In a recent conversation, Xalavier Nelson Jr., the founder and creative director of Strange Scaffold, shared insights into his journey with PC gaming. Reflecting on his early experiences, he noted that gaining access to a PC marked a significant milestone in his maturation process. Initially, his gaming adventures began on consoles, with only sporadic forays into Flash games on the PC. However, it was the sight of his father engaging with titles like Battlefield 2 and Age of Empires that left a lasting impression on him.
Among the myriad of games that have shaped his perspective, Sid Meier’s Pirates! stands out as a pivotal influence. Nelson Jr. describes the 2004 remake of the classic piracy simulator as a quintessential sandbox experience. He appreciates its ambition to create a broader narrative about the pirate life rather than focusing solely on polished gameplay mechanics.
What was the previous game you played, and is it still installed?
Currently, Nelson Jr. finds himself revisiting Outriders, a game that has lingered in his memory since its release. Despite its initial playthrough years ago, he and a group of friends recently committed to completing the game together. He describes the experience as a delightful journey through its eclectic narrative and gameplay, noting the charm found in its imperfections. The recent news of the sequel’s cancellation has left him contemplative, as he believes the follow-up could have been something truly special.
He elaborates on the game’s unique storytelling approach, which frequently shifts and evolves, creating moments of surprise and intrigue. The blend of humor and existential themes adds layers to the gaming experience, making it a memorable adventure.
What is the highest number of hours you have in any given game, according to Steam?
When it comes to logged hours, Nelson Jr. cites Worms: Crazy Golf as the title that holds the record. This childhood favorite, shared with his sister, provided countless hours of strategic gameplay and sibling rivalry. The nostalgia associated with this game embodies the essence of childhood gaming, where the depth of play was dictated by the limited options available.
What game will you never, ever uninstall?
Warframe emerges as the game Nelson Jr. vows never to uninstall. Its continuous evolution and the dedication of its developers resonate deeply with him. He appreciates how the game respects players’ time while offering a rich and engaging experience. The moral complexities woven into its quests have left a significant impact, making it a staple on all his devices.
What’s a piece of non-gaming software installed on your PC that you simply couldn’t live without?
Audacity holds a special place in Nelson Jr.’s toolkit. As a voice actor, particularly in his role for the upcoming Hellraiser Revival game, he relies on this software for audio editing and recording. It has become an essential component of his work, making it one of the first applications he installs on any new PC.
How tidy is your desktop screen?
Nelson Jr. maintains a meticulously organized desktop. With only a handful of essential icons—such as the Recycle Bin, Nvidia app, and GOG Galaxy app—he keeps his workspace streamlined. He also has a few critical text files for task tracking, all aligned neatly in a row. Interestingly, he revealed that he has a completed game awaiting release, a project he finished years ago but has yet to debut due to the demands of his evolving career. This hidden gem sits patiently on his desktop, waiting for the right moment to shine.
