Stranger Things 2 has finally arrived and it's time to celebrate. How do you properly mark such an occasion, though? A new collection of Funko Pop figures based on the series, of course. The toy company has released images from their third wave of vinyl figures from the Netflix series.
The new figures are all pulled directly from Season 2 of Stranger Things, embracing the Halloween spirit of the new episodes. The collection features Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), Will (Noah Schnapp) and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin) in their Ghostbusters costumes from the new season, complete with proton packs, bags of candy, and a ghost trap for Dustin. Joining them is a new version of Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), with an updated look.
Will's mom Joyce (Winona Ryder) and new kid in school Max (Sadie Sink), a character introduced in Stranger Things 2, round out the new wave. As with many Funko collections, there's also a rarity included with these new figures. An alternate version of Max, complete with the Michael Myers costume she wears trick-or-treating in the new season, are available exclusively at Hot Topic.
The new wave of Stranger Things Funko Pop figures are out now. Their arrival comes on the heels of several exciting Pop announcements, including new figures from the James Bond franchise, WWE, and DuckTales, just to name a few.
For more Stranger Things coverage, check out GameSpot's hub for the streaming series, where you can find episode reviews, videos, theories, and more. Stranger Things 2 is available on Netflix now.
The written works of Stephen King have been adapted numerous times, including movies, television series, and mini-series. With The Dark Tower, It, and Gerald's Game all being released this year, we're taking a look at all of the films based on the author's works and ranking them according to their score on IMDb. Mini-series and television series will not be included nor are sequels that don't have stories based on King's work--sorry, Children of the Corn franchise. Believe it or not, there are more than 40 films, so click to the right to get started with number 49.
If you want to skip ahead to the top 10, click here.
49. Trucks (1997)
Much like King's film Maximum Overdrive, Trucks tells the story of automobiles coming to life and killing people. This was the second time King's 1973 short story "Trucks" was adapted into a film.
IMDb rating: 3.9
48. The Mangler (1995)
A machine that folds laundry becomes possessed by a demon, and it goes on a killing spree. The film is based on a 1972 short story of the same name, which was later included in King's 1978 collection Night Shift.
IMDb rating: 4.0
47. Cell (2016)
A phone signal plunges the world into chaos, and a man traverses the apocalyptic landscape in order to reunite with his son. The movie is based on King's 2006 novel of the same name.
IMDb rating: 4.3
46. Graveyard Shift (1990)
An old mill becomes infested with rats, and the employees discover something horrifying hidden in the basement. The short story the film is based on came out in 1970.
IMDb rating: 4.8
45. Quicksilver Highway (1997)
Quicksilver Highway contains two one-hour stories. One of those stories is based on King's 1992 short story "Chattery Teeth."
IMDb rating: 4.9
44. Mercy (2014)
A mother and her two children are tasked with taking care of their grandmother, who has mystical powers. Mercy is based on the 1984 short story "Gramma," which was later included in King's collection Skeleton Crew.
IMDb rating: 5.0
43. Sleepwalkers (1992)
A couple of werecats, who are apparently mother and son, head to a small town to find a virgin to feed on. Sleepwalkers was the first original feature written by King for the big screen.
IMDb rating: 5.2
42. Riding the Bullet (2004)
A man hitchhikes to a hospital to visit his dying mother, but he's picked up by a sinister stranger. The movie is based on the novella of the same name. "Riding the Bullet" was King's first ebook.
IMDb rating: 5.2
41. A Good Marriage (2014)
A husband and wife have lived happily together for 25 years, until one day when the wife discovers a sinister secret about the man she married. The film is based on the novella of the same name, which was published in the collection Full Dark, No Stars in 2010.
IMDb rating: 5.2
40. Desperation (2006)
A bad cop arrests a group of people and throws them in jail. They quickly find out there's an evil, supernatural element to the officer. Based on the 1996 novel of same name, this TV movie first appeared on the USA network.
IMDb rating: 5.3
39. Maximum Overdrive (1986)
In Maximum Overdrive, machines--such as semi-trucks with Green Goblin's face attached to the grill--come to life and start killing people. Much like #47 on this list, this film is based on the short story "Trucks." In addition, this is the only film Stephen King directed.
IMDb rating: 5.4
38. The Lawnmower Man (1992)
The Lawnmower Man movie follows a man who is turned into a genius through the usage of computers. The original "Lawnmower Man" short story was first published in 1975. This film is an adaptation in title only, and King famously sued New Line Cinema to have his name removed from the film. When New Line failed to do so for the home video release, the company was found in contempt of court and had to pay King $10,000 a day until it was removed, on top of the $2.5 million in damages the writer received.
IMDb rating: 5.4
37. Dreamcatcher (2003)
A group of friends go camping and slowly come to realize that they're not alone, as parasitic aliens terrorize them. The movie is based on the 2001 novel of the same name. King wrote it while recovering from a 1999 car accident; the author said he does not like the book and wrote it while using Oxycotin.
IMDb rating: 5.5
36. Children of the Corn (1984)
A couple find themselves stranded in a rural town which is home to a cult comprised of kids that kill anyone over the age of 18. King wrote the short story this film is based on back in 1977. The story--which has the same name as the film--was first published in Penthouse.
IMDb rating: 5.6
35. Sometimes They Come Back (1991)
A man returns to his hometown and is haunted by the ghosts of teenagers that bullied him as a child. The movie, which originally aired on CBS, was based on a short story wrote in 1974 of the same name.
IMDb rating: 5.7
34. Thinner (1996)
An overweight attorney is cursed to lose weight, until there's nothing left of him. Thinner is based on a novel of the same name, published in 1984. At the time, King published it under the pen name Richard Bachman, as publishing more than one book a year by a single author was a literary taboo.
