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5 Most Common Nintendo Switch Problems

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Released to much fanfare in March 2017, the Nintendo Switch became one of the best-selling consoles of all time thanks to its ability to serve as both a handheld gaming device and a standalone console that connects to televisions. Along with its trademark games, the Nintendo Switch does have its fair share of common issues, though. Here are the five most common Nintendo Switch problems that you’re likely to run in to as an owner.

5. Internet Connectivity

One of the most frustrating things, especially if you’re trying to play online, is facing network issues with your Switch. While you can still play your downloaded games without an internet connection, you may not be able to have the most up-to-date version or play online unless your wi-fi is working properly.

Obviously, the first thing that people check is their own internet connection, and if that’s working, then it’s typically the Nintendo services, the router is out of range, or the security settings keeping your Switch offline. After seeing if a modem/router restart helps, you can try to encrypt your home network and check the compatibility of your equipment with the Switch.

4. Dock Scratches Screen

Though it’s not a problem for everyone, the setup of the Nintendo Switch docking station can cause scratches to the console’s screen if not inserted properly. People can accidentally place the Switch into the dock backward, young children can try relentlessly to jam it into the dock, or any other reason and scratches can happen.

To combat this, it’s wise to get a screen protector for your Nintendo Switch. Think of your Switch the same way you would think about your smartphone. Both screens can be fragile, so using a layer of protection will help tremendously. Screen protectors aren’t that costly, either, making it a simple solution.

3. Screen Freezes/Crashes

Perhaps more frustrating than either of the previous common issues, having your Switch freeze or crash repeatedly is always panic-inducing. Many think that it means their Switch’s hardware is about to die, rendering their console obsolete. There are many reasons why this could be happening, including the software being corrupted if it only happens during one particular game.

The system could also be out of date if this problem becomes common, so clear the console’s system cache and download the latest update. Also try to force the shutdown of the console, charge it, and make sure that the wi-fi is properly connected. In rarer cases, the hardware could be completely dead, though it may be covered by warranty.

2. Dead Pixels

While it doesn’t really affect the gameplay or hardware in general, having a dead pixel or two on your screen can be very annoying. When you see one pixel that’s completely white or black, that means this pixel is never coming back on your Switch screen. The worst part, though? Nintendo says that it’s a non-issue and can do nothing for you.

“Small numbers of stuck or dead pixels are a characteristic of LCD screens,” Nintendo says on their official website. “These are normal and should not be considered a defect. With that in mind, don’t even bother trying to contact Nintendo support regarding the issue. You either have to play with the dead pixels or completely replace the console if it’s a major nuisance.

1. Joycon Drift

Of course, when mentioning issues with the Nintendo Switch, you have to talk about the Joycon drifting issue that almost everyone has experienced. This occurs when your Joycon’s sticks continue to function even when you’re not touching them. It’s painful when playing a platformer like Super Mario Odyssey that requires precise platforming control.

There are several temporary fixes that you can perform at home, but most require actually taking apart the controller, which voids the warranty and leaves you with a dead Joycon if unsuccessful. Instead, it’s best to contact Nintendo and get a replacement for free. Unfortunately, the timeframe for receiving your replacement can be anywhere from a few days to over a month.

5 Awesome Nintendo Switch Games You Might Have Missed

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Sure, we all know the likes of Nintendo classics like the Super Mario or Legend of Zelda series that are blockbusters for the video game company, but not every good game has to sell millions of copies. 

While the Mario franchise along with Pokemon and Zelda make up a massive chunk of the 20 highest-selling Switch games in the console’s history, there are some other gems that you may have missed, including a familiar blue face. If you want to try out some awesome games that could have slipped by you while also not breaking the bank, try out these five Nintendo Switch games.

Lego Worlds

Released for the Switch in September of 2017, “Lego Worlds” might be a game you missed in the flurry of popular Lego game releases throughout the years. Traveler’s Tales first developed the game. 1-2 players, locally or online, can create their own customizable world made up of Lego bricks and other fun additions. 

You can unlock creatures in the game, some of which can be used as transportation and for attacking. Speaking of transportation, there’s also an array of vehicles you can use to explore and admire the Lego world around you. 

Killer Queen Black

“Killer Queen Black”, inspired by the “Killer Queen” arcade game, is a platform strategy game released for the Switch in October 2019 after making its debut back in 2013. Up to eight players can join the fun locally, or online. 

