Ratboys have shared a new single, ‘What’s Right?’, from their forthcoming album Singin’ to an Empty Chair. Following previous singles ‘Anywhere’ and ‘Light Night Mountains All That’, it comes paired with a video made by the band’s own Marcus Nucci. Check it out below.
“We approached this song like an experiment in the studio, stitching together three different drum performances, in three different-sounding environments, to guide us through some dramatic scene changes within the song,” Julia Steiner said in a statement. “We referenced the tight, yet expansive sonics of The War On Drugs and the desert landscapes of Thelma and Louise. The back half of the song came to me in a dream and remains one of the few times that I’ve had the presence of mind to record an idea immediately upon waking. Most of the lyrics and melody came out in that moment, and for that I’m still mystified and extremely grateful.”
In an industry often chasing fleeting trends, visionary restaurateur (and soon to be hotelier) Barış Köroğlu (Baris Koroglu) is building an empire on the bedrock of heritage. Last month, he unveiled his latest venture, DEJAVU, a Mediterranean-American fusion restaurant and cocktail lounge in the heart of the West Village, marking the next step in his mission to redefine hospitality through cultural storytelling and immersive experience.
For Köroğlu, the journey to 394 West Street began far from New York, in the ancient, cave-etched landscape of Cappadocia, Turkey. The region’s deep layers of history, artistry, and community forged a creative sensibility that now informs every project he touches. He translates this heritage not as a relic, but as a living inspiration, blending tradition with modern innovation to create spaces that resonate on a global scale.
“Guests today seek more than a meal; they seek meaning, connection, and a story,” says Köroğlu. “My vision is to build bridges between cultures, reminding people that hospitality is, at its heart, about human connection.”
Baris Korogly
Köroğlu is no stranger to shaping NYC’s social scene. Over two decades, he has cemented his reputation as a tastemaker through roles as Promotional Director at Paradise Club, a partner in VirgoPresent, and as co-founder of the immersive nightlife concept The Lullaby. His collaboration with NBA star Carmelo Anthony at 9 Jones further showcased his unique ability to fuse food, design, and celebrity into relevant concepts.
DEJAVU represents an evolution of this philosophy—a holistic destination where the line between refined dining and vibrant nightlife intentionally blurs. The 2,800-square-foot space is designed as a series of evolving experiences. The evening begins in the lively Emerald Room bar, transitions into the cream-toned sophistication of the 40-seat Golden Room dining area, and culminates for some in the Red Room, an intimate, 10-seat speakeasy hidden behind velvet curtains that hosts private tastings and burlesque performances on weekends.
“When guests enter DEJAVU, they are stepping into a narrative,” Köroğlu explains. “Every detail, from the lighting to the music, contributes to an immersive experience that we want to linger in the memory.”
This narrative extends to the plate. The culinary program, led by chefs with pedigrees in esteemed European and New York kitchens, merges coastal Turkish and Italian influences through a modern New York lens. The menu is a journey of refined yet approachable dishes designed to balance familiarity with surprise.
Shareable starters include the DEJAVU Burrata ($19) with Mediterranean herbs, and an homage to New York, the Pastrami Croquette ($19). Hand-rolled pastas reflect Mediterranean roots, such as the Manti Dumplings ($32)—Turkish ravioli in a velvety yogurt sauce. For indulgence, the menu offers caviar service ($95) and a luxurious Lemon Spaghetti with Caviar ($42).
The bar program, a fusion of artistry and science, is equally performance-driven. Utilizing techniques like sous-vide infusion and fat-washing, lead mixologist Turgut creations include the signature DEJAVU cocktail (white rum, lychee, yuzu, matcha foam) and the innovative Truffle Coffee Negroni.
Beyond business, Köroğlu’s vision is rooted in endurance and responsibility. A dedicated philanthropist, he supports cultural preservation efforts in his native Cappadocia, believing that success comes with a duty to steward community and legacy.
With two more projects on the horizon, Barış Köroğlu is poised to broaden his influence as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking leaders. From the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia to the vibrant streets of the West Village, he is proving that the most memorable hospitality is built not just on taste, but on a profound and authentic sense of place.
DEJAVU is located at 394 West Street, New York, NY 10014. Reservations for the Golden Room dining area and the Red Room speakeasy are available now.
Irish singer-songwriter Rosie Carney has announced her fourth studio album, Doomsday… Don’t Leave Me Here. The follow-up to 2022’s i wanna feel happy arrives February 27, 2026 via cool0nline. It was co-written and co-produced with Ross MacDonald of the 1975 and producer Ed Thomas (FKA twigs, Cat Burns, Amaarae) and mixed by Jonathan Gilmore (The 1975, beabadoobee, Biffy Clyro). The shimmering new single ‘The Evidence’ comes paired with a video directed by Cal McIntyre. Check it out and find the album cover and tracklist below.
Doomsday… Don’t Leave Me Here follows the previously released singles ‘Here’ and ‘Fragile Fantasy’. “It’s funny because I LOVE the production of this song, it’s so exciting to me,” Carney said in a press release. “But the song’s theme is very dystopian. It’s about that state of delirium you experience when you’re burning out but resting or being still is out of the question because it makes you feel too guilty, so you end up overexerting yourself mentally and physically. It becomes an extremely difficult cycle to break free from and everything ends up feeling like a complete fever dream. I think this is probably the boldest sounding song on the album. It set various tones for the rest of the production.”
