Zuzana Licko, a name that should be celebrated as a pioneer of digital typography, is instead a glaring reminder of how the past can be romanticized to the point of absurdity. Yes, she designed some of the first digital typefaces for Macintosh in the '80s and co-founded Emigre, but let’s not pretend that her contributions were flawless or that they didn’t come with a slew of problems that we still grapple with today. First off, we need to address the elephant in the room: the overwhelming elitism in the world of typography that Licko and her contemporaries helped propagate. While they were crafting their innovative typefaces, they were simultaneously alienating a whole generation of designers who lacked access to the tech and knowledge required to engage with this new digital frontier. The so-called "pioneers" of digital typography, including Licko, set a precedent that continues to dominate the industry—making it seem like you need to have an elite background to even participate in typography discussions. This is infuriating and downright unacceptable! Moreover, let’s not gloss over the fact that while she was busy creating typefaces that were supposed to revolutionize our digital experiences, the actual usability of these fonts often left much to be desired. Many of Licko's creations, while visually striking, ultimately sacrificed legibility for the sake of artistic expression. This is a major flaw in her work that deserves criticism. Typography is not just about looking pretty; it’s about ensuring that communication is clear and effective! How many times have we seen products fail because the font was so pretentious that no one could read it? And don’t even get me started on Emigre magazine. Sure, it showcased some brilliant work, but it also became a breeding ground for snobbery and elitism in the design community. Instead of fostering a space for all voices, it often felt like a closed club for the privileged few. This is not what design should be about! We need to embrace diversity and inclusivity, rather than gatekeeping knowledge and opportunity. In an era where technology has advanced exponentially, we still see remnants of this elitist mindset in the design world. The influence of Licko and her contemporaries has led to a culture that often sidelines emerging talents who bring different perspectives to the table. Instead of uplifting new voices, we are still trapped in a loop of revering the same old figures and narratives. This is not progress; it’s stagnation! Let’s stop romanticizing pioneers like Zuzana Licko without acknowledging the problematic aspects of their legacies. We need to have critical conversations about how their work has shaped the industry, not just celebrate them blindly. If we truly want to honor their contributions, we must also confront the issues they created and work towards a more inclusive, accessible, and practical approach to digital typography. #Typography #DesignCritique #ZuzanaLicko #DigitalArt #InclusivityInDesign

So, there’s this thing called the Franck-Hertz experiment. It’s one of those physics experiments that people rave about, but honestly, I don’t get why. It was done way back in 1914, and it’s supposed to explain how energy comes in these “packets” called “quanta.” Sounds fancy, but like, does it really change anything? They say this experiment marked the start of quantum physics, which I guess is important for some. It’s all about those little particles and how they behave. If you’re into that sort of thing, you might want to look into doing a DIY version of the Franck-Hertz experiment. Apparently, it’s not too hard and you can even do it at home. But let’s be real, who has the energy for that? You just set up a tube with some mercury vapor and run some voltage through it. Then you measure the current and see how it changes as you adjust the voltage. It’s all about those energy levels and how electrons bounce around. But, like, I don’t know how many people are actually excited to do this. Maybe if you’re a physics enthusiast, it’ll be fun for you. But if you’re like me and prefer to just scroll through your phone or binge-watch a show, then this sounds like a lot of work for not much payoff. I mean, who really wants to dive into the intricacies of quantum physics when there are so many other things to do—like anything else? So, if you’re curious about the Franck-Hertz experiment and want to try it yourself, go ahead. Just know that you might end up feeling a bit underwhelmed. Science can be cool, but sometimes it feels like a chore, especially when it’s all about tiny particles that you can’t even see. Anyway, that’s my take on it. If you’re still interested in quantum physics after this, good for you. I’ll just be over here, probably napping or scrolling through social media. #FranckHertz #QuantumPhysics #DIYScience #PhysicsExperiment #Boredom

