The List Magazine - Issue 19

FR EE

the LIST trondheim NOV / DEC

â„–19

GET YOUR GAME ON IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR!

BOARD GAMES

GIFT LISTS

HOLIDAY HIJINX

300+ EVENTS INSIDE TO BRING YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO!

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Join our food tours Brewery walk

Burger walk

The taste of authentic Trondheim beer

Serving the city’s best burger knowledge

Beer has been brewed in Trondheim throughout the ages. It is a proud tradition that has been passed down over many generations. This tour gives you a taste of some of the city’s best breweries; Mikrobryggeriet, ØX Tap Room and E.C Dahls.

You can find burgers all over the world, Trondheim is home to many burger nerds who spend a lot of time experimenting with the correct produce and ingredients to make the best burgers. This tour gives you a unique taste experience of the city’s best burger places; Døgnvill, Bror and Cowsea.

TIME AND DAY Wednesday – Friday 16 – 19 (4pm – 7pm)

PRICE NOK 1000,with guide

PRICE NOK 790,with guide

Art hall walk and lunch

Coffee walk

Experience the world of international contemporary art

For all coffee fans

Enjoy a wonderful coffee experience in Trondheim with some of the country’s leading coffee roasters and baristas. Taste the proud coffee culture that has become an important part of the city’s identity; Jacobsen & Svart, Dromedar and Sellanraa.

TIME AND DAY Wednesday 16 – 18 (4pm – 6pm) Saturday 09.30 - 11.30 (9.30am – 11.30am)

TIME AND DAY Tuesday 15 – 17 (3pm – 5pm)

PRICE NOK 485,with guide

The art venue Kunsthall Trondheim offers an art experience with a difference, which provides a good opportunity to see the new trends on the international contemporary art scene. Join us for a guided tour of the exhibitions followed by lunch at Sellanraa bok & bar, which serves tastes to complement the art experience.

TIME AND DAY Saturday 13.00 (1pm)

Book and see more guided city tours at visittrondheim.no

PRICE NOK 450,with guide

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Vi gir folk grunn til å tro på framtiden

www.fretex.no

Artwork from T.I.M.E Stories courtesy Asmodee

THE LIST

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VIDEO GAMES AS LITERATURE?

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Petter Schanke Olsen

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Jul Live and Jul Learn

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BOARD NOT BORED

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THE ART LIST

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LISTINGS & PREVIEWS

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FOOD & DRINK

A conference encouraging all students to build a stronger global culture

Board game developer and long-time gamer encourages your playful side

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The Ultimate Competition A look at the world of esports and professional gaming

The tabletop resurgence of analogue gaming

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Alexander Funch

Not all video game developers are progammers

An immigrant's attempt at getting a Norwegian Christmas right

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Student City Conference

Hunting Around Where to gather your own game

An interview with Julie Ebbing

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YOUR CHRISTMAS GUIDE 20

February 1. - 3. 2018 Trondheim City Centre

UNIQUE BOUTIQUES

115 CONCERTS at 15 venues over 3 days on the same ticket

Five great gift-shopping spots

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GAMES FOR “GROWN-UPS” Open up your playful side

30

GAMES FOR KIDDING AROUND

TICKETS Buy festival passes at trondheimcalling.no

Serious fun for the young

36

TOP VIDEO GAMES Holiday's hottest games

42

WARM DRINKS

See trondheimcalling.no for artist announcements and program

Download our festival app for latest updates, venue maps etc.

Delicious, different and easy

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

THIS ISSUE’S

EDITORIAL GAME CHANGERS Christmas in this part of the world, is beautiful in the richness of colour, warmth from food, fires and family and brimming with generosity. In all of these activities, it is my belief there is always room for new things to do, eat and people to bring to the table.

We have not exactly created a Christmas issue as one might expect; we are presenting ways to be active, to try new things, to promote inclusion that crosses age, gender, language and expectation. From the world of competitive E-sports, to the perfect cup of coffee, and a giggle-worthy tale of how a immigrant tries to get a Norwegian Christmas right (myself being that immigrant!), there is something for everyone in this issue.

The theme is near and dear to my heart as a long-time gamer, both tabletop and digital. Board games are not merely something which is trotted out when bored or to fill time, but for the joy of sharing them with friends, family and to create spaces for social interaction. In this issue, The List is looking at the board game world and how it has had a massive change in the last decade. Our writer David Nikel goes indepth into his recent introduction to gaming on page 33. You can also find some handy lists of some of the best games for both adults and kids, written by an avid gamer, Martin Hassel, on pages 28-31.

Our aim is to inspire you to visit shops you may not know, play games which will facilitate great holidays, experience lots of lively music, participate in outdoor activities and reinvent your concept of what gaming is. And don’t forget our listings section for something exciting to do with your friends and family, whatever your interests.

This issue also marks our third anniversary in print; even more reason for celebration! If you are picking up an early copy of our magazine come on down to Habitat on 1 November for a big (free) party. If not, then like us on Facebook and look out for more events in the near future. The List was created with you in mind so we want your feedback, involvement and contribution. From our merry little band here at The List, to you and yours, may you have a cozy, warm and love-filled holiday season and New Year! a

Project Manager Jennifer Wold

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raditions define much more of who we are than, perhaps, we give them credit.

Traditions bind us to our community, family and secure our place in the world. Holiday seasons, no matter the time of year, show our depth, diversity in celebrations and strengthens our roots.

The winter holiday season,

IMPRINT The LIST thelist.no a division of The List Media AS Contacts and information Located at DIGS, 30 Olavtryggvasons gate 30 7011 Trondheim, Norway Business/Publishing: +47 472 76 680 Editorial: +47 451 35 877 Email: editorial@thelist.is Circulation (ave.): 8.500 thelist.no +47 969 12 901

THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CO-FOUNDER Wil Lee-Wright wil@thelist.no EDITOR & CO-FOUNDER Jaya Thomlison jaya@thelist.is CREATIVE DIRECTOR & CO-FOUNDER Andrew Natt andy@thelist.no

For more information about distribution please contact editorial@thelist.no

PROJECT MANAGER Jennifer Wold jennifer@thelist.no ART EDITOR Laura-Ann Morrison Laura@thelist.no

Design Lewis McGuffie, Gia Lam Nguyen

INTERN (PREVIEWS AND LISTINGS) Bradley P. Kurtz bradley@thelist.no

CONSULTANT & CO-FOUNDER Ida Bondø Lee-Wright ida@thelist.no

HEAD OF SALES Matias Bretteville-Jensen +47 969 12 901 matias@thelist.no

PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR Torleif Kvinnesland torleif@thelist.no

DISTRIBUTION Michał Więcyk, Dominika Gembiak

SUB-EDITING Wil Lee-Wright, Bradley P. Kurtz, Jennifer Wold ILLUSTRATION Minnu Mahalingam, Rosanna D’Arpa THE BOARD The List is seeking new Board members!

Contact wil@thelist.no

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CONTRIBUTORS David Nikel, Kyle Havlicek-McClenahan, Mr. Yoshi, Bradley P. Kurtz, Fredrik Rodahl, Martin Hassel, Minnu Mahalingam, Rosanna D’Arpa, Karin Modig, Belinda Covert, Sarah Hoagn, Zana Datava COVER Photography by Mr. Yoshi PRINTING Soporset 100g Skipnes, Travbaneveien 6, 7044 Trondheim Tel: 73 82 63 00 www.skipnes.no

THE LIST WRITER

KYLE HAVLICEKMCCLENAHAN “We couldn’t see so many stars when I was little. Kids today have no idea what a blaze of light cities used to be - and not that long ago. I’d rather have the city lights back myself. But we can afford the stars.” Octavia E. Butler WRITER

MARTIN HASSEL

THIS ISSUE’S

CONTRIBUTORS ISSUE #19 NOV / DEC ’17 PHOTOGRAPHER

MR.YOSHI

Is a marine safety engineer, PhD candidate, Founder of TEDxTrondheim and passionate gamer. His collection of carefully chosen board games is about 150 strong. He believes they are more than a fun time, but as a learning tool, for team building and a great way to bond with his family.

Is an enigmatic photographer and artist, taking his art across the globe from the woods of Norway to the bright lights of big cities. His work adorns walls, clothing, instruments of notable music artists and even the food he cooks up bears his unmistakable mark. Instagram: yoshi2406 ILLUSTRATOR

ROSANNA D’ARPA

ILLUSTRATOR

Is an illustrator and digital artist based in Turin, sharing her life with two wonderful little daughters and a devoted husband. Sketching and painting all of her life, she is eager to endeavour outside of her family life with her skills and projects.

She loves comics and illustrations without words.

Is a Digital Designer at WTW, and a freelance illustrator in her spare time. As an American transplant adventuring in Trondheim, she enjoys learning about Norway through her scenic hikes and trips to the cabin. She is also passionate about cooking and travelling the world.

MINNU MAHALINGAM WRITER

FREDERIK RODAHL is a Materials Engineer in the field of metal production with a love for winter sports, computer games and fantasy novels.

Frederik follows games and professional gaming closely, as others would follow traditional sports. He likes writing, especially about the mentioned hobbies.

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

COLUMN

Video Games as Literature?

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Words by Bradley P. Kurtz

hat is literature? The Latin root of the word literally means ‘things made from letters’. For most people, the standard definition of literature pertains to novels and novellas, plays, poems, and other written works. However, in this day and age, the bounds of the definition can be expanded to include works from other mediums, including video games.

Although sources vary, the median word count of a modern novel lies somewhere between 50,000 and 80,000 words. Word count is, rightly, not the defining factor to a text being considered literature, but can be an indication of the substance of a text. Two popular role-playing games, The Witcher III and Dragon Age: Origins, clock in at 450,000 and 740,000 words, respectively. Again, word count is not a defining factor, but these examples demonstrate there is often more substance in a game than just running around and demolishing the bad guys.

An easy comparison to make when identifying where video games might lie on the literary scale is the theme of the story being told.

Storytelling in general tends to fall around seven major plots: overcoming the monster, rags to riches, the quest, voyage and return, comedy, tragedy, and rebirth. Nearly every video game also uses these plots, or a combination of them, to build up the lore or backstory, and the plot of the story being played.

Critics will argue that stories in a written format are higher on the literary scale because they build on the reader’s own imagination; a descriptive paragraph of the Hogwarts Great Hall takes a completely different shape in the readers’ mind’s eye, than in the images on screen for example. The writer is in full control of the story, but the audience can interpret it differently. Video games tend to be opposite: the player has no control over the visual but influences the story through the choices they make.

Yet, this could also be considered a strength with regard to video games and their stories.

Interactive storytelling creates a sense of presence. Instead of reading about the choices that a character makes, the player of the game is THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

Illustration by Rosanna D’Arpa

put in the driver’s seat and becomes the one making those choices, often affecting the storyline based on those choices. This aspect of gaming plays heavily on the notion of empathy, which has become a dominant theme of literary studies as it engages with the findings of neuroscience, psychology, and evolutionary theory. Literature functions, and is of social and even biological value, because of the empathy it creates when we see the world from the viewpoint of another character. Gaming, too, asks us to occupy another, virtual point of view. Do we empathise with characters created out of pixels in the same way as we empathise with those created by printed words?

A long time ago, Aristotle wrote about the central role that catharsis plays in drama.

In other words: how tragedy, fear, pity, and other emotions affect an audience. Even as Aristotle’s road map for what makes a tragic plot and hero has been updated over the years, the cathartic response remains a crucial aspect of contemporary drama and literature.

Is it there a cathartic response in video games as well? And if so, is it brought about by plot or characterisation? Some players of the popular Call of Duty game, Modern Warfare 2, might agree. The game, released in 2009, still promotes a discussion on the seemingly unwarranted betrayal of the player’s character by a certain General Shepard (the player’s commanding officer of sorts in this epic military journey).

An interesting intersection of written word and video games can be seen in the three-part series of games entitled The Witcher. These games are based on the novels written by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski, taking the world he created, aspects of the story, and branching off into a digitally explorable world.

Both the novels and the book offer their audience a captivating storyline, and have bridged a gap where fans of the game have picked up the books, and vice versa.