Speaking about the album, she added:
Before Doomsday came about, I’d always wanted to try and expand my musical world. Making a sonic pivot was something I really wanted to achieve, especially as I find it really limiting to be boxed into one genre. I listen to and am influenced by so much music, so exploring a new sound has only ever been second nature to me. I’d always been anxious about creating something bigger and for some reason I wasn’t really open to doing that through collaboration until Ross, Ed and I sat down and began to weave this tapestry of musical worlds together. I learnt so much from working with both Ed and Ross, each of them brought such a grounding and inspiring energy to the studio which gave me a lot of confidence to explore and be curious. It’s funny because although the songs are essentially bigger and louder, they feel almost more personal than anything I’ve created before. The bigger sound almost worked as a shield while I was writing – It felt safer to dig deep and explore themes of grief, heartache and isolation.This album to me is like a body of armour and the softness lives protected within it.
I spent the last 45 minutes listening to a man call his customers “my girls”, need I say more? TheSteve Madden sat down with former Stanford roommates Phoebe Gates (yes, Bill Gates’ daughter) and Sophia Kianni, and went full origin story, dupe culture, Mary Janes, Gen Z, and struggles. Even his tanning girl slid in the Burnouts’ Tik Tok comments section just to bless it all, talk about cult following. Here’s everything.
There’s nothing like a harsh wake-up call. Madden drops out of college, University of Miami, the phone rings. Not a venture capitalist, not a business angel, just his dad, telling him to figure out what he’s going to do next because the family funding was over. Brutal, but hey, we all owe him one I guess? He lands a job in a shoe store and learns everything you could learn really, which if you ask him, started with “waiting on hysterical women selling them shoes”.
At the time, he lives in small-town Lawrence, near Queens, while his friends are 21, getting their first NYC job, taking the railroad, pretending to be grownups, making fun of him for staying behind with a shoe horn sticking out of his pocket. I mean, super practical, but really?
Early Fame: Before Hashtags and Dupes, There Were Mary Janes… or Lous
The first shoe that went viral under the Madden name, was a Mary Jane, sorry, a Marylou. Early on, Madden noticed that nobody paid attention to the youth market, so naturally, he did. He tweaked the classic with some fresh little twists and the phone suddenly started ringing. Inspiration to success at its finest. There’s even a reference in “Wolf of Wall Street”. Jake Hoffman, who hung out last with Madden the day before the podcast was filmed, played him in the movie, but that came with the cost of having shoes thrown at him after 1993’s IPO during broker chaos. Glamorous, right?
The conversation went on with duping, and Madden’s hot takes were hotter than platform sandals in 2014. “I’m a f***ing pirate. In fact, I want to get a tattoo of a pirate.” Gold, literally. When it comes to designing new pieces, Madden “just has a feel for it”. He described the label as “a big stew”, stirring around the hottest luxury designs and making them their own (affordable too). Inspiration comes from the streets, back in the day, he’d stroll through the West Village, soaking in what everyone was wearing. If a shoe is walking three NYC blocks three different times, that’s basically it, but besides design, speed to market is everything to the Steve Madden company. Moral of the story is, if there’s a Gucci shoe taking over SoHo, better be sure a similar one is on the way to get the Steve Madden special.
Real CEOs Get Stress Pimples Too: Prison, Ego, Struggles
“Someone asked me yesterday, ‘What did you do? I want to be like you.’ I said I suffered a lot.” And really, that’s part of the Steve Madden story. From the 1993 IPO with Jordan Belfort’s firm, yes, the “bucket shop” scheme his childhood friends cooked up, he indeed was the product. Lesson learned though, sometimes you raise money you didn’t think you could, survive the chaos, and somehow it pays off.
Prison? Survival first, creativity maybe later. Reputation? Already questionable since 15. Ego? Constant battle. I mean, I get it, having your name tied to a multi-billion dollar empire starting from zero, surely has its ups and downs, I could imagine the fight of detaching yourself from it. I could also imagine late-night self-talks, anxiety breakouts and bad hair days, ouf.
He came back to Steve Madden, after being forced to let go, with a bunch of loyal, trusted and trusting people keeping the lights on. My favorite takeaway from this podcast would be, know what you’re not good at. It’s totally fine to suck at numbers or tech as a creative, it’s a crime not to bring in people who don’t. Hire smart, ride-or-die people. Period. Payoff comes later, and it won’t be money or success, it will be spotting a girl in your shoes in a random shared elevator. That’s CEO validation right there. Luck optional, but highly recommended.
Steve Madden, the man unofficially adopted by Gen Z, who one day just decided to go with it, is the perfect example of what happens when goals, instinct and a slightly delusional level of confidence align. Copying or not, he built an empire by watching people on the street, trusting the right ones, and surviving everything from Wall Street schemes to prison cafeterias. In a world obsessed with overnight success, he’s our proof that the real win is longevity. And let’s be honest, the true reward is still spotting a stranger in your shoes on the way to the 12th floor.
Video games grow up fast. One year you are jogging through a fantasy forest punching goblins with a tree branch. The next year you are sorting through layered skill trees, seasonal currencies, prestige ranks, and technical upgrades so intricate they might require a lab coat. None of these additions dropped from the sky. They are the product of a long push toward one thing. Reward design that feels as structured and deliberate as any loyalty program, fitness app, or digital badge system.
