When WWE came to Netflix on January 6, 2025, “sports entertainment” gained its widest reach to date. The deal that brought Monday Night Raw (and, outside the U.S., every WWE production) to streaming was a handshake between two PR-savvy pop-culture juggernauts, and Netflix’s new documentary series WWE: Unreal is where their art and commerce meet. It’s also where the latter frequently wins out, grinding the tensions that inform creative endeavors into a fine dust and sweeping them under the rug. Touted as a behind-the-scenes saga and the first ever peek into pro-wrestling writers’ rooms, Unreal promises an exclusive exposé. But that is, to quote the wrestling lingo that’s become everyday vocabulary in our hyper-online, always-engaged era of fervent fandom, a work. Unreal is pure marketing, a five-episode ploy to court new viewers for Raw, SmackDown, and the Royal Rumble. Even that pledge to put the writers in the spotlight goes mostly unfulfilled.

The first season of Unreal tracks several wrestlers, matches, and ongoing storylines from WWE’s debut on Netflix through its annual springtime flagship, WrestleMania – “wrestling’s Super Bowl,” as numerous stars and executives remind us. Some faces, like Hollywood mainstays John Cena and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, will be familiar to newcomers. Others, like Australian goth queen Rhea Ripley and electric Samoan sensation Jey Uso, haven’t yet broken through to the mainstream, but their broad appeal makes them the perfect subjects for this speed-run through the WWE basics, aimed at telling even non-fans what they already know: that wrestling, while hard-hitting and high-flying, is scripted entertainment. “Our business is about telling stories,” says former competitor and current Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque= in the first episode, inadvertently tipping his hand towards the fiction of WWE: Unreal itself.

What the unacquainted may not realize – and what the series hopes they won’t – is that for the longest time, any film or documentary with WWE’s stamp of approval has rewritten history. Unreal is no exception: Its attempt to pull back the curtain happens entirely on WWE’s terms, resulting in a sterile depiction of the creative process with few meaningful struggles or butting of heads – as though each match and storyline were destined to be perfect from its inception. This removes the backstage friction that provides much of the promotion’s allure, making Unreal a passive experience.

The major problem with this framing is one that ardent fans will immediately recognize. Since the 1990s – and especially in the modern age of social media – being attuned to wrestling has meant following the ins and outs, the breaking news from journalistic sources, the nuggets of rumors and juicy gossip wherever one can find them. By and large, pro-wrestling fans love this razor-thin line between fantasy and reality, and how contract disputes or real-life animosity between wrestlers shows up on screen in ways the company may not always be able to help. With Unreal, WWE tries to capitalize on this form of engagement, but attempts to exert control where it otherwise can’t, reframing every moving part and possibility as a known quantity.

Thankfully, that’s not always the case; the third episode, titled “Worth the Wait”, gestures towards the vulnerabilities, creative anxieties, and tensions that inform the storylines of female WWE superstars including up-and-comer Chelsea Green and weathered veteran Charlotte Flair. However, Unreal very quickly drops each of these threads in favor of an uncanny, robotically smooth version of events. For instance: Green’s intriguing onscreen struggle, as a Canadian, to get booked on a major Canadian show is entirely forgotten the next time WWE is seen returning to Canada. Of the male competitors, only Cena is afforded the chance to be emotionally exposed, as he discusses aging and competing in his final year before retirement. In true WWE fashion, very few storylines feel complete, and no other company exists in the wrestling landscape – even though several of the featured wrestlers came up through rival promotions like AEW.

Unreal’s structure is straightforward, cutting between the in-ring action, backstage coordination, and subsequent interviews. This occasionally yields entrancing moments, like when the directors in the production truck are forced to keep up with story turns that were closely guarded all the way up to air, resulting in the creative highwire act of live editing on the fly. But this is just one of several components in the making of WWE that receive a scant few minutes of screentime in Unreal. More often, it does what any wrestler might when delivering a “promo” on the mic: using the guise of storytelling to very explicitly sell you something. Give an embittered character a few, uninterrupted minutes on air, and they’ll threaten to beat up their opponent at a designated time and place, not-so-subtly reminding you when to purchase the next pay-per-view event. Unreal, meanwhile, tracks the timeline of each episode with an onscreen calendar where Monday night is marked “Raw” and every Friday is marked “SmackDown,” training us to remember when to tune in next.

It’s understandable that WWE would want to expand its audience, given the company’s now worldwide, instantaneous reach. But that results in Unreal spending way too much time explaining the rules or various match types. It’s a bore for anyone remotely familiar with wrestling – who, as it happens, is exactly the kind of person who might be interested in a behind-the-scenes documentary in the first place. Nonfans aren’t likely to be swayed by a process-oriented instructional video; they’re going to decide if wrestling is worth their time based on wrestling itself.

There’s a whole lo-fi cottage industry tracking this kind of stuff on YouTube, where ravenous fans gather to lap up the latest wrestling scuttlebutt. WWE: Unreal is, in comparison, far too polished and pristine to inspire this type of devotion, lacking any real drama beyond seeing how the next corporate decree translates into ratings. It’s the rare TV show to inspire this thought: They should’ve left it to the amateurs.

Look, I should probably be finishing some of my backlog, but with discounts this deep across every major platform, what’s a few more download queues between friends? I've dipped into today's sales and walked away with a mix of modern bangers, cult classics, and a few unexpected favourites that all punched well above their asking price. Whether you're Team DualSense, docked on the Switch, or glued to a clicky mechanical keyboard, there’s gold in these discounts.

This Day in Gaming 🎂

In retro news, I'm marking the 21st birthday of Sid Meier's Pirates!, an arrr-rated remake of an '87 classic I smashed repeatedly on PC. Think: a 2.5D, top-down Sea of Thieves, and you're not far off the mizzenmast as fencing, naval battles, sniffing out treasure, and harnessing winds/avoiding reefs are your bread and butter gameplay. The long-term hook (so to speak) lay in its trading and RPG-lite elements, plus the addiction of building a multi-ship armada and a bad-arse rep. Top game. Would replay.

Aussie birthdays for notable games.

- Sid Meier's Pirates! (PC) 2004. Get

- King's Quest (PS3/4.X360/O) 2015. Get

- N++ (PS4) 2015. Get

Contents

• Nintendo
• Xbox
• PlayStation
• PC
• PC Gear
• LEGO
• Headphones
• TVs

Nice Savings for Nintendo Switch

Getting a group of friends together to learn and play a board game can be a daunting task. Not only does it require everyone in-person, but between setting up, learning the rules, and actually playing through the game it can end up taking multiple hours. Thankfully, there's an online solution that solves many of these issues.

Board Game Arena might be one of the best-kept secrets, despite having more than 10 million registered players. Still, the flexibility to play many of the most popular games today whenever you desire makes it a must for board game enthusiasts. With a massive catalog spanning every genre, it's got plenty to offer for both casual and hardcore players alike. Check out our full breakdown below to learn more about Board Game Arena, some of the included games, pricing, and what devices are supported.

What Is Board Game Arena?

Board Game Arena is a website that allows you to play more than 1,000 popular board games—completely free. What's the catch? Surprisingly, there isn't one. It really is as good as it sounds. A metaphorical board game buffet just waiting to be devoured.

The browser-based website is pretty lightweight, allowing it to run seamlessly across desktop and mobile devices. You can play games in real-time with players from across the world or set up a turn-based match that lets players take turns when it's convenient for them. While this significantly increases the time it takes to complete a game, it's a flexible option that's perfect for those with a busy schedule who can't dedicate the time it takes to sit down and play longer games.

How it works

Most games include a step-by-step guided tutorial, which is the perfect way to learn a new game that doesn't require combing through a massive rulebook. Many also have links to educational videos if you prefer to learn by watching.

The best part about Board Game Arena is that the entire experience is automated. That means no more worrying about the rules or players potentially cheating. Each game features a simple interface that clearly indicates which moves you can make at any given moment. This also helps games move along at a brisk pace, as there's no setup, teardown, or fiddling with components.

Players can create digital tables and indicate the number of opponents they are looking for before starting a match. Generally, finding players is quick, with tables often filled in a matter of seconds. Some games even include expansion content, which you can decide to enable when setting up your table.

Each game features a built-in text chat option to interact with your friends or opponents. And, if you want to host a virtual game night and get the full experience, optional voice and video chat are also available.

