Hawkeye is joining the launch day roster for Marvel Rivals, but developer NetEase Games is teasing a further five characters are yet to be revealed ahead of its release date.

REVIEW: Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl is finally here, and offers a taxing shooter experience for better and for worse thanks to a level of complexity that's seldom seen and a lack of polish

How Mario Kart 9 became Nintendos biggest problem for Switch 2Adam StarkeyAdam StarkeyPublished November 22, 2024 1:00am Mario Kart has been on a hot streak (Nintendo)Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has been Nintendos golden goose for the Switch generation, but what can a sequel do to reach the same heights?When Mario Kart 8 launched in 2014 on the Wii U, few would have guessed wed still be playing the same game over 10 years later. The Nintendo Switch has given countless neglected Wii U games a second wind, but with Mario Kart 8 Deluxe aslightly updated version with all the original DLC included it felt as if Nintendo had achieved peak kart racer.If you go by sales, it certainly is. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe has sold over 64.27 million copies since it launched in April 2017; with the Wii U version added on the total is 72.73 million. Its the best-selling Switch game by a considerable margin, with Animal Crossing: New Horizons well behind at 46.45 million.Mario Kart is usually at the top when it comes to software sales for each Nintendo system, but even in the history of the series, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is a towering anomaly. Its 3DS predecessor, Mario Kart 7, sold 18.99 million units, while Mario Kart Wii, the best selling game on the system if you dont include Wii Sports, sold 37.38 million just over half of Mario Kart 8 Deluxes numbers so far.The Switchs longevity is a key reason for these numbers, but its also reflective of Mario Kart 8s quality. The crisp visuals are timeless, the rich orchestral soundtrack is exceptional, and now there are 96 tracks in total, thanks to new DLC including some of the best courses from throughout the series history.Its lengthy lifespan has turned it into Mario Karts greatest hits, but with such an all-encompassing package, where does that leave the inevitable sequel?Nintendo hasnt confirmed another Mario Kart is in development, but it is a certainty given the companys history and the success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. The Switch is an outlier in that its the first Nintendo console, outside of the Game Boy, to go without a new Mario Kart game during its lifetime. So in that sense Mario Kart 9 is not only inevitable, its overdue.Whatever Mario Kart 9 ends up being, the next consoles backwards compatibility means it will still have Mario Kart 8 Deluxe looming over it. Nintendo will need to provide some very clear reasons as to why anyone would want to buy a new Mario Kart when they can just play the old one they already have.Leaked specs for the Switch 2 suggest itll be as or more powerful than the PlayStation 4, but at a time when visual upgrades have become little more than miniscule boosts in resolutions, its hard to see a future entry relying on graphical improvements as its main selling point.So what can it offer? Mario Kart titles have historically differentiated themselves with gimmicks or additions based on the hardwares capabilities. Mario Kart 8 boasted anti-gravity, Mario Kart: Double Dash stuck two drivers behind the wheel, Mario Kart Wii utilised motion controls, while Mario Kart 64 introduced 3D graphics.The next entry will likely be tied to a specific feature of the Switch 2, but if leaks are to be believed the next system wont be a drastic overhaul in terms of its overall design. Mario Kart 8 Deluxes big hook was big budget Mario Kart on the move, but now that novelty has become the norm. Nintendo Kart has already happened, kind of (Nintendo)Many fans have often called for a broader Nintendo Kart akin to Super Smash Bros. (another Nintendo franchise that seems to have maxed out everything that its possible to do with a sequel) and while more crossover tracks like Hyrule Castle feel like a shoe-in, it isnt exactly a big selling point when Zelda, Splatoon, and Animal Crossing characters are already in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe not to mention tracks based on F-Zero and Excitebike.Admittedly, not every game in the series has offered a seismic shift (hello, Mario Kart 7) but with such a behemoth sharing the same console space, its going to take something significant to make Mario Kart 9 as enticing a proposition as its predecessor.The answer to Mario Karts future could, however, be hiding in plain sight. Nintendo has conducted mysterious playtests for an unknown game with a massively multiplayer online (MMO) framework, and while that doesnt seem to have anything to do with Mario Kart per se, it does suggest a renewed interest in significant online modes for its games.Splatoon already has an online plaza where you can customise your character and engage with others, so an expansion of that idea for the Mushroom Kingdom, or across all of the companys IP in something similar to Nintendo Land, could help to make Mario Kart 9 seem more distinct.If Mario Kart has become a sensation because of its party game reputation, the next step might be global, appointment viewing events. During the Switchs lifespan, there have been online exclusive games which have played with the battle royale format, including Tetris 99, Super Mario Bros. 35, and recently F-Zero 99. Its easy to imagine this framework being applied to Mario Kart or other limited time modes, similar to how Fortnite and other live service games work.How appealing an online-focused Mario Kart would be to casual players is another matter, but it would be a meaningful evolution of the series, and perhaps establish Nintendos online plans for its next console the one area where the company has trailed far behind its competitors.There are clearly other ways in which Mario Kart can evolve its concept at a more trivial level Mario Kart 7, for example, threw in hand gliders and underwater sections but the success of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe feels like its painted Nintendo into a corner which demands a substantial overhaul to overcome.More TrendingWhen youve perfected the formula with one of the best racing games ever made, its going to take more than a few tweaks to mirror the same success on Switch 2. Could Mario Kart take some cues from Splatoon? (Nintendo)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.GameCentralExclusive analysis, latest releases, and bonus community content.This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy

