#hidden gems week 2021

[cloneficgiftexchange]

This week's spotlighted writer is @dragonrider9905!

I am a fandom craze-induced individual over many fun topics but I found a love for writing Star Wars stories when The Bad Batch was being released. I have posted numerous works of different genres within the SW universe since 2021 after being star struck by the amazing series. I will be forever grateful for SW and the opportunities it gave me to meet and connect with so many wonderful people, especially through stories!

Top 3 Clones: Hunter, Rex, Howzer

Favorite Genre to write: I don't know if I have a favorite honestly. I have a lot of fun trying out different things. I have quite a few AUs, many reader inserts, but always, the canon work just is fun to play around with!

Featured Story (Author Favorite): The Days We Can't Get Back (The Bad Batch, Gen)

Why do you like it? What do you want people to know about it?

I am quite unsure what my favorite clone centric fic is because I have so many that I love! One that I can call out is an anthology of short stories called "The Days We Can't Get Back" which feature stories of the The Bad Batch as cadets or the early days of their group (usually interacting with 99). I love that I can branch out with a whole bunch of different feelings. I can write warm, fuzzy stories or straight up angst for our bois. Plus their hidden childhood is something that always touches and intrigues me. They are my favorite kind to read so I think it leaks into a favorite/pride to write. I imagine they'd be cute, fun, mischievous, bratty but hilarious little buggers and darlings. And their stories deserve to be told! Besides, who knows what little gems you find in the past? ;)

Clone Fic Gift Exchange Works:

Heart Made of Flesh (TBB!Echo x Fem!Reader)

It's Officially Christmas (Cody x Reader)

Infectious Love (Hunter x Reader)

Marry Her Anyways (Cody x Reader)

Other Social Medias:

tumblr: dragonrider9905reads

[cptnbandana]

Masterlist

Welcome! You can call me J, this is my masterlist where I'll be adding tags and links for my work as I post it.

Come join us every Monday night on twitch 7-10pm GMT:

www.twitch.tv/thebrothershoney

If you like what I do, here's my Patreon where I post extras like audio recordings of my game reviews, the after-show for streaming, early story pages, stuff like that:

patreon.com/user?u=14574064

Short stories: tagged #my writing

Small Gods: People believe in things. Sometimes, that belief starts walking around. The old gods are long gone, but there are still strange things walking the streets of New York City and something wants them dead

The first draft of this is complete and a big old rewrite is in the works. So, I know

All chapters tagged #small-gods

Chapter 1: One Hell of a Morning

We Are Not Legends: Once, there were heroes. Figures of myth and legend who's deeds shaped the world in which they walked. They are long gone, but their spirits live on...

This one also has a first draft completed but I'm gonna leave it in the drawer for a while before I start redoing it

All chapters tagged #wearenotlegends

Game Reviews: tagged #gamereviews

In the dark days of early 2021, I decided to do the impossible! I decided to play every single game in my library that I had never played before. As any PC gamer can tell you, this task is not just daunting, but suicidal. However, it was lockdown and I had nothing else to do. After a couple of weeks of this, I realised that there was more I could do with this. Not only could I play all the games, I could also offer my opinions on them! I know a bit about game design, I play a fair few games, and I write? So, here are my reviews of games that are all probably well behind the years, but I thought this would be fun and might hang lanterns on some possible hidden gems. I hope you enjoy these critiques of games you've never heard of.

Random Shite: tagged #jtalks

Any old bs I post on here that doesn't fall into one of the above categories

[moonflower-rose]

The three things thing!

I am so behind that people are going to start calling me Dr Cheeks. I was tagged by three lovely humans of fandom, thank you all!

@shealwaysreads things here  @kbrick things here  @writcraft things here 

I can unhesitatingly recommend any of these writers works, not just the ones they've mentioned above, but I'm sure I don't need to tell anybody here that.

So, on to ME! The thing we're doing is 'Recommend us 3 of YOUR fics: 1 that is “most popular” and 2 that are “hidden gems.'

Most popular first.

I think whatever way you measure it, Watch the Castles Burn is my most popular fic. Every metric on AO3 has it on top, with the exception of subscriptions (its beaten only by my one fucking WIP that I stg I will finish one day soon).

I feel amused every time I see this fic. I wrote it for Wireless 2021 and not far off completion I had a complete emotional breakdown and went to bed for like 3 weeks and cried (not over the fic!). And then on the day that the fest started posting I pulled myself together and reached out to the mods to ask if it was too late to submit, and they were extremely kind and understanding and said yes, so I finished the last little lingering bit and had a non-fandom pal do the most last minute beta you can conceive of because I didn't really have any fandom connections that I felt I could impose on at that time, and we tried to take care of the worst of the comma crimes etc, and then at the end of the fest there she was! I was incredibly emotional, on a rollercoaster (grief is a bastard), and I felt like I had submitted an absolute steaming turd. I thought nobody would read it and nobody would like it. @shiftylinguini had only recently become a new friend and I spewed anxiety at her non-stop for days which she was very patient about and still kept answering my DMs, and has not yet abandoned me which speaks to her very good character and kindness lol. And somehow, this possibly-a-turd became the most popular thing I've written in eighteen years in the fandom. It's not what I consider my best work, but people like it!

Have a bit:

Potter found him in the shower block later that afternoon. Draco had one hand braced against the tile beside the shower head, letting the hot water pummel him. His left shoulder was bruised to hell, in fact he could feel the muscle along his ribs beginning to ache as well, the adrenaline slowly waning.

“I was looking for you,” Potter’s boots echoed off the tiles. “I went up to your office, but they told me you were probably down here.”

Draco turned his head just enough to look over his shoulder, and winced when his whole left side cramped in objection. “How’s Ron?”

Potter, to his credit, looked him in the eye. “Good. Very pleased to be alive, thanks to you. I think you’ll be getting Christmas shortbread and Easter buns from Molly for a couple of years or so, after this.”

Draco would have laughed, but that would have required using muscles which were currently strained to buggery, so he just made a noise instead and hoped it wasn’t too pathetic.

“That looks pretty sore. Do you need a hand with a Healing charm?”

He did, actually, not that he would admit it. Still a stubborn, proud arsehole, despite his best efforts. He turned slowly, flexing in the water. That fucking hurt, but the look on Potter’s face was worth it. “If you wanted an excuse to see me in my altogether, Potter, you need only have asked.”

