During development of Scream of the Stickster Volume II, I needed something to experiment with BYOND's new sound settings and find an ideal environment. That project is now called Sound Playground, and it's on the hub for anyone to compile and use themselves. (Update: Now it actually works!)

I also did this as part of a new Dream Tutor column I've been working on, describing how to use BYOND's new sound features to the best advantage. Since another Dream Tutor column was posted just recently, though, and there's only one new article since then, it occurred to me that we need more articles. It's time to get BYONDscape going again.

Here's the thing: Lots of people are capable of writing interesting material for BYONDscape, but many don't realize that because they're self-conscious of their own skill level or writing skill. The latter can be helped, and I'll be glad to help out anyone who wants to write an article by cleaning up spelling and grammar. As for the former, well just remember that not everything needs to be (or even should be) a beginner's tutorial. A few articles cover techniques for drawing icons, concepts like using different forms of movement, ways to plan a project or debug more easily, etc. There's so much else to cover that doesn't even need an advanced programmer.

So get out there and start writing, people! I know there must be some hidden talents wanting to contribute to the community who aren't sure how. Are you a good artist, or good with Photoshop or Paint Shop Pro to offer tips? Do you have some tips on how to write effective documentation? What ways would you lay out a game interface if you had the chance? Surely you have something to share, and I for one would like to hear it.