The holidays can be stressful enough as there are too many things to do, and not enough time to get ... [+] it all done.gettyThe holidays can be stressful enough as there are too many things to do, and not enough time to get it all done. Add to the fact that expectations can be unrealistically high, it can result in a very blue Christmas for many. Social media can further add to the stress warned experts."Social media can be a source of connection, but it can also be a source of stress and painful social comparison," said Dr. Chelsea Hansen, doctoral lecturer in the Psychology Program at the City University of New York School of Professional Studies.Hansen suggested that practicing mindfulness strategies can help determine whether social media is causing stress or fostering connection.She recommended that users ask how social media makes them feel, especially at this time of year."How long are you spending on social media platforms," Hansen also pondered, "There is often a difference in stress depending on how the platforms are used, how often they are used, and whether you are scrolling or posting and responding intentionally to loved ones."MORE FOR YOUSetting Healthy Social Media BoundariesThe holidays are often when people over-indulge in too much food, too many deserts, too much alcohol, and even too much time on social media. Students who are out of class may opt to check inwhether it is fear of missing out (FOMO) or just because they're away from friends.Likewise, those who aren't home for the holidays may use social media as an alternative way to connect with friends. While that can help lift spirits, it can also leave others feeling lonely, and that they are legitimately missing out on the holiday fun."These platforms present a distorted view of reality and don't always reflect everyday life," said Dr. Eugene Lucas, associate professor and coordinator of the distance education Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Wilkes University.If tuning out entirely isn't an option, it may be advisable to set boundaries to avoid unnecessary stress."If you are feeling changes in your emotions or mood while viewing social media as the holidays approach, note the platforms causing these feelings and limit exposure to those while increasing exposure to the more positive platforms or focusing on the actual social activities available to you in real life," recommended Lucas.It may also be necessary to reduce social media usage over the holidays when it becomes a problem."Notify friends and relatives of your desire to avoid or decrease social media exposure in order to increase real feelings of togetherness and worth which comes from in-person gatherings during the holiday season," Lucas continued.Keeping The Holidays In BalanceSome users may benefit from a complete social media break during the holidays, while others want to find balance. There is no easy answer, and Hansen said it may be important for everyone to determine what works bestas there is no one-size-fits-all solution.However, she did suggest some general tips that can apply to nearly everyone."To reduce stress and time spent on the platforms, consider having specific time blocks when you use social media," Hansen added. "Unfollow or mute accounts that bring negative emotionsyou can often 'mute' people or accounts without their knowledge, which is a way to protect yourself from comparison and stress without removing the connection altogether."Finally, for those who are going to in-person gatherings, and are meeting up with friends, relatives and colleagues, unplugging or at least signing off isn't the worst way to spend the holidays and ring in the New Year."During holiday gatherings, consider 'technology-free' times or places," said Hansen. "For example, not using phones while at the table or waiting for your social media time block until after the gathering has ended, are ways to set boundaries. Some prefer an 'unplugged' day, or longer, without accessing social media at all, but because people often use social media for connection during the holidays it may be easier to use the time blocking strategy or shorter unplugged periods."

From top left, Adnan Jaber, Yaniv Sagee, Hela Lahar, Marwan Meqbil, Shai FriedmanTech2Peace, Meet, 50:50 StartupsIn a Middle East marred by seemingly endless conflict and disparate ideologies, there exists an undercurrent of hopea movement toward connection, collaboration, and shared prosperity. Amid the current political turmoil, organizations like Tech2Peace, MEET (Middle East Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow), and 50:50 Startups are demonstrating that even in the most divided regions, bridges can be built through education, technology, and entrepreneurship. These initiatives bring Israelis and Palestinians together to encourage understanding, trust, and mutual growth, offering a glimpse of what is possible when individuals dare to work across divides.At the helm of these efforts are leaders: Yaniv Sagee, CEO of MEET (Middle East Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow), Hela Lahar, CEO of Tech2Peace; Adnan Jaber, Board member at Tech2Peace, founder of PeaceTech Affinity Group; and impact instructor at UCLA; Marwan Meqbil, co-leader and Director of 50:50 Startups, and Shai Friedman, CEO of 50:50 Startups. Collectively, they demonstrate that even in the face of enduring challenges, fostering dialogue and empowering individuals can lay the groundwork for a more equitable and peaceful future.Yaniv Sagee is Israeli, and the CEO ofHela Lahar is Israeli and is the CEO of Tech2Peace, whichAdnan Jaber is Palestinian and the founder of PeaceTech Affinity Group, and a board member at Tech2Peace. He was raised in East Jerusalem and now resides in Los Angeles, where he teaches entrepreneurship for peace and impact at UCLA.MORE FOR YOUMarwan Meqbil is Palestinian and the Director of 50:50 Startups. Originally from the West Bank and raised in a refugee camp, he has dedicated