Category: Uncategorized

Overcoming Writer’s Block: Strategies to Reignite Your Creative Spark

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment



Writer’s block. The mere mention of it can send shivers down a writer’s spine. It’s the dreaded obstacle that every writer encounters at some point, whether you’re a seasoned author or a budding novelist. But fear not! Writer’s block is not an insurmountable barrier; it’s a challenge that can be overcome with the right strategies. Here’s how you can tackle writer’s block and get your creative juices flowing again.

Understand the Root Cause

Before you can overcome writer’s block, it’s essential to understand what’s causing it. Writer’s block can stem from various sources:

– Perfectionism: The fear of not writing something perfect can paralyze you before you even start.
– Fear of Failure: Worrying that your writing won’t be good enough can stop you from writing altogether.
– Lack of Inspiration: Sometimes, you simply might not feel inspired or motivated to write.
– Overwhelm: The enormity of a project can make it hard to know where to begin.

Set Small, Achievable Goals

Breaking your writing project into smaller, manageable tasks can make it less daunting. Instead of aiming to write a chapter, start with a single paragraph or even a sentence. Celebrate these small victories; they’ll build your confidence and momentum.

Create a Routine

Establishing a writing routine can help condition your brain to write regularly. Set aside a specific time each day for writing. This consistency trains your mind to be ready for creative work during these times.

Eliminate Distractions

Identify and eliminate distractions from your writing environment. Whether it’s social media, household chores, or noise, creating a dedicated and distraction-free space can help you focus better. Along with this it might be that you need to…

Change Your Environment

A change of scenery can do wonders for your creativity. Try writing in a different location, such as a park, a café, or even a different room in your house. New surroundings can stimulate new ideas.

Free Writing

Free writing is an excellent way to overcome writer’s block. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and write whatever comes to mind without worrying about grammar, punctuation, or coherence. This exercise helps unlock your creativity and gets your thoughts flowing freely. And it might be that ideas that you come up with here, you will be able to run with in your project.

Writing Prompts

Whether used alone or in tandem with free writing, writing prompts can be a great way to jumpstart your creativity. They provide a starting point and can help you explore new ideas. Here are a few that have been mention on my uiversity course to get you started:

– Write about a character who discovers a hidden room in their house.
– Describe a day in the life of a historical figure you admire.
– Write a letter to your future self.

There are also websites that will give you random words you can use for inspiration, such as the aptly named randomwordgenerator.com. I sometimes use this site to prompt me to write my TikTok short stories.

Read and Get Inspired

Reading books, articles, or poetry can spark inspiration. Immersing yourself in others’ words can reignite your passion for writing and provide new perspectives.

Talk It Out

Discussing your ideas with friends, family, or fellow writers can help you overcome mental blocks. Sometimes, verbalizing your thoughts can clarify them and generate new ideas.

Take Breaks

It’s crucial to take regular breaks to avoid burnout. Step away from your writing, go for a walk, do some physical activity, or engage in a hobby. Giving your mind a break can lead to breakthroughs when you return to your work.

Accept Imperfection

Remember that your first draft doesn’t have to be perfect and let’s be honest, it never will be. Allow yourself to write poorly. The key is to get your ideas down on paper; you can always revise and improve them later.

FInal Thoughts

Writer’s block is a common hurdle, but it’s one that can be overcome with patience, persistence, and the right strategies. By understanding its root causes and applying these practical tips, you can break through the block and unleash your creativity once more. Remember, every writer experiences this at some point—what matters is how you respond to it. Keep writing, stay positive, and trust in your ability to overcome any obstacle. Happy writing!

Tunic: A Charming Yet Challenging Adventure (Review)

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

Tunic is an action-adventure game that immediately draws comparisons to classic Zelda titles, thanks to its charming, isometric world and endearing protagonist – a small fox on a grand quest. Released on March 16, 2022, for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PC, Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4

Visuals and Art Style

One of the standout features of “Tunic” is its visual presentation. The game employs a vibrant, colourful art style that is both captivating and inviting. The isometric view enhances the game’s retro feel, reminiscent of early Zelda games, while still delivering modern, high-quality graphics. Each area is meticulously crafted, with lush forests, ancient ruins, and mysterious caves that entice players to explore every corner of the world.

The use of colour and light is particularly noteworthy. Different regions of the game world have distinct palettes that set the mood and atmosphere, from bright, sunny meadows to dark, foreboding dungeons. The visual design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also helps in guiding the player through various puzzles and hidden paths.

Gameplay Mechanics

Combat
The combat in “Tunic” is engaging and can be quite challenging. It requires players to use a mix of strategy and quick reflexes. You’ll need to learn enemy patterns, manage stamina, and make good use of the dodge mechanic to succeed. The difficulty can be unforgiving at times, which might frustrate some players but will appeal to those who enjoy a good challenge.

