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The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Friday, December 13, 2024:

AcrossSpread out, as one's fingers

• The answer is Splay.

Long cloud of smoke

• The answer is Plume.

Subway payments

• The answer is Fares.

Kind of garden with a bonsai tree

• The answer is Zen.

"Might I ___ …"

• The answer is Add.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 12, 2024 DownRating on a Hawaiian Tropic bottle, for short

• The answer is SPF.

New York hotel featured in "Home Alone 2," with "the"

• The answer is Plaza.

Enticed with bait

• The answer is Lured.

Modify, as the Constitution

• The answer is Amed.

Reply to roughly 3.6% of Harvard applicants for the 2028 class

• The answer is Yes.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Featured Video For You The Wordle Strategy used by the New York Times' Head of Games

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.

The Perseverance rover has reached the top of the Jezero Crater rim on Mars, a hike that rose 1,640 feet — higher than the Empire State Building is tall. 

NASA mission leaders said the rover, which had embarked on the journey 3.5 months ago, got its first look at its destination on Dec. 10. From there, the mobile lab will begin its fifth science campaign, pursuing a route dubbed "Northern Rim" that will span several years. 

On the drive up, Perseverance encountered steep, slippery slopes. Its human operators, separated by some 70 million miles in space, had to brainstorm solutions on the fly to help navigate obstacles. At one point, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory team even tried steering the rover in reverse to see if that made the trek any easier. 

"Our rover drivers have done an amazing job negotiating some of the toughest terrain we’ve encountered since landing," said Steven Lee, deputy project manager for Perseverance, in a statement.

SEE ALSO: NASA's Mars rovers had a gangbusters summer of rocks This map outlines the upcoming route for the Perseverance rover to explore Jezero Crater's rim. Credit: NASA / JPL-Caltech / ESA / University of Arizona

The climb follows a highly productive summer for the rover and its twin Curiosity. They discovered several rocks that reveal Mars as having been a more geologically diverse planet than once thought. In a stretch of seven weeks, Perseverance and Curiosity found pure sulfur, a likely anorthosite boulder that could be a part of the planet's original crust, and a spotted rock with the most compelling signs of ancient Martian life yet, though a sample would need to be shipped back to Earth for confirmation. 

Then this fall, as Perseverance rumbled up the crater, it found an odd zebra-striped rock that could have formed through igneous or metamorphic processes. 

Jezero Crater is a site on the Red Planet where scientists believe a river once emptied into a body of water. The reason scientists now want to explore the rim is to look for ancient Martian bedrock rubble. Jezero formed when something substantial smacked into the planet close to 4 billion years ago. The impact could have churned up and tossed deep materials to the surface.  

Over the first year of the new campaign, the rover is expected to visit up to four sites to collect samples, traversing about four miles. First stop: Witch Hazel Hill, composed of a vast layered field of rocks.

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"Each layer is like a page in the book of Martian history," said Candice Bedford, a rover scientist from Purdue University in Indiana, in a statement. "As we drive down the hill, we will be going back in time, investigating the ancient environments of Mars recorded in the crater rim."

Intriguing rock discoveries have only mounted pressure on NASA to solve the problems facing its proposed Mars Sample Return mission, an expensive and complex plan to fly bits of rock, dust, and air collected by Perseverance back to Earth. 

The mission has been in limbo since a review found it would cost upward of $11 billion and take nearly two decades to achieve. NASA has since engaged the greater aerospace industry for input on how to save it. Earlier this year, seven companies suggested a variety of ideas, which Mashable reported, including repurposing Artemis moon landers and rethinking the last leg of the journey. 

NASA hasn't yet announced its path forward, and it's unclear how the incoming administration will affect plans. 

15% OFF: As of Dec. 13, the $50 Aeropostale gift card is down to $42.50 at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Aeropostale Aeropostale Gift Card $42.50 at Amazon
$50.00 Save $7.50 Get Deal

If you're still looking for some last-minute gifts before the holidays kick off, Amazon has some nice options available right now. For a limited time, Amazon has discounted some gift cards, which are always a nice gift idea around the holidays. If you know someone who's been itching to get some new clothes, Amazon has a $50 Aeropostale gift card discounted at the moment.

This $50 Aeropostale gift card has dropped to $42.50, which is a nice 15% discount for a limited time. As with a lot of items on Amazon right now, it has a note saying it'll arrive 12 days before Christmas, so you can plan ahead to get this gift card all wrapped up and tucked away.

SEE ALSO: Get 15% off a $50 Red Lobster gift card at Amazon ahead of the holidays

Aeropostale offers a massive selection of clothing options, so why not give the gift of shopping to someone this holiday season? Don't miss out on this limited-time deal on a $50 Aeropostale gift card at Amazon.

Looking for even more gift ideas? Have a look through Amazon's virtual holiday shop. The retailer has brought together the top 100 holiday gift ideas, from tech to toys, so you can get your holiday shopping done with ease. A lot of items also have dates on the side noting when they're expected to arrive, so you can make sure your gifts make it just in time.

After mass layoffs and a pivot to A.I., the tech industry has been scaling back on the splashy and quirky benefits it had become known for.

Donald Trump has, somewhat inevitably, been named Time's "Person of the Year" for a second time — and The Daily Show has some thoughts.

"This morning the editor of Time magazine came on TV to reveal who this year's person was, even though the moment you see the editor's face, you know right away it's Donald Trump," says host Michael Kosta, before playing a clip of editor Sam Jacobs looking deeply unenthusiastic as he makes the announcement.

"I'm super excited to be here, please don't be mad but it's the person we had to pick," says Kosta. "That's the most unenthusiastic reveal I've ever seen. That's how I act when my sister gives me scented lotion for Christmas. 'Okayyy, there it is.'"

The opposing paths taken by two powerful firms — Benchmark and Andreessen Horowitz — embody a profound debate about the future of an industry that funds and fosters American innovation.

There are two ways to watch Magnus von Horn's eerie Cannes competition drama Pigen med nålen, or The Girl with the Needle. Both are equally enticing. The first involves going in cold, and gradually discovering the chilling layers to its seemingly tempered plot. The second is with foreknowledge of the real history on which it's loosely based, a sordid 1920s saga that makes for fascinating true crime material.

Just in case, those details will be relegated to the end of this review, but either way, the movie makes for an enticing look at who gets their story told, and more importantly, how. The stark black-and-white cinematography emphasizes the violence and ugliness in the movie's margins (and at its core), making for a visceral period drama about motherhood and desperation.

What is The Girl with the Needle about? Credit: Courtesy of MUBI.

In the aftermath of World War I, a young working-class woman, Karoline (Vic Carmen Sonne), is evicted from her cramped attic apartment in Copenhagen. Her husband went missing on the front lines, but without confirmation of his death, she doesn't qualify for a widow's social assistance. A whirlwind romance with the owner of the factory where she works seems like a way out of poverty, but strict class norms ensure their relationship won't get very far, despite her being pregnant with his child.

Unable to fathom single motherhood in her social and economic position, she attempts a self-induced abortion at a public bath using a lengthy instrument — the needle of the title. It's a discomforting, wince-inducing scene that is, thankfully, interrupted by a kindly middle-aged woman, Dagmar (Trine Dyrholm), and her adolescent daughter. The helpful stranger tells Karoline, should she no longer want her child after she gives birth, to come find her.

Some time goes by, and the trials of early parenthood prove too much for Karoline, at which point she finally seeks Dagmar out at her confectionery. Dagmar takes the baby off Karoline's hands, promising to smuggle it to a family in need. The gap between acquiring unwanted children and Dagmar leaving to place them with new families is quick — a matter of days, if not mere hours — so Karoline has no time for regrets. However, the babies still need to be fed in the interim, and Karoline volunteers as a wet nurse for Dagmar's operation, if only as a means to allay any lingering guilt.

