybe even official confirmation of that release date.

Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social

Battlefield 6 has finally been revealed, with a firmly anti-helicopter trailer and no release date

Battlefield 6 has been revealed, all official-like, after months of leaks. And what a reveal it was, with a trailer featuring enough explosions to satisfy Michael Bay for at least two hours – though without a release date to accompany it.

Yep, we’ll have to wait a bit longer to see if the October date recently cited by a prominent leaker is on target, as for now all we got was a tease of the campaign that ended in promo for a multiplayer reveal next week. Which, to be fair, is a chef’s kiss way to have done things if EA’s aim was to be totally on brand for today’s big shooters.

Read more

Deals for Today: Pokémon TCG Black Bolt and White Flare ETB in Stock, Switch 2 Bundle Still in Stock and $500 off a Samsung Flagship

The Nintendo Switch 2 and Pokémon Legends Z-A bundle is still live at Best Buy for $499.99, and it’s a smart pickup if you’re planning to get both anyway. You save $20 off the digital copy of the game, and with Switch 2 stock being all over the place, locking one in now isn’t a bad move.

On the Pokemon TCG side, both the Black Bolt and White Flare Elite Trainer Boxes have dipped below Amazon pricing on TCGPlayer, now sitting at $91.50 and $90.98, respectively. That’s some of the best pricing we’ve seen outside of limited restocks, and probably your best shot at avoiding inflated third-party listings (although it’s still way over MSRP).

TL;DR: Deals For Today

Elsewhere in today’s deals, the Galaxy S24 Ultra is $799.99 at Best Buy, which is $500 off its usual price and a great buy for an unlocked flagship. ROG Ally is also down to $499.99 with the Z1 Extreme chip and 512GB storage, which makes it one of the better portable gaming options if you want full Windows access. Soundcore P20i earbuds are just $19.98, the Anker 332 Power Strip is $15.99, and the upgraded 100W Anker Nano Charging Station is $35.99. All three are practical, everyday gear at their lowest prices in weeks.

Switch 2 + Pokémon Legends: Z-A Bundle

Launching the same time as Pokémon Legends: Z-A, this bundle knocks a cool $20 off the digital price tag of the game (digital code included). We’re not at the custom limited edition console point of the Switch 2’s life cycle yet, but this is a smart way to secure the system and save some money whilst doing it. Just preorder quickly – I’m amazed Best Buy still has it live.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A (Switch 2)

This $69.99 version of Pokémon Legends: Z-A is the Switch 1 game with the Switch 2 upgrade included. From what we’ve seen so far, we’re talking 4K resolutions running at a buttery smooth 60 frames per second. Real-time battles, a fully explorable Lumiose City, and nighttime Z-A Royale events all benefit from the sharper visuals and faster load times. If you’re already going in on a Switch 2, this is the version to get. It looks like the most technically ambitious Pokémon game yet, and Switch 2 seems to be the only way to experience it at its best.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A (Switch 1)

If you’re not ready to upgrade to a Nintendo Switch 2 yet, the Switch 1 version still has an upgrade path so you have options down the line. Legends Z-A switches things up with real-time battles, an urban setting in Lumiose City, and the full return of Mega Evolutions, including 27 new forms like Mega Dragonite. The starter picks are a nice throwback, but what really caught my attention is the Z-A Royale system and Alpha Pokémon lurking across the city at night. Add in deep trainer customization and the Switch 2 upgrade option, and it’s clear the developers are trying to evolve more than just the Pokémon this time. If it plays as good as it sounds, this could be the next real shift for the series.

Black Bolt Elite Trainer Box

The fluxuations on this Elite Trainer Box has been crazy this week, but TCG Player finally has listings cheaper than Amazon starting at $91.50, around $20 cheaper than the big box giant. This is likely the cheapest you’ll find it outside of a flash sale and pot luck restocks.

Pokemon TCG White Flare Elite Trainer Box

It’s the same situation with the White Flare Elite Trainer Box, slightly cheaper than Black Bolt and around $13 worth of savings based on Amazon pricing. Again, it’s a good time to buy.

The Most Expensive Black Bolt White Flare Cards

We’re seeing some of the highest valued cards in the Scarlet and Violet era in Black Bolt White Flare. The major chase cards here are the Victini, Reshiram and Zekrom ex color rares, and there’s two variants for Victini ex. Madness.

Destined Rivals Elite Trainer Box

Down to $90.98, marking nearly $25 off its market value, this is almost the best price we’ve seen for the Destined Rivals Elite Trainer Box (it pretty much is right now in all honesty). It’s above MSRP, but good luck finding a better price during Pokémania 2025.

Prismatic Evolutions Booster Bundle

Amazon is currently $10 cheaper than TCG Player with Prismatic Evolutions Booster Bundles, but it’s still way over MSRP. Like all other sealed TCG products at the moment though, they’re hard to find for shelf price.

