Him: Movie Review

Cast: Marlon Wayans, Jim Jeffries, Tyriq Withers, Julia Fox
Director: Justin Tipping

From its frenetic editing and high energy soundtrack, Him aims to skewer the culture of American football, the religious fervor that Americans attach to it and the way Black Americans are used within the system itself.

But unfortunately, in trying to be stylish above all else, what emerges is more style than substance, with much of the film affecting a "so what?" attitude from audiences.

Withers plays Cameron Cade, a college quarterback whose promising career is seemingly cut short by a blow to the head ahead of a hometown game. Given the chance to train with his idol Isaiah white (a very watchable Marlon Wayans), Cade's transported to his cult-like compound in the desert, complete with Mad Max Fury Road acolytes lurking outside.

Soon Cade is thrown deep into a world that seems off kilter as White's training methods, complete with some odd medical interventions, push him to the edge and breaking point. 

Him is produced by Jordan Peele and it's easy to see why this has appealed to his sensibilities. There's a veneer of uncertainty throughout and a touch of the macabre horror edges lurking.

But it's not enough to go anywhere but beyond the surface, given how little is put into the characters before proceedings go unhinged. Cursory exposition via commentary gives Cade his backstory, but really, there's very little that an underdog story wouldn't normally do.

Instead director Tipping is more interested in pushing buttons and hitting moments that feel ripped from an extended sports promo or the latest sports gear commercial. It all concludes in a wannabe horror-soaked finale that's more suited to a drawing board than a big screen outing, with little to no surprises on display.

Ultimately Him goes for a theme-filled touchdown, but unfortunately it simply fumbles the narrative ball in favour of some showy on-field antics that never quite stack up.

28 Years Later: Blu Ray Review

Cast: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Ralph Fiennes, Alfie Williams, Jodie Comer, Jack O'Connell
Director: Danny Boyle

Three decades after the original 28 Days Later leant into the vibe of a disease being released from a lab and infecting the whole world, director Danny Boyle has returned to the scenario that gave the world the then-unknown Peaky Blinders star Cillian Murphy.

This time around, the story follows a group of survivors quarantined on a heavily guarded island. But when one of them heads away from the island, what they discover rocks the core of their foundations of belief...

To say much about 28 Years Later is to steal away from what threadbare plot there is - which sounds like a disservice but is anything but. The story revolves around the loss of innocence of a child, of discovering a role model is not what you thought they were and of the lies we tell ourselves and others to survive.

Taylor-Johnson is Jamie, who, as the film begins - after a brutal massacre of children watching of all things Teletubbies - is taking his younger than hunting age son Spike (a terrific Williams) out for his first kill on the mainland they live over the water from. However, things don't go entirely to plan...

The best thing to say about 28 Years Later is that it's a film that does everything new with the post-apocalyptic zombie genre that's been run ragged by countless copies and revitalised by The Last Of Us. Not once does Boyle follow the pack, and spends most of the film breaking out from doing so. Even a coda at the end delivers one heck of a punch that will land with those au fait with British pop culture. ("Let's be pals" will be the most terrifying of words uttered this year for those who know about tracksuits and children).

From having the zombie kills play out like elements of the X-Ray cam on Rebellion Games' Sniper Elite to an entirely elegaic ending that is not what you'd expect, but is entirely what you deserve, 28 Years Later delivers nerve-shredding moments mixed with a disturbing calm, and a rich world that brims with contemporary allegories and parallels. (An isolated Britain filled with rage-hating populace covers so many bases right now).

But central to it all is Williams' brave portrayal of the coming-of-age Spike, forced to kill out of goading from his father and uncertain of his right to do so before inevitably having to take the lead and become his own man.

The film looks spectacular too - lush green run-riot plants curl over decrepit buildings; the infected have evolved into different types of creatures and the passing visuals are nothing but upsetting in a hope-less way.

28 Years Later is visceral cinema at its finest - and it's an unmissable in-cinema experience.

Win a double pass to see Regretting You in the cinema

To celebrate the release of Regretting You, in cinemas October 23, thanks to Paramount Pictures NZ, you can win a double pass.

About Regretting You

Based on the bestselling book, REGRETTING YOU introduces audiences to Morgan Grant (Allison Williams) and her daughter Clara (Mckenna Grace) as they explore what’s left behind after a devastating accident reveals a shocking betrayal and forces them to confront family secrets, redefine love, and rediscover each other. REGRETTING YOU is a story of growth, resilience, and self-discovery in the aftermath of tragedy, also starring Dave Franco and Mason Thames with Scott Eastwood and Willa Fitzgerald, in cinemas this October.

Starring Mckenna Grace, Mason Thames, Allison Williams, Dave Franco, Scott Eastwood and Willa Fitzgerald

Directed by Josh Boone

Screenplay by Susan McMartin

Based on Regretting You by Colleen Hoover

This film has not yet been rated

Regretting You is in cinemas October 23

One Battle After Another: Movie Review

Cast: Leonardo di Caprio, Teyana Taylor, Chase Infiniti, Benicio del Toro, Sean Penn, Regina Hall

Director: Paul Thomas Anderson

In this latest, a mix of action and comedy from Phanton Thread director Paul Thomas Anderson, Leonardo di Caprio plays ex-revolutionary Bob.

Living off the grid and with his daughter Willa, Bob's forced into action when his nemesis resurfaces and his daughter goes missing.

But does he have what it takes to battle with the consequences of his own past?

One Battle After Another's occasionally rambling free-form feeling narrative is fun to watch play out, but while the film's very good, it's not quite up there with Anderson's best.

There's a dry, whimsical edge to some of the dialogue and large hints of screwball scattered throughout as well as DiCaprio's Bob tries to deal with his former revolutionaries - one of the film's enduring highlights remains an extended conversation and simmering frustrations and rage over a password.

But a large part of this film feels like it's receiving plaudits because of its parallels to what's transpiring in America currently. With camps filled with immigrants and swoops by police and army soldiers into territories, there's plenty of familiar touches with what's happening in Donald Trump's America. Likewise, the cabal of old racist white men defining the course of the narrative is nothing new, but again, timely parallels help sell it.

Yet while these moments are timely, they're not timeless as despite Anderson's insistence that the film seeks to comment on the powerless nature currently of revolutionaries and those who speak up against the powers that be, there's a surface-level of commentary and little else to go on.

Thankfully, the performances are what marks this out as exemplary.

From Benicio del Toro's dry sensei who gradually is revealed as a person hiding immigrants through to Teyana Taylor's firecracker turn as the revolutionary Perfidia Beverly Hills early on, there's much to catch the eye here.

Penn turns his Lockjaw nemesis into something truly odious and distinctly uncomfortable in most of his scenes and DiCaprio has fun playing fast and loose with Bob, the revolutionary who'd rather stay at home and be paranoid than be involved once again.

At its heart, One Battle After Another is about a father and daughter relationship. And it's here that Chase Infiniti excels, bringing both a toughness garnered from her absent mother and a vulnerability of a daughter unable to fully move out from under the wing of her father.

There are many vicarious thrills to be had with One Battle After Another and while there's nary a hint of bloat despite the 160 minute run-time, there is a feeling that in parts, the film could have spent more on its themes rather than just its parallels.

Samsung announces its world's first 500Hz OLED gaming monitor

Samsung has revealed its Odyssey gaming monitor lineup, which includes the company's first ever 500hz OLED gaming monitor the Odyssey OLED G6. 

This new series is designed to deliver a new level of performance, speed, and visual immersion for the growing gaming community.

The new lineup includes the hero Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF), the ultra-large Odyssey G7 (G75F)

in two new sizes, the Odyssey OLED G5 (G50SF), and the Odyssey G7 (G70F).

“Samsung continues to lead the gaming monitor industry with breakthrough innovations that

redefine how games are experienced,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of Visual

Display (VD) Business at Samsung Electronics. “With the Odyssey OLED G6, the world’s first

500Hz OLED gaming monitor, we are pushing gaming performance, visual quality and

immersion to entirely new heights — delivering the next evolution of display technology for

gamers around the world.”

The Hero: Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF)

The 27-inch Odyssey OLED G6 (G60SF model) redefines performance for competitive gamers.

With a class-leading 500Hz refresh rate and an ultra-fast 0.03ms Gray-to-Gray (GTG) response

time, it ensures every frame is fluid and every reaction is instant. Its QHD (2,560 x 1,440)

resolution, powered by QD-OLED technology, delivers exceptional visual clarity.

