Our work takes long, and time is fleeting.

I've come to understand something that is profound for everyone around the AGS community and generally the developing community, whether you're a coder, or a writer, or an artist, or a voice actor, or an animator, or any other job that is deemed useful in the game/product making process, that no matter how good or great you do that job, there's always space for improvement.

Same goes for games.

Something you could do differently, something you could improve upon, I don't know anything. At that moment, when you've delivered your quest, you are usually stricken with confidence that you did a good enough job, and that it's final, then after you revisit it, you know, stand behind and observer your labor with a more objective point of view, it is then that you realize you were completely wrong. The best way to prove myself is to find a project you've kept the first version of, and compare it with the one you released for the public. You'll probably catch yourself remembering you were quite satisfied with it back then, perhaps at that, or a later time, you thought "this is it". 

I mean, look at it.

But the more light you shed in your project with feedback either by testers or team members, or anyone practically bothering with it, and sending you his opinion about it (If I recall correctly Vince Twelve had his mom play the game (Resonance) to see if she would be having troubles with the interface), the better your game gets. 

Provided you're willing to go through feedback and process it accordingly. I mean look at any AGS game out there, take for example Technobabylon, I'm sure Technocrat thought when he first released it, "this is the most I can do with this game" and now he's turned it into a bombastic super-pretty indie game, that I would be willing to pre-order so hard.

I've been working on Primordia with Wormwood Studios these past few days (we're going to patch it everywhere (Steam, GOG, wherever it is available) as soon as we're done), and I've personally come across several things that bugged me now, but at the time I was okay with them. You tend to overlook faults over the rush of completing the core parts of a project. But when you look at the details, see deeper, that's what we call polish. And it needs to be done. The more time you devote applying small partially insignificant fixes and improvements to your work, the better.

By the rivers of (Techno)babylon

So, why is this AGS game keep appearing on your rss feed lately? Why is it referenced so much lately?

Because, besides missing the 4th part of the series for quite a while now, it appears, according to a gamasutra interview of Dave Gilbert, the game is still being worked on. I'm quite unfamiliar with the factors affecting its current production and the goal in terms of game design and polish value currently set by the developer and the parties affiliated (which I'm also mostly unaware of).

But Ben Chandler is providing artwork, yet not sure if he's drawing over or completely re-designing materials for the game. Perhaps both. I find myself accepting Dearden's choice (the developer) to enrich and re-introduce the saga. Technobabylon  is getting remaked, but I'm not sure in what way. However, since it's going commercial under Wadjet Eye Games, I'm definitely quite certain, the game will combine part one and two, perhaps even three, though the trilogy's end, wasn't really well received. 

Can you say pretty labs?

Technobabylon revolves around the premise that people choose to accept the false sense of achievement presented in multiplayer videogames, over their actual control on their lives, slowly deteriorating physically and mentally, getting addicted equally to the phenom of drug use. Such is the protagonist of the game, but as life problems pop up, it will be impossible to get a last dose of the virtual world. The second game of the series, creates one of the most wonderfully revealed ties between two games seemingly so different in almost every aspect, that literally the rembrance of it, still takes my breath away.

I do hope, the great content will be kept if not intact, at least in the same or better spirit, maintaining the consistency and surprise factor present in the freeware release of the three episodes so far. Even though, I feel this should have been out faster, I still got overly excited over the release of Technobabylon. Count one pre-order from me.

Interview BakeSale: Technocrat

Tonight's show features an amazing man and an amazing game. I've had the luck to give it a try, and yes, it's fantastic. While many wonder where is Technobabylon's latest installment, Technocrat / James Dearden, comes with another short, but yet fast paced and enriched game.

THE RAIL

The game was originally showcased in AdventureX 2012.

1) Why and how did you join the AGS Bake Sale ?

I got in a bit late - I first saw it on the forums a few days after it had been floated, and volunteered to make something for it. In fact, it spurred me into production of a quick game for it. I now know I can finish a project like this within a one-month schedule. At first it seemed like it was getting a bit too crowded, so I pulled out voluntarily, and then after others had announced that they'd be unable to finish in time, I decided to put it back in again!

2) Talk a bit about your game (what is it about, how you came up with it).

