Game On: Paul Rudd revisits his Nintendo past
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Gizmodo
2 hours ago
- Gizmodo
‘Kirby Air Riders' on Switch 2 Makes a Better Case for the GameCube Than Nintendo Ever Did
'I have no idea what is happening right now.' I sigh several variations of that phrase in the hour I spent playing through a sliver of Nintendo's upcoming Switch 2 exclusive Kirby Air Riders. I'm tired after a full day's work—somewhere between fried and manic—but the racing game, which director Masahiro Sakurai quipped in his Tuesday Nintendo Direct was 'basically Mario Kart,' is akin to being thrown hurtling down the mouth of a kaleidoscope at 200 miles per hour. I know I won some races and battles and lost in others, but if I try and recreate the scene of my pink puffball hurtling down a track or smacking other racers, it turns into a vague, vibrant blur in my memory. Like Nintendo's 2001-era console itself, the original Kirby Air Ride for the GameCube was an odd duckling when it hit the scene in 2003. At the time, critics were surprised by the game's simplicity. Unlike most other kart racers, you didn't need to press any button to speed off at full tilt—the game did it for you. Air Rider used a single button for controls alongside the thumbstick to turn left and right. Players only had a single racer to choose from at the start (Kirby, in pink or a variety of pastel shades) and a paltry few characters to unlock later. That earlier title was limited by its system and its scope. Kirby Air Riders on the Switch 2 can make use of the necessary processing power for more action on-screen, and it seems the scope for this sequel has expanded beyond anything Sakurai and his old compatriots at the studio HAL Laboratory could ever consider two decades ago. Kirby Air Riders gets its name not just through the old Aliens gimmick of adding an 'S' to a sequel title, but because you now have a full selection of different characters and your riding 'Machines'—both air and land-based—to choose from. There's the expected Meta Knight and King Dedede, but if you never played another Kirby game, you may be confused by characters such as Chef Kawasaki and Knuckle Joe. Each character has different stats, such as weight, speed, and flight, as well as a special ability that changes how each plays. Similarly, each craft offers a unique twist. The 'Winged Star' may be able to glide for longer, but the tank lets racers drive in one direction and boost in another. While the original Kirby Air Ride notoriously only used a single button for controls, the big landmark addition to the controls is the second button. Now, when your special meter hits a peak from defeating on-track enemies or smashing your fellow racers, you can hit Y to unleash a special move that's different for every racer. Otherwise, you flick the joystick around to attack opponents and enemies as you rocket through each track. Pulling back on the stick off a jump allows most craft to glide for a certain amount of time, and landing perfectly offers a small boost. Still, you're only ever focusing on the joystick and a single button at any one time. The 'B' button stops your craft and builds up boost (though some Machines like the 'Cart' can't generate boost). Releasing the button shoots you forward. This allows for expert players to drift around corners and hit the NOS to slip past their competitors. The button has even more functions. Tapping it lets each character—not just Kirby—suck up enemies to gain a temporary power to attack your fellow racers with. On the GameCube, this control scheme was oversimplified. On the Switch 2 sequel 22 years later, it's necessary. You are rocketing so fast down each course that remembering any more buttons would only result in even worse headaches. If Mario Kart World's wall riding and rail grinding features rely on technical finesse, winning in Kirby Air Riders is about how much information you can process in the blink of an eye. I had the chance to take a few turns around the typical Air Ride mode on two tracks, both of which were full of bright, colorful environments, music that combined cutesy with high-octane, and enough shit flying at the screen that I couldn't get a grip. Then I went through several full matches of the new City Trial mode. Racers hop into a large single city environment where they have a limited time to collect as many stat power-ups as possible from the environment or off their fellow riders. Then, each player participates in a mini-game where you try to use your stats to beat your opponents. One such mini-game was an air-based race where those with the right Machines and flying stats would have the edge. Another asked me to collect the most food on a small section of the map. I won both, and I still couldn't tell you how I did it. I had collected so many speed upgrades I could hardly control the character. I can imagine City Trial would get boring if it's confined to the same map. Though I asked, Nintendo wouldn't say how many tracks there are in the final game. I also begged company reps to tell me whether Nintendo planned to add extra