It takes about half of the film's nearly two-hour runtime for this central premise — the meeting of Karoline and Dagmar — to fall into place, but the movie endears us to Karoline's best and worst qualities in the interim.

The Girl with the Needle is enhanced by its layered performances. Credit: Courtesy of MUBI.

In one of the movie's earliest scenes, Karoline displays a playful meanness towards an adolescent boy, a fleeting moment that speaks to her volatile, youthful nature. The camera often captures Sonne in moments of uncomfortable restraint, where she's prevented from really moving, either by the frame or by any number of situations in which she's placed. For instance, in one scene the factory owner's wealthy mother has her forcefully examined by a gynecologist.

The camera always works in tandem with Sonne's performance — in tight close-ups, or otherwise — all but trapping her, as the high contrast of the images highlight her weary disposition. She's at the end of her rope from the moment the film begins, making her rejection of parenthood seem like not only the understandable choice, but the obvious one.

However, as soon as Dagmar appears, Dyrholm's self-assuredness proves liberating for Karoline. She essentially moves in with the mysterious do-gooder and begins taking care of her daughter in addition to the newborns being smuggled in and out. More importantly, she moves freely about Dagmar's apartment above her store, finding a sense of liberation and purpose — that is, until things at Dagmar's start to get a little strange. The men Dagmar spends her time with seem to know something Karoline does not, though perhaps having found some semblance of peace, she may not want to rock the boat.

Even Dagmar's daughter starts acting strangely and violently, hinting at elements of her upbringing that make Karoline curious about the exact nature of Dagmar's supposedly altruistic operation. All the while, Sonne anchors us to a journey where curiosity demands knowing more details, but the desire for peace and quiet requires the opposite, since her character has finally found respite from her situation.

For those unaware of where the story is headed, the film's gradual discoveries prove shocking and disorienting, sensations that Sonne wears just as comfortably as the character's exhaustion and calm.

A terrifying history informs The Girl with The Needle. Credit: Courtesy of MUBI.

Although the movie projects the real identity of Dagmar, it doesn't play its final hand until late into the story. Between the broad premise and a blink-and-you'll-miss-it apartment nameplate, it soon becomes clear that she's Dagmar Overbye, a notorious Danish serial killer responsible for murdering dozens of newborns and infants. Not knowing this beforehand leads to an unnerving experience that becomes gradually more terrifying, but foreknowledge of the movie's basis makes it harrowing from the get-go, as a film about the ways in which desperation can be corrupted and misused.

It's also, right from its opening scenes, a story about a victim — albeit a fictitious one — who is painted in nuanced and dynamic hues. Sonne often imbues Karoline with a short temper, making it hard for her to be liked but easy to be loved, knowing what she's going through at any given moment. The movie also spins a wildly interesting treatise on how violence and ugliness are treated in fiction, ideas that become magnified by its monochrome palette, as its most discomforting moments unfold just outside the camera's purview. We often want to know the gory details, but in crime-centric genres, what's often forgotten is the underlying humanity, a point made all the more lucid by telling Dagmar's story through the eyes of a victim.

SEE ALSO: Untangling true crime: Inside the ethics of Hollywood's greatest guilty pleasure

This element of The Girl with the Needle is also mirrored by a supporting character left badly disfigured by the war, whose kindness is touching but who finds himself rejected by society at every turn. He's rejected by Karoline too, though her gradual, firsthand understanding of loss (of other people, and of the self) makes her slowly change her tune, until she's able to show him sympathy. The film's notions of violence and revulsion are both closely observed and deeply felt, but they're eventually untangled from one another when true ugliness is exposed from the shadows, making the day-to-day discomforts over people's appearances and demeanors seem entirely insignificant.

In framing Karoline's fictitious story against a very real, very sickening tale of brutality, The Girl with the Needle poses questions about what really draws us to stories of violence and criminality. More importantly, it provides a vital counter-narrative to how those stories can be told, and where their soul and poetry truly lie.

The Girl with the Needle is currently in limited release.

TL;DR: Get the Speedy Mag Wireless Charger for just $34.97 (reg. $119) with on-time Christmas delivery when you order through December 15.

Say goodbye to cluttered cords and hello to effortless charging with the Speedy Mag Wireless Charger, a sleek and modern solution for your iPhone. Designed with both form and function in mind, this charger looks sleek and works smarter. And at just $34.97, it's an affordable gift option, too.

With a built-in magnet that securely attaches to your iPhone, you won't have to worry about your device sliding off mid-charge. It’s the perfect blend of practicality and style, making it a standout accessory for your tech setup.

Simply place your iPhone on the Speedy Mag, and it gets to work automatically, delivering fast and reliable power. Thanks to Speedy Charge technology, it produces quick power without needing to plug and unplug cables.

The charger’s design allows you to position your device however you like, with no additional adapters or cables required. Optimized specifically for iPhone 12 and newer models, it also supports Qi-enabled devices, making it versatile for multiple gadgets.

The MagSafe-compatible advantage gives it an edge over other wireless chargers, enabling even faster charging speeds while maintaining safety. The built-in safeguards protect your device from overcharging or overheating. Plus, with the ability to charge your iPhone 1.5 times in one go, it’s powerful enough to keep you connected all day.

Whether it’s on your nightstand, desk, or in your bag while traveling, the Speedy Mag Wireless Charger is an elegant and efficient way to power your iPhone.

It’s proof that charging can be an experience that complements your lifestyle. For anyone looking to ditch the cables and embrace a stylish, modern way to stay charged, this is an excellent choice.

Get the Speedy Mag Wireless Charger for just $34.97 (reg. $119) with on-time Christmas delivery when you order through December 15.

Speedy Mag Wireless Charger for iPhone - $34.97

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Opens in a new window Credit: SpeedyMag Speedy Mag Wireless Charger for iPhone $34.97
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TL;DR: Plantum is an iOS-exclusive app that identifies 33,000+ plants, diagnoses issues, and provides expert care tips in seconds — and it's on sale for $14.97.

If you’ve ever stood in your garden wondering what that mysterious plant is or how to revive your wilting fern, the Plantum AI Plant Identifier can be of help. This iOS-exclusive app turns your iPhone or iPad into a portable botanist, capable of identifying over 33,000 plant species in just three seconds.

For only $14.97 (regularly $59), it’s a lifetime subscription to expert plant advice, diagnosis, and care tips — all without the guesswork.

You'll be able to snap a quick photo of any plant — indoors or out — and instantly receive its name, care instructions, and even a diagnosis if it’s not thriving. Plantum also goes beyond identification with features like a light meter to find the perfect spot for your plant and tailored reminders to keep it healthy.

From watering schedules to fertilizer recommendations, it’s like having a green-thumbed best friend who never leaves your side.

Whether you’re a gardening novice or a seasoned plant whisperer, Plantum can be a game-changer. The app’s comprehensive database, curated with the expertise of botanists, provides detailed advice on soil, temperature, and sunlight needs. Even better, it diagnoses plant diseases with over 98 percent accuracy, offering practical solutions to save your greenery from common pitfalls.

For just $14.97, you’ll get lifetime access to Plantum’s premium features, making it the ideal gift for the gardener or outdoorsy type in your life. It’s easy to use, endlessly informative, and elevates your plant care game. And with no subscription fees, you’ll enjoy all these perks forever.

Get the Plantum AI Plant Identifier app for iOS devices for just $14.97 (regularly $59).

Plantum - AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan: Lifetime Subscription (For iOS Only) - $14.97

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Opens in a new window Credit: Plantum Plantum - AI Plant Identifier Premium Plan: Lifetime Subscription (For iOS Only) $14.97
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TL;DR: The Farberware Platinum Stick Vacuum is a cordless, flexible, and powerful vacuum on sale for just $179.99 (reg. $229).

