NYT Connections today — hints and answers for Monday, August 12 (game #428)

Tesla launched its robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, on June 22nd, though it is invite-only and includes safety monitors in the vehicles. The service operates in a geofenced area with limited hours, and initial reactions have been mixed, with some customers experiencing delays in accessing the app and reporting minimal interaction with safety monitors during rides. Need More Context? 🔎

Director Danny Boyle shot his iconic film “28 Days Later” using Canon digital cameras, which allowed for the eerie depiction of an abandoned London and lent a terrifying immediacy to the fast-moving zombies. For the long-awaited sequel, “28 Years Later,” Boyle has opted for a different piece of technology, signaling a new approach to the film's visual storytelling. Need More Context? 🔎

The recent update 1.5 for the survival horror RPG Look Outside introduces new crafting recipes, enhanced interactions within the apartment building, and significant changes to the flooded basement area, along with various tweaks and bug fixes. Released on Steam in March, the game immerses players in a tense atmosphere as they navigate body horror threats while trapped during an apocalyptic event. Need More Context? 🔎

Researchers have confirmed that metals can self-heal from nanoscale fatigue damage, an observation that aligns with predictions made in 2013 by Texas A&M's Michael Demkowicz. The healing process, which occurs at room temperature and may involve cold welding in vacuum environments, suggests potential for advancements in metal durability and applications. Need More Context? 🔎

NetEase has announced its first single-player AAA game, titled Blood Message, a story-driven action-adventure set during the final years of the Tang Dynasty. Players control a nameless messenger and his son as they navigate desolate landscapes, combat enemies, and uncover ancient artifacts, with no release date yet announced for consoles and PC. Need More Context? 🔎

Paul Pope has created some of the most visually stunning comics of the twenty-first century, including "Batman: Year 100," which critiques a dystopian surveillance state, and "Battling Boy," featuring an adolescent god battling giant monsters. However, it has been over a decade since Pope released his last major work in the comics field. Need More Context? 🔎