All posts by Metal Jesus Rocks

Music, Metal Jesus Likes

Pink Floyd – Album Ranking w/ Brendon Snyder

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Pink Floyd has released 15 studio albums. Join me as I count down all 15 studio albums by the legendary band Pink Floyd.

Pink Floyd, an iconic and revolutionary band emerged from London in the 1960s, fundamentally shaped the landscape of progressive and psychedelic rock. Their sonic experimentation, thought-provoking lyrics, and groundbreaking albums defined them as pioneers in the music industry. Formed by Syd Barrett, Roger Waters, Richard Wright, Nick Mason, and later joined by David Gilmour, the band’s early years under Barrett’s influence gave birth to their psychedelic sound, marked by whimsical lyrics and avant-garde compositions. However, after Barrett’s departure due to mental health issues, Waters became the primary creative force behind the band, steering them toward conceptual albums that delved into themes of alienation, societal pressures, and the human condition.

Pink Floyd’s discography boasts monumental albums like “The Dark Side of the Moon,” “Wish You Were Here,” “Animals,” and “The Wall,” which not only showcased their musical virtuosity but also their ability to craft cohesive narratives within their music. Their live performances were as much a visual spectacle as a musical one, incorporating elaborate stage setups and visual effects that amplified the thematic depth of their music. With their distinctive soundscapes, introspective lyrics, and willingness to push the boundaries of what music could achieve, Pink Floyd remains an enduring influence on generations of musicians and continues to captivate audiences with their timeless and ethereal compositions.

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Digital Foundry’s Best Game Graphics of 2023 – PC, PS5, Xbox, Switch – Another Amazing Year

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As is DF tradition, we round off the year with a look at the team’s personal picks for the best game graphics of 2023. Covering off the very best in both PC and console rendering, Alex Battaglia, John Linneman and Oliver Mackenzie share their thoughts on the most impressive visuals of the year, leading to an open debate on which title did it best: Alan Wake 2, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora or Cyberpunk 2077’s RT Overdrive?

The history of video game graphics is a captivating journey marked by groundbreaking advancements. In the early days of gaming during the 1970s, games relied on simple, pixelated graphics due to technological limitations. The Atari 2600, released in 1977, featured iconic games like “Pong” and “Space Invaders,” showcasing basic shapes and limited colors. As technology progressed, the 8-bit era emerged in the 1980s with consoles like the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) and Sega Master System, introducing more detailed sprites and vibrant colors, enhancing the gaming experience.

The 1990s witnessed a significant leap in video game graphics with the advent of 16 and 32-bit consoles such as the Super Nintendo (SNES) and the Sega Genesis. These consoles allowed for smoother animations, more complex character designs, and richer environments. The transition to 3D graphics became a game-changer in the mid-1990s with the release of consoles like the Sony PlayStation and Nintendo 64, enabling developers to create fully immersive 3D worlds. Technological advancements continued rapidly, leading to high-definition graphics, photorealistic textures, and lifelike character models in modern gaming, as seen in consoles like the PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and powerful gaming PCs. The evolution of video game graphics reflects the relentless march of technology and human creativity, continually pushing the boundaries of what’s visually possible in gaming.

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Drive Movie REVISITED

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Universal Pictures wanted a car chase spectacle that would appeal to fans of their FAST & FURIOUS franchise. What director Nicolas Winding Refn and star Ryan Gosling (long before he coined the phrase “Kenergy” in Barbie) delivered was something far from that. They made a fairy tale-inspired arthouse thriller with ‘80s vibes, a deliberate pace, and bursts of graphic violence. The film was the 2011 release DRIVE – and it’s time for it to be REVISITED.

“Drive,” directed by Nicolas Winding Refn and starring Ryan Gosling, is a mesmerizing neo-noir film that delves into the world of a stoic and enigmatic Hollywood stunt driver who moonlights as a getaway driver. Gosling’s character, simply known as “Driver,” navigates the criminal underworld while forming a connection with his neighbor Irene (played by Carey Mulligan) and her son. The film’s atmospheric cinematography, stylish direction, and pulsating synth-heavy soundtrack accompany the tension-filled narrative, marked by bursts of extreme violence contrasted with quiet, introspective moments. Gosling’s captivating and minimalist performance, coupled with the film’s distinctive visual style, amplifies the brooding and mysterious nature of “Driver” as he grapples with loyalty, revenge, and a longing for connection in a world marked by danger and moral ambiguity.

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I bought the WORST Lamborghini Diablo on Earth!

