The mall rat revival is real, and it’s being powered by teens trading TikTok for Auntie Anne’s.

The Mall Resurgence, Powered by the Young and Restless

Gen Z and Gen Alpha are driving a full-blown mall comeback in 2025, craving screen-free hangouts, pretzel-fueled shopping trips, and some analog social vibes, per the Los Angeles Times. These digital natives are heading back to physical retail not just to shop, but to be—to hang out, try on clothes IRL, and post from retro-chic food courts.

According to the International Council of Shopping Centers, 60% of Gen Z prioritize experiences over stuff, and 70% think malls are fun social spaces. For them, malls are less about consumerism and more about connection.

Nicole Tan, 23, sums it up: “I like to try things on… I do more leisure non-shopping things at the mall.” Meanwhile, Gen Alpha kids—born post-2013—are joining in. Viral X posts suggest they’re ditching their Chromebooks and asking for car rides to the nearest mall. Real-life interactions? They’re back in fashion.

Why the Mall is Cool Again

What’s bringing malls back from the dead? First, instant gratification. Gen Z has grown up getting everything now—streaming, delivery, dopamine hits. Waiting two days for a package? Hard pass. Second, the loneliness epidemic: post-COVID mental health struggles have Gen Z craving real-life hangouts. 91% say spending time with friends is a key source of happiness.

Third, the malls themselves have changed. Take Westfield Century City—it now features a gym, high-end dining, escape rooms, and Instagrammable architecture. As Louis Schillace told LA Times, “It’s a destination, not just a shopping center.” And lastly, the e-commerce boom has plateaued post-pandemic. Physical retail is finding its groove again, per Camoin Associates.

The Retail Apocalypse Recap

Let’s not forget: malls were on life support. The so-called “retail apocalypse” hit hard starting in the 2010s, fueled by the rise of Amazon and a 50% drop in mall visits from 2010 to 2013, per Wikipedia, “Retail apocalypse,” May 1, 2025. Anchor stores like Sears and Macy’s collapsed, COVID-19 closures sped up the carnage, and overbuilt malls—constructed at double the rate of population growth between 1970 and 2015—were left hollowed out. By 2017, Credit Suisse predicted a quarter of U.S. malls would close by 2022. Spoiler alert: many did.

From Peak to Pivot: Mall Stats Over Time

In the 1980s and 1990s, the U.S. had about 2,500 malls. By 2023? Just over 1,000. That’s a 60% drop, per StreetLight Data, “Traffic Data Shows How the American Mall Is Being Reborn,” November 20, 2023. Some still thrive—like Westfield—but others, like the Puente Hills Mall (of Back to the Future fame), are dead zones. A 2020 Financial Times chart showed U.S. mall vacancies at a 20-year high pre-COVID. Malls that have survived are pivoting hard: adding coworking spaces, apartment units, and immersive experiences.

What’s Next: Neon Nostalgia Meets New Money

StreetLight Data reports that 70% of mall trips now happen on weekdays, up from 60% in 2019, thanks to hybrid work and flexible school schedules. Gen Z, with their $360 billion in spending power, now represents 40% of global consumers, per LA Times. Their habits are shaping retail’s future—and malls are responding by evolving into hybrid hangout hubs.

Still, the risks aren’t gone. E-commerce remains dominant, and many malls are still bleeding tenants. But the nostalgia-fueled comeback—driven by teens who were born after malls peaked—is breathing life into once-doomed spaces. If nothing else, it’s proof that even in a digital world, the food court will never die.

News compiled and edited by Steven Bubbles and Edgar B.

Sources:

• Los Angeles Times, “Malls have rebounded thanks to an unlikely source: Gen Z,” January 19, 2024

• StreetLight Data, “Traffic Data Shows How the American Mall Is Being Reborn,” November 20, 2023

• Wikipedia, “Retail apocalypse,” May 1, 2025

• Camoin Associates, “The Death and Rebirth of the American Shopping Mall: Part 1,” October 10, 2023

• Telegraph, “Gen-Z’s Christian revival is an act of rebellion against nihilism,” May 5, 2025

• Wikipedia, “Generation Z,” April 30, 2025

• @mamahailz, Post ID: 1920911777816019041, May 9, 2025

• @SomeBitchIIKnow, Post ID: 1920911777816019041, May 9, 2025

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“I’m gonna be a dad.”

