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  • Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance

    Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance

    If you rely on Medicare for your health care, you might have found that Medicare doesn’t cover everything. For those on a fixed income, it can be extremely difficult to afford medication or any additional health care costs not covered by Medicare.

    If you are in a difficult situation where the health care bills are piling up, consider Medicare Supplemental Insurance. Medicare Supplemental Insurance is insurance that can help cover what Medicare doesn’t. We analyzed several plans with our experts and today we are breaking down the Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance!

    Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance

    Information About Supplemental Insurance

    An important note: in order to get supplemental insurance, you must have both Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B. Part A covers inpatient, and Part B covers outpatient care. Anoter factor to consider is Supplemental insurance only covers one person. Additionally, as long as you’re paying your premiums, Medicare supplemental  insurance can’t drop you, no matter what medical issues you may begin to suffer from.

    Supplemental insurance won’t always cover everything Medicare doesn’t.  Supplemental insurance is not going to cover all expenses. Things like vision, dental, prescriptions, long term care and private nursing are also not typically covered. Finally,  supplemental insurance must be acquired within the first sixth months of you turning 65 and you must already be on Medicare to qualify.

    United Healthcare Insurance Company

    The United Healthcare Insurance Company is endorsed by the AARP, and for good reason. This company offers a great deal of benefits for those on Medicare. They have a 94 percent user satisfaction, which is stellar. They also offer coverage that can be combined with a Medicare Part D plan. Those with this policy can visit any doctor that accepts Medicare! United Healthcare allows you to choose from a wide variety of plans, coverage, deductibles and benefits so you have coverage to fit your health needs and your financial situation.

    State Farm

    State Farm is another option for supplemental insurance. State Farm Medicare Supplement Insurance is designed to cover the gaps in Medicare, helping to pay deductibles, coinsurance and copayment amounts not covered by Medicare. State Farm also provides you the flexibility to choose between different plans to meet your individual needs and budget. They are a well-respected agency and are renowned for their high customer satisfaction ratings “Like a Good Neighbor, State Farm is There” tagline is very true. State Farm insurance might be able to cover hospital or medical services your Medicare won’t pay for as well.

    Humana

    Humana offers Medicare supplemental insurance that covers Medicare Part A and B. Humana’s policy covers coinsurance for medical expenses, co pays, hospice care and hospitalization, skilled nursing facility care, and blood work. Additionally, the Humana plan also covers copayments for outpatient services. Remember, this is in addition to your Medicare coverage, so getting this extra coverage could save you a lot of money when you have expensive outpatient services. Particularly if you have frequent doctor’s visits, you may find yourself saving a ton with this supplementary policy.


  • Best CPAP Machines

    Best CPAP Machines

    Sleep apnea is a serious problem for those affected. Getting treatment for sleep apnea isn’t just about sleeping through the night — it’s about preventing serious health complications. Whether you suffer from it yourself or sleep near someone who does, it can be awful. If you’re affected, you may find it hard to sleep through the night and rarely wake up feeling rested.

    Sleep apnea may also put you at higher risk for diabetes, high blood pressure and anxiety. Fortunately there are ways for people to cope with this condition. The most common form of sleep apnea treatment is with a CPAP machine, which works by creating a continuous stream of air into your airway while you sleep to keep the airway clear and unobstructed.  In order to help, here’s our roundup of the 3 best CPAP machines.

    Best CPAP Machines

    Intellipap Standard Plus CPAP Machine

    The Intellipap Standard Plus CPAP Machine is the first on our list. Made by DeVilbiss Healthcare, this model features a number of technological functions to keep your airway clear and unobstructed. Flow Rounding technology and SmartFlex functions work in conjunction to help you sleep through the night and get well-rested.

    Other great features are a humidifier mask that keeps your mouth from drying out and a back-up battery. It also features remote reporting, so your doctor can monitor how you’re doing. It even sounds a warning if the mask slips off your face!

    ResMed AirSense 10 Autoset

    The second model on our list is the ResMed AirSense 10 Autoset. Notably, this unit is capable of adjusting its airflow to accommodate the breathing habits of users. It offers Bluetooth connectivity to allow for wireless control. If you like to travel, this is a great pick: it’s rated for use on airplanes! It’s also capable of using any wall outlet, even internationally.

