July 21, 2023

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Reddit Takes Over r/malefashionadvice: A New Era for the Protesting Subreddit

21 July 2023

In a recent turn of events, Reddit has taken control of one of its most prominent protesting subreddits, r/malefashionadvice. The subreddit, with over 5 million subscribers, had gone private as a protest against Reddit’s API pricing changes. However, after discussions with the moderators, Reddit has regained control, and the community is now accessible in a restricted mode, with limited posting privileges. This article delves into the events leading up to this transition, the impact on the community, and what lies ahead for both Reddit and the former moderators of r/malefashionadvice. Last week, the moderators of r/malefashionadvice decided to make the community private as a response to Reddit’s controversial API pricing changes. The move was aimed at drawing attention to their concerns and encouraging users to explore alternative platforms, such as Discord and Substack, for fashion-related discussions. Upon learning about the subreddit going private, Reddit administrators stepped in, issuing a message to the moderators, known as ModCodeofConduct, indicating that they would be replaced if the community wasn’t reopened. The Reddit team was keen on resolving the situation and restoring access to the community for the broader user base. Three former moderators, “Walker,” “Zach,” and another unnamed individual, confirmed that they were removed from their positions. The decision didn’t come as a surprise, as the moderators had been anticipating the move for several days. Consequently, ModCodeofConduct is now the sole moderator overseeing the subreddit. During the period when r/malefashionadvice was private, the moderators had urged users to join the Discord server as an alternative platform for discussions. The Discord community gained momentum, with its user base growing from 2,000 to an impressive 5,000 members. Fortunately, the transition has been smooth, with members being respectful and enjoying the camaraderie on the new platform. With the recent changes, ModCodeofConduct has assumed sole moderatorship not only over r/malefashionadvice but also other subreddits like r/ShittyLifeProTips, r/AccidentalRenaissance, r/oldbabies, r/BeardAdvice, r/plumbingporn, and r/fordtransit. The management of these communities will likely require careful attention and moderation from the sole moderator. Despite the transition of r/malefashionadvice back to Reddit’s control, another subreddit, r/streetwear, remains private as of now. This community, boasting over 4 million subscribers, is currently the most substantial subreddit still participating in the protest. Its future trajectory is closely watched, considering its significant influence within the fashion community. With Reddit back at the helm of r/malefashionadvice, the platform will undoubtedly strive to address the concerns raised by its user base. The focus will be on finding a middle ground that accommodates both the needs of the community and the platform’s business model. Open communication and transparency will play crucial roles in this process. The handover of r/malefashionadvice to Reddit marks a turning point in the history of the subreddit. After a brief period of protest, the community is once again open for users to engage, albeit in a restricted mode. Discord emerges as a viable alternative for fashion enthusiasts seeking discussions in a courteous and friendly environment. Reddit’s expansion of control over other communities raises questions about the future dynamics of these subreddits. As for r/streetwear, its continued protest stands as a testament to the importance of platform-user relations. Ultimately, it is the combined effort of Reddit and its communities that will shape the future landscape of this ever-evolving social platform. FAQs Why did r/malefashionadvice go private in protest? The subreddit went private as a response to Reddit’s API pricing changes, with the moderators aiming to draw attention to their concerns and explore alternatives. Has Reddit addressed the concerns of the former moderators? As of now, Reddit hasn’t provided an official response. However, with the community now open in a restricted mode, it shows Reddit’s willingness to find a resolution. How successful is the Discord server for r/malefashionadvice? The Discord server has seen significant traction, with its user base growing from 2,000 to 5,000 members. Users have appreciated the courteous and friendly atmosphere. Will r/streetwear end its protest soon? As of the article’s writing, r/streetwear remains private. The subreddit’s future actions depend on the ongoing dialogue between its moderators and Reddit. How will Reddit manage multiple communities with a single moderator? Managing multiple communities with one moderator can be challenging. Reddit will need to ensure that sufficient support and moderation resources are available to maintain the communities effectively.

Baldur’s Gate 3 Community Asking for a 72-Hour Character Creator-Only Head Start

21 July 2023

With the highly anticipated early access period of Baldur’s Gate 3 now in full swing, and the recent thrilling showcase of the game at the Panel from Hell event, ardent fans are clamoring for an enticing proposition from the esteemed game developer, Larian Studios. A passionate plea echoes through the gaming community, requesting a generous 72-hour head start exclusively dedicated to the character creator. This fervent desire is fueled by the aspiration to embark on the adventure the very moment the game officially launches. One vocal supporter of this proposition is a Redditor known as VeritasLuxMea, who fervently posted, “Please let me make characters and then save them in the character creator so that we can actually play the game on launch day instead of spending our first 8 hours of gameplay going [crazy] in the character creator.” This sentiment resonated with many fellow gamers, as ChornaKalyna expressed agreement, adding a touch of playful skepticism, “How foolish of you to assume that 72 hours will be enough to finish character creation!” The allure of Baldur’s Gate 3 lies not only in its captivating gameplay but also in the staggering range of avatar customization choices it offers, including the intriguing origin story, The Dark Urge. Understandably, hardcore players yearn to invest substantial time perfecting their starting character for that all-important inaugural playthrough. Listening_Heads shared this sentiment, saying, “As someone who never puts much effort into character creation, I think this time it’s warranted. The wild colors on the Dragonborn [race] were very interesting.” Alas, despite the goodwill exhibited by Larian Studios in moving up the Baldur’s Gate 3 release date for PC by a full month, accommodating a 72-hour head start solely for the character creator may prove to be a logistical challenge. However, the gaming community remains steadfast in their excitement, eagerly anticipating the game’s arrival, even without the pre-release phase. The promise of an extraordinary open-world epic awaits, and fans are ready to embark on their epic journey as soon as the gates of Baldur’s Gate 3 swing open.

