By Mat Elfring on Dec 12, 2017 11:57 pm
Because other companies own the rights to some of Marvel's properties, characters from all across the Marvel universe have been featured in twice as many films as DC. This includes characters from The Avengers, Spider-Man, the X-Men, and more. Here are how all those films did in the box office, in order by worldwide totals, adjusted for inflation. Check out how DC's films did at the box office here. Box office numbers and information came from IMDb and Box Office Mojo. UPDATE 12/12/17: Thor: Ragnarok's numbers updated.
The Punisher (1989)
The late '80s Punisher film was full of bad dialogue, a cheesy plot, and many unmemorable moments. Somehow, the Dolph Lungren driven film found a cult following. Worldwide total: $533,411 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,036,873) The Punisher was only released in Europe.
Man-Thing (2005)
Man-Thing went straight to the Syfy Channel in the States; however, it did get a small release in Europe. Worldwide total: $1,123,136 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,386,167)
Punisher: War Zone (2008)
The over-the-top, ultra-violent Punisher: War Zone didn't have the box office success it hoped for, even with the Punisher spinning from a chandelier, shooting people. US: $8,050,977 (Adjusted for Inflation: $9,013,304) Worldwide total: $10,100,036 (Adjusted for Inflation: $11,307,285)
The Punisher (2004)
Thomas Jane played Frank Castle in the highly-anticipated 2004 film, but it received mixed reviews, even with WWE wrestler Kevin Nash playing one of the villains. US: $33,810,189 (Adjusted for Inflation: $43,142,087) Worldwide total: $54,700,105 (Adjusted for Inflation: $69,797,797)
Elektra (2005)
Spinning out of 2003's Daredevil, Jennifer Garner starred as the titular Elektra in this critically panned film. US: $24,409,722 (Adjusted for Inflation: $30,126,321) Worldwide total: $56,681,566 (Adjusted for Inflation: $69,956,023)
Howard the Duck (1986)
Most people remember only a couple things from Howard the Duck: Lea Thompson having sex with the titular character and a topless female duck. It was a pretty weird film. US: $16,295,774 (Adjusted for Inflation: $35,838,510) Worldwide total: $37,962,774 (Adjusted for Inflation: $83,489,699)
Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (2012)
The Ghost Rider sequel didn't win over American moviegoers as much as the rest of the world, with the majority of its box office coming from other countries. US: $51,774,002 (Adjusted for Inflation: $54,354,651) Worldwide total: $132,563,930 (Adjusted for Inflation: $139,171,513)
Blade: Trinity (2004)
The third and final Blade film had the titular character joining up with the famed Nightstalkers to hunt vampires. US: $52,411,906 (Adjusted for Inflation: $66,878,035) Worldwide total: $128,905,366 (Adjusted for Inflation: $164,484,338)
Fantastic Four (2015)
Last year's Fantastic Four was a bit of a mess, but it still managed to pull in over $100 million from the rest of the world. US: $56,117,548 (Adjusted for Inflation: $57,069,583) Worldwide total: $167,977,596 (Adjusted for Inflation: $170,827,340)
Blade (1998)
Blade was the film that really kicked off the comic book movie craze that's been running for 18 years now. US: $70,087,718 (Adjusted for Inflation: $103,642,965) Worldwide total: $131,183,530 (Adjusted for Inflation: $193,989,053)
Blade II (2002)
The sequel to Blade did well, and it helped studios realize that mass audiences have a thirst for superheroes. US: $82,348,319 (Adjusted for Inflation: $110,333,930) Worldwide total: $155,010,032 (Adjusted for Inflation: $207,689,316)
Daredevil (2003)
The only superhero film to feature a fight on a see-saw didn't have a great reach to the international market. US: $102,543,518 (Adjusted for Inflation: $134,330,893) Worldwide total: $179,179,718 (Adjusted for Inflation: $234,723,482)
Ghost Rider (2007)
Nicolas Cage suited up as Johnny Blaze in what many comic book fans consider to be an entirely forgettable film. US: $115,802,596 (Adjusted for Inflation: $134,622,151) Worldwide total: $228,738,393 (Adjusted for Inflation: $265,911,608)
The Incredible Hulk (2008)
The Incredible Hulk was the second film in Marvel's Cinematic Universe. This was the only film in which Edward Norton played Bruce Banner. US: $134,806,913 (Adjusted for Inflation: $150,920,278) Worldwide total: $263,427,551 (Adjusted for Inflation: $294,914,841)
Hulk (2003)
Ang Lee's Hulk was incredibly stylized and very ambitious. While it did well worldwide, it received mixed reviews. US: $132,177,234 (Adjusted for Inflation: $173,150,739) Worldwide total: $245,360,480 (Adjusted for Inflation: $321,419,561)
Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007)
The Fantastic Four sequel strayed a bit from its comic roots and may have added a bit too much humor for many purists' liking. US: $131,921,738 (Adjusted for Inflation: $153,360,881) Worldwide total: $289,047,763 (Adjusted for Inflation: $336,022,102)
X-Men: First Class (2011)
