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SAVE $100: As of Aug. 28, shop the Apple iPad Mini for just $399. That's $100 off of its standard $499 price tag for 20% savings.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple iPad Min (A17 Pro, 128GB, WiFi) $399 at Amazon
$499 Save $100 Get Deal

Most tablets these days come with 11-inch screens. And that's not to say we're complaining — it's the happy medium that's not as big as a laptop but still provides a plentiful viewing area for streaming. But if you want to use your tablet to read, that 11-inch size is going to cause a lot of wrist strain; it can just feel too big. Enter the iPad Mini.

As of Aug. 28, get the Apple iPad Mini with A17 chip and 128GB of storage for just $399. That saves $100 off of its $499 price tag for 20% in savings. Get it now at Amazon.

SEE ALSO: The 11-inch iPad Air is back down to its lowest price ever

If you're interested in an e-reader but want a device that can do a bit more, Apple's iPad Mini strikes the right balance of size and ability. With a Liquid Retina display it streams in gorgeous vivid colors, but at 8.3 inches, it's not too big if you're holding it up for hours at a time.

It's our favorite tablet alternative to an e-reader, as you're able to access the Kindle Store and Libby apps. We have heard some complaints that the iPad Mini's screen has a bit of glare; if that's the case, we recommend grabbing a screen cover that provides a matte look.

SAVE $32: An annual subscription to New York Times Games is on sale for $18, down from the standard price of $50 per year. That's a 64% discount.

Opens in a new window Credit: New York Times Games Annual subscription to New York Times Games $18 at The New York Times
$50 Save $32 Get Deal

As if we need more bad news in 2025, The New York Times has taken away one of life's simple joys — the daily Mini crossword puzzle is no longer free to play. Wonderful. Terrific. This is totally fine and we're all thriving (deep breath). The internet rightfully thinks this is a terrible change to our morning routine. The Mini crossword now joins everything else that requires a subscription. While the loss of a free daily game is sad, there's a semi-bright light if you want to pay to play.

As of Aug. 28, an annual subscription to New York Times Games is on sale for $18, marked down from the usual price of $50. That's a 64% discount that takes $32 off the annual price.

Not to belittle the annoyance of the Mini now coming with a price, but once we consider the enjoyment to cost ratio, this annual subscription isn't the worst deal on the Internet. At $18 for one year of games, that works out to $1.50 per month, or just five cents per day on a month with 30 days. If you truly get joy from the daily Mini, maybe it's worth gifting yourself this deal?

SEE ALSO: Apple TV+ just got more expensive. Again.

The New York Times Games subscription gives you access to every daily game, including the Mini, the full-size New York Times Daily crossword, Wordle, Connections, Tiles, Strands, Sudoku, and more. Some of these are currently free to play, but there's no telling when they'll meet the fate of the beloved Mini and turn into a paid-access game.

The New York Times Games subscription also lets you head into the games archives and play over 10,000 old games. The archive includes Daily puzzles that date as far back as 1993 and Minis that go back to 2014. You can also keep tabs on your performance, comparing your Mini times to how you did yesterday or last month. With the subscription, you can play New York Times Games via the Games app on your phone or via an Internet browser.

No one asked for this in 2025, but hey, five cents per day isn't too much to pay for joy considering the price of...everything these days.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

Samsung users can now talk to Copilot on their TVs.

Microsoft teamed up with Samsung to bring Copilot to select TVs and monitors for discovering what to watch and more. Copilot is now available as a voice assistant app on Samsung's 2025 lineup of TVs and monitors. For TVs that includes Micro RGB, Neo QLED, OLED, The Frame Pro and for monitors, the M7, M8, and M9 models.

SEE ALSO: What is a Copilot+ PC? Everything to know about these AI laptops.

When you click on the Copilot app, you'll see an animated blob that you can talk to when you activate the microphone on your Samsung remote. Microsoft lists a few different examples of how you can use Copilot for finding shows and movies to watch, with visuals of title cards and details.

You can get hyper-specific, like asking Copilot to find cooking shows under two hours, spoiler-free recaps of what you've watched up to the latest episode, or challenge Copilot to find something that all the viewers can agree on. For instance, maybe your group wants to watch something like a rom-com with sci-fi and thriller elements. You could ask Copilot to recommend some options that check all those boxes. (perhaps Her or Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind?) Microsoft says you can also ask Copilot for IMDB-esque deep-dives on actors or directors or just ask Copilot general questions like the weather forecast or... to cheer you up after a breakup. Although, if you're asking your TV for emotional support, it might be time to touch grass or check in with a human friend.

Emotional attachment aside, injecting AI in TVs is a natural fit in many ways. Generative AI has proven to be a useful tool for sourcing information. Google has also been working on integrating AI into various hardware beyond phones and computers. Earlier this year, they announced Gemini for Google TV and Android Auto for cars.

It's the end of days for one of the main features that differentiated Android from iOS for so many years.

Namely, the ability to sideload apps from unverified developers working outside the official Play Store is going away. Google explained the decision in a blog post, which mostly boiled down to wanting to ensure that every Android app developer is verified as not being a malicious actor, regardless of where their apps come from. Many Android users have held the ability to install unverified apps in great regard for a long time because it's something that's a whole lot harder to do on iOS, and gives users a lot more freedom in what they do with their devices.

SEE ALSO: 7 rumored iPhone 17 features Android already has

But, it seems like Android is done being the mobile operating system for those kinds of people. According to Google, developer verification is no different than getting your ID checked at the airport. That may very well be the case, and it's possible that plenty of these apps will find ways to get verified under the new rules. But it's also true that this was a massive difference between Android and iOS, arguably one of the most noteworthy ones for several years.

It feels a bit like when the National League adopted the designated hitter rule in baseball a few years ago. Logically, it makes at least a little bit of sense, but sentimentally, it's a bummer for two competing operating systems to become more and more homogeneous in how they work.

SAVE $115.55: As of Aug. 28, get the Bose TV Speaker Soundbar for $163.45 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $279. That's a discount of 41% and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Bose TV Speaker Soundbar $163.45 at Amazon
$279 Save $115.55 Get Deal

Football season is upon us. Do you have a home theater system that's ready to bring the house down? A slew of new movies and TV shows are also right around the corner in the coming months. If your setup isn't exactly ready in the audio department, a great soundbar is an excellent solution. Thanks to this Amazon deal, you can secure a good one at the best price we've seen so far.