And in the same way reviewers at casino.org/canada/ break down which online casino options feature the most innovative mechanics, players now judge games on how well their reward systems work. Not on their volume of shiny trinkets but on the quality of the loops, the pacing, the sense of meaning. If a game offers gear unlocks, skill progression, and event bonuses, it is basically building a reward economy inside the walls of a fantasy world.
What Science Says About Why These Systems Work
Here is where things get interesting. The reward structures you see in modern games line up neatly with established gamification research. A systematic mapping study of gamification mechanics found that points, levels, badges, and challenges are the core ingredients that reliably generate engagement. Nothing mystical here. Players want feedback, goals, and a sense that something new waits behind the next swing or shot.
But timing matters just as much as the reward itself. Some games hand you predictable rewards. Others use variable schedules where you never quite know what the next loot chest will give you. That unpredictability has been shown in gamification studies to increase motivation and attention. It taps into the same behavioral learning principles that drive highly engaging systems outside of gaming.
Yet here is a twist. A study comparing random and non random reward systems in video games discovered that players often prefer non random rewards because they feel more control over their progress. Predictability is not boring if it respects the player’s time. It can actually deepen engagement because players feel they earned their upgrades rather than lucked into them.
And then there is the brain itself. A longitudinal fMRI study found that video game training preserved activity in the ventral striatum. This is the part of the brain involved in reward sensitivity. In plain English, regular gameplay kept people more responsive to positive feedback.
So when players say the ding of a level up feels good, they are not exaggerating. Their neurons are literally firing in ways that agree with them.
Gear Unlocks and Skill Progression are Reward Loops Dressed in Armor
Gear unlock systems are one of the cleanest examples of structured digital rewards. You complete missions or challenges. You gain points, XP, or reputation. You hit a threshold. And then finally you unlock the weapon, armor set, or ultra specific pair of gloves that give two percent more crit damage. Gamification research shows that these systems work because they satisfy autonomy and competence. Players decide which path to take and they see visible growth when they reach the destination.
Skill trees add another layer. You invest in abilities. You watch your character become more capable. You can specialize early or spread your points like an indecisive gambler. Psychologically this creates a state known as flow where challenge and ability match up in a satisfying, occasionally addictive way.
Event bonuses change the tempo of the whole system. Limited time modes or seasonal challenges add urgency and novelty. A gamification study of freemium style reward loops found that time sensitive rewards keep people engaged far longer than permanent ones because the player feels like they might miss out.
Why These Features Keep Players Hooked
The real secret behind reward systems is simple. They work because they are built on behavioral mechanics that have been tested across fields. Daily reward systems in mobile games for example have been shown to boost retention by as much as fifty percent. Not because the rewards are large but because the habit loop forms quickly.
Rewards also change how players interact with each other. A study on incentives and social behavior found that structured rewards shape cooperation and competition in group settings. Players compare gear, chase achievements, and talk about who unlocked what. The reward is doing social work as much as mechanical work.
The surprising part is that the most engaging rewards are not always the flashiest. A predictable but meaningful reward often beats a rare but random one. Consistency builds trust. And trust keeps people logging in even after the excitement wears off.
The Complicated Side of Rewards
Reward systems can backfire. The same study that highlighted the appeal of non random rewards showed that randomness can erode the feeling of autonomy. If a player feels they are chasing luck rather than progress, engagement drops. Another review found that predictable fixed rewards can lose value over time and reduce long term engagement.
There is also an ethical line. Some reward systems resemble gambling mechanics too closely. When rewards become financially loaded or probability based, designers need to step carefully.
Why This All Matters for the Future of Games
Technical upgrades, skill systems, and event bonuses are engineered reward machines with roots in cognitive science, psychology, and gamification research. When they work well they create progression that feels personal and earned. When they are lazy or manipulative players feel it instantly.
Games now compete on the sophistication of these systems. The best systems build meaning and the rewards shape the experience. They make you care about why you are earning it.
Over the last ten years, online casinos have become massively popular, attracting millions of players to a realm of slot games, roulette wheels, live dealer tables, and never-ending promotions. As this expansion took place, the old brick gambling myths that surrounded physical casinos have migrated online, while new ones have originated from social media, forums, and people’s thinking. The majority of these myths do not harm, yet a few could misguide players into making the wrong choices, incurring losses, or forming fallacious notions about the workings of online gaming. It is quite essential for a person who wishes to enjoy a more balanced and sagacious online casino experience to distinguish the authentic from the mere superstitions.
Myth 1: Online Casinos Are Rigged Against Players
This is the most common belief, and it has been around since the first digital casinos were made. The idea that platforms secretly adjust odds, control results, or manipulate games stems from a fundamental misunderstanding of how regulated gambling works. Best online casinos Solomon Islands use Random Number Generators or RNGs, which are the sources of the most independent and unpredictable result of any spin, card, or roll. These systems are regularly audited by third-party regulators such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and GLI. If a real casino is found to be manipulating the results, it will have its license revoked immediately and be liable to pay numerous legal penalties.
