STACK #254 December 2025

YOUR

TO MOVIES, TV, MUSIC, GAMING & TECH TO MOVIES, TV,

ESSENTIAL GUIDE

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ISSUE 254 DEC ’25

STACK Issue 254 DECEMBER 2025 “See you next mission!” WIN!

© Nintendo

INSIDE:

KYLIE’S BACK WITH A CHRISTMAS CRACKER NOBODY 2 AND CAUGHT STEALING LAND AT JB

WIN AN EPIC ALIENWARE GAMING LAPTOP AND MONITOR

PERKS see page 5 for details

CONTENTS

ISSUE 254 DEC

GAMING 6 Take 5/Charts/Q5/Wham, bam, game exam! 8 Samus it ever was! Metroid Prime 4: Beyond preview 10 Marvellous! Cricket 26 Q+A 12 Get over here! Mortal Kombat Legacy Kollection preview 14 Play like a Pro! Razer Wolverine V3 Pro/ Raiju V3 Pro controllers 16 SitRep: Buro x PowerA Sentinel Ergonomic Gaming Chair 18 Sweet streams! Elgato Stream Deck Mini Discord Edition 20 Our 10 favourite games of 2025 22 What’s out this month? MOVIES & TV 24 Intro/Take 5/In development/Trivia/Filmmaker’s Signature/Bob J’s Film Buff Bafflers 26 Merch of the Month/Charts/Socials 28 Hangin’ tough: Caught Stealing/Nobody 2 30 A haunting goodbye: The Conjuring: Last Rites /King Sized Stakes: The Long Walk 32 1923: Season Two - Closing the chapter/ Streaming spotlight! Morning Wars 34 Hop along! Ryan Corr on Kangaroo/Best foot forward! Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale 36 Wolf Creek at 20: Interview with John Jarratt and Greg McLean 37 What’s out this month? 38 Reel Classics: New from Imprint 40 New to 4K 42 Our 10 favourite movies of 2025 43 Anime/Christmas hits for everyone! 44 Hottest prequels from the Buy 2, Get 1 Free sale/ Best legacy sequels from the Blu-ray 2 for $30 sale 45 Festive treats from the Christmas Crackers sale/ Binge-worthy bangers from the Gifts Galore sale! MUSIC 46 Take 5/My first album/ STACK exchange 50 Christmas cracker: Kylie Minogue’s Kylie Christmas (Fully Wrapped) 51 Spirit world: Bring Me the Horizon’s That’s the Spirit 10th Anniversary Edition 52 New albums from Alison Wonderland + Olivia Rodrigo 54 New albums from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds + The Darkness 56-57 What’s out this month? 58 Vital vinyl: The Cruel Sea, Three Legged Dog - 30th Anniversary Edition Coloured Vinyl 60 Our 10 favourite albums of 2025 TECH FLIP MAG AND READ FROM BACK 3 Yesteryear’s top tech/Editor’s choice/DYK? 6-28 100 great tech gift ideas for Christmas 30 Fly your way with the DJI Neo 2 drone 32 Audio-Technica AT2040USB Hypercardioid Dynamic USB Mic/Audio-Technica AT2020USB XP Cardioid Condenser USB Mic reviews 34 What you need to know about Microsoft Surface Copilot+ PCs 36 Our 10 favourite tech devices of 2025 38 New tech at JB this month

2025

WELCOME

When you think of Nintendo, first thoughts most likely turn to Mario and his friends, or perhaps Donkey Kong, Kirby, or even The Legend of Zelda . She may be a little less known, even a little less iconic, but there’s a Nintendo character who’s been around for almost 40 years now who often gets overlooked in Nintendo thought, and that’s Samus Aran. Incredibly, she’s been kicking butt since the days of the Nintendo Entertainment System back in 1986. This month sees the much-anticipated return of Samus, starring in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond . It’s the latest entry in the spin-off series that introduced a first person perspective to the heroine’s world, and more of a focus on exploration and puzzle-solving. For Switch 2 players, it also delivers cool mouse control, as well as a greater visual experience compared to the standard Switch version. So, this month we take a look back at the rich history of Samus, as well as letting you in on some of the cool stuff to expect when Metroid Prime 4: Beyond hits the shelves. Game on! Amy Flower, Games Editor

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Founder Nic Short Editor-in-Chief Paul Jones Tech Editor Scott Hocking

Music Consultant Mike Glynn Marketing Manager Fleur Parker Chief Contributors Gill Pringle, Bob Jones, James O’Connor Contributors Jeff Jenkins, Billy Pinnell, Bec Summer, Dan Nicholson, Stuart Coupe, Trista McConville, Michael Caverzan

Social Media Manager Glenn Cochrane Production Manager Craig Patterson

Games & Online Editor Amy Flower Movie & TV Editor Glenn Cochrane Creative Director Gary Siewert Movies Consultant Kerrie Taylor Games Consultant Sachi Fernando

Correspondence STACK editor@stack.com.au

RATINGS GUIDE

Parental guidance recommended

Recommended for mature audiences

Not suitable for people under 15. Under 15s must be accommpanied by a parent or adult guardian

Restricted to 18 and over

General

Disclaimer STACK is published by Scribal Custom Pty Ltd (ACN 092 362 135). © Copyright Scribal Custom Pty Ltd, 2025 All rights reserved. All material appearing in this publication is copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material or advertisement. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of Scribal Custom Pty Ltd. No responsibility is accepted for accuracy of advertisements or information. Whilst care has been taken in the research and preparation of this publication, the publishers, writers or anyone else associated cannot accept any responsibility for any loss, injury or hardship arising from the content contained herein or reliance therefrom, howsoever caused, and it remains your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness of any such content. Views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher or the editor. By the very nature of this publication, things change daily and we cannot take responsibility for any changes or inaccuracies that occur subsequent to going to press.

DECEMBER 2025

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What’s your earliest video gaming memory?