IMDb rating: 5.7
33. Dolan's Cadillac (2009)
In Dolan's Cadillac, a man's wife is murdered in Las Vegas by a mobster, and the man seeks revenge. The short story the movie is based on first appeared in King's newsletter in monthly installments during the winter and spring of 1985.
IMDb rating: 5.7
32. Big Driver (2014)
In Big Driver, a novelist is assaulted and left for dead. She goes on a mission to get revenge on her attackers. The novella of the same name was published in King's collection Full Dark, No Stars in 2010. This made-for-TV movie first aired on the Lifetime network.
IMDb rating: 5.7
31. The Dark Tower (2017)
Loosely based on King's series, The Dark Tower follows a gunslinger locked in an eternal battle with the Man in Black. Their war could have dire effects on the real world, destroying everything.
IMDb rating: 5.8
30. The Dark Half (1993)
An author's alter ego wants to take over his life. This story was a response to King's outing as author Richard Bachman, a pseudonym he wrote under. The novel, which shares the same name as the film, was published in 1989.
IMDb rating: 5.9
29. Carrie (2013)
In Carrie, a young girl with telekinetic abilities gets revenge on those who bullied her in school. This is the second adaptation of King's first published novel, also titled Carrie, which was released in 1974.
IMDb rating: 5.9
28. Creepshow 2 (1987)
The Creepshow anthology series contains numerous stories, and King's 1982 short story "The Raft" was adapted for this film.
IMDb rating: 6.0
27. Firestarter (1984)
A telekinetic couple--who received their abilities during a medical experiment--have a child, and she turns out to be able to control fire with her mind. Firestarter is based on the 1980 King novel of the same name.
IMDb rating: 6.0
26. Cujo (1983)
In Cujo, a family's St. Bernard dog contracts rabies and terrorizes a small town. The movie is based on the 1981 novel of the same name.
IMDb rating: 6.0
25. The Night Flier (1997)
In The Night Flier, a reporter is on the trail of a serial killer who travels by plane and is suspected to be a vampire. The short story, which shares the same name, was first published in 1993 in the anthology Prime Evil: New Stories by the Masters of Modern Horror.
IMDb rating: 6.0
24. Needful Things (1993)
In Needful Things, a new shop opens up in a small town, with something for everyone in town; however, the shop owner requests something different than cash and soon, the whole town is in total chaos. The movie is based on the 1991 novel of the same name.
IMDb rating: 6.2
23. Tales from the Darkside: The Movie (1990)
The anthology horror film contained an adaptation of King's 1977 short story "The Cat from Hell."
IMDb rating: 6.2
22. Cat's Eye (1985)
Cat's Eye is an anthology of three horror stories. Both "Quitters, Inc." and "The Ledge" are adaptations from King's Night Shift collection. The third story--"General"--was written by King specifically for the movie.
IMDb rating: 6.2
21. Silver Bullet (1985)
A peaceful town is terrorized by a werewolf. Silver Bullet is based on the 1983 novella titled Cycle of the Werewolf.
IMDb rating: 6.4
20. The Running Man (1987)
A man who is wrongfully accused of a crime must compete in a game show where the loser dies. The 1982 novel of the same name was published under King's pseudonym Richard Bachman.
IMDb rating: 6.6
19. Secret Window (2004)
A successful writer is accused of plagiarism by a strange man, while the writer's life falls apart. The novella this movie was based on--Secret Window, Secret Garden--was published in 1990 in Four Past Midnight, which contained a collection of King's stories.
IMDb rating: 6.6
18. Pet Sematary (1989)
A family moves into a new home, which is near a cemetery that can bring the dead back to life. Pet Sematary is based on a 1983 book of the same name.
IMDb rating: 6.6
17. Christine (1983)
A boy falls in love with a car he purchased, but the automobile has a supernatural element to it and a jealous streak. The Christine novel was first published in 1983.
IMDb rating: 6.6
16. Apt Pupil (1998)
A boy blackmails an elderly neighbor--who is a World War II criminal--into telling him stories from concentration camps. Apt Pupil is based on a 1982 novella which was published in Different Seasons.
IMDb rating: 6.7
15. 1408 (2007)
An author who specializes in debunking the paranormal spends the night at a hotel filled with terror and the supernatural. The short story "1408" was included in the 1999 audiobook collection Blood and Stone.
IMDb rating: 6.8
14. Gerald's Game (2017)
In this Netflix original, a husband and wife try to reinvigorate their love life, but when the husband unexpectedly dies, the wife fights for her life, while handcuffed to the bed. Gerald's Game is based on the 1992 King book of the same name.
IMDb rating: 6.8
13. Creepshow (1982)
The anthology movie, Creepshow, features two tales based on King's short stories: "Weeds," also known as "The Lonesome Death of Jordy Verrill" published in 1976 and "The Crate," published in 1979. The other stories included in the film were originals by King written specifically for the movie.
IMDb rating: 6.9
12. Hearts in Atlantis (2001)
A man returns home after his friend passes away and remembers his younger years with him, during a time when their lives were changed. The movie is adapted from the stories "Low Men in Yellow Coats" and "Heavenly Shades of Night Are Falling," which are included in the book Hearts in Atlantis, published in 1999.
IMDb rating: 6.9
11. No Smoking (2007)
A man with an addiction to smoking is offered a way to be cured, but it's through unusual means by a mysterious organization. The movie is based on the short story "Quitters, Inc." from King's 1978 collection Night Shift.
IMDb rating: 7.1
10. The Dead Zone (1983)
A man wakes up after being in a coma and finds he has psychic abilities. The Dead Zone is based on a 1979 novel of the same name.