Because many board games require a lot of time and commitment, Board Game Arena leverages a reputation system for all players. Anyone who takes too long to make a move or leaves a game before it's finished receives a penalty. This allows you to quickly identify potential problem players and avoid matching with them to ensure a positive play experience.

For players looking to test their ability, Board Game Arena also offers ranked matches and tournaments for every game. This is a great way to face off against some of the best players in the world and improve your skill.

How Much Does Board Game Arena Cost?

Board Game Arena is available in two tiers: free and Premium. The free tier only requires that you create a free account in order to access the catalog of games. However, you'll quickly find that many of the most popular games have the "Premium" badge on them, which means you can't start a table unless you have a paid subscription. If you're patient, though, you can wait for another premium member to set up a table and join for free.

What Games Does Board Game Arena Include?

Board Game Arena features some of the most popular board games available today, including: engine-building games like Wingspan, Splendor, and Res Arcana; family games like Azul, Ticket to Ride, and Harmonies; cooperative games like Pandemic, Sky Team, and The Fellowship of the Ring: Trick-Taking Game, and many, many more. The best part—new games are added weekly, so there's always something to look forward to and play.

For more experienced players, there are plenty of longer, more strategic games that typically need a well-versed group to play including Terraforming Mars, Ark Nova, and Terra Mystica. While these games can take hours in-person, the instant setup and automated turn structure helps them move much faster than their real-world counterparts, making this the ideal way to play many of these heavier games.

Although most games require two or more players to enjoy, Board Game Arena has a vast catalog of solo games for players who prefer that format. Many modern games also include a solo variant, allowing you to play against an automa and learn the strategy without the pressure of additional players.

Even if you only have a few minutes to spare, Board Game Arena also features dozens of quick board games that can be played on your phone to give you your fix. The beauty of its massive catalog is that you can choose the perfect game based on how much time you have available.

Board Game Arena - Available Platforms

Since Board Game Arena is browser-based, it's available on just about any modern device that can access an internet browser. While you can play games on mobile, I find that some games' visual aspects don't scale well for the smaller screen. Your best bet is to play on PC, Mac, or even a tablet as each of these can fit more visuals and information on the screen.

Matthew Adler has written for IGN since 2019 covering all things gaming, tech, tabletop games, and more. You can follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @MatthewAdler and watch him stream on Twitch.

It might be hard to keep Marvel's upcoming movie and TV slate straight -- it's a lot to absorb, we know, but the biggest news in recent memory is surely that Robert Downey, Jr. himself is returning to the MCU. No, not as Tony Stark, but rather as one of the most anticipated Marvel villains -- Doctor Doom!

How the former Iron Man could now be the Fantastic Four's greatest villain remains unclear at the moment, but we do know that he will be the centerpiece of the next Avengers movie: Avengers: Doomsday, which will apparently bring together the Avengers, the Fantastic Four, and even the X-Men (plus a bunch of other folks!).

Until we know more, all we can do is watch our newsfeeds and wait, and hope, and speculate about what's next for Marvel. Hey, that's how it works for us nerds! We've done our best to wrangle and rein in all of the many MCU movie and TV shows that are in the works in one easy place for you to reference and learn about what's next. From the movies to the Disney+ shows, here's a quick rundown of everything on the MCU horizon.

Come join us in the Multiverse and click on through the slideshow below for a glimpse (or read on for more)...

Marvel Phase 6 Movies/TV Shows and Beyond: 2025 Release Dates

For those keeping track, here's the full lineup of upcoming Marvel movies and shows:

• Eyes of Wakanda Series (August 1, 2025)
• Marvel Zombies (October 2025)
• Wonder Man (December 2025)
• Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 31, 2026)
• Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 (March 2026)
• Vision Quest TV Series (2026)
• Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man: Season 2 (2026) and 3 (Date TBD)
• The Punisher Marvel TV Special (2026)
• Avengers: Doomsday (December 18, 2026)
• Avengers: Secret Wars (December 17, 2027)
• Blade (Date TBD)
• Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings 2 (Date TBD)
• Armor Wars (Date TBD)
• X-Men '97: Season 2 (Date TBD)

Here are some of the most definite Marvel movies and shows in the MCU's Multiverse Saga that are currently in the works:

Eyes of Wakanda Series (August 1, 2025)

Black Panther writer-director Ryan Coogler produces this Disney+ animated series which is focused on the wider world of Wakanda. The four-episode series will feature the stories of Wakandan warriors from history.

Marvel Zombies (October 2025)

Following an introduction in the first season of Marvel's What If...?, Marvel Zombies will be a new animated series that "reimagines the Marvel Universe as a new generation of heroes battle against an ever-spreading zombie scourge." The show will be directed by executive producer Bryan Andrews.

At San Diego Comic-Con 2022, it was revealed that Marvel Zombies will not only feature undead versions of Captain America, Scarlet Witch, Hawkeye, Ghost, Abomination, Captain Marvel, and Okoye, but it will also include new heroes that are very much alive like Yelena, Kate Bishop, Red Guardian, Jimmy Woo, Death Dealer, Shang-Chi, and Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel. The series will hit Disney+ just in time for Halloween 2025.

Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 31, 2026)

Tom Holland confirmed he's donning the red and blue tights once again for a fourth live-action Spider-Man movie set in the MCU. The sequel will begin filming in Summer 2025 for a July 2026 release. Shang-Chi's Destin Daniel Cretton is directing this time around. We don't know much about the plot of the fourth movie yet, though Holland teased that the latest script "really lit a fire in me."

As for future solo films, during Spider-Man: No Way Home's press tour, producer Amy Pascal said that the thinking is that there will be at least three more Spider-Man films starring Tom Holland. It should be noted, however, that has not yet been confirmed by Sony or Marvel.

Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 (March 2026)

Daredevil: Born Again Season 2 began production in New York City in February, 2025, right before the debut of Season 1. Charlie Cox and Vincent D'Onofrio continue their roles as Daredevil/Matt Murodock and Kingpin/Wilson Fisk, respectively, as the Devil of Hell's Kitchen continues to deal with the fallout of Season 1, including a major Daredevil character death and Fisk's ascension to mayor of New York City.

Vision Quest TV Series (2026)

Deadline reported in October, 2022, that a WandaVision spin-off called Vision Quest was in the works with a writers room opening up. The possibility of Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) showing up on the Vision show was not ruled out in the report. Star Trek: Picard showrunner Terry Matalas will oversee the Paul Bettany-led series, which is now expected to release in 2026.

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man: Season 2 (2026) and 3 (Date TBD)

With Season 1 concluding in February, 2025, after featuring the likes of Charlie Cox's Daredevil, Dr. Octavius, Chameleon, Speed Demon, Scorpion, Butane the Pyromaniac, Harry Osborn, Amadeus Cho, and many other familiar faces, a second and third season of the show have been confirmed to be in the works.

The Punisher Marvel TV Special (2026)

Jon Bernthal's Punisher has been introduced to the MCU proper as part of Daredevil: Born Again, but that won't be the last time we see him. Marvel is currently developing a standalone special featuring the character, in the vein of the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special and Werewolf By Night. Bernthal is writing the special alongside We Own This City's Reinaldo Marcus Green.

Avengers: Doomsday (December 18, 2026)

The particulars of this film were in flux after Marvel has parted ways with Jonathan Majors in the wake of his being found guilty of assault and harassment. Will his character, Kang the Conqueror, continue to appear in the MCU in some way? It seems unlikely. Originally called Avengers: The Kang Dynasty, we learned at San Diego Comic-Con 2024 that the next Avengers film is now called Avengers: Doomsday, and it will feature the return of Robert Downey, Jr. himself as Doctor Doom (somehow)! Avengers: Secret Wars will bring an end to The Multiverse Saga and Phase 6 of the MCU a year later.

In March 2025, Marvel revealed the full Doomsday cast via a livestream, with surprises including Channing Tatum's Gambit and a number of other fan-favorite X-Men. Following Marvel's latest delay, Avengers 5 will be released in theaters on December 18, 2026.

Avengers: Secret Wars (December 17, 2027)

Avengers: Secret Wars will mark the end of both Phase 6 of the MCU and the entire Multiverse Saga that encompasses Phases 4, 5, and 6. It will arrive almost exactly a year after Avengers: Doomsday on December 17, 2027. It will also be the big screen adaptation of the beloved Secret Wars comic run that saw the Avengers, Fantastic Four, and X-Men team up to stop an unimaginable threat.