As of Aug. 28, get the Bose TV Speaker Soundbar for $163.45 at Amazon, down from its usual price of $279. That's $155.55 off and a discount of 41%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

SEE ALSO: The best soundbars for upgrading your home entertainment

This entry-level soundbar is already extremely affordable when not on sale, and it's a great option for anyone new to the soundbar game. It offers deep, satisfying bass with its two angled full-range drivers, as well as balanced highs and mids and spatial audio that helps keep you in the middle of the action. It can also help to enhance dialogue so you're not constantly adjusting the volume to try to hear what everyone is saying.

You can connect up to three devices to the unit or even pair your phone with it to use it as a Bluetooth speaker. It's compact enough to fit with your TV setup at just over two inches tall, so it can go wherever you need it to. Plus, it has a simple remote control that's intuitive and easy to figure out so you aren't stuck fiddling with setup for too long and can just jump right into the audio action.

It's a good time to upgrade your audio/visual setup this season, so take advantage of this excellent Bose soundbar deal while it lasts.

SAVE $150: The Google Pixel Tablet (128GB, porcelain) is on sale at Amazon for $249, down from the normal price of $399. That's a 38% discount and the lowest we've ever seen at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Google Google Pixel Tablet (128GB, porcelain) $249 at Amazon
$399 Save $150 Get Deal

We have tons of new TV shows dropping in the next few weeks and months. There's The Great British Bake Off starting next week, a new season of Only Murders in the Building on the way, and Season 2 of Fallout coming in mid-December. Will you be streaming these from your tiny phone screen while squinting? They deserve a better and bigger stage, and for that, you might want a tablet. If you're in need, check out this rare deal at Amazon.

As of Aug. 28, the Google Pixel Tablet (128GB, porcelain) is on sale for $249 at Amazon, marked down from the standard list price of $399. That works out to a savings of $150 from a 38% discount. And that turns out to be the lowest price we've ever spotted at Amazon, so long as you're cool with the porcelain colorway.

With an 11-inch screen and 128GB of storage, the Google Pixel Tablet is an awesome companion for streaming shows from the couch. It can also be an ideal option for students since the 27Wh battery can get about 12 hours of video streaming before it needs a recharge. That means it should last all day for taking lecture notes and joining group meetings with video chat.

SEE ALSO: Google says the Pixel 10 Pro has world's best phone camera. I tested it against the S25 Ultra and found a clear winner.

Another useful feature of the Google Pixel Tablet is the split-screen function. With this, you can view two screens in a side-by-side configuration. The four speakers are also great for video chats, rewatching lectures, or streaming Sunday afternoon football.

If you have other Google Home devices, you can use the Pixel Tablet to control settings like turning off lights, checking on the video doorbell live view, or adjusting your home's temperature.

While it's down to a record-low price, upgrade to the Google Pixel Tablet. It's just under $250 at Amazon, and it'll make upcoming fall shows and games that much better.

WhatsApp has released a new feature that lets you use AI to rephrase your messages or give them a different tone.

The feature, called Writing Help, can rephrase your message, or give it a different tone; for example, it can make it sound more professional, funny, or supportive.

To try it out, start typing in a message on WhatsApp, tap the icon to the right of the text, and then tap the pencil icon in the menu that opens up below your message. From there, you'll be able to choose what you want the AI to do with your message, and select from a couple of options on offer.

Meta says it's using its Private Processing tech, meaning the AI can do all this without Meta or WhatsApp ever reading your message (or the AI's suggestions).

The feature is only available in English, and in the United States as well as "several other countries," WhatsApp said in a blog post. The company says it hopes to bring it to other languages and countries "later this year."

SEE ALSO: Here's why you're about to see more ads on WhatsApp

As for why you'd want this, that's a little tougher to answer. My guess is that the people who will get the most out of it are those who don't have perfect command of the English language. As for the AI actually improving your sense of humor...well, based on the examples WhatsApp has provided, good luck with that.

Where to buy 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 — Mirror Edition' Buy for PlayStation 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 — Mirror Edition' (PS5) $59.99 Shop Now Buy for Xbox 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 — Mirror Edition' (Xbox Series X|S) $59.99 Shop Now Buy for PC 'Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Deluxe Edition' (PC, Steam) $51.29 (save $8.70) Shop Now

The surprise hit of 2025 is already getting a collector’s re-issue, but this time at a friendlier price point. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 captured critics and players earlier this year with its dark fantasy Belle Époque setting, and now the Mirror Edition offers fans a second chance at a special physical release.

The Mirror Edition is an Amazon exclusive priced at $59.99 and available for preorder now for both PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Inside the box, you’ll find the full base game on disc, an exclusive Renoir-themed tuckbox, a SteelBook case featuring Verso and Alicia, and three randomly selected character art cards out of a possible ten designs.

SEE ALSO: 'Gears of War: Reloaded' comes to PS5: Release date and price info

Right now, the placeholder release date is Dec. 31, 2025, but that’s more of a safety net than a real marker. Most expect it to launch before the end of the year.

This package is being pitched as a more approachable alternative to the game’s premium Collector’s Edition, which sold out quickly despite its hefty $150 price tag. That version came with DLC outfits, an artbook, a different SteelBook, and even a Monolith Music Box statuette. The Mirror Edition pares things back, but keeps the essentials for fans who just want a tangible keepsake.

Reactions from the community are a little mixed, though. Many welcome the affordable price point, but others aren’t thrilled about the randomized character cards. The main points of view on the mirror edition is it's either a glorified lootbox or a bargain, make of that what you will.

Still, for anyone who missed out the first time, the Mirror Edition is a compelling option. After all, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 isn’t just another RPG — it’s a critical darling from indie studio Sandfall Interactive, which sold 3.3 million copies in just 33 days and even drew praise from French President Emmanuel Macron for its creativity. With turn-based combat spiced up by real-time dodges, parries, and QTEs, it’s been hailed as one of the most immersive RPGs of the year.

The Mirror Edition of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is available to preorder now for $59.99 on PS5 and Xbox Series X, exclusively through Amazon. Just don’t get too attached to any one character card — you might have to hunt it down later.

Gameplay mechanics: Where turn-based meets real-time flair

Clair Obscur blends traditional turn-based RPG structure with real-time, reactive elements in a beautifully hybrid system. Combat unfolds from a third-person perspective: on your turn, you choose actions like basic melee attacks (to build Ability Points), ranged attacks (with free-aim mechanics), unique Skills (often tied to flashy Quick-Time Events), or item usage.

SEE ALSO: 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater' comes to PC, Xbox and PS5: Release date and price info

Defensive play is equally nuanced. On the enemy’s turn, you can dodge, parry, or jump in real time to evade damage — parrying is more demanding but rewards you with Ability Points and counterattack opportunities. You also manage a stamina system that lets you "Break" enemies, temporarily stunning them to create strategic openings.