Combat encounters range from small skirmishes with lesser foes to intense battles with formidable bosses. Each enemy type has unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their strategies accordingly. The game rewards patience and careful observation, making each victory feel earned.

Puzzle-Solving
Puzzle-solving is another core aspect of Tunic. The game features cleverly designed puzzles that often require players to think outside the box. These puzzles are integrated seamlessly into the environment, encouraging exploration and experimentation. While some puzzles are straightforward, others can be quite obscure, requiring careful observation and a bit of patience to solve.

The game’s manual, a collectable item within Tunic, plays a significant role in puzzle-solving. Presented in a retro instruction booklet style, it contains hints, maps, and cryptic messages that aid in uncovering secrets. Deciphering the manual is a puzzle in itself, adding an extra layer of depth and engagement to the game.

Story and Narrative

Tunic delivers its narrative primarily through cryptic messages and environmental storytelling. This method adds to the game’s mysterious and enchanting atmosphere but can also be a double-edged sword. The lack of direct storytelling means that players must piece together the plot from scattered clues, which may not be satisfying for everyone. This indirect approach to storytelling contributes to the overall sense of discovery but may leave some players feeling disconnected from the narrative.

The game’s lore is rich and intriguing, hidden in fragments throughout the world. Players who take the time to explore thoroughly and read the in-game manual will uncover a deeper understanding of the story and its world. However, the abstract nature of the storytelling means that some plot points remain ambiguous, leaving much to player interpretation.

Difficulty and Accessibility

The difficulty curve in “Tunic” is notable and can be a point of contention. The game does not hold the player’s hand, often leaving them to figure out mechanics and solutions on their own. This approach can lead to moments of frustration, especially for players who are not accustomed to such a high level of challenge. However, for those who enjoy figuring things out without much guidance, this aspect can be quite rewarding.

To assist players, Tunic offers a range of accessibility options, such as reducing combat difficulty and enabling in-game hints. These options help make the game more approachable for a wider audience without compromising the core experience for those seeking a challenge.

Audio and Sound Design

The audio design in Tunic deserves special mention. The soundtrack, composed by Lifeformed, perfectly complements the game’s aesthetic and atmosphere. Each track is carefully crafted to enhance the emotional impact of different areas and moments in the game, from serene exploration tunes to intense combat music.

Sound effects are equally well-designed, providing crucial auditory feedback during gameplay. The distinct sounds for enemy attacks, environmental interactions, and item pickups add to the overall immersion and help players stay attuned to their surroundings.

Replayability and Content

Tunic offers a good amount of content for its price. The main quest can take anywhere from 10 to 20 hours to complete, depending on how thorough the player is in exploring and solving puzzles. Additionally, there are numerous secrets and hidden items scattered throughout the world, encouraging replayability.

For completionists, Tunic offers a variety of achievements and collectables to hunt down. The game’s world is densely packed with hidden paths and secret areas, making it rewarding to revisit and explore even after finishing the main story.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Tunic earns a solid 8/10. It stands out with its beautiful visuals, engaging combat, and inventive puzzles. However, its steep difficulty curve and the obscure nature of its storytelling may not appeal to all players. If you appreciate challenging action-adventure games with a retro aesthetic and are willing to invest the time to uncover its secrets, Tunic is certainly worth your time.

The game’s strengths lie in its art style, audio design, and the sense of accomplishment it provides. However, potential players should be aware of the challenging combat and the need for patience in deciphering the narrative and puzzles. Tunic is a delightful, if sometimes demanding, adventure that offers a nostalgic journey with modern twists.

Tunic is also available on PlayStation’s PSPlus, so it’s a great time to get into it if you’re unsure about it.

The Art of Short Story Writing: A Casual Exploration

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

I’m discovering that there’s something truly magical about short stories. These bite-sized tales pack a punch, capturing the essence of a moment, a character, or an emotion in just a few pages. If you’re someone who loves storytelling but isn’t quite ready to commit to a full-length novel, writing short stories can be a rewarding and fulfilling creative endeavour. Let’s dive into the art of crafting these miniature masterpieces and explore how you can create your own captivating short stories.

Finding Inspiration Everywhere

One of the beauties of short story writing is that inspiration can come from anywhere. A snippet of conversation overheard at a café, a quirky character you see on the bus, or even a fleeting emotion can serve as the seed for your story. The key is to be observant and curious. Carry a notebook with you, or use your phone to jot down ideas as they come to you. These little sparks can ignite into fully-fledged stories when you least expect it.

Inspiration isn’t just about observing the world around you; it’s also about delving into your own experiences and emotions. Think about moments in your life that have left a strong impression on you. These can be joyful, heartbreaking, or even mundane events that hold a deeper significance. By tapping into your personal well of experiences, you can create stories that are authentic and resonate with readers.