An unintentional dad joke is burning up social media this week, and it’s already become a meme.

HBO’s The Last of Us Season 2, Episode 4 delivered a scene that’s warming hearts and riling purists: Ellie, after learning of Dina’s pregnancy, quips, “I’m gonna be a dad.”

The moment, aired on May 4, 2025, sharply contrasts with Ellie’s darker in-game reaction in The Last of Us Part II, prompting split reactions from fans and reigniting the adaptation vs. canon debate.

The Show’s Version: Hope in the Apocalypse

In the episode titled “Day One,” Dina reveals her pregnancy shortly after Ellie survives a Cordyceps bite, confirming her immunity. Dina, played by Isabel Merced, confirms the pregnancy with a stash of test kits found in Seattle. Ellie, portrayed by Bella Ramsey, responds with warmth and humor, saying, “I’m gonna be a dad,” clearly excited at the idea of helping raise the child—who is, canonically, Jesse’s, her ex-boyfriend.

This soft, supportive moment is a sharp tonal shift from the games, where the reveal was drenched in dread and tension.

The Game’s Version: Burdened by Reality

In The Last of Us Part II, Ellie learns of Dina’s pregnancy under far bleaker circumstances. After a spore encounter forces Ellie to reveal her immunity, Dina confesses she’s pregnant. Ellie’s response is sharp: “Are you f**king kidding me?… You’re a burden now, aren’t you?” It’s a turning point, showing Ellie’s singular focus on revenge following Joel’s death and the emotional walls she’s built.

Many fans preferred this darker tone, citing its emotional weight and realism.

The Backlash: “Woke” or Just Different?

Not everyone is thrilled with HBO’s rewrite. On X, DramaAlert posted a meme claiming the show had gone “full WOKE,” echoing other complaints that the scene was too sanitized or idealistic. Others criticized the decision to portray a pregnancy during a zombie apocalypse as illogical, while some questioned whether the softer Ellie undermines her arc.

Still, a vocal portion of the fanbase appreciated the change. Some viewers called it funny or sweet, noting that it paints Ellie as more emotionally mature. It’s a classic adaptation dilemma: should the show mirror the game’s edge, or can it carve out its own, more hopeful path?

Adapting Tone: Warmth vs. Grit

The shift from gritted-teeth realism to emotional support isn’t just a one-off scene change—it signals a broader narrative tone. In the show, Dina and Ellie share an intimate moment before the reveal, turning the pregnancy into a moment of bonding. In the game, it comes before intimacy, driving a wedge between them.

Some argue the show is exploring themes of healing and future-building, while the game was about vengeance and trauma. Whether that tonal shift works is still up for debate.

What’s Next?

The rest of Season 2 will determine how this softer Ellie plays out, especially as the Seattle arc intensifies. The show is still tracking toward a confrontation with Abby, and the contrast between hope and violence may define the adaptation’s success.

Love it or hate it, Ellie’s dad joke is here to stay—and it’s reshaped one of the game’s most emotionally fraught scenes.

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Steven “Edgar” Bubbles / Published on May 7, 2025

Sources:

• Beebom, “I’m Gonna Be a Dad: How Ellie Embraces Dina’s Pregnancy in The Last of Us Season 2,” May 5, 2025

• ScreenRant, “That Dina Reveal In The Last Of Us Season 2, Episode 4 Explained,” May 5, 2025

• ScreenRant, “I’m A Fan Of Ellie & Dina’s Pairing In The Last Of Us, But I’m Surprised How Much The Show Changed Their Big Theater Scene In Seattle,” May 5, 2025

• X Post by @alina0, Post ID: 1919942053301035327, May 7, 2025

• X Post by DramaAlert, Post ID: 1919854872033161400, May 6, 2025

• X Post by @Retmods, Post ID: 1920076544568946914, May 7, 2025

• X Post by @abelm3404, Post ID: 1920128072512159787, May 7, 2025

• X Post by @DDXCross, Post ID: 1920001660580983288, May 7, 2025

• X Post by @tnsxpm, Post ID: 1920199266410377503, May 7, 2025

• X Post by @TrueBlue, Post ID: 1919981448213262357, May 7, 2025

• X Post by @saitama!, Post ID: 1919962986610831422, May 7, 2025

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Atari is proving that retro gaming isn’t just a nostalgic fling—it’s a full-on revival. In 2025, new cartridges for the Atari 2600 and 7800 are still being produced, fueled by the popularity of the Atari 2600+ and 7800+ consoles, a thriving homebrew scene, and third-party contributions like Opcode Games’ upcoming Popeye release.