Players can choose to be the Queen and focus on protecting their hive, or play as workers that rank up to soldiers while collecting berries and dodging enemies. KQB has developed quite the underground following over the years, becoming a cult classic.

Disney Classic Games Collection

“The Disney Classic Games Collection” was released on the Switch in November of 2021.  Although recently released, Disney lovers may have missed this old-school gem. It features retro games that Disney fans will love. Players can indulge in the 16-bit console versions of fan-favorite “Aladdin” games and classic” Lion King” and “Jungle Book” games. 

You can also jam out to full soundtracks from each of the movies while you do so. Whether you’ve already played through them back in the day and want to experience the nostalgia these games bring, or trying them out for the first time, it’s sure to be a hit for adults and kids alike.  

Sonic Forces

Developed by Sega and released for the Switch in November of 2017, “Sonic Forces” is one of the many Sonic games available on the console, so it’s possible you may have missed it. The action and adventure-based platform game was developed in honor of the “Sonic The Hedgehog” franchise’s 25th anniversary.

Your goal is to defeat the mischievous Doctor Eggman, who alongside his new partner “Infinite”, has destroyed most of Earth. You can play the levels in classic side-scrolling mode, modern mode, and a mode in which players are able to create and fight enemies with their very own personalized avatars. 

Night In The Woods

Developed by Infinite Fall studios and released on the Switch in February 2018, “Night In The Woods” is an underrated piece of work you could have easily skimmed over. The game is based on the 2011 British horror film “A Night In The Woods”, written and directed by Richard Parry. Infinite Fall crowd-funded the project and received over 400% of its original goal.

The story follows a college-aged girl named Mae, who suffers from dissociative episodes and, for that reason, comes back to her hometown to seek familiarity and comfort. Mae meets with old friends and discovers one had recently gone missing. Mae and her friends decide to search for their lost friend after Mae witnesses the kidnapping of another townsperson by a cloaked individual, who she assumes is a ghost. Critics gave high praise for the game’s soundtrack, story, and stunning art. 

5 Most Important Concepts in Finance

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The world of finance comes easy to some people, but for many, it can be a completely foreign concept. If you’re one of the millions of people that’s trying to learn more about finances so that you can understand the market while also helping out your own bank accounts, there are certain things to know. Here are five of the most important concepts in finance to familiarize yourself with so that you can get a better general understanding.

1. Inflation

Prices go up every year, whether or not wages do, and this is the result of inflation. Inflation varies by year and can be to the point where certain things can become unaffordable for a lot of people. Grocery and gas prices are the most obvious victims of inflation, though mortgage and rent prices are the ones that have the biggest impact on the general population.

Inflation can be a good thing for the economy and personal finances if it’s incredibly slow and steady. When this occurs, wages tend to grow with inflation, but inflation rates increasing too quickly has a negative impact on businesses and employees. The worst case of inflation that the world has ever seen came from Hungary in the early 20th century.

2. Bull/Bear Market

You may have heard about bull and bear markets or even seen the multiple statues of the two animals fighting each other. These animals represent the stock market, both good and bad, but why these particular animals? The bull represents a thriving economy where unemployment drops while securities and wages increase.

The reason for this is because when a bull attacks, it uses its horns in an upward thrust. As for the bear, he attacks with a downward swiping motion. You’ll hear about rising interest rates and increased unemployment during a bear market as people start to sell off a lot of their stocks.

3. Debt-To-Income Ratio

While credit scores are often considered to be the most important part of getting a large loan like a mortgage, many don’t realize that their debt-to-income ratio is just as important. Your DTI ratio is a comparison of how much you earn each month compared to how much you have in monthly payments.

All of your monthly bills are taken into consideration when calculating DTI. Your rent or house payment will be the biggest one, followed by loan and credit card payments. This can include student loans and car payments. Other debts are taken into consideration, including court-appointed payments like alimony or child support, but your monthly utility bills are not included.

4. Interest

Interest is one of those things that can be very confusing to beginners as there are a lot of different forms of interest. From interest paid on loans to interest accrued from savings, there is a lot of interest in, well, interest. Two of the major forms of interest are simple interest and compound interest.