Key features of the G60SF include:

 VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification for vivid colours and deep blacks 

 NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible and AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro support for a tear-free and stutter-free gaming experience.

 Glare Free technology to minimise screen reflections and enhance focus during long gaming sessions 

 OLED Safeguard+ to help prevent burn-in, ensuring long-term visual quality.

 Pantone Validated for highly accurate colour reproduction 3 .

Expansive Screens for Immersive Gameplay: Odyssey G7 (G75F)

Expanding the premium gaming experience, the new Odyssey G7 (G75F model) is available in

two new, larger sizes: a 37” 4K UHD and a 40” Wide UHD. Both models offer VESA DisplayHDR

600 certification and 350 nits of brightness for excellent contrast and vibrant colours.

Features of the G75F include:

 Picture-by-Picture (PBP) and Picture-in-Picture (PIP) capabilities for easy multitasking.

 HDR10+ Gaming for optimised high-dynamic-range performance.

 AMD FreeSync™ Premium Pro for smooth, stutter-free visuals.

 CoreSync to match ambient backlight colours with on-screen content.

 Versatile connectivity with DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.1 ports.

Additional Monitors in the Lineup

Also joining the new lineup are the Odyssey OLED G5 (G50SF) and the Odyssey G7 (G70F), both

providing a premium gaming experience. Further details on these models will be available at

launch.

Availability

The new Samsung Odyssey monitors are available to pre-order in New Zealand from 22

September on Samsung.com. For more information on the full lineup and specifications, please

visit https://www.samsung.com/nz/monitors/gaming/.

What's on Netflix in October

Here's everything that's streaming on Netflix in October.

Netflix Series

Love Is Blind: Season 9 1/10/2025 US Denver singles shake up their search for "the one" and step into the pods, braving twists, turns and love triangles to find their soulmate sight unseen.

RIV4LRIES 1/10/2025 IT At a middle school in Pisa, no one has ever challenged the cool kids — until new girl Terry arrives with bold ideas and the rivalries begin.

Dudes 2/10/2025 DE Four close-knit friends in their 40s do their best to face a new world of modern masculinity — but even their best tends to make things worse.

The Game: You Never Play Alone 2/10/2025 IN A career-driven game developer fights back against misogynistic expectations after she becomes the target of brutal attacks online and in real life.

The New Force 3/10/2025 SE An understaffed police district in 1950s Sweden launches a bold experiment to introduce its first group of female officers. Inspired by true events.

Monster: The Ed Gein Story 3/10/2025 US The shocking tale of Ed Gein, the infamous murderer and grave robber who inspired many of Hollywood's most iconic on-screen killers.

Old Dog, New Tricks 3/10/2025 ES Cash-strapped vet Antón takes a job at a fancy pet store, going from treating rural farm animals to peddling premium treats for pampered pooches.

Genie, Make a Wish 3/10/2025 KR After a millennium, a flamboyant genie returns to grant wishes to a stoic woman. Can his magic turn her routine-bound world into one of love and fantasy?

Ranma1/2: Season 2 5/10/2025 JP The mayhem continues at the Tendo Dojo as Akane and Ranma deal with a spatula-wielding fiancée, fowl-tempered rival and lecherous martial arts master.

Is It Cake? Halloween 8/10/2025 US Cake or fake? Trick or treat? Skilled bakers whip up hyperrealistic Halloween cakes in this seasonal special edition of the hit competition series.

Néro the Assassin 8/10/2025 FR France, 1504. A ruthless assassin goes on the run with his estranged daughter in his quest to protect her from deadly enemies and evil forces.

The Resurrected 9/10/2025 TW Two grieving mothers resurrect a scam ringleader to avenge their daughters — but as painful truths emerge, justice slips from their reach.

Boots 9/10/2025 US After impulsively joining the U.S. Marine Corps, a bullied teen finds new purpose — and unexpected brotherhood — with his motley team of fellow recruits.

Kurukshetra: The Great War of Mahabharata 10/10/2025 IN Told through unique perspectives over 18 days of war, this animated series depicts the epic battle of Kurukshetra between the Pandavas and the Kauravas.

Old Money 10/10/2025 TR Nihal's affluent life comes under threat when a self-made tycoon with an eye for money — and an even sharper one for love — shakes up Istanbul's elite.

Typhoon Family 12/10/2025 KR Amid the 1997 financial crisis, a carefree son inherits his father's struggling business — growing from wild youth to rookie boss as he learns adulthood.

Splinter Cell: Deathwatch 14/10/2025 US In the shadowy world of espionage, Sam Fisher is a rumor and a legend. Pulled back into action, he must help a new recruit unravel a global conspiracy.

No One Saw Us Leave 15/10/2025 MX Amid divorce, a mother faces stigma and a painful separation when her husband takes her kids in a conflict that shapes her life. Inspired by a true story.

Romantics Anonymous 16/10/2025 JP A brilliant chocolatier who's afraid of making eye contact meets an heir who can't touch others — but somehow, they're immune to each other.

The Diplomat: Season 3 16/10/2025 US Caught in a whirlwind of crisis diplomacy, Kate must navigate a fragile new administration and a deadly threat with world-shaping consequences.

Starting 5: Season 2 16/10/2025 US This riveting series follows Jaylen Brown, Kevin Durant, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Tyrese Haliburton and James Harden throughout the 2024-25 NBA season.

Turn of the Tide: Season 2 17/10/2025 PT Rabo de Peixe is no longer the same. As old friends and enemies return to find a shift in power, new contenders emerge for control of the drug trade.

The Monster of Florence 22/10/2025 IT As a serial killer targets couples and strikes terror in Italy, authorities explore a case from 1968 that may be key to finding The Monster of Florence.

Nobody Wants This: Season 2 23/10/2025 US Joanne and Noah's whirlwind romance encounters some turbulence as they deal with family drama, career struggles and one very big looming question.

The Dream Life of Mr. Kim 26/10/2025 KR Depicts the story of Manager Kim, a middle-aged man who loses everything he once considered valuable in an instant. After a long journey, he finally discovers his true self, beyond his role as a department manager at a large corporation.

The Asset 27/10/2025 DK A young agent goes undercover to befriend a drug smuggler's wife. But the closer she gets to her target, the more complicated her mission becomes.

Physical: Asia 28/10/2025 KR Elite athletes from eight countries battle for national pride. After grueling tests of raw strength and endurance, only one flag can claim victory.

Selling Sunset: Season 9 29/10/2025 US The O Group agents are back for an explosive season. New faces bring new feuds and as the pressure turns up in their personal and professional lives, some might not have what it takes to keep their seat at the brokerage. As the landscape in Los Angeles quickly changes, everyone will have to adapt to a new reality.

Rulers of Fortune 29/10/2025 BR A young man aspires to rise through the ranks of Rio's gambling underworld — unaware of the dangerous game of betrayal, lust and blood that awaits him.

The Witcher: Season 4 30/10/2025 US After the Continent-altering events of Season Three, Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri find themselves separated by a raging war and countless enemies. As their paths diverge, and their goals sharpen, they stumble on unexpected allies eager to join their journeys. And if they can accept these found families, they just might have a chance at reuniting for good…

Son of a Donkey 30/10/2025 AU Theo comes up with chaotic schemes to save his impounded car. Meanwhile, his dying dad will stop at nothing to find himself a new kidney.

Amsterdam Empire 30/10/2025 NL When Jack's affair comes to light, his wife Betty hatches a bitter plan to strip him of the thing he loves most: The Jackal, his coffeeshop empire.

Breathless: Season 2 31/10/2025 ES The hospital's privatization ushers in a new supervisor and pushes the staff closer to the edge, as Patricia and Jésica battle between life and death.

Rhythm + Flow France: Season 4 31/10/2025 FR The duel is on! Rap legends SCH and SDM go head-to-head as the competition introduces new challenges and two sides battling for a single shot at glory.

Bad Influencer 31/10/2025 ZA A single mother — and luxury bag counterfeiter — finds herself teaming up with a self-obsessed influencer to sell her bags and scrape her way out of debt.

Netflix Film

Steve 3/10/2025 GB Over one intense day, the devoted head teacher of a last-chance reform school strives to keep his students in line while facing pressures of his own.

