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One of my favorite past times is to watch Youtube videos, if you want a place where creativity reigns supreme you are only a few clicks away from watching all sorts of people with different opinions, outlooks on life, dreams and aspirations moving up in the world doing what they love the most. Some enjoy making projects that expand beyond the boundaries of a screen and into the realm of ARG’s like EverymanHYBRID while some others dedicate their lives to pointing out the ins and outs of various parts of the gaming industry like Jim Sterling. Overall, there will always be someone doing something for their own audience.

One of the most prominent Youtubers I enjoy watching religiously, however, goes by the name of Nick Nocturne. With his channel called Night Mind, he makes it his duty to promote creative and great content as well as providing explanations and compiling documentation of ARG’s, creepypasta and other kinds of Internet oddities and mysteries. I’m sure that a lot of work goes into the creation of these videos, the content itself is incredibly well explained and Nick usually provides good arguments that give a brand new meaning to the theories he proposes, with evidence to support them spread across the products he reviews, unlike a certain theorist who relies on a translation addition in a localized piece of media for basis to make a pointless argument.

Night Mind has taught people a lot of things through his videos, even if sometimes he doesn’t downright say it, more often than not talking about creativity and how to do something with a property and make it unique so the message comes across in a clearer fashion. It’s certainly one of those channels that will always be in pro of creativity and will always have a subtle message to be interpreted, much like the projects he reviews.

And one of his latest additions to his channel left a very good impression on me because it definitely shows the importance of a constructive argument with evidence backing it up. Not to mention, how important it is to always listen to the people who think positively and negatively about a thing or piece of media since it will always provide you with a new perspective on the discussion. And all of this happened because of a horrible hissy fit.

The Cabin Fever Nightmare

It all started at March 31, when Night Mind announced a trailer for a sub series called Cabin Fever Dreams where, due to an involuntary hiatus. He became mad at his viewers for the constant bugging he got regarding various Youtube channels that they wanted him to analyze that were, in his opinion “FLASHY FLASHY FLASHY but no Lightbulb”. During the video however, he shows a strong resentment to a particular series that keeps being censored (Mostly to not spoil those who didn’t know about it at the time. Like me). It was later revealed by not so subtle comments that the thing Nick was talking about was the beloved Welcome to Night Vale.

Make a time skip to the end of April, (To May 8 because of unforeseen delay) and then we are shown a very resentful Nick talking about how much he loathed Welcome to Night Vale. The way he starts simply shows how much he despised Night Vale after reading the first paragraph of the book. He then continues throughout the video talking about the faults and fails of Welcome to Night Vale, insulting the creators and how he hated to be compared to Cecil Baldwin. (he spends around 6 minutes talking about it.)

Then the transmission gives us our first red flag as Nick mentions some “Technical Difficulties” due to a very dark and ominous cloud that seemed to have some sort of “Luminescence” in it. He comments about lightning as well, reassuring the audience that he might go off the air and to call emergency services if such thing happens. After making a few snarky remarks about the length of WTNV’s podcast intros (You know, because you’re totally not guilty of that Nick. Totally). However, after a few more minutes of Nick talking about how badly written and how badly paced Welcome To Night Vale is, we have a sudden break in the transmission. Followed by static and after that, a complete 180 turn.

We are now introduced to David Dayern (Har) or Day Brain, a counterpart to Night Mind who is seemingly very excited to talk about the Night Vale as well, praising it as something “Amazing”. It’s a move that I’m sure completely overthrew any of the avid watchers of Night Mind, when I was first listening to this, I was absolutely confused and wondering what the hell this Day Brain guy is and why we had this transmission from him. Even so, Day Brain continued talking as usual, as if he was talking to his own audience even though it was clearly not. Continuing to praise Night vale until we suddenly get another break in the transmission before being thrown back to Nick and the normal transmission.

The cycle continues for a second time until we get a break that nobody would’ve expected. Suddenly Night Mind and Day Brain are sharing the transmission thanks to the ominous cloud. And after a brief introduction to themselves, Day Brain and Night Mind engage into a discussion about how one likes Night Vale and the other dislikes it, usually when you see something like this right from the word “Go” it’s usually a one-sided conversation from the two sides of the coin. One tries to defend the product in question but the other tries to tear it apart, both of them trying to prove how they are wrong. And yes, Nick Nocturn shows this first by saying how Day Brain is wrong about his feelings toward Night Vale.

