I think I enjoy Animal Crossing in the way they intended, most of the time.

There is almost something wrong with taking such a colorful game with a community that relishes in soft pastels and vivid colors and present it in black and white.

So why do I only take Black and White pictures of Animal Crossing?

It is because I enjoy the traditional Japanese style of many things in the game, so my brain went to Akira Kurosawa.

I was inspired to try to make my island look like a Akira Kurosawa movie much like “Yojimbo” and “Seven Samurai”

This means black and white /images. As well beautiful movement, and lovely traditional Japanese aesthetics.

Turns out it takes a lot of time to get the things I want to make.

Also the winter season can make it hard to find the things I want as well.

So I started taking photos in black and white to try to evoke the feelings that come from Kurosawa’s movies.

I learned a lot about photography, High Key, Low Key, and Contrast.

Though I think I learned about something more important.

I learned that Animal Crossing is less “Yonjimbo” and more “Ikiru”.

In “Ikiru” Mr. Wantanabe learns he has terminal cancer. He wants to make the last days of his life meaningful.

After some time he turns his efforts to bringing happiness to others.

Before his death he brings a playground where a cesspool once was in a slum.

Animal Crossing does not relish in action or suspense, it is slow and colorful.

It also can seem like a slog with not enough to do.

Though the joy in it is bringing joy to others and yourself by decorating an island. By making a desert island something for you, your villagers, and maybe your friends joy.

For me I spend a good half of my time playing the game taking pictures. That I enjoy and hope others enjoy.

In summary, watch Kurosawa films. Also don’t wait to do what bring joy into your life.