Latest Summaries

Resolution Games revealed that its upcoming Dungeons & Dragons-based RPG, Battlemarked, will launch later this year on Demeo. The first adventure is set in Neverwinter Wood and features story designer Matt Sernett as lead writer. battlemarked also comes to Steam, PlayStation 5, with VR support for SteamVR, PSVR2, and Meta Quest 3, and is available on wishlist across platforms. With a second adventure in development and a focus on storytelling alongside combat inspired by D&D's lore-rich world of Neverwinter Wood.

Spexi harnesses small micro drones for high-resolution Earth imagery, using advanced techniques like photogrammetry and Gaussian splatting to create detailed 3D models. This innovative system powers applications in the metaverse, urban planning, and emergency response by providing precise terrain data. LayerDrone Foundation democratizes access through an open-source platform, encouraging contributions from hobbyist pilots while ensuring accuracy for diverse use cases like autonomous vehicles. The project balances utility with ecosystem stability, supported by community contributions that enhance its potential across multiple sectors.

Several tragic incidents have unfolded at a festival in Vancouver when a vehicle reportedly rammed into a crowd, resulting in multiple casualties. Videos from the scene show the aftermath of the incident, while the driver is currently under police custody following the event. This summary captures the essential details concisely: the incident location, the action taken by the vehicle, the consequences ( casualties ), and the police response.

"Sea level rise is accelerating, with potential consequences for coastal communities worldwide as temperatures continue to rise. Current warming trends could lead to multiple feet of sea level increase by the end of the century, far exceeding rates seen historically. Scientists warn that reducing carbon dioxide emissions to meet the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C goal may not avert significant rises, even at 1.2°C. A complete collapse of polar ice sheets could result in a catastrophic 40 feet (12 meters) sea level rise, forcing massive land migrations as coastal populations are pushed inland. Urgent action is essential to prevent these dire outcomes."

In *The Last of Us* season 2, episode 2, the death of Joel Miller mirrors the game's sequence but features changes: Dina replaces Tommy and is drugged, altering Abby's motivations. The show reimagines Abby's flashback as a dream, shifting her character development. Ellie's scenes with Jesse and Seth closely follow the game, though context differs due to earlier episode events. A patrol reveals Eugene's weed farm without Dina, skipping some game interactions. Overall, while staying true to key moments, the TV adaptation adds its unique twists.

While browser extensions are often seen as harmless, they can actually pose significant risks by accessing sensitive user data. Thanks to the innovative Browser Extension Risk Database developed by LayerX, individuals and businesses can now make informed decisions before installing potentially dangerous tools. This new resource offers detailed risk assessments for over 200,000 extensions, helping users avoid malicious or risky options while providing a comprehensive understanding of each tool's potential risks.

Foreign interference appears to have influenced both Romania’s recent elections, with ultranationalist candidate George Simion calling on the top court to invalidate the vote, citing the same reasons as last year's annulled election. Simion lost to liberal mayor Nicușor Dan, who secured 53.6% of the vote against his 46.4%. The original ballot was canceled due to campaign finance discrepancies and suspected Russian influence. Simion, a Trump supporter, accused vote buying, social media manipulation, and foreign meddling by France, Moldova, and Russia. Despite his low chances of winning, he vowed to instill fear among Romansians to deter him from seeking power.

Harry Maguire embraced his nickname "Harrydinho" following his standout performance as a winger in Manchester United's 3-0 victory over Athletic Club. Playing on the right wing, he demonstrated exceptional skill, scoring the first goal with a pinpoint cross that found the net after being flicked by goalkeeper Manuel Ugarte. Manager Ruben Amorim praised Maguire's influence and tactical choices, while United remains poised for European advancement despite a challenging Premier League season.

Tidjane Thiam’s campaign for Ivory Coast’s presidency has been halted due to his dual citizenship, despite renouncing French nationality and renouncing his passport earlier this year. The Ivorian authorities have ruled him ineligible to run again under strict laws that prohibit holding multiple citizenships during presidential elections. Thiam has since resigned as the party’s leader but remains committed to leading the campaign to secure victory in next month’s election. President Alassane Ouattara, who has ruled Ivory Coast since 2011, expressed eagerness to continue his political mission amid growing scrutiny of the electoral process and dual citizenship regulations.

