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Kick Off the Future with EA Sports FC 24

Electronic Arts has finally released the much anticipated “EA Sports FC 24,” signaling a significant departure from its traditional FIFA partnership. This fresh gaming experience promises excitement and innovation for players. In the following article, we’ll delve into the details of the highly anticipated release of EA Sports FC 24, including its platform availability, different editions, pricing, and features.

Release Date and Ultimate Edition:

On September 29, 2023, Electronic Arts unleashes “EA Sports FC 24” upon the gaming world of soccer fans. Available on multiple platforms including PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PC, PS4, Xbox One, and the Nintendo Switch, this highly anticipated release offers fans various editions to choose from. The Standard Edition comes in at $69.99, while the more feature-packed Ultimate Edition is priced at $99.99. For those opting for the Nintendo Switch version, it’s available at a slightly lower cost of $59.99. Keep in mind that the game features crossplay based on console generation, so playing with friends on different platforms may not be possible. Nintendo Switch is the only platform that will not have this feature.

Key Differences:

Choosing between editions presents gamers with an exciting dilemma. Both editions grant access to essential benefits like Dual Entitlement and various Ultimate Team items. However, the Ultimate Edition unlocks exclusive advantages, including a special Ultimate Team kit, 4,600 FC Points, and Nike Ultimate Team Campaign access.

Licenses and Partnerships:

Despite parting ways with FIFA, EA Sports FC 24 continues to feature a great number of official partnerships. Gamers can immerse themselves in top-notch soccer action from renowned competitions, including the Premier League, LaLiga, Bundesliga, CONMEBOL Libertadores, UEFA Champions League, and more. This means that real team names, kits, and stadiums remain an integral part of the game, ensuring an authentic and immersive football experience. Moreover, with more than 19,000 players, 700+ teams, 100+ stadiums, and 30 leagues still featured in EA Sports FC 24, the game continues to provide an unparalleled football gaming experience, upholding its reputation as a football gaming juggernaut.

Exciting Features:

EA Sports FC 24 continues to offer beloved FIFA features such as Career Mode, Pro Clubs, VOLTA, and the legendary Ultimate Team. However, it introduces the coveted Ballon d’Or award into Career Mode, allowing players to strive for football’s most prestigious individual honor. The innovative PlayStyles feature enhances realism by incorporating real-world data from Opta, enabling players to authentically showcase their unique skills and abilities.

Today will remain a memorable day as EA Sports FC 24 takes center stage. With enhanced features, an eclectic roster of football legends, and thrilling gameplay, it ushers in a new era of soccer video games. EA has proved that even without the exclusive FIFA partnership, they are capable of securing an authentic experience for the players. The future of soccer gaming has arrived, and it’s time to dive in.

FERNANDO ORTIZ | Writer

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POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Next-Gen Gaming Experience: Cyberpunk 2077’s Phantom Liberty Expansion

In the ever-evolving world of gaming, one title that continues to make waves is none other than Cyberpunk 2077. CD Projekt Red’s ambitious open-world RPG had a tumultuous launch back in 2020, yet it refused to fade into obscurity. New updates and the success of the Edgerunners anime generated a whole new wave of players who were interested in the title. Now, the game is poised to rewrite its own narrative with the highly anticipated expansion, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty.

The Unveiling of Phantom Liberty

The Phantom Liberty expansion, released on September 26, brings a fresh wave of intrigue to the sprawling, dystopian metropolis of Night City. This expansion, a next-gen exclusive, is now available for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. With this move, CD Projekt Red is reaffirming its commitment to delivering a top-tier gaming experience on the latest hardware.

A New Story in the Cyberpunk Universe

One of the standout features of Phantom Liberty is its captivating narrative. This expansion introduces players to a grounded “spy-thriller” storyline, providing a different perspective from the base game’s high-octane action. In Phantom Liberty, players find themselves amid the bustling Night City, working closely with the enigmatic FIA agent, Solomon Reed, portrayed by the iconic Idris Elba. Interestingly, this expansion takes place during the main Cyberpunk 2077 story, offering players the flexibility to choose when they want to dive into the DLC’s gripping narrative.