Black Myth: Wukong an unexpected winner (Game Science)Despite having the lowest Metacritic score of any of the nominees its Black Myth: Wukong which has won out against Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth and Helldivers 2.As the year comes to a close, we begin to enter awards season and one of the first big events, and certainly the longest running, is the Golden Joystick Awards. This years the 42nd incarnation of one of the few award ceremonies that is voted on almost solely by the general public.Thats thrown up an unexpected winner this year, with Black Myth: Wukong being named Ultimate Game of the Year, despite having the lowest Metacritic score of all 12 nominees, at just 81. That means it beat other much more highly rated titles, such as Astro Bot, Metaphor: ReFantazio, and Animal Well.Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth is another hot contender but that did at least walk away with four separate awards, for Best Storytelling, Best Soundtrack, Best Supporting Performer (Briana White as Aerith), and Best Lead Performer (Cody Christian as Cloud).Helldivers 2 also won four awards, for Best Multiplayer Game, Best Game Trailer, Console Game of the Year, and the Critics Choice Award.More TrendingOver 12 million public votes were apparently involved, across 21 different categories, with only three decided by critics: Critics Choice, Breakthrough Award, and Streamers Choice.Astro Bot won two separate awards, for Best Audio Design and Studio of the year for Team ASOBI. Balatro also got the double, with Best Indie Game and Breakthrough Award.The most wanted game of the year, for 2025, was, unsurprisingly GTA 6, which seems almost certain to win the same accolade at every other award ceremony this seasonThe awards were hosted in London by voice actor Ben Starr, best known as Clive in Final Fantasy 16. The nominations involved over 125 games, developers, formats, and TV shows across 21 categories. Did you vote? (Golden Joysticks)Golden Joysticks 2024 award winners Best Storytelling Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Best Visual Design Black Myth: Wukong Best Multiplayer Game Helldivers 2 Best Audio Design Astro Bot Best Game Expansion Elden Ring Shadow Of The Erdtree Best Indie Game Self Published Another Crabs Treasure Best Indie Game Balatro Studio of the Year Team ASOBI Best Soundtrack Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth Best Game Trailer Helldivers 2 Best Early Access Game Lethal Company Still Playing Mobile Honkai: Star Rail Still Playing Consoles & PC Minecraft Streamers Choice Award Chained Together Breakthrough Award Balatro Best Gaming Hardware Steam Deck OLED Best Game Adaptation Fallout Best Supporting Performer Briana White Best Lead Performer Cody Christian PC Game of the Year Satisfactory Console Game of the Year Helldivers 2 Critics Choice Award Helldivers 2 Most Wanted Game Grand Theft Auto 6 Ultimate Game of the Year Black Myth: Wukong Not a surprise winner (Golden Joysticks)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.To submit Inbox letters and Readers Features more easily, without the need to send an email, just use ourSubmit Stuff page here.For more stories like this,check our Gaming page.GameCentralExclusive analysis, latest releases, and bonus community content.This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Your information will be used in line with our Privacy Policy

