Dive Into Unmatched Arcade Action Directly in Your Hands
The Essence of Classic Arcade Gaming
The essence of classic arcade gaming lies in its simplicity and intensity. XTRIS captures this spirit perfectly, offering a straightforward yet exhilarating gameplay experience. Players are tasked with navigating a black square using the D-pad to intercept a rapidly moving X within a 60-second window. Each successful interception sends the X tumbling off the grid, adding points to your score, which subtly appears in the background. What begins as a seemingly simple task quickly evolves into a heart-pounding race against time. As the clock ticks down, the music intensifies, resembling an escalating alarm that heightens the tension. Flames erupt from the bottom of the screen, adding visual drama and urgency to each move. The voice of Jordan Carroll, the announcer, punctuates the chaos with enthusiastic shouts that can feel both encouraging and ominously foreboding by the end. Despite its minimalist design, XTRIS delivers a rich, immersive experience that harks back to the golden age of arcades.Levels That Test Skill and Strategy
XTRIS offers three distinct levels—Tetromino, Bridge, and Squiggle—each presenting unique challenges that test both skill and strategy. In Tetromino, players must navigate through a grid composed of four tiles, while Bridge and Squiggle introduce more complex layouts with five and six tiles respectively. These variations keep the gameplay fresh and engaging, ensuring that no two rounds feel the same.Each level provides a leaderboard where players can compare their scores with others, fostering a sense of competition. Additionally, after several attempts, the game displays your score trends, allowing you to track your progress and identify areas for improvement. This feature adds a layer of personal growth to the experience, motivating players to push their limits and strive for better results. It's easy to find yourself saying, "just one more try," as you aim to beat your previous best.Zen Mode: A Breather from the Chaos
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, XTRIS includes a Zen Mode for each level. In this mode, the time pressure is removed, and a soothing soundtrack replaces the intense music, creating a calming atmosphere. Zen Mode allows players to focus on honing their dexterity without the added stress of a ticking clock. It's an excellent way to practice and refine your skills before diving back into the fast-paced action.Moreover, exploring the game’s menu reveals unlockable characters and symbols, adding a touch of customization. Swap the X for quirky icons like a frog or a slice of pizza, giving the game a playful and personalized touch. These features enhance the overall appeal of XTRIS, making it a versatile and enjoyable addition to the Playdate Catalog.The 97th Academy Awards commenced with an unforgettable performance by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, who brought the house down with a medley from the hit musical Wicked. The ceremony, hosted by Conan O'Brien, featured a series of clips from nominated films before transitioning into the musical tribute. Grande began with a rendition of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," paying homage to The Wizard of Oz, followed by Erivo's soulful performance of Diana Ross's "Home" from The Wiz. Together, they concluded with a powerful duet of "Defying Gravity." Both actresses are nominated for their roles in Wicked, adding to the excitement surrounding their appearance.
Grande and Erivo have been making waves with their performances in the film adaptation of Wicked. As the nominees walked the red carpet, anticipation built for what was to come on stage. Initially, there were reports that the show would open with a Wicked medley, but this was met with some skepticism until it became clear that the Academy had indeed enlisted the two stars to kick off the evening. Grande's nomination for Best Supporting Actress and Erivo's nod for Best Actress added another layer of significance to their performance. The audience was treated to a display of vocal prowess as Erivo hit several high notes, including a memorable riff, while Grande watched in admiration.
Leading up to the event, the Academy announced changes to the format of the Oscars, deciding not to feature live performances of nominated songs. Instead, the focus shifted to honoring the songwriters behind the music. This decision made room for other performers like Doja Cat, Lisa of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and Raye, who showcased their talents in segments celebrating the filmmaking community. The Los Angeles Master Chorale also made a special appearance, adding to the evening's cultural richness.
As the night unfolded, Emilia Pérez emerged as a frontrunner with a record-breaking 13 nominations for her non-English-language film. Other notable contenders included The Brutalist and Wicked, each earning 10 nominations. The ceremony, broadcast live on ABC and Hulu from the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, celebrated the best in cinema while hinting at what's to come with the sequel to Wicked, titled Wicked: For Good. Erivo teased the sequel, promising a mix of joy and heartbreak, along with familiar tunes that audiences will surely love.
The opening performance set a high bar for the rest of the evening, showcasing the talent and versatility of both Grande and Erivo. Their collaboration on stage not only highlighted their individual strengths but also demonstrated the power of storytelling through music. As the Oscars moved forward, it was clear that this year's ceremony aimed to honor both the past and future of cinema, with a special emphasis on the artists who bring stories to life.
The 97th Academy Awards, scheduled for Sunday evening, promise an unforgettable night of cinematic recognition. Hosted by Conan O'Brien at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, the event will honor achievements across 23 categories, including Best Picture, Director, and Actor. Emilia Pérez leads the nominations with a record-breaking 13 nods for a non-English-language film, followed closely by The Brutalist and Wicked, each garnering 10 nominations. Other notable contenders include A Complete Unknown and Conclave, both earning eight nominations. Netflix stands out among studios with 16 nominations. The ceremony will also feature performances from Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Doja Cat, Lisa of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and Raye, celebrating the filmmaking community. The Oscars' announcement was delayed due to Los Angeles wildfires, which also prompted the Academy to donate $1 million to wildfire relief efforts.
This year's awards come after a series of challenges. Initially set for January 17, the nomination announcements were postponed twice as wildfires ravaged Los Angeles. Voting for nominees opened on January 8 but was extended multiple times due to the ongoing crisis. Despite these disruptions, the Academy has rallied to support the community, canceling the Oscar nominees luncheon and redirecting funds to wildfire relief. The event will pay homage to Los Angeles, reflecting resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
Emilia Pérez's unprecedented success highlights the growing prominence of international films in the global cinema landscape. With 13 nominations, this French production has set a new benchmark for non-English-language films. Directed by Jacques Audiard, Emilia Pérez explores complex themes through its rich narrative and exceptional performances. The film's impact extends beyond the screen, symbolizing the increasing diversity and inclusivity in the industry. Competitors like The Brutalist and Wicked also showcase the depth and breadth of contemporary filmmaking, pushing creative boundaries while captivating audiences worldwide.
Beyond the competitive spirit, the 2025 Oscars aim to celebrate the artistry and dedication behind each nominated work. Performances by artists such as Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo promise to add glamour and emotion to the evening. The inclusion of diverse musical acts underscores the Academy's commitment to honoring various facets of the entertainment world. Additionally, special appearances by groups like the Los Angeles Master Chorale will enhance the cultural richness of the ceremony. This year's event not only recognizes outstanding achievements but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose within the industry.
As the 97th Academy Awards unfold, they will highlight the remarkable contributions of filmmakers and performers who have shaped the cinematic landscape. The ceremony serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the collaborative efforts that bring stories to life. Through moments of celebration and reflection, the Oscars will honor the past while looking forward to the future of film, embodying the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines the industry.