Features

Top 5 Cues Developers Should Take from Dark Souls

Published

11 years ago

February 6, 2014

I am a massive fan of Dark Souls. There, I said it. It is a game that resonated with me so little at first, but after overcoming all of the hardships it offered, it slowly crept up from the bottom to the top of my list of best games ever conceived. It is an engrossingly grotesque and unique experience that has depressing and oftentimes macabre undertones, and though it is punishing and unforgiving, I love every moment of it.

From Software took cues from games of old, but it is about time that some other games take cues from Dark Souls.

5. Variety is the spice of life

The games industry has grown substantially since it’s inception. Studios have grown by large numbers, games are selling more, have gigantic budgets, and have become more mainstream in the last decade. All of this coupled with technology has opened the doors for us to get deeper, more rewarding experiences out of games. What used to be simple high-score gathering has become entire towns and countries mapped out in real time for our traversing pleasure. While this is all fantastic for us, it is not the norm. Most games seem to clock in between six and fourteen hours – with the exception being RPGs that are significantly longer – and generally offer nothing but fluff replayability.

Take a look at a game like Dead Space for example. It has a campaign that can be conquered in under ten hours, and offers nothing except collectables and increased difficulty levels for variety. While the game has several weapons, none of them are substantial enough to argue playing through the game again to experiment. For another example, think about a game like Tales of Xillia. It is a massive, sprawling world filled with side quests to take part in and bosses to kill. It isn’t, however, worth replaying a second time. You could argue that playing through as Milla instead of Jude might offer a little variety, and while you’d be correct, it is not varied enough to justify a 60 hour grind through an RPG of nearly endless dialogue.

Dark Souls on the other hand, offers so much variety and replayability that it might feel insurmountable to even attempt it. Do you want to play a heavy tank class with a greatsword? a mage who uses rapiers and sorcery? a pyromancer dressed like a dragon that throws and spits fire and uses axes? a naked, shield-wielding barbarian that wears a hat so big that you can’t even see what’s in front of you? All of this is possible. It is also possible in other games, however, Dark Souls, has such punishing gameplay and intricate design, that going from something as seemingly unimportant as heavy to medium armour can have experience-breaking repercussions; Just experimenting with your build can make or break certain bosses or areas for you.

4. Exposition!

When Dark Souls and even Demon’s Souls came out, they were both criticized for their storytelling. People suggested that the story is basic in design and offers little to no insight into what you are doing and why. While all of this is true at face value, there is still much to behold in more classic and under-appreciated ways. For example, did you know that the Picasa (the little blue snake-haired enemies in The Dukes Archives), are actually women that were captured by Seath’s assistants, the Channellers, and brutally experimented on to further Seath’s research? Or that The Four Kings together ruled over New Londo, until a primordial serpent offered them the art of lifedrain?

There are little tidbits of information given throughout Dark Souls via in-game item descriptions and dialogue with random NPCs that any player might skip or ignore, resulting in the game appearing to be devoid of any actual lore and proper storyline. This is the exact opposite case. Dark Souls has an immense wealth of lore to be had, but it must be found, not listened to or watched via hours and hours of dialogue and exposition. Some games beat you over the head with unrelenting cutscenes, and in some cases, offer more cutscenes than actual gameplay. While this isn’t a bad thing, as games like Metal Gear Solid could be told no other way, there is a lesson to be learned in the phrase ‘less is more’. I am constantly fascinated by all of the bizarre lore Dark Souls has to offer, and I find it more intriguing than most games that provide nothing but constant exposition.

3. Tutorials? Waypoints? Who needs ‘em?

Many games that come out now leave nothing in terms of learning and problem solving to the player. It’s almost as if they think people wouldn’t understand their games unless they teach you how to function in this world and guide you from point to point, beginning to end. You will be walking through each level, being shown exactly where to upgrade your weapons and armour, level up, save, and how to get to every single objective you have. There are literally mini-maps that detail every piece of the world, with dozens of markers and waypoints just to make sure the player will not feel lost for even a second.