Potter let his eyes drift down Draco’s body like fingertips. His drew his wand from his thigh holster, and gestured with it. “Turn around, you lush. Healing first, flirting later.” Draco turned the water off and braced himself again against the tile, and Potter’s magic collided with his back a moment later. He made a noise, it was punched out of him rather than anything voluntary, and the pain coalesced before fading to a low thrum.

“Thanks.” Draco’s voice was rough.

“Get dressed, and come home with me. I’ll give you a back massage, sort out the last of that stiffness.”

“It’s barely four.” Draco had a feeling there would be other kinds of stiffness afflicting him if he let Potter give him a massage.

Potter just looked at him with dark eyes. “Come home with me.”

Draco went home with Potter.

Next, two hidden gems.

I really like Relief from this years Sudsfest. I had 60K of thoughts about this fic but I only had about 4K of time and brainpower, so I sliced out the right bit for Suds and plan to come back to this very soon.

  Watersports is a challenging kink for many, its a broad label so it makes sense that people might be unsure of it, lol. But it gives me such a kick when people trust me and have a go anyway, and then say so in the comments. Love that!

Some Relief:

The afternoon management briefing had essentially been a write-off. The scar on his hip prickled and itched, and he kept zoning out, head full of warm sheets, velvet skin, stubble, sweat. Vivid flashbacks to things they’d done in bed together threaded through with things they hadn’t tried yet. Budget updates and governance and risk assessments and compliance reports. It was like the mumbling of a meeting happening in a different room.

Receipts! This was so much fun to write, I don't know what came over me one afternoon but I was full of beans and asked @shealwaysreads for a random prompt, and Receipts was born a couple of hours later in between meetings.  I also have thoughts about this, which I'd like to revisit one day (god knows when, the to do list is painfully long as it is).

A bit of Receipts:

“Parkinson, you look surprisingly well fed.” Weasley was all but bouncing in her trainers. “Care to show me your receipts?”

“I’ll show you mine if you show me yours, Weasley,” Pansy said smoothly, and Draco didn’t miss the flash in the red-headed menace’s eyes. He looked desperately at Potter, who was attempting to enter the flat behind her. Eventually he had to shove her forward to get past her.

“Malfoy,” Potter’s eyes were sparkling, which was very annoying and not sexy whatsoever. “Alright?”

“I’ve been better, if I’m being honest,” Draco muttered, and Potter shook with suppressed laughter. “Let me get you a water.”

The girls barely noticed their departure, and in the kitchen Draco got down a pair of glasses and took the Brita out of the fridge.

“I hope you’re going to tell me your week has been as miserable as mine?”

Potter took a big sip of water, and his eyes crinkled. “Sorry to disappoint. This is going to be a piece of cake for Gin. She’s as stubborn as fuck, but she’s also already on a pretty strict diet because of training, so it didn’t take much to cut out luxuries. She made me go to the farmers market with her to get even cheaper veg—actually, I could have lived without the run on the way there, if I’m honest.”

“Well, Pans is basically made of refined sugar and nicotine, so I spent our last shop slapping Percy Pigs out of her hands like I was playing Goal Defense for England.”

Potter snorted and nearly spit out his water. Draco felt his belly swoop, and looked away to hide his smile.

“How long do you reckon this will go on?”

Draco cocked his head. “I mean, let’s not kid ourselves, this is foreplay. So I predict whichever one of them gets overcome with the need to hump first.”

Potter shook his head in amazement. “Somehow when you say vulgar things, I’m never expecting it.”

“I’m vulgarity personified,” Draco said, his nose in the air. “I also have a bar of Dairy Milk hidden in Pansy’s top shelf, and if you’re a very good boy I may share it with you.”

“I can be good for you, Draco,” Potter said in a low voice, and Draco stuck his head in the pantry to hide his reddened cheeks.

Tagging is the bit I'm really shit at, obviously never hesitate to just do this if you see it but the rules require tagging so if you haven't done this already and you want to, you are hereby tagged: @gracerene and @thehoneybeet and @candybarrnerd and @nv-md and @academicdisasterfic and @ihopeyoubothstaysafefromharm and @oknowkiss!

[viiridiangreen]

 went to the movies with my partner & my not-technically-in-laws 2day it was nice :-)

We picked the Artsy Movie Theatre which Q and love & used to visit alllll the time as dumb teenagers bc the architecture is swag and the street food outside is yolo & they’d have free jazz shows every?? Thursday I think?? And it’s cheaper than the mall. And they show indie and artsy films and do retrospectives and free outdoor screenings where u sit on the grass & enjoy the fresh air and pretend like your joints can still handle it.

It’s a really cool bit of town which we hadn’t returned to in like three whole years because of both ‘rona and living on the boondocks (so that going downtown can amount to 1/5th of what I make in a month on a bad day).

There is ALWAYS someone from our facebook contacts or from the high school we didn’t go to but orbited around there. It’s one of Thee Hangout Spots for alt / artsy types and though there are around 20 million people in this city + satellites of it, that particular social circle has Hellish Small Town energy. Pueblo chico infierno grande etc etc. Q spotted someone from said highschool who used to be on an “““enemy team”““ but she didn’t notice us.

We picked a random movie on the basis that it starred Tim Roth and the screening time was near enough and it was just........................ SUCH BULLSHIT lol. We spent the whole drive back laughing about it bc it’s literally just Tim sat on a plastic chair slowly draining a bucket of beers while the life drains out of him and he fails to react to any of the events around him. Just the drollest possible shit. And it was extra funny bc it happens in Acapulco and so featured Choice Mexican Stereotypes. At least someone smashed a beer bottle on his head. But that was still like 1/1000th of the catharsis I feel I was owed for sitting thru it. DO NOT watch Sundown (2021). Or do, just to laugh at the Literally Fuckall the protagonist does. We were joking that like,, the crew literally just went on vacation, filmed the guy idly sipping on his beer for a couple weeks, then went back and made up a script on the fly lol. Oh and they expect you to empathise with the british millionaire who is SO SAD while portraying mexicans in a rly stigmatising way it’s. Pretty silly.

It’s extra extra funny bc it encapsulates the Phenomenon associated with that particular movie theatre too. It’s a toss-up bc 50% of the time you get served some precious perfect hidden indie gem which you wouldn’t be able to stream OR illegally download anywhere, just magical, beautiful stuff. The other 50% of the time you get garbage. Nearly nothing in-between.

