Millions of digital horses were clad in armour on April 3, 2006. The survivors of this phenomenon called this downloadable content purchase a “microtransaction.” They lived only to face new nightmares: season passes, live service models, always-online single-player, loot boxes, pay-to-win, ship-now-fix-later patches, and more. Make no mistake, the team at Terminator 2D: No Fate developer Bitmap Bureau has seen this future, and they clearly don’t like it. As such, Terminator 2D is an unapologetically nostalgic sidescroller, specifically designed to send players directly back to the 16-bit era of the ’90s to experience the greatest T2 game we never played. Exceedingly short by modern standards but brimming with love for James Cameron’s indisputable sci-fi classic, Terminator 2D is part time machine, part uncommonly terrific movie tie-in. In an insane world, it’s the sanest choice.

Terminator 2D’s main story mode – which follows the events of T2, with a few expanded diversions – takes roughly an hour to complete successfully. However, it took me a few runs to actually achieve this. Admittedly, this is incredibly short by contemporary standards – but it’s nonetheless authentic to an era where a game’s perceived girth was significantly inflated by the amount of times you’d need to play through nearly the entire thing in order to reach the end.

This philosophy feels pretty heavily baked into Terminator 2D and, even though I no longer have the time, the patience, or the sugar-enhanced reflexes of a 12-year-old with no job, I do respect the format. Sure, burning through my continues on an encounter I didn’t quite understand immediately was frustrating, and needing to start all over again is never fun. However, pushing past punishing sections that gave me grief on previous playthroughs is undeniably rewarding. I only wish you weren’t limited to accumulating a maximum of just nine continues. Whenever you have nine in the bank, any further ones you collect are converted to bonus points instead. Failing on the last level does sting a little harder knowing I could’ve easily had a few more cracks at it.

Are We Learning Yet?

On account of Terminator 2D’s modest length, I’m hesitant to drill down too specifically on how and when it shifts up its various mechanics, because encountering and learning this stuff for yourself is really all part of the process. What I will say, however, is that Terminator 2D doesn’t stagnate as a one-speed sidescroller, and there are tweaks throughout that typically require a slight adjustment to your approach. That is, one moment you might be cutting a plasma-fueled path through a Skynet-ravaged future in an overtly Contra-inspired run-and-gun action section, and the next you’re sneaking through the Pescadero State Hospital for the Criminally Insane, engaging in mild stealth and hiding from the T-1000. This level loses its suspense on subsequent visits thanks to its scripted nature, but the tension the first time around was palpable thanks to the excellent use of T2’s original music and the predilection of the deadly T-1000 to pop up out of nowhere.

T2’s music is actually used to incredible effect all throughout. It essentially does all the heavy lifting in terms of atmosphere in the absence of voice acting, with the dialogue relayed through on-screen text. The power metal version of T2’s main theme is a major highlight, and there’s a fabulously engineered bit of licensed music available in the biker bar that had me grinning like a cybernetic organism in a well-stocked weapons bunker – just be sure to punch that jukebox.

Happily, Terminator 2D is as fabulous to look at as it is to listen to. Its pixel art isn’t just brilliantly handsome, either; it’s also silkily animated. It oozes character at every opportunity, from the way the T-800 disdainfully tosses that unlucky biker onto a burning grill, to the desperate backpedalling of Sarah in the shadow of her worst nightmare, to the final flailings of the T-1000 as it cycles through its most recent shapeshifts in the pool of molten metal.

I Know Now Why You Cry

My biggest disappointment overall is the surprising lack of T-800 sequences, resulting in a Terminator game where you unfortunately spend limited time as the Terminator itself. When playing the core story thread – that is, the one that runs faithfully to the film – you’ll only play as the T-800 during the biker bar beatdown and the canal chase. It’s true that, in the spirit of the film, Bitmap Bureau can’t simply turn the T-800 into a mass-murdering WMD. After all, as we all know, it’s under strict instructions from John not to kill anyone. As regularly as ’90s movie tie-ins coloured outside the lines – present company included – it would’ve been quite discordant to have the Terminator arbitrarily massacre his way through a few levels.

Nonetheless, it does feel like there are some missed opportunities here. For instance, the biker bar beat ’em up gameplay could’ve made a very logical reappearance in, say, a mall level where the T-800 was forced to slap down some security on his way to rendezvous with John for the first time. This could’ve crescendoed with the T-800 blasting at the T-1000 with his shotgun. As it stands, this iconic encounter occurs in a brief still screen before the motorcycle chase, with no associated gameplay. It feels brushed over considering just how mega that moment is in the context of the movie.

It’s odd, too, that the T-800 blasting the cop cars assembled outside Cyberdyne Systems is only a playable portion in runs destined for one of Terminator 2D’s alternate endings. We actually don’t get it in a regular canon run. It’s stranger still that the T-800 is a passenger for the entire final showdown at the steel foundry with the T-1000. You get a glimpse of the fight between the two as you hustle through the area as Sarah – and the part of the slugfest you can watch does contain some terrific fan service – but I feel like it would’ve been nice to be able to participate in that. I’m not sure whether or not the slight sidelining of the T-800 is related to the fact Arnold Schwarzenegger's likeness is not actually featured in Terminator 2D, while Linda Hamilton, Robert Patrick, Edward Furlong, and Michael Edwards are.

The T-800 does get some minigun action if you dabble with the decision options that become unlocked after completing the main story for the first time. These decisions send the story on a split path towards new endings that are bespoke to Terminator 2D. They’re an interesting novelty, and these paths result in some different riffs on previously completed levels, but I wouldn’t say they’re a massive boost to proceedings.

