We may earn a commission from links on this page.If you’re deep into comparison shopping for fitness watches, you’ve probably come across some debate on the different display technologies. Manufacturers are moving toward AMOLED style screens (bright! Colorful! Sharp! Modern!) while some longtime users are diehards for the older MIP or LCD style screens (the general vibe is: pry them out of my cold dead hands). So where does that leave you, the shopper, wondering what to get for your first or next watch? I’m going to break down all the pros and cons. What’s the difference between MIP and AMOLED displays? I’m going to gloss over a lot of the detail you’d need to be an engineer to love and concentrate on what it’s like to use these screens. With that in mind: AMOLED displays have tiny pixels that glow to create the display, leaving black areas where the pixels are not turned on. (Your phone’s screen is probably AMOLED.) AMOLED displays are full color, and they use power any time they’re on. They’re bright and highly visible in the dark, but can potentially get washed out in extremely bright sunlight.MIP displays (memory-in-pixel), also called memory LCD, do not light up on their own. These displays reflect light, much like old-school LCD watches, so they are highly visible in sunlight but require a backlight to be seen in the dark. They can display color, but only a limited range of colors and they are not as vibrant or as high-resolution as AMOLED screens.AMOLED displays tend to be higher resolution, brighter, and sharper. MIP displays look more old-fashioned, but they always look good in bright sunlight, and they can be always-on without running down the battery life (assuming you have the backlight turned off). AMOLED displays tend to be touchscreens, but MIP displays can have touchscreens as well. For example, the Coros Pace 3 has a touchscreen, while the Garmin Forerunner 55 does not. (If you don’t want a touchscreen, you should know that you can disable the touchscreen on most sports watches.) Which watches have MIP and which have AMOLED displays? We’re currently at a transition point where most manufacturers are moving toward AMOLED if they haven’t switched already. Any fancy-looking smartwatch is likely to be AMOLED; there’s no MIP Apple Watch, for example. But among sports watches, there are plenty of models with MIP displays still being sold new. Here’s a breakdown of some of the more popular watches: AMOLED (or similar) displays: Apple WatchesSamsung Galaxy WatchesPixel WatchesFitbit Charge 5 and Charge 6Coros Pace ProGarmin Forerunners 165, 265, 965, and the new 570 and 970Garmin Instinct 3 AMOLED Garmin Vivoactive 5 and 6Garmin Venu 2 and 3Garmin Fenix 8 AMOLEDPolar Vantage, Ignite 3, Grit X2 ProSuunto Race, Suunto RunMIP (or similar) displays: Coros Pace 3, Apex 2, Apex 2 Pro, Vertix 2 (everything except the Pace Pro)Garmin Forerunners 55, 255, 955, and any other Forerunner not ending in -65 or -70Garmin Instinct, Instinct 2, Instinct E, and Instinct 3 Solar (these are actually a regular 2-color LCD rather than full color MIP)Garmin Vivoactive 4 and earlierGarmin Fenix 7 and earlierGarmin Fenix 8 Solar (and pretty much any solar watch)Polar Pacer, Pacer Pro, Grit X, Grit X ProSuunto Core, 9 Baro, 9 PeakAs this list should make clear, MIP screens are mostly found on older models—although often those models have similar functionality as their AMOLED brethren. For example, the Garmin Forerunner 255 and 265 are basically the same watch with two different displays (and very different price points). The only place I'm seeing MIP or reflective screens on new watches would be Garmin's solar offerings, since the charging panel isn't compatible with AMOLED. The Fenix 8 and the Instinct 3 both come in a MIP version with solar charging, and an AMOLED version without.MIP is always "on" This photo shows what different screens display when you're not looking at them. Left to right: Apple Watch (AMOLED) with AOD, Coros Pace 3 (MIP) with full display, Garmin Forerunner 265S displaying nothing. Credit: Beth Skwarecki The biggest argument in favor of MIP screens is that you can have an "always-on" display without draining the battery. There's a big caveat on that statement, though: MIP screens aren't actually "on" at all. They're like e-ink in that they always display something, but you may not be able to see what they're displaying without proper lighting. So in normal daytime conditions, a MIP screen is readable even without turning on its backlight. If you're typing on your computer, wrist in view, you can glance at your MIP watch and see the time even without pushing a button or turning your wrist. AMOLED watches, meanwhile, only get that feature if you turn on their "always-on display" (AOD). There are two downsides to the AOD on most watches: First, it eats battery. And second, to avoid eating too much battery, the AOD face will be a lower-energy version with less data and a dimmer display. A MIP watch, on the other hand, will display the same watch face all the time. To view a MIP screen in the dark, you can usually set the watch to turn on a backlight when you raise or turn your wrist. There's also typically a button that turns on the backlight as well. Some watches let you set the backlight gesture so that it's only available in the evening, assuming that you'll have plenty of light at other times of day. Real-world visibility testsI've happily reviewed a ton of AMOLED sports watches, with no problem viewing any of their displays in strong sunlight, but on forums like Reddit you'll find MIP devotees who say they would never consider an AMOLED watch for outdoor sports. They're afraid it wouldn't be readable in the sun. Ever since I read those posts, I’ve been paying attention to visibility, the better to form my own opinions. I got