Caramelo 8/10/2025 BR After a life-changing diagnosis, a promising chef finds hope and humor with the help of a fur-midable dog friend in this heartwarming drama.

The Woman in Cabin 10 10/10/2025 US On a luxurious superyacht for an assignment, a journalist sees someone go overboard. But when no one believes her, she risks her life to uncover the truth. Keira Knightley stars in this psychological thriller based on Ruth Ware's bestselling novel.

Swim to Me 10/10/2025 CL A domestic worker and the girl she cares for grow very close over a turbulent summer, until the gap between their worlds sparks a tragic turn.

Everybody Loves Me When I'm Dead 14/10/2025 TH Two bank employees steal a fortune from a dead client's account, and unwittingly provoke a group of ruthless criminals, who want the money back.

Inside Furioza 15/10/2025 PL In the wake of murder, new Furioza leader Golden claims the reins of his violent and formidable hooligan gang and takes on a new focus across borders.

The Time That Remains 16/10/2025 PH Surrounded by a string of deaths, an older woman relives her romance with a mysterious, ageless lover as an inspector closes in on their dark secret.

Good News 17/10/2025 KR When hijackers seize a Japanese flight and demand to fly to Pyongyang, a mysterious mastermind hatches a zany scheme to reroute the plane to Seoul.

She Walks in Darkness 17/10/2025 ES A young agent leaves everything behind to pose as a member of ETA, risking her life to uncover the terrorists' hideouts in the south of France.

27 Nights 17/10/2025 AR When a woman is admitted by her daughters to a psychiatric clinic for her carefree ways, an expert must judge if she is ill or simply wants to enjoy life.

The Elixir 23/10/2025 ID An elixir unleashes the undead in a village. A family at odds with one another must unite and fight to survive as their hometown collapses.

A HOUSE OF DYNAMITE 24/10/2025 US When a single, unattributed missile is launched at the United States, a race begins to determine who is responsible and how to respond.

Ballad of a Small Player 29/10/2025 GB Amid the glittering casinos of Macau, a gambler running from his past — and his debts — becomes fascinated by an enigmatic woman at the baccarat table.

Netflix Comedy Special

Mo Amer: Wild World 28/10/2025 US Mo Amer returns for his third Netflix stand-up special, Wild World. In this timely and fiercely honest hour, the comedian celebrates his Palestinian heritage, relives the birth of his son, takes aim at the TSA and much more.

Netflix Documentary

Rockstar: DUKI from the End of the World 2/10/2025 AR Argentine trap star Duki gives an intimate look at his past and career, from early rap battles to his rise as a verified hitmaker in this documentary.

Rhythm + Flow France: After the Beat 3/10/2025 FR This exclusive documentary features iconic "Rhythm + Flow France" participants and follows their efforts to build music careers after the competition.

True Haunting 7/10/2025 GB Through immersive reenactments and present-day interviews, this chilling series details paranormal encounters from the viewpoint of those who lived them.

Victoria Beckham 9/10/2025 GB Step into Victoria Beckham's London atelier, as the Spice Girl-turned-powerhouse designer opens up about her life while preparing for Paris Fashion Week.

My Father, the BTK Killer 10/10/2025 US She thought her dad was an unassuming family man — until the FBI knocked on her door. The daughter of the BTK serial killer shares her shocking story.

Turn of the Tide: The Surreal Story of Rabo de Peixe 17/10/2025 PT In June 2001, hundreds of kilos of cocaine washed up in a Portuguese village. This gripping documentary reveals the long-lasting impact on the community.

The Perfect Neighbor 17/10/2025 US Police bodycam footage reveals how a long-running neighborhood dispute turned tragic in this award-winning documentary about fear, prejudice and Stand Your Ground laws.

Who Killed the Montreal Expos? 21/10/2025 CA An investigation into the downfall of the Montreal Expos, Canada's first Major League Baseball team — and who was ultimately responsible.

Mob War: Philadelphia vs. The Mafia 22/10/2025 US A brutal mob war between John Stanfa and Joey Merlino plunges '90s Philadelphia into chaos and bloodshed in this captivating true-crime series.

Babo: The Haftbefehl Story 28/10/2025 DE Personal interviews with Haftbefehl and those closest to him reveal the story behind the German rap icon as he takes a brutally honest look at his life.

Nightmares of Nature: Lost in the Jungle 28/10/2025 US Chilling tales of survival unfurl in this documentary series that captures the drama, danger and dark beauty of nature from the perspective of its prey.

Juan Gabriel: I Must, I Can, I Will 30/10/2025 MX Rare videos and exclusive interviews reveal the genius, sacrifices and duality between the public and private lives of iconic singer-songwriter Juan Gabriel.

Aileen: Queen of the Serial Killers 30/10/2025 GB This documentary revisits Aileen Wuornos's turbulent life and chilling crimes with never-before-seen death-row interviews and exclusive archival footage

Netflix Live Events

WWE Crown Jewel: 2025 11/10/2025 US WWE Superstars head down under to compete for the Crown Jewel Championships, where current champions put their titles on the line for ultimate glory.

Six Kings Slam 15/10/2025 US The world's top-ranked players take the court in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for a star-studded tennis showcase with ultimate bragging rights on the line.

Netflix Kids & Family

Dr. Seuss’s Horton! 6/10/2025 US When their friends in the jungle need help right away, Horton and Samson promise to help save the day. Elephant's honor… bird's word!

The Twits 17/10/2025 US When the meanest, nastiest villains pull a trick to take over their town, two brave children team up with a family of magical animals to bring them down.

Licensed Highlights

Central Intelligence 1/10/2025 US A CIA operative contacts a former high school buddy with accounting chops to help thwart a lethal plot against undercover agents.

Exorcist: The Beginning 1/10/2025 US Sent to Africa at the close of World War II to tend to the needs of the local community, Father Lankester Merrin gets more than he ever bargained for when he has his first brush with a devilish force known simply as Pazuzu.

Sonic the Hedgehog 1/10/2025 US A small-town sheriff helps an alien hedgehog with supersonic speed outrun a wicked doctor who wants the creature's special powers to dominate the world.

Scary Movie 4/10/2025 US A group of hapless teens harboring a guilty secret is stalked by an equally bumbling serial killer in this parody of 1990s horror movies.

Gran Turismo: Based on a True Story 15/10/2025 US Driven teenager Jann Mardenborough uses his video game skills to pursue a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: becoming a pro racer. Based on a true story.

A Quiet Place Part II 16/10/2025 US Forced to leave their home, the Abbotts must venture out into a world of deadly creatures drawn to sound — and other threats they never expected.

Ghost of Yotei: PS5 Review

Developed by Sucker Punch Productions
Published by Sony Interactive Entertainment
Platform: PS5

Against a backdrop of burning trees, a figure stands poised. As an opponent moves into view, the screen narrows into a widescreen format, signifying the upcoming face-off. The camera closes in on one face, another angle catches a hand nervously wavering above a soon-to-be-unsheathed katana as the wind whistles through the background.

It could be a scene from 2020's Ghost of Tsushima, the wildly popular tale of Jin Sakai and his fight against the Mongols, and, in truth, Sucker Punch Productions have not veered too far from the cinematic edges that made the first game a success. This, however, is the hugely anticipated sequel, Ghost of Yotei, set hundreds of years after the first.

But rather than repeating the formula carte blanche, the sequel's gone down a route that works within the confines of what's gone on, while tweaking the edges to make a gameplay experience that's immersive and enjoyable.

This time, you play the role of Atsu, a woman who, as a girl, has her family murdered in front of her and must watch on as she's pinned to a burning ginkgo tree and left for dead. It's a fairly visceral start to the game in Japan and one that's not entirely without form in the genre. As Atsu pursues the Yotei Six who were responsible for the slaughter, she must travel across the land of Ezo on her quest for vengeance.

The changes from Ghost of Tsushima in Ghost of Yotei are subtle, but powerful.

While the vistas remain beautiful and there are some stunning moments as Atsu races across the land on her steed (it's never tiring watching a pack of horses follow Atsu when she rides through them), the gameplay has been tweaked to allow a more modern approach to what transpires.

From wielding dual katana to muskets, there's a more modern touch that wasn't evident in Tsushima because of the time period issues. Along with tasks like being able to paint using the touchpad and cook with the movement of the controller, Ghost of Yotei makes for an experience that's second to none.