We were talking about the coin toss before going in and as soon as the credits rolled we were like......... WELL... guess it’s one of THOSE times lmao

[iandores]

inspired by: ian lightfoot // onward ; morty smith // rick and morty ; nathan drake // uncharted ; neville longbottom // harry potter ; brian johnson // the breakfast club ;  will hunting // good will hunting ; robbie shapiro // victorious

wanted connections can be found here. 

full name iandore wilden lightfoot nickname(s) ian  age and zodiac twenty three / virgo hometown new mushroomton, oregon, usa current location elias, california, usa gender cis male sexuality foghorn noises pronouns he / him myers briggs isfj / the defender alignment true neutral  temperament melancholic traits dorky, selfless, kind, and awkward faceclaim t*m h*lland

past ;

* tw death and potential death mentions

ian’s bio can be found here.

ian moved to elias, california ( originating from new mushroomton, oregon ) with his older brother barley in february 2021 in search of the phoenix gem, a stone that holds the ability to bring back the lightfoot boys’ late father for one day. the catch is that they only have a certain amount of time to find the gem and complete the spell, and time is ticking fast. 

in the midst of ian and barley’s search, filled with months of dead ends and unanswered question, hades literally unleashed monsters onto the city of elias and ian was a beat down pretty badly during that mess ( we did this sort of dnd style and i kept rolling twos ... you do the math, friends ). this was an event that was a key marker in priority shifts. you start to think of things a little differently when you almost die. 

in the months following, barley settled into california life way more easily than ian did. the younger lightfoot recognized that easily as he struggled to 1) learn about his abilities and potential as a wizard, 2) continued to come up answerless when it came to the ticking time bomb that was the phoenix gem and .... potentially meeting the sprit of his dad, and 3) dealt with the aftermath of moving to a new state and almost immediately getting brutally attacked by a monster. ( there’s no one to blame here, just how the cards were dealt - but the disparity is probably what lead to the following events. )

ian was getting restless as they stayed too long in one spot, convinced that there was no way the gem was in elias if they hadn’t found it yet, but had gotten to the point where he felt bad asking barley to leave. ian had never seen his older brother so happy - he had found a place here with friends and a girlfriend - but they were on a time crunch and still on a mission, so ian made the decision to leave without his brother with the idea that barley could stay in his happy bubble in elias and ian would return once he found the gem. 

barley did not see ian’s departure the same way. this is something they’ve yet to hash out. 

present ;

ian’s been staying in new mushroomton for a few months with his mom and got a job at mantercorn tavern in attempt to find out more about the phoenix gem. when ian and barley first found out about the spell that would bring back their dad, they visited the tavern and ian always thought that there was some information being hidden there. 

he was right, because  - while he was originally mistaken by thinking the phoenix gem wasn’t in elias - he managed to find a map of the city that would point him directly to the mouse estate. the mayor was in possession of the phoenix gem the whole time.

in an intricate heist that probably took longer than it should have, after convincing his boss to let him train the staff at the new elias location of the bar, ian stole the map and is currently on a side quest to give it to barley. operation: get the phoenix gem is back in action. 

important: ian is currently working in elias on the weekends and new mushroomton on the weekdays to train staff in elias and still cover his shifts at home. he is currently only in elias friday afternoon through monday morning and goes home the rest of the week. 

future ;

coming soon to a theatre near you bc a bitch as no idea !  

connections ;

barley lightfoot - older brother

ariel nyström - waitress @ mantercorn tavern ( help wanted ! )

penelope hainline - oldest ( and best probably ) friend in elias 

sora reyes - new friend

nick wilde - future roommate 

more to come - let’s be friends !

[ear-worthy]

List Envy Podcast: It's The Wish List Listeners Want

People love lists. All kinds. Top ten politics podcasts. Five meanest celebrities. The top 20 comedy movies of all time. Any writer who cares about attracting readers knows that lists work as an attractant, or if you are feeling mean, audacious clickbait.

How about a podcast that caters to list-mania? Welcome to List Envy, a podcast that understandably features lists. 

 Here's the marketing pitch: "What's the most-used emoji? Who's the best Bond villain? Does anyone care that an olive is technically a fruit?

Discover hidden gems from pop culture to pasta, hip-hop to history, and meet the creatives, enthusiasts, and experts who love them.

Each week, host Mark Steadman collaborates with a guest to build a top-5 list on a topic they choose. If you want to know what your next TV binge should be, or where to go on your next trip abroad, List Envy has you covered."

Host Steadman adds: "Whether it was singing karaoke, listening to audiobooks, or devising a radio station in my bedroom, I’ve always appreciated the power of the human voice."

It's admittedly an excellent concept for a podcast. But is it executed well? The answer is an unqualified YES. 

One of my favorite episodes is the June 18, 2024, show where guest Ashley Hammer (Host of Taboo Science, also a terrific podcast) discusses real world inventions inspired by science fiction. Steadman and Hammer make the show informative, funny, witty, and clever. They discuss sci-fi concepts like the mobile phone, autonomous vehicles, credit cards, and even the World Wide Web as current realities often crafted by the sci-fi community.

The July 9, 2024, show with Valerie Paris about James Bond gadgets brought back great memories of Bond, Q, and the often preposterous nature of these MI-6 gadgets that always elicited glee. Here's the show note: Nothing is ever quite as it seems in the world of spies. A watch isn’t just a watch – it’s a deadly weapon. That phonebooth? Also a weapon. Bag pipes? Weapon. This sandwich though, that’s just Q’s lunch. Don’t touch it."

"There's the grenade pen from Golden Eye, the mini-rocket cigarette from You Only Live Twice, and the garrote watch in From Russia With Love."

Through 62 episodes, Mark Steadman has excelled at bringing listeners the unexpected, the funny, the outlandish, and the bizarre -- all packaged with a unique British twist.

Mark Steadman, the creator and host, studied Media & Communication at Birmingham City University, specializing in Internet radio. He graduated the year the term “podcasting” was coined, but it would be a further four years before he’d pluck up the courage to pick up a mic and plug it into the Internet.

But in 2008, the podcast bug finally bit, and he started what would be a 14+ year career helping people make podcasts, first in exchange for beer, and then for money.

In 2016, he founded the media hosting company Podiant, which took him to the British Podcast Awards, and saw him present at International Podcast Day in 2020. The product served millions of listeners across thousands of podcasts, and in 2021 he sold Podiant, so he could focus on working more closely with individuals and small teams, to set them up for podcasting success from day one.