Keeping It Simple, Yet Profound

Short stories thrive on simplicity. Unlike novels, which have the luxury of hundreds of pages to develop plots and characters, short stories need to make an impact quickly. Focus on a single idea or theme and explore it deeply. A short story isn’t about cramming in as much as possible; it’s about distilling a powerful narrative into a concise format.

Simplicity doesn’t mean your story has to be shallow. In fact, the best short stories often tackle profound themes and emotions. Consider the works of renowned short story writers like Edgar Allan Poe, H.P. Lovecraft, and Ernest Hemingway. Their stories are often deceptively simple on the surface but reveal deeper layers of meaning upon closer examination. Aim to create stories that linger in the reader’s mind, prompting them to think and feel long after they’ve finished reading.

Characters That Jump Off the Page

Even though short stories are brief, they require well-developed characters. Your readers should feel like they know your characters, even if they’ve only spent a few pages with them. Give your characters distinct voices, motivations, and flaws. Sometimes, a character’s inner conflict can drive the entire story, making them memorable and relatable.

Creating vivid characters involves more than just physical descriptions. Think about their background, their desires, and their fears. What drives them? What keeps them up at night? Even if these details don’t all make it into the story, knowing them will help you write characters that feel real and multi-dimensional. Dialogue is also crucial in bringing characters to life. Pay attention to how people speak in real life and try to capture that authenticity in your writing.

Crafting the Perfect Opening

The opening of your short story is crucial. With limited space, you need to grab your reader’s attention from the first sentence. Start with a strong image, an intriguing question, or a surprising statement. Your opening should set the tone for the rest of the story and draw your readers in, making them eager to find out what happens next.

Consider beginning in medias res—in the middle of the action. This technique can immediately immerse your readers in the story and create a sense of urgency. Alternatively, you could start with a vivid description that sets the scene and mood. Whichever approach you choose, make sure your opening line is compelling and hints at the story to come.

Mastering the Art of Show, Don’t Tell

“Show, don’t tell” is a piece of advice often given to writers, and it’s especially important in short stories. Instead of telling your readers that a character is sad, show it through their actions, dialogue, and thoughts. This technique makes your writing more immersive and allows readers to draw their own conclusions, creating a deeper connection with the story.

For example, rather than writing, “John was nervous,” you could describe his fidgeting hands, the sweat on his brow, or the way he avoids eye contact. By showing these details, you paint a vivid picture that readers can visualise and interpret. This approach not only makes your writing more engaging but also respects the intelligence of your readers, allowing them to be active participants in the storytelling process.

Building Tension and Pacing

Short stories often rely on tension to keep readers hooked. Whether it’s a psychological thriller, a heartfelt drama, or a whimsical fantasy, tension is what drives the narrative forward. To build tension, create stakes for your characters. What do they stand to lose or gain? How do their desires and obstacles clash?

Pacing is also critical in short story writing. Since you have limited space, every word and scene must count. Avoid unnecessary exposition and focus on the most crucial moments. Vary the rhythm of your sentences and scenes to keep the reader’s interest. Short, punchy sentences can increase the sense of urgency, while longer, more descriptive passages can provide the necessary context and atmosphere.

Ending with Impact

A great short story often leaves a lasting impression with a powerful ending. Whether it’s a twist, a poignant realisation, or an open-ended question, your conclusion should resonate with your readers. Aim for an ending that feels both surprising and inevitable, providing a satisfying sense of closure or a thought-provoking prompt for reflection.

Consider how the ending ties back to the story’s central theme or message. A well-crafted ending can echo the beginning, bringing the narrative full circle. It can also challenge the reader’s expectations, offering a fresh perspective or a deeper understanding of the characters and events. Remember, the goal is to leave your readers with something to ponder or feel—a lingering emotional or intellectual impact.

Editing: The Sculpting Process

Writing a short story is only half the battle; editing is where the real magic happens. Be ruthless with your revisions. Cut out any unnecessary words, sentences, or scenes. Every element of your story should serve a purpose. Reading your story out loud can help you catch awkward phrasing and ensure that your prose flows smoothly. Don’t be afraid to make big changes if it improves the overall impact of your story.

During the editing process, pay attention to the story’s structure. Ensure that the narrative arc is clear and that each scene builds logically from the previous one. Look for inconsistencies in character behaviour or plot details and address them. It can also be helpful to get feedback from trusted readers or writers who can provide an objective perspective and highlight areas for improvement.

Comparing Short Story Writing to Novel Writing

While both short stories and novels are vehicles for storytelling, they require different approaches and skill sets. Understanding these differences can help you decide which format is best suited for your ideas and writing style.

Scope and Depth

Novels allow for extensive world-building, complex plots, and in-depth character development. They provide the space to explore multiple subplots, secondary characters, and intricate themes. This depth is one of the main attractions of novel writing but also one of its biggest challenges. The expansive nature of novels means that they require sustained effort and a long-term commitment to develop and maintain coherence throughout hundreds of pages.