Pitching camp and allowing time to reflect, fashion weapons and restore health via cooking is also another subtle change, albeit one which goes some way to making you feel like Atsu's journey is more of a human one than just a supernatural edge. 

But as Atsu travels the land in her guise of onryō, a vengeful spirit, she can also cross paths with those who can help her in her quest to get vengeance on the Yotei Six. While the game doesn't push you to complete your mission in a fixed order, it positively encourages you to go the long way round with thrilling encounters with ronin, helping oppressed villagers and placing you in the mix of a story that has both resonance and heart.

Combat is fluid in the game and has a feeling of difficulty even on the easiest level. From learning to parry accurately to switching between weapons in the game (unlike the stance poses of Tsushima) takes time - and is vital to your success or defeat in battle. But every encounter is meaty and the game's difficulty grade in combat welcomes both a level of stealth and also a level of just outright fighting and taking on your enemy.

Equally a bounty system that is somewhat akin to Grand Theft Auto's notoriety levels is a welcome addition, meaning that not everywhere Atsu goes, she's welcome. It's a clever touch that shows the world is reacting to what happens around her, rather than remaining static and somewhat out of touch with the elements.

The addition of the wolf as a companion to Atsu is also an intriguing one. Exploring wolf dens and helping with various side quests to free other trapped wolves which are being hunted will strengthen the bond between yourself and your hirsute buddy, but it doesn't guarantee that the wolf will always be there to save the day. It's more interesting that it shows up randomly to unleash during fights and disappears, a kind of unreliable companion that shows that nature can't be tamed.

And the story's edges of being a female in a feudal society also go some way to demonstrating the hardships Atsu would have felt either growing up or finding her way through life. There are small, telling moments peppered through the narrative that provide a dramatic edge and insight that was largely missing by the male-led protagonist of the first game. A new mechanic that allows you to flip between timelines as you explore certain areas adds a depth that's more engrossing than just a simple cutscene and goes some way to giving an insight into Atsu's mental state and past.

Plus, there's nothing more thrilling than firing a gun at enemies or hurling a full sake bottle at a fire-toting enemy and watching them explode on impact. The game knows how to deliver relatively fulfilling combat that hits on whatever level you're willing to play at.

It's not all perfect though.

Conversations still feel incredibly stilted in parts as you stand in front of your intended and talk to them. It's somewhat akin to the Horizon Zero Dawn issue where it doubles as exposition and feels noticeably so, rather than fluid and natural. 

Enemy AI remains an issue too. You may be attacked by groups of marauding bad guys, but they will all wait their turn to engage and be picked off - it's depressingly rote and does remove some of the tension too.

And parts of the game feel repetitive in their dynamics too — there's occasionally the feeling of a grind as you carry on your quest, unravelling clues by fighting someone, sparing their lives and then questioning them. While there are alternatives as to what question can be asked, none of them really feel like they influence the game, merely delay the gathering of certain necessary knowledge.

But the additions outweigh the game's occasional downsides.

From using spyglasses to tag enemies and scout locations, to the inclusion of new styles of presentation  (the Miike and Wantanbe mode), the game has more than enough to keep lovers of the genre — and non-lovers — interested and immersed.

There's much to dive into in Ghost of Yotei, with plenty of upgrades requiring you to visit many different locations around Ezo and with the likes of the wolf requiring a skill tree to cement the bond, there will be many hours spent in the land and in the game itself.

Sucker Punch Productions has produced a winner here — it may not be perfect in some aspects, but given how damn enjoyable and how engrossing Atsu's journey to revenge and redemption is, it's one that more than deserves its place on gamers' shelves.

An early-access review code for Ghost of Yotei was provided by PlayStation NZ for the purposes of this review.

Heart Eyes: Neon Movie Review

Cast: Olivia Holt, Mason Gooding, Jordana Brewster, Devon Sawa

Director: Josh Ruben

Meshing romance, comedy and horror, Heart Eyes is a curious beast that involves gnarly kills and the kind of characters who wouldn't be out of place in a YA TV show.

For the past few years, a serial killer known as Heart Eyes (because of the shape of his eye-slits on his mask) has been stalking couples on Valentine's Day and dispatching them with disturbing glee in various states.

When the killer moves into Seattle to strike again, Olivia Holt's winsome Ally and puppy-dog eyed Jay (Gooding) find themselves targeted after an accidental kiss at a restaurant. Racing against time and to try and save their own lives, they have to fight off the killer - and their growing feelings for each other.

Heart Eyes knows what it wants to do - and it does it with relative glee.

As the main protagonists continue to shout that they're "not together" each time the killer heads for them, there's a real sense of tongue in cheek about the film - and one that doesn't betray the gore of its genre.

From the Heart Eyes Killer's resemblance to the Shape and Jason's mask, the homage is deliberate, but the clever design of the mask somehow manages to make him emerge as a potential candidate for a franchise - even if the conclusion of the film and the killer's MO makes any sequel potentially feel like a redo.

But whether it's lines mocking the detectives Hobbs and Shaw (including one of Fast and Furious' own actors) or the Terminator-style shenanigans of the killer in his unending quest to murder, the film's brief 90 minute run-time serves it well for a piece of throwaway entertainment that does exactly what you'd expect - and nothing more.

Baby Steps: PS5 Review

Developed by Gabe Cuzzillo Maxi Boch
Published by Devolver Digital
Platform: PS5

If you're a fan of Chumbawamba's biggest ever hit, then Baby Steps will take that love and twist it into something perverse and ultimately challenging.

In this at-times-insane indie, you play Nate, a man whose life is mostly spent sleepwalking and who one day wakes up on a hiking trip after being transported randomly from his basement couch.

And really, that's about as straight as this game gets in terms of simple narratives, because Baby Steps is a walking sim that's packed with metaphor and hidden meaning as you guide Nate around. But within minutes of the game, you'll be frustrated, angry and utterly bemused by how a simple plank offering you access between two platforms can cause so much damn fear.

Dropped into a world, you have to walk Nate around, climbing various mixed terrain and using triggers on the controller and the left stick (for PlayStation 5) to help him navigate the land. It sounds easy enough, but if you've not facepalmed within seconds of this game, you've fluked it and are likely to come a cropper before you realise it.

One of the first characters to arrive on the scene is Jim, who tries to help Nate get used to the world he's in, only to constantly be turned down with every piece of advice. It's a classic approach to setting up a villain arc as Nate rebuffs him, but there's a hint of more below the surface as these encounters play out, and which set up part of the journey across the game.

At the end of the day though, it has to be said that all of that is kind of incidental to the gameplay, which, to be frank, is intensely frustrating and annoying initially. Falling over the first time is kind of funny - sort of like how Goat Simulator revels in its own cracks and mistakes - but after the ninth time within less than a minute, it's beyond irritating and may see you want to rage quit the game.

The best advice for that is not to. Because once you find a groove and learn to make the legs function independently and coherently, it can be bracing to manage to create some kind of momentum. And the terrain functions to offer different ways to reach you goal rather than leaving you to have one way only to ascend to where you need to.

But be warned - while it can be enticing to want to hurl yourself down a cliff just to watch the character slide and ragdoll, the upshot of a suicidal moment is hours of trying to get back where you were. It's only for the brave-hearted or the incredibly stupid that you try that.

And yet, here's the rub with Baby Steps - the challenge rests on if you can put the game to one side and not keep trying. It's the simplicity that is the hook here, and while not every moment lands, the idea that, "It's just a walking game, how hard that can be" is what sees you returning to the controller each time you want to throw it away.

Along with a soundtrack that's made up by the nature around you and which speeds up as you gain momentum, there's plenty of perverse pleasure to be had in Baby Steps - if you're willing to take it just one step at a time.

A  review code for Baby Steps was provided by Devolver Digital for the purpose of this review.

Logitech G Play announcements

Here is everything that was announced at last Thursday's Logitech G Play event.

Logitech G PLAY 2025: Powering the Next Era of Play

This year’s Logitech G PLAY 2025 event was set to be the craziest gaming event of the year and it did not disappoint! Not only did we see a whole heap of the biggest gamers in the world hit the stage to share their insights, along with some fun interactive tournaments and entertainment, the showcase also delivered what It had promised, dropping some of the most exciting gear we’ve seen in this year in gaming!