Simple interest doesn’t have a lot of frills attached to it, hence the name. Simple interest has a fixed percentage that accrues from a balance each month. Compound interest, on the other hand, is calculated using both initial principal and previously accumulated interest. It isn’t as complicated as it sounds, though, thankfully.

5. Net Worth

The world has a fascination with finding out someone’s net worth. After all, almost every one of us has looked up a celebrity or businessperson’s net worth on Google. While it’s almost impossible to get a 100% accurate net worth for someone that’s worth millions, we can at least get a good idea.

For individuals, finding out their net worth is much easier. It’s a bit more in-depth than the debt-to-income ratio but uses many of the same statistics. All assets are taken into consideration when determining net worth, including companies owned, real estate, and anything else that’s tangible. Then, all of the liabilities are subtracted including all loan balances. It’s estimated that more than 10 percent of Americans have a negative net worth.

5 Tips For Winning a Sweepstakes

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There are more than 50 million people in the United States alone that enter into some sort of sweepstakes each year. Whether it be a small local giveaway from a gift certificate or a massive nationwide check for millions of dollars, any sweepstakes can be enticing. While it might not feel like you ever win, there are a few people that keep winning hundreds of them each year.

What is their secret to winning hundreds of sweepstakes on a yearly basis? Thankfully, these experts at winning have shared their secrets over the years. You may have to commit a lot of time, but if you’re willing to devote that time, these five tips will help you win a sweepstakes for the first time (and many times thereafter). 

Read the Terms and Conditions

One of the most important tips to remember when entering a sweepstakes, or contest of any kind is to read through the terms and conditions carefully and thoroughly. 

Even if you win a contest, there’s no guarantee you’ll earn the prize if you haven’t followed the guidelines properly. Otherwise, you could be disqualified. So make sure to read and follow the rules of the game to ensure there’s nothing in the way of you winning. 

Join Online Forums 

If you aren’t sure where to begin when starting your sweepstakes venture, there are tons of online forums and sites that compile information and lists of current and upcoming sweepstakes. 

Some sites, or online groups, may even provide a way to communicate amongst the sweepstakes community, giving you more insight, tips, and information on other sweepstakes to enter from fellow contest seekers. Although there are legitimate groups and sites out there, beware of scams and never put too much personal information out there. 

Enter As Many As Possible 

One surefire way to earn you at least one win is to simply enter as many sweepstakes as possible. If you are only interested in sticking to sweepstakes that surround your hobbies, seek out sites and groups familiar with the hobby and try to enter as many contests they offer for that particular hobby. Though, if you just love winning and don’t care what, entering as many contests is a trick that’s bound to make you a winner. 

Follow Social Media Accounts 

If you’re in the know, you’re more likely to win. Most people skim over ads and social media posts involving sweepstakes or don’t even follow the accounts that run the contests in the first place. Whether it’s because they don’t think they could ever win, or they see it as a nuisance. 

Following, liking, and turning on notifications for social media posts from sweepstakes accounts, popular businesses and restaurants, and accounts that often do giveaways, is a great way to keep tabs on any current, or upcoming contests. You may end up being one of the few people that bother to do so, making your chances of winning even greater. So make sure to pay attention to the repetitive social media posts and advertisements if you’re in it to win it. 

Prepare Your Entry Information

Most contests and sweepstakes take place online these days. When you’re entering all of these online contests, it’s helpful to have all of your basic information ready to copy and paste off of a word document or notepad for speed and accuracy. There’s nothing worse than entering a contest with the wrong information due to a simple typing mistake. 

Also, some sweepstakes have you take a picture with their product and have you post it online to enter. So create your social media accounts beforehand and have the product ready to take a quick snapshot with. Don’t forget any necessary hashtags, or tags to ensure your entry is valid. 

5 Longest Running Soap Operas

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One of the best things about a soap opera is that it can last for generations. It’s truly surprising that this happens, too, with so many storylines and characters making their way through the countless episodes that air each year. While some soap operas have met an early exit, there are some that have withstood the test of time and became television staples.

Of those soap operas that have held on the longest, which ones are the longest running in television history? Here’s a look at the five longest running soap operas across the world, all of which date back several decades and may never come to an end.

Coronation Street 

“Coronation Street” holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running soap opera, first airing in December of 1960, and is still going strong today. This British soap opera, created by Tony Warren, takes place in the fictional city of Weatherfield, based on the real city of Salford just outside of Manchester. 

