Saturdays are for eagerly sitting beside the front door to the Treehouse ready to jump up and greet writers as they return home. Sure, most of the team aren’t due back until Monday, but this way I can get really good at saying ‘Here comes trouble’ in just the right intonation. ‘Here comes trouble.’ No, that’s not it. ‘Here comes trouble.’ Better, but it still needs work.
**Marvel’s Wonder Man: A Fresh Chapter in the MCU Launching January 27**
Marvel’s *Wonder Man* is poised to premiere on Disney+ on January 27, 2024, and excitement has surged following the unveiling of the new trailer that provides an enticing peek into the eagerly awaited series. This latest promotional content highlights the show’s mix of humor, action, and an innovative perspective on the superhero genre that enthusiasts are keen to witness.
The series features Yahya Abdul-Mateen II in the role of Simon Williams, the eponymous Wonder Man, supported by a cast that includes the incomparable Ben Kingsley returning as Trevor Slattery, and Zlatko Buric as the quirky director Von Kovak. The plot promises to not only present a superhero storyline but also to poke fun at the film industry’s treatment of superhero films.
The trailer begins with playful music echoing Rossini’s *The Barber of Seville*, immediately establishing a cheerful atmosphere while introducing the main characters. Simon Williams embarks on a quest that starts with him auditioning for the role of Wonder Man in a reimagined version of a fictional cult classic from the 1970s, all while hiding his extraordinary powers from society. This metafictional angle seeks to delve into the contrast between superhero fame and the often absurd superficiality of Hollywood.
In this series, viewers can look forward to witnessing Williams’ abilities come to life through vibrant visuals, marked by purple sparkles in his eyes reminiscent of other superhero legends. The trailer hints at humorous moments within chaotic settings that suggest both comedic and action-filled elements of the show, including rooms vibrating and items soaring through the air.
Concerns regarding the portrayal of the character have lingered after earlier trailers that appeared to emphasize Slattery and other side characters instead of Williams, raising doubts about possible reluctance to spotlight the lead. However, seeing Abdul-Mateen II’s performance in the latest trailer eases these worries, as he displays impressive comedic timing and charm, indicating he is more than capable of steering the series.
With just weeks remaining until the debut, Marvel is optimistic that *Wonder Man* will reignite interest in its live-action adaptations on Disney+, particularly after a lengthy eight-month hiatus without a new series. Following the well-received *Daredevil: Born Again*, audiences are curious to see how *Wonder Man* will connect, especially in light of the mixed responses to earlier projects like *Ironheart*.
As Marvel continues to grow its cinematic universe, *Wonder Man* emerges as a promising addition with the ability to infuse new humor and perspectives into the superhero genre while offering an engaging storyline. Fans will soon discover if this fresh endeavor resonates when it streams on Disney+.
# Stranger Things: A Disputed Conclusion to a Decade-Long Adventure
**Stranger Things** has officially concluded, signaling the end of a significant period for enthusiasts of the cherished show. After ten years of engaging narratives and exhilarating nostalgia, the primary series has reached its finale, although an animated midquel titled **Stranger Things: Tales from ’85** is expected to launch later this year. The concluding season has left numerous viewers split, provoking a spectrum of responses that underscore its contentious position in the realm of contemporary television.
### A Variety of Responses
The fifth and final season of **Stranger Things** garnered mixed reactions. Some viewers in private discussions referred to it as “fine” or recognized the show’s effort to wrap up the story under constrained resources, while public conversations tended toward more critical evaluations. Critics have condemned the season for its “poor, overly simplistic writing” and “clumsy, cheesy sentimentality.”
Fans have shared their frustrations concerning various elements of the finale, ranging from witty dialogue and lackluster performances to special effects that many found insufficient. Several viewers even compared certain CG scenes to the visual quality of Linkin Park’s 25-year-old music video for “In The End,” further highlighting their discontent with the production quality of the series.
### Visual Quality Questioned
It is particularly notable that the substandard CGI emerged despite **Stranger Things**’ fifth season reportedly having a budget comparable to blockbuster hits like **Avengers: Endgame**. Many fans were baffled that the climactic scenes, which were intended to be visually breathtaking, appeared rough around the edges, prompting inquiries about the allocation of the budget.