his career to promoting entrepreneurship and collaboration between Palestinians and Israelis. At 50:50 Startups, Meqbil aims to create equal opportunities for entrepreneurs on both sides of the divide.Shai Friedman is Israeli and the CEO of 50:50 Startups. His has a background in fundraising, venture capital, philanthropy, and public service to his role. Having joined the organization just a few months ago, Friedman describes his journey as "closing a circle" that combines his experience in fostering impactful ventures with his passion for creating meaningful connections.Origins: Building Foundations For ChangeEach organization emerged from a recognition that traditional approaches to peacebuilding needed to change.MEET's journey began 20 years ago during the Second Intifada, when three young Israelis who had studied at MIT and Harvard saw an opportunity to leverage technology education for connection. "During that time, the whole 'peace industry' just wasn't able to work," explains Sagee, MEETs CEO. The founders adapted an MIT global program that combined computer science and entrepreneurship, creating an alternative framework for bringing Israeli and Palestinian youth together. MEET began as a program between East and West Jerusalem Heights with 30 students15 from each sideand focused purely on computer science and entrepreneurship. As Sagee explains, "It wasn't about dialogue. It wasn't about peace. It was, let's learn together and create partnerships."The program quickly evolved in two significant ways. First, they recognized the need for a "third pillar of deeper understanding" through a unique dialogue approach developed within the organization. Second, the MIT brand association made the program highly attractive to teenagers, leading to expansion into the West Bank and the area between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.The program grew to include 60 participants from each side, then expanded to include Arab and Jewish students in northern Israel. Currently, MEET recruits 120 ninth-grade students annually for a three-year program comprising about 600 hours of education. The structure includes "three very intensive weeks of living and learning together," an accelerator program where students develop technology-based solutions to address societal challenges.Tech2Peace launched with what Lahar describes as "a bold vision to challenge the entrenched cycles of conflict and division in our region by leveraging the disproportionate power of technology." The initiative began with two Israeli Jews, and a Palestinian, and one East Jerusalemite who brought together young Israelis and Palestinians to learn cutting-edge tech skills while engaging in brave, open dialogue.The organization's philosophy as Lahar points out is one of authenticity, "We ask no one to check their identity at the door. In fact, we ask you to bring your full self and amplify your voice." The program began in 2017 as "a 12-day residential seminar with 15 Palestinians from Israel or 48 East Jerusalemites and West Bankers, alongside 15 Israeli Jews." By 2023, it had transformed significantly. As Lahar explains, they've "flipped the model on its head and the seminars became the entry point into our community." The focus shifted to building "a thriving and very vibrant alumni community of 620 strong."50:50 Startups emerged from the belief that the Israeli Palestinian status quo cannot be sustained, and that peace must begin with individual connections through venture creation and technological innovation. "We provide professional coverage to help benefit our participants to excel," explains Friedman, CEO who joined the organization in 2023 despite the heightened tensions, and saw an opportunity to create meaningful change.Meqbil, Director of 50:50 Startups, believes in the transformative power of bringing people together through practical collaboration. He points out, when people work together on startups and shared projects, "our normal life as a human being will become more engaged and more together." The aim is to launch startups and ideas that transcend conflict by enabling both sides to benefit from each other's expertise.Personal Journeys: From Skepticism To LeadershipFor Meqbil, he reflects on the transformative power of his experiences. His journey began in information technology, where he aspired to build a career in high-tech and programming. He grew up in a refugee camp with an ingrained resistance to engaging with Israelis. His perspective shifted after joining an organization that brought Palestinians, Israelis, and internationals together. He recounts, "I found myself, for the first time, sitting across an Israeli citizen." This encounter led him to question his preconceptions: "Why am I supposed to hate someone that I never met without even understanding who he is?" Overtime, Meqbil developed a more nuanced understanding. As he puts it: "Both have perspectives from different angles, and I can respect that."This led him to shift his career focus towards creating better opportunities for Palestinians through NGOs, admitting "I realized I was better qualified to work with NGOs and create a better environment for Palestinian youth, especially those my age. He is currently pursuing a masters degree in entrepreneurship and startup development to, "build bridges and promote equality through innovation."Jabers journey into peace-building was deeply personal. For 22 years, I lived in East Jerusalem without a single Jewish friend, he recalls. As a technology enthusiast looking for work, he struggled with interviews in Israels tech hubs, citing language barriers, fears, and mistrust as obstacles. I needed connections, I needed to understand my neighbors, and I needed a job, he explains.His breakthrough came when he joined Tech2Peace. I was interested in the tech but afraid of peace, he admits. Yet, it was at Tech2Peace that he experienced his first-ever dialogue. I realized its not just dark or white. There are