Megan Thee Stallion has released a new track, ‘BOA’. Continuing the snake theme of her previous singles ‘Hiss’ and ‘Cobra’, the track comes paired with a music video starring the rapper as the protagonist of a video game called The Curse of Thee Serpent Woman. It was produced by LilJuMadeDaBeat and samples Gwen Stefani’s 2004 song ‘What You Waiting For?’. Check it out below.
Album Review: Amen Dunes, ‘Death Jokes’
There’s so much to digest on Death Jokes, Amen Dunes‘ first album in six years. It’s not an album that gels together on first listen. But the more time you spend with it, the more its complex, unruly nature – scraping together experimental vignettes, epic sound collages, and heady songs with radio-friendly runtimes that’d convince you there’s at least two stations playing at once – rewards attention. Amen Dunes’ transcendent last album, Freedom, was by no means straightforward, but by comparison – especially if you compare your memory of it rather than the actual experience – it sounds easygoing. That record managed to clear through the haze of Damon McMahon’s previous efforts to reveal his affinity for classic songwriting, even as its liberating swagger did little to diminish his music’s pervasive eeriness. Though it would be a reasonable reaction to the visibility its success brought him, McMahon’s intention does not seem to be to once again muddy the waters with Death Jokes. Instead of moving the needle in one direction or another, his fascination with pop and the avant-garde are now squared, even if he’s conscious of their contradictory effects. It’s as transfixing as it is mystifying.
It’s hard to tell how McMahon achieves this: there’s a coldness that permeates much of the music, which is in line with the themes it explores, but it does not feel calculated. We know that to make it, McMahon embraced a beginner’s mindset, learning the fundamentals of piano and electronic music, but his familiarity with them both, as part of his past if not his creative process, ends up complicating it. Soon they become another set of tools for him to mess with, to layer and contort and populate the structures that naturally emerge. His approach to rhythm is especially jarring. Towards the end of ‘What I Want’, he introduces a beat that, in a dance music context, might help tease the song towards a kind of euphoria, but it only wrings more anxiety out of the longing implied in the title. Even when it’s just guitars and percussion on ‘Rugby Child’, those elements seem to branch out independently of each other, and that’s before the song balloons with imposing synths, hi-hats, and a typically ethereal performance from McMahon that struggles to break through the cacophony. Still, it seeks nuance and humanity, not an impenetrable product.
There’s a sense of toil and discontent behind the music, its playfulness burdened the overwhelming possibilities and intellectual weight it can hold. You can almost hear the ideas and collaborations that were scrapped, McMahon’s insistence to start over, but the songs benefit from his loose, untamed approach. The production on ‘Boys’ is so unhinged it seems designed to offset every element that would render it a good promotional single, which it somehow still was. Within the album, this skittishness naturally registers not as another musical tendency, but a quality McMahon weaves into its complex emotional fabric. The disarray going on underneath ‘Ian’, which even includes a sample of what sounds like punk music blazing in the background, only amplifies the steadfast clarity of McMahon’s vocals, their strange intimacy: “When I thought on you/ I could hear the same old tone.”
According to press materials, McMahon’s use of samples and lyrics is a means of “directly critiquing the way American culture exalts violence, coercion, and groupthink as societal inevitabilities.” Even as I try to read that into it upon multiple listens, however, it seems rather indirect, convoluted, and hardly a critique – ‘Rugby Child’, for example, feels much more like an evocation of violent power than pure commentary. Wen he samples the likes of French composer Nadia Boulanger and comedian Lenny Bruce, they’re framed as “thought provocation and irritant” instead of helping to streamline a concrete worldview. It’s all part of the noise, the plethora of characters and perspectives – personal, historical, or merely circumstantial – that McMahon feeds into and is eager to connect through his music, especially on the staggering 9-minute highlight ‘Round the World’. More than an academic treatise, it makes for a visceral, uncompromising, and sobering listen, particularly since McMahon often takes a moment to center himself. “I could give up/ Or I could keep going/ Wonder how long this song’s gone on for,” he sings on ‘Purple Land’. He keeps going and wondering, but knows, better than most, to make it matter.
Albums Out Today: Amen Dunes, A. G. Cook, Les Savy Fav, How to Dress Well, and More
In this segment, we showcase the most notable albums out each week. Here are the albums out on May 10, 2024:
Amen Dunes, Death Jokes
- Listen / Buy
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- Apple Music
- Physical
Amen Dunes has released his first album in six years. The follow-up to Freedom is called Death Jokes, and it was preceded by the singles ‘Purple Land’, ‘Boys’, ‘Round the World’, and ‘Rugby Child’. The 14-track effort features contributions from Sam Wilkes, Christoffer Berg (Fever Ray), and Kwake Bass (Tirzah & Dean Blunt), while its array of samples includes an interview with J Dilla, recordings from Type O Negative and Coil, a lyre performance of the oldest written song in human history, protest chants, a grunting powerlifter, as well as bits of stand-up from Lenny Bruce, Richard Pryor, and others, used as “thought provocation and irritant.”