However, players sometimes mistake manipulation for variance. Losing streaks can be so close to the skin that one can even feel them as personal, especially when they come up right after depositing money. But randomness does not serve or favor any emotions. If you are on a hot streak or hitting loss after loss, the results are still determined by mathematical probability. The casino already has a built-in house advantage; it does not have to cheat to make money.
Myth 2: Slot Machines “Warm Up” and Pay Out After a Long Dry Run
Isn’t it a fact that one of the oldest myths around casinos is the idea that machines become ‘due’ for a payout? Still, numerous players believe that this concept can be transferred to online slots, hence they keep looking for the game about to burst with a big win in the offline branch. This misconception overlooks the fact of RNG (Random Number Generator) technology.
Every time a slot—whether online or on a land-based casino—is played, the result is totally different from all the previous ones. There is no memory, no buildup, and no internal pressure to release a significant win.
Some gamers even try to find exact patterns, for instance, a slot machine that is said to give more bonus rounds during certain hours or days. Nevertheless, the reality is that it is the number of players that varies, not the machine’s performance. If many people are playing at the same time, then the chance of a jackpot occurrence is higher simply due to a greater number of spins and not because the slot is being ’kind’.
It is impossible for a cold slot to turn into a hot one over time, and a hot slot can be turned cold by the very next spin.
Myth 3: Using a “System” Guarantees a Win in Games Like Roulette or Blackjack
Online gamblers are really into strategies, and there is nothing wrong with that as they try to improve their odds. However, the myth that betting systems such as Martingale, Fibonacci, or Labouchère can guarantee profits is still mainly being held. These systems might be instrumental in bankroll management or in creating a temporary streak, but they cannot overpower the house edge that is built into the game.
Casinos determine maximum bet limits in order to stop players from using doubling systems to their advantage. For instance, if a player doubles after every loss in roulette, a long losing streak will either exhaust the player’s bankroll or cause them to reach the table limit.
In blackjack, as card counting will be complicated, if not impossible, online. Random Number Generator (RNG) based blackjack reshuffles the virtual deck after every hand, and live-dealer blackjack uses continuous shuffling machines. The notion that players can use systems to regularly outsmart the house disregards the mathematical reality: one can only make their chances better but consistent wins cannot be guaranteed.
A new wave of creative expression is emerging in digital culture, and it is arriving in the form of tiny, handcrafted worlds. Miniature art kits, once considered a niche hobby, are now reaching a wider audience of designers, gamers, builders, and creatives who are looking for something more tactile in an increasingly virtual landscape.
One of the brands driving this shift is Anavrin, known for its detailed book nooks. Their miniature scenes recreate atmospheric locations in a way that feels both artistic and immersive, and they have gained attention across online creative communities.
A Return to Hands-On Creativity
Part of the appeal comes from a growing desire to step away from screens and return to hands-on making. Miniature kits allow builders to assemble architectural details, layered textures, and LED-lit scenes that feel like tiny dioramas. The process blends the satisfaction of DIY with the visual impact of finished art.
For artists and hobbyists, these kits provide an accessible way to explore worldbuilding without the complexity of 3D software or digital illustration. Each piece is constructed through focused, mindful steps that mirror traditional crafts such as model building and set design.
Where Art, Gaming, and Design Overlap
Miniature kits have also found a natural overlap with gaming culture. Builders compare the experience to creating environments inside role-playing games, except with physical materials instead of digital tools. The final result feels like something taken straight from a fantasy map, a manga panel, or a cinematic cutscene.
Designers and architects see them as compact studies in lighting, scale, and spatial storytelling. For creatives who enjoy working between disciplines, these miniature scenes offer a unique way to explore visual worldbuilding on a small scale.
A Growing Community
Social platforms and maker forums have played a major role in the trend’s rise. Videos showcasing intricate miniatures attract thousands of views, and creators often share progress shots, mods, and customised builds. The community celebrates both artistic precision and personal interpretation, making it a welcoming space for beginners and experienced builders alike.
What started as a niche interest has grown into a visible movement, supported by a mix of hobbyists, collectors, designers, and fans of storytelling.
Why Miniature Art is Resonating
This trend reflects a broader cultural shift. Many people are looking for creative outlets that feel grounding and personal. Miniature kits offer a blend of nostalgia, craftsmanship, and modern design that aligns with these values.
They also function as decor once completed. Whether displayed on a bookshelf, desk, or studio shelf, these tiny scenes serve as conversation pieces that represent hours of focused creativity.
A Trend With Staying Power
As interest in creative hobbies continues to grow, miniature art kits are well-positioned to remain part of the culture. They offer a balance of challenge and creativity, and they appeal to audiences across gaming, design, craft, and home decor.
For many creators, the appeal is simple. In a world filled with digital noise, there is something refreshing about building a small, detailed universe by hand.
Keisuke Kinoshita’s 1948 melodrama Woman opens with a chorus of dance hall performers professing through song a desire to fall madly in love. Among the dancers is a former salesgirl named Toshiko (Mitsuko Mito), whose criminal boyfriend Tadashi (Eitaro Ozawa) shows up backstage, instructs her to meet him the next day, and marches off with a newly gained limp. The picture ends on a nearly identical note, with the same revue company performing the same number. However, there’s a crucial difference. Before going on stage, Toshiko meets with her cohorts to issue the following advice: “You can’t fall for someone just because he loves you. If he’s a bad person, you must despise him whatever the situation.” Between these bookends is the day that prompted her to make her declaration, a day wherein she underwent the pain necessary to escape the man who’d long brought misery into her life.
