Category: Games

The latest PlayStation mega sale is upon us–the annual Golden Week sale launched this morning on PSN (North America only), offering hundreds of game and DLC discounts up to 65% off (and 75% off for PS Plus members), including titles for PS4, PS3, PS Vita, and PSP.

The Golden Week sale is a nod to the week of national holidays celebrated this time of year in Japan and features Japanese-made (or Japanese-inspired) games, including popular series like Resident Evil, Persona, Dark Souls, and Dragon Quest. The sale will run until Tuesday, May 7 at 8 AM PT / 11 AM ET.

It’s a good week to put your PS Plus membership to use: In addition to greater discounts on Golden Week deals, there’s also a huge sale on hundreds of PS4 games and DLC going on right now that’s exclusive to PS Plus members. Be sure to check it out before it ends Tuesday, April 30.

SHOP PSN’S GOLDEN WEEK GAME DEALS »

See some of our picks from this year’s sale below, and browse the full collection of offerings at the PlayStation Store.

PS4

• 2064: Read Only Memories — $7 (PS Plus: $4)
• 428: Shibuya Scramble — $20 (PS Plus: $15)
• Attack on Titan 2 — $42 (PS Plus: $36)
• Dark Souls III — $27 (PS Plus: $21)
• Dark Souls Remastered — $32 (PS Plus: $28)
• Dead Cells — $20 (PS Plus: $17.49)
• Devil May Cry HD Collection — $21 (PS Plus: $18)
• Dragon Ball FighterZ — $30 (PS Plus: $24)
• Dragon Ball FighterZ — FighterZ Pass — $21 (PS Plus: $17.49)
• Dragon Ball FighterZ – Ultimate Edition — $66 (PS Plus: $55)
• Dragon Quest XI: Digital Edition of Light — $36 (PS Plus: $30)
• Final Fantasy: Royal Edition — $30 (PS Plus: $25)
• Furi: Definitive Edition — $8.79 (PS Plus: $6.59)
• God Eater 2: Rage Burst — $21 (PS Plus: $15)
• Gravity Rush Remastered — $12 (PS Plus: $9)
• Gravity Rush 2 — $14 (PS Plus: $12)
• Jump Force — $42 (PS Plus: $36)
• Kingdom Hearts Collection — $90 (PS Plus: $87)
• Kingdom Hearts III — $42 (PS Plus: $40.19)
• Marvel vs. Capcom: Infinite — $20 (PS Plus: $16)
• Monster Hunter: World — $25 (PS Plus: $20)
• Ni No Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom — $42 (PS Plus: $36)
• Nioh: The Complete Edition — $30 (PS Plus: $25)
• Persona 3: Dancing in Moonlight (VR) — $42 (PS Plus: $36)
• Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight (VR) — $42 (PS Plus: $36)
• Resident Evil 2 — $45 (PS Plus: $40.19)
• Resident Evil Revelations — $10 (PS Plus: $8)
• Resident Evil: Deluxe Origins Bundle — $20 (PS Plus: $16)
• SoulCalibur VI — $42 (PS Plus: $36)
• Street Fighter V — $10 (PS Plus: $8)
• Street Fighter: 30th Anniversary Collection — $30 (PS Plus: $26)
• Tales of Berseria — $21 (PS Plus: $15)
• Tekken 7 — $30 (PS Plus: $25)
• Tokyo Xanadu eX+ — $18 (PS Plus: $12)
• Yakuza 6: The Song of Life — $28 (PS Plus: $24)
• Zero Escape: Zero Time Dilemma — $12 (PS Plus: $8)
• Zero Escape: The Nonary Games — $15 (PS Plus $10)