control options, but the company is keeping mum as we head toward the Nov. 20 release date. The Switch 2 is built with unique control options such as gyro and mouse mode, but it's unclear if either will make an appearance in the game. With the need for only two buttons, you could technically play Kirby Air Riders on one of the refreshed NES controllers Nintendo launched back on the original Switch. That's when I considered the Switch 2's exclusive options, and it was all too obvious. The best controller for this game may be the revitalized GameCube Switch 2 gamepad. The big green 'A' button was built for this kind of minimalist control scheme. The full-range joystick would be a boon when trying to pull off any spin attacks or when trying to take a tight turn. The closest game that can claim to offer the same sense of blistering speed is, funnily enough, F-Zero GX for the GameCube. In that game and other modern takes on the antigravity racing genre, like 2024's Redout, you only ever had to worry about your fellow racers, boost pads, and a few track hazards. In Kirby Air Riders, you need to be concerned with opposing racers' special attacks, enemies on the track, boost circles, ramps, aerial shortcuts, and more besides. I never felt sick playing the game, but the speed was enough; I bet there are some players who will get overstimulated until they're green in the face after one too many rounds. Nintendo's Switch 2 has been effective in making a stronger case for the GameCube than it ever did when the company released the boxy console more than 20 years ago. On Aug. 21, the Mario maker is dropping Chibi-Robo, a cult classic, available for Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers. Based on my limited preview, Kirby Air Riders seems like the final form of the 2003 original without the 'S.' Now we just need to see if Metroid Prime 4: Beyond can offer the same magic as the original Metroid Prime did in 2002. Nintendo has consistently claimed the game starring Samus is coming in 2025, but we'll need to wait and see if that promise holds true.
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Friendship Streaming Release Date Set for Paul Rudd & Tim Robinson Movie
A24 has announced the Friendship streaming release date for its newest black comedy movie led by Marvel star Paul Rudd and Saturday Night Live vet Tim Robinson. This comes after nearly a year since the film had its world premiere at at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival as part of the Midnight Madness lineup. When is the Friendship streaming release date? Friendship will be available for streaming starting on Friday, September 5, exclusively on HBO Max. This will then be followed by its broadcast debut on HBO on Saturday, September 6. It currently holds a Certified Fresh rating of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 189 reviews. The 2024 movie was written and directed by Andrew DeYoung in his feature directorial debut. Besides Rudd and Robinson, the movie also stars Kate Mara, Jack Dylan Grazer, Josh Segarra, Billy Bryk, Meredith Garretson, Jason Veasey, Daniel London and more. In addition to leading the cast, Rudd was also an executive producer alongside Tracy Rosenblum, Alexis Garcia and DeYoung. Producers were Nick Weidenfeld, Raphael Margules, J.D. Lifshitz, and John Holland. 'When an errant delivery pulls suburban dad Craig Waterman (Robinson) into the orbit of his mysterious and charismatic new neighbour Austin Carmichael (Rudd), a sweet bromance seems to blossom over an innocent evening of urban exploration, punk rock, and a mutual appreciation for paleolithic antiquities,' reads the film's synopsis (via TIFF). 'But what should have been the start of a beautiful friendship is soon waylaid as Craig's obsessive personality begins to alienate his new pal, subsequently inducing a spiral that threatens to upend Craig's entire life.' The post Friendship Streaming Release Date Set for Paul Rudd & Tim Robinson Movie appeared first on - Movie Trailers, TV & Streaming News, and More. Solve the daily Crossword
Associated Press
6 hours ago
- Associated Press
KARTOON STUDIOS LAUNCHES 'BITCOIN BRIGADE: ADVENTURES IN SATOSHI CITY' – A NEW ANIMATED CHILDREN'S SERIES AND MULTI-PLATFORM ECOSYSTEM BUILT AROUND BITCOIN AND DEFI
Kartoon Studios, in Partnership with Austria's Bitkern, Unveils a Bitcoin-Native Ecosystem that Combines Animated Entertainment, Interactive Rewards, and Educational Apps to Empower the Next Generation Kartoon Studios to Introduce Games, Coins, and Consumer Products Based on Series and Characters First Series to be Fully Produced in AI Features Anime Style Design and K-Pop Music Track Beverly Hills - August 20th, 2025 - Kartoon Studios, Inc. (NYSE: TOON) ('Kartoon Studios' or the 'Company') today announces the launch of 'Bitcoin Brigade: Adventures in Satoshi City,' a groundbreaking new property that is far more than an animated series. This revolutionary project is the centerpiece of a fully-integrated business model spanning content, digital education, merchandise, interactive apps, and a pioneering Bitcoin treasury strategy - designed to position Kartoon Studios as a trailblazer at the intersection of kids' entertainment and blockchain innovation. The series is scheduled to debut in fall 2026 on Kartoon Channel! As a company dedicated to producing responsible, inspiring content for global youth, Kartoon Studios is proud to stand at the cutting edge of innovation-leading the way by integrating blockchain technology and Bitcoin education into compelling entertainment that equips the next generation with critical knowledge about finance, freedom, and technology. 