#Ocean Craft VR

[makers-muse]

Top 7 STEM resources every school should have in their STEAM lab curriculum 

In today’s education landscape, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) has become an integral part of preparing students for the future. However, when STEM integrates the arts turning it into STEAM learning becomes more holistic, blending creativity with problem-solving and innovation. To create an effective STEAM lab curriculum, schools must be equipped with the right tools. Here are the top 7 essential STEM resources every school should have in their STEAM lab to provide students with a well-rounded, engaging learning experience. 

1. Robotics Kits 

Robotics kits like LEGO Mindstorms or VEX Robotics offer students hands-on opportunities to build, program, and control their own robots. These kits encourage teamwork, logical thinking, and creativity, while introducing them to key programming concepts. Robotics also helps students explore engineering principles and sparks interest in fields like robotics and automation. 

2. 3D Printers 

3D printers have transformed STEAM education by enabling students to turn their digital creations into tangible objects. Whether creating architectural models, prototypes, or artistic pieces, 3D printing teaches students about engineering, design thinking, and material science. It provides a tangible way for students to understand how abstract ideas turn into physical objects, giving them a glimpse into modern manufacturing. Explore more 

3. Coding Platforms 

In our tech-driven world, coding is now a vital skill for success. Platforms like Scratch, Code.org, and Tynker make coding accessible and fun for students of all ages. These platforms introduce students to the basics of programming while fostering problem-solving and computational thinking skills. With coding integrated into the curriculum, students can explore game design, animation, and even app development. 

4. Tools for Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) 

VR and AR are becoming increasingly popular in educational settings, offering immersive learning experiences. With VR headsets or AR apps, students can explore distant planets, dive into the ocean, or step into historical events all from the comfort of their classroom. These tools provide interactive lessons in science, geography, and history, making complex subjects more accessible and engaging. 

5. Makerspace Tools and Materials 

A well-equipped makerspace is a cornerstone of any STEAM lab. Essential tools like laser cutters, soldering kits, hand tools, and crafting materials allow students to build, tinker, and create. These spaces encourage innovation, hands-on learning, and cross-disciplinary projects where art, engineering, and technology intersect. 

6. STEM Software and Simulation Tools 

STEM software, such as CAD (Computer-Aided Design) programs like Tinkercad or simulation tools like PhET Interactive Simulations, allow students to explore concepts that would be difficult or impossible to recreate in the physical lab. These tools provide in-depth learning experiences in fields like physics, chemistry, and engineering, enhancing student understanding through interactive simulations. 

7. Engineering and Science Kits 

Kits like LittleBits, Snap Circuits, and Arduino offer students hands-on experience with electronics and engineering principles. These kits come with various components such as wires, sensors, motors, and switches, allowing students to create their own working circuits or electronic devices. They’re excellent for teaching the fundamentals of electrical engineering, physics, and problem-solving. 

Building a well-equipped STEAM lab today! 

A well-rounded STEAM lab curriculum relies on having the right mix of resources that foster creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills. Robotics kits, 3D printers, coding platforms, VR/AR tools, makerspace materials, simulation software, and engineering kits all play a vital role in preparing students for future careers in STEM fields. By integrating these essential tools, schools can offer students the opportunity to develop practical skills, spark their curiosity, and encourage innovation in a collaborative learning environment. 

Looking to inspire the next generation of innovators? Discover Makers Muse for high-quality STEM programs that empower students to develop essential skills through experiential learning. 

[whatsonmedia]

Discover London's Best Offers: SEA LIFE Lates and More!

Explore the vibrant city of London with exclusive offers and unforgettable experiences. From an after-hours adventure at SEA LIFE London Aquarium to exquisite dining at Jeru, a thrilling Crystal Maze Live Experience, and the immersive Frameless Lates art sessions, these events promise excitement and entertainment. Dive into these unique opportunities and make the most of your London outings with these incredible deals! Visit SEA LIFE Lates at the London Aquarium to receive a FREE VR experience for £29 Immerse yourself in an exclusive after-hours journey through SEA LIFE London Aquarium at the all-new SEA LIFE Lates for adults only! As the day ends, the underwater wonderland comes alive just for you, offering unparalleled access to explore the vibrant colors and fascinating creatures of the ocean in a serene atmosphere. Enjoy a complimentary drink upon arrival and glide alongside green sea turtles, trek through the Amazon Rainforest, and pass by the colony of Gentoo penguins. With the aquarium all to yourself after closing time, indulge in a unique evening filled with discovery, awe, and a touch of magic beneath the waves. When & Where - Date: June 26, 2024 - Time: From 5 pm (last entry at 6:45 pm) - Location: SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Rd, London, SE1 7PB Highlights - FREE VR Experience: Included with your ticket. - Adult-Only Event: Complimentary drink upon arrival. - Unique Shark Encounter: Get up close with five unique species of shark. Need to Know - Validity: This voucher is valid for a ticket to Sea Life Lates on your selected date and time. - Age Restriction: This event is restricted to those aged 18 and over. Please be prepared to show your ID upon arrival. - Booking Confirmation: Please present your booking confirmation upon arrival at the box office. - Cancellation Policy: Tickets cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded, or used in conjunction with any other offer. For full terms and conditions, please see here. Plans for the weekend? For £35 enjoy a sharing menu and a Jeru Spritz at Layla at Jeru. Discover Jeru, an exquisite Mediterranean dining experience nestled in the heart of London's esteemed Mayfair district. Renowned Chef Roy Ner leads the culinary journey, crafting dishes that embody the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with authenticity and finesse. For an intimate dining experience with an unbeatable ambiance, head downstairs to the Layla Dining Room, where live entertainment brings the energy. Get lost in the chic, Mediterranean-inspired design and indulge in the menu, which offers light bites to enjoy alongside a glass of the handcrafted Jeru Spritz. Highlights - Enjoy Live Performances and Dining: Experience the best tunes from resident DJs while you dine. - Amazing Live Performances: Pair your meal with unbeatable live entertainment. - Discounted Price: Was £79, now just £35 per person. Need to Know - Voucher Validity: This voucher is valid for a sharing menu and a house cocktail at the Layla Dining Room inside Jeru. - Booking Requirements: One voucher per person is required. Minimum booking of two people, maximum booking of six people. - Availability: Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 7 pm - 10 pm. - Booking Confirmation: To redeem, send your booking confirmation to info@jeru.co.uk with your preferred date and time. Your voucher, security code, and QR code must be clear. - Presentation: Please present your voucher upon arrival. - Validity Period: The voucher valid until September 14, 2024. - Menu Changes: Menu subject to change. - Service Charge: A discretionary service charge of 15% will be added to the bill. - Cancellation Policy: The restaurant must be informed of any changes/cancellations within 48 hours of your booking. - Dietary Requirements: We are not responsible for ensuring any dietary requirements are catered for. So, contact Jeru to ensure your dietary requirements can be accommodated before purchasing a voucher. - Location: 11 Berkeley Street, London, W1J 8DS. Save more than 30% on tickets for the live version of The Crystal Maze. If you love the TV show, you’re in for a treat with The Crystal Maze Live Experience! Grab your friends and family for a day to remember and relive the epic TV show with thoroughly immersive tests of your mental and physical abilities. Follow your professional Maze Master through all the challenges – the more you complete successfully, the more Crystals you win, and the more time you’ll have for the final test in... drumroll...The Crystal Dome. Want to know more? Find out for yourself – book now and discover whether your team has what it takes to be Champions of The Crystal Maze. Highlights - 75 Minutes of Team Fun: Engage in a frantic and immersive experience with your team. - Guided by a Maze Master: Navigate through four different time zones with the help of a professional guide. - Significant Savings: Enjoy savings of over £200 on group tickets. Need to Know - Voucher Validity: This voucher is valid for a ticket to The Crystal Maze LIVE Experience. - Age Restrictions: This offer is restricted to those aged 9 and over. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an 18+ adult per team of eight. Bookings without the correct number of adults will be refused entry. Pregnancy strictly prohibits participation. - Availability: Sunday to Friday, times subject to availability. - Redemption Process: To redeem, please click the link via your booking confirmation, selecting your preferred date and time. You will not be charged any additional fees. - Validity Period: Voucher valid until September 31, 2024. - Late Policy: Latecomers may not be admitted. - Group Booking: Book in multiples of eight to guarantee you will play together, teams are assigned on arrival and bookings may be split. - Location: 22 - 32 Shaftesbury Ave, London W1D 7EU. - Cancellation and Amendments: This voucher cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded or used in conjunction with any other offer. For full terms and conditions, please see here. For £15, purchase tickets to Frameless Lates, the most immersive art experience. Kick off your weekend plans with the newly launched Frameless Lates sessions. Get your after-dark culture fix every Friday and Saturday night in Marble Arch. With over-18s-only sessions, you’ll be able to enjoy four galleries to a specially curated soundtrack from Soho Radio. If you want to impress a date or simply enjoy a fun night out with friends, you will be able to take your time exploring the galleries with a drink in hand from the Café Bar. Highlights - Friday and Saturday Nights: Enjoy late-night cultural sessions every weekend. - Music from Soho Radio: Experience a specially curated soundtrack. - Tasty Drinks: Savor drinks from the Café Bar while exploring the galleries. When & where? - Dates: November 25, 2023 - August 24, 2024 - Time: 6 pm - 10 pm - Location: Frameless, 6 Marble Arch, London W1H 7AP Need to Know - Voucher Validity: This voucher is valid for a ticket to Frameless Lates. - Age Restrictions: This offer is restricted to those aged 18 and over. - Booking Policy: This booking is only valid for your selected date/time option. Strict no refunds or exchanges policy. - Entry Details: Start time is from 6 pm to 8 pm, with entry times varying per day. Your entry slot runs for 30 minutes after and is inclusive of the time on your ticket. - Redemption Process: Please present your booking confirmation upon arrival at the box office. - Additional Purchases: Café bar and gift shop purchases are not included in this offer. - Cancellation and Amendments: Tickets cannot be cancelled, amended, exchanged, refunded, or used in conjunction with any other offer. For more offers on lifestyle checkout WhatsOn Read the full article

