Warning: this review contains spoilers forShetlandseries nine, episode one.Shetland isnt all sheep farming, ceilidhs, and charming gift shops selling hand-poured scented candles. They also havespies. Well, they did, until Annie Bett was killed by a single shot to the chest from an automatic pistol. Now they have a mystery to solve who shot Annie the spy and fellow victim Anton Bergen, and why?DI Calder had put the spy angle together by the end of episode two. Something about a maths genius so brainy that shed gone to Oxford aged 15 but now spent her time doing tax returns for the local Chinese takeaway just didnt add up.Of courseAnnie had been recruited to the British intelligence service. Thats what happens to those beautiful mind kids. Aged nine, theres a picture of them holding up their GCSE certificates in the local paper, and by the time theyre legally old enough to drive a scooter, theyre passing cyphers to their man in Berlin under cover of a German exchange tour of the Reichstag.Accountancy had been Annies cover story until it was blown by her death. That, and the sudden arrival in her extremely remote hometown of the man who is presumably her handler. If Professor Rossi hadnt pitched up and forgotten to disguise his familiarity with Police Scotland acronyms in front of Ruth, then perhaps she wouldnt have put two and two together, and Annie Betts would have gone down as a Honda-driving mum instead of a double-life-leading spy.Not thatShetlanddoesnt have time for Honda-driving mums; theyre some of its best people. Tosh will solve her friend Annies murder, just you see if she doesnt. It wont come without a personal cost though. Thats the trouble with policing a small community; youve probably borrowed Tupperware from the murder victims.Toshs response to Annies death was commendable. While visibly shaken, she stuck to the books and kept a cool head. A cooler head, at least, than Ruth, who approached the interrogation of Annies husband Ian with all the control of a child trying to shake a pound coin out of a piggy bank. Ruth was certain that Ians guilt was in there and, red-faced, she was going to get it out. Their It felt like we were arguing, from your body language/I get that a lot exchange in the car afterwards was a top bit of character work, incidentally. Were still getting to know Ruth Calder, and lines like that tug us closer towards her.The same can be said for Ruths interactions with young Noah Bett (a chip off the old block if his primes-recital is anything to go by). Compare Tosh warmly hugging the boy at the party, with Ruths arms-length response to his panic attack at the hospital. Her bedside manner may need work, but when it came to his mums death, Noah seemed to respond to Ruths honesty. It doesnt seem as though hes grown up with a lot of that.Read more Noahs dad didnt kill his mum, but Ruth was right about Ians guilt. Despite sending Annie a slew of texts straight out of the Andrew Tate school of misogynist correspondence, he turned out to be having it off with one of her mates on the night she died. Classy stuff.Speaking of romance, we discovered in episode two that the other victim Anton Bergen had summarily dumped his boyfriend just before he was killed. One phone conversation from a mystery caller and it was goodbye to Nathan Huang. Perhaps Bergen knew that he was in danger and wanted to protect Nate?Theres deffo something fishy about the family Anton was working for, and not just because theyre Scandinavian. The beautiful Jakobsons in their stunning magazine-spread house, with their ill, melancholic daughter, are more than a bit sus. Are they spies too, or might they have something to do with the Nesting facility that conspiracy theorist Campervan Angus is surveilling? Are both things connected? And where do the mussel-farming Harris family fit in? One things for certain: Angus tin foil hat blog is going to come in useful one of these episodes.More useful than Lisa Friels shopping trip into Lerwick, at least. Rev. Calders latest project was so spooked by mention of the murders on BBC Radio Shetland that the sight of harmless PC Grant had her ducking into a fridge to hide faster than Boris Johnson on the campaign trail. Lisas argument with Annie on the day that she died must have been of consequence. A pity though. All that effort and she still didnt get her Pot Noodle.Pot Noodle feels out of place in this picturesque crime show, which feels more like a homemade preserves and organic loaves kind of place. From the windswept views to the lovely knitted scarves, this is a drama straight out of the pages ofCountry Livingmagazine. Its so artisanal that even the police station evidence board is slate and chalk like the specials menu at a farm-to-fork bistro. No dry-erase markers for this lot, their coroners reports probably come cross-stitched into locally woven linen.It all makes for a great contrast with the espionage storyline, which usually plays out against more steel-and-concrete urban backdrops than this. Spies on Shetland, whatever next? County lines drug-dealing? UFOs?Shetland series nine continues next Wednesday November 20 on BBC One and iPlayer.

As part of the British Film Institute (BFI) Art of Action season, a high-octane nationwide celebration of the genre, the team behind the London Action Festival are delighted to be collaborating with the BFI Southbank on events for the season which runs through to December 2024.Events to be jointly presented have been announced with more in the works include Bottom of Formthis years edition of the London Action Festivals The Worlds Greatest Screening Ever (Probably!) series a special night built around a screening of a celebrated feature film.On Nov. 21. Director George Millers acclaimed masterpiece Max Max 2: The Road Warrior is to be honoured with a special contribution by Miller himself and a look at how the 1982 classic was a game-changer for the vibrant franchise. Other segments have also been announced including an in-person interview with Iain Smith OBE, BAFTA-winning Producer of Mad Max: Fury Road where hell look at what it takes to produce for George Miller and his involvement in bringing the franchise back.There will also be a live performance of Mad Max music from The McBain Quartet led by Patrick Savage with multi-award winning singer-songwriter Zara McFarlane PLUS prizes and surprises!Find out more hereThe World of Warcraft games are expanding in an unexpected way.For two decades, World of Warcraft players have lived their digital lives in the lands of Azeroth and beyond. But have they truly lived them? After many years of requesting and being shot down by Blizzard, they are about to finally be allowed to do so. As part of a livestreamed event celebrating both 30 years of the wider Warcraft franchise and 20 years of World of Warcraft specifically today, Blizzard announced that the long-running MMORPG will finally allow players to put down roots and step away from the world-saving heroics to sit back, relax, and have a nice cuppa in their very own housing system. Read more at GizmodoHalloween and Christmas are full of movies, but what about Thanksgiving? Here are the perfect films to watch in preparation for the upcoming holiday.What makes a Thanksgiving movie isnt always clear-cutsome are conceived around the holiday, and others feature one memorable scene with a turkey on the table. Like the holiday itself, Thanksgiving movies are the offbeat, sometimes melodramatic stepsiblings to their Christmas counterparts. If youre looking for something other than football or parade coverage to watch on the holiday, check out the Thanksgiving (or Thanksgiving-ish) films below.Read more at Mental FlossTaco Bells latest specialty menu will have you nostalgic for an earlier time.Taco Bell is bringing back fan-favorite menu items in its new Decades Menu, offering a nostalgic taste of the brands history. Starting October 31, fans can order iconic dishes from the 60s through the early 2000s, all priced under $3 USD for a limited time. The Decades Menu kicks off with the 60s Tostada, 70s Green Sauce Burrito, 80s Meximelt and 90s Gordita Supreme, with the 00s Caramel Apple Empanada joining on November 21. This revival aims to unite generations of Taco Bell fans, with each item representing a different era of the brands menu innovation.Read more at HypeBeastThirty years after its release, the Interview with The Vampire movie still stands tall amongst a crowded genre.Vampires never die. Not even sunlight and garlic can quash the enduring appeal of one of the most famous supernatural creatures in our mythological lore, especially when it comes to pop culture. For as long as cinema has existed, vampire movies have swarmed the screen, each offering a different representation of the mythic bloodsucker. The malleability of their mythos has allowed them a kind of thematic flexibility not afforded to, say, zombies (sorry, The Walking Dead). Vampires represent anything and everything, often absorbing the ideas and ills of their given era. Just when it seems as though the cultural backlash may be forming against vampires, they become relevant once again.Read more at The A.V. Club

