#if youre a high enough rank it pays super well

[mysteryampharos]

being an explorer must be one of the most inconsistent and risky jobs in the PMD world. Not because its dangerous but because your guild could take like 80% or more of the poke you earn. motherfucker a single tm is thousands and thousands of poke and your bitchass is only letting me have 200 out of 2k????

[danganronpasurvivoraskblog]

Dangancember 2024 - Danganronpa Top 24 Class Trials - Number 4: Danganronpa 2 Case 6

//Oh shit! OH SHIT! INCOMING HATERS! ABORT RANKING! ABORT RANKING-!

//GAH! GET OUT! AAAH! Fuck...! Gah...Okay...Okay fuck...Phew...Woah...Alright...

//Look...I fucking KNOW! Okay!?

//I'm not expecting to get RIDICULOUS levels of hate for this, but I am more aware than anyone that having ANY of the final trials THIS HIGH on the list. Especially since I have already said myself that they all have the same problems. And Danganronpa 2's final trial is FAR from exempt of these..

//This final trial often gets labeled as overrated by some fans, who argue it’s too flashy, too convoluted, or too dependent on high-stakes melodrama. It's still anime as fuck, its super long, it's super difficult so suddenly, and it's a massive plot dump. I will deny none of this.

//HOWEVER, I don't know what it is about this case specifically, but the more I look back on this trial, the more I LIKE it!

//We're in what I think is basically the S-Tier of this list. Even if this trial isn't S, it's still the top of A. And the defining factor that decides which of these cases gets this high up is "Which of these Class Trial do I like revisiting the most?" And this is definitely one of them, and I will gladly die on that hill.

//This case takes everything Danganronpa is known for; over-the-top twists, ridiculous logic battles, and moral dilemmas that make you question your own sanity; and cranks it up to eleven. Yes, you’re solving a murder while simultaneously wrestling with existential dread and facing down a genocidal AI.

//Yes, it’s bonkers, and yet for me, it works. Every wild revelation feels like it’s been carefully building from the beginning, paying off countless threads in ways that are surprising but satisfying.

//And that's it really. This is a SATISFYING CONCLUSION. Case 5 isn’t just a great finale; it perfectly captures what Danganronpa does best: mixing absurdity and sincerity into a neon-soaked cocktail of despair and hope.

//Unlike the first game’s ending, which leans heavily on Makoto Naegi’s generic optimism, or V3’s finale, which breaks the fourth wall so hard it practically demolishes the entire franchise, Danganronpa 2’s ending feels emotionally complete.

//And here's why:

//Let’s break down the key issues that this trial, and, let’s be honest, all Danganronpa final trials, tend to suffer from. First up, the obvious one: length.

//This trial is long, no doubt about it. But compared to some of its peers, it’s downright modest. V3’s final trial feels like a four-hour debate marathon, and Another 2’s third trial drags so much it feels like it got lost in a time loop. By comparison, Danganronpa 2’s finale uses its time well.

//Sure, it’s a commitment, but it’s packed with so many high-stakes moments and engaging revelations that I'm rarely looking at the clock. In fact, there are only four trials in the entire series that kept me glued to my seat from start to finish, and this one’s comfortably in that elite category, with the other three being the three trials above this one. Every topic of discussion felt purposeful, and I was never bored, which is more than I can say for some of its peers.

//Next is the dreaded plot dump problem.

//Let’s face it: of all the final trials, this one might be the guiltiest of shoving exposition down your throat. Junko Enoshima is less of an inquisitor here and more of an overly dramatic history professor, dumping lore at every opportunity like she’s trying to hit a word count on her evil dissertation. Unlike the first game’s finale, where she taunts you into piecing things together yourself, this trial often skips the mystery and goes straight to the lecture hall.

//But...at least that plot is GOOD.

//The revelations about the island, the survivors, and the Future Foundation are some of the most fascinating lore drops in the entire franchise. Sure, it’s a lot to take in, but it’s delivered with enough flair to keep me invested, and that’s a big part of why I’m still hooked on this series today.

//The next issue? The ridiculous difficulty spikes.

//This trial hits you with an "Improved" Hangman’s Gambit right out of the gate, which is ironic because the only thing it improves is your blood pressure.

//Let’s not sugarcoat it, "Improved" Hangman’s Gambit is a nightmare minigame in every trial it infects, and this one is no exception. But once you push through that, the rest of the challenges strike a much better balance.

//Take it away ProZD.

//Sure, it’s tough, but unlike some trials where the difficulty feels like a punishment for daring to play, this one leans into "frustrating yet fair" territory. It’s challenging enough to keep you on your toes without making you want to chuck your controller out the window.

//And finally, the most meme-worthy complaint: the anime-esque absurdity of the villains’ defeat.

//Let’s not kid ourselves, this trial goes full Saturday morning cartoon by the end. Hajime literally turns into a golden-haired Super Saiyan and screams “FUTURE!” at Junko until she dies.

//It’s so over the top that it should derail the entire mood. And yet… it doesn’t. At least not for me.

//Instead, it feels triumphant, cathartic, and downright epic. Because even with it, the survivors still face an incredibly personal and difficult choice, confront their inner demons, and ultimately earn their victory. Sure, it’s a bit campy, but that doesn’t diminish the emotional weight of the ending. It’s goofy, it’s dramatic, it’s everything Danganronpa is, and honestly, I loved every second of it.

//These are still ultimately nitpicks that go against this trial and stop it from being one of my absolute favourites, even though it is a Top Tier spectacle for me. And I have one more big, pretty standout issue with this case, before I get into the stuff that I actually love about it.

//The Investigation segment...SUCKS!

//Unlike most of the final trials of the Danganronpa series, the actual "Daily Life" segment of this chapter is pretty long and full of detail and dialogue before the investigation starts. Which makes sense, considering what this trial comes off the back of.

//This chapter hits hard emotionally, coming fresh off the deaths of Chiaki and Nagito, arguably two of the most important and beloved characters in the game.

//Or at least, it should hit hard...if it weren’t so mind-bogglingly CONFUSING!

//At this point, the game fully commits to the twist that the island is actually a virtual reality simulation, and things spiral into absolute chaos. The world starts glitching like it’s running on a bootleg copy of Windows XP. Dead characters suddenly reappear, casually hanging around like nothing happened, and nobody seems to notice or care.

//I spent the first half of this chapter feeling like I’d walked into the wrong save file. It’s only when you enter the locked building that things start to click...or, rather, don’t click...because the weirdness keeps escalating.

//Monokuma, ever the fan of recycling his own shtick, drops a familiar ultimatum: "Solve all the mysteries and decide whether to leave or not." Then, boom, investigation time.

//Now, don’t get me wrong: unraveling the mysteries of the island and the Future Foundation is undeniably cool. But this investigation? Easily one of my least favorites in the series.

//Why? Because the glitches ramp up to such a dizzying degree that I felt like I was trapped in a bad fever dream.

//One moment I’m in the school, and the next I’m teleporting across random locations like that one scene in Guardians of the Galaxy 2 where they're jumping through several space time holes, and it feels EQUALLY AS PAINFUL as it looks!

//And don’t even get me started on the moment the entire world literally flips upside down. Yes, I get it, game, you’re driving home the point that we’re in a simulation. But do you have to give me vertigo while you’re at it!? It’s like they sat in a meeting and said, "What if we made the player understand the story by making them insanely fucking motion sick!"

//Well, mission accomplished, I guess!

//TLDR; This is NOT an investigation. It's an incredibly nauseatic FETCH QUEST.

//The clues themselves also aren't that interesting until you actually get in the trial, and it does open very well with the obvious twist, but we'll get to that. The only clue that stood out to me immediately, and that kind of interested me from the get go, was the fact that Hiyoko looks very different OUTSIDE the sim than she does INSIDE.

//And that's more of just a cool graphic, not necessarily anything that shocked me.

//But even though the investigation is a pile of dog shite, the character dynamics we see, and the way these dynamics carry on into the trial itself, is amazing. This trial not only has some of the best moments for the characters in this game, but vastly improves upon characters that we've already seen.

//Halfway through this trial, Hajime and his fellow survivors are joined by Makoto, Kyoko, and the real Byakuya. And even though their involvement here isn't THAT consequencial, it's still great to see them all back.

//Speaking of Hajime...

//I fucking LOVE Hajime!

//I mentioned earlier how heavily Shuichi is involved in the final conflict of Danganronpa V3, and I also briefly touched on how important Makoto is to the final showdown of the first game. However, I feel like I really missed the mark by not giving Hajime enough credit for how deeply he’s tied into the greater conflict of Danganronpa 2.

//This is, of course, entirely my personal opinion, but I believe Hajime plays a more central role in the story’s conflict than either Shuichi or Makoto. I just love the way Hajime reacts to the insane revelations during the final trial.

//The moment that stands out the most is when Junko casually drops the bombshell that Hajime is actually a fabricated personality of Izuru Kamukura. While the other characters are going to wake up and, you know, probably turn into supervillains, Hajime’s fate is way worse...he's going to be completely erased and vanish forever. As soon as this information hits him, he doesn’t just panic like you’d expect; he has a full-blown identity crisis.

//Hajime’s been struggling with his sense of self throughout the entire game, but this is the point where his existential meltdown reaches DEFCON 1. His anguished screams and his heartbreaking willingness to just give up and live in a world where everything repeats itself are gut-wrenching. Watching him go through this is honestly painful, and I find myself empathizing with him more than any of the other protagonists.

//This, I think, is the reason Hajime stands out to me. It’s not just about his struggle, it’s how human he is in his struggle. And holy shit if Johnny Yong Bosch's voice acting doesn't sell this:

//These two moments in particular are the best parts of his traumatic breakdown ^^^

//But Hajime isn’t the only character who stands out here.

//Alongside the returning gang from DR1, there’s also Junko, who, surprise, surprise, is once again the villain.

//Now, I get it, some might find it a little tiresome that Junko is back as the mastermind, but I honestly think this is her best appearance in the whole series. I mentioned this when discussing the final case of the first game, but while Junko’s twist as the mastermind is certainly cool, her over-the-top, goofy persona kind of makes it hard to take her seriously as the main villain.

//In Danganronpa 2, however, when we encounter her as an AI counterpart, it’s a whole different story.

//Junko Enoshima’s role in Danganronpa 2 is one of the rare instances where a returning villain improves drastically in their execution, and it all comes down to how her presence is expanded and her actions take on a life of their own, literally and figuratively.

//She’s still got that signature cartoonish vibe, and she does still do the very sudden personality shifting, but now her tone is laced with a level of sadism and menace that feels downright chilling.

//It’s as if she’s crossed a line, and in this game, she’s not just the silly, chaotic villain we’ve seen before. She really feels like a true THREAT!

//Especially since her motivations, and what she actually hopes to achieve THIS TIME, are different from the stakes in DR1. Different in the sense that they feel SO much higher, and as a result, Junko feels like more of a monster.

//Junko is essentially trying to secure her posthumous victory by corrupting the Neo World Program and plunging the remaining members of the Future Foundation into despair, as well as take over the vegetable bodies of the people who died in DR2, and "Junko-fy" all of mankind, just as the tragedy is dying down.

//This makes her appear more threatening and influential compared to her more confined role as the mastermind of the Killing School Life in the first game.

//And there are more reasons than just this. Since Junko is already dead by the time Goodbye Despair begins, she becomes less of a direct antagonist and more of a haunting legacy, a force of despair that refuses to fade away. This shift gives her a mythic quality, as her influence looms over every event in the story, showcasing her obsession with cementing her place in history as an eternal agent of chaos. It’s no longer just about what she’s doing now, it’s about how far-reaching and inescapable her madness truly is.

//One of the reasons Junko shines brighter, or darker, rather, in Danganronpa 2 is the freedom her AI form grants her. Stripped of the limitations of her physical body, Junko fully leans into her larger-than-life persona, appearing in absurd and exaggerated digital forms.

//This form really advocates the idea that Junko is a living virus rather than a person. Her essence infects the virtual world, just as it infected the real world with Despair, in ways that make her feel omnipresent and almost godlike.

//This also allows her to interact with the cast in visually dynamic, surreal ways that simply weren’t possible in the more grounded setting of the first game. And as ridiculous as it is, the imagery of an absolutely HUGE AS FUCK Junko NEVER gets old.

//What really sets her apart in Danganronpa 2, though, is her personal connection to Class 77. These aren’t just random students she’s toying with; they’re the very people she manipulated, broke, and used as weapons during the Tragedy. She’s not merely taunting them, she’s forcing them to confront the darkest parts of themselves, the memories she erased, and the atrocities they committed under her influence.

//This makes her presence not only more menacing but deeply personal. The stakes feel higher because the conflict directly ties into the characters’ own identities and sense of guilt. Compared to the first game, where Junko’s relationship with Class 78 felt more detached and her villainy relied on spectacle rather than emotional stakes, her dynamic with Class 77 is far more engaging.

//What seals the deal is the eventual defiance of Class 77. When they choose to stand against Junko and reclaim their identities, it’s not just a victory over her philosophy, but it’s a victory over the very Despair she’s weaponized against them. This resolution gives her role in Goodbye Despair a sense of narrative closure that the first game didn’t quite achieve.

//She’s still the same chaotic, cartoony Junko, but here, her sadistic edge and personal ties to the cast create a version of her that feels more terrifying, more compelling, and, dare I say it, more entertaining than ever. It’s a much darker take on her character, and in this context, she’s far more convincing as the mastermind pulling the strings behind the scenes. It's a subtle shift that makes her presence feel less like a punchline and more like the horrifying force she was always meant to be.

//But I think that's mostly it for the outside context, and to cap this off, let's talk about the nitty-gritty details of the trial itself. I am sorry, but I will be repeating some of my previous points, just to cover them.

//But before diving into the labyrinthine twists and emotional sucker punches of Danganronpa 2's final trial, let’s start with one of the most hilariously sadistic Monokuma moments in the entire series. It's a subtle moment that doesn't last for very long, but it's a good sign right from the get go with the way that this trial treats it's most obvious plot twist right out of the gate in a way that is very entertaining.

//Right at the beginning of the trial, Monokuma insists that everyone clarify one simple truth: the entire world they’ve been living in is a virtual reality. But instead of letting this revelation sink in gracefully, Monokuma drives it home with comedic precision.

//Every time someone tries to refute or question this revelation, he cuts them off with a deadpan repetition of "Because it’s a game!" over and over, reusing the same voice line for maximum effect. It’s like he’s saying, "This is the truth, and I am not debating this with you. Accept it, move on, or fucking die."

//It’s the kind of humor that is both maddening and brilliant, encapsulating Monokuma’s trademark blend of sadism and absurdity.

//Now let’s get to the meat of this trial: the twists. And oh, are there twists.

//First, as already established several times already, there’s the reveal that the world you’ve been inhabiting for the entire game isn’t even real. It’s a simulation.

//It's a very obvious twist if you'd bothered to pay ANY attention to the chapter, but that fact alone is a mind-blower. But the pièce de résistance is what comes next: the realization that the "World Ender," the ominous, evil-sounding organization you’ve been trained to despise and aim to destroy, are actually the good guys, and Chiaki and Monomi were working for them.

//The Future Foundation, the supposed villains of this story, are the heroes. And the bad guys? That would be…YOU! The very characters you’ve spent hours befriending and rooting for!

//I'm just gonna come straight out and say it: The Remnants of Despair are my ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE PLOT TWIST in this ENTIRE SERIES.

//Only two twists rival it for me: The Tragedy in Game 1, and the Protag switch in Game 3.

//When I first played this, I entered the final chapters with the mindset of a righteous avenger, ready to bring down the dastardly Future Foundation. But as the truth unraveled, I distinctly remember thinking, "Wait, what? We’re the bad guys? The organization trying to save the world isn’t evil, and we were the problem all along? What the actual hell is happening here!?"