Dark Souls makes you find your own way, and it gives you almost nothing to go on. From the moment you start up, you’re taught how to attack and defend yourself, but the only actual advice you’re given in terms of where to go, is that you must ring two bells of awakening. One up high, and one down low. How do you ring these bells? where are they located exactly and how do you get to them? How do you properly prepare for the encounters you will most definitely face? Can you upgrade your armour and weapons? How do you do it and what is the most effective path to take? None of this is answered in any concrete way. Instead, From Software makes you use your own brain-power and skills of deduction and assessment, to properly navigate and prepare for each encounter and area you will stumble upon.

There is an immense satisfaction in figuring something out on your own, without having a mini-map telling you exactly where to go and at what point in time. This idea that you have to figure the game out on your own is made even more apparent when you discover some of the more subtle features like Covenants. You will not be told what each covenant offers, where each one can be accessed, the conditions for joining, and the repercussions of abandoning the covenants. They can actually play a large role in Dark Souls, but many people will go through the entire game without having seen all of them.

2. Checkpoints are overrated

How many games have you played where you are gunning or slashing your way through hordes of enemies, just to have yourself killed and promptly resurrected only mere seconds or minutes before dying? Almost every modern game that exists currently offers some sort of checkpoint system that is gracious in its design, and this is a problem. Too often games get flak for having “bad” checkpoint systems in place, and the consumers by and large want their games to be cake walks, or at least the latest trends suggest.

Dark Souls doesn’t conform to any of this nonsense, and in fact, makes you crave every single checkpoint you will or will not receive. There are stretches of game where you will feel hopelessly lost, inadequate, underpowered, isolated, and utterly scared in some areas, and Dark Souls embraces and feeds on every single emotion that could overcome you.

From Software made a brilliant decision to limit your healing by giving you only five estus flasks, with a bonus five if you use precious humanity. You will crawl and lumber through desolate castles, grimy tunnels, and beautiful landscapes begging the game for a checkpoint, only to walk right past it without knowing, or be forced into an intense boss fight with only few precious flasks left. This is almost never replicated in other games, and it truly is a shame, since one single area in Dark Souls can be more satisfying or draining than entire games.

1. Interconnected worlds are a joy to behold

One thing that blows my mind every time I put my Dark Souls disc in, is that I’m constantly finding new ways to traverse the world and reconnect with areas that I have been to previously. Every single solitary area in Lordran that isn’t pasted to the background in an obviously out-of-reach spot can be accessed by at least one route. There are areas you will mindlessly walk past without thinking, and it will later become an essential shortcut that leads you to a masterful maze of traps, or a lower section of a location you have been traversing for hours. Some areas in particular have multiple ways to get to them; Darkroot Garden being a prime example.

Not only do areas have multiple routes, but you will conquer an area to find that it has now opened up two or more entirely separate areas for you to explore. Blighttown offers you The Great Hollow, Valley of Drakes, Demon Ruins, and The Depths; each of which have their own sub-areas or hidden secrets to find. It’s truly baffling how they even managed to pull off such an intricate world, but with a myriad of games offering linear pathways and endless corridor marching, it’s easy to forget how much more interesting a world with such intricate design can be.

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Creative Ideas for Best Technology Instagram Post 2024

Published

2 months ago

August 8, 2024

Olivia

Creative Ideas for Best Technology Instagram Post 2024

Are you facing difficulty in engaging your audience with tech posts on Instagram? As social media platforms have transformed into virtual marketplaces, brands recognize the need to showcase expertise through engaging content.

Platforms like Instagram empower connecting with worldwide audiences through captivating visual stories. But, it is quite a daunting task to work and many move ahead to buy Instagram followers as well.

Contemporary consumers scarcely have time for promotion lacking substance. Hence, creatives demand integrating education with entertainment for intrinsically motivating connections. This is why in this post, we discuss top ideas for your tech-posts on Instagram. Read on.

Unique Ways To Boost Engagement

With competition so fierce, it becomes difficult to keep your audience engaged with your post. Below we discuss some essential tips that can make things easy for you. Take a look:

● Researching Optimized Hashtags

Analyzing hashtag clusters witnessing frequent usages around niche conversations aids discovering appropriate tags aligning with targeted audiences. Careful hashtagging aids discoverability and spreads messages to receptive crowds naturally.

● Optimizing Images For Social Formats

Adjusting photos to square dimensions suitable for Instagram feeds and story formats preserves visual quality and context. Proper sizing and cropping focuses viewer attention on essential elements.

