Half-Life 2: The Lost Coast

Valve had released the long-awaited "The Lost Coast", which is essentially a vehicle for showing off their HDR technology. While I was not particularly impressed by the use of HDR in Day of Defeat: Source -- in fact, I was quite disappointed -- the implementation of the technology is much, much better in "The Lost Coast". The effect seems more realistic and convincing, I suspect due to a more careful use of HDR. I particularly like the courtyard area and the interior of the monastery as the geometry, textures and lighting of these areas seem to best illustrate the virtues of the technology. It seems to me that the rate of the reduction of bloom as the player's virtual eyes 'adjust' to the light intensity, could be reduced. Nonetheless, this is an interesting technology. Let's hope it gets used to good effect, rather than as a good effect!

Mentioning the mundane

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I fractured my right arm this week. I guess I previously realised how dominantly right-handed I am, but now genuinelyly appreciate and understand the magnitude of this preference. Everything is happening so slowly. Additionally, it is abundantly clear to me now how all the level design and art software packages that I use require simultaneous use of keyboard and mouse. Aside from the pain of the break, some associated muscle damage and swelling, and the huge impact of having only one functional arm on daily life, the major frustration has been my inability to map.