Woman was Kinoshita’s ninth directorial effort and his fifth in the postwar era. Like many Japanese pictures of its age, it’s headed by characters responding to the social conditions that spawned from their country’s devastation. At the time of the picture’s release, 2-4% of Japanese lived in “temporary housing” typically comprised of scrap lumber, sheets of metal, and marsh reed screens. Food shortage and unemployment had metastasized, and crime (organized and not) was endemic to the point that a magazine editorial quipped, “The Only People Not Living Illegally Are Those in Jail.” Woman takes this historic framework and sets within it a two-person story—Toshiko’s lover is a war veteran with a history of theft and extortion—and places heavy emphasis on character psychology.
The story, written and directed by Kinoshita, is told almost entirely from Toshiko’s perspective and takes time cluing both her and the viewer into the drama. While on the train to meet Tadashi, our heroine glimpses a fellow passenger’s newspaper and—upon it—a headline regarding a robbery. Thinking nothing of it, she disembarks at Okayama Station and encounters two of her lover’s associates. But it’s not until she rendezvouses with Tadashi and observes the manner in which he studies a copy of the aforementioned news story—about how a wealthy family and two house servants were robbed at knifepoint—that she realizes he’s committed his most barbarous crime yet. We also learn that, in the past, Tadashi persuaded Toshiko to leave her store job and work in a dance hall, and that he’s regularly depended on her for money.
Toshiko gives up her initial plea to end the relationship when the conman insists he can change. Tadashi breaks into the spiel of a man claiming to have been betrayed by society: how he began life as a child like any other; how he was misled into fighting in a war; how he came to feel his country rejected him. But even though Toshiko falls for his speech and promises, director Kinoshita reveals to us—but not to her—that it’s an act. In close-ups, we see Tadashi pause mid-speech to thrust quick sideways glances at his girlfriend, gauging the success of his manipulation. The viewer realizes Tadashi is an immoral person using the war and postwar conditions to excuse crimes he’s not ashamed of. (Incidentally, my only reservation with this scene is that Kinoshita doesn’t round out the postwar theme by attributing Tadashi’s limp to a war injury; instead, it’s implied to be the result of having been shot by a policeman. At the same time, I wonder if the director made this choice simply to avoid repeating himself, as he’d already depicted a disabled veteran in 1946’s The Girl I Loved.)
Only after the couple reaches the seaside community of Atami does Toshiko see through Tadashi’s lies, which culminates in him threatening to stab her. Despite the blade pointed in her direction, Toshiko verbally lashes out. “You’re a pickpocket, a thief, and a liar.” “You’re trying to manipulate my feelings.” Claustrophobically taut shots of Toshiko showcase her eyes: once tear-soaked, now burning with anger. Her voice on the soundtrack—formerly morose—manifests in terse words conveying hatred. No longer does she beg to part ways; she makes it clear it will be so. In addition to close-ups, Kinoshita employs a filmmaking tactic favored by his contemporary Akira Kurosawa: using crowds and the environment to accentuate the mood of a scene. (Our heroine runs from Tadashi while Atami citizens stampede toward the coast to put out a fire—emotional chaos supplemented by literal chaos.) And while Toshiko’s lost faith in her lover, an earlier profession of hers—that postwar society has good people in it—is proven when the authorities and citizens save her from Tadashi.
As indicated in the above synopsis, Woman is a small story with just two primary characters and a limited number of sequences. Such material might seem better suited to the length of a short film but here remains gripping thanks to splendid performances and the efforts of a resourceful, often inventive director. Kinoshita’s wise choices begin with keeping the story brisk (a mere sixty-seven minutes), and he maintains visual interest via witty cinematography and editing: quick cuts, close-ups capturing minutiae (e.g., Tadashi’s hands on Toshiko as they hitch a ride to Atami). Early scenes feature lighting technician Ryozo Toyoshima devising startling images reminiscent of film noir, with shadows plastered on walls and dark figures strolling about corridors. As Tadashi, Eitaro Ozawa even resembles a Hollywood gangster: sneering beneath his fedora and dragging his girlfriend around like luggage. His performance is good, though it’s appropriately Mitsuko Mito who steals the show as a woman crumbling under stress before learning to stand up for herself.
The opening credits state Woman was completed in February 1947, though it wasn’t released until April the following year. I have no insight into the matter, but perhaps Japan’s postwar American Occupation authorities (who for years censored domestic movies in both pre- and post-production) gave Kinoshita’s script a pass but quibbled with the finished product. If so, I wonder if objections stemmed from Tadashi having been a soldier, as the Occupation favored stories about servicemen productively reintegrating into society. (Though, as Kyoko Hirano demonstrates in her sublime book Mr. Smith Goes to Tokyo: Japanese Cinema Under the American Occupation, 1945-1952, the censors were selective in enforcing their own rules.) The picture, to my eye, doesn’t show signs of last-minute excisions—like, say, Kozaburo Yoshimura’s Temptation (1948)—so my speculation is that run-ins with the authorities, if they occurred, simply resulted in a stalled release.
