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Alex Jones calls for The One Show to be taken off air following heartbreaking death admission

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    Alex Jones calls for The One Show to be taken off air following heartbreaking death admission


    During last night’s (May 9) The One Show, host Alex Jones declared the show should “finish” after Robson Green shared an emotional story.

    On Friday, Alex was joined by co-presenter Roman Kemp. For the final episode of the week, the show welcomed singer Dannii Minogue, boxer Chris Eubank Jr., and actor Robson to their green couch.

    Robson Green appeared on The One Show last night (Credit: BBC)

    Robson Green on The One Show last night

    At the start of the show, Roman spoke to Newcastle United supporter Robson about his team’s Carabao Cup win against Liverpool at Wembley Stadium in March. The huge moment saw Newcastle United seal their first domestic trophy in 70 years.

    “Now, Robson, we’re going to be talking a great moment in sporting history with Chris later on about the fight, but the moment we want to talk about with you, Newcastle,” Roman said.

    “70 years without a domestic trophy, a massive moment for you,” he added.

    Robson responded: “You’ve got to remember, the last time for me Newcastle won a trophy, King Harold still had two eyes, but they did it.”

    “It wasn’t just Wembley, Newcastle rocked it. It was amazing, and with Dan Burn getting that header, it was just fantastic.”

    Alex Jones and Roman Kemp hosting The One Show

    Alex was moved by Robson’s story (Credit: BBC)

    ‘I think we should finish the show there’

    Robson recalled having a ticket to watch the match live alongside footie legend Alan Shearer. However, he was unable to attend due to filming with the BBC when it took place.

    “What was amazing when we won, I went to ring my dad, and my father died in 2009. I went to ring him, that’s what it meant, it was so important, so moving,” he shared.

    Roman insisted that’s “what football can do” before Robson stated: “One city, one club. That’s what we are. It was amazing, and now that emotional valve has been opened up. It was fantastic, very special.”

    Alex was moved by the story and shared: “Gosh, I think we should finish the show there, that was such a nice line.”

    Dannii agreed, adding: “It wiped us out!”

    The emotional show came following complaints about The One Show‘s tribute to a 100-year-old VE Day veteran. The segment was branded a “disgrace” by many watching at home.

    Read more: The One Show host JB Gill left ‘devastated’ after A-list guest Usher pulls out at the last minute

    Robson Green On Grantchester's New Vicar & DI Keating’s Future | This Morning

    What do you think of this story? You can leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know.



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    Emergency Lighting Inverters Market to Witness Robust Expansion Backed by Infrastructure Growth – Persistence Market Research | Web3Wire

    Emergency Lighting Inverters Market to Witness Robust Expansion Backed by Infrastructure Growth – Persistence Market Research | Web3Wire


    The emergency lighting inverters market has been witnessing significant growth in recent years, driven by the ever-expanding demand for backup power solutions in commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. These devices are crucial for maintaining lighting operations during power outages, ensuring safety in critical environments like hospitals, airports, and industrial plants. As technological advancements continue, the market for emergency lighting inverters is expected to grow at a steady rate from 2021 to 2031, with a projected growth rate of 6% to 8% during this period. This article delves into the dynamics of the market, key drivers, challenges, and growth opportunities, providing a comprehensive overview of the current landscape.

    Get a Sample Copy of Research Report (Use Corporate Mail id for Quick Response):https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/32595

    ✅ Overview of the Emergency Lighting Inverters Market

    The emergency lighting inverters market is poised for steady growth, driven by a combination of technological advancements and the increasing need for reliable backup power solutions. Emergency lighting inverters play a vital role in various commercial and residential applications by providing an alternate power source in case of a failure in the main power grid. With the growing reliance on uninterrupted lighting in critical infrastructure like hospitals, airports, and government buildings, the demand for such devices is expected to rise significantly.

    A primary driver of this market is the ongoing development in lighting solutions, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors. As the global lighting industry evolves, integrating more advanced, energy-efficient, and smart solutions, the demand for backup power solutions, including emergency lighting inverters, has surged. This trend is further supported by a shift toward more energy-efficient and sustainable lighting solutions, which requires reliable backup systems. The increase in construction activities, particularly in emerging economies, is also contributing to the demand for emergency lighting inverters, as new buildings require power backup solutions to ensure operational safety.

    Geographically, North America and East Asia stand out as the key regions driving the market. North America, led by the U.S., is experiencing strong demand due to government initiatives focused on energy conservation, the construction of new commercial buildings, and a rising emphasis on energy-efficient lighting systems. In East Asia, countries like China and Japan are witnessing rapid infrastructure upgrades and increased investment in smart cities, which are expected to further fuel the demand for emergency lighting inverters.

    ✅ Key Highlights from the Report

    ➤ The emergency lighting inverters market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% to 8% from 2021 to 2031.➤ Technological advancements and innovations in lighting systems are major growth drivers.➤ The increasing construction of new buildings is expected to boost demand for emergency lighting inverters.➤ North America is the leading geographical region, followed closely by East Asia.➤ Emergency lighting inverters are increasingly being viewed as cost-effective solutions for power backup.➤ Key market players are investing in R&D to develop energy-efficient and cost-effective products.

    ✅ Market Segmentation

    The emergency lighting inverters market can be segmented based on product type, application, and geographical region. These categories offer a deeper insight into how different market segments are evolving and what factors are driving demand in specific areas.

    By Product Type

    Emergency lighting inverters are primarily available in two types: single-phase and three-phase inverters.

    Single-Phase Inverters: These inverters are typically used in smaller applications such as residential buildings and small commercial establishments. They provide reliable backup power for essential lighting circuits, ensuring that safety lighting systems remain operational during power outages.

    Three-Phase Inverters: These inverters are designed for larger commercial and industrial applications, including hospitals, airports, and factories. They offer higher power capacity and are capable of handling more demanding loads, providing power to more extensive lighting systems.

    By Application

    The emergency lighting inverters market is also segmented based on its end-use applications. These applications include residential, commercial, and industrial sectors:

    Residential: As the global population continues to urbanize, the demand for residential buildings with reliable backup power systems is increasing. Homeowners and property developers are opting for emergency lighting solutions to ensure safety during power failures.

    Commercial: The commercial sector, including office buildings, retail outlets, and public institutions, is a significant consumer of emergency lighting inverters. Commercial properties are required by law to have emergency lighting systems to ensure safety during power outages. This segment is expected to see substantial growth driven by new commercial construction and retrofitting of existing buildings with energy-efficient lighting solutions.

    Industrial: In industrial sectors, such as manufacturing plants, warehouses, and factories, the need for reliable emergency lighting is even more critical due to the high risk associated with power interruptions. Emergency lighting inverters are used to power essential lighting systems that ensure safety and operational continuity.