This 2011 X-Men film went back in time, to the '70s, to examine how the first X-Men team came together. US: $146,408,305 (Adjusted for Inflation: $156,886,822) Worldwide total: $353,624,124 (Adjusted for Inflation: $378,933,184)
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
Chris Evans made his debut as Steve Rogers in this World War II film, which featured a CG'ed Evans to make him look scrawny. US: $176,654,505 (Adjusted for Inflation: $189,297,758) Worldwide total: $370,569,774 (Adjusted for Inflation: $397,091,643)
Fantastic Four (2005)
Fox's Fantastic Four introduced the world to the famed comic book family and was as big of a hit ovearseas as it was in America. US: $154,696,080 (Adjusted for Inflation: $190,924,903) Worldwide total: $330,579,719 (Adjusted for Inflation: $407,999,356)
X-Men (2000)
Hugh Jackman made his debut as Wolverine in 2000's X-Men. US: $157,299,717 (Adjusted for Inflation: $220,181,238) Worldwide total: $296,339,527 (Adjusted for Inflation: $414,803,059)
X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009)
Although many people consider it to be the worst of all the X-Men films, X-Men Origins: Wolverine still pulled in more money than the first X-Men movie. US: $179,883,157 (Adjusted for Inflation: $202,103,489) Worldwide total: $373,062,864 (Adjusted for Inflation: $419,146,005)
The Wolverine (2013)
The sequel to the worst X-Men film did a bit better, but mainly because it resonated more with a global audience. US: $132,550,960 (Adjusted for Inflation: $137,148,994) Worldwide total: $414,828,246 (Adjusted for Inflation: $429,218,142)
Thor (2011)
The god of thunder got his own solo film in 2011, which did very well overseas. US: $181,030,624 (Adjusted for Inflation: $193,987,078) Worldwide total: $449,439,994 (Adjusted for Inflation: $481,606,645)
Ant-Man (2015)
Once again, the world market came out in droves to see another Marvel film, which featured a superhero who controls ants. US: $180,202,163 (Adjusted for Inflation: $183,259,297) Worldwide total: $519,250,779 (Adjusted for Inflation: $528,059,882)
X2: X-Men United (2003)
X2 had some of the coolest scenes in all of the X-Men franchise. US: $214,949,694 (Adjusted for Inflation: $281,581,762) Worldwide total: $407,711,549 (Adjusted for Inflation: $534,097,697)
X-Men: Apocalypse (2016)
The latest X-Men film made the bulk of its money overseas. US: $155,442,489 Worldwide total: $534,619,896
X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
The final--and worst--of the original X-Men trilogy brought in the most money. US: $234,362,462 (Adjusted for Inflation: $280,209,618) Worldwide total: $459,359,555 (Adjusted for Inflation: $549,221,767)
Logan (2017)
Fox tries its hand at another Rated R comic book film, featuring Logan slashing his way through everyone. US: $226,275,826 Worldwide: $616,189,858
Iron Man (2008)
Iron Man was the movie that kicked off the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Even though--at the time--mass audiences weren't very familiar with the character, it was still a box office success. US: $318,412,101 (Adjusted for Inflation: $356,471,651) Worldwide total: $585,174,222 (Adjusted for Inflation: $655,119,641)
Thor: The Dark World (2013)
Thor: The Dark World wasn't a critical hit, but it did bring in around $180 million more than the first film. US: $206,321,198 (Adjusted for Inflation: $213,478,233) Worldwide total: $644,783,140 (Adjusted for Inflation: $667,149,896)
Big Hero 6 (2014)
While Big Hero 6 was a gigantic departure from the source material, this animated feature from Disney did great in the States and even better worldwide. US: $222,527,828 (Adjusted for Inflation: $226,571,635) Worldwide total: $657,127,828 (Adjusted for Inflation: $669,069,247)
Iron Man 2 (2010)
The followup to Iron Man did exceptionally well across the globe. US: $312,433,331 (Adjusted for Inflation: $345,362,224) Worldwide total: $623,933,331 (Adjusted for Inflation: $689,692,749)
Doctor Strange (2016)
Doctor Strange did decently in the United States, but it made the bulk of its money internationally. US: $231,901,043 Worldwide total: $670,042,595
Amazing Spider-Man 2 (2014)
Amazing Spider-Man 2 may not have been a huge hit in the States, but it killed overseas. US: $202,853,933 (Adjusted for Inflation: $206,540,223) Worldwide total: $708,982,323 (Adjusted for Inflation: $721,866,049)
Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)
One of Marvel's best solo superhero films, Winter Solider made the bulk of its money overseas. US: $259,766,572 (Adjusted for Inflation: $264,487,086) Worldwide total: $714,766,572 (Adjusted for Inflation: $727,755,411)
X-Men: Days of Future Past (2014)
The time-travelling sequel to X-Men: First Class did very well. US: $233,921,534 (Adjusted for Inflation: $238,172,389) Worldwide total: $748,121,534 (Adjusted for Inflation: $761,716,504)
Deadpool (2016)
In a surprise to many people, an R-rated superhero film did very well in the box office. US: $363,070,709 Worldwide total: $782,603,445