Twitch's March 2025 viewership dipped, a typical pattern for the platform, as revealed in StreamElements' latest report. Monster Hunter Wilds made its debut in the top 10 streamed categories. Despite reaching 1.68 billion hours watched—up from February’s 1.59 billion—the daily average dropped to 54 million, marking the fourth consecutive year of March's decline. Caedral topped streamers for his coverage of the EMEA Masters and a key League of Legends match, while Perry highlighted that external factors like esports events shape viewership trends, cautioning against misinterpreting these fluctuations.

PNY has released a new microSD Express Flash Memory Card, and it is designed for portable gaming. In particular, this card is targeting the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. This new card uses PCIe Gen3 x1 microSD Express technology to deliver read speeds of up to 890MB/s and write speeds reaching 750MB/s. ALSO READ: Lexar unveils 1TB PLAY PRO microSD Express card as Nintendo Switch 2 pricing and release date are revealedOne thing that may stand out to some users is the attention given to heat management. That means it’ll still work with your existing gear, just without the benefit of microSD Express speeds.

Sarah Tavel is moving from her role as the first woman general partner at Benchmark to a more limited position where she will focus on AI edge tools and reflecting on AI's future. During her time there, she invested in notable ventures like Hipcamp, Chainalysis, Supergreat (acquired by Whatnot), Paparazzi (which shut down), and 11X. Now, with more time to explore AI strategies, Tavel aims to gain deeper insights into the industry without the active management demands of her previous role.

In a quiet building in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward, young womenartists are reviving an ancient ukiyo-e tradition by crafting intricate woodcuts using traditional techniques. They’ve also collaborated with contemporary artists to create 162 new prints for an exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum, showcasing how this centuries-old art form continues to inspire fresh creativity.

The growing trend in Japan of founding families attempting to take companies private to prevent mergers or to support their expansion strategies is illustrated by Akio Toyoda's $42 billion plan for Toyota Industries, the largest such effort so far. The Ito family faced a failed bid to stop a takeover offer for Seven & I Holdings, while Fuji Soft's founders tried unsuccessfully to buy out the company alongside Bain Capital. Meanwhile, the Uehara family acquired Taisho Pharmaceutical Holdings below its book value, drawing criticism from activists who questioned the valuation, though Snow Peak's founding family recently took the firm private in 2024 to push through an expansion strategy.

The rebellion against Syria's autocratic government has faced significant obstacles, particularly in northeastern Syria where Kurdish minorities are deeply divided by their history of hostility toward the rebels and now turning to Ankara for support amid regional tensions. Interviewees revealed that Kurdish distrust stems from past connections with Al Qaeda-affiliated rebel factions as well as Ankara's current backing, which they fear undermines their autonomy.

The massive blackout across the Iberian Peninsula on Monday, affecting nearly 60 million people, was attributed by a social media message to an atmospheric event linked to extreme temperatures in Spain. Portuguese power grid operator REN denied involvement in circulating this claim, which suggested a "fault in the Spanish electricity grid" caused by "induced atmospheric vibration." However, Spain's weather office confirmed no unusual meteorological phenomena were detected, and the grid operator dismissed the message as unfounded.

But the additional levels of internet connectivity this subscription model requires can increase drivers’ exposure to government surveillance and the likelihood of being caught up in police investigations. The records make clear that law enforcement’s knowledge of the surveillance far exceeds that of the public and reveal how corporate policies and technologies—not the law—determine driver privacy. WIRED has made this article free for all to read because it is based on reporting from Freedom of Information Act requests. Charlotte McCoy, a GM spokesperson, tells WIRED the company now requires a court order before handing over location data to law enforcement. “We review each request individually to assess the circumstances and the nature of the request before providing any information,” they say.

The Eta Aquariids meteor shower, one of the biggest in the southern hemisphere, is expected to peak on May 7th. Brighter than usual due to clear skies, it will be visible from early morning until mid-morning, with optimal spots including dark areas like Uluru and national parks across Australia. Check the weather first, avoid bright lights, and use apps like Star Mapper for guidance. Causes include debris from Halley’s Comet as Earth slices through it each year.

Tadej Pogacar secured his third victory at the Liège-Bastogne-Liège classic, overtaking his rivals by over a minute before crossing the finish line and celebrating with fans. The Slovenian cyclist now holds nine "monument" victories in the season, including this one alongside iconic races like Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders. Pogacar extended his lead during a fierce sprint to the line, narrowly edging out Italian Giulio Ciccone and Irishman Ben Healy as he celebrated with supporters on the roadside. Meanwhile, Remco Evenepoel's disappointing drop by Pogacar on the Côte de La Redoute climb added to his unlucky finish in third place earlier this week.