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Ed explains the transformation of his Japanese Lamborghini Diablo SV and takes us on a first drive in the car. Shot and edited by Nick Hazama.

The Lamborghini Diablo, an iconic supercar born in the late 20th century, remains a testament to automotive prowess and Italian engineering brilliance. Introduced in 1990 as the successor to the Countach, it epitomized the flamboyance and sheer power associated with the raging bull emblem. Its design was a marvel of the era, characterized by sharp, angular lines that defined its aggressive silhouette. The scissor doors, a Lamborghini trademark, added a touch of drama to its appearance, creating an unmistakable presence on the road. Underneath its striking exterior lay a beastly engine, initially a 5.7-liter V12 that evolved through various iterations, eventually reaching a stunning 6.0-liter V12 capable of producing over 500 horsepower. This monstrous powerplant enabled the Diablo to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just a few breathtaking seconds, thrilling enthusiasts with its raw speed and exhilarating performance.

Beyond its speed, the Diablo offered a driving experience that bordered on the edge of both precision and untamed ferocity. Its mid-engine layout and rear-wheel drive setup demanded skill and respect from drivers, providing an engaging and adrenaline-pumping ride. The Diablo evolved over its production span, witnessing enhancements in performance, handling, and technology, cementing its status as a coveted collectible. Its legacy persists, remembered not just for its speed and power, but also for its cultural impact, having graced the walls of many a car enthusiast’s bedroom, solidifying its place in automotive history as a true icon of its time.

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EmuVR is a Retro Gamers Wet Dream!

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Play your favorite retro games and watch your favorite VHS movies all in a virtual world surrounded with realistic looking CRT’s ranging from older large TV’s to smaller PVM’s. EmuVR is fairly easy to get setup and running but takes a little more time to get used to controlling! Just follow the install guide, download EmuVR and the supplied version of RetroArch and checkup on the controls and other helpful links. It’s all there just follow those instructions! https://www.emuvr.net/

 

Featured, System Reviews, Atari (Hidden Gems)

Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro – Which is BETTER?

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I’m comparing the new Atari 2600+ vs Atari GameStation Pro. Two very different systems but yet both are pretty cool in their own right!
Atari 2600+: https://atari.com
Atari GameStation Pro: https://amzn.to/3NsqUz2 (affiliate link)

Atari holds an iconic status in gaming history, particularly due to its foundational role in popularizing home gaming consoles. The release of the Atari 2600 in 1977 marked a monumental shift, bringing gaming from arcade halls into households worldwide. This console introduced a range of games, from the simple yet addictive “Pong” to the diverse library that included “Space Invaders,” “Pac-Man,” and “Asteroids.” Its accessible design and innovative use of interchangeable cartridges revolutionized how people engaged with games, laying the groundwork for the modern gaming industry.

Moreover, the Atari era cultivated an entire generation’s love for gaming, shaping the very essence of what we now understand as gaming culture. It wasn’t merely about entertainment; it was a transformative social experience. Friends and families gathered around TVs, engrossed in these pixelated worlds, fostering a communal bond through shared gaming experiences. The success and impact of Atari transcended its time, serving as a cornerstone that paved the way for subsequent gaming consoles and influencing game design, technology, and the burgeoning gaming community that continues to thrive today.

** DISCLAIMER: Both of these Atari consoles were sent to me for review, but nobody reviewed the video and all of the opinions are my own **

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New 1/4 Scale Space Invaders Mini Arcades Review – Gamester81

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Gamester81 reviews the new mini 1/4 scale Space Invaders arcades by Numskull. This includes both Space Invaders and Space Invaders Part II aka Space Invaders Deluxe. My Space Invaders arcade is signed by the creator Tomohiro Nishikado.

More info about them can be found here: https://numskull.com/quarter-arcades/

“Space Invaders” holds immense significance in the history of video games as a groundbreaking arcade game that revolutionized the industry. Launched in 1978, it was one of the earliest shooting games, establishing many conventions and tropes still present in gaming today. Its simple yet challenging gameplay, coupled with its iconic pixelated alien enemies descending in waves, captured the public’s imagination and popularized the concept of high scores, fostering competitive gaming culture. Its success helped establish video games as a viable entertainment medium, contributing to the growth of arcades and the gaming industry at large, laying the foundation for future game design and influencing countless titles that followed. Its cultural impact endures, making it a timeless classic that remains an essential milestone in gaming history.

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Hyper Sentinel for the Nintendo Switch Game Review – Gamester81

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I check out a cool shmup for the Nintendo Switch called Hyper Sentinel.