Blade (Date TBD)

Blade will be returning to the big screen, starring Mahershala Ali... or at least we hope he will. The thing is, besides a quick voice cameo in Eternals, we have yet to learn anything more about Ali's Blade. Marvel originally revealed a November 3, 2023 release date at SDCC 2022. Since then, however, the film has pushed back to February 14, 2025, as production reportedly halted due to Ali's dissatisfaction with the script and the departure of director Bassam Tariq. The date then shifted to November 7, 2025, and most recently the film was reported to be taken off the release calendar. But Marvel boss Kevin Feige says they're still working on the film, which after some back and forth, will now be set in the modern-day.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings 2 (Date TBD)

At one point, Destin Daniel Cretton, who directed the first film, was said to be returning to write and direct Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings 2. "We're in very early stages of brainstorming and figuring out what direction we want to go," he told IGN back in 2021. "But yeah, we'll be kind of simultaneously working on a lot of these things from now until we start shooting."

The thing is, the filmmaker eventually got the gig to direct Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which obviously took priority over Shang-Chi. Still, Shang-Chi will appear in Avengers: Doomsday, so another solo film is certainly still possible.

Armor Wars (Date TBD)

Don Cheadle could be back as James Rhodes -- War Machine -- for Armor Wars, which was originally designed to be a TV series on Disney+. The project was initially described as "a classic Marvel story about Tony Stark’s worst fear coming true: what happens when his tech falls into the wrong hands?" However, in September of 2022, The Hollywood Reporter revealed that the project was being reshaped into a movie rather than a TV series. We haven't heard much about it since then, so it's possible this is one that winds up never coming together now that Disney and Marvel are easing back on how many MCU films and shows they make.

X-Men '97: Season 2 (Date TBD)

The first season of X-Men '97, the revival of the original X-Men: The Animated Series from the 1990s, continued right where that storyline left off. Original voice actors from the first show returned to their characters, including Wolverine's Cal Dodd, Rogue's Lenore Zann, Beast's George Buza, and more. The show was well-received by fans and will be back for at least two more seasons, though it's currently unknown when that may be.

Marvel Movies and TV Shows Released in 2024

• Echo (January 9, 2024)
• Deadpool & Wolverine (July 26, 2024)
• Agatha All Along (September 18, 2024)
• What If...? Season 3 (December 22, 2024)

Note: This story was updated on 7/28/2025. It was originally posted on 7/29/2021.

Matt Fowler is a writer for IGN and a member of the Television Critics Association. Follow him on Twitter at @TheMattFowler and Facebook at Facebook.com/MattBFowler.

This August will see the release of some awesome new LEGO Star Wars sets. From large-scale display models to smaller playset builds geared more towards the younglings, there's something for everyone. Some of these ideas have already been released as sets in the past, but modern LEGO design sensibilities keep them coming back after retirement. I welcome this, since the secondary LEGO market can be a bit rough, and I'm all for affordable and accessible hobbies. Also, there are a bunch of characters that are getting the minifigure treatment for the first time. This batch of sets will see one of the very few releases of Kaminoan minifigures, as well as new Jango and Boba Fett, Asajj Ventress, and Clone Trooper Figures.

New LEGO Star Wars Sets Coming This August

Some obvious standouts are the new massive AT-ST Walker (75417) and the Wicket the Ewok (75430) display models. Of the entire batch, the Walker is the one I'm looking forward to the most personally. At 1,513 pieces, it's sure to be one of the most accurate recreations of the iconic mech we've seen to date. The Wicket set joins countless other buildable display figures like C3-PO (75198) and the Battle Droid with STAP (75428) as another super accurate and to-scale set depicting a fan-favorite character in brick form.

Then there's the new version of Jango Fett's Starship (75433), which also includes a sweet Lama Su minifigure, the first time this cloner has been shrunk down to LEGO size. The set overall is a smaller version of the massive 2,970-piece Jango Fett's Firespray-Class Starship (75409), so if you're on a budget or tight on space, it's a great way to get Jango's ship and stay practical.

Finally, I would be silly not to call out the V-19 Torrent Starfighter set (75432). Asajj Ventress is one of my favorite characters from The Clone Wars, and her new minifigure here will be a fine addition to my collection. I'll also never pass up a reason to get more Obi-Wan in his Clone Wars armor, so this is one I'll be tracking down once all eight of these sets start to ship out on August 1.

More Coming From the Galaxy Far, Far Away

San Diego Comic-Con 2025 just wrapped up over the weekend, and while we didn't get any huge Star Wars movie news, Lucasfilm Publishing dropped tons of new details on what fans can expect in the near future. Some notable teases include Industrial Light & Magic: 50 Years of Innovation, a hardcover book that celebrates the storied history of the iconic visual effects studio. Then there's Star Wars: Hyperspace Stories: Bad Batch #2: Rogue Agents. That's a lot of colons. This comic book features the return of Clone Force 99, and is notably published by Dark Horse Comics and not Marvel. Finally, Star Wars: The High Republic is finally coming to a close with The Finale, which starts very soon on July 30.

Myles Obenza is a freelance writer for IGN. Follow him on Bluesky @mylesobenza.bsky.social.

San Diego Comic-Con once again offered us a glimpse into the future of movies and TV shows, and we are very excited about a lot of these projects. However, this isn't about us, because we need your help.

What were your favorite movies and TV shows from SDCC, and which left you wanting more? Was the promise of seeing how John Cena's Chris Smith jumps from the DCEU to the DCU enough to make Peacemaker Season 2 top your list? Is IT: Welcome to Derry just too terrifying for you, meaning you need to hide it near the bottom of the list so it won't keep you up at night?

We've selected 25 of the biggest movies and TV shows that made a splash at SDCC, and we've entered them into a Tier List you can check out below. Where these projects fall is entirely up to you, as we'd love you to rank these entrants from the best of the best to the worst of the worst. Our scale goes from S all the way down to D, and there is space to fill in the others in between.

Does the promise of the Spinal Tap gang returning to the big screen after 41 years make the upcoming sequel worthy of an S? Can you not wait to see who follows Korra as the next Avatar in Avatar: Seven Havens? Do you think Spartaus: House of Ashur will be too violent for your taste? Let us know below!

For more, check out the biggest trailers of SDCC and which movies and TV shows we here at IGN are most excited about!

The new school year is just around the corner, meaning it might be time to upgrade your devices to ensure your equipment isn't what's holding back your study goals. iPads are known for their versatility, performance prowess, and portability – features students juggling classes, jobs, and internships can benefit from. Whether you’re looking for something to access digital textbooks, somewhere to jot notes, or even take online classes, iPads are the best tablets for the job. Take a look at our favorite iPads for students in 2025. From undergrads to med students, there’s a great iPad model to suit your needs.

TL;DR – These Are the Top iPads for Students:

Not all iPads are created equal, coming in different sizes and prices and offering various capabilities. At the top of the pack performance-wise is the mighty iPad Pro, which perfect for students in creative or STEM majors who require a device to run more intensive programs. It is expensive, so if you don’t need that much power, the mid-range iPad Air is a great all-around option. Plus, if you slap a keyboard on either of these powerful tablets, they can be a viable laptop replacement.

Need something a little more pocketable? The iPad mini might be for you. Even the budget-friendly iPad A16 is ready to take on daily tasks and is great for streaming shows during your limited free time. No matter which iPad you go for, all come running on the familiar and reliable iPad OS. Take an in-depth look at our favorite iPads for students below:

1. iPad Air M3 (2025)

Best iPad for College

2. iPad A16 (2025)

Best Budget iPad for Students

3. iPad Mini (2024)

Best iPad for Medical Students

4. iPad Pro M4 (2024)

Best iPad for Design and STEM Students

How to Choose the Best iPad for Students

Since their inception, iPads have completely changed the tablet game, acting as powerful, portable computers. The best iPads for students can serve various purposes, from notetaking, reading, and research tools to full-on laptop replacements ready to cruise through whatever tasks are thrown their way. If you’re after your first iPad for school or want a replacement, here's what look for:

What size iPad is good for school?

iPads range in size from 8.3 inches up to 13 inches. For students looking for a reading tablet that also works great for notetaking on the go, the most pocketable and smallest iPad, the Mini, is the way to go.