Gameplay Transformed

Phantom Liberty doesn’t just stop at an engaging story; it also redefines the gameplay mechanics. CD Projekt Red has gone above and beyond to address concerns raised by players and critics. The expansion boasts enhanced police systems, cybernetics, skill trees, new vehicular combat, airdrop activities, underwater exploration, mech battles, and thrilling grand theft auto fixer missions.

The introduction of the Relic Tree elevates customization for cyberware, enabling players to tailor their characters with greater precision. Additionally, a risk-and-reward system for cyberware capacity adds complexity to decision-making, providing players with a more immersive experience.

The Price of the Future

Phantom Liberty comes with a price tag of $29.99, a reflection of the promises of a denser, more engaging world. This expansion introduces a new endless quest type called Street Stories, promising hours of gameplay that will keep players immersed in Night City.

What’s Next for CD Projekt Red?

As Phantom Liberty ushers in a new era for Cyberpunk 2077, fans are left wondering what CD Projekt Red has in store for the future. The developer has indicated that this will be the first and final expansion for Cyberpunk 2077. However, CD Projekt Red is not resting on its laurels. The studio has ambitious plans, including a new Witcher game codenamed “Polaris,” a Witcher game with multiplayer elements called “Sirius,” a remake of the first Witcher game, and a sequel to Cyberpunk 2077 codenamed “Orion.” Additionally, CD Projekt Red has embarked on the creation of its first original IP, codenamed “Hadar.” These projects promise to keep gamers eagerly anticipating the studio’s next creations.

With Phantom Liberty, CD Projekt Red is poised to breathe new life into Cyberpunk 2077. The expansion’s fresh narrative, immersive gameplay changes, and exclusive next-gen content are set to redefine the Cyberpunk experience. Night City is calling, and this time, it’s ready to unveil its secrets in ways you’ve never seen before.

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Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End — An Epic Fantasy Anime Experience

Get ready for the highly anticipated anime adaptation of “Frie­ren” by Kanehito Yamada, coming on September 29, 2023. “Frieren: Be­yond Journey’s End” is set to take the world of fantasy and adventure by storm in the re­alm of anime. With its captivating characters and original plotline, this se­ries promises to stand out among other re­leases in the ge­nre. Fans will be thrilled to dive­ deeper into this highly anticipate­d series through this article.

Release Date and Format:

On September 29, 2023, “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” is making its debut. What’s even more exciting is that the first episode is a special two-hour event, offering viewers an immersive introduction to the world of Frieren. The subsequent episodes will follow a weekly release schedule, starting from October 6, 2023. This release format ensures that fans have something to look forward to each week.

The Plot:

The anime is based on the manga series written by Kanehito Yamada and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe. It follows the journey of Frieren, a thousand-year-old elf mage who, along with her friends and hero Himmel, defeated the Demon King after a perilous 10-year quest. However, as an elf, Frieren’s lifespan far exceeds that of her human companions. When she reunites with her friends decades later, she witnesses the passage of time as they age and eventually face mortality. This emotional moment prompts Frieren to embark on a new adventure, seeking to understand the lives and mortality of humans.

Studio and Cast:

Studio Madhouse, known for its exceptional animation quality in series like “Death Note” and “Overlord,” is responsible for bringing “Frieren” to life. The talented cast of voice actors includes Atsumi Tanezaki as Frieren, Nobuhiko Okamoto as Himmel, Hiroki Tochi as Heiter, and Yoji Ueda as Eisen.

Theme Songs:

“Yuusha” by Yoasobi and “Anytime, Anywhere” by Milet serve as the opening and ending theme songs, respectively. These songs promise to capture the essence of Frieren’s journey, exploring themes of loneliness, redemption, and personal growth.

In conclusion, as of September 29, 2023, “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End” is set to be a poignant and visually stunning anime that delves into the complexities of time, mortality, and the bonds of friendship. With its exceptional production team, emotionally resonant story, and memorable characters, it’s a series that anime enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Mark your calendars for this momentous release and get ready to embark on a mesmerizing adventure with Frieren.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

iPhone 15 Hits the Shelves: Apple’s Next-Gen Marvel Now Available!

Today, on September 22, Apple launched its anticipated iPhone 15 series, promising a new era of smartphone innovation. Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO, delivered the announcement of an exciting new iPhone lineup at an event in Cupertino, California. This incredible keynote consists of four amazing models: the iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, and the among the finest iPhone 15 Pro Max.. By choosing the model that best suits their interests and with the arrival of new additions, iPhone users can now get their hands on the latest in mobile technology.