IMDb rating: 7.2
9. The Mist (2007)
A fog containing monstrous terrors rolls over a town, and residents are trapped inside a grocery store, trying to stay alive. The movie is based on a novella that first appeared in 1980's horror anthology Dark Forces. Currently, a television series based on the storyis airing on Spike TV.
IMDb rating: 7.2
8. Carrie (1976)
A bullied girl releases telekinetic terror on her abusers during prom. This is the first adaptation of King's novel, which was released in 1974.
IMDb rating: 7.4
7. Dolores Claiborne (1995)
A reporter travels to a small town where her mother was arrested for murder, and while talking to her, she learns of traumatic secrets from her past she had previously blocked out. Dolores Claiborne is based on the 1992 novel of the same name.
IMDb rating: 7.4
6. It (2017)
When a young boy goes missing, his older brother and his friends search for him but find something terrifying instead, a being that preys on their fears.
IMDb rating: 7.8
5. Misery (1990)
In Misery, an author crashes his car and is rescued by a fan, who turns out to be a bit too fanatical and won't let him leave. The novel the film is based on was published in 1987.
IMDb rating: 7.8
4. Stand by Me (1986)
Stand by Me is a coming of age story about four boys who find a dead body. This movie is based on the 1982 novella The Body.
IMDb rating: 8.1
3. The Shining (1980)
A family is put in charge of taking care of a hotel during the winter, and the father loses his mind, thanks to supernatural influences. The Shining is an adaptation of King's 1977 novel of the same name. Over the years, he has been very vocal about Stanley Kubrick's film, calling it a poor adaptation.
IMDb rating: 8.4
2. The Green Mile (1999)
Prison guards in charge of death row have their lives changed by an inmate with a supernatural gift who's accused of murder. The Green Mile is based on King's serial novel, which was published in 1996.
IMDb rating: 8.5
1. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
A man is wrongfully accused of murder and spends his life in prison. This movie is based on the 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption.
Spoilers for Stranger Things 2, up through Episode 5, "Dig Dug," below
Will's possession by the Shadow Monster just took an interesting turn: Based on where Stranger Things Season 2, Episode 5 concluded, Will is now physically connected to whatever is spreading through those tunnels. What was it Mr. Clarke the science teacher was saying about organisms' response to fear again?
If the spooks can't torch the Upside Down vines without hurting Will, that might explain why the Shadow Monster needed to possess him in the first place. Dr. Owens told Nancy and Jonathan that although he can't undo his predecessors' mistake, he can stop its spread. With that possibility neutered, the Monster will be free to do whatever it is he's trying to do--unless they can get him out of Will in time.
"Dig Dug" delivered exactly the kind of plot momentum Stranger Things 2 needed after a relatively slow first half. It hasn't fixed the season's other big foible--a weak set of new characters--but it just might have provided the catalyst that will send the show hurtling forward in the season's second half.
Episode 5 also injected a little more levity, mostly in the form of goofy Bob the Brain, who had more to do in this episode than he has since he was introduced at the start of Season 2. Sean Astin's face when he recognized the lake's shape in Will's puzzle-map was priceless.
Dustin's pleas for help--and his shutdown at the hands of Lucas's little sister--provided some lighter moments too, even if they happened while Dustin was scrubbing his cat's blood from his bedroom carpet. This episode was full of cute moments like that, from Lucas asking his dad for girl advice to Dustin trying to reassure his mom about the cat. (I'll say it again: poor Mr. Mews.)
But the most important development in "Dig Dug" was Eleven's unexpectedly easy reunion with her mother. It felt a little convenient, but on the other hand we likely haven't come close to seeing the limits of Eleven's psychic powers, so why shouldn't it be that simple?
Thankfully Stranger Things Season 2 hasn't persisted with too many flashbacks, but the one Eleven's mother showed her was worth the time, even if we could have easily guessed at what happened there. Dr. Brenner stole Eleven as a baby, her mother tried to get her back, and they gave her an electric lobotomy to make sure it wouldn't happen again.
And Eleven is finally on the path to potentially meet up with her counterpart from the first episode. The show's taken a long time getting here, given that Kali provided the explosive opener for the entire season. That's built up the anticipation, so hopefully their meeting is worth it.
At the same time, there's bound to be some fallout from the events of this episode. The tapestry of secrets on which everyone's continued safety seems to depend is coming unraveled, whether in Lucas's failed attempt to explain it to Max, or Nancy and Jonathan's divulgence of basically the entire story. And Hopper, Joyce, Bob, Mike, and Will are now in the government's hands.
We're five episodes in, and Dr. Owens still hasn't revealed a darker side. Maybe he's really what he seems to be--a charming, well-meaning scientist trying to make up for his predecessors' mistakes--which would make his outing at Nancy and Jonathan's hands a little bittersweet. Or maybe he'll show his true colors with five of our favorite characters in his clutches, and the secrets he's worked hard to keep seeping out around him like poison into soil.
No matter what, it's Eleven's search for a real home that's slowly turning into the most poignant arc of the season. Yes, she escaped easily from the Upside Down after Season 1's finale, but she didn't crawl out into comfort. Whether in the woods fighting to survive the winter, or trapped in Hopper's cabin like a prison of boredom, Eleven hasn't felt at home--maybe ever. If she thought she'd find a home with her mother, she was sadly mistaken, as her mother's in no state for a real reunion.
Will she find a home with Kali and the weird gang we glimpsed in Season 2's premiere? Onto the next one we go.
Best reference or easter egg:
Hopper made a mad dash for his hat as the spooks pulled him to safety at the end of the episode, mirroring a similar moment in Raiders of the Lost Ark. Wonder how Indiana Jones would have dealt with the Upside Down?
Head back to our Stranger Things 2 hub for more episode reviews, theories, references, easter eggs, and more!