Another perspective to take into account is the way people judge the quality of a video game. This is often done in terms of the game’s mechanics that create and define their field of play. Though some games contain upwards of a quarter-million words, of dialogue, to understand the game the interaction and 8

the mechanics of shooting, running, jumping and flying are a priority. In many games of today, the story is merely the excuse to fight dragons and monsters, or blast bad guys out of the sky with lasers. The game may have a plot written to rival Homer’s Odyssey, but structurally it might be a little more like Space Invaders than War and Peace.

More often than not people pick up and play video games for the story. Sure, there are some games whose player base consists almost entirely of players engaged in online multiplayer, nearly ignoring the story aspect. But, if games are simply about their mechanics, which vary little from one game to the next, why do people get excited by the new ‘triple A’ titles (high profile, big budget, blockbuster, such as Call of Duty) whereas nobody plays classic first person shooters like Doom anymore? Just as all novels allegedly riff on seven basic plots, so games are always variations on an underlying mechanism. As with novels, it can only be the subtle narrative variations that explain what makes one game better or more compelling than another.

Written word and video games are simply different mediums and not counteracting forces. Whatever paradigm we use to criticise and discuss literature, one factor remains; literature, as an art form, speaks to us and affects us both intellectually and emotionally.

The question of whether video games can, or should be considered literature is vastly open-ended. But, the definition of literature will forever be an evolving cycle, encompassing new styles of the art and used to further examine the human condition. Throughout written history there have always been critics and misunderstandings of the new forms of literature. Twentieth-century writers such as T.S. Eliot or Ezra Pound saw in film not something inferior to literature, but rather something that could inspire and innovate current writing styles. The methods of education have turned from the study of religious texts to theorising the new and exciting form of the novel. As video games reach a new level of visual and narrative complexity we are just now beginning to see that video games might be interpreted using similar, long-established methods of art and narrative criticism. a

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Student City Conference Each year, Study Trondheim hosts a conference to open up a dialogue with the massive student community in the city. The Student City Conference features keynote speakers, workshops, and other activities to facilitate avenues of discussion on how Trondheim can become a better student city.

Words by Bradley P. Kurtz

“L

Main image by Torleif Kvinneslan

ast year was important because NTNU got a lot of input on the school's campus around the city, and that theme is part of this year's conference as well," said Mona Sæther of Trondheim Kommune. "How can we create social spaces for interactions, which are important to break down social barriers between Norwegian and international students?"

This autumn's conference is organised primarily by Study Trondheim. The subject of all the speakers and workshops will focus on the international student community in the city.

Seven themes will be covered by the speakers THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

and workshops: work and business, housing, campus and city development, volunteering, health and welfare, and the international student community as a whole. The day will be packed with insightful discussion from numerous student organisations, community members, schools and, of course, students.

"The name of the conference is ‘creating global students' which means that it's important for international students to interact with their Norwegian counterparts, but also that Norwegian students need to interact with their new international colleagues. It's based on creating global citizens, meaning that citizens in Trondheim need to look more global; and it is the same for the student population."

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IMAGE samfundet.no

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“This conference is about more than just the international student community, but also the international community as a whole here in Trondheim.”

EVENT DETAILS November 8th Studentersamfundet 15:00–20:00

IMAGE samfundet.no

IMAGE samfundet.no

Trondheim receives several thousand international students at the start of each school year, thus providing the city with an opportunity for internationalisation in higher education and elsewhere in society. Norway is perceived as an attractive study destination for many different reasons, but strangely, as much as one-third of international students have reported rarely or never interacting with Norwegian students. How does this affect the study experience for this community, and how can this be changed?

One key aspect of the conference will be the speakers presenting different ideas and perspectives on this idea; which will include representatives from NTNU and the University of Copenhagen. This session starts off with Pro-Rector of Education at NTNU, Anne Borg, speaking on “Does NTNU create global students”. The session ends with another speaker of local flavour, Tyler Stewart, the president of ISFIT and an international student himself, telling his own story about

IMAGE Margrethe S. Baustad

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living in Trondheim. There will be a total of five keynote speakers presenting in Storsalen, beginning at 16:00 and continuing on for two hours.

After the speakers have finished and everyone has had a chance to refresh themselves with snacks and a cup of coffee there will be options to attend several different workshops.

These workshops are intended to provide a platform for everyone at the conference to get involved and have their voices heard. Three themes have been picked out for the workshops: the welcome week paradox, creating spaces for social interaction, and student organisations as social catalysts "I'm looking forward to the 'welcome week paradox'," responded Mona when asked about the workshops. "When we started planning this conference, we were raising questions about why the welcome weeks are split up? The international students have one welcome week, and the Norwegian students have another. When we spoke with NTNU about it, they gave us some good reasoning as to why, but it will be an interesting workshop."

"Everyone can participate in these different workshops, and we hope to find, not necessarily all the answers, but aspects of student life we [Study Trondheim] can work on afterwards."

When asked about the importance of these types of conferences to Trondheim, Mona Sæther said "it's important to create an awareness of a theme which is both challenging and about which we need to raise awareness. Amd the different partners in Study Trondheim can learn to work better together. There are 18 different partners in Study Trondheim representing different educational organisations, Trondheim Kommune, Fylkeskommune, SiT, and also the business community in the city. It's important that everyone in Trondheim can work together, and that's what this conference is about."

"The vision for Study Trondheim is for Trondheim to be the best student city in Northern Europe. If we want to complete that vision, we need the students with us, and it's really important for us to have the student voice in everything that we do. For the international students, I would say it is an important way to engage and be a voice in how Trondheim can become a better city for them to experience and to live in."

Student City Conference is being held at the symbolic Studentersamfundet – a massive part of the student community's identity here in the city. The Student City Conference 2017 will facilitate discussions on how students and other decision makers can take action to make Trondheim a better city for newcomers to the city, international and otherwise. By breaking down social barriers and enabling meaningful interaction between Norwegian and international students, Trondheim will become an education destination for people from around the globe. a THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

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THE LIST

PROFILE

Building the Board Words by Kyle Havlicek-McClenahan

Image by Jennifer Wold

Have you thought about where your board games come from? The person and the idea behind them? Did you know a successful board game has come from Trondheim, soon to be followed by another? Creator of Kill the King and Donning the Purple, Petter Schanke Olsen, will hopefully inspire and encourage you to come play…. and maybe to design your own game one day.

What is your history with games and why did you want to build your own?

I’ve always been a geek, so I like all kinds of games both digital and analogue.

In the past few years, I have rediscovered the board games scene after having played the card game Magic the Gathering all of my life. The new generation of board games like Pandemic, Cards Against Humanity and Settlers of Catan are fantastic and not at all like Monopoly or Ludo before them. I have been gaming my whole life, and I also like to create things, so when that game mechanic popped into my head and eventually worked, I ended up going for it. Funny enough the idea began Christmas Eve 2015, in the shower. I took out a pen and paper to draw a prototype and forced my sister to test it with me.

She isn’t a board gamer but admitted I was on to something. Thus, began the creation of Kill the King, and Tompet Games.

What games did your family play?

We played a lot of Monopoly and a lot of card games. I played a lot of games with my grandparents too, mostly a rather strange and difficult game called Canasta. Because of this, I think I like to play more complex games that take time, because if you’re playing a game that takes six hours, then you have to make every decision count. One memorable moment was when Tomas (my partner in Tompet Games) and I played the advanced version of the war game Risk - Axis and Allies. The first time we played it, it took 8 hours after a 2-hour setup, and remember it being an amazing experience.

I also love the long-format game Pandemic Legacy, where you’re technically playing up to about 12 different games. Between each game, you place stickers to permanently change the board for the next round.

How do you associate board games with the holidays?

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One reason I think board games have had such a revival is because everything digital these days. When we spend time together, we usually spend time on our phones or computer, but when we are together playing board games we are having analogue contact with other people. During the holidays, board games are the perfect thing to do for the whole family to come together. If you spend the holidays with friends, it’s just as good of an excuse. The tradition in Norway is actually to play games during the holidays, especially on Easter or at the cabin. People had to find things to do back when not every home or cabin had electricity. Even now it is still a great environment for coming together and doing something fun.

How do you think games help bring different cultures together?

I think the reason is that there are already gamers in all cultures and at every level of society. In games the same rules exist for everyone, they don’t care if you are a king or a pawn. You don’t have to talk about life in the outside world, politics or otherwise, just the task in front of you. The great thing about games today is that the themes are so diverse - I am making a game about the Roman Empire, yet I am from Norway. Nationality isn’t contained within the games you play or make. There are so many games from around the world, and I think this fact, this diversity, helps to explain why games are so successful at bringing cultures together.

What about gaming and community? What makes gaming communities so strong?

You can connect with different people in the same way to share an experience. It is also a great way to meet friends. I think that gaming and gaming communities are a really great way to meet others who are both similar and different. Gaming communities are great because they are easy to find and be a part of in the way you want to play. Now that board games are more accepted by the general public; I think it’s become an even easier way to connect with others and have fun in the process. a THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

PROFILE

Creating the Code

Words by Bradley P. Kurtz

Image by Torleif Kvinnesland

Video game companies are huge faceless entities tucked away in Japan, Korea and the US, right? Not so! Trondheim is the home of PineLeaf Studios and the creators of Dwarfheim. Meet Alexander Funch of the PineLeaf team, who has taken his love for gaming and made it a full-time job.

What is your personal history with video games?

I’ve always played games; I had all the game consoles growing up. My mother and father were very supportive of the hobby, and I just became addicted.

I remember we had Super Smash Bros on Nintendo64 and we would have ten or more guys coming over to play against each other. After that I moved on to the computer and started playing other, more competitive games.

How do you think video games relate to holidays?

With off days and holidays, that’s my thing; catching up on the video games I’ve wanted to play. When I think about Christmas I, of course, think about asking and getting games for Christmas. I also have a little brother, and we used to play all the time, and we still do; video games were a sort of brother bonding thing.

As so many games are played all online now, it’s a great way to catch up with other people as well. I spend half the time just talking to my friends when playing. It’s a lot more fun than sitting in front of Skype or something.

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Is DwarfHeim your first step into video game development?

Yes, it was, but I’ve always been interested in gaming for a long time. I studied economics, which is something different than what you think is traditional for the gaming industry, and that’s how I got into the team a PineLeaf.

Tell us about DwarfHeim: You get together with three other friends, and you play against four other players. And the core concept is that everyone has their assigned roles. In order to win you need to cooperate, you need to communicate, and that’s what we see in a lot of games that are really popular; the communication part and you know, the yelling and getting intense because you want to cooperate with your teammates right? This style of gameplay isn’t normal in the strategy genre; it isn’t really something that’s been done before with the team strategy.

Say you, and I are playing together; my role will be to build the buildings, and yours is to create the army. I need to build the correct buildings to help you out, and then we have another teammate whose role is to 14

gather the resources, then we have the last player who needs to spy and try to sabotage the other team.

The genre of role-playing games (RTS) hasn’t been that innovative over the years, and we saw this sort of black hole of no team cooperation in the genre. People prefer to play online with other people, so we are trying to make that happen.

Is competitive Esports the goal for DwarfHeim?

Yeah, we see that Esports is a big thing now. People like to play together, and people like to watch other people play. The concept behind our game is strategy, and you don’t have that in any of the team esport games.

To some extent, it’s in DOTA and League of Legends, but it has slightly less emphasis on the strategy than DwarfHeim will.

We think we have a stepping-stone in Esports, but of course, we have to release the game first, then we can talk about ESports, but always keeping it [Esports] in mind in regard to the game’s development.

How long has the DwarfHeim project been in development?

It’s been in development since 2014. In 2015 we started PineLeaf Studio and began to go from a hobby project to something little bit more serious and go into hard-core mode for development.

The process had two years of concept development, and then we created the game visuals and mechanics, then we started on a prototype, and that took 9 or 10 months. It’s a complicated game, so it took a long time to get out of the prototype phase. Once we were out of the prototype phase, we started to add the 3D attributes of the art; it’s not a polished product, but it’s starting to come together.