As Rogue Black Ops attempt to topple the Luttazzi Crime Family and drive Crimson One forces out of Avalon, Operators in the field are going to need the finest gear and weapons for the battles ahead. Ready up with the Season 01 Battle Pass, BlackCell, and Store content dropping into Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Call of Duty: Warzone on November 14, and throughout the first part of the season.An all-new Battle Pass System grants you the opportunity to earn 100+ rewards, including free base weapons, numerous Weapon Blueprints, Equipment Skins, Operator Skins, and much more. There are three ways to obtain some or all of this content:Earn 20+ free rewards, including cosmetic content and base weapons.Purchase the premium Battle Pass and earn up to 1,100 COD Points as you progress through the Battle Pass Pages.Or purchase BlackCell for the ultimate seasonal experience, including a variety of molten hot Operator Skins, Weapon Blueprints, COD points, and other rewards.The Season 01 Black Ops 6 Battle Pass is brimming over with content, which is both showcased and unlocked in a brand new Page system. Think of the Battle Pass as a book, with 17 total pages. The first Page displays BlackCell Instant Rewards and the second Page shows premium Battle Pass Instant Rewards, followed by 100 in-game Battle Pass rewards across 14 Pages and a Completion Page that is instantly unlocked once all other Pages are completed. Pages include Free and Paid content. As always, all Base Weapons are free to unlock.Purchase the premium Battle Pass for 1,100 COD Points for the ability to earn all Battle Pass rewards. For a head start on the season, grab the Battle Pass Bundle for 2,400 COD Points, including 20+ Tier Skips.Starting Your Battle Pass Journey: Page 1The Season 01 Battle Pass Instant Rewards PageAs you start your new Battle Pass journey, the Instant Reward Page and Page 1 are unlocked by default. All the other Pages are locked but can be previewed. Your goal is to complete the Battle Pass and access the 100 percent Completion Page at the end of the Battle Pass.The Season 01 Battle Pass Page 1Each Page contains a slight variation on the following:Around six item rewards (known as Tiers) that are unlocked in any order you wish within the Page. Each requires an earned Battle Pass Token to unlock.Each Page (except for the BlackCell, Instant, and Completion Pages) contains up to two free Tier rewards. The rest are unlocked via purchasing the premium Battle Pass, BlackCell, or the Vault EditionAn HVT (High Value Target) Tier reward is unlocked once all the previous items on that page are unlocked. This is usually an Operator Skin or Weapon Blueprint, and sometimes theres a BlackCell variant.When both the regular and HVT Tiers are unlocked, the Page is complete.Use the Auto Claim feature to automatically unlock rewards as you play. Or turn it off to earn Battle Pass Tokens used to manually claim rewards.Battle Tokens: Unlocking a PageThe Season 01 Battle Pass Page 6, with Tiers needed to unlock (from Page 1).Battle Pass Tokens make their return to the Battle Pass and work in a similar way to those in previous Battle Passes. A Token Bank is displayed in the top-right corner of your Battle Pass. These are used to unlock the l reward Tiers across all 14 Pages.Premium Battle Pass and BlackCell owners can spend these Tokens on any available Tier reward on an unlocked Page. Tiers can also be automatically unlocked by turning on the Auto Claim feature; with this feature, Tokens are spent as they are earned and not deposited in a Token Bank.Players who do not own the premium Battle Pass earn free rewards in a linear order and do not have access to Tokens.Unlocking Later PagesThe Season 01 Battle Pass Page 7.If there is a reward in a later Page that catches your eye, you simply need to earn enough Battle Tokens to unlock that Page and its Tier content.BlackCell owners get the bonus of unlocking a single Battle Pass Page at any point, regardless of whether the Pages before it are unlocked. Begin unlocking Tier Rewards on that Page immediately.Each new Page requires reaching a certain threshold of claimed Tiers before it unlocks; you dont have to complete an entire Page to access the next one.BlackCell Season 01: Goliath Operator (Rogue Black Ops)BlackCell Instant Rewards Page, HVTJoin the molten, crystalized skull-headed Goliath as he stalks the epic Season 01 BlackCell content. Featuring the Goliath Operator Skin with writhing flames across his onyx carapace armor, this orange-hued demon favors fiery combat and swift deaths. Goliath is part of an impressive BlackCell offering that brings the heat, delivering Operators clad in true Black Ops style with deep blacks and fiery orange accent hues.Additional BlackCell Instant Rewards ContentUpgrade your Battle Pass Experience: Purchase BlackCell to gain complete access to all the amazing rewards offered in the Season 01 Battle Pass. Owners will gain immediate access to the BlackCell Instant Rewards page, acquiring the following items:20 Battle Pass Tier Skips1,100 COD PointsThe Boiling Point Mastercraft Weapon Blueprint for the Goblin Mk2 (Assault Rifle) thats literally dripping with molten heat including a first-of-its-kind unique weapon inspect animation.The Whos Laughing Now Finishing Move with Companion Hyena.The BlackCell Clan Tag (showcased in Lobbies and Winners Circles).The Goliath New Operator.Additionally, BlackCell owners can expect to access page after page of additional rewards within the Season 01 Battle Pass. These include:Seven BlackCell-exclusive Operator Skins for: Sev (two Skins), Bayan, Bailey, Carver, Alvarez, and Stone.Six BlackCell-exclusive Weapon Blueprints for the XM4 (Assault Rifle), Marine SP (Shotgun), Tsarkov 7.62 (Marksman Rifle), GPMG-7 (LMG), Saug (SMG), Krig C (Assault Rifle).The ability to unlock any single Page from the Battle Pass, ignoring the usual minimum Tier requirements. From here, you can unlock the Tiers within that Page, and progress forwards (or backwards) from the Page provided the subsequent Tier unlock criteria is met.NEW: Access to BlackCell-themed rewards throughout Season 01, offering earnable content throughout the Season.Over 130 Rewards (Battle Pass and BlackCell related) for those who fully complete the Season 01 BlackCell Battle Pass.As usual, players who upgrade to BlackCell after purchasing the Battle Pass will also receive 1,100 COD Points back.If youre considering an upgrade to the Black Ops 6 Vault Edition, this is the time to do it! For the same price as the BlackCell offering ($30 or your regional equivalent), the Vault Edition entitles you to the very same Season 01 BlackCell offering, along with the following:The Hunters vs. Hunted Operator Pack featuring Operator Skins for Adler, Park, Brutus, and Klaus.The Mastercraft Weapon Collection (five weapons).The GobbleGum Pack (12 single-use consumables).Woods Operator PackNote for Prestige Players: Any Weapon Blueprint and Equipment Skin you unlock in the Battle Pass is permanently unlocked and does not re-lock when you subsequently Prestige.When you purchase the premium Battle Pass or BlackCell, you immediately unlock the Battle Pass Instant Rewards Page, including the following items:10% Battle Pass XP Boost.The Superbloom Frag Grenade Skin.The Thorn Legendary Blueprint for the Tanto .22 SMG.The Rose Goes Legendary Weapon Sticker.The new Sev Operator and Sev Skin, along with the Sev BlackCell Operator Skin for BlackCell owners.Sevati Sev Dumas (Rogue Black Ops)Battle Pass Instant Reward Page, HVTA main player in the Rogue Team after the conclusion of the Campaign, Sev is ready to make a deal with the untrustworthy French Syndicate and is gearing up to take down the rival Luttazzi family to prove