    ✅ Regional Insights

    North America

    North America holds a dominant share in the global emergency lighting inverters market, primarily due to the region’s emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainable infrastructure development. The U.S. government has introduced various regulations promoting energy-efficient lighting solutions, which has propelled the adoption of advanced emergency lighting systems. Additionally, the ongoing construction of both residential and commercial properties is expected to further drive demand for emergency lighting inverters.

    The U.S. market is also seeing a surge in demand for smart lighting solutions, including emergency lighting inverters, due to increasing awareness regarding energy conservation. Moreover, the availability of high-quality emergency lighting systems from key market players in North America is expected to continue driving the market’s growth.

    East Asia

    East Asia, particularly countries like China and Japan, is projected to experience rapid growth in the emergency lighting inverters market. This growth can be attributed to extensive infrastructure development and the increasing need for power backup solutions in urban areas. The region has witnessed a significant rise in smart city projects, which require advanced emergency lighting systems to ensure uninterrupted power supply during emergencies.

    China’s growing urbanization and the government’s push towards sustainable development are further contributing to the demand for emergency lighting inverters. Japan, on the other hand, continues to invest in resilient infrastructure to protect against frequent natural disasters, making emergency lighting systems critical.

    ✅ Market Drivers

    The demand for emergency lighting inverters is primarily driven by the growing need for backup power solutions in various sectors. Key drivers include:

    Safety Concerns: Power outages in critical environments like hospitals, airports, and industrial plants can lead to severe safety hazards. Emergency lighting inverters provide a reliable source of power to ensure that essential lighting systems remain operational during outages, safeguarding both people and property.

    Technological Advancements: The lighting industry has seen significant advancements in recent years, with energy-efficient and smart lighting solutions becoming more mainstream. These innovations have driven the demand for more sophisticated emergency lighting inverters capable of supporting new lighting technologies.

    Regulatory Mandates: Governments worldwide are imposing stricter regulations requiring businesses and buildings to install emergency lighting systems. These regulations are particularly prevalent in commercial and industrial sectors, where power outages can disrupt operations and compromise safety.

    ✅ Market Restraints

    While the emergency lighting inverters market is growing, several factors may impede its growth:

    High Initial Costs: Emergency lighting inverters can be expensive, especially for high-capacity, three-phase systems. This upfront cost can be a barrier for some businesses and homeowners, particularly in developing regions where budgets for infrastructure upgrades may be limited.

    Lack of Awareness: In some regions, there is still a lack of awareness about the importance of emergency lighting systems. This lack of knowledge can delay the adoption of emergency lighting inverters in sectors where they are essential.

    Technological Barriers: While technological advancements have boosted demand, the integration of new, smart technologies into existing infrastructure can be complex and costly, especially for older buildings. This challenge may delay the widespread adoption of emergency lighting systems in certain regions.

    ✅ Market Opportunities

    Despite the challenges, the emergency lighting inverters market presents several opportunities for growth:

    Emerging Markets: As developing countries continue to industrialize and urbanize, there is a growing demand for energy-efficient and reliable lighting solutions. These markets represent a significant opportunity for companies in the emergency lighting inverters industry.

    Smart Cities and Green Building Initiatives: The increasing focus on creating smart cities and sustainable buildings presents a major opportunity for emergency lighting inverter manufacturers. Smart cities, in particular, require advanced lighting systems that integrate with the broader infrastructure to ensure energy efficiency and resilience during power outages.

    Technological Innovations: Companies that invest in R&D to develop next-generation emergency lighting inverters, such as those incorporating IoT capabilities or enhanced energy storage, will be well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in the market.

    ✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    ➤ How Big is the Emergency Lighting Inverters Market?➤ Who are the Key Players in the Global Emergency Lighting Inverters Market?➤ What is the Projected Growth Rate of the Market?➤ What is the Market Forecast for Emergency Lighting Inverters for 2032?➤ Which Region is Estimated to Dominate the Industry Through the Forecast Period?

    ✅ Company Insights

    ✦ Signify (Cooper Lighting)✦ Hubbell✦ Vertiv✦ ABB✦ Acuity Brands✦ Perfect Power Systems✦ Controlled Power✦ Staco Energy✦ Myers Emergency Power Systems✦ Online Power✦ Go2Power✦ DSP Manufacturing (DSPM)✦ Standard Products Inc.✦ Beghelli✦ LVS Controls✦ IEP Systems Inc.

    ✅ Recent Developments

    ■ New Product Launch by Hubbell: Hubbell has recently launched a new line of energy-efficient emergency lighting inverters for commercial buildings, designed to reduce energy consumption and provide reliable backup during outages.

    ■ Expansion of Vertiv’s Production Capacity: Vertiv has expanded its manufacturing facilities in Asia to meet the growing demand for emergency lighting inverters, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors.

    ✅ Conclusion

    The emergency lighting inverters market is expected to continue its growth trajectory due to rising infrastructure demands, technological advancements, and increasing safety concerns. Key regions like North America and East Asia are set to remain at the forefront, with emerging markets offering significant opportunities. As the industry continues to evolve, manufacturers who focus on innovation and energy-efficient solutions will likely capture the most market share in the coming years.

    Contact Us:

    Persistence Market ResearchG04 Golden Mile House, Clayponds LaneBrentford, London, TW8 0GU UKUSA Phone: +1 646-878-6329UK Phone: +44 203-837-5656Email: sales@persistencemarketresearch.comWeb: https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com

    About Persistence Market Research:

    At Persistence Market Research, we specialize in creating research studies that serve as strategic tools for driving business growth. Established as a proprietary firm in 2012, we have evolved into a registered company in England and Wales in 2023 under the name Persistence Research & Consultancy Services Ltd. With a solid foundation, we have completed over 3600 custom and syndicate market research projects, and delivered more than 2700 projects for other leading market research companies’ clients.

    Our approach combines traditional market research methods with modern tools to offer comprehensive research solutions. With a decade of experience, we pride ourselves on deriving actionable insights from data to help businesses stay ahead of the competition. Our client base spans multinational corporations, leading consulting firms, investment funds, and government departments. A significant portion of our sales comes from repeat clients, a testament to the value and trust we’ve built over the years.

    This release was published on openPR.

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    Luxury & Affordable Mother’s Day Gift – The Luxury Closet

    Luxury & Affordable Mother’s Day Gift – The Luxury Closet


    Your mom didn’t just raise you; she raised the bar! Putting her heart and soul into making you the best version of yourself wasn’t a cakewalk. She gave you what you needed most: love, strength, and the occasional well-timed side-eye. You see her care in everything she does, from the everyday moments to the grand gestures. No matter what you do, you can never repay her. Besides showing appreciation for her and vowing never to do anything that wouldn’t make her proud, this Mother’s Day, gift her something truly meant for her. 