A. G. Cook, Britpop
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- Bandcamp
- Spotify
- Apple Music
A. G. Cook has dropped Britpop, his third proper LP, via his New Alias label. Featuring the Charli XCX-assisted title track and ‘Soulbreaker’, the LP spans 24 songs that are split into three parts: Past, Present, and Future. Past showcases Cook’s hyperreal electronic style, Present channels a more traditional understanding of the Britpop genre, while Future consists of “his own distinctive understanding of what the future of music really means,” according to press materials. Cook made the record while living in Montana during lockdown, working on his two previous albums, Apple and 7G.
Les Savy Fav, OUI, LSF
- Listen / Buy
- TIDAL
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Les Savy Fav are back with OUI, LSF, their first album in 14 years. The Root for Ruin follow-up includes the previously released singles ‘Legendary Tippers’, ‘Guzzle Blood’, ‘Limo Scene’, and ‘World Got Great’. “The band was never a job, so we can’t get fired and don’t have to quit,” frontman Tim Harrington said in a statement. “We had the time to figure out how to bring the people we’ve become and the people we are as artists together authentically. There’s a chaotic, untethered ecstasy at the center of the band’s universe. Squaring that with the desire to create stability and the need to endure some grind isn’t easy.”
How to Dress Well, I Am Toward You
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- Bandcamp
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Los Angeles-based musician Tom Krell has returned with I Am Toward You, his first How to Dress Well album since 2018’s The Anteroom. Out now via Sargent House, the LP was previewed by the singles ‘Crypt Sustain’, ‘nothingprayer’, ‘New Confusion’, and ‘No Light’. Collaborators on the album include Chris Votek, Joel Ford, Josh Clancy, Brian Allen Simon (Anenon), Aaron Charles Read, CFCF, Trayer Tryon, and Anarthia DLT. The title I Am Toward You came from Krell’s wife mishearing a lyric from Miley Cyrus’ ‘I Adore You’. “[She said,] ‘wow, that’s a powerful lyric,’ I asked which lyric, and she responded that she heard the chorus as having said: ‘I Am Toward You,’” he explained. “Because I had expressed to her that I thought the song was powerful, she generously attuned her mind to hear something powerful, something profound.”
Various Artists, I Saw the TV Glow (Original Soundtrack)
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- TIDAL
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- Physical
The star-studded soundtrack for I Saw the TV Glow, the new film from We’re All Going to the World’s Fair director Jane Schoenbrun, has arrived. It features yeule’s previously released cover of Broken Social Scene’s ‘Anthems for a Seventeen Year-Old Girl’, Florist’s ‘Riding Around in the Dark’, and Caroline Polachek’s ‘Starburned and Unkissed’, as well as contributions from Sloppy Jane with Phoebe Bridgers, Hop Along’s Frances Quinlan, Bartees Strange, Maria BC, King Woman, Jay Som, L’Rain, the Weather Station, Drab Majesty, Proper, and Sadurn. Alex G’s score for the movie is out next Friday.
youbet, Way to Be
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- Apple Music
- Physical
youbet has unveiled their sophomore LP, Way to Be, via Hardly Art. Featuring the early singles ‘Seeds of Evil’, ‘Carsick’, ‘Nurture’, and ‘Vacancy’, the record was written and produced by bandleader Nick Llobet, mixed by Adam Brisbin, and mastered by Amar Lal at Macro Sound. “Every song I birth is an opportunity to reinvent myself and gives me a chance to perform through a different spiritual filter,” Llobet shared in a statement. “Each song is like a creature that lives within the depths of my soul, waiting to be written. I have this growing collection of spirit demons that keep me company in my creative life.”
Knocked Loose, You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To
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- Bandcamp
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Louisville quintet Knocked Loose have released their latest LP, You Won’t Go Before You’re Supposed To. The follow-up to 2019’s A Different Shade of Blue and 2021’s A Tear in the Fabric of Life EP was produced by Drew “WZRD BLD” Fulk. It features collaborations with Poppy (who guests on the advance single ‘Suffocate’) and Chris Motionless. “On this album, we go the fastest we’ve ever gone; we go the scariest we’ve ever gone. We also go the catchiest and the most melodic that we’ve ever gone, and that’s the point,” guitarist Isaac Hale said in a press release. “Instead of branching off into a specific direction, we want to encompass ALL directions.”
Dehd, Poetry
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- Bandcamp
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Dehd have put out their fifth LP, Poetry, following up 2022’s Blue Skies. The Chicago band enlisted Ziyad Asrar of Whitney to co-produce the album alongside the band’s own Jason Balla at Palisade Studio. The majority of the record was written at Taos, New Mexico’s Earthship and in a cabin on Washington’s Puget Sound. “Eating, sleeping, breathing, living—our only purpose was to write,” singer and bassist Emily Kempf reflected of the experience in a statement. The singles ‘Light On’, ‘Mood Ring’, ‘Alien’, and ‘Dog Days’ arrived ahead of the release.
Yaya Bey, Ten Fold
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- Bandcamp
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Yaya Bey has followed up 2022’s Remember Your North Star and last year’s Exodus the North Star EP with a new album, Ten Fold, out now via Big Dada. It features the previously released tracks ‘crying through my teeth’, ‘the evidence’, ‘chasing the bus’, and ‘me and all my n****s’, as well as production from Corey Fonville (of Butcher Brown), Karriem Riggins, Jay Daniel, Exactly, and Boston Chery.