PlayStation 5’s Exclusive Drought: A Closer Look at the Current State

21 July 2023

On June 12, 2020, Sony introduced the world to its latest gaming console, the PlayStation 5. As technology advances rapidly, this new generation promised stronger hardware and improved technology to craft engaging worlds and experiences. Yet, nearly three years into its lifecycle, the PlayStation 5’s exclusive library remains sparse, leaving many consumers, including myself, wondering about the lack of commitment to delivering compelling exclusives for the console. The Exclusive Desert of PlayStation 5 As of now, the exclusive titles available for the PlayStation 5 can be counted on one hand. While some may argue in favor of other platforms, this is not about taking sides; it’s about the disappointment felt by consumers who expected more from the current generation. The exclusive library is barren and desolate, with only a remake of Demon’s Souls, a timed exclusive in the form of Final Fantasy 16, and the upcoming Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 to show for. Even Astro’s Playroom, a well-received tech demo, couldn’t maintain long-term engagement. Anticipation builds as announcements are made for upcoming exclusives like Wolverine, Stellar Blade, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and Rise of the Rōnin. However, the lack of detailed information and extended development timelines dampens the excitement. Waiting five years or more for a single game’s completion, as in the case of Final Fantasy 7’s remake project, is disheartening and challenges one’s patience as a consumer. The Predecessors Had It Better Comparing the PlayStation 5’s exclusive library to its predecessors, the PlayStation 3 and PlayStation 4, reveals a slow start for the current console. The PlayStation 3 faced a disappointing launch, but it gained momentum within the first three years and developed an extensive library of exclusives. Similarly, the PlayStation 4 had a solid lineup of exclusive games three years into its life and continued to expand it over the years. By the end of 2016, the PlayStation 4 boasted a range of exclusives, including Infamous Second Son & First Light, The Last Guardian, Uncharted 4, Killzone: Shadow Fall, Bloodborne, Ratchet and Clank, & Until Dawn. These titles showcased the console’s capabilities and strengthened its appeal to consumers. The PlayStation 5’s slow growth can’t be entirely attributed to external factors like the pandemic or chip shortages. While cross-gen releases like God of War Ragnarok and Horizon Forbidden West may have had an impact, it still leaves the console underutilizing its potential. The Blurred Line of Exclusivity The concept of exclusivity seems blurred in the current generation. Many timed exclusives eventually make their way to other platforms, diluting the significance of owning a PlayStation 5. While expanding accessibility is commendable, it creates uncertainty for consumers who might wonder if they should wait for a PC release instead. Additionally, virtual reality (VR) gaming, despite being promising, hasn’t reached its full potential on PlayStation VR and VR2. For instance, Final Fantasy 16 is a timed exclusive, and eventually, it will be available on PC after a year or so. The same goes for FF7 Rebirth and all future games of that nature. Once the duration these companies settle on is up, the titles will be ported over. In the case of PlayStation exclusives, they’re going to be launched on PC in two to three years. If you want to play them right away, get a PlayStation 5. That’s all it is. While expanding to other platforms is beneficial for accessibility, it does lead to an unnecessary exercise for consumers, where they have to run logic simulations in their heads to weigh the significance of a PlayStation 5 against simply having patience. The Next Phase of PlayStation 5 A recent PlayStation showcase event left some feeling underwhelmed. While announcements like Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater & Spider-Man 2 garnered attention, the event felt more like a glorified State of Play rather than a showcase of exclusive content for the PlayStation 5. The limited number of high-profile announcements raises questions about the future of the console. However, Sony’s recent endeavor, Project Q, shows promise. The handheld device for remote play will allow gamers to stream any game from their PlayStation 5, offering a unique gaming-on-the-go experience. While the device may not be a portable console, it boasts all the features of the DualSense controller, providing an immersive experience to gamers on the move. The idea of gaming on the go is impressive, and having access to all the features of the DualSense controller ensures a seamless transition from the traditional console setup to remote play. Although the device may require a nearby PS5 and an internet connection, its potential to expand gaming experiences beyond the living room is exciting. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that while innovative features like Project Q and cool accessories like the earbuds are admirable, content remains the king. Consumers prioritize compelling and exclusive games that can fully utilize the console’s power, making it a crucial aspect of the gaming experience. Final Thoughts As a consumer, the lack of an impressive library of exclusives makes it challenging to justify the $499 investment in a PlayStation 5. While the potential for the console’s future is acknowledged, it currently falls short compared to its predecessors. For now, sticking with a PlayStation 4 and PC seems like a reasonable choice, with the hope that the PlayStation 5 will eventually deliver on its promise. Though it’s tempting to focus on hardware advancements, subscription services, and live service games, content remains the key to winning the hearts of gamers. The slow start of the PlayStation 5, along with the blurred line of exclusivity, has left consumers contemplating the value of investing in the current console. The next three years will be critical for the PlayStation 5 to prove its worth as a powerhouse gaming console with an impressive and extensive library of exclusives. It may not be all doom and gloom; there’s still hope for surprises and delights. But until that future comes to pass, I, like many other consumers, will patiently await the day when the PlayStation 5’s commitment to exclusives truly