    Like the Intellipap, this unit is capable of long-distance monitoring by your doctor. That means that, even if you’re traveling, your doctor can stay up-to-date on your status! That’s perfect for people with an active lifestyle!

    Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto

    The Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto is last but not least! This entry is the most compact of any of the machines listed here. If you have limited bedside space, this is the option you should go with. This unit is capable of recording any abnormal breathing during the night. It’s also capable of adjusting for abnormal breathing to keep you healthy and sleeping soundly.

    This unit also offers a facemask alert in case it comes loose, like the Intellipap. It also features a humidifier to keep your mouth and throat from drying out. Like the previous entries, this one also offers wireless reporting to your doctor regarding your breathing health.


  • Sizzling Hot Tub Deals

    Sizzling Hot Tub Deals

    Getting the right hot tub is harder than it looks. Hot tubs are also an interesting market, for a number of reasons. When you go to buy one, you could go through several different avenues.

    You could purchase one through a warehouse retailer like Costco, you could go through a luxury store or even a specialty hot tub retailer. If you’re looking to save money on buying a hot tub, it can be difficult to know where to start. We are here to help though, here’s how you can save money on a hot tub!

    BEST HOT TUB DEALS OF 2018

    Costco

    Costco is a massive, warehouse-style retailer. Those who wish to shop there have to have a membership, but it offers some pretty good discounts for those who do. You can buy wholesale amounts of common groceries. However, there is another reason to be a Costco member: their great deals on hot tubs! They offer great prices on luxury hot tubs, so they’re worth looking at for deals.  For instance, they currently carry the Evolution Spas Oxford 121 Jet Spa which holds up to 7 people for 8,999.99.  This spa has a full body lounger and 4 captain’s chairs with neck and shoulder jets. Costco might not be your first instinct, but it should be!

    Overstock

    Overstock is a wholesaler who focuses on saving users money by selling overstocked items. That’s a pretty standard business strategy, and it might seem like it’s not that good of a deal. However, there are a number of great savings to find. One of the biggest discounts comes through overstocked hot tubs! That’s a thing, believe it or not. New users can sign up and even get 15% off of purchases! Some items are on sale for as much as 70% off, which can really save you some money on a hot tub. One good affordable idea is the Goplus Portable Inflatable Bubble Massage Spa Hot Tub for only $341.99, which normally retails around $400. This hot tub can help save on space too. A much fancier version is a 7 person, 56 jet premium acrylic lounger spa with Bluetooth stereo system with subwoofer and backlit LED waterfall for $5876.99. Great for families or parties, this hot tub can be paid off in 24 months and has free shipping.

    Amazon

    Amazon is a pretty well-known name in the world of online retailers. If you’ve been considering a hot tub, Amazon is actually a great place to look. They have a very wide selection of options, letting you browse to your heart’s content. The best part is, if you have Amazon Prime, you can get free shipping! That can help you save some serious money on a hot tub, as shipping is often a huge expense in shipping luxury items. The Coleman Inflatable Miami Spa has a suggested retail price of $499.99 but can be bought online for $349.99 with free shipping. You can keep it put up at home and take it out when you need it or when you want to bring it on vacation. For $3.999, you can get a 50 jet with a full body lounger and seating for up to 6 people.

    Conclusion

    There are many kinds of hot tubs and several options with each. Hot tubs are also sold in a unique market, in that they may be purchased through a warehouse kind of store, a chain that specializes in hot tubs, or a local store that specializes in luxury products for the home. You will also need to decide where you are going to set up the hot tub and what size you need, depending on how many people you expect to use it. It’s surprising how affordable it can be to have a hot tub, especially if you find a good deal.


  • Best Playground Equipment Suppliers

    Best Playground Equipment Suppliers

    The playground isn’t just where kids blow off steam during recess. Playground equipment plays a vital role in our children’s lives especially their education and socialization. Children learn to play, socialize, enjoy their time outside and even test their limits.

    When shopping for playground equipment you want to be certain that the new equipment you are installing is both safe and affordable. The issue is not many people know a lot about playground equipment, who supplies it and which suppliers are the best. Today, in order to help you get the best playground equipment, we’ve compiled a list of the best playground suppliers out there!