### Performances That Fell Short
Critique also encompassed the actors’ performances, with particular focus on Finn Wolfhard, who portrays Mike Wheeler. Some fans believed that Wolfhard struggled to convey the emotional depth needed in key moments of the episode, particularly scenes featuring Eleven, played by Millie Bobby Brown. Observers pointed out a noticeable lack of intensity, leading to memes and jokes about the perceived disconnect in his performance.
### The Burden of Fan Expectations
Beyond specific evaluations of writing, acting, and visual effects, the finale bears the burden of unmet fan expectations. Long-held viewer theories, especially from the “Byler” community—those who support Mike and his friend Will—saw their aspirations shattered as the finale progressed. The expected dialogue between Mike and Will did little to please fans desiring a more intricate exploration of their relationship, further igniting discontent.
### The Lead-Up to Disappointment
As is often the case with prolonged series, the anticipation built over the years led to high hopes that frequently prove unachievable. Some fans have drawn parallels between the backlash against **Stranger Things**’ ending and the notorious reactions to **Game of Thrones**’ final season, suggesting that beloved narratives can quickly become overshadowed by their ultimate resolutions.
### Looking Forward
Notwithstanding the criticisms, there’s a spark of optimism for the **Stranger Things** franchise. The forthcoming animated series presents a chance for new stories within the established universe. Additionally, as is true with many culturally significant shows, time may shift perceptions, allowing fans to reevaluate the finale through a different lens.
In summary, while **Stranger Things** may become remembered alongside shows with famously unsatisfying conclusions, the possibility for future storytelling persists. The series has left a lasting imprint on pop culture, and its legacy will undoubtedly continue to be a subject of debate for many years to come.
### The Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC: An Economical Ultrawide Monitor for Office and Home Applications
Whether you are establishing a dedicated workspace at home or need a computer area for personal or family responsibilities, choosing a dependable monitor is crucial. While monitors can frequently be expensive, the Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC provides a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. Currently listed on Amazon for **$196.99**, reduced from **$329.99**, this represents a remarkable reduction of **$133** or around **40% off**, making it a fantastic deal for shoppers seeking a premium monitor.
#### An Ultrawide Monitor That Enhances Your Environment
The Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC features an ultra-wide curved design that enriches the viewing experience with immersive and detailed visuals. Its vast screen space is ideal for gamers, streamers, and casual users who require a wide view to be fully engaged with their content. Whether tackling spreadsheets, surfing the web, or enjoying films, this monitor allows for seamless multitasking.
With Ultra Wide Quad HD resolution, the display produces sharper, high-resolution visuals that guarantee text, images, videos, and gameplay appear distinctly defined. This quality renders the monitor an outstanding choice for both creative professionals working with visual media and everyday users engaging in media consumption and productivity activities.
#### A Chic Addition to Your Living Space
In addition to performance, the Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC showcases a contemporary and elegant design that suits a range of decor styles. Its slim, borderless frame utilizes minimal desk space while providing an expansive viewing experience, meaning you won’t have to trade aesthetics for functionality.
Additionally, the monitor includes all essential connections, enabling effortless setup right from the start. Users can quickly transition between various source inputs, boosting versatility for those who operate multiple devices, such as extra displays or televisions, simultaneously.
#### A High-Performance Monitor for Everyone
The Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a premium monitor at a reasonable price point. It not only provides a generous screen size but also guarantees remarkable performance, making it a smart investment that can endure over time with appropriate care.
In summary, whether you are concentrating on productivity, gaming, or media consumption, the Samsung 34″ ViewFinity S50GC delivers a versatile and engaging experience that caters to diverse needs. Everyone deserves a quality monitor, and this one offers outstanding performance without stretching your budget.
[See at Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6107/)
**Upgrading Your Home Wi-Fi with the Amazon eero 7 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 7 Router**
In the current digital landscape, dependable Wi-Fi access is vital for every home. If your existing Wi-Fi network is underperforming, there’s a solution that might appear expensive but is quite budget-friendly—the Amazon eero 7 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 7 Router. Presently offered at a considerable discount, this device is set to boost your home internet connectivity.
**Current Promotion on the eero 7 Router**
The eero 7 is available now for $279.99, reduced from its standard price of $349.99, providing an incredible savings of $70 or about 20%. You can acquire it directly [here](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5757/).