    No flowers and chocolates, please (seriously, you were not thinking that). Nor apparel, footwear, perfume, or fine diner’s coupons. This year’s gift must have that timeless quality and what smart moms love- investment appeal- too. How about a luxury handbag? Whether she adores LV, Hermès, Prada, Gucci, or Chanel, you will find a designer piece made just for her.

    Relax, We are Not Talking About Breaking a Bank

    Let’s be honest: luxury handbags have a reputation for jaw-dropping price tags. But here’s the twist—we’re talking about affordable luxury. Not replicas, not knockoffs—authentic, pre-owned designer bags with all the prestige at up to 70% off. 

    Why Pre-Owned Luxury is the Smartest Gift

    Luxury doesn’t have to mean new. Pre-owned designer bags offer unbeatable value, unique charm, and major eco-points. At The Luxury Closet, you get authenticated pieces from top brands—LV, Chanel, Gucci—at a fraction of retail. She gets the dream bag. You keep your savings. Win-win.

    But Why a Designer Handbag? 

    Designer bags aren’t just a nice carryall to flaunt—they’re wearable heirlooms, style statements, and symbols of appreciation. Whether she’s a fashion-forward trendsetter or a minimalist person who loves elegance, the right handbag makes her feel seen, stylish, and spoiled (as she should be). Besides, if we talk practically, it will remain in fashion for years to come and naturally be a great hands-me-down once she has used it enough.  

     

    Tips for Choosing the Right Bag for Your Mom

    Luxury is personal—and so is your mom’s style. The best designer handbag for your mom shouldn’t be about labels but how well it fits into her life. So before you click “add to cart,” take a moment to think like a stylist-meets-therapist. Here’s how to find the one:

    1. Take Into Account Her Persona

    Your mom’s vibe says it all. Match the bag to her unique presence:

    Elegant and Stylish with High-End Tastes

    Think Chanel, Hermès, or Dior. Look for refined silhouettes, luxe textures (lambskin, croc-embossed leather), and timeless shades like beige, black, or blush. The Chanel Classic Flap Bag or Hermès Garden Party Tote exudes quiet luxury with everyday elegance.

    Smart Dresser Without Going Over the Top

    She’s the queen of understated sophistication. Go for clean lines and structured designs like the Saint Laurent Sac de Jour or Céline Luggage Tote. They make a statement—without screaming for attention.

    If she’s all about minimalism with a twist, opt for brands like Bottega Veneta, Loewe, or The Row. Neutral-toned hobos, pouches, or slouchy cross bodies are effortlessly cool and age beautifully.

    Always event-ready? She needs a bag that turns heads. Think Fendi Baguette, Gucci Dionysus, or a pop-color Balenciaga Hourglass. These are conversation starters with just the correct dose of drama.

    Pro tip: Stalk her current go-to bag. Is it structured or slouchy? Gold or silver hardware? Is it big enough for a Kindle or just to accommodate a phone and lipstick? The answers are clues.

    2. Match Her Lifestyle

    Luxury should never gather dust. Pick a handbag that complements how she lives, moves, and multitasks:

    Always balancing errands, appointments, and family? Go hands-free with a Gucci Soho Disco, Prada Nylon Backpack, or a spacious Louis Vuitton Neverfull. Style meets stamina.

    The Effortlessly Cool Mom

    She lives by the “less is more” mantra. Sleek, unfussy bags like the Céline Trio, Saint Laurent Lou Camera Bag, or a Bottega Veneta Pouch are just her speed—compact, curated, and cool.

    She needs polish and practicality if she juggles meetings, laptops, and life goals. Go for a Tory Burch tote, Givenchy Antigona, or Fendi Peekaboo—boardroom-worthy and beautifully functional.

    3. Canvas vs. Leather: What Would Mom Prefer?

    Some moms crave the earthy charm of canvas; others swear by the polished power of leather. Each material has its own vibe, so match her bag to her personality:

    If She’s All About Effortless Ease—Go Canvas

    Durable, lightweight, and casually cool, canvas bags are ideal for moms who love comfort with a side of style.Top Picks:

    Louis Vuitton Neverfull Monogram Canvas – Spacious, iconic, and endlessly versatile

    Goyard Saint Louis Tote – Understated luxury with a graphic edge

    Gucci GG Supreme Tote – Structured yet relaxed, and eco-conscious to boot

    If She Loves Luxe and Longevity—Pick Leather

    Timeless, elegant, and made to last, leather bags age beautifully and mean business.Top Picks:

    Saint Laurent Sac de Jour – Sleek, structured, and pure power-dressing

    Chloé Marcie Satchel – A soft, boho classic with feminine flair

    Prada Saffiano Leather Tote – Durable, refined, and perfect for work or weekends

    Pro Tip: Canvas is great for day-to-day ease; leather ups the luxury factor for elevated occasions.

    4. Think About Her Wardrobe

    Fashion harmony is key—her new bag should blend seamlessly with her everyday looks:

    Classic & Neutral Palette?

    Stick to timeless shades like black, tan, grey, or beige that pair effortlessly with her staple pieces.

    Bold & Bright Enthusiast?

    Go vibrant with red, emerald, cobalt, or even pastels to add a fun pop to her outfits.

    Match the aesthetic—fringed and soft for boho, structured and elegant for glam, and retro shapes for vintage lovers.

    Pro tip: A bag she’ll actually use should complement her wardrobe—not compete with it.

    5. Prioritize Versatility

    She’s dynamic, and her bag should be too. Look for styles that can transition effortlessly between moments:

    Convertible bags—like those with a crossbody and shoulder strap options—add major mileage.

    Picks like the Chanel Wallet on Chain (WOC) or Mulberry Lily go from coffee runs to cocktails with stylish ease.

    6. Pay Attention to Hardware & Features

    The little things matter—sometimes more than you realize.

    Gold Hardware: Warm, timeless, and a little glam.

    Silver Hardware: Cool, sleek, and modern.

    Brushed or Matte Finishes: Subtle sophistication.

    Bonus points for thoughtful design: feet on the base to prevent scuffs, interior compartments for organization, or a top zip for added security.

    7. Add a Personal Touch

    Make it more than just a gift—make it memorable.

    Slip in a handwritten note. Add something sentimental: a keychain with her initials, a printed silk scarf, or a note slipped into the inner pocket. These extra touches turn a gift into a keepsake.

    Top Affordable Luxury Picks for Mom: Timeless yet Budget-friendly

    Here are some curated selections available on The Luxury Closet:

    1. Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 Monogram Canvas

    Why She’ll Love It: An iconic piece known for its spacious interior and classic design, perfect for daily use or travel.
    Price Range: Approximately $550 to $650 for pre-owned models, offering significant savings compared to new retail prices.
    Product Link: Louis Vuitton Speedy 30.