    CedarWorks

    Our first entry is CedarWorks, a supplier that specializes in higher-grade wooden construction. Plastic construction is largely considered more durable, but wood has a charm that is hard to deny. CedarWorks offers options that are both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting, in spite of wood’s reputation. They are generally considered to be a high-quality supplier. For outdoor playgrounds, you can choose from beautiful wood swing sets and playhouses complete with special ladders, working doors and windows, ropes and multiple floors.

    Another upside to the CedarWorks range is the general lack of per-person weight limits on their swing sets. They offer such well-made, durable equipment that you won’t have to worry about them wearing down fast. They offer everything from play houses to balance beams and even sand boxes and see-saws.

    APC Play

    APC Play is another well-regarded playground equipment supplier. If you love sales, this is the company for you, as they offer great deals. APC Play offers high quality equipment with unbelievable sales: up to 55% off playground sets.  APC Play is well-known for their high-quality construction that is all made in America.  They are also know for having unparalleled customer service experience, which is very important in the buying process.  They offer some of the best sales in the industry, and you should highly consider them if you’re looking to find a deal.

    Constructive Playthings

    Constructive Playthings is another superb playground equipment supplier that offers durable, high-quality playground equipment. Their equipment is mostly plastic in construction, which means it’s both lightweight and durable. Their site is super easy to navigate and makes shopping for equipment seamless . You can sort options by age, and you’re able to see everything from toddler-appropriate options to equipment for children in the 6- 12-year-old range. They even offer free shipping on orders over $500 if they’re sent by UPS! That’s a hard deal to pass up if you’re looking to save on expensive shipping costs on large playground sets.

    Conclusion

    The tree playground equipment retailers we identified will help you buy  safe, affordable playground equipment for kids of all grade levels. Our top three retailers, Constructive Playthings, CedarWorks and APC Play are all great options. Each of these retailers carries significantly different types of playground gear, so you’ll want to compare each option before making your final decision. One thing is for sure your children will love the playground set and cherish their memories playing in their very own playground for the rest of their lives.


  • Microsoft to Offer Free Xbox with Two Year Agreement

    Microsoft to Offer Free Xbox with Two Year Agreement

    In a move that looks familiar to cell phone providers, Microsoft is looking to give subscribers hardware for a monthly fee. That’s right, there might soon come a day when those who want an Xbox can get one for very little up front and start playing tons of games right away. This style has worked well for phone carriers, so it was only a matter of time before another industry tried it on for size.

    Free Xbox? No Way

    Okay, free might be a strong word. Customers will pay for the Xbox monthly over a two-year period. The cool thing is that it is going to include an Xbox Live subscription and access to Xbox’s Game Pass service. The Game Pass is pretty awesome, allowing players to access tons of games (and all first-party Microsoft games) right out of the gate. That’s a pretty unprecedented set up in gaming, but it makes sense. Microsoft has stated they want to be the Netflix of games. Well, this is certainly a way to do that very thing.

    The Competition

    Sony has been killing Microsoft in hardware sales with the PS4. It’s been no contest for years, as Microsoft lagged further and further behind. When Nintendo launched the Switch to critical and commercial acclaim, it’s pretty clear Microsoft had to switch tactics. The decision to go to a game-streaming, console-lending business model is drastic, but it makes total sense. They were very far behind Sony, and without a clear niche like Nintendo, they needed a way to stand out.

    Pricing

    Early reports say there will be two pricing tiers for the service. The first will include the standard Xbox One S and run at $22 per month. The second would include the beefier Xbox One X and cost $35 per month. In either event, after paying the monthly fees for two years, the hardware is yours. You’re able to keep your subscriptions to Xbox Live and Game Pass after that point, of course. All said, those prices are actually quite reasonable when you consider the sheer number of games on the Game Pass service.

    The Future

    If the future of gaming follows the track of music and video, streaming services will rule the day. Microsoft, at least, seems to think so. After all, the internet provides unique opportunities for content distribution. Without the market saturation and hardware base of Sony, Microsoft needed a way to get their games into households. Really, what better method is there to do that other than just giving the system away? Well, sort of.