And that’s the phase we are in right now.

How do you implement art into the digital form?

We start with an illustration, just to get the mood of the game. Then we hand that off to the 3D artist who uses it as more of a guideline and makes the moulds from those illustrations. We have on artist who designs the different units and buildings and natural formation, and another that does the polishing from different angles and everything. Both of them are fantastic at what they do.

What are the goals of Dwarfheim?

We want to go international, it’s hard, but we want to do it. The market in Norway is too small. With a population of only 5 million, say if only half of that population play games; that’s still not a lot of people – and they’re not all playing the same game.

Is there an official release date for the game?

Nothing official yet, but we are shooting for late 2018 or early 2019, so about a year away. We just released the Alpha version of the game, so we have some people testing and helping to fix some of the bugs. Spring 2018 we are hoping to open our open beta and allow people to play the game and continue development towards a polished product. a

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A magical Christmas festival at the heart of Trondheim

RA LEB TING CE

15 ye ars

CHRISTMAS MARKET TRONDHEIM CITY SQUARE

8.-20. DEC 2017 Mon-Sat 12.00-19.00 / Sun 13.00-19.00 Read more about the market, culture events and dining in the lavvo:

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www.julemarkedet-trondheim.no

THE LIST

FEATURE

Jul Live and Jul Learn Words by Jennifer Wold

Images by Wil Lee-Wright

Rules are meant to be broken, right?

Sometimes this is probably true, but when it comes to Christmas cookies in Norway, let’s just say that using the wrong cookie cutter is a sin that you should avoid, completely.

W

hat surprises most people about Christmas, or Jul, in Norway is the effort made to make things exceptionally cosy and not just beautifully decorated. Moreover, that it is the type of warm that doesn’t come just from a fire or candles; it’s warmth from expectations such as the Seven Cookies of Christmas, the leg of cured lamb eagerly carved into bitesized morsels, decorating the tree on the 23rd and the palpable anticipation of pinnekjøtt or ribbe for Christmas dinner.

Drapes of privacy are cast open to reveal 17

the celebrations therein, decorated with holiday tablecloths, pillows, dishes and candles.

Windows glow in stark contrast to the deep black-nights of winter with beautiful pointed paper stars or candelabras placed so they are brushing the glass. Julenissen, the near equivalent of Christmas Elves, appear in nooks, next to candles, stitched into pillows and dance in the minds of children as they prepare to set out a bowl of porridge on the eve of Christmas.

In truth, most cultures have deeply rooted traditions during their biggest holidays. What a new arrival to Norway might find is something that is often only described in fairy tales, but with nuances which can be interesting to navigate and become hilarious experiences.

In the ten years that Norway has been home, the foibles which I have made have been some of the most entertaining ones of my life.

November might be Thanksgiving time where I come from, but in Norway, it is the Julebord month. Julebord is a work Christmas party, and although I have been to such things at home, I was wholly unprepared for what awaited me. I have rarely gone to anything work related which required more than a nice shirt or a dress with a cute pair of shoes.

Cocktail dresses for a work party? Are you mad?

The whole room was filled with men in beautifully tailored suits and more sequins, ruffles and updos than a beauty pageant. A stark contrast to the everyday Norwegian I am used to seeing in athletic wear, jeans, a sweater and trainers. And then, there was me.

A simple maxi dress, hair down in two braids and my everyday purse. Not a sequin to be seen, or even earrings. Everyone assured me it was alright with big smiles and although some gave me a quizzical eyebrow, by the end of the night it was clear my outfit and I had the easier time dancing. I also expected this to be a sober affair being a work organised event, which it was anything but. I’ve seen work parties have alcohol to be sure, but this night no one seemed to remember they were not twenty-somethings in college. The best thing is that no one appeared to be bothered by it! The CEO was the karaoke leader and by that point, cocktail dress or no, it was a full-on epic party.

About three weeks later, I found myself THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

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I spent the better part of three years just trying to able to tolerate the smell

making cookies with my friend’s grandmother. She spoke no English and I, at the time, spoke no Norwegian. When I started cutting into her perfectly rolled-out bordstabler cookie dough with a tree shape, a pleasant afternoon came to a dead halt with her adorable face stretched in wide-eyed horror. I couldn’t open Google Translate fast enough to offer a fumbling apology. Realising this as a moment to not discourage me, despite her palpable disappointment, she poured a cup of coffee, sat down and said “Yes, well, they will taste the same as trees or not,” in slight resignation.

She cut the rest of them as trees to match, perhaps to keep the visual appearance or just to make the apologetic foreigner feel better. I never made that mistake again. I also may have never made Christmas cookies here since.

One of my favourite things at Christmas is the rice porridge. There is something so comforting and satisfying about it. I firmly believe it is far superior to oatmeal. The tradition my in-laws follow is to hide a blanched almond in one bowl, with the one finding it getting a prize. The one who finds it has to hide it until the end of the meal, and we guess who has it with everyone staring with squinty eyes of suspicion. When the heaped bowls appear on the table everyone puts a tablespoon of butter in the middle with cinnamon and sugar liberally applied on the top. The butter becomes a savoury contrast to the sugar and enhances the cinnamon. Everyone gently pulls some of everything into a spoonful to be relished bite by bite.

Everyone, that is, except me. I was one of the first to put everything into my bowl, and then I started to stir it all in before I realised the faux pas I had just made. Which I was only made aware by the weight of a table full of blinking eyes, some mid-sprinkle, some mid-bite, all stopping to stare at me. My mother-in-law just started laughing because, by this point, she realised just I do ‘odd’ things, like trip on air, so why not stir my porridge? I found the almond by the way, and the next year too despite my penchant for mixing.

Then there was the time I decided to be helpful and decorate the tree. I was unaware that waiting until the 23rd was the norm, and also not starting till everyone got there. No THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

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matter how late. There was also my showing up to dinner in jeans and a t-shirt when everyone comes to the table well dressed, chastising the shaking of Christmas presents, using a white tablecloth, lighting all the Advent candles as I had no idea what Advent was, and having breakfast before everyone got up to have a full breakfast together.

One might think that no further mistakes could be made, right? Well, no. I am not built for Norwegian Christmas even as long as I have been here, but I try. That is, I try until pinnekjøtt or råkfisk come to the table. My poor family. I spent the better part of three years just trying to able to tolerate the smell of both, mostly by spending the hours preceding dinner on the porch wrapped in blankets and reading a book. I have yet to be able to eat any of it.

The best part is that any amount of trying to get it right is always met by enthusiasm and, when called for, hearty laughter. Some people find it very easy, and other of us will probably spend our whole lives doing the best we can. The wonderful thing about Christmas 19

in Norway, is that the traditions that have been practised for generations are so inspiringly beautiful. They are handed down and gently taught to the next generation. The tablecloths find their way into the hands of children and grandchildren. Then there are the annual markets which fill town centres, a Christmas mainstay, with skilfully handmade mittens, glasswork, speciality cured meats and the classic spirit can brighten anyone’s day.

Watching the careful preparations of grandparents as they wait for the house to fill with bustling energy of children and the way Norwegians of every age become swept away into the season is memorising. So much so, other foreigners like me start to adopt as best we can. I know a Muslim family that decided to decorate their house with red curtains, pillows, twinkle lights and little figurines. That cosy feeling of the season was too beautiful to miss out on. A Greek family I know, already rich in Christmas traditions, cooks ribbe (a Norwegian Christmas Eve meal) as part of their holiday. I have seen others master the Seven Cookies, expertly prepare lutefisk and make it to Julebord gatherings dressed to kill.

The thing about Christmas here is that truly anyone is welcome and if my in-laws can incorporate a turkey with mashed potatoes, gravy and roasted vegetables, anyone can find their place of joy and join in. Enjoy some traditional aquavit, ask for the dress code and you’ll be okay. Mostly. a THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

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FUN AND GAMES

UNIQUE BOUTIQUES Gifts of Distinction

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Finding the perfect gift during the holidays is not easy. But, knowing the tucked away places might make it that much easier. We hope this list will inspire you and something can be found to fit in any budget small to more extravagant.

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All Good Clean Records

Nestled in at Nonnegata 25, you can find a music haven, and to those who love records, a place of pilgrimage. If you have never been to this cosy record shop, which conveniently is also a café, you are missing out. From record players to LPs of all genres and carrying locally produced music, you can find something for any music lover on your Christmas list. Come for the gift, stay for the music and coffee.

Tue-Sat 12:00 to 16:00 Mon 12:30-16:00 Thurs 12:30-19:00.

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Cornelias Hus

Situated at Nordre Gate 7, this beautiful shop has a brilliant selection and smells heavenly.

From inspiring interior decorating pieces, clothing, candles and the annual array of Christmas decorations, you can find gifts here you won’t get elsewhere in the city, and in all price ranges. Their collections showcase clean and well-tailored design which is echoed in the attention to detail all over the shop.

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Mon-Fri 10:00-20:00 Sat 10:00 – 18:00

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Seams

At charming Nedre Bakkelandet 20B, you will find the boutique Seams. With a hand-picked collection from high-quality designers like Anecdote, A Kind of Guise, Libertine-Libertine, Maison Labiche and Son Venin, this is the place to shop for those one of a kind pieces.

Evan, the proprietor, has created a crisp, interesting and welcoming spot. A must visit when gift buying this year.

Mon-Sat 11:00 – 17:00 20

Skills

Boldly from their Nordre Gate 12 location collection of the seasons best kicks shines out to passers-by. Skills is the place for shoes with limited editions and colours you can’t get elsewhere from the best streetwear brands.

Need a new snapback or jacket?

Check their second floor. Whether you are a diehard Adidas or Nike fan, love your Asics or New Balance, you can find what you want here.

Mon-Sat 10:00 – 18:00

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Galleriet

Trondheim Brukskunstforeninng Nestled just behind Vår Frue Kirke you can find this lovely gallery full of handcrafted artworks by this association of artists from across Trondheim. Ceramics, glasswork, jewellery, woollen items and clothing can be found here. Many believe galleries can be unaffordable, but any budget is welcome.

Mon-Fri 10:00 – 17:00 Sat 10:00 – 16:00

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Backstage at Katowice. Image by Blizzard Entertainment

THE LIST

FEATURE

The Ultimate Competition A look at the world of esports and professional gaming

Article begins overleaf

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01

ESPORTS

Serious business.

Serious fun.

Words by Fredrik Rodahl

Computer games mean a lot of different things for different people.

For some it is just simple fun, for others, it is a group activity, and for a select few it is the ultimate competition.

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he select few are called professional gamers, or ‘pro gamers’, for which tournaments are arranged, fans travel across the world and organisations pay millions to hire. This world of competitive gaming, called electronic sports or Esports, might be very familiar for some, and completely baffling for others. The growth which Esports has seen indicates that it will certainly become more relevant, while the main audience of young adults and teens grows with the sport. Esports include a vast difference of games, and the actual history of Esports is made up of the history of the different games and their scenes.

When the first pro gamers emerged, they were mostly nerds playing a whole lot of a game until they were better than most others.

Now, the same is still kind of true, but a higher level of professionalism is required to compete. There is a reason why fans and followers compare them to athletes because in many ways they are. Teams stay in good physical form to keep their mental abilities sharp, and the best players are required to stay in good physical health. Key abilities for pro gamers THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

are a strategic mind, precision and reflexes.

Every game arena is different; the display of skill by pro gamers can be mind-blowing to the average player, and can make the game seem unrecognisable from what they play at home.

There are currently a couple of Norwegian pro gamers competing in the international scenes of various games. The most notable ones are probably Jens ‘Snute’ Aasgaard, playing Starcraft II for Team Liquid, Håvard ‘rain’ Nygaard and Ruben ‘RUBINO’ Villarroel playing CS: GO for Faze Clan and Team Dignitas, respectively and Erlend ‘Nukeduck’ 24

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While some observers will struggle to call these professionals athletes, it really doesn’t matter

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Pro-gamers. Image by Blizzard Entertainment Passionate supporters.

Image by Robert Paul Esports are for everyone.

Image by Carlton Beener World of Warcraft trophy.

