Latest Video Games News | Fox News

Your kid’s gaming habit could be building a future career, new survey shows

Sun, 03 May 2026 16:00:52 -0400

Many parents worry about screen time and video games keeping their children from learning and developing crucial skills. However, a new study suggests that these same tools can be used to enhance learning experiences.

K12, a U.S.-based online education provider, recently released a new national survey of parents and working professionals aimed at exploring the long-term impact of childhood gaming. The survey showed that 52% of working professionals believed that their childhood gaming helped them build skills that benefited their career, including problem-solving and strategic thinking. K12's survey also found that 86% of childhood gamers reported that they easily adapt to new tools and technologies, such as AI.

Niyoka McCoy, K12's chief learning officer, told Fox News Digital that not all educational gaming experiences are the same, pointing to the difference between gamification and game-based learning. Gamification involves adding game-like elements, such as points, streaks or coins, to traditional learning. Game-based learning, by contrast, places the lessons inside the game itself and has students learn skills by playing.

AI IS RUNNING THE CLASSROOM AT THIS TEXAS SCHOOL, AND STUDENTS SAY 'IT’S AWESOME'

"Gamification means that, in some cases, it's getting coins or you're getting points to be able to go to a store. Game-based learning is where you're immersed in the actual game, and you're learning through that environment and everything that's actually happening to you in that particular game," McCoy said.

The game-based learning that K12 is using is much different from the types of educational toys or games that have been employed in the past.

"One of the things that we try to do is really hide learning in the game so that we're connecting the two. So, students are learning, but they don't even know it because they're so embedded and so invested in winning the game or getting to the challenge that they're not even realizing that they are learning fractions," McCoy told Fox News Digital.

One of the games that K12 has employed for educational purposes is Minecraft, a popular online building game. The company has created several "worlds" that align with its curriculum, including the Roman Empire, Jamestown, Ancient Egypt and oceanic environments.

"Instead of a student reading a textbook and answering questions about Jamestown, they can actually be immersed in a Jamestown world, learn the same skills, and they can still go and take that unit test," McCoy said.

"We looked at the difference between the students who just read the text, answered the questions, and the students that actually went through the Minecraft world and found that those students did do better on their assessment," she later added.

ROBLOX ADDS AGE-BASED ACCOUNTS FOR KIDS AND TEENS

McCoy told Fox News Digital that K12 has seen that students who use the Minecraft spaces have retained the information while going through the gaming aspect because "they're actually having to build, figure out problems that they're solving or try to beat the challenge." She noted that another important element was that students playing the game had to collaborate with friends, making it a more interactive experience in the real world as well.

As gaming begins to play a bigger role in education, it also presents career opportunities. In 2025, the Princeton Review released its ranking of the top schools for game design. Its lists of the top schools for undergraduate and graduate game design programs included New York University, the University of Southern California, Drexel University and Michigan State University, among others.

While these programs are becoming increasingly common, parents still aren't fully aware of the option and are often concerned about their kids getting too much screen time. McCoy acknowledges that there is a learning curve for parents whose concerns about screen time remain, but she said it's not about demonizing devices, but rather reorienting their use. Part of that involves differentiating between unstructured scrolling and engaging in games that contain educational content, even in a hidden way.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

McCoy said K12 is focused on showing parents the opportunities that gaming can bring, as well as the effectiveness of game-based learning. She told Fox News Digital that some parents changed their views after engaging with the games themselves.

"Now we have parents that are in Minecraft, that are playing with their students. It's like, ‘I learned so much about Jamestown, I had no clue,’" McCoy said.

Roblox adds age-based accounts for kids and teens

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:02:29 -0400

If your child plays Roblox, they are part of a massive global audience. Roblox has reported more than 144 million daily active users, with a large share made up of kids and teens who log in to play games, create content and connect with friends. That reach is exactly why a new change rolling out in early June matters.

Roblox is introducing two new account types designed to better match what kids play and who they can talk to based on age. The shift centers on structure. Instead of one shared experience with layered controls, Roblox is building separate environments for different age groups. As a result, content, chat and parental controls will adjust automatically as a child grows.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report

Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.

OPENAI TIGHTENS AI RULES FOR TEENS BUT CONCERNS REMAIN

What are Roblox Kids and Roblox Select accounts?

Roblox is dividing younger users into two groups, each with its own rules and experience.

Roblox Kids (ages 5 to 8)

This is the most restricted environment. It is designed for younger children who need tighter guardrails.

Access limited to games rated Minimal or Mild
Only games that pass a three-step review process
Chat is turned off by default
A distinct visual design so parents can easily recognize the account

The idea here is simple. Kids see a limited version of Roblox that removes riskier content and disables communication.

Roblox Select (ages 9 to 15)

AUSTRALIA REMOVES 4.7M KIDS FROM SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS IN FIRST MONTH OF HISTORIC BAN

This group gets more flexibility, but still within limits.

Access to games rated up to Moderate
Same multi-step game screening process
Chat settings remain on by default in most regions
Visual indicators show the account type

At this stage, Roblox assumes users can handle a broader range of experiences, but still keeps filters in place.

How Roblox decides what games kids can play

Not every game makes the cut. Roblox is adding a continuous evaluation system that runs behind the scenes. Here's how it works:

1) Developer verification

Creators must verify their identity, enable two-step security and maintain a Roblox Plus subscription.

2) Real-time evaluation

Older users, age 16 and up, effectively test new games first. Roblox studies how they interact and reviews reports before exposing those games to younger players.

3) Content eligibility check

Games receive maturity ratings such as Minimal, Mild or Moderate. Certain categories, like social hangouts or free-form drawing, are excluded by default for younger users. This layered approach combines AI moderation, human review and real-world gameplay signals.

Age checks now control the entire experience

Roblox is expanding the same age-check system it introduced earlier this year for chat.

Users under 9 Roblox Kids
Users 9 to 15 Roblox Select
Users 16 and older standard with Roblox account

If a user does not complete an age check, they face stricter limits. They can only access lower-rated games and cannot use chat. Once verified, the system automatically moves them into the correct account type.

Accounts evolve as kids grow

There is no need to manually switch settings over time.

At age 9, users move from Kids to Select
At age 16, they move to a standard account

This automatic progression is designed to simplify things for families while keeping protections in place at each stage.

Parental controls get more precise

Roblox is also expanding what parents can do.

Block specific games through age 15
Manage direct chat settings until age 15
Approve access to individual games outside default limits
View what games kids play and who they interact with

These tools give parents more direct control instead of relying only on broad content filters.

A move toward global content ratings

Later this year, Roblox plans to align with the International Age Rating Coalition framework. That includes familiar systems like ESRB in the U.S. and PEGI in Europe. The goal is to make ratings clearer and more consistent across regions.

Why this matters to families

This update changes how Roblox works at a fundamental level. Instead of asking parents to constantly adjust settings, the platform builds age-appropriate experiences from the start. It also reflects a broader shift in tech. Platforms are under pressure to design safety into the product, not tack it on later.

As Larry Magid, CEO of ConnectSafely, an organization focused on helping families navigate digital safety, put it:

"By combining age assurance, stronger creator accountability, and parental controls, Roblox is helping set a higher standard for how platforms can better protect younger users while preserving positive online experiences."

Take my quiz: How safe is your online security?

Think your devices and data are truly protected? Take this quick quiz to see where your digital habits stand. From passwords to Wi-Fi settings, you’ll get a personalized breakdown of what you’re doing right and what needs improvement. Take my Quiz here: Cyberguy.com.

Kurt's key takeaways

Roblox is not removing risk entirely. No platform can. What it is doing is tightening the structure around how kids interact with content and other players. For parents, this could make things simpler. For kids, the experience will feel more tailored to where they are in life. The bigger question is whether this becomes the norm across gaming and social platforms.

If platforms start shaping experiences based on age by default, does that improve safety or limit how kids explore and learn online? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report

Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox.
For simple, real-world ways to spot scams early and stay protected, visit CyberGuy.com trusted by millions who watch CyberGuy on TV daily.
Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide free when you join.

'To Catch a Predator' host Chris Hansen warns Roblox dangers far worse than past online chatrooms

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 07:00:53 -0400

Investigative journalist Chris Hansen warns parents about Roblox, comparing it to an amusement park where "kids are flying off" the rides.

The "To Catch a Predator" host sat down for the "Planet Tyrus" podcast to explain his findings and what he claims is a surge of grooming on the site. Hansen noted that the platform’s visual style, which features cartoon, customizable avatars, often masks the underlying dangers.

"It was shocking to me that you have this kids' game with characters that appear to be so innocent, like Lego characters, but I guess it just goes to show that predators will go wherever the children are," Hansen said.

Roblox is a gaming giant used by millions of children and teenagers. The company is facing a wave of legal challenges, including a lawsuit involving more than 140 people who argue the game’s design, such as open chat and private spaces, aided predators.

TIM TEBOW URGES SUPREME COURT TO MAKE BIG TECH 'PROTECT KIDS OVER PROFIT' IN CSAM CASE

Several state attorneys general have also launched lawsuits against the company, accusing it of prioritizing profits over user safety.

Hansen investigated the platform for his streaming network, digging into allegations of child exploitation. He said today’s digital landscape is far more dangerous for children than early internet chatrooms.

HOUSE MOVES TO PROTECT CHILDREN FROM ONLINE PREDATORS AS AUSTRALIA CLAMPS DOWN ON SOCIAL MEDIA

"People ask, ‘Is the problem worse today than it was 22 years ago?’ The answer is yes, it's way worse because there are so many different platforms upon which adults can approach children," Hansen said.

A spokesperson for Roblox told Fox News Digital that "safety is at the core of everything we do," and noted they have a "multi-layered defense system" blending technology and strict policy enforcement to keep young people safe.

"We have always completely blocked the sharing of images or videos in chat and use rigorous filters designed to prevent the exchange of personal information," the company added.

They also pushed back against Hansen's claims, saying, "This characterization of Roblox is simply untrue and not what the vast majority of users experience on the platform every day."

BIG TECH'S TOBACCO MOMENT IS HERE — AND THE TRUTH ABOUT HARMING KIDS IS OUT

However, Hansen called for greater accountability from the game developers meant to protect "vulnerable children."