into the difference in display types in my comparison between the Coros Pace 3 (MIP) and Pace Pro (AMOLED), for example. And for today’s analysis, I’ve also borrowed a Forerunner 55 (MIP) to compare to my Forerunner 265S. So let’s take a look, using those two pairs of watches as our test subjects. In bright sunlight, at the right angle, MIP has a slight edge Left: Coros Pace 3 (MIP). Right: Coros Pace Pro (AMOLED) Credit: Beth Skwarecki This is a win for MIP, with caveats (see below about shadows). When you have bright light shining directly on a MIP screen, it practically glitters. Modern AMOLEDs tend to be pretty bright as well, and it seems every new watch release claims to have "our brightest screen ever." But on the brightest of days in the directest of sunlight, AMOLEDs can indeed be a bit washed out. That said, AMOLED screens don't show up well in photos on sunny days, so I don't think the photo above quite does the AMOLED screen justice. (Those black horizontal lines on the AMOLED are an artifact of the camera taking the picture faster than the display could refresh; they're not visible in real life.) In my opinion MIP screens look great in direct sunlight, while AMOLEDs are just OK. Left: Garmin Forerunner 55 (MIP). Right: Garmin Forerunner 265S (AMOLED) Credit: Beth Skwarecki I didn’t have a lot of great side-by-side photos in sunlight, so for another test I put both Forerunners directly under a bright desk lamp. A desk lamp is not the sun. However, I feel like this is a better demonstration of typical conditions—as judged by my own personal eyes and brain. Your own opinion might differ. If you're making your shopping decision based on how the displays look in sunlight, trying them out in person will tell you a lot more than any photo will. (Underrated shopping tip: show up to a running club and ask everybody about their watch. They'll be more than happy to show them off.)In shadow (even on a sunny day), AMOLED stays visible Left: Coros Pace 3 (MIP). Right: Coros Pace Pro (AMOLED) Credit: Beth Skwarecki I went for a few runs on bright sunny days with both of the Coros watches, and found I actually preferred the AMOLED display even in the sun. That’s because sunny days are also days with deep shadows. You have to get the angle just right to get that bright glittery effect on a MIP screen, while an AMOLED will shine from the shadows. Most of the time, either my body or the screen’s own bezel was shading it a bit. The photo above was taken on the same day, same run, as the outdoor Coros photo in sunlight. The sun didn't go behind a cloud, I was just standing in a different position. Left: Garmin Forerunner 55 (MIP). Right: Garmin Forerunner 265S (AMOLED) Credit: Beth Skwarecki And the photo here is the exact same setup with the desk lamp, but with the watches angled just a few degrees downward. Drastic difference in readability. Now, if you’re used to MIP watches, you’re used to angling them into the sun to get a good look. If you’re fine with that, great. I prefer the AMOLED in this situation.In medium-light scenarios, both are good Left: Garmin Forerunner 55 (MIP). Right: Garmin Forerunner 265S (AMOLED) Credit: Beth Skwarecki Here are both watches outdoors, on an overcast day, displaying the kind of screen you'd see most often during a running or other sports activity. This is probably the most telling photo of all: they are both fine. The MIP watch makes up for its potential visibility issues by defaulting to a white background, and the AMOLED just keeps showing bright numbers on a dark screen like usual. I use the AMOLED (the 265S) in this photo for most of my runs—it's not a review unit, it's the watch I actually own—and it's always visible, always looks great, in any weather and with or without sunglasses. But the MIP? It's good too! Nobody loses points here. And here are both watches indoors, with normal ambient lighting: Indoors with normal lighting. Left: Garmin Forerunner 55 (MIP). Right: Garmin Forerunner 265S (AMOLED) Credit: Beth Skwarecki In the dark, both screens light up just fine Left: Garmin Forerunner 55 (MIP). Right: Garmin Forerunner 265S (AMOLED) Credit: Beth Skwarecki You probably expected me to say that AMOLED is better in the dark. Honestly, while AMOLED is prettier in the dark (and prettier almost anytime, because AMOLED displays tend to be higher resolution and have more vivid colors), both screens are equally readable. The same gesture that wakes the AMOLED screen can wake the MIP screen’s backlight. (Please note that both watches are much sharper than the photo in real life. The blur you're seeing is just me failing to hold the camera perfectly steady in a dark room.)In actual darkness, like when you’re putting your kids to bed, your best bet is an AMOLED watch with a “sleep mode” that displays the time dimly. That way you don’t need to turn on a backlight to see the time.  So if you’re concerned about the light being too bright, you probably want AMOLED.Battery usageMIP diehards like to say that MIP screens are more battery efficient. That may be technically true, but nobody buys a watch based on the battery life of its display. We want to know about the battery life of the entire watch. And honestly, AMOLED watches tend to have just as good a battery life as their MIP counterparts. Whether it’s better battery technology, power savings elsewhere in the software or hardware, or AMOLED itself being more efficient than you’d expect, it doesn’t matter. The Forerunner 965 (AMOLED) and the Forerunner 955 (MIP) both have a battery life of 8.5 hours during an activity with multi-band GPS mode and music playing. In smartwatch mode (not tracking activities), the 965 lasts 23 days in smartwatch mode, compared to 15 days for the 955. In other words, the AMOLED watch lasts eight days longer. If battery life