Mainstream
The Last of Us – The most ambiguous ending
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Emptiness.The only word I can use to adequately describe how I felt as the credits rolled to Gustavo Santaolalla’s musical masterpiece – ”The Path”. After a very intense 12-14 hours worth (approximately) of surviving in post-pandemic madness, I felt no means of satisfaction whatsoever as my most memorable gaming experience – The Last of Us finally reached it’s end. I had no pride of successfully tackling a rather difficult game, or conceive any means of accomplishment… I could barely muster a smirk. Just stone, cold emptiness.
Now, I am 99% certain that I was not the only person who indulged in Naughty Dog’s hard-hitting game of the year, that felt completely deprived of all means of happiness by the end of the final cut scene, but the question is, why were we left feeling so cold and confused? The answer my fellow gamers, is the fact our loose ends, remained untied and hanging. We had no closure. So, what I will attempt to do here, is perhaps ease your minds and open up some discussion regarding the very erratic sentimental side of the game.
An ending we just didn’t expect.. (*Spoilers*)
Let’s get the ball rolling with the utmost obvious of disappointments this game presented us with, the conclusive cut scene of the game.
On behalf of those with a less prominent memory of the ending of The Last of Us let’s journey back a little and freshen it up a bit.
After hours upon hours of game play searching for the Fireflies, Joel and Ellie finally reach them only to find out that the surgery required to extract the ”cure” from Ellie is fatal and she will die during the process. Joel takes a turn for the worst, refusing to accept there is no other way and goes on a rampage, willing to kill everyone in the building if he must as he attempts to save his companion. After he reaches and saves Ellie from the clutches of the fireflies, Marlene makes one last attempt to stop him, a stubborn Joel resists and puts her out of her misery. The game then shows the cut scene of Ellie awakening in a car with Joel who tells her there were others just like Ellie who are immune so they didn’t need to experiment. Unsure, but still tired from the surgery prep, Ellie doesn’t persist.The famously disappointing ending then plays out in which Joel is rambling on to Ellie about how he will teach her to play guitar and what they can do after they return to Texas, Ellie all the while being unusually distant and uninterested in what Joel is saying. The game then comes to the cut scene in which Ellie is telling the story about what happened when she and her best friend Riley got bitten back in Boston. As Joel tries to reassure her that she shouldn’t blame herself and that no matter what you keep finding something to fight for Ellie interrupts him and asks him to swear that what he said about the Fireflies was true (regarding the fact there are others and they let her go), Joel lies, swearing it’s the truth. Ellie simply says ”okay”. With that, the game concludes.
Explain please?..
Now, there is a lot more in this ending than you’d initially choose to understand. Over the duration of the story Ellie has grown to love Joel, not as a farther or a lover as such, but simply as a companion. She looks up to him, and admires him hugely. Joel on the other hand has always had a companion, his daughter, his brother and then Tess. He knows nothing but companionship and caring for someone else despite his passionless exterior. So, when it eventually came down to it, he acted in order to save his companion.
I do however, see the more selfish side of his actions. He quite clearly told Ellie that you ”keep finding something to fight for”.This is hard evidence that Joel has to feel needed, that he always has to fight for something. After the loss of Tess, Ellie was all he had and I think after he saw past his stubbornness and truly thought on it, he could risk the disease lingering as fighting infected is not nearly as hard for him as facing loneliness. However, although I believe in Ellie’s innocence, I honestly don’t think for a second that she genuinely believed Joel anyway. She may have accepted his answer but I think she reserves judgement on whether or not she believes it. She knows Joel takes care of her so I think she accepts his selfish gesture as a sign that he will continue to do so.
The blossoming of the most touching friendship
Naughty Dogs developers main focus with The Last of Us, was to make the game solely orientated around the developing relationship between the two main protagonists. The fluctuations and progress in this relationship are ultimately supposed to make us empathise and completely engross us, this in turn makes the ending of the game that much more difficult to just accept.
Right from the moment they first encounter one another, we are desperate for Joel
and Ellie’s friendship to blossom. With every hurdle in their journey we just wish it to bring them closer together. In this process the role of ‘the dependent one’ is batted back and forth until they both finally understand they need one another. Consequently, as an audience, Joel’s selfish act leaves us feeling incredibly dumbfounded as he actually brings himself to lie to her. It is almost like another one of the many set backs in their friendship. It is what prevents a happy ending in the sense that whatever happens after the games proceedings is the result of a lie. Despite our love for Joel for saving Ellie, he has also unknowingly hurt her which left us feeling awful.
Sorry, Joel… you aren’t bad really!
