FromSoftware has steadily established a reputation for incredible games littered with unique worlds. While the initial impression of many of these environments, set in worlds that are desolate, dying or brimming with conflict, a deeper dive often reveals much more. FromSoftware worlds, be it Anor Londo or Yharman are full of rich lore, tragic stories and glimmers of hope.

World of Warcrafts 7th expansion, Battle for Azeroth, was fraught with momentous lore events. Ensconced in a brutal conflict, the Alliance and Horde had to resort to drastic measures to ensure victory. The ripples of these tremendous decisions still reverberate to this day, though most of the wounds inflicted have slowly begun to heal in the years since.

An obscure horror game from the late 80s that gained a cult following by way of shareware is coming back from the grave. Last Half of Darkness, a point and click horror adventure created by developer Bill Fisher, has been completely remade with modern graphics, along with a new soundtrack and updates to the story and puzzles, according to Eurogamer. Fishers WRF Studios shared a teaser for the remake on Friday, and the game is due to be released on Steam on February 7.In the game, youre tasked with exploring the creepy property of the player characters dead aunt, solving puzzles and making choices that hopefully wont get you killed. The description explains:Your aunt sure was a strange one. She was some sort of witch or something. A good witch though, practicing only good spells and magic. In fact, she was working on a potion just before she was killed. Now the secret will go to the grave with her... unless you can find the missing ingredients.The original Last Half of Darkness is available to play for free from the official website, too. In a playthrough a few years ago, one streamer (and some commenters) rememberedit as the first game to ever scare me.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/the-1989-point-and-click-horror-game-last-half-of-darkness-has-been-remade-for-2025-184458750.html?src=rss

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Resident Evil leaker Aesthetic Gamer (also known as Dusk Golem) recently clarified that rumors of Jill Valentine playing a major role in Resident Evil 9 were false. These same rumors claimed the sequel was set in a hospital and featured a new Goatman enemy.However, a screenshot from Discord has emerged where theyve stated that Leon S. Kennedy is 100 percent the main character. The latters previous canon appearance was in Resident Evil 6, but he starred in the recent Resident Evil 4 remake (which has sold over nine million copies).As for another Discord image from 2001, which saw the leaker claim Jill would have a prominent role, Aesthetic Gamer replied, It was true then. It isnt now. Really not any more complicated. I wouldnt be surprised in the future when Resident Evil 9 comes out, and they show concept art that they might show early drafts of the game had Jill.Resident Evil 9 doesnt have a release date, though Capcom has confirmed its development. Its helmed by Koshi Nakanishi, Resident Evil 7: biohazards director, who said it feels substantial. Though allegedly out later this year, it could also launch in 2026.Meanwhile, remakes of Resident Evil Zero and Resident Evil Code: Veronica are also reportedly coming. The former is allegedly developed by K2 and M-Two (who worked on Resident Evil 3 remake), while the latter is handled by Capcom Dev 1 (Resident Evil 2 and 4 remakes). Stay tuned for more details and updates in the coming months.It was true then, it isnt now. Really not any more complicated, I wouldnt be surprised in the future when RE9 comes out and they show concept art that they might show early drafts of the game had Jill. AestheticGamer aka Dusk Golem (@AestheticGamer1) January 24, 2025

Pocketpairs Palworld has big plans ahead between co-op cross-platform play, world transfer for Pals, and further collaboration content with Re-Logics Terraria. However, the most intriguing aspect is perhaps the ending scenario, dubbed the World Tree.Though its release date is unknown, community manager John Buckley told Eurogamer that its been mapped out for quite some time. The World Tree, where the ending takes place, has been visible since day one.Many players suspected their journey would end there, and weve been asked repeatedly about when the World Tree will become available so were pretty excited to finally be opening the area up for players!Of course, this doesnt mean that Palworld will end (lawsuit from Nintendo notwithstanding). While the World Tree will mark the conclusion of this particular journey, its by no means the end of Palworld, says Buckley. So even if it isnt necessarily an ending, he cant think of a better term currently.Regarding other content, Buckley admitted, We might have announced the Terraria collaboration a bit prematurely, but everyone, including Re-Logic, was so excited that we thought itd be fun to share early! The first piece of content Meowmere, a sword that fires bullets launched with the Feybreak update.Palworld is available in early access for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC. Check out our review of the launch version, though its received numerous updates ever since. The most recent patch added Spring Festival skins to five Pals alongside quality of life improvements like summoned Pals attacking the nearest enemy, less Plasteel needed when crafting gear and weapons, and more.

