As previously stated, many players were not exactly happy following the release of Dark Souls: Remastered. Many felt cheated when they discovered that the overall graphics of the game had not been seriously revamped as they played the public beta release. This sentiment is most understandible, yet there is always another side of the argument to consider...




True words that we should all consider. It is not immature to feel displeasure with the release of Dark Souls: Remastered's current graphical fidelity. It is immature to not explore other viewpoints. When we take time to start understanding the small things in life we not only grow in understanding, but also character. This sentiment can be applied to Dark Souls: Remastered as well. To understand this, first we must understand the true nature of all pieces of art.

Let us first take a brief overview of some common forms of artwork and then look at gleaming examples fo such mediums:

First is the portrait. The portrait is one of the oldest mediums of artwork in existance and it all stems from the ancient world and the legacy that they wished to leave behind. For example, in Ancient Rome the highest achievement possible was to achieve immortality. How would they achieve this? It's quite simple really. Their means to achieving immortality was to be remembered in the legacy that their people left behind. That is why some had their likeness instilled within the harvested stone of the earth. Rome, as arguably one of the most influential cultures on Western culture, has passed such a thought down through the annals of time. People saw the greatness of Roman statues and lusted after the very notion of achieving the very same things. That links us back to our main point; the portrait. As history naturally developed and improved the skill of portait artists globally, these became the format for which the wealthy and influential fulfilled their ambitions for immortality. Here is one such example pictured:

As history progressed, humanity's creativity reached new heights the likes that had never been seen before to any culture here on earth. Skipping forward many hundreds of years we are presented with more mediums in which to convey our likeness and immortalize our being in the timeline that we all share. Here is where we will study two different methods for this very basic concept; immortalizing the likeness of ourselves.

First up is one of my favorite mediums. Cardboard Art, both 2D and 3D. Here are some lovely examples for your consideration:



Lastly, we will explore the beauty of photographs with this final insightful and thought-provoking piece and an intuitive quote to leave on.



C. K. Prahalad is truly a man of the world. Take his words to heart, for this should be our mission in the world. Linking back to the main, overarchical topic, taking screenshots is one way in which we, as gamers can immerse with the world. It is our medium through which we can leave behind a meaningful legacy. How can we do this? By making beautiful artwork. How can we do this in such a graphically lacking medium you might say? Well that takes us back to our first quote; Maturity. We have to realize the small details that we may have let our initial emotions dull. Dark Souls, when it first came out was a gorgeous game, hindered by the hardware of the time. I won't spend much time praising it, as there are many videos on the internet out there already preaching this message. Instead I want you to keep in mind the intracacies and the small details held within the game and appreciate them for what they are. Simply put, Dark Souls: Remastered is a blessing in disguise. It allows us for the first time to really examine all the dedication and attention to detail that the artists and designers from From Software put into this game. We now have an opportunity to showcase that through a brilliant new perspective; HD screenshots.

Very true Morris West. One of the cornerstones of the Souls/Borne series is learning off of our mistakes. Learning off of our hardships. And most importantly, learning to co-exist within the dark and post-apocalytic nature of the Souls series. It is what drives us to excell in all things within each installment and very much like the nature of each game's opening, we are like a newborn babe until we become hardened by the experiences and milestones that we face within them. We grow through them and are changed forever by them. They feed our natural progression as we walk within these master-crafted worlds. They link us emotionally to our characters and become the driving force behind our desire to experience the world fully, even through the hardships. We strive to discover new planes of existence within the game worlds and end up growing attached to this feeling as a result. The world around us is what we become and it is what we partly base our self worth on. Much can be said about these locations as well. I have not yet met a person who likes Blight Town, but if one says that they have mastered it, then obviously this is true. These locations become a test of our skill. We use this test of skill to determine our own self worth when we constantly compare ourlselves to other players.

It is a tool that we can use to not only express these feelings within a single picture, but it can further connect us with others throughout the world who have experienced these same emotions within the same setting.

