Exploring Spider-Man: Miles Morales on PS4
Intro
The world of superheroes continually captivates, but few resonate quite like Spider-Man. Miles Morales, a character who originally swung into the limelight through comic pages, has matured into a symbol of diversity and hope in today’s gaming realm. On the PlayStation 4, Spider-Man: Miles Morales emerges as not just a game but a rich narrative experience, intricately weaving together gameplay mechanics, visual storytelling, and the cultural essence of what it means to be a hero in a complex world.
This article sets out to explore this multifaceted narrative from various angles, giving die-hard fans and newcomers alike a compelling look into Miles’ universe. As you navigate this piece, expect to uncover the layers that make this game a standout, from gripping character arcs to the technical wizardry that powers it.
Spider-Man Character Analysis
Background
To understand Miles Morales is to first recognize his roots. Born from the Marvel Universe's depths, Miles made his debut in Ultimate Fallout #4 in 2011, a tragic event that brought him into the fold as the new Spider-Man in a parallel universe. His inception spawned not just a new hero but a fresh narrative that was critical of societal norms while embracing themes of loss, identity, and responsibility. This new Spider-Man brought not only his powers but a rich cultural heritage, opening avenues for representation in the comic book world and beyond.
Powers and Abilities
Miles Morales stands apart from his predecessor, Peter Parker, by boasting a unique set of powers. Although he possesses typical Spider-Man abilities—enhanced strength, agility, and the iconic wall-crawling—the inclusion of his bio-electric “venom blasts” turns the tide in battle. Additionally, the power of invisibility offers him tactical advantages, allowing stealth approaches to enemies that Peter simply doesn’t have. This blend of powers lends itself to a dynamic gameplay experience, providing a layer of strategy absent in previous adaptations.
Character Development
Miles’ journey throughout Spider-Man: Miles Morales is a significant exploration of character maturity. Unlike many heroes who launch into action without substantial personal reflection, Miles grapples with his dual identity throughout the game. Key moments, such as his interactions with his mother and his retrospective thoughts on Uncle Aaron, highlight a struggle between personal desires and the weight of responsibility that every Spider-Man carries. These emotional layers deepen the player's engagement, as it’s not merely about defeating villains; it's about understanding oneself amid chaos.
Latest Spider-Man News Update
Comic Books
As of late, comic enthusiasts have been treated to fresh stories that continue to delve into Miles' adventures. The Spider-Man: Miles Morales comic series has maintained its grip, expanding on characters and plotlines that enrich the game narrative. These comics often introduce new villains and allies, complementing the gaming experience and keeping fans on their toes.
Movies
On the cinematic front, fans can anticipate the next installment of Spider-Verse films, which promises further exploration of Miles' character. Rumors swirl about casting decisions and potential plot twists, igniting excitement amongst the community.
Video Games
Post-release, there’s been buzz about additional downloadable content (DLC) that enhances gameplay. Features like new missions or skins keep the experience fresh, returning players to revisit Miles' New York and relish in his heroic journey.
Top Villains in Spider-Man Universe
Main Antagonists
The richness of the Spider-Man universe is rooted in its diverse rogues' gallery. In Miles Morales, players encounter a range of antagonists, with the Prowler and Roxon’s super soldiers standing out. Each foe brings unique challenges and styles to confront, showcasing the versatility required from our young hero.
Origins and Motivations
The backstories of villains like the Prowler delve into themes of family and betrayal, revealing complex motivations. For instance, Uncle Aaron’s relationship with Miles adds depth, blurring the lines between hero and villain in a relatable way.
Memorable Battles
The encounters between Miles and his adversaries are not just physically taxing but also emotionally charged. The stakes are always high, with battles steeped in personal stakes and moral dilemmas that make each confrontation resonate.
Spider-Man Movie Reviews
Plot Summary
Adapting the character for the big screen has allowed his story to reach a broader audience. The films often highlight essential plots like the classic origin story while intertwining complex narratives that remain true to the comic roots.
Character Portrayals
The portrayal of Miles in the animated movies earned accolades, particularly for capturing the essence of a young hero navigating his newfound powers. The voice actors convey a rich emotional spectrum that brings palpable depth to the character.