The game introduces more advanced options like Gradient Attacks, Counters, and Skills, powered by a shared gauge that fills up through combat actions. Meanwhile, status effects, enemy weak points, and elemental weaknesses lend strategic depth and variety.

Each of the six playable characters brings distinct mechanics and playstyles:

• Lune crafts elemental “Stains” to empower spells.

• Maelle shifts through combat Stances to change offense‑defense balance.

• Sciel stacks and consumes "Foretell" using magical cards for massive blowouts.

• Gustave and Verso scale in power the more they attack, with Verso especially gaining "Perfection" ranks.

• Monoco can shapeshift into enemies and use their abilities — enhanced via his "Bestial Wheel"

Outside of combat, players can rest at camps, upgrade gear, bond with characters to unlock side content, and explore levels with hidden collectibles and optional bosses. Travel between zones is made possible by a mythical creature, Esquie, who gains new traversal abilities over time .

What does it feel like?

At its core, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is a fascinating blend of old-school RPG structure and modern responsiveness. Battles play out turn by turn, but every choice carries a real-time element: dodging, parrying, and timing attacks can shift the tide of a fight. It’s as if Final Fantasy collided with Sekiro and Paper Mario — a mix of cinematic spectacle and hands-on skill. Each of the six playable characters has a distinct rhythm, from Lune’s elemental spellwork to Sciel’s tarot-like “Foretell” abilities, keeping combat fresh as you experiment with party compositions and strategies.

Install size: A lean package

Unlike many modern games that balloon past 100 GB, Clair Obscur is pleasantly compact:

• PlayStation 5: ~41.3 GB

• Xbox Series X/S: ~42.7 GB 

• PC (Microsoft Store/Steam): ~41.0 GB 

The good news is that all this ambition doesn’t come with a bloated install size. On PS5 and PC, the game weighs in at just over 41GB, with Xbox Series X/S pushing it closer to 43GB — compact compared to most modern RPGs. And while its painterly Belle Époque world might remind some of Greedfall or even Bloodborne in mood, its narrative and party dynamics have earned comparisons to Baldur’s Gate 3. It’s stylish, it’s layered, and above all, it’s one of those rare RPGs that manages to feel familiar and groundbreaking at the same time.

The best PS5 game deals right now 'Persona 3 Reload: Standard Edition' $20 (save $49.99) Shop Now 'Metaphor: ReFantazio Launch Edition' $40 (save $20.99) Shop Now 'Lies of P' $29.99 (save $20) Shop Now 'Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 – Standard Edition' $34.97 (save $15.02) Get Deal 'Black Myth: Wukong' $57.99 (save $7) Shop Now

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to bulk up your PS5 library without emptying your wallet, today’s price cuts might be exactly what you were looking for. 

PS5 consoles may be going up in price, but several major PlayStation 5 titles — ranging from brand-new releases to critically acclaimed remakes — have dropped to either their lowest prices ever or their lowest in months. From Atlus RPGs to Soulslike action, these discounts make it a good week to treat yourself to something new.

'Persona 3 Reload' Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Persona 3 Reload: Standard Edition' $20 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $49.99 Get Deal Why we like it

One of Mashable’s picks for the best games of 2024, Persona 3 Reload is a ground-up remake that finally gives the cult classic its due. This updated version takes everything groundbreaking about the 2006 original — from its demon-fusing combat to its social simulation elements — and rebuilds it with modern visuals, new voice acting, and fresh gameplay systems that bring it in line with Persona 5. 

The result is the perfect mix of nostalgia and accessibility, and at just $20 with a whopping 71% taken off its price, it’s possibly the best RPG bargain you’ll find this year. If you’ve been curious about the roots of Atlus’ most beloved series, this is the time to jump in.

'Metaphor: ReFantazio' Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Metaphor: ReFantazio' $40 at Amazon
$69.99 Save $29.99 Get Deal Why we like it

In our review, Mashable called Metaphor: ReFantazio “the Final Fantasy XV I’ve always wanted” — and it’s easy to see why. Built by the core creative team behind Persona 5, Atlus’ newest RPG keeps the stylish turn-based combat and social mechanics fans love but transplants them into a richly imagined fantasy kingdom. 

With its deep “Archetype” class system, clever blend of real-time and turn-based combat, and a sprawling road-trip narrative that feels more alive than Square Enix’s attempt at the same idea, Metaphor nails what it sets out to do. At 43% off, this early price drop makes one of 2024’s standout RPGs an even easier recommendation.

'Lies of P' Opens in a new window Credit: Fireshine Games 'Lies of P' $29.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal Why we like it

In Mashable’s roundup of the best games of 2023, Lies of P stood tall among giants, praised for being more than just another Soulslike. This gothic reimagining of Pinocchio blends the punishing combat formula popularised by FromSoftware with a twisted, Belle Époque aesthetic that feels fresh and memorable. 

Its weapon-crafting system and branching narrative give players plenty of reasons to replay, while its difficulty strikes the right balance between challenging and fair. Down all the way to $29.99, it’s an excellent entry point for anyone looking for a dark, atmospheric action RPG without paying full price.

'Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4' Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox 'Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4 – Standard Edition' $34.97 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $15.02 Get Deal Why we like it

When we covered its release date announcement earlier this year, this remake of Pro Skater 3 and 4 promised to replicate “everything that made the originals a hit — tight controls, iconic levels, and a stacked soundtrack — while adding new tricks and expanded online multiplayer”. 

And that’s exactly what Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 delivers. Developed with direct input from Tony Hawk himself, the game captures the kinetic flow that made the franchise legendary while updating it with modern polish and cross-platform play. At $34.97, you’re essentially paying just over $17 per game for two of the greatest skateboarding titles ever made — a deal any skater or nostalgia-driven gamer shouldn’t pass up.

'Black Myth: Wukong' Opens in a new window Credit: PM Studios 'Black Myth: Wukong' $57.99 at Amazon
$64.99 Save $7.00 Get Deal Why we like it 

Mashable’s in-progress review of Black Myth: Wukong described this hit game as “nothing short of a mind-blowing experience” and “a genuine game-of-the-year contender” despite some technical hiccups. 

Inspired by Journey to the West, this visually stunning action RPG combines cinematic wuxia-inspired combat with Soulslike elements, throwing players into unforgettable boss encounters. While some performance issues linger, especially on PC, the PS5 version runs smoothly enough to let its dazzling art direction and fluid combat shine. 

At $57.99, it’s only a modest discount, but given the hype surrounding Black Myth: Wukong, even a small break on price is worth taking.

