#real darkest dungeon game experience

[mrsdaqota]

I get used to play DD1 and some mods for like a YEAR and battles by battles, I must say that I really love their interactions. Hellion and Man at arms are like true battle brother and sister 😤💪💪

[aristotels]

Thinking about art and fiction and concepts of ownership and honestly it's kinda fucked that collaborative and transformative storytelling is literally as old as time and one of the most basic human instincts that exists, but the only good word it we have right now is "fanfiction"

and when you tell people you write fanfiction they think you're some kind of cringe weirdo and possibly pervert and then the whole thing gets derailed by this bizarre side discussion into how "No it's not all porn, it's absolutely everything and anything imaginable, duh, but like, even if it were all porn, that would also be okay". Like I'm all for pointing out the double standards about how published authors who put sex into their stories don't lose any respectability (especially if they're men, and especially if the sex is cishet), but the second I, a fanfiction person, add a romantic arc into my plotty casefic suddenly I'm a fujoshi with shipper brainrot etc etc-

But it's tiring that this is even a focal point

My favourite funny and sad thing is watching people (usually dudes) who clearly either view themselves as above fanfiction or have simply never ever thought of themselves as "the type" to do creative writing discover The Fanfiction Urge, because the way they express it is like. An increasingly passionate and detailed video essay about how Movie should have gone instead, or, my favourite, a story about something cool that happened to them in XCOM or Darkest Dungeon or some other Difficult Game For Serious Gamers and by the end of the post they're legitimately just writing prose. Like look at this! LOOK! Damn if this person didn't speedrun the gamerbro-to-AO3 pipeline just for a sec. And not that there's anything wrong with those formats but it makes you wonder if that's something they'd be interested in exploring more if their wings got unclipped

Or DnD. Small wonder that TTRPGs are becoming so popular when they're one of the few increasingly non-cringe ways to do the extremely basic human urge of Tell Story Collaboratively

A friend of mine had this to say recently about his own struggles with this kind of internal bias:

i'd like to try out Thousand-Year-Old Vampire (a solo role-playing game with minimal rules to make you write your own narrative) and my toxic masculinity is getting in the way. discouraging thoughts include: i'm not creative enough; creative writing is for Floofy Humanities types and i am a Cold STEM type; it's not a real game unless it has Systems that you can Study and Master. would anyone like to say something encouraging?

and honestly that's incredibly illuminating innit isn't it. The splitting off of creative activity (not just fanfiction, either) into something only for Floofy Humanities Types but not Serious People and the way it's linked to whether or not you can make money off it... oof.

This became a long post thank you for your patience

ngl i just dont rly care that much for fandoms... i like fanfic, i read it and write it, but i dont rly see fandom as my identity or smth i particularly care about, to me all of it is just the same as me playing with barbie dolls.

i dont think its something special that can be compared to actual literature and i think there are certain problems w booktok people relying on tropes that come from fanfic mentality. its just not the same, and i do wish people who like fanfic would sometimes also read.......some actual books sometimes

i just generally dont see what youre describing as some huge thing or problem, i think anti-kink ppl doxxing artists is the major worrisome thing when it comes to fandoms, but i think the doxxers also take the whole fandom experience too seriously

and i say this as someone who also writes fanfic, so like, it rly isnt me going "fanfic authors/readers are stupid", i find fanfic super cool to explore yourself, fanart taught me sooo much as an artist, i even enjoy roleplaying; all of this serves a very real purpose of exploring things as a human in realms of fiction, and pre-existing characters make that easier. i think that can be very useful, we learn about ourselves through books and stories. i just think fandom should be treated the way it is - playtime with toys ✌️

[lowqualitygarbage]

I said I would do it and I did! now to list how I thibk the map would go...

1.Vault City(Might have to remake that bit, gears are hard man) An cluster of different vaults, fomr 666 to vault 91316(clerical error), Mostly keep to themsleves, too barriekaced for the Jesus freaks to attack. 2.Pentagram City nuclear power plant. A swampy, and Highly Radioactive place, the cause of all these gamama storms. Is also the base of the local super mutants, who make a living by making and selling Fusion cores and Other Power supplies.

3.The Hazbin hotel The top part of pentgram city got blown away a long time ago, with the rubble now holding host to rock Lichen and Deer, but their still stands one building, a grand hotel... that was abodnoned pre war. But hey, free real estate is hard to come by, so you take what you can get.

4.The overgrown. The site of one to many people playing with Gecks, FEV, and wepaon testing, this fast growning forest of Sun flowers, corn and beans. Place is mostly used for both food and weapon testing.

5.Cannible town The old town of the city, now taken over by the ghoul rosie. They provide most of the cloth and leather in the Area, but also work as a dispole for corpses.

6.Factories Carmilla Carbine. War never changes, and someone has to meet the demands. Family owned, run and operated since 2011.

7. Vee's Company All manner of diversion and dalliance await those who cross the threshold with coin in hand, god I love the darkest dungeon.

8.Heavens landing zone. The jesus Freaks main outpost for the place. Mostly used to park their Airships. 9.The old Quarry No longer used,it's much easier to harvest the cars and ruined buildings, but their are rumors of something lurking down thier

10.The old camping area Still used form time to time, mostly for lumber, but also a Romantic get away spot. Remember to not feed the yao guai.

11.The old woods. As far as most will go, but some still go is to find some better game. Usally get picked off by the people living their.

!!! HOLY SHIT!

Oh my god, this is fantastic! I love the thought you've put into it! You've even put in radial areas for exploring, and plot hooks, and little bits of world building!

The other vaults in the area are loosely based on some of the other Rings of Hell, with their Sins as the current overseers. The experiments in the vaults shaped their social structures similar to the Rings we see in Helluva Boss. The wrath-equivalent would have limited resources and dwellers had to win their rights to rations, greed had a social system enforced that encouraged stockpiling and extortion, etc. I don't have numbers or much beyond bare bones for them, since I've been focusing on the Hazbin crew.

Heaven having a dedicated landing zone could be enforced by drone/turret placements, or it could be that it's easier for Wastelanders to let them keep that space clear since at least that way they know where the staging grounds are and can monitor/avoid it.

