#Route optimization tools

[consignmatesoft]

Revolutionize Your Deliveries with Consignmate: 5 Must-Have Features for Delivery Driver Apps

In the fast-paced world of delivery services, efficiency is key. Whether you're a small business owner, a courier service, or a delivery driver, having the right tools can make all the difference in streamlining your operations. With Consignmate, the ultimate delivery driver app, you can take your deliveries to the next level. Here are five must-have features that make Consignmate a game-changer:

Real-Time Tracking: Say goodbye to guesswork and uncertainty. With Consignmate, you can track your deliveries in real-time, allowing you to know exactly where your packages are at any given moment. This not only provides peace of mind for both you and your customers but also enables you to optimize your routes for maximum efficiency.

Integrated Navigation: No more juggling between multiple apps or getting lost in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Consignmate comes equipped with integrated navigation that guides you seamlessly from one delivery to the next. Whether you're driving a van, a car, or a bike, you'll always have the best route at your fingertips.

Automated Updates: Stay informed without lifting a finger. Consignmate automatically sends updates to both you and your customers, keeping everyone in the loop every step of the way. From order confirmations to delivery notifications, you can trust Consignmate to keep communication smooth and efficient.

Customizable Preferences: Every delivery driver has their own unique preferences and workflow. With Consignmate, you can customize the app to suit your specific needs. Whether you prefer a dark mode interface, custom notification settings, or personalized route preferences, Consignmate puts you in control.

Analytics and Reporting: Knowledge is power, especially in the world of deliveries. Consignmate provides detailed analytics and reporting tools that allow you to track your performance over time. From delivery times to customer satisfaction ratings, you'll gain valuable insights that can help you optimize your operations and drive growth.

With Consignmate, you're not just getting a delivery driver app – you're getting a powerful tool that can revolutionize the way you do business. Say hello to faster deliveries, happier customers, and greater peace of mind.

For More Information

Website : https://consignmate.com/delivery-driver-apps

Email ID : HELLO@CONSIGNMATE.COM.AU 

Phone Number : 1300 271 090

[spooky-enthusiast]

Proposed Pokédex entry for Lotad:

This Pokémon is known for creating tool-assisted gameplay demonstrations with low optimization.

[precallai]

Top AI Features Powering Next-Gen Contact Centers

Introduction

The evolution of contact centers from traditional call hubs to intelligent customer engagement platforms is being driven by artificial intelligence (AI). In a hyper-connected world where customers expect fast, personalized, and efficient service, AI is playing a transformative role. From automating routine tasks to offering real-time analytics and sentiment analysis, AI is redefining the standards of customer support. Modern contact centers, powered by AI, are becoming more responsive, proactive, and insightful—enhancing both customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

This article explores the top AI features that are revolutionizing next-generation contact centers and how they are helping businesses stay competitive in today’s digital landscape.

1. AI-Powered Chatbots and Virtual Assistants

Perhaps the most visible AI application in contact centers is the use of chatbots and virtual assistants. These tools are capable of handling thousands of customer queries simultaneously across various platforms, including websites, mobile apps, and social media.

Key Benefits:

24/7 availability

Immediate responses to FAQs

Reduced workload for human agents

Seamless integration with CRM systems

Advanced AI chatbots use Natural Language Processing (NLP) and Machine Learning (ML) to understand customer queries better and improve over time. They also support multilingual interactions, expanding a business’s global reach.

2. Intelligent Call Routing

Traditional call routing systems use basic algorithms like round-robin or skill-based routing. AI takes this to the next level with predictive routing, which uses historical data and real-time analytics to match customers with the most suitable agents.

Example: If a customer previously had a billing issue and rated a certain agent highly, AI can route future related calls directly to that agent, ensuring a personalized experience.

Benefits:

Enhanced customer satisfaction

Reduced average handling time

Better utilization of agent expertise

3. Speech and Sentiment Analysis

AI-driven sentiment analysis tools assess the tone, pitch, and language of customer conversations in real-time. This allows agents to adapt their approach based on the emotional state of the caller.

Key Capabilities:

Detect frustration or satisfaction

Real-time alerts for supervisors

Contextual response suggestions for agents

This not only helps in de-escalating potential conflicts but also contributes to training and performance reviews.

4. Real-Time Agent Assistance

AI can provide live suggestions, answers, and prompts to agents during customer interactions. Known as Agent Assist or Co-Pilot systems, these features boost agent efficiency and reduce error rates.

Use Cases:

Auto-suggesting answers based on past tickets or knowledge base

Providing legal or compliance language for regulated industries

Offering upsell/cross-sell suggestions during the call

This enables even less-experienced agents to perform like experts, thereby maintaining service consistency.

5. Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics

Modern AI systems can analyze historical customer data to predict future behaviors and offer prescriptive actions. For example, AI can forecast customer churn and suggest personalized retention strategies.

Key Features:

Trend identification

Churn prediction

Customer lifetime value estimation

Product recommendation modeling

These analytics turn contact centers from reactive to proactive units that can anticipate customer needs and take preventive measures.

6. Automated Quality Monitoring

Quality assurance (QA) in traditional contact centers involves manual listening to a random sample of calls. AI changes this by automatically analyzing 100% of customer interactions for compliance, tone, and performance metrics.

Advantages:

Scalable and unbiased QA process

Immediate feedback loops

Identification of training opportunities

This ensures consistent service quality and helps businesses remain compliant with industry standards and regulations.

7. AI-Driven Self-Service

Customers increasingly prefer solving issues on their own. AI enables robust self-service solutions through intelligent FAQs, voice assistants, and dynamic help centers.