From featherlight headsets to sim-racing rigs that will make you feel like you’re tearing through Silverstone, Logitech G PLAY 2025 delivered a lineup built to push performance, immersion, and style into overdrive. In case you missed it, here’s the full lineup of what’s hitting NZ:

Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset

· Price: $149.95 NZD

· Available: October 16, 2025

Comfort, clarity, and everyday power – the G321 headset nails the essentials without compromise. With plush memory foam, immersive sound, and a flip-to-mute mic, it’s designed for marathon sessions. Available in sleek black or crisp white, it’s perfect for those new to gaming or wanting an accessible headset that doesn’t compromise on performance

Logitech G515 RAPID TKL Low-Profile Analog Gaming Keyboard

· Price: $345.95 NZD

· Available: October 16, 2025

If speed is your game, the RAPID TKL is your weapon. Featuring magnetic analog switches with RAPID TRIGGER and MULTI-POINT ACTION, this ultra-slim, low profile powerhouse gives you customisable actuation and lightning-fast inputs. Add PBT keycaps, sound dampening, and LIGHTSYNC RGB, and you’ve got a pro-level keyboard that’s as stylish as it is deadly.

Logitech G ASTRO A20 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Headset with PLAYSYNC Audio

· Price: $399.95 NZD

· Available: October 16, 2025

Cross-platform gamers, rejoice. The A20 X headset delivers seamless switching across systems with PLAYSYNC audio, paired with PRO-G drivers, broadcast-quality voice, and mobile app RGB customization. Whether you’re grinding ranked or chilling with friends, the A20 X brings performance and style in equal measure.

Logitech G PRO X SUPERLIGHT 2c LIGHTSPEED Gaming Mouse

· Price: $349.95 NZD

· Available: October 16, 2025

Logitech G takes “ultra-light” to new extremes with this 51g marvel. Sporting the HERO 2 sensor, LIGHTFORCE hybrid switches, 8kHz polling, and a whopping 95-hour battery life, it’s small, mighty, and laser-focused on competitive performance. Available in black, white, and a bold pink.

Logitech G ASTRO A50 X LIGHTSPEED Wireless Headset & Base Station – McLaren Racing Edition

· Price: $799.95 NZD

· Available: October 16, 2025

Earlier this year, Logitech G and McLaren Racing announced their multi-year partnership and the rumour mill when crazy about the possibilities that could bring for gaming gear. Introducing the A50 X limited edition Mclaren collab. PRO-G GRAPHENE drivers, PLAYSYNC multi-system audio, and the legendary Papaya Orange styling, this collector’s edition is as much a trophy piece as it is a headset. With the A50 X Headset already being a huge innovation and favourite in the gaming community, this collab was an absolute ‘wow’ moment. But you’ll need to keep an eye out for pre-orders as we are only getting a very limited drop to our shores. For gamers who want their gear to perform and turn heads doing it, this is one to get your hands on!

Logitech G RS50 System

· Price: $1,399.95 NZD

· Available: October 16, 2025

Sim racing continues to grow rapidly across the world and we are seeing a big surge in NZ too. For those who are hitting the virtual tracks, this one is for you. The RS50 System features a new direct drive motor with TRUEFORCE feedback, delivering up to 8Nm of torque for ultra-precise realism. With a versatile RS Wheel Hub, premium RS Round Wheel, and a plug-and-play design, it’s the ultimate way to upgrade your racing rig

Logitech G RS Pedals

· Price: $329.95 NZD

· Available: October 16, 2025

Designed to complement the RS50 System (but compatible across Logitech G’s sim racing setups), these pedals bring pro-grade stopping power with a load cell brake, pressure-sensitive braking, and customisable force. Built on a steel frame for durability, they’re engineered to adapt to any racer’s style

From the everyday gamer looking for reliable, stylish upgrades to sim-racing fanatics chasing full-throttle immersion, Logitech G PLAY 2025 proved one thing: the future of gaming peripherals is here, and it’s slicker, faster, and more fun than ever.

Get ready, New Zealand. October 16 is going to change the way you play!

Celebrate Batman Day 2025 with New LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight Behind-The-Scenes Video

DC and Warner Bros. Games Celebrates Batman Day 2025 with New LEGO® Batman™: Legacy of the Dark Knight Behind-The-Scenes Video Featuring DC Studios’ James Gunn, DC’s Jim Lee, TT Games, and The LEGO Group

DC and Warner Bros. Games have debuted a new LEGO® Batman™: Legacy of the Dark Knight behind-the-scenes video in celebration of Batman Day 2025, the annual tradition commemorating one of the most iconic characters in the world, DC’s Batman.  

The new featurette includes a fresh look at gameplay for LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, along with commentary from James Gunn (Co-Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, DC Studios), Jim Lee (President, Publisher & Chief Creative Officer, DC), Jonathan Smith (Strategic Director & Head of Development Team, TT Games), Jesper C. Nielsen (Creative Lead, The LEGO Group), and other development team members, who all expand on how the 86-year history of Batman films, television shows, comics, and games has been brought together with TT Games’ signature LEGO humour in the upcoming interactive videogame experience.  

“This game is an absolute celebration of everything Batman”

 – James Gunn, Co-Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, DC Studios 

What's on Prime Video in October

Here's everything that's streaming on Prime Video in October 2025.

Prime Video’s October line-up is packed with must-watch entertainment. For basketball fans, the NBA launches on Prime Video for the first time. Stream live games, catch the biggest matchups of the season, and never miss a highlight.

Mark Wahlberg and LaKeith Stanfield team up to pull off one almighty heist in action-thriller Play Dirty,  and don’t miss the high-stakes final chapter in Nick and Noah’s story in Our Fault (Culpa Nuestra), the epic conclusion to the trilogy that has become a global phenomenon.

Plus Tessa Thompson delivers a commanding performance in Hedda and a comedy legend is celebrated in heartfelt documentary John Candy: I Like Me.

All this and more, streaming soon, only on Prime Video.

NBA (October 25)

Basketball fans, get ready— the NBA is coming to Prime Video. Stream live games, catch the biggest matchups of the season, and never miss a highlight. From the regular season to the playoffs and Finals, you’ll have courtside access anytime, anywhere. Prime Video will be the exclusive streaming service for 66 regular-season NBA games beginning in 2025, including the Emirates NBA cup and the NBA Playoffs, as well as regular and postseason WNBA games beginning in 2026.

NBA fans can also catch every minute of the NBA with an NBA League Pass Add-On Subscription with packages starting from just $21.99/month AUD.

Opening night kicks off with The Boston Celtics taking on the New York Knicks and the Minnesota Timberwolves facing the Los Angeles Lakers in a huge double header to kick off the season on Prime Video.

Prime Video brings the action closer than ever—whether you’re backing your team, following your favourite stars, or just here for the slam dunks.

Play Dirty (October 1)

An expert thief rolls out the biggest heist of his life in Play Dirty, an action-packed thriller from director Shane Black. Parker (Mark Wahlberg), along with Grofield (LaKeith Stanfield), Zen (Rosa Salazar) and a skilled crew, stumble onto a score that pits them against the New York mob in this gritty, clever caper.

 

Play Dirty stars Mark Wahlberg, LaKeith Stanfield, Rosa Salazar, Keegan-Michael Key, Chukwudi Iwuji, Nat Wolff, Thomas Jane and Tony Shalhoub.

Our Fault (Culpa Nuestra) (October 16)

Jenna and Lion's wedding sets the stage for the long-awaited reunion between Noah and Nick, some time after their breakup. Nick's inability to forgive Noah creates an seemingly insurmountable barrier between them. He, now heir to his grandfather's business empire, and she, just starting her career, resist reigniting a flame that still smolders within them. But now that their paths have crossed again, will love prove stronger than resentment?

Our Fault (Culpa Nuestra) stars Nicole Wallace, Gabriel Guevara, Marta Hazas, Iván Sánchez, Eva Ruiz, Víctor Varona, Goya Toledo, Gabriela Andrada, Álex Béjar, Javier Morgade, Felipe Londoño, and Fran Morcillo.

Hedda (October 29)

From writer/director Nia DaCosta comes a provocative, modern reimagining of Henrik Ibsen’s classic play. Hedda (Tessa Thompson) finds herself torn between the lingering ache of a past love and the quiet suffocation of her present life. Over the course of one charged night, long-repressed desires and hidden tensions erupt—pulling her and everyone around her into a spiral of manipulation, passion, and betrayal.