Visual Effects
When evaluating the visual effects in these films, it’s hard not to be awestruck. The seamless blend of animation and action sequences elevates the storytelling, inviting audiences into a vividly crafted world. This attention to visual detail enhances the viewing experience tremendously, showcasing why Spider-Man endures as a beloved icon.
Prelude to Spider-Man: Miles Morales
When discussing the significance of video games today, few titles resonate as powerfully as Spider-Man: Miles Morales, especially on the PS4. This game not only brings to life the journey of a new, refreshing superhero but also serves as a bridge between established comic book lore and contemporary gaming. Understanding this game enhances appreciation for not only the character of Miles Morales but also the innovations in gameplay and narrative that it presents. Exploring these aspects helps clarify its importance in the broader Spider-Man franchise.
Overview of the Character
Miles Morales is no ordinary character; he is a testament to the evolving nature of superheroes in the modern age. Diven by contemporary issues, his character embodies themes such as diversity, social justice, and the complexities of dual identities. For fans and newcomers alike, Miles represents a new chapter in the Spider-Man saga. He's not just Peter Parker's successor—he is a unique hero with his struggles and triumphs, making the narrative richer and more relatable.
Additionally, Miles resonates with audiences on a different level. His cultural background is woven into his character arc, providing layers that add depth to his story. The game utilizes these qualities, portraying him as someone who grapples with responsibilities while navigating the personal challenges of being a young teenager in a bustling metropolis like New York City.
Game Development Background
The journey of Miles Morales’s game development began as a follow-up to the critically acclaimed Spider-Man (2018) and was released during a time when game developers were keen on delivering impactful stories alongside thrilling gameplay. Insomniac Games took a bold step by focusing on Miles as the protagonist—an idea that was both ambitious and intentional. The game not only follows the narrative of the character but also delves into the African American and Puerto Rican heritage.
The development process made heavy use of the Unreal Engine, enabling the creative team to push graphical boundaries while squeezing every ounce of performance from the PS4. This dedication became visible in the movement dynamics and combat mechanics, which are designed to highlight Miles's unique powers such as bioelectricity and camouflage—elements drawn directly from his comic book origins.
Furthermore, the developers took to heart the lessons learned from Spider-Man (2018), refining the character controls and game mechanics to create a more fluid experience in Miles Morales. They aimed to retain the charm and depth while ensuring it appealed to fans who were eager to explore Miles’s world.
This development effort resulted not only in an engaging game but in an impactful narrative that speaks to the audience, helping to cultivate a richer community around the character.
In sum, Spider-Man: Miles Morales stands as a pivotal title, offering insights into character evolution and game development while tying it elegantly into the ongoing narrative of the Spider-Man legacy.
Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay mechanics of Spider-Man: Miles Morales play a crucial role in shaping the player experience. These elements drive the action, provide engagement, and ultimately define how players interact with the game world. They are not just buttons pressed or moves executed but represent the essence of what makes an open-world superhero game enjoyable. Understanding these mechanics is key to appreciating why this title resonates with players of all types. In this section, we will delve into core gameplay features, the combat system, and how movement dynamics elevate the Spider-Man experience.
Core Gameplay Features
At the heart of any video game lies its core features, acting as the foundational blocks that make it stand out. Spider-Man: Miles Morales excels in integrating several core mechanics that enhance gameplay depth.
- Web-Swinging: This is the quintessential feature that every Spider-Man game has, and Miles delivers it with finesse. Players can swing through New York City, feeling the wind whip by as they navigate between skyscrapers at breakneck speeds. The fluidity of web-swinging creates a sense of freedom rarely matched in gaming.
- Stealth Mechanics: As much as Miles is a man of action, the game introduces stealth elements that bring a layer of strategy. In various encounters, players can choose to approach situations quietly, using the shadows to their advantage, a nod to Miles' unique abilities.
- Powers and Abilities: Miles Morales has powers distinct from other Spider-Men, including invisibility and bio-electric venom strikes. These mechanics not only diversify combat options but also add surprises in gameplay scenarios, making each encounter a unique challenge.
"The blend of classic Spider-Man gameplay with fresh mechanics helps Miles Morales carve its niche in the superhero genre."
Combat System Analysis
Combat in Spider-Man: Miles Morales is polished, dynamic, and highly satisfying. Developers have fine-tuned the system to provide an experience that is both approachable for newcomers and layered enough for seasoned players.