Okay, admittedly, maybe I have come down on Joel a bit hard. I mean, although the surgery is what Ellie initially wanted, she wanted it under false pretenses. She didn’t know the surgery would be fatal. Maybe if she would have had the choice she would have picked a life with Joel optionally instead, i’m sure we’d all like to think that would be the case anyway.
He is in some respects the hero, he guards her with his life quite literally throughout the entire story without fail and I mean hey, let’s give the guy some sympathy, would you want to be surviving alone in a world overrun by fungal faced freaks?
The Last of This
I honestly think the part of this game that holds the most emotion is the ending. In all it’s simplicity, it is actually the most intricate part of the game. There is so much we still don’t know or understand and so many questions left unanswered. It is a killer, I know, Honestly though, if it wasn’t for the lingering feeling of emptiness and not knowing, we wouldn’t want to indulge in this games magnificence time and time again. The Last of Us will stay with me and many others forever,
Mainstream
How Long Is an NBA Basketball Game?
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Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, and the National Basketball Association (NBA) is its premier league. For fans and newcomers alike, understanding the structure and duration of an NBA game is essential to fully appreciate the excitement and strategy involved. So, how long is an NBA basketball game? While the answer might seem straightforward, there are several factors that influence the total time.
The Basics: Game Structure
An NBA game is divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes. This means the actual playing time is 48 minutes. However, the total duration of a game is significantly longer due to various stoppages, breaks, and additional rules.
Duration of Professional Basketball Games
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In the NBA, games are divided into four quarters, each lasting 12 minutes, resulting in 48 minutes of actual playing time. However, the total duration of an NBA game is much longer due to various factors:
- Timeouts: Each team is allowed seven timeouts per game, each lasting 75 seconds (with some exceptions for shorter timeouts).
- Fouls and Free Throws: Stoppages for fouls and free throws can add significant time.
- Halftime: A 15-minute break occurs between the second and third quarters.
- Overtime: If the game is tied, 5-minute overtime periods are played until a winner is decided.
On average, an NBA game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, though games with frequent stoppages or multiple overtimes can extend closer to 3 hours.
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Halftime and Quarter Breaks
In addition to the playing time and stoppages, there are scheduled breaks during the game:
- Quarter Breaks: After the first and third quarters, there is a brief break of about 130 seconds.
- Halftime: The break between the second and third quarters, known as halftime, lasts 15 minutes. This is when teams regroup, and fans often enjoy entertainment or refreshments.
Length of College Basketball Games
College basketball games, governed by the NCAA, have a slightly different structure. Instead of four 12-minute quarters, college games are divided into two 20-minute halves, totaling 40 minutes of playing time. Despite the shorter playing time, college games often last nearly as long as NBA games due to:
- Media Timeouts: These are mandatory stoppages for TV broadcasts, occurring at the first dead ball after the 16-, 12-, 8-, and 4-minute marks in each half.
- Halftime: A 15-minute break separates the two halves.
- Overtime: Like the NBA, college games use 5-minute overtime periods if the score is tied at the end of regulation.
On average, a college basketball game lasts about 2 hours, though this can vary depending on the pace of play and the number of stoppages.
High School Basketball Game Duration
High school basketball games are shorter than both NBA and college games. They are typically divided into four 8-minute quarters, resulting in 32 minutes of playing time. The total duration of a high school game is influenced by:
- Halftime: A 10-minute break occurs after the second quarter.
- Timeouts: Teams are usually allowed a limited number of timeouts, each lasting 60 seconds.
- Overtime: Overtime periods are typically 4 minutes long.
On average, a high school basketball game lasts about 1.5 hours, making it the shortest of the three levels.
Average Duration of an NBA Game
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Taking all these factors into account, the average NBA game lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours. However, this can vary depending on the pace of play, the number of fouls, timeouts, and whether the game goes into overtime. Some games, especially those with frequent stoppages or multiple overtimes, can stretch closer to 3 hours.
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Factors Influencing Game Length
Several factors can affect the duration of a basketball game, regardless of the level of play:
- Timeouts: Strategic timeouts, media timeouts (in college and professional games), and mandatory stoppages can extend the game.
- Fouls and Free Throws: Frequent fouls lead to more stoppages and free throws, adding to the total time.
- Instant Replay Reviews: In the NBA and college games, referees may review certain plays, which can delay the game.
- Overtime: Tied games that go into overtime can significantly extend the duration.
- Pace of Play: A fast-paced game with fewer stoppages will be shorter than a slower, more deliberate game.
- Injuries or Delays: Unforeseen events, such as player injuries or technical issues, can also add time.
Why Does This Matter?