it. Sporting two different Skins, depending on the infiltration mission at hand, shes more than ready to lead the charge.Complete Battle Pass Pages and choose content to unlock, including a variety of Operator Skins, many paired with an molten hot Animated BlackCell variants:Bayan: Drifter SkinsOperator Skins, Battle Pass and BlackCell, HVT, Page 2Bayan is clad for dark ops with dark gray and black tactical attire, including a black balaclava, gloves, and pouches. His alternate BlackCell form features cracked lava, embers and smoke rising from his jacket, and a featureless mask with glowing eye sockets.Maya: Underground SkinOperator Skin, Battle Pass, Page 3Maya lets her hair down and travels light, dropping her jacket in favor of a burgundy tank top, braces and a pair of camo pants.Bailey: Anarchist SkinsOperator Skins, Battle Pass and BlackCell, HVT, Page 4Dropping her mask and going for a clean tactical look, top-knot, face tattoo and a light combat jacket in black and white with red piping. Her BlackCell variant changes the outfit to a black and molten orange, burning flecks of fire emanating from her, and a glowing hand tattoo.Carver: Tarnished SkinsOperator Skins, Battle Pass and BlackCell, HVT, Page 7Mac is on the hunt and comes prepped with a camo vest with numerous pouches, a snakeskin-sheathed hunting knife, a shock of white hair and neck gaiter. In his BlackCell form, Carver goes molten, smoking with fire while his face-covering sports a pair of tactical goggles reflecting an inferno inside.Alvarez: Flight Path SkinsOperator Skins, Battle Pass and BlackCell, HVT, Page 9Clad in fighter pilot combat gear with front pouches, a comms radio and large helmet with reflective visor and purple accents, Alvarez sports a rust and black BlackCell variant with animated flames scorching across her helmet visor.Nazir: Slick Style SkinOperator Skin, Battle Pass, Page 11Clad for rappelling maneuvers in a swift and sleek manner, Nazir goes with a combat jacket and decides on red gloves, matching crimson tactical joggers, and lower torso buckles.Stone: Zip Tie SkinsOperator Skins, Battle Pass and BlackCell, HVT, Page 12Stone changes his usual combat plans and aims to take prisoners as his deep gray combat fatigues and camo pouches that also come with a set of zip ties. Under his hood, Stone wears a set of cyclopean vision goggles. His BlackCell variant switches up the outfit to black, and the augmentations to glowing orange.Rossi: Mean Streets SkinOperator Skin, Battle Pass, Page 13Channeling a more dapper style from a bygone era, Rossis hair is slicked back with a cowlick, a neck scarf, shirt and braces, and suit trousers, with room to pack a pistol and comms radio.Niran: Big Slick SkinOperator Skin, Battle Pass, Page 14While pinstripe pants and a bikers jacket might not work on some Operators, Niran pulls off the look with badass aplomb, including sporty shades with tactical side shields.Perhaps the two most important Battle Pass Pages are the ones containing a new Base Weapon. All players can access these for free (as always) at Season 01 Launch.Saug Submachine GunBattle Pass, HVT, Page 3Levels: 39MAGS: 4MAG SIZE: 36Mastery Badges: YesAttachments: Optic, Muzzle, Barrel, Underbarrel, Magazine, Rear Grip, Stock, Laser, Fire ModsCustomize Options: Skins, Reticle Unlocks (MP, ZM, WZ), Accessories (1), Decals (1), Stickers 3).Military Camos: 21 (MP, ZM, WZ)Special Camos: 6 (MP, ZM, WZ)Mastery Camos: 12 (MP, ZM, WZ)Fully automatic submachine gun. Excellent mobility and good handling. Great rate of fire. High recoil.Pepper your enemies with a hailstorm of lead using this rapid-fire SMG thats perfect for breaching and clearing small spaces. Pull down when aiming down sights to counter the Saugs recoil, or better yet, improve the weapons already great hip-fire capabilities with the appropriate attachments, including the Tactical Laser for a killer combo of mobility and accuracy via Tactical Stance. Or go all out on hip-fire with the Akimbo Saug Stock for unmatched SMG firepower.Krig C Assault RifleBattle Pass, HVT, Page 6Levels: 43MAGS: 3MAG SIZE: 30Mastery Badges: YesAttachments: Optic, Muzzle, Barrel, Underbarrel, Magazine, Rear Grip, Stock, Laser, Fire ModsCustomize Options: Skins, Reticle Unlocks (MP, ZM, WZ), Accessories (1), Decals (1), Stickers 3).Military Camos: 21 (MP, ZM, WZ)Special Camos: 6 (MP, ZM, WZ)Mastery Camos: 12 (MP, ZM, WZ)Full-auto assault rifle. High damage and average handling. Recoil pattern starts very controllable before ramping up.For a hard-hitting, versatile Assault Rifle that performs well across multiple ranges, look no further than the Krig C. The weapon inflicts moderate damage across the whole body with a four-shot elimination within its effective range, three when accounting for headshots. Recoil control becomes shakier through sustained fire, so burst fire to retain accuracy or consider attachments offering improved control to help counter the ramped-up movement.With 30 Weapon Blueprints to earn across the Season 01 Battle Pass and BlackCell, lets first check out the armaments with a single, unique Blueprint design:Thorn Tanto .22 Submachine Gun, Instant RewardTurmoil ASG-89 Shotgun, Page 1Idle Hands XMG Light Machine Gun, Page 2Batter Up Melee Baseball Bat, Page 4Tattered AK-74 Assault Rifle, Page 4Tip the Scales Goblin Mk 2 Assault Rifle, Page 5Omert Grekova Pistol, Page 6Eviscerator Melee Knife, Page 7Forced Retreat SVD Sniper Rifle, Page 8Tide Turner GS45 Pistol, Page 8Strained PP-919 Submachine Gun, Page 9Psycho Snake Model L Assault Rifle, Page 10Coroner GPR 91 Assault Rifle, Page 11Butchers Friend Melee Knife, Page 12 (not shown)Liars Gambit C9 Submachine Gun, Page 12Reconciliation AEK-973 Marksman Rifle, Page 13Crack Shot LW3A1 Frostline Sniper Rifle, Page 13Now lets focus on all the HVT Weapon Blueprints that have molten BlackCell variants. Note that all BlackCell variants are Animated with Magma Tracers and Molten Death FX.Boiling Point Goblin Mk2 Assault Rifle, BlackCell Instant Reward. Mastercraft, Animated, with Magma Tracers and Molten Death FX.Wild Mannered and Wild Mannered BlackCell XM4 Assault Rifle, HVT, Page 1.Boomslang and Boomslang BlackCell Marine SP Shotgun, HVT, Page 5.Furious and Furious BlackCell Tsarkov 7.62 Marksman Rifle, HVT, Page 8.Hither Slither and Hither Slither BlackCell GPMG-7 Light Machine Gun, HVT, Page 10.Animated Salutations (with Red & White Tracers) and Salutations BlackCell Saug Submachine Gun, HVT, Page 11.Animated, Reactive Bad Beat with Violet Darkness Tracers and Animted, Reactive Bad Beat BlackCell with Violet Heat Tracers and Violet Molten Death FX Krig C Assault Rifle, HVT, Page 14.Black Ops 6 introduces a larger variety of Equipment Skins than ever before, whichonce youve earned the itemyou access and equip in the Loadout menu. Heres what to expect:Superboom Frag Grenade Skin (Lethal), Battle Pass Instant Reward (shown)La Petite Concussion Grenade Skin (Tactical), Page 3 (shown)Clamped View Reticle (Optic Attachment), Page 4Inside Shot Reticle (Optic Attachment), Page 612 Gauge Dragons Breath (Fire Mod Attachment), Page 7 (shown)Snake Charmer RC-XD (Scorestreak), Page 9Bracketed Reticle (Optic Attachment), Page 10Viperfire Sentry Turret Skin (Scorestreak), Page 10 (shown)New Emotes, Finishing Moves, and SpraysEquipped in the Customize Menu of your Barracks, theres a selection of new Emotes, Finishing Moves and Sprays to bring your personal flavor to the fight. Showcase these rewards during matches or (with Emotes) during the Winners Circle. Heres what to expect:Whos Laughing Now Finishing Move (with Hyena Companion), BC IRHeadache Finishing Move, Page 2Hit Run Hitman Finishing Move, Page 9Good Point Finishing Move, Page 14Sore Throat Emote, Page 7I Oughta! Emote, Page 9Move Set Emote, Page 14Royal Rage Spray, Page 1 (shown)Sliced Spray, Page 6To A Flame Spray, Page 8 (shown)Grim Shadow Spray, Page 11 (shown)Spinal Rat Spray, Page 12 (shown)The Black Ops 6 Battle Pass offers a wealth of content, including item highlights (shown above) from the following additional categories:COD PointsWeapon Charms (example shown above)Weapon Large Decals (example shown above)Weapon Stickers (example shown above)GobbleGums (example shown above, 13 total, various rarities and powers)Finishing MovesEmblems (example shown above)Calling Cards (some Animated)Loading ScreensClan Tags (BlackCell only)Consumable 2XP & 2WXP TokensSeason 01 Battle Pass Weapon Blueprints TrackerTo ascertain which