So if you are my friend in reality, and you claim to be an amazing gamer, or boast of how you have great hand eye coordination... or I really want to see you lose your mind, I'll introduce you to Ikaruga. Its not because I hate you, usually. Its usually because I want someone to understand my rage and undying love for this beautiful, horrifying game.
So when your ship is red, red lasers and bullets charge you,and white bullets and lasers kill you. When your ship is white......I mean, simple enough....right...right?
Made in 2001, this game has a much beloved following, making it come back several times, both on Dreamcast, Gamecube, and for the right now, Xbox Live Arcade. I remember playing this in college just to see if I could beat the high score of someone who dared I couldn't get to the first boss. I did. Eventually. I still haven't beaten the third level. I'm not sure I even want to really try - I like the fact that I have this ridiculously hard, yet simple, game on my to do list, as this sadistic challenge waiting to be sprung on unsuspecting friends. Also, seeing the game played by people that had never tried it before on 12 foot screens at PAX East 2011 to try and win a trip to Germany? That was fun (Part 2 is where you really see the game pick up).
Sometimes, Gamers tow the line betweendedicated and 'masochistic', I think.
What launched me back into this nostalgia? Well, one of my favorite youtube channels, PBS Idea Channel, just recently put forward the idea that these sort of games, affectionately known as "Bullet Hell" games, are a very, very direct way to experience a meditative state. It sort of falls in line with a lot of thinking about how video games can be so addictive or engrossing because they create a feeling of both challenge and personal victory, but that's a whole set of posts I just don't have the time or coffee to finish up at the moment.
For now, check out the video, the channel is great fun, and has some really cool ideas about technology and philosophy in general, not just video game related. Also, have any other personal favorite "Bullet Hell" games? Metal Slug was one I remember from childhood that's right up there.
-Wyatt
Editor-in-chief, Co-founder
Whether he's worldbuilding for Dungeons and Dragons or figuring out what to have for dinner, Wyatt is usually in a whole different world. A player of all games, from the first person shooter to board games, Wyatt will happily throw down with plasma rifle on LCD screen or an army of metal miniatures just the same. Sprites and Dice is his dream to stay active in the community that he knows and loves.
Whether he's worldbuilding for Dungeons and Dragons or figuring out what to have for dinner, Wyatt is usually in a whole different world. A player of all games, from the first person shooter to board games, Wyatt will happily throw down with plasma rifle on LCD screen or an army of metal miniatures just the same. Sprites and Dice is his dream to stay active in the community that he knows and loves.