Woman is notably unhappy compared to Kinoshita’s previous postwar movies—Morning for the Osone Family (1946), The Girl I Loved (1946), Phoenix (1947), and Marriage (1947)—the protagonists of whom endured varying degrees of suffering (sometimes also at the hands of tyrannical people) but emerged with some degree of fulfillment. (Phoenix’s heroine loses her soulmate to war but gains the acceptance of a father-in-law; the protagonist of The Girl I Loved doesn’t marry the person he wants but is grateful to remain a part of her life.) By contrast, Mitsuko Mito’s heroine in Woman survives her ordeal, but her attitude at the end is bleak; the story wraps with her marching off to perform a romantic song-and-dance number, but she herself displays no indication of even wanting bliss moving forward. Earlier Kinoshita films looked toward or even presented the future with optimism; Woman ends cynically in the present and, on that note, constitutes an interesting outlier in this phase of the director’s career.
Bibliography:
Dore, R.P. City Life in Japan: A Study of a Tokyo Ward. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1959
Hirano, Kyoko. Smith Goes to Tokyo: Japanese Cinema Under the American Occupation, 1945-1952. Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1992
Prince, Stephen. Audio commentary for Stray Dog. (Criterion Collection DVD), recorded in 2003
The gaming world is constantly evolving, offering new and exciting experiences for both seasoned players and those just starting their journey. With so many genres to explore, it can be overwhelming for new gamers to know where to begin. Fortunately, there are a variety of genres that are perfect for beginners, providing engaging, accessible gameplay while helping new players build their skills and confidence. Here are some must-try game genres for those entering the gaming world in 2026.
Casual Games: Ideal for Newcomers
Casual games have been a staple in the gaming industry for years, offering low-stress, easy-to-learn gameplay. These types of games are perfect for those who are new to gaming or simply looking for something relaxing to play. Casual games are often designed with simple mechanics, colourful graphics, and bite-sized sessions, allowing players to jump in and out of the game without feeling overwhelmed.
Games like Candy Crush Saga or Animal Crossing: New Horizons are excellent examples of casual games that are accessible for beginners. Casual games focus on easy progression and non-competitive play, so players can enjoy the experience at their own pace. Whether you’re matching colourful tiles or designing your own virtual island, casual games are perfect for getting acquainted with the basics of gaming without a steep learning curve.
Online Casino Games: An Engaging Way to Enter the Gaming World
For those who want to try something a little different, online casino games provide an accessible and often beginner-friendly option. These games, such as online slots, poker, or blackjack, allow players to enjoy gaming in a more casual environment when compared to their physical counterparts. Some bettors wager on local sites in the UK, which are licensed by the UKGC and meet local regulations, like GamStop, while other gamers play on international platforms that are licensed outside of the UK. International sites are not required to comply with local rules, like GamStop, and have grown popular because of their flexibility. When searching for the best casinos not on GamStop UK, gamers often look for sites that have a good reputation, large game libraries, and responsive customer service. Whether playing on a local platform or an international site, both new and experienced bettors can easily access a wide range of games.
New players can dive into online casino games with the same ease as any other genre, and with the rise of mobile gaming, these experiences are available on the go, making it easier than ever to jump into the action from anywhere.
Adventure Games: A Great Way to Immerse Yourself
Adventure games are another fantastic genre for new gamers, particularly for those who enjoy story-driven experiences. These games focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and immersive narratives, which makes them a great choice for players who are looking for something engaging but not too complex. Adventure games tend to be more forgiving in terms of difficulty, with mechanics that emphasise exploration over fast reflexes or complex strategies.
A perfect example of an adventure game for beginners is The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Its open world allows players to explore at their own pace, tackling quests and solving puzzles as they go along. For new gamers, adventure games offer an opportunity to experience a rich narrative while developing basic gaming skills like navigation, problem-solving, and resource management. Whether it’s solving puzzles or following an intriguing storyline, adventure games offer a well-rounded introduction to the gaming world.
Simulation Games: Create, Manage, and Relax
Simulation games are another beginner-friendly genre that has been gaining in popularity. These games allow players to experience real-world activities in a virtual setting, whether it’s managing a city, running a farm, or simulating life in a virtual world. The beauty of simulation games lies in their relaxed pace and the freedom they offer players. They often come with low stakes, so new gamers can focus on learning the mechanics of the game without feeling rushed or pressured.
The Sims 4 is a perfect example of a simulation game that’s easy to pick up and play. New gamers can build their dream house, create unique characters, and live out different life scenarios. Simulation games like Cities: Skylinesor Stardew Valley offer a similar experience, where the emphasis is on creativity, management, and strategy. These games provide an excellent foundation for understanding the dynamics of game mechanics and cause-and-effect relationships, all while providing an enjoyable and stress-free experience.
Role-Playing Games (RPGs): For Those Who Want to Dive Deeper
Role-playing games (RPGs) offer a deeper level of engagement, with expansive worlds, intricate storylines, and character progression. While RPGs can seem complex at first glance, many games in this genre are designed to be accessible to beginners, with intuitive tutorials and difficulty options to ease players into the experience. RPGs often allow players to create and develop their characters, making choices that affect the story and gameplay.
