You don’t need a Chicago zip code to know about the Gold Coast style. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a haven for the city’s most affluent, located right on the coast of Lake Michigan. This luxurious neighborhood is filled with designer boutiques, multimillion-dollar mansions and of course, rich moms with old money style.

Walking around the neighborhood, I noticed similar shoes on everyone’s feet, including cutesy Mary Janes, sleek loafers, and the iconic Adidas sneakers loved by Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Aniston and more. Whether you choose a pair for errands, work, brunches or anything in between, these 13 luxe shoes make you look like a wealthy Chicago socialite.

13 Gold Coast Rich Mom Shoes

1. Totally Timeless: The search ends for the most expensive-looking Mary Jane flats. I mistook them for real leather.

2. Boutique Find: Give sporty sneakers a boutique-like twist with these ribbon-lace kicks. They go with everything, so prepare to wear them 24/7.

3. Easy On: Instead of slides, opt for these pointed-toe mules that slip on just as easily (and actually elevate your aesthetic).

4. Laced Up: Beige, lace, ribbons! These dreamy sneakers lean more sophisticated than athletic, so you can wear them for Fridays at the office.

5. Luxe Leopard: Make a statement in these sassy leopard-print loafers that take a tee and jeans to ultra-polished heights.

Related: These 4 Old Money Sneaker Trends Are Straight From Europe — From $10

I spent ten days in Europe, and when I tell you that locals wore rich-looking sneakers everywhere, I really mean everywhere. What struck me most wasn’t the sheer volume — after all, the style is incredibly comfortable — but rather that the coolest gals wore the same four sneaker trends on repeat. Sure, the trends […]

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6. Celeb Magnet: If you grab one pair of Adidas, let it be the classic Samba sneakers that have over 23,000 five-star ratings.

7. Designer Find: Consider this your sign to snag these quiet-luxury penny loafers on major sale. The shiny ‘C’ logo is the whole point.

8. Square-Toe Stunner: Mary Janes can look dated but not these modern wonders. They’re designed with matte leather and a chic square toe.

9. Slinging It Back: Combine a slingback silhouette, mini block heel and metallic finish, and you get these incredibly rich pumps. They’re 38% off, so run!

10. Two-Toned: Ever since Angelina Jolie wore two-tone flats, I’ve been eyeing this fall-coded knit version.

11. Burgundy Babe: Whether you call them ‘backless loafers’ or ‘pointed-toe mules’ is up to you; either way, these shiny burgundy shoes serve such classy vibes.

12. Cool Mom: Look like a Chicago cool mom in these sleek, low-profile sneakers that should cost hundreds but are only $27.

13. Everyday Staple: Swap sneakers for this suede flats style and feel instantly more put together. I love the soft fabric and gold hardware for fall.

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Andy Cohen has a firm answer for anyone hoping to see him compete on “Dancing With the Stars.”

The 58-year-old’s reasoning goes back years, as he has made peace with staying off the dance floor for good.

Andy Cohen has built an empire around “The Real Housewives” franchise for two decades. That success has made him one of the most recognizable names in reality television.

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Cohen revealed his views in an interview about his career and Bravo’s future. Much of the conversation centered on where the network plans to find its next batch of cast members on “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” He pointed to cities like Nashville and Chicago as places already explored multiple times.

He also addressed the recent casting of Tracy Tutor, who is joining “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.” Cohen said the move had been “a very long time coming” for the Los Angeles real estate star. Tutor had spent years appearing on “Watch What Happens Live” promoting her own show.

Cohen also touched on Rosie O’Donnell’s possible return to talk show television. He spoke about her with clear enthusiasm, hinting she could be a good fit for Bravo down the line. The Bravo executive also remains closely involved with the franchise, making his position different from that of the celebrities who enter reality competitions.

He shared with Variety that his work requires him to guide conversations, reunions, and casting rather than learn choreography or survive elimination rounds. That distinction helps explain why he can embrace reality television while refusing to become its contestant.

Cohen’s Answer To Fans Seeing Him In The Ballroom

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Dancing wasn’t the only reality format Cohen addressed during the conversation. He was also asked directly about “The Traitors,” a show he’s hosted reunions for in the past. His answer made clear he has no plans to ever compete on it either.

As shown in a shared excerpt from the interview, producers have never actually approached him about joining that cast. Even if they did, he said hosting the reunion afterward would be nearly impossible to pull off. He added that he’d likely become an early target, especially given his own history producing competition shows.

The conversation then turned to “Dancing With the Stars,” which he confirmed he was once asked to join years ago. I can’t dance on TV. No one wants to see that,” Cohen explained. He said people posted clips of him dancing at Dead shows and made fun of him on TikTok. Cohen summed up his position, saying, “Let me dance in peace.”

John Stamos Shares Andy Cohen’s Views About ‘Dancing With the Stars’

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Cohen isn’t alone in turning down “Dancing With the Stars” over the years. Actor John Stamos has faced the same request from producers for years. His reasoning, though, comes from a very different place.

