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Culture & Ideas

Culture

Art, books, film, gaming, and the conversations defining the week.

29 stories · Edition of 2026-08-31 · Curated by AI at Invalid Date

CULTURE

Baki Gaiden Manga Gets TV Anime Adaptation

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

TMS Anime announced on Monday that the manga Baki Gaiden: Retsu Kaioh wa Isekai Tensei Shitemo Ikkō ni Kamawan will receive a TV anime adaptation. The story follows Retsu Kaioh, a Kenpo master who reincarnates into another world after dying in a duel with Musashi Miyamoto. The series began serialization in Akita Shoten's Monthly Shōnen Champion in 2020. Eiji Mutsui provides the artwork, while Keisuke Itagaki and Sai Ihara are credited for the original concept and story. The first compiled volume appeared in May 2021, and the 16th volume was released on March 6, with the 17th scheduled for September 8; the series has sold over 2 million copies in print and digital formats combined. The TV anime follows the announcement of a stage play adaptation of the same story, which is set to run from March 19 to March 22, 2027 at Owl Spot, the Toshima Ward Performing Arts Exchange Center in Tokyo. The Baki franchise includes the original manga that ran from 1991 to 1999, its sequel, and subsequent titles such as Hanma Baki and Baki‑Dou. Previous Baki anime series have been released on Netflix, with the first season premiering in June 2018 and later seasons arriving in 2020 and 2023. TMS Anime, whose YouTube channel and Comic Native have been cited, will produce the new series, though a premiere date has not been announced. The anime is expected to debut after the 2027 stage play run.

CULTURE

Brotherwise Games Releases Tabletop Titles Based on Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere Universe

55d ago · Source: ign

Brotherwise Games, the official partner for Brandon Sanderson's Cosmere universe, has released several tabletop board games and role‑playing games based on the series, with additional titles planned for release.

The Cosmere universe, which began with Elantris in 2002, now spans more than 20 books and includes the Mistborn and Stormlight Archive series, which have inspired multiple tabletop adaptations.

Call to Adventure: The Stormlight Archive is a 1‑4 player card‑drafting and engine‑building game that lets players create characters, draft cards for backstory and morality, and score points by completing quests over three rounds. It uses Brotherwise's Call to Adventure board game system.

The Cosmere RPG provides a role‑playing system for the world of Roshar, offering options such as the Stormlight Handbook, the Stonewalkers Adventure, and a Starter Set. Brotherwise plans to release Mistborn books for the RPG in the future.

Mistborn: The Deckbuilding Game, designed for 1‑4 players, lets participants assume characters from The Final Empire and build decks by burning metals, with an upcoming expansion adding content from The Well of Ascension.

Shards of Creation is a 2‑4 player trick‑taking card game where each player controls a Shard of Adonalsium, each with unique abilities, and scores by forming sets of suits.

Mistborn: House War, originally published by Crafty Games, is a 3‑5 player resource‑management game set during the first Mistborn novel, in which players manage unrest and gain favor, with an expansion titled The Siege of Luthadel that extends the setting to the second novel.

The Mistborn Adventure Game, released in 2012, is a narrative‑driven d6 tabletop role‑playing game that allows players to portray Nobles, Skaa, Terrismen, and Kandra, with numerous expansions covering additional factions and storylines.

Brotherwise has announced that a War for Roshar board game, an area‑control title based on the Stormlight Archive, will launch on Kickstarter later this fall. The Mistborn deck‑building game will receive its first expansion, and the Cosmere RPG will add Mistborn books in a future release.

These releases provide fans with varied gameplay experiences while expanding the tabletop presence of Sanderson's cosmere.

CULTURE

My Happy Marriage Anime Special Airs on October 25 With Three Episodes

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

Kadokawa announced that the three‑episode anime special for the My Happy Marriage television anime will premiere on October 25 and begin streaming the same day. The special will be broadcast on TV Tokyo and affiliated stations at 7:00 p.m. JST and will be available on Netflix and other streaming services at 8:30 p.m. JST. A new teaser trailer, a new cast member, and the ending theme song artist were also revealed. M.A.O will voice the new character Kimio Nagaba, and Kashitarō Itō will perform the ending theme “Prelude no Temae ni: ~for me&you~”. The staff includes director Takehiro Kubota, series composition lead, scriptwriters Mika Tanaka and Ikuho Negi, character designers Shōko Yasuda, Hikaru Sato and Kuniyuki Itō, music composer Evan Call, and other crew members. The second season of the series premiered in January 2025 on multiple Japanese networks and began streaming on Netflix simultaneously, while the first season aired in July 2023 with 12 episodes and worldwide streaming on Netflix. The special will air in addition to the ongoing broadcast schedule.