[mailperson]

Okay I’ve gotten far enough into darkest dungeon 2 to give an evaluated appraisal.

The Good:

-The 3D models are more expressive than screenshots would make you think. Enemy variety is also broader.

-Small quality of life features the first game lacked. The ability to see turn order and look up what terms and symbols mean is a good addition.

-The routes are surprisingly interesting to look at and the soundtrack remains as decent as the first game in some ways.

-Combat has more depth to it by a big margin, and on that note relationships are a fantastic way to explore combat roles that can vary by runs.

-A run through a route will nearly always be more varied than standard quests in the first game.

The Bad

-What constitutes a run is extremely confusing at the beginning. It is deeply unclear what the main game consists of and what counts as being in a run vs. between them until you’ve done two to three routes.

-Healing is arbitrarily limited by thresholds and cooldowns to where inevitably most runs just wind up being a balancing act of barely if at all keeping heroes off death’s door until you hit the inn. Healing as the stagecoach travels is a half-baked mechanic that I feel just shouldn’t exist at all in favor of freer use healing moves.

-The inability to flee from fights or abandon quests until reaching the inn does nothing for the game. There is no real benefit to changing this, it’s just an irritating hurdle. Even the ability to abandon mid-route for a cost while maintaining hero memories is better than just losing the memories.

-This game is obsessed with being as convoluted as possible to obfuscate simple mechanics. There is no reason every single combat mechanic has to be represented by one of dozens of different yet often similar-looking icon symbols when words do just fine. If I have to pull up the tutorial glossary every five minutes then it’s not saving anyone time.

-Despite the mechanical additions being good there is, in general, WAY too much tutorializing. Rather than throw every single mechanic at the player from the start, mechanics should have gradually been introduced as fights and routes become more difficult and complex. Even despite the million and one tutorial windows, some tooltips and descriptions are still way too vague to grasp without prior experience.

-At times way more RNG dependent than the first game, absolutely to its detriment. Strategy goes out the window if you cannot reliably keep your party alive and within reasonable stress thresholds.

-Every single run having your heroes starting at what is functionally level zero feels awful. Hero move upgrades should’ve been a permanent feature at the altar of hope. On that note, some features at the altar of hope feel like such minor upgrades that they should’ve been relegated to upgrades purchased at the inn during a run.

-Hero backstory memories are a clumsy form of progression. In my opinion they should not be scenarios you can fail. Being a location that exists in the middle of routes rather than an altar of hope feature feels unpleasant too, too much of an oppurtunity to miss them.

Overall: Very mixed feelings on this game. I couldn’t confidently call it bad, and I do respect the clear intent to try something different and new compared to the first game. Overall it just feels a little clumsy and that some core foundations of the game aren’t strong enough to be core foundations.

[sarcosuchus]

— ✘ ❝ LOVE CONTORTS HER FLESH AND BONE. ❞

. . . SOLEIL ⋆ REWIND ⋆ HAZARD

. . . IT/HIM ⋆ 23 ⋆ WHITE SCANDI 🇳🇴

. . . EFFEMINATE TRANS SLUGTHING

— ✘ ❝ OPEN THE BLACK DOOR. ❞

Picture drawer, OC haver, video's gamer, music listener, and blinkie maker! Autistic, disabled, hypermobile ambulatory wheelchair user, and passionate about it. Elongated metameric creature. Bug enjoyer and hobby photographer. Putting you in a little jar with a stick in it as we speak.

— Please do not follow me if you’re under 18. You will be blocked.

✘ 🐺| my sweetheart | 10.24.2020 | 💞 ✘

‧₊˚✧ ✘ my art blog is LATEXWIFE!

‧₊˚✧ ✘ my OC blog is LEATHERREBEL!

‧₊˚✧ ✘ my art fight is LATEX!

‧₊˚✧ ✘ my twitter is SLUGFREAK!

‧₊˚✧ ✘ my deviantart is RADIOTROPHIC!

‧₊˚✧ ✘ my ko-fi is SARCOSUCHUS!

🕷 — I am autistic, disabled, and proud of being me! I was diagnosed with autism and dyscalculia in 2006. I've spent some time both in public school and special education, though I am now on full disability benefit and have been since I turned 18. Usually I occupy my time with games as well as various art forms.

🕷 — I'm comfortable sharing certain health issues, mainly Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos, CFS/ME, asthma, fibromyalgia, and Avoidant Personality Disorder. I'm on the OCD spectrum. I am very sensitive to sunlight, I need sunscreen & tinted glasses no matter the weather. I also have severe structural issues with my nose which I will be getting surgery for.

🕷 — I am bilingual and speak Norwegian (my first language) & English fluently. I understand Swedish and written Danish. Til de som snakker norsk; jeg bruker kun den/dens pronomen!

🕷 — While I don't make too many text posts, I do like talking, especially about my characters! I just tend to get very shy, and I struggle when it comes to direct messages. I love answering asks, though!

🕷 — I’d appreciate tagging the sound of recorders/flutophones, any and all mentions of vore (including jokes and implications), and negative school experiences or school-related abuse.

🕷 — I block proship, factkin, fash, transmed, anti-recovery, real person shipping, fatphobes, r-slur users, zionists, antiblack racists, etc. and other people I don’t want interacting with me. If none of these apply to you and you find yourself blocked, don’t worry; I enjoy curating my space online and I probably just saw something that annoyed me.

🕷 — I kin for a multitude of reasons. The core of my identity is Damian (the Flagellant) from Darkest Dungeon + DD2. Hai.

