Technology

Cast departures are a constant in Saturday Night Live's life cycle.

Every year, during the lead-up to a new season, SNL gets a shake-up as current cast members and writers leave the show. The lead-up to Season 51, premiering Oct. 4, is no different. As of Sept. 12, five cast members are confirmed to be exiting the show.

SEE ALSO: D23 2025: Every movie and series announced and shown at this year's fan event, so far

Here are the actors leaving SNL before Season 51.

Heidi Gardner Heidi Garnder on "SNL." Credit: Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

In her eight seasons on SNL, Heidi Gardner cemented herself as a key cast member. She could do it all, crafting memorable Weekend Update characters like teen film critic Bailey Gismert and "every boxer's girlfriend" Angel and stealing the show in sketches and digital shorts. Her role as Michael Jordan's bodyguard in a parody of The Last Dance documentary is one for the ages.

Throughout her time on the show, Gardner almost never broke character. However, in her penultimate season, she finally broke when greeted with Mikey Day and Ryan Gosling as Beavis and Butt-Head, a moment that soon became a Season 49 highlight.

While it's tough to lose a cast member as reliable as Gardner, Gardner herself hinted at her exit in February when she guested on Craig Ferguson's podcast Joy. "I will say the only thing that I’ve started to feel a little bit is just sketch fatigue, or idea fatigue,” she told Ferguson. “At this point, after doing Groundlings and SNL for so long, I’m like, 'I’ve written a lot of sketches.'"

Ego Nwodim Colin Jost, Ego Nwodim, and Michael Che on "SNL." Credit: Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

Ego Nwodim became a comedic force to be reckoned with in her seven-season stint on SNL. Her Lisa from Temecula character was an instant classic from the moment she started cutting into her well-done steak, and her stand-up alter ego "Miss Eggy" became a viral sensation thanks to her her call-and-response with SNL's live audience.

In an Instagram post about her exit in September, Nwodim confirmed it was her choice to leave the show, writing, "The hardest part of a great party is knowing when to say goodnight. But after seven unforgettable seasons, I have decided to leave SNL. I am immensely grateful to Lorne for the opportunity, to my castmates, the writers, and the crew for their brilliance, support, and friendship. Week after week on that stage taught me more than I could have ever imagined, and I will carry those memories (and that laughter) with me always."

Michael Longfellow Michael Longfellow and Colin Jost on "SNL." Credit: Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

Michael Longfellow joined SNL in Season 48, bringing his deadpan comedic stylings to a variety of sketches, but most notably to his Weekend Update segments. In his very first episode, he popped by the Weekend Update desk to crack jokes about conservative family members. Throughout his tenure, he'd return for memorable segments about everything from the TikTok ban to being a child of divorce.

In an August Instagram post announcing his departure from SNL, Longfellow wrote, "Will not be returning for a 4th season at SNL. Wish I was, but so it goes. It was the best three years of my life so far. I feel nothing but gratitude for the experience and everyone there. Lorne, you gave me the greatest job in the world and changed my life. You even put my mom on TV. Thank you doesn't begin to cover it, but thank you."

Devon Walker Michael Che and Devon Walker on "SNL." Credit: Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

Like Longfellow, Devon Walker became an SNL cast member in Season 48. He impersonated everyone from New York City Mayor Eric Adams to Michael Strahan, and he, along with fellow cast member James Austin Johnson, also gifted us with the ridiculous lactose-intolerant rappers Milly Pounds and Shirty.

Walker announced his exit on Instagram in August, writing, "me and the show did three years together, and sometimes it was really cool. Sometimes it was toxic as hell."

In an interview with Rolling Stone about his departure, Walker added, "I think I felt ready to leave the show, and I think the show felt ready to leave me. I was just ready to do something else. We both felt like it was time."

Emil Wakim Emil Wakim and Colin Jost on "SNL." Credit: Will Heath/NBC via Getty Images

Emil Wakim joined SNL as a featured cast member in Season 50, where he played figures like Julius Caesar, Mohammad bin Salman, and Luigi Mangione (as well as a Luigi Mangione look-alike getting "some of the horniest DMs of my life"). Wakim also made an impact on Weekend Update, where he appeared to discuss American patriotism and the 2024 election.

In an Instagram post in August about his exit from SNL, Wakim wrote, "I won’t be returning to SNL next year. It was a gut punch of a call to get, but I’m so grateful for my time there. I was at Six Flags celebrating my friend's 36th birthday and went on a really emotional walk through Bugs Bunny Park. I stared out across Daffy Duck Lake, thinking about life."

Happy Friday, gamers, because Nintendo just announced a bunch of new games and showed off trailers for titles that had been previously announced. We even got a teaser for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, the sequel to the popular animated Mario movie from 2023. (Remember "Peaches, Peaches, Peaches, Peaches, Peaches"? Of course you do.)

During a 60-minute Nintendo Direct livestream on Friday morning, the company showcased a large number of new games coming to Nintendo Switch and, for the most part, Switch 2.

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie

The Direct started with about 10 minutes of Mario announcements because it's the 40th anniversary of the original Super Mario Bros. Naturally, the video game stream started with a movie trailer. The sequel to the smash hit Super Mario Bros. movie is going to space, inspired by two of the best 3D Mario platformers ever. The movie comes out in Spring 2026.

Super Mario Galaxy 1+2 for Switch

Those two great 3D platformers that inspired the movie are also coming to Switch. Super Mario Galaxy and Super Mario Galaxy 2 are being sold separately for $40 each, and you can play them on either a Switch 1 or Switch 2. These are really delightful games and I'd highly recommend checking them out, especially if you or your little ones have never played them before. They're really great for kids. They come out on Oct. 2

Mario Tennis Fever

The first new game announcement in the show was Mario Tennis Fever, the latest in a long line of mostly very good arcade sports titles starring Mario and friends. This one looks like it has some fun new features, like special rackets that do wild things such as freeze the opponent's side of the court. It also has a story mode where all the characters have been turned into babies and need to re-learn how to play Tennis. Sure! This one comes out on Feb. 12.

Super Mario Bros. Wonder: Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

The last proper Mario platformer, Super Mario Bros. Wonder, is getting a paid Switch 2 upgrade next spring. The trailer focused a lot on party game-style multiplayer modes, but also promised new levels. More information on that front is apparently coming soon.