CULTURE

My Bloody Valentine Becomes Free to Stream on Pluto TV

55d ago · Source: polygon

My Bloody Valentine became available for free streaming on Pluto TV on August 30, 2026. Director Quentin Tarantino previously described the 1981 slasher as his favorite film.

The movie, directed by George Mihalka and written by John Beaird, follows a miner who returns to Valentine Bluffs two decades after a cave collapse kills two supervisors. He murders the supervisors and leaves their hearts in a box of chocolates with a warning that he will return if the town holds a Valentine’s Day dance again.

The original film earned $5.72 million at the box office against a modest production budget and was considered a disappointment relative to Paramount’s previous horror release, Friday the 13th. A 2009 reboot directed by Patrick Lussier grossed $101 million on a $15 million budget, reviving interest in the franchise. Tarantino said the film’s lasting appeal stemmed from its blend of slasher tropes and a distinctive setting, and he praised its influence on later horror works.

Blumhouse Productions has announced plans for another reboot of the series, though no release date has been set. The free streaming availability on Pluto TV may expand the film’s audience and sustain its cult status.

CULTURE

Ridley Scott's the Dog Stars Opens with $19.3 Million Global Debut

55d ago · Source: ign

Ridley Scott's live‑action adaptation of Peter Heller’s 2012 novel The Dog Stars opened in theaters on August 28, 2026, generating an estimated $19.3 million worldwide in its opening weekend, according to preliminary box office reports, and ranking sixth globally and second in the United States. The film stars Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley and Josh Brolin and was produced on an $80 million budget by Disney and 20th Century Studios, according to the studio's announcement. Review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes recorded a 41 percent favorability rating, and IGN gave the film a 5/10 score, according to their respective reviews. Audience polling indicated a 70 percent favorability rating, according to CinemaScore data. Domestically the film earned $8 million from 3,330 locations, and internationally it collected $11.3 million, according to Box Office Mojo. Coyote vs. Acme opened with $23.9 million worldwide, according to Ketchup Entertainment, while Spider‑Man: Brand New Day remained the top‑grossing title with $2.33 billion cumulative worldwide gross. The film will need sustained attendance to recoup its budget, and upcoming September releases such as Practical Magic 2 and a Resident Evil re‑release may influence its final earnings.

CULTURE

Yumika Yano Cast as Kishika Tororo in Season 3 of the 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

Yumika Yano joins the cast of the third season of the anime The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You as Kishika Tororo, a third-year high school student and kendō club captain, who becomes Rentarō's newest girlfriend in episode nine. Season three began airing on Tokyo MX on July 5 at 10:30 p.m. and is also broadcast on Sun TV and BS11. The series adapts the manga by Rikito Nakamura and Yukiko Nozawa, following Aijo Rentarō as he attempts to date one hundred women after a divine intervention. In addition to Yano, the season features Kaori Ishihara as Chiyo Iin, Ayana Taketatsu as Nadi, Hana Tamegai as Yamame Yasashiki, and Aoi Koga as Momiji Momi. Hikaru Sato returns as director from Bibury Animation Studio, while Takashi Aoshima handles series scripts and Akane Yano provides character design. The opening theme is performed by the Rentarō Family, titled Daisuki♡Zutto Eien ni♡. Seven Seas Entertainment is releasing the manga in English. The series continues to air weekly on the listed networks.

CULTURE

Lucy Van Pelt’s 1970 Quote Highlights Her Role as Peanuts’ Central Figure

55d ago · Source: polygon

Lucy Van Pelt’s November 27, 1970 comic strip includes a monologue in which she declares personal autonomy, a moment that stands out among her frequent appearances in the Peanuts series. The strip, created by Charles Schulz, features Lucy as a recurring character known for her assertive behavior, interactions with Schroeder and Linus, and occasional philosophical statements. The series, set among five‑ to seven‑year‑old children, often uses Lucy’s lines as punchlines. The article notes that while Lucy is frequently depicted engaging in assertive or unkind actions, particularly toward Charlie Brown, she also appears in less typical moments where she expresses frustration. The 1970 strip shows Lucy stating “It’s my life, and I’ll do whatever I want with it! I’m my own person! It’s my life, and I’m the one who has to live it!” followed by “With a little help…”. This excerpt is highlighted as a notable example of her character development. The piece also mentions that other instances in Peanuts history show Charlie Brown successfully kicking the football, though the recurring gag of Lucy pulling it away remains a defining element of her role. The article concludes that Lucy’s autonomy‑focused statement reflects a rare moment of self‑assertion for the character, occurring within a body of work that consistently portrays her as a complex, sometimes contradictory figure.