According to Bloombergs Mark Gurman, Apple is planning on releasing iOS 18.4 in April. Apple hasnt started the beta cycle for iOS 18.4 quite yet, but there are a handful of things we can likely expect with iOS 18.4 so far.Major Siri upgradesApple is likely to debut three major Siri upgrades with iOS 18.4 this spring, bringing the assistant into the era of Apple Intelligence. Those three upgrades include:Personal contextOn-screen awarenessAbility to tap into appsWith these abilities, Siri will understand more about you, your context, and take actions for you.Additional languages with Apple IntelligenceBack when iOS 18.2 was released, Apple announced that Apple Intelligence would support some additional languages in April 2025 and beyond. While the company wasnt clear about which languages would be launching when, they did name the languages they intended to support throughout 2025:in April, a software update will deliver expanded language support, with more coming throughout the year. Chinese, English (India), English (Singapore), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Vietnamese, and other languages will be supported.New emojiOver the past couple years, Apple has added support for new emoji in its spring iOS releases, and this trend is highly likely to continue. The Unicode Consortium has already unveiled the new emoji, and its just a matter of Apple implementing them. New emoji this year include:fingerprintface with bags under eyesharproot vegetableleafless treesplattershovelHeres a look at mockups for the 7 upcoming emoji:My favorite iPhone accessories on Amazon:Follow Michael:X/Twitter,Bluesky,InstagramAdd 9to5Mac to your Google News feed. FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.Youre reading 9to5Mac experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Dont know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

This makes no sense.Radio StarAstronomers say they've detected a mysterious type of signal known as a fast radio burst coming from an ancient, dead galaxy billions of light years away. Figuratively speaking, it makes for one hell of a sign of life.The findings, documented in two studies published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, upends the long held belief that FRBs extremely powerful pulses of energy originate exclusively from star-forming regions of space, as dead galaxies no longer support the birth of new stars.Adding to the seeming improbability of the FRB's origin, the researchers believe that the signal's source came from the furthermost outskirts of the galaxy, about 130,000 light years from its center, with only moribund stars at the end of their stellar evolution for company."This is both surprising and exciting, as FRBs are expected to originate inside galaxies, often in star-forming regions," said Vishwangi Shah, lead author of one of the studies and an astronomer at McGill University, said in a statement about the work. "The location of this FRB so far outside its host galaxy raises questions as to how such energetic events can occur in regions where no new stars are forming."Quick and the DeadThough they're often only milliseconds in duration, FRBs are so powerful at their source that a single pulse emits more energy than our Sun does in an entire year.What could cause such staggering outbursts? Astronomers have speculated that they originate from magnetars, a type of collapsed, extremely dense stellar object called a neutron star that maintains an unfathomably potent magnetic field, perhaps trillions of times stronger than Earth's.But that theory is now being challenged by this latest FRB, designed FRB 20240209A, because there are no young stars in the 11.3 billion year old galaxy that could form magnetars. Only extremely massive stars, which have short lifespans as a consequence of their size and thus would need to have been recently formed, possess enough mass to collapse into neutron stars in the first place.Outcasts TogetherFRB 20240209A isn't the first to be found in such a remote location. In 2022, astronomers detected another signal originating from the outskirts of its galaxy, Messier 81, where no active star formation was taking place."That event single-handedly halted the conventional train of thought and made us explore other progenitor scenarios for FRBs," said Wen-fai Fong, a coauthor of both studies and an astrophysicist at Northwestern University, in the statement. "Since then, no FRB had been seen like it, leading us to believe it was a one-off discovery until now."Crucially, the M81 FRB was found in a dense conglomeration of stars called a globular cluster. Given their similar circumstances, it led the astronomers to believe that FRB 20240209A could be residing in a globular cluster, too. To confirm this hunch, they hope to use the James Webb Telescope to image the region of space around the FRB's origins.More on space: Scientists Intrigued by Planet With Long TailShare This Article