**Consistent Connectivity for Contemporary Homes**
The eero 7 employs state-of-the-art Wi-Fi 7 technology, delivering faster maximum speeds and enhanced data handling between Wi-Fi-connected devices. This upgrade facilitates smooth streaming of 4K content, online gaming, video calls, and the operation of several smart home devices simultaneously, all while maintaining speed. With many families depending on multiple devices that compete for bandwidth, the eero 7 serves as a strong remedy to potential connectivity challenges.
Furthermore, the eero system enables users to broaden Wi-Fi coverage by integrating more eero units across larger areas or multi-level homes. This capability is particularly advantageous for removing Wi-Fi dead zones that can disrupt connectivity.
**Convenient Management through the eero App**
Managing your network is simplified via the eero app, which avoids the intricacies associated with conventional routers. Users can monitor connected devices, adjust Wi-Fi access for individual users, set up guest networks, and apply parental controls to oversee device usage at specific times. This degree of oversight makes adapting your Wi-Fi settings to meet your household’s requirements easy and straightforward, even for those lacking technical know-how.
**Simple Setup Process**
Setting up the eero 7 is intended to be quick and straightforward. Just connect the router to your modem, turn it on, and follow the clear steps provided in the app. The installation procedure is designed to be brief, allowing you to get your network running rapidly. Additionally, the eero 7 self-updates to optimize performance and security, ensuring a consistently dependable Wi-Fi experience.
**In Summary**
For individuals looking for strong connectivity to facilitate gaming, remote work, or smart home technology, the Amazon eero 7 Dual-Band Mesh Wi-Fi 7 Router offers an outstanding option. With its advanced functionalities, easy management, and existing promotional pricing, it’s an investment worth exploring for anyone aiming to enhance their home Wi-Fi network.
For more information and to purchase, visit [Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/5757/).
### The Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth Portable Speaker: A Fantastic Option for Music Enthusiasts
When it involves sharing audio at a gathering or savoring tunes solo, a portable speaker becomes a must-have gadget. Within the extensive selection of choices, the Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth Portable Speaker emerges as an excellent option that merges quality and cost-effectiveness. At present, this speaker is available for merely $279.00, reduced from its initial price of $399, offering a significant discount of $120 or 30%.
#### A Powerful Speaker for Mobile Entertainment
The Bose SoundLink Max is designed to provide an outstanding auditory experience. It boasts clear treble, deep bass, and balanced sound that effectively fills a space without distortion. Its compact form allows users to carry the speaker with ease, making it ideal for those who appreciate music on the go. With the capability to wirelessly stream audio from popular platforms, the SoundLink Max elevates any event with rich sound quality.
#### Extended Battery Life and Convenient Charging
One of the remarkable aspects of the SoundLink Max is its long-lasting battery, permitting hours of continuous listening. This allows you to relish your tunes without the constant concern of locating a power source for recharging. The recharging process is simple, thanks to the included cable that can be connected to a computer or wall outlet.
#### Sturdy and Water-Resistant
Engineered for daily use, the SoundLink Max is also waterproof, instilling users with the assurance to take it virtually anywhere—inside or outside. While it’s crucial to steer clear of submerging the unit, it can withstand splashes without worry. Its durable design ensures it resists the typical wear and tear encountered in everyday life.
#### Enhanced Features with the Bose Connect Application
The Bose Connect app introduces an additional level of convenience, enabling users to manage all connected devices, check battery life, and easily update firmware. Moreover, you can link up to two compatible Bose speakers to achieve a genuine stereo sound experience, enhancing the audio landscape for gatherings with friends or family. This capability enriches the overall listening experience without requiring complicated setup processes.
#### The Ideal Speaker for Any Gathering
In conclusion, the Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth Portable Speaker showcases premium audio performance in a mobile format. Its blend of superb sound quality, long battery duration, waterproof features, and additional connectivity options renders it an ideal pick for music lovers. Whether aiming to elevate your upcoming gathering or simply enjoying music in your daily routine, the SoundLink Max is an impressive addition to any technology collection.
For those interested, you can find the Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth Speaker [here on Amazon](https://shop.kotaku.com/go/6301/).
Asus has revealed expected price hikes for select items, coinciding with the upcoming CES 2026. The Taiwanese tech giant, recognized for its extensive lineup of PC gaming equipment, including the $1,000 ROG Xbox Ally X, has notified partners about “strategic price adjustments” that will take effect on January 5. While details concerning which products will undergo price increases or the magnitude of these hikes are still undisclosed, the company highlighted the ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) arms race as a key contributor to rising costs.
