Retro Video Games Corner: A Bug’s Life

Retro Video Games Corner:  A Bug’s Life

 · Dominic Aveiro

I hate this game. ‘Hate’, is a term thrown about very loosely nowadays but this monstrosity absolutely deserves it. This is actually the first game that made me question the existence of God, prompting me to lift my head to the heavens and cry out, “Why don’t you love me?!” As I take a gulp, with a tear running down my cheek, I lift up my PlayStation One controller and realise it’s time to revisit ‘A Bug’s Life’.

 

Do not be fooled by Disney’s colourful, kid-friendly image. They may produce films that cause your heart to melt like butter in a microwave, but they also make  video games. This is where I draw the line with this seemingly cuddly organisation. Granted, there are some good Disney games, but ‘A Bug’s Life’ is not one of them. As soon as the game begins, you are intoxicated with mediocre graphics, terrible music and gameplay that makes you want to pull your own hair out. I know I’m supposed to help this ant colony collect food so they aren’t crushed by deadly grasshoppers, but I find myself doing everything incorrectly so that they are all horrendously murdered.

Karma hurts, eh Disney? 

Enrichment Review: Orchestra

Enrichment Review

· Kaoru Kodama

What: Orchestra

When: Fridays 1-2pm

Where: Music Centre

Anybody who plays an instrument is welcome. The college orchestra has weekly practices to develop skills and work towards performances. Students can suggest pieces they would like to try, and the instructor will alter it to suit all levels of musical ability. The orchestra would like to have as many members as possible, especially in the strings area. Their next performance is at Twickenham Town Hall, York House, on the December 7^th at 7.30pm. This is a great opportunity to develop your musical talent! For more info, contact Peter Garvey - peter.garvey@rutc.ac.uk

Book review: If You Could See Me Now by Cecilia Ahern

 Book: If You Could See Me Now by Cecilia Ahern

· Jade Smith

 ‘If You Could See Me Now’ is the highly imaginative and thought-provoking third novel by the best-selling author of ‘PS, I Love You’. It focuses on the boring but serious Elizabeth and how the so-called ‘imaginary’ friend of her nephew’s helps her turn her life around. Ivan, who is invisible, except to those who need a friend, is a wild and wonderfully childlike character who captures the hearts of both Elizabeth and the reader.

  Cecelia Ahern switches the point of view repeatedly throughout the tale, allowing the reader to learn more about the various characters. This is a fantastic technique as the story never gets boring. From Elizabeth’s logical thoughts, to Ivan’s playful view of the world, each character’s voice is heard and their personality is brought to life. The love between the two main characters is wonderfully developed, and feels real as the reader can see the gradual change in their feelings for each other.

  The beauty of this book is that is leaves the reader to come to their own conclusions as to who or what Ivan really is. Like all of Cecelia’s books, we are left with the feeling that not everything can be explained. Overall, it is a heart-warming read and proves to us that there is magic in the world for everyone – even those who aren’t looking for it. A film adaptation of the book is scheduled for release next year.

Enrichment review: Badminton

Enrichment Review

· Kaoru Kodama

What: Badminton

When: Friday 1pm-2pm approx.

Where: Sports Hall

How: Just turn up (although places are limited to 20, so first come, first served) and the instructor will register you in.

Here is further information for those interested: first 10 minutes or so is warm-up; casual practice with a partner, then you can choose to either continue playing casually or actually learn new moves and improve your skills. The instructor will give the wanting-to-learn group some useful tips and you can try them out with your partner and have matches. The instructor will teach you a different skill each week so no rigorous commitment to attendance necessary. Recommended for its quick, easy and fun workout with your friends and new people during Friday lunchtimes.