 

Hedda stars Tessa Thompson, Imogen Poots, Tom Bateman, Nicholas Pinnock and Nina Hoss.

Harlan Coben's Lazarus (October 22)

Based on an original story idea and written by the New York Times best-selling author Harlan Coben and BAFTA-winner Danny Brocklehurst, Harlan Coben’s Lazarus follows Joel Lazarus (Sam Claflin) who returns home after his father Dr. Jonathan Lazarus (Bill Nighy) dies by suicide and begins to have disturbing experiences that can't be explained. He quickly becomes entangled in a series of cold-case murders as he grapples with the mystery of his father's death and his sister's murder 25 years ago.

 

Harlan Coben’s Lazarus stars Sam Claflin, Bill Nighy, Alexandra Roach, David Fynn, Karla Crome, and Kate Ashfield.

Hazbin Hotel Season 2 (October 29)

Hazbin Hotel Season Two follows Charlie, the princess of Hell, as she pursues her seemingly impossible goal of rehabilitating demons to peacefully reduce overpopulation in her kingdom. After a yearly extermination imposed by angels, she opens a hotel in the hopes that patrons will be "checking out" into Heaven. While most of Hell mocks her goal, her devoted partner Vaggie, and their first test subject, adult-film star Angel Dust, stick by her side. When a powerful entity known as the "Radio Demon" reaches out to assist Charlie in her endeavors, her crazy dream is given a chance to become a reality.

Following Charlie’s victory against Heaven’s army, the hotel is booming with new residents. Though, to her dismay, many are not there for the right reasons. As resentment against Heaven brews and sinners realise they can fight back, there are plenty of sinners looking to capitalise on the growing tensions: namely the overlord trio known as ‘The Vees’. Whilst Charlie struggles to maintain the Hotel’s goals and protect her public image, the Vees (led by Vox) make a plan to take over Heaven placing themselves at the top. Meanwhile, in Heaven, the angels must deal with the repercussions of Sir Pentious’s redemption and their own part in the previous atrocities committed against Hell.

John Candy: I Like Me (October 10)

From director Colin Hanks and producer Ryan Reynolds comes John Candy: I Like Me, an exploration of the life of the Canadian comedic icon. This John Candy film documents his on- and off-camera existence, featuring never-before-seen home videos, intimate access to his family, and candid recollections from collaborators to paint a bigger picture of one of the brightest stars of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. It’s the story of a son, husband, father, friend, and professional driven to bring joy to audiences and loved ones while battling personal ghosts and Hollywood pressures.  John Candy: I Like Me premiered at the 50th Toronto International Film Festival on opening night.

 

John Candy: I Like Me stars Tom Hanks, John Candy, and Bill Murray

Maintenance Required (October 8)

Charlie, the fiercely independent owner of an all-female mechanic shop, is forced to reevaluate her future when a flashy corporate competitor moves in across the street. Seeking comfort, she turns to an anonymous online confidant - unaware she’s confiding in Beau, the very rival threatening her business. As sparks fly both online and off, the truth threatens to blow everything apart.

 

Maintenance Required stars Madelaine Petsch, Jacob Scipio, Madison Bailey, Katy O'Brian, Inanna Sarkis, Matteo Lane, and Jim Gaffigan.

James Bond Films (October 1)

Delve into the world of 007, with all James Bond films available on Prime Video from October 1, included in your Prime membership. From Dr. No, Goldfinger and Live and Let Die, to GoldenEye, Casino Royale and Skyfall revisit the iconic franchise or watch for the first time.

Stolen Girl (October 10)

An American woman spends more than ten years tracking down her daughter who was abducted and taken to the Middle East by the child's father.

 

Stolen Girl stars Kate Beckinsale, Scott Eastwood, and Matt Craven

Full list:

1984 (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

A VIEW TO A KILL (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

BARBERSHOP (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

BARBERSHOP: THE NEXT CUT (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

BARBERSHOP 2: BACK IN BUSINESS (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

CASINO ROYALE (2006) (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

DEAD MAN WALKING (1995) (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

DIE ANOTHER DAY (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

DR. NO (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

FOR YOUR EYES ONLY (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

GHOULIES (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

GHOULIES II (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

GOLDENEYE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

GOLDFINGER (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

HIGHWAY TO HELL (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

JEEPERS CREEPERS 2 (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

LICENCE TO KILL (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

LIVE AND LET DIE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

MERMAIDS (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

MOONRAKER (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

NO TIME TO DIE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

OCTOPUSSY (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

ON HER MAJESTY’S SECRET SERVICE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

PLAY DIRTY (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

QUANTUM OF SOLACE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

SKYFALL (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

SPECTRE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE BEAST WITH A MILLION EYES (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE CROCODILE HUNTER: COLLISION COURSE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE MAN WITH THE GOLDEN GUN (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE MUMMY RETURNS (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE MUMMY (1999) (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE RAVEN (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE SPY WHO LOVED ME (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THE WORLD IS NOT ENOUGH (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

THUNDERBALL (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

TOMORROW NEVER DIES (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

UPTOWN GIRLS (2003) (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

WEST SIDE STORY (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

YOU ONLY LIVE TWICE (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA (MOVIE) 1/10/2025

HANNIBAL (SERIES) 6/10/2025

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 2 (MOVIE) 6/10/2025

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3: SUMMER VACATION (MOVIE) 8/10/2025

MAINTENANCE REQUIRED (MOVIE) 8/10/2025

JOHN CANDY: I LIKE ME (DOCUMENTARY) 10/10/2025

STOLEN GIRL (MOVIE) 10/10/2025

OUR FAULT (CULPA NUESTRA) (MOVIE) 16/10/2025

SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK (MOVIE) 21/10/2025

HARLAN COBEN’S LAZARUS (SERIES) 22/10/2025

SALT (MOVIE) 22/10/2025 

HAZBIN HOTEL S2 (SERIES) 29/10/2025

HEDDA (MOVIE) 29/10/2025

Everybody's Golf Hot Shots: PS5 Review

Developed by Hyde
Published by Bandai Namco
Platform: PS5

Everybody's Golf Hot Shots isn't a golf sim that's about you swinging like Tiger Woods and achieving success.

But what it is is a highly accessible pick up and play title that's interested in letting you press a few buttons, take in pals or the computer and just generally have fun on the course. With its overly anime cartoon characters and admittedly annoyingly repetitive selection of catchphrases, it's simple to get on the tee and swing into action.

Pressing x fires up the power meter, pressing it again will tell you if you've struck gold or struck out. 

It really is as simple as that - and while putting requires a bit more finesse, the game's ease of play is a major bonus for this arcade title.

Blessed with a wealth of modes, plenty of cutesy customisation and plenty of courses to unlock as well as players, Everybody's Golf Hot Shots is the kind of arcade game that's sadly on the decline thanks to how easy it is to play.

Working well as a family led title, this is definitely a hole in one for gaming and with its colorful graphics and outlook, it's hours of unexpected and welcome fun.

Metal Eden: PS5 Review

Developed by Reikon Games
Published by Deep Silver
Platform: PS5

Metal Eden is all about the speed. 

It may have been compared to Doom given its first-person shooter vibe and also its swift gameplay, but set in the future, you take on the role of a cybernetic warrior called ASKA who's asked to break into a secret location and save people within.

The only way to do that is to simply blast your way in, gun everything around you down and survive.

It's a very simple formula and one that's been executed many times before in many similar ways. But the main way games like this continue to be released is because of the commitment to freshening up the genre and also appealing to those who like speedrunning games and get a kick out of them.

There's nothing radically new here in terms of the gameplay. There are skill trees, options to unlock better weaponry further into the game, and the chance to grapple, climb and wall-jump your way to victory.

But turning your character into a metal ball that can steamroll through others has to be a new way of doing things and is in truth a lot more fun than perhaps you'd expect.

Metal Eden is not a game that throws its weight behind its own story, preferring to be something that concentrates on the combat and the run-n-gun ethos. To that end, it's fluid and enjoyable enough to warrant taking time to deal with the chaos.

But with only eight full levels, this feels like too brief an experience for most players. It's a shame it's not a wider berth of gameplay. And while further development's been mentioned for this, if Reikon Games can put a bit more into potentially expanding this universe, the game would prove to be an essential addition to the pantheon of FPS games. 

As it is now, it's a worthy, almost-run.