The Fitbit Charge 6 is at an unbeatable price of $99, a huge 38% discount from its original list price of $159. This is a record low price that has only been matched once before during last years Black Friday. With the holiday season fast approaching, this is the perfect opportunity to snag a top-tier fitness tracker at an accessible price point.See at AmazonOne of the standout perks of shopping on Amazon during this Black Friday / Cyber Monday period is the generous extended return policy. Shoppers can return their items until January 31, 2025 which is a substantial extension beyond the typical 30-day return window. This added flexibility is especially advantageous for holiday gift-giving, giving recipients plenty of time to test out their new gadgets and decide if theyre keepers.Why Choose The Fitbit Charge 6?What sets the Fitbit Charge 6 apart is its large array of features designed to enhance your health and fitness journey. This sleek device comes equipped with advanced heart rate tracking technology which is now more accurate than ever, particularly during vigorous activities like HIIT workouts. The integrated GPS allows users to track their outdoor workouts without needing to carry their phones. The Charge 6 also includes over 40 exercise modes so that whatever your preferred activity, this tracker has you covered.The design of the Charge 6 is both stylish and functional: it features a great AMOLED touchscreen display that is easy to navigate, even during intense workouts. With water resistance up to 50 meters, you can wear it while swimming or in the rain without worry. The tracker comes with both small and large bands included to ensure a comfortable fit for any wrist size.The Charge 6 has also a seamless integration with Google apps: you can control YouTube Music directly from your wrist, receive turn-by-turn directions via Google Maps and make contactless payments using Google Wallet. This level of connectivity enhances convenience but also keeps you focused on your workouts without the need to constantly check your phone.Additionally, the Fitbit Charge 6 offers a comprehensive suite of health monitoring tools: it tracks daily activity levels, sleep patterns, and even provides insights into your stress levels through electrodermal activity (EDA) scans. The device includes a six-month premium membership that unlocks deeper insights and personalized guidance. As a bonus, Amazon is also offering discounts on various other Fitbit products and accessories during this early Black Friday event. Whether youre interested in smartwatches or additional fitness trackers, now is the perfect time to explore all that Fitbit has to offer.See at Amazon

The AirPods Pro 2 are currently available on Amazon for an incredible price of $159, down from the list price of $249 (36% off). This deal is a record low for these very popular wireless earbuds which were priced at $189 just hours ago. Previously, the lowest price was seen during Prime Day in October at $169 but theyre usually well above $200. This current deal not only offers the best price ever but is also accessible to non-Prime members. Given the popularity of these earbuds, stock may run out quickly, so its wise to act fast.See at AmazonOne of the great advantages of purchasing through Amazon during Black Friday is the extended return policy: you can return items purchased during this time until January 31, 2025,far exceeding the standard 30-day return window.Why Go For The AirPods Pro 2?The AirPods Pro 2 feature advanced technology that enhances your listening experience: theyre equipped with the Apple-designed H2 chip and deliver high-fidelity sound with improved audio performance. The custom high-excursion driver and high dynamic range amplifier work together to produce richer bass and crystal-clear sound across a wide range of frequencies. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology has been significantly upgraded and provides up to twice as much noise cancellation compared to the previous generation.In addition to ANC, the AirPods Pro 2 come with Adaptive Transparency mode which adjusts the level of ambient sound you hear based on your environment. This means that while you can enjoy your audio without interruption, you can still be aware of important sounds around you, such as traffic or conversations. The earbuds also include a Hearing Aid feature.The design of the AirPods Pro 2 remains sleek and comfortable and they include silicone ear tips in four sizes (XS, S, M, L) for a customizable fit. They are also sweat and water-resistant (IP54) which makes them suitable for workouts or outdoor use. With up to 6 hours of listening time on a single charge and up to 30 hours with the MagSafe Charging Case, theyre perfect for all-day use.In addition to the AirPods Pro 2, Amazon is offering massive discounts on other Apple products during this early Black Friday event. You can find great deals on the latest MacBook Air and Pro models, Mac Minis, iPads and iPad Minis as well as AirPods Max. Apple typically does not offer direct promotions in its own stores; therefore, shopping through authorized retailers like Amazon is essential for accessing these discounts.See at Amazon