Atari 2600+ and 7800+: Modern Consoles for Retro Souls

Atari’s 2600+ and 7800+ consoles are driving this resurgence, combining classic hardware support with modern conveniences.

The 2600+ plays both 2600 and 7800 cartridges, includes HDMI output, widescreen mode, and a redesigned cartridge socket for ease of use, according to Atari.com. It ships with a 10-in-1 game cartridge featuring titles like Adventure, Missile Command, and Yars’ Revenge, and runs on a Rockchip 3128 SOC with 256MB RAM and 256MB eMMC storage. The 7800+, launched in 2024, also supports original cartridges and offers updated connectivity, earning praise on forums like AtariAge for its balance of nostalgia and usability.

 

 

 

A Thriving Homebrew Scene: Indie Devs Keep It Fresh

The 2600 homebrew scene continues to evolve, with independent developers releasing new titles nearly five decades after the console’s debut. A report from Retrostack spotlights the top 40 Atari 2600 homebrew developers, including standout games like Intruders and Zarkstars IV. Jonh Peter Olioni of Olioni Games shared his appreciation for the recognition, highlighting the creative energy still alive in the community. These developers aren’t just revisiting the past—they’re pushing the 2600’s limits to deliver modern experiences on classic hardware.

 

 

 

Atari’s Latest Releases: New Cartridges and More

Atari itself remains active, recently releasing Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration Expanded Edition with 39 additional games and a new 7800 cartridge for Bounty Bob Strikes Back, per Atari.com. The company is also expanding into modern platforms with games like Yars Rising. Meanwhile, third-party publishers like Opcode Games are preparing new physical 7800 cartridges, including Popeye and Moon Cresta, as reported by Atari I/O Forums. The cartridge format may be vintage, but the content is anything but dated.

 

 

 

How Modern Atari Came to Be: A Corporate Resurrection

Atari’s current form stems from decades of evolution. After its 1980s heyday, the company endured multiple splits and a 2013 bankruptcy before emerging as Atari S.A., focused on retro gaming and licensing. In 2023, Atari acquired the AtariAge community and digital storefront, blending fan culture with official strategy. While some fans question the pricing of new releases, community forums reflect strong support for Atari’s new direction and the popularity of the 7800+.

Enthusiast Reception: Retro Love with a Side of Critique

Retro fans are embracing the new hardware, with users on AtariAge calling the 7800+ a surprise success. The homebrew scene, including contributions from developers like Olioni Games, has drawn acclaim. Not everyone is sold on the pricing—new cartridges and the $129.99 cost of the 2600+ are sticking points for some—but overall sentiment remains positive. Atari’s blending of legacy hardware and modern accessibility is hitting the right notes for longtime fans.

What’s Next for Atari’s Retro Revival?

Speculation continues about future accessories, games, and cartridge reissues for the 2600 and 7800. Opcode Games’ upcoming titles are generating excitement, and the homebrew community shows no sign of slowing. With strong community engagement and consistent support for its retro platforms, Atari seems committed to ensuring these classics remain more than museum pieces.

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Steven “Edgar” Bubbles / Published on May 7, 2025

Pixels, Pop Culture and the Paranormal! D/REZZED strives to be an apolitical, balanced and based entertainment news outlet covering Video Games, Anime, Movies, Comics, Tech and the Mysterious. We try to be accurate, but errors do occasionally happen. Opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of our podcast hosts, editors, other contributors, affiliates, sponsors or advertisers. The article may contain affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. We disclaim products or services we have received for review purposes, as well as sponsored posts.

Sources:

• AtariAge Forums, “The 2600/7800/+ Platforms in 2025 – What’s next for the systems? Accessories, Games, Re-Issues – Speculation Thread,” March 24, 2025

• Atari.com, “Atari 2600+ – Official Atari Video Game Consoles,” accessed May 7, 2025

• Retrostack, “Top 40 Atari 2600 Homebrew Developers,” August 4, 2024

• Atari I/O Forums, “Opcode Games Announced First Two 7800 Releases,” February 15, 2025

• Atari.com, “Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration Expanded Edition,” accessed May 7, 2025

• Atari.com, “Yars Rising,” accessed May 7, 2025

• Atari.com, “About Atari,” accessed May 7, 2025

The controversial new Severus Snape actor finds himself caught between activism and a franchise many activists say should be left behind.