Design Elegance

The iPhone 15 series brings subtle yet impactful design enhancements to the table. All four models feature a gentle curvature along their rear edges, ensuring a comfortable and ergonomic grip. For those who crave distinct aesthetics, the Pro models offer a range of striking color options, including Black Titanium, White Titanium, Blue Titanium, and Natural Titanium.

Exciting Innovations

Apple’s latest offerings introduce a set of exciting innovations. The iPhone 15 series satisfies one of the biggest requests from Apple, the adoption of a USB-C charging port. This brings convenience to users as it is now possible to charge different kinds of devices with a single cable. Another exciting addition is that of reverse charging, which allows users to power up their Apple Watch or 2nd-gen AirPods Pro directly from their iPhone.

Photography enthusiasts will find the Pro models particularly enticing, as they are equipped with the A17 Pro chip and a suite of advanced camera features, including a versatile triple-lens rear camera system with optical zoom. Apple commits to making a change towards environmental sustainability through an increased use of recycled materials, such as 100 percent recycled cobalt in the battery.

Native AAA Gaming on iPhone 15 Pro & Pro Max

The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, powered by the groundbreaking A17 Pro chip, are poised to revolutionize mobile gaming. Equipped with a effective 6-core CPU and GPU, those devices offer hardware support for ray tracing, boast stunning HDR displays, and provide variable refresh fees, basically redefining the benchmark for cell gaming. Notably, it can natively run AAA titles like Resident Evil Village, Resident Evil 4 Remake, Death Stranding, and Assassin’s Creed Mirage, marking a significant milestone in smartphones. The introduction of advanced game controllers enhances the immersive experience, paving the way for console-quality gaming on a portable device. This advancement not only transforms user experiences but also opens new avenues for developers, positioning the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max as a catalyst for the future of mobile gaming.

Tech Insights

A quick glance at the key tech specs for the iPhone 15 series reveals:

• A16 Bionic processor for iPhone 15 and 15 Plus, while the Pro models boast the formidable A17 Pro.
• Dual or triple-lens rear cameras to cater to diverse photography needs.
• The photographic prowess of Smart HDR 5.
• Extended battery life and rapid charging capabilities.
• Seamless connectivity thanks to Wi-Fi 6 (or 6E for Pro models) and 5G support.
• Robust IP68 dust and water resistance for added durability.

Price Points

Apple has priced the iPhone 15 series to cater to a wide range of budgets. The starting price for the iPhone 15 is $799, while the Pro models are more expensive, with the iPhone 15 Pro Max starting at $1,199.

With the release of the iPhone 15 series today, Apple enthusiasts can finally experience the culmination of innovation and style. These new releases are set to make a profound impact on the smartphone landscape, carrying forward Apple’s legacy of technological excellence. In addition, the greater performance capabilities of the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro Max promise to allow for a revolutionized portable gaming experience.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Payday 3: Co-op Heist Adventure in NYC

This September 21, fans of high-stakes heists and adrenaline-fueled co-op gameplay have been treated to the long-anticipated release of Payday 3. The FPS franchise has released its latest installment, which will take players on an exciting new journey. Let’s delve into all the key details about Payday 3’s release, platforms, gameplay, story, settings, and more.

Release Date and Platforms

Today is a significant day as Payday 3 is finally available a decade after the release of the franchise’s second entry. The game’s release date was set for September 21, 2023, and it has arrived without a hint of delay. Payday 3 makes its debut on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. Xbox Game Pass subscribers can also play Payday 3 on its release. The game supports crossplay so you can play with your friends regardless of what platform you have thanks to the Starbreeze Nebula service.

Gameplay and Heists

This September 21, players are immersing themselves in Payday 3’s exhilarating FPS gameplay and co-op experience. The Payday Gang has returned to take on daring robberies that will leave you breathless. With new weapons, skills, and tactics at your disposal, you have the power to shape your heist strategy. Whether you opt for stealth or prefer the guns-blazing approach, Payday 3 offers the ultimate customization options so you can experience the game in your preferred style.