Completing these other paths is the key to unlocking several bonus modes, like a Boss Rush and one dubbed Mother of the Future (which focuses exclusively on Sarah). However, they’re really just slightly altered ways of playing the same thing over again – which is something I’ve done a whole bunch already just pounding through Story Mode. There’s also an ‘Arcade Mode’, which appears to just be Story Mode without continues. This one doesn’t interest me at all, and I’m not quite sure what it’s supposed to emulate. Going to the arcade with a hole in your pocket?

At any rate, T2 is already a perfect film with a perfect ending, so any perversion of it is naturally going to be pretty unsatisfying in comparison (which is a lesson I thought we all learnt watching the first five minutes of Terminator: Dark Fate).

The ecosystem around Turtle Beach’s competent VelocityOne Race wheel and pedal set, which grew earlier this year with the arrival of the great value VelocityOne Multi-Shift, recently expanded again with the introduction of a butterfly-style racing rim: the F-RX Formula Wheel (which is also compatible with Turtle Beach’s newest, entry-level direct drive bundle, the KD3). If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of a formula wheel, picture a steering wheel with the top and bottom completely cut away, and the only way to grip it is at nine and three o’clock. In the context of sim racing, they’re the best way to replicate virtually racing modern open wheelers, prototypes, and GT cars, because these are the sorts of steering wheels these cars typically come equipped with in the real world.

There are a variety of reasons for this. Race cars like those listed above run with a very narrow steering range, and you’ll only ever need to grip the wheel at nine and three o’clock to tackle any circuit (meaning the remainder of the rim is superfluous). Your hands also need to remain at one place on the wheel because that’s where the shift paddles are. The driving position in a race car is also generally much different to that in a regular production car, and a full steering wheel may block a driver’s view in a way a formula wheel (with the whole top portion of the wheel cut out) does not. Formula wheels aren’t perfect for all sim racing scenarios (they’re wildly impractical for drifting and rallying, nor are they natural for NASCAR), but they make a lot of sense if your driving tastes include any of the most popular games in the sim racing space (like iRacing, F1, Assetto Corsa Competizione, Le Mans Ultimate, Project Motor Racing, and many more).

The Turtle Beach F-RX Formula Wheel is actually a pretty attractive upgrade for both of Turtle Beach’s current wheelbases, particularly since it sits at the lower end of the budget when it comes to formula-style sim racing wheels. It’s a very sturdy rim with a satisfying and logical button layout, and it’s definitely been largely enjoyable to use in the right racing contexts.

Turtle Beach VelocityOne F-RX Formula Wheel – Design and Features

I should note immediately that the Turtle Beach F-RX Formula Wheel’s quick release collar is bespoke to Turtle Beach wheelbases, so that means it’s currently only compatible with the VelocityOne Race and the VelocityOne Race KD3. You can’t just pop it onto any wheelbase you might own. This makes it a very specific product for a very specific customer, but it does represent a genuine boost to Turtle Beach’s increasingly decent VelocityOne racing ecosystem.

The F-RX is constructed with an aluminium frame, and it feels very strong and rigid in the grasp. It’s 304mm in diameter (11.97”), which is a pleasingly realistic size, and the grips are rubberised and well curved and shaped for comfortable and confident control.

There are 10 mechanical, RGB-backlit buttons – five on the left and five on the right of the rim, arranged in rough semicircles for easy thumb access. These buttons feature customisable lighting. In addition to these, there are three rotary encoders on the face of the wheel, as well as two more angled towards where your thumb rests – one facing the left grip and the other facing the right. Below those angled encoders are two analogue-style nubs; they have a very short throw but their small, concave surfaces and clicky actions make them simple to use.

On the back the F-RX features four paddles – two magnetic shifters and two programmable clutch paddles (the latter of which use Hall sensors).

A 10-LED shift light runs across the top of the wheel’s face, framed between some minimal branding (which is considerably more subtle than the large logo that adorns the rims that come with the original VelocityOne Race and the new KD3). I don’t find these particularly crucial; only the brightness of the shift lights can be customised (as opposed to the colours) and virtually no Xbox games actually appear to be sending this kind of info to Turtle Beach wheels, anyway. That is, when I’m playing something like, say, Assetto Corsa Competizione on Xbox, I’m focusing on the on-screen HUD for these kinds of visual aids. The only Xbox games listed to send telemetry data to Turtle Beach wheels are F1 24 and F1 25.

Turtle Beach VelocityOne F-RX Formula Wheel – Performance

First and foremost, the F-RX is suitably satisfying to hold and race with. Considering I have rather large hands, that’s not always a given. My personal preference would have been a flocked finish because I like the feel of it and my hands get less clammy (I don’t play racing sims with gloves, but I do know it’s not an uncommon trait in the sim racing community). However, the rubber finish on the F-RX’s grips is fine nonetheless. I enjoy not only the shape of the rim, but also the thickness of the grips. It feels comfortable to grasp for extended periods, and sufficiently chunky. That is, it doesn’t feel dainty or toy-like at all, which is pleasing.

It’s also a very nicely weighted rim, giving it a robust and firm feel with no real flex or creaking, although at just 1.38kg (3.04lbs) it’s not too heavy for the lower torque VelocityOne Race KD3 wheelbase. It does wiggle very slightly at the base of the quick release collar, but not in a way I detected while actually racing.

