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METRO.CO.UKBest free games for PS5, Xbox and Nintendo Switch from Wuthering Waves to ValorantBest free games for PS5, Xbox and Nintendo Switch from Wuthering Waves to ValorantAdam StarkeyPublished December 26, 2024 1:00am Another wave of free-to-play games looms (Kuro Games)If youve found yourself with a new console over Christmas, heres some games you can try without any damage to your bank account.While game consoles are often bundled with free games, like Wii Sports or Face Raiders on the Nintendo 3DS, theres now an entire subsection of the industry dedicated to offering experiences which are entirely free.The free-to-play model might represent some of the mediums worst habits, like egregious microtransactions and other dodgy models of monetisation, but some of them are surprisingly generous in what they offer without having to lay down any cash.So if youre looking to try out some free games after picking up a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, or Nintendo Switch, weve listed some of the best options below. Weve omitted the usual heavy-hitters, like vanilla Fortnite, Call Of Duty: Warzone, Apex Legends, and Genshin Impact, to prioritise games released over recent years, but you probably already knew about those anyway.Its also worth noting that while these games are billed as free, in most cases youll need an online subscription to play them. The lowest tier for PlayStation is PS Plus Essential at 6.99 per month (or cheaper if bought yearly), whereas Xbox offers Game Pass Core for the same price, and Nintendo Switch Online is the cheapest at 3.49 per month.Free games on PS5 and Xbox Series X/SAstros Playroom (PS5)If youre new to the PlayStation 5 console, Astros Playroom is the perfect introduction to the systems capabilities. This is a family-friendly platformer designed to show off the DualSense controller, between the haptic feedback on the triggers and the touchpad.This comes pre-installed on every PlayStation 5 console and doesnt require any online connection, so theres nothing stopping you enjoying what is still one of the best exclusives on the system. If youre a fan, its full-priced successor Astro Bot was just released this year.Marvel Rivals (PS5 and Xbox) Marvel Rivals has been a big success, so far (NetEase Games)This 6v6 third-person shooter is largely pitched as an alternative to Overwatch and its become very popular since it launched earlier this month. Its huge roster of Marvel characters boasts big names like Spider-Man and lesser known heroes like Squirrel Girl, all contained within a competitive hero shooter.Wuthering Waves (PS5)One of the many rivals to Genshin Impact is Wuthering Waves, which launched on PC earlier this year but lands on PlayStation 5 from January 1 (at 10pm GMT), 2025. The action role-playing core shares similarities with its inspiration, but it has a greater emphasis on combat.The Finals (PS5 and Xbox) The Finals launched in 2023 (Embark Studios)Of all the free first person shooters to drop over recent years, The Finals is one of the few to have some staying power. Its pitched around a fictional game show, as teams fight to secure cash vaults, but the destructible environment is the big selling point allowing you to flatten entire structures and turn the tables at the smash of a sledgehammer.Infinity Nikki (PS5)If youre bored of competitive violence, jump into the cuddly world of Infinity Nikki. Its part open world platformer and part dress-up role-player, pulled along by the impressive detail in its unlockable in-game outfits. This has become a sensation since it launched earlier this month, with a whopping 20 million downloads within its first week.Halo Infinite (Xbox) Halo Infinite has a free portion (Microsoft)While the campaign portion is locked behind a paywall, Xbox players can jump into Halo Infinites multiplayer offering without any charge. It hasnt maintained the longevity past Halo games have managed, but theres still a healthy amount of players to keep the frenetic matches rolling.Valorant (PS5 and Xbox)This first person hero shooter might be the best example of the genre out there, but its one best suited for experienced players. Its essentially a blend of Overwatch and Counter-Strike, so expect a predominantly tactical experience sprinkled with some absurd power-ups.Zenless Zone Zero (PS5) Zenless Zone Zero isnt as open as Genshin Impact (MiHoYo)Developer MiHoYo have largely cornered the market when it comes to anime-orientated free-to-play role-playing games, and this is the studios latest title following Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail. Zenless Zone Zero will feel familiar to anyone whos dabbled in either of those games, but its smaller focus might make it the more welcoming option.MultiVersus (PS5 and Xbox)If you want the closest thing to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate without the cost, MultiVersus might be your best option. It