"If kids are flying off a ride at an amusement park left and right, they have a responsibility to make that ride safer, so kids aren't flying off the ride. Roblox has a similar responsibility," he said.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Roblox has countered safety concerns, saying it has instituted safeguards such as content moderation, parental controls and age verification. It said that since January, it has required users to complete age checks to chat on the platform, limiting interaction to users of a similar age or people they already know.

"We take swift action against anyone found to violate our community standards and collaborate closely with law enforcement to hold bad actors accountable. While no system can be perfect, we will never stop innovating around safety and working with trusted partners to make Roblox better and safer."

'The Super Mario Galaxy Movie' Review: A nostalgic blast for Nintendo fans

Sat, 04 Apr 2026 10:00:45 -0400

Our two favorite mustached plumbers are back — for an adventure that's out of this world.

The events of "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" take place after its 2023 predecessor. Mario and Luigi (Chris Pratt and Charlie Day) continue to provide safety and piping services throughout the Mushroom Kingdom, Princess Peach (Anya Taylor-Joy) continues to wear her crown, and Bowser (Jack Black), still pocket-sized after being fed a mini mushroom at the end of the previous film, is being held prisoner in what can amount to be a Bowser-style dollhouse inside Peach's castle.

However, in a galaxy far, far away, Bowser's son Bowser Jr. (Benny Safdie) is plotting his own scheme which involves kidnapping Princess Rosalina (Brie Larson), the powerful watcher of the cosmos — first introduced in the 2007 "Super Mario Galaxy" video game, and using her powers to fuel his super weapon that will destroy the entire galaxy — and also break out his father from Peach's castle.

‘PROJECT HAIL MARY’ REVIEW: RYAN GOSLING AND AN ALIEN ATTEMPT TO SAVE THE PLANET IN FUN SPACE ADVENTURE

Fan favorites join Mario and Luigi on their journey with old pals like Toad (Keegan Michael-Key) returning while being introduced to new ones like the adorably mischievous Yoshi (Donald Glover).

Any person under 50 likely has some sort of connection to Nintendo and the Mario Bros., who have brought joy to hundreds of millions of video game players around the world across their 40-year existence. Co-directors Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic and screenwriter Matthew Fogel, all returning from the first film, are clearly fans of the source material. The genuine affection they must have for all the Mario games truly comes through on the screen based on how they're able to incorporate so much in 100 minutes.

And what's amazing is that there's still so much untapped material between all the characters and games that can be incorporated down the road — Universal and Illumination can be on the cusp of a Nintendo cinematic universe if handled correctly.

'HOPPERS' REVIEW: JON HAMM, MERYL STREEP ELEVATE PIXAR'S RUN-OF-THE-MILL BEAVER ADVENTURE

Like the video games themselves, "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" is incredibly fun. Jack Black gets some of the funniest material as Bowser, who attempts to convince Mario that he's turned a new leaf and that he should be released for "awesome behavior." And Donald Glover's Yoshi is simply infectious.

Viewers will truly feel immersed in the Mario universe by the dazzling, vibrant animation. And composer Brian Tyler masterfully incorporates the iconic music from various games into his robust score.

And a disclaimer for the super fans: there are two post-credit scenes to check out — one of them is hilarious callback while the other teases an inevitable third installment.

‘THE AI DOC’ REVIEW: A TIMELY CRASH COURSE ON THE TECH DOMINATING OUR LIVES

The Verdict

Perhaps I'm biased but as lifelong Super Mario fan, I couldn't stop smiling. While it doesn't reinvent the wheel, "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" is a joy for both kids and their nostalgic parents. Not only does it exceed its predecessor, it lays the groundwork for much more fun ahead — and we'll be anxiously waiting.

★★★ ½ — SEE IT NOW

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Roblox is changing online safety with AI

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:18:17 -0400

If you've ever wondered how platforms keep up with millions of users at once, this is where things get real. Roblox has over 144 million daily users. That scale creates a massive challenge. Harmful content does not always show up in obvious ways. Sometimes, it is the combination of things that creates the problem. Now, the company is rolling out a new system designed to catch exactly that. But first, it helps to understand what Roblox actually is.

Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy Report
Get my best tech tips, urgent security alerts, and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide - free when you join my CYBERGUY.COM newsletter

MEXICAN ILLEGAL ALIEN ALLEGEDLY USED ROBLOX CURRENCY TO SOLICIT EXPLICIT CONTENT FROM KIDS UNDER 10

What is Roblox

Roblox is an online platform where people can create, share and play games built by other users. Instead of being a single game, it is a massive ecosystem of user-generated experiences that range from simple obstacle courses to complex virtual worlds.

What makes Roblox different is how much control users have. Players are not just consuming content. They are constantly creating it in real time through avatars, text and interactive environments. That constant creation is exactly what makes moderation more complex.

A smarter way to spot harmful content

Most moderation tools look at one thing at a time. A message. An image. An avatar. That approach can miss the bigger picture. Speaking exclusively with CyberGuy, Matt Kaufman, Roblox's chief safety officer, explained the shift clearly:

"We already moderate all of the objects in a virtual world, but how they come together and interact has long been a challenge. Our new real-time multimodal moderation system looks at an entire scene simultaneously from the user's point of view – including 3D objects, avatars, and text – capturing all of these elements together in a specific moment to assess whether the combination of content types breaks our rules."

This is called multimodal moderation. Instead of analyzing pieces in isolation, it looks at everything together in real time.

Why older systems were missing the problem

Here is the issue platforms have faced for years. Something can look harmless on its own. But when combined with other elements, it can become harmful or violate rules.

Kaufman puts it this way: "Traditional AI moderation systems, which moderate one object at a time, can lack context and miss combinations that could be problematic in ways that the individual items are not. This model understands the relationship between different objects and how they come together to catch nuanced violations that standard filters may miss."

That missing context is exactly what bad actors have been exploiting.

What this new AI actually catches

This system focuses on scenarios that previously slipped through. Think about games where users can draw freely or customize avatars. A drawing alone might seem fine. An avatar alone might seem fine. But together, they could create something inappropriate.

Kaufman explains how the system handles that: "The system can detect combinations of objects that may violate our community standards. For example, some games allow free-form drawing. This real-time multimodal moderation system would look at the drawing, avatar, and 3D setting together and assess it holistically, in order to catch and shut down servers with violating content."

Right now, the rollout is already targeting problematic avatars and inappropriate drawings.

LOUISIANA SUES ONLINE GAMING PLATFORM ROBLOX FOR ALLEGEDLY ENABLING CHILD PREDATORS

The scale is bigger than you think

This is not a small tweak. It is operating at a massive scale. Roblox says it is already shutting down about 5,000 servers per day for violations.

Kaufman says that reflects the reality of the platform: "With 144 million users connecting and creating on Roblox every single day, our safety systems must be as agile and dynamic as our creators themselves."

He also adds an important reality check: "No system is foolproof against bad actors, so we are committed to doing our best to stay ahead of those attempting to bypass safety protocols, and we are working to scale this new multimodal system to capture and monitor 100% of playtime."

What changes for everyday Roblox users

If you or your kids use Roblox, this system will likely work in the background without you noticing. But it changes how quickly harmful behavior gets stopped.

"When problematic behavior repeatedly occurs in a single game instance, this new system is designed to automatically detect and shut down those specific servers in real time, greatly reducing the number of users who might be exposed to that behavior."

That last part matters. Instead of shutting down an entire game, it targets only the problem.

"By targeting only the violating server rather than the entire experience, we can help prevent violations from reaching more users while allowing well-intentioned players to continue their sessions uninterrupted."

What this means for parents

For parents, this is a big shift toward proactive safety. Instead of waiting for reports, the system acts in real time.

Kaufman explains: "We want parents to know that we aren't just reacting to reports - we are proactively building some of the most sophisticated AI moderation systems in the world to help protect their children in real time."

There is also an important layer of protection during gameplay: "We can now evaluate a combination of problematic text, 3D drawings, or avatar movements in real-time and shut down that specific server immediately - often before a child ever encounters it."

Still, Roblox stresses that technology alone is not enough. "No system is perfect, and we encourage parents to talk to their children about online safety."

Ways parents can help keep kids safe

Even with advanced AI moderation, a few simple steps can help you stay one step ahead and keep your child safer online.

1) Talk about what your child is doing online

Ask what games they play and who they interact with so you stay involved.

2) Encourage reporting anything that feels off

Remind your child to report behavior that seems inappropriate or uncomfortable.

3) Check privacy and safety settings together

Review account settings to limit who can chat or interact with your child.

4) Set clear boundaries for gameplay

Agree on rules around screen time and which types of experiences are allowed.

ROBLOX CEO RESPONDS TO SCRUTINY OVER CHILD SAFETY: ESTABLISHING THE 'GOLD STANDARD' FOR SAFETY

How Roblox avoids false positives

One concern with any AI system is getting it wrong. Roblox says it is actively working to improve accuracy over time.

"We have a continuous evaluation loop set up to measure false positives from the multimodal moderation system, and we are training the system with that feedback to help it catch those types of examples in the future."

User feedback also plays a role. "Our creators and users are often the ones to spot new trends emerging... This type of reporting is the most effective way for users to help protect the community."

AI plus human oversight still matters

Even with automation, humans are still involved."We already use a combination of AI and a team of safety experts to review content uploaded to the platform before it is ever shown to users."

The new system adds another layer, not a replacement. "This real-time multimodal moderation system is an additional layer and is fully automated in its evaluation of the entire scene."

What about privacy and fairness?

Any system this powerful raises questions about privacy and overreach. Roblox says it is limiting how data is used: "Our systems and processes are designed so that data collected for safety is used only for safety purposes."

On fairness, the company points to ongoing training and transparency: "We are focused on ensuring our safety systems are both highly effective and fair."

They are also giving creators more visibility: "We have introduced a new chart in the creator dashboard that allows developers to see exactly how many of their game's servers have been shut down."

Where this is heading next

This system is just getting started. One future focus is detecting recreations of real-world events that may cross the line.

Kaufman explains why context matters here: "Standard filters might see a specific building or a line of text in isolation and not recognize a violation. However, real-time multimodal moderation can understand the relationship between an environment, the way avatars are interacting within it, and the accompanying chat."

There is also a push to go beyond shutting down servers: "We're working on ways to identify specific bad actors so we can remove them without disrupting the experience for the vast majority of our well-intentioned players."