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)
Many moviegoers consider Guardians of the Galaxy to be the best team movie Marvel has put out to date. Sorry, Avengers. US: $333,176,600 (Adjusted for Inflation: $339,231,132) Worldwide total: $774,176,600 (Adjusted for Inflation: $788,245,046)
Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
The Spider-Man reboot wasn't as great as fans hoped, but it still did well in the box office. US: $262,030,663 (Adjusted for Inflation: $275,091,452) Worldwide total: $757,930,663 (Adjusted for Inflation: $795,709,344)
Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
The third installment in the Thor series raked in over $100 million its opening weekend in the United States. US: $301,136,438 Worldwide: $833,704,028 (As of 12/12/17)
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is turning out to be a hit. Star-Lord learns his father is from the stars and more than just a humanoid. US: $389,813,101 Worldwide total: $863,563,831
Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
The first Spider-Man film to exist within the Marvel Cinematic Universe had a good opening weekend, pulling in $117 million. It still has a long way to go to catch up with Sam Raimi's films from last decade. US: $334,033,047 Worldwide: $879,998,831
Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Sam Raimi's Spider-Man follow-up also did great. US: $373,585,825 (Adjusted for Inflation: $476,698,677) Worldwide total: $783,766,341 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,000,092,489)
Spider-Man 3 (2007)
While Spider-Man 3 made a ton of money, it's considered to be a terrible film. US: $336,530,303 (Adjusted for Inflation: $391,221,224) Worldwide total: $890,871,626 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,035,650,832)
Spider-Man (2002)
Spider-Man was the first Marvel film to reach a billion dollars, when adjusted for inflation and held quite a few other records. US: $403,706,375 (Adjusted for Inflation: $540,903,708) Worldwide total: $821,708,551 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,100,961,565)
Captain America: Civil War (2016)
The latest Captain America film has heroes fighting heroes, so of course, people went to the movie in droves. US: $407,264,745 Worldwide total: $1,151,852,525
Iron Man 3 (2013)
The final Iron Man film did exceptionally well. US: $409,013,994 (Adjusted for Inflation: $423,202,200) Worldwide total: $1,215,439,994 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,257,602,155)
Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
The Avengers sequel pulled in almost a billion dollars overseas alone. US: $459,005,868 (Adjusted for Inflation: $466,792,915) Worldwide total: $1,405,035,767 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,428,872,237)
Avengers (2012)
Finally, sitting pretty at the top spot is the first Avengers film. US: $623,357,910 (Adjusted for Inflation: $654,428,878) Worldwide total: $1,518,594,910 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,594,288,526)
By Mat Elfring on Dec 12, 2017 11:53 pm
DC started their films off strong back in the late '70s; however, the way comics and films work has all changed. Everyone wants to have their own cinematic universe, and DC is slowly working on putting it all together. While the company's film universe is new, its role in Hollywood is not. It's had some huge hits and misses since 1978, when Superman released. Some of these films set box office records while others were buried and forgotten. We thought it would be fun to take a look at how much money DC's films made in theaters, from worst to best, with adjustment for inflation. Box office numbers and information came from IMDb and Box Office Mojo. UPDATE: Justice League's numbers updated.
Steel (1997)
You probably don't remember Steel, starring Shaquille O'Neal. There's a reason for that. It's a terrible movie. US: $1,686,429 (Adjusted for Inflation: $2,532,669) Steel was only released domestically.
Batman: Mask of the Phantasm (1993)
Although Mask of the Phantasm didn't make a ton of money compared to the rest of the films on the list, it's the only DC animated film to release in theaters (Killing Joke was a one-night event), and it was well-received for its time. US: $5,588,699 (Adjusted for Inflation: $9,322,414) Released theatrically in US and Brazil. Numbers for Brazil not available.
Jonah Hex (2010)
Jonah Hex is a pretty fantastic, grounded western property that was turned into a supernatural mess. It had a great cast and all the potential in the world, but the story was extremely rough. US: $10,539,414 (Adjusted for Inflation: $11,650,214) Worldwide total: $10,895,609 (Adjusted for Inflation: $12,043,951)
Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)
No one wanted to see Superman throw the world's nuclear weapons into the sun. They wanted to see him punch somebody. US: $15,681,020 (Adjusted for Inflation: $31,950,310) Superman IV was only released domestically.