weapons the Battle Pass gives you earnable Blueprints for, heres a table listing every Season 01 Battle Pass Weapon Blueprint. Note that when you unlock a Weapon Blueprint, it becomes permanently unlocked during Prestige leveling. Battle Pass Weapon Blueprints Tracker:ASSAULT RIFLES::::TypeXM4AK-74GPR 91 Model LGoblin Mk2Goblin Mk2Krig C:Blueprint NameWild ManneredTatteredCoronerPsycho SnakeBoiling Point Tip the Scales Bad Beat:BlackCellYesNoNoNoYesNoYes:Page141110BC IR514:SUBMACHINE GUNS::::TypeC9Tanto .22PP-919Saug:Blueprint NameLiars GambitThorn StrainedSalutations:BlackCellNoNoNoYes:Page12BP911:SHOTGUNS::::TypeMarine SPASG-89:Blueprint NameBoomslangTurmoil:BlackCellYesNo:Page51:LIGHT MACHINE GUNS::::TypeXMGGPMG-7:Blueprint NameIdle HandsHither Slither :BlackCellNoYes:Page210:MARKSMAN RIFLES::::TypeTsarkov 7.62AKE-973:Blueprint NameFuriousReconciliation:BlackCellYesNo:Page813:SNIPER RIFLES::::TypeLW3A1 FrostlineSVD:Blueprint NameCrack ShotForced Retreat:BlackCellNoNo:Page138:PISTOLS::::TypeGrekovaGS45:Blueprint NameOmertTide Turner:BlackCellNoNo:Page68:MELEE::::TypeKnifeKnifeBaseball Bat:Blueprint NameButchers FriendEvisceratorBatter Up:BlackCellNoNoNo:Page1274Complete all the Battle Pass Pages and youre automatically rewarded with a final Completion Page filled with exciting content. This includes the following:200 COD PointsWonderbar! Ultra GobbleGumSeason 01 EmblemCrasher Calling CardOpulent Ultra Skin with a BlackCell variant awarded to BlackCell OwnersSev: Opulent SkinsOperator Skins, Battle Pass and BlackCell, HVT, Completion PageSev sports a silver and black carapace plate and face mask, leather jacket and shorts, gun garter, and exposed tats. Her BlackCell alter egos ink is seared into her skin, glowing with a fiery orange hue.The Season 01 Announcement Blog detailed some exciting in-store Bundles coming to the game during the Launch Window. Check out this recap along with additional reveals.Look out for Ultra Skins, Reactives, and Mastercraft Weapon Blueprints across this seasons Bundles.Ultra Skins are highly detailed, themed, and often include VFX.Reactive Skins and Weapons feature a visual effect that intensifies as you land more eliminations.Mastercraft Weapon Blueprints include custom animations, unique weapon inspects, and much more.We are excited to announce the all-new Locked Visuals Feature exclusive to Mastercrafts. Now players can change Barrel, Stock, and other attachments while maintaining the weapons signature look.Tracer Pack: The ReplacerThe Replacer voiced by Peter StormareYour services are no longer needed; sub in The Replacer and become undeniable! Replace both yourself and your enemies with the Tracer Pack: The Replacer Bundle. The Bundle comes with a new Operator sporting two Operator Skins: The Replacer and a molten The Replacer BlackCell*, along with the Quick Wit Animated AS Val and Ramifications Animated PU-21 Blueprints, the Aura +5000 Animated Calling Card, Many Hats Animated Emblem, Replacement Killer Finishing Move, and a vehicular Weapon Charm.*BlackCell Owners: For BlackCell Season 01 owners, expect to receive the bonus The Replacer BlackCell skin in addition to all the regular bundle content. Note you must have obtained BlackCell prior to purchasing this Bundle; the skin will not be available if you purchase S01 BlackCell after purchasing this bundle.Competitor CDL Home and Away Operator BundlesNote that this Bundle includes the Weapon Camo for the shown weapons, not these weapons as BlueprintsRep your favorite pro team just in time for the arrival of Ranked Play and the 2025 Call of Duty: League season.Look for a variety of CDL Bundles themed around your favorite teams featuring a Home and Away variant of the Competitor Operator alongside other team-themed items like Weapon Camos, Large Decals, Calling Cards, Emblems, and Sprays.Tracer Pack: Parasite Warrior Ultra SkinLet the parasite take over with the gruesome and bloody Host Ultra Skin for Carver. Wield the infected Idiopathic Krig C Assault Rifle and Exo-Organism GPMG-7 LMG Weapon Blueprints. Get under your opponents skin with the Parasite Feast Companion Finishing Move. For a messier finish, deploy the Flesh Tangle Equipment Skin for the Zombie favorite Kazamir Device.Gross out your enemies with the Pest Control Emote, Back Spasm Animated Calling Card, Fearwood Loading Screen, Caustic Flight Weapon Sticker, and the Idle Eyes Legendary GobbleGum for Zombies.Tracer Pack: Cascade Failure ReactiveFollow your programming and eliminate the enemy with the cybernetic Attrition Skin for Marshall. Shut them down with the Reactive Kill Switch C9 SMG and Feedback Loop Tsarkov 7.62 Marksman Rifle Blueprints. Up close, dispatch enemies using the Acro-Badass Finishing Move.Lockdown the competition with the Big Guns Calling Card, Fully Jacked Large Decal, Brainjacked Loading Screen, and Machine Heart Weapon Charm.Tracer Pack: Steer ClearKick the tires and give em the horns with The Bull Skin for Caine, paired with the buck wild Yeehaw AK-74 Assault Rifle and Axel SVD Sniper Rifle Weapon Blueprints. Charge up close and finish off enemies with a devastating Finishing Move and keep the party going with the Mecha Bull Calling Card, Draw Emote, Steer Wrangler Spray, and Fire Breather Animated Emblem.Tracer Pack: Eternal Hunter Ultra SkinHunt the damned with the Volatile Ultra Skin for Rossi armed with three Legendary Weapon Blueprints: Vile Tribute XM4 Assault Rifle, Blood Draw Jackal PDW SMG, and Severer ASG-89 Shotgun. Stalk the night with the purple Hunters Mark Reticle, Stakeout Finishing Move, Bloodstalker Calling Card, Family Heirloom Weapon Charm, and Moonlit Emblem.Tracer Pack: Cash Bandit ReactiveSwap trash for cash as the Raccoon Goon Skin for Niran, a mischievous Operator ready to do damage with the Debt Collector Reactive Weapon Skin for the all new Sirin 9mm Special Weapon. Make sure you are backed up with the Vault Security GPR 91 Assault Rifle Blueprint.Cash in on your eliminations with the Cash Flow Reticle plus the Disarmed Finishing Move, Cash Eater Large Decal, and Raccoon Robber Weapon Charm. To help with the grind, this Bundle also includes a 1-hour Double XP Token.Tracer Pack: GDay BaitBounce them or bite them with the Bloke Biter Ultra Skin for Carver. This shark takes the ocean with him in the form of two Weapon Blueprints: overwhelm the enemy with the Bloody Water XMG LMG and race in for the bite with the Fair Dinkum KSV SMG.Share your soft side for the sea with the It Bites Emote, the Mechano-Shark Weapon Charm, Aussie Forever Large Decal, Making Waves Spray, and the Perfection Calling Card.Tracer Pack: Kick Some Brass Mastercraft Ultra SkinElectrocute enemies with the Chainblade Mastercraft Melee Blueprint wielded by the steam-powered Merciless Skin for Nazir. For ranged combat, eliminate targets with the Razor Burn XM4 Assault Rifle and Riptear Tanto .22 SMG Blueprints. Steam the punk out of them with the Akimbo Assassin Finishing Move.Activate the Show Off Emote in the Winners Circle and equip the Gearcrest Emblem, Synchsight Reticle, and Universal Weapon Charm.Plus, GobbleGum Packs and More!This is just a preview of the new content arriving in the Season 01 Store! Also keep an eye out for GobbleGum Packs, a new Store item that once purchased provides a collection of delicious and powerful single-use GobbleGums to consume during your future Zombies deployments.Other Bundles on the way include those predominantly featuring Weapon Blueprints; which include Hells Cleaner (with blueprints for the Power Drill and GPMG-7), Death Rattle (with a blueprint for the XMG), and Doom and Boom (with blueprints for the Cigma 2B, PU-21, and ARC-XD).Black Ops 6 is available now, and theres never been a better time to experience the spy action thriller Campaign, the in-depth tactical chaos of best-in-class Multiplayer, and soak in the gory glory of an incredible round-based Zombies experience! Click here to Purchase Black Ops 6. 2024 Activision Publishing, Inc. ACTIVISION, CALL OF DUTY, CALL OF DUTY LEAGUE, CALL OF DUTY WARZONE, and CALL OF DUTY BLACK OPS are trademarks of Activision Publishing, Inc. The Call of Duty League names are the properties of their respective team owners. All other trademarks and trade names are the property of their respective owners.For more information, please visitwww.callofduty.comandwww.youtube.com/callofduty, and follow@Activisionand@CallofDutyon X, Instagram, and Facebook. For Call of Duty Updates, follow@CODUpdateson X.