And through a natural progression, we see how Day Brain and Night Mind start arguing and discussing at length about how Night Vale is good or bad. With David mentioning the book that Nick didn’t want to read, this is the most important part to the point I want to bring across, Nick DID NOT read the book, and his impressions about Welcome To Night Vale were not complete because he didn’t complete his read, but Nick also talks to David about how the thing he claims is a great piece of podcast media is extremely flawed. Day Brain says that it’s simply impossible, but that he’s open to new ideas. After that, Nick proposes that he rewinds the entire broadcast he’s been doing so that David can listen to it, and he agrees but only under the condition that Nick reads the novel.

After an intermission with a nice musical piece, Nick once again talks to the microphone, with a rather ashamed tone. Talking about how he and David are back, Day breaks the silence by saying how he thinks he sees things under a new light. Only for Night Mind to say that everything he’s been saying is “Not precisely adequate anymore, most of it not even accurate anymore.”

From this point out, everything else regarding Night vale and the plot points discussed will be left for you to hear in the full transmission in the Night Mind channel, the point I wanted to bring with this is how (maybe unintentionally) people can reach a new light with their favorite or most hated pieces of media. And how important it is to have a constructive and open discussion about anything.

The importance of constructive discussion

In a day and age where many people think their opinion is absolute and that every opposing opinion is wrong, where people are raising complaints because a journalist thinks negatively on a popular piece of media. A place where closed minds are starting to run rampant, it’s become more and more important to get the message of having an open mind about things, listening to different opinions and look at the evidence from whole new perspectives,

There have been a lot of “I like this thing that everyone doesn’t like and viceversa” kinds of people. Some are trolls but some others truly see enjoyment or dislike certain things. One of the most prominent (And infamous) examples is Caddicarus when he mentioned that he didn’t like Final Fantasy VII. Or ProJared saying that Sonic Adventure 2 sucks, we also have people like ClementJ642 who mentioned that he doesn’t think that Mighty No. 9 is that bad, I can mention a lot more examples but I think I drove the point across.

Sometimes all we really need is a challenge, someone with a different point of view, maybe even a different background. To make us see the hidden beauty of some things, some other times. We also need someone who dislikes something to provide us their reasons so we can see the flaws in what we may consider masterpieces or great works of art.

As of now, I’m wowed at how much I got from a simple discussion between two people with two different ideals. When I put it to practice, I was amazed at how great the results came from a Bendy article that could’ve been just an empty rant about me looking at the game’s flaws and calling it a day. Definitely give the rest of Night Mind a watch, and see how creativity can rise from various places

I always wanted to be a journalist who listens. The Voice of the Unspoken and someone heavily involved in the gaming community. From playing as a leader of a competitive multi-branch team to organizing tournaments for the competitive scene to being involved in a lot of gaming communities. I want to keep moving forward as a journalist.

Gaming

Will Stellar Blade be available for PC?

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It’s quite possible. Fans all over the world are interested in Shift Up’s highly anticipated action-adventure game, Stellar Blade. With its captivating post-apocalyptic setting reminiscent of Nier and a compelling protagonist named Eve, it’s no wonder the game has generated such widespread attention.

The game consistently impresses with its stunning visuals and high-octane action, leaving players in awe with each new trailer.

Yet, just like other noteworthy second-party and third-party game releases, fans are pondering: Will Stellar Blade be available on PC?

In this article, we delve into the details to determine the platform availability of the highly anticipated title.

Will Stellar Blade be available on PC? Allow me to provide you with the answer.

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Unfortunately, Stellar Blade will not be available on PC, at least not initially. Currently, the game is only available on PlayStation 5 starting on April 26, 2024.

Regrettably, it appears that there is no indication of a potential PC release for Stellar Blade in the future. In most cases, trailers for PlayStation timed-exclusive titles conclude with a disclaimer that specifies the duration of their exclusivity.

In the Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth launch trailer, it is explicitly stated that the game will only be accessible on other platforms starting on May 29, 2024.

Regrettably, when it comes to the stellar blade, there is no indication of such.

It’s important to note that Sony Entertainment Interactive published Stellar Blade, unlike Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. This means that the chances of it being released on PC or other platforms in the near future are even slimmer.

However, it is worth noting that there is a chance the game might be released on PC in the future, given PlayStation’s track record of bringing their exclusive titles to the platform. However, it could be a while before this comes to fruition.

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A Review of Fallout 4

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After nearly ten years since its initial release, Bethesda has brought Fallout 4 to the PS5, offering enhanced technical performance that one would anticipate from a leap to a new generation. Does the open-world RPG still hold up in 2024?