    2. Gucci Soho Disco Bag

    Why She’ll Love It: Compact yet roomy, this crossbody bag is versatile for day and evening outings.
    Price Range: Prices for pre-owned Gucci Soho Disco Bags vary, with some listings around $451.
    Product Link: Gucci Soho Disco Bag

    Gucci Soho Disco Bag

    3. Prada Nylon Shoulder Bag

    Why She’ll Love It: Lightweight and durable, this bag is ideal for the mom who appreciates practicality without compromising style.
    Price Range: Pre-owned prices can vary, with some models at $1,196.
    Product Link: Prada Nylon Shoulder Bag

    Prada Nylon Shoulder Bag

    4. Chloé Marcie Crossbody Bag

    Why She’ll Love It: With its bohemian charm and elegant design, the Marcie is perfect for casual and formal occasions.
    Price Range: Pre-owned Chloé Marcie bags are available in various colors and sizes, with prices depending on the specific model and condition.
    Product Link: Chloé Marcie Crossbody Bag

    Chloé Marcie Crossbody Bag

    How to Shop Confidently for Pre-Owned Luxury. 

    Worried about counterfeits? We get it. Here’s how TLC makes your gift foolproof:

    Rigorous authentication process
    Detailed product descriptions and condition grades
    Clear return policies and secure payment options

    At  The Luxury Closet, you’ll find pre-loved designer handbags that are:

    100% Authentic, verified by expert in-house authenticators
    Up to 70% off retail prices
    From top brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and Chanel

    It’s the smart, stylish way to splurge without going broke. Basically, we’ve done the homework so you can relax.

    Wrap It Up Right With Taste, Love and Happiness

    This year, you’ve got yourself a Mother’s Day win that says: I love you, and I have great taste. This isn’t just a bag—it’s a thank-you. A “you deserve the world” in calfskin and canvas—a Mother’s Day moment she’ll remember every time she zips it open. Shop smart, wrap it right, and watch her face light up—a luxury never looked so personal. With love @ The Luxury Closet!



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    Monad Announcing Monad Testnet-2

    Monad Announcing Monad Testnet-2


    Monad Testnet-2 launch aligns with a broader trend of blockchain projects preparing for mainnet launches in 2025, following a record-breaking year for crypto adoption, with Bitcoin surpassing $100,000 in February.

    The focus on validator readiness in Testnet-2 reflects Monad’s emphasis on decentralization, addressing a key challenge in the blockchain trilemma – balancing scalability, security, and decentralization – as highlighted by Shardeum’s similar efforts in 2023.

    Monad’s selection of 100-150 validators for Testnet-2 mirrors strategies used by other Layer 1 blockchains like Ethereum, which used testnets like Ropsten to simulate mainnet conditions before major upgrades.

    Monad Announcing Monad Testnet-2

    Source: X

    The 10-week duration of Testnet-2, starting in late May, positions Monad’s mainnet launch potentially in early August, aligning with community predictions of a Q3 rollout.

    Monad’s parallel operation of Testnet-1 and Testnet-2 ensures continuity for users, a strategy similar to Solana’s use of devnet and testnet environments to separate user and validator testing.

    The experimental nature of Testnet-2 builds on Monad’s earlier success, with its first testnet crossing 1 billion transactions in April, signaling strong network performance.

    Monad’s focus on validator training could enhance its appeal for institutional adoption, especially as US banks now face fewer restrictions on handling client crypto assets following recent OCC rule changes.

    The timing of Testnet-2 coincides with Ethereum’s Pectra upgrade on May 7, which improved scalability and staking limits, potentially intensifying competition among Layer 1 blockchains.

    Read more: ETH Price Prediction after Pectra Upgrade in May

    Additionally, Monad launched a MON testnet airdrop to reward active users on Farcaster, distributing tokens to 77,000 accounts.

    Read more: Check Airdrop Monad Token (MON) on Your Farcaster Wallet





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    Why Is Ethereum Beating Bitcoin With Explosive Gains? – Decrypt

    Why Is Ethereum Beating Bitcoin With Explosive Gains? – Decrypt



    In brief

    Crypto markets rallied this week, with Bitcoin reclaiming $100K in the process.
    On Friday, ETH was the big winner, gaining at one point more than 15% in 24 hours.
    Still, the coin has failed to get near to breaking a new high this year—unlike Bitcoin and Solana.

    For the past two years, Ethereum‘s price has lagged behind Bitcoin. But over the past two days, ETH has been outpacing BTC and other major coins, with three analysts whom Decrypt contacted attributing its huge gains to a flawlessly executed technical upgrade and a few hopeful signs about the global economy.

    The analysts believe that Ethereum may have significant upside after languishing in the doldrums amid concerns about its underlying network’s speed and efficiency.

    “The market is poised to reward ETH, the world’s second-largest crypto asset, as it emerges from internal challenges, layer-1 competition, and Q1 risk-off pressures,” said Joel Kruger, market strategist at LMAX Group, a financial technology firm offering foreign exchange and crypto trading services.

    “With the Ethereum Foundation advancing upgrades and a favorable global macro risk environment, investors are seizing heavily discounted prices.” 

    On Thursday, the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization smashed through the $2,000 threshold and later topped $2,400 early Friday, hitting its highest level in more than three months, according to crypto data provider CoinGecko. ETH, which was recently settled at $2,337, has gained 30% over the past 48 hours. Bitcoin has risen 8%. 

    Those gains, a continuation of an upswing in markets dating to early April, accelerated on Wednesday after the so-called Pectra upgrade, which aims to improve the Ethereum network’s scalability and user friendliness. Pre-launch testing of the upgrade hit some snags, but those were ironed out in time for the mainnet launch, which encountered no such issues.

    

    Ethereum has faced increasing competition from Solana and other layer-1 networks whose proponents say are more capable than ETH.

    “Enthusiasm only grew after this week’s flawless rollout of the Pectra upgrade, the biggest technical milestone since the merge,” GSR Research Analyst Carlos Guzman said.

    He added that the upgrade, combined with “broader crypto tailwind fueled by encouraging macro headlines,” was causing the rally. 

    It was the second major improvement in three years for Ethereum, following the 2022 merge, which changed the network from a proof-of-work blockchain to a proof-of-stake blockchain.

    Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump this week appeared to ratchet back his trade war, signing a deal with the U.K. and suggesting plans to lower tariffs with China. 

    Risk-on assets responded with a flurry, with major indexes jumping on Thursday, including the tech-heavy Nasdaq and S&P 500.

    Amberdata’s Director of Derivatives Greg Magadini told Decrypt that ETH last week was experiencing less volatility, and increased buying could lead it to “relief rally”—when negative news tends to be more positive than previously interpreted. 

    Even with this week’s spike, however, Ethereum remains considerably down from its 2021 record of $4,878. Bitcoin, meanwhile, is only down 5% from its own peak price set back in January.