Wolfenstein II: The New Colossus does a great job of explaining its game mechanics thanks to a simple tutorial system. While these introductions explain basics like movement, stealth and combat, there are still some things that would be good to know when starting a new game. What difficulty should you choose? Is it worth searching every inch of every level to find all of the game's collectables? And how does that early story choice affect your game going forward? The answers to these questions and more can all be found in this list of 10 things we wish we knew before starting Wolfenstein 2.
Don't take the choice of difficulty lightly. Wolfenstein II can get difficult even on the medium settings. If things get too intense, you can change the setting up on the fly at any time without penalty. The difficulty only affects the gameplay and doesn't have an impact on the story.
There are six difficulty choices with one extra hard option that's added after you complete the game. The "Can I play, Daddy?" is the easiest difficulty and is as easy as it sounds. On this difficulty, you can easily go toe-to-toe with any mechanized Nazi in the game and soak up nearly all the bullets that are sent flying your way. The hardest difficulty, "Mein Leben," is just like the original hardest difficulty, but you only get one life to live. Dying means game over.
Choose the best difficulty for you. If you're looking for a challenge that can even be a little frustrating at times, try one of the harder difficulties. If you're more into experiencing the story, go for an easier one. The game doesn't punish or reward you either way other than the trophies or achievements you earn from completing the game.
How The Story Changes Based On Who You Sacrifice In The Beginning
Wolfenstein II doesn't load a previous save from decisions made in Wolfenstein: The New Order, but it does replay a segment from that game. At the beginning, Blazkowicz has the choice to sacrifice Fergus or Wyatt. This will not only change your companions aboard the Evas Hammer between missions, it also changes your weaponry. Wyatt is a zany character who enjoys listening to his music and studying the metaphysical aspects of the world. Fergus is a wisecracking englishman who is in a constant battle with his robotic arm. Both characters add a little something different to Wolfenstein II's narrative. Fergus and his arm are definitely worth conversing with.
The big thing to consider is the gun you'll get depending on who you choose. Choosing Fergus gives you the Laserkraftwerk and Wyatt gives you the Dieselkraftwerk. Both of these guns can be recharged throughout most levels with electricity plugs or gas pumps that are located on walls. The Laserkraftwerk is the more practical weapon in most combat situations. It shoots a powerful blast of electricity that vaporizes human targets in a single shot. The Diselkraftwerk works as a grenade launcher. It fires projectiles that can stick to surfaces and be detonated later. The projectiles can also be stuck to patrolling enemies without them knowing, which makes for some interesting strategies.
How The Perks Work
Wolfenstein II has a detailed perk system that rewards the specific way you play. You can check out the perk page from the character screen. There are six perks in each of the three different categories: Stealth, Mayhem, and Tactical. Nearly every kill you perform throughout the game will increase your level for a specific perk. For example, every stealth takedown will increase your mastery of that perk. Performing more of them will increase your speed while crouching. Racking up kills while dual-wielding weapons will increase the amount of ammunition you can carry. No matter your play style, you'll increase your perks making you a stronger, faster Blazkowicz.
Stealth and Mayhem are the best categories to strengthen first. You should start every area with a few stealthy kills until you're spotted. Once that happens, it's best to switch to dual-wield weapons for maximum firepower. Being able to carry more ammunition is always a good thing.
What Weapon Should You Upgrade First?
Weapon upgrade kits are scattered around the game world and are for one-time use. There are a couple things to consider when upgrading your weapons. Each gun has three possible upgrades to unlock. Those upgrades can be equipped and unequipped at will from the weapon menu, and can all be equipped at the same time. Weapon upgrade kits cannot be reused, so choose wisely.
The pistol suppressor is the best upgrade to choose first. It completely silences all gunfire from this weapon, giving you silent ranged attacks for when you're trying to be stealthy. The Sturmgewehr, or assault rifle, has the Marksman scope upgrade, which is also a good candidate for an early upgrade. This adds a scope and turns the weapon into a single-shot rifle instead of fully automatic. There isn't an upgrade to manage the gun's recoil, so changing it to single shot helps make the Sturmgewehr easier to manage especially when dual-wielding two of them. The best part: you can remove the scope while the weapon is equipped to turn it back to a fully automatic gun if you wish.
If you're thorough enough, you'll have more than one upgrade for your favorite weapons by the end of the game. Endgame content also allows you to find more upgrades to further strengthen your arsenal.
Does Being Stealthy Pay Off?
The short answer: yes, being stealthy pays off. As soon as the "signal detected" icon appears at the top of the screen, that means a commander is nearby. That's usually a good indication that you should stay quiet. It's not always easy, or even possible, to stealthily eliminate these threats, but it will make your life much easier if you can.
If you're spotted by anyone before eliminating an enemy commander, the commander will trigger an alarm and Nazis will storm your position. If you're able to take out the commander before that happens, you'll have to deal with far fewer enemies.
Early on, you'll have a lot of stealthy attacks that you can use to kill Nazis while being hidden in the shadows. You achieve stealth takedowns by sneaking behind your enemies. There's the hatchet throw that counts as an automatic kill if you land it. The Pistole and Maschinenpistole can both be outfitted with silencers that make them completely silent. Be sure to lean around corners to see if an enemy has his back turned. This ensures that you stay hidden without revealing yourself.
Choosing Contraptions
Later in the game, Blazkowicz will be able to choose one of three contraptions without being given much information on them. The stress of choosing just one of these devices may be too much to bear, but fear not, you'll be able to find the other two through side missions later in the game. Set allows you to choose between three contraptions, which include: the Constrictor Harness which allows Blazkowicz to stealthily squeeze into very tight quarters, the Ram Shackles which provide the ability to crash through certain walls, and the Battle Walker that extends his legs like stilts to reach high platforms.
