I know this isn't strictly related to patient gaming, but I think it fits the ethos of this community and I can't think of a better choir to preach to.

The director of Dragon's Dogma II made the following statement regarding limiting or removing fast travel

Just give it a try. Travel is boring? That's not true. It's only an issue because your game is boring. All you have to do is make travel fun

I think this is fairly compelling. Though I will say, I don't think the answer is to limit fast travel. The real limitations developers should be placing should be on filler quests that have you traveling from point a to point b and then back with some slight pretext as to why you're doing so. It's not fast travel that's the issue so much as mission design and the manners in which the player is compelled to cross the game world.

Metroidvanias are a great example of how to allow for fast travel while still making traveling around the game world compelling. The latest Metroid, Metroid Dread, was really fantastic in this aspect. You have this sense of progression and exploration even as you're backtracking.

Would removing fast travel from Metroid Dread have made it any better? I don't think so. The inclusion of fast travel feels thematic. You have to work for it so it feels like an achievement to unlock. It augments the game.

So in short, I agree with some of the sentiment expressed, with regards to lazy gameplay design being boring. I disagree with the opinion that fast travel necessarily is boring, or causes lazy desing.

This looks like an amazing little box that can do almost anything. I'm wondering how people feel about the pricepoint

$679 early bird

$839 msrp

I'd love to grab one to use as a router/firewall, plus run any homelabbing containers I have on my NAS.

How's the value proposition stack up? Price looks great to me considering the cpu and connectivity it offers.

Edit: Additional info

serve the home sponsored video sponsored but still really really informative. There's a section near the end going through a tons of ideas of how to utilize the pci slot, including epanding nvme storage, external sas, extra networking etc. seems you can get over 40gb extra throughput from that port.

Forum thread for pci slot compatibility

It's long but really, really good. If you only watch one part, watch the part about sports/private schools and acceptance into ivy leagues. Completely mind blowing

Anybody else watch this channel? There's some good videos but I often get very liberal/ancap vibes from this dude. His section on Milei is really fucking weird. He craps harder on climate protesters than Milei. He seems like a Louis Rossman or Johnny Harris type youtuber that's only coincidentally aligned with leftists. Tell me I'm not crazy here.

Also he like, shits on Hasanabi in his section on israel/gaza which is on its own some hard core radical centrist garbage. Am I crazy for seeing this dude as pretty reactionary/liberal?

🌟 Embracing Unconventional Wisdom 🌟

Hey LinkedIn fam! 👋✨ Today, I want to share a life-changing revelation that took me on a journey of self-discovery and holistic well-being. 🌈💡

🍽️🔄 Turning the Tables: The Poop Epiphany 🔄🍽️

One day, I stumbled upon an unconventional idea that challenged societal norms and tested my preconceived notions. 💭💥 Yes, you read that right – the benefits of embracing the nutrient-rich world of poop! 💩🌱

🌍💚 A Sustainable Perspective 💚🌍

It turns out, our waste can be a treasure trove of essential nutrients that, when processed correctly, can contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. 🌿🔄 By recycling organic matter, we not only reduce our carbon footprint but also nourish the earth for generations to come. 🌎✨

🤯 Mind-Body Connection 🤯

As I delved deeper into this uncharted territory, I discovered the profound connection between our gut health and overall well-being. 🧠🔄 Did you know that some animal species engage in coprophagy as a natural means to replenish essential nutrients? 🦠🔄 Our bodies are truly remarkable in their ability to extract what's needed for optimal functioning. 🔄💪

💪 Breaking the Taboos 💪

While the idea might seem unconventional or even taboo, challenging societal norms often leads to groundbreaking discoveries. 💡✊ Let's open our minds to alternative perspectives and explore ways to live more harmoniously with the planet. 🌏🌱

🚀 The Journey Continues 🚀

This revelation has ignited a passion within me for sustainable living and holistic health. 🌟🌿 Together, let's push the boundaries, question the status quo, and embrace the potential for positive change. 🔄🌈

Remember, innovation often springs from the most unexpected places. 💫🔄 Cheers to a future where we continue to learn, grow, and make a positive impact! 🌟🌍 #UnconventionalWisdom #SustainableLiving #HolisticHealth #Innovation