[digitalspellcraft]

The Enchanting Convergence of Technology, Aromatherapy, and Neurodiversity

In the serene expanse where technology meets aromatherapy, there lies a particularly gentle intersection with neurodiversity, a realm where sensory experiences blend with digital innovations to foster well-being. At DigitalSpellCraft, we explore how this unique combination can not only enhance daily living but also offer tailored, soothing escapes for neurodivergent individuals, whose sensory perceptions often magnify the world in profound ways.

The Benefits of a Technological and Aromatic Symphony

Imagine a space where technology isn’t just about speed and efficiency, but about personal peace and sensory balance. Aromatherapy, with its ancient roots and modern adaptations, holds a special place in the neurodivergent community, offering a natural form of regulation and relaxation. Essential oils like lavender for calm, peppermint for alertness, and ylang-ylang for mood stabilization can be diffused using smart devices that adjust the environment based on real-time sensory feedback from the user.

This harmonious integration can lead to enhanced cognitive stimulation and increased relaxation. For instance, a mobile app customized to a neurodivergent user’s preferences could automate the diffusion of specific scents based on the time of day or current stress levels, thereby supporting better sleep or greater focus.

Navigating Challenges and Limitations

However, the path to integrating technology with aromatherapy isn’t without its thorns. Accessibility remains a paramount concern. Technology designed for the mainstream market often overlooks the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals, such as non-verbal or sensory processing sensitivities. Moreover, the cost of advanced tech-equipped aromatherapy devices can be prohibitive.

Ethically, there’s a balance to be struck in ensuring that these technologies are used to support rather than control. Ensuring data privacy and securing informed consent for users who might process information differently is critical. Moreover, the subjective nature of scent and its emotional impacts requires a personalized approach, which can be challenging to standardize in a technological framework.

Emerging Trends: The Frontier of Innovation

On the horizon, exciting developments are shaping this field. Researchers are delving into how scents can trigger memory and emotional responses more effectively in neurodivergent brains. Startups are crafting wearable scent diffusers that adjust outputs based on biometric readings like heart rate and skin conductance.

Furthermore, virtual reality (VR) is emerging as a tool for controlled sensory environments that can be combined with aromatherapy for immersive therapeutic experiences. Imagine VR scenarios that not only visualize a calming beachside scene but also emit the soothing scents of ocean breeze and coconut, fully engaging the senses in a controlled, comforting manner.

A Comprehensive Understanding for Tomorrow

By weaving together technology and aromatherapy within a framework that respects and enhances the neurodivergent experience, we can create more than just products; we create experiences that respect individuality and promote genuine well-being.

At DigitalSpellCraft, we are committed to advancing this gentle fusion, embracing both its challenges and its vast potential. We invite you to explore how this delicate blend can enhance your life or the life of someone you care about, fostering an environment where technology serves humanity in its most nuanced forms.

“For it is in your power to retire into yourself whenever you choose." – Marcus Aurelius

[joinchris]

Unleashing the Midas Touch: Creativity & Technology in the Digital Gold Rush

The internet, once a vast frontier, has become a bustling marketplace teeming with opportunity. Yet, in this gold rush of content creation and online businesses, standing out requires more than just a pickaxe and a pan. The key to striking digital gold lies in the potent blend of creativity and technology. Focus Keywords: creativity, technology, digital marketing, online business, income stream, content creation, AI, automation, trends, engagement Meta Description: Uncover the secrets of the digital gold rush! This article explores how to leverage creativity and technology to boost your online business and income streams. Learn cutting-edge trends, AI tools, and engagement strategies to shine brighter than the competition. Introduction:

Man using computer at home, distant worker or freelancer with laptop. Male character by desk with lamp, house interior with flowers. Vector in flat cartoon style Remember the days of dial-up internet and pixelated cat GIFs? The online landscape has evolved at breakneck speed, and so have the tools at our disposal. Today, armed with the right combination of creativity and technology, anyone can carve a niche in the digital marketplace. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding online hustler, this guide equips you with the knowledge and inspiration to transform your online presence into a goldmine. The Creative Spark: At the heart of every successful online venture lies a spark of originality. But where do you find inspiration when surrounded by an ocean of content? Here are some ways to ignite your creative fire: - Embrace diverse perspectives: Seek out content from different cultures, industries, and viewpoints. Look beyond your niche for unexpected sparks of inspiration. - Challenge assumptions: Question the status quo in your field. What problems haven't been addressed? What unmet needs exist in your target audience? - Experiment and play: Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new things. Experiment with different formats, tools, and storytelling techniques. - Collaborate and connect: Surround yourself with other creative minds. Bounce ideas off each other, participate in online communities, and seek out mentors. Technology: Your Digital Wand Creativity is the fuel, but technology is the engine that propels your online business forward. Let's explore some powerful tools and trends:

Various people using financial services. Fully editable vectors for multiple purposes. - AI-powered content creation: Utilize AI writing assistants like Jasper or Rytr to overcome writer's block and generate content ideas. Remember, AI is a tool, not a replacement for your unique voice and perspective. - Automation for efficiency: Free up your time and energy by automating repetitive tasks like social media scheduling or email marketing with tools like Buffer or Mailchimp. - Data-driven insights: Leverage analytics platforms like Google Analytics to understand your audience and optimize your content for better engagement. - Virtual and augmented reality: Explore immersive technologies like VR tours or AR product demonstrations to create unique and engaging experiences for your customers. - The power of video: Embrace the power of video marketing with platforms like YouTube or TikTok. Share informative tutorials, behind-the-scenes glimpses, or customer testimonials to connect with your audience on a deeper level. Beyond the Tools: Weaving the Magic

Data monitoring and analysis on desktop vector illustration. Cartoon tiny people with magnifying glass research graphs, charts and diagram on laptop screen, monitor financial report growth for trade Remember, technology is just a tool. The true magic lies in how you wield it to amplify your creativity and connect with your audience. Here are some key strategies: - Storytelling is king: Craft compelling narratives that resonate with your audience's emotions, values, and aspirations. Use your unique voice and experiences to make your content stand out. - Personalization is key: Tailor your content to different segments of your audience based on their needs and interests. Utilize segmentation tools and personalization platforms to deliver relevant experiences. - Community building matters: Foster a sense of community around your brand. Encourage interaction, answer questions, and create a space where your audience feels valued and heard. - Stay ahead of the curve: Keep yourself updated on the latest digital marketing trends and technologies. Embrace continuous learning and experimentation to stay relevant in the ever-evolving online landscape. Remember, the most valuable asset you possess is your own creativity. By harnessing the power of technology and implementing these strategies, you can transform your online presence into a thriving business, leaving a trail of digital gold in your wake. This is just the beginning of your journey! Continue exploring, experiment, and most importantly, have fun! The digital landscape is your canvas, and with the right blend of creativity and technology, you can paint a masterpiece that attracts, engages, and converts. Bonus Tip: Sprinkle your blog post with relevant visuals, infographics, or even short video clips to enhance engagement and make your content even more impactful. Read the full article

[predragpetrovic]

The art world, long a bastion of human expression and emotion, is undergoing a fascinating metamorphosis in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). While purists may scoff, AI presents a treasure trove of opportunities for artists and art marketers alike, transforming the way we create, connect, and ultimately, sell art. This isn't a dystopian takeover by silicon sentience; it's a chance to wield AI as a brush, adding vibrant new strokes to your artistic and marketing palette.

