This week unfolds as a vibrant tapestry of excitement, woven together by the threads of the Summer Game Fest and its accompanying showcases. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, as if the calm before a storm is settling over the gaming landscape.
Under the Canopy of Anticipation
In the serene embrace of the Treehouse, a sense of tranquility prevails, yet an undercurrent of energy hums in the air. As I immerse myself in the dark fantasy creature collector, Voidsayer, a solitary leaf dances across the forest floor, drawing my gaze. I shift my focus to the promising Zefyr: A Thief’s Melody, reminiscent of the beloved Beyond Good & Evil.
As more leaves flutter down from the canopy, a peculiar sensation stirs within me, yet it fails to pull my attention away from the engaging world of Rise Of Industry 2, a nostalgic nod to 80s business simulations.
Across the clearing, Brendy, momentarily distracted from his exploration of Deltarune Chapters 1-4, rises on his hind legs. With a tilt of his muzzle skyward, he begins to howl, adding a whimsical note to the unfolding narrative.
Suddenly, chaos erupts as Nic and Oisin burst forth from the underbrush, a whirlwind of blindfire and exclamations. Nic, nursing an unfortunate injury from a boulder, is hoisted over Oisin’s shoulder, who simultaneously unleashes a barrage into the surrounding foliage. One can only wonder how many times it will take for Nic to learn that shotguns are no match for the forces of nature.
The Showcases Erupt
In an instant, daylight dims as three showcases emerge, towering above the trees in a mechanical frenzy. The schedule is relentless: first, the Access-Ability Summer Showcase at 8am PDT, followed by Summer Game Fest Live at 2pm PDT, and concluding with the Day of the Devs SGF Edition at 4pm PDT. Each showcase is marked by the unmistakable visage of Geoff Keighley, while Graham rides a surfboard high above, skillfully navigating the waves of advertising.
The weekend promises no respite from this whirlwind of activity. Ollie and I return to the Treehouse, bruised but unbroken, as the ancient tree sways ominously yet stands firm. The Founders’ choice of refuge proves wise as we brace ourselves for three more showcases: the Wholesome Direct at 9am PDT, the Future Games Show at 1pm PDT, and the Green Games Showcase, all sweeping through the woods with a fervor akin to dervishes.
As the cacophony reaches its zenith, it becomes clear that the marketing VPs have descended upon us. The Xbox Games Showcase at 10am PDT and the PC Gaming Show at 12pm PDT obliterate the remaining tranquility, leaving Ollie and me to signal for help. Where is Jeremy? Is that his fist emerging from the chaos, offering a final thumbs-up? Meanwhile, James arrives in a helicopter, bringing news of a secondary calamity: the other side of the mountain has been devastated by the Ian Games Network Live.
As the week unfolds, one must ponder: what are your plans amidst this whirlwind of showcases? If you aim to steer clear of the fray, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you.