Image by Robert Paul Pundits. Image by Blizzard Entertainment The door to Katowice. Image by Blizzard Entertainment

Våtevik Holm playing LoL for Vitality. These players show Norwegian youth what is possible to accomplish through gaming, but also what is demanded of you as a person if you want to succeed.

To become a rising star in the esport world of today is both easier and harder than ever. The foundation and organisations are already present to help aspiring gamers became as good as they can become, but the competition is harder than ever before. Even in Trondheim, there are arenas where esport is in focus, both for players and for fans.

Tiller High School created an esport course, as one of the first in Norway with a focus on developing the abilities, attitudes and training needed as a competitive gamer. The Norwegian phenomenon of Folkehøgskole (specialised, pre-university education) has currently two schools with a programme for Esports, as well as a couple of schools with a focus on streaming which is closely related to esport. The world of esport has often seen young competitors arise and dominate from ages as low as 15 to 17, so providing an arena for kids to understand what is demanded from a professional gamer will help develop the future international superstars of gaming.

As in all sports, the spectators keep the games alive. It is easy to follow any esport from your computer, but social arrangements and activities help create an actual community that will spread the love and interest for a game. Here in Trondheim, something 25

called BarCrafts, a mix of the words ‘Bar’ and ‘Starcraft’, have been arranged at Three Lions Pub as well as Work Work a couple of times a year. This is usually during a big tournament, where the game is streamed at big screens while fans can come, drink and meet other people interested in the competitive scene of their favourite games. This has spread to different games where the communities are big enough, and it will likely remain as long as people enjoy the games.

For a long time, Esports were nothing like the magnitude, and grandiose events which can be seen in the biggest tournaments today, where the prize pools are in the range of millions of dollars and viewers fills stadiums, and online streams reach millions of fans. The earliest online video game competitions, which resemble modern Esports, started in the late 90’s with the games Quake, Warcraft, Starcraft and Counter Strike. At this time the scene was very small, and there was just a handful of actual tournaments, like the Cyberathlete Professional League (CPL).

In Europe and America, Counter Strike and Quake were the largest. The big esport events, on the other hand, started in the Mecca of Esports, South Korea.

From the beginning of the 00’s, South Korea did Esports in a way no one else did at the time. They had huge stadiums, TVchannels playing games 24 hours a day. The biggest Korean Esports stars like Flash, Boxer and Jaedong became national icons with huge sponsors and followings. Western gamers could only look in jealousy of the Esports scene that existed in South Korea. The Korean scene is important because it standardised how to actually differentiate a pro gamer from a “normal” good gamer. Organisations, salaries, team houses, training schedules and sports psychology are factors in this competitive environment, as in other sports but were not the norm until Korea did it.

Around 2010 everything changed. The actual cause of the explosion of interest in Esports is probably a mix of many factors coinciding at the right time. High-speed internet became fairly common, which laid the foundation for streaming services and largescale online matchmaking functions, making it easier to play competitive games over the THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

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GET INVOLVED

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To keep up-todate on team play, standings and the 2017/18 schedule go to Twitch.tv for all things esports.

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internet. Several sequels of important competitive games were released, revitalising scenes by bringing actual support from their developers. The genre called Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) completely exploded in popularity at this time, with League of Legends (LoL) and Dota 2 dominating among many different attempts at the genre. LoL has taken the spot as the most played game of all time, and its owners Riot Games have taken a large control over its Esports scene, creating a more standardised league.

With the organisation of the large developers, the mega-tournaments were started. They

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have a longer qualification process and usually huge prize pools, increasing every year.

The competition The International 2017 had a total prize pool of $24.7 million, the largest of any esport event, gathered mostly through crowd-funding. While the prize pools of The International is unique, it has become “normal” for large tournaments to feature 1 million dollar prize pools as a motivation for the best players in the game. Tournaments fill stadiums in Europe, North and South America, Australia and Asia, and teams travel all around the world to attend. Due to its exposure through the internet, Esports has become an international phenomenon.

For some, Esports might seem odd. It really shouldn’t when considering the basic tenets of competitiveness. The competitive nature of people will be present in any arena where they have the opportunity to pit their skills against others, and computer games have the possibility to design the arena around the players. While there are obvious differences with many physical sports, there are similarities to competitions such as chess. While some observers will struggle to call these professionals athletes, it really doesn’t matter as they will compete at the highest level they can versus other competitors, to become the best of best, which is just what any athlete or player of any sport aspires to. a

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THE LIST

FUN AND GAMES

GAMES FOR “GROWN-UPS” There are games, good games and great games. This list hopes to introduce you to some great games no matter how much you’ve played or not. Grab one and enjoy the fun!

Words by Martin Hassel

Captain Sonar

Sheriff of Nottingham

THIS EIGHT-PLAYER, twoteam, game is fast-paced, simultaneous play. Both teams are scrambling, simultaneously, to sink each other in this submarine-themed game. Strategy, teamwork, listening and a whole lot of cooperation keep you one torpedo ahead of the crushing depths.

The game takes place on reusable boards, but the real action is in the active imagination of the scenario.

IF THERE WAS ever a game which is not poker, but where a poker face was necessary, this is the game.

Each round, the players go about their work as honest law-abiding merchants, who would ‘never’ deal in contraband, while the good Sheriff of Nottingham must decide who may not be so honest. Suspicion and bluffing on high makes this a hilarious game as everyone tries to make it rich.

PRICE 359 – 450kr

PRICE 359kr

Star Wars Rebellion

Mysterium

ARE YOU A Rebel soul or are you a black-hearted Sith? Pick your side in this deeply immersive two-person game that can go on for hours while the Sith hunt the Rebel base, with the aim of utter annihilation. The game is beautifully laid out with hundreds of well-crafted figurines. Prepare to feel anxious if you are a Rebel and the Death Star creeps too near your base!

EVER MET A ghost that loves art? Want to test your psychic skills (or powers of deductions)?

Think it might be fun to solve a murder mystery?

Then look no further than this quirky game where you are on the clock, trying to decipher clues from the ghost who only wants the world to know what happened and which dastardly character did it.

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PRICE 799 – 1000kr 28

PRICE 350 – 450kr

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Secret Hitler THE ONLY TIME anyone should claim being Hitler is fun is during a round of this game. Deduction, cunning and subterfuge are the hallmarks of a good fascist.

Electing Hitler as Chancellor is the ultimate goal (for those playing as fascists), however, the liberals can win if they are sharper than their cunning opponents.

This five to ten player game can be rather funny and turn things on its head.

Splendor THE RICHES OF the Renaissance can be yours if you play your cards right and gather a host of gem mines, amass enough gold and entice societies elite to become your patrons. Your fellow players are also trying to collect all they need, as everyone scrambles to become top merchant. With simple game mechanics, it is interplay and guessing your opponents’ which will win you the game.

PRICE 279 – 399kr

PRICE 350 – 399kr

The Game

T.I.M.E Stories

JUST BE AWARE that you are going to lose. A lot. Oh, and there is no talking. You might be wondering why on earth you would want to play this cooperative game?

Despite what seems like a grievous design flaw, this is a marvellously fun game which can only be won through craftiness, clever teamwork and attention to detail on an almost ridiculous level. Deceptively simple, anything but.

ANOTHER LEGACY style game. The creators are merciless and hell-bent on driving players mad, but they will gleefully come back for more. With multiple expansions, an underlying theme develops, leaving you questioning what and whom are you doing it for and whether you should be? Set aside a few hours for each expansion to get the full experience. To give away more would be a plot spoiler!

PRICE 250 – 300kr

Pandemic Legacy

Viral

LEGACY GAMES ARE popular because they take classics and make them tougher, meaner and downright irresistible, with the added intensity that they can only be played through once.

The original Pandemic was about saving the world from infectious outbreaks; the Legacy incarnation draws out the scenario over multiple expansions. Much of the game locked away, only to be revealed at certain points.

THIS GAME TURNS the tables. Instead of being the human trying to thwart illness, you are the infection doing everything to be as horrible as possible. Your job is to spread, mutate and outmanoeuvre the immune system.

You also can’t forget your fellow infectious cretin who may or may not try to destroy you as well.

PRICE 599 – 799kr 29

PRICE 599 – 750kr

PRICE 275 – 399kr THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

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FUN AND GAMES

GAMES FOR KIDDING AROUND Kids shouldn’t be the only ones to play. Grab a few friends or family, get cosy around a table and let the holiday cheer be just a bit more playful.

Words by Martin Hassel

Flash Point, Fire Rescue Bärenpark

AGES

8+

KIDS LOVE FIRE trucks and firemen are awesome heros. Players get the chance to save the lives of those caught in fire through cooperation, using planning and critical thinking skill. With two difficulty levels, this is a great game to play as a family.

LOVE ZOOS AND bears?

How about creating a park for your favourite species, and taking care of your visitors? Design a zoo that tends to your furry friends so they are cute and cuddly for everyone who visits.

AGES

10+

PRICE 259 – 399kr

PRICE 359kr

Quadropolis

Kingdomino AGES

8+

CITY PLANNING AND jockeying for resources to build the most prosperous and well-balanced city is the aim of this game. This competitive game causes lots of groans, cheers and jeers as you snatch away a resource from another player in this quick-tolearn game.

THIS IS DOMINOS, but with a twist! You are a Lord looking to expand your kingdom. By placing tiles of matching terrain, and collecting crowns and royal treasure, you can increase the value of your kingdom, and rule over your competitors.

AGES

8+

PRICE 490 – 549kr THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

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PRICE 350 – 450kr

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Santorini

Tally Ho

AGES

6+

THIS 3D GAME uses pure strategy to build a bluedomed city, in the classic towns on the island of Santorini. Reaching the point where you cap your buildings with beautiful blue dome, makes you ‘King of the Hill’. You can also use thematic hero and god-like powers.

THE DUCKS JUST want peace. The lumberjacks are working to make hunting easier for the hunters.

The bears are looking for lunch in the humans and the foxes are bothering the poor ducks. Who will become dinner first? It depends on a little luck and a lot of skill.

AGES

8+

PRICE 499– 599kr

Happy Pigs

Dixit

WHO KNEW KEEPING pigs happy could be so much fun? In this game, you play a farmer trying to get through all four seasons increasing your number of pigs and keeping them happy, healthy and growing them into adulthood.

CAN YOU TELL a story using images? Dixit uses creativity and beautiful images to draw out good storytelling and interpretation. All the players choose cards from their hand to represent the story, but only one is the storyteller’s. Can you pick the right one?

PRICE 159 – 299kr

AGES

6+

AGES

8+

PRICE 359 – 399kr

PRICE 449 – 549kr

Doctor Panic

Hoot Owl Hoot AGES

7+

WORKING TOGETHER as a medical team, players are tasked with saving the life of a patient arriving at the hospital in a critical condition. Can you choose the right medicine and perform the life-saving treatments before the last heart attack (with accompanying soundtrack!) occurs?

HELP ALL THE owls get to their nests before sunrise. This vibrant and fun-to-play game is about cooperation and making sure no owl is left behind.

Suitable for children age four and up, this game can grow with them as there are two levels to play at.

AGES

4+

PRICE 279 – 399kr 31

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FEATURE

Board not Bored A Tabletop Resurgence Words by David Nikel

Illustration by Minnu Mahalingam

Once a solution to boredom that worked for no one, the board games of the past are long gone. Just what makes rolling dice, collecting cards and moving counters so much fun for grown-ups? David Nikel reminisces about the ‘bored’ games of his past and reveals his new-found passion for modern dynamic tabletop fun.

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h, Monopoly. The game that causes endless family arguments at Christmas time.

Did you know that if a player turns down a property when landing on it, it goes to auction? Or that the bank doesn’t claim all assets when a player goes bankrupt? At the risk of alienating a few remaining Monopoly fans, the game sucks, partly because no-one ever knows the proper rules, but mainly because the gameplay is just about going through the motions, with very little thinking involved.

If Monopoly wasn’t your default festive game, then maybe it was Ludo. Or perhaps even Snakes and Ladders. What unites these games, besides the arguments, is that they’re all based on luck. And where’s the fun in that?

