Are you interested in creating unique and engaging music for your video game? Are you looking for inspiration from the classic games of yesteryear? Look no further, as this article delves into the world of vintage core game themes and the bands that have used them to create memorable and catchy tunes.

Vintage Core Game Themes: A Brief History

Before we dive into the world of bands using vintage core game themes, let’s take a brief look at the history of these classic game themes. Vintage core game themes are often associated with the early days of video gaming, when games were simpler and more focused on the music. These themes were typically composed by talented musicians who were passionate about creating memorable tunes that would stick in players’ minds long after the game was over.

One of the earliest examples of a vintage core game theme is the iconic “Pac-Man” theme, which was created by Tommy Tallarico and Billy Joel. The theme has become synonymous with the classic arcade game and continues to be used in various forms of media today. Another example is the “Super Mario Bros.” theme, composed by Koichi Sugiyama. This theme has been used in numerous games, movies, and other forms of media, and remains one of the most recognizable and beloved themes in video game history.

The Power of Vintage Core Game Themes

Why do vintage core game themes continue to be popular today? One reason is their nostalgia value. These themes transport players back to a simpler time when video games were more innocent and fun. They also evoke strong emotions in players, as they associate the music with specific memories and experiences from their childhood.

Another reason for the continued popularity of vintage core game themes is their versatility. These themes can be used in a variety of contexts, including video games, movies, commercials, and even live performances. They are also often remixed and reinterpreted by contemporary musicians, which adds a modern twist to these classic tunes.

Bands That Have Used Vintage Core Game Themes

Now that we have a better understanding of the power of vintage core game themes, let’s take a look at some bands that have used them in their music.

• Nintendo Power Stars
• 8 Bit Weapon
• Chiptune Orchestra
• Bitwave Orchestras

Case Studies: How Bands Have Used Vintage Core Game Themes

Let’s take a closer look at some specific examples of how these bands have used vintage core game themes in their music.

• Nintendo Power Stars: In their hit song “Power Star,” the band takes inspiration from the iconic “Super Mario Bros.” theme, adding a modern twist with contemporary instruments and a catchy chorus. The song has been featured in numerous live performances and concerts, as well as in video games and movies.



• 8 Bit Weapon: In their hit song “Ghosts & Goblins,” the band takes inspiration from the classic game theme of the same name. The song features a driving beat and catchy melody that is sure to get stuck in your head for days to come.
• Chiptune Orchestra: In their hit song “Final Fantasy VII,” the band takes inspiration from the classic game theme of the same name.

Nintendo Power Stars

Nintendo Power Stars is a band known for their catchy tunes, which are often inspired by classic video games. Their music is upbeat and energetic, and has been featured in numerous live performances and concerts.

8 Bit Weapon

8 Bit Weapon is a band that specializes in creating music that sounds like it was made for classic video games. Their music is heavily influenced by the retro sound of 8-bit systems and has been used in various video games and movies.

Chiptune Orchestra

Chiptune Orchestra takes a more classical approach to chiptune music, incorporating elements of orchestral instruments into their compositions. Their music has been featured in numerous live performances and concerts, as well as in various video games and movies.

Bitwave Orchestras

Bitwave Orchestras combines elements of chiptune and orchestral music to create a unique and powerful sound. Their music has been used in various video games and movies, as well as in live performances and concerts.

Introduction

Video games have become an integral part of our lives in recent years. They provide entertainment, relaxation, and even social interaction. However, excessive gaming can lead to addiction, which can negatively impact one’s mental health, relationships, and productivity.

Understanding Video Game Addiction

Video game addiction, also known as internet addiction or online gaming addiction, is a behavioral disorder characterized by an excessive and compulsive use of video games to the point of neglecting other important aspects of life. It can be classified as a form of substance abuse, with the brain’s reward centers responding to the dopamine released during gameplay in the same way that they do to drugs like cocaine and opioids (Király & Szabó, 2013).

