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  • Ten Biggest Changes in Super Smash Bros Ultimate

    Ten Biggest Changes in Super Smash Bros Ultimate

    Super Smash Bros Ultimate is just around the corner, releasing on December 7th. As it stands, we’re incredibly excited for the massive overall that the ultimate entry in this storied series. While this is the 5th entry in the long-running franchise, it looks poised to shake things up in a big way. Why is everyone so excited, you may ask? Well, let’s answer that by looking at the ten biggest changes in Super Smash Bros Ultimate! These are the ten ways this new entry improves upon its predecessors.

    Ten Biggest Changes in Super Smash Bros Ultimate

    smashbrosfeatured

    Boss Characters

    Photo Credit: Too Much Gaming

    The first big change coming to the newest version of the game is the introduction of boss characters. While Brawl had boss characters in its single-player campaign, the Subspace Emissary, Ultimate has a different take. It seems like the boss characters can randomly appear on certain stages. Notable bosses include Rathalos, from Monster Hunter, and Dracula, of Castlevania fame.

    Perfect Shield

    Photo Credit: Smashpedia

    A new layer of tactical depth is coming to the game by way of the Perfect Shield. This technique allows a defensive player to take an offensive player off their pattern. By releasing the shield button right as an attack lands, you’ll stagger your attacker. This gives you a second to really bring the pain!

    Faster Duels

    Photo Credit: Inverse

    One-on-one duels are rarely a quick affair in Smash. In fact, we’d go so far as to say, in previous games, they were sort of a slog. Thankfully, this time around the duels will be much faster. In one-on-one battles, damage and launch power will be increased. This allows for the fights to stay quick and tense without speeding up big, chaotic multiplayer battles.

    Battlefield Stages

    Photo Credit: Smash Bros

    In the fourth entry, Smash Bros for Wii U, there was an option for “Omega” stages. Omega stages turn the stage into a version of Final Destination, the totally flat arena. Now, Omega stages are joined by Battlefield stages. Battlefield is a neutral stage that includes three platforms and a wide, flat plane. This game has something for everyone!

    Directional Air Dodge and Short Hops

    Photo Credit: Giant Bomb

    New movement abilities are a win-win for a game like Smash. Introducing high-level concepts like movement manipulation and gap closing to more casual players is good for everyone! As such, the new directional air dodge mechanic is a huge step in the right direction. Likewise, short hops, which are fast, aerial gap closers that incorporate a short attack, have been baked into every character’s moveset.

    Dash Canceling

    Photo Credit: YouTube

    Another advanced movement technique that’s been baked into the base mechanics is dash canceling. This is the technique by which you cancel a dash with a smash attack on the move. It looks cool, saves you frames and puts you on the offensive!

    Character Meters, etc.

    Photo Credit: Smashpedia

    A general quality of life update, this new feature is much requested. Characters’ unique meters and mechanics are being streamlined and added to their character portraits. Examples include Cloud’s Limit Meter, Shulk’s Monado Arts and Robin’s Spell Meter. These are neat, helpful little upgrades to the UI that make the more complex characters more easily visually identified. Great little touches, gang!

    Lead Indicator

    Photo Credit: Science Fiction

    It’s often hard to tell who’s in the lead in a chaotic Smash battle. Between the flashy effects, crazy combat and wacky items, the leader can get lost in the shuffle. In Ultimate, however, that’s changing: now, the person in the lead will have a flashing golden symbol to indicate how they’re doing. This works like a target on the back of whoever is doing the best. If you’re going to be on top, get ready for the heat!

    Stage Selection

    Photo Credit: Reddit

    This is a huge change! Stage selection comes before character select now! That’s a huge change from previous games. As you well know, different characters are stronger on different stages. As such, this change adds a huge amount of tactical depth to character selection. Do you go with your better character, or the one more well-suited to the chosen map? These changes have us itching to jump into the game!

    Everyone is Here

    Photo Credit: CNET

    That’s right: every single character for each previous iteration of Smash Bros is here! That’s a huge roster of playable fighters. Wolf, Pichu, Snake and other characters from past games are making comebacks. Additionally, several characters with weird rights issues, like Mega Man, Pac Man and Sonic are back in the mix. We’re excited for this huge roster, which is joined by the likes of Ridley, King K. Rool, Simon and Richter Belmont and the Squid Kids from Splatoon! The list just goes on and on!

  • Asus ZenBook S UX391UA Review Roundup

    Asus ZenBook S UX391UA Review Roundup

    Asus’ newest ZenBook, the Zenbook S UX391UA (say that three times fast) is here. Is the new super-compact device worth the hefty price tag, or is it better left for the bargain bin? Today we’re going to round up the best features of the new ZenBook and let you know what we think. After all, competition in the laptop market is fierce at the moment, and you shouldn’t waste your time or money on a sub-par product! Let’s talk about the newest release from Asus.