PS3

• Castlevania: Symphony of the Night — $4 (PS Plus: $3)
• Catherine — $10 (PS Plus: $8)
• DMC Devil May Cry: Ultimate Edition — $20.24 (PS Plus: $13.49)
• Final Fantasy IX (PSOne Classic) — $6 (PS Plus: $5)
• Final Fantasy V (PSOne Classic) — $6 (PS Plus: $5)
• Final Fantasy VIII (PSOne Classic) — $6 (PS Plus: $5)
• Final Fantasy X / X-2 HD Remaster Digital — $15 (PS Plus: $12.49)
• Gradius V (PS2 Classic) — $4 (PS Plus: $3)
• Mega Man Legends 2 (PSOne Classic) — $4 (PS Plus: $3)
• Metal Gear Solid: VR Missions — $2.39 (PS Plus: $1.79)
• Persona 4 Arena — $10.49 (PS Plus: $9)
• Silent Hill (PSOne Classic) — $2.39 (PS Plus: $1.79)
• Suikoden 3 (PS2 Classic) — $4 (PS Plus: $3)

PS Vita

• 2064: Read Only Memories — $7 (PS Plus: $4)
• Death Mark — $20 (PS Plus: $16)
• Disgaea 3: Absence of Detention — $24 (PS Plus: $21)
• Downwell — $2.19 (PS Plus: $1.69)
• Dragon Quest Builders — $28 (PS Plus: $24)
• Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster Bundle — $15 (PS Plus: $12.49)
• Muramasa Rebirth: Complete Collection — $14 (PS Plus: $10.49)
• P3D & P5D Bundle + Megaverse Costume Pack — $52.49 (PS Plus: $45.49)
• Persona 3: Dancing in Moonlight — $28 (PS Plus: $24)
• Persona 4: Dancing All Night — $15 (PS Plus: $12.49)
• Persona 4: Golden — $12 (PS Plus: $10)
• Persona 5: Dancing in Starlight — $28 (PS Plus: $24)
• Yomawari: Midnight Shadows — $14 (PS Plus: $12)
• Zero Escape: The Nonary Games — $12 (PS Plus: $8)

PSP

• Final Fantasy III — $6 (PS Plus: $5)
• Final Fintasy IV: The Complete Collection — $9 (PS Plus: $7.49)
• Final Fantasy Tactics (PSOne Classic) — $6 (PS Plus: $5)
• Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions — $6 (PS Plus: $5)
• Mega Man Maverick Hunter X — $4 (PS Plus: $3)

The time has finally come. Avengers: Endgame is now in theaters and brought with it the end of not only this era of the MCU, but grand finales for a bunch of our favorite superheroes and superhero teams–which means we have a lot of ground to cover here.

Watch yourself: From here on out, we are in spoiler country.

The End (Of Phase 3)

Shockingly, Marvel broke their decades-long tradition of having multiple post-credits sequences for this one–the end of this movie actually is the end, with no stingers or gags to cap it off. It goes like this: Some creative maneuvering from 2014 Nebula (not present day Nebula, who is a good guy) brings the fight with 2014 Thanos (not present day Thanos, who is dead) to Earth after the Avengers scavenge through the time stream for the Infinity Stones in the past.

Luckily, before the fight actually starts up, Bruce is able to use their time-heisted Stones to bring back everyone who was dusted, so the team has some serious reinforcements when Thanos and the Chitauri arrive. The ensuing fight is beyond epic, with legions of Wakandan soldiers, Asgardian refugees, sorcerers in training–really you name it, if they’ve shown up in the MCU before, they’re probably here and duking it out with Thanos’s alien hordes.

But of course, even with all the backup in the world, Thanos isn’t going to go down easy. The fight actually allows Steve Rogers to finally prove his worth and wield Mjolnir (remember that moment in Age of Ultron when he couldn’t pick it up?). The fight amounts to a few truly beautiful spotlight moments, including both Carol and Wanda getting their own shot at Thanos himself, all while the Avengers play cosmic hot potato with the new Infinity Gauntlet they’ve made. That’s the name of the game for most of the fight: keep the Stones away from Thanos while beating back the Chitauri and the Black Order.