Top Regional Representatives for 2023 Pokemon World Championships

21 July 2023

Meet Your World Championships Stars! | LATAM Trainers from all around the world have poured their time and effort into honing their Pokemon skills during the competitive Pokemon 2023 season. Now, as the highly anticipated Pokemon World Championships approach in Yokohama, Japan, let’s take a moment to meet the top regional representatives, starting with Latin America! To learn more about the upcoming Pokemon World Championships, visit their official website at https://worlds.pokemon.com. The Prestigious 2023 Pokemon World Championships The 2023 Pokemon World Championships, the pinnacle of this year’s Championship Series season, will bring together players from across the globe to battle it out for the coveted title of World Champion. This grand event is invitation-only, ensuring that only the most skilled trainers participate. If you didn’t receive an invitation, don’t worry! Spectators with badges can still immerse themselves in the excitement by enjoying various activities within the exhibition hall. From thrilling side events to opportunities to meet the beloved Pikachu, there’s plenty in store for everyone. Plus, spectators can witness the intense matches unfold on the main stage. Mark your calendars! The 2023 Pokemon World Championships will take place at the esteemed PACIFICO Yokohama Convention Center in Yokohama, Japan. This exciting three-day event is scheduled to run from Friday, August 11, 2023, to Sunday, August 13, 2023. Event Location: PACIFICO Yokohama Address: Exhibition Hall A, B, C, and D, 1-chōme-1-1 Minatomirai, Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Kanagawa 220-0012, Japan Be a Part of the Experience: Spectator Badges & Registration Even if you aren’t competing in the main event, you can still have an incredible time at the Pokemon World Championships by attending as a spectator. Witness the thrilling battles live and engage in side events that span the entire three-day extravaganza. Remember, all attendees, whether competitors or spectators, need a valid badge to enter the event. The safety and well-being of the community remain a top priority, so it’s important to adhere to the COVID-19 policies outlined by Play! Pokemon. Before registering for and arriving at the event, please carefully read and comply with these policies. To obtain more information about registration and badge requirements, be sure to check out the official website. Live Streaming Details Experience the Pokemon World Championships action as it unfolds in Yokohama, Japan, from August 11 to August 13, 2023, via live streams on multiple platforms. Tune in to Twitch.tv/Pokemon, Twitch.tv/PokemonTCG, Twitch.tv/PokemonGO, and Twitch.tv/PokemonUNITE to watch the exciting matches across various Pokemon games. Pokemon TCG Twitch.tv/PokemonTCG Commentators: Chip Richey, Shelbie Bou, Kyle Sabelhaus, Ethan Hegyi, Kyle Sucevich, Ross Gilbert Thursday, August 10: 5:00 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. PDT — Day 1 Swiss Friday, August 11: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m. PDT — Day 2 Swiss, Top 8, and Top 4 Saturday, August 12: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. PDT — Final matches for all three Pokemon TCG age divisions on Twitch.tv/Pokemon Pokemon VGC Twitch.tv/Pokemon Commentators: Adam Dorricott, Rosemary Kelley, Scott Glaza, Lee Provost, Aaron Zheng, Lou Akcos-Cromie Thursday, August 10: 5:00 p.m. – 4:30 a.m. PDT — Day 1 Swiss Friday, August 11: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m. PDT — Day 2 Swiss, Top 8, and Top 4 Saturday, August 12: 10:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. PDT — Final matches for all three Pokemon VGC age divisions on Twitch.tv/Pokemon Pokemon GO Twitch.tv/PokemonGO Commentators: Gabby Snyder, Will Dunphey, Caleb Peng, Steven Sanders, Jim Lawson Thursday, August 10: 5:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. PDT — Bracket Stage Friday, August 11: 5:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. PDT — Bracket Stage until Top 2 Saturday, August 12: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. PDT — Grand Finals Pokemon UNITE Twitch.tv/PokemonUNITE Commentators: Jake “Spragles” Sprague, Kirk “Doobsnax” Dubé, Joshua “Zoinks” Hiebert, Evan “WonderChef” Hashimoto, Kelly “Kelosaurus” Wilson Thursday, August 10: 5:00 p.m. – 4:00 a.m. PDT — Group Play Friday, August 11: 5:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m. PDT — Bracket Play Closing Ceremonies To mark the end of the exhilarating Pokemon World Championships, the closing ceremonies will be streamed on Twitch.tv/Pokemon on Sunday, August 13, from 1:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m. PDT. Don’t miss this electrifying moment! Best of luck to all the talented competitors at the 2023 Pokemon World Championships! May the battles be fierce and the memories everlasting! Conclusion The Pokemon World Championships has always been an unforgettable annual event that brings Pokemon enthusiasts from all corners of the world together. From witnessing skilled trainers showcase their strategic prowess to celebrating the community and its passionate dedication, this tournament captures the essence of Pokemon. The 2023 Championships, held in Yokohama, Japan, promises to be a thrilling spectacle that will leave a lasting impression on both participants and spectators alike. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. How can I obtain an invitation to compete at the Pokemon World Championships? To secure an invitation to the prestigious Pokemon World Championships, players must demonstrate exceptional skills throughout the Championship Series season. This involves participating in various tournaments and accumulating Championship Points based on their performance. The top-ranking players in each division will receive an invitation to compete at the World Championships. 2. Can I attend the Pokemon World Championships as a spectator even if I’m not competing? Absolutely! The Pokemon World Championships welcomes spectators who want to immerse themselves in the electrifying atmosphere of the event. Spectators can witness the intense battles, engage in side events, meet Pikachu in person, and enjoy the myriad of activities within the exhibition hall. It’s a fantastic way to experience the thrill of the Championships. 3. Can I watch the Pokemon World Championships online? Yes, you can! The Pokemon Company will be live streaming the matches from the Pokemon World Championships on various platforms, including Twitch.tv. This allows fans from all over the world to tune in and follow the action as it unfolds. Make sure to check the streaming schedule for each Pokemon game being showcased during the event. 4. Are there any COVID-19 safety measures in place for the Pokemon World Championships? Absolutely. The safety and well-being of all attendees and participants are of utmost importance. The