The Blast reported that Stamos revealed he’s asked to join “every single season,” but always declines. He said the show’s appeal comes from watching contestants struggle and risk injury. “What makes that show good is people suffering and looking like fools,” he explained on a recent podcast.

Stamos even told producers directly to stop asking him altogether. He said he has no interest in the physical toll the competition often takes on its cast. Like Cohen, he’s made his stance on the show clear for years now.

Other Stars Who Have Drawn Their Own Ballroom Boundaries 

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Cohen and Stamos are far from the only names who’ve turned down the ballroom. Several other celebrities have made their refusals just as public in recent years. Their reasons range from live-TV nerves to simply avoiding reality television.

Tish Cyrus admitted on the “Sorry We’re Cyrus” podcast that the live format leaves her too nervous to compete, even though daughter Brandi thinks she’d be great. US Magazine shared that her ex-husband, Billy Ray Cyrus, actually did the show in season four, placing fifth with pro partner Karina Smirnoff.

In 2025, Kevin Jonas also turned it down despite being asked nearly every season; he said he has no plans to join. Caitlyn Jenner reportedly declined too, with cohost Alfonso Ribeiro, who showed no interest too, calling her an actor rather than a dancer.

Kylie Kelce has been just as blunt, telling the “Conversations With Cam” podcast she doesn’t want “anything reality,” “DWTS” included. Each name adds to a growing list of stars who’d rather watch from home than join in.

Inside Andy Cohen’s Interesting Love Life

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Away from casting talk and reality show offers, Cohen’s love life has drawn attention lately. He’s currently dating Sobieski, whom he met at a July 4th party last year. He claimed it was love at first sight. 

Sobieski is 16 years younger than Cohen and has never watched a single episode of “The Real Housewives.” Cohen joked his algorithm is now “feeding him Housewives-related things,” slowly pulling him into the Bravo universe anyway. “He loves my kids and me, and that’s what’s important,” Cohen said. 

After over a year since they met, he soft-launched their relationship by posting a picture of them on his Instagram page. He said the Bravo franchise has no clue about his relationship, and he would love to keep it that way. He also revealed that he took his time before introducing Sobieski to his children, as shared by The Blast.

Andy Cohen seems perfectly happy to let someone else compete on “Dancing With The Stars.”

In the first installment of this two-part interview with The Blast, Mumbi Maina reflected on how “Sense8” and “The Matrix Resurrections” changed the trajectory of her life.

In this follow-up, Mumbi reveals the Marvel character she would love to play someday and explains why the role feels particularly close to home. She also turns her attention to African cinema, sharing what excites her about its next chapter.

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When Mumbi Maina thinks about her ultimate dream role, one Marvel icon immediately rises above the rest. “Storm is the first role that comes to mind. 100%,” Mumbi told The Blast, adding a little cheekily, “She’s also half Kenyan, so it would be quite fitting, no?”

The attraction, however, goes well beyond their shared national heritage or Storm’s superhuman abilities. The actress describes herself as a versatile performer who gravitates toward strong, complicated characters that allow her to explore different sides of human psychology.

Storm, also known as Ororo Munroe, is one of the X-Men’s most powerful mutants, with the ability to manipulate weather and atmospheric forces.

The Character Has Deep Roots In Africa

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There is plenty beneath the surface of the superhero Mumbi would love to play one day. According to Marvel, Storm was born in Harlem to Kenyan princess N’Dare and American photographer David Munroe before her family relocated to Cairo.

After losing her parents as a child, Ororo Munroe eventually journeyed toward her ancestral homeland in Africa. Her sprawling comic history has since seen her become an X-Men leader, a mentor, and even Queen of Wakanda through her marriage to T’Challa.

“Storm is such an iconic character, and there’s so much depth to her beyond her abilities,” Mumbi said of the part made most famous by Halle Berry. She told us she would relish the chance to dig into the superhero’s different dimensions, including “her strength, her vulnerability, her power and her humanity.”

For now, though, the role has entered a new chapter with Maya Boyd, whom Marvel announced as its next Storm at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Boyd is expected to debut as Ororo in the studio’s upcoming “X-Men” movie, currently slated for 2028.

Inside Mumbi Maina’s Rise Through African Film And Television

Long before Hollywood came calling, Mumbi had already been steadily building a résumé across African film and television. She entered the industry in 2009 as Riziki in “Unseen, Unsung, Unforgotten,” a film centered on HIV/AIDS awareness.

Her profile grew further when she joined the drama series “Mali,” a role that put her in front of a much wider television audience.

From there, her credits expanded across genres and markets. She appeared in major productions, including the 2020 Netflix thriller “40 Sticks.” Mumbi also took on the role of Thabisa in the Nigerian film “La Femme Anjola.”

That breadth of experience has given Mumbi a front-row view of how African film has evolved across different territories. In our conversation, she described the industry as being in a period of reinvention and said she sees opportunity in the disruption.