Paapa Essiedu, HBO’s newly cast Severus Snape, is stirring more than just potions by signing an open letter supporting trans rights in the U.K.—a move many found admirable, but others are calling hypocritical given his new paycheck is coming from the Wizarding World, per IndieWire.

J.K. Rowling, still executive producer on the series, responded calmly, saying, “I don’t have the power to sack an actor from the series and I wouldn’t exercise it if I did,” per Variety.

The drama is splitting the Potterverse once again. Some fans see Essiedu’s statement as principled; others think it’s empty PR while still cashing in on a franchise trans activists have long asked people to boycott—including 2023’s blockbuster Hogwarts Legacy, which became a lightning rod over Rowling’s involvement.

Essiedu’s Statement: A Public Pledge, A Paycheck Too

Essiedu joined Harris Dickinson, Nicola Coughlan, and over 400 filmmakers in signing a letter circulated by Motive Pictures supporting trans, non-binary, and intersex communities in the U.K., per IndieWire. The letter read: “We must now urgently work to ensure that our trans, non-binary and intersex colleagues, collaborators and audiences are protected from discrimination and harassment.”

That show of solidarity followed Rowling’s public praise for a U.K. Supreme Court ruling defining gender legally by biology. It also came as Essiedu’s casting as Snape sparked backlash among Potter fans for allegedly contradicting the character’s pale description in the books, per Vulture.

Rowling’s Response: Still Stirring the Cauldron

Rowling addressed the letter directly, saying, “I don’t have the power to sack an actor from the series and I wouldn’t exercise it if I did,” and added, “I don’t believe in taking away people’s jobs or livelihoods because they hold legally protected beliefs that differ from mine,” per Variety.

Rowling’s critics point to her 2020 tweet—“If sex isn’t real, there’s no same-sex attraction”—as the flashpoint that triggered years of backlash, per Glamour. She has denied being transphobic, but her continued involvement in the franchise has led to boycotts of everything from the new series to games, theme park attractions, and merchandise. Despite the uproar, Warner Bros. has stood firm behind her, stating, “The series will only benefit from her involvement,” per Bounding Into Comics.

Potter Cast Reacts: Splinters in the Sorting Hat

Several stars from the original films and the Fantastic Beasts spinoffs have spoken out in defense of trans rights:

• Emma Watson said, “Trans people are who they say they are and deserve to live their lives without being constantly questioned,” per Glamour.

• Rupert Grint stated, “Trans women are women. Trans men are men. We should all be entitled to live with love and without judgement,” per The Week.

• Eddie Redmayne added, “I disagree with Jo’s comments,” while affirming his support for trans communities.

Bonnie Wright recently encouraged the new cast to focus on the books and enjoy the process, but her recent podcast comments did not directly address the controversy.

John Lithgow’s Take: Dumbledore Is Minding His Own Business

John Lithgow, set to play Dumbledore in the HBO series, doesn’t seem interested in choosing sides. “I didn’t anticipate that,” he said of the backlash, adding, “Why should her personal views be my business?” per TVLine. A friend even sent him an open letter titled “Please Walk Away from Harry Potter.”

He read it. He didn’t walk.

What Now for the Reboot?

HBO’s reboot, marketed as a “faithful adaptation,” stars Paapa Essiedu as Snape, John Lithgow as Dumbledore, and Nick Frost as Hagrid. But the controversy around Essiedu’s dual role—as both public ally and private participant in a Rowling-led project—adds more drama to a franchise already under constant scrutiny. Some actors have even disabled Instagram comments to dodge the backlash.

Whether this reboot can conjure fresh magic or just more online firestorms remains to be seen. Essiedu may be standing for something—but he’s also standing on a platform built by someone many say they won’t support.