'Bitcoin Brigade invites audiences into Satoshi City, a dazzling, digital realm where a diverse group of brave, brilliant kids discover a secret portal-the Bitcoin Bridge-that connects their world to this decentralized metropolis,' stated Andy Heyward, Chairman & CEO of Kartoon Studios. 'Produced in a dynamic anime style featuring vibrant visuals and an immersive, music-driven experience enhanced by original K-POP music, the series blends thrilling action with educational themes.' Heyward added: 'Years ago, I produced and created the animated series of both Super Mario Brothers for Nintendo, and Sonic the Hedgehog for Sega. Those successes helped launch the Nintendo and Sega game platforms. We believe 'Bitcoin Brigade' will have an equally revolutionary impact on the next level of entertainment, education, and gaming powered by blockchain technology.' Kartoon Studios is proud to be working with BITKERN, the prominent Bitcoin mining company headquartered in Vienna Austria with mining facilities around the world. Working closely with its Co-Founder, Patrick Stitch, Bitkern will help guide the series and the global launch strategy. Bitcoin is more than just a technology-it's a movement that's redefining how we think about money, ownership, and innovation. By collaborating with Kartoon Studios on Bitcoin Brigade, we're creating an exciting way for kids to learn these ideas early and carry them into the future,' said Stitch. Guided by the mysterious mentor Satoshi Spark, and Mr. Bitkern, the Guardian of truth, the young heroes- Bitty Coin, the principled leader embodying Bitcoin itself; Blocky Chain, the gentle protector representing blockchain technology; Crypto Cora, the inventive coder; Nonce, the wild miner racing to solve cryptographic puzzles; and Lightning Luke, the hyperactive speedster powered by the Lightning Network-join forces to defend Satoshi City from villains like ForkMaster, who tries to split the blockchain with dangerous forks, and Fiat Fred, who attempts to destabilize the system with endless money printing. Imagine Bitcoin as a vast treasure kingdom. Each episode is like a thrilling quest where the heroes explore new lands - from glittering mining mountains to secret vault cities - solving puzzles, cracking codes, and outsmarting digital bandits along the way. Just like in a video game, there are rare treasures to collect (digital scarcity), special power-ups that become harder to find over time (halving), and a trusty backpack to keep loot safe (wallet security). Every adventure will level up their skills and teach them how to protect and grow their treasure - all while rocking out to K-Pop-fueled action. Kartoon Studios is building a comprehensive, Bitcoin-native business platform, The Satoshi Sparks Rewards System, around the series invites kids to earn Sparks by watching episodes, completing quizzes, and solving cryptographic challenges in companion apps. Sparks act as a digital currency redeemable in a Bitcoin-only marketplace for exclusive merchandise, bonus content, and educational collectibles. The Company will also launch a global licensing program featuring toys, apparel, and interactive collectibles embedded with Lightning Network-enabled NFC chips, designed to teach children about wallet custody, cold storage, and the immutable Bitcoin ledger. An interactive mobile app will feature secure, kid-friendly Lightning wallets for earning, storing, and spending Sparks, with parental controls and donation options to encourage responsible Bitcoin custodianship. The series will be available on Kartoon Channel, YouTube Kids, and global broadcasters, ensuring wide accessibility and engagement. 'Bitcoin Brigade' traverses both entertainment and business, and Kartoon Studios has assembled a multi-disciplinary leadership team to guide the series and its monetization, led by the Company's CFO Brian Parisi. Parisi will oversee the financial and treasury strategies, working closely with the consumer product's division ensuring that both the creative and commercial sides of the venture align seamlessly for maximum impact. About Kartoon Studios Kartoon Studios (NYSE AMERICAN: TOON) is a global leader in children's and family entertainment, delivering premium content and high-value intellectual property to millions of viewers worldwide. The company's portfolio features globally recognized brands including Stan Lee's Superhero Kindergarten, Shaq's Garage, Rainbow Rangers, and Llama Llama. Kartoon Studios holds a controlling interest in Stan Lee Universe and operates Mainframe Studios-one of North America's