Good sound design may be one of the most distinctive aspects of a game’s experience. For example, the team for Knockout City had to make sure that the sound effect of a player’s successful dodgeball hit was distinct enough — a resounding “thwack!” — to inform the player when they’ve knocked someone out, as players would likely throw a ball then hide quickly to avoid being hit. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