//I just love how it flips the narrative on its head and forces you to confront a deeply uncomfortable truth: the characters you’ve grown attached to were once Junko Enoshima’s most loyal disciples, the infamous Remnants of Despair.

//Before, obviously, Danganronpa 3 went and ruined any tension and emotion we could have with that twist.

//But ignoring it, it's still great!

//Danganronpa 2 explains that the cast of characters were brainwashed into becoming Junko’s pawns of destruction. The simulation you’ve been playing through was created by the Future Foundation, including Makoto, Kyoko, and Byakuya from the first game, to rehabilitate them by erasing their memories and allowing them to live in a paradise free of Despair.

//The twist becomes even more gut-wrenching when it’s revealed that the killing game wasn’t part of the plan. It happened because an AI version of Junko was uploaded into the simulation, hijacking the entire system. Because she planned to take over the Remnant's bodies, and turn every person in Japan/the world, like her. Into Despair.

//Classic Junko plot, sure, and I know that a lot of you might disagree with the notion that this is the best twist, because some could argue that it is presented as so violent, it creates plot holes.

//What I mean specifically is the part where the Remnants salvaged Junko's corpse after the end of Game 1, and replaced their body parts with hers...

//...Also Mikan fucked it?

//But the problem there is that it creates a plot hole because Junko's body was crushed at the end of the execution, so there'd be no body to salvage.

//But the reason why I excuse it personally is because this is a plot hole OF A PLOT HOLE. Junko's execution had her going through every death trap she'd created in Danganronpa 1, all of which had killed the characters on their own. I know Junko is OP, but there's no way she's any more durable than Mondo, or any of the other characters who died here. Any one of these could have killed her at any point, and it made no sense that she survived all of them.

//And even putting that aside, assuming this IS a plot hole, it's not enough to ruin my enjoyment of the trial. Let me break it down for everybody:

//At the beginning of Danganronpa 2, the characters are portrayed as hapless victims trapped in a sadistic killing game. This setup fosters sympathy and camaraderie, much like the cast of the first game. However, the final twist subverts this perception entirely, revealing that these characters were not innocent victims but villains responsible for unspeakable atrocities as members of Junko Enoshima's Remnants of Despair.

//The stark contrast between their apparent innocence and their horrific past actions under Junko’s influence is nothing short of awesome, in a terrifying way, leaving an indelible mark. But this reveal isn’t just shocking for its content; it also serves as a brutal demonstration of Junko’s unparalleled ability to manipulate people into despair.

//The twist ties back to the catastrophic events of Danganronpa 1, Junko’s masterstroke of spreading despair globally. Here, the game goes further, showcasing the devastating depth of her evil by illustrating how she corrupted even the brightest students of Hope’s Peak Academy.

//And Danganronpa 3 enforces this idea, with Class 77 being quite possibly the most integral class to the school at the time, especially with the bond they form with Chiaki and Chisa, and how ripping that away from them was enough to completely break them.

//It's still not great, but I understand the basic implications at least.

//It’s a chilling reminder that Despair is insidious, capable of twisting even the most virtuous intentions into darkness. Junko’s role as the ultimate antagonist is cemented, her terrifying legacy casting a long shadow over the entire series.

//The twist also recontextualizes everything we’ve seen about the characters up to that point. Suddenly, Gundham’s theatrical fascination with death, Fuyuhiko’s violent streak and harsh demeanor, Nagito’s unhinged obsession with hope, and, most importantly, Mikan’s terrifying breakdown in Chapter 3 take on new, darker meanings.

//What were once quirky personality traits or personal flaws are revealed as remnants of their time as Junko’s followers. This added layer of depth makes the twist even more effective, turning each character into a tragic figure grappling with the scars of their past.

//Nagito, in particular, stands out as a character whose behavior becomes infinitely more complex in light of the reveal, especially because he learns the truth right before the trial in Chapter 4. His obsessive pursuit of Hope and simultaneous disdain for Despair now reads as deeply self-aware.

//He knows they are the Remnants of Despair, and he hates himself and his peers for it, and the way that this duality kind of mirrors the player's own conflicting feelings about the cast post-reveal, adding emotional weight to an already loaded twist. It adds an element of method to Nagito's madness.

//Moreover, the twist reinforces Danganronpa's overarching themes of Hope and Despair in ways that, I would argue, the first game didn’t quite achieve.

//The fact that the Remnants of Despair were once Hope’s Peak Academy’s shining symbols of hope adds a layer of profound tragedy. And their journey to reclaim their humanity and hope serves as a microcosm of the broader struggle between these two forces that defines the series. This isn’t just about saving the world, it’s about saving themselves.

//This thematic resonance ties directly into what makes the twist so powerful: it doesn’t just set the stakes for the trial, it sets the stakes for the entire Danganronpa series. The twist paves the way for an emotional and poignant redemption arc for the cast. Despite their horrifying past actions, these characters are given the chance to prove they are more than their despair. This struggle resonates deeply, emphasizing themes of growth, forgiveness, and the ability to move past one’s darkest moments.

//It’s why it’s such a shame we never got a spin-off series exploring the Remnants’ lives after the events of Danganronpa 3. I would have much rather watched THAT anime.

//Seriously, Mod Freeze and Mod Poi, thank you for doing the fandom’s work on this front.

//The integration of the Neo World Program into this twist is another stroke of subtle brilliance. What initially seemed like little more than a sci-fi backdrop for the killing game gains profound significance.

//The program isn’t just a high-tech gimmick, it’s a lifeline, a tool designed to erase despair and offer these characters a second chance. The twist aligns seamlessly with the game’s science-fiction elements, grounding the shocking reveal in a way that feels both logical and emotionally resonant.

//But above all else, what truly elevates this twist, though, are two key aspects: The juxtaposition of innocence and guilt, and the reinforcement of hope as a deliberate choice.

//The game plays on the player’s affection for the cast, built over hours of shared experiences, only to reveal their horrifying pasts. It forces one to grapple with complex questions about identity, culpability, and redemption. Can we separate who they are now from who they were under Junko’s influence? Should they be forgiven, and, more importantly, can they forgive themselves?

//By the end of the game, the characters confront these questions head-on. Rather than succumbing to Despair or clinging to a hollow version of Hope imposed by others, they choose to forge their own path forward.

//Hajime’s declaration that only they can decide their futures is a defining moment, encapsulating the game’s core message: Hope isn’t something you’re born with or handed, it’s something you actively choose. And this decision is all the more powerful because of the twist. It reaffirms the series’ ultimate thesis: Hope, like Despair, is a choice, but one that requires courage and conviction.

//It's just...very powerful. In almost every regard.

//However...it does fall a LITTLE flat in one regard for me. Not nearly enough to ruin it, because I do still LOVE this part of the twist, but it's something that we've already talked about, and something that I feel I need to share my concerns over.

//It's how Hajime, who was revealed to be a Reserve Student, slots into this whole thing.

//This is by far the most horrifying aspect of this twist, and one that really works for it, but the reality is that even though Junko ran this whole Killing Game, the fact is due to her AI status, she could not have done it by herself. After all, someone had to actually get her INTO the Neo World for her to host the Killing Game in the first place.

//Naturally, the big question arises: who uploaded this digital Junko? Enter the grand crescendo of this twist—the person responsible for all of this chaos is none other than…Hajime himself.

//But, of course, it’s more complicated than that. Hajime wasn’t acting as himself...It's revealed in this trial that Hajime wasn't just a random Reserve Course student, and there's a reason why he turned out to be the only survivor. He was, in actuality, Izuru Kamukura, an emotionless superhuman created by Hope’s Peak Academy to embody "Ultimate hope."

//As we later see in DR3, Junko and Mukuro manipulated Izuru, flipping him to the side of despair and effectively kickstarting the apocalypse. The revelation that the character you’ve been playing as is not only part of the problem but the problem is one of the darkest and most compelling twists in the series.

//Now, for starters, I want to say that I really like how well this twist slots into the greater lore of Danganronpa, and Izuru is a well-deserved part of the franchise.

//The Hope Cultivation Plan, and what Hope's Peak's Steering Committee actually DID to Hajime, hits like a ton of bricks because it completely flips everything you think you know about this guy, the school that this entire franchise is BASED ON, and even the concept of "Hope" itself, as well as the idea of Hope itself.

//Hajime, the seemingly ordinary and relatable protagonist, turns out to have undergone a horrifying transformation to become Izuru Kamukura, a superhuman "Ultimate Hope" with every talent imaginable. It strips away the idea that Hajime was just a regular guy thrust into extraordinary circumstances, and instead, his backstory reveals that he was a victim of Hope's Peak's ruthless experiments, sacrificing his entire identity for a twisted ideal of perfection. It's tragic, unsettling, and is especially harsh in the way that this was Hajime's "Hope" for the world, and Hope's Peak EXPLOITED him for it, so what does that Hope really mean?

//This twist also pulls back the curtain on Hope's Peak Academy, exposing its darker side. Up until this point, Hope's Peak is painted as a prestigious school that nurtures the best and brightest, but the Izuru Kamukura Project shows that it’s anything but noble.

//The school literally erased Hajime’s personality, emotions, and memories to create a living symbol of hope; and didn't tell him they were going to do that. And it feels like a process that feels more like something out of a dystopian horror story than a prestigious institution.

//It reframes Hope's Peak as a place driven not by ideals of nurturing talent but by exploitation and control, highlighting the hypocrisy of its mission.

//What makes it greater is that Junko even has a sick as fuck line in this trial that perfectly summarizes this, and how Hope can be dangerous in the way that what people actually define AS Hope, can easily turn out to be another person's (in this case, every other person EVER'S) Despair, and it's this line:

"Do you reaaaaaally hafta sacrifice yourselves to protect the world in the first place? What if the world's hope is different from your hope? Even if the world is happy, it's meaningless if you aren't happy."

//And not only does Makoto not have an immediate response to this line, but Hajime's later actions prove her to be RIGHT. And I feel like not a lot of people realize that this is the very basis that the Kamukura Project was founded on.

//The ENTIRE REASON Hope's Peak was founded was to create Izuru. Because they thought that he would be the Hope of the world. But Junko turned him into the world's Despair instead, and it was very easy because of Hope's Peak's moral corruption.

//The thing they saw as "Hope" was not what the rest of the world saw.

//What makes this twist even more impactful is how it recontextualizes the entire "Hope vs Despair" conflict in the series. Izuru, as the "Ultimate Hope," is depicted as so indifferent and detached that he ultimately finds no value in either ideal.

//This shows that striving for absolute hope can be just as damaging and dehumanizing as falling into despair. It adds a layer of nuance to the series’ central theme, suggesting that extreme ideals, no matter how well-intentioned, can lead to monstrous outcomes.

//And this twist, while not the most standard way to end a character arc, is the perfect cherry on top of Hajime's identity crisis arc.

//He starts as someone insecure about his lack of talent, someone who envies the Ultimates around him, and really falls into depression upon learning that he never had one in the first place.

//But then learning that he was surgically altered into a talent-filled, emotionless being makes his journey to reclaim his identity and humanity all the more powerful. Because he GOT the talent that he sought; just at the cost of everything else.

//By choosing to reject Izuru’s detached worldview and embrace the messy, imperfect reality of being Hajime Hinata, he shows that true strength doesn’t come from talent or perfection but from accepting and valuing yourself as you are. It’s an almighty aspect of a twist that deepens the story’s themes and makes Hajime’s eventual triumph over despair even more meaningful.

//And it's also largely thanks to Chiaki that Hajime was able to overcome this. And if there's one thing that I can credit Danganronpa 3 on, it's what they actually did with the dynamic between Izuru and Chiaki, and how it laid the groundwork for this resolution...PERFECTLY.

//Chiaki Nanami wasn’t just the heart of Class 77. She was also the pivotal force that led to the group’s victory in Danganronpa 2. And I cannot understate that the only reason they managed to attain this victory is because she broke the barriers to speak to Hajime one last time.

//I'm one of very few people who think that as a character, Chiaki is...KIND OF overrated. But just because she's overrated, that doesn't mean she's a bad character. And she IS important to the game. It's just not easy to see how until a lot later into it.

//Even after her tragic death in the Neo World Program, Chiaki's impact lingered. As the AI created to guide her classmates toward hope, she became the catalyst for their redemption. Her steady support, unwavering kindness, and ability to see the best in others made her a beacon of hope in a situation engineered to breed Despair.

//It’s no exaggeration to say that without Chiaki’s influence, the Remnants of Despair might never have found the strength to reclaim their humanity.

//And that doubles for real Chiaki in her brief interaction with Izuru in DR3.

//Junko made Izuru see the power of how Despair affected him, despite his boredom, and how it went against his preconcieved notions. But it was Chiaki's determination, willingness to keep going, and the love and Hope she had for people, despite the fact that she was facing a cruel and absolutely miserable death, that made him rethink things. That made him see the benefits in both sides.

//Had this scene not happened, Izuru would not have been such a neutrally aligned character in the end. He would have been just a straight-up monster of a villain.

//Which, if you think about it, is basically what Utsuro is. Utsuro didn't have a Chiaki. He never saw the benefits or the power of Hope. He was in Despair his whole life, and even after it. But this meant something to Izuru. The tears that showed Hajime was still somewhere in there, meant something.

//Izuru in tandem, Chiaki’s relationship with Hajime is particularly critical, both to the story of Danganronpa 2 and the broader series. From the moment they met, Chiaki believed in Hajime, even when he struggled to believe in himself.

//It obviously did not end well, but that was no fault of Chiaki's own.

//This bond between these two wasn’t just one of mutual respect and understanding, it was a reminder of the power of genuine connection, something the Danganronpa series constantly emphasizes. Hajime’s eventual deevolution into Izuru, and then his reclamation of himself as Hajime, is deeply rooted in the strength he drew from his connection with Chiaki.

//Furthermore, Chiaki didn’t just push Hajime to become the leader the group needed. She showed all of Class 77 that they could rise above their Despair by supporting each other. Her presence as an AI was a guiding force during the trials, and her ultimate sacrifice demonstrated what it meant to choose hope, even in the face of overwhelming odds. When Hajime rallied the group in the final moments of the game, it was as much a tribute to Chiaki as it was a declaration of their collective strength.

//Chiaki and Hajime’s story ripples across the series in profound ways. In Danganronpa 3, her role as a real person solidifies her influence. As the one classmate who never gave in to Despair, Chiaki became a symbol of hope not just for Class 77 but for the audience as well.

//Her loss was devastating, yet it was her memory that ultimately pushed Hajime and the others to fight for a better future. Chiaki wasn’t just a character; she was the embodiment of what Danganronpa is all about. The idea that even in the darkest times, Hope can find a way to shine.

//So with all of this to say, why is this still my least favourite part of the twist?

//It's largely because of Izuru himself, not because of what Hajime goes through, or because of Chiaki's connection to both him and Hajime.

//Do you know how long it takes to beat Danganronpa 2 on average?

//It takes, on average, 32.5 hours.

//Do you know how much screentime and attention Izuru is given in this game?

//Not including the repeat of the scene on the boat with Nagito that we see first from Izuru's perspective, and then from Nagito's, he's ON SCREEN for a total of around 2.5 minutes.

//Doing the math, and putting that into perspective for all of you, that means that Izuru is in Danganronpa 2 for roughly 0.13% of its full runtime.

//And by the way. Izuru first becomes a CONCEPT in THIS CHAPTER! He's not brought up, or eluded to, at ANY OTHER POINT in the game, besides one photograph of the original headmaster that he's named after. Something that has NOTHING to do with Izuru himself.

//Which means that in the main series, this is ALL OF HIS SCREENTIME!

//Danganronpa finale's have a tendency to randomly introduce plot points that never happened before. V3-6 is bad with it as well, especially because it shows a cutscene from earlier in the game that straight up DIDN'T HAPPEN.