Answering that question is quite challenging, I must say. While opinions may vary, it’s worth noting that Fallout 4 has its fair share of critics. However, one cannot deny the allure of its captivating gameplay loop, which keeps players hooked with its constant exploration, mutant battles, and character progression. The loop in question has undoubtedly stood the test of time, and Fallout 4 continues to captivate players with its addictive character development mechanics. From acquiring loot to distributing perk points, the game offers a truly engaging experience.

Fallout 4’s post-apocalyptic Boston is yet another example of Bethesda’s talent for creating immersive worlds that captivate and divert your attention from your intended path. This map is incredibly dense, providing adventure at every corner. This open world is incredibly immersive, captivating players for hours on end. The various character progression systems add depth and complexity to the experience.

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However, this is where the game begins to show some weaknesses, especially when compared to more contemporary standards. Technical limitations that were already dubious when Fallout 4’s release in 2015 hinder the gameplay experience. It’s quite disappointing to encounter a loading screen every time you enter or exit an interior location, which feels incredibly outdated, even with the significantly improved load times of the PS5 version.

Additionally, comparable restrictions limit the game’s overall scope. Now, it’s clear that one wouldn’t anticipate a radiation-soaked wasteland to be bustling with life, but Boston can’t help but come across as lacking ambition. As you journey through different locations, you’ll notice a noticeable lack of action. Even well-known settlements such as Diamond City and Goodneighbor, which are supposed to be bustling hubs of activity and trade, feel disappointingly empty with a population of only around 30 NPCs.

This illusion may have been somewhat passable back in 2015, but after almost a decade, it’s clear that the game’s outdated engine is to blame for many of its glaring flaws. It’s undeniable that some aspects of Fallout 4’s design haven’t aged well, especially considering how much the open-world genre has evolved in the past decade. While it’s not fair to expect a complete remake in the 2024 re-release, there are certain aspects that could have been improved upon.

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Fallout 4 undeniably possesses an alluring atmosphere, capturing that eerie sense of wonder that has become synonymous with the series. There is a unique experience in scaling the remnants of a decrepit skyscraper and surveying the desolate landscape, immersing oneself in the inherent solitude while the game’s subtly captivating music softly plays in the distance.

When it comes to immersion, let’s delve into Fallout 4’s take on role-playing. Upon its release, numerous dedicated Fallout fans expressed their dissatisfaction with the game’s decision to introduce a fully voiced protagonist, along with the limited dialogue choices that accompanied this change. Truly, the absence of morally ambiguous decisions in this game is quite noticeable, especially when comparing it to titles such as Fallout: New Vegas or even Fallout 3. The side quests often guide you towards two predictable options, where you can either embody a beacon of hope or a deranged maniac, and the latter option never truly feels authentic, given the protagonist’s predetermined, almost heroic role in the story.

Emerging from a two-century cryogenic sleep, the protagonist must navigate the treacherous landscape of post-apocalyptic America to save their kidnapped infant son, who was taken from the very same cryogenic facility. In this particular situation, deviating from the main questline may not contribute to the overall narrative coherence. However, it must be acknowledged that the story presents significant opportunities for making impactful decisions that can greatly influence the game world, especially when aligning oneself with pivotal factions.

Once again, it’s worth noting that there is limited opportunity to delve into your character’s personality and motivations in Fallout 4. As a result, the game can be seen as a regression compared to its predecessors. Furthermore, the side quests tend to be quite forgettable. The main plot of Fallout 3 had its fair share of issues, but it managed to find balance by incorporating some wild and unpredictable misadventures. The sequel, on the other hand, lacks personality, featuring one-dimensional characters and unremarkable dialogue. It heavily relies on self-referential storytelling, which can be immersion-breaking.

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If you’re interested in seeing faction plotlines come to a conclusion, you’ll have to go through a plethora of ‘radiant’ filler quests. These are the types of games that provide little context and simply place a procedurally generated objective marker on your map, instructing you to “go here, do something.” While the prospect of embarking on an adventure and uncovering hidden treasures is certainly enticing, the overall experience feels somewhat lacking in depth and emotion. It’s hard to ignore the excessive filler content that hinders your progress towards important narrative milestones.

However, it is worth mentioning that the gameplay loop of Fallout 4 is incredibly captivating, and combat plays a vital role in this experience. While it may not boast the most polished shooting mechanics compared to other games on the market, it undeniably stands out as the most enjoyable Fallout installment to date. The action in the game is filled with a satisfying and almost comical bloodlust. Whether you’re sniping super mutants with precision or hacking raiders to bits with modified chainsaws, the result is a spectacle of skulls popping and limbs flying.