is your priority, in this situation you’d want the AMOLED. This will vary by model, of course. Look up the battery life specs for the specific watches you’re interested in. Maybe the MIP model will last longer, but maybe the AMOLED will. Don’t make assumptions about the battery based on the look of the screen.How to make a decisionYou've seen my photos and heard my opinions, but ultimately you need to make a decision for yourself. And of the two display types, I'll be honest: neither is unusable or terrible or has some horrific misfeature that should be a dealbreaker. I do think that most people will prefer the AMOLED style. But if you end up with a MIP display, it will be fine. So let me run through a few things to keep in mind:If always-on display is important to you, consider MIP. You get this feature for free (in terms of battery life) as long as you're OK with angling it toward the light when needed.If bright colors and high resolution are important to you, AMOLED looks sharper and prettier, and is probably what you'll be happiest with.If you currently have a MIP watch but are afraid that you wouldn’t like an AMOLED watch, don’t let that stop you from shopping AMOLED models. The downsides of AMOLED (as the internet tells them) are wildly exaggerated. If your dream watch needs to be an older MIP watch to fit in your budget, go ahead and get it. It will be fine.If you have seen both watches in person, in a wide variety of lighting conditions, and have a strong opinion, just go with your preference. If you’re new to all of this and feeling confused right now, you’ll probably like AMOLED better. All the new watches are AMOLED anyway.Often you can get an older generation of a feature-rich watch for the same price as the newest generation of a more barebones model. That’s the case right now for a lot of Garmin models, where pretty much everything released in the last year or so has an AMOLED screen, and everything before it is MIP. Personally I think the Forerunner 255 is the best value for money of any Garmin watch, since it's nearly identical to my beloved 265—the only major difference is the screen type, and you can usually find it at least $100 cheaper.

And nobody knows what to do about it, either.Oodles of ExperienceThe advent of generative AI has fundamentally altered the job application process. Both recruiters and applicants are making heavy use of the tech, making an already soul-sucking and tedious process even worse.And as TechRadar reports, applicants are going to extreme lengths to nail down a job — and stand out in an extremely competitive and crowded job market. According to a recent campaign by insurer Hiscox, more than half of recent job applicants said they had used AI tools to write their resumes.A whopping 37 percent admitted they didn't bother correcting embellishments the AI chatbot made, like exaggerated experience and fabricated interests. 38 percent admitted to outright lying on their CVs.The news highlights a worrying new normal, with applicants using AI to facilitate fabricating a "perfect candidate" to score a job interview."AI can help many candidates put their best foot forward... but it needs to be used carefully," Hiscox chief underwriting officer Pete Treloar told TechRadar.Perfect CandidateMeanwhile, it's not just job applicants using generative AI to automate the process. Recruiters have been outsourcing the role of interviewing for jobs to often flawed AI avatars.Earlier this week, Fortune reported how a former software engineer went from earning $150,000 in upstate New York to living out of a trailer after being replaced by AI. Out of the ten interviews he scored after sending out 800 job applications, a handful of them were with AI bots.In short, it's a frustrating process that's unlikely to make applying for jobs any less grueling. Hiscox found that 41 percent of applicants said AI gives some candidates an unfair advantage. 42 percent of respondents said the tech is misleading employers.But now that the cat is out of the bag, it remains to be seen how the future of job applications will adapt to a world teeming with accessible generative AI tools.It's never been easier to lie on your resume — but anybody willing to do so will have to live with the consequences as well. Being caught could not only lead to immediate disqualification, it can damage one's professional reputation, and in a worst-case scenario, result in a lawsuit. Remember: Just because everyone's doing it doesn't mean you won't get busted for it — or worse.More on lying AIs: Law Firms Caught and Punished for Passing Around "Bogus" AI Slop in CourtShare This Article

You can trust VideoGamer. Our team of gaming experts spend hours testing and reviewing the latest games, to ensure you're reading the most comprehensive guide possible. Rest assured, all imagery and advice is unique and original. Check out how we test and review games here NetEase Games has officially kicked off the much-anticipated Galacta’s Gift event in Marvel Rivals, celebrating the game’s one-year anniversary since its Closed Alpha launch in May 2024. Beginning on May 15, 2025, players can dive into this event that grants a complimentary event pass. This pass features seven tiers packed with exclusive rewards, such as Nameplates, Sprays, eight Chrono Shield Cards, and a Costume Coin applicable to any Season 0 hero. Players can dive into daily missions across Quick Play, Competitive, or AI matches to advance through the pass and snag those highly sought-after items, creating a fulfilling journey for both newcomers and seasoned competitors alike. Yet, lurking beneath the festive exterior of this event is a unique element that has gamers buzzing — the event’s distinctive method of engaging players, especially with its captivating “2099” expiry date. Marvel Rivals