As Memorial Day approaches, deals are aplenty, and we've spotted a stellar offer on the Apple Magic Mouse. Priced at $68—down from $79—it's now available for 14% off. The white model with a USB-C port is especially noteworthy, offering savings that bring it just $5 above its all-time low. This wireless and rechargeable mouse pairs automatically with your Mac and charges in about a month, with an included cable to keep you powered up on the go. Don’t miss this sweet deal before it’s gone!

The rise of generative AI is revolutionizing industries, yet it also carries significant risks like security breaches and data privacy concerns. Experts highlight that businesses must first identify all relevant risks to minimize liability. For instance, chatbots in HR may lead to inaccurate employee benefits claims, while AI recruitment tools could perpetuate bias based on past hiring patterns. Legal cases show companies using AI without proper notice or consent can face lawsuits. As new technologies like DeepSeek emerge, concerns about data storage and privacy in China are growing, urging caution for businesses integrating such tools.

The long-lost 1995 farming simulation experience is officially coming back on the Sega Mega Drive with *Farming Simulator: 16bit Edition*, a limited-run edition developed using an open-source Mega Drive development kit and printed on genuine cartridges. Despite its nostalgic roots, the game sticks to the core of the original isometric gameplay, emphasizing simplicity over modern perks like 3D visuals or real-time weather systems. The system’s unique charm lies in its blend of nostalgia and technical ingenuity, making it a compelling experience for fans of old-school gaming.

Apple's AirPods lineup continues to offer discounts on a variety of models, including the latest iterations of its popular earbuds. The AirPods 4 (both standard and noise-canceling) are available at new low prices, while the AirPods Pro with USB-C support is also discounted, making it an affordable option for premium sound quality. Meanwhile, the AirPods Max remains a stylish but pricier alternative, though its older version is still available at lower prices.

The U.S. has paused new visa interviews for foreign students as part of expanded social media screening, sparking criticism from education advocates who fear it may slow student studies and affect enrollments tied to federal funding. The State Department is developing updated vetting guidelines, including checks on social media activity, which has surged since President Trump took office. This move could complicate summer and fall semesters, potentially straining budgets as enrollments might decline due to visa challenges or shifts in student immigration patterns linked to reduced education funding.

The MacBook Air M4 is on sale at historic lows: the 13-inch model drops to $849 from $999, while configurations with more storage range from $1049 to $1249. The 15-inch version also offers substantial discounts starting at $1049. Both models feature powerful M4 chips, excellent performance, and impressive battery life of over 18 hours on HD video. The 15-inch model includes a larger display, trackpad, and better speakers. All deals are new lows and come with Apple's standard warranty and delivery included in the price.

Indie games often find themselves overshadowed by larger AAA titles like *Oblivion Remastered*, making it hard for them to gain visibility. Jonas Antonsson from Raw Fury highlights this systemic struggle, citing Post Trauma as an example of how indie titles can face significant challenges despite their potential. The broader issue remains: indie games need more support from media outlets and platforms to deserve the attention they rightly crave. Jonas aptly points out that for every *Oblivion* drop, there could be opportunities for lesser-known indie titles like Post Trauma or *The Darkest Files* to be overlooked, reflecting a fundamental imbalance in the gaming industry.

Humans heal more slowly than other primates due to an evolutionary trade-off between fur and sweat glands, a relationship that has puzzled scientists for decades. This adaptation explains our significantly longer wound-healing times—three times faster than non-human primates like chimps. The study posits that while this shift may have increased vulnerability, it also facilitated social support systems and cooperative living, providing the time necessary for healing despite the slower recovery rate. Further research is needed to fully understand this fascinating evolutionary mystery.

Verizon has sued the Trump administration to seek longer periods for unlocking phones, aiming to prevent customers from switching carriers. The company previously agreed to two regulations requiring quicker unlocks, which granted them benefits like open access and a merger deal. However, under Republican FCC Chair Brendan Carr's direction, the agency now considers eliminating telecom rules entirely. Verizon is pushing to delete these regulations, arguing that unlocking devices encourages theft and harms consumers by supporting criminals.