Opens in a new window Credit: Farberware Farberware Cordless Platinum Stick Vacuum Cleaner $159.97
$229.99 Save $70.02 Get Deal

Cleaning doesn’t have to be a chore — at least not with the Farberware Cordless Platinum Stick Vacuum Cleaner on your side. This sleek, lightweight powerhouse is here to make tidying up feel less like a task.

Whether you’re tackling crumbs under the couch, pet hair on the carpet, or dust bunnies in the corners, this vacuum has the flexibility and smarts to handle it all. And at $179.99 (down from $229), it’s a great excuse to upgrade your cleaning routine without breaking the bank.

This vacuum is designed with a brushless motor that generates powerful suction. It also has smart sensor technology that adjusts to different debris types to help simplify cleaning. Its cordless design makes it a smart option for quick clean-ups in high-traffic areas, small apartments, or specific rooms where dragging out a heavy vacuum feels like a hassle.

The Farberware vacuum’s three versatile attachments — lighted motor brush, dust brush, and flat nozzle — can tackle nearly every surface with precision. What sets this vacuum apart is its smart, user-friendly features. The bendable wand makes cleaning under furniture a breeze, while the LED light on the motor brush ensures no speck of dust goes unnoticed.

The digital LED screen keeps you informed on battery life and brush speed settings, so you’re always in control. And with up to 36 minutes of runtime, it’s perfect for tackling small messes without interruption.

When you’re done, the large-capacity dustbin is easy to empty. The wall-mounted storage and charging station ensures the vacuum is always ready for its next job. Plus, the washable filter makes maintenance simple and cost-effective.

Order through Dec. 15 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get this Farberware Platinum Stick Vacuum for just $179.99 and delivered in time for Christmas. 

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TL;DR: Transform your home with two app-enabled RGB LED floor lamps featuring 16 million colors for just $84.97.

Opens in a new window Credit: Rochas Divine Mart 56-inch RGB LED App-Enabled Remote Floor Lamp (2-Pack) $84.97
$199.98 Save $115.01 Get Deal

Imagine a world in which the lighting perfectly matches your mood — whether it's a cozy movie night glow, a vibrant party vibe, or a calming retreat after a long day. With this 2-pack of 56-inch RGB LED app-enabled floor lamps, you can create that magic instantly.

For just $84.97 (regularly $199), these lamps let you choose from 16 million colors and 68 dynamic lighting modes, all customizable through an app, remote control, or Bluetooth.

These slim, modern lamps fit snugly into any corner, making them a stylish addition to your living room, bedroom, office, or game room. Want to amp things up? Sync the lights to your playlist, and watch as they dance to the beat.

Maybe you're hosting a dinner party. In that case, set the perfect ambiance with just a tap on your phone. From everyday vibes to special occasions, these lamps add a pop of personality to any space.

What makes these lamps stand out is their sheer versatility. They’re not just functional, they’re also fun. Adjust the brightness from 1% to 100% for the perfect glow, whether you're relaxing with a book or throwing a holiday party. The duoCo StripX app makes customization a breeze, while the included remote and Bluetooth compatibility ensure you’re always in control.

Beyond lighting, these lamps are about convenience. The timer feature lets you schedule your lighting to wake you up gently in the morning or dim as you wind down at night. Plus, their slim, lightweight design means they’ll fit into any space without hogging all the real estate.

Order through Dec. 15 at 11:59 p.m. PT to get these two app-enabled RGB LED floor lamps for just $84.97 (reg. $199).

StackSocial prices subject to change.

As 2024 comes to a close, it's time to take a look back at the best TV shows this year had to offer. And wouldn't you know it, there were a lot of great series to take in.

We were floored by the historical epic Shōgun, stressed out by every second of Industry, and thoroughly unsettled by Baby Reindeer. We rejoiced in the return of shows like We Are Lady Parts, Interview with the Vampire, and Arcane, and couldn't get enough of new favorites like English Teacher and Fallout. But there's so much more TV excellence where those came from!

SEE ALSO: The 25 best movies of 2024, and where to watch them

From samurai and spies to vampires and detectives, here are the 21 best TV shows of 2024 so far, and where to watch them.

21. Silo Season 2

The tense claustrophobia of Silo continues in its second season, with Juliette Nichols (Rebecca Ferguson) finding herself in a new (and equally nightmarish) spot while her home descends toward a full-scale riot in her absence. Like the first season, the continuation of Graham Yost's dystopian thriller — based on Hugh Howey's book series of the same name — is filled with twists and revelations, tension and power struggles. Season 1 was a tough act to follow, but Season 2 plunges us even deeper into the silo's murky and mysterious depths. — Sam Haysom, Deputy UK Editor

How to watch: Silo is now streaming on AppleTV+.

20. Colin from Accounts Season 2

Colin From Accounts is one of those rare comedies that actually makes you laugh out loud. Husband-wife team Patrick Brammall and Harriet Dyer's messy rom-com started off with two strangers (played by Brammall and Dyer) being brought together by an injured dog (the titular Colin). Season 2 picks up where we left off, bringing in a new host of expectedly chaotic situations and family members while keeping the same hilariously cringey tone.

"The show is consistently funny, occasionally moving, and permanently fun to watch, with characters you alternate between groaning at and rooting for," I wrote in my Mashable review. "Like Colin, we're quickly swept up into the chaos of their lives, carried along, and made all the happier for it." — S.H.

How to watch: Colin from Accounts is now streaming on Paramount+.

19. A Man on the Inside

A Man on the Inside reunites The Good Place creator Mike Schur with star Ted Danson. And wouldn't you know it, this comedy is just as likely to make you laugh and pull at your heartstrings as their first team-up. 

SEE ALSO: 'A Man on the Inside' review: Ted Danson and Mike Schur reunite for sweet sitcom gold

Based on the 2020 documentary The Mole Agent, A Man on the Inside follows retired professor Charles (Danson) as he teams up with private investigator Julie (Lilah Richcreek Estrada). His mission? To go undercover at a retirement home and recover stolen jewelry. Of course, hijinks are soon to follow, as Charles bumbles through the challenges of using spy equipment and assimilating into the home's clique-y community. However, it's not long before Charles finds himself opening up to the people around him, leading to the real heart of A Man on the Inside: its deeply affecting portrayal of aging.

Throughout the first season, characters reckon with distant family members, dementia, and losing their friends, and Schur and A Man on the Inside's stellar ensemble — which also includes Stephanie Beatriz, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Stephen McKinley Henderson, and Sally Struthers — ensure that these difficult stories are given the time and gravity they deserve. With its sweetness, sensitivity, and a steady flow of great gags, we can chalk A Man on the Inside up as another win for Schur and Danson.* — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

How to watch: A Man on the Inside is now streaming on Netflix.

18. One Day

In February, we did a whole lot of TV-induced crying, as Netflix's One Day broke our damn hearts. An ambitious, romantic, and fresh adaptation of David Nicholls' novel, this impeccable, slow-burn series gave the story more room to breathe than Lone Scherfig's 2011 film. Following students Emma and Dex (magnetic, lived-in performances by Ambika Mod and Leo Woodall) across decades of their complex friendship, One Day makes a cinematic epic of long-game love while unpacking the politics of privilege in relationships. Even hearing the name of the series will induce starry-eyed looks into the horizon and a palm to the heart.* — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

How to watch: One Day is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: Netflix's 'One Day' review: A magnificent adaptation and ode to long love 17. Boy Swallows Universe

A dark but genuinely funny tale of suburban crime brimming with magical realism, the Netflix adaptation of Trent Dalton's novel Boy Swallows Universe is one of 2024's unsung heroes — much like its pint-sized protagonist, 13-year-old Eli Bell (played by outstandingly talented youngster Felix Cameron). Chock-full of '80s Australiana, the series is set in the working-class Brisbane suburb of Darra, where Eli navigates school bullies and a turbulent family life as well as he handles hard-edged criminals with his imaginative brother, Gus (Lee Tiger Halley). It's a heartfelt, unsettling, and hilarious journey through young adolescence, the reality of addiction, and brutal crime, with a killer Aussie soundtrack. — S.C.