BEST SELLERS at

Either playing Crash Bandicoot on the PS1 for the first time and rinse and repeating the Hog Wild mission. Or, at five years old, scaring myself, the

NOVEMBER 2025

DECEMBER

siblings, and cousins to death playing the first ever Resident Evil . Pro tip: Don’t open the front door in the mansion!

What’s your all-time favourite game or game series?

’ s ROVING REPORTER

Halo .

1 BATTLEFIELD 6

What have you been playing most lately?

2 POKÉMON LEGENDS: Z-A

Mostly Battlefield 6 myself. But I’ve also been dabbling into Minecraft , Ultimate Chicken Horse , and Golf with Your Friends with my daughter, as she just got her own little setup!

3 CALL OF DUTY: BLACK OPS 7

JACK BRIGHTON @ JB Ocean Keys,WA

4 EA SPORTS FC 26

You can only have one games console from any era – what would it be and why?

5 NBA 2K26

What’s the best thing about working in games at JB?

Xbox 360. A time when online play for consoles really took off and blew everybody’s minds. Party chat was first introduced, killstreaks in Call of Duty for the first time, Halo 3 custom games, and Forge mode. Gears of War with a chainsaw on an assault rif le, 1 vs. 100 for actual Microsoft points, Doritos Crash Course ... The list goes on!

Speaking to everyone of all ages and sexes about the same passion. Anyone can game! My best memory is when a mid-80s couple came in and bought a Razer Naga mouse each, because they had been playing World of Warcraft for the last 15 years.

6 SUPER MARIO GALAXY + SUPER MARIO GALAXY 2

7 JUST DANCE: 2026 EDITION

8 SONIC RACING: CROSSWORLDS

Are you up to answering all eight of this month’s game related posers?

1. What have recent new entries in SEGA’s Yakuza series been known as outside of Japan? 2. What’s the surname of Samus from the Metroid series? 3. With which Japanese developer did Square Enix collaborate on Octopath Traveler ? 4. Which SNK Japanese warrior arcade fighting game series boasts more than a dozen main entries? 5. Which has been around longer, Microsoft Flight Simulator, or Microsoft Windows ? 6. In what year did the original Farming Simulator release? 7. How did you control the eye-tracking game Before Your Eyes ? 8. Which arcade fighting game used digitised actors two years before Mortal Kombat ?

9 HYRULE WARRIORS:

AGE OF IMPRISONMENT

GAME EXAM

!

10 KIRBY AIR RIDERS

ANSWERS on page 22

1 What was the first game that you played? Donkey Kong

2 What was the last game that you finished? Star Wars: Outlaws

3 What’s your favourite video game/series of all time? Mass Effect

Creative director on Ghost of Yōtei at Sucker Punch Productions NATE FOX

4 What do you think is the most underrated video game of all time? Tenchu: Stealth Assassins

5 What’s the game that you most wish you’d worked on? Uncharted 2: Among Thieves

Donkey Kong

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GAMING FEATURE

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GENRE: Action MULTIPLAYER: No

FORMAT:

Since her 1986 debut in Metroid on the Nintendo Entertainment System, Samus Aran has become one of gaming’s most enduring icons.This month sees her much anticipated return in Metroid Prime 4: Beyond , so it’s the perfect time to look back at her life so far, and at what to expect from her hot new outing… Words Amy Flower R aised on the Earth colony K-2L, Samus’s childhood was rocked when Space Pirates, led by Ridley, destroyed her the mythology, as Samus returned to Zebes to rescue the captured infant Metroid from kidnapper Ridley and face Mother Brain once again. This sacrifice cemented Samus as a hero that wasn’t driven by orders, but rather empathy. SAMUS IT EVER WAS!

BEYOND!

Developed by Metroid Prime series developers Retro Studios and produced by series veteran Kensuke Tanabe, Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is set to deliver atmospheric exploration, intense action, and top-notch visuals. It will see the return of legendary bounty hunter Samus Aran in what’s being billed as her most daring mission yet. After finding herself in the lush, ruins-strewn world of the planet Viewros, Samus must unearth the secrets of an ancient civilisation, while also battling hostile aliens and confronting rival bounty hunter Sylux, whose grudge against both Samus and the Galactic Federation threatens to unleash chaos. Armed with new psychic abilities and a very sleek, very cool high-tech bike known as the Vi-0 La, Samus will manipulate the environment, solve puzzles, and engage in fast-paced combat with fresh strategic depth. These new powers hint at a deeper connection between Samus and the mysterious forces of Viewros – what can it all mean? Coming for both the Switch and Switch 2, players on the latter system will experience enhanced visuals and frame rates – and will also be able to get their Joy-Con 2 mouse control happening.

home and killed her parents. Rescued by the ancient, birdlike Chozo race, she was infused with their DNA and trained in their ways, granting her superhuman agility and resilience. Outfitted with the Chozo Power Suit, she set out into the galaxy as a bounty hunter, her mission often intertwined with the mysterious, parasitic lifeforms known as Metroids. In the original NES Metroid

The saga continued in the Game Boy Advance’s Metroid Fusion (2002), where Samus, infected by the shape-shifting X Parasite, was saved through a vaccine made from Metroid DNA. This instilled within her new powers – and bound her even closer to her former enemies.

Phazon, and also introduced her evil doppelganger, Dark Samus. Throughout 2010’s Metroid: Other M on the Wii and various handheld Prime spin-offs,

and its 2004 Game Boy Advance remake Metroid: Zero Mission , Samus infiltrated the Space Pirates’ home planet Zebes to eliminate Mother Brain, their leader, and the corruptor of the Metroids. The 1991 Game Boy sequel,

Fusion ’s sequel, Metroid Dread (2021), finally brought the Samus story full circle. Pursued by reprogrammed E.M.M.I. robots and haunted by the Chozo’s

Samus’s character continued to evolve, becoming the strong yet compassionate heroine that we know

legacy, she embraced her hybrid nature and emerged even more powerful than ever. As for spin-offs, the Metroid Prime trilogy, which originally ran from 2002-2007, explored earlier chapters of Samus’s career, set between the original Metroid and Metroid II . These first-person adventures delved into the mysteries of the Chozo and the corruptive substance

today.

