Geekin’ Weekly Digest | 10/03

Hello Geeks! It's already the 4th edition of your Geekin' Weekly Digest! This week at Geekin', we have a ton of news and updates to share with you, covering everything related to technology, video games, movies, series, and pop culture.

Whether you're an avid anime fan, a hardcore gamer, or a science fiction enthusiast, we've got something for you!

So, settle in comfortably, grab a cup of coffee (or tea), and let's dive into the fascinating world of geekdom!

Here are some of the topics we'll cover in this Geekin' digest edition:

Video Games:

• Electronic Arts (EA) bets on generative artificial intelligence.
• EA assesses the impact of Warner Bros. Discovery on the mobile market.
• Concerns arise about potential studio closures in 2024.

Movies and Series:

• Highly anticipated trailer released for Parasyte.
• Updates provided on the Avatar: The Last Airbender sequel.
• New trailer released for the Fallout series on Prime Video.

Tech:

• Concerns Rise Over Potential Studio Closures in 2024

Pop Culture:

• Akira Toriyama's death announced with mourning across the globe.

And now, let's get started!

TV Series

Avatar: The Last Airbender - Seasons 2 and 3 confirmed by Netflix

It's official: fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender can rejoice! Netflix has announced the renewal of the live-action series for two additional seasons, confirming the continuation of Aang and his friends' adventures.

The success of the first season is undeniable: Over 140 million hours viewed in one week, Top 10 most-watched programs in 92 countries.

These impressive numbers confirm the audience's enthusiasm for this live-action adaptation.

While the announcement of seasons 2 and 3 of Avatar: The Last Airbender delighted fans, many questions still remain.

When will they be available? How many episodes will there be? What do the storylines have in store for us?

Here's some information to shed light on your curiosity:

Release date: Netflix has not yet communicated the official release dates for seasons 2 and 3. However, it is unlikely that they will be available before 2024.

Indeed, the production of such a series is lengthy and complex. It involves shooting, special effects, post-production, etc.

Moreover, Netflix tends to space out the releases of its popular series. Therefore, we may have to wait a year and a half, or even two years, before we can discover the new adventures of Aang and his friends.

Number of episodes: The number of episodes for each season has not been confirmed yet. The first season had 8 episodes.

It is possible that seasons 2 and 3 will follow the same format. However, it is not excluded that Netflix decides to offer a different number of episodes.

Synopsis: The synopses for seasons 2 and 3 have not been unveiled yet. Based on the image released by Netflix, it appears that season 2 will focus on Earth and season 3 will explore Fire.

It is certain that seasons 2 and 3 will bring us many surprises and intense emotional moments.

Season 1 is still available on the Netflix platform

Parasite: The Grey, the trailer reveals a new threat on Netflix

Get ready for a terrifying invasion! The trailer for Parasite: The Grey on Netflix has arrived, offering a glimpse into this South Korean adaptation of the successful horror SF manga and anime.

The eerie teaser opens with a group of people seemingly controlled by extraterrestrial parasites, revealing their plan for global domination. We then meet Su-in (played by Jeon So-nee), a young woman forced to adapt to a new reality: coexisting with a parasite. Unlike others, Su-in retains her humanity, which could make her the key to stopping the parasitic invasion. The trailer also features action-packed combat sequences, promising a thrilling visual experience.

A new story in a familiar world

Parasite: The Grey is a live-action reinterpretation based on Hitoshi Iwaaki's acclaimed SF horror manga. The original manga, published from 1989 to 1994, takes readers on a thrilling journey. In a statement, Iwaaki confirmed that this Netflix adaptation will be a completely new story set in a different location. This new approach promises to take fans "into a world beyond [their] imagination."

The project is directed by Train to Busan director Yeon Sang-ho, who will handle direction and production. This is Yeon's latest collaboration with Netflix, following successful projects like Hellbound and The Bequeathed.

Su-in in the spotlight

The official synopsis of Parasite: The Grey describes a unique path for the series: "Set in a new location with new characters, the series charts its own course while retaining the imaginative world and profound message of the beloved manga. At the center of the story is Su-in as she grapples with her new cohabitation with a parasite. The series also follows the efforts of the Grey team, a group dedicated to fighting mysterious parasites living within humans."