In a letter dated December 30, Asus executive Liao Yi-Xiang pointed to various factors impacting the supply chain as the basis for these price modifications. The letter mentioned reallocations of capacity from upstream suppliers, rising investment costs linked to advanced manufacturing techniques, and supply chain gaps caused by the growing demand for AI computing capabilities. The firm particularly noted shortages in DRAM, NAND, and SSD components as significant contributors to the upcoming price adjustments.
Asus’ alert serves as an early sign that the gaming sector may continue to encounter escalating costs in 2026. Major technology companies are increasingly concentrating on fulfilling the heightened demand for generative AI computing power, fostering expectations of broader price increases across gaming hardware. Analysts and industry insiders have predicted that companies like AMD may also face considerable shortages, with apprehensions that the Xbox console line could be especially affected due to inventory management obstacles.
Reports from sources such as Insider Gaming indicate that the repercussions of these shortages may lead to possible delays in launching next-generation consoles like the PlayStation 6 and a new Xbox model. Manufacturers are considering deferring the releases, initially scheduled for 2027-2028, hoping to improve RAM production capabilities, which could result in lower prices.
Recent updates from the South Korean outlet Newsis have suggested that both Nvidia and AMD are gearing up to elevate their GPU prices in 2026. The most concerning speculation indicates that high-end graphics cards, such as the $2,000 RTX 5090, might see their prices skyrocket to $5,000 by the year’s end. Even slight price increases in the range of several hundred dollars could worsen the ongoing affordability dilemma facing PC gaming fans.
Ultimately, while the immediate consequences of these price hikes remain uncertain, the growing competition in the AI industry has transformed companies like Microsoft and Nvidia, propelling their AI initiatives to levels where their non-AI activities barely register in financial statements. Unless a significant downturn occurs in the generative AI market—a scenario viewed as improbable—it seems that the trend of rising prices in the gaming hardware sector is poised to continue.
**The Future of Generative AI: Insights from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella**
Generative AI is set to transform various aspects of technology, and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella believes it is just at the start of its path. Nadella’s recent comments emphasize both a hopeful outlook and the hurdles in leveraging generative AI for practical use. He calls for a departure from negative language that labels AI outcomes as “slop,” promoting a more positive perspective on its potential as we anticipate 2026.
In a blog entry titled “Looking ahead to 2026,” Nadella contemplates the continuous advancement of generative AI and recognizes the current obstacles in effectively employing this technology to yield significant results. He asserts that the underlying technology is rapidly advancing and deserves considerable investment—amounting to $100 billion. A pivotal aspect of his message is that society must move beyond the ongoing debate of “slop versus sophistication” in AI outputs.
Nadella expresses the necessity for what he terms a “new equilibrium” in our interpretation of cognitive tools, including generative AI. This new balance would require adjustments in our social and interpersonal interactions due to AI’s escalating impact. He poses a vital inquiry regarding product design, stressing the importance of a deliberate discussion on how these cognitive advancements can alter human relationships and communication.
Although Nadella’s idea of a “new equilibrium” may appear abstract, it addresses a more profound philosophical divide regarding how we perceive AI outputs. Those who critique AI-generated content as “slop” often ground their assessment in the quality and originality of the results. They contend that AI can only be considered sophisticated if it can convincingly imitate human creativity, akin to the Turing test—a standard of a machine’s ability to demonstrate intelligent behavior indistinguishable from that of a human.
Conversely, supporters of generative AI contend that even sophisticated outputs do not diminish human creativity but can enhance it. For them, the label “slop” is only relevant when AI fails to achieve specific standards of quality or creativity. This divide prompts essential inquiries about originality, creativity, and the value we place on machine-generated content compared to human-created artifacts.
In fields like cloud computing and financial markets, intricate distinctions regarding the quality of AI outputs might seem trivial, as the emphasis shifts toward profitability and efficiency. Nevertheless, in interpersonal situations, the standard of AI-generated inputs substantially affects the outputs that individuals engage with. Nadella’s viewpoint accentuates that merely incorporating AI technology will not inherently improve creative efforts or raise the standard of produced content; instead, a transformative way of engaging with these tools is necessary.
