There Will Be Brawl is a 2009 parody based on the video game Super Smash Bros. Brawl. A contentious game in its franchise, this web series has little overlap with the game it's inspired by or the movie There Will Be Blood.
It's a detective noir where Luigi takes center stage trying to piece together the mysterious deaths of various video game icons.
Its legacy is that many of its stars, from Matt Mercer as Ganon to Kyle Herbert, have gone on to bigger and better things.
But the writer should seek to explore what did this story of a gritty Mushroom Kingdom say about the world of 2009 and more than that what if anything can be gleaned from it over a decade later?
Skyrim has a video game has a reputation longer it seems than any and it's franchise and more dominant than most in its genre.
Despite its release over a decade ago it's still stands as one of the most popular RPGs to this day.
With that in mind it also has a very immersive and expansive world and within that world there is an innumerable mass of stories and legends.
One such tragedy is the story of what happened to the snow elves also known as the Falmer.
According to the law of the game the snow elves were a people that existed before Mankind and the land of Skyrim and through Conquest or retaliation the humans that settled the area eradicated them forcing them to join forces with the Lost race of dwarves that exist in the universe of Elder Scrolls and becoming cursed to be a fallen race of Mer or elf.
The author can use the lore from previous games they can use the lore from the Elder Scrolls Online they can explore the nature of existence for a species of people who seemingly don't exist anymore within the world that they used to.
Their story is called the tragedy of the snow elves and so one must ask was it a tragedy and Who Weeps for them?
Pokémon has a close relationship with lore communities because of the nature of the Pokemon world being a entire world with its own ecology and mythology.
Mythology within the world of Pokemon serves not only as a main pathway for lore to be explored within the universe but also for characterization to be given to a lot of the Legendary Pokemon that is the Pokemon that are deemed more powerful or more rare.
With that in mind however after the recent leaks of 2024 the function of this mythology has come into question because of the controversial nature of some of the stories.
Wow they're parallels to Greek and old Japanese folklore cannot be understated the backlash and reception to the myths about certain Pokémon raises the question of what is the function of Mythology if not to further build the world and as such
Even if a myth isn't Canon for a universe what role does it play to shaping that world and what does it say about the world that was being created
Depression Quest in 2013 is a Twine engine game made by Zoe Quinn. The game / interactive fiction dealt with the difficulties of living with depression. Although, it was praised by the more mainstream gaming media for its depiction of struggling with mental health, the game also sparked polarizing reactions, and became a focal point for the online culture was. It was particularly of note as a justification for the harassment campaign Gamergate in 2014.
With that in mind the author can explore the value of the game as a game and delve into how did this game challenge traditional gaming norms at the time? What does its critical and consumer reception reveal about the the world of indie game development and the modern social media landscape?
My corrections didn't save. Depression Quest in 2013 is a Twine engine game made by Zoe Quinn. The game / interactive fiction dealt with the difficulties of living with depression. It simulated this by presenting the player with prompts and then restricting their possible answers. Although the more mainstream gaming media praised it for its depiction of struggling with mental health, the game also sparked polarizing reactions and became a focal point for the online culture wars. It was particularly of note as a justification for the harassment campaign Gamergate in 2014. With that in mind, the author can explore the value of the game "as a game" and delve into how did this game challenge traditional gaming norms at the time? What does its critical and consumer reception reveal about the world of indie game development and the modern social media landscape? – Sunni Rashad2 weeks ago
Eiken (2003) is a two-episode OVA filled with all manner of slapstick and innuendo that on its face are immature and sophomoric but veer into grossly distasteful as the show continues. The question then is upon seeing this content who is it for and why does it exist?
What was the mandate that called for the product and what can be gleaned from engaging with the material?
This is not meant as something opposed to sex or depictions of sexuality, this is a question of the low quality and base manner of titillation that the show engages, though looking at the character designs and ages the author could also question what was the logic behind the creation of the characters and why were those the decisions the creators went with.
Nemesis by Mark Millar is a comic that is centered on a sadistic and wealthy villain who systematically dismantles the lives of top law enforcement officers. With that context in mind, does this story actually say anything? That is to say, what does the violence and shock do for the plot and what the story hopes to communicate?
How does Nemesis challenge traditional ideas about morality in the superhero genre, and what might this say about our cultural fascination with anti-heroes? In what ways does the depiction of wealth as a tool for chaos reflect or critique societal power dynamics today? Does the comic’s shock-value storytelling serve to deepen its critique of heroism, or does it undermine its long-term impact on the genre?