● Scheduling Around Peak Engagement Timings

Identifying timing patterns of highest follower activities through analytics aids posting when most eyeballs will likely notice new updates. Repurposing top performing content as story highlights retains visibility.

● Reviewing Engagement And Follower Insights

Regularly evaluating metrics like likes, comments, saves and follower growth rates aids comprehending reception and refining strategies. Tracking identified hashtag or location based communities’ interests guides customized content.

● Partnering With Key Influencers

Reaching wider audiences through cross-promotional shoutouts with popular domain figures expands networks. Collaborations establishing brand authority through third party endorsements bolster credibility.

Final Thoughts

In summary, effectively leveraging visual creativity fueled by data-driven decisions establishes technology companies, alongside support from a dedicated social media growth agency like Thunderclap.it, as thought leaders amid competition on platforms like Instagram.

Consistency, authenticity, and nurturing communities through meaningful interactions are crucial for driving organic visibility and achieving superior returns on social media. While maintaining technical excellence is essential, emotionally connecting with audiences through social missions and humor helps build a loyal following and fosters trust in this experience-driven world.

Features

Exploring Valorant eSports Stats: Unveiling the Metrics Behind Competitive Excellence

Published

3 months ago

July 19, 2024

Olivia

Exploring Valorant eSports Stats: Unveiling the Metrics Behind Competitive Excellence

In the rapidly expanding realm of Valorant eSports, statistical analysis plays a pivotal role in understanding player performance, team dynamics, and the strategic nuances that define success in competitive play. This article delves into the significance of Valorant eSports stats, their impact on the competitive landscape, and how they empower players, teams, and fans alike.

Key Metrics in Valorant eSports Stats

Valorant eSports stats encompass a wide array of metrics that provide insights into player proficiency and team strategies. These include individual performance indicators such as kill-death ratios (K/D), average damage per round (ADR), headshot percentages, and assist counts. Team statistics such as round win percentages, first blood percentages, and economy management efficiency further illuminate strategic strengths and areas for improvement.

Analyzing Player Performance and Contribution

For professional Valorant players, statistics serve as a critical tool for evaluating individual performance and contribution to team success. By analyzing metrics like K/D ratios and ADR, players can assess their impact in securing eliminations, dealing damage, and supporting team objectives. This data-driven approach enables players to identify strengths to leverage and weaknesses to address, enhancing their overall effectiveness in competitive matches.

Strategic Insights and Adaptation

Valorant eSports stats provide valuable strategic insights that shape team tactics and gameplay adaptations. Coaches and analysts analyze statistical trends to optimize agent selections, refine map strategies, and counter opponents’ playstyles effectively. The ability to leverage data-driven decision-making empowers teams to evolve their tactics, adapt to meta-game shifts, and maintain a competitive edge in the dynamic world of Valorant eSports.

Tracking Tournament Trends and Meta-Game Evolution

Beyond individual matches, Valorant eSports stats track broader tournament trends and meta-game evolution. Historical data on agent pick rates, map preferences, and round outcomes reveal emerging strategies and meta-shifts over time. This analytical depth allows teams and analysts to anticipate trends, innovate strategies, and stay ahead of competitors in high-stakes tournaments and league play.

Fan Engagement and Spectator Experience

Valorant eSports stats enrich the spectator experience during live broadcasts and tournament coverage. Fans can follow real-time updates on player performances, compare stats across matches, and engage in discussions about standout plays and strategic decisions. Interactive platforms and statistical dashboards enhance viewer engagement, fostering a deeper connection with the competitive narratives unfolding in Valorant eSports.

Impact on eSports Betting and Fantasy Leagues

Valorant eSports stats play a crucial role in eSports betting markets and fantasy leagues, where informed decision-making hinges on statistical insights. Bettors and fantasy league participants leverage player and team stats to assess form, predict match outcomes, and manage their investments strategically. Real-time updates and comprehensive data analysis enhance the strategic depth and excitement of eSports engagement for fans worldwide.

Technological Advancements and Data Visualization

Advancements in technology have revolutionized how Valorant eSports stats are accessed and analyzed. Streaming platforms and eSports websites offer sophisticated data visualization tools, interactive heatmaps, and player performance overlays that enhance the depth and accessibility of statistical analysis. These technological innovations provide analysts, commentators, and fans with enhanced insights into gameplay dynamics and strategic decision-making.

