Here’s our pick of cool things to keep you occupied this autumn when you’re busy not being busy:

True Detective Box Set, DVD/BluRay/iTunes

If this American drama passed you by when it originally aired earlier this year, then you can make up for it now by gorging on the entire eight-episode series in one calorific sitting. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star as two detectives following a string of disappearances and ritual killings in the deep-fried south.

Fargo Box Set, DVD/BluRay/iTunes

Inspired by the Coen Brother’s movie of the same name (if you haven’t already seen it then stick it on your viewing list this instant) this stand-alone series is equally brilliant.

If you like your humour “black” – as in a black hole consuming everything good and pure kind of way – then you’ll love this comedy/drama about crime and corruption in the quirky mid-western city of Fargo, North Dakota.

The Evil Within, PS3/PS4/XBOX 360/XBOX ONE

Shinji Mikami, creator of the original Resident Evil games and progenitor to the Survival Horror genre, helms this terrifying exploration into the unknown. You take control of Homicide cop Sebastian Castellanos and investigate a series of eerie goings on at a secluded mental hospital.

Fans of the genre will feel right at home here; atmospheric, slow-burning, and heavily puzzle-driven amongst the bursts of breakneck action. A very engaging single-player campaign for winding away those boring nights in.

No – we’re talking about ‘non-dates’. Arranging to go out with maybe a new friend for the first time and just having a fun time with some good company. And we’ve got just the perfect settings to get you started:

1. Going for a Coffee

Sometimes coffee is best shared in the company of just the two of you. It means you can really get to know one another better over a hot drink and maybe a quick bite to eat. You can’t always get know somebody better when you’re trying to shout over blaring music, half intoxicated from the drinks on offer that night… sometimes these things are best saved for the light of day, in a quieter, more relaxed setting.

2. Hitting the Beer Garden

Then again, if coffee’s not your thing (and getting to know someone while your at least a quarter intoxicated is) then maybe hitting a beer garden is your best bet. It’s been getting nice and warm lately, so plenty of pubs and bars are starting to put more tables and chairs outside these days. Get the drinks in!

3. Catching a Film

Yes, we know what you’re thinking. Dim lighting, scary movie… it’s got to be a date, right? No! Going to the cinema with a new friend and seeing what films they’re into – and sharing what films you’re into – is a great way of getting to know one another. Besides, it can sometimes be difficult dragging somebody else to go and watch a movie that you really want to see but they don’t. So grab yourself a film-buddy for those blockbusters coming up!