    Design

    The Zenbook S UX391UA is compact. As in, incredibly compact. If you’re the type of person who often works in coffee shops or is on the move a lot, this is a plus. The main design feature here is the ErgoLift hinge. In English, that’s the hinge that lifts the bottom part of the laptop when it’s unfolded. The lift makes it easier to type on the small keyboard and also helps ventilate the laptop. Overall, the design could be described as understated, subtle and soft. That said, it is also quite stylish.

    Specs

    The Zenbook S UX391UA comes standard with a 4K display and a touchscreen. It also sports a 512GB SSD for storing data, and an i7 processor. All said, it’s a pretty hefty machine! That’s not even mentioning the 16GB of memory the ZenBook sports. It’s not going to be the strongest computer for gaming, for what it’s worth. It sports a 128MB (shared) Intel UHD Graphics 620, which will allow it to play basic games at best. However, most in the market for gaming laptops wouldn’t consider an ulta-compact option like this to begin with.

    Price

    This is the biggest sticking point. Despite the i7 processor, 4K display and great design, the Zenbook S UX391UA feels too expensive at $1500. Oddly, the ZenBook doesn’t feel like it brings enough compared to the competition. In fact, there are even computers in Asus’ own range that outpace the Zenbook S UX391UA for the price!

    Zenbook S UX391UA Bottom Line

    The bottom line on this ultra-compact computer: pass unless you really like the design. Generally speaking, ultra-compacts just shouldn’t cost so much. Perhaps in a year or so the price will drop and make this a worthy pickup. Until then, however, stick to the less pricy competition and get a similar (if not better) computer for your money. Better luck next time, ZenBook!

  • Flop Ten: Worst Marvel Video Games of all Time

    Flop Ten: Worst Marvel Video Games of all Time

    When it comes to superheroes and awesome stories, no one beats Marvel. However, their characters don’t always translate beautifully to video games. While some of their video games have been awesome (Spider-Man 2 comes to mind) others have been downright awful. Today, we’re taking a look at the worst Marvel video games of all time!

    Worst Marvel Video Games of all Time

    Uncanny X-Men 1989

    Photo Credit: Defunct Games
    NES games weren’t well-known for their stellar graphics, but usually you could at least tell where you were able to walk. This ill-conceived X-Men title barely functions as a game, let alone an X-Men game. A generic, top-down shooter, the worst part of this game is how bland it is. Even selecting different X-Men characters barely changes the gameplay and functions more like a palette swap.

    Iron Man 2008

    Photo Credit: The Astute Gamer

    Tie-in games with Marvel films rarely fare too well with critics. This 2008 Iron Man tie-in is no exception. Featuring odd voice work and weird character models, this game is entirely awkward. Gameplay is stiff and far too easy, resulting in fights with no tension or drama. For how awesome the movie was, this game is a disappointing adaptation!

    Spider-Man 1982

    Photo Credit: YouTube

    Spider-Man has been the start of countless video games throughout the years. This early-80’s game, released for the Atari, was one of his earliest appearances on a home system. Unfortunately, it’s also a buggy, frustrating mess. The gameplay is repetitive, featuring Spidey trying to land pixel-perfect web shots to climb buildings. Instead of, you know, just climbing up them with his superpower. The best thing about this awful game is its hilarious cheesy commercial.

    Punisher No Mercy

    Photo Credit: YouTube

    The term “uninspired” is overused in video game criticism, but it’s so often exactly what a game is. This bland shooter has all the charm of a Call of Duty title without the polished mechanics or engaging gunplay. Without a solid narrative to pin down the single player campaign, you’re left with just the multiplayer. Sadly, even anything more interesting than a CTF mode or King of the Hill is missing in this boring 2009 shooter. Oh well, maybe Frank’s next game will be a winner!

    Incredible Hulk 2008

    Photo Credit: Gamepressure

    For how awesome the MCU is, it had its fair share of terrible game tie-ins early on. The Hulk, for his part, controls like a slab of green meat on ice skates. Punching enemies is dull and makes nearly no impact. Destroying environments in repetitive missions isn’t fun or satisfying the way it should be. You feel less like an unstoppable force of nature than like a kid in a fake cardboard town. Everything is just so… flat.

    Thor, God of Thunder

    Photo Credit: NY Daily News

    Thor is awesome, and so was his first movie outing in the MCU. Unfortunately, as was the case for all MCU game tie-ins, it’s middling at best. Combat is stiff, and the camera actively fights the player. Missions are rarely explained well, and the player is often left lost or stumbling. The narrative, which vaguely follows the film’s plot, is convoluted and hard to keep up with. Really, this one isn’t so much bad as it is overly mediocre. This one’s better off left with the blown-up remains of Old Asgard.