Professor Willow’s Birthday Celebration in Pokemon GO

21 July 2023

Celebrating Professor Willow’s Birthday in Pokemon GO Attention Pokemon trainers! It’s time to get ready to celebrate the birthday of everyone’s favorite Pokemon professor, Professor Willow. Mark your calendars because on July 21st, we have the perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for the knowledgeable and dedicated professor who has guided us through our Pokemon GO journey. In this article, we will explore some exciting ways to celebrate Professor Willow’s birthday and make it a memorable event for both trainers and the professor himself. 1. Go out and explore your neighborhood One of the best ways to celebrate Professor Willow’s birthday is by going out and exploring your neighborhood in search of Pokemon. Take this special day as an opportunity to venture into new areas that you haven’t explored before. Who knows, you might stumble upon rare Pokemon or discover hidden PokéStops that hold valuable items. Remember, the more you explore, the more chances you have to encounter unique Pokemon, helping you fill up your Pokédex and impress Professor Willow with your discoveries. 2. Complete Research Tasks To honor Professor Willow on his birthday, dedicate some time to complete Research Tasks. These tasks not only provide exciting challenges and rewards for you as a trainer but also contribute to our collective knowledge of Pokemon. By participating in Research Tasks, you are helping Professor Willow gather valuable findings that further our understanding of the Pokemon ecosystem. So, grab those tasks, complete them with enthusiasm, and let your dedication shine through. 3. Visit a PokéStop you’ve never been to before As trainers, we often find ourselves visiting the same familiar PokéStops in our daily routine. However, on Professor Willow’s birthday, let’s take a detour and visit a PokéStop we’ve never been to before. This simple act of exploration not only adds excitement to our Pokemon GO experience but also allows us to expand our knowledge of different locations. Who knows, you might uncover a hidden gem in your neighborhood or stumble upon a PokéStop with an interesting historical background. So, put on your walking shoes and embark on an adventure to uncharted PokéStops. 4. Learn something new about your favorite Pokemon On this special occasion, why not take some time to dive deeper into the lore and characteristics of your favorite Pokemon? Expand your knowledge about their unique abilities, evolution line, and their significant role in the Pokemon world. You can refer to various Pokemon resources, such as books, websites, or even watch episodes of the Pokemon anime series. The more you learn, the better equipped you will be in battles, and it will impress Professor Willow with your dedication and passion for Pokemon research. 5. Wish him a happy birthday on social using #HappyBirthdayProfessorWillow Let’s show Professor Willow how much we appreciate his guidance and dedication by showering him with birthday wishes on social media. Use the hashtag #HappyBirthdayProfessorWillow to join the celebration and let your fellow trainers and the entire Pokemon GO community know that it’s a special day for our beloved professor. Share your favorite memories, achievements, or even artwork inspired by Professor Willow. Your heartfelt messages will undoubtedly bring a smile to his face, knowing that he has made a positive impact on trainers around the world. Also, don’t miss the fantastic cake created by the talented @YuicihiroG, specially crafted to celebrate Professor Willow’s birthday. The cake is a delicious representation of our beloved professor, and it’s sure to add a touch of sweetness to the celebration. Conclusion As trainers and avid fans of Pokemon GO, it’s essential to take a moment to appreciate the individuals who have played significant roles in shaping our journey. Professor Willow’s birthday is a perfect opportunity to express our gratitude, admiration, and celebrate his contributions to our Pokemon education. So, on July 21st, let’s go out, explore, complete research tasks, visit new PokéStops, learn more about our favorite Pokemon, and wish Professor Willow a very happy birthday using #HappyBirthdayProfessorWillow. Let’s make this day unforgettable for Professor Willow, who has dedicated himself to guiding us on our Pokemon adventures. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can I still celebrate Professor Willow’s birthday if I can’t go outside? Absolutely! While exploring your neighborhood and visiting new PokéStops adds an extra level of excitement to the celebration, you can still celebrate Professor Willow’s birthday from the comfort of your home. Engage in Research Tasks that you can complete indoors, learn more about Pokemon through online resources, and join the #HappyBirthdayProfessorWillow hashtag on social media to wish him well. 2. Are there any special in-game rewards for celebrating Professor Willow’s birthday? While there may not be specific in-game rewards tied directly to Professor Willow’s birthday celebration, the joy and sense of community that comes from celebrating this special day are rewarding in themselves. However, keep an eye out for any announcements or surprises that Niantic may have in store for trainers on this occasion. 3. How else can I show my appreciation for Professor Willow besides the suggested activities? Besides the activities mentioned in this article, there are various ways to show your appreciation for Professor Willow. You can create artwork inspired by him, write a heartfelt letter expressing your gratitude, or even organize a virtual birthday party among fellow trainers. The choice is yours, and any heartfelt gesture will surely make Professor Willow feel valued and cherished on his special day. 4. Is there a specific time when the celebration should take place? There is no specific time for the celebration. Feel free to engage in the suggested activities and wish Professor Willow a happy birthday at any time throughout the day. The most important thing is to ensure that your appreciation reaches him and brings him joy. 5. Are there any other ways to engage with the Pokemon GO community on Professor Willow’s birthday? Absolutely! Professor Willow’s birthday is an excellent opportunity to connect with the Pokemon GO community. Engage in conversations on social media platforms, join online Pokemon GO forums and groups, and share

