Cooledtured Blog

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Super Mario Bros. Wonder: A Colorful Odyssey in the Flower Kingdom

As the autumn leaves paint the landscape in vivid colors, Nintendo fans are celebrating the long-awaited release of Super Mario Bros. Wonder. Today, on October 20, 2023, this exclusive Nintendo Switch title is set to whisk players away on a nostalgic yet innovative adventure through the enchanting Flower Kingdom.

The Flower Kingdom Unveiled

In the dedicated Nintendo Direct presentation on August 31, 2023, fans were treated to a mesmerizing glimpse of the Flower Kingdom. Governed by the benevolent Prince Florian, this magical realm became the stage for an unexpected twist when Bowser pilfered the powerful Wonder Flower, casting the kingdom into chaos. With seven distinct regions, including Pipe Rock Plateau, Fluff Puff Peaks, Shining Falls, and the mysterious Petal Isles, players are in for a diverse and captivating landscape.

Gameplay Wonderland

The gameplay of “Super Mario Bros. Wonder” promises to redefine the classic 2D platformer experience. With an array of power-ups, including the Elephant power-up, Bubble power, and the versatile Drill power, players will navigate through levels filled with delightful surprises. Wonder Flowers and badges add an extra layer of complexity, providing unique abilities and altering the in-game environment.

Multiplayer Magic

Adding a cooperative and positive twist, the multiplayer features of the game invite players to team up locally or venture into online co-op modes. Interaction with other players on the world map, the revival of fallen comrades, and engaging in friendly competitions create a lively and engaging multiplayer experience.

Mario Red OLED Nintendo Switch

Beyond the game’s core features, Nintendo has sprinkled additional treats for avid fans. To coincide with the release of “Super Mario Bros. Wonder,” a limited edition Mario Red OLED Nintendo Switch will hit the shelves on October 6. Priced at $350, this eye-catching console boasts a design adorned with the iconic Italian plumber and gleaming gold coins, making it a must-have for collectors and Mario enthusiasts alike.

As the clock strikes midnight on October 20, 2023, players worldwide are ready to embark on a whimsical journey through the Flower Kingdom, eager to discover the wonders that await in Super Mario Bros. Wonder. Nintendo has once again captured the essence of nostalgia while introducing innovative gameplay elements, promising fans an unforgettable Mario adventure in this highly anticipated release.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

The Office in 3D: Limited-Edition Fun Run Funko Pops Now Available for Pre-order!

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Sonic Superstars Released: A 2D Triumph for Sonic Fans

For Sonic fans everywhere, today marks the official release of Sega’s long-anticipated 2D aspect-scrolling platformer, Sonic Superstars. On October 17, 2023, Sonic Superstars will debut with the intention of bringing back the attraction of the original Sonic gameplay. Fans may anticipate it as it introduces exciting new skills.

A Victory for Collaboration
Sonic Superstars, a joint assignment by Sonic Team and Arzest, builds on the popularity of Sonic Mania. You can take over the roles of Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Amy Rose in the game. Each individual brings their personal special capabilities to the table, resulting in a rich and interesting play environment.

New Adventures in North Star Islands
Departing from the iconic Green Hill Zone, Sonic Superstars ventures into the uncharted territories of the North Star Islands. This bold move reflects Sega’s commitment to innovation and a desire to offer players a fresh Sonic experience. Sonic producer Takashi Iizuka explains, “We wanted to make brand new places for Sonic to go in this new title.”

The Grand Launch
The release date announcement, as featured in articles from events like PAX AUS 2023 and Gamescom 2023, heightened anticipation among fans. Sonic Superstars is now available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, ensuring a wide audience can embark on this exciting adventure.

Positive Early Impressions
Gameplay previews from events like PAX AUS 2023 and Gamescom 2023 have been overwhelmingly positive. Sonic Superstars strikes a perfect balance between maintaining the classic feel of 2D Sonic games and introducing modern elements. The addition of Chaos Emerald powers, new levels like Pinball Carnival and Cyber Station, and revamped multiplayer modes showcase Sega’s dedication to evolving the Sonic experience.

Fresh Faces and Familiar Friends
The return of Nack the Weasel and the introduction of a new character named Trip add intriguing layers to the Sonic universe, appealing to long-time fans eager for fresh developments.