Its a big year for the Warcraft universe, and whether youre a Hearthstone fan, youve joined the chaos in Warcraft Rumble, ventured into the world of Azeroth for the first time in Warcraft: Orcs and Humans, or youre a World of Warcraft player, theres something for everyone in our Warcraft 30th Anniversary Direct stream. Join us for a celebration as we dip into the mana pool of nostalgia and cast far sight on the future of all things Warcraft.Get the Drop on New RewardsViewers can watch on any Warcraft, Hearthstone, or Warcraft Rumble stream on Twitch or TikTok to earn rewards during the giveaway period from November 13 at 10:00 am PST through December 11 at 10:00 am PST. Learn more in our previously published article.Warcraft 30th Anniversary Direct News Round-UpWeve rounded up everything you need to know from the Warcraft 30th Anniversary Direct here. Jump directly to each section to learn more: Warcraft RTS, Hearthstone, Warcraft Rumble, World of Warcraft, World of Warcraft Classic, World of Warcraft: The War Within.Rediscover 30 Years of the Warcraft RTSIts been 30 years since Warcraft: Orcs and Humans made its debut, setting the path for so many stories and adventures that have come after. To continue these adventures in the Warcraft series, weve released Patch 2.0 now available for all Warcraft III: Reforged players.The patch overhauls environments, lighting, and the user interface. It also introduces uprezzed classic Warcraft III assets to HD, allowing players to choose and customize their graphical experience. Mix and match assets as you wish. There are also new quality-of-life improvements such as in-game hotkey customization, updated ladder, and much much more.Beyond the update for Warcraft III: Reforged, were happy to announce the release of fully remastered versions of Warcraft I and Warcraft II, taking you beyond Orcs and Humans, the Tides of Darkness, and the Dark Portal for the first time, again. Players will be able to switch between the original graphics and the remastered versions in real time. Weve also added more modern controls to Warcraft I, such as right-click move, band box select, and faster game speed.Both Warcraft I and II also have UI and UX improvements, such as tooltips and health bars, a mission select screen, and increased unit selection.Warcraft II will continue to have multiplayer functionality, and all legacy custom maps will remain fully compatible and playable.Travel back in time to experience each of these titles once more or for the very first time by visiting the shop: Warcraft I: Remastered, Warcraft II: Remastered, Warcraft III: Reforged.Youll never forget the first time you hear zug zug.Introducing the Warcraft Battle ChestWeve also brought back the Battle Chest, allowing players to purchase all three games in one bundle. For those who already purchased Warcraft: Orcs & Humans, Warcraft: II Battle.net edition, or Warcraft III: Reforged from the Battle.net shop, the bundle will be available at a discount.Add the Battle Chest to your Collection NowHearthstoneHearthstone: Heroes of StarCraft The Great Dark Beyond Mini-Set Early next year, Hearthstone is going beyond Warcraft and into... Heroes of StarCraft!This special Mini-Set will have a whopping 49 new cards across three themed factions, which show what the StarCraft universe would look like in the Hearthstone Tavern. Each faction is made up of cards that can be used across multiple classes, including an iconic Hero card.ZergDeath Knight, Demon Hunter, Hunter, and Warlock have joined the Zerg! Led by the formidable Sarah Kerrigan, they will have aggressive cards that win the game by swarming the board.ProtossDruid, Mage, Priest, and Rogue fight for the Protoss Empire. Led by the High Templar Artanis, they will have powerful, high-cost cards that are made cheaper throughout the game.TerranPaladin, Shaman, and Warrior make up the Terran forces, lead by the one and only Jim Raynor. They will command Battlecruisersa special take on the Starship mechanic from The Great Dark Beyond.The Mini-Set will feature a slew of StarCraft units which are sure to invoke nostalgia, as well as the Terran-armored Murloc, Grunty, and new, thematic music. You can chart a course for the Heroes of StarCraft Mini-Set, launching in January 2025! More announcements, details, and card reveals are coming closer to launch.Major Arena UpdatesThen, for the first time in 10 years, Arena Mode is getting a major overhaul. With that update, there will be two kinds of Arena to choose from. Normal Arena will be shorter form, allowing you to complete your runs more quickly. Competitive Arena players will be able to play in the higher-stakes Underground Arena, with longer runs and a new feature: Re-Draft on Loss. Re-Draft on Loss means that, after you lose, youll have the option to re-draft cards, edit your deck, and keep your run alive.Ratings will also be added to both Normal and Underground Arena. Normal, skill-based matchmaking will be used for Normal Arena. Underground Arena throws caution to the wind and lets you face off against opponents of all skill levels.This major Arena revamp is coming in the first half of next year. Look out for more details about this update closer to when it goes live.A Preview of the Year Ahead: The Year of the Raptor!On top of those updates, Hearthstone has an exciting year of expansions ahead, with much-requested themes, locations, and familiar faces across Azeroth.In the first expansion of the year, enter the Emerald Dream and join the battle between the Old Gods and the Druids of the Emerald Dream for the fate of the World Tree. Things will heat up even more when the Druids of the Flame light up the Mini-Set (releasing earlier than normal this year, during the 32.2 Patch).The second expansion of the year will be Hearthstones first-ever sequel: the return to UnGoro Crater! Join Elise on a hunt for a mythical, lost Tortollan city. When you find it, join the Tortollans in a festival to celebrate the mighty dinosaurs of the crater in the 33.4 Mini-Set.In the third expansion of the year, travel with Chromie through alternate realities to recruit Legendary Warcraft heroes like youve never seen them before. Leading to the 34.4 Mini-Set: an epic showdown against Murozond at the end of time!Celebrate One-Year of Warcraft RumbleIts been one year since Warcraft Rumble went live. To celebrate, players can log in to Warcraft Rumble today and join the one-year anniversary celebration in game. Players can collect daily rewards, including new avatars and cosmetics!Introducing Split LeadersThe Warcraft universe is built on rich and diverse characters that may not fit into any singular family, and because of this, were introducing split Leaders! In Season 10, we reintroduce Sylvanas Windrunner as the first playable split Leader, honoring her allegiance to both the Horde and Undead families. Later, we will introduce Malfurion Stormrage as Alliance and Cenarion, Orgrim Doomhammer as Horde and Blackrock, and last but not least, Anubarak as Undead and Beast.Get Ready to Rumble from Your PCWarcraft Rumble is coming to PC! The PC beta will launch on December 10, 2024; stay tuned for more information!World of WarcraftWorld of Warcraft celebrates 20 years of adventure in Azeroth, bringing together players of all ages and abilities from all over the world, making connections both in the game and out.Inspired by the incredible story captured in The Remarkable Life of Ibelin documentary about Mats Ibelin Steennow live on Netflix a Norwegian WoW player who suffered from Duchenne muscular dystrophy, you can add the Reven Pack to your collection and support CureDuchenne, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving and extending the lives of those affected by this disease.Live now in modern World of Warcraft, players can join the World of Warcraft 20th Anniversary Celebration to collect updated Tier 2 armor appearance sets, undertake Classic Timewalking, engage with others to defeat iconic world bosses, head to the Trading post, and earn iconic new rewards, and more.The War Within has taken the leap into the first chapter of the Worldsoul Saga and adventures continue in WoW Classic, but this is only the beginning of what we have planned.Season of DiscoveryCurrently, in Season of Discovery, players are exploring new adventures with new class abilities, all-new level-up raids, finding secrets, and teaming up to defeat Ragnaros and Nefarian. It wont be long until everyone can join the War Effort and open the gates to AhnQiraj, where theyll get to plunder the depths for new rewards and face new challenges.After AhnQiraj, players in Season of Discovery can look forward to one more phase, in which theyll face the dangers of Naxxramas, along with new instanced content featuring the Scarlet Crusade as well as adventures in Deadwind Pass!Cataclysm ClassicIn Cataclysm Classic, Ragnaros has risen in the Firelands once more, and players are working toward adding the Dragonwrath Staff to their collection. In the final phase of Cataclysm Classic, players will experience the Hour of Twilight patch and Dragon Soul raid dungeon early next year.And thats not all we have in store for Classic World of Warcraft.Revisit the Mists of PandariaWere pleased to announce that Mists of Pandaria Classic will be arriving in the summer of 2025, taking players back to the shores of Pandaria and bringing its legendary class design, incredible raids and dungeons, stunning environments, and (of course) an unforgettable soundtrack.WoW Classic 20th Anniversary EditionRelive the World of Warcraft Classic experience with all-new fresh realms in the WoW Classic 20th Anniversary Edition arriving November 21. Join players on a whole new journey to level 60, with the first raid dungeon, Molten Core, becoming available a few weeks after launch. Choose to play on a PvP realm, a Normal PvE realm, or (for the very first time) a Hardcore realm progressing through content with the other realms all from the beginning, with fresh economies, on very large realms.These realms will launch with some of the quality-of-life features that came later in the WoW Classic cycle, such as the Chronoboon Displacer to save your world buffs and the improved PvP Honor Ranking system. The PvP and Normal PvE realms will also progress into Burning Crusade Classic!It's never too late to go back and re-experience World of Warcraft anewjust in time to celebrate 20 years of adventures in Azeroth!World of Warcraft: The War WithinThe first chapter of the Worldsoul Saga kicked off in August with the launch of The War Within, bringing with it myriad new experiences with a new raid, dungeons, delves, PvP, new appearances and rewards, pets, mounts and much more.Siren IsleOn the horizon, our next content update, Siren Isle, is currently available on the Public Test Realms (PTR), and the update will go live next month with a little something for everyone. This update also includes the epilogue questline for Dalaran and the Kirin Tor. No spoilers, but the storyline will feature the mysterious haranir, who also starred in the expansion release cinematic.The Siren Isle introduces a new outdoor environment to explore, full of mysteries to uncover and rewards to help catch your alternate characters up and prepare for the next War Within season ahead.Plunderstorm ReturnsPlunderstorm is returning with a new Plunderstore to provide more flexibility for earning rewards instead of a linear Renown track. There are also some quality-of-life changes to spell interactions, the UI and more ahead.The Siren Isle content update also brings with it Turbulent Timeways once more and additional updates to the Feast of Winter Veil in-game holiday event.New The War Within Novella: HeartlandsWere introducing a new novella that explores more of the story behind the scenes. Find out what happened with Jaina and Thrall after the Fall of Dalaran as they seek out reinforcements in this five-chapter special available today and as read by Chris Metzen!Listen and read here.Up Next Undermined!Xalataths trail leads adventurers to a location in our next major content update that has long been known about but, as yet, remained unexploredthe Undermine.Players will travel deep into the goblin city of Undermine, the capital of the goblins trade empire! It is a city like none other seen before in World of Warcraft and stands as a testament to goblin intelligence and creativity as experts in both technology and alchemy. As our adventures continue, well learn more about goblin culture and society that we have never been able to see before. Well learn whats important to them, the problems they are trying to solve everything that makes them truly unique, and what theyre capable of as a society. Well dig a bit deeper beyond just their humor and explosions, though there will still be explosions and a LOT of mayhem to be found.Youll arrive in an Undermine thats in conflict between the four major goblin cartels: Steamwheedle, Blackwater, Bilgewater, and the Venture Company. Each cartel is run by notorious goblins like Monte Gazlowe, Renzik The Shiv, Baron Revilgaz, Marin Noggenfogger, and more. Which one you align yourself with is up to you.Youll want to make sure you have a sweet ride to roll around town in players can earn a customizable vehicle early on thats designed just for use in Undermine. Youll push the boundaries of locomotion on the roads of Undermine and speed through its causeways and byways at a higher rate than a ground mount can.Players can adjust the cars driving characteristics by adding a little extra grip to hug the roads or adjust to slide and glide as they drift around corners. Want to accelerate faster? Then, you may have to sacrifice a little speed. How you customize your cars characteristics is up to you.New Dungeon- Operation: FloodgateThe new dungeon, Operation: Floodgate, builds on the narrative of Undermine as players race to stop a group of goblins from blowing a dam that will bring ruin to the Ringing Deeps.This new dungeon will be available immediately as a part of the new The War Within Season 2 dungeon pool on Heroic, Mythic, and Mythic+, alongside the four other launch dungeons and three legacy dungeons. Well share more information on the full slate of dungeons at a later point, but we would be remiss if we didnt include MOTHERLODE from Battle for Azeroth in the rotation.Players will also experience two new Delves and variations of existing Delves in the content update. Seasonal updates are also being introduced to Brann Bronzebeard, a new adversary to follow, Zekvir, and a new set of goblin-inspired Curios.New Raid- Liberation of UndermineExperience a new 8-boss raid dungeon that takes you through the city streets and into the magnificent Gallagio brimming with color and extravagance, it houses the dark secrets of its owner Gallywix.Theres more at play here than it first seems, and goblin politics are treacherous and fraught with the underpinnings of something more where Xalatath is concerned.Theres even more ahead in 2025, and we have the roadmaps to help guide you on what you can look forward to in World of Warcraft and WoW Classic.Thank you for making Azeroth your home over these last two decades. Speaking of home, the World of Warcraft team has one last thing to share with youAnd yes, in World of Warcraft: Midnight, your next adventure begins at home. A house to call your very own. Stay tuned!Wherever your gaming experience takes you, we cant wait to continue on this journey with you all.Loktar ogar! Well see you at the Inn, in Azeroth, and wherever the road takes us all next!

