Cathodemer
- September 8, 2017
- Joel Kivelä
Get on SteamCathodemer is a unique video production instrument that simulates a CRT display and features analog-style RGB signal oscillation synthesis, input source mixing, and various classic video effects. It allows for real-time manipulation of video through MIDI and audio input, and output can be projected or rendered to file. This game aims to capture the warm and organic analog picture of vintage video computing systems from the 70's and 80's.
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Offers a unique and creative platform for generating analog-style video visuals, making it a great value for its price.
- Despite a steep learning curve, users find it rewarding and fun to experiment with, often leading to unexpected and beautiful results.
- The software is particularly praised for its MIDI support and ability to integrate with other applications, enhancing its versatility for live performances and video projects.
- The user interface is often described as confusing and unwieldy, making it difficult for new users to navigate and utilize effectively.
- Frequent crashes and bugs, especially when pushing the software's limits, detract from the overall experience and reliability.
- Lack of comprehensive documentation and tutorials leaves users struggling to understand the software's features and functionalities.
- graphics19 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
The graphics of this software are highly praised for their ability to create compelling, analog-style visuals, particularly suited for musicians and artists interested in glitch aesthetics. Users appreciate the extensive customization options that allow for unique and dynamic visual outputs, although some note a learning curve and desire for more comprehensive documentation. Overall, it is regarded as an excellent tool for generating engaging visuals for live performances and artistic projects.
“If you're into creating mind-melting visuals and just exploring all the possibilities of visual art, glitch aesthetic, etc., look no further.”
“Excellent video synthesizer with a myriad of options, and a great tool if you're interested in producing analog visuals but can't afford to drop hundreds (or thousands) on actual hardware.”
“The aesthetics of the generated images are convincingly analogue for me.”
“Tweaking the controls like a caveman, you'll make seemingly minor adjustments that drastically change the visuals while muttering incoherently to yourself.”
“First of all, it's the only program I've seen that tries to emulate analog motion graphics, from all the knobs to visual distortion and other issues.”
“With a background in graphic design and music production, I was able to pick up the controls fairly easily; however, I do wish that the manual/help section was a bit more in-depth.”
- music8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
Users appreciate the music-related features of the software, highlighting its effectiveness for creating engaging visuals that complement live performances and music videos. While the controls are generally easy to navigate for those with a background in music and graphic design, some users desire a more comprehensive manual and quicker control adjustments for smoother live performances. Overall, it is praised as a valuable tool for musicians looking to enhance their shows with DIY visuals.
“Perfect if you're any sort of musician and need DIY visuals for a show.”
“I love making glitchy visuals to go with my noise music, and this is a beauty!”
“I love it so much I'm using it for my music videos and live show visuals.”
“It would be great if double clicking a control would snap it back to its default value, since right clicking to enter a value is very cumbersome in the middle of performing (I'm using cathodemer at the same time as I'm performing music, so little things to let me move faster really do matter).”
“I frequently use this with Syphon to add texture to visual sets for live music.”
“With a background in graphic design and music production, I was able to pick up the controls fairly easily; however, I do wish that the manual/help section was a bit more in-depth.”
- stability5 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Overall, users report that the game's stability is problematic, with frequent bugs and crashes, especially when multiple inputs are made quickly. Despite attempts at troubleshooting, many players have found little improvement, indicating that the game's performance remains unreliable.
“It's buggy and crashes if you push too many buttons too fast.”
“I have tried numerous troubleshooting options suggested online to no avail.”
“Before the update it was buggy, yeah, but it worked.”
- optimization4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -25 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
Users have reported mixed experiences with optimization, noting significant input lag and inconsistent audio reactivity despite meeting system requirements. Suggestions for improvement include enhancing video optimization and ensuring the program runs efficiently at appropriate resolutions. Overall, while the software is versatile for various tasks, performance issues remain a concern.
“I have been able to use this to do everything from visual editing to live performance visual DJing.”
“Audio reactivity is probably my biggest issue; it could use improvement both in performance and stability, and just the way the program reacts to sound is maddeningly inconsistent sometimes.”
“The one thing I'd like to see in the future is some better video optimization; I get a ton of input lag from the control board (especially when using MIDI) even though my PC meets beyond the required specifications.”
“Audio reactivity stuff is probably my biggest issue; it could do with improvement both performance and stability-wise, and just the way the program reacts to sound is maddeningly inconsistent sometimes.”
“Tip for new users too: if the program is running slowly, check what resolution you're running the render box at, reopen the program, and make sure it's not too big.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players note that while there is a steep learning curve at the beginning, once they grasp the game's quirks, the humor becomes a significant and enjoyable aspect of the experience.
“The humor in this game is top-notch; it keeps you engaged and makes even the toughest challenges feel lighthearted.”
“Once you get past the initial learning curve, the quirky humor really shines through and adds a delightful twist to the gameplay.”
“The witty dialogue and hilarious scenarios had me laughing out loud, making the experience all the more enjoyable.”
