Recently I've been writing a lot! It's all just for fun, really, but I've been working hard at it. It's been fulfilling which is a feeling I forgot about because I always forget stuff.

When I've had trouble keeping motivated, I've been taking a look at some "background app/Pomodoro" utility-style games to keep me in check. I even made a ranking of all the ones I've played with! I've tried many and while they're all variations on the same concept I think Chill With You is my favourite of the bunch so far. Here is why:

• It's a bit more streamlined in interface and actual game-ness than others have been, but I find this inobtrusive and lightweight presentation much better for working with. It feels less as a distraction to my work and more a compliment!
• Really benefits from having a well-realized character at the helm. Conceptually these type of Pomodoro games have a "passive" player stand-in; here, Satone is presented as a person on the other side of your screen. In simpatico you and Satone are both working hard, chatting and decompressing during breaks and all the while learning more about her through the countless hours toiling away together. For what is in essence a framework to keep me productive, it's neat little story presentation that tips it over the edge for me. It's been motivating to feel like I have someone there to work alongside, and trying this one out I feel I've gotten the most done. Me and Satone are a powerful team!
• The soundtrack is great!! For me sits with the Kind Words series in being able to establish its own unique identity in the "music for sitting at a desk and thinking about stuff" space.

Let me know if there's a game or app in a similar vein you'd recommend. I'll definitely give it a shot!