Pokemon GO Riolu Hatch Day Event

21 July 2023

Pokemon GO’s Riolu Hatch Day: A Joyous Event for Trainers A New Egg-citing Event Pokemon GO is introducing a brand new event called Hatch Day, and it’s bound to make your Pokemon-catching adventures even more thrilling! On July 22, 2023, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. local time, Riolu, the Emanation Pokemon, will take the spotlight and hatch more frequently from 2 km Eggs. But that’s not all – there’s an increased chance of encountering a Shiny Riolu, and Trainers will also receive double Stardust from hatching Eggs. Plus, you’ll find that PokéStops will be dropping 2 km Eggs more frequently, giving you plenty of chances to fill your Incubators with these special Eggs! Exploring Hatch Day Curious about what a Hatch Day entails? Similar to other special events like Community Days, Research Days, or Raid Days in Pokemon GO, Hatch Days revolve around specific featured Pokemon. The main focus of a Hatch Day is, you guessed it, hatching Eggs! During this event, Riolu will be the star attraction. Get ready by preparing your Incubators and aim to hatch as many Riolu as you can within the three-hour window! Exciting Event Bonuses Participating in the Riolu Hatch Day event comes with some exciting bonuses. Firstly, Trainers will have an increased chance of hatching a Shiny Riolu, making the event even more exhilarating. Additionally, hatching Eggs during this event will reward you with double the usual amount of Stardust. And to make sure you have plenty of chances to obtain 2 km Eggs, PokéStops will be dropping them more frequently. Special Field Research Don’t forget to engage in event-themed Field Research tasks! When you spin the Photo Discs at PokéStops, you’ll have the opportunity to complete these tasks and earn rewarding prizes such as candy, Stardust, Berries, Great Balls, and XP. It’s a fantastic way to make the most out of your Hatch Day experience! Timed Research for Extra Rewards Trainers will have the chance to complete event-exclusive Timed Research for a chance to earn a valuable Super Incubator. However, it’s important to note that Timed Research expires, so make sure to complete the tasks and claim your rewards before the event ends on July 22, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. local time. Bundle Up for Hatch Day To enhance your experience and maximize your chances of hatching Riolu, consider checking out the Pokemon GO Web Store. There, you’ll find the Riolu Hatch Day bundle, which includes options like the Ultra Hatch Box or the Great Hatch Box. These bundles offer extra Incubators, perfect for stacking up on Eggs and increasing your odds during the event. Keep an eye on the web store for special discounts and event boxes filled with surprises! Play Safely and Stay Connected Remember to prioritize your safety while playing Pokemon GO. Stay aware of your surroundings and abide by local health guidelines. Keep up with the latest updates and changes by following Pokemon GO on social media, opting in to push notifications, and subscribing to their emails. The Pokemon GO team is dedicated to ensuring you have the best experience possible. Conclusion The Riolu Hatch Day in Pokemon GO is a thrilling event where Trainers can hatch Riolu more frequently from 2 km Eggs. With increased chances of encountering a Shiny Riolu and double Stardust rewards, it’s an opportunity for Trainers to enhance their collection and progress in the game. Engaging in event-themed Field Research and completing event-exclusive Timed Research provides additional benefits, while the Pokemon GO Web Store offers bundles and discounts to enhance your hatching experience. As you participate in this special event, always prioritize safety and stay connected to the latest updates. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How long will the Riolu Hatch Day event last? The Riolu Hatch Day event will take place for three hours on July 22, 2023, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. local time. 2. What are the main rewards for participating in the event? By participating in the Riolu Hatch Day event, Trainers have an increased chance of encountering a Shiny Riolu and will receive double Stardust from hatching Eggs. Event-themed Field Research tasks also offer rewards such as candy, Stardust, Berries, Great Balls, and XP. 3. Can I still participate in the Hatch Day event if I’m low on Incubators? Absolutely! The Pokemon GO Web Store offers bundles like the Ultra Hatch Box and the Great Hatch Box, which contain additional Incubators to help you make the most out of the event. 4. Is there a time limit for completing the event-exclusive Timed Research? Yes, the event-exclusive Timed Research must be completed and rewards claimed before the Riolu Hatch Day event concludes on July 22, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. local time. 5. Are there any additional safety reminders for playing Pokemon GO during the event? Yes, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and follow guidelines from local health authorities while playing Pokemon GO. Stay informed about any changes or safety tips provided by the Pokemon GO team through their social media channels, push notifications, and email updates. [Source: Official Pokemon GO blog]

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MTG Beginner Box Vs Starter Collection: Which Should New Players Buy?