- Combos and Skill Trees: Players are encouraged to create jaw-dropping combo sequences, chaining together punches, web attacks, and unique abilities. The skill tree offers progression routes that allow for customization of combat styles, enticing players to experiment.
- Enemy Variety: The game excels in presenting varied foes, with each requiring different strategies. From the tech-savvy Roxon Soldiers to the supernatural Prowler, understanding enemy patterns can transform encounters from tedious to exhilarating.
- Visuals and Feedback: The combat visuals are astounding. Each hit feels heavy, the animations are fluid, and the audio cues enhance the experience. You’re never left guessing whether your attack landed or if you’re on the receiving end of a beating.
Traversal and Movement Dynamics
Move over, everyday gaming mechanics! When it comes to mobility in Spider-Man: Miles Morales, the game takes traditional movement systems and spins them into something captivating.
- Parkour Elements: The parkour-like maneuvers integrated into the gameplay allow for fluid transitions between different types of movement, be it running up walls, sliding under obstacles, or acrobatically flipping onto a ledge. This makes traversing the city feel alive and responsive.
- Environmental Interactions: Players can utilize the environment in clever ways, like bouncing off NPCs or swinging off certain structures. This not only adds depth to movement but makes the world feel interconnected and reactive.
- Fast Travel Options: While running and swinging is exhilarating, there’s also the option for fast travel across the map. This keeps the pacing of gameplay brisk, allowing players to jump into action quickly without feeling bogged down by the distance.
In summary, the gameplay mechanics in Spider-Man: Miles Morales are designed to cater to a wide audience. From fast-paced swinging to strategic stealth, players are offered a robust experience that brings the vibrant world of Spider-Man to life. In the end, these mechanics are not just tools of interaction; they enhance storytelling and character development, enriching the player's journey through Miles Morales' vibrant adventures.
Narrative and Storytelling
The narrative in Spider-Man: Miles Morales stands tall as a testament to the power of storytelling in modern video games. It propels players beyond mere gameplay, weaving emotional connections and thematic depth throughout the experience. Good storytelling doesn’t just entertain; it challenges players to think and feel alongside the characters they control. This section seeks to highlight how the game achieves this, exploring its plot intricacies, character developments, and the cultural significance entwined in the narrative fabric.
Plot Summary and Key Themes
At its core, Miles Morales tells the story of a young hero navigating his dual identity, balancing responsibilities as a teenager and a newly minted superhero. When the Roxon Energy Corporation threatens Harlem, a conflict ensues, testing Miles’s resolve, morals, and relationships. The game artfully intersperses action with poignant moments, allowing players to immerse themselves in both the exhilarating and the heart-wrenching.
Key themes arise throughout the story:
- Identity and Growth: Miles embarks on a journey of self-discovery, grappling with the weight of expectations placed on him by those around him.
- Community and Belonging: Harlem is not just a backdrop; it’s a living entity influencing the narrative. The game underscores the importance of community support and unity against threats.
- Responsibility: This age-old theme is re-examined through the eyes of Miles, making it relatable and fresh for players.
"With great power comes great responsibility. It’s more than just words; it’s a way of life for Miles."
The blend of these elements creates a rich tapestry that resonates deeply with players, both young and old.
Character Arcs and Development
Miles Morales is not a solo act in this narrative. A vibrant cast of characters surrounds him, each contributing to his transformation. The complexities of their relationships fuel the emotional core of the game.
- Miles Morales: He starts as an unsure teenager and grows into a confident hero. The loss of his father and his determination to protect his neighborhood shapes him significantly.
- Ganke Lee: Serving as Miles's best friend and confidant, Ganke provides comic relief yet remains a critical support system. Their dynamic explores themes of friendship and loyalty.
- Spider-Man (Peter Parker): His mentor role is crucial, embodying guidance while also leaving space for Miles to forge his own path. Their interactions delve into the nuances of mentorship and the inevitable learning curve that comes with it.
Through these arcs, the game captures the essence of personal growth, painting a nuanced portrait of what it means to become a hero.
Cultural and Personal Identity
The landscape of Spider-Man: Miles Morales is infused with cultural elements that bring authenticity to the narrative. Miles's character is rooted in his Afro-Latino heritage, which is not merely an aesthetic choice but a cornerstone of his identity. The representation of diverse cultures and communities underscores the importance of inclusivity in contemporary media.