The best bits from the Amazon Halloween Shop Best indoor Halloween decoration Lego Ideas Hocus Pocus The Sanderson Sister's Cottage $229.99 Shop Now Best outdoor Halloween decoration DINESIL Life Size Posable Skeleton with Dog Skeleton $36.89 (save $4.01) Shop Now Best Halloween costume Fun Costumes Glinda the Good Witch Wizard of Oz Costume $79.99 Shop Now Best Halloween candy Hershey Miniatures Assorted Flavored $16.17 (save $1.31) Shop Now

There's a slight chill in the air right now, and you know what that means... Halloween is right around the corner. If you don't want to wait for October to kickstart spooky season celebrations (and we don't blame you), Amazon's here to help you get in the spirit of the season early.

The retailer has just launched its Halloween Shop, which is filled with some exciting goodies for shoppers to score this year. These range from indoor and outdoor decorations, a wide variety of costumes, and the most important pickup of the Halloween season: candy.

With so many options to consider, we wanted to gather up just a few of our favorite picks from each category that are worth grabbing for Halloween this year. Whether you're looking for a funny posable skeleton to set up in your front yard or simply want a big bag of candy to keep to yourself, there's plenty to explore. Check out our favorites from Amazon's Halloween shop below.

Best indoor Halloween decoration Opens in a new window Credit: Lego Lego Ideas Hocus Pocus The Sanderson Sister's Cottage $229.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Why we like it

Lego sets are always a worthy investment (personally, I'm a very big fan), and this build of the Sanderson Sister's cottage from Hocus Pocus is sure to put a spell on you this spooky season. Coming in at 2,316 pieces, this detailed set of the cottage also includes six minifigures of Winifred, Sarah, and Mary Sanderson, alongside Max, Dani, Allison, and a little Thackery Binx cat figure to complete the set. Piece it together while watching the film for a truly bewitching night on Halloween.

Below you can see more of our favorite indoor Halloween decorations from Amazon's Halloween Shop, from Halloween lantern string lights to pillow covers and so much more.

More indoor Halloween decorations

• FestalMart LED Marquee Light up Letters "BOO" Sign — $22.99

• CAMIRUS Two-Pack 36-inch Posable Skeleton Halloween Decorations — $25.99

• Franco Collectibles Beetlejuice Halloween Sandworm Decorative Pillow — $28.99

• TIGOMOOV Halloween Lantern String Lights — $12.99

• LaZimnInc BOO Wall Sign — $7.99

• JXZYGMD 12x20 Ghost Pillow Cover — $6.99

• ULCH Hocus Pocus Book of Spells Decor — $23.49

• STAUB Ceramic 2-pc Petite Pumpkin Cocotte Set — $64.95 $69.99 (save $5.04)

• Ryangic Halloween Decorations Indoor Haunted House — $18.99

Best outdoor Halloween decoration Opens in a new window Credit: DINESIL DINESIL Life Size Posable Skeleton with Dog Skeleton $36.89 at Amazon
$40.99 Save $4.10 Shop Now Why we like it

Sure, Home Depot may have the 12-foot-tall skeleton to display in your front yard, but if you're looking for something that won't tower over your house this year, Amazon has an excellent alternative. Its Halloween Shop is offering a 5.4-foot posable skeleton that's even walking its own little skeleton dog. Take that, "Skelly"! These are a funny outdoor decoration to set up ahead of Halloween, and this skeleton display is even enjoying a nice little discount right now, so there's no better time to get it.

There's plenty more where this skeleton came from, though. Check out more of our favorite outdoor Halloween decorations from Amazon's Halloween Shop below, including a spider web decoration and some orange Halloween lights.

More outdoor Halloween decorations

• COCHIE Halloween Garden Flag Outdoor Decoration — $9.99

• OCATO 200-inch Halloween Spider Web + 59-inch Giant Spider Decoration — $13.11 $29.99 (save $16.88)

• ZPISF 1400 sqft Halloween Spider Webs Decorations with 150 Extra Fake Spiders — $7.99

• AYGXU Large Standing Ghost Lights Two-Pack — $35.99 $41.99 (save $6)

• KOOPER Four-Pack Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights — $37.99 $42.99 (save $5)

• FUNPENY 3FT Halloween Collapsible Pumpkin Decorations — $29.99 $39.99 (save $10)

• kemooie 500 LED Orange Halloween Lights — $19.89 $21.99 (save $2.10)

• JOYIN Halloween Decoration Outdoor Zombie Groundbreaker — $25.99 $41.99 (save $16)

• GOOSH 5FT Halloween Inflatables Ghost Outdoor Decorations — $21.99 $38.99 (save $17)

Best Halloween costumes Opens in a new window Credit: Fun Costumes Fun Costumes Glinda the Good Witch Wizard of Oz Costume for Adults $79.99 at Amazon
Shop Now Why we like it

Amazon's Halloween Shop boasts a wide variety of costumes for checking out, but this adult costume of Glinda the Good Witch from The Wizard of Oz immediately caught our eye. With Wicked: For Good on the horizon, it feels like a perfect pairing for Halloween season. And while this costume is specifically for adults, there are plenty of options for kids to enjoy as well.

Below we've brought together a few more of our favorite costumes from Amazon's Halloween Shop for trick-or-treaters of all ages.

More Halloween costumes

• Rubie's Child's Wizard of Oz Wicked Witch of The West Costume — $24.99 $34.99 (save $10)

• Disguise Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Skellington Costume for Kids — $30 $34.99 (save $4.99)

• Rubie's Super DC Heroes Wonder Woman Costume for Kids — $24.17 $44.99 (save $20.82)

• Disguise Link Classic Costume, Large for Kids — $26.13

• Rubie's Girl's M3gan Costume Dress — $39.51 $44.99 (save $5.48)

• Disguise Disney Toy Story 4 Rex Inflatable Adult Costume — $79

• Disguise Men's Mr. Incredible Classic Muscle Adult Costume — $50.57 $89.99 (save $39.42)

• Rubie's Boy's DC Batman: The Batman Movie Deluxe Costume — $48.35

• Spirit Halloween Bluey Toddler Bingo Costume — $39.99

Best Halloween candy Opens in a new window Credit: HERSHEY'S Hershey Miniatures Assorted Flavored $16.17 at Amazon
$17.48 Save $1.31 Get Deal Why we like it

One of the best parts of Halloween is the candy, and Amazon's Halloween Shop has a big selection of bulk bags to choose from. It's hard to beat a classic chocolate assortment bag, and this selection from Hershey's is a worthy pickup. It comes with 115 mini pieces, including a classic Hershey's chocolate bar, Kit Kat, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, Milk Duds, Rolo, and Whoppers.