The buttons on the face of the rim have a satisfyingly tactile action which requires more than an accidental amount of force to activate. Their audible, mechanical click takes away any of that mushiness you sometimes get from buttons without it. I would wager this would be particularly useful feedback for players who do like to wear gloves. The buttons are set in metal plates fixed to the rim’s outer shell and appear they’ll be quite hardy.

The three rotary dials on the face of the wheel each have 12 settings, and they have a nice, heavy click to their rotation. They all need a very firm twist to clunk into each available setting. That kind of mechanical feedback is very useful in knowing the adjustments you’re making without needing to take your eyes off the racing. As usual, I should note that while the F-RX rim is compatible with both PC and Xbox (like the original VelocityOne Race and KD3), you won’t get the functionality of all these buttons and dial settings when playing on Xbox (where the ceiling for controls is limited to what can be assigned to a traditional, 16-button controller).

The magnetic shifters have firm and sharp actions. There’s a little flex at the base of the thick metal paddles, but it’s nothing severe and only noticeable if you’re squeezing significantly harder than necessary. The equally thick clutch paddles are just as rigid as the shifters, but they have a softer action, and the return force is consistent however much they’re depressed.

The VelocityOne Race KD3 racing wheel and pedals set is the most recent bundle of driving sim gear from Turtle Beach, and each part of it is an all-new piece of kit for the company’s small-but-growing racing ecosystem. The KD3 wheelbase itself is less potent than the original VelocityOne Race, but it’s also markedly cheaper. Overall, in terms of torque, it’s actually a more level competitor to the similarly-specced Moza R3 bundle (the original Velocity One, for reference, has more than double the force feedback power of the KD3).

With a 3.2Nm wheelbase, a swappable, 300mm/11.77’’ rim, and a two-pedal accelerator and brake assembly, the KD3 is a competent, ready-to-race package that far eclipses similarly-powered gear- and belt-driven alternatives (that are becoming increasingly outmoded as the prices of starter direct drive wheels trend lower) in terms of driving feel and performance. However, the caveat is that the upgrade environment for Turtle Beach racing equipment is nowhere near as extensive as it is with Moza right now so, while there’s a lot I like about the KD3, it can’t represent my first recommendation at this time.

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race KD3 Racing Wheel & Pedals – Design and Features

The VelocityOne Race KD3 racing wheel and pedals set is a complete, plug-and-play racing system that’s ready to rock, right out of the box – and all the gear inside is new to the Turtle Beach racing line-up. The package comes with the new 3.2Nm KD3 wheelbase, a round, 300mm Xbox-compatible steering wheel that’s very different from the one that comes with the original VelocityOne Race, and a new pedal set with a throttle and brake (two pedals, so no clutch). A table clamp is also included for those without dedicated racing rigs to bolt it all into.

The design of the wheelbase itself is a lot sleeker than the original VelocityOne. The plastic shell around Turtle Beach’s first wheelbase was admittedly pulling multiple duties (housing the integrated display, disguising the built-in table clamps, and even providing a storage cubby for the multitool it ships with to put it all together). However, that’s a bulkier unit that resembles older (and larger) gear- and belt-driven bases, even though it’s actually just a plastic shell housing a direct-drive system. The KD3 is small and compact in comparison (185mm x 133mm x 291mm/7.28” x 5.24” x 11.46”, 3.3kg/7.28lbs), and its cylindrical design is modern and effective.

The base and separate table clamp are metal and feel nice and sturdy. The clamp does not bolt to the KD3’s base, and instead holds it down by pinching it against the surface of your table or desk. This was actually a little fiddly to initially slide in, as it won’t be jimmied in while the KD3 is at 0° elevation (the instructions could’ve been a little clearer about that), and the adjustable knob used to tilt the unit back wasn’t entirely cooperating out of the box (it didn’t want to budge).

However, after loosening the adjuster it’s all quite straightforward to install. The angle adjustment has three preset slots at 0°, 10°, and 20°. It’s nice to be able to run the wheel at 0° when I clipped on the new Turtle Beach FR-X Formula Wheel (which is a separate add-on) to race GT cars in Assetto Corsa Competizione, but tilt it back a little when driving more conventional production cars in something like Forza Horizon 5. For comparison, the Moza R3 has a very good (and extremely strong) table clamp, but it does have a fixed, 15° lean on it.

The wheelbase features five USB-C ports on the rear (for the pedals, plus other accessories you may acquire separately), an emergency stop on top, and a light ring and small display. The display can feature telemetry for supported games (which is largely a PC thing rather than Xbox, where live telemetry is mostly unsupported). I personally don’t really find this kind of thing massively useful because realistically I just look at my dash and/or HUD display on screen and not at the wheel itself while driving. However, the screen means you can access and change certain settings without going into the Turtle Beach VelocityOne tuning app, so there’s certainly no harm in it.

The wheel that comes with the KD3 is 300mm (11.77’’) wide, which is actually a great size (and a fraction bigger than the Moza rim that comes with the R3. It’s also round, rather than D-shaped, like the wheel with the original VelocityOne (it’s not perfectly round and there is a slight flat spot on the bottom of the wheel, but it’s very, very close). This makes it way more suitable for rallying and drifting.

It does feel pretty cheap, though, and there’s a lot of hollow plastic that’s screwed together from the rear. I don’t love the noticeable screw holes; thankfully there aren’t any directly behind where my hands naturally sit at nine and three o’clock, but I have a habit of finding the holes right above my forefingers when rotating, and they feel odd being there. That said, it doesn’t feel flimsy or creak in the hands, which is obviously important. The flat buttons on the face of the wheel are all pretty close together, so I needed to be deliberate with my thumb presses to not mash multiple ones accidentally. The shift paddles are a great size, and they have a soft but suitably clicky action.