Arab Strap, I’m totally fine with it 👍 don’t give a fuck anymore 👍
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- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Arab Strap have released a new LP titled I’m totally fine with it 👍 don’t give a fuck anymore 👍. Taking its name from a text message by the band’s live drummer, the follow-up to 2021’s As Days Get Dark was preceded by the tracks ‘Bliss’, ‘Allatonceness’, and ‘Strawberry Moon’. It was written and performed by Aidan Moffat and Malcolm Middleton, with help from longtime collaborator Paul Savage. It’s an album of “a quiet anger,” according to Moffat, channeling both rage and love for “the tangible world and intangible world, and which one you choose to believe and engage with.”
Myriam Gendron, Mayday
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- Bandcamp
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Ottawa-born, Montreal-based singer-songwriter Myriam Gendron has released her third LP, Mayday. It follows 2021’s Ma délire – Songs of love, lost & found and includes the previously unveiled songs ‘Long Way Home’ and ‘Terres brûlées’. Accompanying Gendron on the LP are guitarist Marisa Anderson and drummer Jim White, with additional appearances from Cédric Dind-Lavoie, Bill Nace, and Zoh Amba.
Keeley Forsyth, The Hollow
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- Bandcamp
- Spotify
- Apple Music
- Physical
Keeley Forsyth has unveiled her third album, The Hollow, which is also her debut for FatCat’s 130701 imprint. The follow-up to 2022’s Limbs was produced by Forsyth and Ross Downes and features guest appearances from Colin Stetson and Matthew Bourne. “We wanted to make something slightly more expansive, continuing to reference what we love from various genres without ever belong-ing to one,” Forsyth explained. “It’s with this ethos that we recognise aspects of sacred music, minimalist post-classical, dark ambient, film and theatre soundtracks. Forsyth layered her vocals into chamber choirs, applied pitch shifts and other digital processing, and speaks directly with clear articulate intention one moment to mumbled numb utterances in the next.”
Other albums out today:
Kings Of Leon, Can We Please Have Fun; Orville Peck, Stampede Vol. 1; Shannon & the Clams, The Moon Is in the Wrong Place; Chief Keef, Almighty So 2; Gunna, One of Wun; Jim White & Marisa Anderson, Swallowtail; I. JORDAN, I AM JORDAN; Mary Lattimore & Walt McClements, Rain On The Road; Villagers, That Golden Time; Sofia Bolt, Vendredi Minuit; Clementine Was Right, Tell Yourself You’re Going Home; Amy O, Mirror, Reflect; Angus & Julia Stone, Cape Forestier; Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Love Hate Music Box; Iglooghost, Tidal Memory Exo; Hot Water Music, Vows; Milan Ring, Mangos; Amy O, Mirror, Reflect; No Good With Secrets, Another Side; Mick Harvey, Five Ways to Say Goodbye; Julia Pratt, Family Feud; Take Offense, T.O.tality; Big Special, Postindustrial Hometown Blues; Jordan Rakei, The Loop; Josienne Clarke, Parenthesis, I; Vicky Farewell, Give a Damn; Moonilena, Minnet; Sisso & Maiko, Singeli Ya Maajabu; Group Listening, Walks; Gregor, Satanic Lullabies.
Camila Cabello and Lil Nas X Team Up on New Song ‘He Knows’
Camila Cabello has teamed up with Lil Nas X for a new single, ‘He Knows’, which will appear on Cabello’s upcoming album C,XOXO. It follows March’s Playboi Carti collab ‘I LUV IT’. Check it out along with a trailer for the album below.
C,XOXO, the follow-up to 2022’s Familia, comes out June 28 Geffen/Interscope.
Ice Spice Drops New Song ‘Gimmie a Light’
Ice Spice has released a new track, ‘Gimmie a Light’, which she debuted at Coachella. Following January’s ‘Think U the Shit (Fart)’, the single samples Sean Paul’s 2002 song ‘Gimme the Light’. Listen to it below.
Last month, Ice Spice appeared on a remix of Cash Cobain & Bay Swag’s ‘Fisherr’.
Charli XCX Shares Video for New Single ‘360’
Charli XCX has shared a new single, ‘360’, taken from her upcoming album Brat. The track comes with an accompanying video featuring Julia Fox, Rachel Sennott, Gabbriette, Chloe Cherry, Richie Shazam, Chloë Sevigny, Emma Chamberlain, Alex Consani, Hari Nef, and more. Check it out below.
Brat, the follow-up to 2022’s Crash, is set to arrive on June 7. It includes the previously released singles ‘Von Dutch’, ‘Club Classics’, and ‘B2B’.
Games that changed the way we look at the industry
The gaming industry has become perhaps the most dynamic part of modern pop culture. Game development is evolving at a cosmic speed, transforming from simple ASCII symbols moving on screens to full-fledged, photorealistic visuals within just four decades. During this time, an entire system of genres has been established, the public has developed its favorites, and some particularly iconic series have even been honored with screen adaptations.
In this text, we want to remember the projects whose release became a watershed moment – defining the “before and after” in the gaming industry. Games that changed the industry and our ideas of what it could and should be. For instance, titles like “Pac-Man” and “Super Mario Bros.” reshaped entertainment, influencing not just game design but also leading to widespread cultural phenomena. Similarly, the introduction of innovative game mechanics in “Doom” influenced countless first-person shooters that followed.