What the game doesn't tell you is that these contraptions give you specific perks that aid your playstyle. The Constrictor Harness helps with stealth by making your footsteps completely silent, the Ram Shackles prevent you from being knocked over from explosions, and the Battle Walker grants the Quick Draw and Adrenaline perks--while also slowing time when viewing the weapon wheel, also stopping the loss of overcharged health.
These perks are active immediately after equipping one of these contraptions, making them extremely valuable. Choose the contraption that best fits your playstyle.
Are the Collectables Worth Getting?
Like many single-player games, Wolfenstein II is littered with collectables. There are 366 in all, which includes Gold, Starcards, Concepts, Max's Toys, Deathcards and Records. None of them will give you any enjoyable perks, or beef up your arsenal. They're more or less to give you a few nice items to search for so you can say you found the whole collection. To answer the question simply, no, these objects aren't really worth putting in the time it takes to find them.
Deathcards are the only ones that can be considered worthy of your time, as they are essentially rewards for killing commanders thus completing smaller side missions after you've completed the game. These missions revisit past events from the story, but have slight changes in the environments and enemies you encounter. Deathcards missions are the majority of the endgame content. Other than that, pick up the items you come across, but don't feel obligated to find everything.
Keep in mind that the map in the mission menu shows where to find different collectables. There's no big secret to where everything is, which makes it even more like busy work.
Are The Deathcards Worth Collecting?
The Deathcard missions are fun, small missions toward the end of the game. They take place in areas that you've already visited, but each mission has slight changes to the area that change the gameplay. If you didn't get your fill of killing Nazis during the story, definitely check out the Deathcard missions and kill all the high-ranking captains.
Each commander that you kill throughout the game drops an enigma card. These cards can be used at the enigma machine on the Hammer. If this hasn't been introduced to you yet, don't worry. It'll be introduced later in the game. These simple puzzles unlock the location of high ranking Nazi commanders. You can then set a course to their location and take them out. Each of these officials carries a Deathcard that you can collect to cross their name off the list. Be careful. These officials carry powerful grenade launchers that can drop you in one or two shots, so don't take them lightly. Take them out from a distance if you can.
Each Deathcard mission has collectables to find, including weapon upgrades. So, if you're looking for stages to strengthen your weapons, check out the Deathcard missions.
Is There a New Game Plus?
There isn't a New Game Plus mode. Do not try to start a new game after completing a game. If you do try to start a new game on the profile with the completed game, it will erase all of your game saves and start a brand new game. Nothing will carry over and statistics will be erased.
While there is no way to replay exact missions from the story, you can hunt down remaining Kommandants in the Deathcard missions. Deathcard missions take place in areas from the main storyline, but with new twists. Environments and the enemies encountered are slightly different, making each area feel new again. After the credits, you are transported back to the U-boat where you can set courses for these missions.
Stranger Things Season 2, which is officially dubbed Stranger Things 2, has finally arrived. It's now available to stream on Netflix, and as is typically the case with its original series, the entirety of the season has been released at the same time.
The much-anticipated season is a bit longer than the first, as it consists of nine episodes (up from eight). The choice to avoid the word "Season" was a deliberate decision on the part of creators Matt and Ross Duffer, who have shared that Netflix was originally hesitant about the idea. "When we started describing it as a sequel, Netflix was like, 'Don't do that, because sequels are known to be bad,'" said Matt. "I was like, 'Yes, but what about T2 and Aliens and Toy Story 2 and Godfather II?'"
Ahead of the second season's release, it's already been confirmed that Stranger Things will return for Season 3. The Duffers had previously suggested Season 4 would be the show's last, but director Shawn Levy has gone on to say a fifth season could happen. "Hearts were heard breaking in Netflix headquarters when the brothers made four seasons sound like an official end, and I was suddenly getting phone calls from our actors' agents," he said. "The truth is we're definitely going four seasons and there's very much the possibility of a fifth. Beyond that, it becomes I think very unlikely."
Among other things, it could use a way to look at all of the demos that are available for download. Nintendo has relied on its News channel to convey certain Eshop information, but that's just not ideal; if you're picking up a system late or haven't checked in recently, there's no easy way to jump on the store and start downloading demos. There aren't a ton yet, but unless you know exactly which games have a demo and head directly to their Eshop page, you'll have to blindly look for them.
In lieu of an official solution, we've rounded up every game with a demo on the Switch Eshop, along with details on what to expect from each (and how to get them, in a few specific cases). We'll continue to update this as more are released, but hopefully Nintendo has a fix on the way--particularly as the store continues to get crowded with more and more game releases. For a look at what Nintendo has improved about the system, check out the details of the latest big Switch system update.
Recently added games: Piczle Lines DX, Sonic Forces, Just Dance 2018, Dragon Quest Heroes I & II
Blaster Master Zero
A remake of the classic game Blaster Master, the demo of Blaster Master Zero allows you to jump into two different stages from the full game.
Disgaea 5 Complete
Disgaea 5's demo on Switch allows you to get a good taste of the full game's early portion, even allowing you to save your progress and return to it later. However, it's important to be aware that you can't transfer that save data to the full game--you'll be starting over from scratch if you decide to purchase it.
Dragon Quest Heroes I & II
A bundle with Dragon Quest Heroes I & II has been available on Nintendo Switch in Japan since around the time of the console's launch, but an international release has not yet been dated. The Japanese version is accompanied by a demo on the Eshop, but you'll need to go through the process of creating a Japanese account in order to download it.
Just Dance 2017
Just Dance 2017 features a demo that supports play with the Joy-Cons or mobile devices. If you opt for the latter option, you'll also need to download the Just Dance Controller app (which you can easily grab by scanning a QR code the demo presents) and connect your phone and Switch to the same Wi-Fi network.
