A Thing About Play (it rhymes with Klei...)

This company gets it. They understand what it is to have a childlike imagination, a pure obsession with play. Every game they've put out - which includes the crazy successful, fun and brutal Don't Starve - encapsulates a fantasy I had as a kid. 

I'm pretty sure I know their formula. 

• 1 part childhood fancy - Klei has a game called Hot Lava, a platformer where you play as toys traversing a bedroom, a school and so on...Oh! And the goddamned floor is lava! I remember this shit! We all did this as kids and it was amazing! Observe the following rad as hell trailer to the right...

• 1 part socio and/or psychopath - Yeah...so...these are the guys who made Don't Starve and Oxygen Not Included. There's all kinds of brutality and consequence in these two properties. In Don't Starve...well, you can starve. You can also go insane via otherworldly horrors, including but not limited to: Pig Men, shadow born horrors and Elder Gods...of sorts. He might also be Satan, I wasn't entirely sure... Faust? Anyway. Then there's the whole suffocating thing in Oxygen Not Included, as well as your team flat nutting out and doing whatever their stress addled AI decides to do - wreck things, jump into space, eat a poison mushroom, you know how it is.

• Pure, uncut drugs - Okay, that's hoosafudge, but they've got their formula down to a sweet addictive science. They know their systems and they know how to snag you in for the long haul. And that might actually be the one thing I DON'T like about their games: I can't tear myself away from them without damn near a physical intervention! My current obsession is Oxygen Not Included, a god forsaken early access game that feels pretty darn complete, robust even! I don't do early access games, but that's a whole other article. The point I'm trying to make, is Klei laces each and every game with coke. Good. I'm glad we had this conversation.

Making a game isn't hard. Making it good is much tougher, but making me feel like a proper child again? That's an art. Klei is incredible for this more than anything in my eyes. And I'm going to use Oxygen is Not Included as my example. 

This game screams the make-believe crazy-pants that I used to play with my friends, specifically the expand at your own peril expansion and the art style. Man. That art. And that sound! The design as a whole is somehow adorable and then...kind of disturbing. Your colonists - sorry, duplicants (which is brilliant, ps) - are hilariously adorable one minute, hard at work and all smiles, then pissing and stress vomiting until they die the next. Then there's the mush-bar, which is basically a sci-fi mud-pie(side note: sci-fi mud-pie is the name of my electro-country album). I made these damn things when I was but knee-high to a hair! I made them and then...well, I made my cousin eat them. She's fine. 

My point was made above, but I'll threaten being further redundant. Klei understands and can implement a very crucial aspect of play that many devs don't execute as well: reminding us of the imagination most all of us used as kids. Their systems make proper use of your personal creativity and then give you fair consequences, not limitations, with your choices. They damn near make your imagination real. 

Okay. It's late and I'm dead tired. Also, I'm going to go play more Oxygen. Sweet dreams.

Have the best day you've ever had.

Andrew

PS. I googled "electro-country" and the video below came up. I then realized I could have just posted the cotton-eyed joe music video. Eh. For the record I don't hate the song below. I don't like it either. Cool. Back to my game.

Livestream

I really liked how this stream turned out, so here it is. 

That's pretty much all. Oh! Here's some more stuff I wrote a few days later. 

In asking what people want to talk about, among other things, people have mentioned many acceptance, confidence and fear based topics. Those will be covered, rest assured, but I think what would be good is throwing a different kind of event/convention.

No competitions. Jams. No points. Instead focusing on us as people, as artists and athletes having fun. A convention of empowering each of us. Music, food, movement and expression.

I have no money, no venue, no date. I just have an idea I believe in. Maybe it will work. I'll sure try to make it work.

Input is welcome.

Have the best day you've ever had!

Cool. That's about it for now.

Repeating myself: Have the best day you've ever had.