    Fantastic Four 1997

    Photo Credit: Forces of Geek

    For being as awesome as they are, the FF sure do get crapped on a lot outside of comics. The four awful films they’ve been crammed into and this stinker of a game haven’t done the team any favors. In this side-scrolling beat-em-up, you control one of the four members of the team. It doesn’t really matter which one, as they’re all identical in game, despite their vastly different powers. The enemies have far too much health, the levels go on forever and boredom comes standard. If you can make it through this slug-fest you’ve got the patience of a saint.

    Silver Surfer 1990

    Photo Credit: YouTube
    Speaking of games that try your patience, here’s one that does so for a very different reason. Silver Surfer, much like the Fantastic Four, has not gotten a fair shake outside of comics. He’s a cool character: tragically flawed, tormented and endearing. His video game adaptation, however, is an overly-difficult, cluttered mess. Each level is rife with obstacles that only become apparent after they kill you. The core gameplay isn’t awful, but it’s hardly worth slogging through the absurd difficulty curve.

    Amazing Spider-Man 2

    Photo Credit: YouTube

    ASM2 was effectively the emblem of superhero film mediocrity. Sony dropped the ball in numerous ways with the film, one of which was the equally middling video game tie-in. This game wouldn’t exactly be described as bad, per se. Instead, it’s disappointing for how close it comes to being good. The end product, however, feels like a stitched-together series of half-finished gameplay concepts. Thankfully, the 2018 Insomniac take on the wall-crawler has come to wash the bad taste of this one out of our mouths!

    X-Men Destiny

    Photo Credit: IGN

    The most disappointing Marvel game of them all, however, is the abysmal X-Men Destiny. Hailed as revolutionary before release, the game promised a lot. One such promise was a custom player character. Another promise held that the narrative would change based on player decisions.

    However, upon release, these claims were found to be greatly exaggerated. The game’s story is boring and player choice is near meaningless. What’s worse, player characters are selected from pre-generated templates instead of being original creations. That’s really the opposite of what fans were excited for with this one. Since its release, X-Men fans are cautious when it comes to any video game rumors or speculation.

  • Best Iron Fist Comics Arcs

    Best Iron Fist Comics Arcs

    Iron Fist Season 2 is upon us, and, if you’re like us you’ve likely already binged the whole thing. Hey, that’s cool! Nothing wrong with watching your favorite shows at a fast pace! If you’re still dying for more Iron Fist, though, we’ve got the article for you. Today we’re counting down the best Iron Fist Comics Arcs! This is essential reading for the Defender of K’un Lun, so dig in and enjoy the ride!

    Best Iron Fist Comics Arcs

    Marvel

    10. The Origin

    Photo Credit: Marvel Database

    When Roy Thomas and Gil Kane introduced Iron Fist it was in the pages of Marvel Premiere. The issues in question: #15-#16. This tale sets down the original take on K’un Lun, Danny’s tragic backstory and his return to New York to take vengeance on Harold Meachum. While many aspects of this first tale have been retconned now, it remains a hilariously awesome, campy romp from the Silver Age of comics. If you want to see how it all started, start here!

    9. Power Man and Iron Fist #79

    Photo Credit: Marvel Database

    This one is just plain weird. Danny and Luke fight some Daleks. But they’re not called Daleks, they’re called Dredlox. No, seriously! The Bronze age was really, really weird. But we got some hilariously awesome comics out of it, so that’s a win, right!

    8. Power Man and Iron Fist #74-#75

    Photo Credit: Marvel Database

    In what may be the most enduring PM&IF story, the Heroes for Hire go to a strange new world. The heroes are tricked by the vicious Master Khan into jumping into a portal and end up fighting one of the toughest battles of their lives. We don’t want to spoil too much: you should check this tale out!

    7. 7 Capital Cities of Heaven

    Photo Credit: David Aja

    When it comes to martial arts stories, none are more iconic than the tournament. In this sweeping, awesome tale from the Brubaker and Fraction run, the 7 capitals of the heavens each send their mightiest warriors to K’un Lun. Danny, of course, represents K’un Lun himself, and faces off against superpowered badasses from across the cosmos. It’s epic, it’s awesome and it’s Iron Fist. This one played out in the pages of Immortal Iron Fist #8-#14.

    6. Iron Fist #1-#7

    Photo Credit: Marvel Database

    Before Chris Claremont went on to blow the doors off of the X-Men franchise, he helmed some of the most defining stories in the early days of Iron Fist. When he first got his ongoing series, Danny kicked things off with a splashy battle against none other than Tony Stark! This tale also heavily features Misty Knight and Colleen Wing, names that will surely be familiar to fans of Marvel’s Netflix shows.

    5. Iron First/Wolverine: The Return of K’un Lun’

    Photo Credit: Marvel

    Believe it or not, Wolverine and Iron Fist have a lot more in common than you’d think. For instance, Sabretooth, Logan’s most enduring nemesis, first debuted way back in Iron Fist #14. Another connecting issue for the Immortal Iron Fist and the angry Canadian comes by way of the excellent Iron Fist/Wolverine crossover. In this awesome story, K’un Lun’s reappearance coincides with Danny losing his powers and fighting the Hand. It’s really all you can ask for from an Iron Fist story!