Signs and Symptoms of Video Game Addiction

The following are some common signs and symptoms of video game addiction:

• Loss of control over gaming: Gamers who are addicted to games may find it difficult to stop playing, even when they know it is affecting their lives negatively. They may also feel the urge to play more frequently or for longer periods of time than intended.
• Neglecting other activities: Video game addiction can lead to neglecting important responsibilities, such as work, school, and relationships, in favor of gaming. This can result in financial problems, relationship breakdowns, and social isolation.
• Impaired judgment and decision-making: Gamers who are addicted may struggle with making decisions outside of the game world, including choosing between competing priorities or assessing risk and reward
• Withdrawal symptoms: Like drug users, gamers who are addicted to video games may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and depression when they try to cut back on their gaming or quit altogether (Dickinson & Griffiths, 2014)
• Obsessive thinking about gaming: Gamers who are addicted may spend a lot of time thinking about the game, planning their next play session, or thinking about strategies for improving their performance.

Effects of Video Game Addiction

Video game addiction can have severe consequences on individuals and society as a whole. Some of the effects of video game addiction include:

• Mental health problems: Studies have shown that video game addiction can lead to depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health problems (Hamari et al., 2015). It can also increase the risk of suicide in severe cases (Andersen et al., 2013)
• Social isolation: Gamers who are addicted may withdraw from social activities, leading to feelings of loneliness and social isolation (Griffiths & Wood, 2012)
• Financial problems: Video game addiction can lead to financial problems due to the time and money spent on gaming, as well as the loss of income if a person’s addiction leads to job loss or other issues.
• Relationship breakdowns: Gamers who are addicted may neglect their relationships with family and friends, leading to breakdowns in communication and emotional disconnection.
• Decreased productivity: Video game addiction can lead to decreased productivity at work or school, as well as a decrease in overall life satisfaction.

Strategies for Managing Video Game Addiction

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing video game addiction, the following strategies have been found to be effective:

1. Self-awareness and reflection: Gamers who are addicted should start by becoming more aware of their behavior and reflecting on how gaming is affecting their lives. This can help them identify triggers and patterns that contribute to their addiction.
2. Setting limits: Gamers who are addicted should set limits on the time they spend playing games, as well as the types of games they play. For example, they may choose to limit themselves to specific times of the day or week, or only play games that are less likely to trigger their addiction.
3. Prioritizing other activities: Gamers who are addicted should prioritize other activities in their lives, such as work, school, relationships, and hobbies. This can help them maintain a healthy balance and avoid neglecting important responsibilities.
4. Seeking support: Gamers who are addicted should seek support from friends, family, or professional help, such as a therapist or addiction counselor. Support groups for video game addiction can also be helpful.
5. Developing alternative activities: Gamers who are addicted should develop alternative activities that they enjoy and find fulfilling outside of gaming. This can help them maintain a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives.

Case Study: A Game Developer’s Journey to Recovery

John was a game developer who became addicted to video games several years ago. He spent countless hours playing games, neglecting his work and relationships, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when he tried to cut back on his gaming. John’s addiction led to financial problems, relationship breakdowns, and a decrease in overall life satisfaction.

One day, John realized that he needed help with his addiction. He sought support from a therapist who specialized in addiction counseling, as well as joining a support group for video game addiction. John also set limits on the time he spent playing games and developed alternative activities that he enjoyed, such as reading and exercising.

With time, John was able to overcome his addiction and regain control over his life. He reconnected with his family and friends, improved his productivity at work, and experienced a sense of purpose and fulfillment outside of gaming.

Conclusion

Video game addiction is a real issue that can negatively impact individuals and society as a whole. It is important for game developers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of video game addiction and take steps to manage it before it becomes a problem in their lives. By prioritizing other activities, seeking support, and developing alternative activities, gamers can overcome their addiction and regain control over their lives.

FAQs

1. Is video game addiction a real disorder?

Answer: While video game addiction is not currently recognized as a formal diagnostic category by the American Psychiatric Association, it has been classified as a potential disorder by some researchers.

2. How common is video game addiction?

Answer: It is estimated that 6% of the population meets the criteria for internet addiction, and this number may be higher among gamers (Hamari et al., 2015).

3. What are some common signs and symptoms of video game addiction?

Answer: Loss of control over gaming, neglecting other activities, impaired judgment and decision-making, withdrawal symptoms, and obsessive thinking about gaming are some common signs and symptoms of video game addiction.