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Steven “Edgar” Bubbles / Published on May 7, 2025

Sources:

• IndieWire, “’Harry Potter’ Series’ Paapa Essiedu Signs Open Letter on Trans Rights,” April 30, 2025

• Variety, “J.K. Rowling Says ‘I Wouldn’t’ Fire Paapa Essiedu From HBO’s ‘Harry Potter’ for Supporting Trans Rights,” May 5, 2025

• BBC, “Harry Potter: HBO reveals first cast members for Harry Potter TV series,” April 14, 2025

• Vulture, “The ‘Harry Potter’ TV Show’s Snape Casting Is Getting Messy,” April 23, 2025

• Bounding Into Comics, “Warner Bros. Defends J.K. Rowling’s Involvement With ‘Harry Potter’ HBO Series,” April 25, 2025

• GameRant, “HBO Harry Potter Series Actor Faces Fan Backlash Over Casting,” April 18, 2025

• TVLine, “’Harry Potter’ Star John Lithgow Surprised by J.K. Rowling Controversy,” April 28, 2025

• Glamour, “A Complete Breakdown of the J.K. Rowling Transgender-Comments Controversy,” June 11, 2020

• The Week, “How the ‘Harry Potter’ author built her anti-trans reputation,” September 17, 2024

• News18, “Bonnie Wright AKA Ginny Weasley Has THIS Advice For New Harry Potter Child Stars,” May 6, 2025

EA and BioWare’s goes on a curious hiring spree after cutting key talent from Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Is this growth or just a soft reboot with fewer familiar faces?

In a move raising questions across the gaming community, EA and BioWare are hiring again—just months after laying off hundreds, including key writers and producers from Dragon Age: The Veilguard.

According to 80.lv, the restructuring began in January 2025, with longtime contributors like narrative designer Trick Weekes and editors Karin West-Weekes and Ryan Cormier among those laid off. Now, The Gamer reports that BioWare is back on the hunt for new talent for Mass Effect 5, including narrative directors and level designers.

Meanwhile, EA’s May earnings call touted “accelerated growth,” even after eliminating more than 300 positions—including 100 at Respawn—per Game Developer.

 

 

 

The Layoff Bloodbath: Who Got the Axe?

BioWare’s cuts were significant. Though EA didn’t release specific numbers, the layoffs included some of the studio’s most experienced Dragon Age developers. While a few were reassigned within EA, many were not. These layoffs came on the heels of BioWare’s 2023 downsizing, which affected 50 employees. EA’s broader workforce reduction in May 2025 hit several divisions, suggesting a consistent trend.

It’s a familiar cycle: scale back, restructure, rebuild.

Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s High-Profile Flop

Released on October 31, 2024, The Veilguard was expected to reignite the Dragon Age brand. It didn’t.

Though it earned an 80 on OpenCritic, the game underperformed commercially, selling 1.5 million fewer copies than EA anticipated, per 80.lv. Reactions were mixed. Some players enjoyed the fresh party dynamics, while others criticized the game for drifting too far from classic RPG mechanics. Director Corinne Busche exited soon after launch, moving to a different studio.

During earnings discussions, EA referred to The Veilguard—along with EA Sports FC 2024—as an “underperformer,” per The Gamer.

 

 

 

Hiring Again: A Fresh Start or a Strategic Reset?

Now, BioWare is staffing up for Mass Effect 5. EA says it’s about becoming a “more agile, focused studio” and aligning teams with “strategic priorities.”

 

 

 

But the optics raise questions. The layoffs disproportionately impacted the Veilguard team, and the new hires suggest EA may be clearing the board to start fresh with new developers. It’s a move that looks like a reboot, framed as growth.

This approach isn’t new for EA. Veterans of Anthem likely remember similar shifts.

What’s Next for EA and BioWare?

BioWare’s new “core team” is leading the charge on Mass Effect 5, and longtime fans are cautiously optimistic. Still, the studio’s recent track record—from Anthem to The Veilguard—has many watching with a mix of hope and skepticism.

Beyond the games, there’s a human cost. Game Developer reports that 77% of laid-off game developers struggle to land new roles within six months. Restructuring may be part of business, but for those impacted, it’s far from just numbers on a quarterly report.

Whether this hiring wave marks the beginning of a new golden age for BioWare—or just another corporate reshuffle—remains to be seen.

Sources:

• 80.lv, “Confirmed: Dragon Age: The Veilguard’s Writers, Producers Laid Off As Part Of BioWare’s Restructuring,” January 29, 2025

• The Gamer, “Mass Effect 5: BioWare Is Hiring Again After Layoffs,” April 30, 2025

• Game Developer, “EA Says Business Primed For Accelerated Growth Following Layoffs,” May 6, 2025

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Steven “Edgar” Bubbles / Published on May 7, 2025

What happens when keyboard warriors go ape over the ultimate hypothetical brawl? Let’s find out.

