#game developming

[tadssstrange]

I just made the best idea. Hear me out:

So we all know how problematic and bad yandev is. We know how his game sucks, but the concept is great. And how Taro sucks as the main love intrest, and how Ayano sucks at being Yandere... Sooo as soon as I get home ( I am on my vacation, so I can't use my pc for now ) I will start a fan-game! Where HORUDA is the senpai ( that one poor girl who get bullied for being "to creepy" by 5 bully girls ) and the main quest of this fan game will be... Trying to protect Horuda ( so she will not do suicide or will not get hurted by bullies ) and, as Ayano will be sure that Horuda don't get bullied, then will be able to confess her love ( otherwise Horuda will refuse because she will be afraid to get more bullied for being gay, or Ayano starting to get bullied for dating with Horuda ). Ofcorse the worse ending will be when Horuda kill herself when player do nothing 'bout bullies, and the best when she will start to date with Ayano. To get rid of bullies well, Ayano will propably do anything ( so yeah player would be able to befriend with bullies and say to them to leave Horuda alone or kill them ). Also on fan-game I will get rid off all sexual things that original Yan-sim have, so NO MORE PANTS SHOTS! And the fan-game will be in 2D and propably in 16-32 bits ( as Yandev sucks in coding I suck at 3D, and don't have so much money to buy every asset ). I hope anyone will like that idea

[ali-dot-txt]

just finished the main story of fantasy life i. spoilers (for FLi and the first game, which I highly recommend) below

Seriously, if you don't want literally everything spoiled don't click the read more

disappointed. feels very tiny and generic in a way the first game didn't.

The first game was very aware of the kind of fantasy story one expects in a game like it, and it makes an effort in two directions: one, towards making you care about the characters and plot points despite how generic they can be, and two, avoiding the most generic development as often as they can.

this game does neither, and so it's just a generic fantasy story.

The principal characters feel very flat and never really learn or grow. By splitting the role Yuelia played in the first game into two characters, Trip and Rem, it flattens both roles. Trip can only dispense directions and express surprise about what you encounter, and Rem can only be naïve about the world and get attached to the player character. Removing the interplay between those things makes them both really mediocre.

Rem's whole "reincarnation of a big dragon" thing is revealed very abruptly and simply isn't as interesting as the plot point from the first game it's aping, because what the fuck do we care about some big dragon, the game has spent no time impressing upon us that the Master Dragon is something that's particularly important. Compare to the plot point from the first game where Yuelia reveals her origin, you know why Lunares is important, you know why the Goddess is important. The game has spent its entire runtime impressing those things upon you.

Almost every single Strangeling is either from the first game or from the gacha game, so none of them have any particular connection to Mysteria, the world you are nominally meant to care about. The effect of this is that the two worlds feel completely separate.

Also can I talk about how this game kinda ruins the ending of the first game? So, you know, that game ends with Reveria being saved from the falling of the sky. This game would have you believe that a few years after those events, a universal timer rolled over and Xernes reset Reveria. So I guess everyone from the first game fucking died?

The problem is that simultaneously, this game relies on you understanding concepts that only the first game bothers to introduce, and it feels only tenuously attached to the events and intent of that game.

The first game insists over and over that the people living in Lunares aren't "gods". They don't consider themselves that way. Celestia especially does not, since, you know, she started life as a human!

Yeah anyway fuck that. Xernes is half human and half god. (Weren't two major characters from the first game also half human and half Lunares inhabitant? Nah, ignore that.) The gods who live in Lunares hate him for being half human (hey, how'd that happen? Never explained, or if it is, it's in some post-game thing). Where the hell is Original Carla from? Whooooooo knows! Presumably from some other version of the cycle! The first game didn't leave dangling threads like this!

It also never really does anything with the time travel conceit, and a bunch of the plot's most important characters straight-up never cross over at all. Why do Rem and Ranoah never meet Edward, exactly? Having all the threads of the plot so compartmentalized between Past, Present, Ginormosia really serves to make them all feel tiny and unimportant.

Plus Ginormosia has basically no plot at all, apart from the flashbacks which basically just spell out the villain's backstory for you in a way that could've been done in like 8 lines of dialogue.

The first game had followers too, by the way — but they were the important plot characters. You know, the ones you're supposed to be attached to? Why on earth would they remove that and replace it with "your followers are a bunch of cameos with no connection to the story of this game"????

I can really tell that this game was in development hell for a while. And I guess it's fine that they focused on making the gameplay flow satisfying (which it is, I actually really enjoy the gameplay) at the expense of the story's cohesiveness, but it just kinda makes me sad.

okay that's it. said my piece

[twilightofthesandwiches]

I already talked about, like, the Obvious Symbolism of Simon reaching his lowest point literally dressed like the Ice King and then gradually gets back to his old outfit as he starts climbing out of his depressive spiral, at least somewhat.

But it’s also really interesting, maybe even more interesting, how Fionna’s outfit has been gradually shifting and changing with basically every adventure.

My first thought was that it really shows Fionna coming into her own as a character. The more she grows and also the more character development she gets - the more the audience learns to see her as more than just Girl Finn - the more her outfit moves away from just being a slightly girlier version of Finn’s classic look and into being its own thing. 

Because Fionna is her own character. 

But my second thought was more about the first time Fionna’s classic outfit got an update in this series.

This wouldn’t really relate to my first reading, since it just kinda makes her outfit closer to Finn. But it does relate to the most important Theme that her character arc revolves around - Fantasy versus Reality.

Fionna starts out the story interacting with the idea of magical adventure and heroism via the lens of fantasy. She compares everything to video games and just thinks about everything in terms of it being cool and fun and she literally tries to chase down a person from her dreams.

And her mindset was probably only reinforced by discovering she was literally created to be the Main Character in God’s little fantasy universe literally created out of self-indulgence for his silly little stories.

And because of that, she starts out the story with a huge Protagonist-Centered-Morality blind spot where she can’t recognize when she and Cake are in the wrong

And she rushes into action and violence just thinking it’s ‘cool’

And, like, in general acting without thinking of the consequences.

And at basically every step of this adventure, these kinda actions clashed against the reality of her situation. And it all started when she pointed out to her own creator that the outfit he designed for her is cute - but extremely unrealistic for an adventurer like herself

And from there we move to Fionna experiencing more and more of the harsh consequences of assuming everything should fit into her fantasies of heroes and villains 

And that she should punch first and ask questions later 

And in general that it’s always better to trust her guts over her head. 

And with every one of her experiences, the bright and adorable outfit that is a reminder of her origin as God’s Most Self-Indulgent OC gets tweaked in more way - turning it into something that looks a lot more, for the lack of a better word, gritty. And also turning it further and further away from the outfit of her own literal fantasies.

And all of these horrible traumatic experiences and the general dangers of the magical and very different world she’s in have all weathered down Fionna’s original optimism and eagerness and brashness that originally defined her and turned her terribly overprotective and scared instead. And it really reminds of how Simon’s own trauma weathered him down. 

Turning him from a kind man with a passion for adventure and the fantastical and a powerful parental instinct to a miserable jerk who aches for mundanity and made a little girl cry

Until he got to his very lowest point.

So I’m guessing next up for Fionna is getting to see her regain some of her old identity that the Trauma has been tearing away at - getting back some of that cheerfulness and brash attitude and adventurous spirit. Because while it has put herself and her teammates and others in serious troubles - it’s also been a huge help at other times (especially as she's a good counterbalance to Simon ‘slow but dependable’ Petrikov)

She needs to find the balance, learning the lessons from her multiverse adventure without losing all the things that made her Fionna Campbell in the first place.

And I wonder if this development is gonna be paralleled with a return of some of the more ‘classic’ elements of her look - or if her outfit is instead going to diverge farther?

[free-chozo-hrt]

Let's talk about the retconned lore from Metroid Prime

Way back in 2002, Metroid Prime was released for Gamecube in the United States. Play through the game, and you'll eventually reach the final boss, who is also named metroid prime! But just who is metroid prime? Well, the original release of the game had quite a lot of things to say about the final boss! There were space pirate logs that detail how the creature came to appear in its final state. You get to read about the formidable beast, and how the pirates tried and failed to keep it contained. Eventually, you get to have a showdown with this terrifying creature you've heard so much about.