Here are some of the best-selling Nintendo Switch games:

  1. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: This racing game has been incredibly popular since its release and is a must-have for many Switch owners.
  2. Animal Crossing: New Horizons: The peaceful life simulation game where players create their own island paradise has sold exceptionally well, especially during the pandemic.
  3. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: A crossover fighting game featuring a vast array of Nintendo characters and others from different franchises.
  4. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: This open-world adventure game received widespread critical acclaim for its exploration and innovation.
  5. Pokémon Sword and Shield: The first mainline Pokémon games on the Switch, which introduced players to the Galar region and new Pokémon.
  6. Super Mario Odyssey: Mario’s 3D platformer where players explore various worlds in an attempt to rescue Princess Peach.
  7. Super Mario Party: A multiplayer party game that offers a variety of mini-games and entertainment for friends and family.
  8. Splatoon 2: A colorful and action-packed game where players control characters known as Inklings and engage in turf wars.
  9. New Super Mario Bros. U Deluxe: A side-scrolling platformer featuring classic Mario gameplay with new levels and challenges.
  10. Luigi’s Mansion 3: Luigi’s ghost-hunting adventure in a haunted hotel, combining puzzle-solving with exploration.

Keep in mind that rankings can vary based on the time frame and region, but these titles have consistently performed well in sales.

Featured, System Reviews

Analogue Duo Review – is this $250 TurboGrafx-16 clone worth it?!

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Review of the Analogue Duo, a TurboGrafx-16 / PC Engine FPGA based clone system. But is it worth the $250?
Info: https://www.analogue.co

The TurboGrafx-16, released by NEC in 1987, was a pioneering 16-bit video game console that brought about significant advancements in gaming technology. Known as the PC Engine in Japan, it boasted a sleek design and was notably smaller than its contemporaries. Its defining feature was its graphics and sound capabilities, offering impressive performance for its time. The console introduced a range of colorful and visually engaging games, showcasing the power of its hardware, especially in the realm of 2D gaming. It also had a unique add-on called the TurboGrafx-CD, one of the earliest CD-ROM peripheral attachments for a console, expanding its library with CD-based games and enhanced audio.

Despite its technical advancements and innovative add-ons, the TurboGrafx-16 faced tough competition in the gaming market, primarily from Nintendo and Sega. Limited third-party support and a smaller game library compared to its rivals hindered its widespread success. However, it garnered a cult following due to its unique games, such as “Bonk’s Adventure” and “Ys Book I & II,” which remain fondly remembered by retro gaming enthusiasts. While it didn’t dominate the market, the TurboGrafx-16 remains an essential piece of gaming history, remembered for its technological innovations and contributions to the evolution of gaming consoles.

Music

Album Review: Blood Lightning ‘Blood Lightning’ (heavy metal)

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Join Pete Pardo for a review of the delf-titled debut album from Boston based metal act Blood Lightning.

Speaking of heavy metal…

The 1980s was a golden era for heavy metal, birthing many iconic albums. Here’s a list of ten influential albums from that decade:

  1. Metallica – “Master of Puppets” (1986): A defining album not just for Metallica but for the entire thrash metal genre.
  2. Iron Maiden – “The Number of the Beast” (1982): This album propelled Iron Maiden into international stardom with its powerful anthems.
  3. Judas Priest – “British Steel” (1980): Known for its iconic tracks like “Breaking the Law” and “Living After Midnight,” it’s a classic of the era.
  4. Slayer – “Reign in Blood” (1986): An intense and aggressive record that solidified Slayer as one of the founding bands of extreme metal.
  5. Black Sabbath – “Heaven and Hell” (1980): With the addition of Ronnie James Dio, Black Sabbath crafted an album that reinvigorated their sound.
  6. Motörhead – “Ace of Spades” (1980): A high-octane, fast-paced record that epitomizes Motörhead’s unique brand of heavy metal.
  7. Megadeth – “Peace Sells… but Who’s Buying?” (1986): Featuring complex riffs and politically charged lyrics, it’s a cornerstone of thrash metal.
  8. Dio – “Holy Diver” (1983): Ronnie James Dio’s debut solo album that became an instant classic with its powerful vocals and memorable songs.
  9. Ozzy Osbourne – “Blizzard of Ozz” (1980): Ozzy’s first solo release, showcasing Randy Rhoads’ exceptional guitar work.
  10. Anthrax – “Among the Living” (1987): An influential album in the thrash metal scene, characterized by fast-paced, aggressive tracks.

These albums not only defined the era but continue to influence and inspire heavy metal artists to this day.