4. How can video game addiction affect individuals?

Answer: Video game addiction can lead to mental health problems, social isolation, financial problems, relationship breakdowns, and decreased productivity.

5. What strategies can be effective in managing video game addiction?

Answer: Self-awareness and reflection, setting limits, prioritizing other activities, seeking support, and developing alternative activities are some effective strategies for managing video game addiction.

What is 8-bit Music?

8-bit music refers to the type of music used in video games that were developed in the 1980s. These games were created using an 8-bit processor, which allowed for the creation of a limited number of colors and sounds. The term “8-bit” comes from the fact that the processor has eight bits, which is equal to one byte.

The reason why 8-bit music is still used today is because it evokes a sense of nostalgia and reminds people of the classic games they played as children. It also has a unique sound that cannot be replicated by modern technology. The limited number of colors and sounds made it possible to create memorable melodies and catchy tunes that are still popular today.

History of 8-bit Music

The history of 8-bit music can be traced back to the early days of video game development. In the 1970s, game developers began experimenting with different sounds and music to create more immersive gaming experiences. One of the earliest examples of 8-bit music was in the popular video game “Pac-Man,” which was released in 1980.

The creator of Pac-Man, Tomohiro Nishikado, used an eight-channel sound generator to create the game’s iconic chime sound. This sound became so popular that it was later featured in a commercial for Coca-Cola in Japan. Other games that featured 8-bit music include “Super Mario Bros.,” “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time,” and “Mega Man.”

How does 8-bit Music Work?

To understand how 8-bit music works, we need to know a bit about how an 8-bit processor works. An 8-bit processor has eight bits, which is equal to one byte. Each bit can represent two values: 0 or 1. This means that an 8-bit processor can represent 256 different values.

To create music with an 8-bit processor, game developers use a technique called “patterned sound.” In this technique, the sound is created by playing different notes in a specific pattern. The pattern is then repeated to create the final melody.

One of the challenges of creating 8-bit music is that it has limited resources, such as memory and processing power. This means that game developers have to be creative when it comes to creating melodies and tunes. They often use repetition and simple patterns to create memorable melodies that can be played on limited hardware.

Significance of 8-bit Music in Modern Gaming

Despite the fact that video games have come a long way since the 1980s, the popularity of 8-bit music has endured. This is because it evokes a sense of nostalgia and reminds people of the classic games they played as children.

In modern gaming, 8-bit music is often used to create retro-style games or games that have a retro feel. It is also used in indie games, which are often created by small teams of developers who want to capture the spirit of old-school gaming.

One example of this is the popular game “Super Mario Maker,” which was released in 2015 for the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS consoles. The game features a level editor that allows players to create their own levels using retro-style graphics and music. This has led to the creation of countless user-generated levels, each with its own unique soundtrack.

FAQs

Q: What is 8-bit music?

A: 8-bit music refers to the type of music used in video games that were developed in the 1980s using an 8-bit processor.

Q: What are some examples of games that use 8-bit music?

A: Pac-Man, Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, and Mega Man are all examples of games that use 8-bit music.

Q: Why is 8-bit music still used today?

A: 8-bit music is still used today because it evokes a sense of nostalgia and reminds people of the classic games they played as children. It also has a unique sound that cannot be replicated by modern technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 8-bit music is an important part of video game history and continues to influence modern gaming. Its limited resources forced game developers to be creative when it came to creating memorable melodies and tunes. The nostalgia and unique sound of 8-bit music have made it a popular choice for retro-style games and indie games. If you are a game developer, understanding the history and significance of 8-bit music can help you create more immersive gaming experiences for your players.

The world of video games has come a long way since its inception, with countless titles released over the years. But have you ever stopped to consider which game came first? In this article, we will delve into the history of video games and explore the different claims made for the title of “the first video game.”

The Early Days of Video Games

The concept of a digital game can be traced back to the 1940s, when computer scientists began designing simple simulations and games as part of their research. However, it wasn’t until the 1950s that the first interactive video game was created.

