Turn-Based Combat Is Finally Coming To This 10-Year-Old RPG

I’ve never played an isometric RPG that didn’t feel better with turn-based combat, so it’s really exciting to hear that **Pillars of Eternity** will be testing this more tactical option in the weeks ahead.

The new mode aims to be more intuitive for some players compared to the game’s existing “real-time with pause” combat, potentially attracting more fans to Obsidian Entertainment’s big fantasy series where it all began.

Testing for turn-based combat will begin on **November 5** for the PC version of *Pillars of Eternity*, with plans to include it in a future patch.

### Insights from Game Director Josh Sawyer

In a recent video blog, game director Josh Sawyer called the update a “big undertaking.” He explained that the decision to add turn-based combat was inspired by the positive reception to the system’s introduction in *Pillars of Eternity II: Deadfire* back in 2019.

However, Sawyer acknowledged that fans had some criticisms of the turn-based system in *Deadfire*. He said these issues will be addressed for the version coming to the original *Pillars of Eternity*.

“One of the major changes is that action economy is a lot more accurate to the real-time with pause game,” Sawyer shared. “It’s not a one-to-one translation of time because we did try that. But it does match the spirit of what dexterity should do, what recovery time should do, everything like that.”

He further explained, “The number of turns you get to take per round is no longer tied to the round, but to your speed and recovery. That feels like it has much greater parity with the real-time with pause mode.”

### Tweaks to Enhance Gameplay

To keep combat from feeling slow or drawn out, lethality has been buffed. This change ensures fights remain engaging and fast-paced.

Obsidian is also exploring a heads-up display (HUD) toggle that would allow players to swap between combat modes on the fly. Regardless, there will be an option in the game settings menu for players to select their preferred combat style at any time.

### Community Reaction

Fans have responded enthusiastically to the news, with many already calling for a sequel. One excited player commented on YouTube:
“Please give this man the budget of BG3 to make the next Pillars.”

With the upcoming addition of turn-based combat, *Pillars of Eternity* looks set to offer a fresh experience for both new players and longtime fans. Keep an eye out for the November 5 test launch and future updates!
https://kotaku.com/pillars-eternity-3-turn-based-mode-update-avowed-crpg-2000640875

‘Grand Theft Auto 6’ Developer, Rockstar Games, Accused of “Union Busting” Following “Ruthless” Firings

Rockstar Games, the developer of the highly anticipated title Grand Theft Auto 6, is facing criticism following the recent firing of 30 employees at its UK and Canadian offices. According to Bloomberg, Take-Two Interactive—the parent company of Rockstar Games—has stood behind the dismissals, citing “gross misconduct” as the reason for terminating the former employees.

However, the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain (IWGB) is challenging this explanation, accusing Rockstar Games of engaging in union busting. Bloomberg’s report highlights that all of the fired employees were either current union members or actively involved in organizing efforts at Rockstar. Notably, these employees were also members of the same private Discord group.

### IWGB Calls Out Take-Two’s Claims

In response to the firings, the IWGB took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to condemn the move. The union described the mass termination as “the most ruthless act of union busting in the history of the UK games industry.” Their statement read:

> “Yesterday, @RockstarGames fired over 30 employees for union activity. We won’t back down, and we’re not scared. We will fight for every member to be reinstated.”

Alex Marshall, president of IWGB, further commented in a statement sent to Bloomberg reporter Jason Schreirer. He characterized Rockstar’s actions as “flagrant contempt for the law and for the lives of the workers who bring in their billions,” labeling it “an insult to their fans and the global industry.”

### Take-Two Fully Supports Rockstar’s Decision

In contrast, Take-Two company spokesperson Alan Lewis defended the company’s actions in a separate statement:

> “We strive to make the world’s best entertainment properties by giving our best-in-class creative teams positive work environments and ongoing career opportunities. Our culture is focused on teamwork, excellence, and kindness. Rockstar Games terminated a small number of individuals for gross misconduct, and for no other reason. As always, we fully support Rockstar’s ambitions and approach.”

### Community Reaction

The news has sparked significant backlash across gaming social media. While the controversy has not diminished excitement for GTA 6, many gamers and industry observers express concern over the implications of reportedly firing employees involved in unionization efforts during a challenging period for the gaming industry.

