Hey guys! It’s been a while since my last Whatchu Doin’. Since then, I’ve slowly become accustomed to being 21 and the extra level of adultness it’s brings with it. Luckily, I’ve still been able to fit some me time in between all this growing up! So here’s what I’ve been up to lately.
Watching
I recently got my tonsils out, which meant that I was house bound for roughly two weeks. Naturally, I needed to do something to stop myself from cracking up. At first I was indecisive about what I should invest my time into, but due to lack of energy I settled on a TV show. When I was trying to decide what to watch, I suddenly remembered watching The US Office in Spain with my cousins when I was younger. Crammed around the smallest portable DVD player in the world, we watched episode after episode late into the sweltering heat of the night. I loved every second of it and I had the urge to return to that moment.
Although it wasn’t quite the same watching it on my own, my love for The US Office hasn’t diminished. I know it’s not for everyone, but I love the documentary style humour so much. I also think the characters are so believable and developed. You genuinely can’t help but invest in them as the show progresses. Especially Jim and Pam, Dwight and Michael.
So far I’m five series in, and while the pace of the show has slowed down considerably, it’s still engaging. I love the awkward romantic subplots between Dwight and Angela. Honestly, I think the writers developed this storyline with excellent attention to detail. And obviously, I’m obsessed with and irrationally jealous of Pam and Jim’s relationship. This, topped with Steve Carrell’s undeniable and well-timed talent for humour, has me looking forward to what the next 4 series hold.
Reading
In my last column, I mentioned that my mam had bought me the third Walking Dead compendium for my birthday. Since then, I’ve read the entire thing, and loved every second of the 47 issues it contains. Honestly, if you’re in any way a fan of the show, read the comics. They are on an entirely different level.
Through the medium of graphic novel, the storyline of The Walking Dead develops at a nicer pace than that of the show. While they can sometimes feel fast paced, the comics have a natural flow to them which is absent from the TV series. Similarly, there is a lot less confusion involved in the comics. Everything seems to make sense, and you aren’t left confused (unlike after watching any episode from the current series).
Also, the concept of a post-apocalyptic world seems more comfortable in a graphic novel than on a TV screen. Something about seeing the adventures of Rick and his gang in comic book seems natural. And there’s none of that incredulity the TV show can’t seem to shake.
Let’s just put it this way. Seeing a tiger in a zombie filled world on paper is a cool and unique addition. However, on TV it just seems ridiculous and quizzical.
Whenever I’m not reading about zombies, I’m usually reading my favourite magazine: Edge. Honestly, I’ve only gotten into gaming magazines recently, but Edge is by far the best. Their writing style and unique slant on gaming news is refreshing. Usually, when I read any kind of gaming magazine or website, I feel like I’m getting some sort of propaganda shoved down my throat.
However, Edge really tend to stay away from overly promoting the games that generate the most buzz. Instead, they focus on what make games so appealing and the extensive details involved in making a video game. There’s something really genuine about their publication, and I’d love to write for them one day in my future.
This month’s issue is also really intriguing – a Japanese special, focused on Monster Hunter: World.
Playing
Recently all my attention has been consumed by one game and one game only. Call of Duty: WW2. Ever since I read Edge’s exclusive on the game, I’ve been super hyped for its release. The extensive research the creators put into this game is mind-blowing. They went to a great effort to enrich themselves in the history of World War II, and understand its importance.
And honestly I can’t say I’m disappointed. Their attention to detail is most definitely tangible throughout all of its game modes. I can’t fault any of the aspect of the game so far. The multiplayer gameplay has truly gone back to CoD’s roots and offers both a nostalgic and all together refreshing experience. The creators of the game have somehow made it feel familiar but altogether exciting at the same time; which is an impressive feat.
As for Nazi Zombies, this game mode could easily be sold as a separate video game. It’s that enjoyable. The CoD team have really stepped it up this time. This game mode feels almost like a classic horror game, with jump scares and tension galore. And what’s more, you can play as David Tennant. How cool is that? The only fault with this mode so far is that it’s a little too easy. But with a few more challenging maps, I’m sure this can be rectified.
I haven’t completed the story mode of the game yet, but I think it’s amazing so far. I’m actually a little annoyed I didn’t start it sooner. The storyline is extremely engaging and worth investing time in. The characters are really interesting and I’m genuinely excited to see what will happen to Daniels and Zussman especially. I just hope it’s a happier ending than previous CoD installations…
That being said, if you’re not a CoD fan doubt it’ll change your opinion of the franchise. However, if you’ve enjoyed the games previously, you’re in for a treat.
What have you guys been up to recently? Let us know in the comments below!