The pedal box is nice and large (it’s a little over 400mm/16’’ long) and comes with an accelerator and brake. It’s a bespoke, two-pedal frame in a plastic shell and there would be no scope to add a third pedal to this box for a clutch. The brake pedal can be shifted laterally slightly, and the resistance on both pedals comes from a pair of springs (rather than a more expensive load cell like on the original VelocityOne Race). These springs are adjustable; I left both on how they came out of the box, but if you want more resistance you can tweak it.

You can switch out these pedals on the KD3, but the three-pedal Turtle Beach set with the load cell brake is only available in the original VelocityOne Race bundle right now.

Turtle Beach VelocityOne Race KD3 Racing Wheel & Pedals – Performance

3.2Nm of torque is admittedly about as mild as you’ll get from a direct drive wheelbase, but it is an entry level product. It otherwise sits around the level of old gear- and belt-driven wheels like the Logitech G29 and G923, and the Thrustmaster T128 and T248. The Moza R3 (which is also a direct drive wheelbase) has 3.9Nm.

The feedback quality, however, is pretty good for this level of price and power. Curbs buzz, bumps feel decent, and there’s enough resistance to communicate enough cornering force to get by. I’d love it to do better at translating the front end scrubbing and clawing through corners, although I don’t always know whether that’s something I can dial in better at a setting level, whether in the wheel itself or in my sims.

Above everything, however, the feedback is silent (and instant). At the risk of repeating myself, this is the massive benefit of direct drive, and why I find it very hard to go back to gear- or belt-driven alternatives.

As mentioned, the 300mm/11.77’’ rim is a great size, and probably a little bigger than I might have expected given the low torque KD3 wheelbase. However, it is very light (1.21kg/2.67lbs) so we’re not losing feedback through a heavy rim. The rim snaps on with the same, ball bearing-style quick release collar that’s bespoke to Turtle Beach’s VelocityOne gear, and there’s minimal wiggle.

The Hall Effect pedals don’t require a ton of force to activate, but at this price point that’s really to be expected. I do like the size of the pedal box, as it’s easily big enough to get both heels on. This prevented it tipping up under either hard acceleration or braking, and I had no problems using the pedals totally unattached to the floor of my sim seat (which just has a rail at the front to stop them sliding forward). The pedals are connected to the wheelbase from a port on the side of the pedal box, so you won’t have to worry about smooshing that connector against a wall if you were to use this set-up under your desk.

Few gifts would be as universally appreciated as a spanking new iPad. Just in time for Christmas, Target has lowered price of the latest 2025 Apple iPad Air 11" M3 128GB tablet to the lowest price of the year. Right now you can pick up the 128GB WiFi model for $399.99 after a $200 off discount (normally $599). This beats the lowest price I saw during Black Friday and Cyber Monday by $50. Your order should be delivered before Christmas, although it depends on your location.

2025 Apple iPad Air 11" M3 128GB for $399.99

Piecing together a puzzle is a great way to relax. Whether you enjoy the hobby on your own or with others, there's quite a few different formats to choose from these days, too. There are some puzzles that offer fun 3D builds that bring your efforts to life and some even tell a story with a secret ending that ties it all together. If you don't frequently build puzzles, though, finding a good option like the ones previously mentioned means tracking down a reliable brand first and going from there.

One visit to Amazon will show you that there's an abundance of companies offering different puzzles at varying price points, which can feel quite overwhelming. We're here to help, though. In this list, we've gathered up some of our favorite puzzle brands that we believe are worth dropping money on and noted some puzzles from each that we highly recommend. If you've been itching to pick up something new to get stuck into, have a look at our collection of the best puzzle brands below.

Ravensburger

Ravensburger is a brand that's been around for a while, offering a wide range of puzzle sizes from smaller 500-piece options - and even lower, if you prefer - to one of the largest puzzles with 40,000 pieces. Yes, really! The puzzle pieces are cut to fit neatly into place, with the company stating on its website that its "puzzles are made using custom-built tools and steel strips, handcrafted by skilled artisans. This meticulous process ensures each piece fits perfectly, providing a flawless puzzle experience without any false fits." The company also notes that each puzzle goes through quality checks, so you know you're getting a product that'll last. It's also worth noting that Ravensburger puzzles are even used in the world jigsaw puzzle championship.

Below you can find some Ravensburger puzzles we'd recommend in a wide range of sizes. Starting from just 500 pieces and going up to a whopping 5,000, there's a puzzle for every challenge level available. We've even included a couple of their 3D puzzles if you want a finished product that you can set up afterward. Ravensburger also has many officially licensed puzzles from franchises like Harry Potter, Star Wars, and The Lord of the Rings.

Recommended Puzzles From Ravensburger

Magic Puzzle Company

The Magic Puzzle Company really lives up to its name. Its magical puzzles combine a "traditional jigsaw puzzle experience with ideas from the worlds of tabletop games and magic," according to its website. It's become a very beloved brand as well, with its Kickstarter boasting 62,284 backers from when it was last updated. Each of its 1,000-piece puzzles features over 50 easter eggs for you to find, but the coolest part about them is the special secret ending you get after finishing the first part of the puzzle. This important element helps tie together the story from the first set of pieces in the box, making it even more satisfying to finish. There are now a total of four full series' releases of these puzzles with series four arriving at Amazon earlier in 2025. The first official Series Five Magic puzzle is available on Amazon as well, but the full set has yet to arrive.