Steadman, in his bio, says: "My love for radio started at a local level, in the glory-days of personality-based breakfast radio. That love affair was sparked at my home city’s famous BRMB, but a succession of cost-cutting measures, takeovers, and technological advances would slowly snuff out that candle."

In 2021, he founded Origin to help impact entrepreneurs build trust with their audiences, and catalyze change. 

Steadman observes: "I do this through a combination of consulting, training, coaching, and mentoring. It centers around driving messages from the ear to the brain, where – through consistency and authenticity – they eventually land in listeners’ hearts."

On List Envy, Steadman has an ear for all kinds of lists, from the typical to the arcane. Episodes have included lists about top five emoji reactions to the Top 5 Korean TV Romcoms." 

On the show, Steadman sounds like he's having fun with all this, and he tends to bring on guests who don't take themselves -- and these lists -- too seriously.

Check out List Envy. It satisfies our evolutionary need to make lists to bring order to our chaotic world. Along the way to this biological imperative, we learn a lot about a diverse set of subjects -- top 5 time-travel romance films to the top 5 ways to eat potatoes -- and enjoy the amiable and quick-witted host Mark Steadman, along with his guests.

Here are some ideas for future episodes:

1. Top Five Beatles Songs

2. Top Five Fast Food Menu Items

3. Top Five Rodney Dangerfield quotes from Caddyshack

4. Top Five BBC podcasts

5. Top Five U.K. current tennis players

[thelensofyashunews]

Samuel Shabazz and Babyface Ray Make It Look Easy on “Life Gets Hard”

Continuing to rise week after week, Samuel Shabazz is proving why he’s one of the Detroit music scene’s hidden gems. Getting ready to release his new album PLANEBOY this Friday, he shares “LIFE GETS HARD” ft. Babyface Ray, a single from the project. The track finds Sam and Ray reflecting on how far they’ve come in life, appreciating their journey to the top and ability to make the climb look easy. Babyface Ray delivers a standout verse with his powerful vocals, singing “Was in last place, now we the ones who hold the trophy,” over ethereal synths. Sam also shines on the track, rapping over summery production: “Life gets hard, make it look easy / I been speedin.’”

"LIFE GETS HARD" arrives ahead of Samuel Shabazz’s upcoming album PLANEBOY, coming this Friday June 21st via Wavy Gang/EMPIRE. In preparation for the album, Sam has been sharing singles, including the lovestruck anthem “FOR YOU,” the flex-filled “1800 CALL SAM," and the Detroit-inspired "PULL ME BACK." The project's features include Sam's Wavy Gang boss Babyface Ray and other rising Detroit artists Talibando, Moxie Knox, and Dre Butterz.

PLANEBOY will be Samuel Shabazz’s latest step in journey to the top of Detroit’s rap game. Growing up in Detroit’s Westside, he was introduced to music by his father, Uncle Sam, an R&B artist signed to Boyz II Men’s label during the 1990s. Starting to rap, write, and produce amidst a restlessly creative childhood, filled with trips to the studio with his dad, he later began recording during stints in Atlanta and California, while earning a Bachelor's degree in Recording Arts. In 2014, while returning to Deroit, Samuel met Babyface Ray through a mutual friend. The two artists bonded as brothers and began collaborating on music.

Their chemistry is evident in Product Of My Environment, their 2019 collab album, which includes the hit track "Hall Of Fame” ft. Veeze (9M YT views). The track pushed Samuel onto new radars and made him a sought-out Detroit collaborator. He began to break beyond the city with 2021's From Me To You and 2022's Not A Fan. Last year, he released the introspective I Changed My Mind, which marks a shift in direction and Samuel's reframed attitude about his career. The project earned Samuel’s most buzz yet in Detroit, and includes Samuel’s most streamed song to date “Dotted Line” ft. Veeze (1.5M YT views).

Now with PLANEBOY on the way, the Detroit hero is ready to soar to new heights.

[thehungrykat1]

Kingsford Cafe is a Hidden Culinary Gem in Kingsford Hotel Manila

It had been a while since my last visit to Kingsford Cafe, so I was happy to be invited last week to rediscover this hidden culinary gem inside Kingsford Hotel Manila. I usually indulge in their themed weekend dinner buffets, but this time we were here to explore some of the unique and creative dishes on their a la carte menu.

Kingsford Hotel Manila is part of the growing lineup of homegrown Filipino hotel brands under Megaworld Hotels and Resorts. It’s located at Bagong Nayong Pilipino, just beside Okada Manila and right in the middle of the bustling Entertainment City. Since it's opening in late 2021 (Kingsford Café Opens Its Doors at Kingsford Hotel Manila), the hotel has been a popular choice for businessmen and travelers looking for a relaxing stay just minutes away from the NAIA airport terminals.

You can find Kingsford Café at the ground floor lobby serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. The café comes with a refreshing and relaxing ambiance. Its contemporary design and cozy interiors are complemented with beautiful wall art pieces.

The restaurant can accommodate up to 128 guests with dedicated seats available for alfresco dining. Guests may also dine privately with sectioned dining spaces ideal for intimate corporate events and other social gatherings.

We were delighted to once again meet Kingsford Café’s Executive Chef Angelo Chubby Timban, a well adorned champion in international cooking competitions and celebrated for his creativity and passion for the craft. Staying close to his roots, Chef Chubby’s dishes pay homage to a strong Filipino upbringing but redefined through modern European techniques alongside contemporary Asian executions. The concept is to celebrate the rich produce of the Philippines and its multicultural influences by featuring nostalgic local flavors to capture the heart of every guest.

Last year, Chef Chubby had created a very special Sampaguita Menu which features dishes inspired and infused with our national flower, the Sampaguita. This also includes Sampaguita beverages like the SaMaRRa (P320) on the left, a refreshing Sampaguita tea combined with mango juice, tarragon leaves, peppermint leaves, and vanilla extract. On the other hand, the Paraw Regatta (P280) is a cocktail named after the annual Iloilo sailboat festival featuring the Paraw. It comes with Jasmine tea, vodka, mango juice, blue curaçao, and grenadine.

It was then time to try some of the featured signature dishes in Kingsford Café's a la carte menu. I've always been amazed at Chef Chubby's presentation and flavors, but we were really surprised with the new lineup that looks more appropriate inside a five-star fine dining restaurant instead of a casual dining cafe.