The sweet spot between portability and plenty of space to draft documents and consume media is an iPad between 10 to 11 inches. That size range is where you’ll find the true tablet experience, and Apple has three iPads that fit the bill: the iPad, iPad Air, and iPad Pro.

The 13-inch iPad size – available on the Air and Pro models – is ideal for productivity, and the extra screen space will serve students in creative and STEM majors well. Slapping a keyboard on the iPad makes it a viable laptop replacement. However, the larger screen means this tablet is slightly less portable than the others.

How much should you pay for an iPad?

Since it's not the most current generation of the iPad, the 10th generation iPad is the most budget-friendly – if it's in stock. Otherwise, there will often be awesome deals on the newer 11th generation iPad during popular deal times like Prime Day and Black Friday. By going for a lower-cost option, sacrifices to power and screen quality will be made, but students can still easily run many of their favorite apps.

Pricier iPad models like the Pro and Air see an uptick in performance prowess, storage, and features, so your experience running apps and completing tasks will be speedier and more fluid. The iPad Pro is the most expensive iPad model, costing upwards of $2,500 depending on specs. That’s a lot for college students. Therefore, we’d only recommend grabbing the Pro if you truly need the power and graphical abilities. The iPad Air is significantly more affordable than the Pro, and when you add in its lightweight, sleek design, and fast processor, it’s easy to see why it’s our favorite iPad for students.

Apple also often offers education pricing and student discounts, so be sure to see if it’s running any promotions on the iPad model you’d like to purchase. This back-to-school season, Apple is adding a pair of AirPods (or another eligible accessory) with an iPad or computer purchase.

What features do you need for school?

All iPads are versatile machines with useful features for students, but starting with a strong internet connection is key. Each iPad delivers WiFi support for a reliable wireless connection, which should work great around campus. It’s possible to purchase iPad models with cellular support, but we don’t think that's a necessary additional expense for students.

When FaceTiming relatives back home or attending online classes, a great front-facing camera is essential. As for the main lens, students should be less concerned. That extra camera is great when you just need to snap a quick pic for reference later, but smartphones always look better and are far more convenient to handle than the ones on tablets.

Solid-sounding integrated speakers can also come in handy when you’re sick of using your wireless earbuds. The iPad Air and iPad Pro are superior in this regard, though almost no tablet is capable of producing incredible audio for things like movies and music. However, if you want to tune out the world when working from your tablet at the library or on the quad, IGN expert Nick Woodard's review of the Apple AirPods 4 with ANC was overwhelmingly positive, meaning these earbuds are a great alternative to the pricier AirPods Pro 2.

Unfortunately, connectivity options on iPad models are limited. For the most part, you’re just getting a USB-C, some of which have DisplayPort capabilities. At least Bluetooth support is strong on all models for connecting wireless accessories.

Best Student iPad FAQs

Is 64GB enough iPad storage for students?

The amount of storage necessary for students depends on what the iPad is used for. If its primary purpose is to run some apps, take notes, and stream a some videos, you can get by with that 64GB of storage. Luckily, it’s easy and cheap enough to connect the device to a cloud storage service for additional space to save your photos, videos, and documents. The 11th gen iPad that came out earlier this year now comes with 128GB of base storage, which is great upgrade. The only iPad to offer 64GB of storage out of the box is the 10th gen iPad, which is getting harder to come by.

If downloading the best iPad games and top shows is a high priority, upping to 128GB or 256GB is a good idea. However, STEM, graphic design, film, and other creative majors could benefit from saving projects locally and need extra space for bloated software, and should therefore seek 512GB or more storage space. Of course, grabbing a great external USB-C drive is also always a great idea.

What iPad accessories do students need?

The best iPad accessory that a student can arm their tablet with is a case or cover. Chances are good that it’ll be sliding in and out of bags often, so something to keep the chassis and screen protected ensures you don’t brick it. Students could also benefit from a portable charger during busy days shuffling between classes, while the compatible Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil prove useful when taking notes. Beyond that, all the basics, like AirPods and a USB-C charger come in handy.

Samsung tablet vs. iPad for students

Many of the best Android tablets are Samsung-made, and while iPads are great, Samsung is giving Apple a run for its money. iPads tend to provide a more fluid, smooth experience consistently, espeically if you already have an iPhone. For students looking for a creative powerhouse, the Pro can’t be beat. However, pricing is a bit more restrictive and some find iPadOS limiting. Samsung, on the other hand, offers a wide range of Galaxy Tablets at different price points for more flexibility – some of which keep up with the iPad – but performance can still be a mixed bag, depending on the model and specs chosen.

Ultimately, when it comes to students deciding between the two, it’s more a matter of personal preference. If you’re all in on the Apple ecosystem, an iPad is the way to go, and if you’re dedicated to Android devices, Samsung makes more sense.

Danielle Abraham is a freelance writer for IGN based in Los Angeles who spends most of her time updating tech buying guides.

If you're looking for an affordable power bank that will fast charge your brand new Nintendo Switch 2, Steam Deck, or Apple iPhone 16, then check out this new deal that just popped up. Amazon is currently offering the Iniu 10,000mAh Power Bank with up to 45W of Power Delivery and a USB Type-C cable lanyard for just $10.28 after you clip the 45% off coupon on the product page. It will more than double your total Switch 2 playtime and has enough power output for you to play and charge simultaneously. Iniu power banks have solid reviews and are less expensive than Anker models.

Iniu 10,000mAh 45W Power Bank for $10.28

San Diego Comic-Con 2025 was filled to the brim with movies and TV shows we can't wait to watch, but there are a few that we wish we could use time travel to watch right now...

From Peacemaker Season 2 to Alien: Earth to Predator: Badlands to King of the Hill and more, we've picked the eight films and series we can't stop thinking about. We'd love to know what you are most looking forward to and what you loved the most from SDCC, so be sure to let us know below and then check out our roundup of the biggest San Diego Comic-Con trailers!

Peacemaker Season 2

Making peace with yourself is harder than it looks.

Season ✌️ of #Peacemaker premieres August 21 on HBO Max. pic.twitter.com/kMHIU5z3Gt

— HBO Max (@hbomax) July 26, 2025

Peacemaker is returning for its second season on August 21, and we couldn't be more excited to see how John Cena's Chris Smith jumps from the DCEU to the DCU. We caught a small glimpse of that at SDCC, and we also learned that the show takes place one month after the events of Superman.

We loved Peacemaker's first season, giving it a 9/10. We said it was James Gunn's "best work to date" and that, "while its abrasive characters and gory spectacle might turn some viewers off, they run parallel with a deep emotional core and pointed critiques that are powerfully delivered as part of a well-conceived and twisty plot."

Alien: Earth

Alien: Earth is set to be released on August 12 and will see the space vessel Maginot crash-land on Earth with Xenomorph samples on board. We were able to see the first episode of Alien: Earth at SDCC and we learned a ton about the new show that has us even more excited/terrified of what's to come.

From Xenomorphs to Synthetics to Hybrids to Facehuggers jumping out of eggs, this prequel looks to be packed with everything we love about this franchise, and we don't have to wait long to see how it all plays out.

Predator: Badlands

Predator: Badlands follows the tale of a young Predator outcast named Dek and a Synthetic name Thia who forge an aliance to survive on a dangerous and remote planet. At SDCC, we learned this whole Predator carrying an Android idea was inspired by Chebacca carrying C-3PO in The Empire Strikes Back, and we just think that's awesome.

That's not all, as we also learned that this film also takes inspiration from Shadow of the Colossus, Half-Life 2, Uncharted, and God of War, and these bits of news gives us more and more hope this will be a worthy entry in the long-running franchise.

IT: Welcome to Derry

You’ll love Derry so much, you’ll never leave.#ITWelcomeToDerry premieres October 2025 on HBO Max. pic.twitter.com/ptRIpC2Emg

— HBO Max (@hbomax) July 27, 2025

IT: Welcome to Derry is a prequel that looks just as terrifying as the original. At SDCC, we saw more of this series with some footage that explores the origins of how the entity known as IT came to take on the form of Pennywise the Clown. Future seasons may go further back in time to show more of this twisted universe created by Stephen King.

As for the footage, it was set in 1962 and shows a boy getting in trouble at a movie theater. What follows is a bit disturbing so we'll let you read more here, but suffice to say, we see more nightmares headed our way from Welcome to Derry when it arrives in October 2025.

