The Buzz...About Books

What’s great about video games nowadays is that there's simply so many different ones already out on the market, covering a wide array of ideas and themes. It doesn’t matter who you are, you will almost always find something out there which aligns with your interests or piques your curiosity in one way or another. Case in point, this article is all about what your friendly neighbourhood librarians are playing right now! Let’s take a look shall we?  

Cuphead

Hamid - Librarian - Agincourt Branch.

"Currently I am re-playing Cuphead by Studio MDHR on my Nintendo Switch. It is a run-and-gun game with platforming levels and an art style reminiscent of Max & Dave Fleischer animation from the 1930 & 40s. The game is brutally hard in a way that makes you feel satisfied when you finally complete a level or boss, which reminds me of old school arcade games of old. Speaking of old school arcade games, Cuphead had a number of Easter eggs and references to classic games. The game was developed by two brothers from Oakville, who mortgaged their homes to support development of the game. I have enjoyed this game so much that I've bought it 4 times (Steam, GOG, XBox, Switch) and with rumors of a physical Switch coming out soon that number will likely go up to 5 - at a price point of $20 you can't go wrong."

Sidequests

Title is self explanatory - don't know where to start gaming? Here's your top 50 check list.

Every dreamed of becoming a Disney animator, and attending CalArts where you'll be instructed by Disney's 9 old men, the original master Disney animators? This book offers just that and is, "a vital tutorial for students who are now poised to be part of another new generation in the art form."

This book goes over the development of the Disney Animation style, and walks through the 12 principles of animation.

Fire Emblem Heroes

Raymond - Librarian - Toronto Reference Library.

"Fire Emblem Heroes is a free-to-play mobile role-playing game available on both iOS and Android. This game is a spin-off of the popular Fire Emblem franchise and features characters from across the series' 29 year life span. The gameplay is turn-based and tactical, involving tile-based maps and characters with different movement and attacking abilities.

To obtain characters, players must try their luck on the Japanese “gacha” system, which is essentially a randomized slot machine. You must use an in-game currency called orbs to roll for additional characters. There are almost 400 characters to obtain, and new ones are released every few weeks. Orbs can be earned by completing missions or purchased using money. The game has grossed over $500 million which should give you a hint of how addictive it can be! What makes the game so special? It's a mix of fantastic art and voice acting, dazzling combat animations, and good old nostalgia for long time fans of the franchise. The newest Fire Emblem game, Three Houses, is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch on July 26, 2019."

Sidequests

There’s not many materials related to Fire Emblem, but check out this good book on Japanese Animation!

NBA 2K19

Jonathan - Librarian - Barbara Frum Branch.

"Playing video games at the Youth Hub is a great way for teens to build connections and get to know each other (and me!) in a low pressure and fun environment. NBA 2K19 is the all-time Youth Hub favourite. From Albion to Cedarbrae, #WeTheNorth ! This game is easy to pick up, but difficult to master. It also encourages teamwork, cooperation, and obviously - friendly competition among teens.

I see video games as a great opportunity to get teens working in a team environment. Games such as NBA 2K19 allows teens to showcase their passion for basketball.  In particular, the 2-on-2 pick up games are super entertaining to take part in and watch. The game's soundtrack is undeniably catchy as well.

And true to my own competitive spirit, what can I say... I love winning (or trying to win) versus the teens at their favourite games!"

Sidequests

2K19 offers, like this book, a great opportunity for everyone to brush up on their knowledge of basketball!

The game's soundtrack is undeniably catchy! Personal favourites include tracks from Travis Scott and Migos' albums.

Now it's your turn! We'd love to know which video games you've been playing lately and any library materials which you think might go well with that experience. Share in the comments below!