  • Top Ten Greatest Superheroes of All Time

    Top Ten Greatest Superheroes of All Time

    At their very best, superheroes are inspiring emblems of all that it means to be heroic. They should make us wonder at how we can be better in our own lives. Superhero comics fill us with a type of awe and feelings of surety that are unmatched in other mediums. It’s no surprise that superheroes are a big deal in the modern era, with surety and stability the furthest thing from our real world. Today, we’re undertaking the Herculean effort of rounding up the ten greatest superheroes of all time. Up, up and away!

    Ten Greatest Superheroes of All Time

    10. Daredevil

    Photo Credit: Comic Book

    The first hero on our list is the Man Without Fear, Daredevil. While his adventures have hardly been large-scale, cosmic affairs, Matt Murdock remains as inspiring as the best of them. A blind lawyer by day and a street-ninja by night, Daredevil has an intangible cool factor that is unmatched. His ideals of justice and equality are refreshing, and his dedication to his cause makes him awesome. As street-level superheroes go, Daredevil is the very best.

    9. The Hulk

    Photo Credit: Bounding Into Comics
    Big, green and mean, the Incredible Hulk is an unstoppable berserker. He lands a spot on our list for how tenacious and unstoppable he is. While he’s hardly heroic, his alter-ego Bruce Banner is the very definition of a hero. Always looking for ways to protect the world from the monster he becomes, Bruce is a tragic hero. When things hit the fan, though, Bruce is always ready to save his friends by becoming the big monster.

    8. Green Lantern

    Photo Credit: DC

    While many have worn the title “Green Lantern,” we’re talking about the Hal Jordan version of the character here. Hal was originally a fighter pilot before he discovered a powerful green ring. The Green Lantern ring, it turned out, allowed him to create energy projections based on his willpower. What makes Hal so inspiring is his optimism, strength and dedication to defend humanity. His adventures are always exciting and uplifting!

    7. Iron Man

    Photo Credit: IndieWire

    Tony Stark may be a billionaire playboy philanthropist, but he’s also one of the best superheroes ever. While he has no superpowers of his own, he’s a genius with a powered suit and he knows how to use it. If anything, Tony’s lack of “real” superpowers only makes him cooler! Who else can go hand-to-hand against Thanos without superpowers and come out without being pulped? Tony’s freewheeling, fun-loving attitude and genuine determination make him a fan-favorite for good reason.

    6. Batman

    Photo Credit: YouTube

    Batman may be a bit overplayed, but he gets all that attention for a good reason. He’s a very dark, complex superhero with many layers. He’s been reinvented and rebooted countless times, but through it all there are some common themes. First, he’s dedicated to protecting the common people of Gotham. Second, he’ll never kill, no matter what. And third, he believes that everyone can be redeemed. If those aren’t the tenets of a true hero, I don’t know what are!

    5. Thor

    Photo Credit: Amazon
    The literal god of thunder, Thor is hard to top when it comes to superheroes. Drawing on the depth and richness of Norse mythology, Thor is always a fascinating character. His complex relationship with his brother Loki makes him that much more engrossing. Further, the weight of the kingdom of Asgard and the responsibility of defending Earth always weigh heavily on the Thunder-Bringer. Watching the Asgardian Prince go toe-to-toe with demons and monsters on our behalf is always a sight to behold.

    4. The Flash

    Photo Credit: The CW

    The fastest man alive, the Flash is one of DC’s perennial titles, passed from one superhero to another. Most noteworthy of their number is Barry Allen, the Silver Age speedster. Allen, a forensic scientist, believes in the merits of lawfulness and goodness, and always strives to make the world a better place. Free from much of the moral quandary that comes with superheroes like Batman and Daredevil, the Flash is always sure of himself. In many ways, the Flash is sort of an echo of DC’s other superstar, Superman, but we’ll get to him!

    3. Captain America

    Photo Credit: Encyclopedia Britannica
    Truth, justice and the American Way: these are the values Captain America stands for, and we love him for it. Steve Rogers is the very model of the all-American superhero, and he reminds us what the best parts of our nation are. Kindness, responsibility, strength and honesty are Steve Rogers’ cornerstones, and he always strives to live up to the high bar his title requires. It’s hard to not feel at least a little patriotic when you see Cap in front of an American flag, punching a Nazi or saving someone from a burning building.