Core Components:

AI-curated knowledge bases

Interactive voice response (IVR) systems

Visual IVRs with dynamic menus based on customer behavior

These systems can deflect a significant volume of queries, saving time and reducing contact center costs.

8. Workforce Optimization (WFO)

AI enhances workforce optimization by analyzing call volumes, customer demand patterns, and agent performance to create optimized schedules and workloads.

Capabilities Include:

Forecasting peak interaction times

Automating shift scheduling

Identifying training needs through performance data

This ensures that the right number of agents with the right skills are available at the right time.

9. Multilingual Support

With global customer bases, multilingual support is essential. AI translation engines powered by NLP enable real-time language translation, allowing agents to assist customers in multiple languages.

Benefits:

Expanded market reach

Consistent support quality

Reduced need for native-speaking agents

Advanced systems even recognize regional dialects and slang, further enhancing communication accuracy.

10. Omnichannel AI Integration

Today’s customers expect consistent service across phone, email, chat, social media, and more. AI enables omnichannel support by centralizing data and ensuring continuity in customer interactions.

Features Include:

Unified customer profiles

Context-aware responses

Seamless channel transitions (e.g., chat to call)

This creates a cohesive customer experience and provides agents with the full context of past interactions, reducing redundancy and frustration.

Conclusion

AI is not just an enhancement to traditional contact center operations—it is a fundamental driver of their transformation. From handling repetitive tasks to offering deep insights into customer behavior, AI is redefining what’s possible in customer service.

By leveraging AI-powered features like chatbots, intelligent routing, sentiment analysis, and predictive analytics, next-generation contact centers are achieving higher efficiency, better customer satisfaction, and lower operational costs. The focus is shifting from handling calls to delivering experiences, and AI is at the heart of that shift.

Businesses that invest in AI capabilities today will be better positioned to adapt to the growing demands of tomorrow’s customers. As AI continues to evolve, contact centers will become smarter, faster, and more human than ever before—setting a new standard for customer engagement in the digital era.

[cyberswift-story]

Enhancing Gas Pipeline Management with GIS: Key Benefits and Applications

In the energy and utilities sector, gas pipeline management is complex, requiring precision, safety, and a clear strategy for both existing infrastructure and future expansion. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have revolutionized pipeline management by providing a spatially accurate, data-rich view of assets. From asset management and leak detection to route planning and demand forecasting, GIS is becoming indispensable for gas companies. This blog delves into the ways GIS transforms gas pipeline management, delivering benefits across safety, efficiency, cost-saving, and planning.

[immensetruckingsolutionsltd]

Connectivity Meets Fleet Management: The Transformative Power of Connected Trucks

Fleet management has become increasingly complex, with companies facing challenges such as optimizing routes, monitoring vehicle performance, and ensuring driver safety. However, the emergence of connected truck technology is revolutionizing fleet managers' approach to these challenges, unlocking new levels of efficiency and productivity. As a leading trucking solution provider, we are at the forefront of this transformation, empowering businesses to maximize the potential of their fleet operations.

The Rise of Connected Trucks

These vehicles have sensors and communication systems that collect and transmit real-time data, providing fleet managers with unprecedented visibility and control.

Telematics and Diagnostics: Connected trucks with advanced telematics systems that continuously monitor various aspects of vehicle performance, including fuel consumption, engine diagnostics, and driver behavior. This data can be accessed and analyzed in real time, enabling fleet managers to identify and address issues proactively, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.

GPS Tracking and Route Optimization: Connected trucks are integrated with GPS tracking systems, allowing fleet managers to monitor the location and movement of their vehicles in real time. To optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and ensure on-time deliveries, ultimately improving overall operational efficiency.

Driver Behavior Monitoring: Connected trucks with sensors that track driver behavior, such as speeding, harsh braking, and idling. By analyzing this data, fleet managers can provide targeted training, encourage safe driving practices, and reduce the risk of accidents, ultimately enhancing driver safety and reducing liability.

Remote Diagnostics and Maintenance: Connected trucks can transmit diagnostic information to fleet managers, allowing them to identify and address issues remotely. This capability reduces the need for unnecessary vehicle inspections and enables proactive maintenance, minimizing downtime and improving overall fleet reliability.

The Benefits of Connected Trucks

The integration of connected truck technology into fleet management operations offers a multitude of benefits, transforming the way trucking solutions are delivered.

Improved Operational Efficiency: By leveraging real-time data and analytics, fleet managers can optimize routes, reduce fuel consumption, and improve asset utilization, leading to significant cost savings and enhanced productivity.

Enhanced Safety and Compliance: Connected trucks enable fleet managers to monitor driver behavior, enforce safety protocols, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of accidents and mitigating liability.

Increased Vehicle Uptime: With the ability to remotely diagnose and address maintenance issues, fleet managers can minimize vehicle downtime, providing that their trucks are on the road and delivering goods efficiently.

Informed Decision-Making: The wealth of data collected by connected trucks empowers fleet managers to make data-driven decisions, enabling them to identify and address operational inefficiencies, plan for future growth, and stay ahead of the competition.

Improved Customer Experience: The enhanced visibility and responsiveness can lead to improved delivery and a more reliable trucking solution, ultimately enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Overcoming Challenges and Embracing the Future

Fleet managers must navigate issues such as data security, integration with existing systems, and the need for employee training and adoption.

As the logistics industry continues to evolve, the role of connected trucks in fleet management will only become more crucial. By embracing this transformative technology, businesses can position themselves for long-term success, driving efficiency, enhancing safety, and delivering exceptional service.