Imagine 100 unarmed guys stepping into a ring with a single silverback gorilla. Sounds like the setup for a post-apocalyptic anime or a fever dream from Joe Rogan, right? Nope—it’s the internet’s latest thought experiment, and it absolutely exploded across social media in late April 2025. According to The Washington Post, the debate clocked over 4 billion potential impressions on X. The stakes? Bragging rights, memes, and a heavy dose of delusion.

Where Did This Banana-Sized Idea Come From?

The madness kicked off on April 25, 2025, when an X user floated the question: Could 100 men take down a gorilla in a fight? From there, it mutated into a full-blown internet frenzy. It’s not the first time the web has entertained absurd battle scenarios (see: duck-sized horses vs. horse-sized duck), but this one hit a primal nerve. As Forbes noted, the “no weapons” rule and “natural environment” setting added just enough realism to let imaginations run wild—and run they did.

The user @DreamChasnMike wrote in a X post on April 25: “i think 100 n***** could beat 1 gorilla everybody just gotta be dedicated to the s***.”

Within days, TikTok creators were making elaborate animations, livestreamers were crunching probabilities, and thread warriors on X were debating tactics like they were planning D-Day.

The Stats: Gorilla Strength vs. Human Hubris

Let’s talk numbers. A silverback gorilla weighs between 300 and 500 pounds and is anywhere from 4 to 9 times stronger than a trained human, per Newsweek. It can bend iron bars, uproot small trees, and has a bite force of 1,300 PSI—double that of a lion.

Now consider 100 average dudes. Not UFC fighters. Not Spartan warriors. Just regular guys from Reddit. Theoretically, the numbers seem overwhelming—until you remember that organizing 100 dudes to do anything in sync is like herding caffeinated cats. Even Wikipedia notes that most simulations show the men would descend into chaos long before mounting a coordinated offense. Unless they came armed with strategy (and maybe some bananas), the gorilla walks out the champ.

Why the Internet Cares: A Gorilla-Sized Flex on Masculinity

So why did this bizarre question go so viral? It’s not just the meme potential. The Washington Post points out that the debate found a particular home among male conservative influencers and streamers, highlighting a broader trend in online masculinity content.

Some cultural critics argue the whole thing is symbolic—not of combat, but of a generational obsession with dominance, survival, and proving one’s worth in a world where physical challenges are rare. Others say: chill, it’s just a meme.

Meanwhile, Blizzard Entertainment got in on the action with an Overwatch 2 livestream pitting 100 soldier characters against the gorilla tank hero, Winston. Unsurprisingly, Winston came out on top.

What the Experts Say: Don’t Bet Against the Beast

While the internet debates battle logistics, primatologists and martial artists alike are leaning toward Team Gorilla. Research shows that even with overwhelming numbers, the lack of coordination and sheer terror would render most of the 100 men useless.

Sure, some simulations suggest that if 50 guys could pin the gorilla at once, they might stand a chance. But real life isn’t a strategy sim, and you only get one shot at not getting your face rearranged by a 500-pound primate.

As Forbes noted, it’s less a scientific debate and more of an online fever dream—the spiritual successor to Reddit’s horse-duck debate. A chaotic playground of “what ifs” where logic takes a backseat to the absurd.

What’s Next for This Viral Throwdown?

The debate isn’t going away any time soon. It’s already spawned spin-off questions: What if the men were trained Navy SEALs? What if the gorilla had emotional support? What if it was 1,000 toddlers?

For now, the internet has crowned the gorilla the likely champ, but the true winner is the meme economy. Whether it’s a reflection of masculinity, chaos theory, or just good old-fashioned online nonsense, the “100 men vs. 1 gorilla” debate proves one thing:

The internet is undefeated.

Sources:

• The Washington Post, “Could 100 men beat a gorilla? Here’s what this viral debate says about us,” May 3, 2025

• Newsweek, “Could 100 Men Really Take on One Gorilla and Win? We Asked ChatGPT,” April 28, 2025

• Forbes, “‘100 Men Vs. One Gorilla’—The Viral Question, Explained,” April 30, 2025

• Wikipedia, “100 men versus a gorilla,” May 7, 2025

News compiled by Derek Gibbs and Steven “Edgar” Bubbles / Published on May 7, 2025

Pixels, Pop Culture and the Paranormal! D/REZZED strives to be an apolitical, balanced and based entertainment news outlet covering Video Games, Anime, Movies, Comics, Tech and the Mysterious. We try to be accurate, but errors do occasionally happen. Opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of our podcast hosts, editors, other contributors, affiliates, sponsors or advertisers. The article may contain affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links. We disclaim products or services we have received for review purposes, as well as sponsored post

Welcome to another edition of The Reef, Clownfish TV’s news roundup newsletter that covers movies, TV, comics, anime, video games, tabletop, and more. Here are some recent podcast episodes and articles you might’ve missed from ClownfishTV.com.