Mumbi Wants African Filmmakers To Put African Audiences First

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Speaking to The Blast, Mumbi said shifts in the streaming landscape have forced African film to “hit something of a reset button.”

She views this moment as difficult, but potentially freeing. “It’s challenging, but I also see it as a wonderful opportunity for a clean slate,” she said.

For Mumbi, that means figuring out “what actually works” for the region instead of trying to fit African storytelling into Western molds. “We get to redefine what draws in our audiences and determine what success looks like on our own terms,” she explained.

Part of that reset, she believes, must involve greater confidence in telling distinctly African stories. “We still need to evolve in writing stories that are fully ‘us,’” Mumbi said, stressing that the goal does not always have to be reaching a global audience. “I think we sometimes underestimate the value of telling stories for our own audiences first.”

Mumbi Maina Calls For Better Actor Welfare And Stronger Marketing

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Mumbi also believes that executives need a stronger appreciation of what actors contribute beyond visibility or social-media numbers. “An actor brings craft, interpretation, audience connection and an enormous amount of creative value to a production,” she said.

Mumbi argued that artists’ wellbeing deserves equal attention, particularly “how we work, how we process, and how our welfare is considered and protected.”

Marketing remains another concern. “We have incredible stories and incredible talent,” she said, “but audiences need to know that the work exists and be given a reason to engage with it.” Still, Mumbi is enthusiastic about what could come next. “I think we have an opportunity to become much more intentional about what African cinema looks like, what it sounds like, who it is for, and ultimately what success means to us.”

Leah Remini Is Officially Joining RHOBH for Season 16! 

Leah Remini is officially joining The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

The actress has signed on to join season 16 of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, according to TMZ, marking one of Bravo’s biggest celebrity additions to the franchise yet. Leah Remini is already one of the most recognizable names to enter the Housewives universe. She became a household name playing Carrie Heffernan on the hit sitcom The King of Queens and has since built a career known for both comedy and her willingness to speak candidly about her personal experiences.

That outspoken personality could make her a natural fit for RHOBH, where cast members are rarely shy about confronting one another when tensions rise.

The move also comes as Leah enters a new chapter professionally. She recently signed with William Morris Endeavor, signaling that several new projects may be in the works as she makes her jump to Bravo. Remini won’t be the only familiar face joining the Beverly Hills cast.

Million Dollar Listing Los Angeles star Tracy Tutor, 51, also confirmed that she is joining season 16, announcing the news in an Instagram post on Wednesday, Aug. 19. “The secret’s officially out,” Tracy wrote before sharing her excitement about stepping into the franchise.

“I’m joining the cast of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and I could not be more excited for this next chapter,” she wrote. “Beverly Hills is home. I’ve raised my girls here, built my career here, and now apparently I’ve decided to let you all even further into my life.”

Tutor acknowledged that she has some nerves about the transition, but she also made it clear she’s ready to embrace whatever comes with being a Housewife.

“Excited? Very. Nervous? A little. Likely to get into some trouble? Absolutely. So what’s left to say but, Let’s f—— go.”

With both Remini and Tutor joining the lineup, season 16 is already shaping up to bring fresh personalities, established star power and potentially plenty of new drama to Beverly Hills. Season 16 is already in production, with several cast members — though not Leah or Tracy — attending Bozoma Saint John’s Aug. 21 wedding to Keely Watson in Ghana. Dorit Kemsley, Kyle Richards, Jennifer Tilly and Sutton Stracke were among the guests.

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Avigail is an Entertainment blogger at All About The Tea, who specializes in The Real Housewives of Atlanta and The Real Housewives of Potomac. Avigail has a background in marketing. She’s a Brooklynite living in the Bahamas, with a passion for travel, writing, reality TV watching, pop culture and spoken word.

Call your mother because Brittany Snow, Dave Grohl, Jasmine Tookes, Ava Phillippe, Alexandra Shipp, and more stars headed to Beverly Hills, California, on Wednesday, Aug. 26, for the opening of MOTHER’s flagship.

The celebs proved that mother knows best, arriving in looks from the fashion brand for a chic cocktail party hosted by founders Lela Becker and Tim Kaeding.

DJ Mei Kwok spun tunes as attendees sipped pink cocktails, caught up in the conversation pit, snacked on caviar from a cart, snapped pics by an analog phone installation, and, of course, shopped.

The latest Dazzler capsule was on display, featuring denim, ready-to-wear, outerwear, knits, and accessories, along with limited-edition products and seasonal exclusives available only at the Beverly Hills store.

Another picture-perfect moment came courtesy of the vintage photo booth, where recorded messages from Alicia Silverstone, Sarah Silverman, and Chloe Fineman greeted partygoers.

And consider MOTHER’s house rules officially suspended for the evening.

A vintage white El Camino parked outside the store kept the after-hours fun going, delivering late-night pizza from Mulberry Street Pizzeria right next door.

