Video games are messed up. That’s why I love them

The logic of the real world doesn't apply [to video games] ... In Age of Empires, a strategy game I played endlessly when I was younger, you can set castles ablaze by shooting them with arrows. In The Elder Scrolls, you can cure diseases through prayer.

The Queen’s Gambit: Double Review

After watching Netflix's The Queen's Gambit, Sophie and I found that we had much to discuss - and disagree about. I suggested we put our contrasting views into writing and publish them side-by-side. What follows is the result. Enjoy, and be sure to let us know what you think in the comments below. Alone, but...

Consumerism, Populism and Short-Term Fixes: Why ‘Trash of the Titans’ is The Simpsons’ Most Important Episode

This episode explores, with startling pertinence, the consumerism that drives our cherished national holidays, the seductive power of populism and the dangers of seeking quick fixes to big problems

Stories, and what they mean to me

The other day, my friend invited me to talk on Student Radio Maastricht, the radio show he works on. The topic of the evening's discussion would be stories - what they are, how they've evolved, why they matter to us. I thought it was a great topic; I’ve always loved stories. When I was a...