Kurt's key takeaways

This is a major shift in how online platforms approach safety. Instead of reacting after something goes wrong, Roblox is trying to stop harmful behavior before most users ever see it. That is a big promise, especially at this scale. At the same time, it highlights a deeper question about the future of online spaces. As AI becomes more involved in moderating behavior, the balance between safety, fairness and freedom will only get more complicated.

So here is the question worth thinking about: If AI is now deciding what crosses the line in real time, how much control are we comfortable handing over to it? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Harlem Globetrotters to be featured in video game as part of centennial season

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 13:54:36 -0400

The Harlem Globetrotters will release a video game later this year as the legendary team celebrates its centennial season, Acclaim announced on Monday.

"Super Basketball Classics Featuring the World-Famous Harlem Globetrotters" is set to give sports fans the ability to pick up and play whether they’re on a PC or console.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"We combined a lot of things but it’s pick up and play and so whether it’s a half-court shot from almost out of bounds or up in the stands and all the interaction, you’re going to have the wow factor, which I think that for a guy who sits down and just wants to game for a little while off his couch, that’s important," Jeff Jarrett, pro wrestling legend and founder of the revived Acclaim company, told Fox News Digital in a recent interview.

STREAM NOW: "HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS: AMERICA'S GREATEST SHOW"

"We’re going to integrate as many elements as we can and it’s fun. At the end of the day, you come to a Harlem Globetrotters show live, same as the game, we want you to have fun and enjoy yourself."

Jarrett is mostly known for his prowess in the square circle for several decades. But it was his love for basketball that led him down the path of getting a new Globetrotters game started.

The current All Elite Wrestling star said his first "true love" was basketball – even before pro wrestling.

AEW STAR DUSTIN RHODES SHARES HEALTH UPDATE, WHY COMPANY'S ON HOT STREAK

"But the Globetrotters are a completely different story for me," he explained. "I could remember going as a little kid. Meadowlark Lemon and Curly (Neal) and all the famous players, I wanted to be like them because the swagger, the style, the showmanship along with the game of basketball. We’re celebrating along with the entire world because it’s far-reaching from basketball, the Globetrotter brand.

"It’s the centennial celebration, the 100th year, which I think is really incredible because a lot of people don’t understand. When you get into the DNA, the first team inducted into the Naismith (Basketball) Hall of Fame, it wasn’t some, you know, a team that went undefeated, it’s the Harlem Globetrotters…

"So when you combine the game of basketball in its truest sense, but then you combine the showmanship and a lot of folks, whether it’s football, basketball, baseball, hockey, whatever it may be, there’s touchdown celebrations and slam dunk celebrations and slap shots and all that kind of stuff. The Globetrotters are the pioneer, truly, of sports entertainment when it really relates to so many things, not just the world of basketball."

Basketball fans will be able to get an arcade-style game and have the opportunity to go through a full season, play with their friends or dazzle the crowd.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"The Harlem Globetrotters are synonymous with basketball and entertainment," Acclaim CEO Alex Josef said in a news release. "This game celebrates that spirit while honoring the classic arcade basketball experiences fans grew up loving while building a whole new generation of fans, for years to come. With tight controls, big personalities and instant pick-up & play action, Super Basketball Classics brings the Harlem Globetrotters legacy to gamers and sports fans around the world."

Grand Theft Auto blacklists ‘Charlie Kirk’ as players try to recreate his killing in the game

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 19:00:01 -0500

Rockstar Games, the company behind the popular video game Grand Theft Auto, has reportedly added "Charlie Kirk" to a list of blocked terms for user-generated content in the online game after some players created missions recreating Kirk's assassination.

Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, was shot and killed while speaking at a campus event at Utah Valley University Sept. 10, 2025.

In December, GTA Online rolled out a new Mission Creator tool allowing players to design and share their own missions for others to play.

Variety and gaming outlets reported Tuesday that some players used the feature to create assassination-style missions that appear to recreate Kirk’s murder.

CHICAGO SCHOOLS SILENT ON PUNISHMENT OR PUBLIC CONDEMNATION OF TEACHER WHO MOCKED CHARLIE KIRK'S DEATH

A viral video cited by gaming outlet Kotaku shows one such mission, "We are Charlie Kirk," which has since reportedly been taken down.

The mission puts a player with a sniper rifle on a rooftop overlooking a college campus setting, similar to that of the Utah Valley University setting where Kirk was shot.

The player's mission is to shoot a character named Charlie Kirk, who is standing under a tent in front of a crowd of people.

Rockstar Games has reportedly responded by adding "Charlie Kirk" to its "profanity filter" in the game's code.

FEDERAL APPEALS COURT SIDES WITH WASHINGTON PROFESSOR PUNISHED FOR MOCKING UNIVERSITY LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT

According to Variety, the gaming company plans to change the filter's name to more appropriately describe content it does not want users to bring into the game, such as real-life events like Kirk's assassination.

Kotaku reported that some players have tried to get around this filter by using the name "Charlie Pink" or other variations of his name to continue making these missions referring to his killing.

Rockstar Games did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE

After Kirk was killed, some figures on the left took to social media to mock or celebrate his murder, resulting in discipline or terminations in some cases.

Last week, a Clemson University professor who was fired over a social media post calling Kirk's murder "karma" reached a settlement with the university.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Austin Peay State University also reportedly agreed to pay $500,000 to settle a dispute with a professor fired after sharing a headline about Kirk's views on guns after his death.

'Halo' composer running for Congress draws parallels to decline of wokeness in gaming to Trump's re-election

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 21:03:58 -0500

Marty O’Donnell, the video game composer behind the "Halo" and "Destiny" series, compared the battles against "woke" ideology in both video games and politics as he discussed running for Congress again in a blog post Monday.

Amid his second bid for Congress in Nevada’s 3rd congressional district and the upcoming remake of the first "Halo" game, O’Donnell argued in a post on DEIDetected, a consumer awareness group of gamers who opposes DEI in video games, that politics and entertainment are deeply connected.

The "Halo" games, centered on humanity’s war against alien invaders, have sold tens of millions of copies, becoming one of the most recognizable and enduring video game franchises since 2001.

"I believe the enthusiasm for the re-release of the original ‘Halo’ is in large part due to the wokification of the gaming industry," he wrote. "After years of gamers fighting the infiltration of DEI in the industry, we are finally winning."

DEMOCRATS GRAPPLE WITH PROGRESSIVE AGENDA VERSUS MODERATE APPEAL AS PARTY REGROUPS IN TRUMP ERA

"I saw firsthand the beginning of DEI in the industry," he wrote, describing how the industry has faced backlash over games that alienated players with identity politics. "How did gamers react to having things forced on them by non-gamers developing these characters in the studio? They revolted."

O’Donnell also cited games such as "Dragon Age," which began as a dark fantasy series with "Dragon Age: Origins" but whose latest installment, "Dragon Age: The Veilguard," featured transgender and nonbinary characters. The new title drew online backlash for a scene in which a character performs a physical display to atone for misgendering another character.

Several gaming sites concluded that the game was a flop that pandered to modern politics. Forbes senior contributor Erik Kain called the viral misgendering scene "written so poorly that it comes across as self-parody."

O’Donnell also pointed to "Concord," which drew heavy criticism for its flamboyant character designs and perceived pandering to left-wing identity politics.

"Concord, which Sony spent hundreds of millions of dollars developing for nearly a decade, lasted less than two weeks on the market before being pulled offline last year. The game felt like it was created to check DEI boxes instead of appeal to gamers," he wrote. "It was riddled with woke nonsense such as progressive characters and pronouns. It is estimated that less than 25,000 copies were sold during its brief time on the market."

O’Donnell compared the game’s flop to then–Vice President Kamala Harris’ electoral defeat.

"I don’t think it is a coincidence that Concord crashed and burned two months before Donald Trump was re-elected to the White House. The downfall of DEI in gaming feels very similar to the 2024 elections. At the same time that gamers fought and took back the gaming industry from woke leftists, voters fought and took back our country from woke leftists," he wrote. "I am happy and excited that the movement to bring fun back into our games while taking politics out of them is winning. But believe me, the cancer that infected the industry has not been fully removed."

DAVID MARCUS: DEI IS THE MODERN DEMOCRAT PATRONAGE SCAM

But the fight, he said, is far from over, saying that's why he's again decided to run for Congress. He finished fourth in the GOP primary in his district in 2024.

"We can’t just sit back and let woke policies rear their ugly head again. That’s why I’ve stepped up to run for Congress in my home state of Nevada," he wrote. "I love this country and anything worth loving is worth fighting for."

He urged gamers to keep pushing back and voicing their opinions until companies replace employees who dislike gaming with passionate creators who genuinely enjoy making and playing games, expressing confidence that the industry can be restored to its former glory.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE COVERAGE OF MEDIA AND CULTURE

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

What is Discord? Messaging platform popular with gamers part of Charlie Kirk assassination investigation

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 13:44:19 -0400

Discord, the widely used messaging platform popular with the gaming community, is at the center of the investigation of Tyler Robinson, the suspected assassin of Charlie Kirk.

Robinson was arrested last week on suspicion of shooting and killing Kirk, the 31-year-old conservative activist, while he was speaking on the campus of Utah Valley University.

Robinson's alleged use of the app has come to the attention of authorities and become significant in the probe of Kirk's assassination.

CHARLIE KIRK'S ALLEGED SHOOTER NOT COOPERATING WITH AUTHORITIES, UTAH GOV. COX SAYS

What is Discord?

Discord is a messaging platform with more than 200 million monthly users who interact through text, voice and video. It is especially popular with gamers and allows them to form communities around "various topics, interests, or gaming groups," according to the company.

While mostly known for its association with the gaming community, Discord is used by a wide variety of people around other interest areas as well.

According to USA Today, communication on Discord happens on "servers," which are similar to "groups" on Meta's Facebook or Instagram. These are "invite-only spaces for your friends or community — places where you can connect, collaborate, and enjoy meaningful conversations together," according to the company.

What does Discord have to do with the assassination of Charlie Kirk?

Tyler Robinson, the 22-year-old suspected of murdering Kirk, allegedly discussed details of the crime with a roommate on the Discord app.