Project Hail Mary

Project Hail Mary was one of the most anticipated movies at SDCC and what we saw there has us even more excited for the film, which is based on the beloved book by The Martian author Andy Weir. We saw several scenes featuring Ryan Gosling's Ryland Grace, who is a teacher that was recruited for a mission to space to save Earth from a danger caused by a strange cosmic event.

We also got our first look at Rocky the alien, and the fans in Project Hail Mary's panel were very excited about this. We have to wait a little for Project Hail Mary as it won't arrive until March 20 of next year, but all the signs are pointing to this movie shaping up to be something special.

Gen V Season 2

Gen V is returning for its sophmore season on September 7 and it will be bringing some fan-favorite characters from The Boys with it, including Starlight, Black Noir, and The Deep. We also learned of the surprising casting of Ethan Slater as Thomas Godolkin and saw a trailer that teases how our characters are reacting to the big changes that happened in the last season of The Boys.

We here at IGN are excited for more episodes of this spin-off of The Boys as, in our 8/10 review of Gen V Season 1, we said, "Prime Video hit the jackpot with Gen V, a spinoff that asserts its dominant presence as both a standalone series and in-universe continuation."

King of the Hill

A new season of King of the Hill is headed our way on August 4 and we learned a lot about these new episodes at SDCC -- and even got to see the second one. The episode was titled "The Beer Story" and see Hank retired and starting to brew beer at home. We also got to see how much Arlen has changed (and how it hasn't) in 15 years, and this is all making that wait for early August even harder.

For more, you can check out our chat with the creators on how the revival will feature more cursing but propane is "still the main character" and how cultural authenticity drove a recasting decision. Also, watch the series' voice cast deliver iconic movie quotes as their characters and see how Hank would react to Fortnite, Lady Gaga, and Ozempic.

God of War TV Show

God of War is one of our favorite gaming franchises here at IGN and we got to talk to Ronald D. Moore, the executive producer and showrunner on the Prime Video adaptation, who assured fans that "the tone of the show is trying to emulate the tone of the game."

You can read our entire chat by clicking on the link above, but a lot of care is being put into giving both Kratos and Atreus their time to shine, and it appears their relationship as father and son will remain core to this series. Moore at the helm is also great because his history with series like Star Trek: The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine alongside Battlestar Galactica gives us all the confidence in the world that this project is in good hands.

What at SDCC got you most excited? Let's discuss in the comments!

It's no secret that while Nintendo Switch 2 has some excellent games already available, many of these are quite expensive. While the console just launched in early June, Woot has an ongoing sale where you can save a few dollars off some of the biggest Switch 2 games out now. This includes Mario Kart World and the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

Save on Mario Kart World and Zelda Switch 2 Editions

First, Mario Kart World is on sale for $71.99. As the first new Mario Kart experience in over a decade, World has a ton of new courses and mechanics to discover. For the first time ever, Mario Kart enters an open world, with each track interconnected on one landmass. The trick system has seen a massive overhaul, with support for wall riding, and the new Knockout Tour mode is an excellent battle royale-style way to play Mario Kart.

Moreover, the Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are both on sale, and these games are simply masterpieces. The Nintendo Switch 2 Editions only improve on that, offering enhanced resolutions and framerates that elevate the experience. You can even use the new Zelda Notes functionality through the Nintendo Switch app to hear voice recordings and tips to assist you on your journey through Hyrule.

The creators of Avatar: The Last Airbender, Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, confirmed a major piece of casting news for the upcoming The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender movie in an interview with IGN at San Diego Comic-Con 2025.

Paramount Pictures had confirmed Steven Yeun, of The Walking Dead and Invincible fame, for the Aang movie in March, but we didn’t know which character he was set to play.

Speaking to IGN’s Kim Horcher at Comic-Con, Konietzko and DiMartino revealed that Yeun plays Zuko. That will come as a surprise to some fans who had assumed Yeun would reprise his role as Wan, the first Avatar. (Yeun voiced Wan in three episodes of The Legend of Korra.)

Zuko is the Crown Prince of the Fire Nation who is searching for Avatar Aang. "Steven Yeun was Avatar Wan," Konietzko said. "He played the first Avatar in The Legend of Korra. We loved working with him and we're excited to have him back in the universe."

The natural follow-up question is whether Yeun will also be playing Avatar Wan, but neither Konietzko nor DiMartino would budge on that one.

Yeun joins previously announced cast members Dave Bautista (a so-far unannounced villain), Eric Nam (Aang), Dionne Quan (Toph), Jessica Matten (Katara), and Román Zaragoza (Sokka).

The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender, due out October 9, 2026, is said to focus on the original Avatar protagonist in a story that takes place many years after the series came to an end. It’s the first of three movies planned to take place in that universe.

It’s a busy time in the world of Avatar. Also at Comic-Con, DiMartino and Konietzko revealed the first image from Avatar: Seven Havens, a 26-episode, 2D animated series following a young Earthbender who is the next Avatar following Avatar Korra.

Photo by Christoph Soeder/picture alliance via Getty Images.

Wesley is Director, News at IGN. Find him on Twitter at @wyp100. You can reach Wesley at wesley_yinpoole@ign.com or confidentially at wyp100@proton.me.

Whether it’s the difficulty of gathering your game group together consistently, you prefer playing solo, or you're just looking for new players to test your strategies against, physical board games and tabletop experiences may not be enough. Luckily, some fantastic games have been adapted into digital formats that allow for gaming wherever your gaming group may be and for tense matches whenever you want. It really is an exciting time to be a fan of tabletop games.

This guide will point you in the direction of digital adaptations that will scratch that itch you have to play some board games, but also serve as learning resources to introduce new titles into your game night rotation.

Featured in this article

Just a note: This list won’t include digital adaptations for TCGs such as Magic: The Gathering or Virtual Tabletop platforms for TTRPGs; it focuses solely on board games.

Root

Dune: Imperium

Spirit Island

Machi Koro with Everyone

Scythe: Digital Edition

Gloomhaven

Dominion

Werewolf / Mafia

Wingspan

Board Game Arena

As part of its Back to School Sale event, Amazon is offering the new 2024 Apple MacBook Pro 14.2" M4 laptop for just $1,299 after $300 off instant savings. This is a better deal than buying from the Apple Education Store, which is currently offering the same laptop for $1,499 along with a pair AirPods. Amazon is an authorized Apple reseller, which means you get a 1 year Apple warranty that is extendable with AppleCare. The 2024 MacBook Pro is equipped with the latest M4 chip and a healthy dose of memory and storage to power through all of your back to school needs.

MacBook Pro 14.2" M4 (16GB/512GB) for $1299

Sony is suing Tencent, alleging its upcoming game Light of Motiram is "a slavish clone of SIE's...Horizon series of video games."

The complaint, which was filed in a California court last week, alleges that Tencent's upcoming adventure game Light of Motiram is illegally similar to Horizon: Forbidden West and Horizon: Zero Dawn in everything from creature design to protagonist to marketing materials. The complaint outlines numerous similarities, comparing various marketing screenshots from both games as well as the game descriptions.

Like Horizon, Light of Motiram takes place in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by giant robot dinosaurs who roam large, natural environments such as tropical forests, deserts, and snowy mountains. Humans, just like in Horizon, live in tribal groups and must fight the machine animals, who also largely line up with those in Horizon, to survive. Both games even feature red-haired women protagonists that wear very similar outfits and styles, and Motiram even has its lead sporting a device awfully similar to Aloy's "Focus" earpiece.

After eight years of Nintendo’s console-handheld hybrid, its successor, the Nintendo Switch 2, is finally in our hands and it's already become the all-time fastest-selling piece of gaming hardware in the U.S. While it’s a brand-new system, there are some old accessories that still work with the platform. But because of its bigger screen and the new magnetic Joy-Con, that old Switch case isn’t going to fit. You’ll need a handful of new accessories to get the most out of your next-gen Switch. From finding the best grips for your Joy-Con 2 to the easiest bubble-free screen protectors to guard that shiny new display, we have you covered in this Switch 2 accessories guide.

I’ve researched the best Switch 2 accessories you can buy right now based on direct hands-on experience with new gear and knowledge about some of our favorite Switch 1 accessory manufacturers. Of course, we’re still in the early days, and plenty of companies are still shipping their products to retailers as I’m writing this. Some haven’t even made them available for preorder yet, so I’ll continue to update this list over time with my favorite new accessories as I go hands-on with them over the next few months.