    4. Power Man and Iron Fist #50

    Photo Credit: Marvel Database

    The fiftieth issue of Power Man got a name change to headline the new team-up, and what a team-up it was. This major crossover would go on to define both characters for years after. While the two have gone on to crazy adventures apart, their team-ups are always reminiscent of these awesome glory days. I mean, come on, who has a better catchphrase than “Sweet Christmas”?

    3. Iron Fist: The Living Weapon #1-#12

    Photo Credit: Marvel Database

    The darkest and most vulnerable Iron Fist story ever penned, the Living Weapon gives a new edge to the mythos of K’un Lun. Here, we see sides of Danny we never thought we would, and the tale takes some crazy twists. In many ways, this run, as well as the Immortal Iron Fist, helped define who Danny is for modern audiences.

    Power Man and Iron Fist 2016

    Photo Credit: Marvel

    This short-lived but awesome series is a revival of the old name and team-up that defined the characters throughout the Bronze age. If you’re looking for a fun, light read that highlights just how likable Danny and Luke are, here it is. This breezy, butt-kicking comic is a blast from start to finish. Seeing these two old friends getting back to business is as cool as it gets.

    “The Last Iron First Story”

    Photo Credit:  Amazon

    The first arc of the exceptional Brubaker/Fraction run lasted from Immortal Iron Fist #1-6. This one introduced the previous Iron Fist, Orson Randall, a name that should be familiar to those who have watched Season 2. Introducing a legacy of Iron Fists and expanding the mythos, this story helped to define who Iron Fist is in the modern age.

  • Iron Fist Season 2 is Here: Does it Redeem Danny Rand?

    Iron Fist Season 2 is Here: Does it Redeem Danny Rand?

    Iron Fist’s first season was rocky, to say the least. Uneven pacing and strange narrative choices melded with poorly-choreographed fights to make a mess of a season. Glimmers of hope, such as Finn Jones’ occasionally likable but often whiny Danny Rand, got buried under half-hearted fights and boring board room meetings. Iron Fist Season 2, however, seems poised to change that. After we saw the trailer, we were cautiously optimistic. Now that the season is here, we’re happy to inform you: it’s awesome.

    ironfistseason2
    Netflix

    The Immortal Iron Fist

    Iron Fist is a tricky character to get right. For one thing, there’s the issue of casting. Many Marvel fans were adamant that a martial arts-focused, Asian-esque character should be portrayed by an Asian actor. The casting of Finn Jones was disappointing to these fans, and the first season’s lackluster narrative hardly helped matters. Danny often came off as preachy at best and an embodiment of the “white savior” trope at worst.

    Thankfully, the often tone-deaf story has given way to a more thoughtful, respectful and likable Danny. In Defenders, we saw a somewhat more responsible, less hot-headed version of the character. By the time he cameo’d in Luke Cage Season 2 he much more closely resembled his comic book counterpart. Now, back in the spotlight of his own show, Danny is at peace with himself and ready to be the Defender of New York.

    Old Faces, New Enemies

    Davos, known in the comics as the Steel Serpent, makes his return this season. He feels as though Danny’s power, that of the Iron Fist, is his birthright, and Danny stole it from him. This story arc largely tracks from criticism of Danny as a “white savior,” both from within the narrative and from our own world. Davos is joined by Joy Meachum, daughter of Harold Meachum and a supporting character from the first season. The two seek to bring Danny low and take the Iron Fist from him so that Davos may wield it.

    New this season is Mary Walker, known in the comics as villain Typhoid Mary. This unnerving villain has multiple personalities at war within her mind, and an unhealthy fixation on Danny Rand. She joins the main cast and brings an air of uneasy tension to the otherwise slam-bang martial arts proceedings.

    Is Iron Fist Season 2 the Redemption we Hoped For?

    In a word, Iron Fist Season 2 is excellent. The main cast is on point, with every dramatic beat and character moment feeling heartfelt and meaningful. Martial arts scenes are fast and intense, but readable and well-choreographed. Danny is a likable character you can root for, and the central conflict is truly gripping. While the show is far from perfect, it’s a much better representation of the character we love from the comics. We’d highly recommend this season to any fans of Marvel or martial arts!

  • Top Ten Comic Book Anti-Heroes

    Top Ten Comic Book Anti-Heroes

    You know what they say: crime never pays. These comic book anti-heroes aren’t exactly villains, but you wouldn’t call them heroes either. Sometimes they do things for their own benefit that happen to help people. Other times they fight for good, but believe the ends justify the means. In either case, there’s only one word for them: anti-heroes. Today, we’re looking at the ten coolest comic book anti-heroes.