A couple years ago, when my partner suggested we play a board game, I wasn’t exactly keen. Even the simple phrase ‘board game’ conjures up images of social outcasts huddled in their parents’ basements. This image is consistently reinforced through TV and movies, giving us a subtle, unfair perception of what this form of gaming is all about.

Imagine my surprise then, when I became

hooked just a couple of hours after he pulled out Civilization: The Board Game. In the game, players take on the role of Americans, Chinese, Egyptians, Germans, Romans or Russians and compete against the others to win based on culture, economy, technology or military.

I should emphasise that although I’m a little nerdy, I’m by no means a hermit. Yes, I watch sci-fi and read books, but I played football while others played Magic: The Gathering at school. I have never played World of Warcraft, and I haven’t even read Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels … well, not all of them at least.

Yet I’ve been captivated by the modern world of tabletop games that I never knew existed just a year or two ago. I’m here to show you that they are no longer just for nerds!

When I say tabletop, I really mean board games and card games. The term also encompasses role-playing games, but that’s another world entirely.

Just when (and if ) board games became cool again I can’t quite say for sure, although mass enthusiasm for the science fiction and fantasy genre has for sure fuelled the fire. It 33

helps that the Game of Thrones board game is actually one of the best examples of modern tabletop gaming. It takes the strategic alliances, and the backstabbing, that the books and TV show are so famous for and transfers them perfectly into a board game.

Each player takes control of a house, and must spread outwards from their home base to claim a total of seven castles to win the Iron Throne. Forming strategic alliances with other players is essential to claim victory, but so is breaking them. Keeping tabs on other players’ strategies, adapting your own based on theirs, and knowing just when to strike is critical in this game for 3-6 players that is usually wrapped up within two and a half hours (once you’re familiar with the rules).

It turns out that Game of Thrones is known as an American style game because of its strong theme. I learned this little nugget of information from the many YouTube channels, podcasts and even print magazines devoted to the topic. For this isn’t just about kids huddled together in basements anymore, it’s become a global movement.

None other than lord of the nerds himself, Wil Wheaton, presents one of the most popular channels, but many more amateur YouTubers are having fun and becoming minor celebrities by reviewing games and making comedic skits based around the world.

His guest represent all types of gamers, and some “non-gamers”. All of a sudden, it doesn’t matter if you don’t know many other gamers, as there’s a whole world of other interested players out there accessible like never before.

At the other end of the spectrum from the American games are those much more about the game mechanics and strategy design, with a lot less luck involved. The likes of ‘Terra Mystica’ or ‘Settlers of Catan’ are known as European games, and are typically but not exclusively made by German designers. Most games – including many of the best - fall somewhere in between American and European, so there really is something out there for every taste.

This growth of a global community isn’t just about playing board games though, it’s also about making them. Kickstarter has proved to be the perfect conduit for supporting up-and-coming indie game makers. The THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

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!!!

IT’S ALL FUN AND GAMES UNTIL SOMEBODY LOOSES! BUT DON’T BE DISHEARTENED, GET INVOLVED! WHERE TO BUY If you prefer to get your games in person Outland has your back. To buy online, check out: outland.no gamezone.no spillskrinet.no brettspill.no.

WHERE TO PLAY Why not try out some games over a coffee or beer by taking advantage of the library of games available to borrow in many Trondheim venues, including Work-Work, Good Omens, Super Hero Burger, Café Løkka, and Mikrobryggeriet. Outland host many in-store gaming sessions, or you could check out the regular social events from gaming group Hexagon (hexagonspillklubb.org)

THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

card game Exploding Kittens raised $8.7m from more than 219,382 backers around the world.

5,410 backers pledged more than $2m to help bring ‘Kingdom Death: Monster’ to life, while its sequel went on to raise an astonishing $12.39m, the fourth biggest ever total raised on Kickstarter. In fact, of the top 30 Kickstarter projects, eight are tabletop games.

Aside from these headline-grabbing success stories, thousands more tabletop projects have been successfully funded on the platform.

Closer to home, Trondheim residents Petter Schanke Olsen and Thomas Lie-Gjeseth raised almost 100,000 kroner to help bring their first game Kill the King to market, which you can read about elsewhere in this issue.

I’ve found my two of my own favourites amid all these playing sessions. Another a Kickstarter success, Scythe, came into being thanks to the $1.8m raised on the platform.

Sagrada is a simple-to-grasp but devastatingly frustrating dice-game that I’ve successfully taught to my parents, and that’s no mean feat.

Such is my love of this new-found hobby that I’ve even started work on my own game.

Is it the lure of Kickstarter millions, or just the fun of producing something of my own? The answer lies somewhere in between.

I spend my days at Work-Work, the coworking space and gaming lab in downtown Trondheim. Here I am surrounded by creative people and a handful of game developers to help me bring my creation to life. The cafébar provides the ideal setting for play-testing, not just my designs but other games to understand more about what makes a good game dynamic.

It’s also proved to me that I’m not on my own, even here in Trondheim. Every time I step downstairs to refill my coffee, there’s at least a couple of games going on in the bar.

The diversity of people taking part is notable, from father-and-son card games to groups of friends playing something far more complex.

I’ve gone from no interest in tabletop gaming to a member of the global community in no time at all. But the best thing of all, is that I’ve finally been able to make what I consider real Norwegian friends, something that many foreigners living in Norway struggle to achieve.

Every week between four to six of us gather together and play, sometimes serious games, sometimes simple ones, but all the time having fun and bonding in a way that meeting over a coffee or chatting over dinner cannot match.

By day Roger A. Søraa works with robots at NTNU, but by night he escapes from the digital world to sit down with friends and play a game. “Taking a break from normal life and escaping into the realm of the board game relaxes me, and has turned out to be one of the highlights of my week,” he says.

And it’s precisely this feeling of community that brings me back to Christmas.

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Of the top 30 Kickstarter projects, eight are tabletop games

With all these thrilling tabletop games out there, there is absolutely no reason to dust off the ancient boxes of Monopoly and Ludo this Christmas. Modern tabletop games are as different from these as a self-driving car is from a Ford Model T. To truly banish the memories of Christmas past, you could try one of the superb collaborative games that now exist.

Take Pandemic for example. Each player takes a specific role in a medical team that must travel the world to contain, research and cure a deadly disease before it’s too late. Also check out The List’s Top 10 games for adults and kids: there are quite a few collaborative games to choose from.

Tabletop games now are a source of entertainment, strategy, and even cooperation.

I am not a religious man, so Christmas to me has always been about spending time with family. I’m looking forward to bonding with my Mexican in-laws in broken Spanish over tacos al pastor while we work together to beat a deadly disease or defeat dangerous dragons.

This Christmas, I won’t be passing Go, I won’t be collecting $200, and I won’t be going directly to jail. When you all win or all lose together, it changes the atmosphere of a board game from conflict to cooperation, and isn’t that so much more suitable for Christmas? a

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Old food traditions of Norway, prepared in a rebellious way.

Fosenkaia 4A / Phone: +47 73 48 79 90 / post@trollrestaurant.no / www.trollrestaurant.no WWW.GEPDESIGN.NO

THE LIST

FUN AND GAMES

TOP VIDEO GAMES

Call of Duty: WWII

Images Courtesy of Games Producers

Activision’s staple series, found in many a gamer’s collections, is heading back to its roots after venturing in to futuristic scenarios in ‘Modern Warfare’ and ‘Black Ops’. The war theatre of Europe 1944-45 will be the setting for this multiplayer and it will see a return to the boots-on-the-ground playtime. Never fear though, the Nazi Zombies will be back.

RELEASE 3 Nov PRICE 549 - 599kr

Images: IDGB.com

Star Wars Battlefront II

Image: EA Sports

RELEASE 14 Nov PRICE 549 – 799kr

For Star Wars fans, this is an eagerly awaited game. This massive, multiplayer-team game will span all three trilogies to have extensive playability. EA is holding out on giving the locations that this installment will take us to and the suspense has many gamers hoping for a peek before the November release.

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THE LIST Image: Ubisoft

Assassin’s Creed Origins RELEASE 27 Oct PRICE 599 – 799kr With the gaming community taking up freshness of Syndicate, one of the best since Black Flag, Ubisoft’s newest offering is boasting a new combat mechanics and a truly expansive open-world based in Egypt to explore that has everyone anticipating its arrival.

Lego Marvels Super Heroes 2: Journey to Chronopolis

Marvel vs Capcom: Infinite

Lego games are everywhere delighting children and adults alike.

The previous game in the series is one of the best that they have come out with and this sequel looks to be a really good play moving from some of the more common themes and strategies.

RELEASE 17 Nov PRICE 549 kr

For those who grew up during the age of Tekken the style of this game is a refreshing change to first person shooters. This release will feature a 2 by 2 player tag-team giving a more classic and playable version of the current 3 by 3. The series will also feature more story line than its predecessor.

RELEASE 9 Oct PRICE 599kr

Image: IDGB.com

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

FEATURED ARTIST

THE LIST

Anthony Sabado Why @kortliv.no

JULIE EBBING

ART LIST INTRODUCTION WE INVESTIGATE THE relationship found in the image, in our senses and situation when we move into ways that leads to our expression. You can find the simplest epiphanies in the most unexpected moments, that creates a bond to what defines you, speaks to you and reveals you.

Being bold, daring and vulnerable gives us new ways to learn and manifest what brings us together. Julie Ebbing speaks to us in the following pages about how she strives to make art that can relate to all of life’s contradictions and how this recognition can bring us together based on shared experiences. Bringing us together, is also a goal for the newly established gallery at MODUL 35, who invites non-established and established photographers to initiate the platform for their expressions. D2 magazine in collaboration with Trondheim Documentary Festival will hold their 10th anniversary at MODUL 35 and invites us to join the opening night 11th of november.

KORT LIV is an independent Norwegian Art collective which seeks and connects with creative youths and will be holding their release party at MODUL 35 on the 4th of november. Mark these dates and now with the sweet Autumn passing and the cold weather weighing in on us, we must remember to stay warm and invite others to share the warmth with us.

THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

Words by Laura-Ann Morrison

How are you feeling?

Most of the time I’m not sure if I feel like a c**t, or possibly not enough of a c**t. Even though I feel radical and bold at times, I also feel scared and lonely, and I worry a lot. But it balances out in the end. Hard and vulnerable by turns, as tough as I am is as weak as I am. It makes sense. In a world that cannot easily tolerate anything that is not happy and winning, sometimes life on the surface seems easier. However, there is so many layers to everyone, we are onions. Art is peeling back those layers, one by one. The risk of the onion is that it might make you cry, but it is important to risk something in the arts. And in life. We need art that can look unhappiness straight in the eye.

And congratulations, you’ve recently been awarded the Kjell Nupen Memorial Grant. How do you envision your progress forward?

Thank you so much, I’m still in total shock! Having someone say to you, this is not so bad, when you constantly worry that it is sh*t, feels good. Very good. I’m grateful and humbled!

Progress.. In my craft or sullen art! I hope to be able to work as much as possible with what I love the most and do the best. I do have some specific projects in 2017 and 2018 that I’m working on, and that’s a feeling of total luxury! Happy worry, ha ha!

Whatever happens next in my artwork I never know. I’m going down one road, and then I´m suddenly hitting another direction. I´m on the Kerouac road maybe. Some kind of quest for meaning and belonging. Never reaching the destination. And that might be the whole point of it. The important thing is to keep on distorting and feeding the world with provocation, discomfort, risk and radicalism.

Tell me about you latest project – In my artistic practice, I explore issues of feminism, sexuality, femininity, identity, social structures, power and politics. I absolutely hate to feel defined by the structures of this society that is screwed up in so many ways. I’m constantly trying to dissect it. Breaking down the stereotypical image. Redefining what it means to be a woman to day. A human being. What kind of society do we want to build for ourselves and the next generations to come?

by Laura-Ann Morrison

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FEATURED ARTIST

THE LIST

Julie Ebbing Cutting Timber photography Niklas Lello

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

FEATURED ARTIST

THE LIST

Julie Ebbing Pieces of my Childhood photography Niklas Lello In my installation at Trøndelagsutsillingen I’m looking at the world from my point of view, “the female gaze”, in a fancy term. Dismantling the tired myth of the romantic genius. What are the functions of art? What is the role of the artist in society? And how has it changed?