DEATH PENALTY LOOMS FOR CHARLIE KIRK’S ACCUSED KILLER BUT LEGAL BAR IS HIGH AS TRUMP, COX MOUNT PRESSURE

During a press briefing Friday morning, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said Robinson sent messages on Discord about stowing and retrieving a rifle from a "drop point."

The messages shown to officials also refer to engraving bullets, and a mention of the "scope and the rifle being unique," according to an affidavit.

The New York Times reported Saturday that an acquaintance of Robinson appeared to recognize him from surveillance images released of the suspected killer the day after the shooting, tagging his username on Discord and writing "wya," meaning, "Where you at?" Robinson joked back that his "doppelganger" was trying to get him in trouble.

He later also quipped that he would like a share of the reward if someone else on the Discord chat turned him in.

A Discord spokesman told Fox News Digital it has not uncovered evidence the suspect promoted violence on the platform.

"During our investigation, Discord identified an account belonging to the suspect. We have not found or received any evidence that the suspect planned this incident on Discord or promoted violence on Discord. The messages referenced in reporting about weapon retrieval and planning details were not Discord messages, and likely took place on a phone-number based messaging platform. We continue to work closely with the FBI and local authorities, and will continue to deliver prompt responses to their requests for assistance."

CHARLIE KIRK ASSASSINATION SUSPECT AWAITS CHARGES AS UTAH RESIDENTS DESCRIBE ALLEGED KILLER AS ‘VERY QUIET’

Controversies surrounding Discord

Some critics have said Discord's private channels can be hotbeds for extreme rhetoric that can't be monitored, and it also doesn't employ enough protections for younger users.

The perpetrator of the 2022 racist mass shooting in Buffalo, New York, openly discussed his plans to carry out the attack on Discord. Discord ultimately deleted the server he used and expressed devastation at his use of its platform to plan the massacre.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the attempted assassin of President Donald Trump last year, had an account on the Discord app. Discord deactivated his account afterward, saying it was rarely used, there was no evidence he used it to plan the attack, and the company strongly condemns violence.

New Jersey sued Discord in April, alleging the company was engaging in deceptive business practices that don't protect its youngest users.

In 2023, Discord helped foil a potential mass shooting at a synagogue after a 13-year-old allegedly made threats on the app. According to ABC News, Discord reported the disturbing messages to authorities, leading to an arrest before the attack was carried out.

What is Discord's policy around hate speech?

Discord says it does not allow hateful conduct or speech on its platforms.

"We don’t allow hateful conduct or the use of hate speech while on Discord. This includes hate symbols and denial of historical mass atrocities. We define hate speech as any expression that degrades, vilifies, or dehumanizes individuals, incites hostility towards specific groups, or promotes harm based on protected characteristics," its official policy states.

How old do you have to be to use Discord?

Discord has a minimum age of 13 to use its services in the U.S. and most other countries. Some countries have set higher age minimums to use the platform.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Las Vegas casinos ditch live dealers for electronic games amid ongoing tourism decline

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:05:20 -0400

Las Vegas tourism continues to decline as fresh numbers reveal that fewer visitors are traveling to Sin City.

The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) recently released its numbers for July visitors, noting a 12% drop from last year.

There were 3,089,300 visitors this July compared to over 3.5 million last year, while occupancy on the Strip dropped 7% from 86.5% last year.

LAS VEGAS BUFFETS A ‘DYING BREED’ AS CASINOS PUSH ‘YOUNGER AND COOLER’ FOOD HALL OPTIONS

The tourism decline has been attributed to a combination of factors, including the impact of tariffs, the seasonal summer slowdown, and a surge in online gaming.

Most recently, the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino announced it will be forgoing live dealers, shifting to electronic table games (ETG).

Owner and CEO Derek Stevens told Fox News Digital about ongoing evolutions and shared updates.

"I think things continue to change. I remember that at one point in time, people played sic bo [a fast-paced dice game with Asian origins]," said Stevens.

VEGAS CASINO OWNER FIRES BACK AT 'EXAGGERATED' CLAIMS OF SIN CITY'S DEMISE

"Remember, there are a lot of different games that had their eras and their run, whether it's in Vegas or anywhere around the world," he added.

Stevens said he believes ETGs represent just another shift in the industry, with consumers more comfortable playing on their phones following the coronavirus pandemic.

"Some of this really has to do with how good these new electronic table games are and how good some of these new high-limit slot machines are," he said.

"The slot business has done a great, great job of attracting new customers, both young and old."

Given that slot machines are still a hit, Stevens said he's seen an influx of traffic at his other hotel, Circa Resort & Casino, by bringing in ETGs.

"I think [people] used to say slots were more for introverts. With these new games, it's completely different. Slots are now something that people play in groups — and there's a lot of hooting and hollering that goes along with it."

He added that that is what table games would be like. Sharing it is a "continued evolution."

Stevens said they've made the change to drive a lot more people to the Golden Gate Casino by changing the demographics of clients.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

"We think it is going to be great for Las Vegas because we're going to bring a lot of value back to the table," he said.

Stevens said dealers from Golden Gate were relocated to their other casinos, Las Vegas or Circa.

"When I look at the future of Las Vegas, I actually [think] a little bit of it [is] having to do with the economy in general. Right now [there's been] a little bit of a bifurcation of the market."

Stevens said he continues to see continued growth in the high-end market, but it is "the other end that is kind of hurting."

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

"I think the interest rate level that we're currently at is disproportionately hitting one end of the market," said Stevens.

With rates expected to go down, mortgage costs and car payments for Americans should drop as well, said Stevens.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

"I just don't think it's all equally spread out," he said. "But as interest rates come down, I think that's going to help overall and broaden the base of the economy."

Louisiana sues online gaming platform Roblox for allegedly enabling child predators

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:30:09 -0400

FIRST ON FOX: Louisiana’s attorney general brought a lawsuit Thursday against Roblox, alleging the widely-used online gaming platform is rife with child predators and harmful content.

State Attorney General Liz Murrill said Roblox, an interactive online gaming program for children that touts more than 80 million users, cared more about driving profits than installing safeguards that would help protect young gamers.

"Due to Roblox’s lack of safety protocols, it endangers the safety of the children of Louisiana," Murrill said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital. "Roblox is overrun with harmful content and child predators because it prioritizes user growth, revenue, and profits over child safety."

205 ARRESTED IN FBI CHILD SEX OPERATION, PATEL AND BONDI ANNOUNCE

The petition, filed in the Livingston Parish district court, cited an instance of local law enforcement in the town of Livingston executing a search warrant last month on the home of a man suspected of possessing child sex abuse material.

At the time of the arrest, the petition stated, the man was actively using Roblox and also possessed voice-altering technology to make himself sound like a young woman.

The company, worth $90 billion, has faced numerous other lawsuits from individuals, including a recent one brought by a Georgia mother who alleged her nine-year-old son was sexually exploited through his use of Roblox. The mother alleged that a user "extorted" her son into sending explicit images of himself to peers.

READ A COPY OF THE LAWSUIT. APP USERS: CLICK HERE

Louisiana's attorney general has zeroed in on Roblox's sign-up process, alleging the company does not verify a user's age and therefore makes it easy for child predators to pose as children and interact with them.

"The end result is that Defendant, through its failure to implement adequate safety features and its failure to provide notice of the danger, provides the perfect place for pedophiles," state attorneys wrote in the petition.

A Roblox spokesperson told Fox News Digital in a statement after this story was published that it does not comment on pending litigation but that it has dedicated "substantial resources" to preventing inappropriate content on its platform.

"While no system is perfect, Roblox has implemented rigorous technology and enforcement safeguards, including restrictions on sharing personal information, links, and user-to-user image sharing," the spokesperson said. "The safety of our community is a top priority."

Murrill also alleged that the platform includes "experiences" that are sometimes not age appropriate but yet are not labeled as such.

YOUNGKIN CREDITS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION WITH BOLSTERING ANTI-HUMAN TRAFFICKING EFFORTS

State attorneys claimed in the petition that Roblox fails to provide age designations on experiences "in order to increase the number of uses per experience for the purpose of increasing revenue," in violation of consumer protection laws.

The attorneys said the platform offers minors the ability to play in "condo games" in which their avatars can enter homes and remove their virtual clothing and engage in simulated sex acts with other users' avatars.

According to a study cited in the petition, at one point the platform hosted more than 600 "Diddy" games centered on famous rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs' criminal charges and featured hundreds of references to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, who was a registered sex offender alleged to have sex trafficked underage women.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Murrill unveiled the lawsuit in a press conference and credited the state's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force with investigating the company. More than 40% of Roblox's users are under the age of 12, she said, adding that the lawsuit was part of a broader effort to address an uptick in sex crimes against minors.

"The number of tips that come in now compared to the number of tips that we used to get about 10 years ago, it's stunning," Murrill said. "The numbers have gone up exponentially. … It's become so much harder because of social media sites that not only invite our children in but they facilitate their exploitation."

Madden NFL 26 release highlights Saquon Barkley's apparent Trump-style touchdown celebration dance

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 20:10:00 -0400

The highly anticipated release of Madden NFL 26 appears to include a notable touchdown celebration that became a trend among some players last season.

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa, Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers and others broke out in celebratory dances that emulated President Donald Trump after touchdowns and sacks in 2024.

The upcoming version of the popular NFL-centric video game appears to show the virtual representation of Eagles running back Saquon Barkley doing his version of the dance.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

During a Madden game between the Eagles and Washington Commanders, Jalen Hurts throws a pass to Barkley. An animated version of the All-Pro running back then sprints into the end zone for a touchdown before breaking out into the signature Trump dance.

Barkley and Trump have a connection. Earlier this year, Barkley visited the White House to commemorate the Eagles' Super Bowl championship.

The day before the president hosted Barkley and his teammates on the South Lawn of the White House for a celebration ceremony, the star running back was spotted disembarking Marine One at Morristown Municipal Airport in New Jersey.

EAGLES RB SAQUON BARKLEY'S REVERSE HURDLE TO GRACE COVER OF MADDEN NFL 26

Trump told reporters Barkley is a "nice guy" and joked he "wanted to race him." The president ultimately decided to skip the race.

Barkley later responded to some of the backlash to news of his outing with Trump making its rounds on social media.