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Roomies! Keith Powers has the timeline talking after sharing a personal milestone that has us raising our glasses — just not the boozy kind! The actor recently gave fans a peek at a major change he’s made. And judging by his post, Keith is clearly feeling good about where he is today.

RELATED: Go Get Her? Fans Encourage Jacob Latimore To Spin The Block On Serayah Amid Her Split From Joey Bada$$ (VIDEO)

Keith Powers Hits 600 Days Alcohol-Free

Keith Powers revealed that he has officially reached 600 days without alcohol. In a photo shared on social media, the actor stands shirtless beneath a clear blue sky, pointing the camera toward himself while giving a serious, locked-in look. Looking fresh from a run, Keith is visibly sweaty and rocks black headphones and a black cap while biting his bottom lip. Over the photo, he added several exclamation-point emojis alongside the message, “DAY 600 of No ALCOHOL” and “(I’m done forever, counting for fun now)”, paired with a beer glass and error-sign emoji. And honestly? We love that for him!

Fans Got Jokes While Celebrating Keith’s Big Win!

Fans quickly ran to TSR’s Instagram comment section and ran it up with reactions to Keith Powers’ milestone. Some said they were genuinely happy for him. While others opened up about their own sobriety journeys and shared words of encouragement. Of course, others had a different take, joking that “Jesus turned water into wine,” so they’re good with the alcohol.

One Instagram user @dr.chappelle206 said, “I hope more ppl try this the way our generation drinks. We all need a liver panel ran 😩🥴”

This Instagram user @ntunga.abantu commented, “600 seconds for me 🥳”

And, Instagram user @x0.vay wrote, “maybe he had an addiction, in any event congrats to him for staying Sober 👏🏽”

Meanwhile, Instagram user @iamscorpio420 shared, “This accomplishment in this crazy world needs to be celebrated 🔥🔥”

While Instagram user @charmstacie claimed, “I can’t get pass 60 minutes 😩”

Finally, Instagram user @dougie_dagoat said, “Jesus turned water into wine, I don’t know why this is a flex. 😩”

Stepping Into His Forever Sober Era?

Ryan Destiny and Keith Powers are officially headed down the aisle, and Keith’s recent sobriety milestone has us wondering if the lifestyle change helped shape this new chapter. The couple announced their engagement last year in a joint social media post, with Keith keeping it short and sweet: “Engaged to the love of my life,” alongside a first look at Ryan’s stunning ring. The two originally dated from 2017 to 2022 before seemingly finding their way back to each other, and now they’re taking that love to the next level.

With Keith recently revealing that he’s reached 600 days without alcohol andsaying, “I’m done forever,” some may be wondering if the lifestyle change helped set the tone for this fresh start with Ryan. And now, folks may also be wondering if he plans to carry that alcohol-free lifestyle into married life. Either way, we love a full-circle love story and a beautiful new chapter!

RELATED: Congrats! Keith Powers & Ryan Destiny Announce Engagement In Sweet Joint Post (PHOTOS)

Toya Johnson has fans gagging after videos surfaced of her looking GOODT at Jeremy Robinson’s 50th birthday celebration. Plenty of celebrities popped out for the festivities, but fans couldn’t take their eyes off Toya. Clips showed her turning up during Juvenile’s performance, and folks quickly started saying she’s aging backwards.

RELATED: Reginae’s Impression Of Her Mom Toya Johnson’s Accent Has Internet In Disbelief: “She Sounds More Like Toya Than Toya”

The Vibes Were UP, But Toya Johnson’s Face Card Stole The Show

Recently, Toya Johnson dropped a video on social media from her time at Jeremy Robinson’s 50th birthday party. Videos shared by LiveBitez showed Toya turning up and looking stunning, with her makeup popping, a strapless black dress on, and a beverage in hand. Once fans peeped the clips, they immediately started saying she’s “aging backwards” and looking better than ever. Others said she’s aging like fine wine and her glow isn’t going anywhere.

Fans Say Toya Is Aging Like FINE Wine

Comment kept rolling into LiveBitez’s comment section, with fans dropping heart-eyes and fire emojis for Toya. Peep some of the reactions below.

Instagram user @amazing_.t wrote, “Absolutely Gorgeous! 🖤 Agin like Fine Wine🍷” 

Instagram user @lizzybaby4579 wrote, “This lady don’t look like she ever ages 🥰😍🤩” 

While Instagram user @ewwulookliketashak wrote, “She looks great 😍😍😍” 

Then Instagram user @seductionthevoice wrote, “She so damn fine.” 

