I can remember way back when I first got introduced to the world of video games. Bubble Bobble was one of the first I had ever played and it was awesome. Bubble dragons named Bub and Bob that shoot bubbles at ghost-like enemies and went around collecting items like apples and jewelry? This set the stage for the next 20 or so years of my life in video games, and to this day it still amazes me how much I’m fascinated by them. In fact, there was a time when I thought I was actually over video games. It happened sometime around my years in college when I was isolated from gaming consoles and spent time focusing on school and work. It was actually depressing, because I thought I had somehow “outgrown” them. Needless to say, it didn’t take long to get back into them after I graduated and got situated with a job and my own place. With the advent of systems like the PS3 and XBOX 360, of course it was a different experience. No longer was I jumping from one gravity-defying platform to another spewing magical bubbles, but rather using tactical cover to gun down unsuspecting enemies screens away with a sniper rifle in a completely 3D environment.
Different, yes. But it doesn’t change what I loved about video games so much as I was growing up: the fact that you could be anyone you wanted, or do anything you wanted. Sword wielding hero that has to save a princess and the entire world? Check. International counter-terrorist operative that infiltrates heavily-guarded enemy bases? Check. Barrel-jumping ape that has to recover stolen bananas from villainous crocodiles? Absolutely. It’s these kinds of characters and stories that I’ve grown to love and appreciate since my childhood days. Fast forward a few years and here I am, writing on a blog for a theatrical concert revolving around video game and anime music. Pretty cool.
I’m Gary Der, visual designer for Hideo. I take care of things like graphic design, photography, and this very website. It’s not so different than my other 9 to 5 job, but working with the cast and crew of the show has been such a unique experience. I’ve always been inspired by artistic challenges; furthermore, I am inspired by those who strive to make them happen. As a resident Hideo musician (pianist) and contributor, I’m extremely excited for what’s to come in the future. Welcome to the blog, and enjoy.