Additionally, the evolution of online gaming has brought about changes in how players interact and access games. This shift is also reflected in how promotions like Slotozen no deposit bonus code are increasingly significant in attracting new players and offering them a taste of gaming without initial investments. These promotions have altered the dynamics of engagement and monetization in gaming, illustrating how even aspects of the industry seemingly peripheral to game design can influence broader trends and player expectations.
These games and trends highlight how the industry continuously adapts and evolves, impacting how we perceive and interact with games across different platforms and genres.
Elite (1984)
Relatively recently Elite: Dangerous (the last game of the legendary series) was given away for free, which added to the popularity of this outstanding game. And everything started back in the 80s of the last century. At that time Elite cosmosim was released on all actual platforms, including ZX Spectrum and NES.
In those times nobody expected anything like that. In the era of rather primitive and mirror-like platformers, the playing community got an open world, a subtle simulation of space combat, flights and docking, a tonne of equipment and an economic system. Finally, the spirit of the user of those years knocked out the real three-dimensionality. Even though the objects were only outlines, without the textures that we are used to today.
And of course, Elite impressed with its freedom. Here you could become an honest merchant or a treacherous space pirate, fight and do peaceful things. And the main thing – to explore the whole universe full of adventures and opportunities.
It is especially impressive that Elite was made by only two enthusiastic students – Britons David Braben and Ian Bell.
Super Mario Bros (1985)
One of Nintendo’s biggest hits (which sold over 40 million copies), this game defined the look and feel of 2D platformers in the last century.
Multi-tiered, carefully designed locations, a crushing jump on the enemy, knocking out bonuses from bricks, temporary improvements of the main character’s skills – in the game about a mustachioed plumber all this worked properly and fascinated with terrible force. A significant part of successful genre games of the era diligently copied this gameplay invented by Shigeru Miyamoto.
Incidentally, Super Mario Bros. was one of the games that started the video game boom in the former Soviet Union in the first half of the 1990s. It was played for hours in almost every flat, regardless of the age of the players. And even some fathers of families shamelessly abused their authority, taking Dendy gamepads away from their offspring to challenge Bowser – we saw it with our own eyes.
Sid Meier’s Civilisation (1991)
This game was ahead of its time by at least ten years. Gameplay designer-legend Sid Meier released an epic strategy game of unprecedented scope at the time. While most games of the genre were close to tabletop wargames, Meyer tried to recreate the development of an entire civilisation – from antiquity to the present day. With economic fiddling, settlement building, diplomacy, scientific research and military action.
Fantastic elements were discarded, and any attempts to impose a plot on the user were forgotten. Civilisation was purely historical. The designer was inspired by ancient computer strategy games such as Empire (1977).
Civilisation blew up the gaming community and became the beginning of a franchise that is still alive today. And variations on the theme of Meyer’s game are released with enviable regularity (Rise of Nations, Humankind, Old World).
The genre of 4X-strategies (eXplore, eXpand, eXploit, eXterminate) itself appeared earlier, back in 1983, with Reach for the Stars. But it was Civilisation that made it what it is today.
Mortal Kombat (1992)
When the first instalment of the unsinkable Mortal Kombat franchise was released, it was the first time an interested public saw how violent games could be. Fighters who truly fought to the death without sparing each other were converging in mortal combat. Ed Boon, the demiurge and mastermind behind the series, created a real phenomenon: with all the digital blood and guts, his in-game violence was not seen as a savouring of anatomical gruesomeness. It became an element of gameplay and a recognisable hallmark of the MK universe. All those ripped out spines were part of the unique design and worked well for the atmosphere.
For moralisers of all stripes Mortal Kombat became one of the main targets. But players instantly appreciated what Boon created: not just a shocking work, but also an uncompromising fighting game that allows you to show your skills.
Dune 2: Battle for Arrakis (1992)
Publisher Virgin Games gave two development teams the task of developing games based on Frank Herbert’s novel. The first to complete the work was Cryo Interactive with its adventure game, which was called Dune. But the project, which was born second, went down in history.
Dune 2: Battle for Arrakis laid the foundations of a whole new genre. At that time there was no separate name for it, but later it would be called RTS – real-time strategy. It already had almost all the elements that game designers would use in new projects for many years to come, adding something of their own. The player collected resources, built buildings, hired a variety of troops, which were then thrown into battle, which took place in real time, not in campaign mode, as it was customary before.
The game combined the incongruous. Thoughtful strategic gameplay was juxtaposed with tense action, and reaction speed was as important as the ability to plan development. It was with Dune 2 that the RTS genre announced itself to the world.
Doom (1993)
The iconic first-person shooter shook the industry so much that for many years all games of this genre were simply called “Doom clones”.
One of the creators of the project, John Carmack, once issued a meme about the unnecessary plot in games and porn. And the narrative part of his shooter could fit into one line about the breakthrough of demons from the Underworld. The game became megapopular because of its unaccustomed yet three-dimensional (not quite, however, honest), furious gameplay, creature design and arsenal of guns.
Labyrinths of levels were generously dotted with stashes with valuable ammunition and passhacks. This approach to leveldesign was actively used for a quarter of a century after the release of Doom, and similar modelling of locations is also found nowadays. For example, in the Serious Sam and Shadow Warrior series.
By the mid-1990s, the Doom universe had become the most popular franchise, with games ported to every conceivable platform, books and comics. The series is still going strong these days, setting new standards for the genre. Even though Wolfenstein 3D was released a year before Carmack’s game, it was Doom that changed the gaming industry forever.