When December rolls around, all anyone wants to do isyou guessed it!hibernate in the great indoors. This is all fun and games on the cozy blankets and hot cocoa front, yes, but it also has the unwanted consequence of making your abodes exterior spaces take a back seat to the seemingly more pressing priority of zhuzhing up your living room, kitchen, and bedroom for the holidays. In 2024, do it different by turning your attention outward. Outdoor Christmas decor is all about finding that Goldilocks sweet spot between no-holds-barred, exuberant touches and sophisticated subtlety. Easier said than done, right? When in doubt, start with what you have on hand (many indoor items can be taken outside, after all!) rather than trying to concoct a megawatt display with animatronic Santas and snowflake light projectors. You can always make the most of things and work with what you have, insists designer Young Huh, who draped her front entry in elegant evergreens and filled her planters with foliage she already owned.For some much-needed Yuletide inspiration, scroll through these 50 outdoor Christmas decor ideas that are guaranteed to leave Santa (and all your visitors!) speechless. Who knows, maybe youll be tempted to keep them up well beyond January 1. 1Achieve Wreath-Powered Curb AppealJosh Yung Design HouseYou cant deny it: Designer Josh Yungs D.C. townhouse, which we spotlighted back in 2020, has some serious curb appeal. Want your home to similarly turn heads? All you need is garland, natural wreaths, red ribbons that can double as hangers for said wreaths, and string lights. Voil! 2Repurpose Some BranchesCourtesy ArhausHave a bunch of loose branches left over after doing winter yard work? Take a page from home furnishings company Arhaus and use them to add some holiday drama to your doorway. Wrangling the branches into a perfect arch shape might be tough, but if this scene is any indication, the result will be so worth it.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Elevate an ArborCourtesy AnthropologieAs this shimmering arborcourtesy of Anthropologiemakes clear, commonplace structures in your backyard can easily be upgraded to Santa-approved status by simply adding lights (we recommend warm white ones!). Just picture enjoying this setup on a warmer night, mulled wine in hand. Convinced yet?4Invest in a Firewood BundleCourtesy AnthropologieWe're loving everything about these simple yet effective holiday adornments from Anthropologie but especially have our eyes on that bundle of firewood, topped by globe lights. Whether in your backyard or on your front porch, natural wood is bound to provide an instant touch of rustic charm.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Make Use of MagnoliaCourtesy Serena & LilyIn this life-affirming front door display, luxe home company Serena & Lily bypassed pine wreaths and garlands in favor of all things magnolia instead. The leaves' brown-orange underbellies contrast remarkably well with their glossy green frontscreating a scene that's elevated yet homey.6Create a Holiday Bar SituationCourtesy Serena & LilyIn this outdoor bar scene, courtesy of Serena & Lily, a pine cone wreath takes center stagewith the rattan elements underneath playing supporting roles. If you live in a warm climate (jealous), consider hosting a well-oiled holiday get-together outdoorswreath and bow included.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Win with Window SwagMaryna Terletska//Getty ImagesYour windows deserve a little Christmas-related attention, so what better way to grant them that than with some festive window swags? The one seen lining this particular window goes hand in hand with the wreaths, nearby conifer, and similarly hued front door. We appreciate a color-coordinated moment!8Test the 'Unexpected Red' Theoryninavartanava//Getty ImagesSurprising flashes of red in a space work to boost its overall appeal, or so the viral unexpected red theory states. Tune into this folk wisdom in a minimalist way, by adding tiny red bows to the greenery standing on your front porch. Better yet if your window frames are red too!Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Mix Natural and Faux ElementsCyndy AldredWhen decorator Cyndy Aldred prepares for the holidays, she likes to surround her stoop with small evergreens in large natural baskets, bringing in texture and a forest feel. When I create Christmas garlands and wreaths, I always start with a strong base of faux greenery, and then I work in organic elements like magnolia branches, large sugar pine cones, pine branches, and bundles of juniper berries, she says. By mixing together the faux and the real, Christmas decor will last longer and look fresher. 10Dine Outside in StyleKara WillliamsYou dont have to ditch alfresco dining come wintertimejust make sure you have a fire going and plenty of warm blankets. Interior designer Kara Williams also suggests including lots of warm light and old-timey elements for ambience. I love to add vintage touches like old sleds, buckets with Christmas trees in them, and vintage signs, she says. Adding all of that to cart, ASAP!Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Double Up on WreathsYoung HuhIf your home has double doors, this is the perfect opportunity to double up on wreaths: exactly what designer Young Huh did in this inspiring visual. She also created a festive atmosphere through draped garlands and evergreen-filled planters galore. 12Go Big or Go HomeSavannah Kay with Classy ClutterOversize decorations take Christmas to a new level. These bulbs beautifully fill up the space and give a dramatic pop of color. In the back, the nutcrackers are ready to welcome all your friends and family. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Embrace Trad ChristmasPottery BarnWreaths, garlands, trees, bulbs, lightsthis house, as featured in a Pottery Barn catalog, has it all! Follow suit and keep things classic, with a red-and-green color palette and garlands wrapped around your porch columns. 14Curate a Reindeer EntryBallard DesignsNothing screams Christmas like reindeers. Treat your entryway to an enchanted forest vibe by decorating the doorsteps with these beautiful critters from Ballard Designs. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Incorporate Pops of ColorKara WilliamsIf you think its time to pack up the patio furniture, think again. With the right touches (aided by a firepit or heat lamps, of course) your outdoor lounge can become your own aprs ski paradise. Seasonal decorator Kara Williams loves to add hints of red in the pillows, blankets, and decor to make it look even more festive. I chose a Christmas plaid theme here, which I love, she tells us. Williams also set up a hot cocoa bar to keep guests warm (bonus points if its spiked!).16Fashion a Forest Sara Ligorria-TrampCreate your very own winter wonderlandsnow optional!akin to this stunning tableau by Emily Henderson. The mix of lush garland, a pint-sized tree, and a bunch of leafy greens is idyllic without being ever going overboard.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below17Channel Chalet ChicSara Ligorria-TrampTurn your front door into a cool ski chalet, just like Emily Henderson did here. The abstract wreath, geometric lanterns, and sleek wooden ski set give this front porch a truly modern touch. The best part? Since this arrangement isnt over-the-top Christmas, you can leave it up all winter long.18Go with an Unexpected SurpriseAnnie SloanMaking Christmas look a little different is something I strive for," says paint and color expert Annie Sloan, who also founded Chalk Paint. "Mixing the traditional with the unusual makes you take a second look." We're surely taking second (and third!) looks at her bright yellow front door, decked out for the holidays. Move over, red and greenthere's a new cool kid on the block.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below19Keep It CozyMatt KisidayA table set with a sheepskin on every chair and a thick plaid wool throw on the back of every seat, plus plenty of garlands and candlelight, can make even the coldest December day feel warm and bright," designer Allison Babcock shares. Essentially, make sure your guests are well taken care of during your outdoor Christmas fete... to the point of not wanting to leave. Ever.20Step Up Your Layering GameJoy WilliamsThe holidays dont happen every day, so why not pile on the accessories (in a classy way)? Chicago-based designer Joy Williams packed on the festive fripperies with poinsettia plants and gilded trees. Rounding out the look are ribbons and ornaments on the topiaries. Stacia DatskovskaAssistant Digital EditorStacia Datskovska is the assistant digital editor at ELLE DECOR, where she covers news, trends, and ideas in the world of design. She also writes product reviews (like roundups of the top firepits or sheet sets)infusing them with authority and wit. As an e-commerce intern at Mashable, Stacia wrote data-driven reviews of everything from e-readers to stationary bikes to robot vacuums. Stacias culture and lifestyle bylines have appeared in outlets like USA Today, Boston Globe, Teen Vogue, Food & Wine, and Brooklyn Magazine.Kelsey MulveyKelsey Mulvey is a freelance lifestyle journalist, who covers shopping and deals for Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, and ELLE Decor, among others. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos.