Dozens of opposition figures, including former justice minister Kamel Guizani and former intelligence head Kamel Chebbi, have been sentenced to life sentences on charges of conspiracy against state security in Tunisia. Critics claim the charges are fabricated to suppress dissent under President Kais Saied’s authoritarian rule, with one lawyer calling the case “a farce.” International observers highlight the symbolic nature of the trial as a tool to consolidate power and silence opposition voices amid growing tension in the North African nation.

Today's gaming news highlights several game anniversaries and notable deals across various platforms. Portal 2 celebrates its 14th birthday with a 2P split-screen co-op mode. Notable game deals include The World Ends with You (DS, 2008), Portal 2 (PC, 2011), Wonder Boy: The Dragon's Trap (PS4/XO, 2017), and FFX/X-2 HD Remaster (NS, 2019). There are savings for Nintendo Switch, exciting bargains for Xbox consoles, with the Series X priced at $749. For PlayStation, Judgment is a standout title on PS5, while the PS VR2 is available for $649.95. PC gaming offers deals on Steam Deck models and various hardware components. Additionally, there are savings on LEGO sets, headphones, and TVs.

Chinese cybersecurity networks have been increasingly leveraging social media to target overseas activists, particularly in Hong Kong, by spreading threatening messages that allege personal grievances or incite violence. Activists like Finn Lau have publicly reported receiving direct threats online, with some experiencing violent acts despite lacking formal legal charges. China has denied any wrongdoing and emphasized respect for British sovereignty. Meanwhile, individuals in the UK are growing cautious of such tactics, though limited international action has been taken against China over these incidents.

Trump left his visit to the Vatican with a renewed focus on strengthening U.S.-Italian bilateral ties, reflecting on key discussions with Pope Francis about shared values, economic collaboration, and addressing global challenges like climate change and terrorism. His takeaway emphasized the importance of aligning foreign policy goals with Catholic teachings while fostering lasting partnerships.

Jannik Sinner, world No. 1 tennis player, is heading into the Italian Open with low expectations after returning from a three-month doping ban. He agreed to settle with the World Anti-Doping Agency and faces a three-month suspension after testing positive for anabolic steroid clostebol via massages from his physiotherapist. Despite the setback, he aims to focus on building momentum ahead of the French Open in May-June, signaling a commitment to overcome doping challenges and compete at his best once again.

Pulp has captivated audiences with a triumphant 24-year comeback, premiering their newly released album *More* just days before their sold-out performance. The setlist seamlessly blends nostalgia for fans of past eras with fresh energy, particularly shining light on *This Is Hardcore*, their latest hardcore album. The intimate stage setup, reminiscent of a 1970s chat show, and Jarvis Cocker’s engaging delivery create an electrifying experience as the band delivers hits like "Got to Have Love" and ends with a heartfelt rendition of "A Sunset."

Memorial Day sales highlight the Amazon Fire Stick HD at $20, offering a 43% discount and supporting both HD streaming at 60 FPS with its integrated Alexa voice control. While it doesn’t handle 4K content, this budget-friendly streaming device outperforms previous versions like the Fire TV Stick Lite and remains an excellent choice for affordable HD entertainment.

Happy 25th birthday to SD cards! Over 12 billion of these versatile memory cards have been sold since their launch in 2000, revolutionizing everything from smartphones to pocket devices like drones. Their evolution from 8MB to now supporting up to 4TB with high-speed capabilities has proven timeless, ensuring their relevance as data storage needs grow exponentially. The SD Association is celebrating this milestone by donating to education and sustainability efforts, emphasizing that SD cards will remain a reliable choice for decades to come. Just like a trusted friend, these memory cards have stood the test of time, proving their value in an ever-changing tech landscape.

Young individuals in juvenile justice systems face unnecessary detention due to inadequate time credits and faulty calculations by courts, often exacerbated by limited support for detainees. This prolonged confinement hinders their rehabilitation and reintegration into society, while public defenders argue that kids deserve proper due process and access to services during their detention. The system's systemic failures highlight the need for legal reforms, better service provisions, and increased community involvement to support young individuals effectively.

A moment of chaos turned into a memorable experience at Whisky a Go Go when a dump truck crashed into the venue on Friday, damaging nearby businesses and power lines, causing outages in the area. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department reported closure of Sunset Boulevard and Clark Street while crews worked to restore power. Boy Hits Car, scheduled to perform at the venue that night, had their show canceled but turned the surreal event into a talking point for their fans as they expressed gratitude and looked forward to future performances with renewed energy.