Supergirl (1984)
Many people forget that after Superman III, Supergirl got her shot at the big screen. US: $14,296,438 (Adjusted for Inflation: $33,166,360) Supergirl was only released domestically.
Catwoman (2004)
Catwoman is a film that took the source material and threw it out the window, hoping to rely on Halle Berry's name to put butts in seats. It did not do so. US: $40,202,379 (Adjusted for Inflation: $51,298,576) Worldwide total: $82,102,379 (Adjusted for Inflation: $104,763,331)
Superman III (1983)
After the awesomeness that was Superman II, someone decided to make the third film in the franchise a buddy comedy, featuring comedian Richard Pryor. US: $56,950,623 (Adjusted for Inflation: $137,823,938.42) Superman III was only released domestically.
Watchmen (2009)
Watchmen was the start of director Zack Snyder working for DC Entertainment. The film was ambitious and visually stunning, but it left a sour taste in some people's mouths. US: $107,509,799 (Adjusted for Inflation: $120,790,105) Worldwide total: $185,258,983 (Adjusted for Inflation: $208,143,372)
Green Lantern (2011)
Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool, Blade: Trinity) took on the role of Hal Jordan, space cop. It was panned by both critics and fans. At least Reynolds has a good sense of humor about it. US: $116,601,172 (Adjusted for Inflation: $124,946,377) Worldwide total: $219,851,172 (Adjusted for Inflation: $235,586,033)
Superman II (1980)
Superman II did well in the theaters, but we're not quite sure why this wasn't released internationally. US: $101,347,629 (Adjusted for Inflation: $296,463,953) Superman II was only released domestically.
The Lego Batman Movie (2017)
It may not be part of the DC Cinematic Universe, but The Lego Batman Movie appeals to fans both young and old. US: $174,932,902 Worldwide: $310,032,902
Batman & Robin (1997)
If there's one thing Batman & Robin did well, it was to have Arnold Schwarzenegger only speak in ice puns. In fact, that's the only thing it did well. US: $107,285,004 (Adjusted for Inflation: $161,120,017) Worldwide total: $238,207,122 (Adjusted for Inflation: $357,738,120)
Batman Begins (2005)
After Batman & Robin, some folks were a little skeptical of Christopher Nolan's Batman origin story and reluctant to go to the theater. They shouldn't have been. US: $206,852,432 (Adjusted for Inflation: $255,295,937) Worldwide total: $374,218,673 (Adjusted for Inflation: $461,858,271)
Superman Returns (2006)
The fifth movie in the original Superman series, 19 years after Superman IV, had a good showing. US: $200,069,408 (Adjusted for Inflation: $239,207,985) Worldwide total: $391,081,192 (Adjusted for Inflation: $467,586,450)
Batman Returns (1992)
Tim Burton's second Batman film didn't do as well as the original, but that's probably because they didn't get Prince to do the soundtrack again. US: $162,744,850 (Adjusted for Inflation: $279,598,668) Worldwide total: $282,800,000 (Adjusted for Inflation: $485,855,640)
Batman Forever (1995)
Surprisingly, Batman Forever did better than Batman Returns, probably because heavy hitters--for the time--Jim Carrey and Tommy Lee Jones joined the cast. US: $183,997,904 (Adjusted for Inflation: $291,013,692) Worldwide total: $336,531,112 (Adjusted for Inflation: $532,262,376)
Justice League (2017)
Justice League stumbled during it's opening weekend. It didn't even bring in $100 million domestically. US: $212,129,668 Worldwide total: $614,729,668 (As of 12/12/17)
Man of Steel (2013)
Man of Steel kicked off DC's cinematic universe and polarized audiences and fans as Zack Snyder gave the world a much darker Superman than they were expecting. US: $291,045,518 (Adjusted for Inflation: $301,141,539) Worldwide total: $668,045,518 (Adjusted for Inflation: $691,219,218)
Suicide Squad (2016)
The third film in DC's cinematic universe may have been panned by critics, but it continues to bring in money. US: $325,021,779 Worldwide total: $745,173,191
Batman (1989)
Batman wowed audiences with Tim Burton's dark, quirky style and an awesome soundtrack by Prince. US: $251,188,924 (Adjusted for Inflation: $488,274,805) Worldwide total: $411,348,924 (Adjusted for Inflation: $799,602,596)
Wonder Woman (2017)
Wonder Woman had a great opening weekend, making over $100 million domestically. The movie tells the story of Diana (Gal Gadot) leaving her home to battle evil during World War I. US: $412,550,942 Worldwide total: $821,750,942
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)
While comic fans and some moviegoers had a problem with the tone and story, people across the world went to the theater to see Batman fight Superman. US: $330,249,062 Worldwide total: $872,662,631
Superman (1978)
Superman was the first to break the $1 billion mark, when adjusted for inflation. It introduced the world to Christopher Reeves as the Man of Steel. US: $40,925,251 (Adjusted for Inflation: $151,296,635) Worldwide total: $300,218,018 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,109,876,543)
The Dark Knight (2008)