Ultimately, across nearly four decades now, Samus Aran has remained one of gaming’s most complex, trailblazing,

Metroid II: Return of Samus , saw Samus tasked with exterminating the Metroid species – only

to spare a lone hatchling, which mistakes her for its mother. This compassionate act formed the series’ emotional core. 1994’s Super Nintendo outing Super Metroid expanded upon

and appealing protagonists.

• Metroid Prime 4: Beyond is out Dec 4

DYK?

Nintendo of Japan imagined bounty hunters as selfless heroes, not mercenaries who hunt fugitives for money.

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GAMING FEATURE

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GENRE: Sports MULTIPLAYER: Yes

FORMAT:

Summer is here, and amongst many things that signals the return of top-notch cricket to our shores.This year it also means that we have Cricket 26 so that we can play along at home.We chatted with Big Ant CEO Ross Symons to find out more about their summer smash. Words Amy Flower MARVELLOUS!

sessions and tactical shifts come through more clearly. The overall goal was simple - make the Ashes feel bigger, sharper and more alive, while keeping the rivalry at the heart of the experience. Are you confident that anybody from absolute novice to video game cricket tragic can easily pick up and play Cricket 26 ? Yes – and that was one of the biggest design goals from day one. Cricket is a complicated sport, but a cricket video game should not feel complicated to start. For Cricket 26 we rebuilt the control scheme and difficulty curve. Novices need to feel like they can pick up a controller and immediately understand how to bat, bowl, and field. Timing windows, visual cues, shot selection prompts, and AI assistance all scale up or down cleanly, so the game helps you rather than overwhelms you. But also, as the “cricket tragics” need depth, every advanced mechanic – footwork, shot shaping, swing variation, field manipulation, tactical bowling plans - is still there and still rewards mastery, but it’s layered on top rather than forced upfront. The result is that a beginner

After the success of Cricket 24 , what did you most want to improve upon when originally planning and realising Cricket 26 ? We always treat each new Cricket title as an opportunity to raise standards, not recycle them. After Cricket 24 ’s success, the priority for Cricket 26 was improving the feeling of authenticity and control in every moment on the field. That meant tightening gameplay systems from the ground up - bowling, batting, fielding, edges, reactions, AI anticipation - so that matches play out with more nuance and less repetition. We also wanted to deepen the broadcast quality. Better lighting, crowds, cameras, stadium detail and player likenesses were all high on the list from day one. Career Mode and Pro Team were also areas where we felt we could push harder – more personality, more meaningful progression, and a stronger sense of reward. As such, what are the biggest improvements that players will notice in Cricket 26 ? Players will notice three big leaps in Cricket 26 straight away. The first is gameplay. Every core system has been reworked – batting timing, ball physics, edges, keeper reactions, fielding logic, and bowler AI. Matches feel far less scripted and far more like real cricket, with variation and challenge on every ball. The second is presentation. Lighting, stadium detail, crowds, cameras and commentary all received major upgrades. The game simply looks and broadcasts like a higher tier product, with far stronger atmosphere across formats. The third is depth. Career Mode has clearer

progression and more personality, while Pro Team has been rebuilt around better rewards, more meaningful objectives, and a cleaner, faster interface. How has the Ashes component been expanded in Cricket 26 ? The Ashes has always been a cornerstone of our cricket games, but for Cricket 26 we wanted it to feel like a true event rather than just a series you can select from a menu. The entire component has been expanded in two key areas. The first is presentation. We rebuilt the Ashes package with new intros, cutscenes, commentary hooks, squad visuals, and atmosphere tuning so that every Test feels like part of a larger narrative. Crowd behaviour, team walkouts and broadcast elements have been updated to carry a stronger sense of occasion. The second is authenticity. Lineups, conditions, ground detail and match-specific commentary have all been refreshed. We also introduced more definitive moments within a Test so that momentum swings, pressure

can enjoy a match within minutes, while a veteran can push the systems as far as they want without hitting artificial ceilings. Confidence comes from that balance - accessible at the start, demanding at the top end, and smooth for everyone in between.

• Cricket 26 is out now!

10 DECEMBER 2025

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GAMING FEATURE

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An absolute must-have for MK fans, this “Kollection” is presented in an interactive documentary format, going beyond the 11 included titles – and 22 games in all - to explore the series’ cultural impact, and includes interviews with many of the original developers. There’s also an MK lore timeline, comprehensive character histories, and series secrets to uncover. THE LEGACY KOLLECTION

In 1992, Mortal Kombat took the still developing arcade beat ’em up genre and changed it up, earning a rep for top gameplay – and extreme violence – as it went on to spawn myriad sequels. Now 11 classic MK outings have been compiled into one set – the Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection . Let’s check the contents out… Words Amy Flower GET OVER HERE! FORMAT: GENRE: Fighting MULTIPLAYER: Yes

of the Lin Kuei. It received mixed reactions for its rather clunky controls and gameplay. Mortal Kombat 4 (1997) The series’ last arcade outing, it was also the first 3D entry, and introduced weapon combat, cinematic endings, and new characters too. Shinnok emerged as a new threat, continuing the saga with polygon graphics and, as fans expected, brutal finishing moves. This one acted as a bridge between the classic era and the franchise’s future evolution. Mortal Kombat: Special Forces (2000) It was prequel time again with this gritty third person action take for PlayStation, starring Jax on a mission against the Black Dragon clan. A super-cool premise, yeah? Sadly, it was marred by poor execution and rushed development, but it remains interesting for being one of the most infamous MK spin-offs ever. Mortal Kombat Advance (2001) This was a Game Boy Advance stab at Mortal Kombat Trilogy that attempted to bring the brutal fighting experience to handhelds. While it was certainly ambitious, limited graphical fidelity and gameplay inadequacies didn’t make it a must-play, but it remains a notable portable curiosity. Mortal Kombat: Deadly Alliance (2002) It was time for a major reboot for new-gen consoles, which introduced a fully 3D fighting system, multiple combat styles per character, and a dark new storyline that saw Shang Tsung and Quan Chi join forces to reshape the realms. This one really revitalised the MK franchise for a new generation. Mortal Kombat: Tournament Edition (2003)