Story and New Characters

Several years after the events of Payday 2, Payday 3 brings players back into the thrilling life of crime. As of today, you can once again join the notorious Payday Gang, where familiar faces like Dallas, Chains, and Hoxton are waiting. But on this special day, we also welcome two new additions to the crew, Pearl and Joy, promising to bring fresh dynamics to the criminal underworld.

Setting in NYC

Today, Payday 3’s heists primarily unfold in the bustling metropolis of New York City. Amidst the city’s iconic skyscrapers, both legitimate and nefarious, your criminal journey takes shape.

DLC and Post-Launch Content

Looking ahead, Starbreeze Studios has unveiled exciting plans for Payday 3’s post-launch content. Four waves of DLC are on the horizon, featuring seasonal events, new playable characters, enemies, weapons, and quality-of-life improvements. As the days roll on from this momentous September 21, Payday 3 is set to evolve and keep players engaged long after its initial release.

On September 21, Payday 3 took center stage, delighting fans with its enhanced gameplay, gripping storyline, and the vibrant setting of New York City. With crossplay functionality enhancing the cooperative experience, Payday 3 promises many hours of multiplayer fun. So, gather your crew, don your masks, and embark on the ultimate heists.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Lies of P: Unleash Pinocchio’s Dark Adventure Today

In the fast-paced world of gaming, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of a long-awaited release day. Fans of Soulslike games have been looking forward to the arrival of a new and thrilling adventure, and September 19 marks a significant milestone as “Lies of P” finally sees the light of day.

A Dark Twist on a Beloved Tale

Drawing inspiration from the timeless story of Pinocchio, this action RPG promises to deliver a fresh and captivating twist on the classic narrative. However, forget everything you knew about the wooden puppet longing to become a real boy — “Lies of P” introduces us to a mechanized Pinocchio in a world unlike any other.

Soulslike Gameplay with a Pinocchio Twist

From the moment players dive into “Lies of P,” they’ll be greeted by the heart-pounding thrill of Soulslike gameplay. The game immerses adventurers into a nightmarish city filled with mechanical monstrosities, reminiscent of the critically-acclaimed “Bloodborne.” Brace yourselves for third-person action RPG mechanics that allow you to wield a vast array of weapons and abilities. The mechanized body of Pinocchio can be customized and upgraded, offering unique advantages in combat. As the game progresses, players will become fully immersed in a unique and challenging experience influenced by the build they decide to follow.

Choices that Shape the Story

Despite the apparent inspiration drawn from “Bloodborne,” the game features unique characteristics that differentiate it from other Soulslike titles. “Lies of P” stands out for its emphasis on player choices, as they will shape the story. Whether Pinocchio should choose to lie or reveal the truth becomes an important decision in the game. Players are given the chance to engage with the storyline based on their judgment.

Platform Availability

The release of “Lies of P” means that it’s now available on a range of gaming platforms. Players can embark on this dark adventure on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC. Notably, “Lies of P” is also part of Xbox Game Pass from day one, offering subscribers the opportunity to delve into the world of Pinocchio’s mechanized nightmare at no extra cost.

Today, as we celebrate the launch of “Lies of P,” fans of Soulslike games prepare to step into Pinocchio’s mechanized shoes. The dark and captivating adventure awaits, and players are faced with a choice: to lie or to confront the consequences of truth in this twisted and mesmerizing journey.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Flawless Victory: Mortal Kombat 1 Is Now Available

Today, on September 19, 2023, fighting game fans rejoice as one of the most iconic franchises in the gaming world, Mortal Kombat, unveils its latest installment — Mortal Kombat 1.

Release Day and Availability

The day we’ve all been waiting for is here. Mortal Kombat 1 is now available for all of its eager fans. Mortal Kombat 1 is accessible across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. While the game will not have Kross-play at launch, it has been confirmed that this feature will soon arrive.

A Fresh Approach to Mortal Kombat

Mortal Kombat 1 isn’t just another sequel; it’s a breath of fresh air for the franchise. The introduction of Kameo fighters has injected new life into the gameplay, offering a unique and strategic twist to every match. On top of this, the game marks the return of some classic fatalities, a key trademark of Mortal Kombat.

A Gripping Narrative Unfolds

The game’s storyline picks up where Mortal Kombat 11 Aftermath left off, with Liu Kang’s godly powers and mastery over time. This narrative reset promises to bring unexpected twists and turns to the Mortal Kombat universe.