    Top Ten Comic Book Anti-Heroes

    10. Harley Quinn

    Photo Credit: Pinterest

    Originally introduced as a pawn of the Joker and a straight-up villain, this character has undergone a bit of a metamorphosis. She’s been on the Suicide Squad, a team of villains that are compelled to work as heroes by bomb collars around their necks. Harley’s also been known to show something of a moral code, even if it is warped. That most tragic part of her story is how she became so unhinged. Originally, she was the Joker’s therapist at Arkham, but he warped her mind with his deranged ramblings.

    9. Gambit

    Photo Credit: Splash Report

    The Louisiana-born Ragin’ Cajun is as much a charming rogue as he is a heroic X-Man. Gambit’s mutation allows him to imbue objects with kinetic energy and then detonate them. His preferred method of delivery for this power is playing cards. His Cajun accent and bad-boy swagger lend him a unique feel amongst X-Men characters. He was raised by the Thieves’ Guild and referred to as “the White Devil,” so anti-hero is a fitting title for him.

    8. Elektra

    Photo Credit: Quora

    Well-known for her tumultuous past with Matt Murdock, Elektra is equal parts ninja, assassin and badass. Her background with the Hand and other dangerous elements in the Marvel Universe makes her a unique part of Daredevil’s mythos. She often clashes with Matt over his uncompromising morals. In the end, though, her heart is in the right place.

    7. Red Hood

    Photo Credit: Instructables

    Jason Todd was brutally murdered by the Joker. Some complicated stuff happened, and he was resurrected. Upon being brought back to life, Todd sought vengeance for his untimely and brutal death. Originally, he blamed Batman for not killing the Joker when he had the chance. In order to make sure no one suffers the same fate he did, Todd dons the mask of the Red Hood. As Red Hood, he brutally kills criminals to make the world a better place.

    6. Spawn

    Photo Credit: Comic Book

    Spawn is a quintessential anti-hero. Originally a soldier, he is betrayed by his unit and killed by his own best friend. Upon reaching the afterlife, he finds he is damned to hell for killing innocents as a soldier. However, he is granted demonic powers and allowed back to earth to see his wife and family. When he returns to earth, he turns his wrath upon the wicked. And it is awesome.

    5. Ghost Rider

    Photo Credit: Nerdist

    Another superhero powered by hellfire, Ghost Rider is the very spirit of vengeance. Johnny Blaze was given a choice by Mephistopheles: save his father’s soul in exchange for his own. Now empowered by hellish magic, Johnny rides through the night, meting out vengeance and generally looking awesome. If you’re a fan of demons and motorcycles, Ghost Rider might just be your jam. Johnny’s successors, Danny Ketch and Robbie Reyes, are also pretty awesome and you should check them out too.

    4. Judge Dredd

    Photo Credit: Geek Tyrant

    Originally appearing in the British anthology comic 2000 AD, Dredd is the foremost of a law enforcement agency known as Judges. In the dystopian nightmare that is Mega-City One, Dredd is the embodiment of totalitarian law. As judge, jury and executioner, Dredd rides through the sprawling metropolis, meting out justice and protecting the innocent. While he does technically save the day, his methods are unflinchingly brutal. We almost don’t want to call this guy a hero…

    3. Venom

    Photo Credit: IMDb

    Venom, the fusion of an alien symbiote and Eddie Brock, is a complex entity. Referring to itself as “we,” Venom thinks of itself as a hybrid of its constituent parts. The monstrous creature clashes with Peter Parker constantly, but that doesn’t mean he’s inherently a villain. In fact, Venom is something of a hero when the mood strikes him, as he has a strong sense of (warped) morality. If you’re in trouble and you see black tendrils ensnare your assailant, don’t ask questions. Just run, and be thankful Venom was feeling charitable.

    2. Deadpool

    Photo Credit: Uproxx

    The Merc with the Mouth himself, Deadpool is the very definition of an anti-hero. Cursed with a combination of a powerful healing factor and debilitating cancer, Deadpool is horrendously ugly and endlessly witty. The red-clad mercenary is also absolutely insane, often breaking the fourth wall and addressing the audience directly. His cartoony shenanigans often lead to vicious, unneeded bloodshed, although he really does mean well. Well, sometimes. At the very least, he isn’t evil… we think.

    1. Punisher

    Photo Credit: MCU Wiki

    The ultimate anti-hero, Frank Castle is a man possessed. Not literally, like Spawn and Ghost Rider, but figuratively. Frank’s an ex-marine who saw his family butchered in front of him by a random act of gang violence before being struck by a bullet. The bullet puts him into a coma, but when he awakens he finds that he has a thirst for vengeance. He dons a black outfit emblazoned with a white skull-head and goes to work punishing evil-doers.