good people on both sides, and afraid, angry people on both sides. Thats where I made my first Jewish friends. This ignited Jabers confidence and inspired him to engage more deeply with Israeli society.Success Through CollaborationThe impact of these programs manifests in both tangible and intangible ways. Today, MEET serves 300 students annually, with approximately 200 alumni participating in various leadership and professional development programs. The organization has seen 16 of its alumni go on to study at MIT, while others have launched startups addressing local challenges. One recent project developed navigation solutions for the West Bank, while another focused on connecting trauma survivors with healing resources.For Tech2Peace, they conducted six intensive seminars alongside 78 alumni programs that span as Lahar reveals, "community building programs to professional development, tech and entrepreneurship opportunities, dialogue, certification programs." They finished 2023 with a 69% engagement rate among its 545 alumni, with success stories including Dana Global, a desert tech solutions accelerator founded by alumni that now operates in the UAE.50:50 Startups recent pivot to hosting their program in Cyprus, turned a logistical obstacle into an opportunity for deeper connection. Friedman describes his first in-person meeting with co-leader Meqbil in Nicosia, Cyprus as transformative and reflected on a pivotal moment for the organization when hosting their cohort in Nicosia. "Weve been working together for two months, but the first time Marwan and I met in person was just three days ago, on neutral ground," he shared.The decision to hold the cohort in Nicosia was driven by necessity, as current restrictions prevent Palestinian participants from entering Israel. "Palestinians are not allowed into the countrythey dont get permits. The situation doesnt allow it," Friedman explained. "This is what made us adapt... Its something I think will become a cornerstone for our organization moving forward," he said. Hosting the cohort in Cyprus created a unique environment that drew out the unexpected. Friedman continues, "Being in a different country put us both in positions as foreigners. We were in a place experiencing our own, albeit lighter, conflict. We drew people out of their comfort zones, and it allowed us to connect in ways we didnt expect and gave everyone a fresh perspective."Addressing Skepticism In Times Of ConflictThese organizations face criticism from multiple directions, at a time where divisiveness extends geopolitically. Tech2Peace's Lahar mentions that even in her own kibbutz, people question their work's relevance in the current climate. She responds emphasizing their work focuses on practical impact rather than abstract peacebuilding.Reflecting on the broader conflict, Lahar contends, In 1948, there was an opportunity to figure out what the relationship on the ground would be, and a choice was made. We see where it went... At Tech2Peace, in collaboration with organizations like MEET, were trailblazing another pathone that shows coexistence can lead to prosperity, safety, and self-determination for all."Education is a right," argues Jaber, addressing concerns about normalization. "Judge me by my actions, not by what I learn." He emphasizes that understanding and dialogue don't equate to accepting human rights abuses or occupation.Sagee frames MEET's work through three lenses: inspiring hope by demonstrating successful collaboration, creating "islands of success" that prove partnership is possible, and developing future leaders with the empathy and skills to think differently about conflict resolution.Meqbil describes how the ongoing conflict has intensified challenges for 50:50 Startups, particularly in maintaining connections with alumni. He explains: "Within the last year, it's become even worse... we find it more difficult and struggle to hold this kind of connection that we have been creating for the last five to six years."Despite these obstacles, the organization maintains its mission of creating dialogue spaces. Meqbil emphasizes: "Both sides lose. There are no winners in wars." The program provides participants opportunities to express their emotions and fears, working with professional organizations to facilitate deep sessions that help members process these feelings. 50:50 Startups goal remains focused on channeling these experiences constructively: "We give our members the space to express their anger and feelings... to try to understand where they stand and how we can help them."Friedman, CEO of 50:50 Startups, considers leadership during challenging times, as he states: "When things like this happen in your realm and your ecosystem, it's the responsibility of the person running the show to facilitate in a way that are not harmful for others." He sees difficult periods as opportunities to demonstrate leadership and identify true partners. In his words: "The partners we have today are the ones that stayed not because of the situationbut in spite of it. And these are true partners and people who we want to move forward with."Despite the challenges making operations more difficult than routine times, Friedman views the disruption as ultimately beneficial: "It made us much more agile, and it compelled us to come with new solutions. I think that this is unintentionally the shake up that this organization needed."Culture And Impact During CrisisThe war in Gaza has intensified challenges but also demonstrated these organizations' resilience. Tech2Peace resumed community activities just two days after October 7th, 2023, proving the strength of their connections. MEET has seen its participants develop increased empathy and understanding, even as they navigate personal connections to the conflict.The organizations have observed a remarkable ability among participants to maintain relationships despite external pressures.Lahar describes a remarkable resilience in how people adapt to crisis conditions. She shares a telling example from the Iranian attack on April 13th: "We were scheduled to have an entrepreneurship workshop the day after... I wrote to the entire team. We need to cancel it... And they wrote back. 