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Mattel is hiking toy prices due to massive tariffs, and fans of Barbie and He-Man are about to feel it in the wallet.

Mattel dropped a bomb on May 5, announcing price hikes across its U.S. products in response to tariff-related cost increases—reportedly as high as $270 million, though this figure hasn’t been officially confirmed. With 145% tariffs slapped on Chinese imports—and roughly 80% of U.S. toys historically manufactured there—Barbie and He-Man collectors might want to check their budgets before hitting the toy aisle.

According to Toy News International, even Barbie pins are facing steep price increases, and a basic swimsuit Barbie was already up 42.9% in April, now sitting at $14.99. He-Man figures? Already $20 a pop. If they go any higher, you’ll need Castle Grayskull-sized cash to keep up.

Why It Matters: A $40 Billion Industry Feels the Burn

The toy industry is worth about $40 billion in the U.S. and leans hard on Chinese manufacturing. With 145% tariffs in place, Mattel has said the duties could impact half of its U.S. sales. The company still makes 40% of its toys in China, and it’s not the only one sweating. Hasbro, McFarlane Toys, and Super7 are also expected to raise prices.

The Toy Association is already warning of a possible Christmas crisis due to delayed production and disrupted supply chains. If you thought 2021’s holiday shortages were bad, buckle up—Santa might need to outsource to India this year.

Innovation at Risk: The Ripple Effect

Tariffs aren’t just about price tags—they’re stifling creativity. Over at China’s Canton Fair, toy exporters say interest from U.S. buyers has cooled off. Some exhibitors noted that order suspensions have put a serious dent in R&D, which means fewer new toys coming down the pipeline.

Even President Trump brushed off concerns, suggesting kids could “make do with fewer dolls—maybe two instead of 30.”

Easier said than done when Barbie needs an outfit for every occasion.

Mattel’s Countermove: Shifting to India (Sort Of)

Mattel is now pumping out more UNO decks and other card games from India to escape the tariff squeeze. CEO Ynon Kreiz was cautious about long-term impacts, noting, “It’s hard to tell where things will land,” as the company tries to stabilize.

They’ve claimed a significant percentage of their toys will remain under $20, though exact figures vary across sources. That promise might be flimsier than a plastic Dreamhouse. The Toy Association’s Greg Ahearn warned of a “frozen supply chain” that could derail the holidays.

Good luck finding that Dream Camper by December.

Skeletor’s Advocate: Is This Overblown?

Let’s be fair. Mattel brought in $5.4 billion in 2024, so even if the $270 million tariff figure holds, it’s just 5% of revenue. Sure, a 42.9% price jump sounds brutal, but $14.99 for a Barbie is still cheaper than most movie tickets. And if Mattel can maintain affordability across much of their lineup, it may not be a total disaster.

Still, toy prices creeping higher and product rollouts slowing down? That’s a recipe for frustrated kids and parents alike. Panic may be premature, but your wallet will still notice.

What Now?

Toy tariffs are shaping up to be the Grinch of 2025. If you’re planning on expanding your collection or buying gifts, now might be the time. Barbie and He-Man aren’t going anywhere—but their price tags sure are.

Sources:

• Toy News International, “Mattel Announces Price Increases Due To Tariffs,” May 5, 2025

• CNN Business, “Your Barbie could cost more, Mattel warns,” May 5, 2025

• Reuters, “Barbie-maker Mattel pulls forecasts, to hike US prices as tariffs raise costs,” May 5, 2025

• Newsweek, “10 Everyday Items About to Get Pricier Due to Tariffs,” May 2, 2025

• South China Morning Post, “Trump tariffs portend bleak prospects for China’s toy exporters at Canton Fair,” May 4, 2025

News compiled, edited and fact-checked by Derek Gibbs and Edgar B. for D/REZZED from Clownfish TV.