When exploring locales to take screenshots, it is possible to have doubt. To think that perhaps others would not experience the shot in the same way. Here is an inspirational quote that should ease your mind...

Realize that you are not alone. We all, as artists, experience these same emotions. As Eric Maisel puts it, "Creativity requires... risks." That is a powerful statement. As you get into the artist mindset keep this in mind. Never be afraid to share your work. You would be surprised at how much potential your work has.

It is quite simple, really.

First, choose a locale. Remember, take into account a location that inspires strong emotional attachment.

Second, choose the right pose that your character will be undertaking. Keep in mind that the significance of the underlying message can be transmitted through such a pose.

Third, the most important is step is to turn off of the HUD located in the OPTIONS menu.

Fourth, choose the right angle in which to capture the moment. Remember to choose wisely as the wrong angle could cut out important parts of the scenery. Doing so will ensure that you convey your full and intended message instead of showing something completely unrelated.

Here are two shining examples so that you may learn how to reproduce a master level screenshot.

As this guide is being published in the English Language, I shall consider that my audience is comprised of mostly those within Western Culture. Therefore I will discuss this section within these parameters.

Western Culture is a complex and ever changing melting pot of people. It is no surprise then, that it has produced many different perspectives within itself. We come to our main focus which is the United States of America. It is one of the forefront locations in the minds of people when they think of "Western Culture." Time has made this so and has made it the spotlight of such a culture as well. This is most likely due to the nature of America. Freedom of thought and expression have made its voice both attractive and influential throughout the world. This no doubt stems from the increased globalism spearheaded by the United States post World War II. Now let us consider a quote from Fran Lebowitz who has commented on American Culture.


Powerful; Simply delicious. Fran Lebowitz is truly a mind to be cherished. She has such a down-to-earth perspective that is truly refreshing. One may wonder, "What is this 'Let's Make a Deal' that this genius is referencing?" Fear not, for I shall show you.


Consider the wisdom within Lebowitz's words. Just as you witnessed in the video, America is a game of constant unexpected surprises. It ebbs and flows in its own direction and that is what makes it unique in this world. It is a force that cannot be controlled yet is guided by the individual decisions that its citizens make. Risk takers are rewarded by the masses if they love their work. Remember Eric Maisel's featured quote, "Creativity requires... risk." This maxim is something to keep in mind as you begin to produce your master level screenshots. Risk and risk-takers are the foundation of American society. So too should you be, as only through great risk can we all achieve great things.

A final note to end on is the amalgamation of the true essence of what is America. This master artist has composed an ode to America within our own platform; Dark Souls. For your consideration and enjoyment. Take note of the author's message within the Dark Souls medium and learn from their example.

Dealing with negativity is a part of all of our lives here on earth. It is simply a part of our identity and how we deal with it is part of what defines us. True heroes are hard to find. Fewer still are golden examples of true justice being done. Yet there are moments that define human history that showcase true justice in light of the hidden heroes in our everyday lives.
The Orange Shirt Kid is a victim of injustice and everyone thought that he would have to live with it. That was until an unsung hero emerged from the depths of the internet and championed his cause until righteous retribution was had. Dolan Dark is one of these heroes along with the Orange Shirt Kid.

Truly, this is proof that justice can be accomplished in this world that we live in. Take this to heart as much-needed encouragement as you begin producing your master level screenshots. Remember that everyday miracles can happen and that there is always a chance that your wrongs will be righted. Take all of these words to heart as you embark upon your fated journey.

Believe, my disciples, in the power of screenshots. Embrace them in your lives and make them an integral part of your lifestyle. Use them to connect to the world and change it for the better as C.K. Prahalad encourages. Take this knowledge and gift the world with your newfound skill as you continue to develop it. One day you may even surpass me, your teacher. But only time will tell...

Papa Bless and enjoy the mixed bag of emotions that I have now given you. Use it as inspiration for your next masterpiece. Use it to further the cause of the great Bob Ross. Now go! Make happy little trees as you embark on a new chapter of your life.

This essay took five hours of my life.

Your Welcome,
.........................Dad............................