More than 10,700 episodes of this long-running soap opera have been filmed and aired, with three new episodes coming out weekly. “Coronation Street” has become a staple in British homes and doesn’t seem to be stopping anytime soon. 

Neighbours

Although this Australian soap opera is no longer releasing new episodes as of July 2022, “Neighbours” stands as the longest-running soap opera in Australian television history. It all began in March of 1985 when Australian television producer and screenwriter Reginald Watson created the “Neighbours” series following the end of his other successful drama series Sons and Daughters. “Neighbours” focuses on the dramatic lives of the residents of Ramsey St., set in the fictional town of Erinsborough, based on the area of Melbourne in Australia. 

General Hospital

“General Hospital” holds the title of the longest running American soap opera in the Guinness Book of World Records, first airing in 1963 and continuing through the present day. The series presented its 15,000th episode in the Summer of 2022, also winning its 15th Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series that same year, making “General Hospital” the soap opera with more Daytime Emmy Award wins than any other. Fun fact, “General Hospital”, like many soap operas, helped launch the careers of lesser-known actors, such as John Stamos and Mark Hamill.   

Days of Our Lives

Created by Ted and Betty Corday, “Days of Our Lives” debuted in 1965 and, as of now, has been renewed until September 2023. The iconic soap opera has aired more than 14,000 episodes over the years and is set in the fictional Illinois town of Salem. Some high-profile fans of the show include Julia Roberts, Thurgood Marshall, and Monica Lewinsky. Roberts and Marshall even made a guest appearance on the soap opera. The show has been nominated for multiple awards, winning four Daytime Emmys for Outstanding Drama Series.  

The Young and Restless

Set in the fictional Genoa City in Wisconsin, “The Young and Restless” first aired in March of 1973 and still releases new episodes to this day. Over 12,500 episodes have aired since its debut. The show follows the fictional lives of the powerful and wealthy Newman and Abbott families. The series has earned 11 Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Drama Series over the years, with a total of 116 Daytime Emmys won in total, out of its 360 nominations. 

The series has been surrounded by controversy in the past due to the show’s openness to touch on the taboo subject matter and the tendency to display heavy sexual content, one of the first soap operas to do so. Although it’s because of that, “The Young and Restless” remains one of the longest-running and most popular American soap operas of all time. 

The 5 Best Places To Live In Canada

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Canada ranks as one of the best countries in the world to live in, behind only Germany and Switzerland. Whether you’re the type that prefers to live in a major city or like the laid-back rural life, there are plenty of great options throughout Canada. With that in mind, which cities were ranked as the best to live in? Here are the five cities in Canada that had the highest scores.

5. Quebec City, QC

Affordability is one of the biggest reasons that people move to any city, and Quebec City has that in spades. With some of the lowest utility bills and rent for a major city, Quebec also has plenty of natural beauty with its many surrounding national parks. While it does get cold in the winter, Quebec City does allow people to experience all four seasons instead of a long winter and a cooler summer.

Among the safest cities in Canada, Quebec City is also a great place to make a living. The average salaries in QC are well above the national average, allowing people to put money into savings as they also pay lower bills.

4. Halifax, NS

While it has the feel of a big city, Halifax, Nova Scotia doesn’t quite have the same hustle and bustle, so it puts those that are laid back more at ease when living there. As a result, the cost of living is much cheaper in Halifax compared to many of the other major cities, and the weather is much warmer than in places like Calgary throughout the year.

While living in Halifax, you can expect an extremely low crime rate with a lot of natural beauty and things to do. The people are incredibly friendly in Halifax and traffic is almost nonexistent, with plenty of great educational options for those with children.

3. Calgary, AB

With one of the strongest urban areas in Canada and much friendlier housing prices compared to the rest of the big cities in the country, Calgary is the top destination in Alberta. Calgary is one of the cleanest cities in the world and has in fact been named the cleanest in years past. The local government has made sure that it will stay that way, with heavy regulations being put into place.

Calgary also has a lower sales tax, and the infrastructure makes it so that you don’t have to spend much time outside during the winter months. There are plenty of walkways between buildings downtown and a lot of public transportation options for those that don’t want to deal with traffic.

2. Vancouver, BC

If you want to move to a city that has great healthcare and education, Vancouver is a top option not only in Canada but one of the best in the entire world. Receiving perfect marks in these categories by the Global Livability Index, Vancouver has been amongst the world’s fastest-growing cities for quite some time now.