[audiofictionuk]

New Fiction Podcasts - 7th October

The Burger Files New Audio Drama! The world is full of bad burgers, from soggy lettuce to raw patties... and rock-hard buns. It’s terrifying, and it’s a crime. Yet, we've been both willing and unwitting victims of these Burger Crimes for too long. No more. It's time we fully open the Burger Files and embark on a relentless pursuit of truth, conducting a full-scale investigation into this gastronomic horror. 'The Burger Files by Wendy's UK' is more than a podcast; it's a revelation. Unearthing chilling, real-life bad burger stories from real people, it unveils the grim reality of burger horrors, akin to the darkest true crime tales. Make no mistake, burger crimes are genuine offenses... and we need some answers, justice must be served. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231002-01 RSS: https://www.omnycontent.com/d/playlist/2e9a850c-e6b9-48c2-afec-a8f8010f70f4/29afb338-f43b-46bd-a638-b07a00fef687/aecd22f5-3663-4ae5-9b67-b07a01026db2/podcast.rss

The Experience Corporation New Audio Drama! Delmont and Cameo travel across Three Cloud City in search of unique experiences. Whether it’s fulfilling birthday wishes, entering niche competitions, or undergoing an intimate company retreat, they always find a way to get the most out of the experience... even if they don't always get along. From the world of Readymade Utopia, a new kind of audio experience. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231002-02 RSS: https://media.rss.com/theexperiencecorporation/feed.xml

Graveyard Grim Radio New Audio Drama! Graveyard Grim Radio is an anthology of short horror stories, brought to life in sound. Narration, ambiance, sound effects, and music all come together to tell stories of eeriness, uncanniness, love, nostalgia, terror, and more. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231001-03 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/c46f605c/podcast/rss

Eerie New Audio Book! An 8-episode anthology audio series of original horror stories from some of the most exciting contemporary voices in horror, pulled from literature, film & TV. Hosted and produced by Anna Bogutskaya. Each story brings a different flavour of scary, from the haunting to the grotesque, to suit different sensibilities and fright thresholds. Every listener will find something that truly creeps them out. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231001-04 RSS: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/65080eca6588d80011d5d5b9

Nos vemos después New Audio Drama! A Martín le quedan pocas semanas de vida. Y su mejor amigo, Santiago, lo sabe. Quieren aprovechar el tiempo que les queda juntos... hasta que se les ocurre una mejor opción: organizar viajes al futuro, viajes que transformarán sus vidas para siempre. Nuevos amores, conflictos familiares, la muerte inevitable, cambio climático y cambios personales... Todo eso y mucho más está en juego en Nos vemos después, un pódcast de ciencia ficción y amistad creado por Jeremías Juárez. Protagonizado por José Ordoqui y Ezequiel Herbas. Producido en exclusiva por Studio Ochenta. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231002-03 RSS: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/nos-vemos-despues

Haunted Rural: The Barn New Audio Drama! In this personal-narrative-style horror podcast, Tamera Black recounts her experiences growing up in an old barn renovated into a house, and the strange experiences her family endured there. Haunted Rural presents: The Barn... a five-part miniseries horror podcast. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231001-05 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2254834.rss

Heart: The State Within New Audio RPG! Heart: The State Within is an actual play podcast presented by UniversiD&D. We play tabletop roleplaying games like Kult and Dungeons & Dragons. Join us for our first campaign, set in the completely isolated city of Heart. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20230929-05 RSS: https://feeds.captivate.fm/heart-the-state-within/

The Dinner Party Podcast New Audio Drama! The Dinner Party is the story of Chiyo and Hiro, two young Japanese Americans who meet and fall in love while incarcerated during WWII, only to learn that an even bigger test awaits once the war is over. Based on a true story, this five-episode podcast is a portrait of the love and resistance required to believe in an America that doesn’t believe in you. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20230925-10 RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/welcometothedinnerparty/feed.xml

Ein Viertel AutOHRin New Audio Book! Maria Poupart schreibt Geschichten und liest diese vor. Jeden zweiten Dienstag erscheint eine neue Folge. Viel Spaß beim Zuhören! https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20230925-11 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/e9601460/podcast/rss

Intergalaktiska Politikpodden New Audio Drama! Herr Kelyfos tar dig på ett politiskt äventyr genom galaxen och upplyser dig om konflikter som sker, långt, långt borta. Nytt avsnitt varje tisdag! https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20230919-04 RSS: https://media.rss.com/intergalaktiskapolitikpodden/feed.xml

Byte-Sized Stories with Cjax New Audio Book! I will deliver roughly 10 minute stories in my narration voice. Some stories may require 2 or 3 "byte" sized pieces. There will be a weekly vote on Cjax Vocals Facebook page to select the next weeks story. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20230828-04 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/e78d5288/podcast/rss

Winds of Change: The Podcast Show New Audio Drama! "Winds of Change: The Podcast Show" is a heartwarming and adventurous podcast that follows the journey of a group of friends who unexpectedly become radio hosts after a tornado strikes their small town in Tennessee. Forced to adapt to their new reality, they transform their community radio station into a beacon of hope, resilience, and connection for the people affected by the disaster. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20230928-02 RSS: https://www.spreaker.com/show/5966116/episodes/feed

Lord Serpent's Library New Audio Book! Lord Serpent, the greatest horror writer of all time, kidnaps people off the street and forces them to read his stories. If they do a good job, he might just let them leave his dungeon... Hear a new story every episode on this horror anthology podcast. Created by William Charles Brock. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231001-06 RSS: https://media.rss.com/lordserpentslibrary/feed.xml

1013 Podcast New Audio Book! A horror anthology from fangs and things among a pull at your heart strings.  Take a journey inside the the dark side of the imagination.   Or, is it just your stretch of your imagination? https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20230929-06 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2250434.rss

The Atomic Broadcasting Variety Hour New Audio RPG! The Atomic Broadcasting Network presents to you a different type of podcast. Channeling the Golden Age of variety radio the 1920's, we bring you a variety of shows ranging from Comedy to Horror. Be ready for just about anything during the Atomic Variety Hour! https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231003-01 RSS: https://feeds.castos.com/9q0mx

[themountaincrew]

Loathing and Hope I just finished Darkest Dungeon 2 and I cannot applaud loud enough! The reveal of the story was incredible, the last boss was unique, fun and a real struggle! But the ending... Oh, the ending spoke to my soul. We truly all make mountains of our mistakes and wrap ourselves in our failures, and yet the good in us can shine so damn bright. A darkest dungeon in all of us... And we can all ride to the top of our own mountains! And there is a world after the climb! Red Hook, thank you for speaking to my soul. I love your games, they are incredible and different and unique. A fantastic experience of slugging it out with adversity until one of us drops, stressful and cathartic. .. Also can I just say I was cheering like an insane person at the reveal of the Body of Work design. Each and every boss had me simultaneously lean forward and lean back in my seat! I will do the game justice eventually. For now, it’s midnight, I’ve spent 6 hours on that last run and doodle! XD Better art and more asks coming! ;D Now that I know the lore, we can really kick the blog’s story into gear!