Half-Life (1998)
Valve’s game changed the FPS genre beyond recognition. Half-Life became a kind of antithesis of Doom. If in the popular id Software game players, following the famous principle of Porthos, “fought because they fought”, then here they were waiting for the elaborated plot and convincing atmosphere of the real catastrophe, from which there was no hiding and no escaping. The developers didn’t hide that they were inspired by Stephen King’s “The Fog” and made references to the works of the maestro even at the development stage.
One insignificant, at first glance, detail is also interesting: the main character of Half-Life, Gordon Freeman, doesn’t utter a single word during the game. So, according to Valve’s idea, it was easier for the user to get into the role of a poor physicist and imagine himself in the thick of events. And it worked: a huge number of players got into Half-Life. In ten years, 9.3 million copies were sold, and the industry was irrevocably changed.
Diablo 2 (2000)
The first Diablo instalment was a success, it was seen and praised. But the real bomb was the sequel, which changed the very idea of isometric action-RPGs.
David Bravick, the ideologist and creator of the first Diablo, was able to fully realise his vision of the genre in the second part – now he had the budget and technology. He, like the rest of the Blizzard North team, had a passion for role-playing computer games from a young age. And in David’s childhood, high school and college kids played RPGs like Rogue and NetHack. At the heart of these games was the descent into enchanted dungeons – the deeper, the more dangerous. But the reward is also more valuable. In the first two games of the franchise, it was this mechanic that formed the basis of gameplay.
And if Diablo 1997 was a test of the pen, the second game became a truly popular game. Everyone played Diablo 2. Neither gender, nor age, nor social status mattered when it came to clearing another cave.
The reason for its success was the extremely low entry threshold. Even people who had never tried a computer game before instantly mastered the game. Players also appreciated the procedural generation of levels: the map was drawn from scratch by algorithms at each launch, and each new run brought surprises. After the success of Diablo 2 it became a trend, and it has remained so to this day. Tons of trophies were generated in the same way – fiddling with inventory was a separate entertainment.
Thanks to all this, David Bravick’s game is one of the first in the history of the industry in terms of the number of followers and imitators, and the Diablo series feels great even nowadays.
GTA 3 (2001)
Open-world experimentation has been around since the first, two-dimensional GTA. But with the third instalment of the crime thriller, Rockstar Studios forever changed the approach to freedom of movement and action in the action genre.
The big city in GTA 3 was really perceived as a living, bustling and never sleeping metropolis. Before the player appeared streets with passers-by and gawkers, with robbers, cops and prostitutes. And it was not just statisticians: in GTA 3 you could become an eyewitness to a quarrel, a fight or a crime. Not only that, you could intervene – with an unobvious outcome.
There was also an opportunity to simply wander the alleys, looking for secrets and pass-hacks. You could engage in optional activity, earning money as, for example, a taxi driver. Inventive and varied story missions were available at any time. This level of freedom was not found in every purebred RPG of those years.
Separately worth noting is the amount of detail, sometimes imperceptible. Some places of interest worked only in the dark. An ambulance came to the injured citizens. The weather changed, and the wind carried rubbish across the pavement. And the puddles reflected passers-by – an unprecedented thing for 2001!
GTA 3 gave a strong impetus to modelling open worlds in games, and without it we might not have seen Mafia, Just Cause, Sleeping Dogs and many other worthy things.
Dark Souls (2011)
Genius Japanese designer Hidetaka Miyazaki tried out the basic Souls formula back in 2009 with Demon’s Souls. This role-playing action game was warmly received by critics, became a cult in narrow circles, but did not pull the revolution. Probably, the reason was the exclusivity for PS3, or maybe the community was embarrassed by the unconventionality of the new game (or its rather unsightly appearance for that time). Whatever the case, the genre took a turn after the release of Dark Souls.
Perhaps no one before Miyazaki had managed to balance hardcore difficulty in such a way. Souls characters died often and quickly, and not just from the claws of the next boss. One careless step could result in falling to the bottom of a ravine or activating a trap. At the same time, any challenge, any opponent could be overcome. You just had to concentrate and work a little harder.
Few games before gave so much joy from the very process of overcoming (yourself – in the first place). The author of the text personally saw how adequate and moderately solid forty-year-old man ran around the flat with joyful cries after defeating the Executioner and Dragonborn, the most difficult double boss.
Dark Souls was the progenitor of the now flourishing souls-like genre. The developers copy the original mechanics of collecting, losing and returning souls, the combat system with rolls and stamina bar, visual design and narrative minimalism. And of course, the Souls continuators offer, like Miyazaki, to try out the teeth-grinding difficulty on the edge of the foul.
Slot Games Based on UK Movies and TV Shows
Slot designers are intent on creating a successful game, its theme is extremely important. Choosing to adapt either a successful UK TV show or movie can certainly be of help.
That’s because there is already an audience out there that loves the film/TV show. It’s far easier and less risky than beginning from scratch. Let’s look at three slot games you can play at UK casinos that also give new patrons free spins as a part of a welcome bonus with these codes.
Carry on Camping
Now this will take you back a bit. Then again, this classic British comedy is still regularly being shown on television and streaming services. That’s despite it being released 55 years ago.