Yoshi and the Mysterious Book

Also coming next spring is Yoshi and the Mysterious Book, a new game starring everyone's favorite green egg-spewing dinosaur. It's got a cute storybook art style and the gameplay looks to revolve around experimenting with interesting little systemic interactions in colorful worlds. From the trailer, it seems like it'll be a good one for kids.

Storm Lancers

Storm Lancers is a cartoony, fast-paced co-op roguelike game that looks pretty hectic and fun. If it interests you at all, I have good news: It's out today!

Dinkum

Do you like Stardew Valley? Have you ever wished it was more Australian? It seems like that's exactly what Dinkum is. It comes out on Nov. 5 and is sure to please those of you who just want to run a little farm with kangaroos running around.

Popucom

Popucom is a cute-looking 3D co-op game about shooting colorful orbs to solve puzzles. It is multiplayer-only and launches this winter.

Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream

Launching in spring 2026, Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream sort of defies explanation. You create Miis based on you, your family, your friends, or anyone you like, really, and they live on an island together. They all talk using horrifying robotic voice synthesis, too, which is a huge part of the appeal. There isn't really an overall objective or a way to "win" Tomodachi Life. It's more like something you just check in on every now and then.

Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection

This collection kollection of classic 2D and early 3D Mortal Kombat games features faithful emulation and awesome-looking interactive documentaries featuring old footage of recording sessions and new interviews with some of the original MK creators. If you like Mortal Kombat, you should probably pick this up on Oct. 30.

Final Fantasy VII Remake: Intergrade

Final Fantasy VII Remake was an excellent game when it launched on PS4 in 2020, and will most likely continue to be excellent when it comes to Switch 2, complete with the Intergrade side story that originally launched with the PS5 port of the game, on Jan. 22.

Lynked: Banner of the Spark

Lynked has kind of a Saturday morning cartoon vibe to match its top-down action RPG gameplay. It also seems to include some life simulator elements, so there's a little bit of something for everyone here. It's out right now, too.

Hades II

Hades was an amazing video game. Hades II looks pretty great, too. The big news here is that it finally has a release date of Sept. 25, and it'll be console-exclusive to Switch 2 for a limited time.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment

This action game prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the KIngdom is visually impressive, fitting hundreds of enemies on screen while seemingly holding to a stable 60 frames per second. That's a pretty big deal considering how some other recent Zelda games ran on the original Switch. This one launches on Switch 2 on Nov. 6.

Dragon Quest VII: Reimagined

25 years after its original release on the PlayStation, Dragon Quest VII is back with a fully 3D remake on Switch 2. The new art style is...interesting. But if you like charming and straightforward turn-based RPGs, this will probably scratch that itch for you when it launches on Feb. 5.

The triumphant return of the Virtual Boy

By far the strangest announcement of the entire day was that Nintendo is putting Virtual Boy games on its Nintendo Switch Online classic games catalog. That'd be funny enough on its own, considering the Virtual Boy was a massive failure in the mid-90s that Nintendo gave up on after less than a year on the market. But where this gets really weird is that it will require a new peripheral based on the original Virtual Boy hardware, where you put your Switch display inside the casing and put your eyes up to it like a VR headset.

We'll see how well that works. Virtual Boy games will start coming to Switch Online on Feb. 17.

Fatal Frame II: Crimson Butterfly remake

Fatal Frame is a creepy series of Japanese horror games where you use a camera to spot ghosts, and the Switch 2 is getting a remake of the second game in early 2026. If you like really scary games, this one's for you.

Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of third-party games

Four different third-party games are getting Switch 2 Edition upgrades with various new features, like improved visuals, mouse support, and webcam support. These games are One Piece: Pirate Warriors 4, Overcooked 2, Stardew Valley, and Human Fall Flat.

one piece pirate warriors 4, overcooked 2, stardew, human fall flat

Powerwash Simulator 2

Do you find peace in doing chores? Great news! Powerwash Simulator 2 is launching this fall on Switch 2. It's a game where you powerwash stuff, and you have to be very thorough, just like in real life.

Suika Game Planet

Launching this winter is Suika Game Planet, a puzzle game about matching different types of fruit together. I've been told these games are very addictive, so if you like puzzle games, maybe give this one a look.

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

The big news here is that Metroid Prime 4 finally has a release date of Dec. 4. The second biggest news is that they gave Samus a freaking motorcycle. Just watch the trailer.

Donkey Kong Bananza DLC

One nice surprise is that Donkey Kong Bananza is getting paid $20 DLC and it's out today. There's a new mode where you smash as much stuff as you can within a time limit, picking up perks along the way. Looks neat!

Pokemon Pokopia

One of the day's more harrowing announcements is Pokemon Pokopia, launching on Switch 2 in 2026. You play as the Pokemon Ditto, who transforms into a creepy looking approximation of a human in order to start a farm. Yes, it's a farming game where you use Pokemon powers to grow grass, harvest plants, and more.

Pokemon Legends: Z-A DLC

The upcoming Pokemon Legends: Z-A is also getting paid post-launch DLC which involves a couple of cool-looking Mega Evolutions for Raichu, Pikachu's oft-forgotten evolved form. There's no release date for this yet.

Danganronpa 2x2

Danganronpa is a series of well-liked Japanese visual novel games, and the second one is getting a remake for Switch 2 with new story content. It's out in 2026.

Dynasty Warriors Origins

Dynasty Warriors Origins is a really fun game about killing hundreds of nameless goobers during China's Three Kingdoms era while shredding guitar music plays. This new version is coming to Switch 2 on Jan. 22, complete with new story DLC.

Monster Hunter Stories 3

Monster Hunter Stories 3 is the third in a series of turn-based monster-collecting RPGs spun off from the main Monster Hunter series. These games are super underrated, so I'll definitely be playing this when it launches on March 13.

Resident Evil Reqiuem

The newest game in the Resident Evil series launches on Switch 2 on Feb. 27. To go along with that, the last two games, Resident Evil VII and Resident Evil: Village are coming to Switch 2 on the same day. That's a big day for horror fans.

Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave

The big "one more thing" was a new game in the Fire Emblem series of tactical RPGs. This one looks like it has a sort of Roman-inspired setting, complete with a big coliseum hosting some kind of battle tournament. It launches in 2026.

Google is killing off its Weather app for Pixel smartwatches — and replacing it with a new Pixel Weather app.

