Microsoft announced plans in January to acquire Activision-Blizzard for $68.7 Billion US Dollars. So what does it mean for the games industry? Gameplay is taking a break this week to work on future stories. This episode comes from The Defrag, a daily news podcast from Lawson Media.Become a Gameplay MemberJoin our DiscordFollow Gameplay on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Twitch
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11:33
Firewatch
In 2016, indie studio Campo Santo released their debut title, the narrative adventure game Firewatch. Set in a national forest in the Wyoming wilderness, you play as a fire lookout named Henry. The game beautifully portrays the isolation of the wild, and Henry’s only source of human connection is the voice of his supervisor, Delilah, over a walkie-talkie. In this episode, writer Sean Vanaman and composer/writer Chris Remo revisit the development of Firewatch, in which every aspect of the game was built on the fly.Episode Transcript & ReferencesBecome a Gameplay MemberJoin our DiscordFollow Gameplay on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Twitch
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31:47
The Matrix Online
The Matrix is one of the biggest franchises in the world, with its universe spanning across film, animation, comics and video games. In 2005, more than a year after the original film trilogy concluded, The Matrix Online promised a new experience for players. The MMORPG was designated as the official continuation of the Matrix story, but a troubled launch would see it struggle to meet high expectations.Episode Transcript & ReferencesBecome a Gameplay MemberJoin our DiscordFollow Gameplay on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TwitchThe Matrix Online WikiThe Matrix Online Emulator
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47:38
Blind Gaming
In the past, video games were largely inaccessible to people with visual impairments. But these days, game makers are adding all kinds of innovative options to make their games more accessible. And some developers are creating entire virtual worlds using nothing but sound. Featuring streamer & game consultant Steve Saylor and disability rights advocate Connor Scott-Gardner. This episode comes from the podcast Twenty Thousand Hertz.Episode Transcript & ReferencesBecome a Gameplay MemberJoin our DiscordFollow Gameplay on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TwitchLearn more about the Sable application for developing audio games. Download audio games like Paladin of the Sky, Shades of Doom, Swamp, and Topspeed at audiogames.net.
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26:36
Animal Crossing: New Harmonies
Animal Crossing is one of the most beloved Nintendo franchises. The social simulator game is all about living your best life, and fans love the series for its colourful, cute art style and relaxed vibe. Central to the game’s success are its extensive customisation options and social features. But much of the charm of Animal Crossing comes from its delightful music. In this episode, composer and YouTube educator Scruffy breaks down the music behind the hit series. Episode Transcript & ReferencesBecome a Gameplay MemberJoin our DiscordFollow Gameplay on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TwitchPurchase Taking Root soundtrack by Scruffy
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