Blueprint Gaming have adapted it for a slot game and it’s been hugely successful. Just like the movie itself, there’s a rather retro feel to this slot game. There’s only three reels and five paylines. The retro feel continues with the use of the fruit symbols that used to dominate slots in the past.
Other symbols in this slot include excellent cartoon versions of Carry On stars Kenneth Williams and Sid James. It’s perhaps surprising that Barbara Windsor is absent. There’s also the Carry On logo and an English breakfast symbol which is the wild in this entertaining slot.
The symbols in this game have numbers on them and if they total eight, then that gets you into the bonus game. Look out for the multipliers that can reach as high as 1000x your stake. Climbing as high as you can up the cash ladder is going to be your aim.
If it’s your intention to register with a UK online casino, safety is so important. That’s why it is imperative you join one that is licensed and regulated. Do some research and visit a site that publishes in-depth reviews of UK online casinos.
Monty Python’s Life of Brian
When a slot version of a movie is released, it’s important that it brings back lots of memories of the film. That’s definitely been achieved in this Playtech and Ash Gaming slot.
It’s full of bonus features and virtually everything in this slot will remind you of this classic (and controversial) British movie that has memorable quotes aplenty.
One important factor is to include symbols of the actual characters from the film. That’s been achieved brilliantly here with symbols such as Mr Cheeky, a centurion, Pontius and of course both Brian and his mother. The introduction to the slot features music from the movie.
You will hope to get wins from the 30 fixed paylines this game has. This game is packed to the brim with bonus features. Again, they will bring back memories of this hilarious movie.
For example, there’s ‘What’s So Funny,’ ‘Stoning’ and the ‘Foot of God’ progressive jackpot. Even losing spins isn’t bad news as you may receive a Wild Spaceship respin. That sees one set of symbols being turned wild.
More free spins are up for grabs in the Always Look on the Bright Side of Life bonus. Again, losing spins can help you as the multiplier is increased by 1x. This is an action-packed and hilarious slot.
Downton Abbey
‘Downton Abbey’ has been a hit as both a TV series and in the movieworld. A new movie is on its way so it’ll soon be back in the headlines.
This slot from Skywind has not one, not two but three progressive jackpots. That means some big wins may well be on their way.
There are five reels and three rows in this slot with 40 paylines during the base game. In the background you’ll see Downton Abbey itself.
Not all the reels are initially in play. At first we see just the downstair’s reels with the symbols being of those who keep the residence going. They include many of the characters you know and love. For example, there’s Mr Carson, Anna and John Bates, Mrs Patmore and Thomas Barrow.
Other symbols include a set of keys, a brush, a pocket watch and a bowl of eggs. Downton Abbey itself is the wild symbol and there are three scatters.
We get to see the members of the Crawley family when the ‘upstairs’ reels come into play. That happens when the bell symbol ends up in the ‘activation zone’ at the top of the third reel. That’s when we get to see well-known faces such as Robert, Matthew, Cora, May and Rose along with a dog, a posh hat and a tea set.
Bonus games included here will again bring back memories of the show. For example, there’s ‘Call to Service’ when additional wilds are on the screen and ‘Downton Village Flower Show’ which is a picking round.
During this you can win some big cash prizes, perhaps even a progressive jackpot. With free spins also available, there are plenty of reasons to play this excellent slot.
Taking Care of Expensive Clothing When Moving Home: Tips and Tricks
Moving to a new home can be an exciting experience, but it can also be a stressful one, especially when it comes to transporting expensive clothing. Whether it’s a designer dress or a tailored suit, these items require special care during the moving process to ensure they arrive at their destination in pristine condition. In this article, we will explore some tips on how to take care of expensive clothing when moving home.
One of the first things to consider when moving expensive clothing is the type of packaging it should be stored in. It’s important to choose the right materials to protect your clothing from damage during transport. For example, using acid-free tissue paper to wrap delicate fabrics like silk can help prevent discoloration and damage. Additionally, using garment bags or boxes with hangers can help keep clothes wrinkle-free and protected from dust and dirt.
Another important factor to consider is the transportation method. If you’re hiring a moving company, make sure to communicate the importance of your expensive clothing to them. They may have specific procedures for handling delicate items that you should be aware of. Alternatively, if you’re transporting the clothing yourself, make sure to use a vehicle with enough space and take precautions to prevent damage during transport, such as securing items with straps or bungee cords.
- Packing Strategies
- Cleaning and Maintenance Pre-Move
- Climate Considerations
- Transportation and Handling
- Unpacking and Storing
Packing Strategies
When it comes to packing expensive clothing for a move, it is important to take extra care to ensure that the items stay in pristine condition. Here are some packing strategies to consider:
Wardrobe Cardboard Boxes
Wardrobe cardboard boxes are an excellent option for packing expensive clothing. These boxes come with a built-in hanging rod, allowing you to hang your clothes directly inside the box. This helps to prevent wrinkles and keeps your clothing organized during the move.
Use Protective Covers
To further protect your expensive clothing, consider using protective covers. These can include plastic garment bags or acid-free tissue paper. The protective covers will help to prevent any dust or debris from settling on your clothing during the move.
Fold Clothing Carefully
For items that cannot be hung, such as sweaters or pants, it is important to fold them carefully. Use tissue paper or bubble wrap to cushion the folds and prevent any creases from forming.