For the original Weather app, it will be a slow death, however.

Any watch running Wear OS 6 — as well as any other OS moving forward — will no longer be able to download Google's built-in Weather app. If your smartwatch is running OS 5 or older, you can still download the app.

Chances are that if you're running OS 6 on your watch, then you can keep using the app, at least for the time being. But things do get a bit more complicated. Pixel watch owners running OS 6 and newer will eventually be migrated to the updated Pixel Weather app.

Google wrote in a blog about the news: "If you have a Pixel Watch on Wear OS 6 or newer: Your watch will automatically come with (or be upgraded to) the new Pixel Weather app. You don't need to do anything."

Other brands of Android smartwatches — Samsung, OnePlus, Mobvoi — running OS 6 or newer can keep using the Weather app if it's already installed.

So, no matter what, you'll be able to look at your wrist and see the forecast. It might just look different moving forward.

SAVE $120: As of Sept. 12, get the Bose QuietComfort headphones — as seen in season 3 of The Summer I Turned Pretty — for just $229. That saves you $120 off its usual $349 price for 34% in savings. You can shop this deal at both Amazon and Bose.

Opens in a new window Credit: Bose Bose QuietComfort headphones $229 at Amazon
$349 Save $120 Get Deal

Like everyone else, I'm sat for season 3 of The Summer I Turned Pretty on Prime Video. While I will not comment on if I'm joining in on the internet's collective swooning over Conrad Fisher, I will say this: He has great taste in headphones. As someone who tests tech for a living, I can't help but notice what gadgets are featured in my favorite shows, and in Season 3, Episode 2 of The Summer I Turned Pretty, I was thrilled to see Conrad Fisher wearing a pair of Bose QuietComfort headphones — which also happen to be on sale right now.

Not to brag, but Conrad and I both sport the Cypress Green Bose QuietComfort headphones. Credit: Samantha Mangino / Mashable

If you're going to forlornly listen to 'Mystery of Love' by Sufjan Stevens while pining after your brother's fiancé, the Bose Quiet Comfort headphones are a great pair of headphones to do so. These are my daily headphones too, I prefer them over the Bose QuietComfort Ultra, for their more intuitive controls. They're comfortable for all day wear and bring rich, well-rounded sound so you can capture every delicate notes of a Sufjan Stevens track.

Plus, right now, you can find Conrad Fisher's headphones for just $229, down from their usual price of $349. Get the Bose QuietComfort headphones at either Amazon or Bose for $120 off, part of Bose's 24-hour flash sale. Unfortunately, the green Bose QuietComfort headphones that actor Christopher Briney sports in TSITP, aren't available anymore, but you can find fun shades like Chilled Lilac or Twilight Blue for 34% off now.

Shop the Bose QuietComfort headphones as seen in The Summer I Turned Pretty for $120 off now at either Amazon or Bose.

It took mere hours for the internet to spin out on conspiracies about the murder of Charlie Kirk — who died yesterday after being shot at a public event in Utah — according to reports.

The far-right commentator, who often engaged in vitriolic debates about immigration, gun control, and abortion on college campuses, was killed while on a university tour with his conservative media group, Turning Point USA. The organization has spent the last decade building conservative youth coalitions at top universities and has become closely affiliated with the nationalist MAGA movement and President Trump. As early reports of the incident rolled in from both reputed news agencies and pop culture update accounts, it was unclear if Kirk was alive or if his shooter had been apprehended.

SEE ALSO: How to stop videos from autoplaying on X

But internet sleuths on both sides of the political aisle were already mounting for battle on social media, trying to identify the names of individuals in the crowd and attempting keyboard forensic science as they zoomed in closer and closer on the graphic video of Kirk being shot. Some alleged that Kirk's bodyguards were trading hand signals right before the shot rang out. Others claimed the killing was actually a cover-up to distract from Trump's unearthed communications with deceased sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

Exacerbating the matter were AI-powered chatbots, which have taken over social media platforms both as integrated robotic helpers and as AI spam accounts that automatically reply to exasperated users.

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In one example, according to media and misinformation watchdog NewsGuard, an X account named @AskPerplexity, seemingly affiliated with the AI company, told a user that its initial claim that Charlie Kirk had died was actually misinformation and that Kirk was alive. The reversal came after the user prompted the bot to explain how common sense gun reform could have saved Kirk's life. The response has been removed since NewsGuard's report was published.

"The Perplexity Bot account should not be confused with the Perplexity account," a Perplexity spokesperson clarified in a statement to Mashable. "Accurate AI is the core technology we are building and central to the experience in all of our products.  Because we take the topic so seriously, Perplexity never claims to be 100% accurate. But we do claim to be the only AI company working on it relentlessly as our core focus."

Elon Musk's AI bot, Grok, erroneously confirmed to a user that the video was an edited "meme" video, after claiming that Kirk had "faced tougher crowds" in the past and would "survive this one easily." The chatbot then doubled down, writing: "Charlie Kirk is debating, and effects make it look like he's 'shot' mid-sentence for comedic effect. No actual harm; he's fine and active as ever." Security experts said at the time that the videos were authentic.

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In other cases NewsGuard documented, users shared chatbot responses to confirm their own conspiracies, including those claiming his assassination was planned by foreign actors and that his death was a hit by Democrats. One user shared an AI-generated Google response that claimed Kirk was on a hit list of perceived Ukrainian enemies. Grok told yet another X user that CNN, NYT, and Fox News had all confirmed a registered Democrat was seen at the crime and was a confirmed suspect — none of that was true.

"The vast majority of the queries seeking information on this topic return high quality and accurate responses. This specific AI Overview violated our policies and we are taking action to address the issue,” a Google spokesperson told Mashable.

Mashable also reached out to Grok parent company xAI for comment.

Chatbots can't be trained as journalists

While AI assistants may be helpful for simple daily tasks — sending emails, making reservations, creating to-do lists — their weakness at reporting news is a liability for everyone, according to watchdogs and media leaders alike.

Algorithms don’t call for comment. - McKenzie Sadeghi, NewsGuard

"We live in troubled times, and how long will it be before an AI-distorted headline causes significant real world harm?" asked Deborah Turness, the CEO of BBC News and Current Affairs, in a blog from earlier this year.