This game, called “OXO,” or noughts and crosses, was designed by Alexander S. Douglas in 1952 on a Cambridge University computer called EDSAC (Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator). “OXO” is considered the first interactive video game because it allowed two players to take turns making moves on a 6×7 grid, with the objective of getting three in a row. However, the game was not designed for entertainment purposes and was more of an exercise in programming and problem-solving than fun.

Another early example of a video game is “Tennis for Two,” which was created in 1958 by William Higinbotham. This simple tennis simulation was displayed on an oscilloscope screen and required players to use a paddle to hit a ball back and forth. While not a true game, “Tennis for Two” was an early demonstration of the potential for interactive entertainment on a computer screen.

The Birth of Arcade Games

The first commercially successful video game was “Spacewar!,” which was created in 1962 by Steve Russell at MIT. This two-player space battle game was played on a DEC PDP-8 computer and quickly gained popularity among computer science students. In fact, the game was so popular that it became a cultural phenomenon and was even featured on the cover of Computer magazine.

The success of “Spacewar!” paved the way for the development of arcade games, which were designed specifically for public amusement. The first commercially successful arcade game was “Pong,” which was created in 1972 by Atari. This simple table tennis simulation quickly became a hit and was installed in bars, restaurants, and other public spaces.

Video Game Consoles

The development of video game consoles revolutionized the industry and opened up new possibilities for game creation and distribution. The first home video game console, the Magnavox Odyssey, was released in 1972 and included a built-in television set, a game controller, and a library of games.

The success of the Magnavox Odyssey led to the development of many other consoles, including the Atari 2600 (1977), Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) (1985), Sega Genesis (1989), and PlayStation (1994). These consoles allowed for the creation and distribution of a wide variety of games, from sports simulations to adventure games to role-playing games.

The Role of Online Gaming

The advent of the internet has also had a significant impact on the video game industry. Online gaming allows players to connect with others from around the world and play games together in real time. This has led to the development of massively multiplayer online games (MMOs) such as World of Warcraft, which have millions of players worldwide.

Online gaming has also given rise to esports, where professional gamers compete in organized tournaments and events. The growth of esports has been fueled by advances in technology, the increasing popularity of video games, and the availability of large cash prizes for winners.

Summary

The history of video games is a fascinating journey that spans over six decades.

Method 1: Split-Screen Mode

Split-screen mode is one of the most popular ways to watch videos while playing games on iPad. This feature allows you to open two apps on your screen at once, allowing you to play a game in one window and watch a video in the other. To use split-screen mode, simply press and hold the home button on your iPad until the multitasking menu appears. Then, drag one app to the left or right side of the screen, depending on which app you want to use first. Once you’ve selected the first app, tap on it to open it in the main window. Then, tap and hold the other app icon until it pops up in a small window next to the main window.

Pros:

Split-screen mode allows you to watch videos while playing games at the same time, making it a convenient option for gamers who want to multitask. You can switch between the two apps seamlessly, which means you don’t have to interrupt your gaming experience when you need to pause the video. Split-screen mode is supported by most apps on iPad, so you can use it with almost any game or video app.

Cons:

Split-screen mode can be distracting if you’re not careful. It’s easy to get lost in the second app and forget about the game you’re playing. Depending on the complexity of the game, split-screen mode can also slow down your gaming experience. This is especially true if you’re using a resource-intensive game or video app. Some apps may not work properly in split-screen mode, which can be frustrating for gamers who want to use both apps at the same time.

Method 2: Picture-in-Picture Mode

Picture-in-picture (PiP) mode is another popular way to watch videos while playing games on iPad. This feature allows you to shrink the video app to a small window that floats above your game, allowing you to continue playing without interruption. To use PiP mode, simply tap on the video app icon in the multitasking menu and drag it down to the bottom of the screen. Then, tap on the home button again and select the game app you want to play.

Pros:

PiP mode allows you to continue playing your game while watching a video without interruption. You can easily switch between the two apps by tapping on the home button and selecting the other app. PiP mode is supported by most apps on iPad, so you can use it with almost any game or video app.

Cons:

PiP mode can be distracting if you’re not careful. It’s easy to get lost in the small window and forget about the game you’re playing. Depending on the complexity of the game, PiP mode can also slow down your gaming experience. This is especially true if you’re using a resource-intensive game or video app. Some apps may not work properly in PiP mode, which can be frustrating for gamers who want to use both apps at the same time.