[grellestie]

ive been playing a shit ton of darkest dungeon lately and here's my opinion on which black butler characters would be which class!!

darkest dungeon is really cool btw!! it kind of has the same elements of black butler (fucked up protag, supernatural creatures, mental health being explored in a neat way, and the running theme of everyone being the absolute worst besides like two or three people!). i really recommend it if you love sadistic video games with eldritch horrors!!

under da tag bc i dont shut up

ciel: ngl. he's the one that gets fucked over by the ancestor and has to build teams to kill eldritch horrors. which is what i thought at first

but...

after thinking, he should be houndmaster and instead of a dog, it's just sebastian, pouting. /j

sebastian: BUT SERIOUSLY- for sebby, i'd like to think maaaybe occultist? there really isn't any classes close to a demon so someone who can summon eldritch horrors to fight other eldritch horrors seems like it'd make sense.

mey rin: musketeer. obvi. she go pew pew!! and also has the WORST ACCURACY IN THE WORLD- (this is personal salt, let me live. been so close to having party wipes)

bard: honestly. highwayman. he has one(1) attack that could count as an explosive. also they kinda have the same haircut!! i think it fits also theres no real explosives in the base game sadly. UNLESS you wanna talk enemies- then there's brigand vvulf who blows things the fuck up because he can! i think that fits him too! kind of!! since brigand is kind of a massive asshole.

finny: OH GOD,,, i had a toughie with this one buuuut- im probably going to go with bounty hunter or leper because of finny's SHEER strength. he's just busted man and you can beat the entire game with leper sooooo yeah! the mean part of me wanted to say abomination but again, thats mean but it's extremely wild to me that they pretty much have the same Tragic Backstory of experimented on for the lols and now just have to deal with it. at least finny got the better end of the stick! poor abomination...

now the reapers! (in order of appearance)

grelle: hellion! she is the biggest girlboss in the game so ofc she'd fit grelle, come on now. the hellion class is extremely broken powerful and puts out an insane amount of damage! a part of me wants to argue grave robber but it doesn't have a lot of flashy and powerful moves- this is mainly considering grelle is the 3rd strongest character in the series iirc.

william: OH ANOTHER HARD ONE- but i think he'd fit being a shieldbreaker! it's a bit of a stretch but hear me out- it's mainly the weapon and it's capabilities that would make william fit the class the most!! also her defensive end seeing as william being pretty good at Not Getting His Shit Wrecked or at least as badly (book of circus is def something i needa rewatch)

undertaker: oh this bitch. i'm probably going to go with the prophet boss! the prophet defied the ancestor by speaking facts and wouldn't die no matter what the ancestor did, kind of like how taker is with the dispatch. also the fact they're both blind but hit like a fucking truck fits!!

ronald: my BOY! now HE'D be grave robber!! he's not really too strong and kinda squishy but can still be formidable if not taken seriously. also the mental image of him hitting an undead with a pickaxe to the face is funny to me-

eric: either highwayman or man-at-arms! both classes are good at taking out a lot of enemies at once and eric is pretty good at killing people <3

alan: OUGH another hard one- i think character wise (more than attack wise), he'd def fit the leper. the leper goes through it and so does alan yet they still kick ass and get the job done!

othello: this dummy! i think antiquarian would fit! antiquarians are support heroes 100% and then they hit like a truck...! a toy truck...! a toy truck that's a stuffie...! unless you get a hit off with "nervous stab" but it's not really all that worth it. OH and the move "protect me" that's pretty much the same as othello using grelle as a meat shield fits.

[elysian-noctuary]

As a gift to myself for landing a job after my transfer didn't go through... I got myself a new game and I'm enjoying it a lot (Inscryption)

But to make it about the gang here, here are some of the games the muses would enjoy

Inumaki

Highly competitive multiplayer games

Basically LoL... lets be real he'd be like diamond+

Straight up no lifing it, ranked everyday or nothing

Junpei

Probably stuff that can seem pretty light-hearted, but has some darker/deeper undertones

First thought might be Omori. No clue if its actually that way, but the little i know about it seems to be the case? I could be wrong though

Haibara

Its gotta be a lot of high energy or pretty chill games

Fall Guys with the bright atmosphere and light heartedness to it is just... vibes

Maybe even Animal Crossing and Nintendogs

Ino

I feel like he gives me Cyberpunk vibes

Whether it be the table top version or the video game

I'll tell you from experience, the TTRPG is fuckin lit

Adrian

A lot of puzzle games, ones that make you stop and think about your next move

Inscryption would be a vibe, but also Twelve Minutes

Darkest Dungeon as well

Not really a video game, but nerds unite with DnD

Masoko

I don't think she would really play many video games, BUT if she did...

Probably stuff like Dying Light, The Last of Us, Dead Nation, etc.