    Edited by James Rubin

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    General Hospital: Dante Hating Gio – Huge Repeat Plot – 5th Time GH Has Done It!

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      General Hospital: Dante Hating Gio – Huge Repeat Plot – 5th Time GH Has Done It!


      General Hospital sees Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) having this growing animosity towards Gio Palmieri (Giovanni Mazza) basically out of nowhere. This is his secret son. And so this feels like another redo of the same old plot that GH likes to do where there’s a secret parent and child relationship and they dislike each other right before they find out they’re related.

      Do you know how many times GH has done this? It’s a lot. We’re going to talk about it. It’s Belynda from Soap Dirt. And we’re going to look back really quick at how GH always makes people hate each other while building up to a secret paternity or maternity connection. This is, I think, the fifth time at least that they have done it. And now they’re playing it out again with Dante and Gio.

      Dante’s Sudden Animosity Towards Gio: Another General Hospital Secret Parent Plot?

      So right now, the people who know Dante is Gio’s father are Lois Cerullo (Rena Sofer), her mom Gloria Cerullo (Ellen Travolta), and Martin Gray (Michael E. Knight) the lawyer. I think that’s pretty much it. But Lulu Spencer’s (Alexa Havins Bruening) on the case and it looks like she’s about to figure it out and blow this whole thing wide open.

      And this dislike that Dante has for Gio, it’s come out of the blue. It’s very ill-placed, not organic and very awkward. It’s very forced. That’s what I feel watching it, honestly. It feels contrived and out of character for Dante. Obviously, he was scared about what Rocco Falceroni (Finn Frances Carr) did, but Gio clearly did nothing wrong when it came to the college party where Rocco got drunk.

      General Hospital: Played Out Plot?

      And what’s funny is I was watching Monday’s episode and my husband walked through my office and said, “GH is going to make Dante hate Gio just like they did with Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard) and Dante.” I laughed and I was like, “Oh, they wouldn’t do that again.” And then a few minutes later, I was like, “Ah, hubby called it. They are doing it again.”

      Everybody thought Gio was a great kid until this alcohol poisoning incident. We haven’t heard an unkind word about him. And then Dante all of a sudden is blaming Gio, who didn’t take him to the party, didn’t know he was there, none of that. And he even threatened criminal charges.

      They are making Dante dislike Gio in a very transparent ploy to replay history yet again. This is, as I said, the fifth time this has happened. Maybe more, but five. This is the fifth time I can recall. Do you remember the four other times that they had two characters hate each other before a big parent and child reveal? We’re going to talk about it.

      General Hospital’s First Secret Son Story: Sonny and Dante’s Shocking Reveal

      So, speaking of Dante, let’s talk about him and Sonny first. If you have been watching General Hospital for a while, you’ll recall that when Dante first came to Port Charles, he had no idea Sonny was his dad, and vice versa. Sonny didn’t know either. Dante’s mother, Olivia Falconeri (Lisa LoCicero), got pregnant as a teen, but she never told Sonny and raised him as a single mom.

      And then lo and behold, a couple of decades later, Dante popped up in Port Chuck as an undercover cop using a fake name. He was trying to take Sonny down because he was a mob boss, you know. And Dante got the goods on him, but then he felt guilty for building a case against Sonny because they had gotten close. And when the warrant came in, in the end, Dante was like, “Okay, I have to do my job.”

      He went to arrest Sonny and by then Jason Morgan (Steve Burton) and Sonny figured out Dante was a cop. Sonny set a trap and he shot Dante point blank. He almost killed him. Olivia showed up and screamed at Sonny that he had just shot his own son. That’s how Sonny found out about his kid.

      Dante almost died. He recovered. He did not rat out Sonny for shooting him. And although they’re close now, Dante and Sonny conflicted over the years because they are on opposing sides of the law. Now, lo and behold, we’re getting a second-generation secret son storyline with Gio and Dante. And although it’s not identical to the Sonny and Dante story, the vibe and intent are very much the same.

      Sam and Alexis’ Secret Mother-Daughter Drama: A GH History of Conflict and Connection

      Next, you cannot forget about Sam McCall (Kelly Monaco) and Alexis Davis (Nancy Lee Grahn). Things got off to a bad start when Sam had gotten pregnant by Sonny at the same time that his and Alexis’ daughter Kristina Corinthos-Davis (Kate Mansi), who was little back then, was sick.

      And Alexis wanted Sam to induce labor early so they could use the stem cells from her umbilical cord to save Kristina because they were half-sisters. And Sam was very reluctant. She knew it would be risky, but in the end, she agreed. And then of course sadly baby Lila died.

      So, there was a lot of resentment from Sam aimed at Alexis. And then things got even worse between them when her brother Danny Morgan was dying of encephalitis. Alexis also had it and got the life-saving serum while Danny did not. And then he died. And of course, Sam named her son Danny (Asher Jared Antonyzyn) after her brother Danny.

      General Hospital: Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna) - Gio Palmieri (Giovanni Mazza)
      General Hospital: Dante Falconeri – Gio Palmieri

      General Hospital: Family Fallout from Secret Children

      Right before he died, Danny told Sam that she was adopted. And that happened at the same time that her dislike of Alexis was intensifying. And of course, later when Sam found out Alexis was her mom, she wasn’t thrilled. Things got even messier between Sam and Alexis when Sam slept with Ric Lansing (Rick Hearst) while he was married to Alexis.

      Even worse, when Sam and Ric were doing the deed on the living room rug, Alexis actually saw them going at it through the window. I remember that so vividly. And eventually Sam and Alexis grew into this wonderful mother-daughter relationship. And then of course she tragically lost Sam when Cyrus Renault (Jeff Kober) murdered her last year. This was yet another storyline contrived to make a secret parent and child hate each other before the big reveal.

      Nina and Willow’s Difficult Path: Uncovering a Secret Mother-Daughter Relationship on GH

      Next, got to talk about Nina Reeves (Cynthia Watros) and Willow Tait (Katelyn MacMullen), right? They disliked each other from the jump. That was back when Michelle Stafford was playing the role of Nina. And at the time, Willow was Charlotte Cassadine’s (Scarlett Fernandez) teacher, and Nina was her devoted stepmother. That was when she was with Valentin Cassadine (James Patrick Stuart).

      So, Nina hassled Willow. She accused her of being unfair and unkind to Charlotte. And as it turned out, Willow was in the right. Charlotte was in the wrong because the kid was a school bully. And Nina tried to get Willow fired.

      And Nina probably would have made it happen if not for a petition signed by a lot of other parents saved Willow’s job. Meanwhile, Nina was on a mission to find her long-lost daughter she gave birth to during that 20-year-long coma. And it turns out that her daughter was Nelle Benson (Chloe Lanier).