Below are some reactions from the gaming community, reflecting widespread disappointment and calls for accountability.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
https://hiphopwired.com/2891247/rockstar-games-take-two-interactive-firings-union-bustion-allegations/

FReeper Canteen ~ Tunes For Our Troops: Happy Halloween! ~ 01 November 2025

Tunes For Our Troops

This music is provided for the entertainment of our Troops, Veterans, Allies, and their families! Enjoy the variety of musical selections that the Canteen DJs offer throughout the thread.

Please feel free to ping any DJ with your requests for the Troops. All music is removed on Monday to keep the content fresh and up-to-date.

Thanks to all the DJs for their time and effort in providing quality entertainment for the Troops!

https://freerepublic.com/focus/f-news/4349929/posts

Shacknews Presents: Pop! Goes the Culture! Episode 176

Watch Us React to the Final Trailer for Stranger Things Season 5!

Get ready, fans! In this exciting video, we dive into our first reactions to the highly anticipated final trailer for Stranger Things Season 5. From shocking moments to thrilling previews, join us as we break down every detail and share our thoughts on what’s to come.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, our reaction captures all the excitement and suspense leading up to the new season. Don’t miss out—watch now and experience the hype alongside us!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146596/shacknews-pgtc-stranger-things-trailer-reaction

Stop using Facebook for public announcements | Letter

This letter is a plea to local communities and businesses to stop relying solely on Facebook—a corporate, for-profit information-gathering platform—as the medium for announcing local events.

I do not want to visit a town’s official website only to be redirected to Facebook for further information about local recreation or entertainment opportunities. I am not a Facebook member by choice, and I prefer to keep it that way. I do not want my personal data used to further Facebook’s profits and influence.

When I am redirected to a Facebook page, I am often denied access unless I agree to join the platform. This feels like coercive behavior.

If I want to attend events like Naples’ Rocktoberfest, take swimming lessons in Casco, or play basketball in Harrison, I would truly appreciate it if these communities allowed me to read about these opportunities directly on their own websites.

Similarly, when Pleasant Mountain is opening for the season, their staff should communicate this information on their official website—not just via Facebook.

Local communities and businesses have the power to make information accessible to everyone. Let’s encourage them to provide event details on their own platforms so no one is excluded.
https://www.centralmaine.com/2025/10/29/stop-using-facebook-for-public-announcements-letter/

BTS’ Jungkook, j-hope, RM, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, ASTRO’s MJ, & more: Inside Cha Eun-woo’s ‘The First Ride’ VIP premiere

On October 27, 2025, the VIP premiere of *The First Ride*, starring Cha Eun-woo, was held at Lotte Cinema World Tower in Songpa-gu, Seoul. The event marked a glamorous occasion with a star-studded red carpet, drawing attendees from across the entertainment and movie industry.

### Star-Studded Premiere and Attendees

Alongside Cha Eun-woo’s fellow cast members Kang Ha-neul, Kim Young-kwang, Kang Young-seok, Han Sun-hwa, Choi Gwi-hwa, Yoon Kyung-ho, and Kang Ji-young, the premiere was graced by director Nam Dae-jung. The guest list featured notable celebrities including:

– Jungkook (BTS)
– RM (BTS)
– J-Hope (BTS)
– Jisoo (BLACKPINK)
– MJ (ASTRO)
– Moon Sua (Billlie)
– Choi Daniel
– Lee Sung-kyung
– Lee Moo-saeng
– Seo Hyun-woo
– Han Groo
– Hak Jin
– Han Gi-chan
– Shin Dong-gab
– YooA (Oh My Girl)
– Eunho (YOUNITE)
– Sion (YOUNITE)
– Kim June-one (Glen Check)
– Zayvo
– The Quiett
– Choi Ji-won

### Cha Eun-woo’s Unique Presence

Although Cha Eun-woo was unable to attend the event in person due to his ongoing mandatory military service, his close friend Jungkook of BTS brought a life-size doll of the actor to the red carpet. Jungkook carried the doll, posing with it for cameras and media, even mimicking a salute with the doll’s hand.

Expressing his excitement for the film, Jungkook shared,
“I came because I was really curious. Since Eunwoo is my friend, I wanted to see his acting. He told me that while filming, he thought a lot about the time when we were younger in our early twenties, when we used to hang out a lot.”

Addressing his friend currently serving in the military, Jungkook, who completed his own service earlier this year, added,
“I hope you always stay healthy. Do well during your service and finish it safely. Fighting!”

### BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Attends with Co-Star

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo also attended the premiere alongside her *Newtopia* co-actor Kang Young-seok. Looking forward to the cinematic experience, she shared,
“I heard the movie was really fun, so I came today expecting to laugh a lot. Please give it lots of love. I’m here with actor Kang Young-seok, who worked with me on *Newtopia*. I came with high expectations since I heard he’s in it, and I’ll make sure to enjoy watching it.”