We started with one of their bestsellers, the Kingsford Laksa (P300). This is a modern presentation of the Singaporean laksa with its creamy laksa broth poured over a medley of shrimp, bean sprouts, crisp miki noodles, young corn and straw mushrooms. It's a different experience from the traditional laksa, especially with the crispy noodles, but the overall flavors of the fragrant laksa are still very much present.

My favorite and best new discovery that afternoon was the Kare-Kareng Bagnet (P450). This lovely deconstructed Kare-kare dish comes with crispy fried pork belly doused in a rich peanut and annatto sauce. It also has steamed lowland vegetables and served with slow cooked ginamos.

I really loved the crunchy chicharron together with the juicy and savory pork belly. This is one of the best versions of Kare Kare I have ever tasted and I would gladly come back to Kingsford Cafe just for this alone.

We also wanted to sample some of their special Sampaguita Menu, so we ordered the Gambas Royale (P580). This dish has big pieces of prawn al ajillo presented with Lucban risotto, soffits, asparagus, sampaguita, and mango salsa. It's not your usual Spanish-type gambas as it has less of the garlicky flavors but is more savoury and balanced, especially with the risotto and vegetables.

On the other hand, the Bistek Tagalog (P500) is a twist on the traditional Filipino dish. This one comes with thick and fatty roasted beef belly with grilled cauliflower, roasted rustic potatoes, monggo and sampaguita caviar in a caramelized calamansi and lacuna jus sauce. I've never seen Bistek Tagalog served this way but we really enjoyed this thicker, meatier, and more flavorful version.

For desserts, we also tried two of their colorful Sampaguita items that really put a big smile on my face.

The Sakura Brazo de Mercedes (P300) is as pretty as they get. This has a mixed berry mousse cake on the bottom topped with a cherry micro sponge and chocolate branch with edible soil. Usually, you can only find this type of presentation in fine dining restaurants, so I was really impressed that they serve this here at a very reasonable price. Imagine going on a date and being served this dessert. You will really be going home happy.

But that's not all, because I was even more impressed with the Mango Sampaguita Cheesecake (P320). I have eaten so many cheesecakes before but this was one of the best versions I have ever tasted! This deconstructed cheesecake is made with Sampaguita cream cheese, mango jelly, blueberry, and edible soil. The sweet cheesecake tasted like my favorite Hokkaido milk, so I really loved finishing this splendid dish.

Kingsford Hotel Manila also has a few promotions in store for Father's Day. Show your love for Dad in the best way—through his stomach. Take him to a tasty food trip experience with a Weekend Dinner Buffet or a Father’s Day Buffet Lunch and bond over delectable food selections as endless as your conversations. Go up to the fifth floor pool area for a savory Chill and Grill, and chatter over unlimited drinks and a platter of grilled meats against a stunning backdrop of the city. Then end the day relaxed and stress-free with their cozy Deluxe Room, with a high-speed internet connection and a TV for a fun movie time–just the way dad likes it.

Moments are definitely priceless, and so is their Kingsford Beer Mug! Make the moment last with a souvenir that he can use for years, and get your dad’s seal of approval at no cost, as the Beer Mug comes free with the room package. The King of the House Package starts at P8,988 nett for 2 pax and includes an Overnight Stay for 2, Buffet Breakfast for 2, Weekend Buffet Dinner or Father’s Day Lunch for 2, Chill and Grill for Dad, and a free Kingsford Beer Mug for Dad. The package is available from June 14 to June 16, 2024 only.

We also took home some chocolates courtesy of Megaworld Hotels and Resorts which features eight different flavors representing eight of their outstanding local hotel brands. We would like to thank Lance Bermejo, Marketing Officer of Kingsford Hotel Manila, for inviting us back at Kingsford Cafe to try out these wonderful new dishes. Kingsford Cafe is one of the most underrated and best value-for-money hotel restaurants in the city, so make sure to drop and discover this hidden gem.

Kingsford Café

G/F Kingsford Hotel Manila, Bagong Nayong Pilipino, Entertainment City, Parañaque

8888-6388 / (0917) 8053585

www.kingsfordmanila.com

www.facebook.com/kingsfordmanila

[setctaxcreditorg]

Empowering the Self-Employed: A Roadmap to the SETC Tax Credit

In the realm of self-employment, the SETC tax credit has emerged as a beacon of financial relief for freelancers, independent contractors, and gig workers, often standing for more than just "Self Employment Tax Credit." In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, this credit has proven to be a lifeline for those who may not have been aware of its existence. In this article, we'll delve into what the SETC tax credit is, how much you could be eligible for, and the steps to claim this often overlooked financial support.

Understanding the SETC Tax Credit:

The SETC tax credit gained prominence with the expansion of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Designed to provide support to the self-employed, this credit compensates for income lost due to COVID-19-related challenges. If you missed claiming these credits in 2020 and 2021, fret not – they are still available, and services like SETCTaxCredit.org can assist you in reclaiming them in a timely manner.

How Much is the SETC Tax Credit?

The potential windfall from the SETC tax credit is substantial, reaching up to $32,220. This amount is calculated based on your net earnings from self-employment in the years 2020 and 2021. Essentially, it acts as reimbursement for income lost during periods of self-employment work affected by the pandemic.

Reasons to Receive SETC Credits:

You may qualify if you experienced work interruptions due to quarantine or isolation orders, self-quarantine based on medical advice, COVID-19 symptoms while awaiting a doctor's appointment, waiting for test results, getting vaccinated, or dealing with vaccine side effects.

Who Qualifies?

If you fall under the self-employed umbrella – be it a sole proprietor, independent business owner, 1099 contractor, freelancer, gig worker, or single-member LLC – you are likely eligible. The key criterion is having missed work due to COVID-19-related issues.

Fast-Track Your Refund:

Although the standard waiting period for SETC credits is 18-23 weeks, there's an expedited option available. SETCTaxCredit.org provides a platform where you can receive the money upfront, bypassing the usual lengthy wait time.

Claiming Your Credits:

To access the SETC tax credits, assess your eligibility and amend your 2020 and/or 2021 tax returns. Opting for certified professionals like Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) or services like SETCTaxCredit.org can streamline the process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Tax Credit Duration:

Covering the period from April 1, 2020, to September 30, 2021, the SETC tax credit provides relief for up to 110 days for childcare-related time off and 20 days for personal or family care.

Average Refund and Waiting Period:

Users of SETCTaxCredit.org have reported an average refund of $16,658. While the standard refund process takes 16-20 weeks, the advance option at SETCTaxCredit.org provides a faster resolution.