Time zones: EST (UTC -5), CST (UTC -6), MST (UTC -7), PST (UTC -8), AKST (UTC -9), HST (UTC -10)Position:Type: Part-time (hourly) to start, eventually into full-time (salary)Location: Remote Pay: Hourly, $20-$45/hr depending on experienceRole Overview:As our Operations Manager, you will play a critical role in shaping and maintaining the systems that power our business. From project management to team coordination, youll help us implement the principles of Systemology and ensure our workflows are smooth and optimized.Responsibilities:Systems Management: Build, refine, and maintain workflows using project management tools (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, or Trello).Process Documentation: Create and update standard operating procedures (SOPs) for core business activities.Team Coordination: Collaborate with the founders to assign tasks and oversee project timelines.Software Oversight: Ensure effective use of tools like project management, invoicing, and communication platforms.Growth Support: Help onboard and manage new team members or freelancers as the company grows.Operational Improvements: Identify bottlenecks and recommend solutions to enhance efficiency.Qualifications:Proven experience in operations or project management (preferably in a small business setting).Proficiency in project management tools and systems development.Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities.Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.Problem-solving mindset and the ability to work independently.A passion for systems, workflows, and efficiency.Nice-to-Have Skills:Familiarity with the publicity or publishing industry.Experience working with creative or service-oriented businesses.Benefits:Opportunity to shape processes in a growing company.Flexible work environment.A chance to work with passionate creatives in a collaborative and innovative team.How to Apply:Submit your resume and a brief cover letter explaining why youre the right fit for this role to [emailprotected]. Please include an example of a system or workflow youve successfully implemented in a previous role.