How to watch: Boy Swallows Universe is now streaming on Netflix.

SEE ALSO: 'Boy Swallows Universe' review: The stuff TV adaptation dreams are made of 16. The Sympathizer

Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer Prize–winning novel The Sympathizer got an absolutely tremendous TV adaptation thanks to co-creators Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar.

SEE ALSO: 'The Sympathizer' review: Park Chan-wook's Vietnam War spy thriller is TV magic

The Sympathizer centers on a Communist spy simply known as the Captain (Hoa Xuande, whose performance here should make him a star), who is recounting his experiences during and after the Vietnam War. Half-Vietnamese and half-French, the Captain feels torn between two worlds, a feeling that only grows when he's told to continue spying in America following the fall of Saigon. From here, The Sympathizer jumps into a probing exploration of memory and allegiance that doubles as sharp satire. Boasting stylish direction from Park and a cast that includes Sandra Oh and Robert Downey Jr. (in four roles with varying degrees of success), The Sympathizer is a more than worthy adaptation of a great novel. — B.E.  

How to watch: The Sympathizer is now streaming on Max.

15. Fallout

TV has gifted us with some stellar video game adaptations in recent years, from Arcane to Castlevania to The Last of Us. In 2024, Fallout joined their ranks, delivering a first season that was bonkers fun (and full of references to the games).

SEE ALSO: 'Fallout' review: Video game adaptation is a wild nuclear Western

Created by Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner, Fallout introduced us to a post-apocalyptic nuclear wasteland where rival factions and mutant creatures run amok. Here, an optimistic Vault dweller named Lucy (Ella Purnell), a Brotherhood of Steel novice named Maximus (Aaron Moten), and an irradiated bounty hunter known simply as the Ghoul (Walton Goggins) cross paths in a journey that will change the wasteland as they know it. With its tantalizing mysteries, zany cast of characters, and gnarly world-building, Fallout is an absolute blast whether you've played the games or not. — B.E.

How to watch: Fallout is now streaming on Prime Video.

14. Pachinko Season 2

Showrunner Soo Hugh's decades-spanning family drama Pachinko just keeps getting better in Season 2. Based on Min Jin Lee's acclaimed novel of the same name, the series splits its time between the lives of Sunja (Minha Kim) and her grandson Solomon (Jin Ha). While Sunja fights to keep her family intact in Osaka in 1945, Solomon struggles to kickstart his own real estate venture in Tokyo in 1989. Their stories may seem different on the surface, but Sunja's past constantly echoes into Solomon's present, with the two facing similar issues of assimilation and prejudice as Koreans living in Japan. These similarities create breathtaking parallels between the show's two halves, knitting together what might seem like an impossible balancing act. Add to that some standout episodes — including a heartbreaking farewell and a jaw-dropping take on the bombing of Nagasaki — and you get an outstanding historical epic. — B.E.

How to watch: Pachinko is now streaming on AppleTV+.

SEE ALSO: 'Pachinko' Season 2 review: Decades-spanning family drama makes a triumphant return 13. Mr. & Mrs. Smith

Francesca Sloane and Donald Glover's Mr. & Mrs. Smith is anything but a stale remake. Instead, this infinitely enjoyable reimagining of the 2005 film pairs two new spies (Glover and Maya Erskine) together in a fake marriage. How long until they catch real feelings for one another?

SEE ALSO: 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith' review: Donald Glover and Maya Erskine's series is sleek, sexy, and super fun

The answer? Not that long! Each of Mr. & Mrs. Smith's eight episodes smartly dive into a new aspect of relationships, from first dates to discussions about wanting kids. These marital milestones are accompanied by a new mission from week to week. Between ski trips in Italy, silent auctions in New York, and a Lake Como car chase gone awry, each assignment ushers in new opportunities for stylish action. Glover and Erskine ooze charm and chemistry, while a rotating gallery of guest stars — Parker Posey! John Turturro! Paul Dano! — keeps things fresh. Smart, sleek, and sexy, Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a TV show that truly embraces episodic storytelling. I'd gladly devour five (or more) seasons of it. — B.E.

How to watch: Mr. & Mrs. Smith is now streaming on Prime Video.

12. The Penguin

No Batman? That's no problem for The Penguin, which puts Oz Cobb (an unrecognizable Colin Farrell) in the spotlight.

SEE ALSO: 'The Penguin' review: Colin Farrell and Cristin Milioti deliver the goods in Gotham crime drama

Showrunner Lauren LeFranc uses the genre trappings of classic gangster dramas (The Sopranos is a big inspiration here) to explore Oz's attempts to rise through Gotham's criminal underworld, as well as understand just what makes him tick. The answer? A sense of duty to his mother, Francis (Deirdre O'Connell), which comes to a head in a series of monstrous revelations in The Penguin's astounding final episodes. Also lighting up The Penguin is Sofia Falcone (a brilliant Cristin Milioti), whose desire to shed her family ties makes her a formidable adversary for Oz. Heck, I wouldn't blame you for rooting for her instead — I certainly was. But that's the power of The Penguin, which delivers a rich, character-driven story of villains and antiheroes without relying on the Caped Crusader one bit. Who needs him? — B.E.

How to watch: The Penguin is now streaming on Max.

11. We Are Lady Parts Season 2

After three long years on hiatus, We Are Lady Parts is back with a second season that was well worth the wait. 

SEE ALSO: Malala Yousafzai in 'We Are Lady Parts' is the cameo of the year

Created by Nida Manzoor, this sensational comedy series centers on Lady Parts, a punk band made up of Muslim women who are figuring out life, love, friendship, and faith in contemporary London. Between the setting and some familiar themes, Season 2 has echoes of Bridgerton, but with an irreverent sense of humor that is not only totally modern but also absolutely hilarious. Whether following wallflower guitarist Amina (Anjana Vasan), hard-headed frontwoman Saira (Sarah Kameela Impey), warm-hearted bassist Bisma (Faith Omole), mercurial drummer Ayesha (Juliette Motamed), or their ever-strategic manager Momtaz (Lucie Shorthouse), We Are Lady Parts rocks, peppered with playful punchlines, rapturous fantasy sequences, rousing musical numbers, and a cameo from the one-and-only Malala Yousafzai. Whether you're new to this series or not, Season 2 is too good to be missed. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: We Are Lady Parts is now streaming on Peacock in the U.S. and Channel 4 in the UK.

10. Ripley

Andrew Scott awed TV audiences as the theatrically malicious Moriarty in Sherlock, then as the scorchingly Hot Priest in Fleabag. But with Ripley, he plays a very different game. 

SEE ALSO: Does 'Ripley's murder scene count as ASMR?

Adapted from Patricia Highsmith's classic novel The Talented Mr. Ripley, this drama miniseries from Steven Zaillian lures audiences into the seductive world of Thomas Ripley, American social climber turned con man and killer. Offered a free trip to Italy to reclaim an industrialist's expatriate heir, Ripley sees a whole new world open before him: one of privilege, art, and endless opportunities all tied to status and money. But to claim a bit of it himself, he'll have to get his hands dirty. While you might know the story (or the Matt Damon movie), the patience with which this slow-burn series doles it out allows audiences to luxuriate in Highsmith's high-stakes game of jealousy, deception, and murder. The result is a show that feels like a lost holiday: alluring, surprising, and sure to linger on your mind, heart, and soul. — K.P.