    2. Superman

    Photo Credit: Sideshow Collectibles
    The Big Blue Boy Scout is beyond iconic, he is the emblem of the genre. You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who doesn’t recognize his trademark red S emblem immediately. The alien savior from another world, Kal-El always puts others first. His bulletproof smile and Mach 5 punch keep the people of Earth safe, no matter the odds. If you’re even a passing fan of comics you’ve heard of Superman, and there’s a good reason for that. I can think of worse characters to base a genre on!

    1. Spider-Man

    Photo Credit: Digital Spy

    He can do anything a spider can and he’s the best superhero in the world. Peter Parker is a believable character due to his flaws and foibles. He deals with the pressure of high school while also risking his life to save the world. His principal conceit is that those with the greatest power have the greatest responsibility to help people. That’s an inspiring message, and it reminds us that we can all help our world more.

    Swinging from a web, beating up bad guys and saving lives are Spidey’s hobbies, and he’s the best at them. While other superheroes may be stronger or more epic, none match just how likable and relatable Spidey is. After all, the entire purpose of a superhero is to remind you of the greatness within yourself.

  • Nintendo Striking Down ROM Sites, Sparking Conversation about Preservation

    Nintendo Striking Down ROM Sites, Sparking Conversation about Preservation

    In the most recent string of high-profile lawsuits, Nintendo has struck down numerous popular ROM sites that were operating illegally. Under the letter of the law, distributing video games, even thirty-year-old ones, is illegal if you don’t have the express consent of the copyright holder. However, seeing Nintendo take such a hardline stance on such sites is a bit quaint, as it is so reminiscent of the Napster case from the early 2000’s. As many other observers have noted: wouldn’t it be easier to meet consumers where they are, rather than to try and get them to come to you?

    Nintendo, ROM Sites and Piracy

    Nintendo is a big name when it comes to retro games. However, they are hardly the only kid on the block with a deep backlog of classic games. It just so happens that they are one of the longest-lived. Not to mention, one of the few that exists in mostly the same capacity that it did in the 80’s. As such, Nintendo’s ferocity in terms of legal defense of their older games is unmatched. While many video game enthusiasts using emulation to hunt down obscure games like Little Samson, Nintendo is adamantly against any and all emulation of their consoles.

    It is supremely ironic, then, that two of Nintendo’s most popular products in recent memory were the NES and SNES Classic systems. These systems build heavily upon the foundation laid by the internet ROM community. They also appeal to fans of classic gaming with a nostalgia for the early days of Nintendo’s systems. As it stands, Nintendo offers very few legal avenues through which to play the vast majority of its backlog library. However, the Classic series of consoles is a passable stopgap.

    The Problem

    The problem with the current legal distribution method of older games is that it is entirely up to the copyright holder whether or not the game will even be made available. While ROM emulation of older titles is comprehensive and nearly every game exists somewhere on the internet, there are comparatively few options to play Nintendo’s backlog legally.

    The most common way, prior to the release of the Switch, was through the Virtual Console service. Virtual Console allowed Nintendo systems to act as emulators for older games. For instance, if one wished to play Super Mario Bros, they could purchase it for $10 or so from the online shop. Then, they owned a digital version of the software and could play it whenever they liked.

    However, the issue with this is that Nintendo was very slow-paced when it came to Virtual Console releases. Fans would clamor for re-releases of older games, but they were glacially slow to roll them out. By the time a system would have a sizable backlog, it would be the end of the console cycle. Then, upon grabbing a new system, players would have to purchase their library of old games all over again. That is, of course, assuming Nintendo ported the games they wanted forward.

    The Solution

    It seems unlikely either side will find a satisfactory middle ground any time soon. ROMs will continue to pop up on the internet, despite Nintendo’s best efforts. Likewise, Nintendo will continue to drip-feed its fans with re-releases of older games to maximize profits. In the meantime, projects like the Classic series seem to be the best middle ground. We sincerely hope to see more projects like it from Nintendo, in the interest of preserving the history of gaming.

  • Top Ten Sci Fi Comics of All Time

    Top Ten Sci Fi Comics of All Time

    Science fiction is a rich genre and appears all over the spectrum of geeky interests. Comic books, as it turns out, are for more than just superhero antics! Some of the best sci-fi stories have been told within the pages of western comics. If you’re looking for a good read, strap yourself in. We’ve got a journey to the stars that you’re going to love! Today, we’re looking at the top ten sci fi comics of all time!