takes the same platform fighter fundamentals and applies it to various properties from the house of Warner Bros., ranging from Looney Tunes, Scooby Doo, and DC to Adventure Time.Lego Fortnite (PS5 and Xbox) Brick Life has arrived in Lego Fortnite (Epic Games)Fortnite is one of the most ubiquitous properties in gaming today, but in recent years it has added several modes beneath the traditional battle royale. One of the most popular is Lego Fortnite, which now spans various modes between a survival Minecraft-like sandbox and a social role-play experience called Brick Life.Free games on Nintendo SwitchPokmon UniteIf youre looking for a gateway into League Of Legends or Dota 2, Pokmon Unite might be the best route into the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) genre. Its popularity has dimmed since it launched in 2021, but its still a compelling title designed for quick 5v5 matches. Three years later, theres now over 62 playable Pokmon to unlock.Tetris 99 and F-Zero 99 F-Zero with a modern twist (Nintendo)Weve bundled these together because theyre both playable for free if you subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online. As the name implies, both Tetris 99 and F-Zero 99 pit you against up to 98 other players online in fiercely competitive matches. The latter, especially, is secretly one of the best racing games on the Switch outside of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.Super Kirby ClashIf you dont have the cash for Kirby And The Forgotten Land, Super Kirby Clash might address your cuddly pink ball fix. Its an action role-playing game where you take on a series of bosses with friends locally or online. Its far from the best Kirby experience, but theres some chaotic charm to be found in this bizarre oddity.Pokmon Caf ReMixThis might not rank highly among the overwhelming number of Pokmon spin-offs, but its cute art style might grab younger fans of the series. This simple puzzle game is only playable using the Switch touchscreen though, so it can only be played in handheld mode. Even monsters need a snack (Nintendo)Emailgamecentral@metro.co.uk, leave a comment below,follow us on Twitter, andsign-up to our newsletter.More TrendingTo 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 Policy0 Comments 0 Shares 0 Views
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WWW.ARCHDAILY.COMPresent Shapes, Bonteheuwel Freedom Square Landscape Art Intervention / Lorenzo Nassimbeni Conceptual ArchitectPresent Shapes, Bonteheuwel Freedom Square Landscape Art Intervention / Lorenzo Nassimbeni Conceptual ArchitectSave this picture!Courtesy of City of Cape TownSquareCape Town, South AfricaArchitects: Lorenzo Nassimbeni Conceptual ArchitectAreaArea of this architecture projectArea:70 mYearCompletion year of this architecture project Year: 2023 PhotographsPhotographs:Southland PhotographyManufacturersBrands with products used in this architecture project Manufacturers: ACM, Spectrarubber More SpecsLess SpecsSave this picture!Text description provided by the architects. The project consists of a series of artistic interventions forming part of the upgrade of a public space called Freedom Square in Bonteheuwel, Cape Town. Bonteheuwel was created by the South African apartheid government as a locality for people of color who were forcefully removed from their homes. The physical site for the artworks was seen as part of a larger site, that of the social structure of the township. The square is considered the heart of Bonteheuwel. It is a space of movement, gathering, and positive spirit. The artwork sought to celebrate this fact.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!As the foundation of the project, an art workshop with school students in the area was held. The brief for the workshop asked the students to reflect upon the built environment of Bonteheuwel. Colorful shapes representing the architectural elements of the area formed collages showing the students' experience of their home. The collages were directly referenced in the design of artwork for the security screen of the library in the square and floor artworks placed within the landscaping of the overall project. The workshop was considered as a public artwork in itself, an artistic and educational performance.