In contrast, short stories focus on a single idea, moment, or character arc. The brevity of the form demands conciseness and precision. There’s no room for extensive backstory or meandering subplots. Every word must serve the story’s core purpose. This limitation can be freeing for writers who enjoy distilling their ideas into a powerful, concentrated form.

Pacing and Structure

Novels have the luxury of a slower build-up and more elaborate pacing. Writers can take their time to set the scene, develop characters, and gradually introduce conflict. This gradual build allows for a more immersive experience and deeper emotional investment from the reader.

Short stories, on the other hand, need to grab the reader’s attention immediately and maintain a brisk pace throughout. The structure is often tighter, with a clear beginning, middle, and end that unfolds quickly. This accelerated pace can make short stories more challenging to write but also more exhilarating, as every element must contribute to the overall impact.

Character Development

In novels, characters have the opportunity to grow and evolve over time. Writers can explore their backgrounds, motivations, and transformations in great detail. This in-depth character development can lead to rich, multi-faceted protagonists and a strong emotional connection with the reader.

Short stories, however, require a more economical approach to character development. Writers must convey essential character traits and growth within a limited space. This often means focusing on a defining moment or a crucial decision that reveals the character’s essence. Despite the brevity, well-crafted short stories can still offer profound insights into their characters.

Reader Engagement

Novels demand a long-term commitment from readers, who invest time and emotional energy into following the story. The payoff is often a deep, satisfying journey that stays with the reader long after they’ve finished the book.

Short stories, by their nature, provide a quicker, more immediate experience. They can be read in a single sitting, making them perfect for busy readers or those looking for a brief escape. The challenge for short story writers is to create a narrative that is both impactful and memorable within a short span.

Sharing Your Work

Once you’ve polished your short story to perfection, it’s time to share it with the world. Submit your work to literary magazines, enter writing contests, or publish it on your own blog. Sharing your stories can be nerve-wracking, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. You’ll get feedback, connect with other writers, and maybe even find a readership who loves your unique voice.

So, go! Write. Share. Enjoy.

The Never-Ending Journey of Marketing Self-Published Books

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment


You would think that the hardest thing about being an author is the writing of books, but it’s far from it. Writing books is easy because it only involves you, your brain, and your characters. The hardest thing about being an author is marketing the damn book once it’s written and released.

Marketing as a self-published author is a relentless task. It isn’t just a matter of doing it when you release a book; you always have to be on your a-game, pushing your books and trying to get those elusive sales. Let me share a bit about my journey and the strategies I’ve employed to keep my books in the public eye.

Social Media Savvy: Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok

Social media has been my go-to for marketing. Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok are indispensable tools in my arsenal.

Twitter: This platform is excellent for networking with other authors, engaging with readers, and sharing updates. I’m planning to use Twitter’s subscription service to offer exclusive content and updates, hoping to build a more dedicated reader base.
 
Instagram: It’s all about visuals here. I share aesthetically pleasing images related to my books, snippets of my writing process, and engaging stories that resonate with my followers. The key is consistency and using relevant hashtags to increase visibility.
 
TikTok: BookTok is a powerful community. Creating short, engaging videos about my books, character insights, and writing tips has helped me connect with a younger, vibrant audience.

The Amazon Experience

I also tried Amazon promotions, but to be honest, they didn’t yield significant results. It seems that with so many books on the platform, getting noticed is like finding a needle in a haystack. While it’s a good platform for hosting my books, relying on its promotional tools alone hasn’t been the most effective strategy.

Revamping the Website and Blogging

One of my goals is to get back into posting regular blogs and ensuring my website is up-to-date. A website is a central hub where readers can find all my books, learn more about me, and engage with my content. Blogging allows me to share more in-depth insights, updates, and behind-the-scenes looks at my writing process. This not only drives traffic to my site but also helps in building a loyal readership.

Publishing Short Stories

Another tactic I’m exploring is publishing short stories. This gives potential readers a taste of my writing style before they commit to buying my full-length books. It’s a great way to build interest and showcase my storytelling abilities. These shorts can be shared on my website, social media, or even as free giveaways to my email subscribers.

Final Thoughts

The journey of marketing as a self-published author is ongoing and ever-evolving. It requires constant effort and adaptation to new trends and tools. While it can be challenging, it’s also incredibly rewarding to see your hard work pay off as readers discover and enjoy your books. If you’re in the same boat, don’t get discouraged. Keep experimenting, keep engaging, and most importantly, keep writing.

Writing Short Stories and Putting Them Together

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

In last Monday’s blog post, I shared an exciting new development in my storytelling journey: I have found a fresh and engaging outlet on TikTok. It’s been an exhilarating experience to see my stories come to life in short, creative videos. However, I’m aware that not everyone is on TikTok, and I don’t want anyone to miss out on my stories. That’s why I’ve decided to post the short stories here on my website as well.