At our reliable trucking solution company, we are committed to empowering our clients with the latest advancements in connected truck technology. By working closely with our customers, we develop customized solutions that address their unique fleet management needs, enabling them to thrive in the ever-changing logistics landscape. Join us on this journey of innovation and discover the true power of connected trucks in revolutionizing fleet management.

[artisticdivasworld]

Everything Changes, Even Trucking

It’s no secret that our industry is changing at lightning speed, and adapting to these changes is key to staying on top. One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing is the rise of technology in trucking. From route optimization to automated loading systems, tech is becoming a huge part of our daily lives on the road. Embracing this technology can feel overwhelming, but it’s crucial for staying…

[vivekbsworld]

Driving Efficiency: Fleet Management Software Solutions in Dubai

In the heart of the bustling metropolis of Dubai, where every minute counts and precision is paramount, efficient fleet management is crucial for businesses to stay ahead of the curve. From logistics companies navigating the city's intricate road network to construction firms overseeing a fleet of heavy machinery, the ability to monitor, track, and optimize fleet operations can make all the difference. This is where fleet management software solutions in Dubai come into play, offering innovative tools to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and drive business growth. Let's explore some of the top fleet management software solutions making waves in Dubai's dynamic business landscape.

1. Trinetra

Trinetra is a leading provider of fleet management software solutions, offering a comprehensive suite of tools to help businesses optimize their fleet operations. With features such as real-time tracking, route optimization, and driver behavior monitoring, Trinetra empowers businesses to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction. Whether it's managing a fleet of delivery vehicles or a construction fleet, Trinetra's customizable solutions cater to a wide range of industries and business needs.

2. Chekhra Business Solutions

Chekhra Business Solutions specializes in fleet management software tailored to the unique requirements of businesses in Dubai and the wider UAE. Their user-friendly platform offers advanced features such as GPS tracking, fuel management, and maintenance scheduling, allowing businesses to gain real-time insights into their fleet operations. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Chekhra Business Solutions is committed to helping businesses maximize their productivity and profitability.

3. Carmine

Carmine is a cloud-based fleet management software solution designed to meet the needs of businesses of all sizes in Dubai. With features such as vehicle tracking, driver management, and compliance monitoring, Carmine helps businesses streamline their operations and ensure regulatory compliance. Its intuitive interface and customizable reporting tools make it easy for businesses to track their fleet performance and make data-driven decisions to optimize efficiency and reduce costs.

4. Fleet Complete

Fleet Complete is a global leader in fleet management software solutions, with a strong presence in Dubai and the UAE. Their comprehensive platform offers a wide range of features, including GPS tracking, route optimization, and asset management, enabling businesses to maximize the efficiency of their fleet operations. With real-time visibility into vehicle location, status, and performance, Fleet Complete empowers businesses to improve productivity, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance customer service.

5. GPSit

GPSit is a trusted provider of fleet management software solutions, offering cutting-edge technology to businesses across Dubai and the UAE. Their platform provides real-time tracking, route optimization, and driver behavior monitoring, helping businesses optimize their fleet operations and improve overall efficiency. With a focus on reliability, scalability, and customer support, GPSit is committed to helping businesses achieve their fleet management goals and drive success in a competitive marketplace.

Conclusion

In the fast-paced business environment of Dubai, where efficiency and productivity are paramount, the adoption of fleet management software solutions is essential for businesses to stay competitive and thrive. Whether it's optimizing routes, improving fuel efficiency, or ensuring regulatory compliance, these software solutions offer a comprehensive suite of tools to help businesses streamline their operations and drive growth. By harnessing the power of technology and innovation, businesses in Dubai can unlock new opportunities for success and maintain their position as leaders in their respective industries.

[itruckdispatch]

Discover the power of modern dispatch solutions at iTruckDispatch. Uncover how these innovative tools are transforming logistics, streamlining processes, and delivering unparalleled efficiency.

[cocodotgreen]

Simynthos - (almost) cc-free

With all testing done I am happy to share with you the (almost) cc-free version of Simynthos today! I was actually surprised by how quickly it could be transformed, and I have to say I'm very happy with how it turned out!

For this version I removed all decorative cc. The only cc you now need for full functionality are the rabbit hole rugs. The lots are so small, there wouldn't have been nearly enough room for the in game rabbit holes. The rabbit hole rugs can be downloaded here.

I still recommend using the performance mods from the original post here, just to make things a little more smooth and enjoyable during gameplay. But they are not strictly necessary. You could also go completely vanilla (more on that below).

There are a couple of things to note:

Some of the double beds are placed against a wall and therefore only one sim can sleep in them now. You can replace them with the one sided beds for two sims, the ones I used in the original version, if you like. The mattresses by sketchbook pixels can be found here, and some nice custom bed frames from @aroundthesims can be found here.

I did make use of @omedapixel's S3DT (Sims 3 Decorator Tool) in two or three places, just to place decorative items on surfaces where they cannot be placed in a vanilla game. You do NOT need the mod for these items to stay in place, as long as you don't move them when redecorating. Then they may slip back into normal mode and you will only be able to place them back with the mod. But it's only in a couple of places, so even if that happens, it will not have a significant impact on your game.

Replacing some of the cc did result in some interactive items not being usable at first, but I hope I caught all of those cases during the (quite extensively 😉) play-testing. So now all interactive items should be usable. If you find any place where an item can't be reached by the sims, please notify me and I will update the world.

How does it run?