If you're not as big into the chocolatey bags, there are several other options to choose from. From Airheads to Sour Patch Kids to the classic Brach's Candy Corn, you can see more of our favorite Halloween candy from Amazon's Halloween Shop below.

More Halloween candy

• Brach's Classic Candy Corn Trick or Treat Packs, 60 Mini Pouches — $14.99

• Butterfinger, Tic Tac Chewy and Co Assorted Halloween Chocolate Candy, 70 pieces — $16.18

• SOUR PATCH KIDS Original & Watermelon Halloween Candy Variety Pack, 40 Trick or Treat Bags — $5.87 $6.49 (save $0.62)

• HARIBO, JOLLY RANCHER and TWIZZLERS Assorted Fruit Flavored, Halloween Candy Bag (70 Pieces) — $15

• SKITTLES Original, Assorted Bulk Candy Variety Pack — $9.96

• JOLLY RANCHER Assorted Fruit Flavored Hard Candy Bulk Bag, Halloween Candy — $13.28

• Airheads Candy Bars, Variety Bulk Box — $9.84

• Butterfinger, CRUNCH, Baby Ruth, 100 Grand Fun Size Assorted Candy Bars, Bulk 40 Count Pack — $10.99

• REESE'S Assorted Flavored Snack Size Peanut Butter, Halloween Candy Bag (55 Pieces) — $20.18

TL;DR: Live stream Popyrin vs. Sinner in the 2025 US Open for free on 9Now. Access this free streaming platform from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

The 2025 US Open action continues with some stellar second-round matchups, including Popyrin vs. Sinner. And better yet, fans can live stream this game without spending anything.

If you want to watch Popyrin vs. Sinner in the 2025 US Open for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

How to watch Popyrin vs. Sinner for free

Popyrin vs. Sinner in the 2025 US Open is available to live stream for free on 9Now.

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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 leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2025 US Open before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for 9Now?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to stream live sport, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries including Australia

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Pips is the newest game in the New York Times catalogue. Released in August 2025, the new game puts a unique spin on dominoes, creating a fun single-player experience that could become your next daily gaming habit.

Currently, if you're stuck, the game only offers to reveal the entire puzzle, forcing you to move onto the next difficulty level and start over. However, we have you covered! Below are piecemeal answers that will serve as hints so that you can find your way through each difficulty level.

How to play Pips

If you've ever played dominoes, you'll have a passing familiarity for how Pips is played. Like dominoes, the tiles are placed vertically or horizontally and connect with each other. The main difference between a traditional game of dominoes and Pips is the color-coded conditions you have to address. The touching tiles don't necessarily have to match.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 28, 2025

The conditions you have to meet are specific to the color-coded spaces. For example, if it provides a single number, every side of a tile in that space must add up to the number provided. It is possible – and common – for only half a tile to be within a color-coded space.

Here are common examples you'll run into across the difficulty levels:

• Number: All the pips in this space must add up to the number.

• Equal: Every domino half in this space must be the same number of pips.

• Not Equal: Every domino half in this space must have a completely different number of pips.

• Less than: Every domino half in this space must add up to less than the number.

• Greater than: Every domino half in this space must add up to more than the number.

If an area does not have any color coding, it means there are no conditions on the portions of dominoes within those spaces.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for August 28, 2025 Easy difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 28

Equal (4): The domino halves in this space must be 4. The answer is 4-4, placed vertically; 4-2, placed vertically.

Number (17): Everything in this space must add up to 17. The answer is 4-2, placed vertically; 5-5, placed horizontally; 5-1, placed horizontally.

Medium difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 28

Number (12): Everything in this space must add up to 12. The answer is 4-6, placed horizontally; 6-1, placed vertically.

Equal (1): The domino halves in this space must be 1. The answer is 6-1, placed vertically; 1-1, placed vertically; 4-1, placed horizontally.

Number (17): Everything in this space must add up to 17. The answer is 2-4, placed vertically; 5-4, placed horizontally; 4-1, placed horizontally.

Hard difficulty hints, answers for Aug. 28

Equal (1): The domino halves in this purple space must be 1. The answer is 1-1, placed vertically.

Number (17): Everything in this dark blue space must add up to 17. The answer is 6-6, placed vertically; 5-1, placed vertically.

Number (1): Everything in this red space must add up to 1. The answer is 5-1, placed vertically.

Number (9): Everything in this green space must add up to 9. The answer is 5-4, placed vertically.

Greater than (1): Everything in this red space must add up to more than 1. The answer is 3-2, placed vertically.

Number (7): Everything in this light blue space must add up to 7. The answer is 2-0, placed vertically; 3-0, placed horizontally; 2-6, placed vertically.

Less than (2): Everything in this space must add up to less than 2. The answer is 1-0, placed horizontally.

Number (0): Everything in this purple space must add up to 0. The answer is 3-0, placed horizontally.

Number (6): Everything in this space must add up to 6. The answer is 2-6, placed vertically.

Number (0): Everything in this dark blue space must add up to 0. The answer is 0-0, placed horizontally.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Connections is the one of the most popular New York Times word games that's captured the public's attention. The game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier—so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for today's Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections?

The NYT's latest daily word game has become a social media hit. The Times credits associate puzzle editor Wyna Liu with helping to create the new word game and bringing it to the publications' Games section. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake—players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for August 4 Here's a hint for today's Connections categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Where one could get caught

• Green: Needed for a hot drink

• Blue: Solid

• Purple: Found on a computer

Featured Video For You Connections: How to play and how to win Here are today's Connections categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Places to get trapped

• Green: Used for tea

• Blue: Associated with hardness

• Purple: Ending with keyboard keys

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections #810 is...

What is the answer to Connections today

• Places to get trapped: NET, SNARE, TANGLE, WEB

• Used for tea: CUP, KETTLE, TEABAG, WATER

• Associated with hardness: DIAMOND, NAILS, ROCK, STEEL

• Ending with keyboard keys: CANTAB, CYBERSPACE, ICECAPS, MAKESHIFT

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 27, 2025

Are you also playing NYT Strands?

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

If you're reading this, you're looking for a little help playing Strands, the New York Times' elevated word-search game.

Strands requires the player to perform a twist on the classic word search. Words can be made from linked letters — up, down, left, right, or diagonal, but words can also change direction, resulting in quirky shapes and patterns. Every single letter in the grid will be part of an answer. There's always a theme linking every solution, along with the "spangram," a special, word or phrase that sums up that day's theme, and spans the entire grid horizontally or vertically.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

By providing an opaque hint and not providing the word list, Strands creates a brain-teasing game that takes a little longer to play than its other games, like Wordle and Connections.