The surrounding natural beauty of Vancouver alone has people flocking to the city, and living downtown is an ideal setting to be close to it all. Another big positive for Vancouver is the weather. While it does have winters, they’re basically considered summers for much of the rest of Canada with less than eight centimeters of snowfall on average each year.

1. Ottawa, ON

Another one of the cities that’s considered to be among the cleanest in the country also happens to be the capital: Ottawa. There’s a lot of natural space to enjoy while living in the Ottawa area, which is ranked at the top for greenery above even the likes of Vancouver. Another big reason to move to Ottawa, especially for younger people, is the impressive work-life balance that gets high rankings.

Among the major cities in Canada, Ottawa has the lowest percentage of people who are working more than full-time hours. There are a lot of job opportunities thanks to Ottawa being the nation’s capital, and a high walkability score with low crime to boot.

5 Most Creative Roblox Games You Might Have Missed

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Back in 2004, developers David Baszucki and Erik Cassel had a plan for an MMO that would allow players to create their own games and worlds, calling it “Roblox”. The game was released two years later, and though it didn’t have a lot of traction at first, would slowly develop into one of the world’s most popular games, especially among children.

Since the 2010s saw the release of “Roblox” on mobile devices, there has been an explosion in popularity and creativity from those that make their own games within “Roblox”. There are countless games to pick from that really show off how creative you can get with “Roblox”, with these five that you might have missed truly setting the standard.

Welcome to Bloxburg

Welcome to Bloxburg is a popular “Roblox” game developed by user Coeptus, where you can design and build a virtual home, chill with friends, and work a variety of jobs. A player can choose to start off with a prebuilt home or create their own on their 30 x 30 plot of land. 

Homes aren’t the only thing you can build on your land. You can build a farm, a restaurant, a hotel, or a small village. A player can pay for access to a larger plot of land and the ability to create multiple stories in their home. 

MeepCity

Over ten billion players have visited MeepCity, making it one of the most popular “Roblox” games. User AlexNewtron created this casual MMO-style game, similar to and inspired by games like Club Penguin and Toontown. Its main purpose is to serve as a social hangout platform, although players have homes they can personalize by going to some of the shops in the city. 

Using the city’s currency of coins, you can make a visit to the home improvement shop, where you can change the interior or exterior design of your home. There’s a toy shop where you can purchase tons of fun items. There’s also a furniture store you’ll find plenty of cool items for your rooms, party supplies, outdoor decor, and more.  

Theme Park Tycoon 2

Theme Park Tycoon 2, developed by user Den_S, is a game where players can create their own amusement parks, food vendors, and more for other players to visit and enjoy. There are five different types of rides offered in the game like roller coasters, water rides, transportation rides, intense rides, and some less intense rides. 

Players can customize the rides to their liking on their own plot of land. Neighboring players within the server can visit your amusement park and rate their experience, earning your achievements and access to special items to adorn your park with. 

Work at a Pizza Place

Work at a Pizza Place, developed by users Dued1 and RBXZach, is another highly popular “Roblox” game that has accumulated over four billion visits. In the game, you work as an employee at a pizza place, choosing from jobs like cook, cashier, pizza boxer, delivery person, supplier, and manager. 

Working as a team, you and your fellow employees make and serve guests their food, earning you coins. With those, you can buy items to fill your virtual home with while on break. 

Build a Boat for Treasure

Created and developed by Chillz Studios, Build a Boat for Treasure is a game where you do just that. You and other players can work as a team to build a vessel and sail it across the ocean with the goal of reaching an island where you’ll find a treasure chest full of goodies. 

You can unlock quests, earn badges, and collect gold blocks if you survive the trek through the roaring waters and dangerous obstacles leading to the treasure. 

The Five Best States To Live In The USA

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When it comes to choosing a state where you want to settle down and spend the foreseeable future in the USA, it can be very difficult. There are a lot of regions to choose from that all bring their own climate, job market, and just about everything else. The United States is the fourth-largest country in the world, featuring desert areas, forests, mountains, and more.

From the history of the New England region to the mountains of the west, and from the sunshine of Florida to the rains of the Pacific Northwest, which states are the best to live in? Here are five that really stand out above the rest for a long list of reasons, some of which may have you call one of these states “home” for many years to come. 