"The Death of the Author" is the title of an essay literary critic and theorist Roland Barthes.
The term itself has been argued to mean that the work should be judged wholly on its own merits despite problematic origins. But, was that the intent of the framework or is it a post hoc justification for supporting creators (and thus their creations) who would otherwise be maligned?
With regards to fandom, how much can be said to be justified under this framework and as consumers should there be a limit to where and how this framework is used as a defense?
I recently studied this essay in my class on Contemporary – thalamouawad2 years ago
I recently studied this essay in my class on Contemporary Writing by Women. I think that Barthes' essay can be juxtaposed effectively with Nancy K Miller's "Changing the subject". It counters Barthes' work by stating that this dismissal of individual identity can be interpreted as a hegemonic tool used to deemphasize the stance of minority writing. – thalamouawad2 years ago
Another point for reference: novelist John Green has publicly subscribed to the Death of the Author philosophy, saying "authorial intent doesn't matter"; how readers interpret metaphors, he says, is as important or more important than what the author was thinking when he wrote them. This makes reading Green's books, like Paper Towns and The Fault in our Stars, which are stuffed full of metaphorical imagery, quite interesting.
Paper Towns, in particular, is about imagining people as multifaceted instead of seeing them as metaphors - but if authorial intent doesn't matter, should we accept our superficial impressions as accurate? – noahspud2 years ago
Depictions of the ideology of Karl Marx and Fredrick Engels are lacking in the world of video games. Many critics of Marxism have at best a child-like understanding of the term often reducing it to a string of buzzwords and malformed propagandist talking points.
As a result most games that feature any sort of Marxism, Socialism, or Communism, end up regurgitating the same played-out tropes. "No food, no freedom, all leaders are dictators"
One game that avoids the typical negative stereotypes of Marxism is "Victoria 3." In this grand strategy video game, players can explore and implement socialist policies inspired by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels. By prioritizing workers' rights, collective ownership, and economic planning, the game allows for a nuanced exploration of Marxist principles, demonstrating their potential benefits while navigating the associated challenges. How does "Victoria 3" provide a balanced and respectful depiction of Marxist ideology compared to other video games?
Saltburn (2023) was one of the biggest viral films on Tiktok for it's numerous shocking scenes, excellent cinematography and catchy soundtrack. But one element of criticism it received was that many couldn't follow the theme of the film. While it drew elements from "The Talented Mr. Ripley" and many other film classics it's message seemed muttled to many critics. The writer can target the films core thesis, which is that the rich, should rightly fear their economic lessers because they're scoundrels. The writer can draw from historical rage against the rich along with the contemporary resentment of the wealthy and widespread calls of "Eat The Rich" along with the general antipathy of classes as economic disparity grows more every day.
Online spaces are known for the communities they attract. One unfortunate element in the modern digital era is the rise of the hater. "Hatedom" in the common parlance is the community of haters a creator attracts.
This perversion of the fandom space into a space of toxic hatred has contributed to numerous creators abandoning their respective fields online as it becomes more trouble than it's worth for them.
Some examples for the writer are Vivziepop, creator of "Helluva Boss" and "Hazbin Hotel" Hasan Piker, political analyst and streamer, and DarkSydephil, video game let's player. All of these people have large communities of people who hate them. This aspect of para-sociality has led to a culture of harassment of these creators. What can be done to address the problems this trend creates?
Interesting topic! I'm sure there have always been people complaining about media as long as there has been media, but the internet has definitely allowed people to spread their opinions further more easily, and establish groups of haters. I'm not entirely sure that what can be done to address these problems is quite in the scope of a single article (or at least, that's not where I'd take this topic personally), but there's definitely plenty of stuff to make this an interesting discussion. – AnnieEM6 months ago
Since the genesis of the genre rap beef has been endemic. From the Bridge is Over to Not like us the evolution of rap beef has witnessed numerous escalations. From the legendary tragic clash between Tupac and Biggie to the slanderous and venomous beef of Jay Z and Nas, and even more recently, the heated rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. These conflicts have not only been characterized by intense verbal attacks and lyrical jabs, but have also seen an escalation in the level of slander and even physical violence. Many beefs have ended with the death or deaths of the participants. While the participating musicians have used their music as a forum to air their complaints, they have also engaged in a verbal sparring match that frequently goes beyond simple amusement. What changes have occurred in rap beef? Have fans grown too accustomed to the increasing demise of artists? Beef has captured fans' attention while also illuminating the nuanced relationships within the hip-hop scene. When creative rivalry blends with personal rivalries to produce a spectacle that transcends the music itself, where is the line drawn?