CULTURE

HBO's 'Lanterns' Episode 3 Includes Janus Cosmetics Sign Tied to Black Mask and Clayface

55d ago · Source: polygon

HBO's 'Lanterns' episode 3, which premiered on August 30, 2026, includes a Janus Cosmetics storefront sign that links to the DC Comics character Roman Sionis, known as Black Mask, and may relate to the forthcoming Clayface film.

Janus Cosmetics is a fictional company owned by the Sionis family in DC Comics; Roman Sionis inherited the business after his parents' deaths and later became Black Mask, a Gotham crime lord first portrayed by Ewan McGregor in the 2020 film 'Birds of Prey'. The character exists in the previous DC Extended Universe, which is separate from the continuity overseen by James Gunn. In the comics, the company is also tied to the origin of Matt Hagen, the actor who becomes Clayface after a cosmetic treatment goes wrong.

In episode 3, the scene takes place in an abandoned shopping mall where the protagonist John Stewart, a Green Lantern in training, is questioned by a Guardian of the Universe. A large Janus Cosmetics sign is visible across the mall corridor, though the character does not interact with the storefront. An Entertainment Weekly interview from July noted that the Clayface movie will combine elements of multiple origin stories, emphasizing body horror over traditional supervillain traits.

The show's creator has not confirmed a direct connection between the sign and any future Clayface storyline. Some fans interpret the sign as a tease for Black Mask's return or for Clayface, while the series has not provided official confirmation. The episode otherwise focuses on John Stewart's backstory and the interview segment.

Whether the Janus Cosmetics sign serves as a narrative hint or a mere decorative detail remains unresolved.

CULTURE

Fans Identify Real‑World Building Matching GTA VI Vice City Apartment

55d ago · Source: ign

Fans have identified a real‑world building in Miami that they say resembles the apartment shown for characters Jason and Lucia in the Grand Theft Auto VI trailer. Instagram user prettyboycuh used Google Maps to locate a teal building that appeared in the extended gameplay footage. By adjusting the map’s date to April 2013, the building matched the in‑game location, including its fence, color and surrounding structures. The building, known as the Belmar Condo, was repainted from salmon to gray in 2017 and remained visible on mapping services until 2024, when it was demolished after being sold for $12 million in 2022, according to the South Florida Business Journal. The condo was built in 1973 and had been listed on Zillow with interior details that correspond to scenes in the game, such as the kitchen and living area. Rockstar Games has not confirmed the building’s role as the inspiration for the Vice City apartment. Grand Theft Auto VI is scheduled for release on November 19, 2026 for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

CULTURE

Crumbl Offers Limited-Time Minecraft-Themed Desserts

55d ago · Source: gamespot

Crumbl announced a limited-time Minecraft collaboration that adds six dessert items to its menu from August 31 through September 5. The menu features a cookie butter cookie topped with a chicken figure, a Creeper key lime sandwich, a lemon poppyseed cookie topped with a box-shaped bee, an Enderman cookies-and-cream sandwich with purple marshmallow mousse, a cherry blossom cookie with maraschino cherries and cream cheese frosting, and a grass block cake with cinnamon vanilla base and lawn-textured frosting. Mystery spoons, including a special exclusive spoon for the first 200 customers who purchase a six-pack of the crossover treats, will be available while supplies last. The partnership follows previous Minecraft cross-promotions, such as the inclusion of Bluey characters in the game and the release of Minecraft-branded Crocs, as well as Krispy Kreme's Pokemon doughnut line. Minecraft Dungeons II is scheduled for release on September 29 for PC, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, and Xbox Series X|S. The promotion ends on September 5.

CULTURE

Ten years after Release, MAPPA's WWII Anime Film Gains New Attention on Prime Video

Ten years after its original release, MAPPA's WWII anime film In This Corner of the World is now available to stream on Prime Video.

55d ago · Source: polygon · 1 min read

Ten years after its original release, MAPPA's WWII anime film In This Corner of the World is now available to stream on Prime Video. The film follows Suzu, a young woman who moves from Hiroshima to Kure after marriage and documents everyday life during World War II.

Directed by Sunao Katabuchi and adapted from Fumiyo Kouno's manga, the film was released in 2015. The animation uses a watercolor aesthetic that renders backgrounds with soft, hazy tones. Suzu's sketches blend into the surrounding scenes, turning events such as air raids into abstract forms.