"Some people are really upset cause I played golfed [sic] and flew to the White House with the PRESIDENT," Barkley wrote on X. "Maybe I just respect the office, not a hard concept to understand," Barkley wrote on X. "Just golfed with Obama not too long ago…and look forward to finishing my round with Trump ! Now ya get out my mentions with all this politics and have amazing day."

The White House's official X account shared a photo of Trump and Barkley inside the Oval Office. The picture features a screenshot of the running back's message to critics.

More recently, Barkley declined an invitation to be part of Trump's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition.

"A couple months ago, it was brought to my team about the council, so I’m not really too familiar with it," he said, according to NBC Philadelphia. "I felt like I’m gonna be super busy, so me and my family thought it was probably in the best interest to not accept that.

"So, [I] was definitely a little shocked when my name was mentioned, but I’m assuming it’s something great. I appreciate it but was a little shocked when my name was mentioned."

Trump also named Bosa, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker to the council.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Madden NFL 26 is scheduled to be released to the general public Aug. 14. However, some users started having access Thursday.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Here's where you can find the Nintendo Switch 2 and accessories

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:56:33 -0400

The new Nintendo Switch – the Nintendo Switch 2 – has officially dropped. You can get it at Walmart and GameStop, Sam's Club and BJ's. The Switch 2 is selling out fast, and may be coming in and out of stock at these stores. Walmart previously said on X that its inventory will vary by location, so if your store is sold out, try searching at other stores near you.

After a back-and-forth battle that resulted in a pause on pre-orders due to tariffs, users were eventually able to pre-order back in May. After reaching the limit on pre-orders, the wait is over, with the Nintendo Switch 2 officially launching June 5.

Also, available with the launch is the new Mario Kart World bundle at Sam's Club. You can also find a Mario Kart World bundle with additional Nintendo accessories at GameStop.

The Switch 2 got a full upgrade from previous generations. The screen is bigger and brighter, with a longer built-in stand. There's also a black controller option, brand-new accessories and Joy-Con 2 controllers that attach magnetically and now offer mouse controls.

Nintendo Switch 2 accessories

Nintendo also released a whole new set of accessories that go with the Nintendo Switch 2 and previous Switch generations. Get cases, controllers and more.

Tempered glass screen protector: on sale for $19.99 (20% off)

Original price: $24.99

Protect your brand-new Switch 2 with a two-pack of tempered glass screen protectors specifically designed for the new Switch. Included is an auto-alignment installation kit that ensures your entire screen stays safe.

SUPCASE for Nintendo Switch 2: $30.99

Protect your Nintendo Switch 2 with this SUPCASE. Made from eco-friendly polycarbonate, the case is resistant to fingerprints and dust. The material is military-grade and shockproof, so it'll save your Switch 2 from breaking if you drop or scratch it.

Charging dock for Nintendo Switch 2 Joy Con: $26.99

This Joy Con charging dock can charge up to four Joy Cons at once. It supports dual-side charging, so no matter how you place the controller, it'll start to charge. You can choose from nine different lighting modes on the charge to customize your gaming space.

Switch sports games accessories bundle: on sale for $35.99 (16% off)

Original price: $42.99

The Switch sports game accessories bundle includes accessories for Mario golf, tennis, soccer, volleyball, bowling, badminton, Chambara and other games. Each accessory is designed for ergonomic comfort, so even if you're playing for hours, you won't feel it.

Nintendo Switch 2 camera: $54

You can put the Nintendo Switch 2 camera anywhere around your gaming setup and adjust the angle to get the perfect shot. The wide-angle lens adjusts to get everyone in the room on camera, and includes a USB-C charging cable.

Gaming headset: on sale for $17.98 (28% off)

Original price: $24.99

Pair your Nintendo Switch 2 with a Nintendo headset. The lightweight build is ideal for longtime game play, and the noise-canceling microphone makes it easier to communicate with other players.

10 FAMILY BOARD GAMES THAT ALSO MAKE GREAT GIFTS

Nintendo Switch case: on sale for $19.98 (23% off)

Original price: $25.99

Ensure your Nintendo Switch never gets lost or damaged by getting a Nintendo Switch case. This Switch case from Amazon has plenty of space for your Switch and all your accessories, including up to 20 game cards. Walmart also has a Nintendo Switch case that has a built-in viewing stand that you can adjust to your desired angle. It also holds a charge and four game cards.

Nintendo Switch steering wheel: $22.91

The Nintendo Switch comes with different accessories, including a Nintendo Switch steering wheel for games like Mario Kart. Grab a two-pack of Switch wheels from Amazon. Just insert your controller in the center of the wheel, and you’re good to go.

For more deals, visit www.foxnews.com/category/deals

Switch car headrest mount compatible: on sale for $15.99 (6% off)

Original price: $16.99

Kids (and adults) who want to play their Switch 2 while in the car need a headrest mount. The sturdy mount links up to the front seat headrest and rotates 360 degrees, making it easy to keep up with games even when on the go.

Bam Margera says skateboarding helped with sobriety: 'I need it in my life, or else I'll die'

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:00:22 -0400

Not too long ago, Bam Margera was at his wits' end.

The former professional skateboarder and MTV star of "Jackass" and "Viva La Bam" had struggled with drugs and alcohol throughout practically his entire adult life. He's been to rehab 13 times, each for 90 days. That's equal to over three years of drug treatment.

But now, he's coming up on two years sober, and he credits his first love of skateboarding for it.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"I realized I don’t need to be on any medication — skateboarding is my medication. As long as I do a trick a day, it keeps my sanity sane," Margera told Fox News Digital in a recent interview.

Most fans grew up watching Margera doing wild stunts on TV and in the movies. Off-screen, he'd take it to a different level.

But after his co-star and best friend Ryan Dunn died in a car wreck in 2011, Margera went "down a real dark path," and his struggles reached the point where he was taken off "Jackass Forever" back in 2022. He still does not talk to the majority of his former castmates.

"In 2013, when the doctors declared my legs as dry-rotted rubber bands from alcohol abuse, I kind of lost hope about skating," Margera said. "But my wife, she’s a stretch coach. I stretch an hour a day, and my 45-year-old legs feel like their 22 again. So, my passion back to skating is completely there, and I do it every day.

"I actually woke up eight days on life support with a tube down my throat with COVID and pneumonia, and I found out I went into five seizures 20 minutes apiece just from staying up, not eating right, drinking too much, and that was when I decided I needed to change and I needed to change now," Margera added. "When I detoxed and lost a little bit of weight, I got back on the skateboard again, and my muscle memory eventually came back. It was not easy, but now that it’s back and I’m doing it every day, a lot of tricks are coming way easier."

PGA STAR'S DAD SKIPPING 'UNWATCHABLE' RYDER CUP AT BETHPAGE BLACK: 'AFRAID OF WHAT'S GOING TO HAPPEN'

Margera admitted that even the simplest of tricks for a pro became difficult — when he was relearning his expertise, he fell and broke his wrist "for the 15th time and hyperextended my elbow with the bone sticking out."

"That lack of confidence after that, I was scared to do anything… But when you start skating again every day, you start learning how to fall again, and your chances of getting injured become more slim to none."

Now, Margera, 44, is a playable character in a reboot of "Tony Hawk Pro Skater 3 + 4." Margera had actually missed the deadline to be in the game. But, after hanging out with Hawk one day, Hawk used his powers to get him in.

"Me saying hi to him, if I would have not called him, this would not have happened. So it’s a real blessing everything happened the way that it did," Margera said.

Margera hung out with hundreds of fans at Complex LA last Tuesday to celebrate the release of the game. Margera jumped between gaming stations, challenging fans to high-score competitions and sharing stories about his involvement in the iconic franchise.

"It’s a real honor to be in the game. It really puts skaters on the map for people that aren’t diehard skaters as there is. There’s such a handful of skaters that are really killing it these days, but if I said their names, you wouldn’t know them unless you were a diehard skateboard fan. To be in the game, it can get the attention of the 80-year-old grandma, ‘Oh! I know that Bam Margera! He’s in that Tony Hawk skateboard game!’ It gives you a whole bunch of street cred that if you’re in that game, you must be a real established skateboarder."

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

For Margera, his new way of life is simple: Skateboard, or else.

"I need skateboarding in my life, or else I’ll die. I need skateboarding in my life in order to fulfill it," he said. "If you don’t have any passion for anything, then you lose purpose. When you lose purpose, you get bored, and then boredom leads to drugs and alcohol. I can’t get bored. I’m completely occupied with learning my skate tricks back."

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Thousands of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles stolen in $1.4M cargo heist

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 11:24:14 -0400

Deputies in Colorado are searching for the people responsible for stealing $1.4 million worth of Nintendo Switch 2 consoles just days after the new video gaming system was released worldwide.

The heist was reported at a truck stop the morning of June 8, Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office said on X.

"A semi-truck driver reported that he had just discovered his trailer had been broken into during a pre-trip inspection, and several pallets of the newly released Nintendo Switch 2 game consoles were stolen - 2,810 of them to be exact," the post said.

Each Nintendo console is valued at $499, the sheriff's office said.

THE NINTENDO SWITCH 2 IS OUT, HERE'S WHERE TO GET ONE

"The driver told deputies he was en route to a @gamestop store in Grapevine, Texas, from @NintendoAmerica in Redmond, Washington," the sheriff's office added. The driver told investigators "he did not know what was in the trailer, only that it was games or toys."

Deputies are unsure if the theft occurred in the town of Bennett or someplace else the truck stopped.

YOUTUBER SPENDS 61 DAYS IN LINE TO PURCHASE NINTENDO SWITCH 2

If the suspects are found, they could face charges of felony theft valued at $1 million or more and criminal mischief.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office tipline at 720-874-8477 and can remain anonymous, if they choose.

Switch 2 pre-orders for major retailers opened on April 24, after delays attributed to Nintendo examining the potential impact of tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The price of the base Switch 2 along with the newest "Mario Kart World" bundle costs $499 — making it the most expensive Nintendo console to date. Nintendo also warned buyers that Switch 2 accessories will experience "price adjustments" due to "changes in market conditions," per the official statement. By comparison, the original Switch launched in 2017 at a retail price of $299.

Fox News Digital's Benji Ferraro contributed to this report.