//However, as mind-bogglingly terrifying as the Hope Cultivation Plan is, it is by far the WORST OFFENDER of this idea.

//And what makes it even worse is that a screentime that is THAT LIMITED means that Izuru does not get a chance to be an actual character.

//Danganronpa 3, Talent Development Plan, and Summer Camp later try to reprimand this by making Izuru an actual central character...Emphasis on TRIED.

//Okay, to be fair, in the bonus games, I do love seeing Izuru try to establish his own identity by interacting with Chiaki and co. However, it feels very ironic to me that the character who's catchphrase is "How Boring..." ends up being...really boring.

//At least as a character. As a concept, he's BRILLIANT. But as a character, he's nothing, and that's the whole point.

//This is what I was saying when I was talking about Utsuro before. Even though they are equally as stoic, Utsuro has a pretty well-structured personality, and backstory that makes him sympathetic. But Izuru is so one-dimensional, being a being comprised entirely of talent and nothing else, that he's just a function in the grand scheme of things.

//Utsuro is also present for only one trial, but he is in it for FAR LONGER than Izuru is, and he was foreshadowed MUCH better. The hints are, granted, very subtle, but they are still THERE. If you play DRA a second time, you will NOTICE them.

//Not with Izuru and the Hope Cultivation Plan. There's absolutely NOTHING for them.

//Izuru is one of those characters who feels like he should be compelling, but in practice, he falls flat because he’s so detached and lifeless that it’s hard to care about him. The idea of a person who’s been stripped of their identity and turned into a superhuman is fascinating on paper, but Izuru’s execution leaves a lot to be desired.

//He spends most of his time standing around, delivering cryptic one-liners, or just looking bored. While his apathy is supposed to be a reflection of the emptiness of ultimate talent, it ends up making him feel more like a plot device than an actual character.

//One of the biggest problems with Izuru is that he lacks agency or personal stakes in the story. He exists primarily as a shadow of Hajime’s past and a foil to Junko's chaos, but he doesn’t have any strong desires or goals of his own.

//His indifference to both Hope and Despair, how he's experienced the power of both sides though Junko and Chiaki respectively, might be thematically relevant, but it robs him of any drive or personality that would make him engaging. Even his interactions with Junko in the anime, which could have been a clash of two intellectual giants, come off as underwhelming because he just doesn’t seem to care about anything.

//Put simply, it’s hard to invest in a character who doesn’t invest in themselves.

//Another issue is that Izuru’s overpowered nature makes him unrelatable. He’s described as having every talent imaginable, to the point that nothing challenges or excites him. Again, to reiterate, this makes him feel less like a person and more like a concept, and concepts don’t make for compelling characters on their own.

//Even when he does take action, like helping to orchestrate the Tragedy, it feels hollow because his motives are so abstract. There’s no emotional weight behind his actions, so it’s hard to feel anything for him as a character.

//Ultimately, Izuru ends up being more of a plot twist delivery system than a fully realized individual.

//Granted, he is a FANTASTIC plot delivery system, but he’s there to show the dark side of Hope’s Peak Academy and to highlight Hajime’s journey of self-acceptance, and doesn’t stand on his own. Without a personal arc, meaningful relationships, or even a shred of humanity to ground him, he feels more like a missed opportunity than a compelling addition to the cast.

//He is INSANELY COOL as a concept.

//But JUST as a concept.

//Still, as I said, this doesn't stop the Remnant twist from being fantastic. If anything, it serves to double down on how fucked the situation is for the characters. It's the perfect way to pull it off a second time, just as impactful, if not moreso, from the way the first game did it.

//I just love that the game pulls NO punches in showing just how far gone the Remnants of Despair were under Junko’s influence. They didn’t just spread chaos and destruction; they mutilated themselves, committed unspeakable atrocities, and yes, there’s even an implication that some of them…had sexual inclinations toward Junko’s corpse.

//I mean, that one was probably Mikan mostly, given what we know about her now, but it could have been more than just her...

//It’s grotesque, horrifying, and deeply unsettling. A STARK contrast to the lovable, quirky personalities you’ve come to know over the course of the game. So while some aspects of this backstory strain believability, the sheer audacity of these revelations makes them unforgettable, and insanely entertaining.

//So after all of this, let's end it by talking about how the trial ends.

//The solution to defeating Junko isn’t choosing hope or despair. It’s rejecting both and forging your own future. It’s a thematic mic drop for the game, aligning perfectly with its sub-theme of learning from past mistakes and embracing personal growth.

//However, the way this idea is portrayed is peak anime absurdity. Hajime, now back in control of his identity, goes full-on Super Saiyan, screaming the word “Future!” at the top of his lungs until everyone agrees with him and Junko is silenced.

//It’s over-the-top, it’s ridiculous, it's...honestly kind of dumb, and it’s hard to take seriously. But somehow, it still sort of works.

//The sheer silliness of the moment doesn’t detract from its emotional impact; if anything, it makes the victory sweeter by providing a cathartic, if laughable, resolution to a deeply harrowing story.

//And Junko's defeat here is a lot more satisfying than it is in Game 1. Unlike with then, you actually feel like you've beaten her once and for all, and this wasn't part of her grand master plan; especially because in order to beat Junko in a conflict that settles on Hope and Despair, finding a way out that doesn't necessarily aquait to either, is the perfect way to end it.

//So...yeah...This is my fourth favourite trial in the series, and absolutely my favourite ending.

//Despite its occasional reliance on exposition dumps and its plot holes , the final trial of Game 2 is a masterclass in storytelling twists and emotional payoff. It takes the series’ penchant for high-stakes drama and amps it up to eleven, delivering a finale that is equal parts disturbing, thought-provoking, and outrageously entertaining.

//The blend of personal stakes, thematic depth, and anime absurdity cements this trial as one of the franchise’s most memorable moments.

//God bless you Danganronpa 2.

[ochobiiiiit]

Note for readers: I should've stated this in the introduction but, whatever...

I'm writing this series of entries expecting that everyone who reads it has already played Pizza Tower. At the very least you should know the levels.

Even though I'm making an analysis of every level, I'm not going to explain absolutely everything and/or go super in depth on it. If you're an outsider, you're also welcome in this blog, but understand that this isn't a comprehensive look for the people who are not familiar with the game.

(Recommendation to read the entries while listening to music from the artist Alysha Sheldon for a better experience, trust me :3)

Entry No. 02

Ah yes... The first REAL level from Pizza Tower.

PizzaScape is how you put your best foot forward with a level. Bar? None!

Starting with the theming: PizzaScape really does a lot with the medieval theme.

Starting you up on the outside of a castle,

Then you enter the castle,

and from that point forward you go deeper through it

until you get to the... Treasure Room? (I think is that judging by the background)

You know, I appreciate the visual variety in the areas that we visit. Cus' more often than not, the medieval aesthetic can fall into monotony. Glad it's not the case here.

Also, the use of colors is beautiful. I like how in the librabry the maroon and red switch places as the foreground, with the shades of purple now as the background, with some sprinkles of other colors for some visual flare. The level in general is really nice on the eyes, and the contrast of the Treasure Room compared to the rest of the level is very refreshing with it's warm color palette. That way it stops the level from looking samey.

PizzaScape is a big step-up in level design.

It's more intricate and narrower in it's structure. It doesn't demand a high level of skill, but you do need to turn on your brain and pay attention to your sourroundings, mostly cus' of the Knight Power-Up, which we'll get to, and secret hunting (I'm including Gerome and the Treasure Food when I say secret hunting).

I wanna talk about the secrets as well, considering how effective they are in holding you from your nose until you get used to how the Knight Power-Up works. You actually have to put some thought on the height of your jumps to not under or overshoot them. And if you're going for the P-Rank, how to recover fast enough to not lose your combo if you miss in an interaction/bonk your head with a wall.

I'm not gonna say this level is just solid cus' I hate underselling something that deserves better. PizzaScape may not the best level in the game, but still a really good one. Hell, I can't get tired of this level, it's very fun through-and-through.

Peppino POV:

I think it's no surprise to say that Peppino's run of PizzaScape is easier. Not easier in the sense of being a gimme like John Gutter, but easier to handle. The level has a narrower design and set-pieces that flow more smoothly with Peppino's more precise, slightly slower and snappier approach to movement and platforming.

This also applies to Peppino's physics when using the Knight-Power Up. When in armor, Peppino is heavier, and when he sniffs a wall while sliding, it will stop him dead in his tracks. (I don't need to Illustrate in a video or image how that works. If you played the game, I think you get it) In my experience, this can be of use if you happen to miss a jump and want to have more autonomy in the recovery. Peppino's sliding speed is also a bit slower, meaning that you have more sense of control, and makes it less likely to commit mistakes if you know what you're doing.

Now, yes... PizzaScape is an easy P-Rank regardless of who you're playing it with. But I think the differences are notable enough to say that you'll have an easier time in this level as Italian Anxiety Man.

Noise POV:

One of the things that you will learn with Noise, is that you need some degree of foresight with you're inputs if you don't want to fling yourself like an insane person. His moves are floatier with a lot more mid-air control, and he accelerates faster. So when it comes to a level like PizzaScape, it's key to understand how to approach it with this more chaotic playstyle.

I get that the strong-head approach works when you don't play by the rules of a P-Rank...

Remember that I'm writing this shit from the perspective of a P-Rank, so lock in!

Now let's talk about how Noise's Knight Power-Up handles. He slides faster and doesn't kill your momentum when you hit a wall. Instead, you bounce off of it and continue sliding until you stab down to stop moving. So, as you'd expect, you're control of Noise in this state is quite, ehh... reduced. You have some work arounds at your disposal to handle it better (We'll get to that, don't worry), but you need some more effort to get it right.

1. Stab Down the slopes every single time. (not literally, but watching the clip, you'll get the idea)

For Peppino, it's faster to do this instead of bonking, jumping, and then stabbing down to recover.

For Noise, this is a way to give yourself some control and reaction time, since bouncing of the walls and not stopping can mess you up when, for example, you have to do a series of jumps like the ones in the first secret room.

2. When Pizza Time starts, stop yourself, then proceed.

This is mostly for the Noise run.

Look, I'm not saying you can't pull-off the trick off going up the platforms while keeping your momentum and nailing the bounce-wall-then-jump action. But if you want to play it safe and not lose your combo cus' you wanted to tryhard a little (or you want to get the Chef Task), do what I showed you in the clip. As soon as you hit Pillar John, jump and stab down to stop sliding, go up the platforms normally, and continue.

PizzaScape is a big step-up from the last level. It has tons of personality with it's great theming, a gimmick that's fun and doesn't overstate it's welcome, and a, kinda easy, but fun P-Rank.

Peppino Run:

Noise Run:

(B Plus, because it's slightly harder... Did I clarify that the character rankings are based off of difficulty? No? Well now you know)

The Level Itself:

(This one in the other hand is my ranking for how fun I think the level is.)

Final Score:

[acaplaya-musings]

Voiceplay-adjacent Visuals: Jack's Lament

Can you feel me practically vibrating out of my skin???

On one hand, I'm a little sad because this is the last video I'll probably be making a post about for a while (though by the time you see this, Geoff might have uploaded a new video that I can actually talk about the visuals for (EDIT from future me: he did!), and if so, you'll be seeing a post for that one tomorrow), but on the other hand, this is my third (though in no particular order/ranking) favourite Geoff video on his channel so far, and I am so excited to finally be able to make a post for it!

Geoff's cover of Jack's Lament debuted on the 8th of October, 2023, though I didn't see it pop up in my YouTube recommended until the 29th (if you remember from my Hellfire post, I wasn't initially subscribed to Geoff or Voiceplay, and both channels somehow ended up dropping off my radar for a while. Jack's Lament was the first from either channel that I had seen in at least a year, and as soon as I saw that thumbnail, I knew it was going to be amazing, but oh my GOD it was even better (and with me stumbling upon Hellfire the very next day, well let's just say I was pulled even deeper down the Geoff/Voiceplay rabbithole than I had been the first time around 😅).

Anyway, I'm not sure if I'll hit image limit on this one, or how much actual commentary I may have, but regardless, let's freaking go!

One hell of an opening shot, not gonna lie. Geoff's very-skeletal-looking hands playing the piano (in a beautiful way, might I add), immediately sets a very spooky/eerie vibe!

And this is one hell of an establishing shot! I mean goddamn there is a lot to take in here! Though one thing I will point out (that I actually only just noticed myself ^^;) is the Haunted Mansion headstone on the left, memorialising Madame Leota!

(Also shoutout to Pattycake Production Studios where this was filmed!)

I of course have to give a MASSIVE shoutout and kudos to Rick Underwood for the makeup job in this one, like holy christ he really outdid himself here! (and I can't thank him enough)

Ngl, if I don't come up with any other ideas between now and October, then I kinda wanna dress as "Jack Skellington Geoff" (Geoff Caskellington? 🤔), makeup and all (or just attempt the face makeup at least)

And seriously take a look at his hands! If it weren't for the super-high-definition closeup of his hands on the piano at the start, you'd be forgiven for thinking those are just really well-fitting gloves, but nope! An amazing airbrush job from Mr Underwood!

Also, if you look at his neck and chest in both this image and the previous one, you'll notice that he's got airbrushing going on there too, highlighting (or more accurately, shading) his ribs and other bones!

Finally, on the subject of the body paint job, if you've been paying attention to some of my other Geoff posts (and some of my Voiceplay posts), you might notice what's missing...

No necklace, and no rings! Had to remove them for costume/makeup/character purposes, rip. Must have felt a bit weird without them, but all that paint must have felt weird too, so maybe the weird feelings cancelled each other out? 😅

(His acting in this is of course 10/10 👌)

This video is one that I do actually know involved Geoff deliberately colouring his hair to make it grey, and it still looks as lovely as ever!

(Also this picture is a better one to check out the airbrushed detailing on his chest! (if you're gonna leave a couple of shirt buttons undone and your chest exposed, might as well take advantage of it! 😁))

The "moon" in this video is apparently just some big spotlight with a moon cover on it or something? Apparently you can fairly easily find them online or something, and you can in fact see the pole it's attached to underneath in this image here, but you likely wouldn't notice the pole if you weren't looking for it, and the usage of the moon is 100% perfect! (I've seen/heard one or two people wishing the moon was yellow like in the movie, but eh, it probably wouldn't have fitted the overall colour scheme of the video as much)

I had to include the "jumpscare" of course I had to! 😁

Also I can't get any good screencaps of it, but the way Geoff shifts from sombre on "a longing that I've never known," to more theatric/dramatic on "I'm a master of fright, and a demon of light" is so good, and the acting/choreography is absolute chefs kiss

"Bonjour!"

(For those of you not familiar with the original, the line "and I'm know throughout England and France" is part of the original song, but the "bonjour!" bit is not 😆)

A Geoff head not connected to the body! It's happened again! 😂

Also it's cool the way Geoff is quickly jumping/flashing from one point to another, reminds me of his Headless Horseman video

"No animal, nor man, can SCREAM like I can!"

What can I say, it's a very cool effect! Really ups the "oomph" factor of the little belt moment!

Tiny pumpkins/jack-o-lanterns in his eyes!!

"But who here, would ever understand..."

(I'm not even at half the maximum image limit yet, so I'm 100% just throwing in an extra screencap (or two) just because 😁)

Geoff pats the side of his leg to call for Zero the ghost dog, just in in the scene in the movie! (Also shoutout to Kathy, who I believe helped with puppeteering for this bit?)

"...that the pumpkin king, with the skeleton grin,"

(Freaking obsessed with this video, I tell ya!)

"The fame and praise, come year after year, does nothing for these empty tears"

This is the last shot before we see the gramophone logo (a very gorgeous shot btw), but there's a little bit of a bonus bit for those who stick around for the Patron credits!!