A couple months later, the game released in Europe, and several of the pirate log entries were completely revised, scrubbing away most mentions of metroid prime. The creature was no longer built up as a villain, but only mentioned in passing and left largely mysterious until the final encounter. These changes would persist for subsequent versions of the game, and the original NTSC logs would not be acknowledged again.

What happened? Why did they change so much in the PAL version? Well, let's start by taking a closer look at the log entries we're not supposed to see. The following log entries are courtesy of the independent Metroid Wiki, and you can read all the old and new logs there.

The retconned logs

The following logs are all from the NTSC version of the game, and none of them appear in subsequent versions.

Pirate Data: "Metroid Prime" Test subject Z-d, hereafter referred to as Metroid Prime, was recently discovered in a cavern by mining crews. It quickly dispatched the miners, but was eventually contained by security units and drones. Once contained, we were able to begin studies upon Metroid Prime. The results have been astonishing. It is genetically similar to a Metroid, albeit on a high evolved level. It displays a limitless capacity for Phazon infusion and shows no Phazon-based degeneration whatsoever. It continues to grow in size, and while it has manifested some psychotic behavior, the cold field we use to pacify remain effective. Authorization for advanced studies on Metroid Prime have been approved.

This entry describes how the pirates chanced upon metroid prime and managed to capture it. It likely looked very different at this point in time, since they were able to subdue it and still had a lot of growing to do. They decide to keep it as a research subject.

Pirate Data: "Prime Breach" Subject Metroid Prime's breach has been contained. Reports indicate that it sensed a large batch of raw Phazon in the lab from within its stasis tank and broke through the glass, using previously unsuspected strength. Besides consuming all of the Phazon, Metroid Prime assimilated several weapons and defense systems from fallen security units. It has suffered no ill effect from said assimilation: indeed, it began to use its newly acquired weapons against us. Once we pacified it, we were unable to remove the assimilated gear without threat to Metroid Prime — the gear is now an integral part of its body. Command is intrigued by this newfound ability, and has ordered further study to commence at once.

This entry describes an incident where metroid prime escaped containment and got a hold of some space pirate weapons. The technology was permanently melded to its body and instantly made it much more threatening. Nonetheless, they were able to contain the creature for further study.

Pirate Data: "Prime Mutations" Metroid Prime continues to feed and grow ever larger in the impact crater caves. Its hunger knows no bounds, and it has begun to manifest unusual mutations since its breach. These include armor plating on its epidermis and mechanical outgrowths that generate defense screens. These screens render it invulnerable to most weapon systems, but a flaw in the mutation leads to increased vulnerability to certain weapons. It compensates for this by shifting the screens quickly. This latest development concerns Security units greatly: they feel it's a matter of time before Metroid Prime corrects this defect and renders itself invulnerable to all weaponry. Containment would be nigh impossible if this were to occur.

The pirates continue to monitor metroid prime, and take note that it is only growing more powerful. It now has armor plating and defensive screens that block most types of damage, and the pirates grow anxious that it might soon become completely impervious.

Pirate Data: "Chozo Artifacts" We are particularly interested in a number of curious Chozo Artifacts we have been able to recover from a number of religious sites on Tallon IV. These relics resonate with power, and yet we are unable to harness them in any way. Science Team is attempting to fuse them together with Phazon, believing that a link might exist between them. We know that these Artifacts are linked to the Chozo Temple that block full access to the Impact Crater. We have yet to crack this enigma, however. Command grows impatient regarding this matter: results must be produced soon.

I am including this log for the sake of completeness, even though it has nothing to do with metroid prime. It was replaced with a similarly-worded log, the only difference being that the new log implies that the space pirates have no knowledge of the artifacts' locations.

What do they imply?

There's one important thing I want to point out about these logs. The story about metroid prime assimilating space pirate armor and weaponry does a lot to explain the boss's appearance and abilities. I believe it was a very intentional choice that the player encounters beam troopers earlier in the game, who are only vulnerable to one of several specific weapons, and then this mechanic is iterated upon during the battle with metroid prime. Metroid prime's design even calls back to the armor of the beam troopers.

All this to say: according to the NTSC version, the boss we encounter at the end of the game is some kind of phazon-mutated metroid that's been souped up with space pirate technology. The logs end without any conclusion to this story, so we're left to assume that metroid prime has become too powerful to be contained, so it decided to make its home in the impact crater, where it could feast on an endless supply of phazon.

I also want to note something the logs don't tell us: where the creature originated from. The space pirates simply found it in a cave during a mining operation, so its origin is left unclear.

And that brings us to the next topic...

Why were they changed?

Anyone familiar with the lore of Metroid Prime will have noticed a huge plot hole in this story. In all versions of the game, the lore entries explain how the Chozo erected an impenetrable containment field around the impact crater to slow the rate of corruption, and the space pirates have spent considerable effort trying to break through it. This leaves no explanation for how metroid prime, the creature, could have entered the impact crater after spending time in the pirates' custody. Unless it has some unexplained method of effortlessly passing through the barrier, the story told through the pirate logbooks doesn't make much sense.

In order to fix this plot hole, all of the above pirate data entries were replaced in the PAL version with completely new ones, most of which make no mention of metroid prime. The following is the only PAL log entry which makes reference to metroid prime:

Pirate Data: "Impact Crater" Investigations into a possible ingress point for the Impact Crater continue to meet with failure. The shield of strange energy that protects it is impermeable, and all attempts to tunnel past it have proved fruitless. Our continued futility in this matter is made all the more significant in light of recent life form readings we've discovered emanating from deep within the crater. Analysis of the readings indicates that a massive creature is gestating in there, absorbing enormous amounts or Phazon from the Phazon core at the heart of the impact crater. This discovery makes accessing the crater doubly important - not only will it open the door to the vast deposits of Phazon within, but it will also lead us to this creature, whatever it may be.

The new lore emphasizes that the space pirates cannot breach the impact crater, but they can sense the presence of a powerful being inside. In this version of the game, this is our only hint towards the existence of metroid prime. It makes more sense that the final boss lurking inside the impact crater has been trapped in there the whole time, festering in its own juices, growing more powerful until our fateful encounter.

You could also read these changes as being more in line with the lore developed in the rest of the Prime trilogy. Metroid prime is implied to be the guardian of Tallon IV's leviathan core, or perhaps a mutated version of the core itself. Either way, it cannot leave the leviathan seed that it is bound to.

What was lost?

The new lore introduced in the PAL version gives no explanation for why metroid prime so strongly resembles a space pirate trooper, since according to the current canon, it would have no contact with pirate technology. We can only interpret its similarities as a coincidence. This is unfortunately a very cool design choice that will forever be a leftover of a patched over plot hole.

While I'm extremely interested in the retconned log entries as a historical curiosity, I think the writers ultimately made the right call changing the lore to be more consistent with the rest of the game and the trilogy as a whole. I know it couldn't have been an easy choice.

And hey, if you learned something new from this analysis, I'll consider it a job well done!

[amadeusgame]

January Devlog:

What's up gamers, here is this month's update!

This month has been really good for development despite the fact that I spent the last week bedridden from COVID. Prior to that I was making huge progress towards full game completion now that I'm happy with where the demo is at. I feel strongly oriented in the right direction.

Major accomplishments:

Built the next 2 point-and-click scenes

Discovered & fixed a bunch of bugs (edge cases not present in the demo)

New job that will hopefully be a good long-term fit to support work on Amadeus

Perhaps most importantly: started reworking how I manage this project.

A little more on some of these points follows, and some announcements/communications updates at the very end!

TL;DR: I've figured out how to set goals for myself in a way that motivates me without getting in my own way. Also, expect fewer miscellaneous posts, because I'm going to focus more on development than marketing until the game is nearly complete.

(Monthly devlogs will stay. They keep me accountable and motivated; I enjoy looking back on what I've done each month.)

Development Progress & Bug Fixes

Dartmaure now has a downtown you can actually walk around in! ...See if you can spot the placeholder asset.