Pokemon TCG: Scarlet & Violet—Journey Together Booster Build & Battle Box

Not only is Amazon over a dollar cheaper, you’re saving on postage too compared to TCG Player. To break this down, you’re getting four Journey Together boosters, a 30-card deck and one of four stamped promos.

Pokémon TCG Stock Update

Amazon is finally getting into the groove with Pokémon TCG Elite Trainer Box stock and pricing, and some are the closest to MSRP the big box retailer has been for weeks. Not only is the Black Bolt ETB vastly undercutting the secondary market, Paradox Rift ETB is even cheaper (and an overlooked set in my opinion, stock up now).

There’s other great deals on ex boxes too, which are also near MSRP and around the same or just under listings on TCG Player. The sealed market is becoming more competitive, so it’s more important than ever to give eBay a quick check before hitting buy.

Nintendo Switch 2 Stock Updates

In a shocking move, Target is selling both Nintendo Switch 2 SKUs without preorders, waiting lists or raffles, so snap them up quickly. As predicted, Nintendo Switch 2’s launch window is seeing stock shortages in the US. If you didn’t preorder at launch, you’ve probably been waiting for stock drops since launch.

Amazon currently has its invitation system in place for both the standard console SKU and the Mario Kart world bundle, so it’s always worth getting on the waiting list whilst you wait. If successful, your purchase link will be live for 72 hours.

Samsung – Galaxy S24 Ultra 256GB

I don’t upgrade phones often, so seeing the S24 Ultra drop to $799.99 from $1,299.99 caught my eye. You’re getting a 200 megapixel camera, a sharp 6.8 inch OLED display, and enough power to handle anything. It works with nearly every carrier and still includes a built-in stylus, which is rare and actually useful.

ROG Ally AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme 512GB

At $499.99, this is the lowest I’ve seen the ROG Ally go with the Z1 Extreme chip and 512GB of storage. It runs Windows, so I can launch anything I already own on Steam or Game Pass without workarounds. The 120Hz screen is sharp and responsive, and I like that I can dock it or plug in a mouse and keyboard without needing extra gear.

Soundcore Wireless Earbuds

At $19.98, these are about as cheap as I’ve seen for wireless earbuds that aren’t complete junk. You get 10 hours on single a charge, decent sound with actual bass, and the app gives you EQ control if you want to tweak things. Call quality is fine with two mics, and they’re small enough to carry around without thinking about it. For under twenty bucks, they do what they’re supposed to without falling apart.

Anker 332 USB C Power Strip Surge Protector

For $15.99, this is cheaper than most basic surge protectors and does way more. You get six outlets, USB-C charging with 20W power delivery, and a compact design that actually fits in tighter spots. It’s not going to blow you away, but it’s soound for a desk or nightstand setup, and the surge protection is better than the usual bargain bin stuff. At this price, I’d grab one just to stop moving my charger between rooms.

Anker Nano Charging Station

At $35.99, this is one of the few charging stations that can handle a laptop and still have room for everything else. Two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and three AC outlets is more than enough for a desk setup, and the 100W output means it actually charges a MacBook Pro properly. It keeps cables out of the way and cuts down on the need for multiple bricks. It’s compact, works well, and replaces at least two chargers and a power strip in one go.

Portable Neck Fan With LED Display

At $17.99, this neck fan is cheaper than a cumbersome handheld fan and way more useful. It’s lightweight, quiet, and actually hands-free, which makes it easy to wear while working, traveling, or just trying to survive another summer heatwave. The LED display is a nice bonus since you don’t have to guess how much battery life is left, and the bladeless design means no hair tangles. Five speed settings and up to 15 hours of runtime for under twenty bucks? That’s a win.

Fourth Wing (Wing and Claw Collection) (The Empyrean, 1)

If you’re collecting The Empyrean series, this new edition of Fourth Wing is worth a look. It’s down to $23.09 right now, and the updated hardcover comes with stenciled edges to match Iron Flame and Onyx Storm, which should appeal to anyone trying to keep their shelf setup clean and consistent. This is a limited first print run for the U.S. and Canada, so it’s a good chance to own a unique version of your future favorite book series for a steal.

Iron Flame (Standard Edition) (The Empyrean, 2)

If you’re already deep into Fourth Wing, grabbing Iron Flame for $13.92 is a no-brainer, especially with the list price pushing $30. The narration from Rebecca Soler adds a solid layer to the story, and this sequel dives straight into the brutality and politics of Basgiath without slowing down. Things are darker, the stakes are higher, and Violet’s got even more to lose. It’s long, intense, and exactly what fans of the first book are probably hoping for.