What's streaming on Disney+ in October

Disney+ is the dedicated streaming home for movies and shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more, alongside exclusive Disney+ Originals.

Library title availability varies by region and is subject to change.

Wednesday, October 1

SuperKitties (Season 3) - Premiere

Season three of the hit Disney Jr. series introduces a “Su-Purr Wild” story arc that finds the SuperKitties traveling into the Kittydale Wild Jungle to adventure with their wildcat friend Willa and new jungle critters.

Tempest (Hulu Original) - Premiere

Featuring one of the most impressive international line-ups in a Korean drama to date, Tempest follows Seo Munju, a skilled former diplomat, as she tries to uncover the truth behind an attempt on a presidential candidate’s life. After discovering the candidate was accused of being a North Korean spy, Munju digs into his past, unlocking a Pandora’s box of deception, state secrets and more. Protected by Paik Sanho, a mercenary with a suspicious history and a hidden backer, Munju repeatedly finds herself under attack as she uncovers an international conspiracy stretching all the way to the White House. But, with danger drawing ever closer, will Sanho be able to keep his principal safe and his emotions in check?

Thursday, October 2

Mickey & Minnie's Holiday Songs: Halloween

Friday, October 3

The Balloonist - Premiere

Out of the blue, Gaby’s life is turned upside down when an arrogant hot-air balloon pilot crash-lands on top of her coop full of heritage chickens. The collision exposes a festering family conflict and forces Gaby to confront the haughty balloonist as well as her own problematic past. Will she be able to make amends and give herself and her seven-year-old son a better future?

The Murky Stream (Hulu Original) - New Episodes

In lawless Joseon, the once-clear Gyeonggang River has turned into a murky stream. Siyul hides a troubled past, Choi Eun dreams of becoming the country's greatest merchant, and Jung Chun aspires to be an upright official. Their fates intertwine as they each fight to shape a world of their own.

Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends (Season 4) - New Halloween Episode

“Night of the Goblins” – Green Goblin's clones threaten Halloween.

“Bat Attitude” – Doc Ock's device controls the city's bats.

Something Wicked This Way Comes

The ominous arrival of Dark’s Pandemonium Carnival in Green Town sparks the curiosity of two boys, Will Halloway and Jim Nightshade. Dark transforms some of the townspeople as the boys try to find out the secret of the carnival. The boys hide from Dark who threatens Will’s father, the town librarian, who in turn finally helps good triumph over evil as he saves the boys and causes the destruction of the carnival.

Saturday, October 4

College GameDay (ESPN, ESPNU, ESPN+) - 9am ET

Halloween Wars (Three Seasons)

Sunday, October 5

Kiff (Season 2) - New Halloween Episode

Kiff and Barry are set to spend their Halloween passing out candy, but when they run out, they are determined to make everything right.

Traveling with Snow Man (Disney+ Original) - New Episode

Japan’s top male idol group, Snow Man, sets out on a journey of self-discovery across unique locations in Japan. As they reflect on the five years since their debut, they share their dreams of what comes next. Full of laughter, tears, and newfound resolve, this is their most personal journey yet.

Tuesday, October 7

Dancing With the Stars (Season 34) - New Episode Live at 8/7c

Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, “Dancing with the Stars” is the hit series that pairs celebrities with trained ballroom dancers to compete in themed choreographed dance routines that are judged by a panel of renowned ballroom experts, including Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough.

Wednesday, October 8

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place (Season 2) - Premiere - All Episodes Streaming

Billie grapples with the fact that being part of the Russo family might be more complicated than she thought — especially now that she's not the only wizard in the house. Thanks to Roman and Milo’s new magical powers, Justin is now tasked with training three young wizards for the Family Wizard Competition. As the stakes rise inside and outside the family, a mysterious new threat emerges, one that could unravel the Russos forever.

Friday, October 10

The Murky Stream (Hulu Original) - New Episodes

In lawless Joseon, the once-clear Gyeonggang River has turned into a murky stream. Siyul hides a troubled past, Choi Eun dreams of becoming the country's greatest merchant, and Jung Chun aspires to be an upright official. Their fates intertwine as they each fight to shape a world of their own.

Saturday, October 11

College GameDay (ESPN, ESPNU) - 9am ET

Halloween Baking Championship (Three Seasons)

Tuesday, October 14

Dancing With the Stars (Season 34) - New Episode Live at 8/7c

Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, “Dancing with the Stars” is the hit series that pairs celebrities with trained ballroom dancers to compete in themed choreographed dance routines that are judged by a panel of renowned ballroom experts, including Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough.

Wednesday, October 15

Electric Bloom (Season 1) - New Episodes

The three members of mega-famous pop group Electric Bloom look back and tell the story of their band and friendship, starting with the day they all met in high school. Overachiever Posey, rebellious Jade, and quirky Tulip go on a journey to become the biggest band in the world and the best friends in the universe.

Vampirina: Teenage Vampire - Premiere - All Episodes Streaming

“Vampirina: Teenage Vampire” tells the story of a tween vampire girl who leaves the safety of Transylvania to attend a performing arts boarding school. Living amongst humans for the first time, she pursues her passion for music while keeping her vampire identity a secret, something that’s made more challenging when her overprotective father charges an overzealous ghost to live with her at the school. Vampirina, or “Vee,” is an already beloved character from the popular book saga and the record-breaking Disney Jr. series. “Vampirina: Teenage Vampire” is the first live-action portrayal.

Friday, October 17

The Murky Stream (Hulu Original) - New Episodes

In lawless Joseon, the once-clear Gyeonggang River has turned into a murky stream. Siyul hides a troubled past, Choi Eun dreams of becoming the country's greatest merchant, and Jung Chun aspires to be an upright official. Their fates intertwine as they each fight to shape a world of their own.

 

Marvel’s Spidey and Iron Man: Avengers Team-Up! - Premiere

In the first-ever Team Up special featuring characters from “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends” and “Marvel’s Iron Man and his Awesome Friends,” Iron Man and the Avengers join Spidey to stop Ultron and Green Goblin from taking control of the city’s devices.

 

Saturday, October 18

Brittany Murphy: An ID Mystery

 

College GameDay (ESPN, ESPNU, ESPN+) - 9am ET

 

Sunday, October 19

NWSL: Angel City FC vs. Portland Thorns FC (ESPN, ESPN+) - 5pm ET

 

Traveling with Snow Man (Disney+ Original) - New Episode

Japan’s top male idol group, Snow Man, sets out on a journey of self-discovery across unique locations in Japan. As they reflect on the five years since their debut, they share their dreams of what comes next. Full of laughter, tears, and newfound resolve, this is their most personal journey yet.

 

Tuesday, October 21

Dancing With the Stars (Season 34) - New Episode Live at 8/7c

Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, “Dancing with the Stars” is the hit series that pairs celebrities with trained ballroom dancers to compete in themed choreographed dance routines that are judged by a panel of renowned ballroom experts, including Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough.

 

Friday, October 24

LEGO Frozen: Operations Puffins (Disney+ Original) - Premiere

After the events of Frozen, Anna and Elsa want to start fresh in Arendelle, and make the castle feel a bit more comfortable. While they struggle to break free of the bounds of tradition, the Duke of Weselton has other plans for their beloved home alongside a flock of menacing puffins. LEGO Disney Frozen: Operation Puffins starts streaming October 24 only on Disney+.

 

Saturday, October 25

College GameDay (ESPN, ESPNU, ESPN+) - 9am ET

 

Sunday, October 26

Traveling with Snow Man (Disney+ Original) - New Episode

Japan’s top male idol group, Snow Man, sets out on a journey of self-discovery across unique locations in Japan. As they reflect on the five years since their debut, they share their dreams of what comes next. Full of laughter, tears, and newfound resolve, this is their most personal journey yet.

 

Tuesday, October 28

Dancing With the Stars (Season 34) - New Episode Live at 8/7c

Hosted by Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough, “Dancing with the Stars” is the hit series that pairs celebrities with trained ballroom dancers to compete in themed choreographed dance routines that are judged by a panel of renowned ballroom experts, including Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli and Derek Hough.

 

Wednesday, October 29

Star Wars: Visions (Volume 3) - Premiere - All Episodes Streaming

The anthology series returns featuring nine new anime stories from legendary Japanese studios that will celebrate the mythos of Star Wars through their unique styles.

