This edition of Installer brings a curated selection of insights across the realms of gaming, technology, and popular culture. From highly anticipated game releases and powerful new hardware to intriguing television adaptations and in-depth documentaries, there's something to capture every enthusiast's attention. The newsletter also offers a personal glimpse into the digital habits of a tech editor and a vibrant collection of community recommendations, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging read.
Installer No. 102: Gaming, Gadgets, and Cultural Highlights
In the latest installment of Installer, published on October 19, 2025, David Pierce shares a diverse range of recommendations and observations for tech and entertainment enthusiasts. The gaming world receives attention with the release of a new Pokémon title, 'Pokémon Legends: Z-A,' which, despite initial mixed reactions to its tutorial length, is praised for its innovative world and mechanics. Another gaming highlight is 'Hitman: Absolution,' a 2012 classic now available on iOS and Android, demonstrating impressive playability on mobile devices.
On the hardware front, Apple's M5 MacBook Pro is showcased, hailed as the prime platform for the company's new M5-powered technology, promising significant upgrades for users. Pierce also spotlights 'Raycast for iOS,' version 1.1, which introduces a versatile keyboard integrating snippets, AI chat, and note-taking functionalities across applications.
Entertainment features prominently with news of 'Splinter Cell: Deathwatch,' a television series based on the popular video game. While some purists might find minor discrepancies, the show is generally well-received. Additionally, 'Mr. Scorsese,' a five-part Apple TV documentary series about Martin Scorsese's extensive career in Hollywood, is commended for its profound exploration of his life and work.
Beyond these, Pierce delves into personal experiences, including reading Cory Doctorow's 'Enshittification' and co-curating the 'Sunday Long Read' newsletter. He also prompts readers to share their favorite endlessly rewatchable content, initiating a communal exchange of entertainment suggestions. A unique segment introduces Terrence O'Brien, the weekend editor, whose minimalist phone setup on a Pixel 7, featuring a black wallpaper and apps like Obsidian, Apple Music, and Headspace, reflects a conscious effort to reduce screen time and avoid 'doomscrolling.' O'Brien also shares his current interests, including the podcast 'Welcome to Night Vale,' the experimental music of YouTuber Hainbach, and various pitbull subreddits for a 'dopamine dose.' The newsletter concludes with a diverse array of community-sourced recommendations, ranging from J Dilla's biography 'Dilla Time' and the HBO miniseries 'Task' to the game 'Hades 2,' the 'PhotoPrism' instance hosted on PikaPods, retro gaming on the Miyoo Mini Plus, and a customizable wallet, reinforcing the community-driven spirit of Installer.
This edition of Installer resonates deeply, highlighting the ongoing evolution of our digital and entertainment landscapes. The discussion around new game mechanics and the transition of classic titles to mobile platforms underscores the industry's dynamism and its quest to reach broader audiences. Similarly, the advancement in personal computing, exemplified by Apple's M5 MacBook Pro, speaks to our constant pursuit of greater efficiency and power in our tools. The growing trend of video game adaptations into television shows suggests a convergence of media, presenting new storytelling avenues while also challenging creators to satisfy dedicated fanbases. The segment on minimalist phone usage and the curated app selection offers a thoughtful counterpoint to the pervasive digital noise, encouraging intentional interaction with technology. The shared recommendations from both the editor and the community foster a sense of connection and discovery, reminding us that amidst rapid technological change, the human desire for engaging content and meaningful experiences remains constant. It also prompts a reflection on the value of specialized devices, like the Toniebox, which, despite seemingly redundant functions, offer unique user experiences by focusing on specific needs and user interactions.
