this is the most important post

Re(ugh)skeeting because I've been thinking about this a lot. About where I get my news from, and what's excluded from my minimal attempts to keep up with the news. I check on social media, on american Late Night talk shows, and skimming the Guardian because a friend That One Time said it's great.

"No JRPG I've ever played has said as much in as few words as Shin Megami Tensei Strange Journey." Story by Nathan Kelly.

I think, as a community, we should cultivate the skill to, even if we don't like it, let "Fountain" be in a museum unpissed and let dive-bar urinals be ugly.

But at the same time, I see friction that often takes the form of intense interpersonal strife. Maybe that's why I'm posting this thread. I notoriously hate when people argue bitterly over games.

But at the same time, the purpose of any text is communication. I think there's value to be had in thinking about the ways "TTRPG as expressive text" and "TTRPG as instructional text" are sometimes at cross-purposes, to varying degrees and varying effects. And, to me, value in both approaches.

Pretentious? Maybe. I won't deny it. And, I can see a person trying to piss in "Fountain" and being disappointed both by its lack of plumbing and also the irritated security guards. There's nothing wrong with being frustrated by something that doesn't serve its assumed function.

And I don't think that's a bad thing! Actually I think it's great. I share this because I think there's value in understanding both the interior design of utilitarian objects, the artistic value in games meant to be played, and the purpose of objects - and texts - out of context.

Like "Fountain", there are TTRPGs and video games that use the same form for a different function, removing it from its context to make a statement. Games that are not meant to be played, or if they are, not meant to be ENJOYED, but rather meant to serve as a vehicle for expression.

That is to say, the "standard function" of any game is to be played and enjoyed. That is the purpose of a game, like a urinal's purpose is piss. The form varies tremendously but most of them serve this function. But, that does not mean it's the only thing it can be used for.

Sharing the links of Palestinian families in need of personal support. Thread below.

Yeah I am imagining!

I have not played Townfall but from what I've seen it's so striking and original and I like it

Silent Hill F is deeply interesting and layered and neat and cool and neat.

SH2 Remake gave Maria such a human face that it makes me wonder why more games don't go for this "this is a lady you could meet" look