Galacta’s Gift event will last forever with unique end date On May 15, trusted leaker X0X_LEAK posted on X that the Marvel Rivals Galacta’s Gift event is “set to end in 2099,” which corresponds with the in-game description, implying it is perpetual. This description, which appears in the event’s UI, shows that Galacta’s Gift is a permanent event for players, particularly as part of the new player onboarding process, which lends credence to the leaker’s assertion of an extended or infinite life. Galacta’s Gift screen in Marvel Rivals. Image by VideoGamer. The 2099 reference, maybe a fun tribute to the Marvel 2099 reality, may inflate the timeline while reflecting the event’s long-term availability. The in-game text indicates that Galacta’s Gift is permanent, as opposed to the time-limited Battle Pass. An X post from Miller Ross also confirms that the event is a one-time completion for existing accounts but is available indefinitely for new players. The event’s design allows for continuous access, therefore, a 2099 “end date” is an exaggerated approach to depict its continuing nature. Players must still finish objectives quickly to receive rewards, as the event’s one-time-per-account constraint implies no second chances. Marvel Rivals Platform(s): macOS, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X Genre(s): Fighting, Shooter Subscribe to our newsletters! By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime. Share

doops. Member Jun 3, 2020 5,069 Stumbled upon this list on Backloggd, and was intrigued to hear if anyone has any other games that could be applicable or any takes on the ones already mentioned? 'Narratives that can only exist in video game media' a list of games by Paggi | Backloggd Its somewhat normalized that narrative excellence in games means mirroring books and cinema Not only thats far from the truth but some games have used the media they represent to achieve a whole new level of writing backloggd.com List is: OneShot Nier: Automata Shadow of the Colossus The Silver Case Undertale Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony EarthBound INSIDE Spec Ops: The Line Death Stranding Alan Wake II The Stanley Parable Return of the Obra Dinn Portal Immortality Legend of Mana   Busaiku Teyvat Traveler Member Oct 25, 2017 17,821 9 Hours, 9 Persons, 9 Doors   Glasfrut Avenger Oct 27, 2017 4,824 Does the first Bioshock go here?   OP OP doops. Member Jun 3, 2020 5,069 Glasfrut said: Does the first Bioshock go here? Click to expand... Click to shrink... Ooo, yeah, that's a good pick!  Gangster Gastino Member Mar 21, 2018 2,805 Eternal Darkness   Mr Evil 37 Member Mar 7, 2022 27,539 Disco Elysium KOTOR  southwest Member Sep 15, 2022 2,718 Glasfrut said: Does the first Bioshock go here? Click to expand... Click to shrink... Why?   JakeNoseIt Catch My Drift Verified Oct 27, 2017 4,744 I think you could argue for almost any game to be on this list. The second there is gameplay, there is narrative (and then obviously that narrative couldn't exist in film or TV)   barbarash22 Member Oct 19, 2019 820 Soma   hiberner toujours Member Dec 6, 2023 1,756 13 sentinels   PallasKitten Member Jul 11, 2022 1,776 Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons The House in Fata Morgana Doki Doki Literature Club  Holundrian Member Oct 25, 2017 11,122 Probably every Daniel Mullins game   OP OP doops. Member Jun 3, 2020 5,069 JakeNoseIt said: I think you could argue for almost any game to be on this list. The second there is gameplay, there is narrative (and then obviously that narrative couldn't exist in film or TV) Click to expand... Click to shrink... Well, technically yes, but that's not as fun for discussion lol  Rustyspider13 Shinra Employee Member Nov 16, 2023 3,587 I'm not sure if the entire story counts but a moment in Brothers: A tale of Two Sons cannot be accomplished outside of video games.   blueredandgold Member Oct 25, 2017 8,626 Spoilers OK if marked? 999 on DS has you hooked until the last 10% or maybe even 5% of the game where the rug is literally pulled out from under you and you are forced to think about every action you as this external detached player character has made throughout the story seemingly while only acting out as the protaganist. Gone Home is by rights a "spooky house and you're all on your own" story at first but it transforms into a beautiful story about youth, family and discovering one's true self. Mario and Luigi Bowser's Inside Story explores what makes the big man tick. Like, literally. Killer 7 on the outside and at the outset is a bonkers third person shoot-em-up and puzzle infused cel shaded action game but t's more a visual novel that's a really interesting character study of a person's personality. Or how it might become more than just singular. RTS games by and large that try and categorise you as someone in-game never sat well with me. I quite liked being more of the invisible hand guiding the events or having the entire campaign come crashing down on me like it's that movie Downfall and I need to yell at everybody, Semi-recently. I can't not mention 1000x Resist. I even was able to stomach voice acting in a video game for once. I'm as surprised as anybody. Play these games. Thank me later.  Boopers Member Nov 1, 2020 4,303 Vermont usa Dragon's Dogma, kinda sorta.   Ashes of Dreams Fallen Guardian of Unshakable Resolve Member May 22, 2020 19,573 Didn't people like the Nier Automata anime? I haven't watched it but I heard it did a decent enough job. What about that story can only exist in a video game? I guess the final bit to an extent but if anything, I'd say the first Nier is a much better pick for that, given it's use of the NG+ mechanic. Edit: Thinking about this list further, I think it's title is doing it a disservice. It should have just been "games that use game specific elements to enhance the narrative" or "narratives made better by being in a game" or something.  