In this artwork, I made portraits of great Norwegian artists, all men of course, how many great Norwegian female artist can you think of? (And there is a lot of them!) I decided to do something about it and stapled a self-portrait on top of The Men’s Club. A portrait not appealingly curating myself, no sexy success, just doing my normal toilet business like everyone else.

Something happens when you put one image or object next to another, their contents might completely transform! Working with art, I try and look at myself with a little distance. You need some perspective to not only see the particulars, but also the whole. In the bigger picture, you see the irony of it all. It’s somehow harder for someone without a penis to make fun of oneself without being conceived as a total wreck in need of therapy. I don’t know why and it annoys the living daylights out of me so I stapled a portrait of my psychologist in the installation too. (So, I really am a total wreck in need of therapy, ha! Well, who isn’t?)

It’s always very difficult to know if you nailed it or failed it. But I think it is better to utterly fail than to do something half-ass. When in doubt, think of Drew Barrymore’s somewhat pompous, yet ballsy statement: Everything I do, I do infinite percent. Ha ha! Infinite percent! That’s my mantra. Holding on to the habit of energy and fearlessness is a necessity. Another ballsy lady, Louise Bourgeois, said that “A woman have no

THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

place as an artist unless she proves over and over again that she won’t be eliminated.” I hope I have the persistence. The c**tiness, so to speak, balls are gone and dusted.

I strive to be an artist of the present and to make artwork that contains all of life’s contradictions. Art in which one can feel recognized, after all art is based upon shared experience. Although attempting to make art might seem like an egotistical activity, art is always made for the “other”, whoever that is. In the end it’s all about communication, and I am honestly trying to do something not only for myself, but also for others.

I guess I need some kind of “something bigger” in my life. So, it’s quite egotistical after all, really.

What impact does Trondheim have on your development as an artist? What does Trondheim give back to you?

This is home and that is what makes Trondheim good grounds to make art. As an artist, she is a stranger and I’m not that familiar with Trondheim’s art ecosystem. However, my impression is that compared to what I’m used to from living in Oslo the past seven years, it’s a lack of hierarchy and a DIY spirit that infuses Trondheim’s creative scene. People are not sitting around waiting for permission, but starting something themselves. They are doers! Also because of the size of the town, I think everything and everyone are more connected and cooperative, having a finger in every pie so to speak. Pulling in the same direction, towards making Trondheim an even better place for arts, culture and everything.

There is a feeling of change in the air with a flow of new energy, people and spaces. With the urban shift from heavy industry to creative businesses in empty post-industrial spaces, artists can be more visible and available. Spaces for studios, galleries and small businesses, opening up to the wider audience and engaging with the broader community. There’s definitely an audience in Trondheim interested to engage with art.

However, I do understand how the art scene can seem to be a somewhat cocooned and excluding world. The art world has always been somewhat dominated by a status-sphere and one might feel like an outsider (idiot) and at unease encountering it. The truth is: Seemingly cool from the outside looking in, yet filled with people who wouldn’t have been very cool in high school.

Anyway, it’s not as horrid as it looks, ha ha! Art doesn’t have a manual or a blueprint and it’s what happens between the work of art and the one experiencing it that defines it. More fearless indulging of art and more creative rebellion! Trondheim, I love you!

What can we find in your studio/workspace? - Dear heavenly Father! For some reason, I cannot stop myself from holding onto anything and everything.

One million pencils. Drawings. All things wood.

Embroidery. Paintings. Weird costumes. All sorts of strange tools. Random stuff that I’m absolutely certain will become useful in some art project, soon or never.

More or less inconceivable notes and evil plans that will or will not happen. Lots and lots of books and whatever else helps me create and avoid creating.

I spend a lot of my time observing the world around 40

FEATURED ARTIST

THE LIST

Julie Ebbing Self portrait on toilet, 2017 photography Corutesy of the Artist me; thinking, pondering. People, politics, philosophy, psychology, history, culture, religion, colour, surface, substance, texture, gestures and emotion. Thinking about the world means learning as much as you can, gathering information and inspiration from many sources and hording all sorts of interesting materials and objects. My workspace is where everything merges and accumulates into physical things. It’s a safe haven, a laboratory and a playground.

I’d like to know what or who inspires you – Courage, boldness, and rebellion! The gigantic list of women that have paved the way and broken-down barriers, and cleared out so much space for the rest of us! It’s our responsibility to inhabit it and expand it!

Who is The Happy Warrior? Give me combative women!

The Furies, Amazon’s, Semiramis, Joans of Arc, Jeanne Hachettes, Judith and Charlotte Corday’s, Cleopatras and Messalina’s of the world! Hannah Ryggen Army!

All things infinite percent! Literature! Poetry! Theatre!

Music! Dance! The phosphorescence, that light within!

Art is the great force in my life, and great art in any form truly makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up.

I am a strong believer in that art can change the world; the structures of society, stereotypical ways of thinking and acting, simply by not leaning back and accepting the status quo.

Where is your next destination?

Love, obsession and madness! Out with lanterns, looking for myself. Constantly moving between high culture and low. Working in Trondheim, Oslo, New York. Going to Venice to see the biennale and Malaga to see Picasso, Alhambra and the Granada sunset.

Notes to self?

I have a big mouth way out of proportion to the level of my self-esteem. It’s not a great combination. Being one’s own contradiction in every possible way can be somewhat of a challenge, ha ha! And whatever happened to the female anti-hero, the one diverse and with depth, who isn’t turning into a pure caricature? The one who don’t have to change a bit and doesn’t desperately need some Mr. Darcy to like her “just as she is”. Fuck that shit.

But you know, even I operate with some preconceptions of what it means to be a “successful” female nowadays and it only makes me feel like a loser and a failure.

White, privileged feminism to a sickening degree and I’m in gravely need of some perspective right now, but I think there are things to be said about this too. What about the women that “don’t make” it, that don´t have great careers or even a permanent job, the women that don’t master the art of being desirable (by rule) and who doesn’t know how to behave in a world-pleasingly manner? Unpleasing f**k-ups have stuff to say about the world too! And that is a permanent job I tell you.

“Please-less unpleasing non-pleasurable artist”, ha ha ha! Or just enough of a c**t maybe. (Success!?) C**ting the days. Give me less lube and more friction! The slap and the punching fist!

Thinking, pretending to be knowing, truly makes me happy. I feel rather good about myself whilst doing it. When the magazine is in the print and everything

WEBSITE instagram/julieebbing PHONE 41421443 ADDRESS Munkhaugveita

is lost, wishing for someone to like me just as I am, wishing I was curbed instead of crude, I most definitely will feel infinite percent horrified by myself. Pardon my sanity in a world insane!

Upcoming exhibitions?

Trøndelagsutstillingen, Trøndelag senter for samtidskunst, 23. September - 15. October Trøndelagsutstillingen, Galleri Kimen Kulturhus, Stjørdal 28. October - 19. November Galleri Kunstverket, Oslo, 11. January - 11. Feburary Kunst i Bergstaden, Røros, 13. - 18. March a 41

THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

FUN AND GAMES

WARM DRINKS Not everyone wants to have a hot coffee beverage, and plain cocoa can get boring.

Here are two alternatives that you can make with a few extra ingredients that can excite your taste buds, enchant your guests and give you something new to add to your holiday traditions.

VANILLA & GINGER WARM APPLE CIDER

CINNAMON ORANGE COCOA

Cider is very refreshing with its crisp fall apples. This takes that to a whole new level to warm even the coldest of fingers and noses.

All things considered, these three flavours all go well together in different combinations.

Together they are heavenly. This simple cocoa will amaze not only your nose, but your taste buds too.

1 litre apple cider (apple juice will work) 1 vanilla bean split and seeds scraped 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated small cinnamon stick (a 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon)

3 dl heavy cream 4 dl milk 3 tbs sugar 2 tsp cinnamon 50 g dark chocolate, chopped zest of 1 orange

Heat the apple cider to a good simmer then reduce heat.

Add the vanilla bean, ginger and cinnamon and heat for 15 minutes, giving it a good stir every few minutes. Strain the mixture to remove the ginger, cinnamon and vanilla bean pod.

Serve immediately with a slice of apple, or store in a carafe to enjoy while out and about.

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Heat the cream to a simmer, add chocolate and orange zest.

Whisk until chocolate dissolves.

Whisk in cinnamon and sugar, allow to dissolve. Slowly pour in milk and whisk until entire mixture is warm. Serve this with a dash of cinnamon and some shaved chocolate on the top.

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THE LIST

FILTER COFFEE 60 g finer ground coffee, about the size of coffee crystals (not the fine ones) 1 litre of water, measured in a measuring cup

...AND IF YOU’D PREFER A COFFEE!

Start by rinsing your filter to remove the bitter taste that filters often give. Then measure your water for boiling, in a clean kettle. Pour in the water slowly to give it enough time to seep through the grounds.

One of the things to look for is that your grounds are damp, but a not soggy mess when it is done brewing. Damp means the water has had enough contact with the grounds to keep it from being to bitter or sour.

Christmas time means Kokekaffe, (coffee brewed in a kettle) and filter coffee. Any coffee, no matter how good the bean is, can become a bad cup of coffee. The coffee experts at Jacobsen og Svart want to help you make the most of your Christmas coffee.

KOKEKAFFE (KETTLE COFFEE) 60g course ground coffee, as course as you can get it.

1 litre water, measured in a measuring cup Boil your water in the kettle and remove from the heat. The biggest mistake to this type of coffee is boiling the grounds in the pot. Once taken from the heat, pour in your grounds and give it a good stir. Now, leave it for 8-10 minutes. Less time will equal a weaker cup and more time stronger. Here is the magic tip: take the lid of and hit the edge of the kettle with a spoon and then be patient, the grounds will break and sink to the bottom, leaving you clear coffee to pour off into your cup.

If you absolutely want every last bit, then at the end use a sieve.

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

THE LIST Looks Outside

Although a beautiful, entertaining, magical, addictive, and inspiring destination in its own right, Trondheim is more than just a city - it is also a region. Trondheimsregionen is the fourth biggest urban area in Norway and lies at the centre of Trøndelag. It is the heart of the middle-Norway, Midt-Norge,

and provides a wide array adventures and experiences. If you haven't already fallen head over heals for Trondheimsregionen, then take a look outside the city and explore the secrets of the surrounding municipalities.

The beauty of the region is that you not only have everything in one place, but also

it is easily accessible. Let us take you on a journey into the mountains, a trip across the fjord, walks in the woods, and strolls along seaside.

In this issue of The List Looks Outside we load up and head into the wilderness, in search of nature's game.

MAIN IMAGE AND INSET

Bendik Slyngstad

Hunting Around Hunting game might be considered by some to be rather undignified or not a civilised activity, but ‘tis much to the contrary. Land rich in resources need the help of the hunter for land management and in proper, conscience and justified manners. “In a civilized and cultivated country, wild animals only continue to exist at all when preserved by sportsmen.”

Theodore Roosevelt THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

W Words by Evan I Cantell

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hen I first heard about that this issue was carrying a game theme, I thought “jolly good, I haven’t had a good game bird in a while”. When I found out that ‘game’ referred to silly little plastic boxes you plug into your television, however, I was a bit disappointed. Coming from the British countryside, the last video game I ever played was Duck Hunt!

I don’t mind a spot of Scrabble and there is nothing like a murder mystery

THE LIST

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

weekend to put the cat among the pigeons, but in my house tabletop entertainment is usually what’s served to you after a day out on the horses, or perhaps a spin on the roulette in the library. When in Rome do as the Romans, is what I always say, and here in Norway, we have nature’s video game being played out right on our doorsteps.