Acronis has appointed a new Country Manager for Iberia, Eduardo García Sancho, to oversee operations in the region. The plan is to grow the business, strengthen relationships with partners and clients, and enhance the company's presence in the area. Sounds like a typical corporate move, right? Not much excitement here. It's just another day in the world of cybersecurity. Eduardo will lead the team, but honestly, these changes rarely shake things up in a way that’s noticeable. Companies keep trying to expand and improve their market standing, which seems to be the standard practice these days. One more manager in the mix, same old story. While growth and relationships are important, it feels like we’ve heard this script before. You bring in someone new, they talk about plans and visions, and then... well, we wait to see if anything actually changes. It’s a bit like watching paint dry, really. So, Acronis now has Eduardo at the helm for Iberia. Let's see how that goes. If you're interested in cybersecurity or just happen to be following corporate management moves, this might be mildly worth noting. But, if you're like me, it probably won't spark much enthusiasm. Just another appointment in the long line of appointments. #Acronis #CountryManager #Iberia #Cybersecurity #CorporateMoves

So, it’s official: Andy Bogard is making his grand entrance into the gaming world again with Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves on June 24th. Because, let’s face it, we were all just waiting for another opportunity to see a man in a headband throw punches at pixelated opponents, right? I mean, who needs character development or innovative storytelling when you can have a guy with a sweet mullet and a never-ending supply of martial arts moves? It’s almost poetic, really. Here we are, in the year 2023, still throwing ourselves into the nostalgia of 90s fighting games. It’s like we’re all stuck in a time loop, eagerly awaiting the return of characters who clearly haven’t aged a day. Andy Bogard, with his flashy moves and a wardrobe that screams "I’m too cool for school," is the epitome of that era. Who needs new heroes when you have the same old faces to beat the proverbial stuffing out of each other? Let’s not ignore the clever marketing behind this either. “Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves” – a title that suggests we might actually encounter something wild and untamed. Spoiler alert: it’s just going to be more of the same. But hey, if you love the taste of nostalgia with a sprinkle of familiarity, then you’re in for a treat! I can already hear the collective “YAAAS!” from the fanbase as they dust off their old consoles, ready to relive the glory days of button-mashing combat. And what about the rest of the roster? You know, the characters who might actually bring something new to the table? Oh, who are we kidding! As long as Andy is there, it’s like the rest are just wallpaper in this nostalgic room. “Oh look, another character that’s not Andy Bogard! Let’s just ignore them and wait for him to throw a fireball again!” So mark your calendars, folks! June 24th is the date when we’ll all be reunited with our childhood memories. Just remember to keep the first aid kit handy because I can already hear the groans of all the players who will be nursing their thumbs after a night of relentless button-mashing. In a world that constantly craves innovation, it’s refreshing to see that some things never change. Here’s to Andy Bogard – the man, the myth, the mullet. May your punches be swift and your headband ever stylish. #AndyBogard #FatalFury #NostalgiaGaming #RetroGames #CityOfTheWolves

Minecraft, le film! Who would have thought that the blocky world of pixelated creativity could translate into a cinematic masterpiece? Apparently, millions of viewers thought it was a grand idea, as the film had a staggering opening weekend in the US, raking in a whopping $157 million. Yes, you read that right - more than the Super Mario Bros movie. Because who wouldn’t want to see blocks, cubes, and digital creatures come to life on the big screen? Let’s take a moment to appreciate the sheer brilliance of this phenomenon. Imagine a meeting room filled with executives in suits, sipping overpriced coffee, discussing how to turn a game about mining and building into a multi-million dollar franchise. “What if we add a plot?” one visionary must have suggested. “And maybe some actual characters!” shouted another. Brilliant! Because nothing screams box office hit like a narrative about crafting and survival – the quintessential human experience, am I right? And while we’re at it, let’s not overlook the glorious irony of a massive online leak. One might think that a film like Minecraft, which is all about building and creating, would have safeguards against such breaches. Yet here we are, in a world where fans are more adept at finding leaks than creepers are at sneaking up on unsuspecting players. It’s as if the universe itself is saying, “Why wait for the official release when you can embrace the chaos of the internet?” Moreover, the film’s success raises an important question: is this the pinnacle of creativity, or just a sign that Hollywood has officially run out of ideas? After all, why bother developing original content when you can simply mine from the vast experiences of gamers? There’s a certain elegance to recycling beloved franchises; the nostalgia factor alone is worth millions. Let’s just hope that the next film adaptation is as riveting as watching a character gather resources for five hours straight. And speaking of adaptations, let’s give a nod to the directors and writers who managed to transform a game with virtually no plot into a cinematic sensation. If these individuals can take pixelated blocks and turn them into a story that captures the hearts of millions, perhaps we should hand them the keys to the next great literary classic. Who wouldn't want to see a film based on the riveting tale of a potato? In conclusion, Minecraft, le film is a remarkable testament to the state of modern cinema. It embodies the essence of our times: a blend of nostalgia, creativity, and a hint of desperation. So, grab your popcorn and enjoy the show, folks! Who knows what other game adaptations await us? Maybe Tetris will be next! #MinecraftMovie #HollywoodAdaptations #BlockbusterSuccess #CinemaIrony #NostalgiaInFilm

