This portfolio showcases the writer's versatility across various writing styles and mediums. Examples include features, news reports, player guides, reviews, podcasts and videos on topics ranging from games like Borderlands 2 and Diablo 3 to broader cultural issues. The portfolio aims to demonstrate the writer's ability to produce engaging content in multiple formats to expand potential readership.

1. Michael Wall
Writing Portfolio

2. Description
Currently I am working as a Staff Writer for PixlBit. There I have provided a wide array of works including:
- Features
- News Reports
- Player Guides
- Reviews
- Podcasts
- Videos
This portfolio aims to showcase the versatility and range that I offer as a
writer. Examples will highlight my ability to produce multiple writing styles
along with using additional mediums to expand the potential viewer base.
Please Note: Links to the original article of each post will be provided. Additionally hard copies of any material
can be made available upon request.

3. The Gender Myth
“Gender issues in gaming are nothing new. For years this
discussion has surfaced in games media making waves, turning
heads, but still failing to leave its mark. Part of the issue is the
media’s affinity for extremists. Of course that’s the nature of
the beast, we like to read what the crazies write, but this
constant pandering has transformed the discussion of gender
in games into something that is far more representative of a
political primary than a civil discussion.”
This piece discusses the parallel between the social dynamics of males and females in geek culture and the ‘color blind’ philosophy that
stemmed from the civil rights movement. It exemplifies my ability to move beyond the sphere of gaming and discuss cultural issues in a
relatable, yet unique manner.
Full Article

4. Gender in Gaming
Click To Listen
Here is an episode of my bi-weekly podcast PixlTalk. This issue was used to further discuss Gender in Gaming, and exhibits my ability to
use additional media platforms to further expand discussion topics. (FYI I’m the host who does the introduction)
Full Article

5. Borderlands 2 Hands On Preview
“When I got my hands on the controller I was initially taken in by how
beautiful the world looked. Borderland’s patented cell-shaded art style
comes to life thanks to the new vibrant color pallet. The intense display
serves not only to augment the visual splendor of the world, but the
surrounding characters along with it. Cooke explained that much of the
inspiration for this new color-intensive Pandora originated back with
the development of DLC for the original Borderlands. While the
development team was creating new enemies and locations, they
realized they wanted greater contrast to highlight the unique aspects of
the world and its inhabitants. Cooke called this transformation the
“evolution of their art style” opting for the ability to create dark and
dangerous scenarios – like the acid ridden swamps that players
navigate in the demo.”
Here is an interview I conducted with Jeramy Cooke regarding Borderlands 2. Since larger publications got access to this
information at an earlier date, I wrote this article live action style to help make it stand out from the copious PAX
impressions out there.
Full Article

6. Dustforce Review
“Janitors with an affinity for aerial acrobatics – say no more, I’m
in. Dustforce is a peculiar concoction, simultaneously delivering
serenity and insanity. It’s like a Siren luring in unsuspecting
bystanders with its unprecedented beauty only to reveal an
unnerving ferocity. Harboring difficulty on par with Super Meat
Boy and N, Dustforce differentiates itself with its soothing
melodic ambiance. While this game tests your limits and
perhaps even your sanity – it is oddly enjoyable.”
Here is my take on indie developed title Dustforce, I also provide a video to further enhance the piece.
Full Article

7. Diablo 3 Guide
“Embrace the ‘Hand Me Downs’
Inevitably you are going to find equipment that is exceptionally good,
just not for your particular class. Now usually you’ll probably end up
selling these items on the Auction House for a considerable sum.
However, if the item you’ve acquired will benefit another character of
yours don’t be afraid to pass it on. While hand me downs may not have
been pleasurable part of your childhood, you’ll learn to love them in
Diablo 3. A few high quality items placed in the bank is the best way to
welcome any of your new characters into the world.”
Here is an example of a guide I crafted for the popular PC title Diablo 3. This guide exemplifies my
ability to provide readers with a wealth of information, but in a manner that is easy to understand
and digest.
Full Article

8. Skyrim Top Ten Mods
“Skyrim is a gorgeous game, but sometimes the close-ups on characters
can be downright frightening. With jagged blocky features the
character models can greatly deter from the otherwise pristine
aesthetics in Skyrim. Xenius looks to correct this injustice with his
Xenius Character Enhancement, a project that compiles mods by him
and other modders geared at cleaning up the character models in
Skyrim. Think of this mod as “Queer Eye for the Pixel Guy”, as it gives
your character a much needed makeover.”
A simple collection of the best (my opinion) player made mods at the time. As with most top-ten columns, I add my
own personality to the mix to keep the reader intrigued.
Full Article

9. Beyond: Two Souls
“Perhaps the most pertinent facet of Beyond is its emotionally charged
atmosphere. The opening E3 cinematic displayed it best with Jodie’s
telling stoicism. It's not often that a game is able to say so much with so
little. There Jodie sat, impervious to the inquisitions of the officer. Her
diluted gaze expressing an unsettling mix of desperation and apathy
that only an arduous journey could incur. You felt Jodie’s pain,
sympathized with her trying situation even though you knew not what
it was.
While much remains to be seen from Beyond: Two Souls, one thing is
for sure this game will make you feel.”
This was a preview I produced for the E3 event that took place earlier this month. As with other E3
announcements a lot of the details about this title were initially withheld. Thus, I focused my attention instead on
the premise of this title and the potential that it has to change the way we view this medium. This is an example
of how games writing can delve from the simple quantitative measures of game design to explore the emotional
impact that these titles can instill in its players
Full Article

10. Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to look through my works. If you have any
questions or comments I can be reached by email at Wall8188@gmail.com.
Also please note additional pieces or hardcopies of any pieces seen here can
be made available upon request.