Ah, Christmas: the time of red-and-green everything, more flocked Tannenbaums than you know what to do with, and reindeer statues in every corner. Not so in 2024, howeverthe year you finally break out of the mold and do Yuletide on your terms. There's no better area of the home for some holiday experimentation than the front porch, given the fact that it's the first thing guests (or solicitors!) will see when they approach your dwelling. And first impressions, as we all know, count for a lot. A great place to start is with greenery. I like to add faux snow fabric from the craft store inside my plant pots, and then top them off with twinkle lights, sprigs of greenery, and shatterproof ornaments, interiors guru Courtney Fitzpatrick tells ELLE DECOR. Its an inexpensive way to add something festive to your porch, and it looks beautiful at night! From there, layering on additional decor can create a truly showstopping exterior.Houston-based designer Marie Flanigan believes lighting is key when it comes to decking out a porch for the holidays. It brings ambience and warmth and a festive glow, instantly elevating the overall atmosphere and creating a welcoming space for guests, Flanigan says. If you are only doing one thing, I say go with statement lighting. Still iffy on design directions for your homes entryway this December? Weve rounded up the very best Christmas front porch decorating ideas and tips from the experts. Onward!1Lead with LEDsCourtesy AnthropologieAs part of Anthropologie's holiday house, this prim-and-proper brownstone's porch and steps boast glowing LED spheres from the brand that turn it into absolute eye candy. Interspersed with live trees in pots, they're must-haves for your outdoor holiday setup this year.2Repurpose Fall DecorCourtesy Serena & LilyStill have pumpkins laying around from last month? Impressive, first of all, and also perfect for reusing in a front porch holiday display. Take a page from this Serena & Lily scenewhere the gourds' slightly distressed colors are in fluent conversation with a pine cone wreath and white chrysanthemums.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below3Don't Neglect the Railing Imagesbybarbara/Getty ImagesYour doors are clad in wreaths, garland frames your entryway, and you've even got mini trees surrounding your doormat. The only thing missing? A festive wreath specifically for your porch's railing. If you think this one's conventional, think again (and look closer at the faux artichokes and apples dotting it!).4Rock the RedSiri Stafford//Getty ImagesWe said it was time to stop making Christmas synonymous with a red-and-green color scheme, but this vignette proves that there's something inevitably heartwarming about the traditional hues. Have your front porch go red this year via two simple poinsettia plants flanking the door and a wreath to match.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below5Curate a NookAnastasiia Krivenok//Getty ImagesFight your hibernation urges by creating an outdoor space you'll actually want to spend time in this winter. Here, a seating area is made all the more inviting via blankets, cushions in many textures, and (of course) that lighted wreath! It's the ultimate spot in which to cuddle up with a good book and hot chocolate.6Incorporate a Seasonal SwagSven Olof JonnIn lieu of a wreath or garland, opt for a seasonal swag over the front door. We love how this one pops against the citrus entrance and the frame of ivy. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below7Go for Simplicity lillisphotographyHouston designer Marie Flanigan encourages incorporating natural greenery into your Christmas porch decor. Integrate natural elements such as evergreen wreaths, pine cones, and seasonal foliage, she adds. Done and done.8Think Beyond the DoorTammi MildHoliday decor doesnt have to be focused on the door. Think about surrounding structural elements for garlands and decoration. Here, evergreen garlands studded with pine cones and lights do just the trick. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below9Unify Your Color Palette Philippe GerberSick of green and red? Same, so we suggest going for an analogous color scheme. Simply pick a color you love and decorate your front porch in its variations. In this example, that means moody hues like black, deep red, and green. 10Slay with Merry Metallics Anastasiia KrivenokSam the Snowman sang about silver and gold decorations for a reason: Theyre a total classic on the tree... and your front porch. Add in visual interest without veering into excess through layering natural greenery, metallic accents, and subtle lighting, Flanigan suggests. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below11Play with SymmetryLiubomyr VoronaLooking for balance around the holiday season? Us too, which is why keeping things symmetrical on your front porch is a great way to go. We love how this lookwith evergreen garlands framing the door, deck railings, and banisterlends a sense of harmony, not chaos. 12Harmonize with Your Hedges The Enchanted HomeOK, we realize this isnt technically a porch, but we love how the existing hedgesalong with a promenade of potted plantscreate an ensconcing (not to mention grand) sense of entry in this look, courtesy of Enchanted Home. Here, a shaggy garland contrasts the buildings regal architecture, while sprigs of greenery make veritable holiday bouquets of the planters. Bonus: The vegetation choicesconifer boughs, pine cones, and a whole lot of magnoliasmake this a safe bet for warmer climates too. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below13Choose Crisp White-On-WhiteCourtesy of @lizzydesigns_Snowed in again? No problem. Work with the all-white backdrop rather than against it, pairing the natural environment with sky blues, muted grays, and (of course) some evergreen. I love to decorate my porch using neutral and natural elements, says Liz Meier of Lizzy Designs. The greenery and the color of the door get the spotlight!14Meld Old with NewCourtesy of @a.little.love.designs Its always worth stocking up on some new holiday bling, but sometimes, the things you already have can really give a front porch some character. I love to mix old decor with new decor, says Amy Allen of A Little Love Designs. For example, using your grandmothers dishes or decorating the tree with your moms favorite ornaments. Follow suit with a cute assortment of baskets, lanterns, and watering cans brimming with evergreens.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below15Cozy Up Courtesy of @shady_pines3interiorsA wraparound sofa can transform a porch into a gathering space for friends and family. Bring everyone together for the holidays by adding some plaid throw pillows and wreaths like in designer Beth Coxs setup. Dont be afraid to bring the indoors out, she says. I make my porches feel welcoming and cozy by adding lots of texture and warmth.16Think Small but MightyCourtesy of the Six Bells Some front porches would rather whisper happy holidays than shout it from the rooftops. If thats more your speed, then this subtle felt mistletoe wreath from The Six Bells will be right up your alley.Advertisement - Continue Reading Below17Embrace Flower PowerCourtesy of Venus et Fleur Just like any other time of year, you cant go wrong with florals. Poinsettias are often the holiday flower of choice, but roses, holly, and other selections can also make quite the statement. If youre not blessed with a green thumb, a few botanicals from Venus et Fleur will save you the hassle of maintaining flowers that are actually alive.18Deck the WallsCourtesy of Tempaper Sometimes, a cheery decal can make all the difference. Tempapers peel-and-stick Winter Village option makes for a great peek-a-boo moment behind a wreath; in general, its a beautiful addition to a door or window. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below19Keep It Classic Courtesy of Joanna BuchananAll we want for Christmas is a chic wreath, a bit of garland, and a stately entryway. Not only does it make a statement, but it never goes out of style. I like to create a strong, central display that signals a bold Happy Holidays! says designer Joanna Buchanan. We wholeheartedly agree.20Go All Out Courtesy of FrontgateIf youre the sort who looks forward to holiday decorating year-round, why not go all out? This front porch, featuring products from Frontgate, shows exactly what a blinged-out Christmas can look like without feeling one bit tacky. Those white, gold, and green accents are everything.Stacia DatskovskaAssistant Digital EditorStacia Datskovska is the assistant digital editor at ELLE DECOR, where she covers news, trends, and ideas in the world of design. She also writes product reviews (like roundups of the top firepits or sheet sets)infusing them with authority and wit. As an e-commerce intern at Mashable, Stacia wrote data-driven reviews of everything from e-readers to stationary bikes to robot vacuums. Stacias culture and lifestyle bylines have appeared in outlets like USA Today, Boston Globe, Teen Vogue, Food & Wine, and Brooklyn Magazine.Helena MaddenMarket EditorHelena Madden is ELLE DECORs market editor, and covers all things product and trend, from flatware and furnishings to kitchen and bath. She previously worked as a staff writer at Robb Report, where she covered luxury news with a focus on interior design.