delivering one of the series’ most impressive entries. Ultimate Mortal Kombat 3 (1995) This definitive upgrade added returning fighters, new arenas, and improved gameplay balance. Basically, it perfected the formula of MK3 with even faster gameplay and expanded secrets, becoming a fan-fave competitive version that dominated arcades and consoles alike. Mortal Kombat Trilogy (1996) This was a massive compilation for home consoles merging characters, stages, and moves from the first three games. It featured every fighter to date, as well as the return of classic elements, and served as the ultimate way to celebrate the 2D era’s chaos and nostalgia. Mortal Kombat Mythologies: Sub-Zero (1997) It was spin-off time! A

Mortal Kombat (1992) The daddy of them all, this arcade classic redefined fighting games with digitized actors, brutal combat, and the debut of ‘Fatalities’. Players battled through a deadly tournament

hosted by Shang Tsung to determine the fate of Earthrealm. Its violence and stylish presentation sparked controversy – and cemented its legacy as a pop culture juggernaut. Mortal Kombat II (1993) A sequel that expanded the roster, refined the gameplay, deepened the series lore, and introduced the infamous ‘Babality’. Shao Kahn challenged Earth’s

DYK?

Mortal Kombat wasn’t the first arcade brawler to use digitized actors. That honour belongs to Atari’s Pit-Fighter , released in 1990.

champions in a new tournament in Outworld. The ante was upped – faster, smoother, and bloodier, Mortal Kombat II became an arcade legend, while setting a new high watermark for fighting game sequels. Mortal Kombat 3 (1995) It was on! Shao Kahn invaded Earthrealm directly, raising the stakes. New features were added, such as combos, run mechanics, and stage Fatalities. While some fan favourite characters were missing, Mortal Kombat 3 upped the innovation and speed, ultimately

This one was a companion Game Boy Advance title to Deadly Alliance , which added exclusive characters, weapons, and even wireless multiplayer.

cinematic action adventure for consoles that followed Sub-Zero’s mission before the first Mortal Kombat , it mixed platforming and fighting mechanics while exploring the lore

It expanded the scope of handheld Mortal Kombat with remarkable depth and

• Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection is out Dec 12

connectivity.

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Razer’s excellent Wolverine V3 Pro controller for the Xbox and PC now has a sibling in the equivalent PlayStation 5 (and PC) version, the Raiju V3 Pro. Let’s take a dive into what these two officially licensed wonders offer those looking to grab hold of a truly premium controller. Words Amy Flower PLAY LIKE A PRO!

Customise it! Both the Raiju V3 Pro and the Wolverine V3 Pro offer professional level customisation for PS5/PC or Xbox/PC, ranging from thumbstick sensitivity to button layouts and vibration sensitivity. Everything from tweaking settings to saving profiles onboard your controller is easily accomplished via either the Razer Controller mobile app, or with the added option of the Razer Synapse 4 app on PC or Mac. Connect it! One of the handiest features with both Razer’s Raiju V3 Pro and Wolverine V3 Pro is the choice of connection. An included 2.4Ghz USB-A dongle hooks you into Razer’s HyperSpeed wireless, promising lag-free esports grade performance for even the most intense battles. Or, of course, you can play with a wired connection directly to your chosen machine via the pleasingly lengthy two-metre braided cable that’s included. When wired, a special tournament mode can be kicked in for PC players, enabling a 1000Hz polling rate on the Wolverine V3 Pro, and a blistering 2000Hz on the Raiju V3 Pro. Just in case! Whether you opt for a Wolverine V3 Pro or a Raiju V3 Pro, it comes packed in a rugged zip-up carrying case so that you can take your controller anywhere, complete with its accessories, and know that it’ll all be thoroughly protected.

The looks The biggest difference between the two controllers that’s immediately noticeable is that the Wolverine V3 Pro features the classic Xbox asymmetrical thumbstick layout, while the Raiju V3 Pro adheres to the tried-and-true symmetrical PlayStation layout. So, if you’re a PC gamer, you can pick your preference. The Raiju V3 Pro also features a prominent touchpad, matching the ability of your standard PS5 DualSense controllers. As for their shape, both controllers are designed to feel familiar while delivering on the features. As a bonus for PS5 players, the Raiju V3 Pro is lighter than the standard DualSense, although it doesn’t feature haptic feedback. Sticky business No matter which option you go for, the thumbsticks deliver with customisable sensitivity, and thumb their noses (well, they would if they had them) at that dreaded scourge that is stick drift. This is accomplished by utilising Hall effect technology on the Wolverine V3 Pro, and the latest advance in the space, TMR – or tunnelling magnetoresistance – on the Raiju V3 Pro. Do you like concave thumbstick tops, or do you prefer domed ones? Either way, with the Wolverine V3 Pro and Raiju V3 Pro you

have choice, as both domed and extended stick tops are included, and are easily swappable at any time. All the buttons! What Razer has dubbed “Pro HyperTriggers” provide players with instant response, whether you set them to give you zero travel, mouse click results, or for ultra-precise analogue control, via easy access slider buttons on the back of the controller. Additionally, four mouse click back buttons (removable with an included screwdriver on the Raiju V3 Pro, with handy hole covers provided) and two claw grip bumpers atop the controller are all remappable for that added in-game advantage. Meanwhile, the four classic action buttons and eight-way floating D-pad are built for ultrafast reactions and comfort, combining pleasingly clicky microswitches with a rubber membrane, while all the dedicated PS5 or Xbox buttons are also present and accounted for.