Just Dance 2018
With Just Dance 2018 out now, you can finally download its demo straight from the Eshop. It was released in advance of the full game's launch, but--in a perfect example of why we made this list--it couldn't actually be obtained through the Eshop. Instead, you had to go to Amazon, "buy" the demo, and redeem a code on the Eshop. Like the demo of 2017, you can play with the Joy-Cons or mobile devices; in this case, you can dance along to Bruno Mars' "24K Magic."
The Zelda-like Oceanhorn's Switch demo allows you to play through the game's first full chapter and get a taste of combat and its world.
Piczle Lines DX
Piczle Lines DX is a puzzle game where you draw lines between two matching dots to create a larger picture. It's not quite as simple as it sounds, and the demo offers a chance to see so for yourself. It can be played with a controller or touch controls (with the Switch in handheld mode); the demo includes a taste of Story mode for one player.
Pokken Tournament DX
Like Nintendo demos in the past, there are some restrictions on how much you're able to play the demo of Pokken Tournament DX. You're limited to a total of 15 matches, which can be played against the computer or a second player locally. The demo also features a tutorial to help you make the most of those matches.
Project Octopath Traveler
Despite being early enough that it doesn't even have a final title, a demo is out for Square Enix RPG Project Octopath Traveler. You can check out the first chapter of two different characters' stories.
Puyo Puyo Tetris
Puyo Puyo Tetris includes a fairly generous demo, with a tutorial, single-player, and multiplayer components, as well as a manual. Just be aware that the single-player mode is incredibly challenging.
Rayman Legends
The demo for Rayman Legends provides a selection of levels from the very beginning of the game. You can play it on your own or with a co-op companion locally using a pair of Joy-Cons.
Snipperclips: Cut It Out, Together
Perhaps the single best co-op game on the platform, Snipperclips features a small demo with a few levels from the full game. As it's critical to the experience, you can play multiplayer locally, with each player using a single Joy-Con.
Sonic Forces
Switch owners can give Sonic Forces a try with its demo, although--as with Monster Hunter XX--you'll need to create a Japanese Eshop account to download it. That's an easy process, but once you get into the demo, there's a curious limitation: each of the three stages can only be played for one minute each, at which point you're booted out. It's not ideal, but it's (just barely) better than nothing.
Spelunker Party
Spelunker Party's demo provides limited access to the full game's features, allowing you to dive into a cave with up to four players locally. There are some restrictions on local multiplayer, however, such as only the first player's gear accumulating experience. This is another game where you're able to play with another Joy-Con, making two-player co-op very easy.
Voez
Voez is a rhythm game where you play using the Switch's touchscreen. This makes it the rare title that can only be played in handheld mode, a limitation that extends to the demo. When first starting out, you'll be presented with a tutorial that helps to explain the controls.
Limited-Time Demos
You may have heard references to ways to try Arms and Splatoon 2 previously, but neither of these games offers a traditional demo. Instead, they have Global Testpunch and Testfire versions, respectively, which allow you to play a limited amount of each game online during very specific periods of time. There's been no word from Nintendo on when or if we will see either of these trial versions made playable again.
Grand Theft Auto V's latest update is a big one, with lots to offer players on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. To celebrate the game's 4th anniversary, Rockstar is offering discounts on tons of properties and vehicles, holding a big giveaway, and introducing a "nightmarish" new Adversary Mode right in time for Halloween.
Condemned mode marks one GTA Online player for imminent death. You die when the time runs out, unless you can "pass the bad news" onto somebody else by killing them. It's a last man standing competition, with double GTA$ and RP at stake until November 6.
You can also earn double GTA$ and RP on Smuggler's Sell Missions and, to celebrate the game's milestone, Rockstar is giving away GTA$400,000 to any player who logs into GTA Online from now until November 6. Those players will receive the payout in their Maze Bank account sometime between November 6 and November 13.
As always, the update also introduces a new vehicle. This time, it's the Vigilante, equipped with rocket propulsion technology and front-mounted machine guns (with room for a missile upgrade). You can put the Vigilante to the test in the new Transform Race Inferno, and earn double payouts of GTA$ and RP as all Transform Races offer the bonuses until October 30.
There are tons of deals on for a limited time. Up until October 30, you can get 30% off a whole bunch of properties and vehicles. Check out the full list above and below, and for more details you can visit GTA V's website.
Since the beta and leading up to launch, we kept hearing about how well Destiny 2 runs on PC. Now we have the full release of the game and have been playing plenty of it, so it's a chance to get the final word on how it performs on PC with different video cards. Here, we provide some benchmark numbers and give tips on how to boost framerate.
Graphics Settings Explained
Before we get into actual performance metrics, let's run through some of the important graphics settings in the options menu. We evaluated many of these during the beta period, but things have slightly changed since.
Field of View (FOV) will widen your viewing angle, allowing you to see more in your peripheral vision. We recommend going with the max at 105, as we did with all our tests. This does affect framerate, since more of the game world is rendered on screen at once.
We have two Anti-aliasing options; FXAA tends to make the overall image a little blurry and less effective in getting rid of jaggies, as opposed to SMAA which does a better job, but taxes your machine a bit more. In addition, Render Resolution (supersampling) provides the cleanest overall image, but it'll significantly impact performance when set to high percentages. You should only use this if you have plenty of FPS to spare.
Texture Anisotropy (anisotropic filtering) makes textures and surfaces seen at an angle and at a distance more detailed. It hardly impacts framerate, so we recommend setting this to 16x.