The standout feature of the game is undoubtedly V.A.T.S., which grants you the power to manipulate time and execute visually stunning attacks on specific body parts. Even after nearly ten years, there is still no other system quite like it. The version of V.A.T.S. in Fallout 4 truly stands out, offering moments of pure chaos and excitement. Experiencing the exhilarating thrill of a deathclaw’s head exploding mere moments before its talons make contact with your face; being rendered speechless as a mini nuke hurtles directly towards you; obliterating grotesquely mutated wildlife with your beloved energy weapon, all captured in flawless slow motion. This is an exceptional experience.

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Regrettably, not everything that Fallout 4 does is met with universal acclaim. Despite being largely overlooked, the game’s settlement system continues to be a topic of heated debate. During your adventure, you’ll stumble upon small communities that you can nurture by collecting various items and utilizing specific materials to construct a wide range of structures. These include essential defenses like walls and gates, as well as intricate computer networks and ingenious mechanical contraptions.

The system itself is undeniably impressive, providing an immense amount of depth for players who truly want to immerse themselves in the experience. If you’re looking for a classic Fallout experience, settlements might come across as unnecessary baggage, adding unnecessary weight to an already content-packed game that can sometimes feel like busywork. It’s quite frustrating how settlements don’t immediately prove their value. The initial phase involves the monotonous task of collecting a vast amount of resources, and that’s just for the basic needs such as shelter, food, and water.

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While certain aspects of Fallout 4 may not have stood the test of time, it’s worth noting that the PS5 port does indeed deliver on its commitment to enhancing the game’s technical performance. The game’s performance mode, running at 60 frames per second, is impressively smooth overall, with only occasional minor hitches lasting for a fraction of a second in crowded areas. The smooth frame rate greatly enhances the gunplay, which can sometimes feel a bit twitchy. Additionally, the dynamic 4K resolution significantly improves the overall visual experience, making everything look better than ever.

From an artistic standpoint, this video game can be visually unappealing. It’s safe to say that the visuals were less than impressive back in 2015, and unfortunately, they haven’t aged well. The human character models leave much to be desired, with their lackluster facial features and lifeless expressions. The lip-syncing and facial animations are particularly disappointing.

In summary

The core gameplay loop of Fallout 4 remains strong, despite the fact that the surrounding adventure is starting to show its age, nearly ten years after its initial release. The addition of a smooth 60-fps performance mode will surely please many returning players. Roaming through post-apocalyptic Boston can still provide some enjoyment, especially with the reliable V.A.T.S. system at your disposal. However, it is undeniable that open-world games have made significant progress since the release of Fallout 4, which some may argue already felt outdated even at its launch in 2015.

Pros:

  • The open-world design is both dense and engaging
  • Engaging progression systems that keep you hooked
  • V.A.T.S. continues to impress
  • The performance on PS5 is impressively smooth
  • Significantly decreased loading times
  • Several poignant narrative moments
  • The soundtrack creates a captivating atmosphere

Cons:

  • Shows signs of significant deterioration in various aspects
  • Unremarkable side quests and forgettable characters
  • Lacking depth in the realm of role-playing
  • An abundance of mundane tasks
  • The character models are visually unappealing

Good 7/10

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Gran Turismo 7 Update 1.46 introduces an exciting addition to the roster of exclusive cars available in the PS5 and PS4 racing game

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Gran Turismo 7 has just received an exciting update to version 1.46 on both PS5 and PS4. This latest update introduces a unique addition to the game: the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo, a car that you won’t come across in any other game. Škoda makes its debut in the franchise with a visionary study of a single-seater, all-electric racing concept car, designed exclusively for the Polyphony Digital racer.

Once you’ve downloaded update 1.46, you’ll have the opportunity to test drive not one but two additional cars: the AFEELA Prototype 2024 and the iconic Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 Sport Coupe ’70. Get ready for an exhilarating ride! Watch as they take to the track in the video above.

Additionally, the update introduces a new menu for players to tackle in the GT Café. At Collector Level 38, players have the opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of Ferrari 12-cylinder engines, gaining knowledge and expanding their collection. In World Circuits, players can look forward to exciting new events such as the Japanese Clubman Cup 550, the American FR Challenge 550, and the Vision Gran Turismo Trophy. For all the avid fans of Photo Mode, there’s an exciting opportunity to explore the captivating city of San Diego in a brand new Scape.

What are your thoughts on the latest update for Gran Turismo 7? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments section.

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