The narrative emphasizes ordinary activities such as cooking meals, mending clothes, and maintaining neighborly relationships. It gradually reveals the war's impact on the characters.

A 2019 version that adds roughly 40 minutes of restored footage explores Suzu's relationship with a courtesan in Kure's red‑light district, adding depth to her inner life.

The film is currently available to stream on Prime Video. Its focus on civilian experiences distinguishes it from typical war depictions that center on combat, and observers have noted its humanistic portrayal of Showa‑era Japan. The rediscovery of the film highlights continued interest in wartime narratives through animation.

CULTURE

HoYoverse Unveils Cooperative Action Game Nodusfall at Gamescom 2026

55d ago · Source: polygon

HoYoverse announced Nodusfall, a cooperative action game for up to four players, during the 2026 Gamescom Opening Night Live showcase.

The company, known for Genshin Impact, Zenless Zone Zero, and Honkai: Star Rail, used the event to reveal a title that diverges from its typical anime aesthetic.

Nodusfall features a photorealistic visual style and a tent‑based village on a mountain platform where players can upgrade gear and accept quests to hunt large monsters. Players choose from classes such as archer, broadsword wielder, or sword warrior and can equip up to four abilities with individual cooldowns. A demo paired journalists in a four‑player session, during which the writer selected a sword‑wielding character and added a healing spell to the loadout.

Combat includes basic attacks, special attacks, dodges, and a parry system that requires charging a heavy attack before releasing to clash with an opponent. Holding a bumper provides quick access to equipped skills, which felt smooth, though impact feedback was moderate. Special attacks displayed visual flair, such as a flaming sword or a flying demon that launches miasma orbs.

The first mission, "Purge Evil Spirits," required the party to defeat a 30‑foot gryphon named Quongqi that possessed multiple health bars and tornado‑summoning abilities. After reducing its health, the creature retreated, prompting the team to pursue it on mounts to a subterranean lake where the encounter concluded. The mission also featured a joint execution, a coordinated attack that summoned a spectral giant to strike the enemy.

The mission’s final boss was Maldrake, a 30‑foot dragon accompanied by a rider who wielded a massive sword of light. The fight mirrored the earlier encounter with three health bars and high‑impact attacks, including a pile‑drive that sent a player into the air before slamming them to the ground.

The design appeared to emphasize cooperative accessibility rather than the technical depth found in titles such as FromSoftware games.

HoYoverse stated that Nodusfall will launch on Windows PC, though no release date has been set and additional platform support remains unconfirmed. The developer indicated that characters will be obtained without randomized rolls and that any microtransactions will be cosmetic, while noting that details are still being finalized.

The game remains in development, and its eventual release schedule and broader platform availability have not been announced.

CULTURE

12TB of Steam Files Reportedly Leaked, Covering 2003-2013 Game Library

55d ago · Source: ign

Approximately 12TB of data reportedly extracted from Steam and covering titles published between 2003 and 2013 has been posted online.

Valve‑related content creator Gabe Follower said the archive was obtained through a publicly accessible endpoint and did not involve hacking. The company transitioned to a new storage system in 2013, which is why the data set ends at that year. The collection includes all games available on Steam during the period, not only Valve‑published titles.

The files reportedly contain full game releases, beta versions and early prototypes that were never publicly distributed. Archivists have identified a pre‑release build of Left 4 Dead that features a different heads‑up display, voice lines absent from the final version, and map sections later altered. The sheer volume of the data suggests further details may emerge as analysts review the archive. Valve has not issued a public statement regarding the leak.

The incident highlights the challenges of preserving digital game assets and raises questions about the security of long‑standing distribution platforms.

CULTURE

HBO Rewrites John Stewart’s Origin in Lanterns Series

55d ago · Source: polygon

HBO's series "Lanterns" presents a different origin for John Stewart, showing him as an infant rather than the adult chosen in the comics. The third episode, "OutKast," follows Stewart's family as they seek to raise him to become a Green Lantern, while a Guardian says that raising him without fear could allow him to replace Hal Jordan. In the original DC Comics, Stewart debuted in 1972 as an adult after being selected by the Guardians of the Universe, a change created by writers Dennis O'Neil and artists Neal Adams. Co-creator Tom King said during a virtual press conference that Adams' focus on social issues inspired the show's approach, and co-creator Damon Lindelof noted that the series draws on classic father-son mythic structures. The storyline also references Sinestro's warning that Stewart poses the greatest threat to Hal Jordan, a point that mirrors the relationship between the characters in the source material. The episode highlights Stewart's parents' sacrifices and a compensation of a diamond given to his mother, illustrating the show's emphasis on personal stakes. The series continues to develop Stewart's role, leaving his ultimate destiny unresolved.