'Why? It's over, we're good, like nothing happened.'"She observes a pattern of quick recovery: "People here just pick themselves up, they dust themselves off and they're on to the next thing." While the early days of the war saw tensions rise between groups with questions like "Do you support Hamas?" and "Do you recognize genocide in Gaza?" the organization's foundation of dialogue helped them move forward.Lahar expresses: "Once we are able to really lean on muscle memory and our ability to communicate with each other and have open dialogue... everything else remained in the background. This is our new normal. Yes, there was something in the news. Yes, I experienced something life threatening yesterday. Today, I'm in the office and all is well.Sagee describes 2023 as the most challenging year in MEET's 20-year history, marked by unprecedented levels of dehumanization and anti-normalization between communities. He explains the core tension from the Israelis point of view: "If you are an Israeli and you're working with Palestinians and the Palestinians do not condemn Hamas, you are supporting what Israelis see as Holocaust. And if you are working as a Palestinian with Israelis that go to the army, doing genocide in Gaza, you're supporting the genocide to our people."To navigate this, MEET created what Yaniv calls a "traffic light" system for acceptable speech, noting that "in Israel, freedom of speech has gotten out of hand... minor things that you would consider an opinion could not be said, could not be heard."Despite these challenges, their programs evolved from creating what Sagee terms "brave spaces" where participants "understand it's not just being safe, it's being able to grow out of it and be empathetic." Their student-led startups became more socially conscious, developing solutions like "WEST," an app for West Bank navigation addressing roadblocks and checkpoints that standard apps don't show. He also points to projects supporting amputees and trauma survivors.As Sagee reveals, these innovations emerged because "young people were exposed to really horrific situations in their lives and they started to think out-of-the-box to create really solutions."The Groundwork For Eventual PeaceThese leaders see their work as creating the foundations for eventual peace, even if the path isn't clear. "There's no day after without the support of civil society," Lahar remarks, referring to post-conflict scenarios. "Who's going to support the day after? ...It's us."Sagee remains optimistic despite current challenges, seeing their work as developing a new generation of leaders with "an injection against racism" and the ability to work collaboratively. The organizations view their role not as creating immediate peace but as building the infrastructure and relationships necessary for any future resolution.Through technology and entrepreneurship, these organizations are demonstrating that collaboration is possible even in in the midst of war. As Jaber notes, "Peace is only possible by popular demand... This work is about creating connections and building trust, step by step, to change lives and communities.

Facepalm: If you're going to try to piggyback on the success of a game, you may as well go all in. That's what the makers of upcoming Switch game Wukong Sun: Black Legend have done. Not only does it have a similar name to Black Myth: Wukong, but it also features nearly identical promotional images. The $7.99 game itself is totally different, of course, and it's causing a lot of anger among China's internet users. Wukong Sun: Black Legend arrives on the Nintendo eShop on December 26. Like the megahit that it's obviously ripping off, it's based on the 1592 Chinese novel Journey to the West. There have been several books, games, and shows based on this source material."Embark on an epic Journey to the West in Wukong Sun: Black Legend," reads the eShop description for the game. "Step into the role of the immortal Wukong, the legendary Monkey King, as he battles through a chaotic world teeming with powerful monsters and untold dangers."It might sound like Game Science's award-winning action RPG, and it's easy to imagine that people will look at the promo art and assume the graphically stunning third-person actioner has been ported to the Switch. But no: this is a side-scroller that wouldn't look out of place on a 16-bit console like the Sega Genesis or SNES.The store listing also boasts that Wukong Sun: Black Legend features "supercharged abilities and crazy fighting skills," and "captivating visuals with unforgettable storytelling," which seems at odds with the fact it costs $8 and requires just 338 megabytes of storage space.China is very proud of Black Myth: Wukong. The game has become the country's first domestically developed AAA hit, having sold more than 20 million copies and won several major awards. It also appears in Steam's recent Best of 2024 top-sellers and most-played categories.Business Insider reports that Wukong Sun: Black Legend has caused quite a stir on China's internet, topping discussion rankings on Weibo, the country's version of X. "Since Nintendo has removed pirated games from its shelves, this should also be removed," wrote one user."Hey everyone, have you heard? The stunning 'Black Myth: Wukong' has actually been copied! This really makes you speechless," wrote another. // Related StoriesWhile this is an instance of a name and art style ripping off another game, we recently saw a title that imitated the gameplay of a big hit to an almost copyright-infringing level. Tencent developer Polaris Quest's Light of Motiram (above) looks so similar to the Horizon Zero Dawn series that many people initially assumed it was some sort of expansion or official sequel.