It starts to snow! Like at the end of the movie! It's a sign of hope and good things to come! <3

The original song is good for the movie, sure, but Geoff's cover feels like it has so much more depth (in more ways than one!) and emotion! And his vocal range is ugh god absolutely stunning and mindblowing! I cannot get enough, can never get enough!

But anyway, I hope you've been enjoying my Voiceplay/Voiceplay-adjacent posts! If there are any videos I've skipped over that you actually would like me to make a post on, please let me know! (And don't worry, I am planning to do all the 2017-onwards Christmas videos for both channels eventually - maybe as a Christmas In July thing?) I'm typing this on the 22nd of February, and if Voiceplay uploads a video in March that I wanna make a post on (nope), well you reading this will have already seen that post, and if Geoff uploads something in March that I wanna talk about (he did), then you'll see that post tomorrow (you will!). But otherwise, thanks for reading!

[camcanime]

When Stars Align

(A Kiribaku x F!Reader fic)

Ever since you were little, all you wanted was to become a great hero. Your parents are both amazing people in your eyes, saving others every day, so why wouldn't you want to be like them? Every great hero has to start somewhere and you've got your eye on U.A. High-school of Japan.

(Chapter 1) Got What it Takes?

U.A.: the super-elite school of Japan for young, aspiring heroes, who want to be the best of the best. Only the most skilled, tenacious, and daring teenagers make it here. This school has produced some of the greatest heroes in the world. It must be pretty cool if so many people talk so highly of it, right? You hope so. You have travelled halfway across the world just to score a chance of getting in, after all. You can only hope that all the hard work pays off. It has been a long and difficult process but, finally, you are here.

With clenched fists and determination glistening in your foreign eyes, you stare down the first obstacle in your wake: the gate to the physical exam. You almost can't believe this is the real thing. It certainly seems a lot more intimidating up close. There aren't many things that worry you, especially when it comes to your quirk and your ability to use it. You have to admit, you have been blessed with a truly wonderful quirk, so why are your palms so sweaty?

Everyone around you is preparing themselves, warming up, and getting in the zone. There are definitely some strong-looking students. You never really took much notice of just how many varieties of quirks there are. With competition such as this, you are beginning to wonder how much of a hard time this is going to be. Snap out of it! Now is far from the time to worry. You need to remain primed and focused if you stand any chance of passing this. With a steadying breath, you close your eyes and mentally go over the rules set in place for the marking criteria.

The briefing entailed that four types of "faux villains", as they were called, are to be expected in this trial. Each villain will be worth different points according to their respective difficulty levels. It sounds easy enough: just beat up some bots using your quirk and rack up enough points to get into your dream school within ten minutes. Easy peasy. Yeah, not so much. Present Mic also detailed that the fourth faux villain variety awards you zero points, merely acting as an obstacle more than anything else. It must be quite a hindrance given the fact that there is only one in each sight.

After what feels like a lifetime, the gates finally open. It's go time. A series of bright, star-shaped constructs take form beneath your feet and betwixt your fingers, sitting comfortably within your palms. They may be no larger than your hands but, with enough of them, you are able to lift yourself from the ground. It is only a few inches in the air but it's a lot faster than running. Not to mention, it will likely be wise to conserve your physical energy for combat and evasive manoeuvers should you not be able to activate your quirk fast enough.

You bob and weave around oncoming students, and it doesn't take long before you encounter your first hurdle - three of them, in fact. You land nimbly on the ground and the stars disappear, leaving you to face the robots that rank with a couple of level ones and a two. Decision time: do you prioritise the higher level, or do you rid of the lower rankings first to reduce the numbers? You choose to favour the latter option and fling a cascade of especially sharp stars their way. The metal skin shrieks upon impact, tearing away and unleashing a gush of sparks from within. One quick turn of your body soon after and you direct double the amount towards the last robot. It takes just one more attack before it blasts out of commission. If you keep going at this pace, victory is sure to be well within your grasp.

Some minutes pass and you can only assume that you have managed to reach the 40s. It's a rough estimate but it's good enough for you at the moment. Unfortunately, fate has other plans and decides that it is time to meddle with your good luck. Flickers of multi-coloured spots pass by your peripheral but you make no effort to stop. You can't stop. There is absolutely no way of telling how many points all of the other students have retrieved. If you stop to take a break now, you might just lose your chance. There isn't much that can be done at this point in time, so you take it upon yourself to listen out for anything that sounds heavy enough to be a robot and aim your stars as best as you can. Scatters of rubble come up to your left and you strike to the best of your abilities immediately. How strange...

That didn't sound like metal.

"Whoa," a gravelly voice bellows, "I can tell you wanna' win but don't take out the competition."

This is a fact that you overlooked. Without your sight, the risk of hitting nearby students is that much greater. How could you be so careless? Not only could someone have gotten seriously injured but you could lose out on points because of your recklessness. That is a consideration taken into this exam, right?

"[I'm so sorry]," you accidentally spill in your native tongue. You swallow before correcting yourself. "I've used my quirk too much, and now I can't see anything. I didn't hurt you, did I?"

You hear a laugh, "No, man, don't worry! Lucky for you, I have a pretty indestructible quirk."

What a relief, you think to yourself. Nonetheless, that still doesn't change the fact that you could have hurt him. If it was someone who didn't have a defensive quirk like him, they could have suffered some serious cuts. You don't dwell for much longer when a firm hand lands on your shoulder, followed by that voice again.

"You gonna' be okay? We should probably get you out of the battlefield if you can't see."

"No, no, I'll be fine," you object desperately, shaking your head. "It'll wear off soon."

You expected this mystery person to leave it at that and wish you luck before continuing to get himself more points but he decides to stay. He clearly has a big heart, that much is obvious already. If any of these students deserves to pass, it's him you've decided. You can only hope that this inconvenience doesn't hinder his chances.

When your vision begins to return, you can just about make out smudges of black and red. This guy's face is still rather blurry but you can tell it's the colour palette of his hair and eyes. Is that a small scar on his brow? It's hard to tell. Another colour comes into view, distracting you: green. That can only mean one thing.

"Watch out!"

You are quick to pull the student out of harm's way and your other hand extends, targetting a flurry of bright, iridescent stars at the faux villain. Luckily, you can confirm that it is indeed taken down before your eyes are invaded with kaleidoscope colours once more. Seconds after, the horn blares, signaling the end of the exam. Is that going to be enough? You got so caught up in the mess that you completely lost count. It isn't even a matter of being able to confer with the boy who helped you as you are already being dragged away by the paramedics. Shoot.

You didn't even get his name.

This is the part that is most agonising. You could have been beaten to a pulp during the practical and the physical pain would still hail in comparison to the existential dread occupying your precious time. You have the ability to practise impeccable temperament but the impatience is wearing you down thin. You can talk a big game about your quirk all you want but deep down you're just a canister of anxiety waiting to be punctured and explode. What if the examiners retract points for your reckless mishap? What if you didn't get enough points, to begin with? Did you ruin the other student's chances of getting in? You hope not; he seemed nice. The stewing of these questions has been fermenting and rotting away in your brain since the exam finished. Your downward spiral is cut off to a temporary halt when a resounding knock breaks the silence, followed by a voice.

"[Starshine,]" it calls gently through the varnished wood. "[I made breakfast. You should come and grab a plate.]"

Food is the last thing on your mind but you know that the insistence of your father won't allow you to skip out on the most important meal of the day. Begrudgingly, you peel away from the mountainous cocoon of fluff and trudge out, being sure to drag one of the blankets with you over your shoulders. The man you refer to as 'Paps' smiles endearingly and pats the top of your head as you pass him. He has been awfully distressed about you - both of your parents have. Being a lot softer than his cartoonishly calloused partner, he has a tendency of going over the top in assuring you have everything you need to feel better. It is terribly sweet, of course, but you wish he wouldn't be so concerned, especially considering how much energy he puts into his job. Both of your parents work so hard, they shouldn't have to worry about some measly exam anxiety.

Paps follows your fragile self down the stairs like a hesitant slinky, silently wondering what more he can do to alleviate this pressure that's weighing you down. All contemplation is set aside when the mail for the morning slips past the front door's tongue. Is that...? It is! Your makeshift cape tears away and lands in your father's face as you descend the rest of the way via the banister. You fumble the landing and drop to your knees, scrambling for the letter like a crazed raccoon to a pile of scraps.

It must undoubtedly make for a hilarious sight because you can hear your Paps' laughter come up beside you. "[Well? What are you waiting for? Open it.]"

Yes. Opening the letter is the next step, isn't it? Your entire body is practically vibrating with a mix of nerves and anticipation. Those worrisome thoughts are close to bombarding you into a coma again but you know you need to open it despite your fears. Your fingertips threaten to pale beneath the pressure of your grasp. Just think of it as a bandaid: you just need to rip that sucker off and get it over with. Through bated breath, you scurry back up to your bedroom and close the door. If this is to turn badly, you would much rather be alone for it, much to your Paps dismay. He shall let you be for now but will remain at the ready should you need him.

Prying open the envelope is hardly done with any grace or precision but you can barely withstand your trembling. A disc-shaped ornament tumbles onto the carpet in front of you. That explains the strange shape, at least. The device stares back at you dauntingly and you have to take a deep breath before pressing the little button that will unveil either your demise or your sanctuary. It chirps to life and a hologram projection springs up, revealing the greatest hero this planet has ever known: All-Might. This must be a good sign. There is no way they would get the top dog himself to bring bad news to the students, right?

"It is I," he announces, baring that trademark smile of his. "Well done, (Y/n) (L/n)! As I am to become a teacher at U.A. I have the proud honour of declaring your success in making it in. Congratulations! You have a fantastic quirk, young lady. Now, you certainly had a couple of fumbles during the practical but your ability to prosper again was most impressive. We weren't just examining students on how many points they could get, after all. You earned some hero points saving that young man from that faux villain."

There is a lot to unpack here. The top-ranking hero himself is going to be a teacher? That's amazing! Not only did you get in but he's going to be your teacher as well. This is almost too good to be true. You thought for sure that said occurrence would have lost you points, especially since you got that student into that mess in the first place. It is a guilt you had been bearing on your shoulders this entire time - a weight that is slowly starting to lift with All-Might's words. It makes you wonder how that boy did and, as if on cue, your question is answered.

"Don't worry, (L/n), the young gentleman has also made it into the school," he continues, easing your aforementioned worries. "He earned himself a fair few hero points with the noble deed of checking on your wellbeing. Being a hero isn't just a matter of how many villains you can take down - it's also about doing what is right! Well done to both of you! I have a feeling you are both going to make wonderful heroes someday."

You catch your own smile in the mirror opposite to you once the hologram disappears. Having two wins to hold under your belt is something you hardly expected but you are certainly not going to complain. Any and all previous engagements with your negative psyche are dwindling as you turn your focus to preparing for school. That first day cannot come soon enough.

Getting this done was a mission and a half, let me tell ya'. I lost this first chapter TWICE due to technical difficulties, but we got there in the end. I really hope it's good enough despite the blimmin' torment XD (Also, if there's any confusion, the dialogue presented as '[ ]' is meant to represent characters speaking in English)

Chapter 2

[harmonyckrs]

Act 4, Scene 1 of Twisted Veronaville: Taking Down the Knights of Order

THE LAST PAGE

Pascal: Hello?...who is this?

Sita: Yo, Pascal. Can you come back to Veronaville super quick?

Pascal: I JUST got back home! And it turns out Lazlo is missing too, plus there's aliens camping in my house who refuse to give me any information about Sixam!

???: We were born and raised here! We don't know anything about Sixam!

???: Yeah! If we were from Sixam we wouldn't be fucking camping in your house!

Sita: Woah, they're super loud.

Pascal: Yeah, I know. I've only been back for an hour, but they're already driving me insane.

Sita: Okay, well...that does sound pretty bad, but...I'll help you find Vidcund and Lazlo if you help us with this. And we'll pay for your gas, too.

Pascal: You owe me way more than that.

Sita: Tracking down prisoners captured by a high ranking military officer such as the General and then proceeding to break them out of what's likely a maximum security prison takes a lot of effort, even for a psychic. Combined with Aktu's teleportation ability, you're going to want us both on your team.

Pascal: ...Fine. I'll meet you back in Veronaville soon.

The Knights of Order were a serious and determined bunch, but like with everyone else, they weren't without weaknesses. And in her attempt to scan the minds of everyone in Veronaville, Sita accidentally found out theirs.

Sana: I'm glad you're not mad at me for trying to stop you...even if we are on opposite sides, I do still see you as my sister.

Sita: Of course! There's no way I could be mad at my twin!...anyway, how's life? Got a girlfriend yet?

Sana: No...I don't think anyone would be interested, anyway. You were right about Nina and Dina, by the way...

Sita: (Right into my trap.) Aw, well...you can always find someone new. You know those Capp sisters? Goneril and Regan? They're recently divorced. Maybe you three can complain about your love lives together.

Sana: I guess I can...Regan and I talked for a bit at Hamza and Crystal's wedding, and she seemed nice...maybe I will! Thanks, Sita.

Sita: Of course! Anything to cheer you up!

Crystal: (Finally, I'm home...my head is killing me...)

Aktu: Greetings, Crystal.

Sita: Hello, wench.

Crystal: Ugh, you two. What do you even want, snitch?

Sita: Oh, nothing. I just wanted to thank you for trying to sabotage the Knights of Order from the inside, even if you were mostly unsuccessful.

Crystal: ...I only did it because I wanted some entertainment.

Hamza: Chrissy? You were sabotaging us?...and what happened to you? You're bleeding! Are you okay?

Aktu: (Let's teleport out of here before we risk having to talk to Hamza again.) Congrats again on the wedding, Crystal. I should probably go now.

Sita: (Agreed.) See ya, Chrissy!

While Sita and Aktu were dealing with Hamza and Crystal, Pascal's newfound presence had been noticed by the very person he wanted to see least.

Albany: (He's back...my dear Pascal has returned to Veronaville...)

Cornwall: Albany? Why are you using the telescope like that? The sky's upwards.

Albany: Oh! No reason! Just wanted to spy on...our bitch exes...

Cornwall: You're still not pointing the telescope the right way! You'd have to point it towards the north, not the west!

Albany: Yeah, yeah! Whatever!

Albany: (...I wonder why he's dressed like that...it reminds me of those old photos Goneril used to show me of-)

*DING DONG*

Consort: (As if Tybalt's death wasn't enough, I now have to deal with unwanted visitors...)

Consort: (Those guards weren't supposed to let that happen. I guess I got to check it out for myself...)

Pascal: Someone order a handyman?

Consort: (...He looks so much like Patrizio, back when we...)

Pascal: Well? I don't have all day.

Hermia: (Something's up with that guy, but I'm really not in the mood to deal with all of this today...)

Consort: ...Yeah, I did. Come inside.

*five minutes later*

Pascal: And that's the story of my first love. I'll never be able to get him back, but I can rest peacefully knowing that he's been avenged.

Consort: That's beautiful. I've lost my wife, too...to old age, but I can understand what the feeling of loss feels like. And my daughter and son-in-law were both murdered, so I understand the feeling of vengeance, too.

Pascal: (Our situations are not even REMOTELY the same! YOU caused the deaths of your loved ones!) Thank you, Consort. I can glad the patriarch of the Capp family is as kind as he is...handsome.

Consort: Oh, you flatter me.

Pascal: (And how is this plan even working?)

Meanwhile, Zoya was occupying herself with the new hologram tech she installed in the base of the Knights of Order as a celebration of "victory," unaware of what was going on with her siblings.

Tank: Zoya?

Zoya: Yeah? What's up, kiddo?

Tank: I was just wondering about...everything, really. What exactly are we fighting for now?

Zoya: Hm...not sure, actually. We may not have succeeded in restoring the story to normal, but I think the events are just going to run as they do normally. At this point, there's nothing we can do but sit and watch.

Tank: But there's got to be other things I can do, right?