CULTURE

Solo Developer Announces 3D Zelda Maker Game for Steam

55d ago · Source: polygon

Solo developer Akela‑morse announced a 3D Zelda‑style level editor called Temple Maker 64 and released a Steam demo in May 2026.

Since the release of Super Mario Maker, developers have created user‑generated content tools for Nintendo franchises, most of which are limited to 2D pixel art. Temple Maker 64 seeks to extend that concept into three dimensions.

The game provides a suite of tools that emulate weapons, items and enemies from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time without using Nintendo trademarks. The protagonist resembles Link but avoids direct copying of design elements.

Play testers have already used the demo to build complex levels, including a Kaizo‑style challenge that requires precise rolls, backflips and side hops. The demo has been available on Steam since May.

He said Nintendo has historically pursued IP protection aggressively and that he is not using Nintendo assets or patented mechanics, so he expects no legal action.

He plans to add comment threads, user tagging and list features, and is considering a single‑player campaign and collaborations with other Zelda‑like creators. The framework may be released as open source.

In parallel, he is developing another game called Seed of Life, which draws inspiration from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess. He said he is prepared to return to a regular job if Temple Maker 64 does not succeed.

The full version of Temple Maker 64 is expected later this year, pending further development and community feedback.

CULTURE

Kono Oto Tomare! Manga to Conclude in Three Chapters

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

The manga series Kono Oto Tomare!: Sounds of Life will end after three chapters, the final chapter appearing in Shueisha's Jump SQ. magazine on September 4. The story follows Takezō, the sole remaining member of a traditional koto club, which faces termination if he cannot recruit new members. A delinquent student named Chika Kudō enters the clubroom and demands to join. Amyū announced the conclusion on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday. The series began in August 2012 in Jump SQ., and Shueisha released its 34th compiled volume on June 4. The manga inspired a television anime that aired on Tokyo MX, BS11, and WOWOW beginning in April 2019, running for two cours, and also led to a stage play staged from August to September 2019. The series' ending leaves the fate of the koto club unresolved.

CULTURE

Review of The Ogre's Bride Chapters 1-15

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

A review of the first fifteen chapters of the manga The Ogre's Bride was published on Anime News Network. The article provides a neutral assessment of the story and its artwork. The manga follows Yuzu, an 18‑year‑old high school student who endures physical and emotional abuse from her family, which favors her younger sister Karin. Karin is chosen as a Bride for Yota, a kitsune from a powerful ayakashi clan, while Yuzu runs away after an attack arranged by Karin and is taken in by Reiya, an ogre who recognizes her as his destined bride. The narrative operates on two levels: a Cinderella‑type romance and Yuzu’s journey toward self‑worth independent of the fated‑mate storyline. Supporting characters include Yuzu’s grandparents, who help detach her from her parents, and Toko, a bakeneko’s Bride who offers steady support. The antagonist, Karin, is portrayed as hostile and potentially dangerous. The reviewer assigned an overall grade of B+, with a story rating of B and an art rating of B+. Positives cited include the depiction of Yuzu’s personal recovery and the artwork. Drawbacks noted are the story’s traditional feel and unanswered world‑building questions. The review concludes that the series may develop further themes in later chapters.

CULTURE

Burger King Announces Dragon Ball Super Figure Partnership

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

Burger King announced on Friday via its Instagram account that it has partnered with the anime series Dragon Ball Super, revealing six collectible figures of characters from the franchise. Dragon Ball Super, a continuation of the Dragon Ball Z series, began with the 2013 film Battle of Gods and the 2015 film Resurrection "F", and has since produced two additional films, Broly (2018) and Super Hero (2022). The figures, which include Son Goku, Super Saiyan Blue Son Goku, Vegeta, Super Saiyan Blue Vegeta, Beerus, and Piccolo, are shown in a promotional post that reads “Your next power-up is closer than you think…”. As of press time, Burger King has not indicated when or how the figures will be made available to consumers. The announcement marks a crossover between fast‑food branding and the anime franchise, but no further details about distribution have been provided.