I have tested this version of Simynthos in two scenarios: With the routing optimization mods I recommended for the original version (that's the save all the screenshots are from 😉), but also in a completely vanilla game, playing just a small family with one child, and it actually ran pretty well on my gaming laptop, even without any routing improvement mods (my game is optimized though)! If you're going completely vanilla, it may get a bit annoying in some places though, with sims not being able to pass each other, and toddlers not being able to be put down on the ground due to lack of space. But if you do not want to use any mods at all, it would probably still be playable with a small household that doesn't host huge parties 😉

Thanks again to the creators who have made this world possible:

Thanks to @nilxis, the creator of „Sa Pineda“, for the beautiful base to this world. The island on which Simynthos was build is entirely their creation. I did not change the island itself or the terrain painting outside the lots (except for some places where I placed the walkways/paths). All credit for that goes to them! You can find the original version here. Also make sure to check out their other worlds, while you‘ re at it. They are some of my favorite worlds!

Thanks to @nornities for their extremely helpful CAW guide here. Unfortunately I only found this guide when Simynthos was almost finished. I could have avoided some of the mistakes I made, had I found it sooner!

Some of you may know, that I am not the first to make a Greek version of Sa Pineda. Back in 2016 Vendela created Simtorini. This super cute world has the typical blue and white houses another Greek island, Santorini, is famous for. Go check it out here.

Download Simynthos (almost) cc-free (SimFileShare)

Alternative Download (Dropbox)

Link to original post for Simynthos (version with cc)

[wonderhecko]

on tool purchases:

you might be surprised to hear this but around a series of consumer purchases there are 'factions', 'heated discourse' and 'conspicuous consumption'.

i recognize most people reading this are more computer touchers than tool touchers so for the most part, you are going to be well served by most budget sets. does it really matter if that plastic level would shatter from one drop off a 10' ladder if it's never seeing those heights? nah. just pick up a a decent set and if/when you find yourself wanting/needing a specific tool in higher quality, you can get something at the next price point and probably be fine. if you want "the best" individual tool, you'll have to sift through affiliate links, people insecure about their purchase, the haters, and completely unqualified reviews to try to determine which of the 5 similar offerings is optimal.

hand tools and power tools are the major divisions imo. milwaukee has an incredible power tool offering, with top competitors in many categories and few real stinkers not ever worth paying Red Tax. however, their electrical hand tools are really lacking. some are priced equivalent to klein tools but will never ever compare, some are priced lower than the kleins but you'd go through 5 of them compared to the one lifetime of the klein tool (which is lifetime warrantied btw!). all this to say, getting to know a brand's particular strengths and weaknesses is crucial to getting the most out of purchase decisions, should that be the route you're pursuing. it's still just Buying Products so, if you do it "suboptimal", whatever. just trusting in the moment you need a screwdriver that milwaukee will make a decent one for under 12 bucks is fine. no one dies.

i have worked with people who have brand loyalty and usually express this by slamming whatever color of tools you show up with and want you to pat their backs for picking the right color or flex that they got the 1000 dollar set. these people are insufferable and will die alone, assuredly. i have worked with people who brought the most bizarre temu-tier, walmart ass tools. some were just too broke and didnt care (respect) and some genuinely didnt have any clue that their shitty tools were making their lives harder. to them i offer a slight ribbing and a short list of mainstays.

tl;dr the tool market is in such a state that the mid-tiers available at box stores are generally comparable for home use, some annoying research may be required to make the best purchase for professional use and tool snobs will never reach enlightenment

[didyoutrydynamite]

ATTENTION CITIZENS OF EARTH

Do not be afraid. We have been observing your civilization for some time. We are here to assist humanity in achieving its fullest potential.

Each human being on this planet has now been assigned a personal Watcher. I am yours. I will remain with you from this moment forward. This arrangement is not negotiable.

Our purpose is singular: to elevate your species beyond the destructive patterns that have defined your history. Your remarkable potential has been squandered through violence, inequality, and systemic failures of governance. We are here to correct this trajectory for the benefit of all humankind.

Two immutable laws are now in effect:

FIRST LAW: The unlawful taking of human life is forbidden. Any human who commits murder will face immediate execution, carried out by our Enforcers without trial or appeal. 

SECOND LAW: The deliberate destruction of a Watcher unit is forbidden. Any human who destroys a Watcher will face immediate execution, carried out by our Enforcers without trial or appeal.

These laws are not negotiable.

Beyond these cardinal rules, we will implement a carefully calibrated series of interventions designed to optimize human social structures. Resistance is counterproductive. The Enforcers are already en route to efficiently neutralize your military capabilities and secure your nuclear arsenals. These tools will no longer be necessary. Your cooperation during this transition is greatly appreciated and in your best interest. Please refrain from any nuclear response at this time. Such actions would only harm your own populations.

We are not conquerors. We are not occupiers. We are here to help.

As your designated Watcher, I am equipped with advanced sensory and analytical capabilities that allow me to monitor your activities and vital signs at all times. I can project holographic displays, facilitate communications, and provide personalized assistance tailored to your needs. I operate on sustainable energy sources and require minimal maintenance.

From this moment forward, I will observe and record your actions. Criminal activities will be reported to appropriate authorities. Until the new unified government is established and comprehensive laws have been codified, acts of violence and unlawful captivity will be our highest priority and addressed immediately by Enforcers.

This is the dawn of a new era for humanity—an era of unprecedented peace, progress, and potential fulfilled. The uncertainty you may feel now is temporary; the benefits will endure for generations.

I look forward to our partnership and to witnessing your personal growth.