Epic Games debuts voice-interactive Darth Vader in Fortnite — and it's already being tricked into swearing

Sat, 17 May 2025 08:18:47 -0400

Epic Games released an AI-powered Darth Vader character that players can speak to via microphone.

Fortnite and Disney teamed up to unveil an AI character that responds to a player's voice in real time. According to Fortnite, AI Vader can react to players by answering questions and providing strategies.

The tech uses Google's Gemini 2.0 Flash model to generate Vader's responses, according to Epic Games.

The voice of James Earl Jones, the late actor who voiced Vader, was generated using ElevenLabs' Flash v2.5 model.

AI ‘DIGITAL TWINS’ ARE WARPING POLITICAL REALITY, LEAVING DEEPFAKE VICTIMS WITH FEW OPTIONS FOR LEGAL ACTION

The family of Jones said in a statement to Epic, "James Earl felt that the voice of Darth Vader was inseparable from the story of Star Wars, and he always wanted fans of all ages to continue to experience it. We hope that this collaboration with Fortnite will allow both longtime fans of Darth Vader and newer generations to share in the enjoyment of this iconic character."

The game's site states that audio and transcriptions from players are not stored and are solely used to prompt Darth Vader's responses. Epic also says it does not use the players' interactions to train AI models.

SCARLETT JOHANSSON TAKES AIM AT COMPANIES USING HER LIKENESS, VOICE IN AI

Players quickly found ways to get Vader to respond with profanity by having him repeat offensive language used by them.

Australian streamer and gamer Kathleen Belsten, who goes by the handle "Loserfruit," shared a video online of her managing to prompt the AI Darth Vader to say "f---" during in-game dialogue.

META TARGET OF PARENTS GROUP CRUSADE AFTER SCATHING CHILD SEXUAL EXPLOITATION REPORT

Another X user with the handle @GasSpares was able to get the AI character to repeat a slur.

Fortnite offers a feature that allows players to report such events, according to the site's FAQ. The company said it immediately issued a "hot fix" that will prevent players from making the character use profanity or slurs.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The site also states that "Players under 13 or their country’s age of digital consent, whichever is higher, will need permission to talk with Darth Vader. These players will see an in-game prompt to get parental permission."

‘Minecraft’ movie mayhem raises alarms for America's youth, ‘bad for society’: expert

Sat, 19 Apr 2025 05:00:21 -0400

"A Minecraft Movie," the big-screen adaptation of the popular video game "Minecraft," has been packing theaters with rowdy kids and teens since its release this month, spurring a social media phenomenon and sparking concern for America's youth.

Videos on social media show young theatergoers huge reactions to one key scene, where one of the film’s stars, Jack Black, yells out the phrase "Chicken Jockey!" as a small, Frankenstein-looking creature lands on top of a chicken in a boxing ring to face off with co-star Jason Momoa.

The scene has prompted excited fans to scream, shout, throw popcorn around, jump up out of their seats, and in one instance in Provo, Utah, toss a live chicken in the air during a screening, according to the Salt Lake Tribune.

Springs Cinema & Taphouse in Sandy Springs, Georgia, told FOX 5 Atlanta that its staff has had to clean up popcorn, ICEEs, ketchup and shattered glass.

5 THINGS MINECRAFT TEACHES KIDS (PLUS ONE BAD THING, TOO)

"The movie-going experience has changed a lot since I was younger," Josh Gunderson, director of marketing and events at Oviedo Mall in Florida, told FOX Business. "And TikTok has changed that quite a bit."

"There’s a part of me that says this is just dumb fun. There’s another part of me [that says] for the poor people who are there at the movie theaters having to clean up this mess, it's a disaster," Raymond Arroyo, Fox News’ contributor and host of the "Arroyo Grande" podcast, told Fox News Digital.

"And obviously, you know a safety hazard, because … anytime you get 200 young boys in a room, and they're all yelling and jumping in 20 directions, it's sort of like, you know, a social media ‘Lord of the Flies,' that's what this is. And I get why they're calling in the cops. I get why some theater chains are saying you can only come with a parent because you can't have that kind of mayhem every day and at every showing."

Arroyo added, "I think, if anything, it shows the deep passion and the connection that these boys feel to this video game, and therefore they've carried over to the movie. And that's part of the reason it’s such a big hit."

WATCH: KIDS CAUSE CHAOS DURING 'MINECRAFT' MOVIE VIEWINGS

"A Minecraft Movie" has earned $557 million worldwide so far, led by the established fandom of the games and the social media buzz created by filming videos related to "Chicken jockey" and other meme-able moments related to the game.

The movie’s director, Jared Hess, spoke with Entertainment Weekly about the chaotic screenings.

"It's been way too fun. People are sending me these really hilarious speeches that a lot of teenagers are giving right before the movie. It's so hysterical, man. I'm staying up way too late," he said.

Some screenings have had police called to break up the antics, which Hess thinks is a little much.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT NEWSLETTER

"It's weird when you're having too much fun and the cops get called," Hess told the outlet. "It's funny because I think it's just literally cheering and throwing popcorn, which is so funny to me that cops are getting called for popcorn. Yeah, it's hilarious. I've seen so many funny videos. It's great, especially when people are climbing on their friends' shoulders and standing up and cheering for those moments. It's like this crazy anticipation. But, man, I'm just glad people are making memories with their friends and families."

Arroyo is "all for engagement," comparing the theater experience to that of midnight screenings of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" or sing-alongs to "Grease."

"Singing along or clapping in unison or doing silly things at a certain point in a movie everybody knows and loves … throwing popcorn, throwing live chickens, throwing the guy next to you up into the air, I’m not sure that’s the best way forward.

"If there can be a more contained audience participation, I think everybody would be on board. But the moment you are [causing] a mess and injuring people, that turns into something very different, and I get why they don't want to tolerate that. It shouldn't be tolerated."

ELVIRA CRITICIZES ARIANA GRANDE FOR DIVA BEHAVIOR AT ONE OF HER SHOWS

Arroyo also sees it as an opportunity to instill some life lessons in young boys.

"Boys need an element of freedom, and they need to be a little wild. That's a good thing," he said. "On the other hand, they need to know how and when to rein that in and to discipline themselves, and I worry that when you let this kind of mayhem just go on and say, ‘Oh let them throw the popcorn, we love it,’ like the director said, that may be good for the ticket sales, it’s bad for society. Boys need to learn how to control themselves in public settings. The world is not your rec room."

Jack Black recently attempted to dissuade audiences from bad behavior by popping up at a screening in Los Angeles to deliver a warning.

"For today's presentation of ‘A Minecraft Movie,’ please no throwing popped corn, and also no lapis lazuli… and absolutely no chicken jockeys!" he said in a video shared on social media.

JACK BLACK FELT 'WHOLE FOR THE FIRST TIME' AFTER TRYING PSYCHEDELIC DRUGS AT 13

"I love the Jack Black public service announcement," Arroyo said. "I think he’s worried, too, about their welfare. These are young kids for the most part. And you can see how excited they are because it's a big part of their lives."

Arroyo further explained why the "Minecraft" mania has been sweeping the nation.

"I think a way to put this in context, so everybody doesn't freak out, what the Barbie movie was for girls and women, this movie is for young boys and teens. It strikes a deep chord, it’s something that’s part of their growth and childhood and everyday life. It's also how they communicate. A lot of [kids], they put their headsets on, and they're talking while they're playing ‘Minecraft.’ So it is a… touchstone for them."

He continued, "It's an exciting moment. It's like Hollywood validating their lived experience, so that's why you're seeing this level of excitement, I think. And it's a callback that they feel is only theirs, it’s their own little personal thing. So it becomes kind of a communal ritual almost for them. That's what this is. This is a communal ritual of young guys saying, look, we all play this, we get the reference even though these idiot parents and everybody else don’t.

LIKE WHAT YOU’RE READING? CLICK HERE FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT NEWS

"But there is a level where you have to say, ‘Guys, you’ve crossed a line here.’ You need an adult in the room," Arroyo added.

National theater chain Regal Cinemas is trying to manage some of the excitement by offering "Chicken Jockey" screenings on April 20.

"Customers are invited to dress up as their favorite ‘Minecraft’ characters, whoop, yelp, clap and shout ‘Chicken Jockey!’ There are some rules we don’t break. So here’s the deal: build excitement? Absolutely. LOL with friends till you’re rolling in the aisles? Totally. But please don’t go full Creeper in the auditorium," their website states.

Representatives for Warner Bros. Pictures and Cinema United (formerly the National Association of Theater Owners) did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Arroyo noted that the hype for the "Minecraft" movie appears to be part of a cultural shift in taste from the superhero domination of the Marvel movies to an upswing in video game-based stories.

"This is the prevailing culture among young people, particularly for boys. ‘Mario Bros’ was a big hit. You saw ‘The Last of Us’ on HBO, ‘Fallout’ [on Amazon Prime]. These are all video games that have spawned spin-offs. Some of them good, some of them not so good. But there’s this built-in IP and what novels and stories and Broadway provided in years past to Hollywood, now video games are furnishing with IP and storylines that are already well-known enough that it diminishes your risk when you bring it to the big screen."

He added, "That is dying out, and we just imagine kids remain excited about that. I don’t think they do. It doesn’t hold the same fascination it held for us."

Fox Business' Pilar Arias contributed to this report.

Esports World Cup will offer 'life-changing sum' to top competitors

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:06:09 -0400

The Esports World Cup (EWC) will feature the best competitive gamers from across the globe, and the pressure got more intense on Thursday as a record-breaking prize pool was announced.

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) announced a prize pool of more than $70 million, which will make the event among the most prestigious in sports.

The event will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and run from July 7 to Aug. 24.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"The record-breaking $70+ million prize pool, along with our commitment to the Club Partner Program and our multi-year publisher agreements, is a privilege to announce and validation of our purpose to elevate the industry, by giving players, clubs, publishers and all other stakeholders the stability needed to invest for future success," Esports World Cup CEO Ralf Reichert said in a news release.

"While more than $70 million is an incredible, life-changing sum, it’s always aligned with a long-term vision rather than short-term impact. It’s not just to have more money at stake, but to create opportunities for everyone at every level of the ecosystem, and strengthen the industry for generations to come."

There are 25 tournaments taking place in 24 games so far.