Each puzzle from the Magic Puzzle Company offers a unique experience with original art, to boot. We've included a few of our recommended puzzles below that each have something interesting to bring to the table, from the magical Mystic Maze to the colorful Gnomes' Homes.

Recommended Puzzles From Magic Puzzle Company

Springbok

Springbok is another well-regarded brand that's been around for a very long time - since 1963 to be exact. The company offers a variety of different puzzles to choose from so you can find an option that best suits your personal tastes and skill level. Each one is made with a lot of love, too. The company prides itself on creating quality puzzles, stating on its website that, "The quality of our dies and above average thickness of our chipboards ensures the interlocking pieces will come together flawlessly multiple times."

From piecing it together to admiring the final work and all of the details within it, Springbok's puzzles will keep you busy for quite a while. Below we've included a few fun puzzles from their collections, from a selection of sweet treats to a puzzle paying homage to some excellent films.

Recommended Puzzles From Springbok

Heye

Heye's puzzles come in a fun variety of unique designs and ones with incredible amounts of detail. On its website, you can find the 'Puzzle' category broken down into five sections: Art Lab, Cartoon, Fantasy, Fine Art, and Photo Art. Each of these is further broken down into more sections so you can explore the many different styles of puzzle that are available. Not only that, but Heye also offers a range of puzzle sizes, from 500 pieces to 6,000, so you can easily find one that fits the challenge level you're looking for.

On top of its creative puzzle designs, the company also notes on its website that, "HEYE puzzles have been successively converted to plastic-free production without plastic bags and shrink wrap." That's a very big win for sustainability. Below you can find just a few of our recommended puzzles from Heye.

Recommended Puzzles From Heye

Rokr

Not all puzzles come in a 2D format. If you're looking for something a little different to work with, Rokr offers a great collection of 3D builds that can up your puzzling game with their intricate designs. With 10 years of experience and, according to its website, 4,190 Happy Members, Rokr is a reliable brand for those looking to expand on their puzzling skills. Its models are built to last, too. On its website, the company states that it prioritizes, "the use of durable, child-safe materials to ensure that our products not only withstand the rigors of play but also provide a reliable and secure play environment."

Below we've listed just a few of our favorite puzzles from Rokr, from an illuminated globe to a miniature pinball machine. These come with varying amounts of puzzle pieces as well, so there's a little something for every challenge level here. If you're looking for a good LEGO alternative, we recommend starting witht his brand.

Recommended Puzzles From Rokr

Buffalo Games

Buffalo Games is another brand that's been in the game for a while, since 1986. The company has crafted numerous puzzles since then, with care for their construction at the forefront of its mind. According to its website, the company states that, "With a careful eye for quality and sustainability, our puzzles use the thickest graphic board, premium paper, and sturdy set-up boxes." Each puzzle is also "manufactured using a precision cutting technique that guarantees every piece snaps into place with our signature Perfect Snap™ technology."

Whether you want a puzzle with a scenic view or one that captures your favorite piece of entertainment, Buffalo Games has quite a few options to choose from. We've included just a few of our favorites below in varying sizes, from 300 to 2,000 pieces. It's also worth noting that this brand makes some of the very best Pokemon puzzles on the market for both kis and adults.

Recommended Puzzles From Buffalo Games

New York Puzzle Company

The New York Puzzle Company was founded in 2007, but it has grown substantially since then. It now includes licenses from quite a few popular franchises including Harry Potter, Peter Rabbit, and The New Yorker. According to the company's about us page, these puzzle makers try to focus on picking evocative images and providing the right level of challenge. You can really see that idealogy in every puzzle, and each and every one is fit to be framed once you're done. New York Puzzle Company jigsaw puzzles are full-on art pieces just waiting to be put together.

How Do You Know if a Brand Has Quality Puzzles?

It's always worth researching a brand when you come across a puzzle that interests you to learn more about them. Quite a few companies will have further details about them on their website to read so you can have a better idea about who you're buying from. Another great way to learn more about a brand is by reading reviews or comments from fellow puzzlers online who have bought from the brand previously. Doing this can help you make a good judgement call about a brand and if they're worth your time and money. New York Puzzle Comap

Jigsaw Puzzle FAQs

What is the best piece count for puzzles?

Puzzles come in a pretty wide variety of piece counts, but some of the most common are 300, 500, and 1000-piece puzzles. Choosing what piece count is right for you depends on a mixture of how good you are at puzzles, how much time you have, and whether or not you have a dedicated space to do puzzles. Lower piece counts are usually better for casual puzzlers and kids, but higher piece counts are better for adults and challenge seekers. That being said, the most common piece counts you'll see from the best jigsaw puzzle brands are 500 and 1000-piece puzzles.

What type of material is good for quality puzzles?

For most quality jigsaw puzzles, a sturdy cardboard base is what you'll find used as the material. You can usually judge a puzzle's quality by just how sturdy and thick the cardboard is. Puzzle cardboard (also known as chipboard) comes in a pretty wide variety of thicknesses and this can affect how easily the puzzle fits together. Lower-quality puzzles will usually use thinner base coardboard resulting in flimsier pieces that don't have that same 'click' when you put them together. Outside of cardboard, wood can be a good material for puzzles. However depending on the type of wood used you might end up with chipped or splintered pieces. Most of the time high-quality cardboard is what you should be looking for.