Step into the Personalized Portal:

Imagine a collector, not just browsing your website, but virtually stepping into your studio, guided by an AI docent that tailors the experience to their unique preferences. AI can analyze data on past purchases, online behavior, and even facial expressions to curate personalized exhibitions, recommend similar works, and even predict buying intent. This isn't just marketing; it's forging a deep, one-on-one connection with potential patrons.

Beyond Demographics, Dive into the Depths of Desire:

Forget the tired tropes of age and income brackets. AI delves deeper, analyzing vast datasets to understand the emotional resonance of your art. Does your abstract expressionism evoke feelings of joy or existential dread? AI can decipher these nuances, allowing you to craft marketing messages that speak directly to the hearts and minds of your target audience. Imagine promoting a melancholic seascape not to "ocean lovers," but to those seeking solace in the vastness of the unknown.

Pricing Picasso with Precision:

Gone are the days of guesswork and gut instinct. AI algorithms can analyze market trends, auction history, and even the buying habits of similar collectors to suggest optimal pricing strategies for your art. This data-driven approach ensures you're not leaving money on the table, while also preventing the dreaded art-world faux pas of overvaluing (or undervaluing) your masterpiece.

From Palette to Pixels: AI, Your Artistic Accomplice:

AI isn't just for marketing; it's becoming an artistic collaborator in its own right. Platforms like Artbreeder, NightCafe Creator, and Deep Dream Generator allow you to co-create with AI, generating variations on your existing pieces, conjuring new works inspired by your style, or even offering unexpected creative prompts. Think of it as a brainstorming session on steroids, fueled by algorithms and boundless imagination.

But Wait, There's More: The AR/VR Art Extravaganza:

Forget flat screens and sterile white walls. AI is ushering in a new era of immersive art experiences. Imagine virtual reality (VR) galleries where collectors can wander through your artistic universe, or augmented reality (AR) installations that bring your paintings to life on the streets. These interactive experiences not only captivate your audience but also create a lasting impression, etching your art in their memory (and Instagram feed).

Remember, the Human Touch is the Masterstroke:

AI is a powerful tool, but it's not a replacement for the soul of an artist. The beauty, the emotion, the raw human experience that draws us to art in the first place, that can never be replicated by algorithms. Use AI to amplify your voice, not drown it out. Let it handle the tedious tasks, the data crunching, the market analysis, while you focus on what truly matters: creating art that moves, inspires, and transcends the digital canvas.

And Finally, a Word on Ethics:

With great power comes great responsibility. As we dance with AI in the art world, we must tread carefully. Ensure your AI tools are used responsibly, avoiding bias and respecting artist ownership and intellectual property. Transparency is key. Be upfront about how you're using AI, allowing collectors to appreciate the value it adds to your work without compromising the integrity of your artistic vision.

The future of art marketing in the age of AI is a kaleidoscope of possibilities. By embracing its potential, wielding it ethically, and using it to enhance your artistic voice, you can transform your marketing strategy from humdrum to avant-garde. So, step into the digital studio, pick up your AI brush, and paint a masterpiece of engagement, reach, and ultimately, artistic success. Remember, the art world is your canvas, and now, with AI as your co-pilot, the possibilities are truly infinite.

Merging Muse and Machine: A Canvas Crafted with AI in the Age of Art Marketing

The art world, long a bastion of human expression, is experiencing a paradigm shift. Artificial intelligence (AI), once relegated to science fiction, is now poised to revolutionize the way art is created, experienced, and, crucially, marketed. For artists and galleries navigating this uncharted territory, the question arises: how can we harness the power of AI to paint a masterpiece of a marketing strategy, one that amplifies artistic voices and connects with collectors in innovative ways?

Step into the AI-Powered Gallery:

Gone are the days of static websites and generic brochures. AI unlocks a treasure trove of tools to craft immersive, interactive experiences that bring art to life online. Imagine virtual galleries where collectors don VR headsets and wander through meticulously rendered exhibitions, each brushstroke and texture faithfully captured.

AI can personalize these experiences, tailoring the virtual tour to individual preferences. A collector drawn to bold abstracts might find themselves transported to a gallery pulsating with color and movement, while another seeking serenity might be enveloped in a tranquil moonlit landscape. This level of customization fosters deeper engagement and emotional connection with the art, laying the groundwork for potential sales.

Beyond the Brush: AI as Creative Collaborator

But AI's impact extends beyond simply showcasing existing art. It can be a muse, a co-creator, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Algorithms can analyze your artistic style, generate variations on your existing pieces, or even dream up entirely new works inspired by your unique vision.

Imagine a world where a sculptor partners with AI to craft intricate kinetic sculptures that respond to the viewer's movements, or where a painter collaborates with an algorithm to create canvases that morph and evolve over time. These AI-infused creations not only push the boundaries of traditional art forms but also pique the curiosity of collectors seeking the cutting edge.

Building Bridges with Big Data:

Of course, the art world doesn't exist in a vacuum. Collectors, too, are evolving. AI empowers artists and galleries to understand their target audience like never before. By analyzing vast datasets of online behavior and preferences, AI can identify potential collectors with a taste for your unique style. This allows for hyper-targeted marketing campaigns, ensuring your message reaches the right eyes and ears, maximizing your marketing ROI.

However, amidst the excitement, remember that AI is not a silver bullet. Its true power lies in its ability to augment, not replace, the human touch. The emotional core of art, the spark that ignites a collector's passion, still comes from the artist's unique vision and creative spirit. AI should be seen as a tool to amplify this voice, not drown it out.

A Symphony of Creativity:

The future of art marketing is not a binary choice between humans and machines. It's a harmonious symphony where both play their part. Artists, armed with the power of AI, can create groundbreaking works and connect with collectors in ever-more meaningful ways. Galleries can craft immersive experiences that transcend the physical limitations of walls and spaces. And collectors can discover art that speaks to their souls, fueled by the combined magic of human ingenuity and artificial intelligence.

So, embrace the brushstrokes of the future. Let AI be your collaborator, your curator, your bridge to a wider audience. Together, you can paint a masterpiece of a marketing strategy, one that not only sells art but also redefines the very experience of art in the digital age.

The canvas is vast, the colors vibrant, and the possibilities endless. It's time to unleash your creativity and paint your vision onto the world, guided by the steady hand of AI. The future of art marketing awaits, a masterpiece waiting to be crafted.

[gamingalaxybanglaore]

VR & Laser Tag Gaming in Bangalore at GaminGalaxy: Beyond Reality & Expectations

Welcome to GaminGalaxy, where the realms of virtual reality gaming and laser tag converge to redefine entertainment in Bangalore! Step into a world where reality meets the extraordinary, where every game is an adventure beyond imagination.

Exploring VR Gaming in Bangalore: Enter a New Dimension

Virtual reality gaming is a unique and immersive experience that you can have right in the heart of Bangalore at GaminGalaxy. For those who want to experience something beyond reality, our virtual reality gaming area is a sanctuary. Experience the rush of adrenaline as you take part in exhilarating quests and explore magical worlds in our state-of-the-art VR gaming hub located in Bangalore.

Dive into Virtual Reality Gaming Zones

At GaminGalaxy, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse and captivating range of virtual reality experiences. Our gaming zone is meticulously crafted to cater to every gaming aficionado's desires. Whether it's exploring the depths of the ocean, battling space invaders, or solving mind-bending puzzles, our VR gaming zone in Bangalore guarantees an unforgettable journey.

