The putt-putt champions of the internet | The Vergecast – The Verge
Nilay Patel and Dieter Bohn are joined by Ashley Carman and Sean O’Kane to discuss their love of mini golf and why they feel it’s the perfect summer game. Plus, they dive into the recent wave of AI-generated content and discuss the risks and benefits. You can also hear Ashley share her love for mini golf and the surprisingly deep strategy behind it. But before we dive into the golf discussion, let’s talk AI.
In a world dominated by artificial intelligence (AI), the possibilities seem endless. We are starting to see AI generate all sorts of content. Some say this could be the future, with everything from news articles to marketing materials, art, and even music being produced by AI. However, with this advancement come many challenges. As with any new technology, ethical implications, concerns about bias, and even potential misuse are topics we should carefully consider. This conversation allows us to take a look at AI-generated content, the questions that surround it, and its potential to change our world in significant ways. But let’s be honest, it’s also an episode where we celebrate a fun summer activity. So without further ado, let’s talk about the true highlight of summer: putt-putt.
Putt-putt is one of those games that brings out the kid in everyone. No matter your age or skill level, you can always enjoy a round of miniature golf. The colorful courses with all the obstacles make it an engaging experience for all. For a lot of us, this game is more than just hitting a ball into a hole; it’s about good company, friendly competition, and having a few laughs.
The Vergecast hosts delve into the history of mini golf and discuss its appeal for players of all ages and skill levels. We learned that miniature golf evolved from the real deal. As golf became popular, the miniature version of it took off, allowing people to experience a similar experience without all the fancy gear and commitment of a traditional golf course. With a mini golf course cropping up in many towns and amusement parks, putt-putt became a family favorite and an all-time summer pastime.
Beyond being a simple, fun game, mini golf has an undeniable strategic side to it. Ashley shares insights on how the mini golf experience often boils down to planning, executing the best shot, and reading the obstacles. We explore the finer points of strategy in this deceptively simple game, such as mastering the art of breaking putts or strategically deciding which shots to play with caution.
As we hear about how many different options exist within putt-putt courses and the unique designs of the courses themselves, we come to realize that mini golf offers endless possibilities. You can have an almost-artistic side to the game. We can’t help but marvel at the level of detail put into these courses. It seems almost impossible to imagine a putt-putt course with a theme or a creative design; however, it is truly inspiring to witness the sheer number of ways these designers bring their ideas to life. We learn about courses with crazy themes and quirky layouts. These courses become much more than simple miniature replicas of their bigger counterparts; they are complete worlds of their own.
Mini golf, however, isn’t just about the fun of the game or the skill it takes to conquer the course. As the conversation turns to the cultural side of mini golf, we find ourselves talking about a truly widespread cultural phenomenon that’s become a timeless classic. Some argue that the perfect day is a good day for a family gathering where the kids play mini golf. Then there’s always that one friend in every group who’s determined to play it very seriously and actually get a good score. Whether you’re just in it for the fun, the challenge, or the sheer joy of sinking that last putt, everyone gets something from mini golf.
As the conversation comes to a close, one thing remains clear: We are still just scratching the surface of what AI is capable of, and there’s still much we don’t know. However, there’s one thing that’s undeniable, the pure joy and relaxation you find when you step onto a putt-putt course are unbeatable. A little fun on the greens with your friends and family always leaves you with happy memories. Maybe that’s why the internet loves it. That’s what The Vergecast is all about.
