The gaming industry has become a multibillion-dollar-a-year business, and many of the most popular games have found their way into everyday language andculture. The news probably doesn’t shock many hard-core gamers, who say today’s best games create virtual worlds so engaging that playing them can actually be compared to taking a vacation. For instance, in describing a video gamecalled “Myst IV Revelation,” Time magazine recently said, “Most impressive is that every scene looks like a moving photograph of a magical, mysterious place.” The series of “Myst” adventures has been among the most popular and highest-selling computer games ever. The latest addition to the series, “Myst IV Revelation,” presents gamers with new graphics described as even more visually stunning than those in the first version. The game’s A.L.I.V.E. feature helps make the game seem more lifelike—trees blow in the breeze, clouds float through the sky and insects scurry about. The gaming experience is further enhanced by an ambient soundtrack written by award-winning composer Jack Wall, with a song written and performed by world-renowned recording artist Peter Gabriel. The plot of the game is a continuation of the story that has been developed in the “Myst” series—yet first-time players should have no problem jumping rightin. The game centers on a grip- ping and suspenseful family drama. A little girl has disappeared and her two brothers are N oe A number of computer games are designed to provide players with a sense of escape, adventure and mystery. suspected. Players face numerous challenges and adventures as they attempt to solve the mystery and discover the fate of the villainous brothers, Sirrus and Achenar. Understanding the brothers’ motives is key to the investigation, and according to the game’s maker, Ubisoft, will lead players to a true revelation: Players will discover answers in “Myst IV” to questions posed in the original game. The game uses a variety of high-tech features to aid players in their quest. For instance, a new “help” system provides hints and clues and an integrated camera allows players to take pictures and record their findings in a personal journal. The information can then be used at later points in the adventure to help players on their journey. For more information, visit www.mystrevelation.com.