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!The artwork on the security screen was composed of a series of shapes made from an aluminum composite material. The shapes are brightly colored, directly speaking to the colors used in the collages from the workshop. The shapes were bolted to the security screen with elegant stainless steel nuts and bolts. The floor artworks were made of a rubber flooring material. The soft texture of the material is conducive to a space like Freedom Square, as it is a space where children play.Save this picture!Save this picture!In terms of spatial configuration, the artworks are placed in the space in such a way that they complement and reinforce the landscape architecture. As a backdrop for the space, the library screen is celebrated by the artwork and made more prominent. The floor artworks are designed to give depth and focus to the square, activating it and encouraging pedestrian movement. The library screen and floor artworks are in conversation at either end of the square, thus defining its edges. Complementing the library screen and floor artwork is a pair of murals by local Bonteheuwel artist, Shaunez Benting. The murals respond conceptually and geometrically to the other artistic interventions in the space to form a 'family' of artworks.Save this picture!Save this picture!Save this picture!A challenge in the project was the notion of acceptance of the artistic interventions by the community. There is major division along political lines in Bonteheuwel, and it was noted that the artworks in the square might be the catalyst for further division, especially should they reference the history of the township. As such, Nassimbeni chose to work with the school students of the area and to give them the opportunity to communicate their views on the present-day context of the space.Save this picture!Project gallerySee allShow lessProject locationAddress:Cape Town, South AfricaLocation to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address.About this officePublished on December 26, 2024Cite: "Present Shapes, Bonteheuwel Freedom Square Landscape Art Intervention / Lorenzo Nassimbeni Conceptual Architect" 25 Dec 2024. ArchDaily. Accessed . <https://www.archdaily.com/1024742/present-shapes-bonteheuwel-freedom-square-landscape-art-intervention-lorenzo-nassimbeni-conceptual-architect&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 stream0 Comments 0 Shares 0 Views
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GAMERANT.COMHow To Enter Pripyat Early After Update In Stalker 2Pripyat is one of the most iconic locations in the Stalker universe and is also a part of Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl. However, players will need to progress into the late-game missions to access this location, which could take a lot of hours due to the length of the campaign. Instead, there's an easy way for you to get into Pripyat early and explore it as well as unlock its base, so you can fast travel to the region and back with ease.0 Comments 0 Shares 2 Views
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GAMERANT.COMHonkai: Star Rail Fan Creates Astral Express in MinecraftA creative Honkai: Star Rail fan made an Astral Express model in Minecraft. Known as Honkai: Star Rail's home base, the cosmic train transports the Nameless to different planets to learn more about them and help their inhabitants when they're in trouble.0 Comments 0 Shares 2 Views
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GAMERANT.COMThe Best Stories In The Need For Speed GamesWhen it comes to the racing genre, storylines are often among the least important aspects, yet they can still add an extra layer of engagement to the gameplay. The Need for Speed franchise has long established itself as one of the most cinematic racing series, frequently drawing inspiration from popular street racing movies like the long-running Fast & Furious franchise.0 Comments 0 Shares 2 Views
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WWW.YANKODESIGN.COMTop Wearable Tech Trends for 2025Wearable technology has come a long way from the days of clunky pedometers and fitness bands that tracked steps but not much else. Today, wearables have become essential lifestyle gadgets, seamlessly blending into our lives as fashion statements, health monitors, and even personal assistants. The year 2025 promises to take this even further, with trends pushing the boundaries of what wearables can do for our health, communication, and even our understanding of ourselves.What makes this era of wearable tech particularly exciting is the perfect storm of advancements in artificial intelligence, miniaturized sensors, and consumer demand for smarter, more intuitive devices. Wearables are no longer passive trackerstheyre becoming proactive partners in our well-being, combining data with actionable insights that can improve our daily lives. Lets take a closer look at the trends shaping the wearable tech landscape in 2025 and beyond.Non-Invasive Blood-Glucose Monitoring: The New Gold StandardAfons needle-free Blood Glucose trackerImagine a smartwatch that doesnt just track your heart rate or calories burned but tells you when your blood sugar levels are spiking, all without drawing a single drop of blood. Blood-glucose monitoring is one of the most anticipated innovations in wearables, and 2025 might be the year it becomes mainstream. Devices equipped with optical sensors are inching closer to providing non-invasive glucose tracking, a potential game-changer for people with diabetes and wellness enthusiasts alike.The implications of this technology stretch far beyond clinical use. For anyone