      General Hospital: Twin Twist Fails?

      But there was more to come because Harmony Miller (Inga Cadranel)  turned out not to be Willow’s bio mom and Nina was. So they were doing a whole bunch of recon stuff on top of this. Turns out Nina had twin girls while in a coma and her awful mom Madeline Reeves (Donna Mills) wanted the kids out of Nina’s life because she hated Silas Clay (Michael Easton), the twins’ father.

      So Nelle died in the interim and Nina thought she’d never be a mom and then the twin twist. And immediately Nina wanted to put their past behind them so she could be a mom to Willow, but she rejected her and it was just a whole lot of back and forth. They’re in a good spot now, of course, but it seems doomed because of Nina plotting against Drew Cain Quartermaine (Cameron Mathison). I feel like Willow and Nina’s relationship is on borrowed time.

      The Original GH Secret Parent Hate Story: Bobbie and Carly’s Volatile Beginnings

      And last, but by no means least, we’re going to go back in time to the very first of these storylines that I can recall on GH, which is Bobbie Spencer (Jacklyn Zeman) and Carly Corinthos Spencer (Laura Wright). Things with them were particularly volatile because Carly came to Port Charles hellbent on destroying her biological mom, Bobbie.

      So, this first story was slightly different because Carly knew Bobbie was her mom when she came to town, unlike the other reveals where both the child and the parent were in the dark. So, that’s kind of why I saved this one for last, but it was really the genesis of all of this that they keep repeating and repeating and repeating, every 10 years or so. Carly did not have the best childhood, and she resented Bobbie. She thought that her mom had this charmed life in Port Charles and had just kicked her aside.

      Of course, Carly had no idea about Bobbie’s rough and tragic upbringing, living at a brothel as a teen, working as a prostitute for years. All Carly saw was this nice cushy life Bobbie had worked very hard for and she wanted to destroy it. So, Carly seduced Bobbie’s husband, Tony Jones (Brad Maule) and destroyed their marriage.

      That was a whopper of an obstacle for them to overcome but they eventually did and had a loving mother-daughter relationship right up until Bobbie’s sad passing in May of 2023. So, this is certainly a pattern for General Hospital, and it looks like they’re going to follow suit with Dante and Gio. Hopefully, they don’t make Gio and Dante completely hate each other before it’s revealed that they are father and son and hopefully that bombshell drops sooner rather than later. We’ll have to wait and see.



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      Digital Economy: The Cloud Mining Platform as Wealth Engine

      Digital Economy: The Cloud Mining Platform as Wealth Engine


      The swift expansion of cryptocurrencies in recent times has caused significant changes in the world’s financial system and brought about new technological advancements. The mining industry has played a significant role in shaping this trend, with digital assets like Bitcoin and Dogecoin being the most popular. Traditional mining is challenging for many beginners due to its expensive hardware, significant energy usage, and demanding technical specifications. The cloud mining model’s widespread adoption in 2025 has subverted this situation, and the global cloud mine platform is now a significant factor in driving industry change.

      U.S. Government Position on Crypto Integration

      In a statement, the OCT confirmed that national banks in the United States can engage in cryptocurrency activities and have more authority over their supervision. Today’s decision aims to ease the requirements for banks participating in crypto-related operations and to promote consistent regulatory treatment of these financial activities by the Office of the Comptroller of the Connemara, regardless of which technology is used, stated Rodney Hood, the interim head of the U.S. government’s financial oversight agency. But I’m going to work hard on making sure there is no excessive regulation and a strong federal system of banking.

      Digital Assets and the Future of the Financial System

      Analyze the future of digital assets in the U.S. financial system, particularly as the President’s Digital Asset Task Force seeks to integrate digital currencies like Cardano, XRP, and Solana into the country’s financial model. The U.S. government is exploring ways to leverage cryptocurrencies strategically, as the global market for digital currencies has evolved. This move follows several other recent developments in this area.

      Digital Assets and the Future of the Financial System

      Breaking the Barrier and Generating Value Through Global Cloud Mining

      By transferring the intricate cryptocurrency mining technique to global cloud mining, traditional mining still requires significant investment in equipment and technical expertise. Users can access and participate in the mining of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Dogecoin through the Internet. The overall mining efficiency is greatly improved, in addition to a decrease in the participation threshold.

      With the aid of advanced technology and improved user experience, the Global Cloud Mining Platform has quickly gained prominence. The cryptocurrency ecosystem has created a vast terrain for all investors to navigate by offering user-friendly operating tools and full-process services.

      Why Choose Global Cloud Mining?

      Despite the fierce competition in the market, Global Cloud Mining quickly established itself as the primary platform for users.

      Simple one-stop operation

      Its user interface is simple and accessible, making it easy for newcomers to grasp the fundamentals of how things work. User-friendly guidance facilitates the creation of accounts, contract selection for contracts, and the mining startup with ease.

      Strict security protection

      It uses the latest technologies in industry, such as McAfee® and Cloudflare®, to build a multi-level strong data structure for users, with an emphasis on creating user-friendly investment environments.

      Flexible income and personalized choices

      Global Cloud Mining offers a daily income distribution system and custom-made flexible contracts to cater to users’ diverse mining needs, with primary personalized income.

      Absolute transparency, no hidden fees

      The site maintains a transparent operating model, no additional charges, and no form of disinformation about daily investment returns.

      The new model of cloud mining provides further opportunities for users in the currency circle…. By focusing on Global Cloud Mining, the industry is leading in technology and economy integration to create more opportunities for all.

      The Cloud Mining Process: Step-by-Step Guide

      Step 1: Choose Global Cloud Mining at the beginning of the process

      Mining options like Dogecoin and Bitcoin are available through Global Cloud Mining. The users can begin mining immediately with a minimum deposit.

      Step 2: Register an account

      The only thing required is an email address to become a member. Users can start mining Global Cloud Mining without pre-payment by using an invitation code, which comes with an optional $10 bonus..

      Step 3: Select a Mining Contract 

      Choose the appropriate plan according to your investment objectives to achieve sustainable profitability.

      A sustainable method for mining cryptocurrencies in 2025 is now possible, thanks to Global Cloud Mining’s advanced technology and customer-centric approach. Profitability and ease of use are guaranteed by the platform, which is suitable for both experienced investors and novice users.

      Toward Sustainable, Responsible Tech-Driven Growth

      Experts at the epicenter of the technological storm will enhance cooperation and understanding through this one-of-a-kind platform.. Remember that with the rise of technology, you can also be in compliance, environmental protection and social responsibility! Please! The digital economy can genuinely facilitate sustainable development through this approach.

      Visit the official website for more information: https://35global.com

      Email: [email protected]



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      Bold and the Beautiful: Katie Steals Carter – Daphne Left Fuming?!