Understanding the length of an NBA game helps fans plan their viewing experience. Whether you’re attending a game in person or watching from home, knowing the approximate duration allows you to set aside enough time to enjoy the full experience. Additionally, the strategic use of timeouts, fouls, and breaks adds layers of complexity to the game, making it as much a mental battle as a physical one.
Conclusion
While the actual playing time of an NBA game is 48 minutes, the total duration typically ranges from 2 to 2.5 hours due to stoppages, breaks, and potential overtime. This extended time frame allows for the strategic depth and entertainment that make NBA basketball so captivating. So, the next time you settle in to watch a game, you’ll know exactly what to expect in terms of time commitment—and you’ll appreciate the nuances that make every minute count.
Gaming News
Best Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
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Usenet newsgroups may seem old-fashioned to many. In reality, they are the perfect place for players who love the classics but are always open to new games and strategies. These internet communities are also ideal for those searching for gaming material, solutions to issues, or a conversation related to their favorite video games. Whether you are an experienced player or entering this domain for the first time, Usenet holds a ton of resources that could change how you interact with the gaming world.
Understanding Usenet Newsgroups
Usenet newsgroups, which include gaming groups, are like message boards. People can post messages and articles in different categories. Each group is a special place for certain topics – this makes it simple to find the subjects you want to read about most. The unique characteristic of Usenet lies in its decentralized structure. This permits a much more open interchange of details and information than what is seen on regular social media platforms or forums.
Initially, Usenet was utilized only for academic and professional exchanges. However, it soon turned into a prevalent method for communicating among hobbyists and gaming groups. Presently, even though Usenet has been surpassed by newer platforms in terms of popularity, it continues to be an important tool for knowledgeable users who value its special mix of staying anonymous with fast communication. Knowledgeable users also love access to vast archives containing historical information and software applications that are no longer available elsewhere on the Internet.
Top Usenet Newsgroups for Mobile Games
comp.mobile.games
This is a fresh group dedicated to discussions about mobile games and related technology matters within the industry. Here, you can find conversations about the coding aspects of creating games for mobile devices, like new updates in platforms or fresh game engines being used for development purposes.
rec.games.mobile
The perfect place for people who play games on their mobile devices as a hobby. Here, users talk about strategies, tricks and discuss game evaluations. This group is also suitable for those who are not serious gamers but like to connect with others and discuss playing strategies.
alt.games.mobile
In this newsgroup, users often discuss gaming fixes and give each other suggestions. It is also the go-to place for gamers and die-hard fans that wish to find each and every detail of the game they love to play.
Best Newsgroups for Video Game Discussions
Newsgroups such as alt.games.video and rec.games.video.arcade have lively communities where gamers often engage in exchanges and conversations. These forums are not only for resolving gaming issues or writing reviews; they are centers of enthusiastic discussion regarding gaming culture, strategy, and creation process. Be it the latest RPGs, energetic shooters or old-school arcade games – there is always a thread bustling with discussion.
In these threads, not only will you encounter a variety of views from across the globe, but you may also land on gaming tricks and shortcuts that are lesser known. For those who are new, remember that every group has its own tone and rules. Lurking for a while should help you understand community norms and ensure your contributions are accepted.
Specialized Gaming Newsgroups
Specialized newsgroups are designed for particular gaming communities. They provide a discussion environment that is more centered and focused. These groups are ideal for users who really love a particular game and want to explore it in great depth.
The benefit of these specific groups is their collection of very particular details. Gamers who are part of such a group often exchange unique things like custom mods or skins, and offer advice on how to make gameplay more efficient and fun.
Tips for Using Usenet Newsgroups for Gaming
To enter Usenet, you will first need to pick a provider that is well-known for security, high retention rates and fast speed. To make the right pick, it is a good idea to get the rankings for the best Usenet providers. Next, get advanced newsreader software, as this will allow you to browse through newsgroups easily and manage your activities effectively.
Focus on newsgroups related to gaming and participate in discussions matching your interests to find gaming buddies. Also, make sure that you follow the netiquette of each group while doing so. Utilize newsreader software functions like filters and automation to keep things simple.
Conclusion
Usenet, at first sight, can appear as a choice for oldies or people that have not yet acclimated to social media platforms and forums. However, its distinct characteristics make it very useful for all kinds of gamers. If you are searching for uncommon information, looking for detailed conversations or wish to join a community that matches with your specific interests; Usenet is surely the place for you. Jump in to see how Usenet can add another element of fun to your gaming experiences!