Thank god this fight happens in an otherwise totally abandoned crater, right? For as huge as the battle is, there really isn’t any collateral damage outside of the Avengers compound, which is pretty thoroughly demolished. RIP.

Anyway, the fight ultimately concludes with a narrow miss–Thanos manages to get the Gauntlet back, but Tony is fast enough to pull the Stones out before he has a chance to use them. That’s when Tony gets to have his big moment. Thanos, undeterred, says “I am inevitable” to which Tony gets to make the ultimate Iron Man 1 callback by responding, “I am Iron Man.” He integrates the Stones into his armor and snaps his fingers, which results in a mirror of Infinity War’s final moments, except this time it’s Thanos and the Chitauri who turn to dust.

Unfortunately, that sort of power comes with a price.

The End (For Tony Stark)

Tony’s use of the Gauntlet takes a massive toll and, tragically (if expectedly), costs him his life. He stays alive long enough to get to say some poignant goodbyes to the people he cares about most, like Pepper and Peter and Rhodey–so get your tissues ready.

The funeral is where it gets really tough. It’s not the most traditional–Pepper makes a memorial with her “Proof That Tony Stark Has A Heart” trophy from back in the first Iron Man movie and sets it to sail on the peaceful lake behind their property. It’s well-attended by all of Tony’s friends and family–even Nick Fury, who has otherwise been MIA for the whole movie, shows up. The kid from Iron Man 3 is there, too–though it might take you a second to recognize him.

Tony leaves behind both Pepper and their daughter, Morgan, who gets a very cute moment with Happy. He asks if she’s hungry, she replies yes, and that she’d like a cheeseburger. Happy laughs and tells her that her dad liked cheeseburgers too–another Iron Man 1 callback. Tony’s first request after setting foot back stateside was for a cheeseburger. Apparently the Stark family has a very specific method of coping with trauma.

Joking aside, Tony’s arc culminates in a major pay off for a moment back in Avengers 1 when Steve and Tony have one of their first fights. Steve called out Tony’s selfishness, saying he only fights for himself; that he’s “not the guy to make the sacrifice play.” It may have taken six whole movies, but Tony finally has a chance to prove himself a hero once and for all.

The End (For Steve Rogers)

Despite all the evidence and predictions to the contrary, Steve Rogers did not die in the final fight with Thanos–but he did get a pretty definitive ending.

After all the time-heisting went down, someone had to take the stolen Infinity Stones back to their respective spots in history to prevent a bunch of branching timelines from splitting off and causing temporal chaos. Steve does this alone, using a hastily rebuilt quantum portal–but it doesn’t exactly go as planned. Rather than just dropping each Stone back where it came from and returning to the present, Steve decides to peel off and–you guessed it–go live a full life with Peggy Carter back in the past.

Instead of teleporting back to the current time, an elderly Steve shows up at the rendezvous point. The logic here gets a little fuzzy from a time travel perspective, but apparently going back and marrying Peggy didn’t cause a branched timeline and they finally got their dance. In his own words, he took Tony’s advice to try just living a normal life.

As an old man, Steve clearly won’t be doing any more superheroics–but don’t worry, the world won’t be without a Captain America for too long. He passes the shield over to Sam, who will officially take up the mantle when next there is a need.

The End (For Thor)

During the five-year post-Thanos time jump, Thor and the Asgardian refugees on Earth formed New Asgard, a little oceanside town where Thor, uh, kind of let himself go. However, by the end of the movie, he’s decidedly gotten his groove back and is ready to get back in the proverbial saddle. He accomplishes this by first leaving New Asgard to a new ruler, Valkyrie, and then joining the Guardians of the Galaxy–er, the Asgardians of the Galaxy, sorry–to go adventure through space.

There’s some conflict right away, however, when Quill and Thor can’t quite agree about who’s in charge.

It’s definitely Quill, right?