Hall Effect sensors offer smooth, contactless stick movement with strong durability, reliability, and minimal drift. TMR (tunnel magnetoresistance) sticks provide even higher sensitivity and precision, detecting smaller magnetic changes for finer, ultra-responsive control. HALL EFFECT VS. TMR – what’s the di erence?

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But it’s not just about airflow. The ergonomically shaped backrest and body weight-activated lumbar support keep your spine

perfectly aligned, protecting the natural curve of the back, and ensuring that fatigue doesn’t become a factor that may impede your game. Have it your way! Gaming setups are personal things, and the Sentinel understands that. Whether you’re down for a quick blast or up for an all-nighter, it’s packed with adjustments so that you can set things precisely how you like them. The height and depth-adjustable headrest and ratchet height back let you lock in your perfect possie for noggin support, while the plush moulded foam seat with depth adjustment keeps your behind anchored in blissful comfort. But that’s not the end of it. A cable control mechanism allows four different back tilt lock positions, allowing seamless shifts from laser focused forward mode to chilled-out relax mode – so the Sentinel easily adjusts to your personal rhythm. Then there are the Sentinel’s advanced 5D armrests. Yes, 5D! Featuring soft PU arm pads that offer both comfort and support, they move up, down, in, out, forward, backward, and even at an angle, so you can find a suitable configuration for any of your playstyles. Built to last You can have all the looks in the world, but you also need a solid core to ensure both safety and durability. Able to comfortably seat users weighing up to 130kg, the Sentinel features a sturdy nylon base, while integrated kick plates offer a natural resting spot for feet. Underneath all this, 60mm castors glide smoothly when you need to move about. The Sentinel is also GREENGUARD Gold certified, which means that it meets rigorous standards for low chemical emissions, so it keeps your gaming space a healthier one.

• The Buro x PowerA Sentinel Ergonomic Gaming Chair is available Dec 11

If you’ve ever found yourself concentrating more on getting comfortable than what’s happening in your game, or realised that your back’s really feeling the pinch, then the Buro x PowerA Sentinel Ergonomic Gaming Chair just may be a game changer. Literally! Words Amy Flower T his dynamic collaboration sees Buro’s 30-plus years of ergonomic seat expertise meet with PowerA’s mastery of gaming gear, and the result is something that looks the No matter whether you’re dodging onscreen nasties or SITREP

pulling off another killer combo, the Sentinel keeps you moving naturally, not stiffly. There’s no strain or soreness, leaving you to enjoy smooth, focused, and effortless gameplay. Keep cool and game on Anyone who’s gamed through a tense and lengthy session knows that the heat can get real. This is where the Sentinel’s breathable mesh back kicks in, making sure that you

goods – and is good for your posture, too. The Buro x PowerA Sentinel Ergonomic Gaming Chair has been designed to give support on even the longest gaming sessions, so that all that’s aching after a marathon is the opponents that you’ve left in your wake! It moves with you At the heart of the Sentinel’s design is what Buro call Dynamic Intelligence technology. Basically, this clever system automatically responds to your every shift, lean, and stretch, encouraging both active posture and fluid movement.

To top all of this off, the Sentinel is backed by a five-year guarantee for added peace of mind that you’re sitting on something that’s been built to last. Ultimately… If you want to help ensure that you’ll be up for battles long into the

future, then looking after your body – and particularly your back – now is a necessity. Providing comfort while protecting, the Buro x PowerA

stay cool, calm, and collected, even when things are at their most intense.

Sentinel Ergonomic Gaming Chair has been fine-tuned for the kind of gamer who demands substance over style – and bonus, you also get the latter in spades!

While the Sentinel is the flagship of the Buro x PowerA collaboration, also check out the Navigator and Raider for alternative options.

CHOICES!

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Blurple?! It sounds like a word that The Simpsons may have coined, but blurple is the official name for Discord’s fetching blend of blue and purple (which many would simply call indigo). If you’re wondering, its hex code is #5865F2, and CMYK values are 64, 58, 0, 5

Since it launched back in 2017, Elgato’s Stream Deck has been a godsend for everybody from content creators to those just wishing to streamline their everyday workflows. Now the Stream Deck has collided with Discord for a unique Stream Deck Mini, which is resplendent in their iconic signature colour “blurple”. Words Amy Flower SWEET STREAMS!

deafen, screen share, switch chats, or hop into go-to voice and text channels with a single button tap. The Discord plugin goes beyond the basics, too. For example, if you want to enable push-to talk without fumbling for a keyboard shortcut, it’s a mere press away. Do you want to jump into an active channel when a conversation heats up? Sorted! You can even tweak audio levels on the fly, or switch input and output devices when it’s time to move from your headphones to speakers (or back again). Meanwhile, community managers can keep track of live server updates and channel notifications, meaning never being out of sync with what’s happening. What’s going on? With animated icons that offer real-time feedback, you always know exactly when you’re muted, live, or switching through profiles. Speaking of profiles, the Mini makes multitasking effortless. One second, you may be controlling Discord while the next you can be managing your stream, adjusting your playlist, or launching apps. Plus, the power of the wider Stream Deck ecosystem means that you’re not locked into a single workflow. Thousands of plugins ranging from productivity tools to lighting control to editing shortcuts and beyond can turn the Mini into whatever command centre you need. Six keys… Just six keys may not sound like much, but each one can be a shortcut to more menus and more bespoke options, set up just as you like it via a free – and easy to use – app on Windows or Mac. Bonus! For that little bit of extra goodness, every Stream Deck Mini Discord Edition includes one month of Discord Nitro for free, which unlocks enhanced features, boosted uploads, and a bunch of fun things like special emojis.