Andrew

Story Time Stream

https://www.patreon.com/andrewslac

I've been writing a serialized story for the better part of 7 months now. Our newest chapter (now weekly) goes up this Friday via patreon. It only costs you $1 a month to be a part, and you get access to every chapter thus far in glorious PDF format to have and to hold etc and so on.

ALSO: You get to be a part of the Story Time Stream, every Friday at 9pm pacific. I'm SO excited for this!

So come and support new works and be a part of the conversation. Grab your leftovers, drop a Washington and have the best day you've ever had.

https://www.patreon.com/andrewslac

PS. Right now the ONLY way to be a part of the Story Time Stream is to be a part of our patreon. SO...do that.

PPS. Happy Thanksgiving if you celebrate it. If not: I hope you eat well and have a beautiful time with those you love or by yourself or maybe...maybe you, like, meet a good dude or lass at the pub and like get...make a nice memory.

LOSS

I think I can finally talk about this shit. Not well, mind you. Meh. You should know that this isn't happy, more healing, and will probably upset you in some way. Warned. Also: if you are hurting, you can talk to me.

A few weeks back, maybe over a month ago, a friend I wasn't terribly close to - whom my uncle was rather close to - was murdered. If you were in Portland, had eyes and a TV, you heard about Jakob's murder. He was a good man, who made me and many folks happy. You can google the story for the specifics.

A few weeks back, under a month ago, my friend Nikki killed herself.

I was still dealing with Jakob's death, so hearing that Nikki had died wasn't real, nor would I let it be real. It became real about a week ago, and I've been so very screwed up. 

I miss my friends. 

I'm better now, at least enough to be me again and get what mental work I needed to do done. So I have. Yesterday was sorta OK? The day before sucked out loud. Put them together and you've got me feeling alright enough to talk.

A few years back, really more like almost 2, I tried to kill myself. I didn't. 

You have to ask yourself, why is this so common? But that's a whole other thing.

This is about loss. Two friends died in just over two weeks. I'm no stranger to death and, especially/unfortunately, suicide. I've lost so many people in my life; friends, family, mentors.

I fear losing people all the time. It's always on my mind. I'm afraid a majority of the time. This is what the post is really about.

If I know you, and I love you, there are times where I truly fear losing you. Pretty common. Mom, Dad, Kindell, Jenny, Zach, CamBam, Nick, Mikey, Em, Mollywog, Laurie, Jeff, Ryan, Ryan, Tim, Tana, Abi, Amanda, Lexi, Delancey, Evie, Aaron, John, Gabbi, RoboJoJo, Megan, Big Seth, Dave, Maddie, Brittany, Jillybean, DJ, Uncle Hutch, Uncle Tom, Maddie, Sherie, Darlene, Delanie, Susa, Colin, Isabella, Isadora, Izzy, Vanessa, Haile, Sydward, Reedster, Darcie, Ben, Steph, Tina, Forrest. Done writing names. If I know you and I love you, there are times where I truly fear losing you.

It's important for me that I take time to think about this when I get this far sclounced. (not a word) When I get like this I play games like Dawn of Discovery, Civ, Stellaris, Anno. Games where I can just sit and think, meditate, and feel accomplished in a very easily graspable way. I did that for two days. My ass hurt. I cried some. I feel better.

I miss Will, my uncle, old B, Gramma, Grandpa, Keith, Nikki, Jakob, Phil, Miss Dawn, old S, Torr, Julia, old A, Bumpa, Chris, Wayne, old M, Gail, Mr Daily. No more names. I couldn't remember more.

There is a takeaway here. There is. Look for the pattern behind things and you can learn about things. Maybe it'll help you grieve the loss, or not. Maybe it'll just help you understand what went. Maybe? Maybe you'll be able to help someone if they want/need your help - which is super subjective and sometimes super hard to read and respond to. Maybe maybe maybe maybe maybe maybe maybe...

Dear, Demon Child,

You're an incredible friend. You're a hero. I admire you. You did the right thing. You're what is right in the world. Well done. Well done indeed. 