In conclusion, as we progress into the era of generative AI, Nadella advocates for a more sophisticated comprehension of its potential and ramifications. The ongoing conversation regarding the quality of AI-generated content is not merely an intellectual endeavor but a crucial dialogue that will influence how society assimilates these technologies into everyday life and creativity. The challenge lies not only in refining the technology itself but in nurturing a thoughtful conversation about its role in our shared cognitive landscape.
### The Surprising Link Between a Star Wars Game and PS5 Hacking
In an unexpected development, aspiring PS5 jailbreakers have pinpointed a specific video game—*Star Wars Racer Revenge*—as a crucial element for unlocking undiscovered features of the PlayStation 5 in light of its forthcoming 12.00 system update. Although it may appear implausible, this revelation has sparked a heightened interest in the game, which was launched on PS4 in a limited edition. The cost of physical copies has surged as hackers rush to obtain them with the aim of leveraging their exploitative capabilities.
#### The Mechanisms of the Hack
Reports indicate that hackers are confident they can take advantage of a flaw in *Racer Revenge*, enabling them to embed code into the PS5 system. This technique relies on the game’s distinct port that has remained unaddressed since its initial PS2 launch in 2002. Hackers have successfully utilized previous jailbreaks that depended on physical Blu-ray discs, rendering it a credible pathway for unlocking the console’s functionalities.
Recent communications from developers within the hacking sphere imply that the exploit has promise, with a notable announcement regarding code dissemination being hinted at. The inclusion of a specific disc—CUSA03474, associated with the PS4 version of *Racer Revenge*—has generated urgency among prospective hackers eager to exploit the forthcoming jailbreak.
#### The Quest for Copies
The situation is further complicated by the limited availability of *Star Wars Racer Revenge* copies. Limited Run Games, the company responsible for the PS4 release in 2019, manufactured around 8,500 units, all of which have been sold out. Resale sites such as eBay are witnessing substantial price hikes, with listings surpassing $200 for used copies. Within a brief period of coverage on this matter, prices have reportedly risen four times, highlighting intense demand fueled by collectors, malicious hackers, and opportunistic resellers.
#### Current Market Conditions
This phenomenon has transformed *Racer Revenge* into a highly coveted item, not only for its nostalgic worth but also as a potential entry point for those seeking to hack the PS5. The intersection of gaming nostalgia and hacking culture has ignited a race among fans for physical copies, escalating with each new report and clue released in the hacking circle.
If you are keen on exploiting your PS5’s capabilities via this unexpected route, now might be the moment to take action. The constrained availability of *Star Wars Racer Revenge* along with the rising demand indicates that prices are poised to climb even further. Secure a copy while it’s still possible, as this could represent an unprecedented moment in the realms of gaming and hacking.
### January 2026 PlayStation Plus Games: A Laid-Back Beginning for Subscribers
The initial complimentary monthly PlayStation Plus games for 2026 have been revealed, and the choices for January appear to be rather muted for PS5 and PS4 players. Unlike the five titles introduced last month, this month brings only three new games for subscribers.
On December 31, Sony disclosed the PS Plus Essential games set to grace the platform in the upcoming year. While the chosen titles are indeed commendable, they may not spark considerable enthusiasm. These games will be accessible for download and permanent library inclusion starting January 6, and subscribers with active PS Plus Essential, Extra, or Premium memberships can install and enjoy them at their convenience. The list of available games consists of:
– **Need for Speed Unbound** | PS5
– **Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed** | PS4, PS5
– **Core Keeper** | PS4, PS5
#### Game Descriptions:
1. **Need for Speed Unbound**
– The 25th installment in the cherished Need for Speed series, Unbound features a lively cel-shaded art style. Released in 2022, it provides an engrossing racing experience, even though it may not be the most unforgettable entry in the franchise.
2. **Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed**
– This title presents a remastered version of the 2010 platformer initially directed by Warren Spector, renowned for his contributions to Deus Ex. The 2024 remaster acts as an excellent entry point for players unfamiliar with the original while offering insights into the history of game development.
3. **Core Keeper**
– Possibly the highlight of this month, Core Keeper merges aspects reminiscent of both Minecraft and Stardew Valley within a top-down pixel art crafting simulation. It continues to evolve with regular free updates, with the forthcoming one named Void & Voltage set to launch later this month.
While January’s choices may not inspire the same level of excitement as the pre-holiday games from the previous month, players can still anticipate enjoying these titles in the new year.