The startup screen is a console’s way of introducing itself to the game-hungry masses. This digital vignette must accomplish two important tasks in just a few seconds: showcase the system's brand ...

Mark has been thinking and writing about games since a Gameboy Pocket and a copy of Link's Awakening was first placed into his tender, seven-year-old hands. Since then, he snagged a creative writing ...

First impressions are important. That’s true both in people and video game consoles. The first time you boot up a new gaming system can be a magical moment when done right. There’s always a built-in ...

A sign of a good power-up screen is the way it ‘scratches the itch’ in your head. The sensation is both comforting and satisfying in many respects. With earlier systems, it was also a telltale sign ...

Console startup sounds are supposed to be iconic. Memorable. Maybe even comforting. But let’s be honest—some of them were straight-up annoying. Whether it was the audio equivalent of a jump scare or a ...