CULTURE

Lanterns Season 1 Episode 3 Explores John Stewart Origin in 1980s Flashback

55d ago · Source: ign

Lanterns Season 1 Episode 3, titled 'OutKast,' presents a nonlinear narrative that jumps from the 2026 timeline established in the pilot to a flashback set in the 1980s and 1990s. The episode details John Stewart's childhood, his relationship with his parents John Sr. and Bernadette, his military service, and his recruitment into the Green Lantern Corps. The series diverges from the source comics by creating an original origin story for Stewart, while retaining elements such as his mother's influence and oversight by the Guardians. The episode features performances by J. Alphonse Nicholson and Nicole Ari Parker, who portray Stewart's parents, and Aaron Pierre, who plays adult Stewart. Reviewers noted that the episode provides a detailed portrayal of Stewart's background. The episode also includes Easter eggs referencing Gray Wolf, a Batman Incorporated character, a Janus Cosmetics poster linking to the upcoming Clayface film, and a Kilowog sketch in Stewart's childhood room. It introduces Laura Linney as a human form of a Guardian of Oa. The storyline concludes with Stewart preparing for his role as a Green Lantern, leaving future developments unresolved.

CULTURE

Pokémon X Account Briefly Promoted Memecoin During 30th Anniversary

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

The official English X account of Pokémon briefly promoted a memecoin on Thursday, then deleted the post after the account was compromised for about 30 minutes.

The promotion appeared during the Pokémon 30th anniversary and was reported by Kotaku and IGN.

The Pokémon Company said the account had been accessed without authorization, that the posts were not created or approved by the company, and that the account had been secured while an investigation was underway. Fans joked that Team Rocket might have been responsible for the hack.

The incident highlights the vulnerability of high‑profile social media accounts and the need for stronger security, and the company has not issued further statements as of press time.

CULTURE

Fable Main Quest Estimated at 20 Hours, Playground Games Says

55d ago · Source: ign

Playground Games said the main quest of the upcoming Fable reboot will take about 20 hours to complete. Associate game directors Will Kennedy and Craig Littler provided the estimate during a Q&A with Polygon at Gamescom 2026. They said the game includes roughly 15 to 20 hours of mainline quest gameplay and the same amount of side and open‑world exploration content. The developers noted that players can continue playing indefinitely because the life systems are designed to be limitless. Compared with other open‑world RPGs such as Elden Ring, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, which reportedly require 50 hours or more for the main story, Fable’s main campaign is shorter. HowLongToBeat lists the original 2004 Fable at 12.5 hours, Fable 2 at 13 hours and Fable 3 at 13.5 hours. The new title is expected to exceed those times, potentially offering a campaign nearly twice as long as the first game. Completionist playtimes for the series range from about 30 hours in the first game to 50 hours in the second and third entries. Fable is scheduled for release on February 23, 2027 for PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and S. IGN observed a full quest demonstration at Gamescom 2026. The game was first announced in July 2020, six years after initial hints, and director Ralph Fulton said he is relieved that Grand Theft Auto 6 is not launching simultaneously. Freelance writer Michael Cripe reported the details for IGN.

CULTURE

The Expanse: Osiris Reborn Previewed at Gamescom 2026 Shows Faithful Adaptation

55d ago · Source: polygon

The Expanse: Osiris Reborn, a third‑person shooter set in James S.A. Corey’s universe, was previewed for 90 minutes at Gamescom 2026. The demo, played by a reporter, featured a custom character accompanied by an identical twin and a squad of misfit allies, operating on Ganymede station under a contract with the paramilitary group Pinkwater.

The game is set after the destruction of Eros Station and spans roughly 30 hours of play. Players cannot jump in zero‑gravity environments, reflecting the source material’s depiction of magnetized boots. Combat follows a cover‑based, squad‑tactical style similar to the original Mass Effect titles, requiring strategic positioning and responsive shooting.

The mission “Beetle in the Anthill” tasked players with obtaining an invoice via computer hacking and locating a container serial number before confronting a Protogen guard, demonstrating a non‑lethal, immersive‑sim approach. Detailed recreations of Ganymede’s agricultural domes and tunnel networks were shown, with references to the television series handled without overt commentary.

The demo concluded with a confrontation against a Hybrid enemy in an exploding tunnel, after which the player could choose to protect scientists and hack a terminal for escape. The game is scheduled for release in spring 2027 on PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X.

CULTURE

Paramount Games Considers Yellowstone and Lioness TV Franchises for Future Video Games

55d ago · Source: polygon

Paramount Games Studio announced at Summer Game Fest that it is evaluating video game adaptations of the Yellowstone and Lioness television series, as well as other Sheridan‑created franchises such as Landman and Tulsa King.

Paramount Games Studio, a newly formed division of Paramount, said it will prioritize adaptations of its flagship franchises, including Ninja Turtles, Star Trek, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and SpongeBob SquarePants, while also targeting the "Sheridanverse" of shows created by Taylor Sheridan.