MTG Beginner Box vs Starter Collection is one of the most useful product questions a new player can ask right now, mostly because the names sound related but the jobs are different. One product teaches you how to play. The other gives you a bigger pile of cards so you can start building decks. Mix those up, and your first purchase can feel either too shallow or way too messy. For the broader learning path, MTG Beginner Guide 2026: How to Start Playing Without Feeling Behind lays out the big-picture onboarding plan, and Which Magic: The Gathering Format Should You Start With Right Now? helps once you are deciding where to actually play after the rules click. The Beginner Box Is A Teaching Tool First The Beginner Box is built for learning, and Wizards is not subtle about that. It is designed to walk players through early games step by step. That matters because a lot of Magic products are technically playable by beginners, but not actually friendly to beginners. Those are different things. The Beginner Box uses themed Jumpstart-style packs, simple onboarding materials, and a setup that is clearly aimed at getting two people from zero to “okay, i think i get combat now.” It also comes with the kind of practical extras new players actually use right away, like playmats, how-to-play guides, and life counters. That makes it the better product for people in these situations: In other words, the Beginner Box is not trying to be your forever card pool. It is trying to make sure your first few games are not miserable. That is a very good thing. Too many new players buy product as if the first goal is “owning cards.” The first goal is understanding the game. Until that part is real, extra cards mostly create extra confusion. The Starter Collection Is Better Once The Basics Already Make Sense The Starter Collection does a different job. Instead of walking you through the rules, it gives you a larger stack of cards, basic lands, boosters, and a deckbuilding booklet so you can start making your own lists. That makes it more of a bridge product. It sits between “i just learned the game” and “i am ready to build with intention.” That difference is huge. The Starter Collection is stronger for players who already know: It is also better for people who get more excitement from deckbuilding than from tutorial structure. Some players are happiest once they can spread out a card pool on the table and start brewing. The Starter Collection is for that crowd. It also helps that the product is fairly substantial. You are not just getting a tiny sampler. You are getting a real base to start building from, plus some boosters, plus a deckbuilding guide. Wizards has also said Foundations stays in Standard until at least 2029, though some Starter Collection support cards are Commander-focused rather than Standard legal. That gives the product more runway than the average beginner purchase. So yes, there is a real case for it. Just not as the first thing for every single new player. MTG Beginner Box Vs Starter Collection Comes Down To Your Actual Situation This comparison gets much easier once you stop asking which box is “better” in the abstract. The real question is which box matches where you are. Buy the Beginner Box when learning the rules is still the main job. That includes players who have watched some videos, played a tutorial, or know what tapping lands means but still need a clean first paper experience. Buy the Starter Collection when the rules are already stable and the next step is building decks from a bigger pool. That is the cleanest way to split it. I think a lot of disappointment comes from buying the Starter Collection too early. New players open a big stack of cards and assume that means more value. Sometimes it does. But when the rules are not settled yet, more cards can just mean more paralysis. You end up sorting, reading, and guessing instead of playing. The reverse mistake happens too. Some players buy the Beginner Box when what they really want is deckbuilding freedom. In that case, the product can feel a little too guided. Not bad. Just too structured for the stage they are already at. What About Welcome Decks, Arena, And Magic Academy? This is where the product decision gets more interesting. Wizards has more than two lanes for new players now. As of April 2026, new mono-color Welcome Decks tied to Secrets of Strixhaven have been announced for participating WPN stores, and Wizards is also offering 60-card Theme Decks with that release. Magic Academy continues to exist as the official learn-to-play event path. And, of course, MTG Arena is still the cleanest solo learning tool for a lot of players. So the better question may be this: What kind of beginner are you? A totally solo beginner often does well starting on Arena first, then moving into the Beginner Box or an in-store learning path. A player with a friend at home does well with the Beginner Box almost immediately. A player who already understands the rules and just needs cardboard to start building is a better match for the Starter Collection. A local-store learner might not need either one first if Welcome Decks or Magic Academy already cover that first step. That is actually good news. It means there is less pressure to force one product to solve every problem. The Most Common Buying Mistakes The first mistake is skipping learning products and going straight to random boosters. Packs are fun. They are not a plan. New players who start there usually end up with a small pile of cards, a foggy idea of deckbuilding, and no real path from point A to point B. The second mistake is treating card count like the same thing as value. A bigger box is not automatically the better beginner purchase. Sometimes

How To Upgrade A Commander Precon Without Wasting Money

Last updated: April 10, 2026 The fastest way to waste money in Commander is to upgrade a commander precon by buying the loudest cards first. That feels fun for about ten minutes. Then you play the deck, miss land drops, do nothing on turn three, and die with a hand full of expensive “upgrades” that never got cast. A precon does not become better because the singles got pricier. It becomes better because the deck functions more often. For social context, Commander Brackets Explained for Regular Players is worth reading before you tune too hard, and MTG Custom Proxies for Commander: What to Personalize First is a nice follow-up once the deck actually feels like yours. Start By Figuring Out What The Deck Is Supposed To Do This sounds obvious, but it is where a lot of upgrade plans quietly fall apart. A precon usually has one clear center of gravity. Maybe it wants to make tokens. Maybe it wants to recur artifacts. Maybe it wants to pile counters on creatures. Maybe it wants to cast big splashy spells after a ramp-heavy start. Whatever the plan is, your first job is to name it in one sentence. Not three sentences. One. “This deck floods the board with tokens, then wins with anthem effects.”“This deck fills the graveyard and reuses value creatures.”“This deck ramps, copies spells, and closes with big turns.” Once you can say that clearly, cuts get easier. Cards that are merely “fine” but do not serve the plan become obvious cuts. A lot of stock precons include those cards on purpose. They need to be broad enough to play decently out of the box and interesting enough for a range of players. That means some slots are there for flavor, range, or variety, not because they are the most efficient thing possible. That is okay. It also means they are the first cards you should be willing to replace. Fix The Mana Base Before Buying Fancy Toys Nobody likes hearing this because lands are boring and splashy mythics are not. But the mana base is where smart upgrades start. When you upgrade a commander precon, the first real jump in quality usually comes from making the deck cast spells on time. Not from making the spells themselves more dramatic. That means looking at three things: A lot of precons can stand to lose their clunkiest lands first. Lands that always enter tapped and do very little else are common cut candidates. The same goes for cute utility lands that look fun but quietly make your opening hands worse. You do not need an absurdly expensive land package to improve a precon. You just need lands that let the deck play its first few turns without tripping over itself. Even budget-friendly duals, better color balance, and a cleaner count of basics can do real work. And here is the annoying truth. Those changes are not glamorous, but they show up every single game. That matters more than a single shiny finisher you draw once every four matches. Ramp And Card Draw Are Usually The Next Upgrades After mana, the next upgrade tier is almost always the engine package. That means ramp and card draw. Precons often include enough of both to function, but not always enough of the right kind. Some lists lean too hard on clunky four-mana ramp. Others give you card draw that is technically present but awkward, slow, or tied to board states you do not always have. Try to ask two questions: How soon does this deck start accelerating?How often can it refill after the first wave of plays? A good precon upgrade path makes both answers cleaner. For ramp, lower-cost options usually matter more than cute late-game burst. You want to spend early turns getting ahead, not casting a card on turn five that says you should have fixed your mana three turns ago. For card draw, repeatable engines usually beat random one-shot fluff. A deck that sees more cards finds its lands, removal, payoffs, and recovery pieces more consistently. That is how you stop a decent precon from running out of steam after one board wipe. I think this is one of the biggest differences between a stock list and a tuned casual list. Tuned decks do not just have stronger cards. They see more of the cards that matter, more often. Tighten The Removal, Not Just The Threats New Commander players love upgrading threats because threats are easy to notice. Bigger creature. Cooler legend. Nicer art. Cleaner story. Removal feels less exciting, so it gets neglected. That is a mistake. A better precon needs a tighter answer package. That means more cards that can remove the things that actually stop your deck from functioning. You do not need to jam the most ruthless interaction possible. But you do need enough of it, and it needs to be flexible enough to matter. That usually means improving: A precon with good threats and weak answers often feels strong only when it is already winning. A better-tuned list still has game when somebody else sticks the scary permanent first. And that is what real improvement looks like. More live draws, more recoverable games, fewer hands where you stare at the board and mutter, “well, that resolves, i guess.” Protect The Deck’s Actual Plan The next smart place to spend money is protection. Not every deck needs a huge protection suite, but most Commander decks benefit from some mix of protection spells, recursion, indestructible effects, counterplay, or ways to survive a wipe and rebuild. This matters even more when your commander is central to the deck. Some precons are basically commander-delivery systems. Without that card in play, the deck becomes a pile of medium cards pretending to be a strategy. When that is your list, protection is not a luxury upgrade. It is structural. The goal is not to become impossible to interact with. The goal is to stop losing the whole game because your