One of the best comic book films to date, featuring a stellar performance from the late Heath Ledger, broke the $1 billion mark in 2008. US: $534,858,444 (Adjusted for Inflation: $598,789,657) Worldwide total: $1,004,558,444 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,124,632,532)
The Dark Knight Rises (2012)
The top-grossing DC film wasn't even one of their best. Christopher Nolan's final Batman movie beat out his previous film by $10 million. US: $448,139,099 (Adjusted for Inflation: $470,476,371) Worldwide total: $1,084,939,099 (Adjusted for Inflation: $1,139,017,354)
By Array on Dec 12, 2017 10:06 pm
Nintendo Switch Holiday Gift Guide 2017
Nintendo Switch Holiday Gift Guide 2017
One of the biggest stories out of gaming in 2017 was the launch of the Nintendo Switch. The console-handheld hybrid has been wildly successful and already has an exceptionally strong library of games only nine months after launch. For the majority of the year, Switch systems have been consistently hard to find, but if someone you know was able to pick one up, there are plenty of accessories we'd suggest getting them this holiday season (if they're on your nice list).
SanDisk Ultra 128GB UHS-1 microSDXC Card
SanDisk Ultra 128GB UHS-1 microSDXC Card
If you're the type of person who primarily downloads their games, the 32GB of storage on Switch won't cut it for long. Zelda: Breath of the Wild has a digital download size of 13.4 GB, and the recent port of L.A. Noire won't fit on the internal storage if you buy it from the eShop. For added storage, the SanDisk Ultra 128GB microSDXC card is an excellent value. And even though it tops out at 80MB/s, that's plenty fast for downloading and playing Switch games. Retail price: $50
SteelSeries Arctis 3 Bluetooth Headset
SteelSeries Arctis 3 Bluetooth Headset
Since the Switch has a 3.5mm audio jack built in, any headset or pair of headphones with the proper connection will work on it. However, voice chat has been a tough problem to solve on Nintendo's system, which is what makes the SteelSeries Arctis 3 with Bluetooth a great option for Switch owners. It has the standard 3.5mm connection but can also connect to a second device simultaneously through Bluetooth. Ideally, you'd be connected to your voice chat app of choice wirelessly while staying plugged in to get game audio. Not to mention that the Arctis 3 is comfortable, light on the ears, and provides decent sound quality. Retail price: $130
Official Nintendo Pro Controller
Official Nintendo Pro Controller
There's no better gamepad for Switch owners than the official Nintendo Pro Controller. It can be used wirelessly or wired, lasts around 40 hours on a full charge, includes motion controls, and is ergonomically superior to the Joy-Con. The tactile feel of the triggers and bumpers is a definite upgrade and the precision of the analog sticks will make games easier to control. The Pro Controller has a nice, substantial weight with grippy rubber handles to top off its quality build. Retail price: $70
PowerA Zelda and Mario Edition Controllers
PowerA Zelda and Mario Edition Controllers
There's a less-costly controller option for Switch that comes from PowerA. One of these will run you $30, but know that modest price tag comes with a few compromises; they only work through a wired connection and do not have motion controls. If neither of these shortcomings are a problem, then these make for great gamepads. The Zelda Edition has a matte black finish with a sketch of Link aiming his bow and the Hylian Crest at the center. The Mario Edition features a red paint job and a mosaic of iconography from the famed franchise. Retail price: $30
8bitdo SF30 Pro/SN30 Pro Controllers
8bitdo SF30 Pro/SN30 Pro Controllers
Not only do 8bitdo's SF30 Pro and SN30 Pro make a neat gift that will send anyone who had a Super Famicom/Super Nintendo on a nostalgia trip, but they're fully-featured gamepads. While it sports the classic look and build, it has two triggers, two bumpers, dual analog sticks that click downward, and the Switch's home and screenshot buttons. The controllers connect through Bluetooth and charge via USB-C--they can last up to 16 hours on a full charge. Just note that the vibration produces an audible rattle noise. Retail price: $50
Hori USB Ethernet Adapter
Hori USB Ethernet Adapter
Downloading games and playing online through WiFi might not be ideal, which makes an ethernet adapter worth considering. The Hori LAN adapter plugs into one of the Switch dock's USB ports with an ethernet port on the other end of the device. Wired connections will improve download and upload speeds greatly and offer a more consistent connection for multiplayer games. Retail price: $30
RDS Game Traveler Carrying Case
RDS Game Traveler Carrying Case
Anyone who takes their Switch places without a case is running a risk. You can prevent a disaster for a Switch owner by gifting them a proper carrying case, and we'd recommend a licensed one from RDS. It's a semi-hard zipper case that straps the console-handheld hybrid into place with room for the Joycons attached. You'll also be getting your giftee two hard shell game card cases and SD card cases since they're all packaged together. Retail price: $20