Jeon So-nee is joined by a talented cast, including Koo Kyo-hwan (D.P., Kill Boksoon), Lee Jung-hyun (The Battleship Island, Decision to Leave), Kwon Hae-ho (Under the Queen's Umbrella), and Kim In-kwon (Mr. Queen). This project reunites Koo and Lee with director Yeon Sang-ho after their collaboration in Train to Busan Presents: Peninsula.

A legacy of parasitism

Iwaaki's original manga has already been adapted into a critically acclaimed anime series by Madhouse studio (Hunter X Hunter, Frieren: Beyond Journey's End). Titled Parasite: The Maxim, the anime ran for 24 episodes from 2014 to 2015. Additionally, Toho studios produced two live-action Parasite films directed by Takashi Yamazaki. Both the anime and films centered around a high school student named Shinichi Izumi, who is partially possessed by a parasite named Migi. Together, they fight against other extraterrestrial parasites infecting humans.

Mark your calendars! Parasite: The Grey will be streaming on Netflix on April 5. Watch the trailer here

Fallout: The Prime Video series trailer is available!

Prime Video has released the official trailer for its upcoming post-apocalyptic series, Fallout, based on the ultra-popular video game franchise. The trailer introduces Lucy (Ella Purnell), a resident of the Vault, struggling to adapt to the new, twisted, and dangerous world around her. It also gives us a glimpse of Moldaver (Sarita Choudhury) and Ma June (Dale Dickey). To top it off: the series will be available in its entirety on April 11 on Prime Video, one day earlier than planned!

Fallout will be broadcast in over 240 countries and territories worldwide.

If you're not familiar with the game, it tells the story of luxury atomic shelter dwellers forced to return to the irradiated hellscape their ancestors left behind 200 years after the apocalypse. They then discover an incredibly complex, delightfully strange, and highly violent universe.

The series is produced by Kilter Films and executive producers Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy. Nolan directed the first three episodes. Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner are executive producers, writers, and co-showrunners. The cast includes Ella Purnell (Yellowjackets), Walton Goggins (The Hateful Eight), and Aaron Moten (Emancipation).

The show is produced by Bethesda Game Studios, Bethesda Softworks' parent company. Todd Howard, the director of Bethesda Game Studios, is also executive producing alongside James Altman, Todd Vaughn, and Doug Belgrad. As previously mentioned, the series is the result of a collaboration between Amazon Studios, Kilter Films, and Bethesda Game Studios.

Watch the trailer here.

Video Games

Electronic Arts (EA) invests in generative artificial intelligence

Electronic Arts (EA), one of the largest video game companies globally, has announced a significant investment in generative artificial intelligence (AI). The move aims to enhance game development processes and create more dynamic and immersive player experiences.

EA's investment involves collaborating with Gridspace, a company specializing in generative AI and natural language processing. The partnership will focus on integrating Gridspace's technology into EA's game development pipeline.

Generative AI refers to AI systems that can generate content, such as images, music, or text, without explicit human input. In the context of video games, this technology could revolutionize aspects like level design, character behavior, and narrative elements.

The potential applications of generative AI in gaming are vast. It can help developers create more diverse and procedurally generated game worlds, leading to unique player experiences with each playthrough. Additionally, the technology can be used to enhance non-player character (NPC) behavior, making in-game characters more dynamic and responsive to player actions.

Gridspace's expertise in natural language processing is another valuable aspect of the collaboration. This technology can improve dialogue systems, voice recognition, and overall player interactions within the game.

EA's investment in generative AI aligns with the gaming industry's ongoing exploration of innovative technologies to push the boundaries of creativity and player engagement. As the partnership progresses, gamers can anticipate more dynamic and personalized gaming experiences in the future.

Follow us on Geekin' for more gaming insider news!