The Ultimate Laser Tag Arena in Bangalore

Step into our laser tag arena, an arena pulsating with excitement and strategy. GaminGalaxy's laser tag arena in Bangalore is where the action takes center stage. Play exciting games, plan with your group, and feel the rush of adrenaline as you avoid obstacles and aim for the goal of winning. Come to GaminGalaxy and experience the exhilarating action of laser tag. With a combination of tactical maneuvering and fast-paced gameplay, our Bangalore arena provides an unmatched experience. Experience the thrill as you make your way through our carefully planned arena, dodging laser beams and striving for victory in a thrilling environment.

GaminGalaxy: Beyond Reality, Beyond Expectations

At GaminGalaxy, we're committed to delivering an experience that exceeds expectations. Our laser tag arena and VR gaming zone in Bangalore are meticulously designed to provide thrills, foster camaraderie, and create moments that linger long after the game ends. Indulge your senses, challenge your skills, and immerse yourself in an unparalleled world of entertainment at GaminGalaxy. Whether you're delving into the depths of virtual reality or engaging in heart-racing laser tag battles, our space is dedicated to crafting experiences that transcend reality itself.

Join Us at GaminGalaxy

Set out on an adventure that exceeds limitations and anticipations. See firsthand how virtual reality and laser tag combine to create an endlessly fascinating gaming scene in Bangalore by visiting GaminGalaxy.

For more information, visit: https://gamingalaxy.in/  Original Source: https://bit.ly/46JiEkU

[southport-printing-co-au]

Unveiling the Aesthetic Odyssey: Graphic Design on the Gold Coast

Buckle up, dear reader, as we embark on a visual odyssey through the sun-soaked streets and coastal wonders of the Gold Coast, where graphic design is not just a service; it's a vibrant expression of creativity and a testament to the dynamic spirit of this captivating region.

Coastal Inspirations: Where Waves Meet Creativity

Picture this: golden beaches, azure waves, and the gentle rustle of palm trees. The Gold Coast, a haven of inspiration for graphic designers, serves as a canvas where nature's beauty intertwines with the creative process. The ebb and flow of the ocean, the hues of a sunrise—these are not just scenes but muses that guide designers in crafting visual narratives that capture the essence of this coastal paradise.

Tailored Excellence: Crafting Bespoke Visual Stories

Graphic design Gold Coast is not a one-size-fits-all affair. It's an intricate dance of tailoring each design to fit the unique story of the client. From wireframing to prototyping, every step in the design process is a carefully orchestrated move towards excellence. It's not just about creating aesthetically pleasing visuals; it's about weaving a narrative that resonates with the brand and speaks to the hearts of the audience.

Visual Identity: Icons That Stand Tall

In a city where towering skyscrapers grace the skyline, graphic designers play a pivotal role in crafting visual identities that stand tall amidst the architectural marvels. Logos become more than symbols; they are the visual pillars that support the brand's presence. With tools like Adobe Illustrator, designers sculpt icons that don't just represent businesses but become an integral part of the city's visual identity.

Digital Symphony: Navigating the Virtual Landscape

As we step into the digital realm, graphic designers Gold Coast conduct a symphony of pixels, orchestrating user experiences that are both seamless and enchanting. User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design take center stage, with designers utilizing prototyping tools like InVision to create interactive and intuitive digital landscapes. The goal is not just navigation but immersion, ensuring that every click is a step into a visually captivating digital world.

Technological Prowess: Riding the Wave of Innovation

The Gold Coast, known for its forward-thinking spirit, becomes a playground for designers to experiment with cutting-edge technologies. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are not just buzzwords but tools that designers wield to create immersive experiences. The city becomes a canvas where technological prowess meets artistic expression, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in graphic design.

Print Renaissance: Tangible Narratives in a Digital Era

Amidst the digital frenzy, the Gold Coast witnesses a resurgence of print design—a renaissance that celebrates the tangible. Brochures, business cards, and print materials become not just marketing tools but tangible narratives that people can touch and feel. With desktop publishing software like Adobe InDesign, designers ensure that every print design is a testament to the enduring power of physical communication.

Cultural Fusion: Embracing Diversity in Design

In a city that thrives on cultural diversity, graphic designers celebrate this richness by infusing designs with elements that resonate universally. Cultural fusion is not just an adaptation; it's an embrace. Designers use collaboration tools to communicate with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that the designs are not just inclusive but representative of the vibrant cultural tapestry that defines the Gold Coast.

Environmental Storytelling: Transforming Spaces into Narratives

Environmental graphic design goes beyond the screen and the page, transforming physical spaces into immersive narratives. 3D modeling software like SketchUp becomes the architect's tool, visualizing how design elements interact with the built environment. From retail spaces to corporate offices, designers curate environments that tell stories and immerse visitors in the brand's narrative.

Analytical Insight: Decoding the Language of Data

In the world of graphic design Gold Coast, data-driven insights are not just numbers but a language waiting to be decoded. Analytical tools like Google Analytics provide designers with valuable quantitative data on user engagement. A/B testing becomes the compass, guiding designers to iterate and improve designs based on measurable outcomes.

The Crescendo: Celebrating Creative Harmony

As we reach the crescendo of our journey through graphic design Gold Coast, it's a celebration of creative harmony. Designers conduct post-project evaluations, analyzing not just the visuals but the efficiency of tools and workflows. It's a moment to appreciate the seamless integration of creativity and technology, resulting in designs that not only captivate but also resonate with the dynamic spirit of the Gold Coast.

Conclusion

Graphic design Gold Coast is an aesthetic odyssey, where designers navigate the realms of creativity and technology to craft visual stories that echo the vibrancy of this coastal paradise. From seascapes to cityscapes, every design is a brushstroke on the canvas of a region that thrives on the synthesis of nature, innovation, and diverse cultural influences. As the sun sets on this visual journey, the designs created on the Gold Coast stand tall, not just as visuals but as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity that define this dynamic city.

[cbh2082]

Final Idea

After considering the target audience and client brief. I have short-listed down to 2 main ideas. The fist one is a museum featuring the plant and animal of the location using VR.

The second idea is a wood crafting and painting workshop with chang in themes and subjects week/monthly.

Weight the pros and cons. I decided to go with the final idea of the Workshop.

Reference:

Smithsonian Institution. (n.d.). New augmented-reality experience spotlights human connection to the oceans. Smithsonian Institution. https://www.si.edu/newsdesk/releases/new-augmented-reality-experience-spotlights-human-connection-oceans

Popular Woodworking. (2022). Woodcarving Basics. Popular Woodworking. https://www.popularwoodworking.com/techniques/woodcarving-basics

[legendarybaconchannel]

Starsand Gameplay

Starsand is a mystic survival game set among the dunes of an arcane desert. An open-world full of danger, vast environments and mysterious happenings await you! Explore, hunt, craft, build – and SURVIVE. Your day started as planned. Motivated and full of ambition you started the marathon of your life in the middle of the desert. The months of hard training should finally bear fruit. Suddenly, you were caught in a monstrous sandstorm and now you find yourself alone in an inhospitable, hot environment. Deserted and merciless, an ocean of sand stretches to the horizon. You feel the scorching heat on your skin, sand blowing right at your face, far and wide only vast desert ... but wait, what is that? Something is moving in the far distance. What happened? Your first thought: Survival. Your second thought: Rescue will surely come. The bitter realization: No one will come, you are completely on your own. The big question: Where are you and why are there two moons in the night sky? Find shade, find water, find life. Use your energy wisely, avoid too much effort in the heat, keep warm in the coldest nights. You must keep your wits to survive. Starsand is THE desert survival game. Dangers, mysteries, and puzzles await you! Find out what exactly happened, where you are and what connects you to the history of an extinct civilization. Will you manage to survive in the inhospitable environment, find answers and find your way back to your old life? Hunt for food, make weapons, build a shelter. Secure your shelter - the dunes are teeming with scary creatures. Find your way in the vast and lonely desert, orient yourself in sandstorms and mark your path. Thirst and heat become an invincible enemy during the day - cold endangers you during the night. Learn to live with adversity, see the beauty that the world holds, and learn from the animals and nature! In this desert you are both a hunter and prey. Insect-like predators come out of their dark nests, always looking for food. Protect yourself with fire, blow up enemies with explosive coconut grenades, secure your base and do whatever it takes to survive. We, Tunnel Vision Studio, are a small creative team ready to conquer the world with RAM sticks, dressed in GPU-coated armor and wearing a VR visor as a helmet. We are a handful of brave geeks based in Rome, not ready to give in to the temptations of countries with fiber broadband and unhealthy food. We make a living doing what we love: everything related to virtual reality and video games. Features: Large open game world in an exciting desert setting with an area of over 64 km². The lovingly designed world, far away from civilization, holds many impressive monuments, artifacts, and creatures of the past, as well as modern times. Survival action par excellence! Weather and desert capers as well as terrestrial and extra-terrestrial enemies awaken the pure survival instinct! Gather, build, secure - for protection against heat, cold, and the unknown enemy. Dynamic weather and day/night changes demand good planning, wise action, and a large portion of courage, especially in the desert. A mystical, thrilling story and the solving of numerous puzzles answer many open questions during the exciting journey into the unknown.