Screen Space Ambient Occlusion darkens areas that should be blocked from light sources to add a richer look to the game. HDAO does a fine job adding depth to the image in exchange for a few FPS, while 3D takes this a step further it'll cost additional FPS.
Texture Quality should be set to Highest since it won't impact performance as long as you have enough video memory on your graphics card. The menu shows a bar to see how much VRAM is being consumed, so you'll know.
Shadow Quality affects the resolution at which shadows from the sun and spotlights are rendered. This will noticeably affect framerate the higher it's set. While Foliage Shadow Distance doesn't affect performance all that much, Foliage Detail Distance is a big ticket item if you need higher framerates.
Wind Impulse is a neat effect that makes foliage react realistically to the action in game and it doesn't really impact FPS. Light Shafts affects the quality of ray casting through the environment, but doesn't ask much of your system if it's turned up.
Methodology
Destiny 2 doesn't allow you to use third-party performance monitoring applications, which means we couldn't use FRAPS to read our framerates. An in-game benchmark tool is also absent, though we do get a built-in FPS counter. By going off of that, we were able to track FPS at any given moment during a sequence we repeated to get our results.
We went to Earth's European Dead Zone (EDZ) but got away from the Trostland church outpost to make sure we had a controlled environment. We walked down the path to the Outskirts where the scenery opens up and pushes a system's ability to render Destiny's 2 vast environments. We then got in a quick firefight with some dregs to capture some action. And we monitored the framerate throughout this sequence.
The system we used had an Intel Core i7-6700K CPU at 4.2GHz and 16 GB of RAM. We tested Destiny 2 with three resolutions using the latest video cards from Nvidia and AMD that best fit each resolution:
Nvidia cards were tested using version 388.00 of the GeForce driver and AMD cards were tested with version 17.10.2 of the Radeon ReLive software.
Benchmark Results
4K
Let's start with our 4K tests. It was ideal to test 4K with everything maxed out on one card; the GTX 1080 Ti. And based on our test sequence, the card produced 51 to 60 FPS.
For a more reasonable 4K scenario, we tweaked the settings and used HDAO, Shadow Quality on High, and turned off anti-aliasing. We saw a noticeable boost as the GTX 1080 Ti produced 70 to 96 FPS. The GTX 1080 was able to maintain frame rates between 58 and 79 FPS, and AMD's RX Vega 64 gave us 54 to 73 FPS.
Video Card
Settings
FPS Range
GTX 1080 Ti
4K, Max
51 - 60
GTX 1080 Ti
4K, High
70 - 76
GTX 1080
4K, High
58 - 79
RX Vega 64
4K, High
54 - 73
1440p
For our tests at 2560x1440 we pitted the GTX 1070 and RX Vega 56 against each other. With every setting maxed, the 1070 produced between 60 and 88 FPS, while the Vega 56 managed 54 to 77 FPS.
Bringing things down a bit by using HDAO and High shadows, the GTX 1070 improved to 69 to 95 FPS, and the Vega 56 bumped up to 61 to 87 FPS.
Video Card
Settings
FPS Range
GTX 1070
1440p, Max
60 - 88
GTX 1070
1440p, High
54 - 77
RX Vega 56
1440p, Max
69 - 95
RX Vega 56
1440p, High
61 - 87
1080p
I know we've been throwing around a lot of numbers, but hang in there, we're almost done. For our 1080p max test, we matched the GTX 1060 and RX 580. They're pretty much neck-and-neck; Nvidia's card gave us 65 to 92 FPS and AMD's card put out 64 to 89 FPS.
By turning settings down to High and using HDAO, we can get great framerates on budget level cards. We threw in the GTX 1060 again and got between 76 and 101 FPS. But the cheaper RX 570 yielded 63 to 90 FPS, and the even cheaper GTX 1050 Ti netted 50 to 72 FPS.
Video Card
Settings
FPS Range
GTX 1060
1080p, Max
65 - 92
GTX 1060
1080p, High
76 - 101
RX 580
1080p, Max
64 - 89
RX 570
1080p, High
63 - 90
GTX 1050 Ti
1080p, High
50 - 72
Tips To Boost Performance
By doing tests on both Highest and High settings, we see how much of a boost in FPS you can get from some simple tweaks. However, there are four important options to turn down when looking for better framerates:
Ambient Occlusion: Using HDAO instead of 3D adds approximately 8% more FPS.
Shadow Quality: Using High shadow settings gives about 8% more FPS, and Medium about 14% compared to Highest.
Foliage Detail Distance: Using Medium boost FPS by about 5% compared to High. Low adds around 12% FPS compared to High.
Depth of Field: Compared to Highest, High adds about 5% more FPS and Low adds about 9% FPS.
Turning FOV down from 105 to 95 also boosts FPS by about 4%, but we recommend testing this out to see if the narrower viewing angle is a worthy trade-off to you. Every other graphics option is pretty much icing on the cake. Taking these down a notch contributed significantly to getting better performance in our tests. So look to these settings if your system is struggling.
Be sure to check out our wealth of guides and walkthroughs for the game if you're just getting started. And read or watch our full review of Destiny 2 if you're still deciding on whether or not to jump in.
The Xbox Game Pass catalog is expanding once again. Microsoft has announced seven more games are coming to Xbox One's Netflix-style subscription service next month, which players will soon be able to download and play for as long as they have an active subscription.
The seven titles will be available on Xbox Game Pass beginning November 1. Subscribers will be able to play everything in the Game Pass catalog; like Netflix or Sony's PlayStation Now service, Xbox Game Pass gives subscribers unlimited access to its full library of titles, though the games are downloaded rather than streamed.
After a year off, the Assassin's Creed series makes its anticipated return with today's release of Assassin's Creed Origins. This installment in Ubisoft's popular stealth-action series plays a bit differently than previous titles, however.