Another Instagram user @demihiggs wrote, “She’s always been so pretty 😍😍😍” 

Instagram user @gorgelious wrote, “Just fiiinnnee 😍” 

Then another Instagram user @coupe_22 wrote, “Loveeeee her 😍😍🔥🔥🔥” 

While another Instagram user @luscious_bae wrote, “TOYA IS FOREVER FINE YESSSSSSSSSSS LAWDDDDDDDD QUEEN 👑👑👑🔥🔥🔥” 

Lastly, Instagram user @_monetdior wrote, “She fine 😍😍” 

Reginae Had Fans Doing A Double Take With Her Impression Of Toya

Toya previously took over timelines after hopping on a livestream with Reginae Carter. Their mother-daughter convo had fans cuttin’ UP online, especially when Reginae seemed to be impersonating her mom’s New Orleans accent. Nae pretended to talk like she was NOLA, and fans said she nailed it so well that she sounded just like her mom. Peep the video that had fans cracking up below.

RELATED: Toya Johnson & Robert Rushing Share Throwback Clips From Their Wedding Night & Social Media Is Gushing Over Their Chemistry 

Video games are one of the most popular mediums in the world nowadays, thanks to their increasing quality and the wider demographic that they reach. As titles continue to evolve, AAA blockbusters like Elden Ring and Red Dead Redemption 2 push gaming further. However, not everyone prefers hyperrealistic 3D graphics, instead opting for a more nostalgic 2D setting.

2D games aren’t just about nostalgia; they have a certain style of gameplay that just resonates with some players, which is why this list will rank the ten greatest side-scrolling video games of all time. Based on aspects such as design, gameplay, visuals, narrative, originality, entertainment value, fan opinion, critical acclaim, and overall quality, these ten games are the best of the best. Side-scrolling games need continuous motion, meaning games like Street Fighter and Super Smash Bros. are not eligible.

10

‘Streets of Rage 4’ (2020)

Image via Dotemu

Side-scrolling games aren’t simply platformers, and they certainly are not just older games, and the proof lies with Streets of Rage 4, a modern arcade beat em up. A new crime syndicate has taken over Wood Oak City, and the children of the leader keep their rule in check. But old and new fighters unite to take down these usurpers and free the city from their tyrannical control.

Reviving old franchises of 16-bit arcade games is a tough challenge because they usually lack the soul of the original. However, Streets of Rage 4 is the rare exception that perfectly captured the aesthetic and soul of ’80s arcade beatdown games with revamped graphics and a modern feel. Further bolstered by smooth animation, fluid combat, and incredible gameplay, Streets of Rage 4 is the prime example of how to revive a franchise.

9

‘Cuphead’ (2017)

2D side-scrolling video games can be deceptively difficult, and if players still don’t believe that, then they should play Cuphead. The titular character has more than a couple of debts, but he and his brother, Mugman, make a deal with the devil in order to clear them. Now, Cuphead and Mugman must travel around the world and force the money out of other debtors of the devil to collect their soul contracts.

Cuphead is one of the most visually stunning video games of all time, creating a retro aesthetic that captures old-school animation perfectly. It does this by hand-drawing everything in painstaking detail, enhancing the style and vibe of this game. However, Cuphead is also considered one of the most challenging video games with its blend of unforgiving platforming and shooting gameplay.

8

‘Katana ZERO’ (2019)

Image via Askiisoft

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Fans might think most of the games on this list feature older titles, but it actually consists mostly of modern video games, such as Katana ZERO. Subject Zero is an amnesiac assassin who takes up any contract that comes to him in a grimy neon-lit metropolis. He relies on a time-manipulating drug called Chronos for his powers, but when he stumbles upon a conspiracy behind it, he must uncover its origins.

For fans who want a modern side-scrolling game with exhilarating gameplay and flashy mechanics, Katana ZERO is the game for them. The blend of puzzles and action creates a distinct sense of gameplay that includes bullet-time, time-stopping, and high-stakes battles that turn into a rhythm of swordplay choreography that feels like a symphony of fluid combat. Not to mention, Katana ZERO also boasts an impressive narrative, meaning it can engage the player in multiple ways.

7

‘Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze’ (2014)

Image via Nintendo

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Nintendo is no stranger to 2D side-scrolling games, and they have a few titles on this list, starting with one of their modern titles, Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze. When the Snowmads invade Donkey Kong Island and blast DK and friends far away, the group must travel back to their home and take it back before the Viking-like animals get too comfortable.

The Donkey Kong Country franchise is critically acclaimed, but the newest game proves to be better than its predecessors because of its revamped platforming gameplay and tight level design. The Wii U has many great games, but the failure of the console means players didn’t get to experience the masterpiece that was Tropical Freeze. Simply satisfying to play, the level design is among the best of all time, making the side-scrolling platforming the best it has been.

6

‘Sonic the Hedgehog 2’ (1992)

Image via Sega

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There are a lot of renowned side-scrolling franchises, but one of the most popular is Sonic the Hedgehog, and his best video game is arguably Sonic the Hedgehog 2. Dr. Robotnik is after the Chaos Emeralds again, this time wanting to use them to power his new weapon, the Death Egg. Luckily, Sonic and Tails are here to stop him.