It's essentially the story of someone completely unqualified for the situation they're in, both in terms of what they're supposed to do and what situations arise. Essentially Viktor, the protagonist, finds his cargo train hijacked by terrorists - and if he can't find his way off, he's going to end up an unwitting suicide bomber. Much like other games I make, it's kind of a fusion of three or four separate ideas, most of which I get through seizure-induced hallucinations. I wanted to do something on a train, I love sci-fi, and the transplanetary track that it's set on gives it an uncomfortable isolation.

3) Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got yourself into game making in the first place.

I've been making games since 1996 thanks to Klik and Play, but mostly ghastly and lazy attempts - "Stonehenge Racing and Gardening" and "Nancy the Happy Whore and the Pirates of the Third Reich" didn't quite take off, but in the last couple of years I've started to make things with a better approach. Ideally, I'd like to be able to start selling games, possibly even Technobabylon, but I'm seized by different urges so often, I've no idea when that'll come to pass. Probably when I don't have to worry about money!

Post of the Week: Why is this so awesome?

Grundislav or Francisco Gonzalez, whichever you like really, has released a trailer for the always upcoming Ben Jordan Case 8 - Relics of the Past.

Does it make me anxious? Yes.

---

It appears that Technocrat has some news about the fourth part of Technobabylon.
If you don't know what Technobabylon is, then shame on you, kind sir, and you're missing a great series of short sci-fi games.

It appears that Part IV will be a tad late, because the character art got some amazing and utterly fantastic overhaul. Well, cheers to that, you made me incredibly jealous.

---

And to finally conclude this, Radiant seems to be expanding his OROW entry, which to be utterly frank, is a waaaaayy better platforming game, than what made by yours truly. So I leave you with a screenshot, that if you click on, will get you to the game. SO CLICK ON IT.

TOP TEN: BEST AGS GAMES

For more top 10s, see Celebrity AGSers Top Games and Top 10 game series

Overview:

This is a personal opinion list, if you don't like the games in the list, or feel a game is missing, don't judge us. I'd very much like to include them all, but that's not doable. Also there's only one game per franchise. Anyway, enjoy!!

10. Permanent Daylight

Not sure if it's remembered by many AGS members, but this got me into playing AGS games. A very short game, but without lacking anything in fun and humor. And totally one of the most memorable introductions. 2ma2, I wholeheartedly thank you!

Imagine a plot that's been used so much it always is considered a parody nowadays.. It's a mad scientist who's detroying the world! It feautures Dieter Kartoffelbrei as the hero, Dr. Really Really Evil Ed as the mad scientist and an amount of other characters which will mock you on your quest.

9. Ben Jordan PI: Case 3 - The Sorceress of Smailholm

When Grundislav made Ben Jordan 1 and 2, nobody cared. Then came Case 3, what fans of the series confirm to be the best game of an amazing series.

The tiny Scottish village of Smailholm has seen better days. Two local children have been murdered, and the villagers suspect it's the work of witches. Ben Jordan is called upon to get to the bottom of this mystery, but he may soon find himself in over his head..."

Winner of 3 AGS Awards.

8. Infinity String

The sheer beauty of the graphics, makes this an amazing accomplishment. And a very sci-fi like scenario, enhanged with horror and mystery sections, really make this game by Sector 13 a must. Just wait till the main menu comes. You'll be crying from beauty.

Your name is Yerik Elnar. You are scientist working for United States. In late 2009 a ruins were found in Antartica by Russian explorers. A year later a complete research base was built to study the findings. Team consisted of 7 russians, 5 americans and 2 germans. 1 year later USA send you as an additional help. You arrive with the helicopter. But strange things begin to happen...

Winner of 1 AGS Award.

7. Apprentice Case 1: Deluxe

And here comes Apprentice Case 1: Deluxe. Widely considered as the most professional game in the AGS database, is indeed a Herculean effort to create a masterpiece and then outdo yourself twice. One by improving and adding more content, and secondly by making a better and/or equal sequel.
Finally, you can experience the Willowbean world with full voice. And in French or German. The deluxe version also features improved graphics, a totally redone soundtrack, and several bug fixes.

Winner of 1 AGS Award.

6. Nelly Cootalot: Spoonbeaks Ahoy

And here comes Nelly. No introduction is required.