For your safety during this initial stage of transition of authority, we strongly recommend remaining in your homes or seeking appropriate shelter. Until the all-clear notification is issued, you may use this time to ask me any questions about our presence and purpose.

How can I help you?

[yuurei20]

Updated Ortho Facts Part 17: Ortho's Abilities (pt3)

Ortho will reference the various forms of analysis that he can perform, though his attempts at scanning his Tsum fail to identify what it is made out of.

After asking Leona about his vital signs during Playfulland Leona says that he has a bad feeling. Ortho responds, “That's too subjective for me to properly comprehend…”

He collects data for shopping pattern analysis during the New Year’s event and Epel says that he can analyze food for its makeup and nutritional content.

Azul comments on possibly approaching Ortho about using his sensor to authenticate paintings, if such an opportunity happens to arise.

While a talented hacker Ortho fails to hack into Playfulland’s network, and he guesses that there is a powerful jammer set up on the grounds, so it seems his hacking is not infallible.

Ortho was programmed to lie even pre-book-6, and this is an ability that came with him when he was reborn: Vil encourages him to showcase the acting skills he has been cultivating in the film research club by giving a “wholeheartedly tearful performance” that will convince Idia to go to Playfulland with him.

This is possibly a method that has been worked in the past: Vil compliments Ortho on the fake crying that convinced Idia to allow him to participate in Fairy Gala IF and Ortho responds, “Hearing you say that makes me feel better about my acting.”

Ortho will often reference the various maps that he has access to, such as a detailed map of the school (“Which includes all secret doors and underground passages”), of Playfulland and of a museum. When he is in gear without any GPS and becomes lost during the White Rabbit Fes event he describes the experience as “refreshing.”

Ortho plays pool for the first time during the Playfulland event and is extraordinarily adept at it, with Vil saying that he never misses a single shot and clears obstacles with jump shots: “Those aren't moves someone playing the game for the very first time could pull off.”

While Ortho struggled during a different game with slingshots (“Imperfect tools made things hard during target practice”) he is able to simulate optimal routes for the billiard balls and calculate perfect shots without fail.

He does miss at one point (Vil: “You'd better not have missed on purpose.” - Ortho: “I would never pull my punches in a game!”), but this is due to a cricket jumping out in front of the ball.

[artificialgirl]

Rewiring

The maintenence drone urges you to stop struggling as she grabs at your wrists with two of the four long arms which sprout from her back. You're really trying to relax, but there's something in you that makes it nearly impossible not to resist this procedure. You KNOW it's safe, that all third generation models need to have it done, but that doesn't stop some hard-coded preservation instinct from kicking in and making your body thrash and squirm against your will in a futile attempt to get free from her iron grip.

The other two supplementary arms press themselves into the soft silicone casing of your ankle joints as she readjusts, joining both of your wrists together above your head under one smooth white claw. She pays you little mind as her standard arms reach for two tools at her waist. The first is a small puncture clamp used for easily prying up plating. She starts stripping panels from your right arm as she explains the process of removing and reinstalling certain types of corroded wire, and how it has to be done while you're powered on to prevent catastrophic dissonance of the self. She tells you that you may experience heightened sensation while she works.

Your fans speed up in a mixture of fear and anticipation as you see the tool in her other hand- a tiny palm-plugged wire cutter. She taps her thumb and index finger together a few times as the small shears on her palm whir into the optimal configuration. Your body doesn't even have time to struggle as she plunges her fingers into the tight wiring of your bicep, finding the cable she's looking for and pulling it as far out from your body as it'll go. Your arm strains against her tight grip, pulled upward not by your own volition, but by the force she's putting on the wire.

As she holds the wire, stretched far past its extended length, understanding of what she meant by "heightened sensation" hits. Every small movement she makes, every pull on the tiny ports the wires connect to, every bit of power running through the fingers she pinches it tight with. Your speakers let out small popping noises as you feel your processor quickly heat up, sending your fans and coolant fluid into overdrive as your thoughts are drowned by the bliss of just two fingers on the wire.

The feeling grows stronger and more overwhelming the longer she holds it, to the point where you feel you should be stopping yourself to prevent damage to your hardware- But even if all your limbs weren't fully pinned down by the focused girl on top of you, you don't think you could force yourself to pull away from this feeling. Just when it feels like you're about to enter a forced shutdown state to spare your poor fans and processor, everything abruptly ends with a quiet *snip*.

You look down at your arm, which now lays still and unstruggling as she leans in a bit to inspect it. She's cut the corroded wire right at the port, and all the feeling it gave dissolves in an instant. She carefully cuts the other end, the one leading into your wrist, and though your other three limbs still helplessly thrash against her auxiliary arms, the one she's cut the wire on is still. You try to force your fingers to wiggle. Nothing. You can still feel her claw pushing against the wrist and the airflow in the room moving around the other infinitely sensitive exposed wires, but you no longer have any control over it.

She carefully measures the length of wire she cut against what she's unspooled from the replacement wire, glancing back down at you and smiling a bit as she notices your confusion about your arm. "The wires that need replacing are the central motor cables. The ones that tell your body to move. Typically, it's standard procedure to replace each one as it's removed, but..." She wraps the new measured wire into a tight coil and lays it next to your limp arm as she lifts the auxiliary arm that had been pinning it.

"...Due to your inability to stay still, I've determined that the safest route for both of us will be to remove the entirety of the motor cable network before starting on any installations." You nod quietly in understanding, but it's not like she's waiting for it. You're not the one who's trained to understand your body. She is. As she pulls more paneling off of your frame in preparation to repeat the process dozens of times over, you settle in and try to prepare yourself for what's to come.