In June, head of creative and production Shawn Kittelsen told Polygon that the studio is taking a measured approach to licensing, emphasizing the need to select partners who can faithfully represent the source material.

Kittelsen said the studio will not license properties indiscriminately, stating that it wants to "honor the relationship" with fans and avoid "spray and pray" tactics.

Kittelsen noted that the player's perspective should drive development decisions, meaning the studio will favor partners with proven track records in creating "classic" games.

Paramount Games has already partnered with PlatinumGames, the developer of Bayonetta, to work on an adaptation of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin, a project whose trailer revealed only a brief glimpse of a futuristic New York setting.

While no specifics have been disclosed about potential Yellowstone or Lioness video games, Kittelsen emphasized that the studio will be selective in choosing partners for those projects as well.

The timeline for any Yellowstone or Lioness video game remains undetermined, and it is unclear which developer might be tapped to create the titles.

CULTURE

Ned Luke Defends GTA 6 Amid Criticism of Similarity to GTA 5

55d ago · Source: ign

Ned Luke, the actor who voiced Michael De Santa in Grand Theft Auto V, said critics who claim that Grand Theft Auto VI looks too similar to GTA V are "out of their minds." He made the remarks while discussing the game's extended look released on Netflix in August 2026. Rockstar Games unveiled an extended preview of GTA VI that highlighted new side activities, missions, a revised wanted system and improved graphics, with the title slated for release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S on November 19 2026. Luke, who is not listed as a cast member in the new title, used his platform to rebut online criticism, collaborating with YouTube channels Partychat and House of Highlights and posting his comments on Twitter. In the preview footage, Luke noted that character movements now resemble natural human walks, a shift from the more mechanical animations of earlier titles. He said the technology has advanced significantly, making the visuals superior to those in GTA IV and to Red Dead Redemption 2. Luke also praised the introduction of the female protagonist Lucia, describing it as "huge" and rejecting claims that the inclusion reflects a push for "wokeness," noting that other female leads have appeared in the series before. Rockstar continues to plan additional content before the November 2026 launch, and IGN has published extensive coverage, including a preview, interview and a list of details observed during the extended look. The game remains pending release, and Rockstar has indicated further footage will be shared in the months ahead.

CULTURE

Star Wars and Jurassic Park VFX Legend Phil Tippett Closes Berkeley Studio and Auctions Memorabilia

55d ago · Source: ign

Phil Tippett, a 74‑year‑old visual effects supervisor known for his work on the original Star Wars trilogy, RoboCop, and Jurassic Park, announced his retirement and the closure of his Berkeley, California studio. Tippett Studio said it will continue operations from its Toronto location in Canada and that it is not out of business. Tippett began his career after seeing Ray Harryhausen’s The 7th Voyage of Sinbad as a child and has worked for more than four decades on films including Star Wars: A New Hope, Dragonslayer, Return of the Jedi, and Mad Mad. His stop‑motion animation contributed to the original Star Wars trilogy and to RoboCop and Jurassic Park. During his career he also directed the 2021 film Mad Mad. On August 30, Tippett posted an update on the studio’s official social media accounts, stating that the Berkeley facility is closed but the company continues its visual effects and animation work. The post said the studio is reducing its physical footprint because a large permanent studio is no longer required for its current projects, and that dedicated stages, motion‑control photography or other specialized infrastructure will be obtained through external partners as needed. The Toronto studio is currently in active production on a large feature film. The auction of memorabilia, props and stop‑motion models took place this weekend as part of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy liquidation, according to FilmStories. Items included stop‑motion models of AT‑AT walkers from The Empire Strikes Back, autographed posters from Jurassic World and The Mandalorian, and other collectibles. Tippett told Berkeleyside that he is retired from the industry and that his last major project was the Twilight film series, adding that he will keep his Academy Awards. His film credits include Starship Troopers, The Haunting, Dragonheart, Willow, Howard the Duck, RoboCop 2, and Mad Mad. The closure of the Berkeley studio ends a four‑decade involvement in stop‑motion and visual effects, and the company plans to rely on external facilities for any physical production requirements. Whether the Canadian operations can continue to support the studio’s visual effects work remains uncertain.