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        Bold and the Beautiful: Katie Steals Carter – Daphne Left Fuming?!


        Bold and the Beautiful sees Carter Walton (Lawrence Saint-Victor) is the object of Daphne Rose‘s (Murielle Hilaire) affection, and Katie Logan (Heather Tom) knows that she came to town targeting him, but he’s also trying to get back with Hope Logan (Annika Noelle) right now.

        All of this could change very soon though, and we could see Carter flipping romantic partners in a way we don’t expect. We’re going to talk about how Katie might swoop in and fight for Carter, leaving Daphne stuck on the outside looking in.

        Bold and the Beautiful: Carter Pushes to Reunite with Hope

        Right now, Carter is pushing to reunite with Hope, but now that she knows Liam Spencer (Scott Clifton)’s dying, well, everything is going to change. He is going to be Hope sole focus, and that could kill Carter’s chance to get back with Hope.

        At the same time, Daphne determined to make Carter her man, and she keeps flirting with him and outright telling him that she wants him. Daphne’s not being subtle at all. And interestingly, Carter seems open to listening to her pitches, even though he’s still chasing Hope. He basically told her she can keep trying.

        Hope’s Devotion to Liam: A Roadblock for Carter?

        But things are shifting, and Daphne may have competition for Carter that will blindside her. That is definitely not Hope, not who she’s expecting. So, there’s several factors working against Carter getting a chance to reunite with Hope.

        First, of course, is that she feels like Carter chose Ridge Forrester (Thorsten Kaye) and Eric Forrester (John McCook) over her when he gave back the company without discussing it with her first. That is a valid concern whether you agree or disagree with the coup. Carter didn’t check in with her, and I think he didn’t check in with her because he knew she’d try to talk him out of it, but he did technically betray her.

        Second is that Hope’s dad, Deacon Sharpe (Sean Kanan), thinks Carter is the wrong guy for his daughter flat out, and Deacon is pushing Hope (Annika Noelle) back towards Liam. And that’s even without knowing the guy’s dying.

        Bold and the Beautiful: Steffy Drops Bombshell on Hope

        And now that Steffy Forrester (Jacqueline MacInnes Wood) just hit Hope with the bombshell that Liam has the brain tumor, she’s going to give her some more details on Friday, and that he is going to die. Well, of course, Hope going to want to soak up every moment that Liam’s got left for her own sake, for their daughter Beth’s sake. And that means there’s just not going to be room for Carter in her life. It’d be hard to imagine.

        And Hope may tell Carter, “You know what? No, I can’t even talk about reuniting. I can’t consider it. The man that I loved for years that I still care about, the father of my child, is dying. So, I’m sorry. Too bad,” and just kind of push him aside. We absolutely expect that Hope will be helping Steffy and Finn (Tanner Novlan) take care of Liam and for her to just focus on the limited time he has left with his daughters.

        Also, Hope’s got to figure out how to tell Beth that her dad is dying. So, just in the end, she doesn’t have any bandwidth for Carter, especially not after he betrayed her. Those are her words, not mine. And along the way, there’s also the chance that Hope and Liam may even spark and reunite whether he lives or whether he dies.

        Katie Logan Enters the Ring: Challenging Daphne for Carter?

        So, this should all leave Carter at loose ends. And of course, Daphne is probably going to be thinking, “Oh, okay, cool. Hope’s out of the way. Now I’m going to get my man Carter.” However, there’s a chance Katie could swoop in and fight for Carter for a couple of reasons. First, Katie does not like Daphne.

        She does not want her to win Carter’s heart. Period. Second, Katie may want to keep Daphne away from Carter just in case her niece Hope wants to circle back around and get with him after Liam dies or if Hope changes her mind at some point. So, Katie kind of might be bodyguarding Carter.

        And of course, third and very importantly, Katie overheard Daphne talking with Zende Forrester Dominguez (Delon de Metz) about her coming to LA with an agenda to seduce Carter and break up him and Hope.

        So, Katie (Heather Tom) immediately confronted her and said, “I heard you talking to Zende, and I know that you were doing Steffy’s dirty work.” And that’s just one more reason Katie isn’t going to want Daphne near Carter. And of course, you got to be real about it. Also, Katie still cares about Carter even though they aren’t together anymore.

        Revisiting the Carter and Katie Romance on B&B

        And that whole situation was weird because if you remember, Katie and Carter were happily dating on Bold and the Beautiful. And then they just broke them up offscreen to shove him into that plot with Hope out of nowhere.

        They basically broke up Katie and Carter and invented this after-the-fact infatuation that Carter claims to have had with Hope. It never existed. So now the sloppy writing at B&B could turn around and undo all that and backtrack and go back to Carter and Katie.

        Right now, Daphne’s pushing really hard to get Carter. So, it might be amusing to see Katie just kind of come in from the side like the raptor you didn’t see on Jurassic Park, and totally thwart her because Katie thinks Daphne is a shady schemer.

        Katie thinks the perfume lady is no good for Carter. And so, we could see Katie getting closer to Carter at first to try and just keep Daphne away from him, but along the way, Katie may realize she wants Carter back.

        Bold and the Beautiful: Carter Walton (Lawrence Saint-Victor) - Katie Logan (Heather Tom)
        Bold and the Beautiful: Carter Walton – Katie Logan

        Is a Carter and Katie Reunion the Future for B&B?

        I mean, let’s face it, Katie’s got no love in her life and has not since her off-screen split from Carter, and they did have a very solid relationship based in a strong friendship. Both Katie and Carter have been very unlucky in love many, many times.

        They had that in common, too. And if you remember, Katie and Carter were really into each other, and they were getting serious, and then bang, they just went their separate ways, but Katie did stay friends with Carter, and there’s no bad blood between them or anything like that.

        So, I think they split him and Katie and shoved Carter into that insta-love romance with Hope because Heather Tom was busy as a writer and director on Bold and the Beautiful. She’s also a director on other TV projects, so maybe she just didn’t have time to stay in the storyline.

        Bold and the Beautiful: Katie and Carter Reunion Ahead?

        But now, of course, Heather is doing more acting work as Katie. And if Hope is going to be preoccupied with Liam, whether it turns romantic or not, that might open the door to a reunion for Carter and Katie. So, maybe Bold and the Beautiful will go that route if Hope and Carter are really kaput because Liam is terminally ill.

        And let’s be real, it’s not like Katie has any other hot prospects right now. Her ex-husband, Bill Spencer (Don Diamont), tried to get her back, but she knows he’ll always be hot for her sister, Brooke Logan (Katherine Kelly Lang). So, Katie and Bill are a non-starter. Even though he had talked reuniting a few times.