PowerA Anti-Glare Screen Protection Kit
PowerA Anti-Glare Screen Protection Kit
The Switch doesn't close up like the 3DS to guard the screen so you'll want to be extra careful not to scuff the system's display. PowerA's anti-glare screen protector two-pack will do the trick; the protector itself is a semi-hard plastic shield that'll fit the screen just right. It also comes with a cleaning cloth to prep the screen and an applicator wedge to make the process easier and help ensure no air bubbles get stuck underneath. Retail price: $10
Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD Portable Charger
Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD Portable Charger
The Switch makes long trips much more fun by the nature of its portability, but if there isn't an opportunity to dock it or plug into USB-C charger, you'll eventually run out of juice. Anker's PowerCore+ battery pack helps solve that problem and the 26800 mAh version holds enough juice to charge the Switch up from 0 to 100 six times over if the bank itself is fully charged. Retail price: $83
Hori USB-C Car Charger
Hori USB-C Car Charger
Another solution for charging the Switch on-the-go (if one is traveling by car) is a car charger. The officially licensed one from Hori features a six-foot USB-C cable that plugs straight into the cigarette lighter socket (an antiquated, but proper designation). The DC 5-volt / 3.0A output also offers a speedy charge for the console. Retail price: $20
Amiibo
Amiibo
Amiibo figures aren't just there to look cool, they also give in-game bonuses depending on the particular Amiibo and game. The Switch's built-in NFC reader will recognize Amiibo when they're placed on top of the system. For example, you'll unlock outfits and costumes in Super Mario Odyssey and specific items in Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Do a little research and see if there's a particular Amiibo your gift recipient would love! Retail price: Varies based on specific amiibo
Nintendo eShop Digital Card
Nintendo eShop Digital Card
If you can't really decide on Switch accessories for the holiday season, don't worry, a simple eShop digital card would be much appreciated. These are used as currency in Nintendo's digital storefront and your giftee can pick out whatever game or add-on they want. The eShop cards are offered in $10, $20, $35, $50 amounts and are all printed with Mario characters for an aesthetic touch. Retail price: $10, $20, $35, $50
By Jimmy Thang on Dec 12, 2017 04:01 am
Head-To-Head: Xbox One X VS PS4 Pro
The Xbox One X and the PlayStation 4 Pro share a lot of similarities. Both are mid-generational upgrades that are capable of making games look and perform better than their respective predecessors. Both are also newer flagship consoles that are geared (and priced) towards enthusiasts with 4K TVs. But which one should you get? In this head-to-head article, we'll break down winners across five categories: specs, design, game library, operating system, and value/features. For relevant articles, check out:
Specs
| | Xbox One X | PlayStation 4 Pro | | CPU | 2.3GHz 8-core AMD custom CPU | 2.1GHz 8-core AMD custom "Jaguar" CPU | | GPU | Integrated AMD graphics with 6 teraflops of performance | Integrated AMD graphics with 4.2 teraflops of performance | | RAM | 12GB GDDR5 | 8GB GDDR5 | | Storage | 1TB HDD | 1TB HDD | | Optical Drive | 4K HDR Blu-ray/DVD | Blu-ray/DVD |
Just looking at the comparative spec chart above, it's hard to see how the PS4 Pro can win here. The Xbox One X essentially has more of almost everything. Both consoles use a custom 8-core AMD CPU, but the Xbox One X's processor is clocked 200MHz faster at 2.3GHz. In the GPU department, the Xbox One X has an even bigger advantage. Microsoft's recently-released console offers six teraflops of graphics performance. This is 1.4 times as much as the PS4 Pro. The Xbox One X also offers 12GB of GDDR5 RAM. Microsoft says that 3GB of it is reserved for operating-system tasks, with the rest of the 9GB going towards games. This, alone, is more than the entirety of the PS4 Pro's 8GB GDDR5 allotment. In terms of storage, both consoles offer a 1TB hard drive and allow you to use external USB drives for additional storage. One advantage that the PS4 Pro offers is that it allows you to swap the HDD out for an SSD or bigger drive. While the PS4 Pro has a Blu-ray player, only the Xbox One X has one that's capable of playing 4K HDR media. Ultimately, real-world performance is going to come down to how developers can leverage either console's hardware, but on paper, the Xbox One X has better overall specs. Winner: Xbox One X
Design