Method 3: Slide Over Mode

Slide Over mode is another way to watch videos while playing games on iPad. This feature allows you to open a second app on one side of your screen, allowing you to play a game in the main window and watch a video in the secondary window. To use slide over mode, simply tap on the home button on your iPad until the multitasking menu appears. Then, swipe from left to right or right to left, depending on which app you want to use first. Once you’ve selected the first app, tap and hold the other app icon until it pops up in a small window next to the main window.

Pros:

Slide Over mode allows you to play your game while watching a video at the same time, making it a convenient option for gamers who want to multitask. You can switch between the two apps seamlessly, which means you don’t have to interrupt your gaming experience when you need to pause the video. Slide Over mode is supported by most apps on iPad, so you can use it with almost any game or video app.

Cons:

Slide Over mode can be distracting if you’re not careful. It’s easy to get lost in the secondary window and forget about the game you’re playing. Depending on the complexity of the game, slide over mode can also slow down your gaming experience. This is especially true if you’re using a resource-intensive game or video app. Some apps may not work properly in slide over mode, which can be frustrating for gamers who want to use both apps at the same time.

Method 4: Full Screen Mode

Full screen mode is another way to watch videos while playing games on iPad. This feature allows you to open a video app and play it in full screen mode, which means it takes up the entire screen of your iPad. To use full screen mode, simply tap on the video app icon in the multitasking menu and tap on the full screen button that appears in the top right corner of the screen.

Pros:

Full screen mode allows you to watch videos while playing games at the same time without any distractions. You can easily switch between the two apps by tapping on the home button and selecting the other app. Full screen mode is supported by most apps on iPad, so you can use it with almost any game or video app.

Cons:

Full screen mode can be distracting if you’re not careful. It’s easy to get lost in the video and forget about the game you’re playing. Depending on the complexity of the game, full screen mode can also slow down your gaming experience. This is especially true if you’re using a resource-intensive game or video app. Some apps may not work properly in full screen mode, which can be frustrating for gamers who want to use both apps at the same time.

FAQs

Q: What are the best ways to watch videos while playing games on iPad?

A: The best way to watch videos while playing games on iPad depends on your personal preferences and gaming needs. Split-screen mode, PiP mode, slide over mode, and full screen mode are all viable options, and each has its own pros and cons. It’s important to choose the method that works best for you and allows you to enjoy both activities simultaneously without sacrificing your gaming experience.

Q: Can I watch videos while playing games on iPad?

A: Yes, there are several ways to watch videos while playing games on iPad, including split-screen mode, PiP mode, slide over mode, and full screen mode. These features allow you to play your game while watching a video at the same time without interruption.

Q: Can I use both apps at the same time on iPad?

A: Yes, it’s possible to use two apps at the same time on iPad using split-screen mode, PiP mode, and slide over mode. These features allow you to open a second app on one side of your screen while playing a game in the main window.

Q: Can I watch videos in full screen mode while playing games on iPad?

A: Yes, it’s possible to watch videos in full screen mode while playing games on iPad. This feature takes up the entire screen of your iPad and allows you to watch videos without any distractions. However, it can also be distracting if you’re not careful and may slow down your gaming experience

As video games continue to grow in popularity, so too does the need for recognition and awards. Whether you’re a seasoned game developer or just starting out, knowing where to find the best video game awards can be crucial in advancing your career and gaining exposure for your work. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore some of the most prestigious and well-known video game awards, as well as tips on how to submit your game for consideration.

The Most Prestigious Video Game Awards

When it comes to recognizing the best video games, there are a few key awards that every developer should be aware of. These include:

• The Game Developers Choice Awards
• The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences
• E3 Game Critics Awards
• BAFTA Games Award

The Game Developers Choice Awards

Founded in 1994 by Game Developers Magazine, the Game Developers Choice Awards (GDCA) are considered one of the most prestigious awards in the gaming industry. Winners are chosen by a panel of peer developers who vote for their favorite games across various categories, including Best Direction, Best Technology, and Best Game Direction.