Best MicroSD Express Cards for Switch 2 So Far

Bigger games with great graphical detail meant the Switch 2 needed a faster storage solution for your downloaded games. That means your old SD cards from the Switch 1 will not work here. You need to get a MicroSD Express card for the Switch 2, which is faster (and more expensive) than the basic model. We'll be updating our guide to the best MicroSD Express cards for Nintendo Switch 2 as we do more testing now that the console is out.

Best Switch 2 Cases So Far

The Switch 2 may be portable, but it’s not invincible. If you’re gearing up to take the 10/10 Donkey Kong Bananza, Mario Kart World, or Cyberpunk 2077 on the road, you’ll need to protect your console with a sturdy, reliable case. Again, your original Switch case is not going to fit your Switch 2, so you will need to purchase a new one. In addition to materials, construction, and form, I specifically made sure to look for extra features like comfort grips, game cartridge storage, bundles, and tested brands when making my suggestions. Of course, whether you want to go with a slim soft case like the one from Tomtoc that we reviewed and loved or a bulkier hard case like CoBak's, you have options for your preferences.

Best Switch 2 Screen Protectors So Far

Even though the Switch 2 has a built-in layer that acts as screen protector – don't peel that off – a good screen protector is non-negotiable for handheld devices. Since the launch of the original Switch, tons of companies have stepped up their game, offering new applicators, matte finishes, and kits to make sure your protector doesn’t trap dust or air bubbles when you apply it. Some are also built to take hits like a tank (though we’d never suggest testing this out yourself).

I use some of these brands to protect other devices I own, like my Steam Deck and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra smartphone, and many of the same design principles are applied across different designs, including the Switch 2. Most of these also come with extra units in case your first protector gets damaged.

Best Gaming Headsets for Switch 2

The Switch 2 still has a standard audio jack, yet it’s the small but major secondary USB-C port that makes wireless gaming headsets even more useful. A majority of the best gaming headsets are compatible, and since Bluetooth isn’t the best idea for gaming (as was evident on the original Switch), I recommend checking out our picks for headsets that go particularly well with the Switch 2 rather than just using the earbuds you’re probably wearing right now.

Best Switch 2 Controllers

Unless you want to stick with the packaged Joy-Con 2, you’re going to want the new Pro Controller that we reviewed, or one of the gamepads made in its image. Especially if you’re playing more sophisticated games that demand precise controls or need something more comfortable for long sessions, a proper controller will probably be the most beneficial accessory for your Switch 2.

While you could certainly use an original Pro Controller or whatever your previous gamepad of choice was, the Switch 2 brings new features to the table – notably, a 3.5mm audio jack that allows you to use a wired headset for audio and chatting in-game without being tethered to your console. You may be interested in Switch 2’s GameChat feature, and you can seamlessly go into a video and/or voice chat room with friends with the new C button. Not every new controller has it, but licensed manufacturers like PowerA do include it. Lastly, the built-in programmable back buttons on the official Pro Controller can be a game-changer, letting you map normal inputs to them, and that can improve performance or comfort across many different types of games.

If you’re just looking for a solid Pro-style controller, our favorite original Switch controllers will serve you well. Something like the Gulikit KK3 Max has programmable back buttons, Hall Effect sticks, high polling rate for smoother inputs, and is versatile enough to use on PC without trouble. Either way, you have plenty of great options.

Best Switch 2 Handheld Grips So Far

Although it promises some ergonomic enhancements from the original Switch, the Switch 2 still won’t have fully formed grips on the new Joy-Con – the likes of the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally X still have an ergonomic advantage that can help make long handheld play sessions more comfortable. But you already have ways of improving the ergonomics of the Switch 2 with a handful of attachments available now. The grips above are the best we could find for playing in handheld mode from reliable manufacturers.

Best Switch 2 Joy-Con Grip / Handles So Far

Even though the Switch 2 ships with a central grip to attach both Joy-Con to use like a singular controller, they’re not perfect. Especially for intense games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, there are more comfortable ways to play using the Joy-Con. Some companies are even starting to offer stands to help prop up your Joy-Con in the new Mouse Mode as well, which comes in handy for navigating menus and playing games like Civilization VII. Getting a proper connecting grip can be a more cost-effective solution compared to buying an entirely new gamepad, so long as you’re happy with the inputs of the Joy-Con. And many of these options will also charge your Joy-Con while they’re in use, which is a neat little cherry on top.

Best Switch 2 Joy-Con Charge Stations So Far

Nintendo has stated that the Switch 2 Joy-Con could last as long as 20 hours on a full charge, which is the same amount of time as the original Joy-Con. When looking at wireless controllers nowadays, 20 hours is fairly decent, although they still go by pretty quickly compared to other wireless controller options. It’s intuitive to just reattach your Joy-Con when they’re not in use to keep them charged, but if you plan on having multiple sets ready to go at all times, it’ll be a good idea to have a charging station on-hand. For those who often host multiplayer get-togethers, a Joy-Con charging station will make your life easier. I made sure to include models that feature as many ports as possible so you never run out of charged controllers.

Best Switch 2 Portable Chargers

The original Switch’s battery life remains one of its weak spots depending on the game you’re playing (some drain more power than others), even after a mid-gen refresh that brought some welcome improvements. It’ll remain something you have to manage by nature of using a portable gaming device especially if you’re taking the Switch 2 on long flights, trips, or car rides. That max battery life of 6.5 hours won’t always hold up and looking for an outlet is less than ideal when charge times can be quite longer than something like a smartphone.

Being able to charge in-between sessions untethered comes in clutch more often than you may expect, so having an extra battery pack to get some extra juice can be a total game-changer. I personally love Anker’s line with built-in USB-C cables, but Magsafe options like Genki’s Energy Pack are also really enticing. Either way, make sure you check the capacity and wattage of a portable charger before purchasing one you plan to use with your Switch 2 – some might simply be overkill for what you need.

Other Switch 2 Accessories Worth Considering

It feels like every new Nintendo console comes with a mountain of weird accessories. From Wii Sports-style tennis rackets to fishing rods, there’s a lot of extra and niche add-ons mixed in with the core accessories that are typically more practical. That’s not to say there aren’t some cool ideas that stretch the imagination of gaming on the Switch. Hori’s Piranha Plant camera is a fun example – while it costs $5 more than the first-party camera we reviewed, it’s a fun alternative that’s can double-up as some themed decor. (Though don't expect it to work miracles: The camera has a pretty dismal 480p resolution.) While it’s not an ideal way to play everything, the steering wheel attachment can be a fun and more accessible way for younger kids to play Mario Kart World. These accessories don’t fall into the conventional categories like controllers and cases, but they’re worth considering regardless. I’ve also thrown in a couple of "starter kits" that make for decent one-and-done purchases that include most of what you’ll want on day one.

Charlie's a freelance contributor for IGN. You can reach them via Twitter or Instagram at the handle @chas_mke.

Microsoft has begun asking Xbox users in the UK to verify their age in order to continue accessing the platform's full range of social features.

The move is in response to the UK's sweeping Online Safety Act, though Microsoft has said it anticipates making similar changes in other countries in future.

Currently, the age verification requests are limited to accounts already flagged as belonging to owners aged 18 and over within the UK — and for now, the process is optional. But this will change in "early 2026", Microsoft says, when accounts that have not been verified will lose access to Looking for Group functions and custom clubs, and be limited to voice and text communication, party functionality and game invites, plus "user-generated content" (including the Activity Feed) just amongst Xbox friends. Integration with Discord will be disabled, as will the ability to broadcast to Twitch.

"Age verification is a new feature being introduced for players logging into an Xbox experience with Microsoft accounts based in the UK," the company wrote in a just-published Q&A. "It helps ensure that we can continue to provide players on our platform with age-appropriate experiences and keep the Xbox community safe.

"If you have an existing account or are setting up a new one, you may be asked to verify your age using Yoti, a trusted and secure third-party identity verification service."

Yoti is one of the common age verification services now being used by companies operating within the UK to ensure users accessing social features or adult content are old enough to do so. The past week has seen a swathe of platforms suddenly requiring their users to now verify their age — from bespoke adult websites, to social media platforms such as reddit and Bluesky.

According to Xbox's Q&A, users will need to either provide a live photo, a mobile number to check your age via your phone network, a credit card, or a photo of a government-issued ID — including a passport, driving licence or national ID card.