On top of its new Egyptian setting, Origins makes many notable changes to the franchise. Not only has the combat system been overhauled, placing a much greater emphasis on dynamic strikes and parrying, the game introduces new open areas to explore and some RPG elements like experience and levels.
While Origins does a good job of teaching you the nuances of its new systems, there are a few things you might miss when you first start the game. In the video above, we take a look at seven essential tips to keep in mind when playing Assassin's Creed Origins.
Xbox VP Mike Ybarra announced the forthcoming feature via Twitter today, noting it will be available to Xbox Insider members in Preview at some point today. As for the rest of us, all we know is that it will come "soon."
The process seems fairly straightforward. Go to the Store tab as usual, click on "Buy as Gift," choose a friend to send it to, and like magic, a code for the game you've purchased for them will pop up in their Xbox messages.
Gifting digital titles isn't a new idea. This sort of feature has already be available on PC platforms like Steam and Origin for some time. But what's interesting is that it's never been available for Xbox or PlayStation. Only time will tell if the Nintendo Switch will jump on board with this as well.
While we still don't have a public launch date on the gifting feature, we can only hope it comes in time for the holidays. There are few better ways to surprise the gamer in your life, while simultaneously avoiding lines and shipping fees. For more Xbox news, make sure to check out the latest system update and the 13 original Xbox titles now available for backwards compatibility.
It was a big week in general for new games, but today's the biggest of the week, month, and perhaps the entire year. New entries in three major franchises have all released on the same day, and unfortunately for your wallet and spare time, you might want to play them all.
Spoilers for Stranger Things 2, up through Episode 4, "Will the Wise," below
The effects of Will's encounter with the Shadow Monster were less immediate than one might have thought from watching the giant smoke-spider violently invade his body at the end of Stranger Things Season 2, Episode 3. That's a symptom of this season of Stranger Things' larger ailment up to now: It's slowed down considerably since its blast of an opener.
Granted, at Season 2, Episode 4, "Will the Wise," we're just shy of halfway done. But where Stranger Things Season 1 had a desperate urgency in every episode past the series premiere, Season 2 is a much slower burn. There's no single catalyst driving its various plots and subplots forward, like Will's disappearance in Season 1. In turn, there's less of an impetus to keep watching--that "just one more" fishhook that sinks deep into our brains with the best the age of streaming has to offer.
In other ways, Stranger Things Season 2's more deliberate pacing can be a strength, as it gives the show room to breathe and develop things more fully. The Shadow Monster's effects on Will are growing, and the visions he's seeing now may only be a precursor to what's coming. They may also prove useful, especially as Hopper puts spade to soil and leaps down into the tunnels.
Something down there is "growing, spreading, and killing," according to Will. Hopefully it doesn't get Hopper, although the show is hinting at the possibility. Halfway feels early for a major character death, but who knows? Either way, Stranger Things 2 gets extra points for its creative use of certain sets, especially the Byers house, which once again seems in danger of being totally trashed.
In psychic brat land, Eleven's foray into the wider world unfortunately didn't last long, and in "Will the Wise" she found herself back in the cabin once more. It's great that Stranger Things is building anticipation toward her reunion with the rest of the cast, but by now her cabin fever is getting contagious--I'm starting to feel it too. Unless they're really going to drag it out until the very end, it's time to get her back into the main story.
Unfortunately, that's looking less and less likely. Comparing Hopper to Dr. Brenner--"Papa"--did nothing for her relationship with her makeshift guardian, and their paths are clearly diverging. Hers is taking her toward her mother, and his is taking him underground, possibly to a gruesome death by Demogorgon or worse.
By the way, wasn't the camera slowly spinning upside-down as he lowered himself into the tunnel a fantastic touch?
Elsewhere, Dustin continues to act incredibly stupid with his "pet." The rest of the kids are convinced that finding d'Artagnan might enable them to help Will--or at least provide some clues--but Dustin is being unrealistically stubborn. Not to mention, he's breaking the rules of friendship: "Friends don't lie." That's not working well for Hopper and Eleven, and it's not going to end well for "the party" either. Poor Mr. Mews.
One last complaint: The Billy and Max subplot has, so far, yielded nothing of substance. Steve vs. Billy is becoming the real rivalry of the season, but what purpose does Billy actually serve in the larger story? With zero character development, is he really just a pure villain? Dr. Brenner and his government spooks served that purpose last season, but they were actually sinister, not to mention relevant to the plot. Billy is just an a-hole.
And is he racist too? What's his issue with Lucas? "There are certain types of people in this world that you stay away from," he tells Max. "That kid is one of them." So, yeah. It seems like he's racist, too.
Sadie Sink is trying her best as Max, but the show is simply giving her nothing to work with. Given that we still know literally nothing about her, she seems to exist less as an actual character and more as a plot device to cause strife among the group.
Stranger Things Season 2 has spent an abundance of time setting certain things up--the poisoned pumpkins, Will's visions, Eleven's situation--with little payoff so far. In other ways it's totally failed at set-up, like the one-dimensional new characters Max and Billy, who both feel wedged into the story with inadequate context or characterization.
On the bright side, these waves have to start crashing soon. With Hopper underground, Will infected/possessed by the Shadow Monster, Eleven digging for answers, and Dustin forced to acknowledge that d'Artagnan is a monster, Stranger Things Season 2 might finally get moving again.
Oh, and Nancy and Jonathan were smarter than I gave them credit for. What can they accomplish with that recording? Hopefully we'll find out soon.
Best reference or easter egg:
The brief basketball face-off between Steve and Billy is straight out of an '80s cheese-fest high school sports drama. Loved it.
Head back to our Stranger Things 2 hub for more episode reviews, theories, references, easter eggs, and more!
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