Installing solar panels is a smart investment that can increase your home's value, reduce your energy bills, and help protect the environment. A recent CNET survey found that 78% of surveyed US adults are stressed out by high energy bills, and making the switch to solar power is a logical next step. However, with tens of thousands of dollars on the line, you don't want to take this decision lightly, even if the big federal incentives make it more appealing.After you research companies, read reviews and gather recommendations from friends and neighbors, you'll need to choose the right installer. Knowing the right kind of questions to ask solar companies in your area can ensure a smooth installation experience and save you thousands over your system's lifetime.Here are 15 questions to ask solar installers to make sure you're making the right choice. Can solar panels save you money? Interested in understanding the impact solar can have on your home? Enter some basic information below, and well instantly provide a free estimate of your energy savings. 1. How long have you been in business?The solar industry's recent boom means that more companies than ever are getting in on the action. That's generally a good thing, but not all of them are experienced installers or even legitimate businesses."Sometimes these installation companies are fly-by-night. They open one month and close the next," said Jani Hale, help desk manager withSolar United Neighbors, a nonprofit that helps consumers go solar by forming residential co-ops and providing educational support. Ideally, an installer will have been in business for three years or more.2. What are your company's certifications?Online reviews for solar installers are a great start, but they're not as reliable as an industry certification. The National American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) sets standards for knowledge, experience and professionalism in the renewable energy sector. "We recommend that at least one person in that company be NABCEP certified to ensure that they have the appropriate knowledge and skills," Hale said.Additional certifications can tell you more about a company's labor practices and environmental standards. B Corp-certified companies are required to meet certain social and environmental standards in their operations, including fair labor practices and wages. "If installers are getting a fair wage, they're going to be much more likely to do a quality installation," said Micah Gold-Markel, who founded Philadelphia-based installer Solar States in 2008. Considering Solar Panels? Our email course will walk you through how to go solar By signing up, you confirm you are 16+, will receive newsletters and promotional content and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.3. What are the rules around solar in my state?"There are different rules for different states, so making sure that the person you're talking to can explain the rules in your state very clearly is extremely important," said Gold-Markel.For example, California law restricts the backflow of residential solar to the grid. In Pennsylvania, residential systems can send unlimited power back to the grid, with utilities required to pay the full retail price. Those state-by-state differences can significantly affect the payback period for your system. Considering Solar Panels? Our email course will walk you through how to go solar By signing up, you confirm you are 16+, will receive newsletters and promotional content and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.4. What solar incentives are available in my area?In addition to the 30% federal tax credit offered by the Inflation Reduction Act, you may be eligible for additional credits or incentives based on other factors. Those incentives can add up, and that's before any local or utility-specific incentives come into play. A knowledgeable solar installer will be able to tell you about federal, state and local incentives that can help you save money. "You can get between 30% and 60% of the cost of your solar back in tax credits, depending on how you use these various federal incentives," Gold-Markel said.For example, if you're purchasing solar for your businessit may be possible to accelerate the depreciation of that asset, allowing for a larger tax deduction in the initial years of your system. You could also be eligible for additional credits if your installer uses American-made materials.5. What type of equipment do you use, and was it produced ethically?Ask about the equipment an installer plans to use and why they've made that choice. A company that only uses one size of panel may not be the best fit if your home has a complex or architecturally elaborate roof. "Beware of salespersons who imply that there's only one type of solar system or battery storage," Hale said. "There are many brands of solar equipment and system designs to choose from."Gold-Markel also recommends inquiring about where equipment was sourced, with a preference for panels that were manufactured in the US. "We are part of Amicus, a national cooperative of installers that buys ethically sourced solar panels," he says. "If you can find an Amicus installation professional in your area, you know you're getting a responsibly sourced system."6. Do I need a new roof before installing solar?The age of your roof is a key consideration in going solar. Solar United Neighbors recommends replacing a roof with less than 10 to 15 years of life left before installing your system.A competent solar installer should be able to give you an opinion of your roof's condition and make recommendations as part of their proposal. "They may not be roofers themselves, but they should be able to say, 'We see some damage on your roof and it would be a good idea if you got it replaced prior to going solar," Gold-Markel said.7. Is your company going to perform the installation?Believe it or not, the salesperson you're speaking with might not work for the company that will actually do your installation. Make sure the installer you're signing on with will be the one to do the work."There are a lot of high-pressure marketing companies out there that are sort of posing as solar companies," Gold-Markel said. "All they do is marketing and sales, and then they pawn off the solar installation to some other company. That can be a real recipe for disaster." Make sure you know who's actually going to be doing the work of putting solar panels on your house before you sign on the dotted line. Sandy Huffaker/Bloomberg via Getty Images8. What's your timeline for installation?You'll want to discuss a rough project timeline with any solar installer you're considering -- both in terms of when work will begin and how long it will take to get your solar installation up and running. Hale noted that's a question a reputable installer should be asking you."Installers should ask what your timeframe is for getting your system installed, so they can give you the room to do your research," she said. "The really good installers will wait for you to come back to them."9. What kinds of maintenance packages or warranties are available?Gold-Markel recommends inquiring about extended warranties or operations and maintenance packages that cover the entire life of the system, which is typically around 25 years. "Ask if you can also get an operations and maintenance package, an extended warranty that covers the lifespan of the solar or a longer warranty for the workmanship than may come with the contract," he said.10. Are there fees associated with financing my system, and who's providing the financing?Due to high interest rates, financing your solar installation is a less attractive option than it was a few years ago. If you are considering financing, Gold-Markel said, be sure to inquire about any hidden fees that may be a part of the agreement. It's also important to look into the institution offering the loan, which may be a third party, and read the terms closely to understand what happens if you default.11. What is the cost of my solar system in dollars per watt?Homeowners tend to focus on the total cost to install solaror the cost per panel. Be sure to compare the cost in dollars per watt when comparing solar installers, Hale said. Two solar systems may have a similar overall cost, but the wattage generated can differ based on panel size and capacity. The system with the lower cost per watt is the better deal.12. How much consumption is my solar energy going to offset?A good solar installer should make it easy to understand how much of your household's power consumption can be met by your solar system. Factors like weather, shade, roof size and household energy use will all affect how much power your panels will generate.Information about how much of your household's electricity will be offset by your system should be included in a reputable solar installer's proposal for your project, and installers should be forthcoming about this information. "If that's clearly laid out in a proposal, then nine times out of ten, that's a green flag," Hale said.13. What are the lifetime savings based on?Your discussions with solar installers should not only estimate how much you'll save over the life of your system but also include how that estimate was derived.Installers calculate lifetime savings using a metric called a utility escalator. This percentage describes the projected inflation rate of the cost of power and is based on historical trends (and is different from the escalators in a power purchase agreement). Solar United Neighbors recommends checking that the utility escalator used in competing proposals from different installers is the same to help you compare accurately.14. Is the power generation estimate guaranteed?It's not possible to ensure that every panel in your solar system will always produce power at the maximum level, said Gold-Markel, but a good installer should be able to guarantee your panels' performance within a reasonable range."If the overall power output is within a reasonable error rate of, say, 10% of what was predicted, then I think you should be happy with the outcome," he says.15. How do I sell solar energy credits back to the grid?Net metering policies in some states allow you to sell power generated by your solar system back to the public grid -- a significant solar incentive that can significantly reduce the payback period on your system. You don't typically sell that power to your energy utility directly.Instead, homeowners often sell solar renewable energy certificates, or SRECs, through a third party known as a broker or aggregator. Your installer may be able to connect you with a broker. If you'd prefer to choose your own broker, Solar United Neighbors recommends double-checking your contract to make sure that's not prohibited in your agreement.