Future Innovations in Statistic Analysis

As Valorant continues to evolve as an eSports powerhouse, the future of statistical analysis promises further innovations. AI-driven predictive analytics, enhanced machine learning algorithms, and real-time performance tracking technologies are poised to revolutionize how eSports stats are processed and utilized. These advancements will elevate the precision, depth, and predictive capabilities of statistical analysis in Valorant eSports, shaping the future of competitive gaming.

Features

Why Investing in Academics Is Investing in Yourself

Published

3 months ago

July 15, 2024

Olivia

Why Investing in Academics Is Investing in Yourself

The quest for knowledge and self-improvement through academic pursuits is more than just a milestone in life; it is a cornerstone of personal development and success. Committing resources to further education is not merely an expense; it is an investment with considerable returns that extend far beyond the classroom. Education equips us with the tools required to navigate an increasingly complex world, opening doors to opportunities and fostering personal growth. Keep reading to discover why allocating time and resources to your academics is a decision that pays dividends for a lifetime.

The Lifelong Returns of Investing in Your Education

Investing in education is akin to planting seeds that blossom into numerous opportunities. Beyond financial gains, education forms the bedrock for career success and personal fulfillment. It empowers individuals to pursue their passions, enhances job satisfaction, and boosts self-esteem through academic achievements. Education serves as a catalyst for social mobility, breaking cycles of poverty by equipping people with the skills needed to improve their lives and contribute positively to society.

This ripple effect extends to lower crime rates and increased civic engagement, benefiting communities at large. Beginning with scholarships for high school sophomores can provide the initial support needed to embark on this transformative journey. These opportunities signify a commitment to nurturing future leaders and fostering a culture of lifelong learning and achievement.

Personal Growth and Lifelong Learning Through Education

Education is a vital aspect of personal development, providing opportunities for growth, character building, and discovering passions and capabilities. It fosters resilience and adaptability, which are essential in all aspects of life. A strong educational foundation encourages lifelong learning, ensuring individuals remain relevant and proactive in their professional and personal lives.

Education also broadens perspectives, exposing individuals to diverse ideas, cultures, and worldviews, fostering empathy, cross-cultural understanding, and appreciation for the human experience. It also allows for critical assessment and engagement with the world from an informed standpoint. The journey through academia often involves self-discovery, helping students uncover their strengths, weaknesses, interests, and values, leading to a more fulfilled life with aligned choices and goals.

Expanding Your Horizons: The Social Benefits of Academics

Academic investment in education is about building social capital through interactions with peers, faculty, and industry professionals. These interactions foster communication skills and relationships, which are crucial for life stages. Extracurricular activities in academic settings provide platforms for students to express themselves, learn new skills, and take on leadership roles.

Collaborative projects and team-based assignments teach students the importance of teamwork, compromise, and collective pursuit of goals. Higher education institutions also serve as a microcosm of society, requiring social awareness and finesse to navigate the diverse cultural, economic, and ideological perspectives.

How Academic Achievement Propels Professional Success

Professional success often hinges on a blend of experiences and achievements, with academic accomplishments playing a crucial role. Excelling in academia fosters a strong work ethic and sharp time-management skills, highly valued in today’s job market. Employers frequently use academic credentials to gauge candidates, especially for specialized roles like those requiring an aa in paralegal studies, where in-depth knowledge is pivotal.

Moreover, higher education equips individuals with specialized knowledge and technical skills that are indispensable in complex roles. Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, nurtured during academic pursuits, further enhance one’s capacity to tackle challenges creatively. The networks formed during academic years often open doors to valuable career opportunities through mentorships and connections.

Leveraging Educational Investments for Career Advancement Opportunities

Investing in education can significantly impact career advancement, as academic qualifications often lead to promotions, leadership roles, and exclusive professional circles. Continuous education can lead to specialized career paths with higher salaries and statuses, especially in evolving fields. Higher education institutions offer career services like resume-building workshops and job placement programs to help students transition from academia to the workforce effectively.

For those already in the workforce, further education can be a strategic move for career change or progression, with flexible online programs and part-time options allowing working professionals to pursue additional qualifications while maintaining their current positions.

Altogether, the investment in academics is a far-reaching decision that impacts not just your immediate circumstances, but your future potential. As you prioritize your academic pursuits, you build a stronger foundation for success in every aspect of life—professionally, personally, and socially.