It was while coding the interaction with said placeholder that I found one of many new bugs—this one to do with having the first speaking sprite in a conversation on the right instead of the left. This scene also had issues with loading a save that has to handle a screen transition. Neither of these were problems in the demo because the demo had neither initial speakers on the right, nor save progression flags that involved a screen transition.

Good news is these known problems have been addressed now, and it's all working properly!

I expect I'll discover more things that need fixing as I continue to build out further scenes. This month has taught me that every new scene contains potential new untested edge cases. That said, I've kind of impressed myself with how easily I seem to be fixing new bugs.

I made my life difficult by coding all of the game's mechanics myself, but because of that I am intimately familiar with how it works (and where I've applied band-aids). It also turns out that building out this janky engine for 2 years has made me much better at Unity C#! By the time I finish I might almost be competent at it.

I've already caught myself having some goalpost-moving thoughts ("what if I worked on controller support?" - my useless brain) but so far I've successfully pushed them aside and focused on finishing what I've already laid the foundation to build. I would love to make controller support a reality for Episode 2; maybe I'll add an Episode 1 patch for that once it's built. Maybe. But I'm very firm that any new functionality is a matter for the future, after Episode 1's initial release.

Now that I've finalized the core mechanics for Episode 1, building two scenes went pretty smoothly. I was unable to finish more than that due to losing over a week from COVID... but having two more already feels really good.

I'll be working on building the next ones in February. We'll see how that goes in the next devlog!

On Micromanaging

I've started rethinking how I manage this project, because with the new job I will have less free time and energy than I did before. I do still think that I can make it happen. The new job will give me free mornings (it's an afternoon shift) and a 3-day weekend (it's a 4-day work week) along with benefits, and it's work I hope to find personally fulfilling. The arrangement will be more stable long-term than what I was doing last year.

However, I will be losing about 12 hours of personal time a week.

Consistently carving out time for Amadeus without burning out on this new schedule is going to require active and thoughtful adjustment.

The truth is that for the past several months, I have been micromanaging myself too much. Micromanaging can help in the final stages of development: in that case, the reward of meeting a major benchmark is enough to justify the stress getting there. But now that I am back in a "long to-do list" phase of development, it's simply counterproductive. If I'm not motivated on the overly specific task(s) I've assigned myself, then I either don't do anything, or I do the "wrong" thing instead and don't feel rewarded for what I did accomplish.

So, for the next couple months—while getting the game closer to completion, but not yet in the "game built, now for final polish" stage—I'm moving to a different strategy. I've set big-picture goals to aim for for each month, but on any specific day, I simply block out an hour and a half and say "this is Amadeus Time." January's goal was to get the next 4* scenes fully built out. Every day, I just opened up the next unfinished scene and worked on it until the clock said I was done.

Those scenes got done fast.

*(Note: the 4 scene goal was way too optimistic; without COVID, I still think I would have only been able to do 3. I'll be adjusting my timeline to better reflect this more reasonable expectation.)

It's kind of nuts how much I can get done in an hour and a half if I just let myself work instead of worrying about what I'm working on, keeping in mind the big-picture monthly goals as a general directional compass. The removed stress of whether or not I am accomplishing the specific things I am "supposed" to accomplish has freed so much mental space for me to just work on stuff, and the only box I have to check off for the day is a box that says "did today's Amadeus Time."

February's goals are similar to January's: get the next handful of scenes built out. I'm aiming for 3 more, with the caveat that I may be set back by adjusting to the new job. This "build the next 3-ish scenes" monthly format will be the norm until the full and complete game is technically playable and functionally all-in.

Then, it will be time for final assets, polish, playtesting, script revisions, finding a billion bugs, fixing those and finding some more bugs, marketing, more marketing, more marketing, and shipping this baby!

Comms Updates

Speaking of marketing~ there is something pretty cool coming up soon. Look out for a bonus announcement around the end of February!

Also speaking of marketing, because I am about to have less free time after the job switch, you will likely be hearing less from me outside of these monthly devlogs and the occasional bonus announcement. In fact, you might have already noticed a drop in regularity on the Tumblr blog posts and other social media.

("What Tumblr blog," you ask? You probably aren't asking that, because this snippet was written for the itch.io version of this update. But it's a good reminder that all Amadeus resources can be found at linktr.ee/amadeusgame!)

(The most important feature of the Tumblr blog is that it has a fanart page.)

This drop in activity is because, given the choice between spending my time working on the game or spending my time posting about it, I'd rather work on it. I can direct more energy to marketing once the game is done or close to it. I am very aware of how valuable spare time is, and I want to prioritize mine according to what matters to me.

This does not mean that I'm disappearing off of the internet—I will make posts in all of the relevant spaces when there are specific items I'd like to share. I will continue to put out these monthly devlogs with major updates. It's just keeping up with the more regular, smaller stuff that is no longer a priority.

So please don't take a lack of consistent posting to mean the game isn't being worked on. It's the opposite! I'm prioritizing working on it over everything else until the game is near complete.

If you'd like to stay somewhat connected in the meantime, you are welcome and encouraged to join our tiny Discord server or send an ask on the Tumblr blog. If you have any questions about how the game is coming along, please reach out! I check these often and would love to hear from you. This mini-announcement is just meant to be reassurance that less posting is a good thing, for where I am currently at. I'm spending my time and energy wisely.

Finishing this game is the most important thing to me in the world. I will see it through.

Thank you for your trust and continued interest!

Other Gaming News

Note for indie developers: I cannot overstate the importance of playing some stupid video games every now and then. Earlier this month I played through Shadow the Hedgehog (2005) and somehow that directly translated to getting 800% more Amadeus work done after the fact. That game is a masterpiece.

This month I also had the incredible opportunity to record cello for the music in ENDYSIS's collaborative fairy tale VN, Trail of Stars. The game came out absolutely stunning. Please check it out!

[esevik]

Chapter 18

The potential ally becomes a proper ally and provides them with a new, faster type of steed. They travel to Noxus capital together with allied some forces.

Rell is reflecting on her short time with Ambessa. While they've met quite the hardship since leaving her home there is still no doubt that Rell admires the older woman/warrior. So far she seems unwavering in her loyalty.

Rell is also developming a bit of a romance with one of the other female allies which is cute though I don't think that relationship will last (partly because the crush is known as a heart breaker and partly because Rell's in-game interactions shows that she has a lot of crushes on different people).

[crehador]

oooo can i ask for the jiro and saburo !!! for the ask game i mean and ofc samatoki as well 👉👈 thank u sm !!

i have done saburo here! and i will just do jiro here because i don't think anyone really wants to hear me talk about samatoki i already do it every day like it's my job asd;lkfj;laksdjf;lk

favorite thing about them: ohhhhhh my god jiro jiro jiro i love you so much. pure of heart and dumb of ass, just like his big bro, but even more so. he is just such a genuinely Good Boy and i love that about him. i feel like his being so generally friendly just makes it much Much funnier how he butts heads with saburo lol

favorite line: it's gotta be when he switched from nii-san to aniki 🥹 i was a hater about it for a little while bc before it happened i'd ALWAYS wanted him to one day call samatoki aniki, but that aside, i honestly love it. the character developmence! the growth!

brOTP: watch me say rio again lmao I REALLY!! do think he would get along well with all the yamada bros, but anyway. i guess i would have said jyushi here because i do love jiro and jyushi as friends but i'm very 2 evil 2 moon focused now so they are moving down into the next field

