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Viral game Wordle sold for seven figures to The New York Times

Viral game Wordle sold for seven figures to The New York Times
Feb 1 2022 Share

The latest game to go viral, ‘Wordle’ has just been sold to the New York Times for what it claims to be ‘low seven figures.’ The game’s creator, a British engineer named Josh Wardle, developed the game for his girlfriend before launching it to the general public in October. 

The publication is said to have purchased the game to attract more subscribers, but this has caused people to question whether the game will remain free. However, New York Times said that at the time it moves to the publication, ‘Wordle’ will be free to play for new and existing players, and no changes will be made to its gameplay.’

Wardle himself posted a Twitter statement, saying that it has been incredible to watch a game bring so much joy to so many. ‘On the flip side, I’d be lying if I said this hasn’t been a little overwhelming. After all, I’m just one person and it is important to me that, as Wordle grows, it continues to provide a great experience to everyone.’ 

He said that when the game moves to the NYT site, he will be making sure that everyone’s wins and streaks will be preserved. Speaking about the deal, general manager for NYT Games Jonathan Knight said that the game has done what so few games have done; it has captured our collective imagination and brought us all a little closer together. 

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Malta Carnival 2022 programme revealed by Festivals Malta

Malta Carnival 2022 programme revealed by Festivals Malta
Feb 1 2022 Share

Festivals Malta have just announced that ‘Il-Karnival ta’ Malta’ will once more be held through an abridged programme between the 25th February and 1st of March 2022. Il-Karnival ta’ Malta Artistic Director Jason Busuttil explained that this year’s programme will include various competitive installations throughout all the streets of the capital city Valletta. 

This will take place between the aforementioned dates, and include everything from a photographic exhibition by German photographer Frank Kirchner and curated by Antoine Farrugia and a costumes exhibition featuring works from the past years. A live production of il-Qarċilla, in collaboration with Spazju Kreattiv will also take place, accompanied by a live theatrical show which includes dance, projections and other activities suitable for children by the Manoel Theatre in collaboration with TOI TOI collective. 

In a statement, Minister for National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government José Herrera said that carnival ‘is one of the main pillars of Malta’s cultural calendar. One cannot help but feel the absence of Carnival festivities and the talent it inspires through the enthusiasts who dedicate most of their lives for its preparation.’The Minister highlighted how throughout the pandemic, the government had to make responsible decisions and to carefully organise various initiatives which add value to the Maltese cultural calendar. 

‘However, we know that what has been organised can never compare to the traditional carnival that is celebrated by thousands of Maltese citizens as well as tourists who visit our islands especially for this event. Given that, as announced a few days ago, the current COVID-19 measures will be revised, the government together with Festivals Malta will organise a carnivalesque programme that for this year only, will be held on the 20th, 21st and 22nd of May. Through this initiative the Carnival community can safely enjoy these highly anticipated festivities.’ 

Festivals Malta CEO Annabelle Stivala also spoke, saying that Malta’s carnival is an important event in Malta’s cultural calendar and Festivals Malta has been constantly striving to return carnival celebrations back to their former glory. “Throughout the years, Festivals Malta has made it its mission to preserve the traditions and customs associated with Maltese Carnival, while also elevating it as a quality festival. While the festival’s format had to be adapted due to the current situation, Festivals Malta has endeavoured to keep the carnival spirit alive despite the challenges brought on by the pandemic”, concluded, Ms Stivala.

More details can be found here.

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Photo Source: Darren Agius, Traditional Sweet Recipes From Malta

Judges made right call says Kevin Paul after XFactor elimination

Judges made right call says Kevin Paul after XFactor elimination
Feb 1 2022 Share

Reflecting upon the last eventful live XFactor Malta show, Kevin Paul Calleja took to social media to open up about all that happened. ‘After some well-needed rest & some time to process all that’s happened during this XFactor Malta journey, I want to say thank you’ he started. 

Recalling his first audition and his opportunity to showcase an original song during the first live show, he went on to say that judges made the right decision during the third performance night. Kevin stated that he was particularly happy how the performance of Money Heist’s theme song turned out, having been his final song before the sing-off. 

‘I must also admit that, ultimately, during the sing-off, Ira Losco & Philippa Naudi made the right call & for that reason I’d like to congratulate Timea Farr for making it through.’ He went on to thank his XFactor Mentor Howard Keith for his ‘undying efforts in pushing [him] towards becoming a better version of [himself], working with you was a huge learning curve and for that I am eternally grateful.’ He extended his gratitude to everyone from his family, to all the production team and his fans for supporting him as ‘every message, very comment, every call & every vote is truly appreciated.’ 

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Pete Tong, Purple Disco Machine and MORE announced for Malta Music Summit

Pete Tong, Purple Disco Machine & more announced for Malta Music Summit
Jan 31 2022 Share

As events of different shapes and sizes across Malta have started to see the light of day, a name which has definitely triggered national intrigue amongst music lovers is the Malta Music Summit. Previously hinting at the announcement of 42 international DJs and 3 international speakers, the organisers have revealed that Purple Disco Machine, Hot Since 82, Pete Tong and Junior Jack will be headlining the 4-day event, which will take place across 4 different venues.

German disco-house wizard Purple Disco Machine will headline Thursday’s grand opening event, which will take place at Sky Club in St. Julian’s. The summit itself will commence the following day, with around 45 exhibitors ranging from record label representatives to sound & lighting specialist set to be present at the Bora Bora Ibiza Malta Resort.  Award-winning British DJ Hot Since 82 will headline the Friday event at Sky Club.

Attendants will be able to get a professional insight into the international music industry from the summit’s exhibitors whilst also being able to network with other individuals in the music industry. On Saturday, the summit will continue with exhibitors at the resort and an afternoon at Bora Bora Ibiza Malta Playa headlined by dance music legend Pete Tong. On Sunday, the summit is set to host a catamaran boat party in addition to an event headlined by Junior Jack at Bora Bora Ibiza Malta Playa.

Exhibitors from Holland, Germany, Austria, Italy and various other industry hotspots will be visiting the island to give a look into their trade, with talks covering the entire music spectrum and even a special insight on NFTs, with more to be revealed soon.

With a whopping line-up announced and sources revealing that much more is left to be announced including a popular RnB artist, we can’t wait to see what else is in store for the Malta Music Summit.

Do you plan on attending this summit?

#MaltaDaily