Happy Halloween and welcome to Bunker Talk. This is a weekend open discussion post for the best commenting crew on the net, in which we can chat about all the stuff that went on this week that we didn’t cover. We can also talk about the stuff we did or whatever else grabs your interest. In other words, it’s an off-topic thread.
Also, a reminder:
Prime Directives!
If you want to talk politics, do so respectfully and know that there’s always somebody that isn’t going to agree with you.
If you have political differences, hash it out respectfully, stick to the facts, and no childish name-calling or personal attacks of any kind. If you can’t handle yourself in that manner, then please, discuss virtually anything else.
No drive-by garbage political memes. No conspiracy theory rants. Links to crackpot sites will be axed, too. Trolling and shitposting will not be tolerated. No obsessive behavior about other users. Just don’t interact with folks you don’t like.
Do not be a sucker and feed trolls! That’s as much on you as on them. Use the mute button if you don’t like what you see.
So unless you have something of quality to say, know how to treat people with respect, understand that everyone isn’t going to subscribe to your exact same worldview, and have come to terms with the reality that there is no perfect solution when it comes to moderation of a community like this, it’s probably best to just move on.
Finally, as always, report offenders, please. This doesn’t mean reporting people who don’t share your political views, but we really need your help in this regard.
It’s time to resume your island getaway — and possibly incur more virtual debt. (We see you, Tom Nook.)
Nintendo announced Thursday that its cozy social sim “Animal Crossing: New Horizons” is getting a Switch 2 upgrade. “Animal Crossing: New Horizons — Nintendo Switch 2 Edition,” which will offer improved visuals, mouse controls, an in-game megaphone that uses the console’s built-in microphone and multiplayer enhancements, will be released Jan. 15.
In addition to allowing players to experience the game in 4K when playing on their TV, the upgraded edition of “New Horizons” will enable them to utilize the mouse controls on the Joy-Con 2 controller when redecorating their homes, creating custom designs and writing messages on the bulletin board.
The megaphone, which will be available at Nook’s Cranny, can be used to locate fellow villagers by calling out their names. “New Horizons” players also will be able to play online with up to 12 other Switch 2 edition players and use a webcam.
A free update for all “Animal Crossings: New Horizons” players, regardless of console, will also be available Jan. 15. This will include access to a new resort opening on the pier, which will allow players to decorate guest rooms and purchase new items at a souvenir shop. The update will also see the “Animal Crossing” world’s familiar grumpy mole, Resetti, offering a “reset service” to clean up a player’s island.
Other offerings include the option for players to upgrade their home storage to hold up to 9,000 items — including trees, shrubs and flowers — and the ability for Nintendo Switch Online members to design and save up to three islands that they can collaborate on with friends online. New Nintendo-themed goods, including playable classic Nintendo console games, and Lego items also will be available within the game through the update.
Released in 2020 for the Nintendo Switch console, “Animal Crossing: New Horizon” became a balm during the COVID-19 pandemic by offering players a way to connect and be social during quarantine and uncertain times. The fifth main installment of the “Animal Crossing” franchise would go on to become one of the best-selling Switch games ever.
A new expanded edition of Maia Kobabe’s award-winning graphic memoir “Gender Queer” will be released next year.
Oni Press has announced that “Gender Queer: The Annotated Edition” will be available in May. The special hardcover edition of the seminal LGBTQ+ coming of age memoir includes commentary by Kobabe as well as other comic creators and scholars.
“For fans, educators, and anyone else who wants to know more, I am so excited to share ‘Gender Queer: The Annotated Edition,’” Kobabe said in the news release. “Queer and trans cartoonists, comics scholars, and multiple people who appear in the book as characters contributed their thoughts, reactions, and notes to this new edition.”
The new 280-page hardcover will feature “comments on the color design process, on comics craft, on family, on friendship, on the touchstone queer media that inspired me and countless other people searching for meaningful representation, and on the complicated process of self-discovery,” the author added.
Released in 2019, “Gender Queer” follows Kobabe, who uses e/em/eir pronouns, from childhood into eir young adult years as e navigates gender and sexuality and eir understanding of who e is. The books is a candid look into the nonbinary author’s exploration of identity, chronicling the frustrations and joys and epiphanies of eir journey and self discovery.
A page from “Gender Queer: The Annotated Edition” by Maia Kobabe.
(Oni Press)
“It’s really hard to imagine yourself as something you’ve never seen,” Kobabe told The Times in 2022. “I know this firsthand because I didn’t meet someone who was out as trans or nonbinary until I was in grad school. It’s weird to grow up and be 25 before you meet someone who is like the same gender as you.”