    Frank often comes into conflict with Daredevil, much like Elektra, as the two have completely opposite worldviews. While Frank really does mean to make the world a better place, his incessantly brutal methods make him a difficult man to root for.

  • Mega Man 11 Demo Live on Switch, Others

    Mega Man 11 Demo Live on Switch, Others

    Mega Man 11, the hotly anticipated newest entry in the platforming series, is coming out on October 2nd. Before it releases, however, players will have a chance to play the demo, which is available now on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One and PS4. Fans of the Blue Bomber will have a chance to face off against Block Man at varying difficulties. If you beat him on every difficulty, you’ll even score items to use in-game when the full version releases!

    megaman11
    IGN

    Welcome Back

    Mega Man’s been out of the spotlight for some time. In fact, the previous entry, Mega Man 10, was released all the way back in 2010. Mega Man 10 and Mega Man 9, which were released digitally through online retailers, had old-school style graphics. They were throwback-style games, hearkening to the NES era of Mega Man. Mega Man 11, by contrast, has a very modern, sleek style including voice acting and smooth animations. It’s good to see the blue robot getting back to busting up Robot Masters!

    Something Old, Something New

    The formula seems to be largely unchanged this time around. You control the title character, navigating blisteringly difficult levels. Each level is themed around its Robot Master, a powerful robot who controls the enemies found in the stage. At the end of the stage, you engage in tense, white-knuckle battles with the Robot Master. Upon defeating them, you’re rewarded with access to their weapon and bragging rights. After defeating all eight of the Robot Master, you take on the villainous Dr. Wily in his lair.

    It’s not a complete remake of previous entries, though. This time around, the aesthetics are vibrant, colorful and happy. It’s not a nostalgic indulgence of NES style, unlike Mega Man 9 and 10, excellent though they were. Instead, it’s a nostalgic game due to its attitude and gameplay. Also making their first appearance are the Double Gears. The Double Gear system is a new power-up system that allows Mega Man to perform some unique power moves.

    Some Double Gears will allow you to slow down time briefly, and others let you overcharge your Mega Buster. They add a new layer of depth to the old-school Mega Man formula.

    Mega Man 11 Releases October 2nd

    The full game will release on October 2nd on Xbox One, PS4, Nintendo Switch and Windows. The Nintendo Switch special edition version will also include a Mega Man Amiibo! That’s just in time for Super Smash Bros Ultimate, so if you’re a Switch owner this one’s a must-have!

  • Ten Ways Amazon Became Valued Over $1 Trillion

    Ten Ways Amazon Became Valued Over $1 Trillion

    A few days ago, Amazon became the second company in history to have its value crest the one-trillion-dollar mark. That’s an absolutely mind-boggling amount of money that we don’t even want to start thinking about. What’s even crazier is that, despite that huge value, the company hasn’t been pulling in absurd profits. In fact, in 2017 their profits were right around $3 billion. Don’t get us wrong, $3 billion is more money than anyone can ever hope to comprehend, but it’s chump change compared to $1 trillion. To put this in perspective, today we’re looking at the ten ways Amazon became valued over $1 trillion. To start, we have to go all the way back to 1994…

    Ten Ways Amazon Became Valued Over $1 Trillion

    Humble Beginnings

    Photo Credit: 99Designs

    Believe it or not, Amazon started its existence as an alternative to Barnes and Noble. It’s weird to think about, but one of the biggest companies in the world originated as an online bookseller. Their primary goal was to be an alternative to the large-scale book sellers of the time. By using an online-only business model, they could keep the overhead low and sell their products for less. However, they quickly learned that there was more money to be made in ecommerce than just selling books.

    Perfect Positioning

    Amazon broke onto the scene in 1994, positioning themselves correctly to begin making a great deal of money. The popularization of the internet in the mid-to-late-90’s certainly helped the fledgling bookseller. The dot com bubble of the late 90’s saw increased interest in online presence, domain names and ecommerce. This came as Amazon was diversifying their business and branching out into other areas.

    Branching Out

    Photo Credit: CNET

    Amazon spent the latter half of the 90’s branching out of books and into other forms of ecommerce. They developed a logistics operation that was efficient and took full advantage of their online storefront’s easy and convenient appeal. They incorporated goods from pet food to appliances and everything in between into their inventory. Their already-sizable book selling business stayed profitable, too, eventually edging out companies like Borders. Barnes and Noble, while still existent, is much diminished from what it once was.

    Convenience and Logistics

    Photo Credit: Kim Kommando Show

    Throughout the early 2000’s, Amazon survived the popping of the dot com bubble thanks to their inertia. They had created a sizable logistics operation that made them fast and reliable. Their vast inventory made them one-stop internet shopping. Smart branding and marketing made them come off as an underdog, helping customers get ahead of the “big guys.” No longer did customers have to shop when stores were open or fight with crowds. Department stores and malls began to feel the squeeze as Amazon captured more and more of the market.