WTF?! Most people consider CRTs obsolete and for most purposes, they are but retro gamers favor them because they offer a few advantages over modern panels. Although technical constraints limit the maximum size of CRT displays, Sony defied those boundaries in the late 1980s with a model so rare that it eventually passed into legend until a YouTuber rescued what may be the last remaining unit days before its scheduled disposal. Modder and YouTuber Shank Mods recently announced that he had acquired the largest cathode ray tube (CRT) television ever sold. The 43-inch, 440lb behemoth had not appeared publicly for years, leading many enthusiasts to doubt its existence. Even after the YouTuber confirmed that the myth was real, the mission to obtain it quickly transformed into a race against time.Old-school TVs and CRT monitors remain ideal for playing some games due to superior motion clarity, absence of input lag, and their ability to process low-resolution signals from retro game consoles and other devices. However, larger tubes require additional shielding, making CRT screens larger than roughly 30 inches impractically thick and heavy.However, amid Japan's late 1980s bubble economy, Sony didn't care. Enter the PVM-4300.According to the Console Mods Wiki, Sony released the PVM-4300 as a limited-edition flagship device in 1989 to celebrate Trinitron's 20th anniversary. The 60Hz, 480p progressive scan set sold for around $18,000 in Japan (over $45,000 in 2024 dollars) and $40,000 in the US (over $96,000 today).Due to its high cost, the total number of units built was likely extremely low, and CRT communities never spotted one in the wild. Before Shank Mods' discovery, only two images of the PVM-4300 from outside of Sony's PR materials existed online, causing some to question whether it ever actually entered production.After much internet sleuthing, one of the YouTuber's sources traced one of the photos to the second floor of a 300-year-old ramen shop in Osaka. Unfortunately, the shop's owners planned to move in a few weeks, after which the old building would be demolished and the TV would likely be thrown away.With help from Osaka-based game developer Abebe Tinari and sponsorship funds from Shopify, Shank Mods had the PVM-4300 shipped to his parents' garage with only days to spare. Following testing and minor repairs, the modder confirmed that the CRT features zero input lag and uses an advanced 480p conversion method for its time. // Related StoriesShank Mods is currently attempting to schedule an interview with Sony regarding the TV, digitize its service manual, and acquire its design documents.

Editor's take: Some riders of robotaxi services have been experiencing harassment from people emboldened by the absence of a human driver. These incidents raise the question of how emergency response protocols can be adapted for autonomous vehicles. As Alphabet's Waymo expands its driverless taxi service across major U.S. cities, a new set of challenges is emerging for passengers who find themselves in unexpected and unsettling situations. While the promise of increased safety and convenience has drawn many to these futuristic vehicles, recent incidents have shown that sometimes a human at the wheel is necessary when navigating urban environments.The Washington Post spoke with several people who experienced harassment while in these vehicles. One person, a tech worker in San Francisco whom the Post identified as Stephanie, initially embraced Waymo's robotaxis for their perceived safety advantages, particularly for women traveling alone. However, her perspective shifted dramatically after a harrowing experience one Saturday night.As she and her sister were being driven home, their Waymo vehicle was pursued by a car full of young men who began catcalling and following them closely. The incident left Stephanie feeling vulnerable and wishing for a human driver who could have easily altered the route to evade their pursuers.The inability to quickly redirect the vehicle's path in threatening situations has become a significant concern for some Waymo users. Stephanie's attempts to seek help were frustrated when a 911 dispatcher informed her they couldn't dispatch police to a moving vehicle.In another unsettling incident, Elliot, a San Francisco tech worker, found himself face-to-face with a potential assailant who attempted to enter his Waymo vehicle while it was stopped at a red light. The man briefly displayed what appeared to be a knife before walking away. Elliot, who later filed a police report, said he wished that the vehicle could have reacted more swiftly to the threat. // Related StoriesMadelline, a 25-year-old restaurant server, recounted a late-night ride where her Waymo became immobilized due to a road rage incident unfolding ahead. The robotaxi's adherence to traffic rules left her feeling trapped and anxious as the situation escalated.Waymo has acknowledged these concerns, noting that they are relatively rare. "We take these events very seriously and understand how upsetting they can be," company spokesman Ethan Teicher told the Post. Waymo offers support agents who can stay on the line with riders during incidents and work with law enforcement when necessary. Passengers can also use the Waymo app to request the vehicle to pull over or change its destination.Some users would like further protections, though, such as having greater control over the vehicle's route, particularly in potentially dangerous situations. And when Stephanie asked Waymo for video footage of the car that had been following her hoping to get the license plate, the company declined to provide it, she said.Experts in the field of autonomous vehicles are not surprised by these riders' experiences. Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, pointed out to the Post that while robotaxis excel at following traffic rules, they struggle with interpreting and responding to nuanced human behavior. This technological gap has led to situations where vehicles can be easily manipulated or obstructed by pranksters or those with malicious intent.The solution to these issues likely lies in a combination of improved vehicle sensing capabilities and enhanced coordination with remote operations teams, according to Missy Cummings, an engineering professor at George Mason University. However, Phil Koopman, an electrical and computer engineering professor at Carnegie Mellon University, said there are limits to what autonomous vehicles can be programmed to do, especially when it comes to actions that might violate traffic laws.Despite these challenges, many riders continue to appreciate the benefits of driverless taxis. Madelline, for instance, still prefers Waymo to human-driven ride-hailing services, citing the comfort of being alone in the vehicle.