So, if you can drag yourself away from your Nintendo Wiis and Christmas glogginess, there is plenty of real game to be had, demanding your attention. Aim straight, and you may even have something for the tabletop come Christmas day. Here is a roundup of all the hunting opportunities to be had around Trondheim over the next couple of months:

IMAGE @Outtentabout

IMAGE Roe Deer

SMALL GAME Around the Greater Trondheim region, you can find lovely bits of wilderness which you can find a number of small game to suit your fancy. Below you will find the places you can jaunt off to and all you need to know to be well-informed. Day licenses for specific categories go from 150 NOK to a season’s licence at 600 NOK without a hunting dog. For all dates, locations and specific information, please refer to inatur.no and select the Sør-Trøndelag region for all of the listings.

Grouse, ptarmigan and duck There are multiple areas in which grouse can be found. They are a very savoury meal, with beautiful plumage. Meldal has three areas; Resdalsområdet, Espåsområdet and Våttanområdet. Budal, Soknedal and Holvatnet in Rissa.

Hare Can be found in Budal, Gaudal, Sokedal, Hersjedal, and Holden to hunt on general licenses and there also specific hunts for those looking to go with similar minds.

Fox, Marten and Small Game Budal, Soknedal and Mostadmarka are the land areas where you can find the small mammals for both food and furs.

Roe Deer Can be hunted in Soknedal, Børsa in Skaun, Melhus, Meldal, Orkdal and Malvik. a

IMAGE Bendik Slyngstad

GET LICENSED In Norway, you need a license to do things properly when it comes to civilised hunting. There is also a test, jagerprøven in Norwegian, to prove you have the skill and sense to be let loose in the wild.

Visit miljodirektoratet.no and search for jakt og fiske for more information.

IMAGE Bendik Slyngstad

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

CHRISTMAS MARKET AT TORVET

PREVIEWS & LISTINGS THIS ISSUE’S

Preview Editor Bradley P. Kurtz (bpk)

Contributors Jennifer Wold (jw) Belinda Covert (bc) Bradley P. Kurtz (bpk) Karin Modig (km) Sarah Hogan (sh) Zane Datava (zd)

FESTIVAL DATE

8 – 20 Dec PLACE

Torvet TIME

11:00 - 19:00 Mon - Sat 13:00 - 19:00 Sun

T

he rustic wooden shops, the large tree with its warm white lights, the air punctuated with coffee and spiced gløgg and the frosty breath from the horse standing in front of his carriage, all mean one thing: Trondheim’s

IMAGE Midtbyen Management

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THE LIST

SPORTS DATE

NEW YEARS DIVE Julemarkedet at Torvet.

This excellent Christmas market brings with it concerts, 80 exhibitors and 130 events over the thirteen days that it is open. The gifts you can get at the market are as unique as their creators themselves and the food in the glowing tent will be sure to bolster you during the hours looking for that perfect present.

The variety of fibre crafts range from beloved Selbu mittens to one-off pieces that when they find a loving home won’t be seen again. The glittering glass works of angels, jewellery and artistic collectables are sure to be a fascination and a talking point with the sellers about how they create these pieces.

During the winter months taking care of your skin is important and the variety of lotions, handcrafted soaps and balms perfumed with herbs, oils and flowers will soothe your skin and your soul.

And then there is the food.

You are also sure to find tasty treats for your morning breakfast such as cheeses, marmalades, smoked salmon and fresh butter.

It would be terrible to forget to take some tyttebær (Lingonberry) jam for your dinner, fenalår (cured leg of lamb) and other cured meats to go with Christmas beers, and some lefse to have with coffee.

If you are lucky, some of the desserts, confections and some burnt almonds will make it home to share with family and friends. Better yet, instead of trying to arrive with something to share, invite your loved ones to join you for a trip to the Julemarkedet and take home the memories instead. —bc

L

1 Jan PLACE

Hansbakkfjæra TIME

14:00 PRICE

Free INFO

http://newyearsdive.no/

endorphins to improve feeling of wellness and vigor, and encourages good sleep, as well as number of other health benefits.

And if that doesn’t sell you on the idea, then the sweet hat you get for registering for the event, which you can show off to your friends and tell them how much of a Viking you are, should do the trick. The event will also provide a heated tent to get changed in, and a delicious

ooking to start off the New Year with a splash? Then why not refresh yourself by jumping in Trondheimsfjorden with a bunch of other nutters on 1 January.

Did you know that swimming in cold water can help build and maintain a strong immune system, improve skin tone and skin health, release

cup of soup to warm you back up after your dip in the deep end.

The annual New Year’s Day dive has been a tradition in Trondheim for the past few years. In 2015, the dive started with only 8 participants, but has since grown to an event with more than 50! Meet up at the beach at Hansbakkfjæra this 1 January to be one of the crazies carousing in the canal (fjord).—sh

THE NUTCRACKER THE ROYAL BALLET AT NOVA KINO

W

Nutcracker doll, but is swept off on a magical adventure by magician Drosselmeyer. The Nutcracker and Clara travel through the Land of Snow to the Kingdom of Sweets, where the Sugar Plum Fairy treats them to a wonderful display of dances. Back home, Clara thinks she must have been dreaming - but doesn’t she recognize Drosselmeyer’s nephew?

The Royal Ballet is one of the great ballet companies of the world, and its Nutcracker production ranks as one of the most enduring and enchanting versions.

The showing is part of a run of live opera and ballet performances from The Royal Opera

hat better way to get into the Christmas spirit than with the beautiful ballet The Nutcracker? Nova cinema is showing this classic ballet live from The Royal Ballet in London.

The Nutcracker is the story of a young girl who receives a magical gift that takes her into a fantastic Christmas fairy tale.

The 1892 ballet by Lev Ivanov is set to magnificent music by Tchaikovsky.

On Christmas Eve, Clara sneaks downstairs to play with her favourite present - a 47

CONCERTS DATE

5 Dec PLACE

Nova 3 TIME

20:15 PRICE

250 NOK (includes coffee and Stratos chocolate) INFO

www.trondheimkino.no

House and The Royal Ballet in London, which also includes Carmen and The Swan Lake.

Nova promises crystal clear surround sound and HD. —km THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST IMAGE Maria Pasenau

CONCERTS DATE

16 Nov PLACE

Byscenen PRICE

260 NOK (SOLD OUT) INFO

O

www.byscenen.no

CEZINANDO AT BYSCENEN THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

n the back of glowing reviews for his latest couple of singles and a warmup gig for The Weeknd this summer, Cezina-

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ndo visits Byscenen as part of his 14-date tour. Those lucky enough to secure a ticket to the sold-out gig should be in for a treat as this Norwegian poet of hip-hop takes to the stage.

Already a well-established name on the Norwegian hip-hop scene, the 22-year old released his debut EP Cez 4 Prez at only 16. At the time of writing, his latest single Ingenting blir det samme men samme for meg, is on heavy rotation on the radio.

Cezinando has been on the receiving end of much praise from the Norwegian music press, particularly for his lyrical abilities. In January, in stiff competition with older and much more established artists, he picked up the coveted Spelleman award for best lyricist.

His uncompromising style and honest lyrics sets him apart from many other artists of this genre. Add to this an explosive stage presence and you can see why neither fans nor critics seem to get enough.

“This tour is the biggest he has done so far - everything is scaled up from previous gigs, both the crew and the production is bigger,” says Trine Jacobsen from his management team. “He really has got such a unique energy on stage, and his story-telling abilities are one of a kind.”

Although he raps in Norwegian, fear not if you do not speak the language, as the music and his stage presence will be doing a lot of the talking. And the way this young man is going, chances are it won’t be long until he has outgrown the smaller, more intimate concert arenas like Byscenen and moved on to large capacity venues. —km

THE LIST IMAGE Hugo Lutcherath

CHRISTMAS WITH NORDIC TENORS

are three Norwegian singers Jan-Tore Saltnes, Roald Haarr and Sveinung Hølmebakk that combine their musical quality with humour, dance, and other musical surprises. With this concept, the group has reached out to lovers of opera and fine arts and also to people who prefer more easy listening. Their repertoire stretches from Puccini and Grieg to The Beatles and Coldplay; from the most famous opera arias to musical theatre, jazz, pop and even yodelling and Bollywood music. Their award winning shows appeal to all everyone.

In 2007, Nordic Tenors was His Majesty King Harald's singing toastmasters at his 70th birthday celebration in Oslo, and in 2008 they opened the new, spectacular opera house in Bjørvika, Oslo.

Nordic Tenors travel to around 30 cities all around Norawy each year with their Christmas concert “Christmas with Nordic Tenors”, and every year around thousand of people people flock to venues to hear

T

he group Nordic Tenors was established in 2003 as a reaction to the noticable gap between high quality musical experiences and mainstream entertainment in Norway. Nordic Tenors

CONCERTS DATE

20 Dec PLACE

Olavshallen TIME

19:00 - 20:30 PRICE

480 NOK

their concerts. Obviously, Christmas songs make up the majority of the concert repertoire – from the virtuoso tenor songs, to the amusing Christmas medleys – combining the Christmas atmosphere with warmth, humour and the spirit of the festive season.

This year Nordic Tenors will sing at Olavshallen in Trondheim and bring joy and a holiday mood to their audience here in town. They will be accompanied by pianist Øystein Lund Olafsen. —zd

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

FESTIVAL

“JULEEVANGELIET” THE SMASH HIT MUSICAL

DATE

8 Nov PLACE

Studenter Samfundet TIME

15:00 - 20:00 PRICE

Free

E

www.samfundet.no/en/ events/1318-student-city-conference

Last years the show was sold out well before the curtain raised on the first night, and attracted a manger full of enthusiasm from those able to catch the show. This year, the performance is being moved onto the main scene to accommodate a bigger audience.

If you are looking for a healthy dose of holiday spirit of another style, be sure to book your night at Trøndelag Teater as seats are filling up fast. —bc

reconstruction of the Christmas Gospel, Joseph and Mary are backpackers on their way through the desert, and the audience meets both the Three Wise Men and King Herod. As the storied couple try to get a room at Paradise Hotel Bethlehem, they end up in a vesal stall where the question of who is in the crib is answered (and you might already know the answer to). All of this is set to some smashing musical accompanyment.

PLA O !

N A NE T HEA O DF OR

ach holiday season the same stories that have been told for generations hover around like that comfortable old sweater you only wear on those rough Sunday mornings. Juleevangeliet – The Smash Hit Musical on the other hand, is more like that funky outfit that made an appearance the night before.

In this modern

INFO

CONCERTS DATE

11 Nov – 30 Dec PLACE

Trøndelag Teater TIME

19:30 PRICE

125 - 470 NOK INFO

trondelag-teater.no/forestillinger/ juleevangeliet-the-smash-hitmusical-2/ THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

IMAGE Marco Villabrille

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STUDENT CITY CONFERENCE

A

s you may have heard, Trondheim is a very student oriented city. The numerous universities, colleges, and schools in the area play host to many thousands of Norwegian students, but also a large number of international students as well. It can be difficult for these international students to get the same experience as native students, which is one of the reasons why the Student City Conference will be taking place at Studenter Samfundet – a symbol of the student community here in Trondheim.

The Student City Conference 2017 will facilitate discussions on how students and other decision makers can take action to make Trondheim a better city for international students. By breaking down social barriers and enabling meaningful interaction between Norwegian and international students, Trondheim will become a city of global students and become an even better place to live, learn, and work.

Feel like you have something to say? Or maybe just interested in listening to the discussions and meeting other people interested in life in Trondheim? Then Studenter Samfundet will be the place to be 8 November. —bc

THE LIST

PLANETARIUM AT VITENSENTERET

W

ARTS DATE

Everyday PLACE

Vitensenteret i Trondheim TIME

10:00 - 16:00 Monday-Friday 11:00 - 17:00 Sunday PRICE

59 - 95 NOK INFO

www.vitensenteret.com/nb

IMAGE Maja Lindseth

TRONDHEIM DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL

T

here is nothing better on an autumn night than to sit back, relax, and tune in to a great documentary. The Trondheim Documentary Festival gives you that, and much more. Starting 15 November the city will be alive with screenings, workshops, discussions, exhibitions, and everything in-between.