Returning Champions and Fresh Faces

Mortal Kombat 1 features an extensive roster of fighters, combining timeless classics like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Kitana, and Mileena with new Kameo characters. The game also features a DLC roster, including characters from other franchises such as Homelander and Peacemaker. The character interactions and captivating backstories ensure a diverse and immersive gaming experience.

Different Editions

For those eager to step into the arena, Mortal Kombat 1 offers various editions to cater to your preferences:

1. Standard Edition: Priced at $69.99, the Standard Edition provides the core Mortal Kombat 1 experience.
2. Premium Edition: At $109.99, the Premium Edition includes bonus characters, skins, and in-game currency.
3. Kollector’s Edition: For die-hard Mortal Kombat fans, the $249.99 Kollector’s Edition is a treasure trove. It includes a stunning 16.5-inch Liu Kang figurine, exclusive art prints, and a steel case. Additionally, it contains all the extra content from the premium edition.

Today, on September 19, 2023, Mortal Kombat 1 emerges as a new chapter in the series. With its completely new storyline, expansive character roster, and innovative gameplay features, it delivers an unforgettable fighting game experience. Gamers globally prepare for bloody battles, fatalities, and the opportunity to make their mark in a new Mortal Kombat entry.

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REIGN: The Conqueror - Madhouse Studios' Medieval Futurist Anime

Anime ahead of its time, REIGN: The Conqueror (アレクサンダー戦記 [Arekusandā Senki]) is a Madhouse Studios (One Punch Man, Death Note, Trigun) gem deep in its back catalog. Based on a novel by best-selling Japanese author 荒俣 宏 (Hiroshi Aramata), it’s the story of the rise and ensuing battle against Persia of the ancient world’s greatest emperor, Alexander the Great.

We’ve an engaging cast of characters which are all, at least in name and relation to him, accurate to ancient accounts. Onscreen are King Philip II of Macedon and his pagan queen Olympias, both rearing Alexander to one day assume the throne. Alexander finds adventure alongside many friends including Ptolemy I, his most trusted general of the fearsome and mighty Macedonian army. Carrying Alexander to victory is his famous black stallion war horse, Bucephalus, who takes down soldiers and assassins with golden armored mechanical muzzle and hooves. Also in this epic is Alexander’s personal tutor and famous ancient philosopher of the Western World, Aristotle, driving story subtext and plot. In fact, many memorable philosophers are there, such as the cynic-philosopher Diogenes “The Dog” and the ghost (or “essence”) of Plato.

One interesting dynamic to REIGN: The Conqueror is we never quite know if we’re watching the past or the future unfold. It subverts any familiar timeline, suspended in a surreal and timeless period where fantasy elements abound, such as shapeshifting spirit alchemist factions (like the Pythagorean Cult, bent on hopes to assassinate Alexander), cloud resident titans and elemental gods. While undercurrents of electricity and advanced technology are part of this world, battles are won by horse cavalries, swords, spears and shields. Landscapes are adorned with moving walkways and extreme architecture. Flying machines course the sky. This is medieval futurism at its best, and Madhouse Studios probably couldn’t have chosen a better art designer to create such hypnotizing and impossible juxtaposition. That animator’s name is Peter Chung, the very same Aeon Flux legend himself.

Perhaps none of the ethereal themes would have been so elegantly animated, or as moving and entertaining, without Peter Chung (IG: @peter_k_chung) at the helm of this multi-nation anime project. Chung’s animation is influential for many. Those less familiar with his work, you might be surprised to know his portfolio includes some of the best and most popular animation of the last 35 years. Notwithstanding his well-known MTV series, Aeon Flux, his animation and collaboration is responsible for the original Transformers TV show, the title opening sequence for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and also co-designing Nickelodeon’s Rugrats. Chung’s art direction and contribution is part and parcel to the stunning visual imagery and magic you experience in REIGN: The Conqueror.

I could imagine this 13 part series landing perfectly among today’s anime and post-Game-of-Thrones era. But it aired on WOWOW and Adult Swim a little too ahead of its time in ’99 and ’03. REIGN: The Conqueror challenges watchers to sit back and enjoy the beauty of anime that’s packed with style and memorable story, makes you feel anime in a visceral way. It will surprise and intrigue you.