Star Wars: Squadrons is the most underrated Star Wars video game to be released since Disney acquired Lucasfilm, and you can pick it up during this Steam sale for just $2. Its a great time to pick it up, too.December is a month I have always associated with Star Wars. I have fond memories of getting games like 2005s Star Wars: Battlefront II or Star Wars: The Force Unleashed on Christmas as a kid, and Disney has typically released recent Star Wars films in theaters or aired TV shows on Disney+ during this month. Right now, Star Wars: Skeleton Crew is airing on Disney+, and its whimsical The Goonies-like vibe resonates with me more than any Star Wars show has since season 1 of The Mandalorian.Recommended VideosThat has gotten me in the mood to recommend you all go check out a Star Wars game this holiday, and I spotted this particularly good deal on Star Wars: Squadrons, a starfighter combat game released by Dead Space remake developer Motive and EA in 2020. Of all the console Star Wars games that have come out since Disney acquired Lucasfilm, I find Squadrons one of the most underrated. It typically retails for $40 or is accessible as part of the $ 6-a-month EA Play subscription catalog. During this Steam sale, you can permanently buy the game at a 95% discount for just $2.Star Wars: Squadrons Official Reveal TrailerStarfighter dogfights have always been my favorite part of any Star Wars media I consume. I spent countless hours playing space battles in Star Wars: Battlefront II and am devastated that Lucasfilm has not managed to bring the Rogue Squadron film to fruition. As such, I was over the moon when EA revealed Squadrons in 2020, positioning it as a fairly hardcore flight combat game where players got to control starfighters in single-player and multiplayer battles. Its campaign features missions where players control both Imperial and New Republic pilots. This juxtaposition offers some insight into where both factions were at that point during the Star Wars timeline. Id go as far as to say that it does a better job at succinctly portraying that than many of the Disney+ Star Wars shows have.RelatedThe real reason I enjoyed Squadrons was its gameplay. Motive did not hold back and created a flight combat game that could stand toe-to-toe with Ace Combat 7: Skies Unknown, plus the classic Star Wars: X-Wing and Star Wars: TIE Fighter games that explored this concept in the 1990s. Ironically, Star Wars: Squadrons discount to $2 makes it cheaper than the Steam versions of Star Wars: X-Wing series right now. Like those retro titles, Squadrons features first-person aerial combat where players engage in dogfights with other starfighters.Controlling these starfighters does take some getting used to, as this isnt an arcade-like Star Wars experience where players can just point and shoot. As a pilot, you have to actively be aware of where youre allocating power to in your starfighter and slowly position an enemy aircraft in your sights to start firing upon it. Its tough to get the hang of at first, but learning to maneuver your starfighter the right way and where to allocate power at certain times is a rewarding experience. Be aware that the game feels better to play on a controller than mouse and keyboard.EASquadrons fully embraces the Star Wars pilot fantasy, and I appreciate that Motive did not sacrifice that much depth here to make it more accessible. If you want simpler space combat, youre better off playing DICEs Star Wars: Battlefront games or Star Wars Outlaws. Squadrons is a game for those of us whove always wanted to know what it would feel like to pilot an X-Wing or TIE Fighter. Theres a robust single-player campaign and multiplayer modes to sink your teeth into in Squadrons. The PC version of the game even supports VR play; Ive never tried this because I dont own a PC VR headset, but its a neat little bonus thats unique to this version of Squadrons.Its a shame that it isnt as beloved as other modern Star Wars games like Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. The hardcore nature of its combat and some shortcomings of the keyboard and mouse controls were a little off-putting to some. As a result, it sits at a Mixed review average on Steam; this game is much better than that rating suggests.If youve ever adored the starfighter pilot fantasy aspect of Star Wars like me, but havent played Squadrons, then its very much worth it as its just $2 during this Steam Winter Sale. This sale runs until 10 a.m. PT on January 2, 2025.Editors Recommendations

SkyTable of ContentsTable of ContentsA morning commute like no otherA genuinely charming castYou cant beat London during ChristmastimeTheres no shortage of worthwhile Christmas movies out there. Do you want to go back in time and relive your 90s Christmas memories? Then Disney+ has the Home Alone and The Santa Clause movies. Craving some scares to go along with those gingerbread men? Then you should watch Black Christmas on Tubi. Action fans have Die Hard and Netflixs Carry-On, and fans of so-bad-theyre-good Xmas movies have Hallmark movies to indulge in.Last year, I discovered a new addition to my usual rotation of must-watch Christmas movies: This is Christmas. A co-production between Sky Cinema and MGM+, the 2022 British film is a low-key charmer, an unabashedly sentimental and optimistic movie with the sole purpose of lifting your spirits. It does just that, and thats really