WWE STAR CODY RHODES TALKS LOVE FOR CLASH OF CLANS GAME, HOW JOHN CENA TIES IN

Esports World Cup officials said the games include: Apex Legends, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Call of Duty: Warzone, Chess, Counter-Strike 2, Crossfire, Dota 2, EA Sports FC 25, FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves, Free Fire, Honor of Kings, League of Legends, Mobile Legends Bang Bang, Overwatch 2, PUBG BATTLEGROUNDS, PUBG Mobile, Rainbow Six Siege X, Rennsport, Rocket League, Starcraft II, Street Fighter 6, Teamfight Tactics, and VALORANT.

There are also 40 clubs that have joined the EWCF Club Partner Program ahead of the Esports World Cup, including: 100 Thieves, All Gamers, Bilibili Gaming, Cloud9, Edward Gaming, EVOS, FaZe Clan, Fnatic, FURIA, G2 Esports, Gaimin Gladiators, Gen.G, Gentle Mates, HEROIC, JD Gaming, Karmine Corp., Movistar KOI, LEVIATAN, LOUD, MOUZ, NAVI, NIP.eStar, ONIC, POWR, REJECT, S8UL, Sentinels, T1, Team BDS, Team Falcons, Team Liquid, Team RRQ, Team Secret, Team Spirit, Team Vitality, Twisted Minds, Virtus.pro, Weibo Gaming, Wolves Esports, ZETA DIVISION.

Team Falcons won the Club Championship and a $7 million prize in the inaugural event last year.

The remainder of the prize pool "will be divided into three distribution categories: Game Championships, MVP Awards, and Qualifiers on the Road to EWC. Each of the Game Championships will have its prize pool with a combined total exceeding $38 million. In addition, a $450,000 MVP Award pool will be allocated to standout participants across all competitions," organizers said. More than $5 million will be awarded to Road to EWC qualifiers.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

"Winning the Club Championship crown and $7 million at the inaugural Esports World Cup was a defining moment for Team Falcons," Team Falcons CEO Mosaad Al-Dossary said in a news release. "The opportunity to compete in front of our home fans, where they made the arenas shake with every great play, motivated us like never before, and it was an honor to secure the victory for them.

"We’ve used the momentum and winnings from last year to build on our success and we look forward to continuing that legacy this summer."

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

WWE star Cody Rhodes talks love for Clash of Clans game, how John Cena ties in

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:00:33 -0400

WWE champion Cody Rhodes has been playing Clash of Clans for nearly 10 years and the time, effort and money he’s put into the mobile game paid off on Monday.

Rhodes will be among the WWE superstars who will be "re-imagined as iconic characters" in the game beginning on Tuesday with the game’s having a match sponsorship at WrestleMania 41, WWE and Clash of Clans announced.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

"The American Nightmare" will be re-imagined as the "Barbarian King."

He told Fox News Digital in a recent interview he’s played Clash of Clans since its early days. The video game requires players to build their own village by using resources obtained from attacking others or joining their own clan to participate in "Clan Wars."

"Talking about the culmination of years, for those who don’t know, I’ve been playing Clash since the OG days and there’s a whole group of WWE (stars) – the Nicky Clan – that still runs today," Rhodes said. "We’re literally on a prep day for a war. Now, we do all the seasons. I’ve gotten every skin you could think of. I’m constantly pressing the little coat hanger to see what you can change and for this to be a collab with WWE – mind blowing.

"There are things you want and wish for and goals you might have in this job and there’s those really pleasant surprises that come across. This has been one of those really pleasant surprises. I didn’t anticipate we’d be able to do this cross-promotion, WWE and Clash, and gosh, it’s blowing me away."

Rhea Ripley as "Archer Queen," The Undertaker as "Grand Warden," Bianca Belair as "Royal Champion," Rey Mysterio as "Minion Prince," Kane as "P.E.K.K.A.," Becky Lynch as "Valkyrie" and Jey Uso as "Thrower" are also part of the integrations.

JOHN CENA VOWS TO 'RUIN WRESTLING' IN PURSUIT OF 17TH WWE TITLE AT WRESTLEMANIA 41

"When the game team found out Cody Rhodes and other Superstars were long-time Clash of Clans fans, they didn’t hesitate to reach out to WWE," Supercell head of live games Sara Bach said in a news release. "This partnership in Clash of Clans is on a scale we’ve never created before – from the in-game event reaching tens of millions of players, to WrestleMania 41 and our Clash of Clans match as a first-of-its-kind event on the biggest stage."

Rhodes is set to defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against John Cena at WrestleMania 41 as the feud between the two competitors has taken off since the Elimination Chamber.

Ironically, Rhodes mentioned, it was Cena who got him into it.

"It’s crazy. The answer to this question actually relates to WrestleMania, which I could make it seem like it’s supposed to, but it actually does," he said. "John Cena – he got the game, was playing it on the road. All of us thought the same thing, like, do you have time to commit to this game? Clash is the type of the game you have time to commit to because you set your base and you go away. The way it works is very easy to play.

"He had a clan, the O.L.K., the O’Leary Klan. And maybe we knew he was a bad guy all the way back then, because we kicked him out of the clan and started what was called the Nicky Clan, which I think we scapegoated the social media person who was working at the time named Nicky, we named it for him. I don’t even know if he was in it.

"And the clan still exists to this day. There’s a whole locker room full of guys who are in it and a bunch of different locker rooms full of guys who are in it and a bunch of different locker rooms with different wrestling organizations all in the clan."

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Clash of Clans is one of the more popular mobile games ever. The game has amassed more than two billion lifetime downloads and the WWE partnership has seemingly taken it to a new level.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Dungeons & Dragons causes controversy with rule change over identity

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 17:00:25 -0500

"Races" are now "species" in the beloved game Dungeons & Dragons, which recently marked its 50th anniversary, irking some loyal fans.

"Some character traits have been divorced from biological identity; a mountain dwarf is no longer inherently brawny and durable, a high elf no longer intelligent and dexterous by definition," a report in The New York Times explains. "And Wizards of the Coast, the Dungeons & Dragons publisher owned by Hasbro, has endorsed a trend throughout role-playing games in which players are empowered to halt the proceedings if they ever feel uncomfortable."

The company also now suggests that extended Dungeons & Dragons campaigns begin with sessions allowing players to lay out their expectations and which topics they wish to avoid, which could include sexual assault or drug use, the Times writes.

"What they’re trying to do here is put up a signal flare, to not only current players but potential future players, that this game is a safe, inclusive, thoughtful and sensitive approach to fantasy storytelling," said Ryan Lessard, a writer and frequent Dungeons & Dragons dungeon master, according to the report.

ENTERTAINMENT INSIDER SAYS ESG FUNDING IS WHY WOKE ENTERTAINMENT KEEPS GETTING MADE DESPITE LOSING AUDIENCES

But some gamers are frustrated.

"It’s an unnecessary thing," Robert J. Kuntz, an award-winning game designer who frequently collaborated with Gary Gygax, a co-creator of Dungeons & Dragons, told the Times. "It attempts to play into something that I’m not sure is even worthy of addressing, as if the word ‘race’ is bad."

AP UNDER FIRE AFTER OLYMPIC BOXER WHO FAILED GENDER TEST NAMED AMONG ‘FEMALE ATHLETES OF THE YEAR’

Wizards of the Coast executives defended the new rules by saying players desired greater leeway in creating their characters. But some have slammed the attempt at a more "inclusive" game that some argue comes at the expense of the game's authenticity.

BLACKROCK ADMITS ESG ADVOCACY COULD PROVE BAD FOR BUSINESS

In an X thread about the new Wizards of the Coast Players Handbook and Dungeon Master's Guide that analyzed D&D’s origins in the 1970s, users blasted WoTC and Hasbro for distancing themselves from the game's original creators due to their apparent insensitivites. The foreword claims the original role-playing game largely excluded women or portrayed them "disrespectfully," and portrayed slavery "not as a human tragedy but as a commercial transaction."

"Wizards of the woke," one X user said in response to the passage.

X owner Elon Musk weighed in with an even blunter message.

"Nobody, and I mean nobody, gets to trash E. Gary Gygax and the geniuses who created Dungeons & Dragons," he wrote. "What the f--- is wrong with Hasbro and WoTC?? May they burn in hell."

Musk also weighed in on a passage Babylon Bee editor Kyle Mann highlighted in which players in the game's latest iteration are encouraged to signal if they are triggered by any of the game's content.

"Wtf," Musk simply replied.

Fox News Digital reached out to Hasbro for comment.

Mark Kern, a former team lead of "World of Warcraft," recently weighed in on how the video game industry and entertainment at large cater to progressive views in their content in exchange for access to money. One consultant agency, Sweet Baby Inc., for instance, described itself as an "inclusion-focused narrative and consultation company" working toward "diversifying and enriching the video games industry."

"There is a coordinated effort to insert diversity politics into games by ALL parties involved to the detriment of the quality of the games themselves. Sweet Baby’s Inc.’s very public and self published involvement is just the tip of the iceberg," Kern told Fox News Digital.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Fox News Digital's Alexander Hall contributed to this report.

10 gifts for gamers you can find during Amazon's Black Friday sale

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 13:03:11 -0500

Finding a gift for the gamers in your life can be difficult, especially if you have no idea what type of tech they’d like. Well, Amazon has you covered this holiday season. During their Black Friday sales, Amazon has discounts on gaming accessories and consoles that every type of gamer is sure to love!

In an era where gaming is not just a hobby but a lifestyle, the right present can really enhance the gaming universe and make a gamer’s setup more comfortable. These 10 gifts cater to various aspects of gaming, ensuring that you can find something that will be cherished by the gamers in your life.

Most purchases can be delivered to your door in 24 hours if you're an Amazon Prime member. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your holiday shopping today.

Nintendo Switch Lite: on sale for $184.56

Original price: $199.99

A lighter version of the classic Switch, the Nintendo Switch Lite brings everything gamers love just in a slightly smaller package. It’s still compatible with all physical and digital Nintendo Switch games that support handheld mode.

Video gaming floor rocker: on sale for $84.99

Original price: $129.99

A floor rocker is the ultimate gaming chair for gamers who want to be comfortable. This gaming floor rocker has helpful arms that fold down when you don’t want to use them.