[mastergamingvr]

OceanCraft - VR Gameplay Valve Index

[cupidcreates]

akdsfjkdksj I wasn’t expecting you to churn all this content out so quick (´∀｀)♡ omgosh you went above and beyond with the love language ask!! I love to see your interpretation of these characters so what do the cast consider the perfect date to be? low key vs high key? local vs out of town? -😌✨

Thank you! I’m glad you liked the love language post, sorry it took so long lol. As for their favorite dates I think I’ll do the same characters here:

Katsuki Bakugou

Rock Climbing/Hiking Dates

Canonically one of Katsuki’s favorite things to do is go rock climbing so he’d definitely want to bring a SO along every so often. If you’re an athletic person and enjoy being outdoors this will be a very fun date! If you’re not a very athletic person (as many of us aren’t) Katsuki will settle for just going for a short hike along a trail. Katsuki gets super talkative on hikes as well, as you’re walking he’ll just be talking about literally anything! From Hero work to his friends/family, to things that have been bothering him lately. Whatever is on his mind he’ll share with you while you’re both out, which is incredibly helpful as he doesn’t ever discuss his feelings at any other point in time. Plus it gives him a chance to show off how fit he is in front of you, which you both always consider a plus.

Izuku Midoriya

Movie Dates

A Classic, perhaps a little plain even, but Izuku absolutely loves to take you to the movies. He loves everything about the date, from discussing what you’re about to watch, to getting the snacks, to whispering in the back row (if you’re the type to get annoyed by talking during a movie he’ll keep this to a bare minimum). He loves being able to snuggle up next to you and hold your hand while discussing the finer points of the plot (If you’ll tolerate talking of course). Don’t think he’s being innocent here though, he definitely uses the darkness surrounding you as cover as he runs his hands up your thighs. Unbeknownst to most, Izuku is actually very much a horndog. He conceals it very well but he’s only barely capable of keeping his hands to himself when it comes to his SO. Any chance he gets to touch you he’ll take it, more than likely this is why his second favorite type of date is usually a stay-in date...

Shoto Todoroki

Dinner Dates

Another Classic, Shoto loves to treat his SO to expensive treats with his favorite being food-related dates at lavish restaurants. Not a week goes by that he doesn’t take you out on the town for the night at some place you’re sure you couldn’t even afford a glass of water at. It’s almost never the same place twice either, Shoto is actually a foodie and enjoys trying new types of cuisine whenever he can. He’s got a whole list of places he wants to take you, and if they require reservations he’s already got them locked down. If you love eating Shoto is your man, he’ll make sure you’re set with a wide variety of foods to choose from and always remembers any place you happen to be partial to.

Denki Kaminari

Amusement/Water Park Dates

Denki is a fun-loving guy through and through, he knows how to have a good time and wherever you happen to go he makes sure you do too. That being said, his absolute favorite place to take you is to an amusement or water park. It’s not often you two get to go, as you’re both very busy with your respective hero work most days, but when you do it’s a day-long affair. You’re there from the minute the park opens to the second it shuts down, riding as many rides as you can manage, eating greasy garbage food, and making sure to strike the dumbest poses for any rides that take pictures. You’ve got a whole scrapbook of these photos by now, their ridiculousness increasing with each new one added.

Eijirou Kirishima

Beach Dates

You wouldn’t expect Eijirou Kirishima to be a Thalassophile (Def. Person who loves the ocean) but he is. He adores being on the beach and it’s his preferred location for a date. You’ve spent many a sunny afternoon seaside with Eijirou, building sandcastles, chasing crabs, and just enjoying the ocean. One memorable afternoon you found yourselves right next to a sea turtles nest and you got to watch the babies pop out of the sand and scurry towards the ocean, assisted by Eijirou as he chased off the seagulls looking to make them a meal. Eijirou also enjoys surfing, and if you know how to do so he’ll get you matching boards so you can ride the waves together. If you’re not partial to surfing he’ll be sure to pull out all his tricks while you watch him, he’ll even let you onto his board with him so you two can just float together by the shore. Of course you two can’t go to the beach year round, but when you can you’re both sure to make the most of these sunny days, even if he does get an awful sunburn by the end of it. 

Hitoshi Shinsou

Gaming Dates

Hitoshi isn’t what one would call ‘social’ when given the choice between going out for a night and staying home he’ll almost always choose the latter. So it’s expected that his favorite type of date is one where you two can stay inside and enjoy each others company. You both work so hard as Heros, why not spend your days off relaxing with one another? He can spend hours alone with you, preferably kicking your ass at Mario Party or some other multiplayer game. He doesn’t need anything except you, his consoles, and a pile of your favorite snacks to have a good time. That being said, if you want him to go out for a date the best way to convince him is to take him to some kind of arcade, especially if it’s a VR arcade. He feels a kind of nostalgic joy for these places and won’t hesitate to return and feel like a kid again. Plus it’s always nice to repeatedly prove to you that yes he is the champion of Dance Dance Revolution and you will never usurp this title from him.

Tamaki Amajiki

Park/Picnic Dates

As I’ve mentioned in a previous post, Tamaki loves spending time outdoors; surrounded by and in awe of nature and it’s complex inner workings. He enjoys just taking time to appreciate the world around him, so dates where you can both relax outside and enjoy each other’s company are his favorite kind. He has a specific hill at his favorite park he likes to take you, bringing a lunch of all your favorite foods he sets you both up under the biggest shade tree for an afternoon. You both lay back on your worn picnic blanket and just cloudgaze, talking for hours about anything and everything. Much like Bakugou, Tamaki gets very talkative on these dates, discussing his week with you and anything new he might have learned over the course of it. He’s so very endearing on these dates its easy to fall silent and just listen to him for hours.

Mirio Togata

Crafting Dates

Mirio likes to have memorabilia from your dates, so you can expect a lot of dates to center around making things. More than just your average painting classes Mirio has also taken you to sculpting, woodworking, and glass blowing classes to name a few. At the end of your dates you both exchange what you’ve made and Mirio absolutely adores anything you craft, regardless of its quality in your eyes. He puts his heart and soul into making you something and more often than not it turns out spectacularly. Mirio wasn’t as good with the ceramics class, but you love the warped vase he made (even if it was technically supposed to be a cup at the start, we’ve all been there). Mirio’s kept everything you made him and even has a shelf in his house just dedicated to what you’ve made, it makes him so happy to come home after a hard day of work and see physical memories of his time with you.

Keigo Takami

Aquarium/Zoo Dates

Underneath Keigo’s charming and charismatically upbeat personality lies a bitter and broken man, drained by his role in Hero Society and left an empty shell of his former self. Underneath that personality lies a kid who never got to have a proper childhood and desperately wants to make up for it. He now uses his dates with you to do just that; not that you mind of course, dates with Keigo are always fun and lighthearted and you love to see him truly enjoy himself for once. Keigo’s favorite places to go are definitely large and intricately designed Zoos and Aquariums. He loves to look at the painstakingly accurate and detailed natural habitats, make fun of the stranger animal names you find, and learn new information about foreign bird species. Loves to mimic their calls too, much to the irritation of the birds and the zoo employees. He makes it a point to always get you a stuffed animal at the end of the date, ensuring that you now have a massive collection of them sitting all around your room. You’re always kept up to date on any Zoo or Aquarium events thanks to Keigo, as he has a calendar dedicated to all the unique events they have going on throughout the year.

