Category Archives: storytelling

ShackStream: The Messenger on The Stevetendo Show! Episode 636

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Tonight on The Stevetendo Show, we’re diving back into our playthrough of *The Messenger*. This game feels like a unique blend of old-school platforming, reminiscent of *Ninja Gaiden*, mixed with Metroidvania elements. This is my first time playing *The Messenger*, and so far, I’ve really enjoyed the experience.

One gameplay mechanic I especially like is the ability to jump between 8-bit and 16-bit graphics styles. It adds an engaging visual twist that keeps the gameplay fresh. However, one drawback I’ve noticed is the inability to attack upwards, which can be a bit frustrating at times.

In the last episode, we managed to find more music notes needed to unlock the music box inside the Tower of Time. Tracking down these keys has proven to be quite a challenge, but thankfully, we can save up our currency to pay for hints on their locations, which helps a lot.

It feels like we’re approaching the end of *The Messenger*, though I’ve been wrong about that in past playthroughs. Tune in at 5 p.m. PDT / 8 p.m. EDT to join The Stevetendo Show live for more adventures in *The Messenger*.

If you want to join the fun, head over to the Shacknews Twitch channel, where The Stevetendo Show streams every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Can’t make tonight’s show? No worries. You can catch Monday night streams at 6 p.m. PDT / 9 p.m. EDT. Monday will be a Shacker’s Choice night, and I’ll be playing *Crow Country* for the very first time.

Our *Donkey Kong Bananza* playthrough continues next week as well. The action is heating up, and you won’t want to miss it! Be sure to check out both the Shacknews Twitch channel and the Shacknews VODs YouTube channel to catch up on your favorite programs. Subscribing to the YouTube channel and following the Twitch channel is the best way to stay updated.

Also, if you haven’t heard, Shacknews has launched a new service called Shackmaps. Our team has curated guides through some of your favorite video games to help you avoid getting lost and improve your gameplay experience.

Looking ahead, keep an eye out for scary game streams on Monday nights throughout October. After that, *Super Mario Galaxy 2* will take over the Monday night slot, switching from Mario Kart Monday to Super Mario Monday.

Since we’re nearly finished with both *Donkey Kong Bananza* and *The Messenger*, expect new playthroughs to start soon on The Stevetendo Show. If we wrap up *The Messenger* this evening, I’ll share my thoughts on the game and discuss what might replace it in the rotation.

Keep sending in suggestions for games you’d love to see featured on The Stevetendo Show. If it’s on the Nintendo Switch 2 or the Nintendo Switch 2 Online service, it might just get a starring role!

Nintendo often adds new titles to their Switch Online service, so stay tuned for all the latest updates and content.

See you tonight on The Stevetendo Show!
https://www.shacknews.com/article/146366/shackstream-the-messenger-on-the-stevetendo-show-episode-636

5 Spielberg secrets to mastering storytelling in film

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**5 Spielberg Secrets to Mastering Storytelling in Film**
*By Vinita Jain | Oct 03, 2025, 05:09 PM*

Steven Spielberg is one of the most influential filmmakers of our time, having directed some of the most iconic films in history. His storytelling techniques have inspired countless filmmakers and continue to be studied by aspiring directors. Here are five essential filmmaking lessons from Spielberg that can help you master the art of storytelling. These insights will help you understand how to create engaging narratives that resonate with audiences.

**1. Visual Impact: The Power of Visual Storytelling**
Spielberg’s films are known for their strong visual elements, which often speak louder than words. He uses cinematography to build mood, tension, and character development without relying heavily on dialogue. By focusing on visuals, filmmakers can create more immersive experiences that deeply engage their audiences.

**2. Character Focus: Character-Driven Narratives**
One thing that sets Spielberg’s films apart is their focus on characters. He ensures every character has depth and complexity, making them relatable and memorable. By prioritizing character development, filmmakers can forge emotional connections with viewers, making their stories more impactful and lasting.

**3. Timing Techniques: Mastering Pacing and Timing**
Spielberg has an uncanny knack for pacing his films perfectly, with each scene delivering just the right amount of tension and release. He knows when to accelerate the tempo and when to slow down for dramatic effect. Mastering pacing allows filmmakers to keep audiences engaged from start to finish.

**4. Simple Storytelling: Embracing Simplicity**
Many of Spielberg’s best films revolve around simple plots that are rich with emotion and depth. He emphasizes clarity in storytelling over complexity. By keeping narratives straightforward, filmmakers ensure their stories are easily understood while still resonating on an emotional level.

**5. Realism vs. Imagination: Balancing the Two**
Spielberg excels at balancing realism with imagination, making his films believable yet fantastical at the same time. This delicate balance enables him to explore complex themes without losing the audience’s sense of reality or wonder. Filmmakers who master this approach can create stories that are both thought-provoking and entertaining.

Incorporating these Spielberg-inspired techniques can elevate your filmmaking and storytelling skills, helping you craft movies that truly captivate and resonate with audiences.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/steven-spielberg-s-filmmaking-legacy-5-lessons/story

5 distinctive elements that define Chloe Zhao’s films

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Chloe Zhao is a filmmaker who has taken the world by storm with her unique storytelling style.

Her approach to filmmaking blends authentic narratives with striking visuals, captivating audiences worldwide.

Through her work, Zhao continues to push the boundaries of traditional cinema, establishing herself as a powerful voice in the industry.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/chloe-zhao-s-filmmaking-style-5-elements-to-note/story