Casa Quilla / RLL Estudio ArquitecturaSave this picture!HousesCahuil, ChileArchitects: RLL Estudio ArquitecturaAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:143 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2024 PhotographsPhotographs:Nico Saieh Lead Architect: Ral Lucero More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. Cahuil House is a project that combines design and functionality in a privileged natural environment. With a total area of 150 square meters, the house is built on concrete pillars and beams that existed at the time of the purchase of the land, which conditioned both the dimensions and the distribution of the space. This solid base made it possible to take advantage of the extraordinary views of the surrounding landscape, especially towards the Cahuil lagoon and the Pacific Ocean, key elements in the concept of the project.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!One of the most important aspects of the house is the use of panels (SIP), which are covered in brushed pine wood. This material not only provides warmth and a natural texture, but also establishes a visual dialogue with the surroundings, integrating the structure into the coastal landscape. The choice of wood seeks to reinforce the link between nature and architecture, generating a welcoming atmosphere within the home. The design of the house was conceived to maximize the relationship with the natural environment, placing special emphasis on capturing the views of the sea and the lagoon, and on taking advantage of the climatic conditions, such as the sea breeze. The wind becomes a tangible element within the living spaces, bringing freshness and dynamism to the everyday experience. An outstanding detail of the project is its habitable roof, which includes a simple bench of railroad ties. This decision allows the occupants not only to enjoy the views from a privileged height, but also to transform the roof into a functional and recreational area. The viewing platform reinforces the connection with the environment, offering an additional outdoor space where the landscape can be observed in 360 degrees. This habitable roof expands the functionality of the house, providing a place for contemplation and disconnection, while making the most of the beachfront location.Save this picture!Save this picture!In short, Casa Cahuil is a project that balances aesthetics and functionality, achieving harmonious integration with the natural environment. The use of local materials such as wood, adaptation to pre-existing conditions, and the creation of a habitable roof turn this home into a refuge that maximizes the sensorial and visual experience of the place.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessAbout this officePublished on November 21, 2024Cite: "Casa Quilla / RLL Estudio Arquitectura" [Casa Quilla / RLL Estudio Arquitectura] 21 Nov 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1023739/casa-quilla-rll-estudio-arquitectura&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

Billboard Headquarters/ Branco del Ro, ArquitectosSave this picture! Frederico MartinhoOffices InteriorsTorre de Vilela, PortugalArchitects: Branco del Ro, ArquitectosAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:395 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2023 Lead Architects: Joo Branco e Paula del Rio More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. As the client, a billboard company, took over an old metal workshop for its new headquarters, all the workflow and organisation had to be adapted. This project followed that process, and evolved with it. A work in progress that comprised two phases, simultaneously and alternately developed: the revamp of the existing industrial warehouse and the construction of a new office space in a narrow vacant plot.Save this picture!As the process had to be integrated into the company's daily activities, the entire intervention was slowly built and assembled inside the facilities. As such, slow tempo and constant prototyping were part of the design and building process and led to a very delicate construction, carefully undertaken by two experienced locksmiths.Save this picture!Save this picture!In the existing industrial warehouse, small adaptations were made to fit the building for its new use. In the area previously occupied by the factory offices, new changing rooms, screwing room, and laser cutting machine room were introduced on the ground floor, while a kitchen dining area and production room were added on the upper floor. A new metal gallery extends the existing area, and a retractable railing allows for loading and unloading with a forklift. Both this structure and the interior partitions, furniture, and the door system that creates a new interior faade were either produced on-site or reused from existing parts.Save this picture!Regarding the new offices, the limitations of the available area led to a solution of an elongated building, adapted to the natural topography. Its total length, 3 x 50m, is interrupted by courtyards that introduce natural light and ventilation. These courtyards, along with the interior, form a single integrated space, functioning as outdoor interiors. Sliding windows were used to spatially connect the ensemble, and a continuous matte black finish was chosen for both to highlight the external light and the lushness of the vegetation.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!The building was designed to be lightweight, efficient, and easy to assemble on-site. For this purpose, the structure, the large longitudinal shelving that spans the entire building, worktables, exterior facade, decks, and shading elements were built in the adjacent factory using metal components that can be handled by just two people. An assembly system was devised to fix the panels to the building structure without the need for glues or screws. From the ground up (excluding the windows), the entire building has been crafted on-site by just two pairs of hands. And looking ahead, it was designed to be easily dismantled and repurposed or recycled. The interior is dominated by wooden finishes: walls, ceiling, and tables are made of wood. The constant matte black appearance of the office hides diverse haptic qualities. Additionally, it functions as an acoustic and humidity regulator. Winter climate control is achieved with a wood stove in the centre of the space and with a radiant floor heating system that takes advantage of the concrete inertia. During the summer, the environment is controlled solely through shading and natural ventilation.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessProject locationAddress:Torre de Vilela, PortugalLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officePublished on November 21, 2024Cite: "Billboard Headquarters/ Branco del Ro, Arquitectos" [Escritrios Billboard / Branco del Ro, Arquitectos] 21 Nov 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1023618/billboard-headquarters-branco-del-rio-arquitectos&gt ISSN 0719-8884Save!ArchDaily?You've started following your first account!Did you know?You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.Go to my stream