    Amazon Prime

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    Amazon’s success helped them develop a great deal of clout in the world of package delivery. Leveraging this, they introduced their Prime subscription program. The biggest draw to Prime for most users is the free, 2-day shipping. It’s a pretty stellar deal at 10 bucks a month if you order a ton of things on Amazon.

    The program’s appeal helped catapult Amazon into the stratosphere with their ecommerce. People who don’t order as much essentially just give Amazon 10 bucks a month for free. Those who order more are more inclined to use Amazon since they get free shipping and get their products in just two days. It’s a win-win for the big A.

    Amazon Prime Video

    Photo Credit: Deadline

    Another facet of Amazon’s Prime subscription, their premium video service competes with Hulu and Netflix. It’s been wildly successful, and originals like Jack Ryan have brought in tons of subscribers. It certainly helps that Amazon Prime is also an Amazon Video subscription, so its numbers are bolstered by those who just want free, 2-day shipping.

    Twitch Acquisition

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    The next part of Amazon’s mission to take over the world was acquiring Twitch. The popular streaming platform hosts gamers who stream their live gameplay. The streams garner millions of views and rake in tons of ad revenue. Since purchasing the company, Amazon has seen a huge windfall from the platform. The timely acquisition has proven to be a stroke of business genius for the ecommerce giant.

    Kindle, Fire and other Flame-Based Names

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    The first step into hardware for Amazon was the Kindle e-reader. It was rather popular and resulted in Barnes and Noble firing back with their own ill-fated Nook. Kindle was a modest success that was overtaken by the Fire line of tablets. Amazon’s Fire tablets have also given way to hardware like the Fire TV Stick and other streaming devices. However, all of these product lines have been overshadowed by the Echo.

    “Alexa, Make us Money”

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    Amazon capitalized on the smart-assistant market with the introduction of their own assistant, Alexa. The mega-popular Echo line of smarthome speakers house the useful assistant, and they’re ubiquitous. Some critics say that the Echo devices are little more than wiretaps you pay to have in your house. Others claim that the smart speakers are convenient and awesome, and they can’t imagine life without them. The rest of the world, however, asks Alexa about the weather and laughs at memes about the virtual assistant.

    The Future

    Photo Credit: Amazon

    Amazon, along with Google and Apple, is well and truly on the way to becoming a megacorp. Their AI is advanced and everywhere, they deliver everything from food to video games, and they’re worth a trillion dollars. The future will see the juggernaut unleashing its drone fleet to deliver items with unprecedented speed. Amazon plans to open storefronts with no employees that are run entirely by robots. We wouldn’t be surprised if automated Amazon units replaced police officers by 2050, at this rate. One thing is certain: whatever happens in the future, Jeff Bezos has made a lot of freaking money.

  • Microsoft Unveils Limited Edition Greaseproof Controller

    Microsoft Unveils Limited Edition Greaseproof Controller

    Microsoft has announced the next big thin in gaming innovation: grease-proof controllers. The rub (ha) is that they only made 200 of them. And they’re only available in Australia. Through an online giveaway. If your excitement just deflated faster than a popped balloon, you’re not alone. We also wanted this awesome controller. Just look at it! It’s a greaseproof controller! How cool is that!

    The Greaseproof Controller

    greaseproof
    Mashable

    Winner, Winner, Chicken Dinner

    The hilarious(ly awesome) greaseproof controller is a special edition giveaway through Microsoft’s social media. It’s only being given away in Australia, to make matter worse. Why a greaseproof controller, you ask? Why, to keep the chicken dinner’s grease from ruining your gamepad! That’s right, this goofy innovation is in honor of PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds coming to Xbox One. PUBG is an immensely popular battle royale shooter that has been out on PC for some time. It’s arrival on consoles is a big deal.

    In PUBG, the players fight for dominance in an ever-shrinking map with limited resources. You only have one life, so you have to be careful that you don’t get caught out of position! With cunning, fast reflexes, good equipment and a dash of luck you could end up winning the whole thing! If you do, you’re treated to the ridiculous victory phrase “winner, winner, chicken dinner.”

    Limited Edition

    So, there are only two hundred of these suckers in the world and they’re not even for sale. That’s truly unfortunate, as we could definitely think of some uses for this technology. Heck, we here at GoodFind would use the heck out of a greaseproof controller. Eating potato chips and playing Halo go together like peanut butter and jelly! We’re sure we’re not alone in this: how many times have you looked at your greasy controller and wished it was greaseproof?

    Come on Microsoft, your fans would totally pay money for a greaseproof controller! What’s that, you say? We should stop being gross and eating greasy snacks while we play video games? Wait, you’re saying we should stop gaming so much and get back to writing articles on tech and news? Well, those are solid points, but we’d like to offer a rebuttal. Look at how awesome that yellow-on-gray controller looks! Yeah, that’s all we’ve got. Stay frosty everybody! If Microsoft announces a mass-market release for this revolutionary tech, we’ll be sure to let you know!