    Top Ten Sci Fi Comics of All Time

    Tank Girl

    Photo Credit: Imgur

    Created by Jamie Hewlett of Gorillaz fame, this anarchistic, free-wheeling comic is a blast. Set in a post-apocalyptic world rife with corruption and injustice, the series follows the title character’s misadventures. Tank Girl, or Rebecca Buck, undertakes missions in her tank, which doubles as her house. The series is rife with punk rock, anarchistic and counter-cultural imagery, and is great for all lovers of rebellion.

    Velerian and Lauraline

    Photo Credit: Comic Vine

    Recently turned into a huge Luc Besson film, Valerian and Lauraline is an incredibly long-running French sci-fi comic. The comic has had such a huge impact on sci-fi over the years that it’s hard to overstate. Everything from Star Wars to Star Trek to Judge Dredd has a ton to thank this landmark work for. It’s comprised of thousands of pages of back-issues, but it’s still an excellent read. If you’re a fan of oddball French comics, this is a great read.

    Bitch Planet

    Photo Credit: Image Comics

    Bitch Planet is spinning a ton of plates at once. It’s simultaneously an homage and deconstruction of exploitation films in the “Women in Prison” genre. This comic is also excellent social commentary and high-concept sci-fi. Further, it’s a feminist opus that rivals some of the best discourse in that field of study. Think of it as something of a cross between Orange is the New Black and Gladiator, but set in space. It’s weird, it’s fast-paced and it’s absolutely worth a read.

    Lazarus

    Photo Credit: Comic Book

    Brutal violence meets stunning social commentary in this slick action sci-fi comic. The protagonist, aptly named Forever, is a Lazarus, a peerless fighter who represents an ancient family of nobles. Her family is called Carlyle, and they are one of the oldest political organizations in the world. The noble families are always vying for power and sending their Lazaruses to do battle in their name.

    East of West

    Photo Credit: Goodreads

    East of West is an oddball in the world of sci-fi comics. This comic shows an alternative history where the Civil War dragged on until 1908, until it was cut short by an asteroid striking Earth. The resulting seven nations form the new government of the Americas, dramatically altering the political landscape. This comic is as much weird western as high-concept sci-fi. In an unusual twist, the action is driven primarily by humanity’s first encounter with the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Yeah, it’s weird. But man, is it awesome!

    Paper Girls

    Photo Credit: Wired

    If you love Stranger Things or Super 8 for their fun 80’s throwback vibe, you’ll love Paper Girls. Following a group of paper delivery girls as they uncover crazy conspiracies about alien visitors, this one is classic 80’s fun. Pitch-perfect character development, excellent pacing and beautiful art make this an unforgettable and epic read.

    Fear Agent

    Photo Credit: Geek and Sundry

    Fear Agent is for those who are looking for a true retro sci-fi throwback. This pulpy romp through the galaxy follows the adventures of Heathrow Huston, a grizzly Fear Agent who undertakes daring missions. Huston is a clear homage to the chiseled jaws and pure machismo of 40’s and 50’s sci-fi pulps. If you’re looking for a teeth-kicking, fun-loving comic, this one is for you.

    Transmetropolitan

    Photo Credit: Den of Geek

    This shockingly prescient comic debuted in the late 90’s to critical and commercial success. The protagonist, an investigative journalist named Spider Jerusalem. The series is also super weird, if the protagonist’s name didn’t give that away. Namely, the series has an obsession with the Truth, in its separate and idealized state, and with cyberpunk dystopia as a bright and glitzy place. In all, it’s a scathing takedown of government, police, corporate interests and anything else that tries to hinder the Truth.

    Saga

    Photo Credit: Pride

    This sweeping, epic science fantasy series is so full of pathos and character that it makes one hopeful for the future of comics. Unrelentingly beautiful and horrifying at once, this comic is aptly named: the saga within is timeless and inspiring. The tale of star-crossed lovers crossing the stars is as sweeping as it is intimate, making it impossible to put down.

    Seven to Eternity

    Photo Credit: Nerdist

    Science fantasy at its very best, Seven to Eternity is still early in its run, but still essential sci-fi reading. The world-building here is unmatched in comics, telling tons of engaging story through evocative art and sparse dialogue. Wonder, discovery and magic are at odds with lies, industry and corruption in beautifully-illustrated panels. A story about family, truth, justice and redemption, this is a heavy, thoughtful read that will keep you guessing—and turning the page!