MTG Mulligan Rules Explained For Beginners And Commander

Last updated: April 10, 2026 MTG mulligan rules sound harsher than they really are. New players hear “go down a card” and assume a mulligan means something went wrong. But a mulligan is just part of starting a real game of Magic instead of pretending a bad opener is “probably fine” and then doing nothing for three turns. That is not courage. That is just losing slowly. For a broader new-player path, MTG Beginner Guide 2026: How to Start Playing Without Feeling Behind is a strong companion piece, and Best MTG Arena Modes for New Players in 2026 helps once you are learning on the client instead of at the kitchen table. How MTG Mulligan Rules Actually Work The current system is the London mulligan. In plain English, every time you mulligan, you draw back up to seven cards, then put a number of cards equal to your mulligans on the bottom of your library. So the first mulligan works like this: You draw seven.You do not like it.You shuffle it away and draw seven again.Then, after you decide to keep, you put one card on the bottom. Take another mulligan and you still draw seven, but now you bottom two after keeping. That keeps the process from feeling hopeless, because every new hand still starts at seven cards. You are choosing from a full opener, not staring at a six-card hand and praying. That matters more than people admit. Old mulligan systems could feel brutal. The London version is cleaner. It lets you look for a functional hand, not a fantasy hand, and that is an important difference. There is also one Commander wrinkle people often hear about in half-correct form. In multiplayer games, the first mulligan does not cost you a card. That means in a normal multiplayer Commander pod, your first mulligan is effectively free. You still reshuffle and redraw, but you do not bottom an extra card for that first one. After that, normal London mulligan math kicks in. That is why Commander mulligans often feel gentler than one-on-one Standard, Modern, or most other two-player games. They are gentler. At least at first. What A Keepable Hand Really Looks Like This is where beginners usually make the game harder than it needs to be. A keepable hand is not “a hand with my best card.” It is not “a hand with something cool.” And it is definitely not “a hand that might work if i topdeck exactly one Plains, one red source, and a miracle.” A keepable hand usually has four things: For a lot of decks, that means two to four lands, at least one early play, and access to your main colors. That is it. Nothing glamorous. Just functional. Here is the trap, though. A hand can have lands and still be bad. Five lands plus two expensive spells is usually not a keep unless your deck is built for that sort of nonsense. One land plus six amazing cards is usually still a mulligan. A hand full of cards you technically can cast, but in the wrong order, can also be a trap. MTG mulligan rules reward honesty. If your hand does not meaningfully function in the first few turns, send it back. Commander Mulligan Tips That Actually Help Commander players get into trouble because the format is slower and splashier. That makes people too forgiving. They keep hands like: “Three lands, but wrong colors.”“One land, but Sol Ring fixes everything.”“Two lands, no ramp, and every spell costs five.”“This hand is bad, but my commander is awesome.” That last one gets a lot of people. In Commander, your opening hand should answer a few boring questions before it gets to be clever: Can i make my first three land drops, or at least reasonably expect to?Can i cast ramp, draw, or setup pieces early?Do i have the colors that matter?Am i doing anything before the table has already pulled ahead? Because your first mulligan in multiplayer is free, you do not need to marry a sketchy seven. Use that rule. That is what it is there for. At the same time, do not abuse it by chasing a perfect opener. Commander players sometimes mulligan like they are trying to assemble a highlight reel. That is a good way to turn a decent hand into a desperate six. You are not looking for the nuts. You are looking for a hand that plays Magic. I think this simple Commander test works well: if your hand gives you mana, colors, and one useful thing to do in the first three turns, it is probably keepable. Not exciting. Keepable. That is enough. One-On-One Mulligans Need A Stricter Eye In two-player Magic, especially Standard or Arena, you usually need to be less sentimental. Games are faster. Punishment is quicker. Missing your second land drop or keeping a clunky hand gets exposed harder because there are fewer players to slow the pace and fewer turns for the table to reset the game for you. That means your one-on-one opener should care more about: A two-land hand can be fine. But it depends on what those lands do and what the rest of the hand asks of you. A two-land hand with cheap spells and a smooth curve is normal. A two-land hand where your third color matters on turn three and your first real spell costs four is not nearly as cute as it looks. This is also why beginners tend to learn good habits faster in formats like Standard. Mulligans, curve, and sequencing all matter in a more obvious way. Bad keeps get punished. Good keeps feel stable. The lesson arrives fast. For that bigger format question, Which Magic: The Gathering Format Should You Start With Right Now? helps sort out where those mulligan decisions matter most. The Biggest Mulligan Mistakes New Players Make The first mistake is keeping a bad seven because going to six feels scary. That fear is understandable. It is also wrong