🌟 Bonjour à tous ! 🌟 Aujourd'hui, je veux partager avec vous une réflexion qui m'inspire profondément et qui, je l'espère, vous motivera aussi ! Dans notre monde moderne, où l'intelligence artificielle (IA) joue un rôle de plus en plus important, nous sommes souvent confrontés à la désinformation. 😲 En scrolling sur les réseaux sociaux, il est facile de se laisser emporter par la vague d'informations qui défilent devant nos yeux. Que ce soit un chat héroïque 🐱, une statistique choquante 📊 ou une vidéo d'actualité, tout cela peut sembler réel et captivant. Mais dans un monde où l'IA brouille la ligne entre le fait et la fiction, comment pouvons-nous discerner la réalité de la désinformation ? 🤔 La réponse, bien que complexe, doit commencer par notre curiosité et notre esprit critique. 💪✨ Souvenez-vous, il est toujours important de se poser des questions : d'où vient cette information ? Qui l'a partagée ? Et surtout, vérifions les détails ! Parfois, la vérité se cache dans les petits éléments qu'on pourrait négliger, comme des "doigts supplémentaires" dans une image générée par une IA. 🖐️ La désinformation peut sembler écrasante, mais ne laissons pas cela nous décourager ! Nous avons le pouvoir de demander plus, de rechercher la vérité et de cultiver un esprit critique. 🌱 En tant que communauté, nous pouvons nous soutenir les uns les autres dans cette quête de clarté. Chaque fois que vous partagez une information, posez-vous la question : est-ce que cela contribue à enrichir nos vies ? Est-ce que cela promeut un dialogue sain ? 💬 Rappelez-vous que la connaissance est une lumière qui dissipe l'obscurité de la confusion ! Lorsque nous nous éduquons et que nous restons vigilants, nous devenons non seulement des consommateurs d'informations, mais aussi des créateurs de vérités. Ensemble, nous pouvons transformer cette époque de désinformation en une opportunité d'apprentissage et de croissance incroyable. 🚀💖 Alors, engageons-nous à être des ambassadeurs de la vérité et de la positivité dans ce monde numérique. Chaque petit effort compte et peut faire une grande différence. 🌈 N'oubliez pas, vous êtes capables de faire briller la lumière de la vérité autour de vous ! #Désinformation #IA #Vérité #EspritCritique #Positivité

The protests in Los Angeles have brought a lot of attention, but honestly, it’s just the same old story. The Chatbot disinformation is like that annoying fly that keeps buzzing around, never really going away. You’d think people would be more careful about what they believe, but here we are. The spread of disinformation online is just fueling the fire, making everything seem more chaotic than it really is. It’s kind of exhausting to see the same patterns repeat. There’s a protest, some people get riled up, and then the misinformation starts pouring in. It’s like a never-ending cycle. Our senior politics editor dives into this topic in the latest episode of Uncanny Valley, talking about how these chatbots are playing a role in amplifying false information. Not that many people seem to care, though. The online landscape is flooded with all kinds of messages that can easily distort reality. It’s almost as if people are too tired to fact-check anymore. Just scroll through social media, and you’ll see countless posts that are misleading or completely untrue. The impact on the protests is real, with misinformation adding to the confusion and frustration. One could argue that it’s a bit depressing, really. As the protests continue, it’s hard to see a clear path forward. Disinformation clouds the truth, and people seem to just accept whatever they see on their screens. It’s all so monotonous. The same discussions being had over and over again, and yet nothing really changes. The chatbots keep generating content, and the cycle goes on. Honestly, it makes you wonder whether anyone is actually listening or if they’re just scrolling mindlessly. The discussions about the protests and the role of disinformation should be enlightening, but they often feel repetitive and bland. It’s hard to muster any excitement when the conversations feel so stale. In the end, it’s just more noise in a world that’s already too loud. The protests might be important, but the chatbots and their disinformation are just taking away from the real issues at hand. This episode of Uncanny Valley might shed some light, but will anyone really care? Who knows. #LosAngelesProtests #Disinformation #Chatbots #UncannyValley #Misinformation