Zoya: I think it's pretty too far gone. Ripp has already done a lot of damage to the story. Unless if you're a miracle worker, there's probably no way to get Romeo and Juliette back together.

Tank: ...

Zoya: And you haven't even talked to either of them. I don't know what exactly Aktu and Sita had in mind when they said they were going to use you for their plan, but I think General Buzz getting in the way probably helped them more than they realized.

Tank: Seriously?...well, I can be just as useful as Ripp! I'll find some way to fix the story, without your help!

Zoya: Sure! Go for it!

Zoya: (I feel like I struck a nerve...I should probably apologize to him later, once he calms down...hopefully he doesn't do anything drastic.)

THE NEXT DAY

[quickwebsiteseo]

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[officevalle]

The Do’s and Don’ts of Uploading Your Album on YouTube to Get Paid

YouTube has become one of the most powerful platforms for musicians looking to showcase their talent and generate income. With millions of users tuning in daily, it offers a great opportunity for artists to reach a global audience and monetize their content. However, simply uploading your album on YouTube to get paid is not enough—you need to follow the right practices to maximize your earnings and avoid common mistakes that could hinder your success. In this guide, we will explore the essential do’s and don’ts to ensure that your music not only reaches the right audience but also brings in revenue efficiently.

Why Uploading Your Album on YouTube is a Smart Move

YouTube provides several benefits that make it a top choice for musicians. From its massive user base to its monetization features, here’s why you should consider uploading your album to the platform:

Global Reach: YouTube is accessible in almost every country, allowing you to connect with fans worldwide.

Multiple Revenue Streams: Apart from ad revenue, musicians can earn through memberships, super chats, and merchandise sales.

SEO Benefits: YouTube is the second-largest search engine after Google, meaning your music can be discovered by people searching for related content.

Community Engagement: Unlike other streaming platforms, YouTube allows direct interaction with fans through comments, live streams, and community posts.

The Do’s of Uploading Your Album on YouTube

Optimize Titles and Descriptions for Discoverability One of the most important aspects of uploading your album is ensuring that your content is easily discoverable. Use keyword-rich titles and detailed descriptions that include relevant terms related to your music. Mention the genre, mood, and related artists to attract potential listeners.

Create High-Quality Thumbnails A visually appealing thumbnail can significantly increase your click-through rate. Design a professional, eye-catching thumbnail that reflects the theme of your album. Adding text overlays and using bold colors can help your video stand out in search results.

Utilize YouTube Playlists Grouping your songs into playlists can increase watch time and keep viewers engaged for longer. Organize your album into a playlist to encourage listeners to experience your music in the intended order.

Engage with Your Audience Interacting with your viewers can build a loyal fanbase and improve your video’s visibility. Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and encourage fans to share your album. Engagement signals to YouTube’s algorithm that your content is valuable, leading to better ranking and visibility.

Monetize Through Various Methods While ad revenue is the most well-known monetization method, explore other options such as:

YouTube Memberships: Offer exclusive content to subscribers who pay a monthly fee.

Super Chats: Earn money during live streams when fans pay to highlight their messages.

Affiliate Marketing: Promote products related to your music and earn commissions on sales.

Promote Your Album Across Multiple Platforms Don’t rely solely on YouTube for exposure. Share your album link on social media platforms, embed it on your website, and collaborate with influencers to reach a wider audience. Cross-promotion can drive traffic to your channel and increase your earnings.

Leverage YouTube Shorts Short-form content is gaining popularity on YouTube. Use Shorts to create teasers, behind-the-scenes clips, and highlights from your album to generate interest and drive viewers to your full-length videos.

Monitor Your Analytics Regularly YouTube Analytics provides valuable insights into your audience demographics, watch time, and engagement. Regularly analyze these metrics to understand what’s working and optimize your future uploads accordingly.

Use Content ID to Protect Your Music YouTube's Content ID system helps protect your intellectual property by automatically identifying unauthorized use of your music. Register your album with Content ID to ensure that any reuploads by others generate revenue for you.

The Don’ts of Uploading Your Album on YouTube

Ignoring Copyright Rules One of the biggest mistakes artists make is not understanding YouTube’s copyright policies. If your album contains samples or covers, ensure that you have the necessary rights to avoid content takedowns and potential demonetization.

Overlooking Metadata Optimization Failing to include accurate metadata such as tags, captions, and descriptions can limit your album's visibility. Metadata helps YouTube understand your content and recommend it to relevant audiences.

Uploading Poor-Quality Audio and Video Even if your music is great, poor audio or video quality can turn potential fans away. Make sure your album is uploaded in the highest possible quality, using lossless audio formats and HD video.

Spamming Keywords in Descriptions While keywords are essential for SEO, overloading your description with irrelevant or excessive keywords can lead to penalties. Focus on naturally integrating keywords into your content.

Not Utilizing End Screens and Cards End screens and cards are powerful tools to direct viewers to other videos on your channel, increasing overall watch time and engagement. Forgetting to add them can result in lost opportunities to keep viewers engaged with your content.

Expecting Instant Results Uploading your album on YouTube to get paid is a long-term strategy. Don’t expect overnight success. Consistency, promotion, and engagement are key to gradually building an audience and generating income.

Ignoring the Power of Collaborations Collaborating with other YouTubers, musicians, and influencers can significantly boost your exposure. Don’t make the mistake of trying to grow your channel in isolation—partnerships can help expand your reach.

Failing to Promote Live Performances Live performances can generate significant income and build a stronger connection with your audience. Use your YouTube channel to promote upcoming gigs, virtual concerts, and exclusive events to drive engagement and sales.

Overloading the Channel with Unrelated Content Your audience subscribes for a reason—your music. Avoid uploading unrelated content that may confuse your viewers and dilute your brand identity. Stick to music-related content, behind-the-scenes footage, and relevant updates.

Conclusion

Uploading your album on YouTube to get paid requires a strategic approach that involves optimizing content, engaging with your audience, and leveraging all monetization features available. By following the do’s—such as optimizing your metadata, engaging with fans, and using YouTube's monetization features—you can maximize your revenue potential. On the flip side, avoiding common pitfalls like neglecting copyright policies, overlooking promotion, and expecting instant success can set you on the right path.

Whether you’re an independent artist or an established musician, YouTube offers an incredible opportunity to showcase your work and earn a sustainable income. Start implementing these best practices today, and take your music career to new heights.

Related Articles:

For further reading, explore these related articles:

Why You Should Upload Your Album on YouTube to Get Exposure

How to Upload Your Album on YouTube Music for Free

How to Upload Your Album on YouTube Music in India

Why Uploading Your Album on YouTube Music Matters

For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit DMT Records Private Limited.

[travel-affiliates]

Building Websites to Profit from Affiliate Programs

Building Websites to Profit from Affiliate Programs: A Comprehensive Guide

Affiliate marketing is one of the most accessible and scalable ways to make money online. It involves promoting other companies' products or services on your website, earning a commission for each sale or action completed through your referral. Building a website tailored to affiliate marketing can be a highly lucrative endeavor if done strategically.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of creating, optimizing, and monetizing a website specifically designed to profit from affiliate programs.

What is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing is a performance-based marketing model where businesses reward affiliates (you) for driving traffic or sales to their websites. The process works like this:

Sign Up: You join an affiliate program, such as Amazon Associates or CJ Affiliate.

Get Links: The program provides you with unique affiliate links to track referrals.

Promote Products: You promote these links on your website through content like reviews, blogs, or tutorials.

Earn Commissions: When users click your links and make a purchase, you earn a commission.

With affiliate marketing, you can build a steady stream of passive income by creating a well-optimized website.

Step 1: Choose a Profitable Niche

Your website’s success starts with selecting a profitable niche. A niche is a specific segment of the market you’ll target. Choosing the right niche ensures you attract an audience interested in the products you promote.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Niche

Passion and Interest: Choose a niche you’re passionate about. Writing content becomes easier when you enjoy the topic.

Profitability: Research the earning potential. Niches like technology, health, fitness, and personal finance tend to have high-paying affiliate programs.

Demand: Ensure there’s consistent demand. Use tools like Google Trends to see if your niche is trending.

Competition: Moderate competition is ideal. Highly competitive niches can be hard to rank in, while low-competition niches might not generate enough income.

Examples of Lucrative Niches:

Technology and gadgets

Fitness and wellness

Travel and adventure

Personal finance and investing

Home improvement and DIY

Step 2: Build Your Website

Once you’ve chosen your niche, it’s time to create your website. A professional, user-friendly website is essential for attracting and converting visitors into affiliate sales.

Choose a Domain Name and Hosting

Domain Name: Pick a name that’s short, memorable, and relevant to your niche. For example, if your niche is fitness, a domain like “FitGearReviews.com” might work.

Web Hosting: Reliable hosting ensures your site loads quickly and remains accessible. Popular hosting providers include Bluehost, SiteGround, and HostGator.

Set Up WordPress

WordPress is a versatile and user-friendly platform for building websites. To get started:

Install WordPress through your hosting provider.

Choose a clean and responsive theme, such as Astra or GeneratePress.

Install essential plugins like:

Yoast SEO: For optimizing content.

WP Super Cache: To improve site speed.

Pretty Links: For managing affiliate links.

Step 3: Create High-Quality Content

Content is the heart of your affiliate website. High-quality, engaging content attracts visitors, builds trust, and encourages clicks on affiliate links.

Content Types for Affiliate Websites

Product Reviews: Write detailed reviews highlighting the benefits, features, and drawbacks of products in your niche.

Example: “Top 5 Budget-Friendly Drones in 2024.”

Comparison Posts: Compare two or more products to help readers make informed decisions.

Example: “Fitbit vs. Garmin: Which Fitness Tracker is Best for You?”

How-To Guides: Create tutorials that solve problems while incorporating affiliate links.

Example: “How to Set Up a Home Gym on a Budget.”

Listicles: Compile lists of recommended products.

Example: “10 Must-Have Travel Gadgets for 2024.”

Informational Content: Write blogs on topics related to your niche to attract organic traffic.

Example: “The Benefits of Strength Training for Beginners.”

SEO Optimization for Content

Search engine optimization (SEO) ensures your content ranks on Google, bringing in organic traffic.

Keyword Research: Use tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Google Keyword Planner to find relevant keywords with low competition.

On-Page SEO:

Include target keywords in the title, meta description, headers, and throughout the content.

Use alt tags for images.

Internal Linking: Link to other posts or pages on your site to improve navigation and SEO.

Content-Length: Longer, in-depth articles (1,500–2,500 words) often rank better.

Step 4: Integrate Affiliate Links

Once you’ve created content, integrate affiliate links strategically. Overloading a page with links can appear spammy and deter readers.

Best Practices for Affiliate Links

Placement: Include affiliate links naturally within the content.

Example: “This budget-friendly drone [affiliate link] is perfect for beginners.”

Disclosure: Include a disclaimer stating that your site earns commissions from affiliate links to comply with FTC guidelines.

Shortened Links: Use link shorteners (like Pretty Links) to make affiliate links look clean and professional.

Call-to-Actions (CTAs): Use persuasive CTAs to encourage clicks.

Example: “Click here to check the latest price on Amazon.”

Step 5: Drive Traffic to Your Website

Even the best content won’t generate income without traffic. Focus on both free and paid methods to bring visitors to your site.

Organic Traffic

SEO: Optimize your site and content for search engines.

Blogging: Regularly publish fresh, valuable content to keep visitors engaged.

Guest Posting: Write guest posts for other websites in your niche, linking back to your site.

Forums and Communities: Participate in niche-related forums (e.g., Reddit, Quora) and subtly promote your content.

Social Media Traffic

Share your content on platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram.

Use engaging visuals and captions to attract attention.

Participate in niche-specific groups and communities.

Paid Traffic

Google Ads: Target specific keywords with PPC campaigns.

Social Media Ads: Use platforms like Facebook or Instagram to promote your content.

Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers to drive traffic to your site.

Step 6: Monitor Performance and Optimize

Continuous improvement is key to a successful affiliate website. Use analytics tools to monitor performance and identify areas for optimization.

Tools to Track Performance

Google Analytics: Monitor traffic sources, bounce rates, and conversions.

Google Search Console: Check search rankings and site health.

Affiliate Program Dashboards: Track clicks, sales, and commissions.

Optimization Strategies

Update Content: Refresh older posts with new information or better-performing keywords.

A/B Testing: Test different CTAs, layouts, or headlines to see what converts best.

Improve Site Speed: Use tools like GTmetrix or PageSpeed Insights to identify and fix slow-loading pages.

Step 7: Scale Your Website

As your website gains traction, consider scaling your efforts to increase income.

Add More Content

Regularly publish new articles to cover more keywords, expand your audience, and keep existing visitors engaged.

Diversify Affiliate Programs

Don’t rely on just one affiliate program. Join multiple programs to increase your income potential. For instance:

Amazon Associates for general products.

CJ Affiliate for niche-specific products.

ClickBank for digital products.

Expand to Related Niches

Once your main niche is established, expand to related sub-niches. For example, if your site is about fitness equipment, you could add content on nutrition or workout plans.

Step 8: Stay Compliant with Regulations

Affiliate marketing comes with legal and ethical responsibilities. To ensure compliance:

Disclose Affiliate Relationships: Clearly inform readers that you earn commissions from links.

Follow Privacy Laws: Comply with GDPR and CCPA by providing privacy policies and cookie notifications.

Potential Challenges and How to Overcome Them

While affiliate marketing offers great potential, challenges may arise:

Slow Growth: Traffic and income may take months to build. Stay patient and consistent.

High Competition: Focus on unique, high-quality content to stand out.

Program Changes: Affiliate programs may change terms or commission rates. Diversify your income sources to minimize risk.

Conclusion

Building a website to profit from affiliate programs is a rewarding venture, but it requires dedication, strategy, and consistent effort. By selecting a profitable niche, creating valuable content, and driving traffic through SEO and other channels, you can create a successful affiliate marketing website that generates passive income.

Affiliate marketing is not a get-rich-quick scheme, but with persistence, it can become a sustainable and lucrative business model. Start your journey today, and over time, watch your affiliate website transform into a powerful income-generating asset.

[obsessed-loverboy]

2, 15, 26?

2: thoughts on veganism?

I don't super care if you're vegan yourself, but militant vegans piss me off. there are a lot of people who can't go on vegan diets for a variety of health reasons, both physical and mental. moreover, some white vegans place the suffering of animals as more important than the communities of color they hurt through their fetishization and exotification of "superfoods." the whole quinoa craze hurt a lot of Indigenous communities who got priced out of their traditional foods, because Whole Foods Loyalist Kathy can and will pay more for it.

as Raven once said to Beast Boy: I respect the fact that you don't eat meat, please respect the fact that I do.

15: rank the methods of death: freezing, burning, drowning

all of them are slow and painful and thus quite unpleasant, so none of these would be preferred. however if I had to rank them against each other, from best to worst: burning, drowning, freezing.

26: how’s your spice tolerance?

the most honest answer is that it varies. sometimes I can handle a lot of spice, sometimes a single flaming hot Cheeto makes me cough.

in general, I have a high spice tolerance but I also don't necessarily eat spicy things for the sake of them being spicy, the flavors have to be well-balanced. I'm not a capsaicin chaser, I get that it releases endorphins and that's why people go nuts over it, but my issue with a lot of ghost pepper or spiciest whatever challenges is that those flavors aren't balanced. I've had, for example, both Indian and Japanese curries that were incredibly spicy, but I didn't care because those were so good.

but I'm not enough of a masochist to want to eat anything that I'd have to sign a "please make sure you're aware what you're doing" waiver for. I'll leave those to other people lmao

[rimworldretreats]

Day 19-22: the party grows

Pretty soon, we have our next "guest"; a local noble who is fleeing a vile manhunting beast and requires sanctuary until his shuttle arrives. Fish is of course, happy to let him die, but Hinton's dedication to the principles of hospitality and making good with the local powers win out. Do you know how hard it can be to pass food safety inspections when all your food is regurgitated by a mechanical monstrosity?