 

 

 

 

Disney+: Disney Twisted Wonderland: The Animation (Disney+ Original) - Premiere

High school student Yu is suddenly transported to Twisted-Wonderland, a world of magic and wonder. Now, he must face monsters, whimsical magicians-in-training, and mysterious incidents, all without any magic of his own. Will Yu ever find a way back to his own world?

What's on Disney+ in October

PR Highlights - October 2025

Here’s everything coming to Disney+ in October 2025.

 

TOP PICKS FOR OCTOBER

15 October

Murdaugh: Death in the Family

Original Series

Premiere

Maggie and Alex enjoy a lavish life of privilege as members of one of South Carolina's most powerful legal dynasties. But when their son Paul is involved in a deadly boat crash, the family is faced with a test unlike any they've ever encountered. As details come to light and new challenges emerge, the family's connections to several mysterious deaths raise questions which threaten everything Maggie and Alex hold dear. Inspired by the popular Murdaugh Murders Podcast.

11 October

Grey’s Anatomy: Season 22

Disney+ Premiere

Grey’s Anatomy” now in its 22nd season, follows a team of doctors at Grey Sloan Memorial who are faced with life-or death decisions on a daily basis. They seek comfort from one another, and, at times, more than just friendship. Together they discover that neither medicine nor relationships can be defined in black and white.

22 October

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle

Disney+ Premiere

A suspenseful and seductive psychological thriller that reimagines the classic film and unravels the illusion of domestic bliss with chilling precision. In the psychological thriller from director Michelle Garza Cervera, an upscale suburban mom (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) brings a new nanny (Maika Monroe) into her home, only to discover she is not the person she claims to be.

8 October

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place: Season 2

Disney+ Original Series

Premiere

In season two of “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” Billie grapples with the fact that being part of the Russo family might be more complicated than she thought — especially now that she's not the only wizard in the house. Thanks to Roman and Milo’s new magical powers, Justin is now tasked with training three young wizards for the Family Wizard Competition. As the stakes rise inside and outside the family, a mysterious new threat emerges — one that could unravel the Russos forever.

Top Picks for ESPN on Disney+ OCTOBER

October

NBL

NBL games continue throughout October

1-12 October

Rolex Shanghai Masters

All Courts Live

From 4 October

WNBA: Finals

Begins 4 October with Game 1

From 22 October

NBA Opening Night

Double Header: 22 October

From 25 October

Rolex Paris Masters

All Courts Live

ALSO IN OCTOBER

1 October

Series

Love Thy Nader

Lost Treasures of Rome: Season 2

SuperKitties: Season 3

Law & Order Special Victims Unit: Seasons 13-17

Movies

Jaws

Halloween ’18

Happy Gilmore

The 40 Year Old Virgin

Casper

ESPN

MLB: Wildcard Series

Best of 3

2 October

ESPN

NBL

Cairns vs Adelaide

Perth vs Illawarra

3 October

Movies

The Balloonist

ESPN

NFL

San Francisco 49ers vs Los Angeles Rams

4 October

ESPN

WNBA: Finals

Game 1

NBL

Sydney vs New Zealand

Brisbane vs Tasmania

5 October

ESPN

NFL

Minnesota Vikings vs Cleveland Browns

UFC 320

Ankalaev vs Pereira

MLB: Division Series

Best of 5

6 October

Special

Family Guy (Halloween Special)

ESPN

NFL

New England Patriots vs Buffalo Bills

WNBA: Finals

Game 2

7 October

ESPN

NFL

Kansas City Chiefs vs Jacksonville Jaguars

8 October

Series

Naming the Dead

International

Les Disparues De La Gare

International

La Suerte

ESPN

NHL

Opening Night: Triple Header

NBL

New Zealand vs Illawarra

Sydney vs Melbourne

 

9 October

Series

International

Wandance

ESPN

WNBA: Finals

Game 3

NBL

Adelaide vs Tasmania

 

10 October

Special

Frankie Quinones: Damn That's Crazy

ESPN

NFL

Philadelphia Eagles vs New York Giants

NBL

Cairns vs Perth

11 October

Series

International

Would You Marry Me

ESPN

NBL

Illawarra vs Brisbane

Adelaide vs Sydney

WNBA: Finals

Game 4

 

12 October

ESPN

NFL

Denver Broncos vs New York Jets

UFC: Fight Night

Oliveira vs Fiziev

NBL

New Zealand vs S.E Melbourne

Melbourne vs Cairns

 

13 October

ESPN

NFL

Detroit Lions vs Kansas City Chiefs

WNBA: Finals

Game 5

MLB: League Championship Series

Best of 7

 

14 October

Series

Parks and Recreation: Season 1-7

ESPN

NFL

Buffalo Bills vs Atlanta Falcons

Chicago Bears vs Washington Commanders

 

15 October

Series

Vampirina: Teenage Vampire

Scam Goddess

International

To Cook a Bear

ESPN

NBL

Tasmania vs Sydney

Perth vs Brisbane

 

16 October

ESPN

UFC 321

Aspinall vs. Gane

WNBA: Finals

Game 6 (if necessary)

NBL

Adelaide vs S.E Melbourne

 

17 October

Series

Spidey and His Amazing Friends: Spidey and Iron Man: Avengers Team-Up!

ESPN

NFL

Pittsburgh Steelers vs Cincinnati Bengals

NBL

New Zealand vs Tasmania

Brisbane vs Melbourne

 

18 October

ESPN

WNBL

Southside Melbourne Flyers vs Canberra Capitals

Geelong Venom vs Sydney Flames

WNBA: Finals

Game 7 (if necessary)

NBL

Cairns vs Adelaide

S.E Melbourne vs Illawarra

 

19 October

ESPN

UFC: Fight Night

de Ridder vs Hernandez

NFL

Los Angeles Rams vs Jacksonville Jaguars

WNBL

Adelaide Lightning vs Perth Lynx

Bendigo Spirit vs Townsville Fire

NBL

Melbourne vs New Zealand

Sydney vs Perth

 

20 October

ESPN

NFL

Atlanta Falcons vs San Francisco 49ers

 

21 October

ESPN

NFL

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Detroit Lions

Houston Texans vs Seattle Seahawks

 

22 October

Series

Pirates: Behind the Legends

Top Guns: The Next Generation

ESPN

NBA

Opening Night: Double Header

NBL

Cairns vs Perth

 

23 October

Series

International

Entrepreneurs

ESPN

NBL

New Zealand vs Brisbane

S.E Melbourne vs Sydney

 

24 October

Disney+ Original

LEGO Frozen: Operation Puffins

ESPN

NFL

Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Chargers

WNBL

Sydney Flames vs Southside Melbourne Flyers

NBL

Cairns vs Melbourne

 

25 October

ESPN

WNBL

Geelong Venom vs Adelaide Lightning

Canberra Capitals vs Townsville Fire

MLB: World Series

Best of 7

NBL

Brisbane vs S.E Melbourne

Perth vs Illawarra

 

26 October

ESPN

WNBL

Perth Lynx vs Sydney Flames

NBL

Melbourne vs Adelaide

Sydney vs Tasmania

 

27 October

ESPN

NFL

Green Bay Packers vs Pittsburgh Steelers

 

28 October

ESPN

NFL

Washington Commanders vs Kansas City Chiefs

WNBL

Bendigo Spirit vs Geelong Venom

 

29 October

Disney+ Original

International

Disney Twisted Wonderland: The Animation

Series

Star Wars: Visions (Volume 3)

ESPN

NBL

Tasmania vs Perth

 

30 October

ESPN

NBL

Brisbane vs. Cairns

 

31 October

ESPN

NBL

Illawarra vs. New Zealand

 

New Episodes

Chad Powers New episode on Tuesdays

The Twisted Tale of Amanda Knox Finale on October 1

Only Murders in the Building: Season 5 New episode on Tuesdays

FX's The Lowdown New episode on Wednesdays

High Potential: Season 2 New episode on Wednesdays

The Great North: Season 5 New episodes on October 1

Reasonable Doubt: Season 3 New episode on Thursdays

The Simpsons: Season 37 New episode on Tuesdays

Tempest Finale 1 October

Drama "My Special One” New episode on Wednesdays

Traveling with Snow Man New episode on Sundays

Marvel's Spidey and his Amazing Friends: Season 4 New episode on October 3

Cat's Eye New episode on Fridays

The Murky Stream New episode on Fridays