Commander Brackets Explained for Regular Players

Commander brackets explained in plain English is something a lot of regular players needed way sooner than they got it. For years, pregame power conversations in Commander were built on vibes, optimism, and the famous “this is probably like a seven” line, which usually meant absolutely nothing. Then the game starts, one player is casting a goofy tribal deck, another player is tutoring on turn two, and now everybody is pretending they are still having a good time. That is the problem Commander brackets are trying to fix. Not rules confusion. Not deck legality in the usual banned-list sense. Just the very human problem of four people sitting down with wildly different expectations and calling it a match anyway. The short version is that the system is meant to give regular players better language. Not perfect language. Better language. And honestly, that already makes it more useful than the old 1-to-10 power scale. What Commander Brackets Are Actually Trying to Do If you strip away the rollout drama, Commander brackets are a matchmaking tool for expectations. That matters because Commander has always had a weird identity problem. It is casual, but people tune their decks hard. It is social, but people still want to win. It is full of splashy nonsense, but some nonsense is fun and some nonsense means three players stop participating while one player takes a five-minute turn. The bracket system gives that mess some shared vocabulary. Wizards has been pretty direct that this is not supposed to replace Rule Zero. It is supposed to make Rule Zero conversations less useless. That is a big difference. The brackets are not a judge call, and they are not a magic lie detector. If somebody wants to mislabel a deck, the system cannot stop them. But for regular players trying in good faith to find a fair pod, the brackets are a real improvement. And as of the February 2026 update, Wizards said adoption keeps growing in actual pregame conversations. That tracks with what a lot of players are seeing. Even if people do not remember every detail, they at least now have a more useful way to say, “this deck is basically a precon plus upgrades” or “this thing is not cEDH, but it is still coming for your throat.” The Five Brackets in Plain English Here is the version regular players actually need. Exhibition This is the super casual lane. Theme decks, flavor decks, goofy deckbuilding restrictions, and games where the point is more “look what i built” than “watch me assemble the cleanest win line.” If your deck is trying to tell a story more than optimize every slot, you are probably here. Core Core is the average modern precon neighborhood. This is where a lot of regular Commander lives. Decks function, have a plan, produce big turns, and absolutely try to win, but they are not built like a machine looking for the shortest route to the table’s misery. Upgraded This is where a lot of people actually sit, even if they do not love admitting it. These decks are stronger than average precons, more tuned, and more intentional. Your mana is better. Your card quality is tighter. Your deck is doing the thing on purpose. But you are not fully in no-restraints territory. Optimized Now we are in high-power Commander. Faster starts, stronger tutors, cheap combos, and much less patience for clunky pet cards. If your deck is built to fire on all cylinders and you are not really making sentimental cuts anymore, this is probably your lane. cEDH This is not just “very strong Commander.” It is Commander with a competitive mindset. The metagame matters. Card choices are ruthlessly defended. The game is being approached like an actual competitive environment, not just a spicy casual pod. That last distinction matters more than people think. One of the best things the system did was admit that “high power” and “cEDH” are not automatically the same thing. cEDH is a great place to use mtg proxies by the way. What Game Changers Actually Mean Game Changers are the part people obsess over because they are easy to count. The idea is simple. Some cards have such a strong effect on the shape of a Commander game that they deserve special attention even if they are not banned. These are not just “good cards.” They are cards that warp expectations, accelerate too hard, tutor too cleanly, or create play patterns a lot of casual tables actively do not enjoy. That is why the list matters. In practice, the easiest way to think about it is this: Brackets 1 and 2 do not want them. Bracket 3 can include a small number of them. Brackets 4 and 5 are where they stop being a special warning and start being part of the furniture. What catches people off guard is that Game Changers are not the whole system. You cannot just count them and call it a day. Wizards was explicit about that. A deck with zero Game Changers can still belong in a higher bracket if the deck is obviously built to run hot. And a weird theme deck with one unusual card might still belong lower if the table is fine with it and the intent is casual. That is why the brackets work best as language, not math homework. How to Use Commander Brackets at a Real Table This is the part that matters most, because regular players are not writing policy documents. They are trying to start a game. A good bracket conversation does not need to be long. It just needs to be honest. “This is Core, basically a precon with a cleaner mana base.” “This is Upgraded, no fast combo but definitely stronger than a stock precon.” “This is Optimized, lots of tutors, game can end fast.” That is already more useful than “it is like a seven, maybe a seven-and-a-half if i draw well.” You also do not need to