OTP: yet again i am saying 2 EVIL 2 MOON!! FOR NOW!!! does this. does this ship even exist lmao. i am crafting a very specific ass version of it in my head that will hopefully exist one day so until then. mmm i will zip it. but one day. i will unleash the 2e2m feels upon you all. prior to this i was in my jiro/nemu era but 2e2m has dominated since get busy lmao

nOTP: again. nothing. jiro's lovely. who wouldn't want him. actually wait. of his popular ships i must admit i am not that compelled by jyuto/jiro 😔 like i'm not gonna be a hater about it but i guess i don't get where OKAY I JUST REMEMBERED 4TH LIVE AND MAYBE I DO GET WHERE PEOPLE ARE COMING FROM but mmm like of all the bbmtc configurations just the two of them on their own are the least compelling to me i suppose

random headcanon: mmmmmm i'm fully in 2 evil 2 moon mode so all my thoughts are circling around that right now but i don't want to divulge too much because it may go in. a fic. eventually. and if i talk about the fic the fic will never get written so. lmao. ANYWAY completely unrelated hc, i think one of the ways he is like ichiro is he would be so so so good at walking dogs. he could handle easily twelve. fifteen dogs at a time. they would be so well-behaved for him

unpopular opinion: all my bb opinions are popular and correct uwu okay just kidding hmmm i mean i feel like. the plausibility of 2 evil 2 moon in and of itself. is an unpopular opinion lmao like. besides by me i have never heard this spoken of before SO. that he would totally get with kuko and jyushi. is probably an unpopular opinion

favorite picture of them: well what is orihime without hikoboshi LET'S GO WITH THIS ONE

[ollieinoue]

CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT TASK 001: MEET THE FAMILY [REDUX]

Family Aesthetics: ‘you know you can tell us anything, right’, a completely filled ash tray, working terrible hours and coming home late at night, 90s grunge aesthetic, a teeny tiny apartment with no AC and a shitty water heating system, a fridge full of cheap knock off brands, been there done that, cheering extremely loud while the rest of the parents give them strange looks, terribly played out of tune guitars, ignored knowing looks, constant memes in the family group chat, lovingly giving each other shit, doing anything for their child and not understanding a word that comes out of his mouth, late night conversations over takeout.

PRE OLLIE

REN INOUE [ 48 yrs old ; mechanic ] [ fc yutaka takenouchi ]

Ren was born in Hiroshima Japan, and would be the only child his parents had. He lived in Japan for three years before his parents moved him and themselves to New York City, so he honestly doesn't remember much of it.

Like a lot of first gen kids from foreign families there was a lot of pressure put on Ren to become successful, and assimilate into a new country. Unfortunately for the Inoue's, Ren was an extremely rebellious person and that is what he spent most of his youth doing.

He created a band in High School with some of his friends called Drink the Kool Aid (he's the lead guitarist), and spent most of his time fucking around with them, fucking around with random people in bars, getting drunk, getting high, and partying. So, no, he did not graduate high school. He never saw the point in formal education.

When he was about 23 he met a girl named Faye and the two hit it off pretty fast. She was fun, she liked the same music as him, she thought his band was cool, the partied together literally all the time. They liked hanging out they were friends.

Until one day when he was around 27 Faye told him she was pregnant and thus Ollie was born.

FAYE INOUE [ 45 yrs old ; hostess & cashier ] [ fc christina ricci ]

Faye Bright was born in Hoboken New Jersey, the youngest child of the Bright family and the only daughter. Her mother left shortly after she was born leaving her and her three older brothers as her father's responsibility.

Her father was a drunk, and much much worse more often than not, and her older brothers weren't much better, so Faye often found herself anywhere but at home from the age of eight until she moved out on her own at the age of sixteen. She hasn't spoken to her brother's or her father since moving out.

She was mostly getting into trouble in those years. Going out and partying way too young. But who was going to fucking stop her?

It wasn't all fun and games, though. Faye often worked multiple jobs while finishing High School, supporting herself, because nobody was going to do it for her. Her life was rocky, and difficult, but she still managed to do it all on her own without needing anybody else.

When she was about 18 years old one night, wandering into some city pub playing some shitty punk band is the night she met Ren. He was fun, and interesting, and the two of them developed a fun little friendship.

She never planned for it to become more than that until she realized she was pregnant with his child, and everything changed for the both of them.

POST OLLIE

The first years of Ollie's life were rough for both him and his parents for many reasons. Ren, who at the time was also dealing with his father's death, wouldn't have known responsibility if you pasted the definition onto his forehead. He was great with Ollie but damn if he'd ever be able to take care of him. Faye on the other hand was almost the opposite, she had a job, she could buy food for the baby but … she was sorting through her own trauma and to say she was a bit cold towards the baby would be an understatement.

If it was not for Ren's mother, Yumiko, Ollie's Obaasan, he likely would have had a much much worse time during his early development. She set down an ultimatum, that unless they wanted her to take Ollie for herself, and move back to Japan they needed to shape up. It was rough for both of his parents. His father got clean (besides casual drinking and smoking pot), got his Equivalency, and started a job as a mechanic. Faye struggled a little more, but went to some free counseling at a shelter, and as time went on had an easier time building bonds with Ollie.

By the time Ollie was five his parents were making enough to move into an apartment of their own that was big enough to house all of them, not Ren's mother's one bedroom apartment they had been living in. And once Ollie was six Yumiko Inoue moved back to Japan feeling like his parents were up to the task of taking care of their child.

Ren and Faye were legally married pretty soon after that at a local courthouse, mainly for the benefits it would bring, rather than being in love with each other - but who needed to be in love to get married? If anything their relationship was much stronger than almost every single one of the married couples around them, they've shown that years and years over now. Ollie's never had a reason to complain about their relationship.

While the bonds between the Inoue family were quite good, it was still rough going. Ren and Faye were working more often than not and Ollie found himself home alone often. They did their best to make sure he wasn't left up to his own devices hen they could, and there were many free children's programs Ollie was stuck into. Everything from children's tumbling, to summer reading programs and everything in between. It was many of the people in charge of those programs that told Ren and Faye that Ollie was showing signs of being an extremely gifted child. He was learning at a much faster rate than any of his peers, had a reading level far beyond someone his age, and was frankly just very smart.

They didn't ever have the means to put Ollie into any advanced private schools, and any time someone offered any sort of opportunity for a scholarship Ollie outright refused. He just wanted to go to school with his friends, and all was well about it, really. He did eventually get tested officially, and it was determined his IQ was 169 (nice) which put him in the .03 percentile of the world's population.

His parents did what they could to insist Ollie take advantage of the skills he'd been given. He had a real opportunity to become something much better than either of them became. He could really do something to help all of them in the long run. They didn't mean to but there was a lot of pressure put on Ollie, and he didn't want to disappoint anybody. So, eventually Ollie agreed to advance his classes, and was put into High School a year ahead of his peers.

Ollie became a lot to handle for his parents through out his teenage years, despite how hard they tried. They fought all the time, Ollie would be gone for days at a time with only a few texts telling them (lying) about where he was, and the signs that Ollie was using drugs (to two people who also got into drug use when they were younger) were probably pretty obvious. But it was hard to really do anything about it. Ollie was still getting top grades in school, he was turning in all of his work, he was so skilled at fleecing the system that neither his parents, nor his school could really … do much unless he was the one who reached out. And he never did.

It was clear that Ollie was a troubled teenager, but his parents worked so hard and so often all they could really do was make it clear that if he ever wanted to talk they would listen. He never did.

So, despite the underlying worry that always lingered around their son, they were always extremely proud and supportive no matter what he was able to accomplish. He graduated the top of his class, and they were so excited for him. He got accepted into such a great school, Ogden, and was the first person in their family to go to college and they were so excited for him.

There were a lot of rough years for the family, but things have come full circle. Ollie's matured a little bit (shocking I know) and realizes his parents aren't actually out to get him, in fact if anything they've been probably a little too soft with him but he appreciates them. And the longer he's been away from home the more he's come to appreciate them (hard not to when he's surrounded with the terrible stories everyone else at Ogden has of their parents). Over all things with the Inoue family are going well. At least as far as Ollie is concerned. He sees no reason why his parents would still be worried about him, or anything. He's doing great.

OLLIE'S OPINON

First of all, write this down: his parents are really fucking cool. They're both still very 90s grunge type of people, and it's obvious to tell just by looking at either of them, or their aesthetic. It was fairly often that Ollie was brought to some shitty dive bar to help his dad and his dad's band set up for some set they were playing. They were never good, but it was always a lot of fun, and Ollie has a ton of fond memories hanging out with his mom and dad, eating some real good bar food. Most of his childhood was honestly a really good one, from everything he can remember. And even though things got tougher as he grew up (mostly thanks to him) it's extremely hard not to look at his relationship with his parents and see it positively. They fought a lot when Ollie was a teenager, Ollie did a lot of shitty and stupid things just to be a brat. But he is aware that despite how busy they were working they were doing it all for him, and they tried so much to be there for him. He's not stupid, he's not blind, he saw it all. He resented them for it at the time, but it makes him love them even more now.