"Whether a player verifies their age will not affect any previous purchases, entitlements, gameplay history, achievements, or the ability to play and purchase games," Xbox vice president of gaming trust and safety Kim Kunes said, "however we encourage players to verify their age via this one-time process now to avoid uninterrupted use of social features on Xbox in the future.

"As this age verification process rolls out across the UK, we’ll continue to evaluate how we can keep players around the world safe and learn from the UK process," Kunes continued. "We expect to roll out age verification processes to more regions in the future."

While Xbox is the first of the major console platform holders to discuss its plans to comply with the UK's Online Safety Act, it seems only a matter of time before PlayStation, Nintendo and other gaming companies publish similar requirements.

Tom Phillips is IGN's News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social

If some new rumors turn out to be accurate, the inevitable iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max may be getting some substantial camera upgrades.

According to a rumor from MacRumors, which claims to have obtained the information from a source familiar with an upcoming iPhone ad, the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max will sport a telephoto lens with an 8x optical zoom. The rumor also states Apple's newest family of phones will feature a camera control button on the "top edge" of the devices and an all-new pro camera app.

An 8x optical zoom would mark a fairly significant upgrade over the 5x optical zoom on the iPhone 16 Pro models. While Apple hasn't confirmed anything yet, it would make sense to see some major upgrades, considering that leaks suggest the iPhone 17's camera array will also receive a full redesign.

The rumor of an additional camera control button sounds a little less likely, as Apple added a customizable Action button to 2023's iPhone 15 Pro, then a camera control button on the right side of the iPhone 16 lineup last year. It would seem a bit premature to add yet another button to the device. Stranger things have happened, though.

Not much was shared about the new camera app, so it's not certain whether the app would be exclusive to Pro models or available to all iPhone 17 users. MacRumors' source claims that Apple could simply be bringing a major update to its existing Final Cut Camera app instead.

A few months ago, Front Page Tech's Jon Prosser also stated that the iPhone 17 Pro models will allow video to be recorded from the front and back cameras at the same time, which would be quite a cool feature for enthusiasts and content creators. If all of these rumored upgrades turn out to be true, iPhone users could be looking at some great reasons to upgrade later this year.

Of course, these rumors come from an unverified source with no history of leaks, so take them with a grain of salt for now. We'll certainly learn everything we need to know about the iPhone 17 family when Apple unveils its new devices, which will presumably happen in September.

Robin Williams' Mrs Doubtfire co-star has suggested the late actor's voice should be revived using AI.

Matthew Lawrence, who played Williams' young son in the film, has said he'd "love" to see the legendary voice behind Aladdin's Genie brought back via artifical intelligence.

The star of countless films including Jumanji, Patch Adams and Night at the Museum, Williams died by suicide in 2014, aged just 63, after receiving a Parkinson's diagnosis.

"I would love — now, obviously, with the respect and with the OK from his family — but I would love to do something really special with his voice," Lawrence told Deadline during an interview at San Diego Comic-Con, "because I know for a generation, that voice is just so iconic.

"It's not just the fact that I knew him and worked with him and so it's in my head — it's in everybody's head," Lawrence continued. "And it would be so cool."

While a handful of actors have given permission for their voice to be reproduced using AI, the practice remains highly controversial. Protection from the encroaching use of AI was a key trigger for the recent video game voice actor's strike, and numerous stars have voiced concern over the fact their vocal likenesses have been used without their permission.

Looking to get into virtual reality? Meta Quest 3 represents a significant step forward in virtual reality (VR) and a great starting point for everyone. It's available in two versions, the fully-featured Quest 3 and the more affordable Meta Quest 3S, which means there's a good option to get into VR no matter the restrictions posed by your wallet. The Meta Quest system is the best way to get into VR, and even offers exciting exclusive games like the Batman Arkham Shadow game, which requires a Meta Quest 3 or 3S to play.

We're keeping an eye out on any Meta Quest discounts as they appear. Unfortunately, there are no deals available at the moment, but we've included where you can buy the headsets right now at their list price below. On top of that, you'll also get a copy of Batman: Arkham Shadow and a three-month trial of Meta Horizon+ for free with your purchase, which is a great bonus.

Buy Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition

Meta Quest 3S Deals

Best Meta Quest 3 Deals and Bundles

Best Meta Quest 3 Accessory Deals

In addition to the hardware itself, there are some great Meta Quest 3 accessory deals at the moment. You'll get the most bang for your buck with a battery-equipped head strap that adds both comfort and playtime to your VR experience.

What Games Are Available on Meta Quest 3?

Eight years after Batman: Arkham Knight, Warner Bros. announced the newest installment in the series: Batman: Arkham Shadow. This VR game is exclusive to the Meta Quest 3 and developed by Camouflaj - the creator of the Iron Man VR game - and Oculus Studios, in collaboration with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment and DC. It's arguably the headset's best game and a must for fans of the caped crusader.

Beyond a virtual reality trip to Gotham, there are many, many other games to play on the Meta Quest. We have a handy list of all the available games on the VR headset via IGN Playlist. Highlights include Asgard’s Wrath 2, Assassin's Creed Nexus, Metal Hellsinger VR, and Metro Awakening.

Batman: Arkham Shadow Is Great

In case you're wondering whether a new Batman: Arkham game works in VR, the answer is "yes." While it was develped by Camouflaj rather than series creator Rocksteady, it offers almost all of what fans of the core series appreciate about it.

Our Batman: Arkham Shadow review explains: "Batman: Arkham Shadow does an admirable job of adapting almost everything I love about the Arkham series to work in a full-fledged VR game, and it’s impressive looking for a game that’s exclusive to the standalone Meta Quest 3 headset. There are a few hitches and aggravating bugs that mean some parts don’t work quite as well as others, but its vigorous brawling, exploration, tricky puzzle solving, and stealth are all in full effect as you sneak and punch your way through Blackgate prison in a twisting undercover pursuit of a mysterious cult leader where just about everybody’s a suspect. It’s certainly smaller in scale than any full game since Arkham Asylum, but it’s far larger and more built-out than you might expect after Batman: Arkham VR, and a return to an enclosed prison setting makes it feel dense and intricate."

What Types of Deals Are There on Meta Quest VR Headsets?

Meta Quest offers usually fall into three kinds of discounts. Events such as the holiday season, Prime Day, Black Friday and announcements of newer models tend to push prices down, alongside:

• Discounts: Direct price reductions are the most common deals, especially during major sales events or as part of clearance sales, to make room for newer models.
• Bundles: Occasionally, retailers bundle a Meta Quest with popular VR games or essential accessories such as additional controllers, charging docks, or travel cases. These bundles provide extra value and enhance the VR experience out of the box.
• Refurbished Units: These units have been returned and restored to like-new condition. They typically come at a reduced price and include a warranty, offering a way to save money without compromising on quality too much.

What to Consider Before Buying a Meta Quest VR Headset

Unfortunately, virtual reality isn't for everyone. Those with severe eye health issues or those who suffer from motion sickness might have problems using this particular bit of kit. Here are some more points to consider:

• Compatibility: Ensure any additional accessories or hardware purchases are compatible.
• Space Requirements: VR gaming requires physical movement, so ensure you have adequate space to use the device safely.
• Future Models: Make sure to check out the features and specs on newer models before buying older ones to ensure it's a good fit.

We're keeping track of all things VR on the dedicated IGN VR hub, including the latest game releases. We're also keeping the VR hardware market on lockdown with our best VR headsets guide, which is worth a look for those who want to shell out on the latest VR tech.

Christian Wait is a UK-based freelancer for IGN, you can follow him @ChrisReggieWait on Twitter/X.

Includes contributions from Robert Anderson and Hannah Hoolihan.

Alienware's Back to School Sale has officially kicked off with an excellent deal on a high-end prebuilt gaming desktop. Right now Dell is offering the Alienware Aurora R16 RTX 5080 gaming PC starting at just $2,099.99 with free delivery. The Alienware Aurora R16 is a well-engineered and compact gaming rig with 240mm AIO water cooling, sensible airflow design, and a generous 1,000W 80Plus Platinum rated power supply. In the current market, buying a prebuilt gaming PC is the only way to score an RTX 5080 GPU without paying an exorbitant markup. If you were to try to find a 5080 GPU for your do-it-yourself PC build, you'll probably spend at least $1,300 for the graphics card alone.