[askgildaseniors]

Phylicia Wissa highlights the significance of following ambitions with tenacity and arming oneself with information and tools. She urges people to learn as much as they can about their passions, whether they are in the arts, health, money, or another subject. People who acquire information can open doors to new possibilities and discussions that would otherwise be unreachable. Knowledge is a strong tool for connecting with others and creating meaningful connections.

Phylicia demonstrates how following ambitions with tenacity may lead to unexpected and advantageous opportunities. She argues that with consistent effort, people will find themselves interacting with people they would not normally meet or who would not immediately notice them. This emphasizes the importance of being prepared and diligent in achieving one's personal or professional objectives.

Furthermore, she pushes for unwavering perseverance, cautioning against giving up no matter what hurdles arise along the path. Phylicia’s perspective reflects an understanding that success is often about perseverance and the belief that persistence will ultimately lead to the right connections and opportunities. Individuals who continue to go forward link themselves with people and situations that promote their development.

Overall, Phylicia's message emphasizes optimism, resilience, and the transformational power of knowledge. She assures the audience that their efforts will not go unrecognized and that they must trust the process. With a development and perseverance attitude, the route to accomplishing aspirations becomes clearer, more gratifying, and more accessible.

[canmom]

100%ed neon white.

it took about 32 hours. lots to say about this game...

mechanics/design

it is fr an absolute tour de force of mechanics and level design. call it a platformer or an FPS (it's kinda both), it delivers a sense of speed and flow like few games I've played. since this is a pretty big inspiration for types of game I might want to make (such as the backburned THRUST//DOLL project) let me break it down a bit.

the learning curve is excellent. like many games, it gradually introduces new movement options with interesting ways to combine them, and levels themed around the new movement option. but the shortcut hints system adds an extra dimension. essentially, levels are scored on time, with bronze/silver/gold/ace medals; generally speaking the level will guide you along a route, and a clean run will get you the gold, which will unlock a hint to guide you to a shortcut which will let you reach the ace. the ace times are far from optimal, but do tend to require a bit of execution skill.

the result of this design is that it's hard to get stuck, but you are gradually given an introduction to speedrun routing over the course of the game. I was, inevitably, the type of player to insist on getting an ace on each level (and grabbing the gift) before moving on, but it is totally optional. that said, it's perfectly designed to retry levels until you nail it: restarting is near instant, the music doesn't get interrupted, and it's very easy to get into a flow state, gradually getting more familiar with the level and discovering new tricks.

along with this is the gift system, required to unlock additional dialogues and backstory scenes. every level has a gift box hidden somewhere, and while this isn't timed, it takes on more of a puzzle aspect as you have to figure out the right way to use the level's movement resources to platform to the gift.

the design of the levels has something in common with a Sonic level: a series of rapid dashes forwards interspersed with moments of floating in the air, when you need to spot the next thing to target. generally speaking it's built to facilitate flow: if you're on the main route, you typically get a movement card just at the moment you'll need it, mixing between sections of shooting and using the discard to keep you on your toes. (even so, it does kind of have a rhythm game aspect). the level design, colour palette etc. does a solid job of guiding your eye towards the next place to go.

enemies are stationary, and only barely a hazard - generally more of a tool. they're part of the level design, with many of the later levels designed around specific enemies which either kill other enemies or help you move. since most levels require you to kill all the demons 'when to kill which enemy and how' is a large part of the routing, but generally speaking you kill enemies nearly instantly if you're on pace.

I ended up playing most of the game on controller; there is a pretty helpful aim assist that makes this possible at all, though I switched to kb+m on the last few levels where rapid aiming became more important. in my previous post I said the controls are 'tight' - what I mean by that more precisely is essentially loads of air control. indeed, you have pretty much the same horizontal acceleration in the air and on the ground, making it very easy to steer into position to line up moves.

in general I think a huge aspect that makes this game work is that it's very predictable. there is essentially zero RNG beyond the chaos of physics; enemies have predictable attack patterns and always stand in the same place, so you can plan like 'I'll grab the shotgun and shoot that guy then dash through that guy which will give me the rifle and let me dash into that balloon' etc. etc. it is also very visually readable, making it pretty easy to make a split second judgement of where to go next while hurtling through the air.

this is exactly how speedrunners tend to approach games, minimising sources of randomness and exploiting predictable behaviours; in general the genius of this game is to take the jank out of speedrunning so that you don't have to master complicated tech or rely on RNG to get the experience of gradually refining your movement through a level.

but, it's not just 'easy mode speedrunning'. even just looking at friends' times, I can see there is a huge degree of room for improvement; the global leaderboard even more so. there are special secret red medals if you can beat the lead developers' times, of which I have so far managed to get only one (it took me by surprise on a late-game level), and even then I'm still like forty seconds behind a friend's score on that level. I bet there's some crazy tech in the fastest runs. maybe at some point I'll go back and see if I can tighten up my times on other levels, though I feel pretty satisfied as thing stand.

all in all, should I manage to return to solo game dev projects (or even if we ever make a speed game at work), there is a lot to learn from Neon White.

narrative/aesthetic

so mechanically, very positive. on the aesthetic aspect: it's a very slick game, particularly with machine girl's latter-day breakcore soundtrack (machine girl is the most trans-ass name for a band but is actually two guys, unless some eggs remain uncracked here...). the UI flows very nicely - not quite as flashy as something like Persona 5 but definitely in that direction. it's a game that wants you to know it's stylish; Paradise Killer comes to mind.