How to watch: Ripley is now streaming on Netflix.

9. True Detective: Night Country

True Detective came back with a vengeance for its fourth season, this time helmed by Tigers Are Not Afraid director Issa López. For this new installment of the anthology series, we travel to Ennis, Alaska, a small community about to enter a period of nonstop night.

SEE ALSO: Everything you need to know about 'True Detective: Night Country'

But darkness isn't the only thing the citizens of Ennis have to worry about. When a group of scientists turn up dead in what can only be described as a "corpsicle," former police partners Danvers (Jodie Foster) and Navarro (Kali Reis) reluctantly team back up to find out who's responsible. As they investigate this case — as well as a murder from years ago that could be linked — the two uncover painful truths about themselves and about Ennis. Oh, and ghosts may or may not be involved. Bleak, enthralling, and anchored by wonderful work from Foster and Reis, Night Country proves there's still power in True Detective yet. — B.E.

How to watch: True Detective: Night Country is now streaming on Max.

8. Fantasmas

Comedian Julio Torres had a banner 2024. Not only is his directorial debut Problemista one of the best movies of 2024 — his latest TV show, HBO's Fantasmas, is also one of the year's standout series.

SEE ALSO: 'Fantasmas' review: Surreal Julio Torres comedy is like nothing else on TV

This surreal comedy follows a fictionalized version of Torres as he hunts for a lost golden oyster-shaped earring. His quest veers off into a series of bizarro, cameo-rich vignettes that dive into the inner lives of objects and concepts or introduce us to strange new characters. Steve Buscemi inhabits the tragic story of the letter Q, for example, while Emma Stone pops up as a Real Housewife-esque figure. Bolstered by singular production design and a sprawling ensemble, Fantasmas cements itself as one of the most original shows of the year — and the most radical. It tackles everything from the American healthcare system to the ways in which corporations commodify identity, making for a fascinating portrayal of how people struggle to be themselves (and how artists struggle to make art) in our capitalist society. — B.E.

How to watch: Fantasmas is now streaming on Max.

7. Arcane Season 2

2024 blessed us with the return of high-profile fantasy series like House of the Dragon and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, but it's Arcane Season 2 that wins this year's fantasy crown.

SEE ALSO: 'Arcane' Season 2 review: The best fantasy show of 2024, hands-down

Netflix's League of Legends–based series returns us to the feuding cities of Piltover and Zaun, with estranged sisters Vi (voiced by Hailee Steinfeld) and Jinx (voiced by Ella Purnell) caught smack-dab in the middle. What follows is a brutal examination of how war pushes people to their extremes, and how even well-intentioned actions can have devastating consequences. But that's not all! Arcane goes bolder and weirder in Season 2, yet never skimps on its emotional heft. In one of the season's most poignant, heart-wrenching arcs, the resurrection of Vander (voiced by JB Blanc) as the monstrous wolf hybrid Warwick offers Jinx and Vi a chance to reunite their family, broken as it may be. Elsewhere, Viktor (voiced by Harry Lloyd) and his Hextech commune offer up a take on transhumanism that is idealistic and disquieting all at once, before jumping full steam ahead into cosmic horror. All these nuances come to life with breathtaking, fearless animation courtesy of Fortiche Productions. And while we could have used maybe one or two more episodes to iron out some unwieldy pacing choices, there's no doubt Arcane is one of the most stunning, ambitious series of the year.* — B.E.

How to watch: Arcane Season 2 is now streaming on Netflix.

6. Somebody Somewhere Season 3

Raise one last teeny 'tini to Somebody Somewhere, whose third and final season cements the series as one of the best comedies in recent memory — and one of the most low-key. But that low key-ness is the show's secret weapon. Co-created by Hannah Bos and Paul Thureen, Somebody Somewhere presents a deeply naturalistic look at the life of Manhattan, Kansas, native Sam (Bridget Everett), from her close friendships to her complicated family life.

SEE ALSO: 'Somebody Somewhere' Season 3 review: The best comedy you're not watching comes to a brilliant close

This season focuses on the idea of "GAAO," or Growth Against All Odds. Many people in Sam's circle are coupling up or going after their dreams, leaving Sam worried that she's falling behind. What can she do to move her own life forward and ensure her happiness? Just like in real life, Somebody Somewhere doesn't give a clean-cut solution. However, its emphasis on the ties that bind — especially Sam's ride-or-die friendship with Joel (Jeff Hiller) — and the importance of maintaining them is answer enough. Heartwarming and heartbreaking in equal measure, Somebody Somewhere's emotional authenticity is unmatched, and the best end-of-year present you can give yourself is watching it. Immediately. — B.E.

How to watch: Somebody Somewhere is now streaming on Max.

5. English Teacher

2024's best comedy comes to us courtesy of Brian Jordan Alvarez, whose viral TikToks and webseries The Gay and Wondrous Life of Caleb Gallo have already earned him the title of Internet Darling. Now, he conquers TV with English Teacher, a breakneck show whose comedic specificity and killer ensemble cast are exactly what sitcom dreams are made of.

SEE ALSO: 'English Teacher' review: High school-set sitcom is a hilarious must-watch

Alvarez plays Evan Marquez, an English teacher at an Austin public high school where every day brings a new crisis. From overbearing parents and dramatic camping trips to gun safety clubs and controversial drag performances, Evan and his fellow teachers have been through it all. Do they actually know what they're doing? Not really. They, along with their students, are bumbling through a complicated educational landscape, trying to do what's right. But English Teacher refuses to be an overly moralistic after-school special. Even the best intentions can lead to the worst gaffes (and therefore, some incredible comedy). — B.E.

How to watch: English Teacher is now streaming on Hulu.

4. Interview with the Vampire Season 2

Season 1 of this audacious adaptation of Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles played like a "brilliant gay fever dream," making explicit the queer romance that was implied in the titular novel. With Season 2, the toxic love of Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson) and Lestat de Lioncourt (Sam Reid) lives on — even if the latter is presumed dead. 

SEE ALSO: 'Interview with the Vampire' Season 2 review: Theater, romance, and bloody good TV

Looking back on his time as a blood-sucker, Louis unfurls flashbacks of war-torn Europe, his resentful sister Claudia (Delainey Hayles), grisly theater kid drama, and a budding romance with the vampire Armand (Assad Zaman). Blending elements from several Anne Rice novels — including The Vampire Lestat and The Tale of the Body Thief — showrunner Rolin Jones is giving fans plenty to sink their teeth into. Yet for all this sensational show's splashes of blood, vicious humor, queer longing, and vampire lore, the best bit is the incredible charisma oozing from every single cast member. Whether they're prancing on a stage, fighting in a catacomb, flirting in Paris, or musing in present-day Dubai, they are as captivating as Rice described her immortal beloveds. So no matter how twisted things get, we can't look away! — K.P.

How to watch: Interview with the Vampire Season 2 is now streaming on AMC+.

3. Baby Reindeer

For better or worse, Baby Reindeer is a show that sticks with you: It's amusing in parts, tense in others, and emotionally shattering overall. Based on creator Richard Gadd's own experience of being stalked, the series follows the budding comedian (who plays a version of himself) as he balances career disappointment with his job in a London pub — until a woman named Martha (a brilliant and terrifying Jessica Gunning) comes in one day and develops an obsession with him. "This isn't the type of show with a clear resolution," I wrote in my review for Mashable. "It's messy, thought-provoking, and — like a dream that's difficult to shake — you'll find your mind going back to it long after the credits have rolled." — S.H.

How to watch: Baby Reindeer is now streaming on Netflix.

2. Industry Season 3

For its first two seasons, Industry's cocktail of sex, drugs, and business earned it comparisons to Succession, Euphoria, and Skins. But in its third outing, Industry puts those comparisons to rest with its most ambitious season yet.