interested in their metabolic health, glucose monitoring could reveal the hidden effects of diet, stress, and exercise on their body in real-time. Companies like Apple and Fitbit are rumored to be perfecting prototypes, though hurdles like regulatory approvals and ensuring data accuracy remain significant challenges. Afon, a wearable startup, even designed a needle-free blood glucose tracker that attaches to existing smartwatches. When these devices hit the market, they could redefine wearables as essential tools for managing health at a granular level.Despite the excitement, there are concerns to address. Wearables with glucose monitoring will likely come at a premium price, potentially limiting accessibility. However, as technology matures, its reasonable to expect that these features will trickle down to mid-tier devices, bringing the non-prick technology to the masses more than 10% of which struggle with sugar-related issues like diabetes.As this tech becomes more refined, we might see it integrate seamlessly with apps and AI to offer comprehensive health advice, such as meal planning or fitness routines tailored to your bodys unique glucose responses. The day your wearable knows your body better than you do isnt far off.Smart Rings: Tiny Yet MightyRingConn Smart RingSometimes, less is more, and in the world of wearable tech, smart rings exemplify this ethos perfectly. These small but powerful devices pack an impressive array of sensors into a discreet, jewelry-like form factor. Already capable of tracking metrics like heart rate, sleep cycles, and even stress levels, smart rings are gaining traction as a stylish alternative to bulkier wearables.But dont mistake their size for simplicity. The next generation of smart rings promises advancements like gesture controls, enabling you to interact with devices through subtle finger movements. Imagine pausing a song, answering a call, or scrolling through a presentation without reaching for your phone. This kind of functionality could transform the way we interact with technology, making our digital experiences more intuitive and seamless.Companies like RingConn, Ultrahuman, and Oura are leading the charge, blending cutting-edge health features with designs that could pass for high-end jewelry. The appeal lies in their subtlety; unlike smartwatches, which are unmistakably gadgets, rings are personal and unobtrusive. For those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic or dont want to feel tethered to a screen, smart rings offer a compelling alternative.As these devices evolve, we might also see them incorporate new features like hydration tracking or even UV exposure alerts. While its unlikely theyll completely replace smartwatches, smart rings are carving out a niche for themselves as discreet companions for health-conscious, design-savvy users.Health-Tracking Earphones: Wearables for the AudiophilesFor Me Buds: Sleep-Tracking EarbudsFor many, earbuds are already a daily companion, making them a natural platform for health-tracking features. Todays health-focused earphones (like the For Me Buds) can monitor your sleep, body temperature, and even capture brain activity. But in 2025, these devices are set to become far more sophisticated, offering insights that could rival dedicated fitness trackers.The magic lies in the ears unique physiology, which allows for precise biometric measurements. Future earphones could monitor respiratory rate, temperature, and even early signs of fatigue or dehydration. Companies like Bose and Jabra are exploring these possibilities, and startups are pushing boundaries with ideas like real-time biometric monitoring during workouts.The combination of health tracking with superior audio quality creates a two-in-one device thats hard to resist. You get your favorite tunes and podcasts alongside actionable health data, all in a compact, wearable package. This multifunctionality is likely to appeal to consumers looking to simplify their tech ecosystems without compromising on features.That said, challenges remain. Comfort and battery life are critical for adoption, and privacy concerns around data collection are increasingly under scrutiny. But as technology advances, health-tracking earphones could become indispensable tools for fitness enthusiasts, commuters, and anyone looking to keep tabs on their well-being in the most convenient way possible.Wearables for Mental Health and Stress ManagementWearables have always been good at tracking physical health, but mental health is becoming a growing focus. Devices like LightVision headband and Philips x Kokoons Sleep Headphones are paving the way for a future where wearables can help us manage our emotions and improve mental resilience. By measuring metrics like heart rate variability (HRV), these devices offer insights into stress levels and provide techniques to manage them.In 2025, expect wearables to become even smarter at understanding your mental state. AI integration could