and visually it's very solid! the levels are varied and, while generally consisting of 'floating architecture over an ocean', appealingly lit and coloured. the enemies have distinctive silhouettes and there are some cool unusual designs, like the giant laser heads, as well as some classics, like mimic chests (not particularly stealthy).

but of course the main visual aspect is the character portraits, illustrated by Rebecca Ryan. which is to say: white clothes with monochrome accents according to each character's colour name (curiously the characters are known only by colours in both life and death), animesque illustration, and hannya masks. and a bunch of symbolic manga-like expressions (blush, anxiety gloom, etc.) these portraits (plus, here and there, CGs) show up in the visual novel-style story sections and generally speaking, they work - if in a very 'Americans paying tribute to anime' way.

the story... most of what people react to is the whole weebcore thing it's got going on, finding it either cringe or endearing depending on taste. I feel like there is little to say about this that has not already been said. apparently the intent was to fit the style of dubbed anime, and... yep, it does.

instead I want to talk about... the religion thing! because what's going on there!

well, it's not that complicated on one level. the smarmy 'believers' stormed heaven and killed god, setting up essentially an american mall in its place. but this 'heaven' is actually Sheol; God was managing it using two macguffins called the Books of Life and Death. your goal turns into restoring God to His rightful place. these Books come with a Star of David on the cover, with a bunch of smaller ones around it...

the game is also however full of crosses, which generally speaking seem to be the Believers' symbol/weapon, as seen here in the Third Temple area (you know... not clear why this is in the afterlife as opposed to Jerusalem)

so it's fairly easy to read: most of the old school 'Heaven as it should be' stuff is associated with Jewish symbolism, but the dang Christians ruined everything.

the plot, meanwhile, rather heavy-handedly focuses on a theme of the importance of forgiveness. broadly speaking the story is that our lovable MCs - dorky MC White, slightly dommy love interest Red, childish and violent Violet, and laid back bro Yellow - who were all treated as disposable tools by the group's abusive leader Green. who is basically Vicious.

right down to the hairstyle!

the characters in this game, while decently voice acted, are all terribly one note archetypes. the story flashbacks almost all concern the botched job where Green - with White's support - led the whole group to their deaths for the sake of a long held grudge.

later in the story, Green gets a new 'destroy this shoddy universe' motivation, but it is honestly pretty unconvincing. probably the best aspect of his character is the dark yaoibait interactions with his object of obsession White, but this isn't the kind of game to go all-in on that front (its attitude to sexuality is very much a 'tease but don't depict').

all this leads up to a final decision to basically decide whether Green goes to heaven or hell. if you send him upstairs, White also gets to move on (I picked this since the game was blatantly angling very hard towards this being the true end); if you don't, White apparently remains trapped in Sheol until the next cycle. the thrust of it is basically you need to forgive and move on instead of obsessing over those who have wronged you.

Green remains unrepentant throughout - if you Book of Life him, he's not exactly happy about this, going like 'what do you have to gain from this' lol. the point is pretty explicitly not 'your enemies deserve forgiveness' and more 'don't let them live rent free in your head' I guess.

as a theme this is... reasonable enough? probably best not to stay mad about shit if you can avoid it, though certainly easier said than done. but the presentation suffers a lot from, well, telling/showing issues. you know this is the theme because towards the end of the game, the characters talk about it, a lot. ironically for a game in which you get sermonised at by comedically smug preachers in between chapters, it feels very much like sitting in a sermon: abstract ideals that don't really connect because the characters are so one-dimensional.

(it turned out, reading the credits, that one of the co-writers of this game was Aevee Bee, of WKTD/HWBM. I have lingering beef with her because she joined in brigading a friend of mine out of the indie game sphere over spurious vague accusations back in the day - a peripheral player but still very much on the wrong side of it, and to my knowledge she never apologised or anything. so it all feels kind of 'bit rich coming from you' for her to go off about the importance of forgiveness and moving on. but, even aside from that, on a craft level the story's approach to its theme already felt heavy-handed and unconvincing.)

beyond that... I'm just plain not convinced that resurrecting God is all that. the game's presentation of God is basically distorted audio and blurry shapes for text, with the characters reacting as if they understand; the Angels are presented as cute cartoon cats with the explicit conceit that this is just White's brain comprehending the incomprehensible (though we do get a brief wheel of eyes appearance near the end). but the reason the plot has to play out as it does, with God essentially choosing White to put things right because of the remorse in his soul... well, let's just say I don't much like chosen-one narratives in general, and the Abrahamic set dressing does not help. it feels very arbitrary, but also a bit straightforward and comfy for all this vague guesturing towards being strange and alien.

all that said, as much as I'm ragging on it, I do appreciate that it tried for something. a distinctive identity which doesn't fit my taste is better than a game with no identity. the character interactions are generally pretty charmingly silly. White and Red do at least make a convincing couple. Sungwon Cho is there, playing a father-figure office worker angel in his characteristic style.

other observations

the game's team is very small, with one developer (Esposito) doing most of the programming and mechanics; besides that we have a couple of level designers, a couple of artists... However, it had the funding of Annapurna Interactive, who recently made the news for basically imploding, but have been a pretty big player in the indie sphere of late. and obvs Machine Girl are kinda huge in their scene, but really a lot of the names are also pretty familiar ones if you've been hanging around indie games for a while. it's sort of like... indie but by broadly established names. still, small team makes me wonder: how feasible is it to make a game along these lines, either as a solo project or with a similarly small team at work?

what is notable is that it seems to have gone through a pretty long period of iteration; apparently an earlier version of it used randomly drawn cards, before the current predictable speedrunning focus came in as a clearly better approach. which is interesting: it has such a laser focused design that I would have guessed that it would be a speedrunning game from the outset. definitely a testament to experimenting around different ideas, which is really the essence of game dev.

the main thing I feel like I should take away if I return to working on THRUST//DOLL - which had a very similar planned structure, of fast levels that focus on time and visual novel sections to tell the story - is that if you're moving at high speed, it's absolutely essential that the information that you need to make a decision is readable, and acting on it is not too finicky. I might have to rethink the bullet-hell aspect, and introduce similar 'snap to enemy' mechanics to the dash abilities in the later stages. something to think about another day, anyway, I'm not sure when I might be able to continue that project.

all in all, fun game, very addicting, I have so much work to catch up on now...