We’ll see how that goes come Guardians 3, probably.

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While movie trailers have existed for more than 100 years, over the past decade, they have become much more than short ads for upcoming films. Anticipation for a first trailer is almost as great as a movie itself, and the opportunities to see trailer premieres have become a major draw of massive events such as San Diego Comic-Con, WonderCon, and Star Wars Celebration. As a result, trailers are studied, discussed, and analysed to a degree that might have seemed ridiculous only a few years ago, aided by the rise of YouTube and other video platforms.

Avengers: Endgame is one of the most anticipated movies of 2019, and trailers have been coming our way steadily since December last year. It didn’t take long for fans to notice that something funny was going on. It’s not unusual for trailers to feature footage that isn’t in the final movie, as they are often released before editing on a film is complete. However, in the case of Endgame, there were visible differences in the same shots between trailers, leading fans to quickly surmise that director Joe and Anthony Russo had been actively altering moments for these promos.

This isn’t the first time the Russos have digitally manipulated trailers in advance of a movie’s release. Promos for last year’s Avengers: Infinity War had a number of shots that appeared differently in the released film–most notably, Hulk fighting in Wakanda, as well as altered dialogue from Thanos. The directors themselves admitted as much–stating that the Hulk scene was specially created for the trailer. So it’s no surprise that the same is true of Endgame.

So here are all the moments from the various Endgame trailers we’ve spotted that differ from what was in the actual film. Some are shots that were most likely cut from the final edit, while others are digitally altered shots, designed to hide the movie’s big surprises and withhold information about certain characters and scenes. And if you’ve seen any more trailer moments that weren’t in the movie, please let us know in the comments.

For more coverage, check out why Captain America’s Ending Ruins Avengers Endgame, We Were Very Wrong About These 8 Insane Endgame Theories, Why Having No End Credits Scene Was The Right Call, and our look at Everyone Who Dies Or Stays Dead.

Warning: From this point on, there are some Endgame spoilers, so if you’re not ready for them, check out our spoiler-free review instead.

We’re now just a few weeks out from Mother’s Day, and we can assume that since you’re here, you probably have no idea what to get her this year. Flowers and spa gift cards start to feel generic after a while, and honestly, they require very little forethought–so why not surprise your mom (or wife) with something unique that shows you really thought about what she’d enjoy?

If she’s into gaming or some other nerdy aspect of pop culture, feed her obsession with an unconventional gift she’ll actually remember and enjoy long-term this Mother’s Day. From consoles and accessories to apparel, collectibles, and more, we’ve gathered some creative ideas to make the gift search a bit easier for you.

If you think you might want to get her a game, check out our top picks for each console below, and read on for more quirky Mother’s Day gift ideas.

1. PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch

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We’ve talked up PowerA’s third-party Nintendo Switch controllers in the past–not only are they $20 cheaper than first-party Switch controllers, which generally sell for $70, but they also feature a variety of stunning Nintendo-inspired designs. This new Zelda design will be released April 30 and makes a great gift for a Zelda fan, especially if she fell in love with Breath of the Wild.

2. House Stark Frosted Pine-Scented Tin Candle

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There are candles–and then there are Game of Thrones candles. If mom is just as hyped about the upcoming Season 8 finale as the rest of the world, she’ll enjoy lighting this little pine-scented candle featuring House Stark’s sigil that’ll leave her home smelling fresh.

3. NES Classic and SNES Classic

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Retro mini consoles are all the rage these days, but the NES Classic and SNES Classic are both worth the hype. The two systems come pre-installed with dozens of the most iconic games of their era, offering hours of entertainment and a fun trip down memory lane for long-time gamers.

4. Critical Hit D20 Waffle Maker

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Whether she’s a seasoned DM or plays tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons casually, she’ll get a kick out of this delicious ode to the D20 die. Fact: Fluffy Belgian waffles taste even better when they come in cool shapes.