  • Fitbit Charge 3 Review Roundup

    Fitbit Charge 3 Review Roundup

    Fitbit’s latest Charge-series watch, the Fitbit Charge 3, is here. What are people saying about this one? Is it a worthy successor to the Charge 2? Does it live up to the Fitbit name? And, most importantly, is it worth its $150 price tag? We’ll talk about all that and more in today’s review roundup!

    fitbit
    Photo Credit: Wareable

    What’s New?

    What makes this new Fitbit, well, new? There are a ton of iterative upgrades that we’re happy to see. Firstly, you’ll notice right away that this entry is lighter than the Charge 2. It’s about 20% lighter, to be exact. That’s nothing to scoff at, as you can barely even tell you’re wearing it at this point. That’s a great trait for a fitness tracker, so we’re not complaining. The screen is significantly larger this time, and it’s very easy to read. It’s an OLED screen, and it suffers from very little glare in sunlight.

    The side button is actually just a haptic feedback knob now instead of a true, physical button. That allows the Fitbit Charge 3 to be waterproof up to a depth of 50 meters, which is nothing short of excellent.

    Features

    The standard suite of fitness tracker features are here, of course. Swim tacking is excellent, as you would expect, as is running and other activity trackers. The watch has no built-in GPS, but it can pair with your phone to offer that functionality. Between the lack of GPS and the haptic button, ample space has been freed up within the tracker for battery size. The battery certainly doesn’t disappoint: most estimates clock it as lasting for a week or more. That’s a critical aspect for a fitness tracker!

    The Charge 3 even offers a few smartwatch-like features. Fitbit promises that the tracker will sport some full apps soon, including weather and timers. These are apps that make sense for what the Charge 3 is trying to be. That said, don’t expect to see Facebook on it.

    Is the Fitbit Charge 3 Worth it?

    As for the bottom line, this is an excellent fitness tracker. By bringing pitch-perfect weight and size to the table and offering just enough features, this is a tracker that knows its niche. It doesn’t try to be everything to everyone, and it does its job at a good price.

    It’s hard to not recommend this fitness tracker to those who are serious about exercise. If you’re looking for a smartwatch, of course, this isn’t for you. However, if you find yourself in the market for a fitness tracker, this is one of the best out there.

  • Top Ten Anime Everyone Needs to Watch

    Top Ten Anime Everyone Needs to Watch

    Anime is a divisive medium, to be sure. Many claim that the style is a bit too weird and out-there, while others are die-hard fans of the animation style. However, anime is not exactly a genre, but instead more a loose definition of a style of animation. Specifically, it’s a highly-stylized, colorful animation style that originated in Japan. Most hardcore fans will tell you that only Japanese-produced shows count as anime, while other countries can produce anime-style shows. Whatever the case, these are the top ten anime that everyone needs to watch!

    Top Ten Anime Everyone Needs to Watch

    One Piece

    Photo Credit: Otaku Kart

    The first entry on our list is one of the longest-running adventure shows in the history of anime. Starting its original run in 1999 and still running to this day, One Piece enjoys enduring popularity. Why, you may ask? Well, in short, it’s excellent. While there are hundreds of hours of animation to watch through, you’ll enjoy every minute of it. Luffy’s quest to become the Pirate King and find the legendary One-Piece treasure is as enjoyable as anime gets.

    Dragon Ball Z

    Photo Credit: Comic Book

    Largely credited as the show that introduced the West to action anime, Dragon Ball Z is a milestone achievement. This series was created by the legendary Akira Toriyama, known for his work on Chrono Trigger and the original Dragon Ball. Dragon Ball Z is more about the intense fight sequences and over-the-top action than Dragon Balls. Notable for being an early anime to deal with the death of major characters, this one has stood the test of time.

    Gurren Lagann

    Photo Credit: MyAnimeList.net

    This show will have you fist-pumping and shouting every episode. Following the adventures of a young miner named Simon as he travels to the surface, this show has it all. Simon’s older brother-figure Kamina teaches him to be brave and to believe in himself, even against terrible odds. The show’s flashy, colorful fight scenes and plentiful giant mechs make it highly entertaining. However, it’s the show’s huge heart and inspiring message that make it so memorable.