Anker Laptop Power Bank, 25,000mAh

The 25,000mAh capacity on this bad boy is enough to charge a laptop and a few other devices on the go, with the triple 100W USB-C ports make it way more versatile than your average power bank. The built-in cables are a smart touch, especially for travel or work setups where digging for the right cord gets old fast.

The Dark Knight Trilogy – Amazon Exclusive

At $129.99, this trilogy set is definitely on the premium end, but it’s one of the few collections that actually justifies the price. You’re getting all three Dark Knight films in 4K with HDR, plus Blu-rays and digital copies, all packed in exclusive Steelbook cases that are made for collectors. Nolan’s trilogy still holds up as some of the best superhero filmmaking, and if you’re going to own it this is the version to get.

Funko Pop! Plus: The Lord of The Rings – Frodo Baggins

At $14.99, this Frodo Pop is a nice pickup if you’re into Lord of the Rings or building out a Funko display. It’s the glow-in-the-dark version, and Funkos usually hold up well over time on a shelf or desk (especially boxed). For the price, it’s a low-effort way to round out a collection or grab a gift that doesn’t feel like a cop out.

BOOKOO Jump Starter 2000A

For under $35, this jump starter is a solid backup to keep in the car, especially with how often batteries can die without warning. It’s rated for larger engines, works in extreme temperatures, and includes extras like USB ports, a flashlight, and a hard case for storage. Most jump starters at this price don’t offer that kind of flexibility or power.

TAMASHII NATIONS – X-Men – Cyclops (GAMERVERSE)

Cyclops GAMERVERSE S.H.Figuarts figure from Tamashii Nations is now up for preorder at Amazon for $100, and it’s packed with the kind of articulation and premium detail the line is known for. You’ll get three interchangeable optic blast effects, from a subtle glow to full-blown superblast, plus multiple visors, facial expressions, and hand options to fully recreate your favorite poses. It even includes a special mount for background displays.

Small Soldiers 4K UHD Steelbook + Digital

Joe Dante’s Small Soldiers is back with a bang in this new 4K UHD Steelbook edition, now just $25.99 (down from $30.99) on Amazon. Combining the mischief of Gremlins with the firepower of G.I. Joe, this cult classic delivers practical effects chaos and ‘90s nostalgia in equal measure. Featuring Gregory Smith, Kirsten Dunst, and the late Phil Hartman in his final film role, the Steelbook includes a crisp remaster and digital copy.

Serenity (2005) – 20th Anniversary Limited Edition Steelbook 4K

Firefly fans, this is the definitive edition you’ve been waiting for. The 20th Anniversary Limited Edition Steelbook of Serenity is now available for $29.96 (down from $34.99) and includes 4K UHD, Blu-ray, and digital formats and a massive lineup of bonus content. Directed by Joss Whedon and starring Nathan Fillion, Alan Tudyk, and Summer Glau.

Compressed Air Duster: 100000RPM

RELIDOL Compressed Air Duster is a powerful, eco-friendly cleaning tool that’s up to 44% off today at just $27.99 (regularly $49.99). With a blazing-fast 100,000RPM motor and three adjustable airflow modes, it clears dust, crumbs, and debris from keyboards, PC towers, car interiors, and more in seconds. The built-in LED light helps you spot hidden grime, while the rechargeable 7500mAh battery offers up to 40 minutes of cordless runtime.

The Legend of Zelda Hardcover Book Sale

Nearly every The Legend of Zelda hardcover book you need for your collection is available in this sale with some cracking discounts. It includes my favorite one, Hyrule Historia, that fills in more than a few gaps in the LoZ lore, although the timeline has already been slightly retconned. It also includes full and expanded official guides for Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.

KRK Kreate Powered Studio Monitors

I can personally guarantee a set of powered studio monitors will sound better than almost any sound system with or without a subwoofer. The new line of KRK Kreate studio monitors aren’t just for recording music (Although they’d do an amazing job), they’re a versatile sound option for content creation, editing, gaming, watching TV and movies and more. Buyers can even teather to them via Bluetooth for no fuss connections.

I’ve been using the 8-inch speaker models for a couple of weeks now, and they destroy my soundbar and subwoofer combo that costs nearly double the price. There’s precision adjustments knobs on the back, which I keep mostly in neutral with volume up by half for a crisp flat sound with the right amount of bass. Although that can be cranked up when needed.

I use an audio splitter so my Krate 8s can handle my Nano QuadCortex guitar amp moddler, my TV audio and gaming PC audio for the best experience. For me, going from a 3-inch to 8-inch speaker option is night and day. The clarity difference and range is top-tier, not to mention the jack, XLR and aux outputs available on each monitor that fits in perfectly in everyone’s setup. You’re getting top-of-the-range brand quality without the “gaming” brand tax, it’s a win-win.