For new gamers, Final Fantasy XV or Dragon Quest XI offer a great starting point. These RPGs are known for their engaging stories and turn-based combat, which allows players to think strategically without the need for fast reflexes. The beauty of RPGs lies in their ability to transport players to different worlds, giving them the chance to shape their own adventure. For beginners, RPGs are a great way to immerse themselves in a rich narrative while developing essential gaming skills, like decision-making, combat strategies, and resource management.
Platformers: Perfect for Quick, Fun Sessions
Platformer games are ideal for beginners because they are easy to understand but still offer enough challenge to keep things interesting. These games typically involve controlling a character as they jump, run, and navigate through different levels or environments, often requiring precise timing and coordination. While platformers can be fast-paced, they tend to have forgiving difficulty curves and checkpoints, making them a great option for new players.
Games like Celeste and Super Mario Odyssey are both excellent examples of beginner-friendly platformers. Super Mario Odyssey offers a fun, relaxed experience with straightforward gameplay, while Celeste is a more challenging but rewarding option for those who enjoy precision and problem-solving. Platformers allow new gamers to develop basic motor skills and reflexes, and their straightforward mechanics make them easy to jump into without much prior gaming experience.
Conclusion: The Endless Possibilities for New Gamers
For those new to gaming, 2026 presents an exciting range of genres that cater to all kinds of preferences and skill levels. Whether you’re exploring the simple, satisfying world of casual games, immersing yourself in an RPG adventure, or testing your skills in an online casino, there’s something for everyone. The key is to explore different genres, find what resonates with you, and enjoy the experience as you develop your gaming skills. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the possibilities for new gamers are endless, making it the perfect time to jump into the world of gaming.
In 2025, finding free alternatives to Nike Training Club (NTC) is easier than ever. The best free workout apps on iOS and Android now stream guided classes for strength, cardio, yoga, Pilates, mobility, and mindfulness without locking the essentials behind a paywall. Two client standouts, Hoola and WallPilates, make this list for different reasons: Hoola folds workouts, progress tracking, and wellness tools into one app, while WallPilates delivers joint friendly, wall supported Pilates plans that fit small spaces and busy schedules. We verified features and free versus paid access on current store listings so you know what is truly free today.
1. Hoola fitness app – holistic home workouts with AI smarts
The Hoola fitness app bundles workouts, mindfulness, and nutrition in one place. Open the dashboard and you’ll find on-demand classes for strength, cardio, yoga, Pilates, and even chair-based recovery. The app is free to download, letting you sample a rotating set of guided workouts; unlimited access sits in an optional subscription.
Hoola’s standout feature is an AI Coach that scores each session across Strength, Cardio, Flexibility, and Mindfulness, and the points feed a dynamic progress tracker in theHoola fitness app that refreshes your recommendations on the fly. Because the fitness coaching app Hoola also runs an AI calorie optimiser in the same engine, the Coach can surface workout suggestions and dinner ideas that match the goals you set. Quick breathing drills for post-HIIT recovery and a recipe feed that automatically locks to your calorie target mean you can delete the separate meditation, tracker and meal-planning apps.
Wellness goes beyond movement: quick breathing drills help you decompress after HIIT, while a recipe feed keeps dinner aligned with your calorie target, so you no longer have to juggle separate apps for tracking, meditation, or meal inspiration.
Early reviews look promising. As of November 3, 2025, the iOS listing shows a 4.8-star average from more than 90 users and promises “unlimited on-demand classes” once you upgrade. If you want a Nike Training Club alternative that folds in nutrition and mental-health tools—while still letting you try guided workouts for free—Hoola belongs on your shortlist.
2. WallPilates: wall supported Pilates you can start anywhere
WallPilates turns a plain wall into a built-in prop for low-impact strength, mobility and posture work, making a gentle counterpoint to NTC’s high-intensity circuits. The wall-supported Pilates program WallPilates lays out a 28-day progression that builds core strength and improves flexibility, and its Wallpilates fitness app workouts are rated 4.9 by thousands of users and run in 10-minute sessions that keep wrist and knee pressure low so beginners stay stable before adding mat moves. Recent roundups from Healthline and other health outlets rank wall-Pilates apps among the best at-home options for reliable, joint-friendly training you can do equipment-free. If you want structured Pilates without a reformer, this category is tailor-made.
Popular titles such as Wall Pilates: 28 Day Challenge offer personalized plans, video guidance from instructors, and progress tracking (photos, measurements), with flows designed to fit tight schedules and tight spaces. All you need is a wall. That makes it easy to stack short, focused sessions alongside strength or cardio days from other apps.
Most WallPilates apps are free to download with optional subscriptions to unlock full programs and challenges. For example, Wall Pilates: 28 Day Challenge lists in app purchases and holds ~4.5★ from ~1.8K ratings on iOS, while Wall Pilates: Fit Weight Loss is likewise free to install with premium plans and shows ~4.4★ from ~867 ratings. Try a few free sessions first; if the format clicks, upgrade for complete 28 day calendars and progressive plans.
3. Adidas Training – structured body-weight plans from a sports giant
If you enjoy Nike Training Club’s polish, Adidas Training by Runtastic feels familiar. The app delivers professionally shot body-weight sessions—full-body HIIT, targeted core, and quick mobility drills—and most of them sit in the free tier.
Structure is the hook. After a two-minute fitness test you choose a goal such as “Build strength” or “Stay toned.” The algorithm creates a multi-week plan with rest days and automatic rescheduling when you skip. A social feed lets you trade kudos or join global challenges, and connecting the companion Adidas Running app pulls cardio stats into the same profile for a single, weekly dashboard.