enable these devices to detect patterns in your behavior and suggest proactive solutions, such as breathing exercises or mindfulness practices, before stress becomes overwhelming. Imagine a device that senses your rising tension during a work presentation and guides you through calming techniques without anyone noticing.One of the most exciting possibilities is the integration of wearables with therapy apps, offering a continuous loop of feedback and guidance tailored to the individual. For example, a wearable could alert you to potential burnout and sync with an app to schedule a counseling session or provide daily affirmations. This kind of personalized support could make mental health resources more accessible and effective.Still, there are ethical considerations to address, such as ensuring user data is secure and not misused. But if these hurdles are overcome, wearables could play a pivotal role in tackling the mental health challenges of our era, offering a lifeline to those who need it most.AI Integration Into Wearables for Personalized TrackingThis one might be the most obvious prediction, given that AI is inevitably creeping into every single tech device we own, from our laptops and tablets to our phones, and now even our watches. Artificial intelligence is reshaping the entire tech landscape, and wearables are no exception. By 2025, AI-powered wearables could transition from passive data collectors to active health partners. These devices will not only track your metrics but interpret them in real-time, offering personalized advice that adapts to your bodys unique patterns and needs.Imagine wearing a smartwatch that not only tracks your heart rate but predicts when youre at risk of an irregular rhythm and suggests steps to mitigate it. Or earbuds that adjust your workout routine based on how fatigued you are that day. This level of personalization is where AI shines, and we already got a taste of it with Googles updates to the Pixel Watch 3 earlier this year, boasting AI-powered fitness insights.The beauty of AI lies in its ability to learn and evolve with you. Over time, it could identify trends you might not notice yourself, such as declining sleep quality or rising stress levels. These insights could empower users to make informed decisions, whether that means adjusting their diet, tweaking their fitness routine, or seeking medical advice before a minor issue becomes serious.However, with great power comes great responsibility. Privacy concerns are at the forefront, as these devices collect an enormous amount of sensitive data. Companies will need to ensure this data is encrypted, anonymized, and used ethically. Still, the potential for AI in wearables is staggering, and its poised to make our devices smarter and our lives healthier.Neural WearablesThe Ultimate FrontierIf you think wearable tech is impressive now, wait until it starts interacting with your brain. Neural wearables, like brain-computer interfaces, are still in their infancy but could become a reality sooner than you think. These devices aim to decode neural signals to control technology or enhance mental performance, offering applications from prosthetic control to cognitive enhancement.The implications are staggering: imagine focusing your mind to switch on smart lights or using neural stimulation to improve your memory before an exam. Projects like Neuralink are paving the way, though the ethical and technical challenges are immense. But if the potential is realized, neural wearables could make the wearables of 2025 look primitive by comparison.The future of wearable technology isnt just excitingits transformative. From non-invasive glucose monitoring to AI-driven insights, these devices are becoming essential tools for understanding and optimizing our health, well-being, and daily lives. And while trends like neural wearables might feel like science fiction, theyre a reminder that the best innovations often start as wild ideas. By 2025, wearable tech might not just be part of our lives; it could be redefining what it means to live well.The post Top Wearable Tech Trends for 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.0 Comments 0 Shares 0 Views
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ENGLISH.KYODONEWS.NETJAL's system under cyberattack, domestic and international flights delayedJAL's system under cyberattack, domestic and international flights delayedKYODO NEWS - 2 hours ago - 11:42 | All, JapanJapan Airlines said Thursday that its system network is under a cyberattack, with at least 14 domestic flights delayed for up to an hour and some international flights also affected.The airline said the problems began occurring around 7:25 a.m., prompting JAL to halt ticket sales for domestic and international flights for the rest of the day. Tickets already bought can still be used.JAL said it was working to counteract the cyberattack and determine its source, adding the attack may have a larger effect on its flights. The airline succeeded in temporarily shutting down the router believed to have been compromised.The Metropolitan Police Department was contacted by JAL and is looking into the matter, investigative sources said.An electric sign at Tokyo's Haneda airport informs passengers of impacted Japan Airlines services following a cyberattack on Dec. 26, 2024. (Kyodo)Related coverage:Recordings show crew in Haneda collision thought OK to enter runwayNorth Korean hacker group identified in theft of DMM Bitcoin assetsJapanese publisher paid $3 million to hacker group after cyberattack 2 hours ago | KYODO NEWS0 Comments 0 Shares 0 Views