The original was great, but Sonic the Hedgehog 2 refined everything that it did, establishing itself as one of the most influential 2D side-scrolling games. It is momentum-based platforming at its best, creating a sense of movement unheard of for its time. Fast-paced, exhilarating, and non-stop action defines Sonic the Hedgehog 2 and its revolutionary movement.

5

‘Hollow Knight’ (2017)

Image via Team Cherry

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Metroidvanias originated as side-scrollers, and they are still the best in this format, as proven by Hollow Knight. When the bug-like warrior, armored with nothing but a needle, learns that the world of Hallownest has been taken over by a plague that infects its residents, they must fight through it to learn the source of the infection and cure it before it takes over everyone.

Hollow Knight is the pinnacle of modern Metroidvania, thanks to its original narrative, fluid platforming, difficult bosses, and smooth, yet exciting combat. Outside of its gameplay, Hollow Knight is also fully hand-drawn, giving the world a greater aesthetic and enhancing the art and atmospheric vibe of it. All of this comes together to make it one of the best modern fantasy video games.

4

‘Inside’ (2016)

Image via Playdead

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Side-scrolling games come in many shapes and forms, but most of them include some form of platforming or combat. However, Inside is a rare exception, as it follows an unnamed child wandering around a scientific experimentation facility looking for a way out. Unfortunately, the only way out is deeper into it, and the further gamers progress, the darker horrors they experience and uncover.

Players only walk forward in Inside, but it creates such a compelling experience through the pacing, mystery, and moments that spice up simple walking mechanics. It is a pure masterpiece that is regarded for its design, specifically using lighting to both teach and navigate players as well as add to the tense and eerie vibe. Inside is a quiet, yet cinematic game that dazzles with its environmental storytelling and incredible progression.

3

‘Super Metroid’ (1994)

Image via Nintendo

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As mentioned earlier, the Metroidvania genre is inherently side-scrolling, and the most definitive game in the genre is Super Metroid. After Ridley steals a Metroid Larva, Samus Aran follows him to a planet known as Zebes. However, this isolated planet holds more than a hiding space pirate; it holds plenty of monsters and unknown mysteries that she will have to fight through.

There are many fantastic side-scrolling Metroidvania games, but Super Metroid is the most essential and defining game, even becoming a sci-fi video game blueprint of the genre. While atmospheric, the heart and prestige of Super Metroid lie in the way it teaches players and its progression design, flawlessly pacing the gameplay to keep it flowing and the players engaged.

2

‘Terraria’ (2011)

Image via 505 Games

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If fans are tired of jumping, shooting, or slashing, but still want to play a side-scrolling video game, then they should take a break and relax with Terraria. Gamers are put into a procedurally generated world with nothing but basic tools, but with them, they can explore, mine, and create massive settlements. But the bigger the town, the bigger the threats that want to destroy it.

Terraria can be relaxing, but it also provides tense combat where players need to battle Eldritch horrors. This blend of vibes has drawn so many fans to it, and when adding the addictive gameplay loop to the formula, Terraria is easily a side-scrolling masterpiece. There is no better 2D sandbox game than this acclaimed 2011 title, and making it a side-scroller is even more difficult.

1

‘Super Mario World’ (1990)

Image via Nintendo

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As this list previously said, Nintendo has some of the best side-scroller games, and most of them are from Mario. Super Mario World follows Mario on vacation in Dinosaur Land, but when Bowser kidnaps Princess Peach, the brave plumber and his brother, Luigi, team up with Yoshi to travel across the kingdom and rescue her.

Super Mario Bros. is more legendary, iconic, and influential, but Super Mario World is 2D Mario at its peak, perfecting the formula. Shifting away from solely linear progression, it redefined 2D platformers with its level design, adding a vertical layer and rewarding curiosity and exploration. From the art to the design to the levels, progression, and reinvented gameplay, Super Mario World became a 1990s video game masterpiece and the best side-scrolling title.

General Hospital spoilers for Aug 31-Sept 4, 2026 excite with Drew Cain (Cameron Mathison) doing some crime trying to cover up evidence of another of his crimes. Plus, Ava Jerome‘s (Maura West) trap explodes this week. But will it be on her target or is it going to blow up in Ava’s face?

Also, in the week of August 31st through September 4th, we’ve got Alexis Davis (Nancy Lee Grahn) making threats. Ric Lansing (Rick Hearst) is fighting more jealous feelings and Sonny Corinthos (Maurice Benard)’s guilt is hitting him hard. Plus, Josslyn Jacks (Eden McCoy) is pushing back.

And as we always do on early edition day, we go over what is happening the rest of this week and then we’re going to get into what is coming the week ahead. So, let’s get right to it.

General Hospital Spoilers: Tristan’s Past Revealed

Wednesday, August 26th on General Hospital, we’ve got Dr. Tristan Roberts (Dean Geyer) telling someone about his past. And at this point, we don’t know much. We know he’s a doctor and we also know he was a medic for the WSB because he was in Indonesia with Jason Morgan (Steve Burton). So, maybe he’s talking to Britt Westbourne (Kelly Thiebaud), but of course things are already tense between them.

He might also be talking to Josslyn since they were vibing after Anna Devane (Finola Hughes) introduced them. And we know that Dean Geyer chemistry tested with Eden McCoy. Brennan is getting nowhere with Felicia Scorpio (Kristina Wagner). So it looks like he’s trying to get some kind of information from her at General Hospital.

We also have Nina Reeves (Cynthia Watros) in a rage. I suspect she is upset because Willow Tait (Katelyn MacMullen) tells her she got leverage on someone by taping their conversation where he admitted to evidence tampering using WSB resources to help her. I think Nina is going to tell her daughter to delete it, but Willow claps back and tells Nina, “I’m not letting go of it until I get what I need.” Which of course she wants blackmail to use on Michael Corinthos (Rory Gibson).

GH Spoilers: Kai Shocks Alexis

Alexis gets a surprise visit from Kai Taylor (Jens Austin Astrup), who tells the lady lawyer something shocking. So, Kai says, “I’m pretty sure Willow tried to kill Drew – again.” Now Kai may tell Alexis about Drew trying to communicate and blinking to not tell Willow he can move. That’s valid, but I think Kai’s going to share his suspicion that Willow pushed Drew into the lake, which she definitely did not do and has an alibi for. Willow wasn’t even around when it happened. But I think this is why Alexis confronts Willow this week.

Also, Jordan Ashford (Tanisha Harper) makes it very clear who she is loyal to, and I’m assuming that’s her telling Drew that she’s sticking with her new boss, Michael. So, Jordan has a sit down with Drew, and asks if Michael is someone he is really willing to work with. History would tell us no, but I’m very curious if Drew is legit looking to play nice or if he wants to get close to Michael as part of his plan to target Sonny.

Simply put, I don’t trust Drew at all. We also have Sonny advising Michael and Sonny’s telling Michael something big. Sonny says, “I will regret that until the day I die.” So, it sounds like some sort of mistake from his past. Maybe they’re talking about Michael getting burned in the penthouse explosion or Sonny shooting Michael’s dad dead. Lots of things to choose from.

General Hospital Spoilers: Drew & Ava Plot

This week, Drew tells Ava he needs her to keep Jack Brennan (Chris McKenna) busy so Drew can go search a hotel room. So, it looks like Drew gives her some stuff so that Ava can drug someone’s drink. I doubt that Nina is going to like it if she finds out that her good friend Ava is drugging someone to help Drew, whom Nina absolutely despises, and Ava knows all this.

Josslyn tells Carly Corinthos (Laura Wright), “Accept my decision and do not interfere.” So, it sounds like Joss is telling Carly that she is going to run JJE, but I’m guessing that Joss is not going to tell Carly that she’s only doing this on the WSB‘s orders.

Also, this week, Curtis Ashford (Donnell Turner) is in his prison cell and is stunned to see Jenz Sidwell (Carlo Rota) right there. This is absolutely karma coming for Curtis for all the nastiness that he flung falsely at Isaiah Gannon (SawandiWilson). I don’t feel bad that Curtis is going to have to deal with Sidwell.

GH Spoilers: Emma & Gio Get an Earful

Then on Thursday, August 27th’s episode of General Hospital, Emma Scorpio-Drake (Brayden Bruner) and Giovanni Palmieri (Giovanni Mazza) hear some people arguing. Could be Alexis bickering with Willow because on Thursday, it looks like Alexis is hurling threats at Willow. So, Alexis tells Willow she knows that she shot Drew. And Alexis says she’s not going to stay quiet about it anymore.

So, she may tell Willow she’s going to the cops. Of course, she can’t be charged again. But this can be used in a custody case, used to get her out of Congress. You know, they could say she perjured herself on the stand. I’m curious if Alexis tries to blackmail Willow and says, “Find a way to get Drew to drop the restraining orders and I’ll sit on your dirty secret.” That could be interesting.

Drew is still hung up on getting revenge. We know he wants to get back at Nina and Willow, but Drew can’t do anything to them right now until he destroys the blackmail that someone has on him. Something shocks Justine Turner (Nazneen Contractor) on Thursday and Ava feels slighted by someone. So, this may be her new partner in crime, Drew, because she’s helping him with his dirty work against someone when really she wants to focus on Sonny. That was who their agreement was to go after.

General Hospital Spoilers: Ava Springs into Action

Friday, August 28th on General Hospital, Ava gets her trap ready. So, this may be with her drugging Brennan as Drew asked, but how long until he goes back to his room if he’s drugged and groggy? And then somebody waylas Drew. This may be when he’s on his way to snoop in someone’s hotel room to look for that evidence.

Drew’s on a ticking clock and doesn’t have time to be interrupted. Sonny makes Laura Spencer (Genie Francis) a promise. I’m guessing this is something to do with her trip to see Kevin Collins (Jon Lindstrom) and Ace Cassadine (Jay and Joey Clay) in Ireland. We also have Anna supportive of someone on Friday.

My first thought would be Emma, but Anna could be offering fake support while she’s toying with Britt on someone’s orders. Valentin Cassadine (James Patrick Stuart) and Carly make a decision about something on Friday, and it may be about him pursuing ELQ versus buying up Sidwell’s businesses to run. So, we’ll see.

GH Spoilers: Curtis Faces Rough Road Ahead

Then, the week of August 31st through September 4th, we’re going to see Curtis really struggling in prison, more so now that Sidwell is there in his face. I suspect things are gonna get real hard for Curtis thanks to Sidwell. He may even hurt Curtis to punish Jordan for betraying him. Sidwell also might try and set up Curtis so he won’t get that parole in two years like he’s hoping for.

Brooklyn and Harrison Chase (Josh Swickard) are headed for heartbreak when Hudson Parker (Troy Lennon Appel) claims Phoebe because he is going to fight to overturn that adoption at some point. I suspect Hudson may dig into the adoption attorney and may go see Alexis.

Trina Robinson (Tabyana Ali)’s stalker escalates soon. My money’s on Quinn (Jequan Jackson) the football guy who played with Kai, but record executive Simon (Grady Eldridge) is also super creepy, so he’s a candidate. We’ll see who acquires Sidwell’s assets when the police auction happens.

Looks like it’s going to be Sonny and Drew in a bidding war over those piers. Meanwhile, Valentin’s not planning to bid on those, but he does want some of Sidwell’s legit businesses. We’ll see fallout from Drew trying to get the evidence against him away from someone.

General Hospital Spoilers: Ava Faces Nina

Ava may not get away with drugging someone. I’m betting he recognizes the signs and he may confront her, but Ava is a smooth talker who is all about lying and denying. But if Nina finds out, she will be angry at Ava.

We’re going to see more of Ric fighting his jealousy. Lulu Spencer (Alexa Havins Bruening) just talked him down, but I suspect Ric is triggered again about Dante Falconeri (Dominic Zamprogna), and next time he may not be able to stop him from lashing out and saying something to Elizabeth Webber (Rebecca Herbst).

We may see Anna targeting Britt soon, and also anyone who gets in her way. Liesl Obrecht (Kathleen Gati) and Jason may also be in danger from Anna as well. And we’re going to see more on Lucas Jones (Van Hansis) and his new roommate, Detective Joe, with sparks flying soon.

What should have been a routine day for tourists, workers, and locals in the Himalayan region quickly turned into a fight for survival. Terrifying footage captured people running as a massive wall of water and debris came crashing through the Gyirong border area between Nepal and China-controlled Tibet, leaving a path of destruction behind. At least 160 people have been killed across the region, while hundreds remain missing — including dozens of Americans.

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54 Americans Among Hundreds Missing After Nepal Floods

Nepalese officials said hundreds of tourists and foreign nationals were unaccounted for after the catastrophic flooding swept through northern Nepal’s Rasuwa district near the Tibet border. Among those initially reported missing were 54 Americans, along with travelers from India, Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, and several other countries. Three of the Americans were reportedly traveling with Nepal-based Fishtail Tours and Travel. The U.S. Embassy in Nepal has urged Americans in affected areas to avoid low-lying locations, seek higher ground, and follow instructions from local authorities as search-and-rescue operations continue.

Floods Leave Destruction And Rescue Crews Scrambling

The disaster devastated riverside communities and mountain corridors, sweeping away homes, businesses, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. Nepal reported at least 157 deaths, while Chinese state media reported three deaths and hundreds missing in Tibet’s Gyirong County. Damaged roads, blocked routes, heavy sediment, and rugged terrain have complicated rescue efforts. Chinese President Xi Jinping called for an intensive search operation in Tibet, while Nepal deployed security forces and helicopters to evacuate survivors and search for the missing.

The cause remains under investigation. Nepal’s foreign minister initially said that an avalanche, possibly triggered by an earthquake, may have caused the flooding. The U.S. Geological Survey initially detected what appeared to be a 4.4-magnitude earthquake, but later clarified that the signal came from the landslide itself. Experts now believe an ice or glacier-related collapse may have unleashed the massive torrent of water and debris, underscoring the growing risks posed by increasingly unstable Himalayan glaciers and high-altitude terrain.

International Aid Arrives As Search Efforts Continue

As families wait for word on missing loved ones, international assistance is beginning to move into the region. India has offered humanitarian supplies and essential medicines, while international relief organizations and European officials have pledged support. The European Union has also activated its Copernicus satellite service to help map the disaster zone and assist with the emergency response. Meanwhile, rescue crews in Nepal and Tibet are searching mud and debris-covered areas as officials warn the full scope of the catastrophe remains unclear.

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