Anyone else still let down by Mayor Will Wynn‘s speech at the Austin Game Conference party at City Hall? Sticking out in a suit (on his way to the swankier Texas Book Festival no doubt), Wynn barely even bothered to insert the words “video games” into his stock “Austin Arts” speech but managed to say “creative capital” at least twice. Then again, most mayors wouldn’t be caught dead at a party where a love song to Ms. Pac-Man was sung.
At the Interactive Achievement Awards on Feb. 9, local gaming god Richard “Lord British” Garriott becomes the ninth inductee into the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame. He joins the likes of Civilization creator Sid Meier and the creative mind behind Nintendo, Shigeru Miyamoto. More on this honor in the future, if SXSW isn’t completely dominating the press by then.
For those who still remember the music that accompanied the Bombman level of Mega Man, there’s Sacramento, Calif., band the Advantage. Doing nothing but instrumental Nintendo covers, their second album, Elf-Titled, was recently released on 5RC records. Songs like “Contra – Alien’s Lair & Boss Music” transport you back in time while their prog stylings melt your face. Not that more info is necessary but: www.theadvantageband.com.
Dear Rockstar Games, Despite the rumors that Grand Theft Auto 4 will be set in Europe, allow me this recommendation. Perhaps the iconic Dallas of the 1970s/80s might be more entertaining. Big hair and oil tycoons – you know, Dallas-era Dallas. Call me, we’ll talk.
This article appears in January 27 • 2006.