In addition to commentary by Kobabe, “Gender Queer: The Annotated Edition” will feature comments from fellow artists and comics creatives Jadzia Axelrod, Ashley R. Guillory, Justin Hall, Kori Michele Handwerker, Phoebe Kobabe, Hal Schrieve, Rani Som, Shannon Watters and Andrea Colvin. Sandra Cox, Ajuan Mance and Matthew Noe are among the academic figures who contributed to the new edition.
“It’s been almost seven years since I wrote the final words of this memoir; revisiting these pages today, in a radically different and less accepting political climate, sparked a lot of new thoughts for me as well,” Kobabe said in the news release. “I hope readers enjoy this even richer text full of community voices.”
A page from “Gender Queer: The Annotated Edition” by Maia Kobabe.
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
Welcome to Bunker Talk and have a great Labor Day weekend for our U.S. readers!
This is a weekend open discussion post for the best commenting crew on the net, in which we can chat about all the stuff that went on this week that we didn’t cover. We can also talk about the stuff we did or whatever else grabs your interest. In other words, it’s an off-topic thread.
The caption to this week’s top shot reads:
Also, a reminder:
An informational brochure titled “Protect Your Family from Atomic Bomb Fallout” features an abstract illustration insinuation an explosion on the cover, circa 1961. (Jim Heimann Collection/Getty Images)
Prime Directives!
If you want to talk politics, do so respectfully and know that there’s always somebody that isn’t going to agree with you.
If you have political differences, hash it out respectfully, stick to the facts, and no childish name-calling or personal attacks of any kind. If you can’t handle yourself in that manner, then please, discuss virtually anything else.
No drive-by garbage political memes. No conspiracy theory rants. Links to crackpot sites will be axed, too. Trolling and shitposting will not be tolerated. No obsessive behavior about other users. Just don’t interact with folks you don’t like.
Do not be a sucker and feed trolls! That’s as much on you as on them. Use the mute button if you don’t like what you see.
So unless you have something of quality to say, know how to treat people with respect, understand that everyone isn’t going to subscribe to your exact same worldview, and have come to terms with the reality that there is no perfect solution when it comes to moderation of a community like this, it’s probably best to just move on.
Finally, as always, report offenders, please. This doesn’t mean reporting people who don’t share your political views, but we really need your help in this regard.
It’s back! A fantastic offer saving you money on your travel with Northern valid until October 2025
15:34, 28 Apr 2025Updated 11:52, 31 Aug 2025
The Flat Fare is back for another round and the Mirror has teamed up with Northern, the rail operator for the North, to provide you with a discounted rate available between September 1 and October 23, 2025. All you have to do is collect two tokens from the Mirror (North edition only) between Monday, September 1 and Sunday, September 7, 2025 and take them with the registration form to your local staffed ticket office on the Northern network to redeem.
The best part is you can use your tickets to travel anywhere on the Northern network!* So, if you’re looking for the perfect autumn retreat to relax or explore before the nights come in or spend the day shopping in one of the many great cities of the North, this could be the ticket for you! Great value tickets that leave you with more money in your pocket for that essential trip out treat! You can purchase either a Day Ranger ticket for £12 per adult or a Weekend Rover ticket for £20 per adult. Don’t forget kids go half price on this offer, so you could take the whole family out for a fraction of the price!
The travel window will be open from September 1- October 23, 2025. (*No direct travel route available on Northern services between Newcastle and York).
Once you have your tokens, log in or register and complete the online form at northernrailway.co.uk/reachplc. Next, print the form, and hand it in at any local staffed ticket office on the Northern network to redeem. You will then be given the tickets to go do your thing!
Terms and Conditions: To qualify for this special offer, collect two tokens from the Mirror (North edition), between 01.09.25 and 07.09.25 and complete the online redemption form. Insert availability varies depending on title. Collect two tokens per redemption form. Two tokens allow you to buy up to four Northern Day Ranger tickets (£12 each) or four Weekend Rover tickets (£20 each). Kids offer includes ages 5-15 years. Day Ranger ticket travel between 01.09.25 and 23.10.25. Weekend Rover ticket travel between 06.09.25 and 19.10.25. All tickets must be valid for travel on the same date. Tickets are valid on trains departing after 0845 Monday to Friday. Valid anytime at weekends, on Northern services only. *No direct travel route available on Northern services between Newcastle and York. Full t&c’s at northernrailway.co.uk/reachplc.
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
Welcome to Bunker Talk and have a great Labor Day weekend for our U.S. readers!
This is a weekend open discussion post for the best commenting crew on the net, in which we can chat about all the stuff that went on this week that we didn’t cover. We can also talk about the stuff we did or whatever else grabs your interest. In other words, it’s an off-topic thread.
The caption to this week’s top shot reads:
Also, a reminder:
Prime Directives!
If you want to talk politics, do so respectfully and know that there’s always somebody that isn’t going to agree with you.
