Author: Devan Duree

Think about your favorite TV show or movie. Think about a really good book. Now think about the characters in those media and how they interact with one another. One would hope that the dialogue they share is compelling and natural. The Cohen Brothers, Quentin Tarantino, Joss Whedon, they all work tirelessly to ensure that every spoken word in their films is perfect; that every spoken word is not only well written, but well delivered. Video games have come a long way in this regard. Continue reading

You stand before the cave entrance. The gaping maw of the mildew stained rock reminds you of jaws and you wonder if you are venturing into the belly of the beast. You had heard that great power and wealth await any who are brave enough to step foot in this cursed dungeon. Your companions stand beside you, ready to face the pitfalls and battles ahead. There is nothing left to do but to steel your nerves and begin your descent.

Continue reading

I can read a book and pull themes from subtext and narrative.  I can observe a Monet and take in the beauty of its color.  I can watch Rogue One (for the 4th time) and appreciate the effort put forth by its actors.  You know what I can’t do?  I can’t get past the wind tunnel level of Battletoads.  If you know what I am talking about, you have my deepest sympathies. This game and many others have made me appreciate what video games require as an artform.  Video games are the only pieces of art that demand you “beat them” in order to fully appreciate them.

Continue reading

Difficulty in video games has always been appealing to me. I find myself drawn to the challenge of beating a game on its hardest difficulty or unlocking its incredibly secret, game-breaking super weapon. So when a friend of mine told me I HAD to play Dark Souls, I knew I couldn’t deny him. I was the guy who bested both Ninja Gaiden and God of War on their hardest difficulties.  I had a reputation to uphold. After all, how bad could it be?
Continue reading

Scroll to top