### About *The First Ride*

*The First Ride* (퍼스트 라이드) is an upcoming South Korean adventure comedy film written and directed by Nam Dae-jung, known for his previous work *Love Reset* (2023). The movie features Kang Ha-neul, Kim Young-kwang, Cha Eun-woo, Kang Young-seok, and Han Sun-hwa in leading roles.

Scheduled for theatrical release in South Korea on October 29, 2025, the film tells the story of four lifelong friends—Tae-jung, Do-jin, Yeon-min, and Geum-bok—who have shared an unbreakable bond for 24 years. Since childhood, they have dreamed of traveling overseas together, a plan repeatedly postponed by life’s responsibilities.

Finally making their long-awaited trip a reality, the reunion takes an unexpected turn when an unplanned traveler, Ok-shim, joins them. This sparks a series of comic mishaps and emotional moments. What was meant to be a carefree vacation descends into chaos filled with absurd detours, nostalgic memories, and challenges that test their friendship in surprising ways.

Through laughter and misfortune, *The First Ride* offers a heartfelt and entertaining exploration of friendship and growing up.

### Military Service Update

Cha Eun-woo began his mandatory military service on July 28, 2025, and is expected to complete his duties and return around January 2027. Despite his absence from the premiere, his presence was clearly felt through the support of friends and fans alike.

*The First Ride* promises to be a joyous and memorable film celebrating friendship, adventure, and the nostalgic longing to reconnect with youth. Don’t miss its South Korean theatrical release on October 29, 2025.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/k-pop/news-bts-jungkook-j-hope-rm-blackpink-s-jisoo-astro-s-mj-more-inside-cha-eun-woo-s-the-first-ride-vip-premiere

Robert Pattinson Registers 7 Songs with ASCAP: Will He Be the First Batman Since Adam West to Release an Album?

Robert Pattinson, known for his roles as a vampire and a superhero, may be adding pop star to his list of achievements. The actor has registered seven songs with ASCAP, the music licensing agency. These songs include “Bent Out That Midnight Day,” “Best Friend,” “Fascinate,” “Fell Off,” “Green Light,” “Waiting on Me,” and “Witness,” the latter of which is a cover of a Michael Jackson track.

In addition to his music pursuits, Pattinson is also involved in filmmaking. He is the writer and co-producer of *Only the Strong Survive*, a documentary featured at prestigious film festivals such as Cannes, Sundance, and Telluride. The film is directed by D.A. Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus, further showcasing Pattinson’s diverse talents in the entertainment industry.
https://www.showbiz411.com/2025/10/27/robert-pattinson-registers-7-songs-with-ascap-will-he-be-the-first-batman-since-adam-west-to-release-an-album

Polymarket Confirms $POLY Token and Airdrop, A $15B Prediction Revolution in the Making

The rumors are finally real. Polymarket, the fast-growing prediction market, is officially launching its native OLY token along with a highly anticipated airdrop. CMO Matthew Modabber confirmed the move publicly, sparking immediate buzz across crypto Twitter. What began as mere speculation has now evolved into one of the most awaited token launches in the decentralized prediction space.

### The OLY Token Is Coming

Polymarket’s CMO didn’t hold back during his announcement. He revealed that the team is preparing both a native token and a massive airdrop designed to reward early users for their genuine engagement.

“Expect every airdrop hunter and crypto trader to rush in,” one insider wrote on X (formerly Twitter) moments after Modabber’s statement. “Early users will likely be rewarded for volume, longevity, and organic activity.”

This news is music to the ears of long-time Polymarket traders — those who have been active well before the announcement. Rumors suggest that the OLY airdrop could arrive as early as 2026, with eligibility closely tied to user activity, trading patterns, and authentic participation.

### A $15 Billion Valuation on the Table

Behind the scenes, things are moving rapidly. According to Bloomberg, Polymarket is already in discussions to raise fresh funding with a valuation potentially reaching up to $15 billion.

That staggering figure places Polymarket in rarefied air within the decentralized prediction market sector. If the funding round materializes, it would be among the largest valuations ever for a project in this niche. Investors are reportedly circling, attracted by Polymarket’s growth trajectory and the promise of an industry that uniquely blends finance, politics, and real-time sentiment data.

### Airdrop Rules: Real Traders Only

Although the airdrop may be massive, Modabber made one thing crystal clear during an AMA: there will be no room for farmers.