Why Haven't You Heard of SETC Before?

Originally tailored for employers with W-2 employees, the SETC tax credit for the self-employed wasn't widely publicized. Shockingly, more than 80% of self-employed individuals are unaware of their entitlement to these credits.

In conclusion, it's time to seize what's rightfully yours. Explore and claim the federal SETC tax credits you deserve today at SETCTaxCredit.org, ensuring you secure the financial support you are owed. Don't let this hidden gem pass you by – uncover the SETC tax credit and take control of your financial destiny.

[mda20009blogassignment]

Week 3: Digital Communities: Tumblr Case Study

As a hidden gem among social media platforms, Tumblr has fostered a thriving community and become the site of numerous types of online activism. It provides a window into the changing face of online social interaction and identity expression through its distinctive platform characteristics, which have nurtured inclusive and varied communities.

One such example is the #bodypositive movement, which was discussed in the 2022 study "Love the Skin You're In" by Anne Reif, Insa Miller, and Monika Taddicken. By highlighting the platform's ability to foster supportive environments for body positivity, this research highlights Tumblr's role in empowering women through self-presentation and positive user reactions.

The community dynamics of Tumblr, especially in reaction to its censoring rules, are examined critically by Pilipets and Paasonen (2022). Issues with NSFW material moderation on the site are explored in their article "Nipples, memes, and algorithmic failure," which reflects larger difficulties in striking a balance between community standards and expressive freedom.

According to Jonathon Hutchinson's (2021) discussion of micro-platformization, Tumblr is a great place for people to do digital activism. Because it is not centrally controlled, specialised communities can thrive inside it, which in turn encourages novel approaches to social and political participation.

The role of young girls in influencing digital feminist discourses and the particular vernacular of Tumblr feminism are highlighted in Jessalynn Keller's research. An examination of "Tumblr feminism" reveals the platform's crucial role in the emergence of social movements.

The significance of Tumblr in content curation and community involvement is further highlighted by the findings of Amanda Brennan, which are covered in Allison McCracken's work. Brennan offers a unique vantage point as Tumblr's Head of Content Insights and Social, shedding light on the platform's strategy for balancing user preferences with community dynamics.

In their study of the effects of Tumblr on the queer (dis)connections of young people, Byron et al. investigated how Tumblr affects the portrayal of LGBT identities. Unlike other social networking sites, this one provides a welcoming environment where people of all gender identities and expressions can flourish.

In conclusion, Tumblr is unique among online communities since it supports many ways of becoming an activist and a community member. Research into its distinctive platform dynamics has shown its importance to the larger context of online social networks and popular culture.

References:

Bryon, P., Robards, B., Hanckel, B., Vivienne, S., & Churchill, B. (2019). “Hey, I’m Having These Experiences”: Tumblr Use and Young People’s Queer (Dis)connections. International Journal of Communication. file:///Users/hanhtrang/Downloads/Byron%20Tumblr%20use%20and%20LGBT%20community%20(1).pdf

Hutchinson, J. (2019). Micro-platformization for digital activism on social media. Information, Communication & Society, 24(1), 35–51. https://doi.org/10.1080/1369118x.2019.1629612

Keller, J. (2019). “Oh, She’s a Tumblr Feminist”: Exploring the Platform Vernacular of Girls’ Social Media Feminisms. Social Media + Society, 5(3), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1177/2056305119867442

McCracken, A. (2020). a tumblr book: platform and cultures. In ACLS Humanities EBook. University of Michigan Press. https://www.fulcrum.org/concern/monographs/x346d608w

Pilipets, E., & Paasonen, S. (2020). Nipples, memes, and algorithmic failure: NSFW critique of Tumblr censorship. New Media & Society, 24(6), 146144482097928. https://doi.org/10.1177/1461444820979280

Reif, A., Miller, I., & Taddicken, M. (2022). “Love the Skin You‘re In”: An Analysis of Women’s Self-Presentation and User Reactions to Selfies Using the Tumblr Hashtag #bodypositive. Mass Communication and Society. https://doi.org/10.1080/15205436.2022.2138442

[thxnews]

Marriage Allowance: Boost Your Personal Finances

  In a push to boost the finances of married and civil partnership couples, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is urging them to take just 30 seconds to check if they can claim Marriage Allowance, potentially unlocking up to £252 annually.  

Eligibility Check During Talk Money Week

As part of Talk Money Week, HMRC introduces a quick and easy way for couples to determine their eligibility for Marriage Allowance by utilizing the HMRC's online calculator. In mere moments, couples can ascertain if they qualify for this financial boost. By using HMRC’s online Marriage Allowance calculator during Talk Money Week, couples can find out instantly if they are eligible.   Who Can Benefit? Couples who may be unaware of their eligibility include those where one partner works, and the other earns less than the personal allowance threshold of £12,570. This encompasses individuals who have retired, those who have opted to care for children or elderly relatives, those with long-term health conditions limiting their ability to work, part-time workers, and those in low-paid jobs.  

Claiming Marriage Allowance: A Simple Process

Claiming Marriage Allowance is straightforward and, importantly, free via GOV.UK. Couples who apply directly on the government website will receive the full 100% tax relief they are entitled to. Angela MacDonald, HMRC’s Deputy Chief Executive and Second Permanent Secretary, underscores the simplicity of the process: "The Marriage Allowance calculator helps couples to find out in seconds how much they stand to benefit. Check today and claim right away. It’s a quick and easy process that’s worth up to £252 a year. Search ‘Marriage Allowance’ on GOV.UK for more information."  

A Hidden Gem for Retired Couples

With approximately 68% of individuals in their sixties being married or in civil partnerships, many in this age group may be unaware of the potential benefits if they've retired while their partner continues to work.   UK Men’s Sheds Takes Action UK Men’s Sheds, a charity that brings together retired men at community workshops, is actively promoting this opportunity to its members. Charlie Bethel, Chief Officer of UK Men’s Sheds, encourages retired individuals: "If you have retired and your partner is still working, you may not realize that you could apply for Marriage Allowance. As a charity that brings retired men together, we are urging our members throughout the UK to invest the 30 seconds of time it takes to find out if they can claim."  