Warner Bros. Discovery's Impact on the Mobile Gaming Market

The media industry has been buzzing with the recent merger of Warner Bros. Discovery, bringing together two entertainment giants. While the implications for various media sectors are significant, the impact on the mobile gaming market is also worth exploring.

Warner Bros. Discovery's extensive portfolio includes popular franchises like DC Comics, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and more. These intellectual properties (IPs) have the potential to influence the mobile gaming landscape in various ways.

1. Mobile Game Development: The merger could lead to increased investment in mobile game development, leveraging the rich content library of Warner Bros. Discovery. This might result in the creation of new mobile games based on beloved franchises, attracting a broad audience.
2. Cross-Media Franchise Integration: The combined strength of Warner Bros. Discovery could lead to seamless integration of franchises across various media, including movies, TV shows, and mobile games. This cross-media approach can enhance the overall entertainment experience for fans.
3. Niche and Broad Appeal Games: With diverse IPs under its umbrella, Warner Bros. Discovery can cater to both niche and broad audience preferences in the mobile gaming space. From superhero-themed games to fantasy adventures, the portfolio offers versatility.
4. Monetization Strategies: The merger might influence monetization strategies for mobile games associated with Warner Bros. Discovery's IPs. This could involve exploring innovative revenue models, collaborations, or partnerships within the gaming industry.
5. IP Expansions: Warner Bros. Discovery's IPs extend beyond traditional gaming genres. Exploring new and innovative game genres within the mobile space could open up opportunities for unique gaming experiences tied to well-known franchises.

While the full extent of Warner Bros. Discovery's impact on the mobile gaming market will unfold over time, the merger undoubtedly adds a new layer of excitement and possibilities to the dynamic world of interactive entertainment. Follow Geekin' for more gaming related news.

Tech

Concerns Rise Over Potential Studio Closures in 2024

The year 2024 has seen a wave of concerns in the entertainment industry, particularly regarding the potential closure of several studios. Various factors contribute to these concerns, and industry experts are closely monitoring the situation.

1. Economic Challenges: The global economic landscape has faced uncertainties and challenges, affecting various sectors, including the entertainment industry. Studios may encounter financial difficulties, impacting their sustainability.
2. Streaming Wars Dynamics: The ongoing competition in the streaming wars has led to a surge in content production. However, not all studios can keep up with the demand, leading to potential market consolidation and closures.
3. Production Delays: The COVID-19 pandemic continues to influence production schedules, causing delays and disruptions. Studios facing prolonged production challenges may struggle to recover, contributing to closure concerns.
4. Changing Consumer Behavior: Evolving consumer preferences and behaviors, particularly in the wake of the pandemic, have reshaped the entertainment landscape. Studios must adapt to these changes or face the risk of closure.
5. Shifts in Content Consumption: The rise of streaming platforms and the decline of traditional cable and satellite TV have altered how audiences consume content. Studios relying on outdated models may face difficulties, prompting the need for adaptation.

While concerns about studio closures persist, it's essential to acknowledge the resilience and adaptability of the entertainment industry. Some studios may face challenges, but others will likely find opportunities for growth and innovation in this dynamic landscape.

Pop Culture

Tribute to Akira Toriyama: A Manga Master has Passed Away

The world learned with immense sadness about the passing of Akira Toriyama, the master of manga and the father of the iconic series Dragon Ball, on March 1, 2024, at the age of 68. The official announcement, made on March 8, has sparked a wave of emotions and tributes across the globe. All of our team at Geekin' wishes him to rest in peace.

A Creative Genius

Born in 1955, Toriyama began his career in the 1970s, quickly establishing himself as a talented and influential author. His unique style, blending humor, action, and adventure, has captivated millions of readers through his works, including Dr. Slump and, of course, Dragon Ball.

Dragon Ball: A Timeless Legend

Created in 1984, Dragon Ball propelled Toriyama to superstar status. The story of Son Goku, a Saiyan warrior on a quest for the Dragon Balls, has fascinated entire generations and inspired countless artists and creators.

An Immense Legacy

The passing of Akira Toriyama is an immeasurable loss for the world of manga. His talent, creativity, and passion have left a lasting mark on the industry, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that will continue to inspire and entertain readers for many years to come.