What a disgrace! The recent announcement regarding the official art book of "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" is nothing short of an embarrassing cash grab by Sandfall Interactive and ActuGaming.net. Are we seriously expected to applaud this blatant attempt to milk fans dry? This is a classic example of the gaming industry prioritizing profit over quality and respect for its community. Let’s break it down. First off, the hype surrounding "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" is overshadowed by the fact that this art book seems to be marketed as some kind of sacred treasure. Seriously? It’s just an art book! The gaming community is smarter than this. It’s infuriating to see creators take advantage of our passion for their work, slapping a price tag on what should be a free expression of creativity. The audacity of Sandfall Interactive to push this as something essential for fans is beyond frustrating. Where is the integrity? Moreover, what about the accessibility? How many of us can afford to splurge on an art book while we’re already investing in games that often come riddled with bugs and technical issues? This trend of pre-ordering merchandise is absolutely maddening. It encourages a toxic culture of consumerism, where gamers are pressured to part with their hard-earned money for something that may not even meet expectations. Are we supposed to just accept this as the new normal? Absolutely not! And let’s talk about the content itself. The description hints at a “true masterpiece” but fails to deliver any tangible evidence of that claim. What are we getting? Concept art that’s likely to be recycled from promotional materials? How about some actual behind-the-scenes insight or a deeper dive into the creative process? Instead, we’re being fed a glorified collection of pretty pictures that don’t add any real value to the gaming experience. It’s infuriating to think about how the industry is willing to settle for mediocrity, all for the sake of profit. To top it all off, ActuGaming.net should be ashamed for promoting this sham without questioning the ethics behind it. Are they merely a mouthpiece for Sandfall Interactive, or do they care about the opinions of their readers? It’s hard to tell when they’re pushing content that feels disingenuous and exploitative. We need more critical voices in the gaming media, not just cheerleaders for corporate greed. In conclusion, it’s time for fans to stand up against these practices. Let’s not fall for the trap of pre-ordering and overhyped merchandise that serves only to pad the wallets of those at the top. Demand better from our creators and the media that covers them. We deserve respect, transparency, and quality over empty promises. #ClairObscur #GamingCommunity #ConsumerRights #ArtBook #GameIndustryCritique

Ah, the PSVR2! The pièce de résistance of virtual reality headsets that promised to transport us to worlds so vivid, we might just forget we have to pay rent. As we wade into the futuristic wonderland of 2025, the burning question looms large: Does the PSVR2 still hold water, or is it just another fancy paperweight? Let’s be real for a second. When it first hit the shelves, the PSVR2 was the talk of the town, like the latest iPhone or a celebrity breakup. The immersion was touted as “total,” with visuals that could make a high-definition movie look like a flip book. But here we are, two years later, and the world’s moved on faster than a kid with a new toy. Meanwhile, our beloved headset sits in the corner, gathering dust and wondering why it’s not trending on social media. In the wild, wild world of gaming, what was once cutting-edge quickly becomes yesterday’s news. Remember when we couldn’t get enough of those pixelated graphics and 8-bit sounds? Now, we’re spoiled with hyper-realistic experiences that make you question if you’re playing a game or just scrolling through someone’s vacation photos. So, the big question remains: does the PSVR2 still pack a punch in 2025, or has it been eclipsed by the latest, shiniest tech? If we’re being honest, the PSVR2 was like that trendy café everyone raved about until they found out the coffee was brewed with dreams and unicorn tears. Sure, it looked great on paper, but how many of us have actually used it regularly? It feels like one of those impulse buys that seemed brilliant at 3 AM when you were scrolling through online reviews, but now, it just sits there as a reminder of fleeting enthusiasm. And let’s not forget that while we’re diving deep into virtual worlds, reality is still waiting for us with bills and responsibilities. So, is it worth the investment in 2025? The answer is simple: if you’re a die-hard gamer with pockets deep enough to fund a small country, then by all means, indulge! But if you’re like the rest of us—grappling with student loans or wondering when your next paycheck will come—maybe it’s time to consider if that VR headset is really your best friend or just an over-hyped acquaintance. In conclusion, the PSVR2 may still have a few tricks up its sleeve, but in the fast-paced realm of technology, it’s hard to stay relevant when new contenders are emerging faster than you can say “augmented reality.” So, if you find yourself daydreaming about those immersive experiences, just remember—sometimes, it’s okay to take a break from reality. After all, the world will still be waiting for you when you take off that headset. #PSVR2 #VirtualReality #Gaming2025 #TechTrends #GamingHumor