SEE ALSO: 'Industry' stars Myha'la and Marisa Abela break down Harper and Yasmin's big fight: 'This is the end for them'

Co-creators Mickey Down and Konrad Kay pull no punches in Season 3. Not only do we get new high-profile characters (played by the likes of Game of Thrones' Kit Harington and Barry's Sarah Goldberg), we also get flashbacks, drug-induced visions, solo character episodes, and references to everything from Uncut Gems to period dramas. Somehow it all works, with the formal experimentation coming to resemble the high-risk, high-reward gains Pierpoint & Co.'s employees chase day after day. It's thrilling to watch any show broaden its scope and take risks, but it's even more thrilling to watch said risks succeed. That's why Industry is the year's most exhilarating — and of course, stressful — TV-viewing experience. — B.E.

How to watch: Industry is now streaming on Max.

1. Shōgun

There's good TV, there's great TV, and then there's TV that's so excellent it feels unfair. Shōgun is the latter.

SEE ALSO: 'Shōgun' co-creators break down the finale: 'It's a story about death'

An immaculately crafted historical epic that never loses sight of the personal stakes that drive it, Shōgun drops us into Japan in 1600. Here, an embattled Council of Regents ousts the powerful Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) just as an English vessel lands in Japan for the first time. Toranaga brings the vessel's pilot John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) into his retinue and, with the help of noblewoman Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai), attempts to best his enemies as Japan inches closer and closer to civil war. 

Told almost entirely in Japanese, and produced with a focus on cultural authenticity in mind, Shōgun is breathtaking and devastating in equal measure. Sanada, Sawai, and Jarvis are tremendous, along with the entire cast. And while you might come into this epic expecting action and political intrigue (don't worry, you get both), you'll really leave with a sense of mournful contemplation, as Shōgun takes time to examine our relationship to death and to the secret desires that truly drive us. There's no doubt about it: This is the best show of 2024. — B.E.

How to watch: Shōgun is now streaming on Hulu.

(*) denotes that this blurb has been modified from a different list.

15% OFF: Red Lobster's $50 gift card is discounted by 15% at Amazon, dropping its price to $42.50.

Opens in a new window Credit: Red Lobster Red Lobster Gift Card $42.50 at Amazon
$50.00 Save $7.50 Get Deal

The holidays are fast approaching, and if you're still looking for some gift ideas, Amazon's here to help. For a limited time, it's offering some nice discounts on select gift cards. One of our favorites at the moment is a discount on a $50 Red Lobster gift card, which is a great gift for those who love seafood and delicious Cheddar Bay Biscuits.

This $50 Red Lobster gift card has a 15% discount right now at Amazon, dropping its price to $42.50. Amazon also has a notice above the 'Add to Cart' button that says it'll arrive 10 days before Christmas, so there's no need to worry about any delays before the holidays.

SEE ALSO: Score a free $30 gift card when you buy the 256GB Meta Quest 3S from Best Buy

This limited-time deal won't last long, so save on this $50 Red Lobster gift card before the deal is gone and enjoy some seafood this holiday season.

Amazon has even more that's worth exploring ahead of the holidays in its virtual Holiday Shop. There, you can see the retailer's top 100 holiday gift ideas, which range from tech to toys and so much more. Many of these gifts will have notices similar to this gift card that will let you know when it will arrive before the holidays, so you can plan out your shopping accordingly.

BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE: As of Dec. 13, Best Buy is offering a "buy one, get one free" deal on Samsung TVs. If you buy a select Samsung 75-inch TV, you'll get a 32-inch TV for free.

Opens in a new window Credit: Samsung Buy One, Get One Free on Samsung TVs at Best Buy Get Deal

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are dead, long live Best Buy's doorbuster deals.

If you've been waiting for an opportunity to kit out your house with top-quality TVs, the latest doorbuster deal from Best Buy is for you. As of Dec. 13, Best Buy is giving away a free 32-inch Samsung class TV with any purchase of a select 75-inch Samsung class TV. And better yet, a one-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership is thrown in for free.

SEE ALSO: Score a 48-inch LG B4 TV for under $700 at Best Buy

The 32-inch model usually costs $229.99. And the 75-inch TV is down to $549.99 from its list price of $749.99. That's a total discount of over $400 on a pair of top TVs. The 75-inch model would look great in any home, and the 32-inch is an excellent option for any smaller spaces.

"Buy one, get one free" deals like this don't tend to stick around for very long. If you've been hoping to upgrade your TV setup, we recommend taking advantage of this limited-time offer at Best Buy.

The best deals to watch 'Joker: Folie à Deux' at a glance: BEST MAX DEAL Max (With Ads) annual subscription $99.99 per year (save 16%) Get Deal BEST DEAL WITH NO ADS Max Ad-Free annual subscription $169.99/year (save 16%) Get Deal BEST FOR CRICKET CUSTOMERS Max (With Ads) Free for Cricket customers on the $60/month unlimited plan (save $9.99/month) Learn More BEST FOR STUDENTS Max Student $4.99 per month for 12 months (save 50%) Get Deal BEST NON-STREAMING OPTION Buy 'Joker: Folie à Deux' on Prime Video $12.99 (save $7) Get Deal

Todd Phillips' ambitious sequel and box office dud Joker: Folie à Deux seeks to find a new audience this week with its official streaming debut. Starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga, the film was met with some rough reviews upon its theatrical release. Streaming is a different ball game, though, and could be the platform that finally puts the divisive film in front of the right audience.

If you missed the Joker sequel in theaters, it's officially available to stream as of Friday, Dec. 13. Here's everything you need to know.

What is Joker 2 about?

The musical sequel to the 2019 supervillain origin story, Joker: Folie à Deux sees Joaquin Phoenix reprise his role as clown-faced criminal Arthur Fleck slash Joker. Now institutionalized at Arkham State Hospital and awaiting trial for his crimes, Joker meets fellow patient Lee Quinzel, aka Harley Quinn (Lady Gaga). Sharing his affinity for violence and mayhem, sparks fly immediately. Most of the film then sees Arthur enduring a trial while escaping into his imagination to sing, frolic, and go on murderous sprees with Lee.

Joker 2 also stars Oscar nominees Brendan Gleeson and Catherine Keener, alongside Zazie Beetz, reprising her role from the first film.

Check out the official trailer below:

Is the Joker sequel worth watching?

There are some sequels that get it right, like Smile 2 and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, and there are others that swing and miss. We found that Joker: Folie à Deux is the latter — and we're not the only ones. Or, as Mashable's reviewer Kristy Puchko wrote, "This sequel feels like a punishment."

On Rotten Tomatoes, the Joker sequel has just a 32 percent critic and audience rating. Its box office debut was largely a flop. Warner Bros. sources claim the film needed to make $375 million worldwide to break even; its worldwide box office tally peaked at $206 million.

Of course, like every other film, whether it's worth watching is subjective. You might love it. It could end up becoming a cult classic years from now. If you're a Gaga fan, you'll probably want to watch it simply for her star power. For what it's worth, several big names actually praised Joker 2, including Quentin Tarantino and John Waters, so it can't be that bad.

Check out our full review of Joker: Folie à Deux.

How to watch Joker: Folie à Deux at home Credit: Warner Bros. Pictures

The Joker sequel became available to watch at home via video-on-demand sites like Prime Video and Apple TV as of Oct. 29. You can purchase the film for your digital collection or rent it for 30 days. If you'd rather stream it instead, keep scrolling to learn more about its streaming debut.

Note: Renting a film gives you 30 days to watch and just 48 hours to finish once you begin.