How Marriage Allowance Works

Marriage Allowance can save couples money by allowing the lower-earning partner to reduce their partner's tax liability. Most individuals have a Personal Allowance set at £12,570, which represents the income that is exempt from taxation. With Marriage Allowance, the lower-earning partner can transfer £1,260 of their Personal Allowance to their spouse or civil partner. This transfer can lead to an annual tax reduction of up to £252. Additionally, if eligible, couples can retroactively claim for the previous four tax years, potentially receiving a lump-sum payment exceeding £1,000.   Eligibility Criteria To benefit from this tax relief, one partner must have an income below £12,570, while the higher-earning partner's income must fall between £12,571 and £50,270 (£43,662 in Scotland). HMRC provides further clarification through a YouTube video explaining eligibility and the application process.  

More on this Allowance

Marriage Allowance allows individuals to transfer 10% of their tax-free Personal Allowance. The maximum transfer amount varies according to the Personal Allowance for that tax year.   Marriage Allowance Amounts by Tax Year - 2023/24: £252 - 2022/23: £252 - 2021/22: £252 - 2020/21: £250 - 2019/20: £250 In Scotland, couples can benefit from the allowance if the partner with the higher income pays income tax at the starter, basic rate, or intermediate rate, typically indicating an income ranging between £12,571 and £43,662.   How to Claim It is quick and easy to claim Marriage Allowance for free via GOV.UK. Applying directly on GOV.UK means couples will receive 100% of the tax relief due.   Sources: THX News & HM Revenue & Customs. Read the full article

[ikjun]

i stopped listening to ateez like in 2019? whenever wonderland was released at least. i didnt like it much so i just stopped listening. anyway, i kinda miss them, i guess? and since theyve had so many comebacks ive missed i was hoping you could recommend some of their newer stuff for me to check out? if you have the time/want to. <3

wahhhhh i am a recent fan but have listened to their music casually since last year (so still recent-ish) but i hope some of my recs for post-wonderland stuff can be a fun way to get back into ateez again 🤍

gotta start with my number one queen. deja vu remains the bitch that made me a fan and i think it's a song you just can't not like !!!!!!!!

do you have time to talk about the greatest ateez song of our time? this song is doing everything. for my brain. all the time. legit composing perfection, vocal perfection, performance perfection. i can have it on repeat for 3 hours and just vibe.

a true hidden gem. so fucking good. people prefer cyberpunk over this is a b-side but it's a banger, it's soooo amped up like no moment of relaxation we are going all in. a song of all time.

their most recent cb of last week and i think it's genuinely just one of the most fun, most enjoyable songs they have released. i usually am a b-side connoisseur, but they unlocked something with her ... man, it's one of a kind.

banger !!!!!!! of all time !!!!!!!! they are so right, i am the one in my zone. i have a soft spot for diss tracks and this sorta is one. the remix version on the album is even better it's just. ugh. tingles down my spine bc the bass fucks so badly.

me when i sample two songs and create the sickest fucking hit of all time. i am enraged this is just a little single they dropped off the cuff .... this should be all over their tour setlists, performed as a staple !!!!! the hit potential of it is simply off the charts.

god this one made me a stan i wish i was kidding. another single they randomly dropped for some app (monsta x, tbz and other artists also did) and it's just so fucked up how good it is. genuinely the mv makes it even better but it's a sick song as it is.

named after one of the best movies of our recent times with lyrics based on the same concept ... the ateez movie verse's greatest entry i fear. everything that is happening here is an absolutely wild ride but so good. SOOOO insanely well done. icb they went into the recording booth with god

[laocommunity]

Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: Liam Hendriks, Royce Lewis and Michael Soroka Return with a Bang!

Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: Liam Hendriks, Royce Lewis and Michael Soroka Return with a Bang! Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: Liam Hendriks, Royce Lewis and Michael Soroka Return with a Bang! With the 2021 baseball season in full swing, fantasy baseball managers are constantly scouring the waiver wire for hidden gems to help their teams make a playoff push. This week, Liam Hendriks, Royce Lewis, and Michael Soroka returned from injury and made an immediate impact for their respective teams. Liam Hendriks Liam Hendriks, the hard-throwing closer for the Chicago White Sox, returned from the injured list on August 4th and promptly recorded a save against the Kansas City Royals. Hendriks has been dominant all season, with a 1.86 ERA, 21 saves, and an impressive 14.9 strikeouts per nine innings. Fantasy managers who were able to stash him on their bench will reap the rewards of his return. #LiamHendriks #WhiteSox #FantasyBaseball #WaiverWire Royce Lewis Royce Lewis, the highly touted prospect for the Minnesota Twins, made his major league debut on August 1st after missing the entire 2020 season due to a torn ACL. Lewis hit a home run in his first game and has continued to hit well, with a .333 batting average in his first four games. He has also shown off his speed, stealing two bases in his first game. Fantasy managers looking for a boost in their infield or stolen bases should take a chance on Lewis. #RoyceLewis #Twins #FantasyBaseball #WaiverWire Michael Soroka Michael Soroka, the promising young pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, made his first start since 2020 on August 3rd and looked sharp, allowing only one run in 2.1 innings of work. Soroka had been sidelined with a torn Achilles tendon, but his return could provide a boost to fantasy teams in need of pitching help. Soroka has demonstrated his ability to be a top-level pitcher in the past, with a 2.68 ERA in 2019, so fantasy managers should definitely consider adding him to their rosters. #MichaelSoroka #Braves #FantasyBaseball #WaiverWire Summary In conclusion, Liam Hendriks, Royce Lewis, and Michael Soroka are all players who have recently returned from injury and are worth considering for fantasy baseball managers in need of help. Hendriks provides elite closer skills, Lewis provides a potential five-tool infielder, and Soroka provides a quality starting pitcher. Keep an eye on these players as they could be the missing piece that leads your team to championship glory. #FantasyBaseball #WaiverWire #Injuries #Returners #Baseball #SPORT Read the full article

[etiennekissborlase]