Nelly Cootalot, fearsome pirate and lover of tiny and adorable creatures, is charged by the spirit of a dead buccaneer to investigate the mysterious disappearance of a fleet of birds known as spoonbeaks. Her adventure will bring her face to face with the nefarious Baron Widebeard as she uncovers corruption and wanton punning in the Barony of Meeth. This is my first complete AGS game. It is around medium length, and should take a few hours to play. I made it for, and about, my girlfriend. She enjoyed it and I hope you will too!

Winner of 5 AGS Awards.

5. Barn Runner: Forever Friday Part 2

And on place number 5, comes a personal favorite. I will pity you and not repeat myself. This is totally the best of the series and the most enjoyable. Ponch, PART 3 PLX.

The madness of the "Big Crazy" is tearing through Arc 19 and everyone is giving cannibalism a try! Detective Prick Peckard and Inspector Harry Sach must team up to save the city from itself. Track down multiple suspects and question each of them to learn if they played a part in bringing chaos to the streets of Arc 19: Evansville. Along the way, they'll contend with bargain hunting looters, blood thirsty robots, and the dim witted minions of an evil cult bent on destruction. But they'll have to move quickly. Time is unexpectedly running out in a city where the clocks stood still for twelve years. Can you get to the bottom of this mystery before all hope is lost? Question suspects! Shoot bad guys! Ignore traffic laws! Annoy the elderly! Use pop music in brutal ways!

Winner of my heart ^__^.

4. Cedric and Revolution

ELVES + REVOLUTION + CUTENESS. EPIC WIN.

Follow the adventure of Cedric and Victor as they try to get a demonstration up and running. It's not as easy as it sounds and they end up doing something completely different, but hey, at least they tried, eh? CatR is a fairly short and easygoing adventure.


Winner of 2 AGS Awards.

3. Shifter's Box - Outside In

When Ben started his releasing spree, with each and every game, everyone in the forums thought that the room for improvement was matched. Then Shifter's Box, came, and personally blew my mind. Still a favorite and sorry I keep saying that. But point stays :D
Sally is taking a walk outside one fine day when she comes across a strange box. Curious as to who would leave such a strange box lying around, she opens it - only to find herself in a very strange place indeed. Help Sally uncover the true nature of the box and find her way home!

Winner of 2 AGS Awards.

2. Trilby's Notes

Well, from all the games that Yahtzee himself, this is hands-down the best. Chzo is totally the most badass villain in the whole AGS database, and not restricted there. The game has an amazing interface, nice graphics, amazing plot, amazing music, what more can a man ask for?!!

Four years ago I was involved in the DeFoe Manor Incident. I and four other individuals were trapped inside a manor house by some kind of supernatural intelligence; a dark wraith with murder on its mind, the ghost of the original owner's youngest son. I was trapped inside DeFoe Manor for five days. I was forced to do something I can never forgive myself for. Possessed I may have been, but I was still watching through my eyes a man dying at my hands...

Winner of 4 AGS Awards.

1. Technobabylon: Part 2

Yeah, yeah, whine as much as you want. This is the best AGS game of all time. I don't believe any game has marked me and left me so envious of its plot like part 2 has. The way it unfolds is amazing and everything just pales in comparison.

"What is this, national suicide week?"

A young woman contemplates her end. A terror from the past comes to take its revenge. A police scientist finds himself blackmailed with the lives of the unborn children of his dead wife.

Forced to carry out the will of an anonymous voice on the interlinks, Dr Charlie Regis must try to perform both his official role as public servant, and the role that his antagonist has set for him. How long can he keep this conflict hidden from his friend and partner, Dr Lao? And more importantly, can he save the most important remaining part of his lost love?

Welcome to the future...
Welcome to Technobabylon

King's Quest and Technobabylon are the Roaring Night

It appears that the Indiegames WEBLOG did a very spoiled review of Technobabylon, whereas spoiled means that I'm warning you, they spoil everything from the first paragraph.

They seem to share my opinion though, which is something you all should consider. That my opinion is a rule and a standard. Anyhow, enough self-worship. Read all about it, here.

And we also seem to have a review that took me a while to spot, so it's probably old news for some of you that frequent Adventure Gamers more than I do, but oh well.

If the title doesn't make any sense at all, please let me know. And I'll inform SSH to use his leather whips on me.

Read some about it, by not clicking here.