New Hampshire

This tiny and unassuming state may not be the first place you’d think of when deciding on a place to visit or relocate. New Hampshire’s mountainous landscape offers breathtaking views, especially in autumn, and is the perfect place to indulge in your favorite winter activities like skiing and snowboarding. 

Alongside the beautiful views, the state is ranked highly for its excellent air and water quality. According to usnews.com New Hampshire rates 2nd in the safest states to live in the US, with the lowest crime rate second to its neighbor, Maine. Another perk of living in New Hampshire is the absence of sales tax. 

Massachusetts 

If you’re looking for reasons to relocate to Massachusetts, here are a few. Massachusetts is known for their excellent schools and universities, Harvard to name one. Nearby is the hustle and bustle of the city of Boston, the sports mecca of the New England area. 

The diversity in cultures throughout the state and larger cities provides the locals with a great selection of cuisine and an eclectic community. Massachusetts is ranked as the 7th safest state to live in by USNews.

Washington

Washington state has a lot of neat stuff that will make you want to stick around for a while. Washington has a variety of gorgeous state parks where you can take in the scenery, enjoy what nature has to offer, and feel the Oceanside breeze if you visit a park closer to the coast. Speaking of nature, the weather there isn’t half bad either. 

The climate differs depending on the area you visit, giving you options when choosing where to settle down. As far as the job market is concerned, you won’t have to worry too much, because Washington is home to some of the largest and most successful companies (Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing) where you can seek employment. 

Minnesota

If you’re thinking of heading to the Midwest, Minnesota would be a fantastic fit for those wanting the best that part of the country has to offer. Loved by tourists and locals alike, the Mall of America has a lot to offer, besides holding the title of the largest mall in the US. Visit the Sea Life Aquarium and Nickelodeon Universe indoor theme park while you’re there. 

Minnesota also carries a lower poverty rate, with the median income being over $70,000 per household. It’s also cheap to live there as it falls below the United States average, making it a great option when relocating.

Utah

Utah is a promising choice when figuring out where you want to venture next. The most tempting selling point when considering moving to Utah is the affordable cost of living. Higher income, paired with generally low spending costs makes for a perfect combination. 

Utah is considered one of the most naturally beautiful states in the country. Locals can enjoy an average year-round temperature of 52F°. Crime rates in the smaller cities are extremely low, giving them some of the lowest of any in the United States.

The 5 Best Places To Live In The USA

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Finding the right place to live in the United States can be difficult. There are a lot of things to take into account when trying to pick the city you’re going to call home for the foreseeable future. There are variables such as climate, education, the job market, housing, and much more that all play a part in what makes a city a desirable place to live.

It’s hard to narrow it down to just a few places in the United States that really stand out since they all have their pros and cons, but there are a few that really stand out above the rest. Here are the five best places to live in the USA overall when all factors are considered, with one state boasting two cities on the list.

Boulder, Colorado 

Boulder, Colorado is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country in recent years. It is quickly becoming a place of interest for those looking to relocate. Boulder is ranked #4 of the best cities to live in the US in 2022. Even taking the #1 spot the two years prior. 

The metro population consists of over 320,000 people, with an average annual income of over $70,000 yearly. Although the cost of living in Boulder can exceed a quarter of the average household’s salary, a hefty income helps to balance it out. 

San Jose, California

San Jose comes in at #5 on the list of best places to live in 2022. The diversity throughout the city gives residents, and those visiting, a taste of an array of rich cultures. Explore the streets of Little Portugal, Little Italy, Little Saigon, or Japantown. 

Or maybe take in the lush and plentiful nature on the many hiking trails you’ll find. It’s a beautiful city with an even more beautiful melting pot of people and cultures. San Jose is also the epicenter of Silicon Valley and has a booming job market with high-paying salaries. The annual average income is over $90,000 and provides residents with the means to afford the comfortable and lavish lifestyles California is known for. 

Green Bay, Wisconsin 

Green Bay, Wisconsin holds over 320,000 residents, earning an average annual income of $50,000. Green Bay earns a spot on this list due to the low cost of living in comparison to the yearly earnings the average resident takes in. 

It makes for a comfortable and financially secure home, something nearly everyone would find appealing. The bustling art, entertainment, and comforting food scene are just a bonus. Green Bay has been ranked #3 of the best places to live in 2022. 