Fresh figures support the reach. As of November 3, 2025, the iOS listing shows a 4.8-star average from more than 22,000 ratings, while Google Play reports over 10 million downloads. Free users get the entire workout library and several flagship plans; premium unlocks deeper analytics and niche programs, but the core free guided workouts remain open. For brand-backed quality with a clear roadmap, and without opening your wallet, Adidas Training delivers.
4. Freeletics – high-intensity workouts that learn from you
Freeletics turns every push-up into data. Its AI-powered Coach adjusts reps, tempo, and rest based on your post-workout feedback, so each session feels like a plan that evolves with your progress. As of November 3, 2025, the Android listing shows more than 10 million downloads and a 4.5-star average from 257,000 reviews, proof the approach resonates.
Most workouts last 15 to 30 minutes and rely on body-weight moves such as burpees, squats, and sprints, a strong alternative when Nike Training Club no longer spikes your heart rate. In 2025 Freeletics added Coach+, a chat layer that answers technique questions or offers injury modifications on demand.
The free tier unlocks hallmark workouts like “Aphrodite,” “Metis,” and community challenges. Upgrading buys full adaptive plans, yet you can build a potent routine by pairing these free guided sessions with your own runs or rides. If you want AI-driven intensity, along with the bragging rights that come from finishing 150 burpees, Freeletics delivers.
5. Peloton App Free – studio-quality vibes without the price tag
Peloton App Free launched in May 2023, giving non-bike owners access to a rotating library of 50-plus on-demand classes across 12 workout styles, including strength, cardio, yoga, and meditation.
The catalog refreshes every few weeks, so new bootcamps or barre flows appear while older sessions retire. To bridge the gaps, the Gym feature offers printable plans with demo clips you can follow at your own pace. Social touches stay intact: milestones, friend follows, and post-class stats all function on the free tier.
Current numbers back the buzz. As of November 3, 2025, iOS users award the app 4.9 stars from 794,000 ratings, while Google Play lists 4.1 stars, 14,900 reviews, and more than 1 million downloads. Live classes remain paywalled, yet if you want free guided workouts wrapped in studio-grade production, Peloton’s entry tier makes a strong addition to your routine.
6. FitOn – a studio-style class library that never runs dry
Open FitOn and you step into a buzzing digital studio. New classes appear daily—HIIT blasts, sculpt sessions, yoga flows, dance cardio, and guided meditations—streamed in crisp HD by trainers who feel like they’re in your living room.
Scale is FitOn’s flex. The library already tops 1,000 on-demand videos and keeps growing. As of November 3, 2025, Google Play shows more than 5 million downloads with 96,000-plus user reviews, while iOS users award the app 4.9 stars from 282,000 ratings. Short on time? Filter for six-minute express routines. Want a challenge? Queue a 40-minute bootcamp.
Personalization is quick: pick your goals and preferred styles, and FitOn builds a weekly plan, rescheduling automatically if you miss a day. Community touches matter too: invite friends, stack classes into joint challenges, and trade virtual high-fives after every sweat session.
Cost is simple: the workouts stay free. An optional PRO tier adds meal plans and wearable integrations, but every squat, plank, and downward dog remains outside the paywall. If you need a Nike Training Club alternative packed with free guided workouts and endless class variety, FitOn is an easy download.
Conclusion
In 2025 you can build a complete home routine with free alternatives to Nike Training Club and never run out of quality classes. Hoola stands out if you want workouts plus progress tracking, breathwork, and simple nutrition in one app. WallPilates shines for low impact, wall supported Pilates that strengthens the core and improves posture in small spaces. Pair a high intensity option like Freeletics or a rotating studio catalog like FitOn or Peloton App Free with gentle WallPilates sessions for balance. Start with the free tiers, track how you feel, and only upgrade once you know what you will use. The best free workout app is the one that keeps you consistent.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Are these really free alternatives to Nike Training Club, and what sits behind the paywall? Yes. Each app in this guide offers free guided workouts you can start today. Most place extras behind a subscription such as advanced programs, downloads, or wearable integrations. Start with the free tier and only upgrade if you want structured multi week plans or deeper analytics.
2) Which free workout app is best for beginners or low impact training? WallPilates is ideal for joint friendly, wall supported Pilates that builds core and posture with simple progressions. Hoola is another beginner friendly pick thanks to short classes, breathwork, and gentle mobility sessions that pair well with its progress tracking.
3) Can I follow a complete program at home without equipment? Yes. Freeletics, FitOn, WallPilates, and the classic 7 minute circuit all offer body weight options. Add a mat and a sturdy wall and you can run full strength and mobility blocks from your living room.
4) Which apps include nutrition, mindfulness, or recovery tools? Hoola combines workouts with goal based recommendations, breathwork, and built in nutrition guidance so you do not need separate tracking or meditation apps. FitOn and Peloton offer recovery and mobility sessions you can stack on training days.
5) I do not own a bike or treadmill. Will Peloton App Free still work for me? Yes. Peloton App Free rotates on demand classes in strength, cardio, yoga, and more that require little to no equipment. You can sample instructors and formats first, then decide if a paid tier makes sense later.
