Video games are all about immersing the player in the developer's world — whether that's an alien planet or a historically based first-person shooter. While graphics get the lion's share of attention, with no sound, there's not much game to play. WIRED looks at psychology and sound have combined to make living video game worlds, from the earliest days of the medium to the beginning of the graphical revolution in the late 90s.
No matter how big the budget or flashy the visual effects, poorly developed characters will make any movie feel like a dead, hollow shell. The Southern Gothic steeped first season of True Detective felt like a whole new addition to what was essentially a buddy cop murder mystery. While it didn't necessarily break new ground, True Detective felt remarkable because of the living, breathing world created by characters who seemed to be truly alive.
When you're the youngest superhero in the cinematic universe, sometimes you have to pick up the party supplies. Peter Parker gets an invite to Tony Stark's NBA Finals party and finds himself playing the intern. On his way to get some totally not fancy crackers for Tim Duncan, Peter has to stop a few criminals and deal with fans before he can get back to the game.
On the road or just a long country walk, Aspinal of London's Leather Hunter Flask is the perfect companion. Made from stainless steel, the flask is sized to slip into a pocket for a nip of your favorite drink wherever you go. Fine, full-grain leather binding holds two cups to share with a friend.
Presented by Aspinal of London.
Some styling creams need heat to set. Others leave hair vulnerable to frizz and can leave hair greasy, or even damaged. OXFORDhill's Air Dry Styling Cream is formulated with 16 powerful plant-based ingredients that deliver the perfect amount of hold while actively improving hair health over time. The cream works with all hair types and textures and is silicone-free, vegan, and crafted without animal by-products or testing. Just scrunch it into wet, style, and go; when you run out, the aluminum tube is infinitely recyclable.
Presented by OXFORDhill.
Owning a miniature Apple II could be as easy as rounding up your spare change. Using a $9 CHIP computer, game developer Chris Larkin has created a working replica of the vintage computer. All of the components are housed in a 3D printed model with a custom paint job to match the original hue and is completly self-contained thanks to a 12V drone battery. Larkin shows how he made his and shares the plans to build your own.
Whether it's an expensive cut of ribeye or a cheap hanger steak, there's no reason to be nervous about cooking it to perfection. While cooking a steak isn't difficult, there are a few lesser-known tips to get it just right — and like everything in life, the waiting is the hardest part.
Sweaters, long pants, coats — when you bundle up this winter, don't neglect your dome. Melin's Thermal Collection has a hat in every style, ruggedly constructed for protection against the cold. Melin hats are engineered to keep you comfortable and warm without the bulk. Cutting-edge materials trap heat while remaining lightweight, breathable, and water-resistant. A variety of shapes make it easy to find the right fit for the perfect blend of style and performance.
Presented by Melin.
Since their launch over ten years ago, Bombas has been dedicated to making high-quality clothing — first just socks, now tees, underwear, and more — while providing the same essentials to people in need. This holiday season, they're offering up to 15% off select packs while donating an essential clothing item to those in need for each item purchased. From Performance ankle and no-show socks to slippers and boxer briefs, their men's line has you covered, and there are options for ladies and kids. Their gift boxes remove the need to wrap — socks don't play well with wrapping paper, after all — and new customers can save an additional 25% off all socks, with free shipping for orders $125 and up.
Presented by Bombas.
Bill Maher is no stranger to crossing the line, but last week on Real Time he stepped way too far even for him. During a segment with Republican Senator Ben Sasse, the controversial host used the n-word, leaving many people — including Ice Cube — very angry. Coincidentally, the former NWA rapper was scheduled to promote the re-release of his album Death Certificate , but instead took the time to confront Maher for his racial slur.
James J. Fox has been selling premium cigars since 1881. First opening in Dublin and later moving to London, their customer list includes Sir Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, and members of the royal family. The flagship store is home to their Freddie Fox Museum displays vintage tobacco, the oldest box of Havan cigars, as well as memorabilia from some of their notable clients.Not only is it the oldest merchant in the world, but also one of the last remain places you can enjoy their products indoors.
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