All that said they put a massive amount of pressure on Ollie. They knew he was the only way they were all getting out of the hole they live in, he knew that too. They told him multiple times everything was his choice and they'd never make him do anything he didn't want to do but he saw the disappointment every time he turned down some opportunity that would have really done something for him. Eventually he gave in, and that is likely why he is where he is now, but it was never something he actually ever wanted. it was simply clear that… he had to make it. They made that clear. He couldn’t waste what he had- skill, potential, natural talent. They never were mean about anything. He never felt like if he screwed up that they wouldn’t love him. And that made it so much worse but he constantly feels like he’s fucking up. That he’s living on this precarious edge that any wrong move he makes will show all the ugly, messy, fucked up things he does, and feels, and this image that they have of him will be shattered. He’s terrified of that happening, but he feels like it’s only a matter of time.

SOME FUN FACTS

Due to dad and his grandma mostly handling his very early childhood he learned Japanese before he learned English, but he doesn't know how to write it. And he doesn't necessarily consider himself fluent, because beyond his grandma and dad the only real place he heard Japanese was in anime or movies. Which is a bit different than how people speak if he were to actually go to Japan and speak with people. But it was technically his first language.

No one in his family cooks. Ollie can bake, but cooking? Most meals in the Inoue family were sandwiches, mac & cheese, instant ramen, rice, and onigiri. Also anything you can microwave. That was basically it.

Ollie's parents always try very very hard to go to school functions when they can. It's not easy since Ogden is about 6 hours away from New York, but they really try hard to show up when they can to important things. Ollie doesn't hold it against them, and if they do miss something important they always go out to celebrate on their own together when they can.

The whole family is stoners, sorry. Yes, his parents know he smokes pot, and have said they know. But he's an adult now and can do what they want. The apartment has a ton of snacks in it because they're all stoners though.

Do they know he does harder drugs (yes). Do they know he has addiction problems (probably). Have they ever addressed it? No. Honestly one of the biggest problems with his parents is they're not really good at discipline, it's always been a thing. They probably don't know how to even begin addressing this sort of situation. It's strange. He’s kind of existing in this strange place where like… If they confront him about it he’ll die figuratively, if they DON’T … he might die literally. he really doesn't know what he wants to happen.

[aroacesafeplaceforall]

Hello there! İ have a question and i thought this place would give me best ideas ✨

İm a queer person, i have many queer ocs and now i have an aroace oc. She is still in developmant, so i wonder:

What aroace traits you guys think should be shown in media and should NOT? What would you like to see in aroace character and DONT even wanna think about seeing?

İll be checking this post for comments and reblogs, and even my askbox and dm would do too! Please share your thoughts with me, thank you 💜

Hello there! Sorry I missed this ask, I think my inbox is playing games with me!

Don’t make being aroace they’re entire personality imo! Like definitely have them mention it or make it subtle or some shit but don’t make it seem like your trying to hit some diversity quota! This is my opinion tho, definitely try and get some advice from those replying to this post!! Thank you for asking asker!!

Stay safe!!

[sparxsys23]

Forge Development Services: Unlocking the Power of Custom Software Development

In today’s digital-first world, businesses are rapidly moving beyond off-the-shelf solutions in search of custom software that aligns with their specific needs. Forge Development Services have emerged as a powerful approach to building flexible, scalable, and efficient software systems tailored to unique business requirements.

Whether you're a startup looking to build a product from scratch or an enterprise streamlining internal workflows, Forge Development Services offer a robust foundation for innovation. Let’s dive into what makes Forge development so valuable, what it entails, and where you can find expert Forge developers to bring your ideas to life.

What is Forge Development?

Forge development refers to the use of Atlassian Forge — a modern cloud app development platform built by Atlassian — to extend and customize the Atlassian ecosystem (primarily Jira and Confluence). Launched to simplify cloud development, Forge enables developers to create secure, scalable, and performant apps with minimal infrastructure management.

Unlike traditional app development where infrastructure provisioning, data security, and scalability must be managed independently, Forge handles these concerns natively. Apps are hosted and run inside Atlassian’s infrastructure, using the same authentication, authorization, and operational models, making it easier and faster to build robust solutions.

Key Features of Forge:

Serverless architecture: No need to manage servers or hosting — everything runs in Atlassian’s cloud.

Built-in authentication and authorization: Integrates seamlessly with Atlassian's identity and permissions.

UI kit and custom UI support: Build responsive UIs directly into Jira or Confluence.

Forge Functions: Write backend logic using serverless functions.

Why Invest in Forge Development Services?

For organizations using Jira, Confluence, or other Atlassian tools, Forge is a game-changer. Here are a few reasons why hiring Forge development services makes business sense:

1. Customization at Scale

Every business has unique workflows, data structures, and processes. Forge allows you to tailor Jira or Confluence to suit your team’s specific needs. With a skilled Forge developer, you can automate tedious tasks, build custom dashboards, or integrate third-party services seamlessly.

2. Cloud-Native by Design

As Atlassian moves fully to the cloud, Forge provides a future-proof development framework. It's specifically designed to work with Atlassian Cloud, ensuring compatibility, performance, and compliance from the ground up.

3. Rapid Development and Deployment

Since Forge handles infrastructure, security, and hosting, developers can focus solely on writing application logic. This leads to faster development cycles and quicker time to market — critical for teams aiming to stay ahead of the competition.

4. Security and Compliance

Apps built on Forge inherit Atlassian’s enterprise-grade security, which is a major advantage. Forge enforces strict security boundaries, automatically encrypts data, and complies with major certifications like SOC2, GDPR, and ISO/IEC 27001.

Choosing the Right Forge Development Partner

While Forge offers immense potential, getting the most out of it requires expertise not just in coding but in understanding the Atlassian ecosystem. That's where experienced Forge developers come in.

Sparxsys Solutions

One of the leading names in Forge development is Sparxsys Solutions, a company known for its deep expertise in Atlassian tools and custom app development. With a team of certified Atlassian professionals, Sparxsys has helped companies across industries design and deploy tailored Forge apps that solve real business challenges.

Whether you're looking to build an internal tool for Jira, create advanced workflows, or integrate external platforms, Sparxsys provides end-to-end Forge development services, including consulting, architecture, development, testing, and ongoing support.

Their strength lies not only in technical know-how but also in understanding the nuances of agile teams, project management workflows, and enterprise-grade scalability.

Ravi Sagar – Atlassian Consultant & Forge Advocate

If you’re looking for personalized guidance or a deeper understanding of how Forge can fit into your Atlassian environment, Ravi Sagar is a great resource. An experienced Atlassian consultant, Ravi has extensive knowledge in Forge development, Jira customization, and automation.

Through his blogs, YouTube videos, and training sessions, Ravi demystifies Forge for both beginners and advanced developers. He often shares practical use cases, code snippets, and tutorials that help teams build better solutions faster.

His website, ravisagar.in, is a treasure trove of information on Atlassian apps, scripting, Forge APIs, and more. Whether you're trying to learn Forge development yourself or looking to hire a consultant, Ravi offers a wealth of practical insight.

Real-World Use Cases of Forge Development

To understand the true value of Forge development services, consider the following real-world scenarios:

Custom Issue Panels in Jira: Display real-time data from a third-party API right inside a Jira ticket.

Approval Workflows: Build custom approval flows with integrated Slack or email notifications.

Confluence Macros: Embed dynamic content, charts, or automation buttons directly into pages.

Smart Forms: Create interactive forms in Jira to capture structured information from users.

Each of these examples showcases how Forge can empower teams to do more within the Atlassian environment — efficiently and securely.

Conclusion

Forge development services are unlocking a new level of customization and performance for Atlassian users. With a cloud-native, secure, and flexible platform, Forge is an ideal solution for organizations looking to enhance their Jira or Confluence capabilities.

Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your existing Atlassian infrastructure, partnering with experts like Sparxsys Solutions or consulting with professionals such as Ravi Sagar can help ensure that you leverage Forge to its fullest potential.