Incorporating elements like local music, food, and street art enhances the sense of place. This cultural richness provides depth, making Miles Morales not just a gaming experience, but also a celebration of diversity and a reflection on personal identity.
Players often find themselves inspired by Miles’s journey, seeing pieces of their own lives reflected back at them. This connection allows for a more profound appreciation of the character, as he represents voices previously underrepresented in gaming.
In summary, the narrative and storytelling of Spider-Man: Miles Morales goes beyond the surface, capturing the complexities of identity, relationships, and cultural significance. This multifaceted journey adds layers to the gaming experience, inviting players to explore not only the world of a hero but also their own narratives."
Visuals and Technical Aspects
Examining the visuals and technical aspects of Spider-Man: Miles Morales on PS4 is crucial in understanding how the game creates an immersive experience. Novelties in graphics directly affect how players engage with the story and characters. One can appreciate the craftsmanship behind the visuals, particularly when considering how they influence gameplay and player emotions. These elements not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also reflect the technological capabilities of the PS4 console itself.
Graphical Fidelity on PS4
The graphical fidelity of Spider-Man: Miles Morales manages to squeeze remarkable detail out of the PS4's hardware. The city of New York, vibrant and alive, is rendered with stunning accuracy. From the intricate design of the buildings to the reflections on the wet streets, every element feels carefully crafted.
"Graphical fidelity ensures that players don't just see a game; they experience a living world."
High-definition textures create a sense of realism that elevates the gameplay, pulling players deeper into Miles' universe. Shadows and lighting effects demonstrate the developers' attention to detail, aptly showcasing the changes from day to night. This dynamic environment is not just for show; it impacts gameplay as areas can change character interactions based on lighting conditions.
Art Style and Design Choices
The art style in Miles Morales stands as a testament to the developer's imaginative approach. Inspired by the original comic book charm, the design aesthetic captures a hybrid of realism and stylized animation. The use of bold colors merged with darker undertones creates a unique visual signature that distinguishes this game from its predecessor.
For instance, the visual representation of Miles' powers, especially the venom blasts, is an interesting choice. They are not just effects; they add to the overall character expression, symbolizing his growth and uniqueness. The artistic decision to incorporate comic-style bursts during combat moments enhances the action, inviting players to lose themselves in the chaos while still feeling the weight of each punch or kick.
Performance Optimization Techniques
Maximizing performance while ensuring graphical quality is no small feat on the PS4. The game adopts various performance optimization techniques that cater to both the hardware limitations and gameplay experience.
Dynamic resolution scaling is subtly employed, allowing the game to maintain smooth frame rates without sacrificing graphical integrity. This means that during intensive action scenes, the resolution may adjust on-the-fly to keep everything fluid.
Additionally, 60 frames per second mode achieves a seamless visual flow, proving that even older hardware can deliver high-quality gaming experiences. These technical choices reflect a careful balancing act between visual performance and gameplay fluidity, enhancing the overall quality of user experience.
Comparison with Other Titles
In analyzing Spider-Man: Miles Morales, examining how it stands in relation to other titles, particularly its predecessor, plays a pivotal role. The gaming landscape is ever-evolving, and understanding these differences offers players insights on gameplay evolution, story depth, and overall player experience.
Contrasting with Spider-Man (2018)
When juxtaposing Miles Morales with the original Spider-Man released in 2018, both the similarities and disparities become apparent. The first game laid a solid groundwork for character mechanics and storytelling, offering a captivating universe where players could explore New York City as Peter Parker. Take the care given to the open-world design, for instance. The original game had beautifully rendered landmarks, which deeply engaged players. However, Miles Morales enhances these aspects with additional layers, showcasing Harlem and diving more into the protagonist's cultural background.
Combat also received a notable upgrade in the newer installment. Miles’ unique abilities, like bio-electric venom strikes, shake up encounters in ways that make battles more dynamic and thrilling compared to the strictly gadget-focused approach in the earlier game. This contrast is reflected in how each game promotes a different playstyle: Peter is often more of a tactician, while Miles leans into a more aggressive, instinctive combat approach.
