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The best Xbox games in 2024: Zombies, vampires and… Cartman
Amazon
Xbox owners have plenty of great video games to enjoy right now. But if you’ve already been there, done that with your own collection of Xbox games, there’s good news: new games are coming down the pipeline, many in the next few months. They’re available to pre-order right now, so you’ll play them as soon as they hit store shelves.
These new releases, all of which are set to debut over the next few months, include huge names like “Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl” and “Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2.” No matter whether you want a silly action game set in South Park (“South Park: Snow Day”) or a gritty racing game (“Expeditions: A Mudrunner Game”), there’s an option for every player. All you need is a controller, a great monitor and an Xbox console to enjoy them.
So kick back in a comfortable gaming chair, grab a gaming headset so you don’t miss a beat, and get ready to explore a brand new game.
What are the best Xbox games of 2024?
‘Skull and Bones’
Amazon
Release date: February 16, 2024 | Genre: Action-adventure | Rating: Mature
“Skull and Bones” takes you into the heart of the Indian Ocean during the golden age of piracy. You’ll navigate treacherous waters as a pirate captain seeking fortune and fame.
In this open-world naval game, you have the freedom to sail solo or team with other players to explore uncharted territories, hunt lucrative trade ships and engage in epic naval battles. Do it all, and you’ll amass wealth and infamy.Customize your ship, upgrade your arsenal and set out for more dangerous seas.
With stunning graphics and a vast, dynamic world, “Skull and Bones” challenges you to carve your legend across the waves. Whether you’re plundering alone or with an armada, your adventure will be filled with danger, excitement and opportunities for glory. And with this game, there are tons of those.
‘Alone in the Dark’
Amazon
Release date: March 20, 2024 | Genre: Survival horror | Rating: Mature
This version of “Alone in the Dark” reimagines the 1992 original and serves as a reboot for the series. Given the poor reception of the last few entries in the franchise, developer Pieces Interactive decided to take us back to where it all started.
Set against the eerie backdrop of Derceto Manor, a “home for the mentally fatigued,” you’ll take dual roles of Edward Carnby and Emily Hartwood. Each character offers a unique storyline and challenges, forcing you to confront malevolent forces and unravel an unsettling mystery.
The game combines classic horror elements with modern gameplay mechanics, including puzzle-solving, exploration, and combat against otherworldly entities. As you delve deeper into the manor’s twisted history and its inhabitants’ fates, your choices will influence your journey’s outcome.
“Alone in the Dark” invites you to face your fears in an immersive experience that pays homage to its roots while charting new territory in the horror genre.
‘Dragon’s Dogma 2’
Amazon
Release date: March 22, 2024 | Genre: Action role-playing | Rating: TBA
In “Dragon’s Dogma 2,” you’ll embark on an epic journey, harnessing the power of the Arisen, to face off against formidable dragons and other mythical creatures.
The game introduces new classes and skills while modifying others, and it offers a richer customization experience. Your followers, known as Pawns, return. These AI companions will fight alongside you, adapt to your play style, and provide invaluable assistance as you navigate the game’s vast landscapes.
One of the biggest things the developers wanted to do was to make this game more immersive. So you’ll find many more ambient events and a map that’s five times larger than the original.
Fortunately, if you missed out on the first game, there’s no need to worry. This one welcomes longtime fans and newcomers alike as it takes place in a parallel world and concentrates on two new kingdoms, Vermund and Battahl.
So, when it comes out on March 22, you don’t have to worry about catching up with lore. You can just jump in and start playing.
‘Unicorn Overlord’
Amazon
Release date: March 8, 2024 | Genre: Tactical role-playing | Rating: Teen
Looking for a new strategy-centric adventure? This new Vanillaware title brings its signature gorgeous 2D art style to a fresh game blending strategic combat with open world exploration.
Fans know Vanillaware for their visually distinctive and innovative titles, namely “Odin Sphere” and “Dragon’s Crown.” “Unicorn Overlord” represents a bold new direction into the tactical RPG genre for the developer. Players can traverse the expansive world map freely, taking on compulsory and optional quests at their own pace.
When enemies appear, the game seamlessly shifts into turn-based combat. This dynamic blend of real-time exploration and strategic fighting creates an exciting gameplay balance. “Unicorn Overlord” also spices things up with a variety of tasks beyond just fighting and adventuring.