Now is the time to explore Forge — and unlock the next level of efficiency and innovation in your organization.

[mrclsylvanwoods]

Why Ramohalli Mysore Road is the Next Hotspot for Plot Investments

Introduction

The Mysore Road corridor is buzzing with change. Rapid urbanization and new infrastructure projects are making this area stand out. More investors and homebuyers are showing interest in Ramohalli Mysore Road. What’s driving this hype? It’s a mix of better connectivity, upcoming developments, and strong growth prospects. These factors are turning Ramohalli into a top chosen spot for plot investments now and in the future.

Growth and Infrastructure Development in Ramohalli Mysore Road

Upcoming Infrastructure Projects

Major road improvements are underway around Ramohalli Mysore Road. New highways are cutting travel time, making the area more accessible. The expansion of the Mysore Road Expressway is a game-changer. Additionally, the city is working on improving public transport. Enhanced metro lines and bus routes will make commuting easier. These upgrades can boost property values and draw in more residents.

Commercial and Industrial Growth

Ramohalli Mysore Road isn't just residential; it’s becoming a hub for business too. Retail stores, supermarkets, and tech parks are popping up. For example, several startups and corporate offices are setting shop here. This creates jobs and attracts professionals looking for nearby homes. Commercial developments are giving the area a lively, vibrant economy.

Improved Social Infrastructure

New schools, hospitals, and parks are making the area more livable. Families can now find good education and healthcare close by. Recreational areas are also developing, giving residents places to relax. These amenities are not just luxuries—they boost the neighborhood’s appeal. Improved social infrastructure naturally draws in more families thinking long-term.

Strategic Location and Connectivity Advantages

Proximity to Major Hubs

Ramohalli Mysore Road offers quick access to Mysore and Bangalore. It’s strategically positioned on the Mysore Road highway, making daily commutes smoother. This ease of travel saves hours and reduces travel costs. Whether you’re heading to Bangalore’s electronic city or Mysore’s markets, this location helps.

Connections with Major Highways and Rail Networks

The area benefits from NH 275 connecting to key cities. Rail connectivity is also improving, with new stations planned nearby. Coming up is the future airport link, which can further elevate its status. These transport links make it easier for residents and investors alike to reach their destinations.

Ease of Access to Bangalore’s Tech Hubs

Many tech zones and industrial parks in Bangalore are just a short drive away. Companies in Electronic City and Whitefield are within reach, making Ramohalli ideal for professionals. Easy transport in and out means more avenues for employment and growth, boosting property demand.

Real Estate Market Trends and Investment Potential

Current Property Prices and Historical Appreciation

Property prices here are still affordable, unlike more developed neighborhoods. In recent years, prices have gone up steadily. Compared to nearby localities, Ramohalli offers more space at lower costs—perfect for investors wanting growth without breaking the bank.

Growth Projections and Future Valuations

Experts predict property appreciation will stay strong over the next decade. With ongoing infrastructure projects and urban planning, the area’s value is set to rise. Smart investors see this as a chance to buy early, riding the growth wave.

Opportunities for Different Investors

Whether you want a plot for personal use or for future resale, Ramohalli has options. Larger plots are ideal for custom homes or commercial projects. Smaller plots are good for quick resale if you research well. Spotting high-growth zones within Ramohalli can yield the best returns.

Benefits of Investing in Ramohalli Mysore Road Plots

Affordable Entry Points with High Growth Potential

Compared to city centers, land here costs less now. But with all the development plans, prices are expected to rise. Buying a Plot in Ramohalli Mysore Road today can mean higher profits later.

Flexibility in Development

Investors or future homeowners can design their own homes or outlets. This space for customization makes plots more appealing. It offers freedom to create exactly what they want.

Strategic Position for Future Growth

Early investors can maximize profits as new infrastructure boosts demand. Many new projects in similar areas doubled property values in a few years. Investing now in Ramohalli can give you a head start on this trend.

Expert and Market Insights

Real estate consultants agree—Ramohalli Mysore Road has strong potential. Growth reports from regional agencies highlight how infrastructure boosts property markets. Plus, sustainable and eco-friendly projects are gaining attention, adding long-term value to developments here.

Key Actionable Tips for Investors

Always check titles and legal clearances before buying.

Keep an eye on upcoming infrastructure projects.

Spread investments across different plots to reduce risk.

Work with reputable real estate agents and developers.

Stay updated on government policies that affect land and property.

Conclusion

Ramohalli Mysore Road is shaping up as the next big spot for plot investments. With better transport, commercial boosts, and housing amenities, it promises high growth. Early investment can unlock impressive gains, especially with expert guidance. Now’s the perfect time to consider Ramohalli for your next land purchase. Be smart, plan well, and stay ahead of the crowd—this area has massive potential waiting to be unlocked.

[gplayr]

The Ring magazine partners with Dimps to develop original boxing game Boxing magazine The Ring has partnered with Japanese studio Dimps, led by game designer Takashi Nishiyama, to develop a new boxing game featuring original characters, the companies announced. Developm... https://blog.gplayr.com/the-ring-magazine-partners-with-dimps-to-develop-original-boxing-game/ #DimpsCorporation #Sports #TheRing #UnannouncedGame

[jenniferphilop0420]

Crypto Exchange Development Company Rankings You’ve Never Seen

The term Crypto Exchange Development Company isn’t new—but how do you know which one’s worth your investment? Picking the right developer can mean the difference between success and security breaches. The crypto market is booming, with traders hungry for better platforms, and behind every high-performance exchange is a rock-solid development team. Today, we’ll pull back the curtain on the crypto exchange platforms shaking up the industry in 2025.

Why You Need the Right Crypto Exchange Development Company

Getting into the crypto game without the right tech partner is like sailing a ship without a compass. A great Crypto Exchange Development Company ensures you’re built on scalable crypto architecture, have bulletproof security, and are ready to handle thousands of users. From smart contract integration to real-time trading engines, you need specialists who understand your vision and the crypto landscape.

The Criteria for Ranking Top Crypto Exchange Developers

Not all dev companies are created equal. Here’s what sets the top players apart.

Experience and Portfolio Evaluation

A proven track record is golden. If a company has built a dozen digital asset exchange development platforms, they probably know how to handle the common pitfalls. Look for diversity in their past projects, especially in P2P exchange development and white label crypto exchange models.

Technology Stack and Scalability

The future of crypto is fast and global. Your platform needs a real-time trading engine and robust multi-currency support platforms. The best devs use cutting-edge tools, whether it’s Node.js for backend, React for frontend, or Rust for blockchain components.

Compliance with Regulatory Standards

Crypto isn’t the Wild West anymore. Compliance is crucial. Does the company offer KYC/AML integration tools? Are they familiar with SEC, MiCA, or FINMA regulations? If not, walk away.

Top 5 Crypto Exchange Development Companies in 2025

After reviewing dozens of companies and analyzing their features, here are five standout names.

Company 1: BlockForge

BlockForge tops our list for its innovation in custom crypto exchange software. They’ve launched over 30 exchanges with features like token listing features, advanced order matching systems, and exchange security protocols.

Company 2: Shamla Tech

Shamla Tech is a top-tier Crypto Exchange Development Company known for their versatile solutions—whether it’s centralized exchange development, decentralized exchange solutions, or blockchain integration services. Their platforms are secure, scalable, and built with future-proof tech.

Company 3: OpenDAX

This open-source powerhouse is favored by startups. They excel in crypto trading platform development with a strong focus on liquidity integration services and modular design. Perfect for businesses seeking fast market entry.

Company 4: LeewayHertz

They focus on enterprise-grade crypto fintech solutions. LeewayHertz integrates cryptocurrency wallet development and compliance from day one, making them a reliable partner for serious businesses.

Company 5: Antier Solutions

A solid choice if you're building globally. They handle multi-currency support platforms, offer advanced smart contract integration, and have a knack for UI/UX in crypto environments.

Centralized vs. Decentralized Crypto Exchanges

Not sure which model to build? Let’s break it down.

Centralized exchanges offer fast transactions and user-friendly interfaces. They’re ideal for newcomers but require strong exchange security protocols.

