Video games have given us some truly memorable heroes who remain popular long after their games are released, like Mario, Master Chief, and Pikachu. Looking ahead to 2026, which new games might introduce characters with the potential to become similarly iconic figures in the gaming world? Let’s take a look at some likely candidates.
Even though Solo Leveling may come back next year with a new movie, The Apothecary Diaries is poised to become even more popular thanks to its fantastic lead character, Maomao. She had some amazing scenes in Season 2 this year, and fans can expect even more great moments next year with both Season 3 and a new movie planned.
New research reveals that quantum noise isn’t always random, and leveraging its predictable, metastable patterns could significantly improve algorithm stability.
Ah, VanEck, that stalwart of investment firms, has taken another step on the path to launching its highly anticipated spot Solana exchange-traded fund (ETF) in the United States. The firm, in its infinite wisdom, has filed its Form 8-A with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), bringing us ever closer to a world where Solana ETFs grace the market.
We were joking around in voice chat when I clicked on Celeste, the shopkeeper in ARC Raiders who handles basic materials. Her simple, unremarkable voice, as she acknowledged my completed quest, suddenly felt draining, like it was stealing my good mood. That’s when I started to understand the recent online discussion about ARC Raiders and its use of AI-generated content.
The upcoming Mega Dimensions DLC for Pokémon Legends: Z-A will allow players to explore a twisted version of Lumiose City called Hyperspace Lumoise. The Mythical Pokémon Hoopa and its trainer, Ansha, will be central to the story, helping Team MZ investigate strange spatial distortions appearing throughout the city. Also, Pokémon Legends: Z-A is changing a long-standing tradition from the first generation of Pokémon games by raising the maximum Pokémon level above 100.
Zarya Cosmodrome isn’t a good place to farm zombies, which is surprising given it’s based on a map known for training. Unlike the original, Zarya Cosmodrome lacks open areas and mostly consists of a narrow, winding path. Farming here is risky because zombies can attack from all directions, including through doorways. Uneven platforms also make it hard to land critical hits. Unless you’re specifically trying to get the PhD Flopper or Wisp Tea perks, it’s best to avoid Zarya Cosmodrome.
Map In Progress
Jack Dorsey, that old trickster of tech, just opened a new road for crypto payments. Cash App, ever the showman, unveiled plans to let users send and receive stablecoins-because nothing says “mainstream” like a digital dollar.
Glassnode, the Sherlock Holmes of on-chain analytics, dropped their weekly report, and it’s a real buzzkill. 🕵️♂️ Apparently, altcoins are experiencing a “broad cooldown in speculation.” Translation: everyone’s too scared to play with leverage anymore. 😱 The metric in question? “Open Interest,” aka the total number of positions still open on derivatives exchanges. When it drops, it’s like the dance floor cleared at 9 PM. 🕺💨