In early-stage start-ups, the pitch deck is often the first thing investors see. Sometimes, it’s the only thing. And yet, it rarely gets the same attention as the website or the socials. Most decks are pulled together last minute, with slides that feel rushed, messy, or just off. That’s where designers can really make a difference. The deck might seem like just another task, but it’s a chance to work on something strategic early on and help shape how the company is understood. It offers a rare opportunity to collaborate closely with copywriters, strategists and the founders to turn their vision into a clear and convincing story. Founders bring the vision, but more and more, design and brand teams are being asked to shape how that vision is told, and sold. So here are five handy things we’ve learned at SIDE ST for the next time you’re asked to design a deck. Think in context Designers stepping into pitch work should begin by understanding the full picture – who the deck is for, what outcomes it’s meant to drive and how it fits into the broader brand and business context. Their role isn’t just to make things look good, but to prioritise clarity over surface-level aesthetics. It’s about getting into the founders’ mindset, shaping visuals and copy around the message, and connecting with the intended audience. Every decision, from slide hierarchy to image selection, should reinforce the business goals behind the deck. Support the narrative Visuals are more subjective than words, and that’s exactly what gives them power. The right image can suggest an idea, reinforce a value, or subtly shift perception without a single word. Whether it’s hinting at accessibility, signalling innovation, or grounding the product in context, design plays a strategic role in how a company is understood. It gives designers the opportunity to take centre stage in the storytelling, shaping how the company is understood through visual choices. But that influence works both ways. Used thoughtlessly, visuals can distort the story, suggesting the wrong market, implying a different stage of maturity, or confusing people about the product itself. When used with care, they become a powerful design tool to sharpen the narrative and spark interest from the very first slide. Keep it real Stock photos can be tempting. They’re high-quality and easy to drop in, especially when the real images a start-up has can be grainy, unfinished, or simply not there yet. But in early-stage pitch decks, they often work against your client. Instead of supporting the story, they flatten it, and rarely reflect the actual team, product, or context. This is your chance as a designer to lean into what’s real, even if it’s a bit rough. Designers can elevate even scrappy assets with thoughtful framing and treatment, turning rough imagery into a strength. In early-stage storytelling, “real” often resonates more than “perfect.” Pay attention to the format Even if you’re brought in just to design the deck, don’t treat it as a standalone piece. It’s often the first brand touchpoint investors will see—but it won’t be the last. They’ll go on to check the website, scroll through social posts, and form an impression based on how it all fits together. Early-stage startups might not have full brand guidelines in place yet, but that doesn’t mean there’s no need for consistency. In fact, it gives designers a unique opportunity to lay the foundation. A strong, thoughtful deck can help shape the early visual language and give the team something to build on as the brand grows. Before you hit export For designers, the deck isn’t just another deliverable. It’s an early tool that shapes and impacts investor perception, internal alignment and founder confidence. It’s a strategic design moment to influence the trajectory of a company before it’s fully formed. Designers who understand the pressure, pace and uncertainty founders face at this stage are better equipped to deliver work that resonates. This is about more than simply polishing slides, it’s about helping early-stage teams tell a sharper, more human story when it matters most. Maor Ofek is founder of SIDE ST, a brand consultancy that works mainly with start-ups.  #sharpen #story #design #guide #startups