Decentralized exchanges (DEXs) prioritize privacy and user control. They rely heavily on smart contract integration and are perfect for traders seeking true autonomy.

Key Features in a Crypto Exchange Development Solution

Before choosing a provider, make sure these features are included.

Multi-Currency Wallet Support

Traders expect support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and altcoins. A quality Crypto Exchange Development Company will offer cryptocurrency wallet development with cold storage and hot wallet integration.

Order Book and Trading Engine

The heart of every exchange. Real-time responsiveness and low latency are key. Look for a real-time trading engine with an efficient order matching system that ensures smooth execution.

Smart Contract Integration

In DEXs, smart contract integration automates trust. It’s the digital handshake that ensures transactions happen exactly as planned—no middleman required.

Liquidity Management Tools

No liquidity, no trades. The best platforms come with liquidity integration services, allowing instant swaps and deep order books, ensuring smooth trading 24/7.

The Role of White Label Crypto Exchange Solutions

Time is money. If you want to launch quickly, white label crypto exchange options are your shortcut. These pre-built platforms are fully customizable, tested, and ready to scale. You get to focus on branding and growth, not coding from scratch.

How to Choose the Right Development Partner

Still feeling overwhelmed? Here’s a simple checklist:

Check the company’s experience in digital asset exchange development

Ask about support for KYC/AML integration tools

Make sure they handle token listing features

Request a demo of their crypto trading platform development

Evaluate their post-launch support

Partner with a company that listens, adapts, and delivers.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Crypto Exchange Development Company can make or break your crypto venture. Whether you need a decentralized trading system, an enterprise-level centralized platform, or a white-label solution, this list gives you a great starting point. Keep your eyes on the tech, the team, and the trends—because crypto waits for no one.

FAQs

1. What does a Crypto Exchange Development Company do?

A Crypto Exchange Development Company builds platforms where users can trade cryptocurrencies. This includes backend infrastructure, frontend UI, smart contract integration, wallet development, security protocols, and compliance features like KYC/AML tools.

2. How much does it cost to develop a crypto exchange?

Costs can range from $30,000 for a basic white label crypto exchange to over $500,000 for custom platforms with real-time trading engines, multi-currency wallets, and regulatory compliance tools. Price depends on features, scale, and complexity.

3. What’s the difference between centralized and decentralized exchanges?

Centralized exchanges are managed by a central authority, offer faster trades, and are beginner-friendly. Decentralized exchanges use smart contracts, offer more privacy, and let users control their funds directly without intermediaries.

4. How long does it take to build a crypto exchange?

A basic platform can take 2–4 months using white label solutions, while a custom-built crypto trading platform can take 6–12 months, depending on team size and project scope.

5. Is it safe to use white-label crypto exchange platforms?

Yes, if you choose a reputable Crypto Exchange Development Company. These platforms are tested for security protocols, offer customization, and allow quick market entry. Always audit the code and use trusted providers.

[theonlinesucess]

20 Real Ways to Make Money Online in 2025

The digital landscape in 2025 offers unprecedented opportunities to earn income from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re seeking a side hustle or a full-time career, the internet provides diverse avenues to generate revenue. Here we will explore 20 real ways to make money online in 2025, offering practical insights, tips, and strategies to help you succeed. Each method is beginner-friendly yet scalable for long-term growth.

Ways to Make Money Online in 2025

1. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing remains one of the most accessible and flexible ways to earn money online. Whether you’re a skilled storyteller, a tech-savvy blogger, or a niche subject expert, there’s a constant demand for content across websites, blogs, newsletters, and marketing materials.

2. Virtual Assistance

Virtual assistance is a fast-growing way to earn money online, offering administrative, creative, or technical support to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and executives—all from the comfort of your home. 

3. Online Tutoring

Online tutoring is a highly rewarding way to earn money online by sharing your knowledge with students of all ages from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re a subject matter expert, a certified teacher, or simply passionate about a topic like math, science, English, or even music, you can turn your skills into legitimate online income through tutoring.

4. Affiliate Marketing

Earn commissions by promoting products through blogs, videos, or social media. This is one of the most legitimate online income sources available, especially for beginners. By joining affiliate programs from companies like Amazon, ClickBank, or ShareASale, you can start earning by simply sharing product links.

5. E-Commerce and Dropshipping

Start your own online business by selling physical or digital products without needing to stock inventory yourself. With dropshipping, you partner with suppliers who handle storage, packaging, and shipping. You just focus on setting up your e-commerce store and marketing the products.

6. Content Creation on YouTube

YouTube is one of the most powerful platforms to earn money online by sharing valuable, entertaining, or educational content with a global audience. Whether you’re passionate about gaming, beauty, fitness, tech reviews, personal finance, or storytelling, content creation on YouTube offers countless freelance opportunities and a scalable online business model.

7. Podcasting

Podcasting has become a popular way to earn money online, offering a unique opportunity for creators to engage with their audience through audio content. Similar to content creation on YouTube, podcasting allows you to monetize your channel through ads, sponsorships, and listener donations or memberships.

8. Online Course Creation

Creating and selling online courses is one of the most rewarding ways to earn money online. By sharing your expertise and knowledge in a specific field, you can develop a profitable online business model that generates both immediate and long-term income. Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Skillshare make it easy to turn your skills into digital products that anyone can purchase and learn from.

9. Stock Photography

Stock photography is a fantastic way to earn money online by licensing your photos to individuals, businesses, or media outlets. If you’re passionate about photography, you can turn your hobby into a legitimate online income by selling your images on platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock.

10. Social Media Management

Social media management is a growing field that offers a legitimate online income opportunity for those skilled in building and maintaining a strong online presence for businesses, brands, or influencers. If you have a passion for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or TikTok, you can turn your social media expertise into a remote side hustle or even a full-time career.

 Real Ways to Make Money Online Learn More

11. Web Development

12. Graphic Design

13. Voice-Over Work

14. Transcription Services

15. SEO Consulting

16. Crypto and NFT Trading

17. Subscription-Based Newsletters

18. App Development

19. Online Fitness Coaching

20. Gaming and Streaming

ConclusionMaking money online in 2025 is more accessible than ever, with opportunities spanning creative, technical, and entrepreneurial fields. Start small, choose a method that aligns with your skills, and scale with dedication. Whether it’s freelancing, content creation, or e-commerce, the key is consistency and adaptability.

[ludoonline]

How a Game Development Company Can Elevate Your Mobile App Project

In today’s competitive app market, building a successful mobile application goes beyond simply meeting basic functional requirements. Users expect engaging experiences, intuitive interfaces, and constant interaction. To stand out, many mobile app development companies are turning to game development companies for help in creating interactive, immersive, and gamified experiences that captivate their audience.

Whether you're developing an educational app, a fitness tracker, or an e-commerce platform, integrating elements from game development can enhance user engagement, retention, and overall satisfaction. This blog post explores how partnering with a game development company can significantly elevate your mobile app project.

Why Game Development Expertise Matters for Mobile Apps

Game development companies are experts in creating interactive, engaging, and highly visual applications. They have the technical know-how and tools to design smooth animations, interactive interfaces, and engaging user experiences. These skills are increasingly crucial for mobile apps, where user expectations are higher than ever. Here are a few key reasons why working with a game development company can benefit your mobile app:

1. Enhanced User Engagement

Game mechanics—like scoring, achievements, rewards, and levels—are proven to keep users engaged longer. By integrating such features into a mobile app, you can turn mundane tasks into exciting experiences. For example, fitness apps with gamified progress tracking motivate users by providing rewards for completing milestones. Game development companies are skilled at incorporating these features in ways that are not only fun but also purposeful.

2. Sophisticated Graphics and Animation

Games are known for their stunning graphics, animations, and visual effects. When these elements are applied to mobile apps, they can transform the user experience. A game development company can help create smooth animations for tasks like transitions, notifications, and in-app actions, making your app feel more dynamic and polished. This can elevate everything from simple app navigation to interactive content, making the app feel less "static" and more engaging.

