[2024] A Game of Games.

[* Single Malt Scotch]

I played Guitar Hero... once. I didn't do to well, possibly because I was informed later that I was holding the guitar wrong. As in the way a left-handed person would hold it.

What's an RPG that you've played?

[* Tardy Tardis]

One RPG that really pulled me in was Dragon Age: Origins. The character interactions, branching choices, and party dynamics made it feel like a true adventure, with real consequences for decisions. The lore was deep, and I loved the tactical combat where you could pause and plan each move—especially for those big dragon fights. Plus, the companions all had such strong personalities; it was impossible not to get attached.

Now, let’s go back to strategy: what’s a strategy game you’ve played?

[* Grumpy bear]

Stratego. Which I always lost until I had developed a winning strategy and then my usual playing partner did not want to play anymore.

How about interactive movies?

[* Single Malt Scotch]

I guess Phantasmagoria would be considered an interactive movie. I liked it. The performances from the leads are pretty good, but I'm not much of a horror fan and the gore is a bit over the top.

What's a sim that you've played?

[* Grumpy bear]

Roller Coaster World, build and ride your own rollercoaster. It was a bit of a pain getting the beginning and the end to match up, but it was pretty cool. Especially because it had a G-force calculator. On my first coaster, the Widowmaker, I scored a whopping -8,7G. Unfortunately I could never top that.

Tell me about an educative game you played.

[* Single Malt Scotch]

I used to play Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego. A lot of the information is out of date now. The USSR no longer exists, and European countries have the Euro for currency.

What's a strategy game that you've played?

[* Tardy Tardis]

One strategy game I spent way too much time on is Civilization IV. Trying to balance diplomacy, tech advancements, and territory expansion was both challenging and addictive. The “just one more turn” effect was real—I’d start intending to play for an hour, only to realize it was dawn. The modding community kept it fresh too, with everything from fantasy-themed civilizations to improved AI. A solid game for anyone who likes to see their empire grow!

Now, back to action! What’s an action game you’ve played?

[* Grumpy bear]

Street Fighter 2, which we would play in neighborhood tournaments. I'd invariably end last. Hrmpf!

[* Ivaylo]

Grumpy Bear! You forgot to ask a question!

So I will ask it -- which strategy game have you played?

[* Single Malt Scotch]

I guess Wing Commander Armada is a strategy game. You have to mine resources and build bases and fighters. When you opponent enters a system you control, the game shifts to the space combat you find in the Wing Commander Series. I've only played it recently, but it's pretty good.

What's a puzzle game you've played?

[* Tardy Tardis]

For a puzzle game, I’ll go with Myst. I remember being blown away by the graphics and the atmosphere; it was like stepping into another world. The puzzles were tricky and required a lot of patience and observation—definitely not something you could rush through. I got stumped plenty of times, but it made finally solving each puzzle feel that much more satisfying. The sense of discovery was unmatched!

How about a role-playing game you’ve played?

[* Single Malt Scotch]

One of my favorites is Mass Effect. I think I like the first one the best. They improve combat in the sequels, but I missed some of the RPG elements like collecting loot. I also think the first one had a stronger story and characters.

What's a sim that you've played?

[* Ivaylo]

Ivaylo the Brave does not play sims! Ivaylo the Intrepid prefers to play RPGs and strategy games, to sharpen the mind and prepare against Mongol attacks and Byzantine treachery!

(Translation: I have not played sims in a very long time, and do not remember them).

Have you recently played a strategy game? What was it?

[* Grumpy bear]

Fantasy Empires, for a test, but I couldn;t get the fighting engine to work anymore. Grumble...

Tell me about a sandbox game you played.

[* Single Malt Scotch]

I haven't really played any sandbox games. I think the closest that I've come would be the Assassin's Creed series. They are pretty fun, although I haven't played the most recent releases. I enjoyed the stories within the time period the game takes place in, but I had a harder time getting into the "present" story.

What's an idle game that you've played?