  • What to Expect at Apple’s Gather Round Event

    What to Expect at Apple’s Gather Round Event

    September is a lot like Christmas for Apple fans. This is the time of year when Apple unveils their newest projects, hyping everyone up for the newest products. If you’re an iPhone fanatic, a Mac lover or anything in between, this is the time of year you wait for. Thankfully, on September 12th, at 1:00pm Eastern Time, Apple will hold their Gather Round event. What can we expect to see this year? We’ve got the speculation to get you hyped!

    What to Expect at Apple’s “Gather Round” Event

    A Livestream to Coincide with the Event

    Apple

    Image Credit: BGR.com

    Invitations have already been sent out to various members of the press to attend the event. If you didn’t get one, don’t sweat: the event will surely be livestreamed. It will start at 1:00pm Eastern Time, or 10:00am Pacific Time for you West Coast-ers! From the name, “Gather Round,” we’re guessing this press conference will have a cozy, home-like vibe. Intimate-style press conferences seem right up Apple’s alley, so we’re not surprised.

    New iPhones

    Image Credit: CNET

    iPhone 9

    Three iPhones will likely be on display, but one of the most interesting is likely to be the iPhone 9. While that might not be the real name, it seems likely that something like it will appear. The name iPhone 9, of course, is derived from its perceived placement between the iPhone 8 and iPhone X. This phone is set to have a smaller screen, LED display and lower price tag than the X. This would make it a more accessible version of the new, home-button-free design with Face ID and full front screen.

    iPhone XS

    This reported phone, also mocked up above, is the likely successor to the iPhone X. It will likely be an iterative step up, possessing and OLED screen and powerful processor much like its older brother. Whether it will be called the iPhone XI, iPhone 11 or something else entirely remains to be seen, but odds are good the name XS will stick. What is certain, though, is that Apple will have an update to the iPhone X ready.

    iPhone XS Plus

    Again, naming isn’t locked in on these phones, but the large-screen variant of the iPhone X formula is on its way. The largest handset by far, the iPhone X Plus will appeal to lovers of huge phones. Honestly, from the leaked specs, this phone much more closely resembles a phablet. One thing is certain: a ton of people with huge hands are going to love this massive, premium smartphone.

    MacBook Air

    Image Credit: TechRadar

    Apple has been hinting at the possibility of a new, low price-point MacBook for some time now. We expect to hear more details on that front soon. Laptops are struggling to stay relevant in the face of smartphones, much as tablets did before them. As such, expect features like LTE to rival new initiatives from Microsoft. Additionally, expect a huge Retina display and USB-C ports.

    iPad Pro

    Image Credit: Apple

    Speaking of tablets, we’d be surprised if there weren’t changes coming along for the iPad. The device that launched the tablet craze has been somewhat under-loved recently, so we’d like to see it get some attention. Rumors point to an iPhone X-style iPad, with slim bezels and Face ID. It’ll be interesting to see how the iPhone X’s revolutionary gesture interface fares on a tablet!

    New Operating Systems

    Image Credit: CNET

    Don’t expect just hardware announcements: Apple’s certainly been hard at work on new software. iOS 12 will almost certainly be making its debut during the event, but that’s just the start. WatchOS 5 will also be unveiled, we’d be willing to bed, coinciding with announcements of Series 4 Apple Watches. We’ll get to those. Finally, MacOS Mojave will likely be announced, along with its new Dark Mode and other features.

    Apple Watch Series 4

    Photo Credit: Apple

    That Series 4 Apple Watch we were mentioning? Yeah, this is it. Rumor has it that the display is going to be much bigger, taking on an iPhone X-like screen with small bezels. It seems Apple’s really cracked how to do that and is super pleased to slap it on everything. That’s fine by us, the iPhone X’s screen looks incredible, we’d be happy to have it on everything. Another rumor holds that they’ll be scrapping the Wi-Fi only model and just doing an LTE model. That makes sense, as it was a bit complicated having two.

    Mac Mini

    Photo Credit: CNET

    Remember the Mac Mini? The compact computer is due to show up at the Gather Round event in some capacity. We expect to see a new suite of ports, such as USB-C compatibility, and a slight redesign. Implementation of solid-state-only models seems likely, as does adoption of new processors. In all, they haven’t touched this line since 2014. As such, it’s due for a bit of an overhaul!

    Airpower

    Photo Credit: iMore

    Believe it or not, it’s been a full year since Apple announced their wireless Airpower charging pad. It’s likely that the very interesting pad could be on display at Gather Round. The unique device is capable of charging up to three different devices at once, providing the correct amount of power by identifying what type of device is on it. This allows it to safely power multiple items at once! Rumors are scarce on the Airpower pad, but we’ll see come September 12th.