Touya Todoroki

Crash Dates

Dabi is...well he’s unpredictable at the best of times and it’s very rare that you two have time for anything even resembling a date (being an S class villain does make it hard to exist normally in society and do normal couple things but it ees what it ees). However, when he can take you one a date --well the term “date” is generous here- it’s never a dull one. You’re not sure how he does it but when you go out you always manage to end up somewhere Dabi could never get into naturally. From sold-out concerts, to stand up shows, to parties at lavish houses belonging to people you’ve never even heard of let alone met before; dates with Dabi are always somewhere you two definitely shouldn’t be. One memorable morning he took you to a country club where you got to each fancy exclusive rich people food and play a horrible facsimile of golf before you were eventually found and chased out. It’s always fun to see how long you two can crash an even before being found out.

Tomura Shigaraki

Cemetery/Haunted Places Dates

Tomura Shigaraki is a man who enjoys his space from other people, in his opinion the only good person is a dead one (unless he’s talking about you, of course). So it’s not abnormal for your dates to be in a place far away from others. Again the term “date” is being very generous, more often than not he’ll approach you, tell you to follow him, and you’ll wind up in some abandoned building or graveyard. Normally this would be cause for concern, as this is exactly what happens in horror movies before someone gets killed, but Tomura has a soft spot for you so your safety is ensured. Tomura loves to see a place reclaimed by nature, vines growing over a run down house or worn out gravestones breaking apart into chunks of marble with barely legible words on them. He doesn’t talk much on your dates, but will often give you a random bit of insight about him; like on one date where you both walked alongside abandoned train tracks at dusk and he told you about the dog he had as a child. He seeks no pity from you, and these dates are not the conventionally romantic type, but you enjoy being able to be with Tomura in a way no one else ever has or ever will.

[goldenagewebnovel]

Volume 1 Prologue

Virtual Reality. 

The ever sought after paradise for everyone who loves video games. 

The first virtual reality developments came in the beginning of the century, but they were all based on external hardware. Awkward remotes and gloves, bulky goggles. The hardware became smaller, sleeker, more immersive over time. But in the end, all they were was an entertaining trick — limited by what it could show and who could even physically use it. 

They brought the player closer to the screen then ever before. But they could never bridge the gap between the real world and the game. The true holy grail of gaming would lie in fully immersive virtual reality; that would take you to the very edge of the screen, and then pull you inside. To wake up inside your favorite game, whenever you wanted. It was the dream that could never be.

And then came the Digital Mind Project.

A private think tank based in the city of Seattle. They gathered the world’s best programers, neurologists, biologists, and psychologists. After working for over a decade, they did it. They mapped and named every possible neural pathway in the human brain and explained it’s function. They created the first complete, digital model of the mind, and it could think like one.

Overnight, the processing speed of all technology in the world skyrocketed. Data could be processed faster and more efficiently then ever imagined. Brain diseases that seemed incurable now had mapped explanations and accessible cures.

The digital and physical revolution that resulted led some people to question where the limit really was. If you can put the human mind in a machine, couldn’t it work the other way around?

Countries, governments, armies, corporations — they all fought to develop and control this untouched potential. But the leaders of the Digital Mind Project had decided to join the race, and, just like before, they won. They developed a full scanning pod, that only required a user to sit in it. The pod would sync to the electric signals of the nerves pathways and, upon triggering sleep, allowed the person to fully connect to the machine.

They sold the design for the pods to every business that could afford it, all at the same time. In the middle of the 21st century the age of Virtual Reality had truly begun.

The first games to come out were… disappointing, to say the least. Barely more then tech demos. Allowing the player to get a unique experience but hardly qualifying as a true game. A rushed attempt at formatting a classic MMORPG as the VR game, Fields of Fighting, was a disaster. It was riddled with horribly coded AI, clunky, unnatural movements, invisible walls everywhere that could physically trap players by accident. It was unplayable.

All the technology you could ever need for VR was available, but game designers were struggling to catch up. They had to learn to think and create in a whole new dimension. The old techniques wouldn’t cut it.

That learning curve led to a drought in Full VR games. Most companies stuck to their tried and true dimension of game design, and if people were lucky they might see a halfway decent Full VR game release once or twice a year.

Then, without any warning, two of the biggest games to hit the market were released in the same year.

The first was a sprawling, open world RPG called, Record of the Ancients. Set in the fantasy genre, this was a single player game that offered its players absolute freedom of choice to explore the world and affect it however they wanted. The game held its own share of bugs and the occasional empty plain or lack of detail, but there was nothing else like it.

The second game was a massive multiplayer sci-fi battle called, Solar Forge. Players could freely participate in large scale, solar system spanning battles. Anything from piloting a ship, to organizing a galactic cruiser, to dropping into and storming an enemy vessel with your squad. Two teams ranging anywhere from 50 to 300 participants all fighting a space war to decide a victor. The largest scale fights could even span days, and a lot of people became addicted to acting as a space marine.

These two games sold more then anyone dared to dream, proving just how unique Full VR gaming could really be. They also set the trend for how these games would be approached. Either broad, if shallow, experiences in a large environment or the chance for rich world building but in a very narrow and strict environment. No one would even attempt to make up for the failed promises made by the flopped Fields of Fighting experience.

Things stayed this way for over a decade. New games came and fell, but Record of the Ancients and Solar Forge remained on top. 

One day, without any big press releases or industry fanfare, a new game started putting up commercials and advertisement. It promised to revolutionize Full VR and offer an experience greater then any of it’s predecessors. Deeper, more detailed worlds. No restrictions on player freedom. An MMORPG that could support millions of players across the world, all at the same time. 

These claims were so preposterously huge that no one believed it. Especially because they were being made by a brand new games company called Aurum Productions, that no one had even heard of before.  

But the ads kept coming.

And once people started looking into the game, and more specifically, Aurum Productions, they learned that this new game had some shocking secret weapons going for it. The founder of Aurum Productions was a man named Mike Wirth, one of the former lead programers of the Digital Mind Project. He had brought a gift for this new game: a new piece of technology called, Player Perception Tuning (PPT). 

In order to allow the most robust, flexible, and realistic experience possible a machine alone couldn’t cut it. Instead, PPT allows the players own brain, already synced with their pod, to process the game’s data for them on the spot. 

Instead of having to code every aspect of the game to recreate reality, they instead offer the brain a very convincing framework of reality, and allow the individual brain to fill in all the pieces. Instead of realism, the programers were going for impressionism. 

What they got was more realistic then any game ever made before it. 

Since every player was acting as their own processor, it made it much easier to have everyone play at once. Since they only had to design the framework, the game team at Aurum had that much more freedom to create a real, enriched world.

In the summer of the year 2076, the groundbreaking Full VR, fantasy MMORPG, Golden Age, released.

__________________________________

In the void of space, above an endless fog, floats an island of gold and riches. There are artifacts, weapons, and sculptures — all crafted from precious metals and rare gems. Priceless artworks and fine clothing are lazily scattered about. The ground is made up of gold bars and golden coins. They drip from the bottom of the island into the void of the fog, but the island never grows smaller.

At the center of the island, purple strands of energy gather together to construct a humanoid wireframe. 

From nowhere and everywhere at once, the Overvoice of the game speaks.

Hello, would you like to customize your character, or would you like a randomly generated one?

A voice from the wireframe responds.

“I’d like to customize.”

Very well.

From all over the island, wisps of light gather together to form a giant ball of light in front of the wireframe.

First, please select what race you would like your character to be. You can chose from Human, Dwarf, Orc, or Elf. You may also choose a ratio, of two of the previously mentioned.

“Human.”

Very well.

Some of the light gets shaved away, scattering into space. The ball of light has now roughly taken the size and shape of a human.

Please select what sex you would like your character to be.

“Um, I’ll take male for me.”

Very well.

Barely any light is shaved away but the figure of light now resembles a blank human male. 

Please select your body type.

“How about we go with svelte but athletic. Like a martial artist kind of build, maybe?”

Very well.

This time, more light is shaved away and the figure now resembles a fit, athletic human man.

Would you like to move on to face sculpting, body sculpting, or voice sculpting next?

“You know what, just have everything else look like my real body.”

Very well.