A lot of bullet hells and survival games

Kiyoki

Probably a mix of very cute/aesthetically pleasing games, and also the soul-wrenching story driven games

Animal Crossing is a give in, and so is Slime Rancher

But for soul wrenching... What Remains of Edith Finch... and maybe even Spiritfarer

Kumoshin

Big time fighting games

Smash Bros? Check. Street Fighter? Check

But also rage inducing souls-like games? Bloodborne (my beloved), Lies of P, Dark Souls, Elden Ring, etc

Benimaru

No video games. He's a simple man with a simple way of life

But if we're talking board games... Majong

Old man games tbh

[linuxgamenews]

Discover the Engaging Experience of Stories from the Outbreak

Stories from the Outbreak launches the turn-based roguelike zombie RPG game on Linux, Steam Deck, Mac, and Windows PC. Thanks to the skilled team at Coldwild Games for creating such an engaging experience. Available on Steam and Humble Store with 87% Very Positive reviews. Here is my explanation of Stories from the Outbreak, a fresh addition to the gaming scene that's gaining attention. Developed by Coldwild Games, the indie squad behind titles like Merchant of the Skies and Lazy Galaxy. This title is also a standout in their lineup on Linux and Steam Deck. It's 2020, and a bizarre disease has turned the world into disorder, with zombies on a rampage. The twist? You're right in the middle of Riga, due to survive this madness. The setting itself is a breath of fresh air – ditching the typical post-apocalyptic backdrops for something more intimate and real. What hooks you right into Merchant of the Skies is that is launches you into the survival aspect. You're also alone, no cops or army to call for backup. Your goal? Make it to Iceland via the last ferry from the western shore. The journey's not going to be a cakewalk, though. You've got to scavenge, strategize, and fight your way through a city crawling with the undead.

Stories from the Outbreak - Release trailer

The combat system deserves a special mention. It's also not your run of the mill hack and slash; we're talking deep, strategic battles where every decision counts. The flexibility in team building and character development adds layers to the gameplay. While keeping things fresh and engaging. But Stories from the Outbreak does not launch you into bashing zombies. The real charm lies in the journey and the choices you make. The title throws tests at you, challenging your morals and decision making skills. Your team members aren't just NPC's; they're individuals with their own beliefs and stories. Watching them interact and confront their differences adds a whole new dimension to the experience. The landscapes are pixelated, yes, but they're done so well that you feel immersed in this eerie, yet captivating world. The atmospheric storytelling is top-notch, making you feel every bit of the tension and despair of this crumbling society. Fans praise its excellent turn-based combat, engaging pixel art, and catchy soundtrack. Liking it to a blend of FTL and Darkest Dungeon. The launch is available on Linux, Steam Deck, Mac, and Windows PC. Stories from the Outbreak is a must-try turn-based roguelike zombie RPG for anyone who like a good survival challenge. While also taking part in a compelling story. So, if you're into titles that test your wits and pull you into a story, you've got to check this one out. Available on Steam, priced at $14.99 USD / £13.49 / 14,99€ with the 25% discount. And Humble Store with a 15% discount.

[interdisciplinaryproject-group9]

Idea Proposal 1 - Office Room But in Cosmos

Idea proposed by Fedor Bortnik. During the class on Thursday, I was thinking about what idea I could propose for the group, and while Neil, the professor for our class showed a 3D set of Neo's room from the movie Matrix, I got inspired to take the idea of making a work desk, but in space.

The idea is pretty straightforward - There is a desk with various geeky items on it, but as we look up and up we can see a slow transition into COSMOS - we can see more of the cosmic shading, the computer parts disconnect and become more elevated as we look up more and more. At the top - viewers can find a complete transition into the 2nd theme of space. Viewers will see the ominous cosmos itself, with various stars, anomalies, and gas clouds. The colours are bright, colourful and alienating but in the end - simply powerful.

With this idea, I wanted to create a day-dreaming scene, where the avatar (us, the viewers) falls asleep at the desk, and we imagine a transition of ourselves and our real environment into a cosmic dream, where we can see ominous stars, some strange anomalies, different stars and so on.

Set No1

Set no2 (futher away from desk, up top)

After getting inspired a bit more by the references, I decided to draw the scene to have a simple understanding of what the scene should be about.

I think this is a good idea for our team project since it's not that hard to create. All our team members can participate in this idea by adding something of their own to the work. Plus since the project is not that complicated, we can use other programs besides Unreal Engine (like Maya, Blender, Adobe Premier Pro and so on) and let everyone do their part, if they are not good with one program. We would be able to understand and experiment with panoramic rendering and learn how it would work in Unreal Engine or see the project transition from 3D into Adobe Premier.

There are problems, however. The proposal might sound too safe, or the final render won't look that impressive, since the idea itself is not that complicated. In addition - Too much lighting and shading can cause complications for a good resolution rendering, we should estimate how much rendering this project will take before doing actual work. Finally - this scene favours props. It is possible to add characters into the scene, but a smooth implication of them here would be tricky.

I drew the idea of having a 'real' world at the bottom (the computer, office supplies, gadgets and systems) and having the cosmic world at the top (with the stars and the shading). And have the transition in between, where the two worlds would collide (computers going up because of gravity, and their cosmos is greyed out due to transitioning visual artefacts). The drawing is simple, but it helped me to visualise what I had in mind and helped me to understand the transition between two scenes.

Finally, I did a test scene of my idea, not initially to create a visual concept, but rather to understand the panoramic rendering in a rectangular format.

References:

Red Hook Studios (2017) Darkest Dungeon [Video Game]. Red Hook Studios. Available at: https://store.steampowered.com/app/262060/Darkest_Dungeon/

Zeboyd Digital Entertainment LLC (2017) Cosmic Star Heroine [Video Game] Zeboyd Digital Entertainment LLC. Available at: https://store.steampowered.com/app/256460/Cosmic_Star_Heroine/

Adrian Schwartz (2022) 3D Environment of The Room 101 - The Matrix Tribute [Digital art] Available at: https://www.artstation.com/artwork/xYYXPE

ponja (2023) Neo's room from Matrix [Digital art]. Available at: https://www.artstation.com/artwork/Je4KzD

wirestock (2023) The beautiful shining stars in the night sky. [Online] Available at: https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/beautiful-shining-stars-night-sky_7631083.htm

Cosmic-Cuttlefish (2016), Arcane Orb [Digital art]. Available at: https://www.deviantart.com/cosmic-cuttlefish/art/Arcane-Orb-621216844

characterdrawing (2022) '[OC] Ornox the god of the cosmos, arcane power and the patron god of the Aarakocra and kenku. A homebrew deity for my Deachenvelt world' [Online]. Available at: https://www.reddit.com/r/characterdrawing/comments/r10ed7/oc_ornox_the_god_of_the_cosmos_arcane_power_and/

[evollabz]

MSI 2024 Newest Crosshair Gaming Laptop

let's dive into the specs of the MSI 2024 Newest Crosshair Gaming Laptop – the beast that's about to redefine your gaming experience.