While staying true to Vanillaware’s esteemed art and style, “Unicorn Overlord” carves fresh ground with its tactical approach and engrossing story. Both loyal fans and newcomers seeking a visually stunning RPG have an exciting new adventure to look forward to when this ambitious game launches soon.
‘Expeditions: A Mudrunner Game’
Amazon
Release date: March 5, 2024 | Genre: Vehicle simulation | Rating: TBA
Fans of offroad driving should keep an eye on “Expeditions: A MudRunner Game.” Use a variety of all-terrain vehicles to scour deserts, forests, mountains and swamps in scientific expeditions.
You’ll need more than just a trusty 4×4, though.You’ll build a camp, which serves as your base of operations. Over time, you’ll to add new structures to your camp, and hire fresh experts to enhance your abilities.
In the field, you’ll gain access to recon drones that let you scout ahead and avoid getting stuck. That’s not all they can do, though. Metal-detector drones help locate valuable treasure caches ahead of time so you can plot the safest course.
All that is fun, of course, but it’s the physics that will keep you coming back for more. Your tires, suspensions, the weight of your vehicles, how much torque your engine and transmission generate, and the surface you’re driving on are all simulated in grand detail.
So don’t expect to just fly through rough ground. If you’re not careful, you’ll get stuck. Of course, that’s half the fun.
‘Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl’
Amazon
Release date: September 5, 2024 | Genre: Survival horror | Rating: TBA
In “Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl,” you are plunged into the heart of the Zone, a perilous, anomaly-filled area containing mutants, radiation, and mercenaries trying to make a quick buck. Sound terrifying? That’s because it is, as anyone who played through any of the other “Stalker” games will tell you.
Scrape your way up from the bottom of the ladder with nothing but broken weapons and scavenged armor. You’ll earn the equipment you need to travel to more dangerous areas, but you’ll never quite conquer the otherworldly wilderness.
You’ll navigate through dangerous zones, face off against hostile factions and creatures, and uncover the secrets that lie within the decimated remains of Chornobyl. Your choices will significantly impact the world around you and your journey’s path, offering a unique experience with every playthrough.
“Stalker 2: Heart of Chornobyl” challenges you to survive in a world where every decision counts and the line between right and wrong is as blurred as the reality you’re trying to escape.
‘Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2’
Amazon
Release date: Q4 2024 | Genre: Action role-playing | Rating: TBA
“Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines 2” thrusts you into the dark heart of Seattle, where you take the role of an elder vampire in the midst of a power vacuum in the city’s vampire court. Your survival hinges on navigating the politics of the vampire world. Oh, and totally serving as your own custom vampire character.
But even though you’re a brand-new character, you still need to keep up the long-existing masquerade — the conspiracy that keeps vampires hidden from mortals. While vampires are powerful, they’re still outnumbered by humans, who would hunt them down. You also have to balance this with your need to drink blood, which can lead to some sticky situations.
With a focus on deep role-playing elements, you’ll customize your vampire’s powers and navigate the delicate balance between maintaining your humanity and becoming a total monster. Just remember that there are still consequences to face, and you may end up dealing with them sooner rather than later.
‘South Park: Snow Day’
Amazon
Release date: March 26, 2024 | Genre: Action role-playing | Rating: TBA
Get ready for hilarious hijinks on the snowiest day of the year in South Park. In “South Park: Snow Day,” up to four players can team up as Cartman, Stan, Kyle and Kenny to save the world from…well, whatever threat Cartman deems worthy of their time on this particular snow day.
Like previous “South Park” games, one simple occasion is spun out into a fantasy-fueled adventure in the kids’ minds, as they traipse through the winter wonderland of South Park on a quest to save the day.
While it may not be as deep or expansive of an experience compared to titles like “South Park: The Fractured But Whole,” you can expect plenty of South Park’s signature raunchy, laugh-out-loud humor for adults.
For fans of the show, joining the foul-mouthed foursome on this over-the-top snow day quest is sure to provide awesome, not-safe-for-kids fun. With the town of South Park even something as simple as a snow day can become the adventure of a lifetime.
‘Welcome to ParadiZe’
Target
Release date: February 29. 2024 | Genre: Survival, action | Rating: Mature
In the zombie-ravaged land of ParadiZe, survivors have discovered an ingenious way to control undead hordes. These decaying former threats become obedient zombie companions, though their intelligence is limited and their loyalty not always guaranteed.