If you have political differences, hash it out respectfully, stick to the facts, and no childish name-calling or personal attacks of any kind. If you can’t handle yourself in that manner, then please, discuss virtually anything else.
No drive-by garbage political memes. No conspiracy theory rants. Links to crackpot sites will be axed, too. Trolling and shitposting will not be tolerated. No obsessive behavior about other users. Just don’t interact with folks you don’t like.
Do not be a sucker and feed trolls! That’s as much on you as on them. Use the mute button if you don’t like what you see.
So unless you have something of quality to say, know how to treat people with respect, understand that everyone isn’t going to subscribe to your exact same worldview, and have come to terms with the reality that there is no perfect solution when it comes to moderation of a community like this, it’s probably best to just move on.
Finally, as always, report offenders, please. This doesn’t mean reporting people who don’t share your political views, but we really need your help in this regard.
Why it’s a good buy: You’ll experience lifelike sound, and with two hidden microphones equipped with AI-enhanced noise rejection technology, your friends will hear you loud and clear.
Specs:Compatible with: PlayStation 5 consoles, PlayStation Portal remote player, PC/Mac; Connectivity: PlayStation Wireless/Bluetooth
Best PS5 game deal
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, £22.97 (was £44.97)
You’ll bag a popular game that delivers an action-packed adventureCredit: Currys
Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, £22.97 (was £44.97) from Currys
The game currently costs just £22.97 when purchased from Currys.
Why it’s a good buy: For that price, you’ll bag a popular game that delivers an action-packed adventure, great visuals, and a gripping storyline.
Specs:Rated: 16+; Release date: 2020
PS5 game deals
Astro Bot, £48.95 (was £59.99)
You can explore planets, volcanoes, undersea cities, and moreCredit: Amazon
Astro Bot, £48.95 (was £59.99) from Amazon
What’s the deal? Looking to bag the award-winning Astro Bot game? We’ve found an Amazon offer you won’t want to miss.
Now discounted to £48.95, Astro Bot takes gamers on a galactic quest in search of ASTRO’s lost crew.
Why it’s a good buy: If you’re shopping for a title that offers high-quality gameplay, you’ll want to take a closer look at Astro Bot.
You’ll explore planets, volcanoes, undersea cities, and more in this playful space adventure that’s packed with creative levels.
Specs:Rated: 7+; Release date: September 2024
TopSpin 2K25, £6 (was £55.99)
Go toe-to-toe with the biggest names in tennisCredit: GAME
TopSpin 2K25, £6 (was £55.99) from GAME
What’s the deal? We’ve spotted a fantastic discount at GAME.
If you want to go toe-to-toe with the biggest names in tennis, TopSpin 2K25 should be on your list, and it’s now available for just £6.
Why it’s a good buy: TopSpin 2K25 is a solid choice for tennis fans thanks to its in-depth career mode, realistic gameplay, and selection of pro players.
There are over 24 playable pros to choose from, and you can even customise your look on the court.
Specs:Rated: 3+; Release date: April 2024
More PS5 game deals:
Disney Dreamlight Valley: Cozy Edition, £34 (was £44.99) from GAME – buy here
PJ Masks Power Heroes: Mighty Alliance, £11 (was £34.99) from GAME – buy here
The original “Spider-Man” trilogy, directed by Sam Raimi and starring Tobey Maguire, is returning to the big screen with a special addition.
For the first time, “Spider-Man 2.1” — the extended edition of “Spider Man 2” — will be playing in theaters in 4K in a limited engagement presented by Fathom Entertainment. This version, released on DVD in 2007, features eight minutes of new footage, including a fan-favorite scene in which J. Jonah Jameson, played by J.K. Simmons, tries on the Spidey suit.
More than two decades and 10 Spider-Man movies after the original trilogy premiered, “Spider-Man 2” consistently ranks among the best of the franchise by critics and fans. Starring alongside Maguire as Peter Parker (a.k.a. Spider-Man) are Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane “MJ” Watson, James Franco as Harry Osborn and Alfred Molina as Dr. Otto Octavius.
“The success of ‘Spider-Man’ in 2002 helped launch the modern era of super hero films. To this day, Tobey Maguire’s take on Spider-Man resonates across generations,” Fathom Entertainment’s Chief Executive Ray Nutt said in a press release. “At Fathom Entertainment, we celebrate fandom and I am delighted that ‘Spider-Man 2.1’ in 4K will make its theatrical debut, a true gift for longtime fans and a thrilling discovery for new ones.”
“Spider-Man” will play in theaters Sept. 26 and Oct. 3, “Spider-Man 2.1” on Sept. 27 and Oct. 4, and “Spider-Man 3” on Sept. 28 and Oct. 5. Tickets will be available at Fathom Entertainment and participating theaters July 25.