3D Puzzles vs. 2D Puzzles

In the world of jigsaw puzzles, there are multiple dimensions in which you could be working with. 2D puzzles are the standard flat versions most folks are used to, but the 3D variety brings the puzzle into model kit territory. If you're trying to choose which type of puzzle to buy, it really just comes down to whether or not you want to display the end result. 3D puzzles are great if you're looking to build something to keep on a shelf or a desk, whereas 2D puzzles are great for framing and hanging on your wall. If you're just looking for a jigsaw puzzle to put together at your leisure and then stuff back in the box, 2D is the way to go.

If you're interested in 3D puzzles, we recommend you check out some of the coolest book nook kits for adults. These are designed to sit on your shelf among a book collection. You can also see our guide to the best 3D puzzle alternatives to popular LEGO sets if you're looking for something specific.

Are Expensive Puzzles Better Quality?

Puzzling can certainly be an expensive hobby if you do a lot of puzzling. Because of this there are a lot of really cheap jigsaw puzzles available at online retailers like Amazon from brands you've likely never heard of. The general rule of thumb is that a cheaper puzzle will most likely be lower-quality than a more expensive one. This is because higher-quality puzzles are usually made of higher-quality materials (thicker cardboard, wood, etc). That being said, not every expensive puzzle is going to automatically be better quality than something cheaper. It all depends on the brand and what licensing has gone into the making of that puzzle.

Hannah Hoolihan is a freelancer who writes with the guides and commerce teams here at IGN.

Give the gift of Sonos for Christmas. As part of a greater Sonos Cyber Sale on select certified refurbished sound bars, speakers, and subs, you can pick up the Sonos Arc for just $399 with free delivery before Christmas. That's nearly $500 less than its original retail price of $900. It's a better value than picking up the Arc Ultra, currently "on sale" for $879.

Sonos refurbished products go through rigorous testing; they come with all accessories, manuals, and documentation and are reshipped in "pristine" packaging. Most importantly, Sonos includes the same 1-year warranty as buying new. I like when retailers offer the same warranty as new because that means they have faith in the reliability of their refurbs.

Sonos Arc Soundbar (Refurbished)

As avid puzzlers know full well, the humble jigsaw puzzle is a thing of beauty in multiple ways. Not only are jigsaws an absorbing time sink, but multiple studies have demonstrated they are good for you both mentally and physically. As you fit the pieces into place, they can be enjoyed alone or as a communal activity, and remain to be a fun hobby for all ages. Plus, when you’re finished, you’re often left with a delightful piece of art and sense of accomplishment.

The only downside to puzzles is they can take up a surprising amount of space, especially puzzles with 1000+ pieces. If you get into working on bigger puzzles, they can eat up your dining room table, coffee table or desk space for long stretches of time. This is why many jigsaw fans have a dedicated puzzle-solving table or board these days, often equipped with useful accessories. You have foldable and portable options, multi-purpose tables (for playing cards and the like), and ones with drawers to organize the pieces as you go. No matter what you're looking for or what your budget is, we've found some viable options for you below.

TL;DR: These Are the Best Puzzle Tables and Boards

If you’ve got the puzzle bug or simply want an easier setup for regular puzzling, below are our top puzzle table and board picks right now to solve your space and storage problems, no matter your budget. Each of our picks represent a different category of table or board to fit different jigsaw puzzle needs. There are a lot of different options to choose from within these categories, so we've narrowed it down to one entry for each that we think fits the category best.

1. Bits and Pieces Fold and Go Table

Best for portability

I have a dangerous relationship with digital storefronts, and this week did nothing to improve it. I went in to check one price, came out with a mental shopping list and a lighter conscience. These are the deals that genuinely stopped me scrolling.

Contents

• Retro
• Nintendo
• Xbox
• PlayStation
• PC
• PC Gear
• LEGO

This Day in Gaming 🎂

In retro news, I'm using a lit deku stick to light a 27-candle cake baked for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. I don't unabashedly gush about too many games, but this one warms my very soul. On launch day I happened to find myself in a place of loss and uncertainty in my life; all I wanted to do was retreat from the world. Fortunately, I found solace and, frankly, absolute wonder in the theretofore unimaginably boundless and bountiful 3D land of Hyrule. Truly, OOT is a masterpiece of gaming -- the grandpappy that sired many more masterpieces in a ridiculously storied franchise. GOAT of GOATs.

During Black Friday and Cyber Monday, there were surprisingly few GPU deals. Fortunately, if you've been waiting for one of the more affordable Blackwell cards to come back in stock at a reputable retailer, there are a couple of good deals available right now. Walmart is offering two GeForce RTX 5070 12GB graphics card models starting at just $489 shipped. That's better than most 5070 deals I've seen because both GPUs feature a triple-fan cooling system. The RTX 5070 is an excellent GPU for gaming at up to 1440p at comfortable framerates, and even at 4K with the help of DLSS4.

MSI Shadow RTX 5070 12GB OC Graphics Card for $489

Samsung has announced it will offer its Micro RGB TV in a lot more sizes. Starting sometime in 2026, you'll be able to get one of the company's OLED alternatives in sizes as low as 55 inches – all with AI features, of course. Can't not have that.

The TVs will also come in 65, 75, 85, 100, and 115 inches. Samsung isn't ready to say how much they'll cost, though. I'm sure they won't be cheap, but I'm sure the smaller ones' price tags will be easier to stomach than the $30,000 the company charges for its current 115-inch model. Why so expensive? Well, the tech is new and promises a richness of color not possible with current LCD panels, apparently hitting 100% of the BT.2020 color gamut. That's something even IGN's favorite gaming TV, the Samsung S90F OLED, can't manage.