I forgot to screenshot any more information about Inetheomo, which is fine, as he will basically sit here and read while our group bleeds to protect him.

Shortly after him, the Beast arrives. Behold!

I don't bother setting up the turrets, but Hadley and Fish make relatively short work of it.

It does get close enough to bite his arm; fortunately, Rimworld's Space Rabies is not contagious.

The noble gets in his shuttle and leaves, having contributed nothing, but Hinton does get the rank of Yeoman in the local empire. She celebrates by treating Hadley's rabbit bite through the wall.

On day 20, Hori has recovered, and decides to stay as a guest for a while. I forget to switch her bed from medical to guest, and, well, she doesn't like to presume.

We also deal with a manhunting hedgehog much as we did the rabbit, and start getting the first harvest of rice, which Fish put in the ground 5 days ago.

It's specially engineered rice that grows super fast, OK? And we found a patch of fertile ground.

Rimworld Top Tip: Getting some rice in fertile ground as soon as practical will really help smooth the transition from gathering berries or stockpiled meals. Corn packs more nutrition per plant, but takes a lot longer to grow. Of course, if you have a pawn with high animals/shooting, hunting will also help.

Rimworld Other Top Tip: Butcher tables/spots don't distinguish between animals you hunted, or have in storage, and animals that die for other reasons anywhere on the map. If you set a bill on the butcher spot to butcher animals forever, you can check for deceased animals, mark them "allowed" and get free food. It's also handy if your hunter wings something but has to come back to sleep or eat before it's downed.

Day 21 sees some more ship crash events, including another cryptosleep section.

Triage time! Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Resumé! That's a bit unfair, we'll rescue anybody we can, but if we have to prioritize...

We rescue Smarty; the others expire or wander off to die of radiation poisoning as they linger near the reactor. There's no way to stop them short of capturing them, which might not actually work out any less fatal. There's also some Ancient power control chips, and a lot of clothing.

Day 22 brings an even more exciting milestone: our first paying guest!

I don't know if weapons of mass destruction are a lot cheaper, or boarding a lot more expensive, but I can probably keep this Gorilla person alive for 16 days in exchange for an antimatter warhead. I might even be able to use it eventually. Keeping her mood above 50% without the niceties of indoor plumbing may be harder.

And to cap things off, Smarty has elected to stay with us.

It may seem odd to be an animal hater with a passion for the animals skill, but at least if we start keeping food animals somebody will be happy to do the dirty work. She'll also be able to take the farming off Fish's pretty full plate, which will really help streamline things.

[obeybeans]

Prompt: MC wears a short skirt...

And the brothers see a little more than they expected.

Side characters are in part 2 !

Lucifer

- he was trying not to make it obvious, but he was keeping a close eye on you anyway

- to make sure no one was ogling too overtly, of course

- it was simply protective. That's all.

- but when you lean over to reach something just out of reach on a lower shelf in the library, he gets a real eyeful

- His mask briefly slips to reveal shock and intrigue. It's a welcome view...

- but not where others could see it

- he comes up behind you and places a hand on your hip, startling you as you straighten up again, back against his chest

- 'MC, only I can see this much of you...' he protests, though he's hiding that he's feeling possessive and a little flustered as well as he can. He pretends he's looking at the shelf just above your head

- he can't fool you though - his grip on your hip tightens as a lower ranking demon passes by and stares at your legs

- he'll probably take you somewhere a little more private afterwards

- 'Don't tell me you're jealous, Lucifer?' you tease, and he scowls at you

- 'Yes, I am. But we both know you're mine -' 

- he slips his hand under your skirt

- '- don't we?'

Mammon

- you wore this skirt for him before and he loves it

- but you had worn it when it was just the two of you! This is totally different

- he's got his eyes on you as soon as you come downstairs for breakfast, glaring at his brothers when they stare at you a bit too long

- you're all his, after all. He was your first.

- but when you stand up at the table and lean over to reach the butter for your toast, your skirt slides up your thighs and Mammon sees Levi and Asmo 'covertly' craning their necks, so-

- he grabs you by the hips and yanks you down into his lap, making you yelp

- 'Mammon! What are you doing?' you complain, nearly having knocked something over as you were unceremoniously pulled down

- 'I could second that,' adds Lucifer, even though he knows damn well what's going on. He fixes Mammon with a look that is decidedly threatening - after all, the whole family is here right now

- Mammon just ignores the question, though, one hand on your hip keeping you in his lap with a strong grip

- 'Satan, pass the butter, would ya?'

- He'll probably try and make you change clothes after breakfast. For now he's got to focus on keeping it together with you wriggling on his lap and trying to escape as he butters your toast.

- 'Quit moving around so much and be a good human!'

- it's not like you really mind though, and he'd let you go if he could tell you were actually trying

- you put this skirt on for a reason, so...

Levi

- Levi had gotten better at splitting his time between you and his animes and games, but a new obsession had thrown off the balance

- an anime with a super cute leading lady had recently released and he had quickly become enamoured

- you didn't mind his crushes on fictional characters or celebrities or anything, and he respected your many crushes on them as well

- but seriously, he was spending so much time blogging about the anime, watching the anime, looking at fanart for the anime...

- so, you got a cosplay of the main character ordered to the House of Lamentation and put it on one day

- he didn't notice until dinner time when he finally came out of his room for the first time

- you'd visited him in his room but he had hardly even looked at you because the anime VAs were hosting a stream

- you'd been receiving compliments from the other brothers, especially Asmo (and Satan because the character had cat ears) all day. Now you just needed Levi to notice

- you barely paid Levi any attention over dinner, sour that he hadn't noticed earlier. Plus, it was enough to know he was staring at you with your shirt exposing a fair amount of skin and the skirt sinfully short to show the thigh high socks worn with it

- between being a little too interested in how you looked, and curious of how Levi was going to react, everyone was paying you a lot of attention

- Levi himself was going bright red and staring at you unabashedly, trying to catch your eye as you quietly ate your food with a little smirk on your face

- everyone else looking at you so much was making his jealousy really hard to handle

- only he should get to see you in this cosplay! He was the one who watched the anime, and you were his, too, right?!

- getting frustrated and more in his own head about it all, as soon as the plates were being cleared away he rounded the table. Asmo was asking you to come upstairs with him...

- no way. Levi latches onto your arm, suddenly in his demon form, tail swishing irritably behind him

- 'MC, can you come to my room? Now, please?'

- he's basically begging but he still sounds way more forceful than he usually would

- you're kind of into it

- you head up the stairs in front of him, and that's when he gets a view right up your skirt from a few steps down

- he's a blushing mess all over again, and has to force himself to drag you into his room before he does anything

- 'So I finally have your attention?' you ask, acting coy

- 'I'm sorry MC, but please don't let my brothers see you like this! Y-you're mine, okay?!'

- He'll probably be embarrassed about losing his cool later

Satan

- Obviously he had noticed what you were wearing

- he was enjoying it immensely in fact

- you looked so good in that skirt, he struggled to tear his eyes away

- Of course, he didn't expect this meant anything and he didn't want to make you uncomfortable by leering or something. You should be able to wear what you want, when you want...

- so long as you know he appreciates how you look and can expect to be stared at a bit

- He's trying to act normal about it though he's transfixed on your skirt, or more accurately, what's only just hiding beneath

- though he has been loitering a lot closer to you all day and, when you're not looking, sending withering glares at his brothers when they look at you (even if that makes him a hypocrite)

- he's managed to keep his cool so far, though

- you two are relaxing that evening shortly after dinner in his room. He's just finished a book as you put your now-finished homework in your bag for tomorrow

- 'MC, could you pass me that book there?'

- you follow his gaze and pointing hand to a book on the floor and ascertain you're looking at the right one

- but you're feel like being a bit of a tease, so you turn and lean down slowly to pick it up off his floor

- the way his breath hitches is audible as you bend at the hip rather than the knee, showing him exactly what he's been daydreaming about

- Instead of acknowledging what you've done, you straighten up quickly and take the book to him with an innocent look

- you're not surprised when he tosses the book aside and pulls you straight into his lap instead so that you're straddling his thighs

- he'd rather open something other than a book up this time

Asmo

- even if you're not much of a party person, you can't completely avoid going out with Asmo now and again

- This time, you let him choose your outfit for you. He picked out several options and combinations because he wanted you to surprise him on the night of the party

- One option had been pretty risque, he had never seen you wear anything as revealing before, and he kind of wondered if you'd indulge him... But he didn't really think you'd choose it tonight

- it was more of a pipe dream

- So when he comes by your room when you text him that you're ready (he did your hair and makeup earlier, of course), his jaw near enough hits the floor

- the tight leather-look skirt clings to you in all the right places, and he feels himself heating up right away (though he's always finding himself hot and bothered, especially around you)

- "MC, you look amazing!' he croons, standing beside you as you both look into the mirror. You make a delectable pair

- you're glad he likes it so much. You're a little nervous about wearing it, but he always boosts your confidence

- you sit down on your desk chair as you pull on your boots, and as he leans down to pick up your purse for you from where it's tossed on the floor, he happens to look up at you...

- He drops your purse immediately and comes straight to you, taking a hold of the leg you raised to pull your shoe on and running his hands over your stockings

- 'MC... Are you trying to tempt me into staying in tonight?' he asks, licking his lips. You stare up at him with a blush blossoming on your face, only just catching on to why he's suddenly so riled up

- You still end up going out, because he wants to flaunt how good you both look to everyone

- but only once he's done with you so you look a little more unkempt and smell a lot more like him

- he likes when others stare because no one else can have you

- If you end up making out in a barely-private place with his hand sneaking up your skirt again, that's no one else's business

Beel

- Beel likes looking at you no matter what you wear. He knows how you look with and without clothes on, and can visualise that whenever he likes even if you're wearing his sweatpants and t-shirts

- actually, he especially likes it when you wear those

- however... He definitely likes this too

- he's been tagging along after you for the whole day as usual, your faithful guard

- he doesn't let how gorgeous you look completely distract him from sending intimidating stares at the demons that look at you hungrily

- he's the only one allowed to get a taste of you, obviously

- that evening, he's doing some floor exercises. He's finished his push ups (200 of them, somehow) and now he's doing sit ups

- reclined on the ground before another set, he gets a full view as you step over him to reach your thermos of tea - you've been sitting to the side doing your homework while he works out, giving him frequent encouragements and definitely not ogling his muscles

- before you can reach the thermos, he has his arms wrapped around your calves, halting your movement as you stand over him with your feet either side of his waist

- you look down at him in question and turn bright red when you realise what he's looking at

- is he starting to drool?

- you reach down to the hem of your skirt in embarrassment before he makes eye contact with you again

- 'MC... I'm hungry.'

Belphegor

- Despite being the Avatar of Sloth, Belphie is often awake at weird times of night

- this time, he woke up after having a very interesting dream about you...

- more specifically, about what you were wearing that day

- He had been late for breakfast, so you were the only one that had waited for him despite his brothers protesting you would be late

- he'd picked at some food for a few minutes, more occupied with your skirt

- It made him...

- jealous? Uncomfortable that other people would get to see the lovely shape of your legs so much? Maybe just curious about why you had chosen today of all days to wear it, as he didn't think he had ever seen it before

- he wanted to pull you into bed with him then and there to keep you from going out where others could steal glances at you

- but he wouldn't be that petty... This time

- he had been insistent on following you around all day, unusually determined

- he didn't miss a single class for once

- he even came with you to the library after classes were over when he would usually go home to nap

- but your studious nature just wouldn't let up, and you had Satan with you anyway to keep an eye on you as you came home, so he went back to the House of Lamentation to sleep

- if he trusted any of his brothers not to do anything weird, that would be Beel first, and then Satan. Maybe Levi after that.

- he was pretty sure he had heard you get home just after he woke up, leading him to check the time...

- after midnight. He knew there were exams coming up, but this was excessive. And sometimes you still did homework and revision once you got home...

- so he decided to come to you and make sure you got some rest

- what he didn't expect was to walk into your room and find you lounging on the bed on your D.D.D with your legs splayed out a little over the sheets

- he raised his eyebrows as you looked up at him with a tired smile and said hello, seemingly none the wiser to what you were showing him

- it wasn't unusual for Belphie to crawl into your bed, but this time he was crawling up to you between your legs

- 'You deserve something nice after working for so long.'

[pacificwaternymph]

Mmm… thinking of the super AU. We know the process and stuff for things with superheroes who died in conflict, but what about supervillains? Do they get the same or at least some level of respect? Like not removing the mask? Or do their bodies just get swept away and discarded all because they were villains? What of the villains’ living relatives or allies or companions?? If the villains are unmasked, do the heroes go after whatever living relatives they have? How are villain deaths treated differently than hero ones?

Also, I’m guessing that whatever the villains do or have, they all either make it themselves or commission a very trusted individual. So their stuff may not be as of, ah, high quality as heroes? Cause a villain can’t go commissioning a costume or costume repair without people flipping out. Plus, villains’ stuff is coming from their own funds, heroes are able to have support from public donations. You mentioned both Scott and Lizzie having glamours, is there a difference in quality of them? Does Scott ever, like, wack someone with his wings that are hidden by glamor?

So obviously, supervillains aren't anywhere near the celebrated figures heroes are. And as such, on the rare occasion that supervillains actually die, they don't get any sort of memorial service. They aren't exactly mourned. But believe it or not, there are still some protections for them.

You are not allowed to remove the mask of a supervillain unless you're a hero or a high ranking law enforcement officer. This is to protect the friends and family of a supervillain's civilian identity and prevent them from excessive harassment, since a lot of times, they had no idea of their loved one's identity.

When a villain dies, they are unmasked by heroes and law enforcement, but their identities are not made public. Heroes conduct investigations on all the villain's close associates, friends, and family, in order to determine if any of them were aware of the villain's alter ego and, if they were, how involved they were in their schemes. None of this is disclosed to the public for the sake of the privacy of the family and friends of the villain, and it's all conducted very quietly.

Some of those who were not previously aware of the villain's identity, who are deemed important enough to the villain, are notified of it. This usually includes family, but occasionally close friends as well. The villain's equipment and weapons are confiscated and put somewhere secure, but anything deemed harmless are given back to the family for them to decide what to do with.

And you would be right. There are a few suppliers in the villain "community" that are well known throughout the underground for being willing to make anything, no questions asked, for the right price. They're not even limited to villains either, some vigilantes and even a more morally dubious hero or two have gone to them as well.

But, if you're unable to pay, then yeah, you're on your own for making weapons and armor and stuff like that.

The glamors are more a magic item than a technological item, however, so as long as you have a well trained magician on your side, your glamor should be fine. The Alliance has Gem and Scott + the Champions of Exor have Sausage, who are both talented, so their glamors are pretty much on the same level.

Before that, Xornoth paid top dollar for high quality glamors to make sure Scott and their identities weren't given away by their wings.

Scott's glamor doesn't just hide his wings, they turn them into a tattoo on his back. But in the early stages, back when Sausage wasn't as skilled and his glamoring skills were limited to just cloaking things in invisibility, Scott did have to be very careful not to whack anyone in the face with invisible wings.

[myherowritings]

PART 4. HOW THE RICH SUCK THEIR OWN DICKS

SUMMARY. Todoroki Shouto was a wealthy, young CEO who inherited his father’s enterprise. You were a barista at a local cafe who wouldn’t mind some extra cash. One day, Shouto came in during an early morning shift and tipped you such a large sum of money, you were certain it had to have been an accident. To your surprise and complete pleasure: It was not.