Amsterdam-based startup Sympower has secured 21mn as it looks to scale its grid-balancing technology.Sympower partners with businesses that use a large amount of electricity. It gains access to some of their energy assets and can turn them on and off when the grid requires balancing a process called demand response.Sympowers software platform uses AI to analyse data and optimise when and how much power businesses can sell at any given time, making energy use adjustments more effective and profitable for all parties.Grid operators pay Sympower to stabilise the energy supply. The company passes most of that payment to participating businesses, keeping a small service fee.The of EU techThe latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!The system gives energy-intensive companies an incentive to stop using electricity during times of peak demand. The more energy they save, the more money they make. The idea is to help prevent blackouts and the strain on the grid.Electricity infrastructure around the world is struggling to adapt to the influx of renewable energies like wind and solar because unlike the gas and coal that came before they produce power intermittently.The EU has identified demand response as well as energy storage technologies as key to restoring the balance. As more renewables come online and our societies electrify, its no wonder that demand for grid flexibility is surging.Founded by Simon Bushnell and Georg Rute in 2015, who studied together at Imperial College London, Sympower is a first-mover in this relatively niche industry. It has 2GW worth of energy assets under management and employs 200 people in over 10 countries. Todays funding round brings its total capital raised to a healthy 60mn.Sympower has grown tremendously in recent years, which aligns with the unprecedented demand across Europe for diversified and mature energy flexibility solutions, said Bushell, the companys CEO and co-founder.A&G Energy Transition Tech Fund (A&G ETTF) led the funding round, with direct investment from the European Investment Fund (EIF) and participation from existing investors Activate Capital, Rubio Impact Ventures, PDENH, and Expon Capital.Armed with fresh funding, the company aims to continue expanding throughout Europe, with the intent to acquire competitors in the near future. It is also expanding into the battery storage business to complement its demand response software. Story by Sin Geschwindt Sin is a climate and energy reporter at TNW. From nuclear fusion to escooters, he covers the length and breadth of Europe's clean tech ecos (show all) Sin is a climate and energy reporter at TNW. From nuclear fusion to escooters, he covers the length and breadth of Europe's clean tech ecosystem. He's happiest sourcing a scoop, investigating the impact of emerging technologies, and even putting them to the test. Sin has five years journalism experience and holds a dual degree in media and environmental science from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Get the TNW newsletterGet the most important tech news in your inbox each week.Also tagged with

In 1991, Sony brought the first rechargeable lithium-ion battery to market. The unique chemistry proved a game-changer in energy storage. Today everything from EVs to smartphones depends on it, with demand skyrocketing.But lithium is rare, most of it comes from unstable markets outside Europe,and its extraction can cause extensive pollution. We need more lithium to enable the green transition and yet, currently, its use is unsustainable both environmentally and economically.Were stuck in a paradox. Munich-based startup Tozero believes that battery recycling offers a way out. Recycling batteries is far from a new concept, but the German venture claims its technology gets the job done more efficiently than existing methods and without the use of harmful acids.Tozero was founded in 2022 by serial entrepreneur Sarah Fleischer and metallurgy expert Dr. Ksenija Milicevic Neumann. When the pair first met, they were working in the space industry. Three years later they teamed up to fix a pressing issue here on Earth.Register NowBefore founding Tozero, Neumann spent years at RWTH Aachen developing a breakthrough water-based carbonation process for extracting lithium and other elements like graphite from black mass. This powdery substance is produced after shredding and processing spent batteries.Neumanns research gave Tozero a significant head-start. In just two years, the company has managed to break out of the lab and deliver its first batches of recycled lithium to customers. And today, the company announced it has raised 11mn in Series A funding as it looks to scale up at pace.Despite our limited resources as a two-year-old startup weve already made human history by being the first to ever deliver recycled lithium for end products in Europe, said Fleischer, the companys CEO.NordicNinja, a Japan-backed European VC fund, led the funding round, bringing Tozeros total raised to a cosy 17mn. Other investors include automotive giant Honda, US venture firm In-Q-Tel, and engineering group JGC.Tozero will use the fresh capital to build its first industrial deployment plant. From 2026 onwards, the company plans to process 30,000 tonnes of battery waste annually.Tozero can technically just keep on growing as long as it receives a continuous supply of old batteries. And that shouldnt be too much of an issue.Lithium-ion production is set to almost quadruple by 2030. Meanwhile, regulations like the EUs Battery Directivewhich calls for at least 80% of lithium to be recovered from batteries by 2031add much-needed incentives. This is only good news for Tozero and other recycling upstarts,including Cylib, which is currently building Europes largest recycling plant for EV batteries.However, if Europe is to secure a sustainable supply of the lithium it so desperately needs, it must expand local mining and explore new battery technologies like sodium-ion, zinc-ion, and the holy grail solid-state batteries. Story by Sin Geschwindt Sin is a climate and energy reporter at TNW. From nuclear fusion to escooters, he covers the length and breadth of Europe's clean tech ecos (show all) Sin is a climate and energy reporter at TNW. From nuclear fusion to escooters, he covers the length and breadth of Europe's clean tech ecosystem. He's happiest sourcing a scoop, investigating the impact of emerging technologies, and even putting them to the test. Sin has five years journalism experience and holds a dual degree in media and environmental science from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. Get the TNW newsletterGet the most important tech news in your inbox each week.

Bluesky, one of the many microblogging platforms, has now officially reached the milestone of 15 million registered users. A month ago, Bluesky still had 13 million followers, which shows that the social network is growing rapidly as more people look for alternatives to X.Bluesky continues to grow, but is still far behind its competitorsThe figure was first shared by Stats for Bluesky, a website that uses the platforms API to obtain statistics about the social network (via The Verge). According to the website, there are now more than 15.2 million registered users on Bluesky. For comparison, Bluesky had just 2 million users in November 2023.Bluesky is still far behind the competition, especially X, which has more than 500 million active users worldwide. Metas Threads is also more popular, with 275 million monthly active users and growing at a rate of over a million sign-ups a day. Even so, Bluesky is attracting more and more attention from users who are unhappy with both X and Threads.A recent episode in Brazil that resulted in the temporary banning of X led hundreds of thousands of Brazilians to try Bluesky. More recently, Elon Musks political involvement with Donald Trump has also motivated more people to look for alternatives to X. Blueskys app is now the most downloaded in the US App Store, with Threads following close behind.Bluesky emerged in 2021 as a proof of concept for the decentralized AT Protocol. In 2019, Twitters then CEO Jack Dorsey announced that the company would fund the initiative that would result in Bluesky. The platform no longer has a relationship with X and they ended up becoming competitors after Elon Musk bought Twitter.A few weeks ago, Bluesky announced its plans to introduce a paid subscription with extra features, similar to X Premium (formerly Twitter Blue). The platform assures that it wont put the social network behind a paywall.Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Following the release of updates for Logic Pro and Final Cut Pro, Apple has also updated its Final Cut Camera app for iPhone. With the new version of the app, users can finally capture Log videos using the HEVC codec, as well as preview Log videos with the Apple Log LUT and more. Read on as we detail whats new in Final Cut Camera.Whats new with Final Cut Camera for iPhoneOne of the biggest changes coming to Final Cut Camera is the ability to capture Log-encoded HEVC video. Previously, Log was only available for ProRes videos, which take up a lot more space. Now users can benefit from the increased flexibility and dynamic range of Log combined with smaller HEVC files.In addition, the update also adds the option to enable LUT preview while recording in Log, so that users can see the vibrancy of the original scene in SDR or HDR with Apple Log LUT. For iPhone 16 Pro users, the Final Cut Camera update also enables 4K video capture at 120fps for cinematic slow motion.Moreover, Apple is also bringing advanced tilt and and roll indicators to help users compose their shots.For those unfamiliar, Final Cut Camera is an app from Apple that lets creators wirelessly connect and remotely direct each video angle with powerful pro controls. Although the app was first presented as a companion tool for controlling the iPhone camera from the iPad, it also works on the iPhone as a standalone app.With the app, users can adjust things like white balance and manual focus while monitoring zebras and measuring audio. It also provides ISO and shutter speed controls, as well as making it easy to switch between resolutions and video formats. The interface is very straightforward and also highlights the iPhones battery level and remaining storage.With Final Cut Camera, you can also easily transfer media to a Final Cut project on the iPad or save footage directly to connected external storage. The app isavailable for free on the App Storeand requires an iPhone running iOS 17.6 or later (while some features require the latest iPhones).Add 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel