Over the course of the year so far, fans of fantasy movies have had plenty to be satisfied with and entertained by. From The Odyssey to Wildwood, the fantasy films that will likely be remembered as the best of 2026 by the time the year ends are yet to release; but with the first half of the year over, there have already been six particular movies that have satisfied the cravings for magic, mythological creatures, and grand adventurous quests that fantasy fans inevitable feel every year. None of these films are truly perfect, but they’ve all further proven that fantasy has been thriving throughout the 2020s.

Whether it’s a massive family blockbuster like The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, an underrated indie darling like Pizza Movie, or a future cult classic like Masters of the Universe, the best fantasy films of 2026 thus far will all likely be remembered as some of the most beloved films of the year by the time 2027 rolls in. They may be flawed, but they’re also delightfully creative and awfully entertaining. Regardless of how well they performed financially or critically, they should all be able to allow fantasy film fans to get their fix before the genre’s bigger releases start coming out throughout the second half of 2026.

6

‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’

For anyone even slightly familiar with the mere concept of video games, Mario needs no introduction. The 1983 arcade platformer Mario Bros. was where it all properly started; and from there, the plumber from Brooklyn who loves stepping on turtles became not just the face of Nintendo, but arguably of gaming as a whole. With that level of iconicity, it should come as no surprise that Illumination’s The Super Mario Bros. Movie performed as extraordinarily as it did at the box office back in 2023. Likewise, it was no surprise that a sequel was announced, and it was no surprise that The Super Mario Galaxy Movie became one of the highest-grossing animated movies at the worldwide box office.

It’s nowhere close to being a perfect animated film, nor even to being a perfect adaptation of one of the most beloved video games of all time. But even still, The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is filled to the brim with colorful Easter eggs, delightful surprises, and fun bits of world-building for all Nintendo fans to enjoy. The score is delectably nostalgic, the characters are all fun to follow around, and the plot is more than satisfying enough for families. Part science fiction, part fantasy, and 100% a love letter to Mario’s history, this is a movie that all those who’ve grown up with Nintendo ought to give a chance.

5

‘Swapped’

Image via Netflix

Advertisement

Led by Michael B. Jordan and Juno Temple delivering two of the most endearing voice performances of any animated movie from this year thus far, Swapped is further proof that Netflix has been keeping fantasy alive over the course of the first half of 2026. It’s one of the best fantasy movies of the last six years, at least as far as families are concerned. It’s unlikely to appeal to adult viewers on their own, unless they typically enjoy watching animated children’s media; but any family looking for a fun weekend watch that absolutely everyone will be able to enjoy should give Swapped, a perfectly serviceable buddy comedy, a shot.

There aren’t many surprises or unexpected story elements waiting here, as Swapped is definitely an all-too-familiar family fantasy movie the likes of which we’ve seen many times before. Sometimes, though, familiar films can feel like cinematic comfort food, and that’s precisely what all the love and passion that was clearly poured into Swapped‘s production elicits. Fun, visually striking, and greatly benefiting from having some genuinely imaginative world-building, it may not be one of the best animated movies on Netflix’s catalog of original films, but it’s nevertheless very much worth it for all those who love animated fantasy.

4

‘Cosmic Princess Kaguya!’

Image via Netflix

Advertisement

Though not nearly enough people have actually watched it, Netflix’s Cosmic Princess Kaguya! is nevertheless one of the best anime movies of the 2020s so far. This animated musical represents Shingo Yamashita‘s feature directorial debut, and what a way to break onto the scene it is. Adaptations and reimaginings of the Japanese folktale The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter are aplenty, but few are even half as exquisitely creative, vibrant, and colorful as this one is. Is it perfect? Definitely not. For all its merits, the movie is at times a bit too messy with its wild ideas for its own sake. But are those ideas so fun that it’s easy to forgive some chaos in how they’re presented? Absolutely.

It’s a gem so refreshingly creative and so visually stunning that it fully earns the exclamation mark at the end of its title. It’s cyberpunk science fantasy at its most irresistibly entertaining, elevated by an unforgettable score and its mesmerizing visuals. It’s a dizzying romp in all the right ways, and though people who prefer fantasy when it’s a bit more coldly calculated won’t likely love the over-the-top way in which Yamashita approaches the material, it’s still a must-see for anyone who loves what anime has had to offer throughout the history of 2020s cinema.

3

‘Pizza Movie’

Image via Hulu

Advertisement

The roots of true stoner comedies date as far back as the 1970s, and the subgenre has come an awfully long way since then. Passing through the teen films of the 1980s and the slacker comedies of the 1990s, we make it all the way to this year’s Pizza Movie, an awfully underappreciated absurdist stoner comedy that was a surprise streaming hit for Hulu. Perfect for those who love gonzo, psychedelic comedies full of energy that never lets up, Pizza Movie will surely not appeal to all cinephilic palates, but that’s precisely the source of its charm. It’s unapologetically quirky and unique, and that’s why it’s such a must-see.

Its fantasy elements are unconventional: Rather than being an actual, traditional quest carried out by mythical heroes, Pizza Movie takes an absurd, hallucinogenic drug trip and turns it into the source of an epic, surreal adventure unlike any other that 2026 has produced thus far. Starring Gaten Matarazzo at his most charming and hilarious, it’s a bonkers explosion of wild ideas that anyone who loves bizarre comedies should be able to enjoy greatly—sober or otherwise.

2

‘Masters of the Universe’

Image via Amazon MGM Studios

It’s not just those who grew up during the 1980s; anyone familiar with the American pop culture from that decade should be perfectly familiar with Masters of the Universe, Mattel’s sword-and-planet media franchise that originated with a beloved toy line and then transformed into one of the most iconic cartoons of all time. This year’s film of the same name, directed by Travis Knight, is the latest addition to that franchise, and it can already be counted among the best action movies of the last six years. It’s a science fantasy romp that unfortunately underperformed at the box office, but nostalgia and its sheer quality should be more than enough for it to become a bona fide cult classic soon enough.

Even if that never happens, however, Masters of the Universe still deserves to be credited as one of the best fantasy movies of 2026 thus far. The cast is phenomenal, the script is perfectly entertaining and clearly done with love for the original media franchise, and there’s just enough camp here to make it feel like Knight is never taking the material too seriously. It’s a self-aware popcorn flick unlike any other we’ve seen so far this year, and though it won’t likely remain among the most beloved films of the year by the time 2027 comes around, it was nevertheless a very refreshing surprise just how well it turned out.

1

‘Toy Story 5’

Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Back in 2010, the Best Picture Oscar-nominated Toy Story 3 felt like the perfect conclusion that the Toy Story franchise could possibly come to. Nine years after that, however, came the controversial Toy Story 4, which nevertheless made its way to a Best Animated Feature Oscar. It has been seven years since then, and although it remains to be seen whether Pixar’s latest will be able to make its way to Academy Award gold, Toy Story 5 is nevertheless a surprisingly worthwhile addition to the franchise that birthed Pixar’s legendary feature film run. It may well be the weakest installment in the series thus far, but “the weakest Toy Story movie” is nevertheless a title that still implies terrific quality.

A film about the relationship that children have with technology and screens today felt like the perfect excuse to bring back Toy Story, but that’s precisely what makes Toy Story 5 so special. At no point does the introduction of devices feel like an excuse to return to these beloved characters; rather, it feels like a perfectly natural and logical progression for the franchise to see. With its powerful messages, its consistently jaw-dropping animation, and a deeply moving focus on Jessie that all fans of the series should love, Toy Story 5 never feels like a cashgrab. It’s not one of Pixar’s best, but it’s still fantastic enough to be the best fantasy movie of 2026 so far.

Advertisement

Toy Story 5

Release Date

Advertisement

June 19, 2026

Runtime

102 Minutes

Advertisement

Director

Andrew Stanton, Kenna Harris

Writers

Advertisement

Andrew Stanton, McKenna Jean Harris

Advertisement

• 
• 

  Tim Allen

  Buzz Lightyear (voice)

  Advertisement
• 
• 

  Greta Lee

  Lilypad (voice)

Advertisement

Advertisement

Karlie Kloss grinned for the cameras ahead of former BFF Taylor Swift’s wedding to Travis Kelce — but she’s staying tight-lipped in its aftermath.

In an Instagram video shared by Deux Moi on Sunday, July 5, the model, 33, was seen dodging a question about the couple’s nuptials, staged inside New York City’s Madison Square Garden two days prior. “How was Taylor’s wedding?” a photographer was heard asking Kloss as he followed her down a Paris street.

“How’s Paris treating you?” she said in response as she kept walking with dark sunglasses shielding her eyes.

Prior to her arrival in the French capital, Kloss and husband Joshua Kushner were spotted in full glam while making their way to the star-studded wedding on Friday, June 3. Kloss rocked a strapless gold dress for the event while Kushner, 41, looked dapper in a navy suit.

Related: Karlie Kloss Reacts to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Engagement

Karlie Kloss is showing no signs of bad blood after Taylor Swift announced her engagement to Travis Kelce. Hours after Swift, 35, confirmed via Instagram on Tuesday, August 26, that she is engaged, Kloss, 33, subtly reacted to the news by liking the post. “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married 🧨,” […]

Kloss’ attendance came as a surprise to fans, who are all too familiar with her falling out with Swift, 36, after the pair formed a close friendship in 2012. Their inseparable bond was publicly exhibited all the way up to and through 2015, when they shared a Vogue cover shoot together.

Fans were confused when their public interactions began to dwindle, with Kloss suddenly gushing about Swift via Instagram in 2016 after months of nothing. “Happiest of Birthdays to my ride or die @taylorswift ❤️🎂👯❤️,” Kloss wrote in December that year alongside a snap of Swift kissing her cheek. “I feel blessed to count you as my friend, sister and partner in crime. Can’t wait to celebrate together very soon ❤️🍪🍾.”

Signs of significant trouble in their relationship reared their head the following year when Kloss was omitted from Swift’s squad T-shirt in her “Look What You Made Me Do” music video. Their friendship then became a magnet for online speculation as breadcrumbs of their former closeness came even more sparingly, such as when Kloss shared a behind-the-scenes snap from Swift’s Eras Tour in August 2018.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

Eyebrows were raised again when Kloss “liked” Swift’s Instagram post that revealed her engagement to Kelce, also 36, in August last year. No other comments on the couple’s engagement were publicly made by Kloss.

Related: Kylie Kelce Dodges Question About Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s Wedding

Kylie Kelce is keeping any updates on Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift’s upcoming nuptials close to her chest. “Now that your brain is busy and you’re so focused on coloring, what can we expect from Taylor and Travis’ wedding?” podcast host Cameron Rogers asked Kylie, 33, on the Wednesday, March 25, episode of her “Conversations […]

In the weeks leading up to Swift’s wedding, TMZ reported that Kloss had scored an invitation after the former pals managed to put their past issues behind them.

Swift and Kelce exchanged vows inside the iconic entertainment arena in front of many celebrity faces. Right after the couple said “I do,” digital billboards outside the venue read, “JusT&T Married.”

Before Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr. went through a long, very public struggle with addiction and legal trouble, and for a while it looked like Hollywood had moved on without him. Then came the role of Tony Stark in 2008 that propelled him to A-list stardom. From that point on, he has turned into one of the most bankable stars working in cinema, so much so that Marvel even brought him back after wrapping up his Iron Man arc, this time to play one of its biggest villains yet, Doctor Doom.

But Downey has been delivering memorable performances long before Iron Man, since the 1990s, in fact. And he’s never once shown up to simply collect a paycheck. Time and time again, he completely disappears into the role at hand and creates characters that are still talked about years later. So, here are some Robert Downey Jr. movies that are flat-out masterpieces.

‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ (2005)

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is one of the funniest, most criminally underseen films of the 2000s. Downey plays Harry Lockhart, a small-time thief who stumbles into an acting audition while fleeing the scene of a botched robbery. The accidental audition goes surprisingly well, and he gets flown out to Los Angeles for a screen test. He is then paired with a private investigator named Gay Perry (Val Kilmer) for research purposes, and the two of them end up getting tangled in a deadly conspiracy.

Downey also serves as the film’s unreliable narrator, and he is insanely funny here. He tends to go off on unrelated tangents mid-scene. He constantly loses his train of thought. And every once in a while, he stops the movie to apologize for forgetting to explain something important that already happened. This kind of comedic device could become very gimmicky in lesser hands, but Downey makes it feel genuinely hilarious. If you love films like The Nice Guys, In Bruges, or The Gentlemen, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang should be at the top of your watchlist.

‘Chaplin’ (1992)

Image Via TriStar Pictures

The 1992 Richard Attenborough film follows Charlie Chaplin‘s life from his impoverished childhood in Edwardian London all the way through his rise to Hollywood superstardom. And from there, it also covers his turbulent string of marriages and his eventual exile from the United States during the Red Scare. It is a massive, sprawling story covering decades of one of the most fascinating lives in entertainment history.

But arguably the greatest thing about Chaplin is Downey’s performance. He perfectly captures Charlie Chaplin’s physical mannerisms, his comedic grace, and his tragic personal flaws with phenomenal precision, from his early twenties all the way into old age, and never once loses the thread of who this person was underneath the legend. It even earned Downey an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in 1993.

‘Tropic Thunder’ (2008)

Image via Paramount Pictures

Tropic Thunder is an action-comedy loaded with offensive jokes that eviscerate the Hollywood studio system and lampoon the toxic egos of A-list actors with a ferocity that no major studio film has really matched since. It’s the exact kind of movie Hollywood doesn’t make anymore. The premise follows a group of actors shooting a big-budget war film whose director drops them into an actual jungle with hidden cameras to capture the actors’ authentic performances. However, things soon spiral out of control when the actors stumble into the middle of an actual warzone and think it’s all make-believe.

Downey is especially funny here as Kirk Lazarus, a delusional, multi-Oscar-winning Australian method actor. And he is front and centre in what is considered the most iconic (and the most controversial) joke in the entire movie, where Downey appears in blackface because he’s extremely committed to his role as a Black Vietnam War sergeant, and goes around spouting the N-word. The irony is that the performance ended up earning him an actual Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

‘Oppenheimer’ (2023)

Image via Universal Pictures

Christopher Nolan‘s Oppenheimer follows J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy), the theoretical physicist who spearheaded the Manhattan Project and built the atomic bomb, and the devastating personal consequences that followed. At the center of those consequences is Downey as Rear Admiral Lewis Strauss, the scheming bureaucrat who serves as the film’s primary antagonist and orchestrates the revocation of Oppenheimer’s security clearance during the paranoia of the Red Scare. Strauss begins the film as an ally and admirer of Oppenheimer before slowly letting his resentment curdle into something more bitter.

By 2023, Downey had spent over a decade almost exclusively playing Tony Stark, so seeing him take on a more dramatic villainous role with no quips and no arc of redemption was genuinely startling. He was playing completely against type, and he was extraordinary doing it. The performance was universally praised as the best of his career, and it also won him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

‘Iron Man’ (2008)

Image via Marvel Studios

No film on this list changed cinema quite like Iron Man. This was the movie that kick-started the MCU and turned the superhero genre into the cultural phenomenon that it is today. The story follows Tony Stark, a genius weapons manufacturer who is captured by terrorists while demonstrating his latest missile in Afghanistan. He builds a rudimentary suit of armor to escape and then comes home, shuts down his weapons division, and builds a better suit to become a full-time superhero.

It’s got great action sequences, a killer soundtrack, and delivers a perfectly satisfying superhero origin story, but none of it would have worked without Downey. He perfectly slid into the genius billionaire playboy philanthropist persona of Tony Stark like the role was explicitly written for him. Before his portrayal, Iron Man was no more than a B-list Marvel character. After Downey, he has become most people’s favorite superhero.

Advertisement

Iron Man

Advertisement

Release Date

April 30, 2008

Advertisement

Runtime

126 minutes

Writers

Advertisement

Matt Holloway, Art Marcum, Hawk Ostby

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s lavish New York City wedding featured heartfelt vows, emotional moments, and plenty of celebrity guests, but one of the ceremony’s biggest highlights came courtesy of Adam Sandler. 

The actor and comedian, who officiated the star-studded celebration, left the newlyweds with one surprisingly simple piece of marriage advice that resonated with everyone in attendance. 

According to Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid, it wasn’t an elaborate speech; it was a reminder that love thrives in life’s smallest moments.

Adam Sandler took on one of the most unexpected roles at Swift and Kelce’s wedding, serving as the officiant during the couple’s ceremony at Madison Square Garden. 

As The Blast reported, the choice surprised many fans, but a representative for the singer explained that Sandler was selected because he is a close friend of both the bride and groom who helped “join both families together.” 

The ceremony also broke with tradition, as the couple skipped bridesmaids and groomsmen altogether. 

Instead, Swift asked her brother, Austin, to stand beside her as her man of honor, while Kelce chose his brother, Jason, as his best man. 

Sandler’s involvement reflected the close bond he has developed with both stars over the years, from praising Swift’s kindness toward his family to building a friendship with Kelce while working together on a movie.

Sandler Shared One Simple Rule For Swift And Kelce

As one of the high-profile guests at Swift and Kelce’s Madison Square Garden wedding, Reid witnessed Adam Sandler’s memorable performance as officiant firsthand.

Speaking with CNN after the ceremony, Reid revealed that Sandler’s biggest message to the couple centered on one everyday habit.

“He said kiss every chance you get — every chance you have, every single day,” Reid shared, adding, “So whether you’re going to bed or going to work … go ahead and kiss her.”

For Reid, the advice stood out because of its simplicity. “And I thought that was … in a simple way, in its simplest form, really, was touching that way,” he shared.

The veteran coach later repeated the same message during a Sunday press conference, explaining why Sandler’s words stayed with him long after the ceremony ended.

“Hard to argue when you give your wife a kiss, or your wife gives you a kiss. Make sure you do it every day, every minute, if you have an opportunity to do it, knock it out, and you won’t have problems,” Reid said.

Adam Sandler Brought Humor And Heart To The Wedding Ceremony

While Sandler is best known for making audiences laugh, Reid said the comedian struck the perfect balance between comedy and sincerity while officiating the wedding.

The 68-year-old couldn’t help but praise Sandler’s approach. “In a simply, hysterical way, he was a phenomenal … he’s crazy, but he did a great job in getting them married with a lot of humor but that part there I thought, pretty good advice, in its simplest form,” Reid said.

The role was a fitting one for the “Grown Ups” actor, whose friendship with both Swift and Kelce has grown over the past several years.

His daughters, Sadie and Sunny, have long been devoted Swift fans. The family attended the Eras Tour in August 2023 before appearing together on the red carpet at the premiere of the concert film “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” later that year.

Sandler’s connection with Kelce also expanded professionally when he cast the NFL star in “Happy Gilmore 2.”

Kelce’s cameo quickly became one of the comedy’s most talked-about moments, with the tight end appearing in nothing but an apron while Bad Bunny’s character, Oscar, covered him in honey.

Sandler Knows A Thing Or Two About Lasting Love

Adam Sandler’s wedding advice carried extra weight because it came from someone who has enjoyed one of Hollywood’s longest-lasting marriages.

The actor has been married to his wife, Jackie, for over two decades, having tied the knot in June 2003. 

As The Blast reported, Sandler recently celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary by arranging a plane to skywrite “23 A J” across the sky before sharing the heartfelt moment on Instagram. 

He captioned the post, “Happy 23rd anniversary to my sweetheart. Love you forever,” earning praise from fans, celebrities, and even daughter Sadie, who reacted with heart emojis. 

She went further to celebrate her parents by sharing two throwback pictures of the couple on her Instagram stories. 

In the first photo, Sandler carried his wife over his shoulder, while the second showed them dancing.

Adam Sandler’s Hoodie Controversy Overshadowed Wife Jackie’s Real Concern

The anniversary celebration came shortly after reports that Sandler’s famously casual wardrobe choices left Jackie embarrassed on the red carpet.

As The Blast reported, Sandler sparked online backlash after arriving at Jackie’s “Office Romance” premiere in a New York Knicks hoodie, sweatpants, and sneakers, but insiders insisted the criticism missed what actually mattered in their marriage. 

According to the report, Jackie had long embraced her husband’s famously casual style. “Adam and Jackie have been together for decades, and while there was a time when Jackie wasn’t always thrilled with Adam’s outfit choices, she’s long since grown used to them and fully accepts his laid-back style,” a source said. 

The insider added, “At the end of the day, he shows up for her in all the ways that truly matter,” describing the actor as “loving, genuine, and consistently supportive.”

Credit: Rodrigo Varela/Getty Images for WE tv

Ashley Hebert

Ashley Hebert and J.P. Rosenbaum got engaged during the season 7 finale of The Bachelorette in 2011. The following year, the twosome tied the knot in December 2012 and their nuptials were documented for a TV special. Ashley gave birth to their first child, a baby boy named Fordham, in September 2014. The pair welcomed their second child, a daughter named Essex, in November 2016. In August 2018, Ashley and J.P. renewed their vows during a trip to Aruba. 

Ashley revealed that JP was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare neurological disorder, is a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the nerves, in December 2019. “He is in treatment and doing well,” the pediatric dentist said at the time. “It may be a long road to full recovery, but we are so grateful to everyone that has helped us get to a speedy diagnosis and treatment.”

JP, for his part, detailed his symptoms during a December hospital stay: “Things you do every day, like picking up this phone, or buttoning buttons, tying shoelaces, putting on deodorant, just can’t do it. Picking up my kids, can’t do it.” He was discharged on December 9, 2019. 

In October 2020, the couple announced they had split after nearly eight years of marriage. “It is with a heavy heart that I share with you that, after months of separation, Jp and I have amicably decided to go our separate ways,” Hebert captioned a photo of the couple slow-dancing on Instagram. “We created the most beautiful children and shared memories that will never be forgotten. Our differences have taken a toll on our relationship and after years of attempting to repair the damage, we’ve decided that it is in our family’s best interest to create new and separate lives for our children. Please respect our privacy as we move forward with the newness of our lives. Our ultimate focus is to create stable and healthy lives for our children. Thank you for your love and support throughout the years. Wishing you all love, happiness, and good health.”

In March 2022, the dentist revealed that she has had a boyfriend for nearly one year.

While many fans will describe some video games as being absolutely perfect, there isn’t really such a thing, because it is almost impossible to create a masterpiece without some sort of flaw. Titles such as Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild are some of the greatest video games of all time, but they contain a handful of issues restricting them from being flawless.

However, is there really no such thing as perfect? These ten video games beg to differ. This list will highlight ten video games that don’t have a single flaw based on gameplay, design, polish, optimization, pacing, originality, fan opinion, critical acclaim, and overall quality. Some gamers might not personally prefer these games, but outside of taste and considering the overwhelming consensus, these are flawless masterpieces.

‘Hades’ (2020)

Image via Supergiant Games

Making a flawless indie game can be harder or easier to make perfect, depending on the scope and passion behind it, and one masterful example is Hades. Zagreus is the son of the titular god and the prince of Hell, whom he repeatedly tries to escape from in hopes of finding the truth about his mother. Trying to get to Olympus, he must fight an endless battle against the forces of Hell.

The narrative problem of rogue-likes is solved in Hades, which uses the core feature as a way to tell its story. The sense of progression is incredible, with gamers naturally improving throughout the game. Hades has tight gameplay and a well-designed progression system, which work together with its narrative to create a flawless experience.

‘BioShock’ (2007)

Image via 2K Games

Video games have become a storytelling medium, and there aren’t many better narratives than BioShock. Playing as a character named Jack, gamers find themselves seeking refuge in a lone lighthouse after a plane crash. But when they go inside, they discover an underwater failed utopia with spliced mutations wandering the desolate city and political warfare still rampant.

Every BioShock video game is a masterpiece, but the first one is on another level, mainly renowned because of its narrative and shocking plot twist that shook the gaming landscape to its core. The game’s unrivalled aesthetic and tense atmosphere also play a part in the immersion, not to mention the puzzle-solving gameplay and shooter action, which enhances the narrative, tone, and themes.

Image via Konami

Hideo Kojima is a legendary game designer, and his magnum opus is arguably Metal Gear Solid. Playing as the iconic Solid Snake, players must infiltrate a secure nuclear facility on an island to stop a terrorist organization from launching a nuclear strike that could destroy the world.

Metal Gear Solid helped video games move past a simple gameplay route and adopt a form of prestige filmmaking. With dedicated camera angles, the design perfectly framed the player experience, offering a unique way to play the game. Besides its influence, Metal Gear Solid also boasts some of the best stealth gameplay in modern gaming, which surprisingly holds up even to this day.

‘Super Mario Odyssey’ (2017)

Image via Nintendo

Nintendo ensures games from their biggest franchises are perfect, and that is especially true for Mario, which has many games that could be on this list, like Super Mario World. Still, Super Mario Odyssey is a newer title that has the benefit of modern design and technology. The titular plumber must go on an adventure to rescue Princess Peach from Bowser, who’s holding her captive to marry her.

The platformer genre is dominated by Mario, and Super Mario Odyssey is Nintendo’s most recent 3D masterpiece. With open sandbox areas filled with items to collect, places to explore, and platforms to jump on, Mario has never been freer. The traversal mechanics were also phenomenal, with the capture system offering a wide range of opportunities, proving that the greatest video game character can still be fresh.

‘Outer Wilds’ (2019)

Image via Mobius Digital

As mentioned, this list features a couple of indie games, with the next one being Outer Wilds. This experimental sci-fi title has players controlling an astronaut exploring a mysterious galaxy. Every 21 minutes, the world resets, with players needing to use what they learned during that time in their next loop, slowly uncovering the mystery of the planet and lore of its ancient race.

Progression is basically just a complicated system of locks and keys in most games, but Outer Wilds innovates with its knowledge-based progression system, which creates an intricately paced event based on each player’s actions and choices. Exploring the galaxy and learning its truths through experimental methods is a gameplay experience unlike any other, cementing Outer Wilds as one of the most imaginative titles in recent years.

‘The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time’ (1998)

The Legend of Zelda franchise is home to some of the best video games of all time, including The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Link is just a normal forest boy, but after the evil Gerudo king, Ganondorf, kidnaps Princess Zelda, the young hero must venture outside the forest and take on difficult dungeons in order to awaken the sages and save the princess.

As one of the best video game franchises, The Legend of Zelda is no stranger to perfection, but its best is undoubtedly Ocarina of Time. It introduced the Z-targeting mechanic, a feature still used today that redefined the modern era of gaming. Ocarina of Time features challenging yet rewarding and compelling dungeons along the way of an unforgettable adventure of wonder, drama, and excitement.

‘God of War’ (2018)

Image via Sony Interactive Entertainment

The God of War franchise was beloved because of its adrenaline-pumping gameplay, but the 2018 reboot went in a completely different direction. After the death of his wife, Kratos sets off on a journey to scatter her ashes at the highest peak. Alongside his son, Kratos and Atreus must fight against the Norse gods who want the latter for mysterious reasons.

Right from the introduction, God of War comes out swinging, delivering a bridge of cinematic prestige and gameplay perfection. With riveting combat and inventive enemies, this acclaimed game has unfiltered action gameplay, well-designed areas that reward exploration despite being linear, and a world-renowned narrative that most agree is the best in the modern industry. God of War might just be the god of current gaming.

‘Super Metroid’ (1994)

Image via Nintendo

Metroid may not be the best-selling Nintendo franchise, but it is home to some critically-acclaimed masterpieces, including Super Metroid. The space pirate Ridley has stolen an infant Metroid, prompting Samus Aran to travel to the planet Zebes in order to retrieve it. However, she must watch her back, or the creatures of the planet will overwhelm her.

The Metroidvania genre was established by two games, one being Super Metroid, which arguably perfected the formula. Boasting some of the best level design in gaming history, this seminal title invisibly guides the player without ever feeling like it’s hand-holding. Instead, the game takes players through new and familiar areas that never get boring to explore. Super Metroid keeps the gameplay flowing, using its flawless pace to create non-stop combat.

‘Portal 2’ (2011)

Image via Valve

Valve is best known for the video game service, Steam, but they used to make some of the most engaging video games ever, such as Portal 2. Set an unknown number of years after the first game, Chell awakens again in the same facility, but this time it is worn down and abandoned. After accidentally waking up GLaDOS, Chell is forced to undergo torturous scientific challenges while trying to escape.

Taking the imaginative concept of portal guns and using intricate and well-designed puzzles to create a thought-provoking challenge is why Portal 2 is regarded as a masterpiece. It also has a co-op mode with equally engaging puzzles that challenge cooperation and synergy. On top of all of this, Portal 2 has sharp writing and witty dialogue, truly making it a flawless game in every aspect.

‘Tetris’ (1984)

Image via Tetris Holding, LLC

Most of the games on this list have some sort of narrative to give direction to the gameplay; on the other hand, Tetris is pure gameplay; there is no need for a story to get in the way. A select bag of pieces slowly falls down from the top of the screen one by one, with the player needing to arrange them in an order that doesn’t get too crowded, because when it reaches the top, the game is over.

As the oldest game on this list, Tetris has maintained its legacy perfectly because it is a game without any flaws. It may be a simple gameplay experience, but that is exactly why it is perfect. There is nothing to hinder the simple yet engaging loop, simply enjoying the tension with each new block drop. Tetris is a timeless video game that has only remained relevant because it is flawless, arguably the most perfect video game.

Final Fantasy is gearing up for a very busy 2027. Back in April at the Final Fantasy XIV Fan Festival in Anaheim, Square Enix revealed the official trailer for the wildly popular MMORPG’s latest expansion, Evercold, which will take the Warrior of Light and their companions beyond the Source to the icy wastes of the Fourth. Players won’t have to wait long to jump in either, as it launches at the beginning of the year in January. Last month’s Summer Game Fest, then, surprised attendees and audiences with an extended preview of Final Fantasy VII: Revelation, the final chapter in the Final Fantasy VII Remake saga, and revealed a surprisingly near release window in Spring.

While both games figure to keep fans occupied for hundreds of hours between them, that’s not all Square Enix has planned for their legendary franchise next year. The company is currently at Anime Expo 2026, where it showed off its upcoming slate of English book and manga localizations coming in early 2027. Among those were two new Final Fantasy titles that will take place in Midgar and Eorzea and follow a few fan-favorite characters. Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: Dear Destiny is a novel sequel to Traces of Two Pasts, which followed Tifa Lockhart and Aerith Gainsborough as they shared stories while journeying with Cloud and the rest of the party, while Final Fantasy XIV Picture Book: Me and the Cornservant offers a lighthearted adventure for all ages with the titular Cornservant. Penned by Kazushige Nojima, the former was actually released in Japan at the start of 2026, but this will be a chance for English readers to dive in ahead of Revelation‘s release.

Picking up where its predecessor left off, Dear Destiny is split into two parts: One is told by Tifa as she wrestles with the memories of her hometown of Nibelheim’s destruction and recalls the difficult balance of getting by at Seventh Heaven in Midgar while trying to evade detection by the Turks as they investigate the eco-terrorist group, Avalanche. Aerith’s stories make up the other part, as she remembers how she found a place selling flowers in Midgar and the worries she felt waiting for Zach’s return. It’ll be a continued illustration of how they got to where they are, and the friendship the two formed on the journey to save the planet. Additionally, another prequel story following Cloud in his days as a Shinra trooper will be included as a bonus.

‘Final Fantasy XIV’s New Picture Book Explores a Small But Beloved Character

Me and the Cornservant, meanwhile, is the latest picture book set in Eorzea following The Namazu and the Greatest Gift, and it was created by the official FFXIV development team. Main Scenario Writer Banri Oda penned the story, while Naoki Ikushima and Rina Yoshiura handled the illustrations. For context, the Cornservant is a tiny, living corncob creature encountered in a series of sidequests during the Dawntrail expansion that players can accompany on a journey to feed the hungry of Tuliyollal and beyond, and bring along with them as a little minion. In the book, the corn-being meets a young Miqo’te who, believing the creature to be lonely, gives it a little poke, beginning an unexpected adventure. It’s a much simpler, smaller-scale tale that embraces the whimsy of FFXIV‘s reality rather than exploring the world-ending threats or more complicated political dealings that are present within.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: Dear Destiny is currently available for pre-order at the official Square Enix website, Penguin Random House, and other major book retailers ahead of its release in January. Final Fantasy XIV Picture Book: Me and the Cornservant will open for pre-orders in mid-July before releasing in April. Get a look at official art from both books above.

By Chris Snellgrove
| Published 24 seconds ago

A few years ago, I caved in and became a Spotify junkie. Once I realized I could jam tunes while badly playing hero shooters like Overwatch and Marvel Rivals, it was so Joever. While the ability to play the newest albums was cool, what really drew me to the streaming service was the playlists. Not the soulless, AI-generated lists they use now, but the ones carefully curated by human beings. Being just a click away from so many perfectly customized musical journeys held a major appeal for me, a guy from the original mixtape generation. What really stoked my Spotify addiction, though, was the discovery of public playlists from my favorite creators.

These playlists often took on many different forms. Some of them were simply a big list of music that a creator jammed out to while writing a comic, movie, or episode. My favorite thing, though, is when they release character-centric playlists to the public. For example, have you ever wondered what Clark Kent and Lois Lane like to listen to when they’re racing a deadline? James Gunn has you covered. Over the years, listening to these kinds of playlists has become my favorite way to immerse myself in my entertainment like never before. So, at the risk of sounding like a shill (seriously, y’all have no idea how quickly I’d sell out), here’s my guide to the best immersive playlists on Spotify.

From Lit Hits To Crit Hits

Unsurprisingly, perhaps, nobody embraced Spotify playlists like professional authors. It takes many long hours to bring our favorite stories to life, and they spend much of that time jamming out to their favorite tunes. Curious fans will be happy to learn that some of their favorite authors have released playlists online, revealing exactly which songs helped them craft their latest tale.

One of the biggest authors to do so is horror legend Stephen King. He collaborated with Far Out Magazine to release an official playlist of his favorite music on Spotify. It’s impressively eclectic, including songs from AC/DC, Sam Cooke, Shawn Mullins, and many more. According to the magazine, the maestro of the macabre declared this his “ultimate playlist,” so listening to it is a great way to get inside King’s head. If you want to go beyond the author’s official playlist, you’ll also find plenty of user-generated lists featuring music explicitly referenced in his books, allowing you to create the most immersive possible reading.

A more recent author to embrace Spotify is Matt Dinniman, writer of the hit Dungeon Crawler Carl books. He has several playlists that are more personal in nature, including Day Songs, Night Songs, and compilations of favorite metal songs and favorite instrumental songs. What fans of his LitRPG will be most interested in is the official playlist he made for the first Dungeon Crawler Carl book. While he sadly didn’t release playlists for subsequent books, he did give fans the next best thing. In the DCC books, there are alarm traps that blare popular Earth music whenever they are tripped. Dinniman has released an official playlist compiling all of these songs, immersing fans in his hit books while redefining (ahem) “trap music.”

You’re Listening To Evil Ex Radio

It’s an open secret that music is near and dear to Scott Pilgrim creator Bryan Lee O’Malley. Always a trendsetter, he was doing the Spotify playlist trend well before Spotify was even a thing. In the original Scott Pilgrim comic book volumes, O’Malley often included details about the songs he had been listening to while writing and drawing his indie masterpiece. Eventually, he took to Spotify and compiled all of these songs and more into a playlist playfully labeled “Scott Pilgrim 64.” This banger of a list includes songs from Plumtree (who inspired Scott Pilgrim’s name), Metric (whom Brie Larson memorably covers in Scott Pilgrim vs. The World), and Millennial staples like David Bowie and Tom Petty.

Those who like Scott Pilgrim often like gaming. If that includes tabletop games, you might enjoy the fact that the ultimate Dungeons & Dragons podcast, Critical Role, has multiple official playlists on Spotify. Are you a fan who would like to better understand what makes your favorite characters tick? The podcast has numerous official playlists for characters, campaigns, and DMs. All of this is awesome if you want to learn more about your favorite heroes, roll your own character, or get in the right mindset to create your own sprawling campaign.

Flying Up That Hill

While it had a killer, synth-heavy opening theme, Stranger Things didn’t start out as a series known for its killer music or epic needle drops. That changed around Season 3, when we all jammed out to Dustin’s hilariously bad rendition of “The NeverEnding Story.”  The next season upped the ante with Sadie Sink’s character escaping the Upside Down while listening to Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill.” Given how popular that moment became, it may not surprise you to learn that Stranger Things has a number of official playlists on Spotify, each one detailing what specific characters like to listen to when they aren’t running from Demogorgons or saving the world from Vecna.

Arguably, nobody in this article likes music quite as much as James Gunn, the director who made sweet needle drops a staple of his Guardians of the Galaxy films. He ensured that Superman was similarly musical, including the Teddybears song “Punk Rocker” as a callback to Lois declaring herself as “punk rock.” If you want to know what else she listens to, you’re in luck: he’s uploaded official character playlists for Lois, Clark, Lex, and plenty of other characters. If you’re a Gunn superfan, be sure to check out his other playlists, which include everything from his favorite wedding day songs to various GOTG-style mixtapes. Also, be sure to check out his Wrapped playlist to see just how quirky the man running the DCU really is!

The Marvel Cinematic Universe has grown into one of the biggest film franchises in history, but that doesn’t mean that it’s covered every single major Marvel hero there is to cover. In fact, a lot of heroes, Avengers specifically, have yet to make their way to the MCU and join the iconic team.

Whether they’ve been part of the main Avengers, the Secret Avengers, the West Coast Avengers, the Mighty Avengers, or any of the many other Avengers teams, dozens upon dozens of heroes have been part of Marvel’s flagship team. With the MCU seemingly moving forward with a soft reboot soon, and the inevitability that there will be more heroes introduced as the cinematic universe continues, these Marvel heroes will hopefully make their way to the live-action team soon.

15

Darkhawk (Christopher “Chris” Powell): The West Coast Avengers

Never heard of Darkhawk? That’s not unlikely. Being a much smaller Marvel Comics superhero, Darkhawk has flown under the radar for quite some time. However, people who grew up in the 90s and knew of him then have become quite the cult following for the hero. He has a very unique and distinct design that makes him unmistakable in a room. Darkhawk found himself joining the West Coast iteration of the team in Avengers West Coast #94 (1993), which also happens to be the issue in which James “Rhodey” Rhodes rejoins the team and officially takes up the mantle of War Machine.

So, he’s getting a little overshadowed in his own big “joined the team” issue, but Darkhawk has suffered from conditions like this throughout his whole career. Nothing’s new there. The small group of fans who still remember him fondly think he’d be a super fun addition to the MCU. He has major roles in crucial Marvel stories like the big “Annihilation” crossover, and his transformation mechanic is very interesting and makes for fun combat and action.

14

Brawn (Amadeus Cho): The Mighty Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

Amadeus Cho is one of the closest heroes here to be making his way to the MCU. Not only was his mother, Helen Cho (Claudia Kim), in Avengers: Age of Ultron, but he was featured in the alternate timeline series, Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man. Also known as Brawn, Cho can turn into a figure that looks very much like Hulk in visuals, with a similar power set.

He’s more arrogant than Bruce Banner, though, and, unlike most adaptations of Hulk, he maintains his mind when he transforms. This has given the Avengers team he’s been on, The Mighty Avengers, an edge in the sense that he has brains and strength in unison, kind of like how the MCU currently portrays Hulk. However, with Hulk returning to his “savage” form in Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Cho could be perfect for not only joining the Young Avengers in the future, but filling that space that “Smart Hulk” is leaving.

13

The “Irredeemable” Ant-Man (Eric O’Grady): The Secret Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

Oh boy… Eric O’Grady. Also known as Black Ant, this Avenger has had a very infamous history in Marvel Comics. He’s a brash, unapologetically rude, chaotic, and all-around mess of a superhero in all of his appearances. This doesn’t mean that people don’t like him, though. In fact, a lot of people enjoy the chaos he brings, because it often adds a very fresh dynamic, like it did when he was on The Secret Avengers, joining in the first issue of the 2010 run, Secret Avengers #1 (2010).

Paul Rudd won’t play Scott Lang forever, meaning eventually, the world of the MCU will need a new Ant-Man-like figure. Lang is already a flawed hero, so who better to replace him than someone who is exponentially more flawed and could have a genuinely groundbreaking redemption arc on his path to earning a spot on The Avengers?

12

Storm (Ororo Munroe): The Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

Storm—real name Ororo Munroe—may commonly be known for being a pillar of the X-Men team, but she also has spent some time on The Avengers in her tenure as a hero. After the fall of the island of Krakoa, Storm decided to join the popular Marvel team as the “mutant representative” to provide a voice for the species in The Avengers.

In addition to that, it was Thor that personally requested she join the team, as a fellow thunder-based hero. Storm’s time on the team was refreshing, given she was a voice for mutants and helped The Avengers better accommodate to mutant-based threats and needs, something they weren’t as equipped to handle before her.

11

Firestar (Angelica Jones): The Avengers and The West Coast Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

Spider-Man fans will remember Angelica Jones, Firestar, for her famous protagonist role in the classic superhero television series, Spider-Man and His Amazing Friends. Firestar may seem just like a girl version of Johnny Storm, but that couldn’t be more incorrect. She’s seen as a very underrated and not utilized enough character that deserves more time in the spotlight.

Not only could she be a great addition to The Avengers in the MCU—who could use a fire-based hero of their own—but giving Spider-Man (Tom Holland) some pals to hang out with now that he’s, well, no one, would be super fun to see. Firestar is a great hero who, when written by the right writer, has a great story and characterization.

10

Agent Venom (Flash Thompson): The Secret Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

With the MCU Spider-Man films being some of the most financially successful superhero efforts of all time, it’s no secret that Marvel Studios is going to continue to invest in the character and his corner of the universe. Should they bring the Symbiote into the franchise via Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Avengers: Doomsday, or Avengers: Secret Wars, there’s a potential future where audiences get to see Agent Venom, aka Flash Thompson, come to life.

Despite this universe’s Flash Thompson mostly being a joke in the Holland films, there’s actually a ton of opportunity to make him into a more serious character who becomes a hero. Sending him to war and having him lose mobility in his legs, like in the comics, is the perfect way to do so. Then, give him the Symbiote, and Marvel has their next Spider-hero to use. Also, the MCU’s Flash, Tony Revolori, is actually a phenomenal actor and could most certainly pull this off.

9

Blade (Eric Cross Brooks): The Mighty Avengers and The Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

Blade, aka Eric Cross Brooks, is an incredibly popular Marvel hero, especially thanks to his classic films starring Wesley Snipes. With there being so much drama and delays behind the Blade movie set to take place in the MCU, fans have most likely lost the chance to see the vampire hunter on the big screen and team up with the Avengers in Avengers: Doomsday or Avengers: Secret Wars.

Wesley Snipes’ cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine doesn’t necessarily count, and neither does the character’s involvement in Marvel Zombies, as he’s from a completely different universe in both. Fans have been waiting for a Blade movie for such a long time, with the last one coming out all the way back in 2004 with the less-than-beloved Blade: Trinity. Eric Brooks deserves his redemption, and if Marvel Studios would just lock in, he could get it.

8

Nova (Richard Rider): The Secret Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

Of all the Marvel characters that fans have been asking for to be in the MCU, Nova is one of the most requested. This cosmic hero may not seem like he’d be a member of the Avengers due to being, well, a cosmic hero, but he actually was part of the mysterious Secret Avengers in the Secret Avengers comic run.

Having Nova join up with the Avengers for a world-ending threat after being in space for a bit—maybe even teaming up with the Guardians of the Galaxy—would be such a fun idea. It would also help fill the void currently left in the cosmic side of the MCU now that the Guardians of the Galaxy trilogy has ended. Nova genuinely feels like a no-brainer at this point.

7

Hercules Panhellenios: The Avengers and the Avengers Emergency Response Squad

Image via Marvel Comics

While most well-known for his role in Greek mythology and the Disney animated movie Hercules, the character of Hercules Panhellenios is actually an Avenger in the comic books. The folks over at Marvel Comics changed his backstory so that, rather than dying, he was given godhood and, therefore, immortality.

Because he’s one of the greatest heroes of all time, he, of course, joined the Avengers. The hero of heroes has helped the Avengers on countless occasions and served as a tank/muscle for the team. Hercules has taken on and defeated the Hulk, Spider-Man, Quicksilver, The Destroyer, Thor, and even Sentry. If the Avengers are going to take on massive foes like Doctor Doom (Robert Downey Jr.) in the MCU, they’re going to need more firepower.

6

Captain Britain (Kelsey Leigh and Brian Braddock): The Avengers and the Secret Avengers

Image via Marvel Comics

One of the most underrated Marvel characters is Captain Britain, a hero from the UK who is actually super awesome. His most known iteration is the Earth-833 variant, where he became Spider-Man as his superhero identity, but his canonical Earth-616 variant is even cooler. He also wields a sword and has a badass costume that would look amazing on screen.

If Marvel Studios is looking for a new super soldier-type to introduce to the new MCU, Captain Britain is a great choice for the cinematic universe. He would add a fun dynamic to the modern Avengers, which the MCU could really use. Adding a new international feeling to the team would also help them feel more of a worldwide force than they did before. Captain Britain’s origin is also somewhat magical, which would mean more of the mystical side of the MCU.

It looks like Taylor Swift’s wedding bouquet was caught by one lucky lady who hopes for her own “lifetime of love.”

“Celebrated an Enchanting Love S(T&T)ory,” wrote Ashley Smith, sister of Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman Trey Smith, via Instagram on Sunday, July 5. “And somehow … I ended up catching Tay Tay’s bouquet.”

In an Instagram carousel that accompanied the news, Ashley included a photo of herself carrying a posy of blush pink and cream-toned sweet pea blooms, according to an X fan account, amid what appeared to be Queen Anne’s Lace wildflowers, all securely clustered via white ribbon.

An additional selfie in Ashley’s post showed her lying on a fluffy white bed as she smiled for the camera while holding the bouquet in her hand. The shot showed her still dressed in the strapless jewelled black gown that she wore to the New York City nuptials of Swift, 36, and Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce at Madison Square Garden on Friday, July 3.

Related: Taylor Swift Is a ‘Permanent Member’ of Chiefs After Travis Kelce Engagement

The Kansas City Chiefs are embracing Taylor Swift as one of their own after her engagement to Travis Kelce. “Today is a fairytale ❤️💍,” the official Chiefs Instagram account wrote on Tuesday, August 26. “Congrats to Travis and Taylor — we’re excited to have you as a permanent member of the Chiefs Kingdom family!” The […]

Ashley reflected further on catching Swift’s bouquet via her Instagram caption. “Here’s to believing it’s bringing a lifetime of love, luck, and laughter my way,” she continued. “Congratulations, Taylor & Travis! Cheers to forever T&T!”

Kelce, also 36, and Trey, 27, are close friends as well as team mates, with Trey appearing on his podcast, “New Heights,” in June 2025. Ashley also works for the NFL as a manager across Player Engagement, per her LinkedIn profile.

Ashley’s post also included a photo of one of the couple’s gifted white lace wedding handkerchiefs that was embroidered with the line, “So it’s gonna be forever” from Swift’s “Blank Space.” The linen also included the date of the wedding, and city, stitched into the fabric, plus the same ‘TT’ monogram intertwined by hearts that was seen on the pair’s rehearsal dinner gift boxes.

Thank You!

You have successfully subscribed.

Additional photos in Ashley’s post captured her smiling for the camera alongside her brother ahead of departing for the event.

While no official photos from Swift and Kelce’s wedding have been publicly shared yet, a string of celebrity guests gushed over the ceremony and how wonderful a time was had by all. Kelsea Ballerini wrote via Instagram, “Congrats on the most beautiful wedding @taylorswift @killatrav I’m still crying and dancing,” while Swift’s Aunt Robin told LBC News, “They cried and they laughed and they danced and they hugged and they kissed.”

Right after Swift and Kelce said “I do,” digital billboards outside the venue flashed up text that read, “JustT&T Married.”