5. Geek Parenting by Stephen H. Segal and Valya Dudycz Lupescu

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This gift is definitely aimed at younger moms who still have little ones in the home. Both humorous and useful, Geek Parenting offers an enlightening look at the deeper lessons that can be gleaned from some of pop culture’s most famous fictional relationships, like Frodo and Bilbo, Carl and Michonne, and even Cersei and Joffrey.

6. Protective Case for Nintendo Switch

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A hard-cover case is an absolute must for Nintendo Switch owners who take the console with them on-the-go. This particular brand offers a range of gorgeous designs that she may appreciate, but if you’re looking for a plain black case, this sturdy Orzly case is another favorite of ours (and thousands of Amazon reviewers).

7. Overwatch Glass Water Bottle

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What better gift exists than the gift of hydration? If she’s into Overwatch, then this durable glass bottle is not only cool merch but a practical accessory she can take with her everywhere she goes.

8. Star Wars Cookie Cutters

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This set of four Star Wars-inspired cookie cutters are perfect for creating themed treats next time she feels like watching the films.

9. Razer Kraken Pro V2

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The Razer Kraken Pro V2, which was tested and included in GameSpot’s list of the best gaming headsets, is a reliable, affordable option for PC gamers (last time we checked, it was on sale at Amazon for just $65). Sturdy and comfortable enough for hours of wear, the Kraken Pro V2 has a retractable mic and solid sound quality and will work well if she often plays online with friends.

10. Wonder Woman Sweatshirt

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First of all, one can never have too many cozy sweatshirts. Secondly, this striking blue top isn’t just an homage to Wonder Woman; it’s also a way of showing your mom how much you think of her–strong and inspiring, just like DC’s fierce heroine.

11. Undertale Soundtrack Vinyl 2LP

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ThinkGeek has a variety of officially licensed collectible vinyl records inspired by games, movies, and TV shows, and each one would make a great gift for someone who’s a fan. Aside from Undertale’s unforgettable 16-bit soundtrack, you can find other options like this vinyl with music from Pokemon Gold and Silver, or this one with tracks from Stranger Things. Even if she doesn’t have a record player, vinyl records can also double as a gorgeous piece of home decor when displayed on a shelf.

12. Hello Kitty Face Masks with Pearl Powder – Set of 7

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Korean face masks are the beauty trend that’s not disappearing anytime soon, and they’re the perfect self-care accessory all women should keep around. This seven-piece set contains restorative pearl powder, a natural source of proteins and minerals that can help boost collagen in the skin and leave it looking luminous.

13. Philips Hue White and Color Smart Bulbs

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You don’t realize how convenient voice-controlled lights are until you start using them on a daily basis. Not only will she be able to easily control these lights using her voice; she can also choose the color, level of warmth, and more. The voice control works with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant, and you can also control the lights through the Philips Hue App.

14. Museum of Gudetama Two-Sided Tote Bag

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This vibrant bag is for anyone who appreciates Gudetama (Sanrio’s popular “lazy egg” character), breakfast, colorful accessories, and/or art references. The bag features Gudetama posing as Edvard Munch’s The Scream on one side and as Mona Lisa on the other. It’s weird, it’s artsy, it’s a clash of references–and if she’s into that type of thing, this cute tote is the perfect fit for her.

15. Personalized Cutting Board

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Cutting boards aren’t just useful–they can also function as a tasteful piece of kitchen decor. You can customize this cutting board’s size, type of wood, and message, which will adjust the pricing.

16. Kindle Paperwhite

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The Amazon Kindle has been around for more than 10 years, and many models later, it’s still going strong and serving up digital books to readers. The Kindle Paperwhite is considered one of the best e-readers on the market for its affordability, portable slimness, Bluetooth capability, waterproof protection, and long battery life. If mom loves curling up with a book but can’t always make it to the bookstore, an e-reader is a thoughtful gift she’ll use for years.