• The Elgato Stream Deck Mini Discord Edition is available now

So, what exactly is a Stream Deck?

Elgato’s Stream Deck is a small, USB connected control panel with lit buttons that you can customise to perform almost any task on your computer. Each button is a mini screen that can trigger actions with one quick press – such as starting a stream, muting a mic, opening an app, or controlling music. Instead of having to remember a bunch of shortcuts, or clicking through myriad menus, the Stream Deck gives you quick, visual, one tap control. Popular with streamers, gamers, and creators, it’s also brilliant for everyday tasks, making your computer time feel faster, smoother, and an overall more pleasant experience. Yeah, and what’s Discord? If you’re not familiar, Discord is an online platform that lets people from all over chat and share content in real time. You can join servers – like themed groups – where communities gather to text, voice chat, stream, or just hang out. It has many uses, ranging from gaming and hobbies, to study groups, and friends who want an easy, organised way to stay in touch with each other.

Pretty – and powerful This special edition of the Stream Deck Mini delivers more than just a cosmetic twist. The compact command centre packs all the features that the standard Mini does, but with pre programmed settings purpose-built for power users, mods, creators, streamers, and anyone who juggles multiple channels at once. To this end, the six fully customisable LCD keys – you don’t have to stick with the presets – lead to a full suite of preloaded Discord actions, delivering that familiar instant, tactile control over your digital hangouts with no faffing about setting up. Plus, it’s comes with an exclusive icon pack to keep things on brand. Show me! Right out of the box Discord users can mute,

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GAMING FEATURE

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Silent Hill f FORMAT:

Wow, 2025 seems to have zoomed by just like that, and with it we got to play a cavalcade of great games. Once again, this meant that STACK ’s games team had to debate which were our favourites for the year – and here they are, listed alphabetically… Words Amy Flower, Dan Nicholson, Michael Caverzan

GENRE: Survival horror MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ It’s smart, tense, and terrifying, expressing beauty and horror in equal measure, and often at the same time. It’s clear that the ‘ f ’ stands for fantastic, and if this is a sign of what is yet to come then the future of this franchise is looking pretty darned good. ” MC GENRE: Racing MULTIPLAYER: Yes What we said: “ Yes, all we want is a karting game that feels great, and Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds delivers. Having the Sonic crew, and a few ring-ins, to play against is a top bonus. Team Sonic and friends really have nailed this one. ” AF Split Fiction FORMAT: GENRE: Action adventure MULTIPLAYER: Yes What we said: “ The Hazelight people have knocked it out of the park yet again – Split Fiction is a masterful experience that’s not only a brilliant co-op game, but overall a superb adventure that everyone should get the chance to play. ” MC Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds FORMAT:

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 FORMAT: GENRE: RPG MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ To play Clair Obscur is to take a nosedive into an all-encompassing, leathery, pillow of satisfaction. It rides high on the shoulders of the gaming colossus that is Final Fantasy but sparkles with the freshness of a new and immersive universe. ” DN Death Stranding 2: On the Beach FORMAT: GENRE: Action adventure MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ A better paced, better populated, and generally smoother experience than the original, which takes an incredible foundation and builds upon it in sometimes surprising, always captivating ways. ” AF Doom: The Dark Ages FORMAT: GENRE: Shooter MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ Massive props to the people at id. Doom: The Dark Ages is their greatest achievement yet, with a captivating story and gripping gameplay all wrapped up in a package that’s super-slick and seriously satisfying. ” AF Ghost of Yōtei FORMAT: GENRE: Action adventure MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ As beautiful as it is bloody, there’s so much more beyond the 1200-plus words that we’ve gushed, inspired by our

60-hour emotional rollercoaster playthrough. We’ll leave you with these simple words: Ghost of Y ō tei is a masterpiece. Do not miss it. ” AF Hades II FORMAT: GENRE: Action RPG MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ It may have a new number in the title, but the look, feel, and gameplay of this sequel has changed very little from the original release. It’s more of the same high-quality game, coupled with infinite replayability, that makes Hades II a potent combination. ” DN Kingdom Come: Deliverance II FORMAT: GENRE: Action RPG MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ The team at Warhorse Studios have made something special, once again managing to deliver a unique experience that’s consistently engaging, entertaining, and exciting. It will no doubt stand with the other genre giants. ” MC Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater FORMAT: GENRE: Action adventure MULTIPLAYER: No What we said: “ Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is a great reminder of what made the original so brilliant, while modernising it and opening up the franchise to a whole new generation of players. A modern masterpiece. ” MC

HONOURABLE MENTIONS: Battlefield 6 Donkey Kong Bananza Final Fantasy Tactics: The Ivalice Chronicles Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Kirby Air Riders LEGO Party! Monster Hunter Wilds Ninja Gaiden 4 Pokémon Legends: Z-A Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4

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Next-Level Speed and Clarity Lenovo Legion Pro 32UD-10

GAMING PREVIEWS

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WHAT’S OUT THIS MONTH? No matter what style of game is your vibe, there’s sure to be something to get excited about amongst these fresh releases heading to JB this month. Words Amy Flower

EDITOR’S PICK YAKUZA SERIES: 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION RELEASE DATE: Dec 8 GENRE: Action adventure FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: No Have we really been playing the Yakuza – and, more recently, Like a Dragon – games, with their wild mix of action and RPG elements, for 20 years? We have, and we’ve loved every minute! This special commemorative edition brings us the original two PS2 releases in their 2015 and 2016 remastered Kiwami forms, along with the Director’s Cut of the 2015 prequel that let us in on where it all kicked off for series regulars Kazuma Kiryu and Goro Majima back in the 1980s. The remasters went above and beyond by adding new gameplay features, story elements, and other enhancements, as we headed once more to the fictional Japanese districts of Kamurocho in Tokyo and Sotenbori in Osaka – based heavily on the real-world areas Kabukicho and D ō tonbori. Not only do we now get to experience all three games with the power of the PS5 behind them, but we also get to do it via a highly collectible edition, which includes a steelbook and three stunning art cards that are worthy of framing. Are you ready to delve once again into the Japanese underworld with all its intrigue, violence, and humour? We know we are!