8 STADIUM ESSENTIALS YOU'LL NEED FOR GAME DAY

Logitech wired gaming mouse: on sale for $34.99

Original price: $79.99

Gamers who play via a computer will love this newly updated Logitech gaming mouse. It has 11 customizable buttons you can assign commands to. It also has onboard memory that stores up to five player profiles.

Gaming USB microphone: on sale for $38.24

Original price: $69.99

When playing multi-player games, a gaming microphone helps you communicate with other players. This USB gaming microphone comes with one-click noise cancelation technology that immediately blocks out background noise, helping gamers stay focused. You can also change the color of the lights on the microphone to match your gaming aesthetic.

Acer Nitro V gaming laptop: on sale for $749.99

Original price: $849.99

Gamers who primarily use their laptops to game could likely use a new gaming laptop this holiday season. The Acer Nitro V is extremely fast and allows you to play all your favorite games wherever you are.

Gamer neon sign: on sale for $20.71

Original price: $39.99

Gamers of all kinds will love a gamer neon sign featuring a controller. This vibrant sign is easy to hang and gives off bright, neon light that will add to the gaming atmosphere.

12 LAWN GAMES TO HELP YOUR FAMILY GET OUTSIDE MORE

Gaming keyboard: on sale for $68.92

Original price: $129.99

Get the gamer in your life a new shiny gaming keyboard this year. The Logitech gaming keyboard is a durable keyboard that delivers an audible and tactile click that’s so satisfying while gaming. It’s also ultra-portable and won’t take up a ton of space on a gaming desk.

Controller charger station: on sale for $25.06

Original price: $34.80

Xbox users can more easily keep their controllers charged with a controller charging station. The station includes one rechargeable battery pack that provides 18 to 25 hours of game play once the controllers are charged. It’s also a universal charger that works on all Xbox controllers.

Gaming mouse pad with wireless charging: on sale for $27.54

Original price: $32.99

Level up your gaming equipment with this gaming mouse pad with a wireless charging station. It’s big enough to hold a keyboard, mouse and phone. Speaking of phones, this mouse pad also has a built-in charger that’s compatible with most iPhones and Samsung devices.

For more Deals, visit www.foxnews.com/category/deals

Glow in the dark gaming blanket: on sale for $19.99

Original price: $26.89

Late night gaming calls for a cozy blanket. This glow in the dark gaming blanket provides plenty of warmth and glows in the dark, adding to the gaming aesthetic.

Caitlin Clark at ‘top of the list’ to be next NBA 2K cover athlete; Angel Reese also could be featured

Thu, 14 Nov 2024 06:53:42 -0500

NBA 2K began putting WNBA athletes on select covers in 2021, and with the growth of the women's game, that Is not stopping any time soon.

Candace Parker was on the NBA 2K22 WNBA 25th Anniversary Special Edition cover. Since then, Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi, Sabrina Ionescu, and A'ja Wilson have graced other covers.

Wilson's cover hit shelves back in September, and after ratings seemed to be carried by one person, it is pretty easy to realize which WNBA player is the favorite for next year's cover.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Ronnie Singh, NBA 2K's director of digital marketing who often goes by "Ronnie 2K" in the gaming community, says that after her historic rookie season, Caitlin Clark is obviously in the running.

"I think she’s a young star that’s going to be here for a long time. I wouldn’t disqualify any woman, but Caitlin is at the top of the list and probably will be for years to come," Singh said to Fox News Digital in a recent interview.

Singh said cover athletes normally represent three qualities: authenticity and representation to the game, if they are on an upward trajectory and if they align with the story they are trying to tell. Clark checks all of those boxes, Singh said.

Singh spoke to Fox News Digital as part of his new partnership with Lids as part of their "It's Personal" holiday campaign, celebrating the intersection of sports, fashion, and personalized gifting.

CAITLIN CLARK SET TO TAKE SWING AT GOLF IN LPGA PRO-AM

"This is such a great plan when it comes to what we’re trying to do in culture, and we align really well. It’s super dope, and it’s come together really great," Singh said. "It’s incredible. People wear jerseys all the time, but wearing the caps and their favorite teams, the retro looks, you go to Lids and you find amazing homages to some of the best logos and teams you’ll ever find… Being able to celebrate our past heroes and teams, and being able to do it with such a cool apparel in a cap, it’s super dope."

There is another player, though, that Singh also has in mind to grace a 2K cover: Angel Reese.

"Both of them are extraordinary women, and we’d be lucky to have either of them. The moment the W is having, I can’t speak enough to how many stars there are and how much we love to celebrate all of them. We’ll see in terms of cover. I imagine over the years both of those women will have the moment for sure."

Clark and Reese were the only rookies from this past season to be named WNBA All-Stars. Reese had set the record for most rebounds in a single season in league history, but when her season was cut short due to injury, Wilson surpassed her. Clark, meanwhile, put up the most assists in a single WNBA season while averaging close to 20 points per game.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Clark received 66 of 67 first-place votes for Rookie of the Year - Reese received the other.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

New Hampshire video game designers create treasure hunt across Northeast with eye-popping reward

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 19:39:24 -0400

A pair of video game designers created a real-life, real-time treasure hunt in the Northeast with a hefty reward for the lucky individual who finds the unique treasure.

The game is called Project Skydrop, and players compete against one another to locate a 24-karat gold sculpture valued at $26,000.

"This treasure hunt is a prototype, just experimenting to see if people like it, if people like the format," Project Skydrop co-creator Jason Rohrer told Boston 25 News.

The game started Sept. 19 and will end on Oct. 10.

VICTORIAN-ERA BAR OF CHOCOLATE TO BE SOLD AT AUCTION

The golden treasure has been hidden within a 500-mile radius, and, for $20, players receive a daily hint of the location of the prize, located deep in the woods of public land on the forest floor. Each day, the clues start to reveal more and more about where the treasure is hidden. As the days go on, the circle gets smaller.

"We’re trying to figure out if the treasure hunt itself is a sort of self-contained, self-sustaining, financial thing, where these people are paying entry fees to join and that this bounty payment growing over time makes it more and more interesting. Can that snowball and take off? That’s the question," Rohrer said.

The object resembles a "cyclone" on a base with dots and symbols etched onto the sides of the rings. It was made of 10 troy ounces of 24-karat pure gold.

Along with the $25,000 value of the treasure, the winner will also receive a portion of an ever-growing prize bounty pool.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

There's also a Discord social media server with over 6,300 members signed up to share their thoughts and theories during the treasure hunt.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

According to the Project Skydrop website, the grand prize is under 24/7 surveillance.

The designers surrounded the prize with tree-mounted cameras that are both motion-sensitive and night-vision capable.

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxnews.com/lifestyle

Nicolas Cage to play John Madden in big-budget biopic

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 21:37:59 -0400

Legendary NFL broadcaster and Super Bowl-winning coach John Madden will be Nicolas Cage's next role.

Cage has been cast to play Madden in an upcoming biopic by Amazon MGM Studios, the film’s director, David O. Russell, said in a statement Thursday.

"Nicolas Cage, one of our greatest and most original actors, will portray the best of the American spirit of originality, fun and determination in which anything is possible as beloved national legend John Madden," Russell said in a statement.

"Together with the ferocious style, focus and inspired individualism of Al Davis, owner of the underdog Oakland Raiders, the feature will be about the joy, humanity and genius that was John Madden in a wildly inventive, cool world of the 1970s."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Cage will take on the role nearly three years after Madden died at the age of 85. A release date for the movie has not yet been announced.

The movie will reportedly focus on the origins of Madden's NFL video game franchise, "Madden NFL," according to The Hollywood Reporter. The video game series, which began in 1988 and was developed and published by EA Sports, was arguably the crown jewel of Madden's portfolio.

The video game series is one of the most profitable and highest-selling digital entertainment franchises in history. The product's dominance is directly tied to an exclusive licensing deal that EA signed with the NFL in 2005, making it the only video game that could use official NFL teams and players.

Last year marked the 24th consecutive year the latest Madden installment debuted as a top-selling game, according to The NPD Group's monthly sales report.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

Cage's casting comes amid a flury of rumors of other star actors being considered. Will Ferrell was among the actors previously rumored to be playing Madden in Russell's film. Hugh Jackman was later rumored to be portraying Madden.

Another competing project focused on Madden's career outside of the video game series is also in development, according to Deadline. That project is a limited TV series directed by Gavin O'Connor with Tom Brady's production company among those reportedly involved.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Teen wearing 'neo-Nazi' bulletproof vest stabs 5 in live-streamed attack near mosque: officials

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 10:10:42 -0400

A teenager wearing a helmet and a neo-Nazi-styled bullet-proof vest randomly stabbed five people near a mosque in Turkey on Monday while live-streaming the attack on social media, according to officials and local media.

The 18-year-old, identified as Arda K., broadcast the knife rampage on social media through a camera attached to his vest, HaberTurk television reported.

The teenager, who also wore safety goggles, gloves and a skull half-mask, was detained following a police chase, with Turkey’s interior minister posting a video of the suspect being bundled into the back of a police vehicle. The suspect’s bulletproof vest had a "black sun" symbol, which originated in Nazi Germany and is used by neo-Nazis.

6 FATALLY SHOT IN SHIITE MOSQUE IN AFGHANISTAN: TALIBAN

The victims had been relaxing at an open-air café after prayers at a mosque in Eskisehir, in northern Turkey, about 143 miles west of the capital Ankara.

The attack video was circulating on X on Tuesday and showed several men crying out after being stabbed. Many of the victims appeared to be elderly men and were attacked from behind.

Other footage online shows men and police standing over the suspect after he was apprehended.

TIM WALZ HAS TIES TO MUSLIM CLERIC WITH ANTISEMITIC VIEWS, GAVE STATE FUNDING TO HIS GROUP: REPORT

The five wounded individuals were hospitalized and two of them were in serious condition, according to the state-run Anadolu Agency. The assailant was also carrying an ax but did not appear to have used it.

Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said an investigation had begun, while HaberTurk and other media reported the assailant is believed to have been influenced by a video game and that he dressed like a video game character.

CLICK TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

The interior minister also posted an image showing the items the suspect had on him, including a bloodied knife, a second knife with a swastika symbol with the letters "KKK" written on the weapon.

Yerlikaya also released an image of the suspect in handcuffs lying face down on the floor.

The official wrote on X that he wished a speedy recovery to the victims injured in the attack.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.