The countdown to October 17 is over, and Sonic Superstars has officially arrived, promising a thrilling return to Sonic’s 2D glory days. Now, fans are welcomed to jump into the adventure and savor the magic of Sonic in a way that feels both timeless and delightfully fresh.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2: The Definitive Spidey Experience Hits PS5

On October 20, 2023, the highly awaited Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 swung onto the gaming scene as a PlayStation 5 exclusive. Crafted by the talented team at Insomniac Games, this sequel brings together the iconic Spider-Men, Peter Parker and Miles Morales, for an epic adventure through the lively streets of New York City.

Plot Twists and Formidable Foes

The game’s dynamic plot unfolds about 9 to 10 months after the events of Spider-Man: Miles Morales. Primary antagonists, Venom and Kraven The Hunter, take center stage, presenting formidable challenges to both Spider-Men. The narrative introduces a darker, symbiote-infused Peter Parker, adding complexity to the beloved character.

Marvel’s New York on a Grand Scale

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 reveals an expanded Marvel’s New York, showcasing iconic locations like Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. The map in the new game is twice as large as the original, offering players a vast and diverse playground to swing through and explore.

Gameplay Excitement

Key gameplay innovations include seamless character switching between Peter and Miles, each armed with unique combat abilities. The addition of wing-suit gliding enhances traversal, offering a more dynamic and thrilling web-swinging experience. Peter Parker’s symbiote suit introduces an element of aggression and intrigue to the gameplay.

Exclusivity to PS5

Despite the desires of PC and PS4 players, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 stays exclusive to PS5, amplifying the anticipation among console users. Insomniac Games has fashioned a visually striking and immersive journey that truly highlights the capabilities of the next-gen console.

Unlockable Suits and Compelling Storyline

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 features a vast array of unlockable suits, captivating side missions, and an engaging storyline. This amazing game lets you step into the shoes of the iconic Spider-Man in all his different versions. Get ready to face some exciting challenges in this much-anticipated sequel.

As the virtual curtain lifts on Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, fans globally now have the opportunity to dive into an unforgettable gaming experience. The web-slinger’s success on the PlayStation 5 establishes a fresh standard in superhero gaming, leaving players excited to swing into action and discover the meticulously crafted, immersive world by Insomniac Games.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Starfield: Liftoff

Bethesda’s new franchise (…in Spaaace!) begins. 5 years since E3 announcement, anxious players only found relief to the anticipation through preloading opinions, their memories seasoned with well-earned mixed feelings and doubts.

Those paying attention agree they want Starfield to be everything and not a “mods will fix this” or “an underwhelming Fallout 76 needed more DLC’s to be decent” situation. It’s a new, deep space story thrill and adventure. Is this a new standard being set which could possibly augment familiar themes in Sci-Fi? If not immediately, maybe a few iterations? Surely, dev mammoths bet on mass adoption and industry disruption when it comes to games like this. After all, Bethesda wouldn’t put almost 10 years of development into an instant flatline, right? Right??

What I can say is when the bell-and-whistle smoke clears, compassionate gamers and diehards will experience something new AND what they’re used to. Really, I expected a more uniform consensus about it. But what I saw was a multiverse of interaction and opinion. If you expect that the old cynicism remains like any other time in the past, know that Starfield shines bright with the characteristics of a Bethesda game. However, at the same time, no one I watched was playing it the same way. After the main quest, the trajectory widens dramatically. That’s encouraging to me, at least.

Streamer playthroughs had me nostalgic: Deus Ex (you’ll understand why), No Man’s Sky (an old favorite of mine), even a little crumb of GTFO (sweat). While I personally never played Outer Worlds, it’s obvious Bethesda keeps close to what Obsidian gave them and fans in the past. I watched completionists, story-lovers, competitives, giga yawns and trolls. I only wanted to play more.

After all, we’re talking about a new game and a seemingly wide new universe. The adventure is out there, where it goes, not many know until you’re there. One thing similar, I’d say, is the likelihood of having fun while expressing, “Oh, Bethesda,” with a cheeky and endearing half smile is high. I wouldn’t overthink it, just play, have fun. It’s a huge game that’s surely the first of many in a large franchise, or at least a heap of DLC’s (like what we expect soon from Cyberpunk 2077). Ongoing mods will be novel and clips will be funny. Explore Starfield your way. Have fun.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

The Zany Wonderful World of Funko Pop Collecting

For the uninitiated, the world of Funko Pop collecting may seem baffling. What inspires collector fans to gather at cons or camp outside stores for the latest vinyl figures? What drives them to meticulously curate shelves of beady-eyed pop culture characters? A peek inside this zany subculture reveals a community bound by nostalgia, fueled by fandom.