all you can ask for in a quality holiday movie.This is Christmas | Official Trailer | Sky CinemaNeed more recommendations? We also have guides for the 10 best TV shows to watch on Christmas, the best Christmas movies on Netflix, the best Christmas movies on Disney+, the best Christmas movies on Hulu, the best Christmas movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best Christmas movies on Max, and the best Christmas movies on Hallmark Channel.Recommended VideosHave you ever taken a morning commute on public transportation, looked around at the people sitting next to you, and wondered, Who the heck are they? This is Christmas takes that central conceit and runs with it. During a typical train ride into London, young advertising executive Adam (Alfred Enoch), tired of not knowing the faces he sees more times than his own girlfriends, decides to break the understood wall of silence between strangers and invites everyone to an impromptu Christmas party.SkyAt first, everyone is standoffish. But when Emma (Kaya Scodelario) decides to support him, more people warm to the idea and decide to help organize the party. Some of those people include Dean (Jack Donoghue), a shy young man who reads sci-fi novels; Ray (Timothy Spall), an older man who keeps to himself; and Judith (Ted Lassos Sarah Niles), who rides the train with her sister and loves Jane Austen novels.RelatedAs each person contributes to the party, they begin to talk to each other in subsequent commutes and prove Adams initial theory that a stranger is just a friend you havent met yet. Yes, thats corny, and Adam knows it, but he still persists in doing something; after all, the alternative is just the same silent commute that hes been a part of for years.SkyThere are complications, of course. Finding a venue for the party proves to be more troublesome than initially thought. Even worse, Emma cant make the party due to her upcoming move to Chicago. This affects Adam more than he likes to admit since hes developed feelings for her that complicate not only his relationship with his longtime girlfriend but Emmas relationship with her fianc as well. While the plot threatens to veer into Hallmark territory, it never overdoes it, maintaining a quaint British restraint that makes it all the more charming.SkySpeaking of charming, a key reason why This is Christmas succeeds is due to its cast. As Adam, Enoch showcases an earnestness that never becomes grating. You may remember him from his time as Dean in the Harry Potter movies or as Wes on How to Get Away with Murder. He was never the star, but he always made enough of an impression to make you wish he had a bigger role in whatever he was in.Here, he makes the most of his rare leading role and makes Adam someone you not only root for but also fall in love with. We all want an Adam on our morning commute, someone who believes in the best of people even when they have a bad attitude due to whatever is happening in their lives.SkyAs Emma, Scodelario isnt your typical Christmas movie heroine. For starters, shes not all that happy, but she cant exactly understand why until late in the movie. Her relationship with her fianc Simon (Jeremy Irvine) is technically everything she ever wants, but it leaves her wanting something more.That something is Adam, but she cant quite bring herself to accept that until the end. As a veteran of such shows and movies as Skins and The Maze Runner films, Scodelario brings an unexpected gravity to Emma that cuts through the sugary sweetness the movie sometimes dishes out.SkyVeteran character actor Spall stands out from the supporting cast as Ray, who could be your usual crotchety old man but is revealed to be so much more than that stereotype. Thats due to Spall, who is one of the most underrated actors working today.His past collaborations with director Mike Leigh, like Topsy-Turvy, All or Nothing,and Mr. Turner, are a bit heavier and more serious than This is Christmas, but Spall still commits to his character 100%. The result is a B story involving Ray and Dean thats genuinely touching and avoids the eye-rolling clichs it couldve leaned on as most movies in this genre do.SkyFans of Love Actually know that London is probably the best city to experience Christmas in. Englands most popular town goes all out for the holidays, with its glass skyscrapers and cobblestone streets all aglow with white lights and holly. This is Christmas has a bigger budget than most non-Hollywood Christmas movies, and that results in a good-looking movie you want to live in.Even the train everyone rides each day is welcoming. A big reason why I re-watch Love Actually and Home Alone isnt because they are great movies; its because they take place in locations that look incredible and feel welcoming. I wont spoil too much, but the end of This is Christmas reaches those same heights. It leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling that every good holiday movie should do.Who CRACKS UP first, Alfred Enoch or Kaya Scodelario? | This Is Christmas | Sky CinemaSo what are you waiting for? If youve watched the usual standbys like National Lampoons Christmas Vacation or The Family Stoneby now and are looking for a new movie to watch while opening presents, then give This is Christmas a view.This is Christmas is streaming on Amazon Prime Video.Editors Recommendations