Unleashing Power: This ain't your grandma's laptop; it's a gaming powerhouse. The MSI Crosshair is armed with the Intel Core i7-13620H processor, flexing its muscles and giving even the i9 a run for its money. Whether you're conquering virtual battlefields or diving into heavy-duty tasks, this processor is your trusty sidekick. Visual Bliss: Prepare to be mesmerized by the 16" FHD+ 144Hz IPS Display. It's not just a screen; it's a portal to another dimension. The buttery smooth 144Hz refresh rate ensures every frame is a visual feast. Say goodbye to lag, stutter, and hello to an immersive gaming experience. Graphics Domination: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 is the beating heart of this gaming beast. It's not here to play; it's here to dominate. Real-time ray tracing, AI-enhanced graphics – witness your games coming to life with unparalleled realism. From the subtle shadows to the dazzling explosions, every detail is crystal clear. Memory Overload: 64GB DDR5 RAM? That's not a typo. It's a memory buffet, ensuring your laptop can handle multitasking like a champ. Load up multiple applications, switch between games, and keep the creative juices flowing – this laptop won't break a sweat. Storage Supremacy: 2TB SSD – because space matters. Whether you're hoarding games, saving massive project files, or just collecting memes, this laptop has room for it all. Say goodbye to the days of storage-related headaches. Backlit Brilliance: Gaming in the dark? No problem. The backlit keyboard is your guiding light through the gaming abyss. Each key is a beacon, letting you navigate your virtual world with precision even in the darkest dungeons. Connectivity Galore: Wi-Fi 6 ensures you stay connected at warp speed. No more laggy online matches or buffering during video calls. The Crosshair is your ticket to seamless connectivity in the digital realm. Windows 11 Home: Your digital command center is upgraded with Windows 11 Home. A sleek interface, enhanced productivity features, and compatibility with the latest apps – this laptop is not just a gaming rig; it's a versatile digital companion. In a world where every click matters and every frame could be your last, the MSI Crosshair Gaming Laptop stands tall. It's not just a device; it's a statement. Elevate your gaming experience, conquer new horizons, and embrace the future of digital domination with the MSI 2024 Newest Crosshair Gaming Laptop. It's not just a laptop; it's your key to gaming nirvana. Read the full article

[thetoxicgamer]

Watch the Narrator of Baldur's Gate 3 Investigate Her Darkest Cravings

Baldur's Gate 3 excels in several aspects, with one of its standout features being the narrator, Amelia Tyler. She serves as both your guide and a quasi-dungeon master, articulating your thoughts, emotions, and actions as you navigate the world of Faerûn. However, now Tyler is introducing a darker twist to her involvement in the Larian Studios RPG by live-streaming her own playthrough of the "Dark Urge" origin alongside her partner and fellow voice actor, Jay Britton, known for his work in Larian's Divinity Original Sin 2. The Dark Urge origin playthrough in Baldur's Gate 3 represents a unique and distinctive approach to starting the game. By selecting it, you commit to your character having a distinct set of dialogue and action options influenced by sinister urges. While you can sometimes choose whether or not to heed these urges, in certain situations, the game compels your character to commit unspeakably terrible acts, leaving you to deal with the consequences. Tyler embarks on her adventure by creating her character, Violet Alabaster, with Britton joining as her character's brother, Lucius, or "Lulu." Interestingly, their characters are far from the typical heroes; they describe them as either well-intentioned individuals seeking to help others or elitist socialites from Victorian London, depending on the perspective. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_8X-6W4MlKk Violet, played by Tyler, is depicted as someone who may not fully grasp the gravity of some of her unsettling remarks due to her upbringing, whereas Lucius, played by Britton, is more knowingly unkind. To navigate the dark thoughts tempting Violet, Tyler employs a Dungeons and Dragons-inspired solution: she rolls a twenty-sided dice in real life. If she rolls a ten or higher, Violet succumbs to the dark urges. Tyler and Britton display an excellent rapport as they ad-lib dialogue and engage with the game's bizarre, macabre, serious, and humorous scenarios. Their storytelling adds depth and entertainment to Baldur's Gate 3's rich narrative, including some romance elements. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dA2fqixp5QM For those interested in more adventures with the voices behind Baldur's Gate 3 characters, Neil Newbon, the actor for Astarion, plays as Half-Elf Druid Bow'ee, while Devora Wilde, who portrays Lae'zel, embarks on her own adventure as a unique Githyanki Fighter named Dev'zel. Additionally, the full cast of Baldur's Gate 3's origin characters has come together for a unique experience, teaming up with the DnD show High Rollers to participate in a Baldur's Gate 3 DnD game, embodying their respective in-game avatars. If you haven't seen it yet, it's a must-watch, if only to discover what happens to Shadowheart's cherished pet, Bing-Bong. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PoCd3ropmR0 Lastly, if you're looking for advice on how to build your character in Baldur's Gate 3 or want to understand the game's crafting mechanics, there are resources available to help you make informed decisions and maximize your gameplay experience. Read the full article

[apkfanda]