largest animation producers-with more than 22,000 minutes of award-winning programming delivered. Through its Toon Media Networks division, including Kartoon Channel!, Kartoon Channel Worldwide, Ameba, and Frederator Network, Kartoon Studios reaches audiences across linear television, AVOD, SVOD, FAST channels, and top streaming platforms. Kartoon Channel! is consistently rated the #1 kids' streaming app on the Apple App Store. With a growing global distribution footprint, and a robust content pipeline, Kartoon Studios is positioned for sustained growth and long-term shareholder value. # # # Forward-Looking Statements: Certain statements in this press release constitute 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as 'may,' 'might,' 'will,' 'should,' 'believe,' 'expect,' 'anticipate,' 'estimate,' 'continue,' 'predict,' 'forecast,' 'project,' 'plan,' 'intend' or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements and include statements regarding: positioning Kartoon Studios as a trailblazer at the intersection of kids' entertainment and blockchain innovation; debuting 'Bitcoin Brigade: Adventures in Satoshi City' in Fall 2026 on Kartoon Channel; producing responsible, inspiring content for global youth; integrating blockchain technology and Bitcoin education into compelling entertainment that equips the next generation with critical knowledge about finance, freedom, and technology; the series having a revolutionary impact on the next level of entertainment, education, and gaming powered by blockchain technology; working closely with Bitkern to guide the series and the global launch strategy; Bitcoin redefining how we think about money, ownership, and innovation; creating an exciting way for kids to learn the ideas early and carry them into the future; building a comprehensive, Bitcoin-native business platform around the series; launching a global licensing program featuring toys, apparel, and interactive collectibles embedded with Lightning Network-enabled NFC chips designed to teach children about wallet custody, cold storage, and the immutable Bitcoin ledger; an interactive mobile app featuring secure, kid-friendly Lightning wallets for earning, storing, and spending Sparks with parental controls and donation options to encourage responsible Bitcoin custodianship; the series being available on Kartoon Channel, YouTube Kids, and global broadcasters, ensuring wide accessibility and engagement; ; positioning the Company at the forefront of blockchain-backed media finance; Bitcoin as digital gold and a hedge against inflation; and ensuring that both the creative and commercial sides of the venture align seamlessly for maximum impact. While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions and are subject to various risks and uncertainties, including without limitation, the Company's ability to position Kartoon Studios as a trailblazer at the intersection of kids' entertainment and blockchain innovation; the Company's ability to integrate blockchain technology and Bitcoin education into compelling entertainment that equips the next generation with critical knowledge about finance, freedom, and technology; the Company's ability to launch a global licensing program featuring toys, apparel, and interactive collectibles embedded with Lightning Network-enabled NFC chips designed to teach children about wallet custody, cold storage, and the immutable Bitcoin ledger; the Company's ability to include an interactive mobile app featuring secure, kid-friendly Lightning wallets for earning, storing, and spending Sparks with parental controls and donation options to encourage responsible Bitcoin custodianship; the Company's ability to implement a Bitcoin treasury strategy, actively integrating Bitcoin as a core corporate asset; the Company's ability to position itself at the forefront of blockchain-backed media finance; the Company's ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms, if at all; fluctuations in the results of the Company's operations from period to period; general economic and financial conditions; the Company's ability to anticipate changes in popular culture, media and movies, fashion and technology; competitive pressure from other distributors of content and within the retail market; the Company's reliance on and relationships with third-party production and animation studios; the Company's ability to market and advertise its products; the Company's reliance on third-parties to promote its products; the Company's ability to keep pace with technological advances; the Company's ability to protect its intellectual property and those other risk factors set forth in the 'Risk Factors' section of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and in the Company's subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC'). Thus, actual results could be materially different. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation to update or alter statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. MEDIA CONTACT: [email protected] INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT: [email protected]