As Stardew Valley fans continue to wait patiently for the previously announced 1.7 update, creator Eric Barone (ConcernedApe) has dropped a couple small, vague, yet exciting hints about what said mysterious update might entail: a new farm type, and "more character/social stuff."

This comes from a tweet/X post from ConcernedApe, where he was asked if he could give any hints about the upcoming update. His response was pretty simple: "there will be some more character/social stuff, it's also traditional to add a new farm type. Lots more but I don't want to reveal much yet."

there will be some more character/social stuff, it's also traditional to add a new farm type. Lots more but I don't want to reveal much yet

— ConcernedApe (@ConcernedApe) December 17, 2025

That's not a ton of detail, but certainly enough to spark the imagination. The new farm type was indeed to be expected. Stardew Valley started with just one style of farm map, and since its release, most major new content updates have added at least one for a total of eight different options. Each farm map centers around a different specialty, with the Standard map being fairly generic and open-ended, and other maps promoting fishing, foraging, mining, combat, multiplayer, a combination of fishing and foraging, and animal raising. Currently, this means that basically every type of playstyle is supported, so there's a lot left to wonder about when it comes to imagining what new farm type could be added. Perhaps something that encourages building NPC friendships?

The "character/social stuff" is a little more vague. This could mean anything from new scenes and events with existing characters to new characters entirely. It's really hard to say at this stage!

Popular fan requests for future Stardew Valley features include more NPCs, including more romanceable NPCs, more dialogue and world lore, but also just generally more of everything: more animals, more crops, more decorations, more clothing, more enemies to fight, dishes to cook, and so forth. ConcernedApe hasn't really revealed anything so far about what 1.7 will contain, or even when we might expect it. He's given no release date, only suggested that it's possible it doesn't come out until after Haunted Chocolatier releases. Maybe. It'll be ready when it's ready.

ConcernedApe did drop one other thing, though. When asked about a potential Nintendo Switch 2 edition, he said he's announce something "very soon." A Switch 2 edition was first announced back in September, and will bring mouse controls, four-player split screen multiplayer, and Game Share multiplayer to the Switch version. No release date has been given yet.

We re-reviewed Stardew Valley in 2024 to account for its many, many updates since launch in 2016. While our original review gave it an impressive 8.8/10, the re-review called it a 10/10 masterpiece, saying, "Stardew Valley is not only the best farming game I’ve played, it is one of my favorite games of all time. That myself and others keep returning to this eight-year old gem each time it gets even the smallest update speaks to how it’s truly a masterpiece in the genre it both reinvigorated and has come to define."

Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.

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

I’ve researched the best Switch 2 accessories you can buy right now based on direct hands-on experience with new gear and firsthand knowledge about some of our favorite Switch 1 accessory manufacturers. Plenty of companies are still shipping their products to retailers and new stuff is still coming out all the time, so I’ll continue to update this list over time with my favorite new accessories as I go hands-on with them.

Best MicroSD Express Cards for Switch 2 So Far

Bigger games with great graphical detail meant the Switch 2 needed a faster storage solution for your downloaded games. That means your old SD cards from the Switch 1 will not work here. You need to get a MicroSD Express card for the Switch 2, which is faster (and more expensive) than the basic model. We'll be updating our guide to the best MicroSD Express cards for Nintendo Switch 2 as we do more testing now that the console is out. We're still working on it, but if you're in need of a cheap MicroSD Express card, the Samsung P9 is easily your best option based on our testing. You could also do a lot worse than the Onn one at Walmart, which earned a solid review from us.

Best Cases for Switch 2

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

Best Switch 2 Screen Protectors

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

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

Best Gaming Headsets for Switch 2

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

Best Switch 2 Controllers

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

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

If you’re just looking for a solid Pro-style controller, our favorite original Switch controllers will serve you well. Something like the Gulikit KK3 Max has programmable back buttons, Hall Effect sticks, high polling rate for smoother inputs, and is versatile enough to use on PC without trouble. Either way, you have plenty of great options – even the relatively novel GameCube controller fo Switch 2.

Best Switch 2 Handheld Grips

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

Best Switch 2 Joy-Con Grip / Handles

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

Best Switch 2 Joy-Con Charge Stations

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

Best Switch 2 Portable Chargers

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

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

Other Switch 2 Accessories Worth Considering

It feels like every new Nintendo console comes with a mountain of weird accessories. From Wii Sports-style tennis rackets to fishing rods, there’s a lot of extra and niche add-ons mixed in with the core accessories that are typically more practical. That’s not to say there aren’t some cool ideas that stretch the imagination of gaming on the Switch. (That said, both the first-party and Pirhana Plant cameras built for Switch 2 are... not great.) While it’s not an ideal way to play everything, the steering wheel attachment can be a fun and more accessible way for younger kids to play Mario Kart World. These accessories don’t fall into the conventional categories like controllers and cases, but they’re worth considering regardless. I’ve also thrown in a couple of "starter kits" that make for decent one-and-done purchases that include most of what you’ll want on day one.

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

There have been multiple iterations of Willy Wonka over the years, but my overall favorite is still the original. Gene Wilder was able to capture the perfect mix of madness and magic in a way that no one else really ever could. The 1971 film is an absolute classic that holds a special place in the hearts of many, but now it's also something that can hold a special place on your shelf. LEGO released its first ever Willy Wonka set back in September, and Target currently has it on sale right before Christmas.