3. Interactive User Interfaces (UI)

User interfaces in mobile apps need to be intuitive, interactive, and visually appealing. Game development companies specialize in crafting these types of UIs that are designed to enhance user experience. Whether it's creating swipe gestures, drag-and-drop interactions, or dynamic content displays, their expertise ensures your app is not just functional but also delightful to use.

4. Increased Retention Through Gamification

Retention is often one of the biggest challenges in mobile app development. Users tend to abandon apps if they don't find them engaging or rewarding. Gamification, a core element in game development, can be the solution. By incorporating game-like features such as challenges, rewards, leaderboards, or interactive content, users are more likely to keep coming back. This ensures that your app doesn’t just attract users, but retains them over time.

5. Scalability and Future-Proofing

Game development companies are adept at building scalable applications. Whether you're planning to add new features or expand the app’s capabilities in the future, they ensure that the app’s architecture can handle growth without compromising performance. This scalability is crucial for mobile apps aiming for long-term success in a dynamic market.

Real-World Examples of Game Development Enhancing Mobile Apps

Fitness Apps: By integrating achievements, challenges, and social sharing features, fitness apps can motivate users to stay active and engage with the app over time. A game development company can create a dynamic tracking system where users can earn rewards as they hit their fitness goals, adding a sense of fun and achievement.

E-Commerce Apps: Game development tools can be used to create interactive shopping experiences where users can "unlock" discounts, rewards, or new features as they shop. This increases user interaction, engagement, and ultimately sales.

Educational Apps: Games and quizzes are a proven method for engaging learners. Game development companies can help create interactive lessons, skill-building challenges, and reward systems that make learning more fun and effective.

Choosing the Right Game Development Company for Your Mobile App

When selecting a game development company to partner with for your mobile app project, it’s essential to evaluate their experience, portfolio, and expertise in both game design and app development. You want a company that understands how to merge game mechanics with your app’s functionality seamlessly. It’s also important that they have experience in the specific domain of your app, whether it’s fitness, education, e-commerce, or any other field.

Conclusion

Partnering with a game development company like ApperStudios offers more than just game-like features for your app—it brings a whole new level of engagement, interactivity, and user satisfaction. If you're looking to elevate your app, enhance its visual appeal, and ensure long-term user retention, integrating game development expertise could be the key to your app's success.

Ready to take your mobile app project to the next level? Collaborate with a skilled game development team and watch your vision come to life with interactive, immersive features that users love.

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How US Startups Are Leveraging Mendix for Rapid Growth

How US Startups Are Leveraging Mendix for Rapid Growth

In today’s hyper-competitive startup ecosystem, speed, adaptability, and innovation are the keys to success. Many startups in the United States are realizing that traditional development methods no longer serve the fast-paced demands of modern business. Instead, they are turning to low-code development platforms like Mendix to bring their ideas to life quickly, cost-effectively, and with scalability in mind.

With its robust capabilities, Mendix is transforming how startups approach app development. In this article, we explore how US startups are leveraging Mendix consulting, the benefits of custom Mendix app development, and why Mendix is emerging as the best low-code development platform for SaaS in the USA.

The Startup Challenge: Build Fast, Pivot Faster

For startups, success often depends on the ability to:

Launch an MVP (Minimum Viable Product) quickly

Validate market demand with real users

Make fast iterations based on feedback

Scale technology as the company grows

Traditional coding can be time-consuming and resource-intensive. Hiring full-stack developers, managing long dev cycles, and spending months on a single product iteration can spell doom for a startup trying to stay ahead.

This is where Mendix changes the game.

Mendix: A Startup-Friendly Development Solution

Mendix is a leading low-code platform that empowers both professional developers and business users to build enterprise-grade applications with minimal coding. What makes Mendix particularly valuable for startups is its ability to reduce time to market while ensuring flexibility, performance, and scalability.

Key features that appeal to startups include:

Drag-and-drop interface for rapid prototyping

Built-in integrations with cloud and third-party services

Multi-device support, including web and mobile

AI-assisted development tools

Cloud-native architecture for seamless scaling

For startups with limited budgets and timeframes, these features are game-changing.

1. Faster MVP Development

Building an MVP in weeks instead of months gives startups a competitive edge. Using custom Mendix app development, companies can quickly create functional prototypes to validate product-market fit. This allows them to:

Attract early adopters

Secure investor funding

Gather real user feedback

Improve product features with confidence

With expert Mendix consulting in USA, startups don’t just save time—they build smarter and more effectively.

2. Reduced Development Costs

Hiring an in-house development team is costly. Freelancers may be cheaper, but come with inconsistent results. Mendix development services in USA allow startups to tap into professional expertise at a fraction of the cost, thanks to:

Streamlined development workflows

Fewer developers required

Reusable components and templates

Minimal technical debt

This makes Mendix one of the best Mendix development companies in USA for cost-conscious entrepreneurs looking to scale sustainably.

3. Agile and Iterative Innovation

The ability to quickly pivot is critical for startups. Mendix supports agile development, enabling teams to:

Launch small, functional features

Iterate based on customer feedback

Continuously integrate and deploy updates

These agile principles align perfectly with startup culture, allowing founders to stay responsive and competitive.

4. Enterprise-Grade Quality for Startups

Startups no longer need to compromise quality for speed. Mendix supports:

Role-based security models

Data governance and compliance

Performance optimization tools

Scalable cloud-native apps

This ensures that apps built on Mendix can grow alongside the business—from a small MVP to a robust SaaS solution, making it the best low-code development platform for SaaS in USA.

Real-World Startup Success Stories

HealthTech Startup

A healthcare startup used Mendix to create a secure patient management portal. With custom Mendix app development in USA, they launched in just 6 weeks and onboarded 500+ providers within 3 months.

FinTech Disruptor

A financial startup used Mendix to build a peer-to-peer payment platform. Thanks to Mendix consulting, they integrated with multiple banking APIs and scaled to 10,000+ users in under 6 months.

Logistics Startup

A logistics startup built a mobile app for real-time driver tracking using Mendix. They saved 40% in development costs and reduced delivery errors by 25%.

Each of these startups benefited from choosing the best Mendix development services in USA, showing that even small teams can achieve big results.

Key Advantages of Mendix for US Startups

Benefit

Traditional Dev

Mendix

Speed

Slow

Fast

Cost

High

Lower

Agility

Rigid

Flexible

Scalability

Moderate

High

Integration

Manual

Out-of-the-box

Dev Resources

Extensive

Lean teams

Choosing the Right Mendix Partner

Startups looking to maximize Mendix’s potential must choose the right Mendix development company. Here’s what to look for:

Proven portfolio of successful Mendix projects

Experience in SaaS development

US-based teams familiar with local regulations and market

End-to-end services from MVP to scaling

Working with the best Mendix development company in USA ensures quality, support, and strategic alignment with your growth goals.

Common Use Cases for Startups Using Mendix

SaaS Platforms – Build subscription-based software solutions with ease.

Internal Tools – Automate HR, finance, or inventory management.

Customer Portals – Enhance client experience with personalized dashboards.

Mobile Apps – Quickly deploy iOS and Android apps.

IoT Integrations – Connect hardware with cloud software using low-code logic.

Each of these can be built, tested, and deployed faster using Mendix consulting and expert development services.

Future-Proofing with Mendix

Mendix isn’t just a short-term fix—it’s a long-term growth partner. Startups that start with Mendix can:

Transition MVPs into full-scale SaaS products

Maintain product continuity without full rewrites

Scale globally through multi-language and multi-currency support

Plus, Mendix constantly evolves with AI, ML, and automation features—ensuring startups remain future-ready.

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Best low-code development platform for SaaS

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Final Thoughts

US startups need tools that allow them to build faster, iterate smarter, and scale stronger. Mendix offers all of that and more, making it the platform of choice for rapid, cost-effective growth.

By working with a trusted Mendix consulting in USA partner, startups gain a competitive edge without draining their resources. Whether you're launching a new SaaS product or building internal automation tools, Mendix empowers you to succeed.

At We Lowcode, we specialize in helping startups bring their vision to life through tailored custom Mendix app development. Recognized as one of the best Mendix development companies in USA, we offer complete development solutions using the best low-code development platform for SaaS in USA. If you're ready to turn your ideas into impact—reach out to the team at We Lowcode.