Gaming Under the Influence
[Podcast]
E.65
‘AA Spotlight Part 1: YS IX
#NUPS2: The Revival of ‘AA Publishing
Drinking this week: Mash Up the Jam (Collective Arts), Roman Candle IPA (Bellwoods Brewery)
Playing this week: Little Nightmares II, Ys IX: Monstrum NOx
In 2019 & 2020, the ‘AA [double-A] publishing space was flooded with more noteworthy and interesting titles than we have seen in recent console generations. Games like Greedfall, The Surge II, & Maneater recall the glory days of mid-tier PS2 publishing. The first quarter of 2021 may be lacking in huge AAA releases, but for the next few weeks you can join GreenDragonCVR for an exploration of Q1 AA titles and the companies that make them: first up is Ys IX Monstrum Nox. This game, developed by Nihon Falcom, exhibits the eccentricity and experimental style that seems to characterize ‘AA development. Next week: Little Nightmares 2
We use Neo-Thomistic philosophy to analyze video games as fine art. Against corporate & political interests, we argue they (should) exist solely to be beautiful: self-contained, self-justifying acts of worldbuilding. Subscribe for a nominal monthly fee to support our project. No gimmicks, tricks or bonuses: if you believe in what we do, we are happy for your help.