    Neon Genesis Evangelion

    Photo Credit: The Vault

    Inscrutable, heavy, and laden with religious symbolism, NGE is an odd beast. One of the finest anime ever created, this show is highly divisive due to its inconclusive ending. The show’s intense animation, over-the-top fights and brutal narrative make it a very unique ride. Something of a coming-of-age tale, the show follows Shinji as he attempts to repel Lovecraftian horrors by piloting a giant mech. It’s weird, heart-breaking and very symbolic. Set aside a weekend and give it a spin.

    Samurai Champloo

    Photo Credit: Geek and Sundry

    Highly-stylized, aurally excellent and expertly choreographed, Samurai Champloo is the final word of samurai anime. If you love swordplay and hip-hop, this is the anime for you. No other anime before or since has captured the unique soul of this gem. Bouncing easily between its Edo-period setting and modern sensibilities, this show would be dizzying if it wasn’t so deft. The nimbleness with which the show handles its themes and characters is only matched by the dazzling sword combat.

    Attack on Titan

    Photo Credit: YouTube
    Brutal, shocking and dark, this is one fantasy show that doesn’t believe in “happily ever after.” Set in a world where humanity is on its last legs, a series of tall walls is all that stands between us and extinction. A race of unstoppable giants called Titans consumes humans by the handful outside the walls, and there’s little to be done about it. The show is renowned for its sleek animations, believable characters, and shocking amounts of major character deaths. Not for the faint of heart, Attack on Titan is one of the very finest fantasy anime out there.

    One Punch Man

    Photo Credit: Geek Tyrant
    Wouldn’t it be awesome if you could defeat any foe with one punch? That’s the premise of this absurd superhero comedy, a deconstruction of Shonen anime. A surprisingly deep meditation on the purpose of conflict and the importance of the struggle, One Punch Man is a highly-addictive watch. You’ll find yourself cheering, whooping and laughing as Saitama hilariously navigates the ridiculous anime world he lives in. Evil monologues are cut short, absurd powers are swept aside and dramatic tension evaporates thanks to Saitama’s power. Really, where’s the tension if you can defeat everyone with a single punch?

    My Hero Academia

    Photo Credit: Polygon
    As for a superhero anime that plays the trope straight, there’s the excellent and touching My Hero Academia. Full of inspiring heroics, daring fight sequences and likable heroes, this is the best new anime out there. The show follows Izuku Midoriya, a boy born without superpowers in a super-powered world. However, he’s endlessly brave and full of drive to become a hero anyway. Everything changes when he inherits a mysterious power from his favorite superhero, though! If you’re looking for a modern show with amazing animation and a big heart, look no further!

    Cowboy Bebop

    Photo Credit: fanbros.com

    Easily one of the best sci-fi anime in history, Cowboy Bebop shows just how broad of a spectrum anime covers. With an engrossing sci-fi narrative that can pull in even non-anime fans and animation that puts Disney to shame, Bebop is a tour de force. Choreographed fights meet a peerless soundtrack for a romp that makes your adrenaline rush. If you’ve got even a passing interest in anime or sci-fi, you owe it to yourself to check this show out.

    Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

    Photo Credit: Kitsu

    Fullmetal Alchemist is the clear winner by a very long margin. As excellent as the other entries on this list are, they’re excellent by anime standards. FMA: Brotherhood, however, is one of the finest tales ever put on television. It’s really in a league of its own, managing to be a pithy, fun action anime while holding serious philosophy close to its heart.

    The show follows the adventures of Ed and Al Elric as the duo practice alchemy, governed by the Law of Equivalent Exchange. For everything you get out of an alchemical equation, you have to put something of equal value in. The boys find this out the hard way when, as children, they attempt to revive their deceased mother via alchemy. The resulting ritual causes Ed to lose an arm and a leg, and Al is completely destroyed in the process. Thinking fast, Ed saves him from death by binding his brother’s soul to a suit of armor.

    The story that follows is sweeping, epic and genuinely moving. A thoughtful expression of sin, virtue and the quest for immortality, the show handles its themes with deft many other television shows never touch. This is a must-watch for fans of storytelling in general, even if they have no love for anime or cartoons.