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https://nerdist.com/article/cyberpunk-2077-phantom-liberty-trailers-reveal-idris-elba-new-gameplay-for-upcoming-expansion/

Cyberpunk 2077 has had quite a journey since its initial release. At first, it disappointed players more than it wowed. But slowly, the game has gotten itself closer to where gamers hoped it would go initially. The new trailer for Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, the upcoming expansion for the game, certainly looks promising. If nothing else, the new Cyberpunk 2077 addition features Idris Elba. It’s hard to complain about that. But beyond that, the graphics look good, the gameplay looks exciting, and hopefully, Phantom Liberty will turn a new page for Cyberpunk 2077. Check out the official trailer and the special Idris Elba-focused one below.

Idris Elba plays a major character in Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, “sleeper agent Solomon Reed.” But also, he performs the song played in the background of the trailer. That’s true multi-talent.

The Cyberpunk 2077 expansion trailers also offer a synopsis of the expansion, allowing us to understand more about what we can expect from the game. It shares:

Phantom Liberty is an upcoming spy-thriller expansion for Cyberpunk 2077. Return as cyber-enhanced mercenary V and embark on a high-stakes mission of espionage and intrigue to save the NUSA President. In the dangerous district of Dogtown, you must forge alliances within a web of shattered loyalties and sinister political machinations. Do you have what it takes to survive?

A release further notes that players will take the role of V, “a cyber-enhanced mercenary for hire who is pulled into the world of spies and political intrigue, joined by sleeper agent Solomon Reed who is played by Idris Elba.” Well, at least we’ll have Elba as our companion in a dangerous world.

Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty will release on September 26. It will be available to play on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. You can now pre-order your copy. Good luck surviving to you. And good luck to Cyberpunk 2077; hopefully, Phantom Liberty has what it takes.

The post CYBERPUNK 2077: PHANTOM LIBERTY Trailers Reveal Idris Elba, New Gameplay, and More appeared first on Nerdist.

https://nerdist.com/article/final-fantasy-xiv-tabletop-rpg-starter-set-square-enix/

Final Fantasy XIV is already a hugely popular multiplayer online game, and now it’s headed to the table. Square Enix has announced the Final Fantasy XIV tabletop roleplaying set for next spring. They’re gearing this transition to tabletop roleplaying towards RPG newcomers with a comprehensive starter set that has everything you could need to run a game or explore the world of Eorzea as an adventurous player.

The Final Fantasy XIV TTRPG Starter Set comes with a player book, a gamemaster book that has three ready-to-go premade scenarios, premade character sheets, custom dice, an encounter map, and more. You can see many of the elements in the below image. The prewritten scenarios connect to Final Fantasy XIV‘s main story to make you feel even more a part of the world. Square Enix recommends five players, though as few as three could join the gaming party.

With four character sheets—for Warrior, White Mage, Dragoon, and Black Mage—already available, jumping in should be straightforward. The play system isn’t clear, though. The Starter Set‘s custom dice are six d20s and 10 d6s, so the system is likely a custom one.

The Final Fantasy XIV TTRPG Starter Set releases next May and costs $59.99. You can place a pre-order now.

The post FINAL FANTASY XIV Tabletop RPG Coming in 2024 appeared first on Nerdist.

https://blackgirlnerds.com/5-cozy-slice-of-life-for-fall-time-vibes/

Ah, fall is here! Time to say goodbye to flip-flops, beach trips, and rooftop lounges and say hello to tall boots, colorful leaves, and blue-gray skies. What better way to embrace the change of season than cozying up on our couches and enjoying a good ol’ Slice of Life? 

Slice of Life is a subgenre of anime known for its chill aesthetics, mellow themes, and peaceful scores. Like our fuzzy Ugg boots and slouchy cable-knit sweaters, otakus often turn to SOL to escape to a warm, soothing world that makes them feel cozy and relaxed. These five anime give off that vibe, making them the perfect complement to the comfiest time of year.  

1. ARIA: The Animation

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

Take a break from the stresses of life and tune into a series whose breathtaking views are the anime equivalent of a European getaway. ARIA: The Animation follows 15-year-old Akari Mizunashi as she adjusts to her new life on the water-based planet Aqua. 

After her arrival on the planet, Akari plants her roots in Neo-Venezia, an island city whose scenic waterfronts and picturesque architecture are inspired by the Earth city of Venice. As you watch Akari pursue her dreams of becoming a Prima Undine — a professional gondola tour guide — you’ll be whisked away to a new cozy world filled with serene locations and sparkling shores that’ll put your mind at ease. The gentle score of ARIA combined with its lighthearted tone provides a soothing escape from the chaos of the outside world.            

2. Skip And Loafer

  Where to watch: Crunchyroll

Skip and Loafer is a spring 2023 gem that will charm you with its optimistic tale and relatable ensemble. The series follows 15-year-old Mitsumi Iwakura: an ambitious country girl with big-city dreams. Her goals of bringing positive change and reform to Tokyo land her a spot in a Tokyo high school, where she quickly learns that life doesn’t always go according to plan. 