Short Stories: A New Chapter in My Writing Journey

So far, I’ve uploaded my most recent stories under the Short Stories heading at the top of the home page. Some of these are inspired by songs that struck a chord with me, while others are spontaneous creations born from my wandering thoughts. This blend of inspiration has led to a diverse collection of narratives, each with its own unique flavour.

In light of my new approach, I’ve decided to shift my focus from working on another novel to creating a collection of short stories. Many of the TikTok stories I’ve shared have the potential to be expanded into fuller, richer narratives, and I’m excited to explore this possibility. Consequently, I’ll be rotating these stories on the site: as I flesh out some of them for the collection, I’ll remove the older versions and replace them with new ones from TikTok. This way, there will always be a fresh stream of stories for you to enjoy.

Embracing the Short Story Format

Writing short stories is a new venture for me, but posting daily on TikTok has helped me adapt to this format. The brevity of short stories allows me to experiment with ideas without the commitment of a full-length novel. It’s a liberating process: I can quickly gauge whether a concept has the potential to be expanded or if it works best as a concise piece.

This exploration led me to the realization that a collection of short stories could be a perfect way to compile and share these ideas. After much contemplation, I decided that publishing a collection is the logical next step. I was initially torn between various options—publishing on Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP), posting exclusively on my website, or holding onto the stories for a future project. However, seeing the volume of content I already had, the decision became clear.

A New Focus Post-Uni

Now that I’ve finished university for the year, I have more time to dedicate to my writing. This newfound freedom allows me to focus on refining and expanding my short stories for the collection. Some stories are based on ideas I’ve nurtured for a long time, while others are fresh creations, so the amount of work required to prepare them for publication varies. Nonetheless, I’m committed to bringing you polished and engaging stories.

Looking Ahead

You can expect a steady flow of short stories both here on the website and on TikTok. I’m excited about this new chapter and eager to share more of my work with you. Your support and feedback are invaluable as I navigate this journey, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts on my stories.

Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being a part of this adventure with me!

Feel free to explore the Short Stories section and follow me on TikTok for daily updates. Happy reading!

Returning to the Wasteland: Fallout 4’s Next-Gen Update

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

Since the release of a certain TV series, you can’t go far in the real world or online without encountering something Fallout-related. It’s like the entire world has been swept up in the frenzy surrounding the release of the Fallout TV show. From billboards plastered with Vault Boy’s iconic grin to the incessant chatter on social media, it seems like everyone and their Radroach is buzzing about Bethesda’s post-apocalyptic universe. And in a way, I’m glad. It’s a game series that I’ve loved for years, and it’s nice that it’s getting recognition and new fans.

And amidst all this excitement, there’s another reason for Fallout fans to rejoice: the next-gen update for Fallout 4. As if the arrival of the TV show wasn’t enough to send everyone into a radioactive-fueled frenzy, Bethesda goes ahead and drops the bombshell of the PS5/XBox Series X/S update that I, personally, have been waiting for for a while. I was half expecting another Skyrim release before we got an updated Fallout.

So, with Fallout fever running rampant and the promise of a visually enhanced Commonwealth beckoning, I couldn’t resist diving back into the irradiated ruins of post-apocalyptic Boston, and let me tell you, so far, it’s been one hell of a ride.

But before we delve into the nitty-gritty of the next-gen update, let’s take a trip down memory lane. Remember those blogs I wrote about Fallout 4? One was a little bit of a guide for some of the more difficult trophies to obtain on your journey through the wasteland. The other was a mouthwatering recipe for Buffout cookies from the cookbook inspired by everyone’s favourite in-game performance-enhancing drug. Ah, good times.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: the graphics. Bethesda promised us a visual overhaul that would redefine our perception of the post-apocalyptic landscape we’ve come to know and love, and while they’ve certainly made some notable strides in this department, the overall impact might not be as earth-shattering as some of us hoped. In some lights, you can see some improvements, but most of the time, there really doesn’t seem to be much of a difference. It would be nice to have something that makes use of the current generation of console’s graphical abilities. I wasn’t expecting it to be an Unreal Engine 5 kind of upgrade, but I have to admit I was expecting more than we got.

As I find myself once again traversing the irradiated wastes of the Commonwealth, I can’t help but feel a sense of déjà vu. It’s like revisiting an old friend – familiar yet filled with new surprises around every corner. Some of these new surprises come in the form of new quests, mainly relating to the Enclave faction, which we saw a lot of in previous Fallout games. These new quests are a welcome addition and only serve to help you explore the wasteland, as well as providing you with some pretty decent new gear like the Enclave Power Armour. But even without these new additions, there is still plenty on the game that I didn’t explore during my last playthrough that will keep me busy for a long time.

Speaking of surprises, it wouldn’t be a true Bethesda experience without a few bugs rearing their ugly heads along the way. Some of these are new and exciting bugs, like total game crashes, that crop up during important times, and others are like old friends that have been there since the beginning; Cambridge Police Station, I’m looking at you. Like war, some bugs never change.