Scratch that. It never is.
As a newcomer to ParadiZe, you’ll encounter an array of colorful characters and mutant creatures amidst the unusual flora and fauna. Your loyal zombie sidekick can aid your exploration or fend off hostiles during this grand adventure. And it’ll probably try to eat you once or twice, too.
Craft your own story in this land where the zombies do your bidding. Go on thrilling expeditions or relax at your camp — the choice is yours. But tread carefully, as ParadiZe’s locals may not take kindly to your presence. Survive using your wits and go out on an unforgettable journey. Just don’t let yourself be deluded into thinking these zombies are your actual friends.
‘Sand Land’
Amazon
Release date: April 26, 2024 | Genre: Action role-playing | Rating: TBA
Enter the world of acclaimed artist Akira Toriyama in this nostalgic action-RPG based on an original manga story by the “Dragon Ball Z” creator. As the mystical hero Beelzebub, harness fantastical powers to lead a motley crew on an epic quest across the titular Sand Land. But traversing the desert won’t be easy. Bandits, ferocious beasts and a Royal Army all stand in your way.
Craft vehicles using salvaged parts you find along the way, and direct your desert fleet to access every corner of the landscape. Drive tanks, motorbikes and jumping bots that can handle the rocky terrain.
Make the city of Spino your home base as you take in downtrodden desert dwellers and watch the town flourish when new residents arrive. Take on their requests to unlock resources and prosper together.
It’s your job to take on the reshaping of the town of Spino and its people as you make your way through Sand Land. If you love Toriyama’s artwork and feel like going on an exotic adventure, this game is going to be right up your alley.
Is pre-ordering an Xbox game worth it?
Put simply, yes. When you pre-order a game, you guarantee yourself a copy on launch day before a title can sell out. Pre-ordering also often nets you exclusive bonuses and extras you can’t get otherwise. For popular new releases, it ensures you get to play ASAP.
What are the other benefits of pre-ordering an Xbox game?
Pre-ordering means you’ll be gaming on day one, without waiting for restocks if the first wave happened to sell out. You may also get the game digitally pre-loaded ahead of release. Limited special editions can be scarce, so pre-ordering is the only way to secure those collectibles. Overall, paying for your game ahead of time maximizes the time you can play and gives you a bit of exclusive access.
Does pre-ordering an Xbox game save money?
It can, but not always. Sometimes there are promotional discounts for pre-orders. But usually the price is the same as at launch. The real value comes from getting free bonus items, add-ons, or early access that you only get by pre-ordering. So you often get extra value by buying early, and it comes in the form of freebies.
How far in advance should I pre-order an Xbox game?
For popular games, pre-order as soon as sales open to guarantee your copy and extras, since supplies are limited. For standard editions, you can wait, but early pre-ordering optimizes the perks you might be able to get. As long as you order before launch day, you’ll be set. Even waiting until the last hours can work, if you like to cut it close. So you could feasibly wait up until the day before a game release and still lock in a pre-order.
Certain boxes of waffles sold at Costco Wholesale stores in the Midwest are being recalled because they may contain plastic, according to a notice by supplier Kodiak Cakes.
The recall involves Kodiak Power Waffles Buttermilk & Vanilla 40 count with the UPC code 705599019203 and a use-by date of Jan. 10, 2026, and only impacts products with the lot code 24193-WL4 and a time stamp of 12:00-23:00, according to the Park City, Utah-based company.
The recalled products were sold at Costco warehouses in 13 states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.
The action was initiated “due to the potential presence of soft plastic film,” according to Kodiak, which noted that no injuries or illnesses had been reported.
Those who purchased the recalled product can return it to their local Costco for a refund.
People with questions can email Kodiak at: flapjacks@kodiakcakes.com or call 801-328-4067. Messages will be returned between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mountain time, Monday through Friday.
Tyson Foods is misleading shoppers and investors over its ability to reach “net-zero” carbon emissions by 2050 as well take other steps aimed at protecting the environment.
Tyson, the world’s second-biggest meat processor, should have to curtail its climate claims or release a substantial plan to support its claims, according to a lawsuit filed on Wednesday by the Environmental Working Group. The complaint is part of an effort to “hold the biggest, most powerful contributors to the climate crisis — across industries — accountable for greenwashing,” EWG stated.