Casual
Encouraging Growth and Motivation: Resources for Child Development
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Child development is a complex journey marked by critical milestones where each stride forward builds upon the foundation of the previous one. Acknowledging children’s individual needs, pediatric therapy services tailor strategies to foster physical, emotional, and cognitive growth. To support this transformative process, environments that prompt curiosity and engagement, coupled with advanced educational tools, play an instrumental role in shaping young minds. These resources, carefully selected and applied, can significantly amplify a child’s developmental trajectory. Keep reading to learn about the effective ways these tools and techniques can aid in advancing childhood milestones.
Pediatric Therapy Services: Enhancing Developmental Milestones
Pediatric therapy services support children as they reach and surpass developmental milestones. These services, often provided by skilled therapists, address various growth challenges, ensuring each child has the best possible start in life. From speech and occupational therapy to physical and behavioral interventions, these professionals tailor their approach to meet the unique needs of every young patient.
Therapists work relentlessly to motivate children, fostering an environment where milestones are not merely achieved but celebrated. Through personalized, one-on-one sessions, children gain the confidence and skills necessary to navigate their developmental journeys more easily. The trust between therapist and child is a solid foundation for consistent progress and paves the path for lifelong learning and adaptation.
Resource provision is a key component of pediatric therapy, equipping parents with the tools to continue therapy practices at home. Effective communication between therapists and families ensures a cohesive strategy that envelops the child’s daily routine, enhancing the therapy’s impact. It also allows parents to identify subtle progress, reinforcing their pivotal role in the child’s developmental success.
If you’re looking for pediatric therapy in your area, a simple Google search like “pediatric therapy Arizona” will help you find local providers and services tailored to your child’s needs, ensuring they receive the specialized care necessary for their development.
Optimizing Play Spaces: Creating Environments for Learning and Exploration
Optimized play spaces are vital platforms where children engage with their world, build skills, and unleash their creativity. Designers of such areas pay astute attention to elements that promote safe exploration and intellectual stimulation. A thoughtfully arranged play environment serves as a place of entertainment and a crucible for burgeoning development.
Professionals incorporate a variety of tactile and visual stimuli within play areas to cater to diverse developmental needs and interests. Stimulating sensory experiences is central to cognitive and motor skill refinement among younger populations. The intentional selection of colors, textures, and interactive features sparks curiosity and encourages physical activity, which is fundamental to healthy growth.
Accessibility remains paramount in creating play spaces, ensuring they cater to children across all abilities. Including adaptive resources within these environments demonstrates a commitment to inclusive development, allowing every child to participate and benefit from the joy and learning play offers. Such inclusiveness fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is essential for emotional and social development.
Affording children autonomy in their play advances self-directed learning and problem-solving capabilities. When children feel empowered to make choices within their play, they better understand their preferences and abilities, setting the stage for confidence and self-awareness — qualities that are instrumental as children grow and transition through life’s stages.
Additionally, incorporating elements like fake plants or outdoor plants from retailers like Nearly Natural outdoor plants into play spaces can enhance children’s sensory and aesthetic experience.
Interactive Learning Tools: Technology and Resources for Cognitive Development
Interactive learning tools harness technology’s power to solidify children’s cognitive development. These digital resources provide an array of engaging, educational content that aligns with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Software and applications designed for children’s learning capitalize on the allure of multimedia to capture young minds. Effective education solutions provide children with stimulating challenges that are age-appropriate and aligned with developmental targets.
The discerning use of educational technology in classrooms and homes can reinforce concepts and skills taught through traditional methods. It creates a harmonious blend of instruction and interactive play, thereby cementing a child’s understanding and retention of information.
Providers of such educational platforms are ever vigilant, updating content to reflect new educational strategies and the latest academic research. Thus, children equipped with these technological tools remain at the vanguard of current learning methodologies, all while engrossed in fun and dynamic ways.
Overall, caregivers and educators can provide comprehensive support for children’s developmental journeys by integrating pediatric therapy services, optimized play spaces, and interactive learning tools. These resources nurture their physical, emotional, and cognitive growth and cultivate a lifelong love for learning and exploration.
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Tim Larkin
February 19, 2015 at 5:23 pm
Joel has to “keep finding something to fight for” because he has faith in life and living. It was not selfish, but it was an act of love for Ellie and his faith in living that compelled him to save Ellie. The assumption by the Fireflies was that Ellie was a cure, and killing her was the only way. But, that is not proven. That was faith in science. You might say Joel has faith in God, but the Fireflies had faith in science. (This plot element is similar to stem cell research and advocates for using aborted fetuses with the assumption that the cure for Parkinson’s will be solved.) So, why did Joel lie? He’s weak. I think Ellie wanted to know the truth about St. Mary’s, and got it, but she also trusted Joel enough to let go of the ugly details, so she said, “Okay”.