Previously worked for Amazon data labeling. The priority was largely having everything done in-house due to privacy concerns. It’s a lot easier to act on privacy leaks coming from within. That said, the long term strategy is using crowdsourced labeling for anything not having to do with customers or customer data. So looks like you’re both right :)

Is it the sweaty young male Ness scent?

The short version: no.

I’m a BIG Earthbound fan. I don’t know if I have the bandwidth to replay it this month, but for those that are, here are my “notes”:

• The pacing leaves something to be desired until you hit the third town. It feels a little bit of a slog, but it’s great once you’re past it
• Talk to people! Knock on doors! Read signs! It’s such a ridiculous game, don’t miss the ridiculousness
• For what it’s worth, try remembering the context the game came out in. While there’s a decent amount of games out now that have taken inspiration, this really was one of a kind for a long time
• Check out the amazing strategy guide. I don’t know if it’s vital per se, but it’s such a fun document that to this day I still enjoy referencing it. Related, what happened to all the fun manuals/strategy guides with custom art and everything? Such a loss.

Hope everyone enjoys as much as I do!