PAIRING. ceo!todoroki shouto x barista!reader

WORD COUNT. 2.9k

GENRE. ceo/barista au, fluff, eventual smut

WARNINGS. enji makes an appearance bleh, enji being classist, enji...ew, okay i swear most of the chapter is shouto and y/n being cute though 

A/N. ngl i have genshin brainrot real bad at the moment but i still have motivation for ceo!shouto and ceo!shouto only u.u there are only 7 parts to this series so we’re at the halfway mark already AHHH i hope u enjoy reading and lmk what u think!! :3 xx sof

SERIES MASTERLIST

© myherowritings — all rights reserved. reposting, modifying, copying, or translating of any kind is not allowed. do not read my writing as asmr. do not plagiarize.

Shouto’s day went from good to bad faster than it took to pull an espresso. 

It started off with a good morning text from you and having a brief, but pleasant, interaction at your work. Actually, the past few weeks have been going along a similar routine that he found himself settling into all too comfortably. You even upheld your promise of stealing him away one weekend to walk around the park, get food, and just have time to relax and be happy for once. 

Getting to be in your presence almost daily became so normalized in his life that even some of his employees heard about the cute barista with the best pastries. Yet, although he saw you often, he found himself wanting to talk to you more and more.

But for now, Shouto told himself to settle with starting the mornings off with you. They were the best mornings he’s had in a while and he didn’t want to sound ungrateful. 

Today, however, went sour fast after he heard his father was coming up to the top floor for a meeting with him. He didn’t find the idea of Enji visiting to be the most abhorrent thing, but the moment his father opened his mouth, Shouto quickly took that back. 

As expected, his father reminded him about the annual charity gala Todoroki Enterprises was expected to attend. Handfuls of galas ran through the year, but the once hosted by Naruhata Industries under the guise of raising money and awareness for the charities of choice.

In theory, a charity gala ball sounded humanitarian and a way for the upper class to give back, but in reality, most of the funds collected didn’t go to the actual charities, instead they went to paying for the venue, live bands, entertainment, the most expensive catering, decorations, and more. What presented itself as a charitable event in the eyes of the public was really a way rich people could flaunt their wealth and feel good about themselves for doing absolutely nothing to benefit society. A way for the rich to suck their own dicks, if you would. 

Shouto absolutely hated it. 

It was also a press opportunity and, in his father’s eyes, a way to gain public favor for the Todoroki business. Today, Enji attempted to tell him that bringing a date that fit the mold of high society was the best way for him to establish rapport through media coverage. Apparently, the image news outlets have placed on Shouto were either a heartbreaker and playboy with no care for other’s emotions, or a monotonous stoic who seemed like a robot with no care for other’s emotions.

In either cases, there seemed to be a theme of Shouto not caring for others. 

He sighed. 

“You can’t keep that image, Shouto,” said Enji with his arms folded across his chest. “If the media sees you with someone—a nice girl with a good upbringing—then your likeability will increase tenfold. If there’s no one you like, I’ll have to set up a date for you.”

For a while, he was torn between telling his dad to fuck off and trying to do as he said to keep peace within the family. But then, an image of you popped into his head.

“Actually, there is someone I like.” 

Enji narrowed his eyes. “Oh? An educated girl with wealthy parents?”

“There’s someone I like,” he simply repeated, the tone in his voice growing cold. 

He didn’t know anything about your upbringing or family nor did he exactly care. Shouto didn’t want to bring a date to the dumb gala, but if he had to, he would want it to be you. Only if you agreed, of course. But if you weren’t willing, then he had to face the facts that his father would most likely force a date of his own choosing upon Shouto. 

“That’s good you like someone, son,” Enji said through his teeth, “but we have to make sure it’s not some sort of...loose woman. That’d be even worse publicity—”

“I like someone and if you really cared about my happiness like you said you did, that’d be enough.”

There was a tense silence in the air. Shouto didn’t have enough fingers to count the number of times Enji had told him and his siblings that he would try to be a better dad. A caring dad who only wanted what was best for his children. A better husband for Rei. A better example for the public. The first few times, Shouto believed it. But Enji said the same things over and over again with no lasting change and Shouto was just fed up. 

After hearing the same lie told to him over and over again, it seemed to lose its weight. He seemed to lose his hope in his father ever changing.

Still, Shouto had to deal with him for as long as he lived. That much he knew as a son living in this society. 

But he hoped Enji at least had enough guilt to let him have this.

“Fine.”

Shouto blinked in surprise. 

Enji stated, “If you think your date can help your public image and not be a complete embarrassment to the business, you can bring them.”

That was the closest thing to approval Shouto would get today. He nodded and listened along to whatever else his father had to say, the only thing actually on his mind was thinking about how he would ask you out on a date to some stuffy gala. And hope that you’d say yes.

— ✩ —

“Wait, so, let me get this straight— You’re the CEO of Todoroki Enterprises and even after almost two months of knowing you, I had no clue?”

He inclined his head, looking solemn. “Yes, I’m sorry. Are you upset with me for not telling you sooner?” 

Initial shock aside, you couldn’t say that you were too surprised at the revelation. You knew Shouto was wealthy and probably in some high-up position in the business industry, but you never knew to what extent. A CEO? That had to be the highest rank in a company! And a company as well known as Todoroki Enterprises? 

The thought made you a little nervous. The guy you slowly befriended over the course of short cafe visits and silly texts was Mr. Todoroki? Or worse— The guy you stole away from doing work for a whole weekend was someone as busy as a CEO? You internally groaned. That had to be against laws of the universe or something. 

“I’m not upset, no,” you said with a shake of your head. “I just...can’t believe it I guess.” Eyes widening, you were quick to amend your words. “Well, I can believe it. You seem very intelligent and well-put together and, uh, rich! But I guess I just didn’t think a CEO would be so funny and kind.” You winced. “Oh no, is that mean to say?”

“I don’t think it’s mean.” He shrugged. “You’re right to say most people in this field aren’t known for their delightful temperaments.” 

You absentmindedly drummed your finger against your thigh, trying to process this new information. “So you’re Todoroki Shouto...and you want me to be your date to the Naruhata Charity Ball?” 

“Yeah. I know it’s a huge favor to ask, and I promise you can say no if you choose,” said Shouto in earnest. “I don’t want you to feel obligated to agree.” 

With a hum, you stretched your legs out under the table before crossing one over the other again. It was a Saturday afternoon where you had no work and Shouto managed to escape from his for a few hours of the day. You took him to your favorite ice cream place nearby and the two of you ate at a dining area outside the establishment. 

Just a mundane day as two friends hanging out with each other where you found out one of those friends was the chief executive officer of a billion dollar business headquartered in Japan. 

Totally normal, everyday occurrences, obviously. 

“And you need a date for this event?” you asked. In all honesty, you would be more than happy if Shouto asked you out on a date. He was fun and you enjoyed getting to know him. But these particular circumstances made you a tad bit more nervous.

“I normally wouldn’t need to bring one, but my father insists it’d help my public image and in turn the image of the company.” With a pinched look on his face, he took a bite of his ice cream. “In other words I bring a date or he picks one for me.” 

You weren’t the most caught up on super rich people drama, but it was almost infamous how estranged the Todoroki family was. Again, you didn’t know much but you did know enough to say that Todoroki Enji seemed like a Class A asshole. If you could help Shouto out with his weird dilemma, you saw no reason not to. 

“So this charita gala is like where they have those live auctions and silent auctions and get tipsy on fancy wine and champagne for hours right?”

He tilted his head to the side. “Yeah. Have you attended one?” 

“Not quite,” you said with a sheepish smile. “I’ve volunteered at one in school though. As one of those runners? It was fun. I got a bunch of those tiny complimentary candies!” Your mouth watered at the memory. “What kind of drug were in those candies? I’ve never had candy so good before!”

“The tiny, circular candies with the excessively big wrapper? The fruity ones?”

You shot up in your seat, excited he knew what you were talking about. “Yes! That’s the one!” 

The corners of his mouth quirked upwards. “I always see those at these types of events.”

“So… The candy will be there at the gala you want me to accompany you to?” 

“Most likely.”

“Can I take a bunch of those from candies there…?” you asked with an optimistic grin.

“I’ll be your accomplice in sneaking them out.”

“It’s a date!” you said before Shouto could get another word out. 

You’d be reunited with those yummy, fancy candies you’ve been separated from for far too long. What other reason did you need to agree? 

With a determined look on your face, you held your hand out for Shouto to shake to seal the deal. 

He blinked. “Wait. Did you want to discuss it some more? Maybe have a few days to think it through? I’m grateful, of course, but I don’t want you regretting anything.”

“No. I won’t regret it. I’d do anything to taste those candies again.”

Shouto looked unsure what to say. “Isn’t there some parable warning people not to be bribed by candy?”

“Not to take candy from a baby?”

“No. Not that one.”

“That’s the only one I know.”

“Never mind then.” 

The two of you exchanged confused looks before letting out fits of laughter. You weren’t sure if either of you knew exactly what the other was laughing at, but the moment was an enjoyable one nonetheless. 

“Yet another reason to bring me to that fancy event— I’ll make sure you’re entertained all the way through,” you playfully bragged, smoothing down the front of your shirt. 

“The event will definitely be more bearable with you there.” He licked a small bit of his ice cream from his pink spoon, making a sound of approval. “But you can change your mind about coming at any time, Y/N.”

“I won’t,” you said, holding a pinky out. “Pinky promise.”

With what seemed like a bashful expression on his face, Shouto extended his own pinky to interlock yours. You sealed it with a kiss and a heart, like you were a kid again. 

“Now, am I supposed to be in love with you at the gala?” you asked nonchalantly, finishing off your last bite of ice cream. He offered you a spoonful of his and you tried not to grow too flustered at Shouto feeding you his dessert. You murmured a quiet, “Thanks.”

He gave you a small smile. “You’re welcome. As for being in love… I don’t think that’s necessary. Just pretend you like being around me, I think.”

Under the table, you nudged his shoe with yours, pulling a face. “I don’t have to pretend about that, silly.” 

“Ah, well,” he paused, offering you another spoonful of ice cream, “I don’t either.”

“I’m glad.” Then, “Is this strawberry? I was never a big strawberry ice cream fan but for some reason this tastes so good.” 

You ignored the nagging voice in your head that said maybe it wasn’t so much the ice cream flavor but who you were enjoying it with. 

The two of you finished his dessert in peace and after cleaning up the area with a napkin, Shouto turned to you with an intent look on his face.

“Before the gala, would you mind if I talk you shopping so you could pick out what to wear?” he asked. “I would pay of course— It’s the least I could do to say thank you.”

You shook your head. “You don’t have to thank me! You’re my friend and I want to help.” You thought about it for a moment. “And get the candy.”

“Anything for the candy.”

“Exactly,” you said in complete seriousness. “But I wouldn’t mind going shopping with you. You could help me decide what to wear! I’m not exactly sure how to dress for an event as fancy as this.”

“You could wear anything to the event and still look amazing.” His words were ones of flattery but his tone sounded completely genuine. 

Heat rose to your cheeks at the compliment. “Look who’s talking— You’re practically runway ready no matter what time of day.”

“I’ve never walked a runway before.”

You stifled a laugh at his literal interpretation of your words. Cute. “Me neither.”

He looked confused at why you were grinning, but it still brought a smile to his own lips.

By now the sun had begun to set and Shouto was walking you to the train to see you off before you went home.

“Can I pick you up next weekend in the morning?” he said. “So we can get your outfit for the gala?”

“Sure! I’ll text you my address.” 

He nodded in contentment. “And again, you don’t have to worry about any costs.”

“Is this why my friends have called you a sugar daddy?” you teased, bumping your shoulder against his as you walked down the street, side-by-side. “But thank you. Shopping will be fun— We can even match colors!” 

“Mn.” He looked between the both of you, as if trying to picture what colors would complement each other. 

You crossed the sidewalk in a comfortable silence, enjoying the scenery by Shouto’s side. A few times, you even felt his knuckles brush against yours and you had the undeniable urge to hold his hand. Would that be weird? you asked yourself before deciding against it. 

Just because he asked you to be his date for the Naruhata Charity Ball didn’t mean he actually liked you, right? It was just a favor from a friend to a friend.

Something about that though made your stomach unsettled. Maybe part of you wanted it to be a real date— Wanted this to be a real date. 

“So I won’t be seeing you tomorrow,” you said after a moment’s silence, trying not to look too dejected. 

You knew he’d still text good morning and good night and ask you random things throughout the day (all of which you found really endearing, by the way), but it was still different from seeing him in person. Even though your time together in the morning was small, they still were enough to make your day. The thought of your waking hours being so entwined made you nervous, but for some reason it didn’t bother you as much as you thought it would. In fact, it was sort of...nice. 

“I’ll see you Monday morning, right?” you asked hopefully, though you were already fairly certain of the answer.

Shouto nodded. “Of course. It’s already marked on my calendar.”

“Ever the flatterer, hmm?” 

“Not flattery, just the truth.” He pulled his phone out and showed you his (rather packed) calendar app. To your surprise, a little reminder that said ‘See Y/N :)’ was marked on his Monday schedule. 

Unable to stop the beam from spreading across your lips, you hid your face in your hands. Gosh— Did he have to be so cute? He was making it harder and harder to only like him as a friend. And even now, you weren’t sure if you liked him only as a friend.

But you pushed those thoughts away.

That was something to deal with at a later time.

When you reached the train station you normally took home, you turned to Shouto, giving him a big hug. He was tall and warm. You could feel his lean muscles through his button-down shirt as you rested your head against his chest and arms around his waist. 

“Thanks for today,” you mumbled. “I’ll see you again soon.”

After a pause, he gave you a hug back, hands rubbing hesitant circles on your back in a way that made you smile. “Text me when you get home safe,” he said as you both reluctantly released each other from an embrace.

“I will,” you promised. “You do the same! Later, Shouto!” 

And with that, you waved goodbye and boarded the train, unable to shake the unwavering grin on your face all the way home.

a/n: when shouto started feeding y/n spoonfuls of his ice cream i cried (Ｔ▽Ｔ) that’s so cUTE OF HIM LIKE PLS SIR STOP BEFORE I FALL MORE IN LOVE WITH U !! >:O he’s such a sweetheart ahhhh,, i hope all the fluff made up for the brief appearance of endeavor ಠ╭╮ಠ  FHDJKF 

what to expect in the next part:

shopping for the gala time !! 

y/n struggles with their fEeLiNGs~ part 2

oh my, y/n has to try on dresses? oh my, it’d be a shame if they needed help putting it on :o *fake gasp* 

yeah things get just a lil steamy but shh

[slashbitch2]

Extra Complications

never expected to be crushing on an animated character but here we are

Next Chapter

It was sneaky. Perhaps cheating by some standards. But from your perspective, it was a damn good plan.

Ironically you'd seen the advertisement for the Alchemax internship right after being flung into a wall by the very same woman who'd likely approved the broadcast. Olivia Octavius, or Doc Ock as you ought to refer to her in costume. Though she'd given you little time to read up on 'how to apply', as moments later a car was thrown in your direction, which was very inconsiderate of her, but was also all the persuasion you needed.

At this point, you'd be willing to do anything if it contributed to thwarting her, surely, very evil plan. Of course you admired the woman for her general genius and eccentricity, but the constant unprovoked conflict was becoming tiresome. It felt as if she were trying to determine how much of a threat you posed, whereas, you liked to think your legacy as 'that Spider-Person who sometimes saves the day' was all the evidence necessary.

Honestly, you weren't certain as to what exactly her, no doubt, villainous plan entailed besides patrolling the streets in green swimming goggles and black spandex with ridiculous plastic tubes jutting out of her back. In fact, it was ridiculous that no one had made any attempt to stop her yet. Unlike your identity, kept secret by a more modest spandex suit, hers was public knowledge.

Sometimes, it seemed as though you were the enemy here.

Which is precisely why infiltrating her team of scientists was more than appropriate. You were about to single handily take down an international threat, one hidden in plain sight, but left untouched due to the company's vast money, leverage and prestige.