One problem is that chatbots just repeat what they're told, according to the Newsguard report:

"The growing reliance on AI as a fact-checker during breaking news comes as major tech companies have scaled back investments in human fact-checkers, opting instead for community or AI-driven content moderation efforts.This shift leaves out the human element of calling local officials, checking firsthand documents and authenticating visuals, all verification tasks that AI cannot perform on its own."

Additionally, while chatbots offer personal, isolated interactions, they are notoriously sycophantic, doing everything they can to please and confirm the beliefs of the user.

"Our research has found that when reliable reporting lags, chatbots tend to provide confident but inaccurate answers," explained McKenzie Sadeghi, NewsGuard researcher and author of the aforementioned analysis. "During previous breaking news events, such as the assassination attempt against Donald Trump last year, chatbots would inform users that they did not have access to real-time, up-to-date information." But since then, she explained, AI companies have leveled up their bots, including affording them access to real-time news as it happens.

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"Instead of declining to answer, models now pull from whatever information is available online at the given moment, including low-engagement websites, social posts, and AI-generated content farms seeded by malign actors. As a result, chatbots repeat and validate false claims during high-risk, fast-moving events," she said. "Algorithms don’t call for comment."

Sadeghi explained that chatbots prioritize the loudest voices in the room, instead of the correct ones. Pieces of information that are more frequently repeated are granted consensus and authority by the bot's algorithm, "allowing falsehoods to drown out the limited available authoritative reporting."

The Brennan Center for Justice at NYU, a nonpartisan law and policy institute, also tracks AI's role in news gathering. The organization has raised similar alarms about the impact of generative AI on news literacy, including its role in empowering what is known as the "Liar's Dividend" — or the benefits gained by individuals who stoke confusion by claiming real information is false. Such "liars" contend that truth is impossible to determine because, as many now argue, any image or video can be created by generative AI.

Even with the inherent risks, more individuals have turned to generative AI for news as companies continue ingraining the tech into social media feeds and search engines. According to a Pew Research survey, individuals who encountered AI-generated search results were less likely to click on additional sources than those who used traditional search engines. Meanwhile, major tech companies have scaled back their human fact-checking teams in favor of community-monitored notes, despite widespread concerns about growing misinformation and AI's impact on news and politics. In July, X announced it was piloting a program that would allow chatbots to generate their own community notes.

SAVE 44%: As of Sept. 12, you can get the Bluetti Elite 100 V2 solar generator for $449, down from $799, at Amazon. That's a 44% discount and a $350 savings.

Bluetti Elite 100 V2 solar generator $799 at Amazon
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With fall just around the corner, prime camping season is officially here. The cooler weather and longer nights make a portable power station less of a luxury and more of a necessity for running lights, heaters, or just keeping your devices charged. If you’ve been getting by without a generator, now is the perfect time to invest in one.

As of Sept. 12, you can get the Bluetti Elite 100 V2 solar generator for $449, down from $799, at Amazon. That's a 44% discount and a $350 savings.

SEE ALSO: Amazon is giving away free Bluetti portable solar generators — here's how to qualify for the deal

This model has a 1024Wh battery and can power up to 11 devices at once with its four 1800W AC outlets. It even has a Power Lifting feature that can handle more demanding appliances up to 2700W, which is more than enough for an electric kettle or coffee maker at the campsite.

It’s also super portable. According to the manufacturer, this version is 35 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than previous models. It also weighs only 25.3 pounds and has a hidden handle, so you can easily grab it and go.

SAVE $40: As of Sept. 12, get the Anker 521 Portable Power Station for $159.99, down from its usual price of $199.99. That's a discount of 20% and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Anker 521 Portable Power Station $159.99 at Amazon
$199.99 Save $40 Get Deal

Whether you're going out camping, hitting the road for an adventure, or sitting at home without electricity thanks to a storm, a portable power station is always a good idea. If you're looking to add one to your home arsenal without having to pay too much, you can scoop up this Amazon offer now for its lowest price yet.

As of Sept. 12, get the Anker 521 Portable Power Station for $159.99, down from its usual price of $199.99. That's $40 off and a discount of 20%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

SEE ALSO: The Jackery Explorer 300 portable power station with a 100W solar panel is on sale at Amazon for under $300

This is an absolute unit of a portable power station. It uses an LiFePO4 battery to stay charged up for lengthy periods of time, which also means you get a guaranteed lifespan of about a decade with it. That's a lot of charging cycles. It's also made to be jostled around in your car or bag, so if you need to take it with you and leave it in your car, you can do that as well.

You can get it charged up from 0 to 80% battery in just 2.5 hours, so it's always ready to get going, even in an emergency. And it gives you six ports to choose from when needed, including two AC adapters, two USB-A, one USB-C, and a car outlet to juice up just about anything that needs it. It can handle anything from your phone or laptop to small appliances and even a portable heater if needed.

If you're ready to grab a portable power station, now's the time to do it. Be sure you snag yours while you still can.

As of Sept. 12, get the Anker 521 Portable Power Station for $159.99, down from its usual price of $199.99. That's $40 off and a discount of 20%. It's also the lowest price we've seaen.

SAVE $150: As of Sept. 12, the 10th generation Apple iPad with WiFi connectivity and 256GB of storage is back down to $349 at Amazon. That's 30% off its list price and matches its lowest price on record.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad, 10th generation (A14 chip, 256GB, WiFi) $349 at Amazon
$499 Save $150 Get Deal

The 10th generation Apple iPad may no longer be the latest and greatest base model in town, but don't count it out. The 2022 model is still a powerful pick in 2025 for anyone looking for a tablet on a budget. After a permanent price drop last year, it became an even more impressive buy. And it's just dropped to its lowest price on record (again).

As of Sept. 12, you can pick up the 10th generation Apple iPad with 256GB and WiFi connectivity for only $349 at Amazon. That's 30% off its list price and matches its best price ever, which it has been hanging out at on and off for a few weeks. The only catch? You'll have to get the pink model (the other colors are sold out at Amazon at the time of writing).

The 10th generation iPad packs an A14 Bionic chip, a 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, a landscape camera layout that makes video calls appear better, and upgraded stereo speakers for better sound quality. The base model usually starts at 64GB of storage, but this upgraded option comes with 256GB. That's plenty of space to download your favorite shows, movies, and music.