Light flew away from the human figure in spirals of light until everything burst out. In the place of the light was a tan skinned, human man. The body was still athletic, decently tall, had long sideburns, stubble on it’s chin, gray eyes, and streaks of gray hair at the temples and the front. It had on a set of cotton pants and a cotton shirt, tied down by a coarse rope, and simple leather shoes. The body stared lifelessly at the wireframe in front of it.

In front of the wireframe, a hologram of a keyboard appeared.

Please spell the name of your character.

The wireframe reached out with a hand and pressed: D, 0, n. And hit enter.

Please pronounce how to say the name of your character.

“You pronounce it like you would for an Italian mob boss. Or like the dawn of a new day.”

Very well. Please step forward into your character to initiate syncing.

The wireframe took clumsy steps towards the human body in front of it. On contact, the purple lines of energy that made up the wireframe fused into the human body.

I could suddenly feel everything. The clothes against my skin. The shifting, hard coins that made up the ground under my feet. The cool breeze that started to blow across my face.

In front of my eyes I could see that the endless sky of space, littered with stars and streaks of purple throughout. Streams of the gold coins that made up the island were flowing off the edges. They were dispersing the fog.

In front of the island was a floating circular flat world. Absolutely huge, it took up my whole vision. There were three distinct continents in the center of the wide ocean. 

The one on the left was made of sweeping mountain ranges and floating islands, that looked like they were made of gemstones. 

The one on the bottom was a giant archipelago, made up of countless, rich islands.

The one on the right had sprawling green fields and verdant forests and crystal blue lakes. 

The edge of the world had a misty, thick fog all around it, but I could see waterfalls flowing into the void of space underneath. The sun was bright and lit up everything beautifully. I could hear rising orchestral music playing from somewhere. From nowhere and everywhere at once, the Overvoice of the game spoke to me.

Welcome, to the world of Golden Age, D0n.

I felt like I could stare at that sight forever.

But I didn’t have that chance. Suddenly the ground began to rumble under my feet. The streams of gold flowing off the side rushed forward, and huge swaths of the island began to break off. 

Eventually, the whole island destabilized, falling to the planet below. I went with it. As I was falling among columns of gold and treasure, I heard the Overvoice again. 

Due to your region of origin, you will be starting in the Plains Continent. Below, you will enter the Tutorial Village. There, we have provided class instructors, resources, and all the knowledge you will need to explore the game. Have fun.

The ground was getting closer and closer. I could no longer see the edge of the world. Below me was an impossibly thick cloud. 

All of the gold around me started to dissolve into particles of light. 

I was in the middle of an uncontrollable free fall. The wind was rushing past me so fast it was whipping at my clothes and shoving my hair away. My eyes were tearing up from the force of it.

I felt a wide smile, that showed all my teeth, spread across my face.

It was time to play the game.

[firstofficerwiggles]

Happy Birthday! I'm here for a Star Wars ship. So cool that you're doing this. So a little about me: I'm female, 20, straight, brunette. I love watching shows, reading, doing puzzles, playing Xbox, crafting, swimming, and working out. I have music in my ears practically 24/7. People describe me as kind and smart. I come off as passive, but I'm probably plotting murder on the inside lol. I'm also a perfectionist and an anxious mess. Make what you will of that. Anyway, I hope you have a good birthday, and thanks!

I ship you with… Tech!!

Tech sees you working on Kamino with the younger clones on their logical skills by teaching them how to solve puzzles and work out mind teasers. He watches you explain a particularly tricky logic puzzle and he’s drawn in right away by your cleverness. When he asks you out with a list of rational reasons why you would be a perfect match, you are charmed by his efforts rather than put off by his nerdiness. Between missions, Tech spends as much time as possible with you, watching holoprograms, playing videogames, and listening to your favorite music. Tech understands your quieter nature and that while you may be holding your tongue sometimes, like him, inside you are dying to scream at people for being annoying. He’s also wonderful for helping you deal with your anxiety, and he teaches you several techniques that have helped him.

Naturally, Tech does a ton of research for your birthday and he comes up with six different plans before Wrecker finally tells him to stop already and just pick one. He decides that the best one is a trip to Scarif where he first takes you to one of the oldest libraries in the galaxy. You have a delightful morning exploring the old books and appreciating the architecture there. Then for the afternoon, Tech takes you to a lovely cove where you can swim and enjoy the beach. Unlike the rough and cold ocean on Kamino, here the water is gentle and warm. For your present, Tech gives you a custom designed VR headset that allows you to play all kinds of games but that is also connected to his helmet so you can spend time with him even when he’s away on a mission.

Do you want a ship? Check out my birthday event!

[slothssassin]

I was tagged by @briarfox13 to answer 10 questions, thank you my dear! ♥

Tagging @starsandskies @liaorban @nerdierholler @marvilus73 @its-sixxers @obvidalous @bellaciaofallout @vermiliondrug @amys2885 and @scarlettkat86 - no obligation of course!

Rules: Answer these questions, then create 10 new ones and tag 10 people

1. What are you good at?

My spontaneous answer to a question like this is always either “I don’t know” or “nothing”. But thinking of it, I’d say I’m good at listening, I’m creative and I can easily recognise different birbs.

2. What are your hobbies?

Playing video games, drawing, reading, crafting things, thinking about OCs, taking screenshots, watching shows every now and then and being in nature.

3. Favourite place and why?

Hm it’s hard to choose just one place. I generally like to be at the beach, I love the ocean, listening to it is calming.

4. What skill would you like to improve?

My drawing and writing skills. Also maybe time management?

5. What are you doing while in lockdown? 

The usual stuff I always do - gaming, drawing, reading, etc.

6. Current game you are playing (if any)?

Horizon: Zero Dawn and Borderlands 3.

7. Favourite dessert?

Panna Cotta.

8. Favourite book/game?

My favourite book is Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. Favourite game, wow that’s hard, probably Fallout 4, Mass Effect (3), Dragon Age (Inquisition), God of War 4, Assassin’s Creed 2... I have quite a few games I love a lot.

9. If you could have anything, what would it be?

Speaking of materialistic things, I wouldn’t say no to a VR setup. Or a farm house with chickens and bees.

10. And lastly what is your favourite colour?

I like dark red, turquoise and purple.

My questions are under the cut :)

What’s your favourite smell?

Do you collect anything?

If you could immediately improve one skill without having to practise, which would you choose?

Is there anything you always wanted to learn?

How many languages do you speak?

Your top three shows?

Your favourite soundtrack from a game?

Do you play an instrument?

How did you spend your last weekend?

What are the qualities you enjoy in a friend?

[clickbliss]

Disaster Report 4 is kind of boring, kind of brilliant

by Amr (@siegarettes)

Disaster Report 4 Summer Memories 

Developer: Granzella

Publisher: NIS America

PS4, Switch, PC

What kind of person would you be in a disaster? Would you take advantage of the situation for your own gain? Or would you act with kindness and help those around you? Those are the fundamental questions at the heart of Disaster Report. After a prolonged development cycle, surviving cancelation after the Japanese Tohoku earthquake, and an uncertain localization, Disaster Report 4 Summer Memories is finally here--just in time to launch in the midst of another crisis. 

Disaster Report 4 is full of signs of its troubled development, with a frame rate that fluctuates when seemingly nothing is happening, and plenty of archaic design decisions. It’s a game with a PS3-esque presentation and a PS2-era design sensibility. It’s a strange technical mess, and often a boring one as well. 

Yet despite that I found myself enthralled with it. Disaster Report’s poor technical presentation is met with a fantastic sense of art direction. The summer heat comes through in bright, almost overexposed, outdoor areas. The harsh grays of the city are splashed with highlights of violent color, and the debris of its broken cityscapes act as natural framing devices for its compositions. Disaster Report is full of compelling shots, with tons of implied personal stories and moody environments. I spent a lot of time with it simply exploring in first person mode, observing the personal and environmental wreckage the earthquake left. 

Small moments act as opportunities to check in, asking your reaction and bringing an emphasis on roleplaying and reflection. An early highlight has your character sit down after escaping a bad situation, with dialogue choices that ask how you feel about the situations you experienced, backed by a quiet vocal theme. 

The writing isn’t exceptional, but it gives you a wide range of reactions to express yourself with, including some bizarre and inappropriate ones. You can take the time to listen to others’ troubles, console them, or belittle them for it, or sometimes even flirt with them. Certain situations allow you to manipulate others for your own benefit, but the emphasis is generally on showing empathy and recognizing others’ troubles amidst a crisis. It goes so far as to make this point  by awarding you heavy handed “Moral Points” for empathetic actions. 