Although her determination to succeed gets her as far as Tsubame West High, Mitsumi will have to overcome major hurdles (including social anxiety and culture shock) in order to fulfill her dreams of becoming an influential politician. Luckily, she has the support of her family and her secret crush, Sousuke Shima. 

Part romance, part coming-of-age story: Skip and Loafer depicts a realistic take on what it’s like to make your dreams a reality and choosing to lead with positivity and optimism versus shock, stress, and tragedy. If the anime doesn’t wow you with its crisp art style, its protagonist will definitely inspire you with her strength and perseverance touching the hearts of her peers and viewers alike.                

3. Non Non Biyori

Where to watch: Hi-Dive

Non Non Biyori is peak feel-good anime. It follows the daily shenanigans of four young children who attend a small school in the countryside of Japan. The school is so small that all of its students are taught in the same classroom, despite their grades ranging from first to ninth grade. 

This setup makes for heart-warming comedic gold as we watch the adorably innocent Hotaru, Komari, Renge, and Natsumi navigate life in this peculiar setting. Non Non Biyori oozes light-hearted fun, making it ideal for casual viewing. The show’s peaceful setting is like soup for the soul with lush shots of nature-rich valleys and fields that’ll get straight to the heart of you. The youthful tones and tranquil visuals are top-tier fall vibes perfectly complimented by a pumpkin spice latte and a plush fuzzy blanket.              

4. Kimi ni Todoke (From Me to You)

Where To Watch: Crunchyroll

This coming-of-age story is heavy on the romance. From Me To You follows Sawako Kuronuma, a lonely high school student who’s used to being misunderstood and overlooked. Her luck turns around when she befriends Shouta Kazehaya, one of the most popular boys at school. This unlikely bond brings Sawako out of her shell. 

Over time, Sawako’s feelings for Shouta grow stronger, and his charming ways start to rub off on her. With the help of his friendship, Sawako goes from being the shy girl that everyone avoids to befriending people throughout the student body. The way Sawako’s connections with her peers impact her life is so sweet, you can’t help but root for her. The heartwarming tale is accompanied by an elegant soundtrack and serene visuals, making this Slice of Life a huge hit among viewers. 

5. Laid-Back Camp

Where to watch: Crunchyroll

This cozy Slice of Life is for the nature lovers. Laid-Back Camp centers around the OutClub, a group of young girls who connect over their shared love of the outdoors. The show’s colorful universe is filled with beautiful illustrations of Japanese landscapes during the fall and winter, making it perfect for this time of year. 

While Laid-Back Camp is known for its laid-back vibe — and scenic images of waterways and foliage — it’s also educational. The series provides in-depth insight into camping culture, including tips on equipment and the various uses of natural resources. As you watch Rin and the Outclub enjoy the tranquility of nature and slurp curry ramen at the base of Mount Fiji, you’ll be inspired to start a campfire of your own.  

If you’re looking for a series that will help you embrace the coziness of fall, a Slice Of Life will get you right. So grab your ramen bowls, curl up under your heated blankets, and enjoy anime like Laid-Back Camp and Non Non Biyori streaming now on Crunchyroll and Hi-Dive. What’s your favorite cozy Slice Of Life? Let us know on social media @blackgirlnerds. 

https://www.blackenterprise.com/carlee-russell-ex-reveals-couple-had-little-argument-before-abduction-hoax/

The fake abduction of Carlee Russell raised many questions about why she would do such a thing. Her ex-boyfriend appeared on a podcast and discussed the events leading up to the hoax.

Thomar Latrell Simmons, Russell’s ex, said on the 205 Boyz podcast Saturday that the two had a “little argument” before her staged abduction, People reported.

Simmons said he was on a trip to New York with Russell before she faked her disappearance. The ex-boyfriend said on the podcast that after the trip, “… we had a little argument, but it wasn’t nothing to kidnap yourself over.” Simmons called the argument “light” and claimed the two went on tours and “had fun” with family on the trip. People reported. He said, “We were going and taking tours to the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the ferry. We were eating. We were good.”

Simmons added that he was “confused” about why Russell would fake her abduction when asked if he noticed a change in his ex-girlfriend’s behavior after they visited New York.

Simmons was previously accused of several things on social media after it was discovered that Russell faked her disappearance. Some said he was a cheater, and others said he was in on the hoax. The 205 Boyz podcast host explained that some also said Simmons was not in a relationship with Russell and used her staged disappearance to get clout. He denied the accusations but said on the podcast, “I’m trying to promote myself off this situation. I’m not doing it for clout. I just have this situation … I have the opportunity to make something of myself … I’m going to take the opportunity and run with it.”

People reported that Russell was charged with two misdemeanors for staging her disappearance in July. The charges include “false reporting to law enforcement and falsely reporting an incident,” the outlet noted.

Simmons said he is currently not in contact with his ex-girlfriend.