17. Star Wars Galactic Necklace

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Jewelry is a classic Mother’s Day gift–but this isn’t any old necklace. Featuring Star Wars planets, an X-Wing, a TIE Fighter, an asteroid belt, and even the Death Star, this gorgeous chain contains various gemstones and charms made from stainless steel. This statement necklace adds color to any outfit and is definitely a conversation starter. And if you think she’d prefer a similar necklace without the Star Wars references, consider picking up this regular solar system-themed version instead (it’s on sale!).

18. Pusheen Slippers

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Perfect for cat lovers (particularly Pusheen), these cozy slippers will help cushion her feet and keep them warm while she’s at home. The outsoles also provide a bit of traction to keep her from slipping on hard floors.

19. Funko Pop Captain Marvel

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This Funko featuring the Avengers’ feisty new heroine would make an excellent addition to anyone’s collection. Of course, there are also countless other Funko characters to choose from–browse more options at Amazon.

20. Potion earrings

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There’s no shortage of game-inspired and generally geeky earrings available on Etsy, but we’re particularly fond of this red-and-blue potion earrings set reminiscent of the health and magic potions from The Legend of Zelda. Made with real cork and glass, this stunning little pair adds a pop of color and personality to any outfit. You can also purchase two red or two blue potions together, if desired.

In 2008, Marvel set a precedent with its release of Iron Man. After the credits finished rolling, there was an additional scene featuring Nick Fury telling Tony Stark that there are more superheroes in the world, and the audience is introduced to the Avengers Initiative.

In the 20 movies taking place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe thereafter, there has been a mid or post-credits sequence–and sometimes both–revealing an inkling of information as to where the next big movie is headed (although some are just well-crafted jokes). However, Avengers: Endgame is the first movie in the history of the shared universe to not have a visual element at the end. There is an audio stinger, but it’s not something leading to Phase 4 of the MCU.

Warning: Endgame spoilers below. If you haven’t seen it yet, check out our review instead.

Was the decision not to include a post-credit sequence in Avengers: Endgame a good call? Without a doubt, yes. Aside from the fact that this all brings a natural conclusion to the Infinity Saga, even though Spider-Man: Far From Home ends Phase 3 now, we don’t need to see what comes next because we get great resolutions during the final moments of the movie. We don’t need to be hyped up for the next movie because the focus at the end of Endgame should be on where our favorite heroes end up before the credits roll. And there is a lot happening.

Thor decides to join the Guardians of the Galaxy, while passing the torch to Valkyrie to lead the Asgardians in New Asgard. The son of Odin has done all he can for his people, and he sees a new journey with new friends ahead. Also, a Guardians of the Galaxy movie with Thor and Peter Quill on the same team sounds like a delight. This also opens the door for Valkyrie to play that Thor role on a new Avengers team.

Steve Rogers also has a passing of the torch moment with Sam Wilson, who will probably take on the mantle of Captain America in future movies. Rogers returning to the past and spending his life with Peggy Carter is the closure we need for his story, after years of selflessness (although not everyone thinks so). In present day, we already have the makings of a solid Avengers team coming up with Sam Wilson, Valkyrie, Hawkeye, Winter Soldier, Scarlet Witch, War Machine, Hulk, Dr. Strange, Wong, and probably Carol Danvers. There are more I know I’ve missed, but even with Tony Stark and Rogers not available to be on the team in the future, things are looking up for The Avengers.

We all know Spider-Man: Far From Home is a few months away, and the MCU will continue afterward, so not having a post-credit sequence is a clean break from what’s next for the shared universe. Avengers: Endgame leaves you with resolution, not a cliffhanger. We know change is coming, and we see it happen as the movie wraps up. It’s nice to leave the movie when the credits start and not have to wait around in anticipation of something bigger. The audience doesn’t need a little extra because there’s a full plate of action, emotion, and most importantly, closure.