While the iPad Air and Pro are the best options for creatives seeking superior processing speeds, the entry-level iPad is perfect for someone who just wants a portable screen for streaming, playing games, or reading. As our friends at PCMag (also owned by Ziff Davis) noted in their review, "The base iPad remains an incredibly capable slate and a better choice than most other models in the same price range."

The sequel to 2023's smash hit The Super Mario Bros. Movie officially has a title: The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.

The title reveal came as part of Friday's Nintendo Direct, where Nintendo also revealed that the film was set for an Apr. 3, 2026 release.

SEE ALSO: 2025 fall movie preview: Every upcoming film you ought to know about

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is named after 2007's Super Mario Galaxy, the first Super Mario game to be released for Wii. A critical and commercial success, the game sends Mario to space in a quest to save Princess Peach from Bowser. There, he encounters the powerful Rosalina and the star-like Lumas whom she oversees. (Super Mario Galaxy's Lumalee already made his very glum, very funny debut in The Super Mario Bros. Movie.)

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie's title reveal teases Mario's journey to the final frontier. First, it guides us through a peaceful landscape of burrowing Monty Moles and swimming Cheep Cheeps before flying up Princess Peach's castle, through the clouds, and into space beyond. There, a Luma cheerfully announces, "Let's-a go!"

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie brings back The Super Mario Bros. Movie's star-studded voice cast, including Chris Pratt as Mario, Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach, Charlie Day as Luigi, Jack Black as Bowser, Keegan-Michael Key as Toad, and Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek. Announcement of additional characters and actors for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie will come at a later date. Who will be lending their voice to Rosalina? Which other characters can Super Mario fans expect in The Super Mario Galaxy Movie? And will the sequel cook up a bop as powerful as Bowser's "Peaches"?

The Super Mario Galaxy Movie hits theaters Apr. 3, 2026.

Gmail has a neat little feature for delivery tracking that you may have noticed before. At the top of the inbox, Google will show you packages that are set to arrive within the next 24 hours, a helpful feature for the forgetful. Google announced this week that it's improving that feature by adding a whole new section where you can view all of your online purchases, regardless of their shipping status. 

“We’re rolling out a new view that brings all your purchase and delivery updates together in one place,” said Chris Doan, Google’s Director of Gmail, in a blog post. “This will give you a bird’s eye view of all of your upcoming package deliveries in one simple, organized list.”

The way it works is fairly self-explanatory. Once the update reaches you, you’ll be able to open the left-side menu and find the new “Purchases” section. Clicking this section will show you only emails about your purchases and package shipments. From there, you can check each purchase or shipment as needed without worrying about clogging up the rest of your inbox. 

Credit: Google

Per Google, the existing package tracking features will remain, including the one that pins packages to the top of the inbox if they’re expected for delivery within the next 24 hours. 

In addition, Google is revamping its Promotions category in Gmail. This is a minor update, giving users the option to sort by “most relevant” promotional emails. Google doesn’t expressly state it, but it seems “most relevant” in this case means that the brands you engage with most often in your inbox will be filtered to the top, and the rest get filtered down. 

TL;DR: On Sept. 12, Dunkin’ is giving away free Sabrina Carpenter reusable cups with purchases of any daydream refresher (while supplies last).

Opens in a new window Credit: Dunkin' Free Sabrina Carpenter Reusable Cup with Daydream Refresher Learn More

Gather round Carpenters, because you need to stop what you're doing, cancel all your appointments, and head to your nearest Dunkin' right away. We're not joking around. This is serious.

Dunkin’ is giving away free Sabrina Carpenter reusable cups on Sept. 12. Yes, you read that correctly. Simply order any daydream refresher and get your special cup thrown in for free (while supplies last). Dunkin' announced the news on Instagram:

View this post on Instagram

Unfortunately, we can't find any information about participating stores at the moment. And we're seeing plenty of people raising this important question in the comments. It looks like you'll need to get lucky out there.

The refreshers are now available in three flavors:

• Mixed Berry

• Mango

• Strawberry

According to Dunkin', the daydream refreshers are made with oatmilk and topped with a velvety cold foam. Customers do have the option to customize their base and sweetness, but this doesn't really matter does it? It's all about that free Sabrina cup at the end of the day. The rest is immaterial.

SAVE 36%: The DJI Mic Mini bundle is on sale at Amazon for $109, on sale from the normal price of $169. That's a 36% discount and the best price we've ever seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: DJI DJI Mic Mini (2 TX, 1 RX, and Charging Case) $109 at Amazon
$169 Save $60 Get Deal

If you tune into YouTube or TikTok, your favorite content creators have been walking around all summer with a DJI Mic. They're everywhere. Clipped into a shirt of simply held up, the DJI Mic Mini has taken over social media, and it's for good reason given its functionality and features. If you've been eyeing the DJI for a mic upgrade, now is your change to get it for a record-low price.

As of Sept. 9, the DJI Mic Mini bundle is on sale for $109 at Amazon, marked down from the normal price of $169. That's a 36% discount that slashes $60 off the list price. That makes it the best price we've ever seen at Amazon.

DJI knows how to keep content creators happily streamlining content creation. While the brand's drones are top-notch, the DJI Mic Mini comes with everything anyone could want from a mic. This bundle includes two black transmitters, one DJI Mic Mini charging case, four windscreens, one DJI Mic Mini receiver, two magnetic clips for the transmitters, and plenty more.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Osmo 360 is coming to record your content in 8K

The DJI Mic Mini is small and ultralight, weighing only 10 grams. Each transmitter gets about 48 hours of battery life with the included charging case. A five-minute recharge earns you another hour of use. The maximum range reaches up to 400 meters (or 1,312 feet) so you have plenty of movement freedom with the DJI Mic Mini. You also get two levels of noise-cancelling which is another tick in the versatility column.

While it's in-stock and on sale for a new record-low price, upgrade your content creation with the raved DJI Mic Mini. For under $110, you'll be snagging the set-up every top-tier content creator uses. While following the trend isn't always recommended, this one checks out because the DJI Mic Mini is incredibly functional and perfect for all types of creators.

All the focus has been on Apple this week, but forget all about those new AirPods, Apple Watches, and iPhones, because it's time for the gamers to have their moment in the spotlight.

Nintendo has finally confirmed that there will be a Nintendo Direct livestream on Friday, Sept. 12 at 6 a.m. PT/9 a.m. ET. The only real information that Nintendo has provided is that it's going to feature "roughly 60 minutes of information on upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch games." That's not a whole lot of go off, but it's more than enough for us.