Bitcoin Whitepaper Removed From Apple Computers Following Curious Discovery

Bitcoin Whitepaper Removed From Apple Computers Following Curious Discovery https://bitcoinist.com/bitcoin-whitepaper-removed-from-macos/ The original Bitcoin whitepaper, which was kept hidden on Macintosh computers for over five years, appears to have been excluded from a forthcoming operating system upgrade by Apple.  It has been reported that with the release of the macOS Ventura 13.4 beta 3 to developers on Tuesday, news emerged that the Bitcoin whitepaper had been taken down from the system files. What exactly is going on at Apple? Apple’s Hidden Gems: Bitcoin Whitepaper Discovery And Removal In a recent development, Apple has eliminated the Bitcoin whitepaper from a test scanner app called Virtual Scanner II. This news follows the discovery of the PDF document three weeks ago, which went viral and was just the latest in a series of Easter eggs that Apple or its employees have hidden over several decades. The Bitcoin whitepaper was found among a collection of various assets, including other PDF files and images, in a folder within the Image Capture app. However, with the removal of the test scanner app in the latest MacOS Ventura 13.4 beta, the Bitcoin whitepaper is no longer available.  Apple removes original Bitcoin whitepaper from the latest macOS Ventura beta https://t.co/YG1OlDJNZy by @filipeesposito — 9to5Mac (@9to5mac) April 25, 2023 This update was reported by the Apple-focused news site, 9to5Mac, on April 25. Apple Users Intrigued By Bitcoin Whitepaper In macOS: The inclusion of the Bitcoin whitepaper in macOS operating systems has caught the attention of Apple users, prompting discussions on the company’s stance towards cryptocurrencies.  While some speculate that it may have been a practical choice for testing purposes, others suggest that it could be a subtle endorsement of Bitcoin and its underlying blockchain technology.  The report also notes wilder conspiracy theories, such as the possibility of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs being the elusive Satoshi Nakamoto.  Interestingly, Apple CEO Tim Cook publicly revealed his ownership of cryptocurrency in 2021, adding another layer of intrigue to the situation. However, it remains unclear whether Cook or other executives were involved in the decision to include or remove the whitepaper. Crypto Community Awaits Apple’s Stance Amidst Satoshi Nakamoto’s Mystery The unresolved mystery surrounding the inclusion and subsequent removal of Satoshi Nakamoto’s Bitcoin whitepaper from macOS has left users pondering the implications of Apple’s silence on the matter.  With no clear indication from the tech giant on their stance towards cryptocurrencies, the community is closely monitoring any potential shifts in the company’s attitude towards digital assets.  As the cryptocurrency world awaits Apple’s next move, the significance of this event cannot be overstated, highlighting the ongoing debate on the role of cryptocurrencies in the future of finance. -Featured image from CoinBestNews via Bitcoinist.com https://bitcoinist.com April 26, 2023 at 02:34PM

[tulumlandproperty]

Tulum: A Real Estate Investor’s Paradise

Tulum, a hidden gem nestled along the Mexican Caribbean, has emerged as a top destination for travelers seeking exclusive, one-of-a-kind experiences. Known for its ancient Mayan ruins, tranquil white-sand beaches, and commitment to wellness and sustainability, Tulum is quickly becoming a global hotspot.

Before the pandemic, Tulum welcomed over 2 million visitors per year and was even named one of the best cities to live in Mexico by Forbes. However, as travel restrictions were imposed, Tulum’s open-air architecture and commitment to safety protocols allowed it to thrive while other vacation spots struggled.

As a result, Tulum’s hotel zone expanded with new high-end venues popping up such as IT, Bonbonniere, and Bagatelle, which are also present in other top destinations worldwide. The town’s population has grown by over 65% in the past decade and has the second-highest population growth rate in Quintana Roo. The nearest airport Cancun became the second most visited airport in the world in 2021.

Tulum’s dawn originates in its small bucolic seashore, connecting the Mayan ruins on one end and the Sian Ka’an natural reserve on the other. This isolated and breathtakingly beautiful environment also makes it the perfect place for those craving a deeper connection with themselves, others, and nature. Yoga, breathwork, massages, cacao dance, meditation, women’s workshops, and temazcal ceremonies are some of the activities organized each week at IKAL, a bohemian beach club on the shore of Tulum.

When most countries restricted travel and social activities, many globetrotters chose to halt in Tulum. Given the town’s open architecture, it did not suffer from pandemic-induced restrictions but thrived instead. Tulum’s unique approach to safety and the constant flow of tourists has increased demand for real estate.

In addition, Mexico’s generous visa policy and the recommendation of Tulum as a top investment real estate market by Forbes Council Members make it an attractive option for those looking to start a new life in this Caribbean paradise. The local office of Sotheby’s International Realty reported that they sold more homes in 2020 compared to 2019 and that Tulum is indeed “the current hotspot of activity”.

With a constant flow of tourists, a growing local demand for goods and services, and a growing ex-pat and digital nomad community, Tulum real estate offers a wide range of opportunities for investors, from Tulum homes for sale, to condos and more luxury beachfront properties, it could be the time to look into this golden opportunity to invest in this booming real estate market and experience all that this tropical paradise has to offer.

[shaftesburywyq]

FIFA 23 debuted at the top of the UK physical charts

FIFA 23 Coins is available globally so people from all over are exploring their Career Modes, and are pondering what hidden gems to find within the game.

Now, firstly, we have to differentiate between Hidden Gems and Wonderkids.

The former have a much lower Current Rating, certain of them are in their 60s. they're also less expensive than the wonderkids such as Pedri, Kylian Mbappe, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

In essence, these are players you'd rather not raise an eyelid over when they are discovered, but they are able to develop into real superstars.You'd expect the majority of them to cost less than PS10m as well, so If you're the manager of a Premier League club, keep the tab open whenever you're out scouting!

FIFA 23 debuted at the top of the UK physical charts, beating FIFA 22 launch sales.Sales for this year's installment are up by 1,6 percent in comparison to 2021 that may seem like a slight increase, but is significant as it follows two years of declining sales in retail sales in the FIFA franchise. And the series was already declining steadily prior to that.

Sony's consoles dominated FIFA 23's sales at 41%, with 41% the copies sold shifting to the PS5, now the biggest console for retail sales of the series and 30% of the sales going to the PS4.

Xbox One Xbox One represented 17% of all sales. It was followed by Nintendo's Switch and the Xbox Series, both at 6percent. The sales of the launch for FIFA 23 on Switch were up 20% in comparison to FIFA 22.

FIFA 23's impressive performances naturally had an impact on the UK boxed market in general, with its revenues increasing by 420 percentage week-on-week.

It was more than enough to propel Splatoon 3 out of the top spot where it had settled over the last three weeks. Nintendo's chart for titles ranked No.2 with just a tiny decrease of 14% in sales week over week.

In addition, Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga had a huge sales spike last week increasing by 252% and FUT 23 Coins for sale climbing from tenth to third the third. The growth was especially impressive on PS5, on which 63 percent of the copies sold were sold.