In this shader tutorial for Unreal and Unity, we use the sphere data that we generated last week to create a specular highlight and reflections to create the appearance of a glass sphere for our health meter.------------------------------------Subgraph/Material Function Index:Gradients LinearGradient - https://youtu.be/sZBzg-v9d04?si=QDiy1CsgW-mMVsUJ&amp ;amp;t=251 SampleGradient - https://youtu.be/rSn7lUWUN0E?si=WPlixz4L8prnV32G&amp ;amp;t=2223 Sphere Gradient - https://youtu.be/d3VNolKJ_bw?si=Z6uaqA92_sClqpv-&amp ;amp;t=85Helpers AntiAliasing - https://youtu.be/sZBzg-v9d04?si=yJwmNYRkhzW4JFiP&amp ;amp;t=761 AspectRatio - https://youtu.be/fDjEq30dwNM?si=5iScu5SYD9shcxkh&amp ;amp;t=1758 Gradient - https://youtu.be/rSn7lUWUN0E?si=bMv1Wk0DYGsHV2Ty&amp ;amp;t=2200 HistogramScan - https://youtu.be/nj7kKHr8QNM?si=-3Odzad3nCI_eNsm&amp ;amp;t=290 Mirror - https://youtu.be/jxr4YK_m8hc?si=WsT2TJjLEqPQbKsC&amp ;amp;t=835 Posterize - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfY0v4q2dtw&amp ;amp;t=1408 RoundedCorners - https://youtu.be/fDjEq30dwNM?si=Znv2wk6lcJDL1R2T&amp ;amp;t=1254Patterns Animated Cloud Pattern - https://youtu.be/qB8GKIWKOp4?si=Zz_sp2E1yR9JPVvJ&amp ;amp;t=1136 AnimatedSheen - https://youtu.be/jxr4YK_m8hc?si=OO1tL6VqiPE3kVo_&amp ;amp;t=70 Bars - https://youtu.be/rSn7lUWUN0E CircleSegments - https://youtu.be/CXY7RNwokPU?si=igwTDBogjSz4KwoM&amp ;amp;t=56 SquareTiles - https://youtu.be/ChaXcYB4xvQ?si=dye3PAsDSxVCe8Yo&amp ;amp;t=657SDFs Circle - https://youtu.be/GMQym0in8OY?si=X9tSSWsdCwoKvPKy&amp ;amp;t=316 Rectangle - https://youtu.be/fDjEq30dwNM?si=6pataNA5gQySVmQl&amp ;amp;t=89 Operators SDFUnite - https://youtu.be/R_5CTBgkfZ0?si=sy2t2ppeTviChNog&amp ;amp;t=114Time LinearTime - https://youtu.be/jxr4YK_m8hc?si=P80Q0RBWMcmiKRG6 SineTime - https://youtu.be/R_5CTBgkfZ0?si=m6nMyzw7Pb76hPnq&amp ;amp;t=1420UV GridTiles - https://youtu.be/ChaXcYB4xvQ?si=NO-_A1AL92GrWCs2&amp ;amp;t=121 Move - https://youtu.be/R_5CTBgkfZ0?si=5aMYA2ocVdqHzdQj&amp ;amp;t=1010 Perspective - https://youtu.be/rSn7lUWUN0E Polar Coordinates - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfY0v4q2dtw&amp ;amp;t=1011 Scale - https://youtu.be/6UYqtdRoKQ4?si=eVy6RFwycKjYaH4r&amp ;amp;t=602 Tilt - https://youtu.be/jxr4YK_m8hc?si=RyE0GLt0BzDH0w6q&amp ;amp;t=207Here's last week's video on how to creating a sci-fi buttonhttps://youtu.be/jdWnQ0KbAwM Here's the playlist for the whole series:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL78XDi0TS4lF5ASo3vpUFKenMkhMVeZ5y Shader Book Recommendationshttps://www.bencloward.com/resources_books.shtml ------------------------------Theme MusicPeace in the Circuitry - Glitch Hophttp://teknoaxe.com/Link_Code_3.php?q=1526 Background MusicSpeo - The Little Thingshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvCYuyyLgC0 #UnrealEngine #shadergraph #Unity

Ngons to quads using the Quad Slice operator in the Random Flow and Creative Flow add-ons in Blender.Shops:blendermarket.com/creators/blenderguppygumroad.com/blenderguppyPatreon:patreon.com/blenderguppy#shorts #b3d #blender3d #3d #3dmodeling #blendermarket #conceptartist #3dmodel #blenderaddon #3dmodel