This eighth edition of the Trondheim Documentary Festival promises to be one of

the most interesting cultural events of the season. Numerous venues across the city will be hosting a number of different exhibitions, speakers, showings, and events during the festival.

For those inclined to catch some documentary films at the documentary film festival there will be a number of showings worth the time at the new Cinemateket located at the heart of the city.

Maybe you’re interested in something a different kind of experience – then look no further than Fusentast at Dokkhuset. Fusentast describes itself as “documentary theatre” What does that mean?

You will have to check it out at Dokkhuset on Saturday 18 November. For something with a more local flavour: Adressa, the local news outlet,

is celebrating 250 years in print.

Past and present editors-in-chief will be at Dokkhuset to discuss all sorts of topics in regards the paper, print and contemporary media, etc.

If none of that appeals to you then the “Fake News” magic show surely will. —bpk

ARTS DATE

15 – 19 Nov PLACE

Varied TIME

Varied PRICE

90 - 750 NOK INFO

trondheimdokumentarfestival.no/ 51

hen its cold and dark in the reaches of Trondheim, why not explore the cold and dark reaches of space? The new planetarium at Vitesenteret allows you to do just that. Sit back, relax, and prepare for lift-off as you travel through space, time, and whatever else is out there.

The planetarium opened during the summer with the film “The Man From the Nine Dimensions”. If you didn’t happen to catch the film the first time around, Vitensenteret will still give you the opportunity to see it throughout December. The film is mad by an unlikely partnership between a theoretical physicist and a horror filmmaker has produced a surprising result: a family-friendly movie that aims to explain the universe in about 30 minutes. The film dramatizes the pursuit of the elusive "theory of everything" that would explain the fundamental laws of nature — both the microscopic (where quantum mechanics explain how things work) and the macroscopic world of the universe (where gravity governs).

Also being shown throughout the end of the year is the film “To Space and Back”. The film takes its audience on an incredible journey from the far reaches of our known universe and back to our own planet. It the story of human ingenuity, incredible engineering, and describes how the technology that transports us through space paves the way for the devices and apps we use every day.

Both films will be shown with Norwegian and English subtitles (at separate screenings). For students, teachers, kids (young and old), looking for something fun to do indoors, check out the films playing at Vitensenteret’s Planetarium.. —bpk THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

NEPAL FUNDRAISER

CONCERTS DATE

1 Dec PLACE

Lobbyen TIME

21:00 PRICE

180 NOK INFO

www.helpidpn.no THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

IMAGE Eivind Fagerheim Stuevold

52

H

elp IDPN is a Norwegian charity, working to improve the conditions for people with disabilities in Nepal. This autumn the focus is on Lhubu Day Center, a project set up after the earthquake which devastated the area two years ago.

Despite international attention and donations from local and international sources, there are still many people disabilities whose needs are marginalised and who are in dire need of social support. With winter fast approaching, Help IDPN is aiming to increase funds and so there will be a charity concert at Lobbyen (Verkstedhallen) on 1 December, with legendary punk band Brutal Kuk, supported by trash / death metal band Endogen.

THE LIST

Listings

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THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

01

COMPLIMENTS TO THE CHEF

Troll A Rebellion Against Boring Food In this section we challenge one of our Food and Drink chefs to create a recipe which reflects the magazine’s theme and/or season. Good food, beautiful food, does not have to be a challenge and these culinary masters want to encourage your creativity and inner foodie. Bon appétit!

02

L

ars Laurentius Paulsen is hard to miss with his signature moustache, hearty laugh and his take no prisoners attitude to cooking. It is apparent how deep his love of great food and local ingredients is; watching him closely, you can see his mind crawling through flavour combinations. Honouring the best of traditional Norwegian food and then hybridizing it with pairings from other taste palettes, he creates what he calls “food that is far away from, but with the elements of traditional, and definitely not your mother’s cooking”. Lars’ skills have been sought after and taken him on many journeys from mainland Europe, to the decadent-fruit bearing Caribbean islands (of which he speaks passionately on), and back again. Watching his hands as he prepared lunch there was the finesse that only experience and dedication bring to a chef.

To read about how you can make this beautiful dish of Lars’ for yourself, visit The List’s blog at thelist.no

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Introducing the Entrée His interpretation of Game is local venison, panseared on a dumping, with a mushroom mayo, kimchi, a Lingonberry jam with a kick of chili and fried potato lefse. This was a divine experience of deep savoury, a hint of sweet, the tang of sour and perfectly juicy venison.

Every flavour stood on its own, but together was a masterpiece.

01.

02 03.

04.

Lars prepping a filet Searing the venison Seasoning The final plate

THE LIST

FOOD & DRINK

To Rom og Kjøkken

World class ingredients for food aficionados

Run by Roar Hildonen and Alexander Skjefte – both with a great passion for food and drink – To Rom og Kjøkken focuses on the best produce from Trøndelag, the largest food region in Norway with a wide variety of seafood and other delicious local, smallscale products. To Rom og Kjøkken takes inspiration from Mediterranean cuisine and uses world class ingredients in a unique way with no compromise. The restaurant also boasts an extensive selection of 500 wines and 120 beers.

To Rom og Kjøkken has a White Guide recommendation, tops Trip Advisor’s charts, is repeatedly given six out of six by national newspapers and was personally endorsed by chef Gordon Ramsey on his visit to Trondheim. This formal yet cosy restaurant, nestled in the centre of town, is where food lovers return to time and time again. Try their famous shellfish, they are always on the menu.

Map 01

Jacobsen og Svart

02

To Rom og Kjøkken

03

Bror

04

Kafé Soil

05

73 Søttitre

06

Røft Rotisserie

07

E.C. Dahls

08

Habitat

09

Astrum Grill and Raw Bar

10

Troll Restuarant

07

09

10 08 03

06 02

05 01

04

LOCATION Ferjemannsveien 8, Adressabygget

LOCATION Carl Johans Gate 5 7010 Trondheim CONTACT Toromogkjokken.no +47 735 68 900 HOURS Mon-Sat 16:00-24:00

Bror

CONTACT www.jacobsensvart.no +47 902 44 226

Find perfection in a burger

HOURS Mon-Fri 7 - 18, Sat 9 - 18, Sun 11 – 18

Jacobsen og Svart Coffee, the right way

LOCATION Olav Tryggvassons gate 29, 7011 Trondheim

If you´re looking for a different kind of coffee shop you’ll find it at Jacobsen og Svart. In their trendy venue in the new Adressa building they’ve combined a relaxed atmosphere with friendly service, funky playlists and awe-inspiring coffee. To top it off, everything at Jacobsen is home made, from their famously fresh cinnamon rolls to the coffee roasted on site. But be warned, once you’ve tried their coffee nothing else quite compares!

CONTACT Brorbar.no x @bror_bar +47 458 31 526 HOURS Mon-Thur 11:00-00:30 Fri-Sat 11:00-02:30 Sun 13:00-02:30

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Bror is a bar and BBQ-hotspot located in Nordre Gate, right in the heart of Trondheim. They specialise in craft beers and rum, served alongside burgers and southern California-style tacos. Burgers are cooked on a charcoal-fired grill, and a range of sides including delicious sweet potato fries. Go as you are - be it a quick drink, a full meal or a night out. Bror offers a warm welcome!

THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

THE LIST

Røft Rotisserie

LOCATION Nedre Bakklandet 20d, 7014 Trondheim

Above the beaten tracks

CONTACT b/Kafé-Soil HOURS Wed-Fri 8-17, Sat 11:0017:00, Sun 11:00-18:00

Kafé Soil Something for everyone in the heart of Bakklandet

On the modern pedestrian bridge connecting the city with the seaside footpath, speedboat and cruise ship terminals, above the dynamic transport hub of Brattøra, with great views overlooking the canal and its traditional buildings, RØFT serves customers of all ages and all walks of life.

Enjoy your cowboy breakfast, seafood salad, grilled chicken or crispy vegetarian dish with the whole region at your feet. Come here, go anywhere.

The recently remodelled Kafé Soil, sitting in charming Bakklandet, serves up delicious, homemade, organic baked goods.

Visitors can quench their thirst with juice, soda, and locally-roasted coffee. A number of vegan and raw food options ensure that there is something for everyone. Be sure to check out their selection of eco beers and wines too!

73 Søttitre CONTACT +47 73 80 33 33 restaurant73.trondheim @radissonblu.com HOURS Mon-Sat 17.00-22.30

THE NINETEENTH ISSUE

CONTACT www.roft.no +47 731 88 100 HOURS Sun-Thu 10-22 Fri-Sat 10-23

E.C. Dahls

Fine dining by the river

LOCATION Kjøpmannsgata 73

LOCATION Sjøgangen 6. (Above Trondheim Central Station)

Brewed to perfection

Bar & Restaurant 73 has devoted professionals doing their best to make your dining experience as great as possible.

Trained chefs, waiters, bartenders and sommeliers strive to create exciting and tasteful dishes for their guests. The produce is fresh and local, as the staff cares about animals and farmers’ happiness. Delicious flavours, combined with great beverages in a comfortable setting, overlooking the Nidelva river.

Welcome to 73.

LOCATION Strandveien 71 CONTACT www.ecdahls.no HOURS Tue-Sat 16:00-24:00

70

E.C. Dahls Pub og Kjøkken is located at the northern end of Lademoen. Both the pub and the restaurant are inspired by American cuisine, placing a heavy focus on great grilling and, of course, the beer garden.

With the E.C. Dahls name you know the beer will be plentiful, and delicious. Make sure to swing by this summer to taste their selection of craft beers.

SPONSORED CONTENT

WOULD YOU LIKE TO PROMOTE YOUR RESTAURANT, BAR OR CAFE IN THE LIST? Contact

Email matias@thelist.no or Call 969 12 901

Habitat

LOCATION Fosenkaia 4 A, 7010 Trondheim

Evolution of craft

CONTACT www.trollrestaurant.no +47 734 87 990

Habitat is Trondheim’s oasis for experimental craft beer and delicious pizza. Their 24 taps are consistently pouring the best selection of craft beer, cider, and kombucha, both from Norway and abroad. Habitat is especially proud of their in-house brewery, operated by Monkey Brew, who concoct all

kinds of awesomeness in their basement ”Monkey Lab”. The pizza bases are sourdough, the toppings fresh, and the oven hot!

And if beer and pizza aren’t your thing, you can always hang out in their toilets and listen to David Attenborough’s soothing voice.

Welcome to your new favorite Habitat!

HOURS Mon-Sat: 15:00-23:00

Troll Restaurant Norwegian food prepared in a helluva’ way!

LOCATION Olav Tryggvasons gate 30 CONTACT b/habitattrondheim HOURS Monday-Thurs 11-23 Fri & Sat 11-02

Troll Restaurant is located in Fosenkaia, overlooking the river. In a rustic and almost fairytale like environment, Troll serve traditional Norwegian dishes with a different spin. All the menu items are based on local ingredients, like whale beef from Smøla and deer from the Trøndelag region. Head Chef Lars composes three or five course meals that will impress and surprise.

Astrum Grill & Raw Bar LOCATION Brattørkaia 1, 7010 Trondheim CONTACT www.clariontrondheim.no +47 468 92 014 HOURS Mon - Thu 18.00 - 23.30 Fri - Sat 18.00 - 01.30

At Astrum Grill & Raw Bar, located at the top floor of Clarion Hotel & Congress, you’ll find a spectacular venue with a killer view, overlooking the city with monuments such as the Nidaros Cathedral, the Fosen Alps and Munkholmen. The sunset is magical from the terrace in the evening and has become a favorite place for selfies and romantic hangouts. It has also become a place for live concerts and unplugged sessions. The restaurant has an exciting menu based on regional produce. Nordic cuisine meets rustic American flavours. We focus on locally produced, organic and sustainable food to ensure an unforgettable dining experience.

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THE EIGHTEENTH ISSUE

All you need for x-mas

PHOTO: OLE EKKER

Hand knitted & heart made

BENNETT AS

BY 9 AWESOME LADIES IN TRONDHEIM

HAND KNITTED MITTENS

399,-

Olav Tryggvasons gate 18

Phone: 73 83 32 30