But despite the occasional hiccup, diving back into Fallout 4 has been nothing short of exhilarating. Whether I’m embarking on quests, building and customizing settlements, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of this richly detailed world, there’s never a dull moment in the Commonwealth.

So, as I continue my journey through the wasteland, I invite you to join me on this adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned survivor or a newcomer to the series, there’s never been a better time to experience all that Fallout 4 has to offer.

Until next time, happy exploring, fellow survivors!

Exploring New Horizons: My Journey of Posting Short Stories on TikTok

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

With my writing journey in full flow and five books under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for fresh, innovative ways to tell my stories. Recently, I discovered an unexpected but ideal platform to share my work: TikTok.

Now, I know what you’re thinking—TikTok is for teenagers, dance challenges, and lip-syncing. Well, not entirely. Believe it or not, TikTok is becoming a thriving space for creative storytelling, and I’ve jumped right in. But no, you won’t find me narrating my tales while doing inane dances. I’m not that desperate—at least, not yet!

Instead, I’ve found a unique way to share my short stories through a series of slides. Each slide unravels a part of the story, creating a captivating visual and narrative experience. So far, the response has been good. My stories have been well-received, and I’m gradually building a community of followers and viewers for future stories.

My primary genre on TikTok is horror—something about the platform’s quick pace and visual capabilities makes it perfect for delivering spine-chilling stories.

Finding inspiration has been a journey in itself. Here’s where I’ve been drawing my ideas from:

1. Picture Prompts:
A picture is worth a thousand words, or in my case, a thousand terrifying scenarios. Sometimes, a single image can spark an entire story. I browse through images and let my imagination run wild, creating narratives that often take unexpected and eerie turns.

2. Word Prompts:
I was an avid participant in vss365, a vibrant Twitter community that provided daily word prompts for very short stories (VSS). While vss365 is no longer active, I’ve continued the tradition with suggestions from my TikTok followers. Each prompt is a seed, and my job is to nurture it into a full-blown, gripping story.

3. Song Lyrics:
Music has always been a source of inspiration for me. Recently, I’ve started crafting stories based on songs and their lyrics. There’s something magical about translating the emotions and imagery of a song into a narrative. It’s like giving the song a second life through words. This adds another level complexity to writing the stories and really makes me think.

4. User Suggestions:
Engagement is key on TikTok, and I love involving my audience in the creative process. I ask for story ideas and prompts, and their suggestions often lead me down fascinating new paths. This interaction not only keeps my content fresh but also strengthens my connection with my followers.

These diverse sources of inspiration have been incredibly fun and creatively stimulating. They’ve allowed me to explore different angles and styles, pushing me to think outside the box. Plus, they’ve been a fantastic way to flex my writing muscles, especially during times when my focus was more on academic writing than creative storytelling.

Why TikTok?

You might wonder why I chose TikTok over other platforms. Here are a few reasons:

  • Visual Storytelling: TikTok’s format is perfect for combining narrative and visuals, making stories more engaging.
  • Bite-Sized Content: The platform’s short video format forces me to be concise and impactful, which is a great exercise in brevity.
  • Community Interaction: The instant feedback and interaction with followers help me improve and adapt my storytelling techniques.
  • Viral Potential: The chance to reach a massive audience is always there, and it’s exciting to see how far my stories can go.

So, if you’re a writer looking to explore new ways of storytelling or a reader eager for fresh, bite-sized tales, TikTok might just be the perfect place. It’s an evolving space where creativity knows no bounds, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.

Feel free to follow my journey on TikTok, share your thoughts, and maybe even drop a prompt or two. Happy storytelling!

Revisiting the PlayStation Vita

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

The PlayStation Vita was released back in 2011 (Japan) and 2012 (Europe) and was the successor to the PSP, which was released in 2004/05.

I bought my PSVita in 2013 on a whim because I wanted to check it out. I bought it with Spy Hunter and Mortal Kombat, which kept me busy for a while before I figured out what other games took my fancy. It was my first PlayStation console since the PS2ꟷI hadn’t yet bought a PS3.

To begin with, I was impressed with the Vita. The screen was a decent size for playing on and being able to see it (back then, anyway, my eyesight has only gone downhill since then). It had a decent weight to it, and the buttons were a decent size for those of us with fat fingers. I also really liked the touchpad on the back which admittedly can only be used with some games, but still, it’s a nice feature (more on this later). All in all, I enjoyed playing on a handheld, which I hadn’t really done since I got my Nintendo 3DS a few years earlier. But the Vita seemed a bit different and just overall better. I enjoyed playing the Vita so much that it led me to buy my PS3, well, that and the release of The Last of Us.

All this being said, I hadn’t played on the Vita for a while until I recently re-discovered it and thought I’d jump back into some of the games that I played (oh, God) a decade ago. I’ll go through some of my favourites below.