Knuckles the Echidna, a prominent character in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise, has often been associated with the African American/ Black racial identity due to his distinctive design and personality traits. Not to mention his various theme songs in the games. For this article the writer should delve into the nuanced discussion surrounding Knuckles' racial representation within the Sonic universe.
They can explore the cultural significance of Knuckles being portrayed as a strong, independent character with traits that some interpret as reflecting aspects of Black identity.
Consider the implications of racial representation in gaming, including themes of diversity, stereotypes, and the importance of authentic representation. Reflect on how Knuckles' character resonates with audiences and contributes to broader conversations about race and representation in popular culture.
Paul Verhoeven's sci-fi action film "Starship Troopers" has long been celebrated for its satirical take on militarism and fascism. However, some critics have proposed an intriguing reinterpretation of the film in the context of the post-9/11 era.
The writer could examine how the film's themes of propaganda, military intervention, and the dehumanization of the enemy resonate with the post-9/11 political climate in the Western world.
Analyze specific scenes and narrative elements that parallel events and attitudes surrounding the 9/11 attacks and the subsequent "War on Terror." Consider the implications of viewing "Starship Troopers" through this new lens, including its commentary on nationalism, surveillance, and the erosion of civil liberties in the wake of a national tragedy.
I don't know, 9/11 is kind of a taboo theme, at least in my opinion. Why would you mix something good with terorism. – Predrag6 months ago
Because this is an analysis website where we look into things that might be considered taboo. – Sunni Rashad6 months ago
Tenchu was a franchise of ninja games first released on the Sony PlayStation in 1998. The franchise went on to publish 9 games but the cultural legacy of them seems to have been almost completely forgotten. The final release was in 2008. Why is that? The writer can write about how the franchise first grew and what decisions or shifts in culture led to it falling into irrelevance.
"Super Mario Bros. Z" (SMBZ), created by Mark Haynes (Alvin-Earthworm), is a fan-made web series that masterfully blends the Super Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog franchises into a dynamic, nostalgic crossover. Initially released on Newgrounds, SMBZ captivated audiences with its complex storytelling, deep character development, and innovative sprite animation, all while navigating intellectual property challenges. This series not only spurred a vibrant fan community but also inspired numerous other fan projects, highlighting the significant impact of fan creativity on the media landscape. Writers can explore the cultural significance and technical achievements of SMBZ, its role in shaping fan-made media, and its enduring legacy in the context of nostalgic reimaginings and crossovers.
A comparison of characterization, compatibility, and narrative function of the Robins within the Batman and greater DC universe.
The writer has five potential options to choose from, Dick Grayson a.k.a Nightwing, Jason Todd a.k.a Red Hood, Tim Drake a.k.a Red Robin, Stephanie Brown a.k.a Spoiler, and Damien Wayne.
Each served as Robin for an extended period and all contrast Batman in their own ways. The writer can present a case for and against each of them both from the text and metatexually such as referring to sales or fan receptions.
Good start. Rather than just "who's the best," however, consider going deeper and doing a full compare/contrast between the five incarnations. Consider the strengths and weaknesses of everyone, and when you choose an overall "winner," explain why their strengths rise above the others', while their weaknesses are less egregious or more humanizing/endearing. – Stephanie M.1 year ago
Happiness is a vampire manga by Shūzō Oshimi. While on the surface it is a supernatural story it delves quite readily into not just other genre conventions such as science fiction body horror and coming of age romance, but examinations on the very concept of humanity, the nature and purpose of suffering and if meaning can ever truly be garnered from horror.
The protagonist is spared from death on the whim, his friend and his friend's lover, not to mention her family, are much less fortunate. The protagonist and his love interest are subjected to grotesque trials for 50 years only for them to escape and resolve to live apart from humans, which begs the question, both textually and metatexually, what was the purpose of this?