He stressed that the OLY token distribution will prioritize real users—those with consistent, organic trading histories. Farming tactics and wash trades won’t cut it this time.

“The drop is likely tied to volume, activity, and trading behavior,” Modabber said. “Passive users risk missing out.”

This announcement has sparked a surge of renewed interest across prediction market communities. Traders are dusting off their old accounts, placing small but steady bets, and building genuine volume ahead of the official snapshot.

The rules are simple: trade, stay active, and prove authenticity.

### Polymarket’s Big Play: More Than Just Predictions

Polymarket isn’t just another betting site dressed up in Web3 colors. It’s a data-driven prediction market that enables users to trade on real-world events — everything from elections and sports to economics and pop culture.

Each market reflects crowd sentiment, and every trade contributes a valuable data point. This makes Polymarket much more than entertainment; it’s an evolving form of decentralized intelligence.

The upcoming OLY token will serve as the foundation of this ecosystem. It’s not a meme or a quick cash grab — it’s infrastructure.

That distinction is crucial. While many other airdrops chaser hype, Polymarket is focused on building a long-term framework for decentralized forecasting, liquidity incentives, and governance.

### “This Ain’t Just Another Platform”

Crypto Twitter is calling this launch a new era for prediction markets.

“This ain’t just another platform,” one Polymarket supporter wrote after the AMA. “It’s being built to compete globally.”

This isn’t mere hype. With user engagement on the rise, growing investor attention, and a token launch confirmed, Polymarket is positioning itself as a potential market leader in on-chain predictions.

Its focus on genuine users — not bots or farmers — is part of a larger strategy to build trust and ensure longevity.

If successful, the OLY token could set a new standard for transparency and fairness across decentralized trading platforms.

### Early Users in the Spotlight

With the confirmation of the OLY token and airdrop, every early user has become a potential winner.

Activity, longevity, and organic volume are expected to determine who benefits the most. It’s a familiar formula, but Polymarket’s approach feels different — instead of chasing hype, they are rewarding consistency and faith in the product from day one.

As one longtime trader put it: “You can’t farm conviction.”

With the official launch expected in 2026, traders have months to ramp up their participation and secure their place in what could become one of the largest airdrops in crypto history.

### Market Reaction: Momentum Building

The crypto community wasted no time reacting. Mentions of OLY exploded across X after Modabber’s confirmation.

Prediction market tokens — even those unrelated — saw significant volume spikes as speculators positioned themselves early.

Polymarket’s growing visibility has also translated into increasing trading volume, which continues trending upward. If this momentum holds, the platform could break participation records before the end of the year.

Meanwhile, curiosity about Polymarket’s native tokenomics is intensifying. Traders want to understand how OLY will fit into governance, fees, and incentives. For now, the team remains tight-lipped.

The message is clear: stay active, stay early, and stay ready.

### Building Toward a Global Platform

What truly sets Polymarket apart isn’t just the product — it’s the ambition.

A $15 billion valuation isn’t just a number; it’s a statement of intent.

With new capital, a growing user base, and the OLY token on the horizon, Polymarket is positioning itself at the intersection of finance, media, and prediction technology.

The OLY token is designed to unify its ecosystem — from market creation and trading incentives to governance and liquidity.

This launch represents the next logical step in pushing prediction markets into the mainstream.

### The Early Birds Will Set the Pace

Polymarket’s journey is still unfolding, but one thing is clear: early participants will shape what happens next.

“This is one of those projects you don’t just watch,” Modabber said during the AMA. “You get involved.”

And that’s exactly what the crypto community is doing.

Excitement is building, engagement is rising, and the countdown to the OLY airdrop has already begun.

The opportunity is simple: get in early, stay active, and trade with intent.

When the airdrop lands, the early birds won’t just get rewarded — they’ll define the next chapter of decentralized prediction markets.

*Disclosure: This article is not trading or investment advice. Always conduct your own research before buying any cryptocurrency or investing in any services.*
https://themerkle.com/polymarket-confirms-poly-token-and-airdrop-a-15b-prediction-revolution-in-the-making/

Mercedes Mone is trying to convince major star to leave WWE for AEW, according to wrestling legend

AEW star Mercedes Mone could play a major role in a potential WWE star’s switch to the Jacksonville-based promotion, according to wrestling legend Konnan.

Former WWE Women’s Champion Bayley is a longtime friend of the TBS Champion. The two rose through the ranks together in NXT and later shared time on the main roster, but they now work for different companies. Despite this, they continue to support each other on social media and even attend shows discreetly.