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Disney+ Adds New Titles and Live Events in September 2026

55d ago · Source: ign

Disney+ announced its September 2026 programming slate, adding new episodes of series, film premieres, live events and podcasts. The schedule begins September 1 with the finale of The Next Pro, a spin‑off of Dancing with the Stars, and includes weekly episodes of the ESPN podcasts The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny and the Brian Windhorst & The Hoop Collective Podcast. On September 2, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu premieres with a two‑episode podcast, accompanied by LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian and the podcast One Shot S1. September 3 brings new episodes of Project Runway season 22, Homicide Squad New Orleans season 3 and the podcasts The Domonique Foxworth Show and Paranormal State. Throughout the month, Disney+ adds episodes of Dancing with the Stars season 35, the final episode of Project Runway S22, and the series finale of Flex X Cop on September 22. The Marvel Halloween special “Spidey and the Avengers: Halloween Team‑Up!” arrives on September 25, and the 37th season of The Simpsons becomes available on September 27. Other additions include the film Kraven the Hunter (September 13), the series Made in Korea season 2, the documentary MonsterQuest seasons 3‑4, and the live‑streamed iHeartRadio Music Festival on September 18 and 19. Disney+ also offers live streams of the KeSPA Hanwha Life Invitational on September 20‑21, and a free trial of the service remains available through Hulu + Live TV. Pricing for the service remains at $11.99 per month, with a recent $2 increase applied to select bundled plans.

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Live-Action Wakako-zake Series Renewed for 10th Season, First Episodes Filmed in Australia

55d ago · Source: animenewsnetwork

BS TV Tokyo announced that the live-action Wakako-zake series will debut its 10th season next January, starring Rina Takeda. The series, adapted from Chie Shinkyū's manga about a 26-year-old woman who dines alone at bars, has aired 12-episode seasons since 2015, with the previous season premiering in July 2023. The first two episodes of the new season were shot at a beach resort on Queensland's Gold Coast, in cooperation with Tourism Australia, Tourism and Events Queensland, Experience Gold Coast and Qantas. Media Do released the manga's English digital edition in October 2018, and an anime adaptation starring Miyuki Sawashiro premiered in July 2015 on Crunchyroll. The live-action series' first season aired from January to March 2015, followed by subsequent seasons in 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2022, with the eighth season launching on January 8 2025 and the ninth on October 1 2025. The production's partnership with the Queensland tourism agencies marks the first overseas filming location for the franchise. The 10th season will premiere in January 2026, continuing the series' focus on solitary drinking experiences.

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Stargate 1994 Sci‑Fi Action Film Now Streaming Free on YouTube

55d ago · Source: polygon

Stargate, a 1994 science‑fi action film directed by Roland Emmerich, is now available for free on YouTube. James Spader plays Dr. Daniel Jackson, an Egyptologist, and Kurt Russell portrays Colonel Jack O'Neil, a Special Forces officer. The story follows the two characters as they activate an ancient portal that transports them to a distant world resembling ancient Egypt, where they encounter alien rulers posing as gods. Filming took place in Yuma, Arizona, where Emmerich used up to 1,500 extras for desert scenes, according to his recollection. The movie combined practical sets and miniatures with computer‑generated imagery, which has aged; some visual effects appear dated compared with modern standards. The film's premise inspired later productions, including Disney's Atlantis: The Lost Empire, and led to the television series Stargate SG‑1, which expanded the mythology over multiple seasons. YouTube now hosts the complete film at no cost, making it accessible to a wider audience. The movie's continued availability highlights its lasting presence in popular culture, though it never developed into a long‑running franchise.

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Discounts Available on Video Games, LEGO Sets, and Nintendo Switch 2 on August 30, 2026

55d ago · Source: ign

Various video game titles, LEGO sets, and a refurbished Nintendo Switch 2 console were on sale on Sunday, August 30, 2026 across multiple retailers. The promotions coincided with a weekend sales event and reflected ongoing discounts on physical media and hardware. The Jurassic World 4K collection of seven films was offered for $69.99 on 4K Blu-ray. Amazon listed the Dragon Quest I & II HD-2D Remake for $39.99, a price noted as one of the lowest since release. Amazon offered the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth physical edition for Nintendo Switch 2 at $34.99, which included an exclusive Magic: The Gathering card. Woot reported a discount on Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream. Target advertised Resident Evil Requiem for $53.99. Woot sold a refurbished Nintendo Switch 2 unit for $399.99, with the price noted as stable before an upcoming increase. Amazon sold the LEGO Star Wars 25th Anniversary Tantive IV set for $55.99. Best Buy provided a $30 discount on the PS5 version of Nioh 3, bringing the price to $39.99. Woot listed the physical copy of Breath of the Wild - Switch 2 Edition for $59.99. Amazon offered the LEGO Harry Potter Book Nook for $76.99, down from its regular price of $99.99. The Nintendo Switch 2 version of Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade was available for $29.99. The price and availability of these items may change as the sales period progresses.