Kromis Member Oct 29, 2017 8,083 SoCal Why is Shadow of the Colossus on that list? Haven't played it in almost two decades :')   ynthrepic Member Oct 25, 2017 891 Ashes of Dreams said: Didn't people like the Nier Automata anime? I haven't watched it but I heard it did a decent enough job. What about that story can only exist in a video game? Click to expand... Click to shrink... Its less the main narrative and everything else supporting it. Game mechanics given context in ways that are lost outside the medium.  blueredandgold Member Oct 25, 2017 8,626 Ashes of Dreams said: Didn't people like the Nier Automata anime? I haven't watched it but I heard it did a decent enough job. What about that story can only exist in a video game? Click to expand... Click to shrink... The answer to that is a spoiler and it's also partly due to the fact you can literally come away from it having completely different interpretations of the story, and exactly how it was resolved, compared to another person. I don't fully understand the over-arching thrust of the game's final act/ending but I also don't entirely mind that fact, either. Whereas in a standard three-act story you know what happened at least happened to the other people who experienced the same story as you.  Mr Evil 37 Member Mar 7, 2022 27,539 southwest said: "Would you kindly" would not work anywhere near as well in a linear storytelling medium where the audience isn't controlling the protagonist.   SpicySpiritGun Member May 16, 2018 350 Outer Wilds   Homura ▲ Legend ▲ Member Aug 20, 2019 6,953 As much as I love V3, I don't see why an anime would be impossible. The 1st twist can work with unreliable camera angles, and the 2nd twist doesn't really rely on being a video game at all.   Ashes of Dreams Fallen Guardian of Unshakable Resolve Member May 22, 2020 19,573 blueredandgold said: The answer to that is a spoiler and it's also partly due to the fact you can literally come away from it having completely different interpretations of the story, and exactly how it was resolved, compared to another person. I don't fully understand the over-arching thrust of the game's final act/ending but I also don't entirely mind that fact, either. Whereas in a standard three-act story you know what happened at least happened to the other people who experienced the same story as you. Click to expand... Click to shrink... I'm very familiar with Nier Automata, don't worry. It's just the anime I haven't seen. My point was the story seems to work outside the context of games, so the title of the list is a bit exaggerated.  southwest Member Sep 15, 2022 2,718 Mr Evil 37 said: "Would you kindly" would not work anywhere near as well in a linear storytelling medium where the audience isn't controlling the protagonist. Click to expand... Click to shrink... I really do not agree at all that that cannot exist outside of video games.   Badcoo Member May 9, 2018 1,846 Mass Effect.   Necromanti Member Oct 25, 2017 12,794 hyouko Member Oct 27, 2017 3,902 I've soured on Jonathan Blow, but the standard ending of Braid is pretty good for this.   kaputt Member Oct 27, 2017 1,291 Driver San Francisco It's a detective/cop story, but without the "Shift" element of the gameplay, it wouldn't be nearly as fun as it is. And I don't think it would be easily adaptable to other mediums, it works way better as a game  twister926 Member Apr 28, 2022 764 I Kromis said: Why is Shadow of the Colossus on that list? Haven't played it in almost two decades :') Click to expand... Click to shrink... At some point you may get a feeling that you are not the hero of the story, as the game suggested at the start, and start feeling really bad by progressing it.   Mr Evil 37 Member Mar 7, 2022 27,539 southwest said: I really do not agree at all that that cannot exist outside of video games. Click to expand... Click to shrink... Maybe not CANNOT exist, but I don't think it would work anywhere near as well. It's a twist that is almost entirely predicated on the audience having agency in the story.   giapel Member Oct 28, 2017 5,216 JakeNoseIt said: I think you could argue for almost any game to be on this list. The second there is gameplay, there is narrative (and then obviously that narrative couldn't exist in film or TV) Click to expand... Click to shrink... That's true but most games don't lean on the advantages of the medium and the story they tell is confined to be "cinematic". I would add Blue Prince to the list. It's storytelling is wonderfully interactive.  Lihwem Member Mar 17, 2020 857 I want to say Last of Us Part 2 but the TV show has been stellar so far so who knows   Homura ▲ Legend ▲ Member Aug 20, 2019 6,953 Blue Prince is a good example, as the roguelike element is a canon part of the narrative.   Bucca Member Oct 25, 2017 5,436 The Last Guardian   404LinkNotFound Member Oct 27, 2017 10,600 The entire Zero escape series The whole Ai the somnium files series  Odinsmana Member Mar 13, 2019 3,601 So does this jsut mean games where they tell the story during gameplay or the fact that you are playing the MC enchances the story? Otherwise I don`t really understand why something like SotC or Inside is on the list? Does something like What Remains of Edith Finch count in that case? Anyway. Here as some games with storytelling methods that only work in a game: Doki Doki Literature Club Games like The Golden Idol series and the Rootrees Are Dead. Road 96 Her Story  southwest Member Sep 15, 2022 2,718 Mr Evil 37 said: Maybe not CANNOT exist, but I don't think it would work anywhere near as well. It's a twist that is almost entirely predicated on the audience having agency in the story. Click to expand... Click to shrink... Maybe. But the thread and list is specifically asking for narratives that cannot exist outside of video games.   