Assessing the Impact of Spider-Man Games
Alongside the gameplay mechanics, evaluating the impact of Spider-Man games on the broader gaming community highlights their significance. The franchise has not only influenced game design but has also shaped perception of superhero narratives in gaming. Especially noteworthy is how the Spider-Man games, with their meticulous attention to storytelling and character development, have paved the way for character-driven narratives in other titles.
They succeeded in engaging diverse audiences, making Spider-Man not just a game of swinging and combat, but a cultural touchpoint.
- Innovation in Storytelling: Players expect and demand deeply crafted narratives, thanks to the compelling arcs introduced in Spider-Man titles.
- Character Representation: By presenting diverse characters like Miles Morales, the games break traditional molds, reflecting broader cultural narratives that resonate with fans.
- Inspiring Game Design: The successful elements, including the open world, dialogue systems, and character dynamics, serve as a benchmark for many other games.
Overall, Spider-Man: Miles Morales doesn't simply stand alone; it enriches the gaming genre while paving the way for future iterations.
The influence of Spider-Man games speaks to a larger movement in the industry towards diverse storytelling and character depth that resonates well beyond the console.
Community Engagement and Reception
Community engagement is a pivotal aspect of any successful video game, and Spider-Man: Miles Morales is no different. The relationship between creators and fans often shapes the ongoing legacy of a title, particularly for iconic characters like Miles Morales. Examining the dynamics of this engagement provides insight into how the game has resonated with audiences and has fostered a community spirit among Spider-Man aficionados.
Fan Reception and Critique
Fans have greeted Miles Morales with a warm embrace, marked by a blend of enthusiasm and thoughtful critique. Review aggregators reflect this, showing high ratings across various platforms. Gamers have praised its fluid gameplay mechanics and the depth of storytelling.
- Admired Elements:
- Critiques:
- The representation of Miles as a biracial Spider-Man struck a chord with many players, as it resonates with a diverse audience.
- Engaging side missions and character interactions have also received acclaim, providing a rich narrative tapestry.
- Some fans expressed that the game, while engaging, felt somewhat limited in scope when compared to its predecessor, Spider-Man (2018).
- A few noted that the game’s length, which many completed in less than 10 hours, could leave a thirst for more narrative depth.
Despite any critiques, the overwhelming sense is that players felt heard, as developers seemed to have integrated community feedback into the gaming experience. Many users took to platforms like Reddit to voice opinions and share gameplay moments, enriching the conversation around Miles Morales.
Impact on Spider-Man Fandom
The release of Miles Morales has had lasting repercussions within the Spider-Man fandom. First and foremost, it has invigorated interest in Spider-Man’s world. Fans young and old alike are drawing connections between Miles' story and broader themes within the Spider-Man universe.
- Key Impacts:
- Cross-Generational Appeal: Younger audiences, who may have been unfamiliar with Spider-Man lore, are discovering the rich history and depth of these characters thanks to this title.
- Increased Engagement with Media: With the release of films and animated series focusing on Miles, the game has acted as a catalyst to weave together various media formats, appealing to a wider fan base.
The engagement of fans has fostered a community that thrives on shared experiences and discussions about the character’s growth and relatability. This sense of belonging not only cements the game’s position in the current gaming landscape but also secures Miles Morales' place in the broader Spider-Man legacy.
"The charm of Miles Morales lies in its ability to resonate with players on a personal level, inviting them into a narrative that reflects their realities while celebrating the Spider-Man mythos."
Overall, the community engagement surrounding Spider-Man: Miles Morales highlights its significance, proving that at its core, gaming is about connection—between characters and players, and amongst fans themselves.
Looking Ahead
As we peek into the future of the Spider-Man universe, specifically concerning the gaming landscape, this section aims to stitch together the threads of speculation and expectation surrounding upcoming ventures. The gaming community is constantly evolving, and with advances in technology and storytelling, the potential for Spider-Man content remains vast and varied. Here, we’ll take a closer look at what’s on the horizon, addressing critical elements, benefits, and considerations that will shape the future of Spider-Man in gaming.
Future of Spider-Man in Gaming
The potential for future Spider-Man titles is as exciting as it is daunting. With the successful launch of "Spider-Man: Miles Morales" on PS4, the groundwork has laid for a series of sequels, spin-offs, and expanded universes. The popularity of Miles Morales has demonstrated that players appreciate seeing new angles and perspectives on the web-slinger’s legacy.