In a less compelling game these design choices would detract from it, but here they form part of its charm. Disaster Report captures a very specific mood and design sensibility. Buildings are collapsing, and the country is sinking into the ocean, but everyone’s lives still continue and their concerns don’t disappear. It gives off the same vibes as a Yakuza sidequest--bluntly written, but often filled with humor and sincerity. 

Mechanically, it follows the same old world design. Survival means monitoring basic needs--hunger, thirst, stress and bathroom breaks--but there’s none of the scrounging and crafting common to modern games. Your needs are more there to keep you checking in, looking for rest stops and buying food and drinks for the trips ahead. Navigation is more adventure game like, gated by finding the right person to talk to, the right item or keeping an eye out for passages created within the wreckage. It gives you a small sense of familiarity with each area before moving onto the next. 

The PS4’s VR mode contributes to this, allowing you to revisit areas from the campaign in first person, with a Myst style navigation that moves you from hotspot to hotspot, allowing you to pick destinations by looking at and warping to them, then walking on rails within them. Thankfully the game’s framerate problems don’t appear here, where it could easily induce motion sickness in the viewer. Areas are overall more lifeless in VR, but it gives another way to build familiarity with each area, and works way better than expected. 

Better than expected is often the verdict for Disaster Report 4 as a whole. So many things work against it, and in every way it’s uneven, unpolished and messy. But in some ways that almost feels appropriate about a game about surviving a disaster, and within that mess are enough earnest, funny, and scary scenes to keep it compelling. 

Disaster Report 4 is a portrait of humans in the wake of crisis, in a way the modern rash of apocalypses fail to capture in their lavishly written melodramas. It offers the simple fact that life continues after a disaster, then asks you, “What now?”

[osmw1]

Dimension Wave   Chapter 31 — Merchant of Death

“Yet another stowaway, miladies!”

For the past three days since we’ve brought Tsugumi along in our party, we’ve been traveling back and forth between land and sea, giving our best to grind some levels. But then, yet again, Yamikage interrupted the silence with her shouting below deck. Oh, and by the way, there’s only a few hours left to recap until we catch up with how the six of us ended up like this.

“H-Hey, hold on!”

Name: Stowaway A. Occupation: merchant of death. Age: unknown. The four of us—well, five now, including Tsugumi—forced yet another to walk the plank. Three sharks would always appear below the waters whenever we did this. Perhaps we were enjoying this a little too much.

“So, Stowaway A… or rather, Altorese… what are you doing here?” “Don’t pretend like you don’t know me! Whatever! Just help me out of this!” “I’d love to, but I’m busy fishing.” “Well, aren’t you a lovely catch?! Please, I beg of you! We’re friends, aren’t we?!” “Alright, alright. I was just joking. I’m not about to kill you.”

It’s not like it’s that big of a deal if you were to fall overboard anyway. All there is to it is a death penalty and then you get respawned at your last save point. Maybe it’s just scary because it’s VR. It probably feels too real, like how violent M-rated VR games caught a bit of flak from the media when they first came out.

“Tch, another acquaintance of Miss Kizuna…” “Sorry to disappoint.”

The plank seemed to be a little too addictive to everyone besides me. In any case, Alto was due for a questioning.

“So? Why did you stow yourself away in the cargo hold?” “Yeah… so Kizuna told me that you guys fell overboard. Well, I’ve been real curious since then, but there’s only a handful of people who craft boats.” “That’s why you snuck aboard?” “Oh, I’ll do anything for money!”

Buddy, that’s not something to be proud of. If anything, it made me want to push him over right there and then. Damn moneygrubber. He likely found out about our seafaring escapades from the rumors—y’know, the rumors spread by the three hijackers we defeated a few days ago. Alto should’ve been able to sort through the truth from the lies though. I guess he must’ve thought this could be profitable.

“Assuming that to be true, what are your intentions, Altorese?”

Shouko looked far from joking around. I mean, fair enough. No one else has met Alto other than me.

“Please let me in on this!”

That’s what he’s like. Alto’s the kind of guy to get all chummy with friends or foes to sell them arms and items. You’d be glad to have him on your side, but his true allegiance is with the coin. He’ll probably sell any knowledge gained from the sea since his clientele is quite broad. He trades with the frontliners, crafters, and even the roleplayers. Anything that he knows, the whole world will soon know too. It was a real sticky situation. If we say no, we might piss him off. If we say yes, who knows what would happen? Ugh, what a headache. Well, better friend than foe.

“Alright. But keep in mind that the monsters at sea are totally different than at shore.” “Bluefins and seabreams, right? And don’t forget the mats from Brave Birds and Blue Sharks too…”

He knew all about the monsters out here without any of us saying a single thing. It’s fair to say he’s done his research before coming here. With a hand to his mouth, Alto put on act for us.

“Gutting-type weapons… an unpopulated area… experience… lots of items… spirits…”

Yamikage looked at me worriedly. He’s already figured everything out already, I’m afraid.

“I mean, I’ve known about this for a while.” “And everyone else too, I assume.” “As far as I know, only three including you, Kizuna, though I’m sure there probably are more people who know. Still, you’re one of the few people who wield gutting-type weapons.”

Buying favors with money, keeping people quiet, and selling information to only a select few is exactly what a merchant of death like him would do. No, the surprising thing is that gutting weapons hadn’t become any more popular, even with the secret out in public. You’d think every party would want at least one person with a gutting weapon. I just can’t wrap my head around why no one has made a huge deal out of this.

… hmm, but maybe because… The Cerberus Slaughter popped up in my mind.

If we wait until no one’s around to carve mats out of bosses, or perhaps… Supposing that we do keep up with this plan, I’d need to learn some stealth skills. Not a low level one like Yamikage had used before, but something that powerful enough to mask my footsteps. I knew this from the moment I held the Cerberus Slaughter:

—This is why I can’t give up gutting weapons.

Well, whatever. If everybody knows how it works, then there’s no need to keep it a secret any longer.

“What say you, Sheryl?” “… I trust you.” “Gotcha.”

I figured I should let him about the potential of seas. You know what they say about making assumptions.

“Hey, Alto. Let’s talk hypotheticals.” “What are you saying?” “Right. What we’re thinking is that there’s a new continent on the other side of the ocean. Judging by how powerful the enemies here are, this should be the correct path forward after conquering the first continent. Shouko managed to get quite a bit of experience during the Dimension Wave event, so we should be able to tackle on the enemies on the other side. And that means good loot.”

Most of what I had said may have been convenient white lies, but even if I don’t know what’s ahead for sure, they’re damn good guesses. Don’t get me wrong—I’m not doing this just to go along with my lies; I’m sure there’s something out there. Though, it wouldn’t exactly be wrong to say that my true motives lie within my dreams and the romance of sailing the seas. Be that as it may, I can count on Alto to invest in this… even if he may have his own hidden intentions.

“So? Will you invest in this pipe dream of mine, O Altorese, the merchant?” “Of course I would.” “It’s almost scary how easily you’re agreeing to this.” “Please don’t misunderstand. I’m not betting my money on a pipe dream; I’m putting my money on the discerning eyes of yours, Kizuna—the very ones that knew to turn empty cans into gold.”

His expectations were high, but the whole can thing was nothing but luck. Well, chalking it up to luck would be irresponsible and I wasn’t about to argue about it either. Still… Alto seemed to have got a little more jaded over this past month.

“Well, I suppose it’s a good thing a merchant of death like you would invest in us, but what are your plans going forward?” “If I’m a merchant of death, then you’re the biggest loser, seeing how you were #1 in damage received.” “Who you callin’ a loser?!” “Please, no fighting, you two!”

And so, we took Alto into our party and things have been going well so far.

… that is if you ignore the dark storm clouds floating in from the east.

contents: /prologue/ /ch001/ /ch002/ /ch003/ /ch004/ /ch005/ /ch006/ /ch007/ /ch008/ /ch009/ /ch010/ /ch011/ /ch012/ /ch013/ /ch014/ /ch015/ /ch016/ /ch017/ /ch018/ /ch019/ /ch020/ /ch021/ /ch022/ /ch023/ /ch024/ /ch025/ /ch026/ /ch027/ /ch028/ /ch029/ /ch030/ /ch031/ /next/

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