How to watch Nintendo Direct 2025

You can find the Nintendo Direct livestream on Nintendo's YouTube channel (or just keep this page bookmarked and check it out right above). So sit back, relax, and get ready for go time on Sept. 12.

TL;DR: Pakistan vs. Oman in the 2025 Asia Cup is available to live stream for free on Tamasha. Access this free streaming service from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 Asia Cup is delivering a massive matchup almost every day this month, which is fantastic news for fans of the T20 format. Pakistan vs. Oman is the next game on the schedule. Pakistan are heavy favorites here, and will expect to progress from Group A alongside India.

If you want to watch Pakistan vs. Oman in the 2025 Asia Cup for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

When is Pakistan vs. Oman?

Pakistan vs. Oman in the 2025 Asia Cup starts at 10:30 a.m. ET on Sept. 12. This game takes place at the Dubai International Stadium.

How to watch Pakistan vs. Oman for free

Pakistan vs. Oman in the 2025 Asia Cup is available to live stream for free on Tamasha.

Tamasha is geo-restricted to Pakistan, but anyone can access this free streaming platform with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in Pakistan, meaning you can unblock Tamasha from anywhere in the world.

Live stream Pakistan vs. Oman in the 2025 Asia Cup for free by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in Pakistan

4. Visit Tamasha

5. Live stream Pakistan vs. Oman for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but most do offer free trials or money-back guarantees. By taking advantage of these offers, you can watch the 2025 Asia Cup without actually spending anything. This obviously isn't a long-term solution, but it does give you plenty of time to watch the tournament for free.

If you want to retain permanent access to free streaming services from around the world, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for live streaming is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Tamasha?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for live streaming on free sites like Tamasha, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Pakistan

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is secure

• Fast connection speeds free from throttling

• Up to eight simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $139 and includes an extra four months for free — 61% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.95 (with money-back guarantee).

Live stream the 2025 Asia Cup for free with ExpressVPN.

GET NEW IPHONE FOR FREE: AT&T is offering up to $1,100 off any of the latest iPhones with an eligible iPhone trade-in (in any condition).

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Get the New iPhone 17 for $0 Save with eligible trade-in and qualifying unlimited plan Learn More

Apple has had a huge week, with new products announced across almost its entire range of devices at the Apple Event. We've got new AirPods, Apple Watches, and of course, iPhones. What a time to be alive.

Anyone invested in the Apple ecosystem should check out everything announced, because there's a lot to consider. But for those only interested in the iPhone 17, we can help sort you out with a special trade-in deal from AT&T. If you're interested in upgrading, mobile carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile are offering tempting deals, but the AT&T offer might be the best of the bunch.

New and existing customers can get up to $1,100 off any of the latest models with an eligible iPhone trade-in (in any condition). Yes, that's the full value of the iPhone 17 Pro. So with this special trade-in offer, you can effectively get your hands on the iPhone 17 Pro for free.

SEE ALSO: iPhone 17 vs. Pixel 10: Which phone has the better display, price, and specs?

We know you're looking for the catch, and this deal does come with a few caveats. You will need to pay tax on the full retail price and there's a pesky activation fee of $35 per line. Your credits also start within three bills and are applied in equal amounts over the installment term. We get that you could make the argument that this new iPhone isn't completely free, but we're quibbling over semantics here.

So is your iPhone eligible for this trade-in promotion? AT&T is accepting the iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max, and 16e. Anyone rocking a smartphone from the likes of Samsung, OnePlus, and Google can still be accepted if they have a trade-in value of $180 or more.

Like Seth Meyers and Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel opened his show on Thursday night by addressing the shooting of far-right influencer Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA who aimed to spread right-wing ideologies through school campuses. Kirk had built up a social media following in the tens of millions, and was a close ally of president Trump.

In the clip above the late night show host talks about the shooting before condemning the "extraordinarily vile responses" he's seen "from both sides of the political spectrum," highlighting Trump's words about the "radical left".

"You'd think with all these terrible things happening our president would at least make an attempt to bring us together, but he didn't," says Kimmel. "Instead he blamed Democrats for their rhetoric. The man who told a crowd of supporters that maybe the second amendment people should do something about Hilary Clinton, the man who said he wouldn't mind if someone shot through the fake news media, the man who unleashed a mob on the Capitol and said Liz Cheney should face nine barrels shooting at her for supporting his opponent, blames the radical left for their rhetoric."

Apple launched its new Watches – the Apple Watch Series 11, Apple Watch Ultra 3, and Apple Watch SE 3 – earlier this week, but one important feature came with a asterisk.

The Hypertension Notification feature, available on Apple Watch Series 11 and Apple Watch Ultra 3, uses an optical sensor and machine learning to track and monitor signs of hypertension over a period of time. If high blood pressure is detected, the user will be nudged to check it out.

The only potential issue? At the time, Apple didn't have FDA clearance to launch the feature.

Now, we can report that that's been all sorted out. On Friday, Apple announced that the Hypertension Notification has been cleared by the FDA.

The delay wasn't a huge deal given that the new watches aren't available yet. Now, Apple says the feature will be available next week in more than 150 countries and regions around the world, including the U.S.

SEE ALSO: Apple is adding four new watch faces with watchOS 26

The cool news is that you don't really need the latest hardware to get these notifications; it comes with watchOS 26, and some of the older Watch models are supported, too. According to Apple, Hypertension Notification feature is available on Apple Watch Series 9 or later, as well as Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later.

The Baltimorons is new to theaters, and by Entertainment Editor Kristy Puchko's estimation, it's "the feel-good movie of 2025."

This endearing indie comedy stars Michael Strassner as an improv comedian who's having a really rough Christmas Eve when he meets a no-nonsense dentist (Liz Larsen) who changes everything. Strassner not only stars in the film as Baltimore local Cliff Cashen, but also co-wrote The Baltimorons with director Jay Duplass.

To celebrate the film's theatrical release, Mashable invited Duplass and Strassner to our Say More studio to embrace the improv fun and Baltimore roots of the movie with a special round of Say Action. In this game, players get a famous movie quote and a direction for delivering it. And as you'll see as these two comedy collaborators face off, the results are very funny.