Nyandeyanen Member Apr 16, 2024 820 Persona, to some extent? The freeform nature of the social links and social skills is pretty video game specific. I do wish the main story would better reflect your social links and romances though.   Bulgowski Member Apr 8, 2022 666 Bloodborne, Elden Ring, Dark Souls   Frankish Member Oct 25, 2017 1,468 USA Came here to say Death Stranding but that's already on list. I'll add Inscryption.  Vic20 Member Nov 10, 2019 4,408 Bulgowski said: Bloodborne, Elden Ring, Dark Souls Click to expand... Click to shrink... Those games have no narratives Anyway I pick GTA and RDR  Mr Evil 37 Member Mar 7, 2022 27,539 southwest said: Maybe. But the thread and list is specifically asking for narratives that cannot exist outside of video games. Click to expand... Click to shrink... I think there's nuance to any conversation like this, but I personally think a game like BioShock which engages directly with the idea that it is a game and the audience is actively controlling the character (or they think they are) qualifies for this discussion. At no point when you're watching a movie do you feel that you are controlling the protagonist. I'm sure there is a way to adapt the twist to a movie but it would need to be presented very differently to the point where the core message would probably be different.  

Science fiction has become one of television’s most reliable genres and audiences have no shortage of options when it comes to progressive sci-fi storytelling. Anthology series have also never been more popular as they’ve proven to be an easy, noncommittal way to draw in audiences with unrelated, standalone storytelling. Love, Death + Robots has quietly done dependable, delightful work for three seasons, but it’s not just a sci-fi anthology. It’s a challenging animation showcase that goes to brave, impossible places for an anthology series. Despite the seemingly selective nature of its title, it feels like nothing is off limits in Love, Death + Robots season 4. This season is more playful than ever as it asks the audience to consider technology and eternity through endlessly diverse lenses. This energy is palpable here, with another collection of impressive, intelligent, and unpredictable animated short films. Love, Death + Robots excels with its original stories, but this season also ambitiously expands upon some of its previously built universes. Jennifer Yuh Nelson’s “Spider Rose” is a masterful follow-up to Volume 3’s “Swarm,” which follows a grieving Mechanist who receives a new companion and another shot at vengeance against the assassins who killed her husband. This is a sequel story that doesn’t just repeat the hits or gratuitously give fans what they want. “Spider Rose” instead finds a fresh, justified angle to return to this world. It’s a surprising yarn about unexpected motherhood as a conflicted character reconsiders everything she thought she knew about herself. Stories like “Spider Rose” challenge the audience and prompt them to change and grow. There’s an emotional throughline to this, but the installment is also rich in chaotic aerial dog fights, ultra gory deaths, and creative, indulgent extremes The Love, Death + Robots episodes that lean into hard science fiction are often the season’s most gripping installments and the entries that will stick with the audience long after they’ve finished. That being said, there are plenty of installments from this fourth batch that are just unabashedly silly. These may be seen as frivolous stories to some audiences, but they’re a testament to Love, Death + Robots’ versatility and that the trio of topics in its title are universal ideas that everyone can enjoy. In addition to “Can’t Stop,” ABGO’s “The Other Large Thing” and “Smart Appliances, Stupid Owners” from The Aaron Sims Company are some of the more overt examples of comedy this season. They’re a welcome balance for the more nihilistic and dour stories from this season that often hit with a ton of bricks. The successful tonal and genre balance that’s achieved across these 10 episodes takes the audience on a fascinating journey. There’s a little bit of everything here in this passionate sci-fi celebration, including a rare live-action segment. One of the season’s most entertaining episodes is the truly unhinged Red Hot Chili Pepper-starring “Can’t Stop.” Not only does this episode mark David Fincher’s directorial return to Love, Death + Robots, but through the conduit of his original love: music videos. “Can’t Stop” looks incredible and turns to an effective marionette aesthetic that’s unlike anything that’s previously been in the anthology series. “Can’t Stop” will ultimately find the audience asking not if Fincher could do this, but why he would want to. It’s such a gonzo experiment that simultaneously is the perfect showpiece for why a series like Love, Death + Robots is necessary. You’re not going to get a piece of storytelling like this on Black Mirror. There’s such a ridiculous, nonsensical energy that governs this short, but it’s also undeniably entertaining and such a fun time. The reason that a series like Love, Death + Robots works is that it makes space for “Can’t Stop” in addition to bleak, dramatic showpieces and action spectacles such as “Spider Rose” and “400 Boys.” Nothing is off limits in this series – this season even incorporates dinosaurs – and this freedom results in remarkable storytelling that’s worth the big swings that get taken, even when they don’t work. “Can’t Stop” is just five silly minutes that aren’t afraid to get weird and indulge in vibes. It also doesn’t hurt that David Fincher is behind this installment, but any chaotic mish-mash music video of this nature is still going to stand out in a series that’s more likely to reference J.G. Ballard and Harlan Ellison than MTV. Love, Death + Robots is a satisfying exploration of science fiction, but it’s also a series that prides itself in its groundbreaking visuals. Every season of Love, Death + Robots has been visually sumptuous, with these new episodes being no exception. Love, Death + Robots seems to be the proudest of its lush, photorealistic segments, like the work that Blur Studio does in “Spider Rose.” These segments don’t disappoint, but Love, Death + Robots has the most fun when it’s willing to indulge in more ambitious and stylized imagery “For He Can Creep” from Japan’s Polygon Pictures or Passion Animation Studios’ “400 Boys” are especially gorgeous.  