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WWW.MACRUMORS.COMApple Explains Why It Doesn't Plan to Create a Search EngineApple's senior vice president of services Eddy Cue has explained why the iPhone maker does not plan to create a search engine like Google.In a declaration filed with a U.S. federal court in Washington, D.C. last week, Cue said Apple is against the idea for the following reasons:The development of a search engine would cost Apple "billions of dollars" and "take many years," and this would divert investment money and employees away from "other growth areas" that the company is focused on.The search business is "rapidly evolving" due to artificial intelligence, so it would be "economically risky" for Apple to create a search engine.In order to create a "viable" search engine business, Apple would be required to "sell targeted advertising," which is "not a core business" for the company and would go against its "longstanding privacy commitments."Apple does not have enough "specialized professionals" and "operational infrastructure" needed to build and run a successful search engine business.Earlier this year, as part of the U.S. Department of Justice's antitrust trial against Google, the court declared that the deal that sees Google set as the default search engine in Apple's web browser Safari is illegal. In his declaration, Cue asked the court to allow Apple to defend the deal by having its own witnesses testify during the trial."Only Apple can speak to what kinds of future collaborations can best serve its users," wrote Cue. "Apple is relentlessly focused on creating the best user experience possible and explores potential partnerships and arrangements with other companies to make that happen."As part of the deal, Cue revealed that Google paid Apple roughly $20 billion in 2022 alone.If the agreement can no longer continue, Cue said "it would hamstring Apple's ability to continue delivering products that best serve its users' needs."The declaration was earlier reported by Reuters.Note: Due to the political or social nature of the discussion regarding this topic, the discussion thread is located in our Political News forum. All forum members and site visitors are welcome to read and follow the thread, but posting is limited to forum members with at least 100 posts.Tag: Google0 Comments 0 Shares 0 Views
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WWW.FORBES.COMTodays NYT Mini Crossword Clues And Answers For Thursday, December 26Mini CrosswordNYTIn case you missed Wedensdays NYT Mini, you can find the answers here:The NYT Mini is a quick and dirty version of the newspaper's larger and long-running crossword. Most days, there are between three and five clues in each direction on a five by five grid, but the puzzles are sometimes larger, especially on Saturdays.Unlike its larger sibling, the NYT Mini crossword is free to play on the New York Times website or NYT Games app. However, youll need an NYT Games subscription to access previous puzzles in the archives.The NYT Mini is a fun daily distraction that usually takes no time at all. I try to beat the standard weekday grid in less than a minute. But sometimes I can't quite figure out one or two clues and need to reveal the answer.To help you avoid doing that, here are the NYT Mini Crossword answers (spoilers lie ahead, of course):MORE FOR YOUNYT Mini Crossword Clues And AnswersACROSS1) Breathable shorts fabric - MESH5) World's second-largest metropolis by population, after Tokyo - DELHI6) It doesn't get any better than this! - IDEAL7) With 8-Across, Hanukkah duration - EIGHT8) See 7-Across - DAYSDOWN1) TV, radio, newspapers, social channels, etc. - MEDIA2) Poem of mourning - ELEGY3) "___ of Sunset" (2010s Bravo show) - SHAHS4) Gripped part of a sword - HILT5) Went to 0%, as a battery - DIEDMiniNYTChristmas is over and its now time for 20% of the puzzle to switch to Hanukkah instead, so hopefully you knew how long it was. Other than that, I saw the populous city ended in I, and I thought of Delhi and Delhi only which worked out. You might say it was Ideal. Ten years of Game of Thrones prepared me for Hilt, and from there, I was good to go.Follow me on Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.Pick up my sci-fi novels the Herokiller series and The Earthborn Trilogy.0 Comments 0 Shares 0 Views