If you're looking to upgrade your monitor to something bigger, this new holiday deal is definitely worth consideration. eBay (via Buydig) is offering the massive 49" Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 (G91SD) gaming monitor for just $679.99 with free delivery. It normally retails for $1300. This is the lowest price I've seen for a 49" OLED gaming monitor from any brand, including the generic no-names you'll find off Amazon. Buydig is an authorized Samsung reseller (which means you get the full 1 year warranty) and has over 600,000 eBay reviews with a greater-than-99% rating.

49" Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 Gaming Monitor $680

Horses, the indie horror game that was banned from both Steam and the Epic Games Store ahead of its launch two weeks ago, has nonetheless managed to sell over 18,000 copies, says publisher Santa Ragione. However, that's not enough for the publisher to fund a new game.

This comes from a press release sent today by Santa Ragione, which says Horses has generated approximately $65,000 in net revenue thanks to sales on GOG and Humble [Disclaimer: Humble and IGN are both owned and run by IGN Entertainment, a subsidiary of Ziff Davis, Inc.]. That was enough to pay royalties owed to creator Andrea Lucco Borlera, as well as pay off the loans the publisher took out to finish development.

But that's not enough to begin work on a new game, and it doesn't seem likely that amount will be reached despite the significant attention the game's controversy gleaned. The team members are still planning to take on other jobs and projects, with the hope that the publisher may be able to fund a new prototype in the future if sales remain steady for long enough.

"While the launch of HORSES compares very favourably to our most recent launches on Steam, Steam’s economics rely heavily on multi-year long tail sales and, for our past projects, on Steam key distribution through bundles, which has also lately been restricted for low-selling titles," the publisher said in a statement. "These structural differences are why a strong two week result on smaller storefronts does not tell us what a full Steam release could have looked like."

Horses is a horror game that follows a young man who travels to a horse farm to work for several weeks during the summer, only to discover that the farm's "horses" are actually naked humans with horse masks forcibly attached over their heads. The game explores themes of complicity and what horrors people are willing to participate in, via the farmer and eventually protagonist's treatment and continued enslavement of these people.

The game contains a lot of disturbing imagery, including violence and sexual content, but none of that's new for either Steam or Epic. Nevertheless, Horses was banned from Steam two years ago after the team submitted an in-progress prototype. While some suggestions were given as to the reason for the ban, no specifics were shared with the team at the time, nor was there an opportunity to appeal. Santa Ragione believes Valve may have objected to a scene present in the earlier version where a child "rode" one of the naked horses by sitting on their shoulders and being carried around. That character was aged up to an adult in the final version of the game, and there are no underaged individuals in the released version.

With Valve unbending, Santa Ragione said at the time it may have to close its doors, due to the overwhelming necessity of a Steam release for most games to recoup development costs. The publisher put its hopes in Epic, GOG, and Humble, but at the last minute right before launch, Epic also banned the game, with Epic citing violations of its policies on "inappropriate content" and "hateful or abusive content."

Both bans prompted a wave of criticism from developers and audience members, who called out the banning of the game as both censorship as well as hypocritical, given some of the other content that's allowed on Steam in particular. Santa Ragione specifically has called out Valve for having unclear policies and communication, problems that it feels essentially ensured the studio's demise.

We also want to emphasize that this outcome should not distract from the broader issue at stake: the need for clearer rules, transparent processes, and meaningful accountability from near monopolistic distribution platforms and the systems they enforce. For every case like HORSES that becomes visible, there are many more games that are quietly banned, delisted, or trapped in indefinite review for unclear reasons, with developers too worried about retaliation or future approval to speak publicly. We are grateful to the journalists and outlets who have reported, and who will continue to report, on these cases.

Critical response to Horses has been across the board, with our own reviewer giving it a 7/10 and calling it "an affecting first-person horror game that, despite some repetitive tasks and signposting issues, delivers a harrowing story you won’t forget in a hurry."

Publisher Santa Ragione has a long history of both developing and publishing standout games. Its most recent successes are Mediterranea Inferno, which it published from developer Eyeguys and which won Excellence in Narrative at the 2024 Independent Games Festival, as well as nominations for the Seumas McNally Grand Prize and Nuovo Award. Saturnalia, developed in-house and released in 2022, received generally positive reviews. Both games remain available on Steam and Epic.

Starting in 2029, the Oscars will no longer air on ABC. Instead, the awards ceremony will be on YouTube.

In a press release from The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, it was announced today that the Academy and YouTube have signed a multi-year deal for the exclusive global rights to air the Oscars, beginning in 2029 through 2033. ABC will continue to air the awards in 2026 through 2028 as before, concluding with the 100th Oscars.

This will make the Oscars viewable for free, live on YouTube starting in 2029, including all official related Oscars content and associated events, such as the red carpet pre-show, Governors Awards, Oscars nominations announcement, Student Academy Awards, and more. Select Academy Museum exhibitions will also be made viewable on YouTube.

“The Academy is an international organization, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible — which will be beneficial for our Academy members and the film community," said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Lynette Howell Taylor in a joint statement. "This collaboration will leverage YouTube’s vast reach and infuse the Oscars and other Academy programming with innovative opportunities for engagement while honoring our legacy. We will be able to celebrate cinema, inspire new generations of filmmakers and provide access to our film history on an unprecedented global scale.”

The Oscars were originally broadcast starting in 1953 by NBC, with ABC taking over in 1966 for five years, NBC regaining the rights for another five years, and then ABC taking back over in 1976 and retaining rights ever since.

Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.