The latter of these adopts a really impressionistic visual style that’s reminiscent of The Big O’s Art Deco quality. This complements the supernaturally heightened story that’s being told in a hyperbolized universe where gang warfare and a strict bushido-like code are the norm. Factions fight with psychic, electric powers in a world that feels ripped out of a Stephen King story. “400 Boys” is visually rich, but the art style also thematically resonates with the story’s deeper message. It goes to town with its exaggerated aesthetic and creates some truly gorgeous visuals and landscapes in this broken world. The post-apocalyptic wasteland that it crafts is like The Warriors meets Mad Max meets Escape From New York. Destruction plays out on such a massive scale that looks like gorgeous splash panels from a comic. There are setpieces in which warriors rollerblade under the legs of giant babies that they proceed to hack to bits that feel like they’re inspired by Attack on Titan’s epic battles. It’s the complete opposite style of no-holds-barred gladiatorial combat that gets treated like entertainment in “The Screaming of the Tyrannosaur.” Love, Death + Robots triumphs with its fourth season, the likes of which prove that there’s still plenty of gas in this tank. If anything, Love, Death + Robots is willing to get even weirder and break some of its older rules for the sake of fresh storytelling. There are few misfires in this season of 10 episodes, although some certainly hit harder than others. It’s appreciated to get this many episodes and that Volume 4 is longer than the two previous seasons. However, it seems increasingly less likely to return to the cornucopia of content that was the 18-episode Volume 1. It’s also worth pointing out that, while the visuals this season remain immaculate, there are only two animation studios from outside of the United States. Love, Death + Robots’ aim has never specifically been to spotlight international animation. That being said, Love, Death + Robots is at its best when there’s a truly eclectic style to each of its installments.  Love, Death + Robots has another win with Volume 4 and hopefully there are more surreal science fiction stories to come. The season begins with the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Anthony Kiedis singing “Can’t Stop” and by the end of these 10 episodes you’re left hoping that mantra is also true for Love, Death + Robots. All four volumes of Love, Death + Robots are now streaming on Netflix. Join our mailing list Get the best of Den of Geek delivered right to your inbox!

html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/REC-html40/loose.dtd" At the 19th International Architecture Exhibition of the 2025 Venice Architecture Biennale, the Estonian Ministry of Culture unveiled the installation and exhibition "Let me warm you," which was curated by architects Keiti Lige, Elina Liiva, and Helena Männa and displayed in the Estonian Pavilion.The Pavilion examines if the current insulation-driven renovations are a chance to improve the social and spatial quality of mass housing districts or if they are just a compliance tool to fulfill European energy targets.In order to draw attention to this problem, the Estonian Pavilion will install insulation panels on the front of a Venetian building—a technique that is also employed in Estonia for mass housing. The palazzetto is situated in the Castello area at Riva dei Sette Martiri 1611, which lies on the waterfront between Corso Garibaldi and the Giardini. An exhibition demonstrating how social interactions among many stakeholders impact spatial solutions will be held in a room coated in plastic film on the ground floor of the same structure. "With this project, we question whether insulation is just a bureaucratic checkbox for meeting EU targets or a real chance to tackle social and spatial challenges," said curators Keiti Lige, Elina Liiva, and Helena Männa."It exposes the clash between bold global ambitions and the everyday realities of people navigating collective decisions."One half of the world is utilizing more powerful cooling systems, while the other half is putting in ever-thicker layers of insulation to combat climate change.Estonia has set an ambitious aim to renovate all residential complexes built before 2000 to at least energy efficiency class C as Europe rushes to become climate neutral by 2050. This extensive repair project is a component of a broader European initiative to address the climate catastrophe by modernizing the old housing stock. Insulation, however, should be viewed as a significant improvement in quality of life rather than as a temporary solution or "bandage."Finding a balance between aggressive climate policies and the daily demands of the residents of these spaces is the true difficulty, considering the large expenses and long-term effects of these modifications.The same materials and design components commonly used in Estonian renovations will be used for the installation, which will be installed directly onto the façade of the current structure. It makes