Funko traces its roots back to the late ’90s, churning out lumpen bobbleheads of restaurant mascot Big Boy. But their fortunes changed in 2005 when they acquired rights to classic cartoon characters, birthing the wobbly Wacky Wobblers. Suddenly, Popeye and Mickey were bobbling on collectors’ shelves, launching Funko’s journey into nostalgia-fueled licensing.

The first proto-Pop arrived in 2010, the caped crusader, Batman. Early Pops sported rigid poses and soulless black eyes, like charcoal-stained PEZ dispensers. But anime-style cuteness prevailed, giving way to expressive, clear-eyed Pops. As Funko acquired major licenses left and right, Pop designs exploded.

By 2019, Funko had over 1,000 licenses and 6,000 Pops hopping around. From Jedi to sorcerers, robots to rockstars, Funko tapped every corner of pop culture. For fans, spotting a new wave of Pops was like kids finding eggs on an Easter hunt! Huddled outside Target at dawn for that Vaporeon exclusive? It’s a Pop culture revival!

Funko shook up their vinyl formula too. Hulking 10-inch Mega Pops flexed their plastic biceps. Town sets let Pops explore new worlds together from Jurassic jungles to Emerald Cities. And Deluxe Pops arrived with spectacle from Angelus’ looming wings to the towering Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. No character was safe from getting the supersized treatment!

But at their vinyl hearts, Pops stay minimalist. Those cute, beady eyes and oversized noggins capture characters we love, without the detail overwhelming their charm. Like clever cartoons, Pops are designed with exaggeration and simplicity to tickle our funny bones. We can’t help but smile seeing our favorite heroes with a vinyl cuteness.

For collectors, the hunt inspires as much joy as the Pops themselves. Tracking down that 1-in-6 chase rarity, or an ultra-exclusive con-only Pop is a collector’s delight! Trading tips about upcoming releases and rumored grails consume online forums. For collectors, amassing Pops means more than just shelving plastic trophies. It’s about the stories and characters they love and have shaped popular culture.

Their unique devotion speaks volumes about what it means to be a fan. Funko tapped into that inner fandom of joy. They bottle nostalgia that transports us back to beloved worlds, or childhood afternoons waiting for the next episode. So let skeptics scoff about “shelf clutter” or “waste.” For aficionados, Funko Pops revel in the stories that shape who we are.

So here’s to the crazy, quirky, lovably obsessive world of Pop collecting! May your shelves keep filling with plastic happiness for years to come. In the wacky Pop universe, there’s always another coveted vinyl trophy around the corner!

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Level Up Your Collection: Pre-Order Overwatch Funkos Today!

Exciting news for Funko enthusiasts and Overwatch fans! Funko has just unveiled a brand-new series featuring four beloved heroes from the game. Get ready to elevate your collection with Funko Pop figures of Lucio, Sigma, Kiriko, and the notorious Junker Queen.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Lords of the Fallen: Unleashing Soulslike Fury on October 13!

The much-anticipated return of the iconic soulslike RPG, Lords of the Fallen, is finally upon us. Released on October 13, 2023, this sequel brings forth a dark fantasy adventure with challenging gameplay and innovative features that breathe new life into the soulslike genre.

The Unveiling on October 13:

The wait is over, and players can now experience the next chapter in the saga, available on next-gen consoles — PS5 and Xbox Series X/S — and on the PC via Steam.

A World Between Worlds:

The sequel introduces a groundbreaking gameplay element — twin worlds. Axiom, the realm of the living, and Umbral, the realm of the dead, seamlessly intertwine as players navigate the interconnected landscapes. This unique dynamic not only adds complexity to the game but also weaves a narrative that promises to captivate and challenge players in unexpected ways.

Multiplayer Marvels:

Lords of the Fallen embraces multiplayer functionality. Players can now join forces with friends, exploring the challenging realms together. The addition of PvP elements offers a competitive edge, inviting gamers to test their skills against each other in intense battles.

