Dr. Guillermo Power @gpowerf@social.cleverlibre.org

"Animals are generally not allowed to cross the border." of course! We knew squirrels and no other wild animals ever cross the US-Mexico border without a passport. No duck, goose, or any other migratory bird has ever crossed the border. Other countries, yeah! The USA? Never! https://apnews.com/article/immigration-border-squirrel-texas-6a1dbf8244837c87f41224e09a9dd613

Another #gaming toot about #game #graphics. Having played #Starfield and been really surprised at how much stuff there is in every room and ultimately grown bored I’m here to say that graphics details not only don’t matter but can make games worse.

Back in the day, a game like Shenmue didn’t look real at all, not every location was totally full of stuff, but it did feel like most things that were there did in some way contribute to the game in some way. With a game that’s as detailed graphically as Starfield it just feels like a lot of stuff is just there, like real life, just life crap everywhere. This makes the world less memorable, less unique, and more like reality.

But why is this a problem? Well, for one thing, it can make the game less immersive and engaging. When everything looks realistic and cluttered, it can be hard to tell what is important and what is not. It can also make the game more tedious and frustrating, as you have to search through piles of junk to find what you need or want. And it can also make the game less creative and expressive, as you have less room to imagine and interpret things in your own way.

Some might argue that graphics details are essential for creating a believable and immersive world, and that they enhance the gameplay by adding realism and variety. But I disagree. I think graphics details should serve the gameplay, not overshadow it. They should create a distinctive and consistent aesthetic that matches the tone and theme of the game, not just mimic reality for the sake of it. They should also be balanced with other aspects of the game, such as gameplay mechanics, story, music, and sound.

For example, look at older games. They have simple graphics, but they are effective and memorable. The graphics complement the gameplay, not compete with it.

So what I am saying is; I think graphics details are overrated and can make games worse if they are not done well. That's a hill I'm willing to die on too ;)

One advantage of the Welsh 20 MPH speed limit is that lots of people have been saying they won't go on holidays to #Wales anymore.

This might be a loss for Wales regarding income, but a big win for holidaymakers who keep going to Wales. Empty campsites, empty beaches, and less traffic don't sound too bad.