a strong visual statement when juxtaposed with Venice's elaborate architecture. Renovating residential buildings from the Soviet era in Estonia sometimes involves little to no architectural involvement, which perpetuates a problematic disrespect for the potential and character of these areas. The installation attempts to provoke a conversation between residents and architects about the cities and spaces we hope to live in by contrasting a façade covered in fiber cement with Venice's rich historic fabric. An exhibition exploring the social factors influencing remodeling choices will be located on the palazzetto's ground floor. Since the majority of apartment buildings in Estonia are privately owned, renovation decisions are frequently influenced by budgetary considerations, leaving limited opportunity for spatial enhancements other than insulation.The actual exhibition space, an existing apartment, will be covered in plastic film, signifying the constant drive for remodeling while highlighting how superficial repairs frequently obscure the more profound relationships and practical demands people have with their houses. Using theatrical dialogues and exaggerated spatial effects, a model of a Soviet-era housing block at its center highlights human interactions and illustrates how various relationships and interactions affect space.The exhibition encourages visitors to consider the conflict between policy-driven energy goals and the lived realities of individuals impacted by them by shedding light on the intricacies of community living and refurbishment decisions.A catalogue that shows the tragicomedy of an apartment complex in six episodes is included with the presentation. It examines topics from community revival to the dread of change, all based on the experiences of actual people.With the theme Intelligens Natural Artificial Collective the Biennale Architettura 2025, organized by architect Carlo Ratti, will focus on the built environment as a major source of atmospheric emissions, making architecture one of the primary culprits in the deterioration of our planet. As the climate situation worsens, architects need to provide practical, non-cosmetic, efficient, and expedient solutions.In this sense, the Estonian exhibition responds to Ratti’s call for pavilions: "This year’s head theme offers good ground to discuss what happens to architecture when the Architect is excluded from the process," explained Johanna Jõekalda, advisor on architecture and design at the Ministry of Culture of Estonia, Commissioner of the Estonian Pavilion."Renovation processes that are planned by residents themselves according to their best knowledge, provide a good example of how collective intelligence, or lack of it, affects our spatial environment." "The Estonian Pavilion gives the message that the architectural quality of the living environment should not be overlooked in renovation processes," Jõekalda explained.Visitors will actively interact with the pavilion and building during the Venice Biennale with "Let me warm you." Rethinking rehabilitation techniques could help Estonia lead Europe in updating old buildings for a more sustainable and livable future, not merely for energy efficiency.Find out all exhibition news on WAC's Venice Architecture Biennale page. Project factsPavilion of Estonia: Let me warm you Location: Riva dei Sette Martiri 1611 (Castello neighborhood), VeniceCommissioner: Johanna JõekaldaCurators Exhibitors: Keiti Lige, Elina Liiva, and Helena MännaOrganiser: Ministry of Culture of EstoniaCo-organiser: Estonian Museum of Architecture Creative team: Märten Rattasepp, Kirill Havanski, Aadam Kaarma, Joosep KivimäeProduction: Mari-Liis VunderCollaborators: Neeme Külm (Valge Kuup Studio), Margus Tammik, Robert Männa, Markus Puidak, Randel Pomber.All images © Joosep Kivimäe.> via Estonian Pavilion 

Helldivers 2 received an unexpected update with new weapon customizations and more enemy types, just in time for the Illuminate to come roaring out of a black hole with their sights set on Super Earth. “In a sudden, completely unprovoked offensive, they emerged. Nothing is safe, not even the heart of democracy itself,” the announcer shouts, exaggerated gravitas in his voice. “Liberty’s darkest hour approaches. Super Earth needs you.” The update lands with all of the tongue-in-cheek humor that Helldivers 2 brings to the table, but it also introduces new Illuminate enemy types, including the jetfighter-like Stingray and the Crescent Overseer, a foe that can launch attacks over cover. Then there’s the Fleshmob, described as “a Frankenstein’s monster of Voteless parts” that is reminiscent of Flood Carriers from Halo. The PlayStation Blog post hints at other, as-yet-unannounced enemies. Recommended Videos Helldivers can now customize their weapons, too. Most primary weapons have levels that can be raised by completing specific missions, and players can unlock different attachments that tweak everything from handling to ammo capacity. The update allows players to fine-tune their favorite gun to suit their playstyle by adjusting stats like recoil, reload time, and more. There are also new skins to pick from for each weapon, too. Helldiver 2‘s Superstore is also getting a boost. You don’t have to wait for things to come back into rotation; instead, you can browse through the entire library of items and purchase the ones you want with Super Credits, the game’s premium currency (but it can also be found in missions, so you don’t have to spend any realm money.) Related Finally, the update also tosses in a few new patterns for the Fast Recon Vehicle in several existing Warbonds, including Viper Commandos, Freedom’s Flame, Chemical Agents, and Truth Enforcers. The patterns unlock on May 15, coinciding with the launch of the new Masters of Ceremony Warbond.