METROID PRIME 4: BEYOND RELEASE DATE: Dec 4 GENRE: Action adventure FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: No Samus Aran is finally back, in a new

MICROSOFT FLIGHT SIMULATOR 24 RELEASE DATE: Dec 8 GENRE: Simulation FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes Now you can have the Microsoft Flight

adventure that’s certain to get our puzzling – and, of course, shooting - juices flowing. Long in development, this one’s set to play out in a first-person perspective within a Galactic Federation research facility, as Samus runs, guns, scans, rolls, explores, and more, leaving a trail of wasted Space Pirates – led by notorious bounty hunter Sylux - in her wake.

Simulator experience on PlayStation for the first time ever, with this latest incarnation enhanced with career mode missions including aerial firefighting, air search and rescue, air ambulance, crop dusting, mountain rescue, skydiving, and more. New aircraft also feature, including the massive Airbus Beluga, gliders, hot air balloons, and beyond.

AVATAR: FRONTIERS OF PANDORA - FROM THE ASHES EDITION RELEASE DATE: Dec 5 GENRE: Action adventure FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes

FARMING SIMULATOR: SIGNATURE EDITION RELEASE DATE: Dec 9 GENRE: Simulation FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes The smash series hits the Switch 2 with

new crops, animals, machines, and more! Build your agricultural empire across East Asia, North America, and Central Europe, managing over 400 machines from 150-plus top brands. With new production chains, construction missions, and rich open-world farming, this promises budding farmers the most comprehensive Nintendo edition yet.

Director James Cameron’s stunning world of Pandora springs to life in this action adventure set in the Western Frontier. Play as a Na’vi who was kidnapped by the RDA Corporation and moulded into a soldier. Now free, you’re having trouble fitting back into society, so you aim to reconnect with your lost heritage. This updated release includes the From the Ashes expansion, inspired by the Avatar: Fire and Ash movie.

OCTOPATH TRAVELER 0 RELEASE DATE: Dec 5 GENRE: RPG FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: No Embark on an adventure that expands upon the mobile prequel in this latest

GOODNIGHT UNIVERSE RELEASE DATE: Dec 9 GENRE: Adventure FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: No The creators of the award-winning Before Your Eyes return to our screens with their

entry in the acclaimed RPG series. Set in the realm of Orsterra, players get to experience an all-new tale of restoration and retribution, create their own protagonist, rebuild their hometown, enjoy strategic battles, and more – and all with the series’ signature blend of classic 2D and modern 3D visuals.

latest adventure. Get a whole new perspective upon life playing as Isaac, a six-month-old baby with mysterious psychic powers. You just want to be loved, but a secretive tech company has other plans for you... This physical edition includes codes for the game’s soundtrack, as well as a digital artbook.

SAMURAI ACADEMY: PAWS OF FURY RELEASE DATE: Dec 5 GENRE: Action adventure FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes The world of the movie Paws of Fury: The

MORTAL KOMBAT: LEGACY KOLLECTION RELEASE DATE: Dec 12 GENRE: Fighting FORMAT: MULTIPLAYER: Yes Relive the legends and celebrate more

Legend of Hank comes alive as players defend Kakamucho from the Shogun’s evil cat armies. Join Hank the dog samurai and his allies as they fight to protect villages, uncover an evil plot, and bring back peace. Master samurai skills, wield wild weapons, set traps, and explore a colourful world bursting with humour, action, and samurai shenanigans for all ages.

than 30 years of fighting with this hot "Kollection", featuring iconic arcade classics, classic console versions, and rare handheld releases that defined an era. Explore MK history through an interactive documentary packed with developer interviews, concept art, and behind-the-scenes secrets. Plus, there’s online play, story timelines, hidden content, and more!

Coming in JANUARY JANUARY ANIMAL CROSSING: NEW HORIZONS - NINTENDO SWITCH 2 EDITION (Jan 15) DINKUM (Jan 30) CODE VEIN II (Jan 30)

Answers: 1. Like a Dragon 2. Aran 3. Acquire 4. Samurai Shodown/Samurai Spirits 5. Microsoft Flight Simulator 6. 2008 7. By blinking 8. Pit-Fighter

!

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GAME EXAM

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Darren Aronofsky’s films are instantly recognisable for their intensity, psychological depth and visual daring. While his latest movie Caught Stealing marks a departure from familiar territory, it still carries the hallmarks of his signature style – obsession, transformation, and striking imagery. Let’s take a look at three of his trademarks... Visual innovation Aronofsky masterfully tells stories through unique, provocative techniques – from lingering over-the-shoulder angles to rapid, high-energy montages often described as “hip-hop” editing - creating a dynamic, immersive style that amplifies tension, emotion, and the intensity of his DARREN ARONOFSKY He delves into obsession, mental unraveling, and human fragility. Films like Requiem for a Dream , Black Swan, and The Wrestler plunge into characters’ psyches, exposing the devastating extremes of desire, ambition, and addiction with unflinching intensity and psychological precision. Multilayered narrative Physical and emotional transformation is central to Aronofsky’s work, from sacrifice to humanity’s battle with mortality and transcendence. His films mix body horror, ritualistic imagery, and mythic or religious undertones, creating intense, unforgettable journeys that linger long after the credits. characters’ experiences. Psychological focus

DECEMBER

’ s ROVING REPORTER

it on a bus ride home from an excursion and it sparked my obsession with Studio Ghibli movies. What’s one of your all-time favourite films, and why? This is almost impossible to answer, but I did re-watch The Usual Suspects recently. The story still holds up to this day and the plot twist is still one of my most favourite scenes ever. What’s one of your all-time favourite TV series, and why? Law & Order: Special Victims Unit for sure. Mariska Hargitay’s character, Olivia Benson, is one of the most iconic TV characters of all time. I’m also a true crime fiend, so seeing real crimes enacted as episodes is so interesting. What have you been watching lately that you’d recommend? I’m gonna represent my anime lovers here, as I’m currently rewatching Spy X Family . Anya and her dog Bond have some of the most wholesome scenes.