The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences

The Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (IAAS) was established in 1982 to recognize excellence in video games. The IAAS hosts the Interactive Achievement Awards, which are considered one of the most respected awards in the industry. Winners are chosen by a panel of judges who evaluate games based on various criteria, such as creativity, innovation, and technical achievement.

E3 Game Critics Awards

E3 Game Critics is an independent gaming website that hosts an annual awards ceremony to recognize the best video games of the year. The E3 Game Critics Awards are considered one of the most influential and highly respected awards in the industry. Winners are chosen by a panel of reviewers who evaluate games based on various criteria, including gameplay, graphics, and story.

BAFTA Games Award

The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) hosts an annual awards ceremony to recognize excellence in video games. The BAFTA Games Award is considered one of the most prestigious awards in the European gaming industry. Winners are chosen by a panel of judges who evaluate games based on various criteria, such as gameplay, innovation, and art direction.

How to Submit Your Game for Consideration

Now that you know where to find the best video game awards let’s talk about how to submit your game for consideration. While the submission process may vary depending on the specific award, there are a few general tips that can help increase your chances of success:

1. Submit Early
2. Follow the Guidelines Carefully



3. Highlight Your Unique Selling Points (USPs)
4. Be Professional and Polite

As technology continues to evolve, so too does the storage capacity of video games. From CD-ROMs and DVDs to hard drives and SSDs, gamers have had to constantly adapt to new storage solutions in order to accommodate their ever-growing collections. But with the advent of next-generation gaming platforms like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, the question has arisen: which game demands the most storage space? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the largest games currently available and determine which one truly takes the cake when it comes to storage requirements.

First, let’s consider the current champion of the storage battle: Red Dead Redemption 2. Developed by Rockstar Studios, this open-world action-adventure game is known for its massive world and immersive storytelling. To accommodate these features, Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a minimum of 100GB of storage space on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, with additional downloadable content potentially increasing the size even further. In fact, some players have reported that the game can take up to 350GB of storage space in total!

While Red Dead Redemption 2 may currently hold the crown for largest game, it’s important to note that this title is not guaranteed to remain unchallenged. As technology continues to advance and gaming platforms evolve, we can expect games to continue pushing the boundaries of storage space. For example, Microsoft has announced that Xbox Series X will feature customizable SSDs, allowing players to choose their own storage solution based on their needs. This could potentially lead to even larger games in the future.

Another game that demands a significant amount of storage space is The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt. Developed by CD Projekt Red, this role-playing game features an expansive world and a rich narrative. On PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, The Witcher 3 requires at least 35GB of storage space, with additional content potentially increasing the size even further. Like Red Dead Redemption 2, The Witcher 3’s large storage requirements are due in part to its immersive world and detailed environments.

While The Witcher 3 may not currently hold the record for largest game, it’s worth noting that CD Projekt Red has recently announced a new game set in the same universe as The Witcher 3. Dubbed Cyberpunk 2077, this role-playing game is expected to release on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X in 2020 and could potentially surpass The Witcher 3’s storage requirements.

Now let’s take a look at some of the other games that demand a significant amount of storage space. On PlayStation 4, God of War requires at least 50GB of storage space, with additional content potentially increasing the size even further. Similarly, on Xbox One, Forza Horizon 4 requires at least 30GB of storage space, with additional content potentially pushing the game beyond the 1TB limit of the standard edition’s hard drive.

It’s also worth noting that some games require specific hardware configurations in order to run properly. For example, on PlayStation 4, the game Destiny 2 requires at least 60GB of storage space and an internet connection in order to play. Similarly, on Xbox One, the game Final Fantasy XV requires at least 30GB of storage space and a Blu-ray drive in order to play.

While these games may not currently hold the record for largest game, they do demonstrate the growing demand for larger storage solutions as technology advances. As gaming platforms continue to evolve and games become more immersive and detailed, we can expect storage requirements to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

One potential solution to this problem could be the use of cloud-based gaming services. These services allow players to stream games directly from a server without the need for local hardware, potentially eliminating the need for large game installations altogether. While cloud-based gaming is still in its early stages, it has the potential to revolutionize the way we play and store games in the future.