Label Boxes Clearly
To make unpacking easier, label your wardrobe boxes and other clothing boxes clearly. This will help you to quickly identify which boxes contain your expensive clothing and ensure that they are handled with care during the move.
By following these packing strategies, you can ensure that your expensive clothing stays in top condition during your move.
Cleaning and Maintenance Pre-Move
Taking care of expensive clothing during a move can be a daunting task. However, with the right approach, it can be done with ease. Cleaning and maintenance of clothes before the move is an essential step to ensure they remain in good condition during the move.
Before packing clothes, it is important to sort them out and identify those that require special care. These may include delicate fabrics such as silk or cashmere, or items with intricate details such as beading or embroidery. Such clothes should be cleaned and stored properly to prevent damage during the move.
It is recommended to follow the care instructions on the clothing label when cleaning them. However, if the label is missing or unclear, it is best to seek the services of a professional cleaner. This will ensure that the clothes are cleaned using the appropriate method and products, which will prevent damage.
In addition to cleaning, it is important to store clothes properly before the move. This may involve folding them neatly or hanging them on hangers. Clothes that are prone to wrinkling should be folded carefully to prevent creases. It is also advisable to use protective covers such as garment bags to keep clothes clean and dust-free during the move.
By following these simple steps, one can ensure that their expensive clothing remains in good condition during a move. Proper cleaning and maintenance before the move will not only protect the clothes but also make unpacking and organizing them in the new home easier.
Climate Considerations
When moving expensive clothing, it is important to consider the climate of the new location. Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage delicate fabrics and cause discoloration or shrinkage.
To protect clothing during transport, it is recommended to use climate-controlled moving trucks or storage units. These facilities maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, which prevents damage caused by fluctuations.
Additionally, it is important to avoid packing clothing in plastic bags or containers, as this can trap moisture and lead to mold growth. Instead, use breathable materials such as cotton garment bags or acid-free tissue paper to protect clothing during transit.
It is also a good idea to unpack clothing as soon as possible upon arrival at the new location, to allow it to acclimate to the new climate. This can help prevent damage caused by sudden temperature or humidity changes.
By considering the climate of the new location and taking appropriate precautions, expensive clothing can be safely transported and protected during a move.
Transportation and Handling
When moving expensive clothing, it is important to take extra precautions to ensure that they remain in pristine condition. Transportation and handling are two critical aspects that can make or break the safety of your clothes during the move.
To start, it is recommended to use garment bags or sturdy boxes to pack your clothes. Garment bags are particularly useful for delicate fabrics such as silk and satin, as they provide a layer of protection from dust and moisture. On the other hand, boxes can be used to pack bulkier items such as coats and jackets. Make sure to label each box or bag with the contents and handle with care instructions.
When loading and unloading the boxes, it is important to lift them properly to avoid any damage to the clothes. It is recommended to lift the boxes from the bottom, using your legs instead of your back. If possible, use a dolly or handcart to move the boxes around.
During transportation, it is recommended to keep the boxes or bags in an upright position to avoid any wrinkles or creases. If you are using a moving truck, make sure to secure the boxes properly to avoid any shifting during transit.
In summary, transportation and handling are critical aspects of moving expensive clothing. By using garment bags or sturdy boxes, lifting them properly, and securing them during transportation, you can ensure that your clothes arrive at their new home in pristine condition.
Unpacking and Storing
When unpacking expensive clothing after a move, it’s important to handle each item with care. Begin by unpacking each item individually and inspecting it for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any damage, take the item to a professional cleaner or tailor for repairs before storing it.
When storing expensive clothing, it’s important to use appropriate storage materials. Avoid using plastic bags or containers, as they can trap moisture and cause damage to the fabric. Instead, opt for breathable fabric storage bags or acid-free tissue paper to protect the clothing.
It’s also important to store clothing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing clothing in attics or basements, as these areas tend to be more humid and prone to temperature fluctuations. Consider investing in a dehumidifier to help regulate the humidity levels in your storage area.
Finally, be sure to label your storage containers so that you can easily find and access your clothing when needed. Use clear, descriptive labels that include the type of clothing and any special care instructions.
By taking the time to properly unpack and store your expensive clothing, you can help ensure that it stays in pristine condition for years to come.
Tips for Looking Chic Even at Home: Simple Fashion Ideas
As the world continues to adapt to the new normal of spending more time at home, it’s easy to fall into a routine of wearing comfortable, yet unflattering loungewear. However, just because you’re not leaving the house doesn’t mean you can’t look chic and put-together. With a few simple tips and tricks, it’s possible to elevate your at-home style game.
One way to instantly look more polished is to focus on your accessories. While you may not be wearing a full outfit, adding a statement necklace or a pair of earrings can make all the difference. Additionally, swapping out your slippers for a pair of stylish flats or sneakers can elevate your entire look.
Another tip for looking chic at home is to invest in comfortable yet stylish loungewear. Opt for pieces that are made from high-quality fabrics and have a flattering fit. This way, you’ll feel comfortable and confident while still looking put-together. By following these simple tips, you can look chic and stylish even when you’re spending the day at home.
- Defining Chic: Comfort Meets Style
- The Basics of a Chic Home Wardrobe
- Accessorizing at Home
- Investing in Quality Over Quantity
- Personal Grooming and Presentation
Defining Chic: Comfort Meets Style
Looking chic at home is all about finding the perfect balance between comfort and style. Chic is not about wearing uncomfortable clothes or following the latest fashion trends blindly. It is about feeling good in what you wear and looking put together without trying too hard.