Alienware Aurora RTX 5080 Gaming PC From $2,099.99

When Sony launched the PlayStation 5 in late 2020, it came with an all-new controller, the DualSense, that completely redesigned the look and feel of its iconic controller. While it still retained the signature parallel thumbsticks and button layout, it added new features like Haptic Feedback and Adaptive Triggers to provide a deeper sense of immersion while playing. For a while, the DualSense was your only option if you wanted to game on PS5.

Five years later, there are plenty of third-party controllers to choose from, as well as a new console in the PS5 Pro. These DualSense alternatives provide options for players looking for a different button layout, more customization, or pro-level features. Check out our full rundown of the best PS5 controllers available in 2025.

TL;DR: These Are the Best PS5 Controllers

Whether you're interested in additional back buttons to enhance your gameplay or want a more customizable pro-style controller, there are plenty of options available now for PS5 controllers. My colleagues and I have tested and reviewed most of the controllers below and handpicked the best options for most players.

1. PlayStation DualSense

Best Overall PS5 Controller

2. Sony DualSense Edge

Best Pro-Style PS5 Controller

3. Razer Wolverine V2 Pro Wireless

PS5 Controller With the Best Battery Life

4. Scuf Reflex Pro

Best Controller Grips

5. Nacon Revolution 5 Pro

Best Thumbsticks on a PS5 Controller

6. Victrix Pro BFG

Best Customizable PS5 Controller

7. Hori Fighting Commander OCTA

Best PS5 Fightpad

8. Victrix Pro FS

Best PS5 Fight Stick

9. PlayStation Access Controller

Best PS5 Controller for Accessibility

How to Choose a PS5 Controller

Think about what matters most to you as a player. Are you looking for a feature-rich controller with all the bells and whistles or something more budget-friendly?

Most third-party PS5 controllers include some level of "pro" features aimed at competitive gamers. Customizable back buttons, interchangeable thumbsticks, enhanced grips, and multiple connectivity options are all things to watch for.

Battery life is another key factor. The standard DualSense doesn’t have the longest battery life, so you might want to consider a wired controller or one with a larger battery that can last longer between charges.

If price is a concern, the standard PS5 DualSense is still a great pick. It includes premium features like adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, a built-in microphone and speaker, and more all for under $80 (and often cheaper – it goes on sale fairly often).

Beyond traditional gamepads, you may also want to explore racing wheels, fight sticks, and joysticks for a more immersive experience in driving, fighting, and flying games.

How We Picked the Best PS5 Controllers

After more than five years of testing and reviewing PS5 controllers, I've assembled this list based on several key factors, including design, core features, customization options, battery life, and accessibility. While the standard DualSense will be more than enough for most players, these alternative controllers offer additional features like back buttons, interchangeable thumbsticks, and other pro-level enhancements that can make a real difference in play, competitive and otherwise.

PlayStation 5 Controller FAQ

What PlayStation 5 controller doesn’t drift?

Most PS5 controllers are susceptible to stick drift, a common issue caused by worn-down potentiometers in the analog sticks. Some high-end gamepads avoid this by using magnetic Hall effect sensors, which are far more durable and resistant to wear. The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is one such controller, virtually eliminating stick drift thanks to its Hall effect sensors.

How do I fix stick drift on PS5?

If your controller is experiencing stick drift, it may be due to worn-down potentiometers inside the analog sticks, either from regular use or a manufacturing defect. Unfortunately, there is often little you can do to fix the issue yourself. DualSense controllers usually come with a one- or two-year warranty depending on your region, so if yours is still under warranty, it is worth contacting Sony for a repair or replacement. In some cases, the problem may be caused by dirt or debris, so try gently cleaning around the base of the analog stick to see if that resolves it.

Does the PS5 controller have a headphone jack?

Yes, the DualSense controller has a built-in 3.5mm audio jack at its base that a PS5 gaming headset or a pair of headphones can be plugged into. Many other third-party PS5 controllers also feature a headphone jack.

When do PS5 controllers go on sale?

Although discounts on PlayStation 5 consoles may not happen very often, PS5 controllers do go on sale throughout the year. Overall, the best time to buy a PS5 is also the best time to buy a controller. In terms of sales events, Amazon Prime Day in July and Black Friday season in November are when you will see the lowest prices on Dualsense controllers. That being said, you can usually also find deals during the PlayStation Days of Play sale every year.

Matthew Adler has written for IGN since 2019 covering all things gaming, tech, tabletop games, and more. You can follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @MatthewAdler and watch him stream on Twitch.

Ready to spend some more time with the Fockers? Well, the upcoming fourth Meet the Parents sequel film finally has a title — and we now have official confirmation of the project's new star.

As expected, Ariana Grande is set to appear in the fourth film in the Meet the Parents franchise — which today was announced as being titled Fockers In Law. Alongside the pop star, Ben Stiller, Robert DeNiro, Owen Wilson, Bythe Danner, and Teri Polo will reprise their roles from the original film. Social media accounts for the movie debuted the news, alongside a general release period and tagline.

“Give thanks for family,” read the film’s tagline, which corresponds with the project’s Thanksgiving 2026 release.

Rumors had recently been spreading that the pop singer was potentially taking part in the film, so it’s interesting to see that particular piece of industry gossip hold weight. Grande is mainly a vocalist in the mainstream, but got her start in musical theatre and on Broadway, so it makes sense to see her continue her transition to acting.

Grande's most famous acting role to date is, of course, her starring turn in last year’s Wicked, in which she costarred as Glinda alongside Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba. The Wicked saga has been split into two films, with Grande set to reprise her role in the story's second part, Wicked: For Good, which is set to premiere on November 21, 2025.

As for the Fockers, the original film Meet the Parents was released in 2000 to box office and critical success. Because of its popularity as a piece of defining early aughts comedy, a sequel was produced four years later called Meet the Fockers. Six years later, a third film titled Little Fockers was released in 2010.

Image credit: Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Lex Briscuso is a film and television critic and a freelance entertainment writer for IGN. You can follow her on Twitter at @nikonamerica.

Since its launch in the summer of 2020, Peacock has expanded its catalog of shows and movies (The Wild Robot, Nosferatu, Twisters) to compete with the big names in streaming. With their exclusive access to all things owned by NBC (including every season of The Office), Peacock is starting to gain some traction in the streaming wars.

As streaming has evolved and changed throughout the years, streaming services have also changed in layout, content rights, and pricing. Despite the increase in competition, Peacock does not offer any sort of free trial.

How Much Does Peacock Cost?

PlayStation has finally revealed more details of its first-party fight stick and confirmed its official name: the FlexStrike wireless fight stick.

Sony initially unveiled its upcoming fight stick last month. At the time, Edwin Foo, VP of product development at Sony Interactive Entertainment, said the stick — internally codenamed Project Defiant — would give players "more flexibility to play their favorite fighting games."

In recognition of the Evo Championship Series coming up next month, Sony has now confirmed the FlexStrike will be available sometime in 2026, although at this time, the company was no more specific than that. Visitors to Evo's Las Vegas event August 1-3 can see it on display before then, though.

Sony promises ultra-low latency through a wireless connection on PS5 or PC, as well as the option to play with a wired connection. This is essential for fighting game fans who need their combo inputs to be as precise and as instant as possible.

The FlexStrike is also claimed to boast an ergonomic design, with a "high-quality digital stick" that's been custom-designed by Sony, and toolless interchangeable restrictor gates so players can choose between square, circle, or octagon, all of which can be stored in the controller's handy compartment when not in use. It even comes with a sling carry case.

You'll be able to keep your DualSense wireless controller connected at the same time as the FlexStrike wireless fight stick, "if you’d like to use it as an additional controller for navigating menus between fights," Sony says.

You can also use a single PS Link USB adapter to connect the FlexStrike and a Pulse Elite wireless headset or Pulse Explore wireless earbuds simultaneously on PS5, for "an ultra-low latency audio and voice chat experience in the heat of battle."

Expect more details, including pricing information, closer to the time.

If you're new to fighting games or it's been awhile since you indulged, here's our picks of the 10 best fighting games of all time. Did your favorite reach the top spot?

Vikki Blake is a reporter for IGN, as well as a critic, columnist, and consultant with 15+ years experience working with some of the world's biggest gaming sites and publications. She's also a Guardian, Spartan, Silent Hillian, Legend, and perpetually High Chaos. Find her at BlueSky.