Virtual Vacations
Recession, funds are tight, so busy you cannot get away? What are some of your reasons for gaming? For me, it’s like a mini mental break from my life. I wouldn’t say my life is dull –right now it’s so full of things that keep me busy…(new job, masters program) that I would be a liar if I didn’t admit that I missed some of the idleness that came along with unemployment.
Well, here are some of my pics for game locals that for me, are like mini mental vacations…
Assassin’s Creed II – I love the rich and colorful locations of Florence, and most of all Venice. The developers did one heck of a job making the game feel alive and bustling with activity. I especially like when Ezio is walking along the streets and you come across a couple arguing in Italian. Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy the missions and platforming, but after sitting in front of a large screen TV for an hour or so, I can’t help but be pulled in and forget that I am still sitting in my living room.
Silent Hill 3 – LOL, how much of a mental vacation can this be? At times, the game is a bit stressful (especially with the way the developers played with sound design and things unseen). Though at times the feelings of dread were overwhelming, I couldn’t help but being compelled to press onwards. And although I had empathy for James, the main character – I find myself playing the Silent Hill games more first for the unsettling location, and second for the story.
FFX - Yeah, this one was a while back, but it was honestly the first Final Fantasy game I played through to completion (damn you FFVII – Gold Saucer and Ultimate Weapons Quest). I honestly loved exploring Luca, Besaid, Macalania Forest, and the ruins of Zannarkand. Furthermore, I cared about the characters and how each one’s story evolved. No other Final Fantasy has resonated with me since. I enjoyed the game so much, I have bits and pieces of the soundtrack – ahhh….nostalgia!
Fallout 3 – Ahh…the dusty desolation. Though it’s the destroyed DC area, I felt like Christopher Columbus, but the thought of being woefully under prepared for murderous marauders…good thing I can reload from a save. And the feeling of being alone (like with your thoughts). It’s actually relaxing…until your running for your virtual life!
So what are some of your favorite virtual vacation locals???