If you're feeling stuck or just don't have 10 or more minutes to figure out today's puzzle, we've got all the NYT Strands hints for today's puzzle you need to progress at your preferrined pace.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for August 4 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for August 4 NYT Strands hint for today’s theme: Do go on...

The words are personality-related.

Today’s NYT Strands theme plainly explained

These words are ways to describe chatty people.

NYT Strands spangram hint: Is it vertical or horizontal?

Today's NYT Strands spangram is horizontal.

NYT Strands spangram answer today

Today's spangram is Chatterbox.

Featured Video For You Strands 101: How to win NYT’s latest word game NYT Strands word list for August 27

• Talkative

• Verbose

• Loquacious

• Chatterbox

• Voluble

• Gabby

Looking for other daily online games? Mashable's Games page has more hints, and if you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now!

Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Strands.

Oh hey there! If you're here, it must be time for Wordle. As always, we're serving up our daily hints and tips to help you figure out today's answer.

If you just want to be told today's word, you can jump to the bottom of this article for today's Wordle solution revealed. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable SEE ALSO: NYT Connections today: Hints and answers for August 4 Where did Wordle come from?

Originally created by engineer Josh Wardle as a gift for his partner, Wordle rapidly spread to become an international phenomenon, with thousands of people around the globe playing every day. Alternate Wordle versions created by fans also sprang up, including battle royale Squabble, music identification game Heardle, and variations like Dordle and Quordle that make you guess multiple words at once. 

Wordle eventually became so popular that it was purchased by the New York Times, and TikTok creators even livestream themselves playing.

What's the best Wordle starting word?

The best Wordle starting word is the one that speaks to you. But if you prefer to be strategic in your approach, we have a few ideas to help you pick a word that might help you find the solution faster. One tip is to select a word that includes at least two different vowels, plus some common consonants like S, T, R, or N.

What happened to the Wordle archive?

The entire archive of past Wordle puzzles was originally available for anyone to enjoy whenever they felt like it, but it was later taken down, with the website's creator stating it was done at the request of the New York Times. However, the New York Times then rolled out its own Wordle Archive, available only to NYT Games subscribers.

Is Wordle getting harder?

It might feel like Wordle is getting harder, but it actually isn't any more difficult than when it first began. You can turn on Wordle's Hard Mode if you're after more of a challenge, though.

SEE ALSO: NYT's The Mini crossword answers for August 4, 2025 Here's a subtle hint for today's Wordle answer:

Cut (in half).

Does today's Wordle answer have a double letter?

There are no recurring letters.

Today's Wordle is a 5-letter word that starts with...

Today's Wordle starts with the letter S.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. The Wordle answer today is...

Get your last guesses in now, because it's your final chance to solve today's Wordle before we reveal the solution.

Drumroll please!

The solution to today's Wordle is...

SPLIT.

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be a new Wordle for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for August 4

Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg contributed to this article.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Wordle.

SAVE $700: As of Aug. 28, get the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor for $899.99, down from its usual price of $1,599.99. That's a discount of 44% and the lowest price we've seen.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor $899.99 at Amazon
$1,599.99 Save $700 Get Deal

Big games call for big screens, and if you're thinking you might want to upgrade your gaming setup with something a little more substantial, now's the time to do it. You can score a massive beast of a gaming monitor for a fraction of its usual price over at Amazon right now. And we're not kidding — it's huge.

As of Aug. 28, get the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor at Amazon for $899.99, down from its usual price of $1,599.99. That's $700 off and a discount of 44%. It's also the lowest price we've seen.

SEE ALSO: These Nintendo Switch 2 games have already dropped to insane prices

This curved, super-ultra-wide, 46-inch screen does more than crisply display your games — it turns them into an experience. Its QD-OLED tech ensures a vivid picture with deep black tones and bright hues that pop. It boasts Dual QHD resolution (5120 x 1440) across its huge 32:9 screen, as well as a 144Hz refresh rate and 0.02ms response time. That should make for an incredibly smooth gaming experience. And thanks to both G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro compatibility, you should see less screen tearing, lag, or stuttering.

This display is meant to game on for long periods of time as well, so you don't have to worry if your matches run long or if you need to clock lengthy training periods for your burgeoning esports career. Samsung thought about that, too, incorporating burn-in protection, thermal modulation to reduce excess heat, and Picture-in-Picture mode so you can divert your attention to multiple things.

If you're ready to make a big leap in terms of the tech on your gaming desk, this is a great pick. Just be sure to snag it before it disappears.

Update — Aug. 28: Mega Evolution will be delayed to Oct. 10 in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This delay will not affect the U.S. launch

Pokémon TCG is closing out Scarlet and Violet with one of its biggest expansions yet. Mega Evolution releases on Sept. 26, 2025, and it’s set to kick off an entirely new block focused on Mega Evolution ex cards. Fans have been waiting for Megas to return for years, and this set finally delivers with new mechanics, new rarities, and some of the flashiest card designs we’ve seen in a long time.

This expansion is stacked with over 180 cards, including 10 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex like Mega Lucario ex, Mega Gardevoir ex, and Mega Venusaur ex. These cards are powerful, but there’s a tradeoff: knock one out and your opponent takes three prize cards. It adds a high-risk, high-reward layer to deck building, and it’s going to shake up how games play out. Collectors also have plenty to chase with new Illustration Rares, Special Illustration Rares, and the debut of Mega Ultra Rare (MUR) gold cards.

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

With prerelease events starting mid-September and product officially dropping at the end of the month, preorders are already live. The big-box retailers like Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Best Buy are charging near MSRP, while the secondary market on TCGPlayer gives us a real sense of what the community thinks the set is worth. Let’s look at how prices compare across each retailer so you can preorder smart.

Mega Evolution TCGPlayer preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

TCGPlayer is always worth checking first. It’s the secondary market hub for trading card games and tracks live pricing across singles and sealed products. Since sellers compete directly here, TCGPlayer often ends up being the cheapest option once big-box listings inflate.