Dear, Golden Child,

I didn't know you were hurting so badly. I'm sorry we weren't close anymore. Thank you for being in my life. You made it better.

Dear, Magic People,

I'm the good man I am today in large part because of your guidance. Thank you. I love you.

Dear Coach,

I have shoulders now. Thanks for that.

Dear, DBag Jones,

Pay. The fuck. Attention. You greedy shit. You're decent folk. Be better!

Dear, Mr Daily,

Shake rattle and roll, good sir! Thank you for the years. Honoring your memory with the music.

Dear, Gail,

I fucked up. I'm sorry.

Dear, The D,

You're so wonderful. You make the world better. Be strong and live for you! Your story is going to be one for the ages!

Dear, SP,

If only you knew how powerful you are. Thank you for you. I love you.

Dear, High C,

It wasn't fair. Fuck him. You deserved better.

Dear, Ol' B,

It wasn't fair. Fuck him. You deserved better.

Dear, Philly,

Why?

Dear, Fat C,

You were an awful person. Evil. The world is better without you. You killed him.

Dear, Soulful C,

I miss you. You hated yourself, but you were so beautiful. I wish you were here and loved yourself and had another chance. I wish you weren't so filled with fear. I hope heaven exists and you're there, finally happy. I miss you. I really miss you.

Dear, That one Bitch,

I can't believe anyone would want you. I mean...for real. That poor motherfucker. #yasuck!

Dear, Song,

I think about your advice every day. It's the juice! Thank you!

Dear, Jojo and Megatron,

I've been dealing with some OG shit. You two help me breathe. Thank you! Your advice is awesome and helps me feel hooman.

Dear, Steve,

What the fuck were you thinking? Fuck! I feel dirty. You stupid dick!

Dear, CB,

We cool.

Dear, JB,

Change the world, my man. You gonna change the world!

Dear, Younger me,

Keep doin' what you doin'. You'll turn out fine and dandy indeed. Oh! But stay away from most of the internet and opinions out there. You're kicking ass! Believe and you'll be just fine. You're pretty cool. Good job, Slugger.

Dear, Will,

Your death defined me for so many years. I can't even tell you how painful it has been. But I love you and the memory of you so much that it helps me be good and strong and live my life spurred on by love. You are one of my greatest heroes, and I never got to tell you that when I was younger and you were alive. I love you. Always will. Miss you, Will.

That's enough now. I feel okay. Feeling like me again.

Have the best day you've ever had.

Andrew

Our PATREON is LIVE

Our #patreon is live!

CLICK HERE: https://t.co/HzNuk0D5cf

Complete with the very first chapter of our brand new story: #amongmen

FRONT PAGE:

My name is Andrew Slac.

I made this patreon for the purpose of first releasing a serialized story to folks who routinely show their support, leading to the support of the endeavors of other artists, as well as a few plans on the grander scale.

Each month I'll bring you a chapter in a tale of fiction that you will have first access to if you choose to pony up the buck and support. But the buck doesn't stop there! That dollar (or more, if you're feeling really supportive) will also get you exclusive access to other patreon only content and activities including streams, vlogs, blogs and more. 

THE STORYAmong Men
genre: fantasy

First chapter teaser: The tiny nation of Bellsara, too small and weak to fight on her own, is surrounded by warring enemies and only survives by supplying two things to whomever is willing to pay: food from her crops, and soldiers of her sons and daughters. Our story begins during yet another siege of yet another territory deemed an enemy by purchase. This is where we meet our hero, a child like any other of Bellsara, a farmer turned soldier, conscripted to fight enemies that are not their own. And while their beginnings may be humble, their destiny is one of glory and great change...

...And that's pretty much all I can say without spoilers.

Also, exclusive content comes with the exclusive right to be a part of the conversation with each post. I will answer as many questions as I can, and I may even apply your suggestions and sprinkle a bit of your awesome into the story. Not the plot, of course, but if you have ideas you'd like to see, they may just end up in the story itself. Don't want your ideas in the story? Don't post 'em! Good. I'm glad we had this talk.