Other films soon returning to theaters with Fathom Entertainment are “Clueless” (June 29-30), “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (July 13-16) and “The Sound of Music” (Sept. 13-17).
CADBURY has unveiled a brand new range of limited-edition Dairy Milk chocolate bars that change colour when chilled – and they’re ideal for summer snacking.
The new Cadbury Dairy Milk Summer Edition bars and the Iced Latte flavour are hitting shelves across the UK from June 2025, wrapped in cold-activated packaging that transforms in the fridge.
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According to Cadbury’s research, more than half the nation stores their bars in the fridge, especially during the warmer monthsCredit: Alamy
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Chocoholics can expect a limited run, so fans might want to snap them up quickly once they appear in shopsCredit: Alamy
Based in Birmingham, the chocolate giant confirmed that the special packs use thermochromic technology to reveal vibrant designs – including deck chairs, umbrellas, kites, and inflatables – when cooled. It’s the first time Cadbury has launched a product like this.
“This summer, Cadbury Dairy Milk is reigniting the debate around storing chocolate in the fridge,” said Mara Popa, junior brand manager at Cadbury Dairy Milk.
“Our new Cadbury Dairy Milk Summer Editions range features cold-activated packs, reminding consumers that chocolate is a great snacking option in the warmer weather.
“Additionally, our limited-edition Cadbury Dairy Milk Iced Latte tablet is designed to excite consumers with a brand new flavour crafted for summer.
This NPD also features colour changing packaging, highlighting the chilled chocolate trend in a playful way and tapping into the debate.”
The cold-reactive wrappers aren’t just eye-catching – they’re a clever nod to how Brits really eat chocolate.
According to Cadbury’s research, more than half the nation stores their bars in the fridge, especially during the warmer months.
Despite this trend, the brand has advised fans to think twice before chilling their choc. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), a spokesperson warned that the fridge might not always be the best place.
“Chocolate should always be stored in a slightly cool, dry, dark place such as a cupboard or pantry at temperatures less than 21°C to ensure the quality isn’t compromised,” they explained.
Still, curiosity is high.
Shoppers beg Cadbury’s to bring back 2005 recipe on iconic bar – as they moan current one ‘tastes like candle wax’
A whopping 67 per cent of Brits said they’re open to trying chilled chocolate, and Cadbury is leaning into that interest with a playful summer twist.
All five bars in the Edition range will be available in major retailers nationwide and have a recommended price of £2.
However, prices may vary depending on the store.
Chocoholics can expect a limited run, so fans might want to snap them up quickly once they appear in shops.
The packaging not only changes colour, but also ties in with the look and feel of a traditional British summer – perfect for picnics, beach days, or just a cool treat at home.
The launch of the iced latte-flavoured Dairy Milk also adds to Cadbury’s growing line-up of coffee-infused treats.
The bar combines smooth milk chocolate with a creamy coffee centre and crunchy biscuit bits, designed to satisfy both choc and coffee lovers.
Cadbury has already seen success with coffee-flavoured chocolate.
The Twirl Iced Latte has popped up in B&M stores in recent weeks, earning rave reviews from fans.
Meanwhile, a collab with coffee brand Kenco gave us the chocolate-flavoured mocha – another hit among sweet-toothed sippers.
And it’s not stopping there.
From 2 June, the brand will also roll out a limited-edition Twirl White Dipped bar, combining its famous flaky layers with a coating of smooth white chocolate.
A post on Facebook teased the launch, calling it “unreal, indulgent, smooth, swirly, creamy, melty, new, and mouthwatering.”
Earlier this month, fans also spotted a new Cadbury Dairy Milk Balls pack in shops, drawing comparisons to the nostalgic Cadbury Tasters – small, round chocolate treats first launched in 1996.
With so many launches lined up and a summer full of colourful, cold-friendly packaging, Cadbury is clearly out to make this season a choc-filled celebration.
How to save money on chocolate
We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don’t have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.
Consumer reporterSam Walkerreveals how to cut costs…
Go own brand – if you’re not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you’ll save by going for the supermarket’s own brand bars.
Shop around – if you’ve spotted your favourite variety at the supermarket, make sure you check if it’s cheaper elsewhere.
Websites like Trolley.co.uk let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.
Look out for yellow stickers – supermarket staff put yellow, and sometimes orange and red, stickers on to products to show they’ve been reduced.
They usually do this if the product is coming to the end of its best-before date or the packaging is slightly damaged.
Buy bigger bars – most of the time, but not always, chocolate is cheaper per 100g the larger the bar.
So if you’ve got the appetite, and you were going to buy a hefty amount of chocolate anyway, you might as well go bigger.
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Cadbury has already seen success with coffee-flavoured chocolateCredit: Alamy