To achieve a chic look at home, start with comfortable basics that fit well and flatter your body type. Think soft cotton T-shirts, cozy sweaters, and relaxed-fit pants. These pieces can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Accessories are also key to achieving a chic look. A statement necklace or a pair of earrings can instantly elevate a simple outfit. A scarf or a hat can add a touch of sophistication and style to any look.
When it comes to colors and patterns, neutral tones and classic prints like stripes and polka dots are always a safe bet. These timeless styles never go out of fashion and can be easily mixed and matched.
Remember, looking chic is not about following strict rules or trends. It is about finding your own personal style and expressing it in a comfortable and effortless way.
The Basics of a Chic Home Wardrobe
To look chic even at home, one must have a wardrobe that reflects comfort and style. Here are some basics of a chic home wardrobe that can help anyone achieve a fashionable yet comfortable look:
1. Comfortable Loungewear
Comfortable loungewear is a must-have for a chic home wardrobe. It includes comfortable sweatpants, leggings, oversized t-shirts, and hoodies. One should opt for soft and breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo that are comfortable to wear for extended periods.
2. Versatile Basics
Versatile basics are the foundation of a chic home wardrobe. One should invest in timeless pieces like a classic white t-shirt, a pair of high-waisted jeans, and a black blazer that can be dressed up or down. These pieces are easy to mix and match with other items in the wardrobe.
3. Stylish Activewear
Stylish activewear is perfect for those who want to stay active and comfortable at home. One should choose activewear that is both functional and fashionable, like leggings with mesh detailing or sports bras with trendy cutouts.
4. Cozy Outerwear
Cozy outerwear is perfect for those who want to stay warm and stylish at home. One should opt for cozy knit cardigans, oversized sweaters, and soft fleece jackets that can be layered over other pieces in the wardrobe.
By incorporating these basics into a home wardrobe, anyone can look chic and stylish while staying comfortable at home.
Accessorizing at Home
Accessories can add a touch of glam to any outfit, even if you’re just lounging around at home. Here are some tips on how to accessorize at home and look chic:
1. Jewelry
Jewelry is a great way to add some sparkle to your outfit. A simple necklace or pair of earrings can make all the difference. For a more casual look, try wearing a delicate chain necklace or some simple studs. If you want to make a statement, go for a chunky necklace or some bold earrings.
2. Scarves
Scarves are a versatile accessory that can be worn in many different ways. You can wear a scarf around your neck, as a headband, or even as a belt. Choose a scarf in a bright color or bold pattern to add some interest to your outfit.
3. Hats
Hats are not only practical but also stylish. A wide-brimmed hat or a cute beanie can add some flair to your outfit. Plus, they’re perfect for hiding a bad hair day.
4. Slippers
Even if you’re just hanging out at home, you can still look chic from head to toe. Invest in a pair of cozy and stylish slippers, like sheepskin slippers, to keep your feet warm and fashionable.
Remember, the key to accessorizing at home is to keep it simple and comfortable. Choose accessories that complement your outfit and make you feel confident.
Investing in Quality Over Quantity
When it comes to looking chic at home, investing in quality pieces over quantity can make a big difference. Quality pieces not only look better, but they also last longer, saving you money in the long run.
One way to invest in quality is to choose classic, timeless pieces that never go out of style. For example, a well-made cashmere sweater or a pair of leather loafers will always look chic, no matter what the current fashion trends are.
Another way to invest in quality is to choose natural, high-quality fabrics. Natural fabrics like cotton, silk, and wool not only feel better against the skin, but they also look better and last longer than synthetic fabrics.
When shopping for quality pieces, it’s important to pay attention to the details. Look for pieces with well-finished seams, sturdy hardware, and high-quality stitching. These details may seem small, but they can make a big difference in the overall look and longevity of a piece.
In summary, investing in quality pieces over quantity is a smart way to look chic even at home. By choosing classic, timeless pieces made from natural, high-quality fabrics and paying attention to the details, you can build a wardrobe that looks and feels great for years to come.
Personal Grooming and Presentation
Looking chic at home doesn’t mean sacrificing personal grooming and presentation. In fact, paying attention to these details can make a big difference in how put-together and stylish one looks. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Maintain good hygiene: Even if one is not leaving the house, it’s important to keep up with basic hygiene practices like showering, brushing teeth, and washing hands regularly. This will not only help one feel better but also prevent any unpleasant odors or appearances.
- Wear clothes that fit well: Wearing clothes that are too baggy or too tight can make one look sloppy or unflattering. Opt for clothes that fit well and are comfortable, such as a well-fitted t-shirt or a pair of tailored sweatpants.
- Accessorize: Adding a few accessories can elevate any casual outfit. Consider wearing a statement necklace, a pair of stylish earrings, or a trendy scarf to add some personality and flair to one’s look.
- Experiment with makeup and hairstyles: Just because one is at home doesn’t mean they can’t have fun with their makeup and hairstyles. Trying out a new hairstyle or experimenting with a bold lip color can be a fun way to switch up one’s look and feel more put-together.
By paying attention to personal grooming and presentation, one can look and feel chic even when staying at home.