Tributes and Testimonials

Since the announcement of his death, tributes have poured in from around the world. Fans, artists, and personalities from the manga industry are honoring the memory of a master and expressing gratitude for the immense body of work he created.

A Farewell to a Master

Akira Toriyama has departed, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy. His talent, passion, and imagination have brought extraordinary worlds to life that will continue to captivate the imaginations of future generations.

Rest in peace, Akira Toriyama. Your name and influence will never be forgotten. #Geekin'

Releases Of The Week

After covering this week's news, let's take a break from the headlines and immerse ourselves in the world of pop culture!

It's time to relax with the releases of the week, catering to all streaming, series, and video game enthusiasts!

Netflix invites us to travel with "Bandidos" on March 13, indulge in "Chicken Nugget" on March 15, and dive into action with "D'une main de fer," also available on March 15.

Disney Plus has exciting offerings too, with the 16th season of "Criminal Minds" and the 3rd season of "Reservation Dog," both available from March 13.

As for video games, the choices abound:

• Are you a fan of renovation? "Hotel Renovator" lands on PS5 and Xbox Series on March 12.
• Prefer historical strategy? "Crown Wars: The Black Prince" releases on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series on March 14.
• Craving adventure? "GYLT" arrives on Switch on March 14, along with "Highwater," available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, and Switch.
• And for medieval RPG enthusiasts? "Kingdom Come: Deliverance" comes to Switch on March 15.

So, power up your console and/or TV, connect to your favourite platform, and enjoy! Follow Geekin' for more recommendations.

The Geekin' Quiz

Last week's answers are in! It's time to see if you're a true geek!

Answers to the Geekin's Multiple-Choice Quiz (03/03):

• Movies
  • Q1: In which science fiction film does the main character dream of becoming a real human?
  • R1: Blade Runner
• TV Series
  • Q2: What TV series follows the adventures of a group of geeky friends living in Pasadena, California?
  • R2: The Big Bang Theory
• Anime
  • Q3: What is the name of the main character in the anime "Attack on Titan"?
  • R3: Eren Yeager
• Manga
  • Q4: What is the name of the science fiction seinen manga, written and illustrated by Tsutomu Nihei, that features an amnesiac character in a devastated universe?
  • R4: Blame!
• Video Games
  • Q5: What is the name of the video game that follows the adventures of a character saving the world from an evil dragon?
  • R5: Skyrim

How many correct answers did you get? Share your results in the comments and challenge your friends! Remember to write your answers in Geekin's post below!

This week's questions

• Movies
  • Q1: In which dystopian science fiction film from 1982 does Harrison Ford play a "replicant" hunter?
    • Blade Runner
    • Terminator
    • Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior
    • Akira
• TV Series
  • Q2: Which British science fiction TV series follows the adventures of a group of time-traveling individuals throughout history?
    • Doctor Who
    • Sherlock
    • Black Mirror
    • Peaky Blinders
• Anime
  • Q3: What is the name of the Japanese animation studio behind cult films like "Akira," "Ghost in the Shell," and "My Neighbor Totoro"?
    • Studio Ghibli
    • Gainax
    • Toei Animation
    • Madhouse
• Manga
  • Q4: What is the name of the horror fantasy seinen manga written and illustrated by Kentaro Miura, published between 1989 and 2021, following a group of mercenaries battling demonic creatures?
    • Berserk
    • Vagabond
    • Blame!
    • Umineko no Naku Koro ni
• Video Games
  • Q5: What is the name of the action-RPG video game developed by FromSoftware and published in 2011, set in the fictional kingdom of Lordran?
    • Dark Souls
    • Skyrim
    • The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
    • Bloodborne

That's it for this week's Geekin's digest!

Don't forget to join us next week for more news, reviews, interviews, and our Geekin' quizzes!

In the meantime, follow us on social media (@Geekin') to stay updated on all things geeky.

And most importantly, keep sharing your passion with us! #Geekin' #wearegeeks

See you next Sunday for another Geekin' Weekly Digest!

Until then, Stay Geek!