        I just don’t think she’s going to go down that road again with Bill. And there’s really not anybody else around for Katie. I liked her a lot when she was with Wyatt Spencer (Darin Brooks). I thought that was a great coupling, but of course, Bill ruined it, and now B&B axed Darin Brooks and wrote Wyatt off the soap. So, if Katie is going to have a romance, Carter is the main candidate.

        Katie vs. Daphne: Who Will Win Carter’s Heart?

        I do think Katie was really good for Carter, and I think he deserves a woman like that. Not that Daphne wouldn’t be devoted to him because I do think she’s pretty much obsessed and all in with Carte. I think Daphne would be totally devoted to him, but I just can’t see Katie sitting back and letting Daphne win Carter without interfering, without possibly making a play to reunite with him herself.

        And of course, there is a chance that Katie and Carter won’t spark again. They may have no plans to write a romance for Katie because she’s busy backstage at B&B writing and directing. But if Hope tells Carter no reunion and Daphne thinks, “Okay, he’s all mine,” I do think it could be really fun to see Katie give Daphne a run for her money. And if Katie snagged Carter, well, that’s okay. Daphne could just go pursue Zende. They’d be a cute couple.



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        Peacemaker Season 2 | Official Teaser – Max

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          Peacemaker Season 2 | Official Teaser – Max


          Genre:

          Action, Superhero, Drama,Comedy

          Release Date:

          August 21, 2025

          Director:

          James Gunn

          Cast:

          John Cena, Jennifer Holland, Steve Agee, Tim Meadows

          Plot Summary:

          The second season of the American superhero television series Peacemaker is based on the eponymous character from DC Comics. It is set in the DC Universe (DCU) and serves as a “soft reboot” of the series, which started as a spin-off from the 2021 DC Extended Universe (DCEU) film The Suicide Squad. The season continues the story of jingoistic mercenary Christopher Smith / Peacemaker. It is produced by DC Studios with James Gunn as showrunner.

          FILM RATING

          The post Peacemaker Season 2 | Official Teaser – Max appeared first on Coastal House Media.



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          BIOMORPH Review | TheXboxHub

          BIOMORPH Review | TheXboxHub


          A Dark Metroidvania with a Shapeshifting Twist

          Another Metroidvania platformer? We won’t have any sighing at the back. You see, this one has a difference: It is billed as a “dark” Metroidvania.

          Coming from Lucid Dream Studio, the game goes by the name of BIOMORPH, and it came to me with a particularly bold claim – the promise of mixing Hollow Knight with Kirby. 

          Biomorph review 1
          A world to explore – slowly

          Amnesia and Alien Worlds

          So, what makes BIOMORPH a dark Metroidvania then, I hear you ask? The story is pretty grim, to be fair, and features the usual tropes for these types of games: a destroyed world, a hero with no memory of who or what he is, and a wide range of locations and secrets to find. 

          We play as the titular Biomorph, a creature with a mysterious past who awakens on a derelict spaceship. Breaking out of the prison we find ourselves in, can we rebuild a town, get strong enough to break back into the prison, and save the day? Well, only you and your lightning fast fingers have the answer to that question!

          Ruined Realms and Sentient Weapons

          Presentation of the game is pretty standard; and that’s me being a little bit on the mean side. It runs with a side scrolling platformer base, complemented with a nice line in ruined world aesthetics. The levels that we need to explore are large and complicated, and in keeping with the rule book of Metroidvanias, there are areas you’ll only be able to access later on after you have found new abilities. But, of course, you knew that was going to be the case. 

          The main character is a well designed little fellow, with more than a hint of the Ori about it (from Ori and the Blind Forest); a little white chap with two weapons that are seemingly sentient, and this gives him – and them – a welcome personality boost. The enemies we fight are again a cleverly created bunch, and I’ll talk more about these later when we cover the unique hook that BIOMORPH comes with. All in all, with the imaginative bosses thrown in, there’s nothing to complain about visually. 

          The sound is also pretty good, with a nice line in fighting sounds and music. There are no voice overs, with the story being presented in a series of static cutscenes, as is every conversation that we have with NPC’s. Again, nothing much to complain about here. 

          Biomorph review 2Biomorph review 2
          Prepare to get battered

          Absorbing and Adapting

          But there is a unique gameplay mechanic, and it is this that I think covers the Kirby reference from the opening paragraph. 

          You see, once we’ve defeated certain enemies, we can stand on their mangled remains and transform into them, complete with all their abilities. As a perfect example of this, in the Badlands, there is a section of spikes that we cannot cross. Until, that is, we notice a creature wandering over the spikes towards us! Sure enough, take it out and transform into it and we too can walk on spikes without damage. 

          As you can imagine, finding, killing and taking the form of the correct creature can make things a bit easier. Not easy by any means, but at least easier. 

          Familiar Exploration, Evolving Power

          Other than this, the rest of BIOMORPH is pretty much by the numbers. We wander about, exploring and finding upgrades, and then using said new upgrades and abilities to go back to earlier areas and explore further. If you have played a Metroidvania before, you’ll know what I am on about. 

          In addition to the expected upgrades, there is also a strong RPG feel, as fighting and winning enables you to level up your little Biomorph, and there are skill trees not only for the little creature himself, but also for the weapons that we find. There are not only melee weapons, but also ranged weapons, which can give the edge on certain foes. As is usual, learning what your opponent does, and how they attack, is key to surviving. 

          The Soulslike Influence

          Combat is a great deal of fun, and feels surprisingly hefty. Some games feel a bit numb in this department, but BIOMORPH is certainly not one of them: hits you give and receive seem to have real weight. The controls are tight and responsive too, and using the heals and dodges at the right time will certainly help with your durability. 

          Biomorph review 3Biomorph review 3
          A shapeshifting Metroidvania

          However, dying is a bit of a brutal affair, as when we die we respawn back at the last save point accessed, and that can – at times – be a long way away. And we need to get back to where we were to recover our belongings too, with them disappearing if death occurs again. I think we can add a bit of a Dark Souls vibe to the list of influences. 

          A Solid Metroidvania with a Shapeshifting Edge

          BIOMORPH is a pretty good game; one that makes a decent fist of the Metroidvania tropes. The ability to change into various creatures is an interesting feature, and there is certainly a lot of content to go at. 

          There are better Metroidvania games out there, but there are also many that are worse, so if BIOMORPH feels like your bag, please give it a try.

          Transform and Conquer in BIOMORPH on Xbox, a Metroidvania with a Twist  – https://www.thexboxhub.com/transform-and-conquer-in-biomorph-on-xbox-a-metroidvania-with-a-twist/

          Biomorph is a super stylish Soulslike Metroidvania; coming to PC and console – https://www.thexboxhub.com/biomorph-is-a-super-stylish-soulslike-metroidvania-coming-to-pc-and-console/

          Buy BIOMORPH on Xbox – https://www.xbox.com/en-gb/games/store/biomorph/9P6Z7CR81SH4



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