Bayley’s contract with WWE, the sports entertainment giant, is set to expire in 2026. Over the years, she has been a key figure in WWE’s women’s division. However, she has recently been overlooked for several opportunities, which could be a significant factor when she negotiates her next deal.

Meanwhile, Mercedes Mone, known as “The CEO” in AEW, has been dominating the pro wrestling business and breaking multiple records. Speaking on the podcast *Keepin’ It 100 OFFICIAL*, veteran wrestler Konnan revealed that Mercedes Mone might be trying to convince Bayley to jump ship and sign with All Elite Wrestling.

“I’m sure Sasha [Banks, aka Mercedes Mone] is trying to sell [Bayley] on it. They’re best friends. ‘I got 10 championships. I do what I want. I write my own storylines with Peppermint Patty.’ You know, [Mone] probably telling all the stuff she gets away with because she’s a mark for her. But Bayley looks like she’s happy where she’s at. And she was always since she was a little girl, a WWE fan!” Konnan explained.
[H/T ITR Wrestling]

### Mercedes Mone Sends a Message to Bayley

A few weeks ago, Bayley announced she would be conducting a three-day wrestling seminar for women to help shape the future of pro wrestling.

Recently, Mercedes Mone took to X (formerly Twitter) and sarcastically shared her career statistics while applying for the seminar. She wrote:

> “Hey Pam, I mean Bayley! Huge mark for you and women’s wrestling. Would love to train with you. 15 year pro GOAT CEO 10 belts Moné Please approve my application.”

With their close friendship and mutual respect, it will be interesting to see if “The Role Model” ever joins AEW in the future.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/aew/news-mercedes-mone-trying-convince-major-star-leave-wwe-aew-according-wrestling-legend

Bob’s Burgers Creator Knows The Heartwarming Reason The Belchers Are So Popular

Although the animated sitcom *Bob’s Burgers* premiered in 2011 to mixed reviews, it is now entering its 16th season more beloved than ever.

Unlike its long-running network peers *The Simpsons* and *Family Guy*, *Bob’s Burgers* is a rare animated sitcom that doesn’t have a clear golden age it has fallen from. There are no “bad” seasons fans can unanimously point to, nor are there any “jump the shark” moments like Principal Skinner being revealed as an imposter on *The Simpsons* or Brian Griffin being killed off on *Family Guy*.

The secret, according to the show’s creator Loren Bouchard, is that the characters of *Bob’s Burgers* have a goal they’re working towards. As he told *Variety* in September 2025:

> “It’s a hopeful show about a working-class family with this irrational, creative, barely profitable dream at the heart of it — the restaurant. And because they never age, we’ll never know if they’ll succeed or if they’ll fail, but we feel their drive and their fundamental optimism, and that’s probably valuable to some folks. Optimism is an underrated and complicated thing. Cynics can dismiss it, but that’s because when it’s done poorly in entertainment, it plays like schmaltz. ‘Bob’s’ is about a grittier, deeper hope and how it works for you, even in hard times.”

Bouchard also praised the characters themselves, noting, “In the end, if you’re making character-driven comedy, then you have to give credit to the characters for any success you might achieve. People have to want to spend time with them.”

When people discuss the differences between *Bob’s Burgers* and shows like *Family Guy* and *The Simpsons*, they often point to the series’ animation styles or differing senses of humor. However, the family business aspect is a crucial factor that is often overlooked.

*The Simpsons* and the Griffins are families without long-term goals beyond going to school or work. Sometimes, one of the characters will start a business, but that adventure is typically wrapped up within 22 minutes. There is an aimlessness to these characters’ lives that quietly haunts the shows, made all the more unsettling by how they never age. These characters aren’t striving for anything, and neither, it seems, are their series.

Admittedly, *Bob’s Burgers* has the advantage of not being as old as these shows. Even as it approaches its 40th anniversary, *The Simpsons* still manages to deliver some “bangers” now and then. One could even argue it enjoyed a mini golden age — perhaps a silver age — from seasons 17 to 21.

Meanwhile, it’s unclear if *Bob’s Burgers* will last as long while maintaining its current high quality. Still, the show is determined to try. As Bouchard explained in that *Variety* interview:

> “We’ll keep making the show as long as people want to see it and as long as we have stories to tell. In some ways, we’re just getting started.”
https://www.slashfilm.com/1999342/bobs-burger-creator-loren-bouchard-why-show-popular/