Disney Mirrorverse

This is Disney Mirrorverse, a visually stunning action RPG game, set in an all-new divergent Disney universe where players assemble teams of amplified, action-ready, Disney and Pixar characters to battle against a dark force that seeks to shatter the Mirrorverse. Fight your way through this dangerous universe with your favorite Guardians by your side: Buzz Lightyear and Woody from Toy Story, Simba from The Lion King, Aladdin, Elsa from Frozen, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and many more! Legend has it that the Mirrorverse emerged in the cosmic collision of two blazing stars. The cataclysm created a pair of two powerful magic mirrors, the Stellar Mirror and the Dark Mirror. These magic mirrors fill the Mirrorverse with amplified reflections of well-known Disney and Pixar worlds: the Guardians, protectors of this universe! But when the Dark Mirror shattered, the Fractured were created, distorted creations who seek to destroy the Stellar Mirror. With the help of the greatest sorcerer, Mickey Mouse, the Guardians can travel between Mirrorverse worlds through magic portals and fight the Fractured, wherever they may appear. Choose from powerful Disney princesses - Elsa, Ariel, Merida, Rapunzel; cunning villains - Maleficent, Scar, Cruella De Vil; or classic Disney characters – Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and many more. Each Guardian possesses unique talents and abilities that reflect their backstories and aid them in the fight against the Fractured. COLLECT UNIQUE DISNEY AND PIXAR CHARACTERS: Collect dozens of visually stunning Mirrorverse Guardians. Uncover their intriguing backstories and unlock special abilities that equip them for epic battles and adventure. Customize and strengthen your Guardians, assemble the best team combinations, and develop strategies for the ultimate win. MASTER THRILLING REAL-TIME ACTION RPG COMBAT: Experience the thrill and excitement of team-based action RPG combat. Assemble teams of three and take control of every second of gameplay, including the Mirrorverse Guardians’ individual actions, team strategy, and special attacks. JOIN AN ALLIANCE AND WIN REWARDS: Join an alliance with friends to battle against epic bosses in a limited-time event-based game mode Rift Raids. Every week, join your teammates and take down the Gatekeeper together. Climb the leaderboard, win valuable rewards, and equip your Guardians for the next fight. UNCOVER EPIC QUESTS: Unlock unique narratives and battle the Fractured enemies to obtain rewards and restore the worlds and characters corrupted by dark Fractured magic. - STORY QUESTS: Experience an immersive storyline of tasks and quests, based on the history of the Disney Mirrorverse and the Ages of Isolation, Discovery, and the Fractured. - EVENT QUESTS: Complete limited-time quests that tie into real-world Disney and Pixar content and events that offer unique characters, rewards, and progression items. DANGEROUS DUNGEONS: Delve into the Mirrorverse’s darkest dungeons and compete for the top place on our global leaderboard. Explore dungeons, rack up points, and collect valuable artifacts in this high-stakes venture. MONTHLY CONTENT RELEASES: Experience new Mirrorverse story chapters and event quests through ever-evolving and expanding storylines, with regular releases of new Disney and Pixar characters. TERMS OF SERVICE: Please read this Terms of Service Agreement and our Privacy Notice before using our services as they govern the relationship between you and Kabam. www.kabam.com/terms-of-service/ www.kabam.com/privacy-notice/ Read the full article

[joyce-davis]

The Hype is Real: What We Know About Diablo 4 So Far

The Hype is Real: What We Know About Diablo 4 So Far - None

Introduction

Gameplay Features

The World of Diablo 4

The Story

Introduction

Diablo 4, the highly anticipated hack-and-slash action role-playing game, is finally coming. After years of anticipation, Blizzard Entertainment announced the game at BlizzCon in November 2019. The announcement trailer displayed some of the game's newest features such as a darker, gothic art style and a shared open world for players to explore. Although there is still no official release date, fans of the series are already buzzing with excitement. Here is what we know about Diablo 4 so far.

Gameplay Features

Diablo 4 will feature three playable classes at launch, which are Barbarian, Sorceress, and Druid. Each class has its unique abilities and playstyle. Barbarians are powerful melee fighters, Sorceresses use elemental magic to decimate enemies, and Druids have the ability to shape-shift into ferocious beasts. Players can level up and customize their characters with an extensive skill tree and equipment system.

The game also introduces a new feature called "Mounts," which allows players to ride horses or other creatures to traverse the world faster. Mounts can also be utilized in combat to deal damage to enemies. Another new feature is the addition of PvP combat. Players can enable PvP mode in certain zones and battle against each other for loot and bragging rights.

Diablo 4 will also see the return of some fan-favorite features, such as Blood and Gore and the Runeword system. Blood and Gore is a graphic detail setting that increases the level of blood and dismemberment during combat. The Runeword system allows players to combine specific runes with specific items to create powerful weapons and armor.

The World of Diablo 4

The world of Diablo 4 is set to be the darkest and most unsettling entry in the series. The game takes inspiration from gothic horror and features environments such as desolate wastelands, haunted forests, and ominous dungeons. The world is also shared, meaning players can encounter enemies and other players while exploring the open world.

The game’s environmental storytelling is also a key feature, with various landmarks, dungeons, and NPCs that tell a story about the world itself. The game promises to be an immersive experience for players who want to invest time in discovering everything the world has to offer.

The Story

Although the exact details of the story are still unknown, Blizzard has stated that Diablo 4 picks up where Diablo 3 left off. Lilith, the daughter of Mephisto and the Queen of the Succubi, plays a key role in the story. Players will encounter Lilith as she seeks revenge on the world that shunned her.

The game's narrative focuses on the theme of light vs. darkness and the struggle between humanity and demonic forces. Players will travel to different regions and encounter various characters who have their motives and stories in a quest to rid the world of evil.

Article written by None.

References: Diablo 4 Official Website When it comes to it, there are many different approaches and viewpoints to consider the coming diablo 4.

[audiofictionuk]

New Fiction Podcasts - 14th December

King of the Egg Cream Audio Drama Based on the incredible true story of Harry Dolowich, who grew up poor in the Lower East Side of Manhattan during the Great Depression and found riches hatching a scheme to take over the one industry that wasn't already controlled by the Mob -- the chocolate syrup industry. Harry's charm, ambition and gift of gab can only take him so far and it turns out being a syrup racketeer ain't as sweet as it sounds. With a killer cast, including Justin Bartha, Lewis Black, Ari Graynor, Michael Stuhlbarg, Bobby Cannavale, Melanie Lynskey, Jason Ritter and narrated by Richard Kind, King Of The Egg Cream is a crime story, love story and distinctly American story, all packed into ten funny, fizzy and delicious episodes. Created by Justin Bartha, Emil Stern and Sigmund Stern. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231117-07 RSS: https://feeds.megaphone.fm/SBP7427435139

The Midnight Zone Audio Drama ‘The Midnight Zone : A Horror Anthology Audio Drama. A gateway to a collection of bone-chilling horror stories. This anthology series explores the darkest and most mysterious parts of our world, promising a suspenseful journey with every listen. If you're a fan of gripping horror narratives, 'The Midnight Zone' is your destination. Turn off the lights, listen carefully and get ready for a fully immersive audio drama experience. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231204-02 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/ee6de400/podcast/rss