Tyson Foods has said since 2021 that it would hit net-zero emissions — the point at which the amount of greenhouse gases a company emits is offset by the emissions that are removed from the atmosphere — by 2050 by using more renewable energy and no longer contributing to deforestation.
The Arkansas-based meat company also sells a brand of “climate-friendly” beef that Tyson says is made with 10% fewer emissions than conventional meat.
A spokesperson said Tyson does not comment on litigation, but defended the company’s “long history of sustainable practices.”
The suit against Tyson was filed in Washington, D.C., which has a consumer protection law in place that lets consumer groups sue companies for false advertising.
The same claim of greenwashing — a term attributed to environmentalist Jay Westerveld that refers to making false or misleading statements about the environmental benefits of a product or service — was made in February in a suit filed by New York State Attorney General Letitia James against JBS, the world’s largest beef producer, over its claim it would reach net-zero emissions by 2040.
James’ suit against the Brazilian meat conglomerate came after Earthjustice successfully challenged JBS’ environmental messaging before an ad industry self-regulatory organization in 2023.
Livestock production accounts for 14.5% of all greenhouse gas emissions globally, with cattle responsible for two-thirds of the total, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.
The Science-Based Targets Initiative, a UN-backed agency that reviews net-zero goals, is calling for the food and agricultural sector to reduce its emissions by 3% annually between 2020 and 2030.
Delta Air Lines last year dismissed as “without legal merit” a suit filed by a passenger that alleged the airline’s claim to be “the world’s first carbon-neutral airline” to be marketing spin. Coca-Cola is currently defending itself in a similar case in which the beverage make is accused of overstating its recycling efforts.
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A cooler rate climate benefits a wide range of borrowers. From prospective homebuyers to current owners looking to refinance to those saddled with high rates on personal loans and credit cards, lower rates offer a welcome economic reprieve. They also require a different approach than what many have been accustomed to in recent years. And with the Federal Reserve officially cutting its federal funds rate for the first time in four years on Wednesday, now could be that time.
For those considering borrowing from their home equity, there are multiple options available. But a home equity line of credit (HELOC) is arguably the best and most cost-effective way to do so right now, particularly compared to home equity loans and cash-out refinancing. Below, we’ll detail why you should strongly consider borrowing with a HELOC as the Fed begins to cut interest rates.
Start by seeing how low of a HELOC rate you could secure here.
Why you should open a HELOC as the Fed cuts rates
A HELOC, for much of the last two years, has arguably been a less beneficial way to borrow from your home equity than a home equity loan. That’s because the latter comes with a fixed rate that will only change if refinanced. And that was a major advantage in a climate in which rates were raised numerous times between 2022 and 2023.
But that environment looks to be changing now.
With the first rate cut since 2020 issued this week, and two additional ones likely for November and December (when the Fed meets again), a HELOC could take the preferential place of home equity loans.
That’s because HELOC rates are variable and subject to change as the rate climate does (usually every month). That’s a drawback when rates are high and rising but now becomes a distinct advantage as rates cool again. With a HELOC, borrowers will automatically see their rate fall without having to refinance on their own.
Not only will they then save with a lower rate, but they’ll also save out-of-pocket costs if they had pursued a home equity loan. That’s because home equity loans come with closing costs to refinance (1% to 5% of the loan’s value, on average). But if you pursue a HELOC, you can add those savings to what you’ve already got back with the rate drops.
It’s not a perfect trade-off, and right now, home equity loans have better rates than HELOCs (8.46% versus 9.26%). But if you’re looking to position yourself for maximum savings ahead of additional rate cuts, a HELOC may be best to open now.
Get started with a HELOC today.
Don’t forget the tax benefits
A HELOC, in addition to the variable rate nature that benefits borrowers right now, also comes with tax advantages. Specifically, you can deduct the interest paid on the line of credit if you use it for eligible home repairs and renovations. At the same time, home equity loans also come with the same tax benefit. So carefully consider your intended use before getting started and don’t make this the deciding factor considering both options offer the same tax feature.
The bottom line
A HELOC could soon become the preferential home equity borrowing option, if it isn’t already. With a variable interest rate that is set to decline as overall rates do, borrowers could be well-positioned to realize additional savings in the future without having to do any of the work (or pay for any of the costs) associated with refinancing a home equity loan. But both borrowing options do have tax benefits, and other unique features, so weigh them carefully against one another to better determine which one is the right fit for you now.