You can purchase and rent the film at the following retailers:

• Prime Video — buy for $12.99 (save $7)

• Apple TV — buy for $12.99 (save $7), rent for $5.99

• Fandango at Home (Vudu) — buy for $19.99, rent for $5.99

• YouTube — buy for $19.99, rent for $5.99

• Google Play — buy for $19.99, rent for $5.99

Opens in a new window Credit: Prime Video Buy 'Joker: Folie à Deux' on VOD $12.99 at Prime Video
$19.99 Save $7.00 Watch Now Is Joker 2 streaming?

As a Warner Bros. film, Joker: Folie à Deux is set to make its streaming debut on Max, the Warner Bros. Discovery-owned streamer on Dec. 13. Yes, that's Friday the 13th (what could go wrong?). The original Joker film from 2019 is also streaming on Max, so you can make it a double feature. Max subscriptions start at $9.99 per month, but there are a few ways you can save some money on your plan. Check out the best Max streaming deals below.

Best Max streaming deal for most people: Save 16% on Max with ads annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max (with ads) yearly subscription $99.99 per year (save 16%) Watch Now

If ads aren't a deal breaker for you, Max will only cost you $9.99 per month. You can easily just sign up for a single month, watch Joker 2 and whatever else you want to within that time frame, then cancel before you're charged for another month. Or you could save some money by sticking around for the long haul. An annual plan with ads will run you $99.99 per year, which breaks down to just $8.33 per month instead — about a 16% savings compared to the monthly plan. The only downside is that you have to splurge on a full year upfront.

Best Max deal with no ads: Save 16% on a Max Ad-Free annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max (No Ads) annual subscription $169.99 per year (save 16%) Watch Now

Can't stand ads interrupting your viewing experience? You have two options to choose from: Max Ad-Free and Max Ultimate Ad-Free. The basic ad-free tier costs $16.99 per month, while the Max Ultimate tier costs $20.99 per month. However, we recommend choosing a yearly plan instead, as you'll save about 16%. It'll only cost you $169.99 per year (about $14.17 per month) for Max Ad-Free or $209.99 per year (about $17.50 per month) for Max Ultimate.

Note: Both tiers offer an ad-free viewing experience, but the Ultimate tier takes things a step further with 4K Ultra HD video quality and Dolby Atmos immersive audio.

Best Max deal for Cricket customers: Free Max with ads for customers on the $60/month unlimited plan Opens in a new window Credit: Cricket / Max Max (with ads) Free for Cricket customers on the $60/month plan Watch Now

If ever there was a reason to sign up for Cricket Wireless, here it is: Cricket customers on the $60 per month unlimited plan get Max with ads for free (a $99.99 value). If you're on the $60 per month plan, just head over to the Max app (or navigate to Max.com), choose Cricket as your provider, and enter your credentials to log in. Then you're free to watch whatever you want, whenever you want — including Joker: Folie à Deux if you choose. Peep the terms and conditions on Cricket's website to learn more.

Best Max deal for students: Save 50% on Max with ads monthly for one year Opens in a new window Credit: Max Max Student $4.99 per month for 12 months Get Deal

College students can get 50% off a Max monthly subscription with ads for an entire year, dropping the price down to only $4.99 per month. As long as you can verify your student status through UNiDAYS, you'll get a unique discount code that lets you knock half off the full price of Max.

Best bundle deal: Get Max, Disney+, and Hulu for up to 38% off Opens in a new window Credit: Disney / Hulu / Max Disney+, Hulu, and Max $16.99 per month (with ads), $29.99 per month (no ads) Get Deal

It may not be the cheapest way to watch Joker 2, but you can definitely get more bang for your buck by snagging the bundle deal that includes Max, Hulu, and Disney+. Enjoy all three libraries with ads for only $16.99 (reg. $25.97) per month or ad-free for $29.99 (reg. $48.97) per month, which is up to 38% in savings.

The 2024 Game Awards took place in Los Angeles' Peacock Theater on Thursday night, with developers travelling from across the globe to celebrate this year in video games.

Now in its 10th year, The Game Awards have become known for new game announcements and previews as much as they are for celebrity appearances, weird marketing stunts, and forcing timid game developers to awkwardly deliver speeches in front of thousands of people. 

Here are all the biggest announcements from The Game Awards 2024.

SEE ALSO: 'Split Fiction' hands-on: A co-op adventure through sci-fi and fantasy worlds The Witcher IV announced, almost a decade after last game

The 2024 Game Awards started out strong with the announcement of The Witcher IV from CD Projeckt Red. The fourth game in the Witcher series, The Witcher IV will break from its predecessors by following former supporting character Ciri rather than previous protagonist Geralt — and it looks as though she's shaping up to be just as formidable a monster slayer as he is.

The Witcher IV will be a single-player open-world roleplaying game though, with CD Project Red stating that it "marks the beginning of a new saga with Ciri as a protagonist." This project is the studio's first new game since 2020's Cyberpunk 2077, and the first new title in the Witcher series since The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt in 2015. 

Elden Ring co-op spin-off Elden Ring: Nightreign unveiled

Considering how popular FromSoftware's Elden Ring was in 2022, it's unsurprising that we're getting more games in the same universe. What is surprising is that Elden Ring: Nightreign will be a three-person co-op action survival game, and is a spin-off rather than a sequel. Fortunately it will also support singleplayer, so you won't always need to wait for your friends to play.

Elden Ring: Nightreign will have players work together to survive the "everchanging" land of Limveld and level up one of eight characters, each of whom have their own special abilities. Survive for three days, and you'll have to face the dangerous Nightlords.

Though the game will have many of the same weapons and enemies found in Elden Ring, the world will be different in every playthrough. New key locations, enemies, and weapons will appear or shift around in each new game, FromSoftware stating that players will have to overcome "the map itself."

Elden Ring: Nightreign is currently planned for release on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and PC in 2025.

Untitled game from Shadow of the Colossus developer teased

We don't even know the title of this game, but its pedigree already makes it one that many people will want to keep an eye on. The Game Awards offered a brief glimpse at a new game from genDESIGN and its founder Fumito Ueda, the creator behind notable titles such as Ico, Shadow of the Colossus, and The Last Guardian.

Borderlands 4 offers official first look

Borderlands 4 was previously announced with a teaser trailer in August, but now we have our official first look at 2K Games' next entry in the popular franchise. 

The new first-person loot shooter will pick up after the events of Borderlands 3, when — spoiler alert — Siren Lilith averted a disastrous collision by teleporting Pandora's moon Elpis to an unknown location. It turns out that said location was the atmosphere above Kairos, which did not do great things for the protective barrier surrounding the planet.

Borderlands 4 positions players as a Vault Hunter searching for treasure, wealth, and glory after crash landing on Kairos several years later. It may not all be hedonistic self-interest though. Players will contend with The Timekeeper, Kairos' ruthless dictator and leader of an army of synthetic soldiers known as The Order. Also opposing him are the Rippers led by their formidable Queen Callis, making the situation on Kairos volatile to say the least.

The game will support solo players as well as co-op games, with two-player local split screen or up to four players online. Borderlands 4 is scheduled to arrive on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC in 2025.

New Virtua Fighter game from Yakuza's studio in development

Virtua Fighter is a hugely influential fighting game series. Considered the first ever 3D fighting game, the game has informed and inspired numerous others since its first title was released in 1993. Even so, there hasn't been a new Virtua Fighter game since Virtua Fighter 5 in 2007. This is about to change.

SEGA announced a new Virtua Fighter game during Thursday's Game Awards, this time led by Like a Dragon/Yakuza developer Ryu Ga Gotoku. In a subsequent livestream, SEGA President and COO Shuji Utsumi also revealed that the original Virtua Fighter team has also returned to work on the game for the first time since 2006.