Quotes from When Harry Met Sally, Terminator, and Scarface get a re-interpretation you'll never see coming. Who did it best? Sound off in comments.

And be sure to catch The Baltimorons. In her review, Puchko cheered, "The Baltimorons is an absolute gem. Deftly modern and smartly self-aware, it's not only one of the best things I saw out of SXSW, but assuredly one of the best films of 2025."

The Baltimorons is now playing in theaters nationwide.

Don’t miss out on our latest stories: Add Mashable as a trusted news source in Google.

Pokémon Legends: Z-A is the next big step for the series. It takes us back to Kalos, but not in the way you might remember. The game is set entirely in Lumiose City, which is undergoing a massive redevelopment project, and it plays very differently from any mainline Pokémon title before it.

Real-time battles replace the traditional turn-based system, Wild Zones take over as the main exploration areas, and Mega Evolution finally makes its comeback. With the release date set for Oct. 16, 2025, here’s everything you need to know about how it works, which Megas are confirmed, and what preorder bonuses you can expect.

Release date, platforms, and editions

The wait ends on Oct. 16, 2025, when Pokémon Legends: Z-A launches worldwide. The game will be available on both Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2, with an enhanced edition that runs better on the new hardware. Nintendo is even bundling the game with a Switch 2 console if you want to upgrade.

• Pokémon Legends: Z-A Physical Edition (Nintendo Switch) — $59.99

• Pokémon Legends: Z-A Physical Edition (Nintendo Switch 2) — $69.99

• Pokémon Legends: Z-A Digital Edition (Nintendo Switch 2) — $69.99

• Pokémon Legends: Z-A + Nintendo Switch 2 — $499.99

Preorder bonuses

If you preorder Pokémon Legends: Z-A, you’ll get a few extras to give you a head start. The most important one is a Mystery Gift Ralts that comes holding a Gardevoirite Stone, which means you can Mega Evolve Gardevoir much earlier than normal.

SEE ALSO: 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Mirror Edition' comes to PS5 and Xbox Series X: Release date and price info

Digital preorders also come with a bonus of 100 Poké Balls, which is handy for filling your Pokédex in the early hours, although you’ll need to redeem them before Feb. 28, 2026. Depending on where you buy, some retailers are also offering small collectibles such as pins, figurines, or tote bags.

Confirmed Mega Evolutions

Mega Evolution is officially back in Pokémon Legends: Z-A, and it works a little differently this time. Instead of being permanent for the rest of the battle, Megas are powered by a Mega Gauge that fills as you deal damage. Once activated, the transformation only lasts for a limited time, although keeping up the pressure can extend it.

Many familiar Mega Evolutions from Pokémon X/Y and Omega Ruby/Alpha Sapphire are returning, including Mega Charizard X and Y, Mega Kangaskhan, Mega Ampharos, Mega Gardevoir, Mega Sableye, Mega Altaria, Mega Absol, and Mega Lucario. On top of that, Game Freak is adding brand-new Mega forms.

Mega Victreebel is a monstrous plant with even stronger trapping abilities, while Mega Hawlucha bulks up into a powerhouse that emphasizes aerial combat. Mega Dragonite has taken design cues from Dragonair, giving it a sleeker but more powerful look. And Mega Malamar was revealed with a glowing, brain-enhanced form that amplifies its psychic and hypnotic abilities.

How the game works

This is not the same Pokémon structure you might be used to. Instead of a sprawling region with gyms, the entire game takes place within Lumiose City. The developers have carved the city into distinct Wild Zones that act as enclosed habitats where wild Pokémon roam. During the day, you can explore these areas, complete quests, and work on your Pokédex. At night, the city becomes much more dangerous, as Z-A Royale battles open up and trainers roam the streets looking for fights.

Combat itself is completely real-time. Each Pokémon’s moves run on cooldown timers instead of PP, so you need to think about timing and positioning. Trainers can move around freely, dodge attacks, and swap Pokémon mid-battle, which makes every fight more dynamic. Alpha Pokémon return as oversized, aggressive wild encounters that feel more like boss fights, and Rogue Mega Pokémon sometimes appear as even tougher challenges.

SEE ALSO: Where to buy Pokémon cards in 2025 — avoid overpaying or missing out on new sets

The ranking system ties directly into these night battles. Everyone starts at Rank Z and can climb all the way to Rank A by competing in promotion battles. Completing side quests and bonus missions also helps you climb the ladder, which makes exploring every part of the city worth your time.

Progression is tied to your Rotom Phone Pokédex, which tracks catches, habitats, and evolutions. You’ll also be collecting Mega Shards throughout the city, which can be traded for Mega Stones at specialized shops like the Stone Emporium. Each Wild Zone also has its own crown system that rewards you for completing the local Pokédex in that area.

Strategy tips

Getting started in Pokémon Legends: Z-A can be overwhelming, especially with all the new mechanics. A good rule of thumb is to stay mobile, since dodging and positioning can be just as important as which move you use. You’ll also want to manage your cooldowns carefully. If you fire off all your strongest moves back-to-back, you might find yourself waiting helplessly while enemies close in.

It’s smart to use the daytime to farm items and prepare your team, then take on the riskier Royale battles at night once you’re ready. A balanced team is essential, so make sure your party covers multiple weaknesses before heading into trainer duels. And finally, prioritize unlocking Mega Evolutions as soon as you can. Getting a Mega-ready Gardevoir or Charizard early can completely change the flow of tougher fights.

Where to buy 'Borderlands 4' Buy for PC Borderlands 4 $69.99 at Fanatical Shop Now Buy for PS5 Borderlands 4 $69.99 at Amazon Shop Now Buy for Xbox Borderlands 4 $69.99 at Amazon Shop Now Buy for Switch 2 Borderlands 4 $69.99 at Amazon Shop Now

Borderlands 4 is finally here. After six years of waiting, Gearbox has returned with a looter-shooter that reimagines the series while staying true to its chaotic roots. This time, the fight moves to the fractured planet Kairos, where four brand-new Vault Hunters take center stage.

If you’re jumping in today, you’ll want to know which Vault Hunter suits your playstyle, how to make the most of your first playthrough, and how to set yourself up for the grind that comes after the credits roll. This guide covers all of that in detail.