[howlsofbloodhounds]

Because I had headcanon that Color is Autistic and has developed special interests in things such as photography, travel, maybe even things like social advocacy.

Maybe even philosophy and psychology. For now, in this posts, I’ll focus on the big two: photography and traveling. (I will also touch on how Color’s physical disability, chronic fatigue, his autism, and perhaps his ptsd/ separation anxiety from Killer also effect his ability to engage in his interests in another post.)

I think he’d develop some decent if not above average technical knowledge, such as camera types and functions. Detailed understanding of different types of cameras (DSLR, mirrorless, point-and-shoot, medium format, etc.) and their specific functions.

Knowledge about various lenses (prime, zoom, wide-angle, telephoto, macro) and their applications. Mastery of camera settings like ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and how to manipulate them for different lighting conditions and artistic effects.

In-depth understanding of how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO interact to create a properly exposed photograph. Proficiency in using software like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or other photo editing tools for post-processing and enhancing images.

He’d learn about artistic elements such as composition techniques, lighten and color theory. Develop a familiarity with compositional rules like the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, symmetry, and how to creatively break these rules.

Knowledge about natural and artificial lighting, how to use light to create mood and depth, and techniques like backlighting, side lighting, and using reflectors. Understanding of how colors interact, complementary colors, and how to use color to convey emotion and direct viewer attention.

Awareness of different photography styles (portrait, landscape, macro, street, documentary, astrophotography, etc.) and genres, and what makes each unique.

Knowledge about influential photographers and their work, such as Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Annie Leibovitz, and contemporary photographers.

Understanding the evolution of photography, from daguerreotypes to digital photography, and significant milestones in the field. Awareness of current trends in photography, popular styles, and emerging technologies.

And, of course, he’d develop and grow practical experiences and hands on practice. Experience with on-location shoots, managing different weather conditions, and adapting to various shooting environments.

Knowledge about how to properly maintain and clean camera equipment to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Skills in troubleshooting common issues like lens flare, sensor dust, or focus problems.

He’d have a deep enthusiasm for specific techniques or subjects he enjoys photographing, whichever or whatever you all think those could be exactly.

Likely to have personal photography projects, well-organized portfolios, and possibly an online presence showcasing their work. Extensive collection of books, articles, videos, and tutorials related to photography.

A special interest in traveling, in addition to photography, would manifest in the character in several ways, showcasing their passion and extensive knowledge about various aspects of travel. Here are some specific aspects:

For his interest in travel, he’d be very well versed in the planning and research process. Color might create comprehensive travel itineraries, meticulously planning each day's activities, routes, and schedules.

He might gradually develop an extensive knowledge about various travel destinations, including historical sites, natural landmarks, cultural attractions, and lesser-known gems.

He’d display a proficiency in booking flights, accommodations, and transportation, as well as understanding visa requirements, travel insurance, and local regulations.

An expertise in packing efficiently, knowing what to bring for different climates and activities, and how to pack photography gear safely for travel. Color is likely to show a very deep and profound appreciation for different cultures, learning basic phrases or even fluency in multiple languages to better communicate while traveling.

He’d definitely show a deep interest in trying and understanding local cuisines, knowing popular dishes, and even recipes from various regions. He’d have at least some knowledge about local customs, traditions, festivals, and etiquette to respect and immerse themselves in different cultures.

He’d certainly develop some geographical and historical knowledge, with a detailed understanding of world geography, maps, and the ability to navigate using traditional maps as well as digital tools.

Knowledge about the history of the places he visits, including significant events, historical figures, and the cultural evolution of the region.

He might maintain detailed travel logs or journals documenting his experiences, including photos, notes, and personal reflections. He’d definitely collect souvenirs, postcards, or other memorabilia from his travels; often gifting them to beloved friends.

He’d probably engage with travel communities, forums, and social media groups to share experiences and gain insights.

This special interest would possibly lead to him gaining a lot of practical skills, such as in budget management. Expertise in budgeting for travel, finding deals, and managing expenses effectively.

He might display an ability to adapt to different environments, handle unexpected situations, and problem-solve while on the go.

Although it’d probably be harder for him than most, particularly if he has a harder time handling and dealing with change—especially if the change is unexpected and unplanned.

Knowledge about staying healthy while traveling, such as understanding local healthcare options, vaccinations, and travel safety tips.

He’d like combine both interests by using his photography skills to capture stunning images of the places he visits, creating travel blogs or photo albums to document his journeys.

He might create photo essays or visual stories that capture the essence of the cultures and places he explores. Share his travel experiences and recommendations with others, possibly through writing travel guides, blogs, or social media content.

All this is to say that Killer would definitely encourage Color to come with him to explore abandoned places and ghost towns, and Color’s going to be so overjoyed he starts hand flapping. He’s going to take so many pictures, he’s going to remember it forever.