Epic Tale Unfolds:

Set in the ominous land of Mournstead, the sequel unfolds a gripping tale. Players embark on a holy quest to restore radiance to the Six Beacons of the Sentinels, facing formidable bosses guarding each Beacon. Taking place over a millennium after the original, the storyline promises a fresh perspective on the established lore, with the looming resurrection of the demon god Adyr adding a layer of mystery.

In the vast digital landscape filled with epic battles and enchanting magic, Lords of the Fallen emerges as a noteworthy comeback for soulslike fans. With its release on October 13, 2023, the game pledges an unforgettable adventure, beckoning players to explore the realms of Axiom and Umbral in a journey that transcends the conventional limits of existence. Brace yourself for an immersive experience that tests, enthralls, and leaves a lasting impression on the daring souls who embark on this venture.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Forza Motorsport 8: Unveiling Cutting-Edge Features, Tracks, and More!

Today marks the exhilarating release of Forza Motorsport, widely known as Forza Motorsport 8, promising an extraordinary gaming experience for enthusiasts on both PC and Xbox Series X/S. As the gaming community celebrates the return of this franchise, let’s explore the groundbreaking features that set this title apart.

A New Era Begins

Forza Motorsport signifies a fresh start for the iconic franchise.Turn 10 Studios embarked on a journey to redefine the racing game genre, utilizing an overhauled ForzaTech game engine and introducing revolutionary advancements in physics, handling, and graphics.

Visual Marvels: Ray Tracing and Beyond

Visual fidelity takes center stage with the introduction of ray tracing, providing stunning lighting effects and reflections. With a 4K resolution at 60 FPS on Xbox Series X, coupled with dynamic time of day for every track, players are in for a visually immersive racing experience like never before.

The Countdown Ends: October 10, 2023

The much-anticipated release day has finally arrived! Forza Motorsport is officially available starting today, October 10, 2023. Racing enthusiasts can now dive into the game on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and even via Xbox Cloud Gaming, offering accessibility to a wider audience.

Crafting Your Racing Legacy: Single-Player Career Mode

The introduction of a single-player career mode adds depth to the game, allowing players to delve into the intricate world of car-building. Boasting over 500 cars and more than 800 unique upgrades, Forza Motorsport 8 provides an extensive collection of vehicles, including 100 new additions featuring the latest race car models.

Tracks that Thrill

Forza Motorsport 8 presents a thrilling lineup of tracks, featuring iconic locations such as Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Circuit Hakone, Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, Maple Valley Raceway, and Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca. Combined with new gameplay mechanics, these tracks promise an elevated and diversified racing experience.

Game Pass Delight: Available from Day One

As a Microsoft first-party studio release, Forza Motorsport 8 is available from day one on Game Pass. Subscribers can seamlessly access this highly anticipated title, adding another layer of accessibility to the gaming community.

Forza Motorsport is set to redefine the racing game landscape. With cutting-edge technology, an extensive car roster, and immersive gameplay features, Forza Motorsport 8 stands as a thrilling addition to the gaming world. The countdown has ended — it’s time for racing enthusiasts to buckle up and experience the adrenaline-pumping excitement of Forza Motorsport!

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Pre-Order Now: Ikuyo Kita Nendoroid from ‘Bocchi the Rock!’

Calling all anime fans! Good Smile Company is set to release an enchanting Ikuyo Kita Nendoroid from “Bocchi the Rock!” this August, and you can secure yours now by pre-ordering at cooledtured.

Get ready to bring Ikuyo Kita’s vibrant spirit to your collection with this meticulously crafted Nendoroid. Capturing every detail of her lively personality, this figure is a must-have for fans.

Marvel at the lively expressions and dynamic poses that perfectly encapsulate Ikuyo’s charisma. The figure’s high customizability allows you to recreate your favorite scenes or invent new ones, making it a standout addition to your collection.

Don’t miss out! You can be among the first to own the Ikuyo Kita Nendoroid by pre-ordering now at cooledtured. Act fast and secure this delightful piece of “Bocchi the Rock!” memorabilia to be delivered straight to your doorstep upon release in August 2024. Don’t let this chance slip away — pre-order now and infuse your collection with the vivacity of Ikuyo Kita!