• Mega Evolution Enhanced Booster Box

• Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box — Mega Gardevoir

• Mega Evolution Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box - Mega Gardevoir

• Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box — Mega Lucario

• Mega Evolution Pokémon Center Elite Trainer Box - Mega Lucario

• Mega Evolution Booster Bundle

• Mega Evolution Sleeved Booster Pack

• Mega Evolution 3 Pack Blister

• Mega Evolution Build & Battle Box

• Mega Evolution Premium Checklane Blister

• Mega Heroes Mini Tin

Mega Evolution Amazon preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Amazon has preorder listings for Mega Evolution, but as usual you may have to pay extra for the convenience. Usually Amazon price their Pokémon TCG preorders at MSRP, but these prices are all but guaranteed to balloon once Mega Evolutions drops. Be savvy, check other retailers (especially TCGPlayer) and remember that Amazon isn't the only competitive online retailer.

• Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Enhanced Booster Display Box

• Pokemon TCG Mega Evolutions Elite Trainer Box (one selected at random)

• Pokémon TCG: Mega Evolution Booster Bundle

• Pokemon TCG: Mega Evolutions Mega Heroes Mini Tin Display (10 Tins)

• Pokémon TCG: Mega Battle Deck — Mega Gengar ex/Mega Diancie ex

• Pokémon TCG: Mega Latias ex Box

Mega Evolution Best Buy preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Best Buy briefly opened preorders for Mega Evolution, and they sold out fast. That’s been the case with recent expansions, so if you missed out, don’t worry too much. If they restock closer to release, pricing will likely be in line with MSRP. Best Buy is handy for local pickup, but availability can be inconsistent post-release.

• Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Booster Box

• Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box

• Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Booster Bundle

• Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Heroes Mini Tin

• Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution 3Pk Booster Bundle

• Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Sleeved Booster

• Pokémon — Trading Card Game: Mega Battle Deck (Mega Gengar ex or Mega Diancie ex)

Mega Evolution Target preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Target is offering Mega Evolution products with their cheeky Target Circle Card discount, which knocks 5% off your total buy. That little bit of savings makes Target one of the better big-box choices, but Pokémon TCG stock jumps in and out in a flash, so it's always worth a quick look to see if anything is in stock before trying other retailers.

• Pokémon Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Booster Display

• Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box — Mega Lucario

• Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box — Mega Gardevoir

• Mega Evolution Booster Bundle

• Mega Evolution Psyduck 3-Pack Blister

• Mega Evolution Golduck 3-Pack Blister

• Mega Evolution Sleeved Booster Pack

Mega Evolutions Walmart preorders Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Another solid preorder option to check in on. Nothing has dropped at the time of writing, but it's always worth double checking the listing below if you're struggling to find stock.

• Pokémon Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Booster Box

• Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box — Mega Lucario or Mega Gardevoir

• Mega Evolution Booster Bundle

• Mega Evolution Blister

The Most Valuable Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia Pokémon Japan cards Credit: Mashable Photo Composite / The Pokémon Company

Before Mega Evolution arrives in English this September, Japan already got the first taste through its twin expansions Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia. Both launched on Aug. 1 with 63 cards each (not counting secret rares), and together they make up the backbone of the Mega Evolution set. They introduced 10 Mega Evolution Pokémon ex, new full art Trainers, and a brand-new rarity tier called Mega Ultra Rare (MUR) that’s already commanding big prices on the secondary market.

For collectors who don’t want to wait until September, sealed boxes and singles from Mega Brave and Mega Symphonia are available now on TCGPlayer. Prices are already spiking for the chase cards, especially Mega Lucario and Mega Gardevoir, which headline the set with stunning gold MUR artwork. Here are the five most valuable pulls from Japan so far:

• Mega Gardevoir ex - 092/063 (Market Value — $479.40)

• Mega Lucario ex - 092/063 (Market Value — $450)

• Lillie's Determination - 091/063 (Market Value — $296.81)

• Mega Gardevoir ex - 087/063 (Market Value — $180)

• Mega Lucario ex - 088/063 (Market Value — $114.67)

The wait is finally over. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater has landed on PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC, bringing one of the most iconic stealth adventures of all time into the modern era. For me, this one hits differently because Snake Eater was not just another sequel when it launched back in 2004. It was Kojima and Konami taking everything they had built in Metal Gear Solid and Sons of Liberty and going backwards in time to show us the roots of Snake’s story. It was daring, it was strange, and it became one of the most beloved chapters in the series.

Seeing it rebuilt now, twenty years later, feels surreal.

Release date, platforms, and editions

The remake officially arrives on Aug. 28, 2025 across PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

Konami has split the release into a few different versions depending on how deep you want to go. The Standard Edition gives you just the game itself, with PC pricing running slightly cheaper than the console versions. The Tactical Edition, available physically for PS5 and Xbox, includes a code in the box that unlocks the Sneaking DLC Pack as well as Snake’s slick White Tuxedo uniform. Then there is the Digital Deluxe Edition, which bundles the game with that same bonus content but also gives players the chance to start playing 48 hours early. Only the digital version comes with early access, while physical copies stick to the official launch. At this point, paying out extra for early access isn't worth it.

SEE ALSO: 'Gears of War: Reloaded' comes to PS5: Release date and price info

On PC, you will want to brace for a serious download. Preloads came in at around 76GB, expanding to nearly 100GB once installed. Consoles are in roughly the same ballpark, so clear some space before diving in. If you bought the Digital Deluxe Edition, you have probably already been crawling through the mud since Aug. 26. I cannot say two days of early play is worth rearranging your whole edition choice around, but I get the appeal of starting early.

What is actually new in this remake?

This is where things get interesting. Metal Gear Solid Delta does not rewrite the past. It is not pretending the original did not already nail the fundamentals. Instead, it takes the bones of that 2004 classic and rebuilds it with Unreal Engine 5. The difference is immediate. Dense jungles ripple with shifting shadows, Snake’s injuries appear on his body in real time until you patch them up, and enemies react with sharper instincts than ever. Guards will follow the sound of a twig snapping under your boot, spot a blood trail on the ground, or even notice the sway of long grass. It makes every movement feel heavier and every mistake riskier.

I really appreciated the camera options. You can stick with the fixed, pulled back perspective of the original, something purists will probably cling to, or you can switch to a more modern over the shoulder viewpoint that makes sneaking around feel fluid in a way it never quite did before. On top of that, the fiddly menus of 2004 have been smoothed out. Healing wounds, changing camouflage, and even grabbing trophies can now be done in real time without pausing the action. These are small changes on paper, but they add up to something that feels both familiar and refreshingly modern.

How the gameplay has shifted

Combat and stealth flow differently now too. Close quarters combat has been reanimated to look and feel more physical. You can seamlessly throw, choke, disarm, and interrogate enemies with far less stiffness than in the PS2 era. The jungle does not just look alive, it sounds alive. Every rustle of leaves or distant animal call has been layered into the soundscape, pulling you deeper into Snake’s lonely trek. Even the boss fights, which are still staged almost identically to the original, feel smoother thanks to subtle tweaks in pacing and enemy behavior.