Both consoles sport a matte black finish. Arguably the biggest difference between them is that the Xbox One X is significantly smaller at 11.8x9.5x2.4 inches (29.9x24.1x6 cm), which makes it Microsoft's smallest console yet. In comparison, the PS4 Pro measures a much larger 12.8x11.6x2.1 inches (32.5x29.4x5.3 cm). Despite its smaller size, the Xbox One X is 1.2 pounds heavier than the PS4 Pro, weighing 8.4 pounds. In terms of ports, both consoles offer three USB 3.0 ports, SPDIF, and Ethernet connections. The PS4 Pro does have a port for its PlayStation Camera, however, whereas the Xbox One X features an extra HDMI-in and an IR-out. Both consoles run very quiet, but the Xbox One X does run warmer and consumes more power. In our testing, we clocked the Xbox One X consuming over 170 watts during gameplay. At the same time, temperatures rose past 61 degrees Celcius. Conversely, we clocked the PS4 Pro consuming around 150 watts with temperatures hovering in the mid 40 degrees C during similar tests. Despite this, we're going to give the nod to the Xbox One X for its smaller footprint and its clean, minimalist design. Winner: Xbox One X
Games Library
To make this comparison as objective as possible, we counted all the games that scored 70 and above on our sister site Metacritic to see which console offered more compelling games. At the time of this writing, the PS4's library comes ahead with 796 games. It's exclusives consists of notable games like Persona 5, Uncharted 4, Bloodborne, and Horizon Zero Dawn. The Xbox One's library consists of 563 games that have scored a 70 and above. It's anchored by console exclusives such as Gears of War 4, Forza Horizon 3, Ori and the Blind Forest, Cuphead, and Killer Instinct. It's important to note that if you missed the Xbox 360 generation, Microsoft has enabled backwards compatibility with Xbox 360 games, too; some of which will get Xbox One X enhancements. This category should ultimately come down to your personal preference, but when you look at the raw numbers comparing this generation's games, Sony's console currently comes out ahead here. Winner: PS4 Pro
Operating System
While the user interface for PlayStation's operating system is simpler than Microsoft's, the Xbox One's UI has undergone numerous overhauls. Its newest dashboard, released last month, is its most responsive and arguably best iteration yet. It still has a deeper learning curve than the comparatively minimalistic PlayStation equivalent, but it offers more features like 4K video capture, Cortana voice support, and integrates Microsoft's Mixer streaming app into the OS, which provides lower latency video streams than Twitch. While Xbox's new dashboard offers slightly more features, it is less intuitive than Sony's solution. Whereas the PlayStation UI pushes a simpler design that puts a greater emphasis on your games, Microsoft's UI is more cluttered and highlights news, deals, games, apps, and entertainment. The Xbox One operating system does allow you to simplify navigating by allowing to you pin your favorite apps and games to the home menu, however. Both Microsoft and Sony's UI have their strengths and weaknesses, but at the end of the day, owners will mostly use their consoles to play games and stream movies/TV shows. Both systems support your standard array of popular video streaming apps that include Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Video and more. Considering both consoles do good jobs of getting you to your most-played games and apps, we're calling this one a draw. Winner: Draw
Value and Features
The Xbox One X comes with AA batteries to supplement its included controller, whereas Sony bundles in a supplemental USB charging cable with its peripheral. We prefer Sony's solution a bit better here since it saves users the trouble of purchasing additional batteries. The PS4 Pro also includes a mono headset, whereas the Xbox One X does not. While you can stream 4K HDR videos on the PS4 Pro, Sony's console doesn't come with a physical 4K HDR Blu-ray player like the Xbox One X. Microsoft's console does cost $100 more at $500, however. Another advantage that the PS4 Pro offers is that it supports virtual reality through its PlayStation VR headset. Microsoft's console currently does not support VR. When we take into consideration its cheaper price tag, included goodies, and VR support, we're going to give the PS4 Pro the nod when it comes to value and features. Winner: PS4 Pro
Conclusion
Coming into the conclusion, we have two wins for the Xbox One X and two wins for the PlayStation 4 Pro. As we've highlighted in this story, both consoles have their strengths and weaknesses. Perhaps the biggest advantage that the PS4 Pro offers is its bigger, arguably more compelling game library. At the same time, however, the Xbox One X has its own exclusives, will likely play third-party games better, and comes with a 4K HDR Blu-ray player. It's a good idea to base your choice on what exclusives you prefer and what system your friends game on. Do you prefer franchises like Halo and Gears of War? Or are you more of an Uncharted and The Last of Us fan? The good news is that both high-end consoles are great and you can't go wrong choosing either one.