Someday the city would thank you for your many sacrifices. Specifically for voluntarily working another job without pay. Y/N Y/L/N, broke intern by day, friendly neighbourhood Spider-Person by night.

"Excuse me?" A voice called from the left, your vision of them obstructed by an inconveniently placed potted plant. "Are you the new intern?" The person stepped closer, briefly glancing up at you, then back down at a sheet of paper. "Y/N Y/L/N?" The woman's timid appearance hardly screamed villainous scientist, but then again, looks can be deceiving.

"Yes, that's me." You stood, reaching out to shake her hand.

She sighed in relief, shaking your hand a tad too enthusiastically. "Lovely to meet you. I'm Marie and I'll be getting you settled in for the first few days."

A spark of disappointment flashed across your mind. Olivia hadn't been there for your interview, nor had any sway in your hiring, and now she wasn't even the person greeting you on your first day. Although you had no right to be, you felt rather offended by the lack of challenge she was providing. It was almost too easy.

---

To be fair, Marie was the perfect candidate to give you a tour of the facility. She was kind and patient, but not condescending. She seldom spoke beyond what was required of her, unless you asked something work related, when her lengthy response would affirm her status as an epicure of scientific knowledge. By midday, you'd decided she was someone to befriend, and subsequently accepted her invitation to have lunch together.

You were also hoping that the team would eat lunch as a group, but alas, more disappointment. Instead, you spent the break sitting in an awkward silence with Marie, who seemed to loose basic communication skills when presented with food. In spite of her lack of engagement, you still took the opportunity to try and ascertain information about the project you'd be working on, though each time she expertly diverted the interrogation, or ignored your question entirely.

Who knew working for an evil, secretive corporation would be so boring?

It was a test of patience to be sitting in the same building as Olivia Octavius, while forced to shadow an incredibly kind, but slow eating woman. Realistically, you knew there'd be plenty of time to investigate, though you were reluctant to end the day without any progress. So, while Marie was still distracted by her lunch, you excused yourself to go to the bathroom.

She dismissively approved with a wave of her hand, allowing you to slip away from the dining hall. You vaguely remembered the location of Olivia's office as being on the top floor, indicated by Marie's imprecise pointing. She'd explained that very few had clearance to get in, but you'd already thought of a way to get passed the security.

Who aside from the highest ranking scientists had access to every room? Janitors, of course. Because, for some reason, cleanliness was more important than security.

It didn't take long to locate a cleaner, or much effort to pickpocket the security card. To be on the safe side, you even had an excuse ready: that the man had dropped it, that you were simply looking for him to return it. And if Olivia caught you in her office, well, she wouldn't (Spider-Senses and all). Again, it was almost too easy.

There was a minatory silence as you walked along the final corridor toward her office. Part of you felt as though this was some kind of elaborate trap, the repeated phrase 'too easy' coming to mind as you reached the door. Though the logical part of you must've known this was a fatuous suggestion, and took control.

With a final pause to confirm nobody was approaching, or was already waiting inside, you scanned the key card. The action was rewarded with a satisfactory beep, followed by the door sliding open so fast it appeared to have vanished.

The office was smaller than you anticipated. Or maybe it was the bareness of the room that caught you off guard. The woman was insane, yet her work area hardly reflected her deranged mental state. Everything was so perfectly neat that you began to wonder if you'd actually walked onto a movie set, or a photoshoot, which would've explained the strange ring lights hanging from the ceiling.

Upon reaching the centre of the room, you were struck by the realisation that you truthfully had no reason to be here. Even if the office had been as messy as you'd expected, it was unlikely that she'd leave her super evil plans lying around. Rather, It'd been some morbid curiosity that had lured you here. To see where The Doc Ock worked, where the alter ego was likely created. The reality was underwhelming to say the least.

Deciding that you'd spent enough time admiring an incredibly bland office, you exited back out into the empty corridor, nonchalantly throwing the security card behind you, certain someone would eventually return it. Then, as if right on cue, you sensed somebody approaching, soon followed by footsteps resonating from around the corner. With no way of avoiding them, you kept your head down with the intention of blending in.

Olivia Octavius rounded the corner, not sparing a glance up. She was frowning at a piece of paper, her full attention directed to it, blissfully unaware of your presence.

Instinctively, your entire body tensed at the sight of her lithe frame and mass of hair spilling out of its messy bun. Any other circumstance and you'd have fled by now, through a vent, out of the window, it didn't matter. Though you had to remind yourself that there was no reason to be afraid now. There was no possible way she could know your identity.

Nonetheless, as you passed her with less than a metre of space, you held your breath. She said nothing and you both kept walking in opposite directions.

It seemed the coast was clear. You released the breath you'd been holding and kept moving until. "Hey, wait a minute."

You froze, aching to ignore her and escape. Her voice was deep, more so than you were prepared for. While fighting, few words were exchanged, and even then they were unintelligible. Although, now was the worst time to be thinking about previous interactions, so with much difficulty, you cleared your mind. As far as anyone knew, including yourself, you were just the intern.

You ran a hand through your hair nervously, straightening out your lab coat and turning to face her. She was stood at the far end of the long white corridor, entirely unthreatening when compared to Doc Ock, who would've loomed over you menacingly.

Remembering the role you were meant to be playing, you choked out a response. "How can I be of assistance?"

"You're the new intern, right?"

"Yeah." You considered approaching to shake her hand, but the idea of awkwardly marching the length of the corridor to greet her was rather unappealing. "That's me." You settled for a polite smile and shoulder shrug instead.

She screwed up her face in consideration before crooking a finger. "Come with me."

Swallowing any concern, you nodded hesitantly. The prospect of returning to the office you'd broken into only moments ago had you dragging your feet.

She waited patiently until you were by her side to continue. "Don't worry." She scanned her key card. "I don't bite." Her tone was playful, her eyes kindly mocking.

"Good to know." You muttered, following her inside. You took a second to look around the room with mock curiosity, feeling her eyes trace your every move. Like a predator, eyeing up its prey, determining your weaknesses. Unlike the encounters with Doc Ock, it was uncertain who had the high ground here. Her gaze was putting you on edge, not dissimilar to how your character of 'the intern' would react.

"So..." She shuffled some papers around on the desk, finding what looked to be your application. "Ms. Y/L/N right?"

You confirmed with a nod, summoning the resolve to amble toward her desk.

"Take a seat." She gestured to the chair opposite, letting you sit before proceeding. "Tell me about yourself, Y/N."

You started to think of an adequate answer, but she interrupted a second later, contradicting her initial inquiry. "Are you okay with me calling you Y/N?" She leant her head on a closed fist, narrowing her eyes.

Although the question sounded considerate, you didn't feel the implied sincerity. Even if you wanted to say no, that didn't feel like a suitable response. "Sure."

Somehow, it felt like she was establishing dominance through the polite act, and combined with being under her scrutinising glare, the performance was working.

"Great." Suddenly, she leant back in her chair, all evidence of the hostile act disappearing instantaneously.

"What'd you want to know?" Mirroring her relaxed posture, you attempted to re-establish some control.

"Oh, anything." A flicker of something passed in her eyes, piqued interest possibly?

You began routinely rattling off some basic facts about yourself, nothing too specific or personal. Facts that would answer any follow up questions she might have, and yet said nothing about you. Surprisingly, she seemed hooked on your every word. The thought crossed your mind that this might be the real interview, that everything else up to this point had been a sham. But you settled on a more unsettling justification. That she was committing everything you said to memory.

Coming to the end of the informative monologue, you decided to take a risk. "Do I get to ask a question?" You raised an eyebrow challengingly.

"Inquisitive. I like that." She stated, folding her arms on the desk. "Go ahead."

You decided to see how far you could push your luck. "Tell me about yourself." You smugly repeated her vague first query. It was the Doctor's turn to come up with an answer to the ambiguous demand.

She scoffed, realising your plan to make her struggle. "Touché. But I'm rather busy, so how about you pick a more specific question."

Narrowing it down, there was only one thing you wanted to ask. "Can I see the-" You waved your arms around, imitating tentacles. "the suit?"

She chuckled, slowly standing. Judging from her lack of surprise, this was likely a request she'd heard many times.

First, she removed her glasses. Then slipped out of her lab coat. Next to go was the shirt, which she pulled over her head while maintaining eye contact. You wanted to look away, out of respect, yet you didn't. Without the shirt, you noticed she was already wearing the suit underneath and had the harness strapped to her back, confirming your suspicion that she always had access to the weapon. As she was stepping out of her trousers, the arms (tentacles?) inflated, and within moments were threateningly extending to their full potential.

She smiled proudly, enjoying your stunned expression. "As good as you expected?"

"Better." Unable to resist any longer, you stood to investigate the suit in further detail. You'd never seen it stationary, or had the opportunity to try and gauge the details of how it worked. Although you argued this would be beneficial for your next fight, in reality you just wanted to admire the contraption. You circled round, marvelling at the simplicity of the design. It was convenient, yet elegant. "It's beautiful."

Coming to a stop in front of Olivia, she had an unreadable expression. A mix of emotions, most prominently confusion. To your delight, a faint blush coloured her cheeks. Whatever unspoken game you'd been playing, you were winning, or were until she said. "How'd you like to intern for me?"

You quickly recovered. "I already do."

"No." She sighed. "I mean personally. As my assistant? You'd get your own desk, an almost guaranteed job at the end of it and so much more experience than you'd bargained for." She leant forward, a little too close for comfort. There was an unhinged look in her eyes more reminiscent of Doc Ock that both convinced and deterred you. "So what'd you say?"

She genuinely wanted you to work with her.

This hadn't been part of the plan. You'd expected to spend no longer than a few months working at Alchemax. To uncover their evil scheme, figure out how to stop it and hopefully take down the company. An optimistic plan, sure, but one you'd been assured you'd stick to. Although, the opportunity to work closely with Olivia Octavian, with the Doc Ock, was too good to pass on. Not to mention, infinitely more interesting.

You grinned, embracing the insanity that your answer would incur. "I'd love to."

She clapped her hands together. "Great!" Then offered her hand for you to shake formally. "I'll sort out the paperwork and details this evening, but right now if you'll excuse me, I have business to attend to."

She left before you had the chance to say anything else, still in her suit, which left you confused for the following half hour. You finally understood upon catching a glimpse of a news alert on your phone.

Doc Ock Seizes Bank, Has Taken Hostages!

You sighed. Today was going to be a long day, and things were only going to get more complicated.

[infinitefluffderg]

Jesse’s 2022 Game Review

PHowdy folks! With another year on the verge of collapse and the circus tent to be propped up a-new with a new coat of paint, it’s time to talk briefly about videos game. In the past, I made a list of my top 10 favorite games, diluted into my infamous prose heavy stylings. Not this year. Though you cannot force me away with many bars of corvid ownership from the act of getting flowery with dialogue, I’ll at least attempt terseness. Key word: attempt. Also, 5. 5′s a nice number and it’s less painful to write for.

As a quick reminder to all unfamiliar with my reviewing style: these are games that I’ve played this year that have left the largest impact on me. They aren’t games that came out this year (usually) and they aren’t games I played a lot of this year (though if they were, then DRG would be number 1). Usually I favor uniqueness and innovation over most other factors. Every game on this list is a banger and a half and gets my highest recommendation. With that squared away, let us begin.

Runners Up:

There were a LOT of great games that I played and honestly it becomes very difficult to rank games when all of them are just so damn good. So here’s a list of games in no particular order that really blew me away this year, but not enough to make the top 5.

Tropico 6

Satisfactory

Potionomics

Fight Knight

Disco Elysium

Dead Cells

The Forgotten City

5. Grounded

I play games with my boyfriend a lot. Usually, every day, if possible, we’ll sink a couple hours into our favorite multiplayer experiences. So I usually try to find us new experiences to enjoy to go alongside favorite staples. Grounded as a “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” survival sim oozing with style and at high recommendation from others, was one I knew would be a hit even before we played it. And then we played it. Well, he played it a lot more than I did, but, I still helped out a lot.

Truthfully, Grounded is as much an RPG as a Survival Sim as you gradually update and upgrade your gear to deal with increasing challenge in this tiny world. The combat system is robust, there’s always a new unique challenge ahead of you, and the bugs are as adorable as they are horrifying. I could sleep with the little noises Ladybugs make in this game. If someone has exported all the bug sounds from this game, hit me up.

4. Super Animal Royale

Like I said in the last game choice, my boyfriend and I play together a lot, so we look for fun multiplayer experiences. SAR was his choice, and one he picked up because free is always welcome. And yeah, SAR knocks it out of the park. Not only is the gameplay well balanced and a thrill to fight online in, but it also manages to create one of the rare Free To Play experiences where you really want to pay the devs money just to support their game.

Nothing gameplay-wise is locked behind a fee, everything you would spend real money on is cosmetic. Plus, if you did like cosmetics, it’s super easy to get enough premium currency by playing the game to afford one of their battlepasses. These passes don’t expire too! You can always go back and level older passes if cosmetics in one season stood out more than other ones. If you’re interested in a cute animal top down and haven’t given SAR a try yet, there’s really no better time than now.

3. Ultrakill

I listen to Ultrakill’s OST on and off when I need something higher energy while I work on complicated projects. Similarly, Ultrakill is the most stylish FPS with Quake graphics I’ve played/witnessed. It runs off rule of cool similarly to its direct inspiration - Devil May Cry. And it all plays so damn smooooooooth.

My boyfriend (don’t tire of me talking about him, we do games together A LOT) is considerably better at this game than I am and I feel like I judge some of my opinions over how much he plays a game. At writing, he has P ranked the entire game on all difficulties, and Cyber Grinds (endless mode) for the fun of it. He’s gotten to Wave 25 I think? I’ll need to check with him again sometime. Anyways, he’ll show me how P-2 looks since his ability is on a whole other level.

2. Yakuza 0

I finally dipped my toes into Yakuza this year and HOOOOOOLY SHIT I was unprepared for what would be a hell of an experience. As someone who has played through Kiwami and about a third of Kiami 2 (remakes of the first and second games), 0 is the absolute best way to hook someone on the series. As the title suggests, it’s a prologue introducing the back stories for the two main runners of Kiryu’s ongoing quest to be a positive influence in the lives of orphans and others. And live. An amazing soap opera thriller crime drama that hits incredible heights constantly throughout its running, silly grade-A side stories, a solid difficulty curve, and much much more.

And by starting with 0, you get the amazing build up to go with it. 0′s incredible story helps temper the lows of the Kiwami remake (which is still a good game, don’t get me wrong) so that you can bounce back into the amazing engine update utilized for Kiwami 2. It’s just a good-ass game people.

1. Super Mario Odyssey

If you told me last year that this was going to be my number one game, I’d call you crazy. As someone who doesn’t easily fall in love with AAA games, preferring indie titles, the idea that Super Mario Odyssey would be such a must-play would have been completely dismissed. But no, over so many many other games I played this year, Super Mario Odyssey is the clear superior. SMO runs on high moments, everything has been so well planned out and the world is big without being overwhelming. This. This felt like the natural evolution of what Mario 64 was. And if you’ve been noting how much I’ve gushed over this year for the last month, then it should come to no surprise that it’s here at the top of my list. Everything was planned and perfected with such clear purpose it’s perplexing.

When this game came out alongside A Hat in Time, I felt that Hat would be superior because it controlled in a way that I wished Mario did. With mid-air dive cancels, a really really fun world to explore, a funny story with great characters. It was only this year, three years later, that I found that Odyssey not only did all that, it did it better. (Well, the writing of Hat is better, but...)

Anyways, if you are interested in a Switch, Odyssey is worth getting a Switch for. Though, admittedly, more if you’re the kind of person who adores adventurous open worlds in a collect-a-thon platform setting.

This is what AAA gaming should be. Anything else pales.