Several factors drive the future direction:
- Character Evolution: As Miles Morales continues to garner attention, his character is likely to expand beyond a single title. Developers can delve into his backstory further, exploring relationships, family dynamics, and struggles with identity.
- Technological Growth: The introduction of new consoles and enhancements in graphical fidelity open doors for richer storytelling and immersive environments. This could mean high-quality graphics, realistic animations, and seamless transitions in gameplay that truly bring the character to life.
- Multiplayer Elements: Given the rise in online gaming communities, the potential for a multiplayer Spider-Man experience is intriguing. Imagine teaming up with friends to tackle villains or swinging through the city together. Community engagement through cooperative gameplay could create a dedicated following.
As the landscape evolves, keeping an finger on the pulse of player expectations becomes essential. This will ensure not only the longevity of Spider-Man games but also their relevance in a crowded market.
Potential Developments in Sequels
Thinking about sequels sparks a multitude of possibilities. One of the key aspects of sequels involves character arcs and plot continuation, which could lead to satisfying narrative resolutions as well as exciting new plot twists.
Potential developments may include:
- Exploring New Villains: Each Spider-Man iteration introduces memorable adversaries. Future titles could capitalize on lesser-known villains, providing fresh conflicts and enhancing the overarching narrative, much like how the game slowly expanded our understanding of its rich rogues' gallery.
- Crossovers and Collaborations: Given the success of superhero crossovers in movies and comics, gaming could follow suit. A crossover with other Marvel characters, perhaps a collaboration with the Avengers or a unique plot featuring the Sinister Six, would undoubtedly create a buzz.
- Additional Game Modes: Players always yearn for a variety of gameplay experiences. New game modes, challenges, or themed events could elevate player engagement, drawing them back into the game’s world time and again.
In short, the future of Spider-Man in the gaming arena is filled with potential. There's so much to look forward to, as developers explore diverse narratives and gameplay innovations that resonate with fans old and new. By continuously integrating the feedback of dedicated players, future titles can not only live up to the standards set by previous versions but also push the boundaries of what a Spider-Man game could be.
Epilogue
In wrapping up the exploration of Spider-Man: Miles Morales on PS4, it’s essential to grasp why this title stands as a significant point in the gaming landscape, particularly within the Spider-Man universe. With its innovative gameplay mechanics, rich narrative, and striking visuals, Miles Morales brings both old and new elements to the forefront, making it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike.
Recap of Main Insights
- Character Development: Miles Morales emerges as a layered protagonist, navigating the challenges of being a teenager while stepping into the shoes of Spider-Man. His journey reflects growth and self-discovery, which resonates with a broad audience.
- Gameplay Mechanics: The game seamlessly integrates traversal and combat, empowering players to harness Miles' unique abilities, like the invisibility and bioelectricity, providing a fresh experience that differentiates it from previous iterations.
- Cultural Significance: This installment doesn’t just provide entertainment; it reflects the diversity of its audience. By featuring Miles, a character of African-American and Puerto Rican descent, the game amplifies narratives of inclusion and representation that are crucial in today’s world.
- Technical Achievements: On the PS4, the game showcases impressive graphical fidelity, maintaining a high level of detail and fluidity in gameplay, which is no small feat for a console last seen as old hat against its more powerful successors.
Overall, Spider-Man: Miles Morales delivers a compelling package that cherishes its roots while ambitiously reaching toward the future, making substantial strides as a stand-alone title in a beloved franchise.
Final Thoughts on Miles Morales
What truly defines Spider-Man: Miles Morales is its ability to resonate emotionally with players. It reflects not just heroism but the everyday struggles faced by young people today. As players swing through the vibrant streets of Harlem, they’re not just observing; they’re participating in a living story that speaks to friendship, responsibility, and the search for identity.
The game manages to balance action-packed moments with a grounded portrayal of its characters, allowing players to connect with Miles not only as the Spider-Man of the future but also as a relatable teenager.
As we look to the horizon, the impact of this game will likely spur more inclusive narratives in gaming, pushing the medium towards richer storytelling. With the success of this title, there’s a palpable sense of excitement for what lies ahead in the Spider-Man saga. Whether future installments will expand on Miles' adventures or delve back into the world of Peter Parker, one thing is certain: the legacy of Spider-Man in gaming is only growing stronger.