And then there is the curveball. Remember the strange “Guy Savage” minigame that was buried in the original? It is back, but this time reimagined by PlatinumGames, who turned it into a short but stylish action sequence. It is bizarre, it is self indulgent, and it fits the spirit of Metal Gear perfectly.

Why it still matters

Looking back, Snake Eater was the game that proved stealth did not just have to be about hiding in shadows. It asked you to survive, to hunt for food, to camouflage yourself, to treat your wounds when the jungle itself seemed set against you. It balanced espionage drama with surreal humor in a way no other series could pull off. This remake does not just preserve that, it emphasizes it. It is still a story about loyalty and betrayal, but now it plays and feels like the definitive version.

Two decades later, the question is not whether Snake Eater holds up. It is whether a game so meticulously rooted in its time could be translated for a new one. After spending time in this remake, I think the answer is yes. Snake’s story is timeless. The only thing that has changed is how good the mud looks caked on his face.

Where to buy 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater' Buy for Xbox 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater — Tactical Edition' (Xbox Series X|S) $69.99 Shop Now Buy for PlayStation 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater — Tactical Edition' (PS5) $69.99 Shop Now Best for PC 'Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater' (PC, Steam) $52.38 (save $17.61) Shop Now

SAVE UP TO $15: As of Aug. 28, Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, Sonic X Shadow Generations, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 for Nintendo Switch 2 are all down to their lowest-ever prices at Amazon.

The best Nintendo Switch 2 game deals right now 'Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut' $37 (save $12.99) Get Deal 'Sonic X Shadow Generations' $39.99 (save $10) Get Deal 'Tony Hawk's™ Pro Skater™ 3 + 4' $34.97 (save $15.02) Get Deal

If you’re like many Nintendo Switch 2 owners who’ve been holding off on buying physical third-party games, these price cuts make it the best time to add to your collection. As of Aug. 28, three big-name releases — Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, Sonic X Shadow Generations, and Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 — have all hit their lowest-ever prices since launching on the platform, now up to $15 off.

It’s no secret that third-party games on the Switch 2 haven’t exactly been flying off shelves, with first-party titles like Donkey Kong Bananza and upgraded Switch 1 games dominating sales. Between the backlash over “code in box” releases (nobody likes buying a case with just a download slip inside) and ongoing scepticism around Nintendo’s Game-Key Card program, many players have been skipping full-priced third-party offerings. 

However, these price drops make them a lot easier to justify. Bargains this big, so soon after release, seem to be telling the story that gamers are unwilling to purchase a physical release if it merely acts as a license to download the game. That said, Nintendo's (and Amazon’s) loss is your gain with these huge discounts.

Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut' $37 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $12.99 Get Deal Why we like it

Yakuza 0: Director’s Cut, which many would say it the most popular third-party Switch 2 game outside of Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, is surprisingly down almost $13. This deal is also available at Best Buy.

Set in the gritty underworld of 1988 Japan, this prequel to the long-running series blends hard-hitting brawler combat with an elaborate crime drama. 

The Director’s Cut expands the original hit 2015 game with never-before-seen cutscenes, giving deeper insight into the lives of Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima. Combat is more dynamic than ever thanks to three switchable fighting styles, and the new online “Red Light Raid” mode lets you join forces with friends to take down waves of enemies. 

The only element that’s really been holding this game back is the Game-Key Card for its physical editions, meaning the cartridge doesn’t actually contain the game — you have to download it instead.  So, at $37, this is a rare chance to dive into the best version of one of SEGA’s most acclaimed story-driven titles without paying full price — if that’s enough to help you get over the fact you aren’t buying a purely physical game.

Sonic X Shadow Generations Opens in a new window Credit: SEGA 'Sonic X Shadow Generations' $39.99 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $10 Get Deal Why we like it

The Switch 2 version of Sonic X Shadow Generations has also taken on a price dip, dropping to $39.99 for the first time. This refreshed edition of Sonic Generations brings together modern and classic Sonic gameplay in a massive celebration of the franchise’s past, with revamped 2D and 3D stages and newly enhanced cinematics. 

SEE ALSO: All the Switch 2 games that you can buy (and actually play) right now

The highlight of this edition is the brand-new Shadow storyline, which introduces new abilities, challenges, and a darker story that fleshes out one of Sonic’s most popular characters. Considering it has been stuck at $49.99 since launch, this drop makes it the perfect time to grab it for less.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 Opens in a new window Credit: Xbox 'Tony Hawk's™ Pro Skater™ 3 + 4 ' $34.97 at Amazon
$49.99 Save $15.02 Get Deal Why we like it

Fans of skateboarding classics can now grab Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 for its lowest price yet on Switch 2. This remastered collection brings the iconic Pro Skater 3 and 4 into the modern age with sharper HD visuals, improved controls, and the return of the beloved two-minute runs. 

It also includes online multiplayer for up to eight skaters, plus enhanced Create-A-Skater and Create-A-Park modes that let you design and share custom content for the first time on a Nintendo system. At just under $35, it’s an easy recommendation for anyone craving the smooth handling and arcade chaos of the golden age of skateboarding games.

Even though this is just a download code in a box, arguably the most offensive kind of physical release you can buy, getting $15 off the price tag takes a lot of the sting out of the situation.

If you're still looking for new stuff to play, check out our roundup of Switch 2 games that you can buy (and actually play) right now.

Tesla Model Y Performance might finally be on its way.

The company launched a thoroughly revamped Model Y in January, and has gradually expanded the available trims, but one popular option was missing: The super-quick Performance trim.

Now, Tesla's Europe and Middle East account has posted a teaser video showing something that looks a lot like the rear end of a Model Y with a pronounced spoiler. The video also displays a date – August 29, 2025 – and has a tagline "spoiler alert," all of which indicates the company is getting ready to launch the Performance trim of the Model Y this Friday.

Given that the teaser video was only posted by Tesla's Europe and Middle East account, it's quite possible that the Model Y will hit those markets first.

This wouldn't be a big surprise; after all, the revamped Model Y was launched in China, Australia and Europe first, followed by a U.S. launch a few months later.

Tesla opted for a similarly staggered launch of its revamped Model 3 last year, having launched the regular, Long Range first, following by the incredibly quick Performance trim.

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So what can we expect from the new trim? Besides quicker acceleration, which is a given, a recent spotting of a camouflaged Model Y Performance at Nurburgring revealed several upgrades, including a new rear spoiler, 21-inch rims, updated brakes and suspension, and sportier seats.