Generally, being an artist is an isolating life, but I don't want to live that way. I love people and believe in the brilliance that everyone has the potential to show. This patreon allows me to not only share something unique, but also creates a community based on support, communication and the exchange of art and ideas. Which is kind of my life-long dream.

If things go well, and I mean really well, this patreon will help lead to much grander projects, as well as create opportunities for others to show their work, and share with the world a part of themselves that may otherwise go unseen. I am a man with massive dreams and the drive and passion to get them done, and to support those who support me.

Alone we are amazing and together we are mighty.

If you do choose to pledge, I thank you. In return I pledge to create great works to the best of my ability, and to grow a community based on communication, support, opportunities and entertainment. 

Thank you for taking the time to visit this patreon. 

Whether you are a supporter or just someone passing by:
Have the best day you've ever had!

Andrew

My New Project REVEALED!

I've been teasing a new thing or thang I am putting into the sphere. Here it is.

This Monday, May 15th, 2017, I will be launching my patreon.

Each month I will release a chapter - of considerable length - for a brand new story that will only be available through patreon, and only if you are a supporter of this campaign.

The purpose of the patreon is to not only build a community for my work, but to raise funds and create a dedicated support for the works of other artists, even so far as eventually creating a convention that celebrates all of our stories.

This is both exciting and pants-shittingly terrifying for me.

Links will drop Monday.  I hope you'll join me in this new journey.

Here is the front page for the project:

My name is Andrew Slac.

I made this patreon for the purpose of first releasing a serialized story to folks who routinely show their support, leading to the support of the endeavors of other artists, as well as a few plans on the grander scale.

Each month I'll bring you a chapter in a tale of fiction that you will have first access to if you choose to pony up the buck and support. But the buck doesn't stop there! That dollar (or more, if you're feeling really supportive) will also get you exclusive access to other patreon only content and activities including streams, vlogs, blogs and more. 

THE STORYAmong Men
genre: fantasy

First chapter teaser: The tiny nation of Bellsara, too small and weak to fight on her own, is surrounded by warring enemies and only survives by supplying two things to whomever is willing to pay: food from her crops, and soldiers of her sons and daughters. Our story begins during yet another siege of yet another territory deemed an enemy by purchase. This is where we meet our hero, a child like any other of Bellsara, a farmer turned soldier, conscripted to fight enemies that are not their own. And while their beginnings may be humble, their destiny is one of glory and great change...

...And that's pretty much all I can say without spoilers.

Also, exclusive content comes with the exclusive right to be a part of the conversation with each post. I will answer as many questions as I can, and I may even apply your suggestions and sprinkle a bit of your awesome into the story. Not the plot, of course, but if you have ideas you'd like to see, they may just end up in the story itself. Don't want your ideas in the story? Don't post 'em! Good. I'm glad we had this talk.

Generally, being an artist is an isolating life, but I don't want to live that way. I love people and believe in the brilliance that everyone has the potential to show. This patreon allows me to not only share something unique, but also creates a community based on support, communication and the exchange of art and ideas. Which is kind of my life-long dream.

If things go well, and I mean really well, this patreon will help lead to much grander projects, as well as create opportunities for others to show their work, and share with the world a part of themselves that may otherwise go unseen. I am a man with massive dreams and the drive and passion to get them done, and to support those who support me.

Alone we are amazing and together we are mighty.

If you do choose to pledge, I thank you. In return I pledge to create great works to the best of my ability, and to grow a community based on communication, support, opportunities and entertainment. 

Thank you for taking the time to visit this patreon. 

Whether you are a supporter or just someone passing by:
Have the best day you've ever had!

Andrew

BE NICE. Make the World Better!

If you're me and you live in the US, then popular opinion is that the world fucking sucks. And maybe you're not wrong, but you're sure as fuck not right.