Apple AirPods Pro 2

AirPods Pro 2 are one of those earbuds I appreciate for their mix of sound quality and thoughtful features. At $199, they offer a strong balance of value and performance. The active noise cancellation blocks out a lot of background noise while adaptive audio automatically adjusts based on your surroundings. You get four sizes of silicone tips for a customizable fit, and once those are set they stay comfortable even through longer listening sessions. The personalized spatial audio and hearing aid features add extra depth, giving them more flexibility than just a standard pair of wireless earbuds.

INIU Portable Charger 10000mAh 45W

Ideal for carrying around when you’ve forgotten to put your phone on charge overnight, 45W is more than enough power to charge anything on the go, from phones to the Nintendo Switch 2. Who can argue for $12?

Donkey Kong Bananza

If you own a Switch 2 and not Donkey Kong Bananza, there’s something a-miss. We’ve given it a rare 10/10, and it’s officially Nintendo’s latest handheld’s first killer app and system seller. It’s from the same team behind Super Mario Odyssey and takes full advantage of the power packed into Nintendo Switch 2. Get it, play it, then thank me later.

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.

Wuchang: Fallen Feathers’ surprise PC performance problems call for emergency settings treatment

I promise this isn’t a “gAmErS aRe MaD” story – there’s actual testing and advice and stuff here, honest – but it must begin that way, as I wouldn’t have guessed that birdlike soulslike Wuchang: Fallen Feathers would launch with PC performance issues without a cacophony of (currently ‘Mostly Negative’) Steam reviews saying so. Not after those easygoing system requirements, surely?

Surely yes, it turns out, though maybe not to the extent that a page of 7,000 thumbs-down symbols might suggest. It’s not good. It runs slowly on max settings. There’s stuttering. DLSS 4 frame generation is either broken, or implemented in a uniquely vexing way. But you can smooth things out considerably with a few choice settings adjustments, including on lower-end graphics cards.

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WWE 2K25 Lacks Image Uploading and Community Creations on Switch 2 — and Fans Aren’t Happy

WWE 2K25 only released on Nintendo Switch 2 yesterday, July 23, but fans have already noticed that community creations — and the image uploader to import them — are missing from its Switch 2 version.

“If you are playing on the Switch 2 you won’t be able to upload or view custom images from other platforms,” 2K explains in the game’s FAQ. Later on, addressing a different question, the publisher added: “Nintendo Switch 2 players will not see Image Uploader-based Community Creations from any platform or be able to upload their own.”

This means the community’s popular user-created content, like custom arenas and CAWs (Create-A-Wrestler), will not be available on Switch 2, but are still accessible on PC, PS5, Xbox Series, and even last-gen systems PS4 and Xbox One.

While it’s easy to chalk this up to tighter rules on Nintendo’s family-friendly platform, as some fans on the WWE Games subreddit point out, WWE 2K18 for Nintendo Switch offered community creations just fine.

“Ended up going to Nintendo support to get a refund,” said one player. “Have the game on PS5, only double dipped for a portable universe mode with custom creations.” The same player later confirmed Nintendo did issue a refund, adding: “didn’t take too long.”

“Wait.. so custom images are forbidden by Nintendo?” asked another astonished player. “I really wish Nintendo would tell us their target audience. Why does Nintendo have to be like YouTube? You have parental controls for a reason, stop hindering grown adults’ fun by protecting kids. Yall ain’t their parents. The parents are.”

“A couple of microtransaction-fueled missteps aside,” we thought WWE 2K25 was ‘Great’, awarding it 8/10. In IGN’s WWE 2K25 review, we said the game “looks fantastic, still feels good to play, and is full of welcome updates both big and small.”

Nintendo recently made subtle changes to its guidelines for developers publishing on its Switch 2 eShop, seemingly in an effort to slow an oft-criticized flood of low-effort “slop” content that’s been crowding out other games and frustrating users.

S.p.l.i.t review

You don’t use the mouse in S.p.l.i.t, but you won’t miss it. Games are sometimes described as ‘clunky’, but what’s more satisfying than good clunk? Each key clank here hits like a heart thud. Axel and two associates are scrambling for root access to launch a malware attack on “the facility” – as in “death is the least of my worries. Being dragged into the facility is what scares me”.

S.p.l.i.t is about an hour long and describes its own dingy skeuomorphism as a “diegetic & immersive UI” and it is that, except when it’s alienating; esoteric; repellent. The game starts and I enter the group chat as Axel. A flashing line prompts me to speak but it doesn’t matter what keys I press, Axel types what he wants. Inhabit. Dissociate. It feels like having an out of body experience with a body that doesn’t belong to me in the first place. There is an unnervingly subtle lag to it all. Axel feels exactly one key slower than me.

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