SEE ALSO: 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Mirror Edition' comes to PS5 and Xbox Series X: Release date and price info Best Vault Hunter builds at launch

Each of the four new Vault Hunters has distinct strengths, but not all builds are equal at level one. Here’s how to get the most out of each character from the start:

Vex — The Siren (Minion / Elemental Hybrid)

Vex blends classic Siren magic with summonable allies. Her ghost cat Trouble and spectral clones make her a hybrid between DPS and pet class.

Best Early Build:

• Skill Tree: Here Comes Trouble

• Key Skills: Yowl and Bay (buffs Trouble), Grave Command (cooldown reduction), Spectral Bond (clone synergy).

• Weapons: Elemental SMGs (Maliwan, Tediore) and fast-firing pistols.

• Playstyle: Summon Trouble early in fights to tank enemies, then rotate between elemental SMG bursts and melee finishers. Keep cycling summons to stay mobile.

Why play Vex: She’s highly adaptable, great for players who like to experiment with builds, and one of the best solo Hunters thanks to her pets acting as distractions.

Rafa — The Exo-Soldier (Ranged DPS / Melee Hybrid)

Rafa is the easiest Vault Hunter for new players to pick up. His Overdrive boosts speed and damage whenever you trigger a skill, encouraging nonstop aggression.

Best Early Build:

• Skill Tree: Remote Agent

• Key Skills: Critical Matrix (crit bonuses), Cannonade (buffs Peacebreaker cannons), Reload Rush (speed + cooldown resets).

• Weapons: Assault rifles (Dahl, Vladof) and SMGs with crit perks.

• Playstyle: Open fights by deploying cannons, then swap to rapid-fire ARs to shred enemies while Overdrive is active. Use dash skills to close gaps when ammo runs low.

Why play Rafa: Beginner-friendly, fast-paced, and the best raw DPS at launch. He’s ideal for co-op players who want to carry damage output.

Amon — The ForgeKnight (Tank / Crowd Control)

Amon is a bruiser built for players who like to get up close and personal. His Forgeskill changes depending on your active ability, giving him flexible defense and offense.

Best Early Build:

• Skill Tree: Vengeance

• Key Skills: Fuel the Forge (regens armor), Unbreakable Will (damage resistance), Cryo Shatter (enhanced cryo AoE).

• Weapons: Cryo shotguns, rocket launchers, heavy melee weapons.

• Playstyle: Soak damage, build armor, then unleash AoE knockbacks with Cryo skills. His Rocket Punch is great for clearing space in co-op.

Why play Amon: Extremely durable and one of the strongest solo Hunters. Perfect if you want to survive anything and keep the frontline clear.

Harlowe — The Gravitar (Support / AoE Disruptor)

Harlowe manipulates gravity to link enemies and shield allies. She’s the definition of a co-op Vault Hunter but can still hold her own with AoE disruption.

Best Early Build:

• Skill Tree: Cosmic Brilliance

• Key Skills: Entangled Resonance (damage spreads across linked enemies), Flux Generator (overshields + Cryo damage), Zero Point (enemy stasis trap).

• Weapons: Radiation pistols and Cryo SMGs.

• Playstyle: Open with Entanglement, lock down priority targets with Zero Point, and overshield allies with Flux Generator. Keep a Radiation sidearm for AoE synergy.

Why play Harlowe: The ultimate co-op character. She makes every squad better and can completely shut down enemy groups.

Best picks by playstyle

• Solo play: Vex or Amon

• Co-op: Harlowe

• Highest DPS: Rafa

• Most customizable: Vex

Top playthrough tips for Borderlands 4

The first run through Kairos can feel overwhelming, especially with all the new systems. Here are some tips to make your first playthrough smoother:

1. Explore every corner — The open-zone design hides loot caches, dynamic quests, and secret minibosses. Exploring fully pays off with rare drops early.

2. Master new movement — Double-jumps, wall climbs, and grappling hooks are lifesavers in boss fights. Practice chaining them to dodge and reposition.

3. Craft hybrid weapons ASAP — Use the Licensed Parts system early. Even basic weapons become powerful when customized with crit barrels or elemental cores.

4. Farm public events — Dynamic quests like loot caravans and mini-boss invasions drop above-average gear. Great for mid-game power spikes.

5. Balance your squad — In co-op, mix DPS (Rafa), tank (Amon), and support (Harlowe). With instanced loot, everyone gets rewarded.

How to prepare for endgame content

Finishing the story is just the beginning. The endgame in Borderlands 4 is designed around constant loot upgrades and team challenges.

Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode

Unlocked after completing the campaign. Enemies are smarter, tougher, and drop better loot. Builds that rely on survivability (Amon) or scaling damage (Vex) excel here.

Invincible Bosses

Multi-phase raid encounters with exclusive loot. You’ll need a well-geared squad, especially if tackling them on higher difficulty. Solo is possible with Amon or minion-heavy Vex builds, but it’s risky.

Weekly Rotations

Vendors like Maurice’s Black Market rotate rare items weekly, while limited-time bounty events add new loot pools. Keep checking back after resets.

Vault Cards and Seasonal Play

Progression tracks tied to cosmetic rewards, XP boosts, and unique gear. Completing seasonal challenges ensures you stay ahead of the loot curve.

Endgame Prep Tips:

• Don’t hoard legendaries — swap when better rolls drop.

• Farm Cryo and Radiation weapons for endgame synergy.

• Prioritize survivability passives in your first endgame build.

• Join co-op raids early — instanced loot makes group farming efficient.

Where to buy Borderlands 4

If you’re ready to jump in today, Borderlands 4 is available both digitally and physically across all major platforms. As usual, there are multiple editions to choose from depending on how much extra content you want. Just to note, the Switch 2 edition releases October 3:

• Standard Edition — $69.99 (PC) (PlayStation 5) (Xbox) (Switch 2)
  Includes the base game and the preorder bonus Gilded Glory Pack (skins + golden weapon skin).

• Deluxe Edition — $86.99 $99.99 (PC)
  Includes the base game, Gilded Glory Pack, 4 Bounty Packs, and the Firehawk’s Fury weapon skin.

• Super Deluxe Edition — $129.99 (PC) (PlayStation 5) (Xbox)
  Includes everything above plus 2 major story expansions and the Ornate Order cosmetic pack.

If you’re just starting out, the Standard Edition gives you the full experience. The Deluxe and Super Deluxe editions are best if you know you’ll want to keep playing for the long haul, since they include DLC and cosmetic extras.