There is plenty of shit going on and wrong, both of the horse and dog variety. Our government? It's at least 50 to 60% dumpster fucked bully. Cool. Okay. I concede that to you! Our leadership is in the toilet and getting a solid flush to the shit cavern below with little to no escape for a solid few years in the least! Today I learned a term: affluenza. Look it up. Click the word. Again, totally giving you that one. The rich get richer, get off and get over. Cool. Life is hard, yeah, I get it. So go do something about it! Fuck!

If things are so terrible, then fight them! Facebook is great, but it's not the only place to express your opinions. Do it in person! March! Or talk! Better yet, WAY better yet, go create as many positive changes in your tiny part of the universe with like minded people.

Certain things are hard, obviously - medicine and education. I would hope that you know that I know that we're getting proper fucked with health care, but that's nothing new. Still sad, but not a shocker that the people of the US are getting hard borked by our government over something that could only benefit our god damned government. It's ridiculous that having healthy, productive, educated citizens is even an issue! There's plenty of other countries that show us how to do this like fucking champions and we are totally capable of following suit. But aside from that - and yes, education and medical coverage are so very fucking important - we can control most of our universe.

Here's how: be nice. It is that simple. It is. No one has ever been fucked over by being nice to someone, only by someone else being fucking terrible. But just because you cough, does that mean you're going to stop breathing? Be nice! The world is full of issues and problems, so be fucking nice!

This is why I hate social media. It can be such an amazing tool for good and positive change, but usually I log on to my facebook or twitter and I'm immediately met with some complaint of how shitty someones day is (not so much my insta because I really only follow people who post pictures of abs, food or video games...moving on). And you totally have the right to do that! You totally have the right to vent and rant about your issues just like I'm doing now. But after you've ranted and vented, get out and go do something nice! Go be productive and experience something positive. Be fucking nice! Want to make the world a better place? Be nice! Help people! It'll make you feel better and will most likely net you a positive return.

Want to look at it in a more self serving way? There's nothing wrong with that! We're only around for roughly a century, so looking out for you and yours is totally cool. Being good to others, helping others, totally serves you! You could get a new friend, a new business contact or even some sort of material reward, just for being a decent human! It takes next to nothing to do this.

See someone walking down the street with a cool hat? Tell them "Cool hat!" Or like a joke someone told in the grocery line? Laugh with them! Those are the easy things that anyone can do.

It takes no energy to be nice, relatively speaking. You ever have a fight with a loved one? Or even just look too much at our sensationalized media? Did you find yourself being exhausted after? I bet you did! It drains us to be negative, to be angry, to be sad! Doing something good, doing things that make you happy, it feeds you! It gives you a proper endorphin rush and you're ready for more afterward. It only serves you to be nice.

Be nice. Fuck. Do it! Just be nice! Listen to people and celebrate them and celebrate yourself. Holy shit celebrate yourself! Depression is the most common mental ailment, but can be dealt with if only we see the beauty in ourselves and others. Starting with yourself is key.

Be nice to yourself. You may not know it - which sucks - but you're probably pretty fucking cool. You're probably good at something. You're probably beautiful to someone. Everybody is somebodys everything, to quote Chance. Nobody is nothing. I don't give a shit what your background is, you are probably hauling some kind of interesting something. Be proud of that. Your story is amazing because you exist. And if you feel like shit, like you don't matter, like you're worthless, I'll listen and I'll help you feel like a part of the universe.

Be nice. When you listen to someone, you validate them, you make them feel real, a part of the world, a part of the universe, and there is almost nothing more valuable or empowering than that. Be nice. I'm begging you, be nice.

Alone we are amazing! But together we are mighty, we are unstoppable, we are truly powerful!

Be nice. Get off or get on your social media and make someones day or go physically make something. Your community needs a well dug? Go help them dig it. Your friends needs help moving? Shit, as much as that sucks, help if you have the time. You'll get stories out of it and they'll probably support you when you need it.

Be nice. The world is random, be nice!

Have the best day you've ever had.

I love you and there's nothing you can do about it!

Andrew