"Set against Thailand’s 1970s Communist insurgency, *The Chameleon Woman* follows a stateless Hmong woman navigating identity and resilience in this Thai-Vietnamese co-production. Featuring rising Thai actor Awat Ratanapintha, Indonesia’s Prapamonton Eiamchan, and co-stars from Vietnam, the film also stars Zhulin Mo and Patrick Joshua, known for works like *To Kill A Mongolian Horse*. Produced by White Light Production and Spring Auteurs, it’s set to begin filming mid-2026. The movie explores themes of displacement and memory while delving into the director’s personal stories about his immigrant journey."

Pastor T.D. Jakes is stepping down as head of The Potter's House church after announcing his successors following a medical emergency during a sermon, nearly causing him to lose consciousness. He will oversee the transition while focusing on bridging community and cultural connections for a stronger future. Fans expressed well-wishes, and he remains hopeful for his recovery.

The EU is proposing to extend its three-hour delay threshold for flights by two hours, aiming to reduce cancellations and the financial burden on airlines. Currently, airlines face up to €600 per passenger in compensation for delays over three hours or must cancel flights within 14 days before departure. The move could save airlines nearly 50% of canceled flights while reducing compensation payouts for passengers. However, some critics argue it weakens consumer protections and could lead to inconsistencies across Europe, with Germany opposing the change. The proposal is part of ongoing EU negotiations as Poland assumes the rotating presidency.

President Paul Kagame acknowledged the critical role of international mediation efforts, particularly by Qatar and the United States, in achieving peace in eastern DR Congo. Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum, he emphasized the continent’s need to actively contribute to resolving its own challenges while highlighting the importance of external support for African solutions. He also discussed efforts to reform the African Union and stressed the responsibility of Africans to ensure their own future security.

More than 15 million people in the US, UK, Germany, and France have a serious but often undiagnosed form of fatty liver disease—non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (MASLD), now called MASH—in which their liver contains more than 5% fat. However, only about 2.5 million of them have been diagnosed so far, leaving millions unaware and at risk of complications like cirrhosis, heart disease, and cancer. Researchers found that nearly three-quarters of people living with this condition remain undiagnosed, despite its severity and serious health impacts. Experts call for increased diagnostic rates to improve treatment effectiveness and reduce costs over the next two decades.

The Golden Globes is branching out to recognize podcasting by introducing an award for the best podcast of the year starting next January. From 25 top audio and video podcasts, six will be chosen as finalists, including notable shows hosted by Amy Poehler, Trevor Noah, and "SmartLess." While this move highlights the growing influence of podcasts, some critics suggest it may be a tactic to attract more celebrities on the show rather than an earnest effort to acknowledge podcast success.

"Wes Anderson fans get ready for an adventure as The Phoenician Scheme drops in theaters May 30 for a limited release before hitting wide screens June 6. Starring Benicio del Toro as international tycoon Zsa-zsa Korda, whose daughter (played by Mia Threapleton) is revealed to be his only legitimate heir while he ponders his next big project. The film features ensemble stars like Michael Cera and Tom Hanks in supporting roles, alongside returning collaborators like Roman Coppola. Based on a screenplay Anderson co-wrote with Coppola, the movie delivers stylish desert scenes, witty dialogue, and unexpected twists as Korda’s daughter uncovers a conspiracy involving his recent suicide attempt."

Pope Francis, known for his humanitarian efforts and progressive stance on issues like climate change and immigration, will be buried in a funeral attracting over 200,000 people, including world leaders like U.S. President Trump, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky, and Prince William. Attendees expressed deep respect and admiration for the pope's impact on their lives, recalling his compassion and dedication to peace.

Anthony Albanese’s Labor party secured a stunning victory in Australia’s federal election, winning a second term and comfortably exceeding expectations with over 76 seats. Despite Prime Minister Peter Dutton facing harsh criticism after comparisons to Donald Trump and losing his own seat, Albanese emerged as the nation’s next leader, marking the first time a PM serves consecutive terms since 2004.

Aaron Rodgers continues to keep fans guessing about his marital status as he was spotted attending a concert in Austin while wearing a ring on his finger. The four-time MVP first donned the accessory during the Kentucky Derby, and while his longtime friend supports him at events, no one, including his old teammate A.J. Hawk, knows what it signifies. It's unclear if Rodgers took off the ring or simply chose to wear it again, leaving the mystery intact.