Tearaway is a third-person papercraft platforming game that was released in 2013. The game makes use of pretty much all of the features of the Vita. There are sections that require you to punch through paper on the floor using the touchpad on the back, others where you take photos of your surroundings, and still others where you have to use the touchscreen to draw on coloured paper to cut out things for the various characters.

Tearaway was such a blast for me. It really stood out because it didn’t just stick to the usual platforming routine. Instead, it got me involved in the game in ways I never expected, thanks to the Vita’s cool features. I mean, being able to interact with the game using the touch controls and cameras was pretty cool. And let’s not forget about unlocking the papercraft things you could actually make; that was a neat touch.

Going back to Tearaway now I was able to jump back in with no problems and really enjoyed going back into the papery world. From then, to now, the game hasn’t lost anything and is still worth playing now. It makes me want to go back to the remake that was done for the PS4…in fact, I probably will.

Lone Survivor: Director’s Cut for the PSVita is a survival horror game that plunges players into a nightmarish world filled with psychological twists and eerie atmospheres. Originally released in 2013, this Director’s Cut edition, tailored for the PSVita, introduced enhanced gameplay mechanics, additional story elements, and refined visuals, further immersing players in its haunting narrative. As the protagonist navigates through the shadowy corridors of his own psyche, confronting monsters and unravelling mysteries, the game delivers a chilling and unforgettable experience for handheld gaming enthusiasts.

One night I was trawling the PlayStation store looking for something new to play when I came across Lone Survivor. After viewing the trailer and whatnot, I decided that it was something I’d enjoy. I mean, retro art style and horror how can you go wrong with that? Unlike most survival horror games (like Dead Space and Resident Evil VII), I actually had no issues playing it because I was too much of a wuss to carry on.

Unlike Tearaway, Lone Survivor doesn’t make use of the technical doo-hickys that the Vita has available, but it still works on a handheld system. If anything, the game benefits from the small screen because it adds to the dark, claustrophobic feeling that you get when playing a survival horror. Plus, with its multiple endings and scenarios, it’s got that replayability that you want from a game. This replayability came in handy when I went back to the game recently. It was easy to start a new game and go about making the various choices, because by now I’ve forgotten most of what was in the game and how to get it.

Lemmings Touch for the PSVita is an addictive puzzle game released in 2014. As the title suggests, it brings the classic Lemmings gameplay to the touch screen, allowing players to guide their adorable Lemmings through various obstacles and challenges using intuitive touch controls. With its nostalgic appeal and clever level design, Lemmings Touch offers a delightful experience for fans of the series and newcomers alike.

I couldn’t not buy Lemmings Touch. I mean, c’mon, it’s Lemmings! Ever since playing Lemmings on the Commodore 64 years and years ago, I’ve been a fan of the suicidal little buggers, so when I saw a newer version for the Vita, it was a must. Now this is a game that lends itself to a touchscreen. Being able to quickly tap where you want them to go and what you want them to use is handy for the harder levels or where you have to act quickly. I spent countless hours playing this game and replaying the later levels that I suck at.

When I came back to my Vita I had honestly forgotten that I’d bought Lemmings Touch. So it was a great surprise to see it installed on the home screen. I got straight back and did a few levels and remembered just why I love Lemmings games. They’re simple, but with a small level of difficulty on them and this game is no exception. Other than the graphics and level design which have been updated, there’s really nothing new in Lemmings Touch, and that’s okay. You could keep churning out similar Lemmings games, and I would still want to play them because they will always have a special place in my heart.

I did play a couple of other games, but nothing else that I’ve put time into. All in all, though, I’ve enjoyed going back to the Vita, and I feel like in another ten years, if I have put it down again, I will have similar experiences when I pick it back up again as I did when I recently went back to the original Gameboy. Although not as nostalgic at this point as an older console, the PSVita still has some good memories for me and I highly recommend going back to yours, or if you’ve never played one, picking one up and giving it a blast. I’m pretty sure you won’t be disappointed.

Another Year Over

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

My final uni assessment for the current academic year was submitted a couple of weeks ago—a creative piece for children about a girl and her imaginary friend—so it means that I finally have no academic work to do. My second (technically third) year of university is over with, and I finally have some time to do other things rather than stressing about deadlines.

Compared to my other years, this one has been for more stressful and busy. A lot to read, a lot to write and a lot to revise (for my first exam since I was in college 20 years ago).

With all this free time I have, other than doing some jobs around the house, like painting walls and fixing a few things around the house. We’ve already been gardening, finally getting our trees out of pots and Into the ground; I will be taking some time to do more book/story writing, which I feel like I’ve not done enough of recently. Although having said that, I did spend some time working on a Creatures remaster and the Creatures Collection, which I released a few weeks back.