Colorado Springs, Colorado 

Colorado Springs is an even more breathtaking Colorado city to make the cut, ranked #2 in the best places to live in 2022. The incredible scenery and mountainous landscape make it a hopeful contender when considering relocation. Spots like the Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak are a must-see. You can enjoy a thrill seekers’ paradise with white water rafting and zip-lining available as well. The people are friendly, the school districts are above average, and the weather is tamer than most places, while still giving you four seasons throughout the year. 

Huntsville, Alabama

Ranked #1 in best places to live in 2022, Huntsville Alabama is a surprisingly desirable destination. One of the fastest growing cities in the US, Huntsville offers residents a blossoming job market with companies like Amazon and Facebook building a fulfillment center and $1 billion data center, offering up even more job opportunities. 

Another perk of living in Huntsville is the people. Huntsville residents are known to be kind and friendly, with a strong sense of community. The schools aren’t half bad either. They’re ranked as some of the tops in the country. 

The Story of Flappy Bird And Its Elusive Creator

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“Flappy Bird” was the game that caught everyone’s attention for a brief period of time, only to be stripped away from the masses without any warning. It was a simple concept, really. You tap your phone screen to temporarily elevate the tiny yellow bird without letting him hit the multitude of pipes or the ground below while the game keeps track of how far you made it without hitting an obstacle.

Millions of people were competing with their friends to see who could get the highest “Flappy Bird” score, and it was the game that almost everybody had on their smartphone during that golden age of apps in the early to mid-2010s. Unfortunately, “Flappy Bird” left just about as quickly as it came. So what happened? Let’s look at the story of “Flappy Bird” and its elusive creator.

The Creator

“Flappy Bird” wasn’t created by a large publisher that has cornered the mobile gaming market, but rather by one man. Dong Nguyen grew up in the Vietnamese village of Van Phuc, and took an interest in video games at a young age, particularly the “Super Mario Bros.” franchise. Nguyen had been working on developing games for a few years but found some of them to be too complicated for public consumption.

Nguyen took one of the characters that were to be used in a previous game, a bird named Faby, and plugged him into the game where all you have to do is tap anywhere on the screen. One tap makes Faby increase in height slightly and temporarily as the player attempts to traverse between pipes without hitting the ground.

Skyrocketing Popularity

The simplicity of “Flappy Bird” made it an instant hit. The game was released in May 2013, and within months was the top mobile game in the world. By the end of the year, there were 50 million “Flappy Bird” downloads. People were trying to break their own high scores while sending screenshots of their scores to everyone they knew, hoping to have the highest “Flappy Bird” score amongst their friends and family.

Clones

Just like with any popular mobile game, there are always a series of knockoffs that make their way to the App Store and Google Play. It seemed like every day, there were dozens of

 “Flappy Birds” clones that made their way into stores only to be taken down. Of course, there were also plenty of developers that said that “Flappy Bird” was the clone, but nothing came from the claims that Nguyen took his ideas from anybody else.

Flying Away

While still at the height of its popularity, millions of people woke up on February 20, 2014, only to find that Flappy Bird was no longer available in app stores. Many thought it was a mistake at first, but it turned out that “Flappy Bird” was gone for good. The only ways to try out “Flappy Bird” afterward were via the arcade game or the Amazon Fire TV version of the app as all others were removed permanently.

Where Did Nguyen Go?

So why did Nguyen decide to rip the game from app stores while it was pulling in tens of thousands per day? According to Nguyen, he said that people were becoming addicted to the game. “‘Flappy Bird’ was designed to play in a few minutes when you’re relaxed,” he said. “But it happened to become an addictive product. I think it has become a problem. To solve that problem, it’s best to take down ‘Flappy Bird’. It’s gone forever.”

News outlets couldn’t stop talking about “Flappy Bird”, but Nguyen didn’t want to see the success of his own game. “It is something I never want,” Nguyen said of the popularity. “Please give me peace.” On the positive side, Nguyen did feel more confident in his game development abilities as a result of “Flappy Bird”. 

Nguyen has been almost radio silent since “Flappy Bird” was taken away from stores. His small gaming development company, dotgears, has created other games including “BOOP”, “Swing Copters”, and “Ninja Spinki Challengers. However, nothing has seen quite the success of “Flappy Bird”.