"For a number of years now, we have been working on this project together with the Virtua Fighter developers as a united team," said Ryu Ga Gotoku director Masayoshi Yokoyama (translated from Japanese to English). "[It will] incorporate the game technologies that Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio has built and refined over the years, as well as Virtua Fighter's signature full-contact action systems."

The Last of Us developers reveal retro sci-fi game Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet

The Game Awards traditionally end with "just one more thing," a big, exciting reveal to close out the night. This year that reveal was a brand new game in a brand new IP from The Last of Us developer Naughty Dog, offering a cool '80s retro sci-fi aesthetic.

Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet follows bounty hunter Jordan A. Mun (Tati Gabrielle), who pursues her latest target to the mysterious planet of Sempiria. Nobody has left Sempiria's orbit in over 600 years, with all communication from it having gone dark. Now Jordan must keep her wits about her and fight hard if she wants to be the first person in six centuries to escape.

The sci-fi adventure game will be scored by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, who have previously provided the soundtracks for films such as The Social Network, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Gone Girl, and Challengers.

We don't know much else about Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet yet. However, Naughty Dog Studio Head Neil Druckmann states that it "lives up to the Naughty Dog tradition of creating an emotional, character-driven epic journey," and that it will be "the deepest gameplay in Naughty Dog’s history."

Astro Bot won Game of the Year 2024

For many gamers, The Game Awards' main appeal is its slew of new game reveals. Even so, the event is technically an awards ceremony, with one game ultimately taking home the title of Game of the Year.

The 2024 Game Awards' Game of the Year went to platformer Astro Bot, developed by Team Asobi. Though Astro Bot and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth led the nominations with seven each, the former took home the most trophies after winning Best Game Direction, Best Action/Adventure Game, and Best Family Game as well.

TL;DR: Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 is just £22.06 (reg. £393.56) through 22 December.

Opens in a new window Credit: Retail King Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows £22.06 at the Mashable Shop
£393.56 Save £371.50 Get Deal

If you're unhappy with your coding process, a software switch could be in order. Elevate your coding experience with Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows. It was designed to help you code faster, more accurately, and across multiple platforms — and a lifetime device license is only £22.06 through 22 December.

This powerful Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is packed with features that allow you to code smarter, build collaboratively, and bring complex projects to life. From entry-level developers to seasoned programmers, Visual Studio Pro 2022 has the tools you need to tackle any project efficiently.

One of the most helpful features of Visual Studio Pro 2022 is its support for cross-platform development. You’re not limited to one platform. Instead, you can build mobile, web, and desktop applications using the same IDE.

With .NET MAUI, you can craft cross-platform mobile and desktop applications, while Blazor lets you build responsive web UIs in C#. And for those working with Linux, Visual Studio’s debugging and testing capabilities for .NET and C++ apps make it incredibly versatile.

Need to make quick changes on the fly? Hot reload allows you to edit running ASP.NET pages without restarting, saving valuable time and boosting productivity.

Visual Studio Pro 2022 also includes tools like IntelliCode and CodeLens, offering unparalleled productivity boosts. IntelliCode is an AI-powered tool that understands the context of your code, completing lines or blocks with accurate suggestions. It even anticipates your next move, making coding faster and smoother.

The CodeLens feature provides valuable insights directly into your code editor. It shows you information like recent changes, authors, tests, and commit history at a glance, allowing you to gain a deep understanding of your codebase and make informed decisions without interrupting your flow.

Pick up a device license that never expires when you get Microsoft Visual Studio Pro 2022 on sale for £22.06 (reg. £393.56). This price is only available through 22 December at the Mashable Shop.

Microsoft Visual Studio Professional 2022 for Windows - £22.06 | Get It Here

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: Score permanent access to Skoove Premium piano lessons on sale for £94.64 (reg. £236.60) at the Mashable Shop.

Opens in a new window Credit: Skoove Skoove Premium Piano Lessons: Lifetime Subscription £94.64 at the Mashable Shop
£236.60 Save £141.96 Get Deal

Thinking of fulfilling a lifelong goal of learning to play the piano? Finding an instructor to teach you every month will quickly set you back hundreds, if not thousands of pounds — not to mention the coordination of both your schedules. And learning from YouTube can be hard without a solid direction.

Thankfully, there's a way to combine the personal approach of an in-person teacher with the flexibility of learning from videos: interactive piano lessons from Skoove Premium. You can get lifetime access to Skoove virtual piano lessons on sale for £94.64 (reg. £236.60).

Skoove uses artificial intelligence to identify and understand what you're playing so it can give real-time feedback. You'll get access to over 400 piano tutorials that are tailored to your preferences, with a variety of genres to choose from like popular music by The Beatles, Adele, and more, as well as classical music by Beethoven, Mozart, etc. And if you need additional help, Skoove music instructors are there to give one-on-one support to supplement your studies. 

Every month, new videos and songs are added, so you'll never get bored. And lifetime access means you only have to pay once for unlimited access.

If you're ready to tickle the ivories and learn to play the piano on your own schedule, consider Skoove.

Score a lifetime subscription to Skoove Premium piano lessons marked down 60% at the price of £94.64.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

TL;DR: A wide range of free online courses from Stanford University are available to take with edX.

edX is one of the best platforms for online courses, with a massive range of lessons covering useful topics like Python, mathematics, computer science, and much more. And some of these online courses are delivered by famous schools like Stanford University.

We have checked out everything on offer and lined up a selection of standout options from Stanford University. And the best thing is that it costs absolutely nothing to enroll. It sounds too good to be true, but it's legit.

These are the best Stanford University courses you can take for free this month.

• Algorithms: Design and Analysis

• America's Poverty and Inequality Course

• Communicating with Presence

• Compilers

• Computer Science 101

• Databases: Advanced Topics in SQL

• Databases: Modeling and Theory

• Databases: OLAP and Recursion

• Databases: Relational Databases and SQL

• Designing Your Career

• Introduction to the Natural Capital Project Approach

• Language, Proof, and Logic

• Nano at Stanford

• Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1

• Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 2

• R Programming Fundamentals

• Semantics of First-Order Logic

• Statistical Learning with Python

• Statistical Learning with R

These free courses do not include certificates of completion, but that's the only catch. You can still learn at your own pace with unlimited access to all the resources on offer.

Find the best free online courses from Stanford University at edX.

Opens in a new window Credit: Stanford University Stanford University Courses Free at edX Get Deal

TL;DR: Unblock Pornhub from anywhere in the world with a VPN. The best service for unblocking porn sites is ExpressVPN.

Pornhub has been around forever, but your access to this popular site is not guaranteed.

Pornhub has been banned in Alabama, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and more locations around the world, which is frustrating for anyone looking to access their favorite site at an entirely appropriate moment. Fortunately, online restrictions like this can be bypassed with a quick and easy hack.

If you want to unblock sites like Pornhub for free from anywhere in the world, we have the information you need.

How to unblock Pornhub for free

VPNs can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to secure server in another location. This straightforward process bypasses geo-restrictions so you can access sites like Pornhub from anywhere in the world.

Access Pornhub by following these simple steps:

1. Sign up for a VPN (like ExpressVPN)

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3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location that supports access to Pornhub

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Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Year Subscription + 3 Months Free) $99.95 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for unblocking porn sites are not free, but most do offer free-trial peiods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can unblock porn sites like Pornhub without actually spending anything. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you the opportunity to temporarily retain access to Pornhub before recovering your investment.

If you want to permanent retain access to everything the online world has to offer, you'll need a subscription. Fortunately, the best VPN for unblocking content is on sale for a limited time.

What is the best VPN for Pornhub?

ExpressVPN is the top choice for unblocking porn sites like Pornhub, for a number of reasons:

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• 30-day money-back guarantee

A one-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $99.95 and includes an extra three months for free — 49% off for a limited time. This plan also includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee.

Unblock Pornhub for free with ExpressVPN.