New stuff-wise, though, I’ve got a lot of stuff I’ve been working on, but what I really want to finish is the short story that I’m writing based on a 30-minute screenplay I wrote for a uni assignment. It’s titled Maze of Fears and is set in a Halloween corn maze in Iowa with a bunch of friends that start to be haunted. The script did really well in class, so I’m hoping as a short story, I can add more depth to it. I’m not sure what else I want to work on, but I’m sure whatever wants to be written will make itself known.

In addition to this, I want to get back into regularly posting blogs and reviews and update everything on the website so it’s a little more…well…up to date. I will also post regular stories and other writing content on my social media sites, including my TikTok, which I’m still trying to figure out.

And, I will be doing all this while still doing my physio for my hip-—which is hurting more again—making sure that Athena stays out of trouble, which is no easy task.

All in all, I’m looking forward to the next few months, and I’m going to do my utmost to make the best of it before I go back for my final year of uni in September.

Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden (Review)

~ Gareth Ellis ~ Leave a comment

Banishers: Ghost of New Eden is an action RPG that was released on February 13, 2024, for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Windows.

In this game, players take on the roles of Antea Duarte and Red Mac Raith, a duo of ghost hunters embarking on a mission to explore the eerie town of New Eden. However, their investigation takes a haunting turn when Duarte herself becomes a ghost. Players must utilize Raith’s arsenal of conventional weapons alongside Duarte’s spectral powers to fend off menacing foes. Throughout the game, players will face pivotal decisions that shape the unfolding narrative.

Banishers is a game that I was looking forward to since it was announced purely based on the game studio’s previous offering, a game I’ve talked about before_ Vampyr.

I loved Vampyr, despite its flaws *cough* constant crashing *cough*, so I just knew that Banishers would be a game for me.

Some elements of Banishers are very similar to Vampyr in that you can choose to kill or not to kill, you have melee and shooting combat skills, and you wander around completing quests for various people around the map.

The map for Banishers is a lot bigger than the map of London that Vampyr had, which allows for much wider wandering. It also means that there is a lot more to do. Activities range from the previously mentioned quests to burial grounds-–where waves of enemies come at you–to scourge sits, where a harder boss-like enemy spawns. There are also numerous different types of chests to open, some locked with keys, others where you have to perform rituals to unlock them, and more that you can just open. With all this, there is plenty to keep you busy between mainline quests if you want to take a break or level up some before your next encounter.

The combat, as I said, uses a combination of melee and firearms, which allows for various combinations. Along with this you also have the charge abilities that for one character allow you to banish, which will take off a larger chunk of health, or for the ghost character a move whereby the character channels through their corporeal counterpart for a prolonged barrage of lethal attacks. This combat system is pretty simple, but it’s effective. There aren’t a wide range of different weapons, only similar weapons that do varying degrees of damage or have special stats. Again, this works pretty well for the most part.

The RPG system, the levelling up of characters’ abilities, can be a little clunky at times, and I have to say that I still don’t completely understand it. You have two different types of points, one for Red’s abilities and one for Antea’s. But you seem to be only able to select certain ones in combination with others. Several times, I’ve tried to put a point in a perk, and it’s removed one from something else. At times, this can be frustrating as you can’t put points into something you want when they’re on something else. I’m getting used to it now, but it could be so much better.

Aside from the mainline quests, of which there are a lot, there are even more side quests, some that only become available depending on how you react to other quests. For example, if you decide to “blame” a character during a quest (basically to kill the character being haunted), you won’t have a quest available to you later from that character. Whereas if you banish the ghost that is haunting them, you will. Additionally, with these quests, you decide how people will react to you when talking to them. If you do an action that a character doesn’t like, they may not speak to you or just give you the cold shoulder. Likewise, if the character has a shop, they won’t give you the best price for their or your items when you want to buy or sell. Of course, on the flip side, if they’re happy with you, then they’ll give you a better price for items and equipment. This all means that your actions do actually have an impact on how you play the game, and if you want to experience all the game has to offer, then you’ll have to do multiple play-throughs, selecting different actions each time.

The quests themselves range in what you need to do. Some have you following spectral residues or finding items, and others have you investigating a haunting or travelling through void spaces to defect spectres. Though there are a few different types of quests, they don’t feel as repetitive as they could. They’re well mixed up, so you’re not necessarily doing the same type of quest one after another. All this adds to the overall longevity of the game.

Earlier, I mentioned how Vampyr, a good game that it was, had a lot of issues with crashing. So far, I’ve had three or four similar crashes on Banishers, but nothing that is game-breaking or that causes me to lose too much progress. They also haven’t happened for a while, so, touch wood, it’s not going to happen again.

For the trophy/achievement hunters out there, I feel like they’re all achievable and also very enjoyable to get without too much effort, apart from the multiple play-throughs.

Overall, I’m really enjoying Banishers so far, and it has surpassed my expectations despite its few issues. The game is a solid 9/10, and I’m going to play through it as much as I can to see everything I can.