NetflixTable of ContentsTable of ContentsBlack Doves (2024)Grantchester (2014-present)Ordeal by Innocence (2018)Tis the season for all the things that matter in life: friends, family, and murder?!? Crime shows never go out of style here at Digital Trends, and even though its Christmas, that doesnt mean you shouldnt watch some qualities mysteries from across the pond.The following list has three such shows to satiate your crime-solving needs. Ones a popular Netflix hit set around Christmastime this year, while the other two are more traditional British mysteries set decades in the past. All three are guaranteed to contain a dead body or two and plenty of crime. What more can one ask for this holiday season?Recommended VideosNeed more recommendations? We also have guides for the 10 best TV shows to watch on Christmas, the best Christmas movies on Netflix, the best Christmas movies on Disney+, the best Christmas movies on Hulu, the best Christmas movies on Amazon Prime Video, the best Christmas movies on Max, and the best Christmas movies on Hallmark Channel.RelatedNetflixChances are, youve probably heard of Black Doves. The Keira Knightley spy series was Netflixs most popular show last week, and its still grabbing viewers as we head into Christmas. Theres a reason for that its cracking good, and its set during Christmastime in London, which is probably the most festive place to be around the holidays. (Sorry, New York City.)The premise is intriguing: the wife of a high-powered politician in Parliament, Helen Webb (Knightley), is actually a spy for the shadowy Black Doves organization. When her lover is killed, she calls on her old friend and expert hit man, Sam Young (Ben Whishaw), to help her find out who killed him and why. As the bodies begin to pile up, both Helen and Sam are drawn into a conspiracy thats far more wide-reaching than they thought. Will they make it out in one piece?I wont tell you if they do. What I will say is that Black Doves is irresistible, enough so that I advise blocking out at least three hours of your time because you will not stop watching it once you start. Two big reasons why are Knightley and Whishaw, who sell the ridiculous premise with their droll, world-weary performances. These two embody the ideal ride-or-die besties, who have each others backs even if theyre caught in a shootout or need to get rid of a dead body. Now thats what I call friendship.Black Doves is streaming on Netflix.PBSIve written about Grantchester before and Ill write about it more in the future; its such a warm, appealing show that its hard not to. And despite serving up a dead body (and sometimes more) each week, Grantchester is an oddly wholesome show that doesnt make you gag on its escapism. Its tender and heartwarming, with a great found family involving a horny priest, a gruff detective, a no-nonsense housekeeper, and other hangers-on.Of Grantchesters 53 episodes (and counting), check out Christmas Special. It takes place between seasons two and three, so if youre new to the show, youll be a little lost. But its still worth it, as everyones favorite vicar, Sidney, and his cop partner, Georgie, must solve a case of a missing groom during the holidays. If thats not enough, Sidney has to deal with the woman he loves having a baby. No, its not his, and would you believe thats a problem rather than a relief?Grantchester, Season 3: Christmas Special Sneak PeekIts not hard to see where this is going: a pregnant mother without a home and a baby born on Christmas Eve. The episode doesnt press too hard on the obvious biblical parallels, and its a hoot to see squeamish Leonard, Sidneys jittery priestly pupil, try to deliver a newborn without any medical expertise whatsoever. Its all very Grantchester, which means its funny and cozy, and exactly what you want this time of year.Image used with permission by copyright holderTheres no Christmas theme here; its just good old-fashioned murder, served up by the mother of mayhem, Agatha Christie. And this ones a doozy: wealthy heiress (is there any other kind?) Rachel Argyll is murdered in her countryside mansion, and her family, including her husband Leo and five adopted children, are the prime suspects.The mystery is seemingly solved when one of the kids is arrested. But when he too is found murdered before he can stand trial, suspicions deepen, and each family member is revealed to have a pretty good motive for offing the cruel and unforgiving matriarch.Unlike most Christie mysteries, Ordeal by Innocence has no Hercule Poirot or Miss Marple to solve the case. However, like most of her adaptations, this one has a whos who of great British character actors like Bill Nighy as the husband and Anna Chancellor as the cruel Rachel. The show serves up everything youd want in a British mystery, with stiff upper lips and even stiffer corpses.Editors Recommendations

The guitar hero proves you dont need tons of pyrotechnics to sell out arenasin this case, a banjo, mandolin and fiddle are enough.

This scorpion (Tityus achilles) can spray venom out of its stingerLo LaborieuxA Colombian scorpion that is new to science can spray venom from its stinger to hit something up to 35 centimetres away rather than always having to inject it. The tactic is thought to be a way of defending against would-be predators.It isnt known what effect the venom has when it gets into an animals eye, mouth or nose, says Lo Laborieux, who made the discovery while at Harvard University.