By Matt Espineli on Dec 12, 2017 01:05 am
Fantastic Armor Sets And Where To Find Them
The final DLC drop from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is out now. Titled The Champions' Ballad, it contains an assortment of new armor and headgear that offer new tactical and cosmetic benefits. Some are even inspired by characters that longtime franchise fans are likely to recognize, such as Ravio from The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds. To help you ease the headache of figuring out exactly where these items are, we've detailed each of their locations and have provided screenshots of where they are on the map. Like the game's first expansion pass DLC, it's possible to find each costume out in the world by following a series of quest hints provided by various Rumor Mill magazines scattered across the world. However, you can nab all the special DLC items without interacting with these helpful texts. If you're looking to take more of a hands-off approach, follow the details provided by the side-quest sections that open upon booting the game with the DLC installed. It's important to note that none of the new DLC armor can be upgraded at the Great Fairy Fountains. An unfortunate sacrifice in order to look as cool as you do with this stuff equipped. The Champions' Ballad DLC is the second and final part of Breath of the Wild's paid DLC. If you need even more Zelda guides, check out our recipe and cooking manual, our beginner's guide, or just our general list of everything you might want help figuring out. And of course you shouldn't miss our official review of Breath of the Wild.
Royal Guard Armor
If you ever felt like Link should look more regal, than the Royal Guard armor is the perfect fit for you. When equipped, this set decreases the amount of stamina used from a charge attack. Each individual piece provides you a base defense rating of four.
Royal Guard Armor Piece Locations
Royal Guard Cap: This piece is found in a chest in the room above the Hyrule Castle Sanctum. Approach from the castle rear for the easiest path up. Royal Guard Uniform: This piece is found in a chest in a small room near the Hyrule Castle Dining Hall. There should be a hallway in front that leads to a dead end, which you need to blast with a bomb. Royal Guard Boots: The boots are found in a chest in the Hyrule Castle Guards' Chamber, surrounded by two pesky Lizalfos.
Phantom Ganon Armor
Aside from looking incredibly menacing, the Phantom Ganon Armor offers you a stealth bonus. Each individual piece provides you a base defense rating of four. Hardcore fans are likely to recognize that the armor is inspired by Ganon's appearance in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
Phantom Ganon Armor Piece Locations
Phantom Ganon Skull: This piece is found in a chest at the base of the main, large waterfall leading up to Corta Lake, in the Faron region. Phantom Ganon Armor: This piece is hidden in a chest underneath the Sarjon Bridge, in the Faron region. Phantom Ganon Greaves: This piece of armor is found in a chest next to the broken statue in Ebara Forest on the northern side of the curve in the pathway, in the Faron region.
Ancient Horse Armor
This armor set is likely to trigger memories of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion's horse armor, but don't be alarmed, this set is a whole lot cooler and more functional. Comprised of two pieces, each provides a special perk. The Ancient Bridle increases the number of spurs available to the horse it's equipped on, while the Ancient Saddle grants you the ability to summon your horse to your current location.
Ancient Horse Armor Piece Locations
Ancient Bridle: This piece is found in a chest at the peak of Satori Mountain, under the cherry-blossom tree. It's just like one of my Japanese animes. Ancient Saddle: This piece is found in a chest behind the Malanya Spring in the Lake region.
Island Lobster Shirt
Sometimes you're just too lazy to put on clothes. Inspired by the pajamas you wear in the beginning of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, the Island Lobster Shirt doesn't offer much defense, sporting a base defense rating of one. However, it does offer you an increased resistance to heat. That makes sense; after all, Wind Waker Link was always too hot wearing that hero's tunic in the middle of summer.
Island Lobster Shirt Location
The Island Lobster Shirt is found in a chest at the root of the Menoat River, which is south of the Lake Tower. You'll see the chest slightly upstream where it's at the bottom of the river. Use the Magnesis Rune to unearth it from its watery slumber.
Ravio's Hood
The hood of Ravio--the cowardly merchant's hood from The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds--offers a base defense rating of two. It's not particularly useful, offering the odd benefit of increased speed while climbing sideways. But hey, at least it's a fun little nod to the recent Link to The Past successor.
Ravio's Hood Location
Oh Ravio, Ravio! Wherefore art thou Ravio's hood? This piece of headgear is found in a chest near the Spring of Courage, directly underneath the right hand of the stone dragon.
Zant's Helmet
If there's one thing that most gamers remember about The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, it's the menacing oddball villain, Zant. His helmet contributed to his threatening countenance; though, when it was removed, we almost wished he'd kept it on. Luckily, this nifty piece of headgear can be found in Breath of the Wild. It sports a base defense rating of three, while offering the useful perk of making you unfreezable when it's equipped.
Zant's Helmet Location
Zant's Helmet is found in a chest north of Tobio's Hollow, on a small island with two dead trees at the west corner of the swamp.
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