STEFFI AME @ JB Warrnambool, VIC

What’s the best thing about working at JB? Definitely the people. Coming from a Merch background, I appreciate when the company encourages creativity within our stores. What’s a movie you saw as a child that has left a lasting impression on you? Kiki’s Delivery Service . I remember watching

FUN FACT

QUIZ

Hollywood legend Mickey Rooney once famously protested the release of the 1982 horror film Silent Night, Deadly Night . Seven years later he starred in Silent Night, Deadly Night 5 .

Q3 Which western movie wrapped up as a Christmas parable depicts three bank robbers attempting to rescue an orphan from the desert? Q4 What film’s opening credits play on the fact that Santa is an anagram of Satan? Q5 Why does the Phoebe Cates character in the movie Gremlins hate Christmas? Q6 In Scrooged what form does the Ghost of Christmas Past take? Q7 Three convicts and a

pet snake escape from Devil’s Island during the Christmas period in what 1955 movie? Q8 She tells us she might find love, if she can just get past his garish sweater that his mother has given him for Christmas. Name this 2001 comedy? Q9 Who played Scrooge in The Muppet Christmas Carol ? Q10 Which 1988 action film does the song Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow famously play at the end?

Iconic 1960s cartoon series The Jetsons is set for a major comeback, with Jurassic World director Colin Trevorrow developing a live-action revival for Warner Bros. Pictures. While details remain under wraps, Jim Carrey is reportedly in talks to star as George Jetson. The futuristic family’s last big screen outing IN DEVELOPMENT

Q1 Who said “I stopped believing in Santa Claus when my mother took me to see him in a department store and he asked me for my autograph”? Q2 Name the actor who actually won an Academy Award for playing the role of Santa Claus?

was the 1990 animated feature, but in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven

world, there’s never been a better time for The Jetsons to zoom back into pop culture.

NOVEMBER 2025 (Issue 253) ANSWERS - A1. Raiders of the Lost Ark A2. The Ipcress File A3. Danny Kay A4. Rain Man A5. Scaramanga A6. Apocalypse Now A7. Frank Morgan A8. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) A9. Always (1989) A10. Woodstock

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THIS MONTH at

EXTRAS

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Elf Card Scramble Board Game

STACK SOCIAL

Seinfeld Festivus Board Game

Join us on social media and stay updated with the latest news, reviews, and monthly competitions. See exclusive unboxing videos, the newest movie trailers, gameplay videos, and red carpet pics from film premieres. Make sure you get involved and follow us on: STACK Magazine stackmagazine @stackmag @STACKMag STACKPresents What you've been loving on socials this month: There’s nothing like a bit of controversy to get people talking – and our “ Aliens is better than Alien . Change my mind.” post certainly ignited a passionate response.

Lilo and Stitch Ornaments

How The Grinch Styole Christmas! Memory Master Card Game

TheNightmare Before Christmas Sally 3D Moulded Head Mug

Santa Claus: The Movie Many kids of the ‘80s will argue that Santa Claus: The Movie is the ultimate Christmas film, with David Huddleston reigning as the GOAT of movie Santas. Directed by Jeannot Szwarc ( Jaws 2, Supergirl ), it’s a delightful treat. Dudley Moore charms as the mischievous elf Patch, while a deliciously villainous John

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Lithgow plays a maniacal toymaker. When Patch leaves the North Pole, aided by a streetwise New York kid and an affluent girl, he sparks a heartwarming, laugh-out loud adventure full of festive spirit and family magic. Well worth a revisit!

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Joke of the day: Q. What kind of car does a Jedi drive? A. A Toy-Yoda

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A happy birthday to SAMUEL L. JACKSON who turns 77 on December 21 Long before he shot to fame in Pulp Fiction , actor Samuel L. Jackson

CHARTS

DVD BEST-SELLERS in NOVEMBER 2025

BLU-RAY BEST-SELLERS in NOVEMBER 2025

4K UHD BEST-SELLERS in NOVEMBER 2025

was a regular player in Spike Lee’s world, appearing in films like Do the Right Thing, School Daze, and Jungle Fever . He also appeared in Jurassic Park, National Lampoon’s Loaded Weapon 1, and Goodfellas . Since his breakthrough, his films have grossed in excess of US$27 billion, making him the highest grossing actor of all time. STACK’ s quote of the month: “We’re investigating a felony, Miss Demeanor.” - Samuel L. Jackson ( Loaded Weapon 1 )

1 WEAPONS 2 ARCANE: SEASON 2 3 MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - THE FINAL RECKONING 4 F1: THE MOVIE 5 SUPERMAN (2025) 6 SOUTH PARK: BIGGER LONGER & UNCUT 7 M3GAN 2.0 8 THE NAKED GUN (2025) 9 DOG SOLDIERS 10 JACOBS LADDER

1 MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - THE FINAL RECKONING 2 WEAPONS 3 M3GAN 2.0 4 ARCANE: SEASON 2 5 F1: THE MOVIE 6 SUPERMAN (2025) 7 THE NAKED GUN (2025) 8 JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH 9 HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (2025) 10 BAMBI: THE RECKONING

1 JURASSIC WORLD: REBIRTH 2 MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE - THE FINAL RECKONING

3 M3GAN 2.0 4 WEAPONS 5 THE NAKED GUN (2025) 6 VERA: SERIES 14 7 F1: THE MOVIE 8 HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (2025) 9 SUPERMAN (2025) 10 SMURFS (2025)

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