I think the edits I made didn't process which is unfortunate. To clarify, Nihilism in the common understanding, is the belief that nothing in life matters, that nothing is really real. Within the plot of Happiness the Protagonist is subject to trials and tribulations that don't reveal a greater understand of the world to him within his story, his suffering doesn't better or worsen the world around him. Metatextually, the world of Happiness is similar and dissimilar to the real world, there are horrific science experiments done on people throughout human history that never yielded any medical insight. Suffering for the sake of suffering being all that was produce. What purpose does it serve to feature such a dispiriting element to the story when the ending amounts to, the main character being again isolated from humanity with the one who turned him into a vampire? – Sunni Ago2 years ago
A digestible yet philosophical dissection of Happiness would be an incredible read, especially if one takes the time to draw real world parallels--it is difficult NOT to feel nihilistic in this day and age, and tapping into that very real feeling of listlessness, one that inspired the concept of nihilism in the first place, and connecting it with the narrative of Happiness would underscore the humanity (both conceptually and literally) the series appears to be examining. – alliegardenia2 years ago
Analyze the variation versions of some of the mediums' most popular characters and the narrative through lines (canon events) that define the character despite the other notable shifts between the character's developments.
A good example of this is the contrast between Communist Superman in Red Son vs. Criminal Ultraman in Justice Lords vs. Tyrant Superman in Injustice vs. All-Star Superman va Mainline Superman.
What makes the character the character when a comic's multiverse can extend infinitely? What traits define the character in relationship to their world and their readers? What makes a Superman a Superman? Strictly within DC of course, no pastiches such as Homelander and Omni-Man. What is the distilled version of Superman and what does it mean when the character becomes alienated from that "ideal" ?
Topics like this are a little too broad. Pick one character, like Superman, and some particular aspect for writers to discuss. Provide some questions for writers to answer. – noahspud1 year ago
I love this topic, Sunni. I might even undertake writing it. – Nyxion1 year ago
You mention specific comics here which give a potential writer somewhere to start, do you have anything you would like to add about how particular writers have portrayed Superman? – Elpis19881 year ago
Superman is a hero routinely derided as one-note. A good boyscout who is always by the books. For this topic the writer should look into the myriad supermen.
Mainly focused on characters such as Man of Steel Superman, One Punch Man's Saitama, and Watchman's Dr. Manhattan.
Shared between these characters is a distinct sense of alienation. Not just from their friends but from the people they protect as "heroes"
Understanding the origins of each of their alienations and possibly comparing them to "evil" over powered characters such as Plutonian (Irredeemable), Homelander (The Boys) and Omni-Man (Invincible)
What elements make for a character's alienation that wouldn't lead into their collapse into villainy?
See also Ultraman from DC Comics' "alternate universe" stories: he's literally Superman with slight alterations in his backstory that made him a villain instead of a hero. Perhaps compare to mutants in X-men as well. Apocalypse and Magneto have superiority complexes pushing them to try to take over the world, similar to Omni-Man and some of the other evil Supermen. Professor X, on the other hand, is just as powerful but does not share that philosophy. – noahspud2 years ago
Umm i think thats a bit too broadening. Marvel has a bunch of direct Superman analogues such as Blue Marvel, Hyperion, and Sentry. Bringing in Prof X and Magneto and Apocalypse is a bit off topic. – Sunni Ago2 years ago
I enjoy how Lex Luther and Superman understand each other as being two sides of the same coin, in much the same way that Doomsday Superman can't -- being being an identical polar opposite they are literally two side of that coin in strength, etc and so can only annihilate and not triumph over the other. This is ultimately unsatisfying. Lex Luther adds the dimension of an unfortunate childhood, family, daily pressures and a superior mind which Superman can relate to though never condone. – anthonyzed2 years ago
I think this would be particularly interesting if one touchd upon Arthur Miller's essay on Tragedy and the Common Man. This kinf of alienation (being larger than life, greater good, not strictly 'human' but more than human) is exactly what Miller speaks about - and why this kind of heroism might be losing its appeal because it's not relatable to the 'Common Man'. – Janhabi Mukherjee1 year ago
One of the most controversial endings in television is the ending of The Sopranos.
A jarring cut to blackness and silence.
Much can be speculated about the life that Tony has leading to a sudden and violent end vs. the contrasting position of a secularized hell. The core premise is, that Tony is in a constant state of death and undeath as he awaits the ending. The unending pain before it ends is as much of a torture as any demon could imagine putting him through.
The writer should probably include a synopsis of the plot of The Sopranos along with other interpretations of the ending.
Okay, you're on the right track. But from the topic title and setup, I was expecting something about how and why The Sopranos and other series choose endings like this. Consider using Tony Soprano as a character who was "left in the lurch" because of this sort of ending, as well as the positive and negative results of such. (E.g., fans get to speculate about what really happened, but then again, they'll never know, so cue the Internet trolls, the arguing, the potential for awful remakes...) Add a couple more example characters. I think you could have a really deep article here. – Stephanie M.1 year ago