Comedians In Dungeons Getting Dragons Audio RPG A D&D actual play podcast where a group of diverse comedians try to have fun and not die in a world that’s trying to kill them. It’s like real life but with potions and stuff. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231205-01 RSS: https://feeds.libsyn.com/496283/rss

FOOM Audio Drama Que la inteligencia artificial tome control de la humanidad ya dejó de ser ciencia ficción. FOOM, una audio ficción escrita por Julio Rojas (Caso 63) y realizada por Emisor Podcasting, Sonoro, El Extraordinario, Anfibia y La No Ficción. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231124-04 RSS: https://mdstrm.com/feeds/5c58a34e176c2c0813b22e4b/65550db4c65fe8086db3c596

Remnants Audio Book Remnants is a story about a girl named Freya James and her mission to find her girlfriend, Arwen. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231115-05 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/ed2bb25c/podcast/rss

Roll for Impact Audio RPG Welcome to Roll For Impact, where narrative takes the forefront, and the roll of the dice is merely the beginning. Dive deep into immersive worlds crafted with love and passion. Our games aren’t just about statistics or min-maxing; they’re about rich ambient tales, lush aesthetic visuals painted through words, and the soulful threads that weave characters and listeners alike into unforgettable stories. Every episode, our dedicated crew of storytellers and adventurers take you on a journey where the ambiance sets the stage, and the narrative captivates your heart. Whether you’re an avid Dungeons & Dragons enthusiast or someone who just loves a good tale, there’s a seat for you at our table. But remember, here, it’s the story that reigns supreme. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231020-03 RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/rollforimpact/feed.xml

Unknown Adventures Audio RPG Welcome to Unknown Adventures, the podcast where each week i'll embark on a solo RPG journey in serialised narrative-driven episodes. Join me as each season will focus on a different game, telling immersive stories with scripted and fully voice acted sequences, sound effects and music. Between adventures expect a mix of reviews, interviews with friends and industry experts, and discussions about all things tabletop gaming. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231206-01 RSS: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/unknown-adventures

Channel Divinity: A D&D Podcast Audio RPG A D&D 5e actual-play podcast where we have fun playing in the homebrew world called Dalgar. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231207-02 RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/channeldivinitypodcast/feed.xml

ForgeD20 Podcast Audio RPG We are TTRPG centered podcast. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231206-02 RSS: https://media.rss.com/forged20podcast/feed.xml

Baron Sordor's Theatre of the Doomed Audio Drama Baron Sordor's Theatre of the Doomed takes you back to a golden age when live radio plays ruled the airwaves and Orson Wells’ Mercury Theatre convinced an entire nation they were under attack by Martians. Paying homage to 1960’s classics like the Twilight Zone and The Outer Limits, The Theatre of the Doomed features performances from a bevy of incredible Australian actors as well as Jeff Martin from The Tea Party as Baron Sordor himself! https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231204-03 RSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2284900.rss

Moksha Audio Drama Mokksh In the serene valley of Dalhousie, Inspector Hardy pursues a relentless psycho killer who preys on children. Haunted by his past and the mysterious disappearance of his wife, Neha, Hardy is driven to protect the valley's young souls, despite facing personal tragedies. Each arrest leads to a dead end, tarnishing Hardy's reputation and resulting in his suspension. CID officer Jagriti takes over but also finds no answers. Hardy's redemption journey begins when he saves Jagriti from organ traffickers, earning back his position. Together, they uncover the chilling truth: Jasmine, the valley's music teacher, aided by witch Pushpa, is sacrificing children to summon her dead son, Manav. Ghattu, Pushpa's eighth son, becomes their key witness. A shocking revelation emerges: Neha was a terrorist, and Hardy's son witnessed a crime that led to his suicide. Ghattu kills Jasmine, revealing the evidence to close the case, and ending the cycle of violence. "Echoes of Remorse" is a haunting tale of love, loss, and redemption. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231128-06 RSS: https://feeds.hubhopper.com/0c281c642d80aa69d84a5c9261c25b17.rss

Elizabeth Quick Audio Drama Elizabeth Quick, living a life of convention and anxiety and the occasional kickboxing class, never believed she was powerful. Then an extinction event left behind a wild new planet, equal parts dangerous and astonishing. Now Elizabeth is in that wilderness alone, searching for her teenage daughter and realizing that, just like the plants and animals she sees evolving in the blink of an eye, she must become someone she never thought possible. Written, performed, and engineered by Daryl Lisa Fazio. Music from Artlist. Selected sound effects from Artlist and Freesoundslibrary.com. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231203-03 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/ee6f5fb0/podcast/rss

Nine Powers - TTRGP Actual Plays Audio RPG Enjoy unplanned, kid-friendly, urban fantasy adventure stories created using the Nine Powers tabletop role-playing game! The style and habits of GM Automation enabling my solo play also provide tools, ideas and inspiration for new and/or young GMs. May you enjoy my story, and please steal ideas for your own gaming! https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231208-03 RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/ninepowers/feed.xml

Firelight Fables Audio Book Come and join us by the fire, we have a few tales to tell. From the high seas to uneasy utopian dreams, there are many worlds to explore. So sit back and relax, it's time for a fable or two. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231208-04 RSS: https://media.rss.com/firelightfables/feed.xml

One Shot in the Dark Audio RPG One Shot in the Dark is a D&D podcast focused on exploring fun stories through one shot's instead of ongoing long-form storytelling. We explore new mechanics we as DMs and we laugh a lot together. Each season is its own One Shot made up of several episodes so you don't have to worry about joining late and catching up on 150 episodes to know what's going on. The player characters belong to The Sworn Brotherhood, a band of mercenaries taking contracts across the continent. Some characters resurface across seasons and some are new experiments by the players. Were so glad you're here. https://audiofiction.co.uk/show.php?id=20231211-01 RSS: https://anchor.fm/s/ee93b1bc/podcast/rss