Cya later! It was a pretty good time and we are moving onto the future. Count on more TGWNETOHH Coverage for 2007!
Bye Bye 2006, Welcome 2007!
December 31, 2006
Relena Peacecraft not as Bland as I thought
I went out today to Best Buy and couldn't resist picking up Gundam Wing, the Complete Collection along with Need for Speed Carbon and another Wii Controller (last one they had!). I saw the true OP and Endings as they were intended and not a Toonami quick cut from 10 years ago. I must say, Gundam Wing is a great anime to get back into and I toally have this nostalgic feeling of what made the show great. Kudos to Bandai for releasing the Series at $80 USD, and kudos for digitally remastering this 1995 make of Gundam to make it a wonderful revisit.
December 28, 2006
December 27, 2006
Engineering Project: The Flatulator
No, I am not building a fart sensoring machine as seen in Family Guy: Season Four. Here is the schematic for my next project. The Fire Machine is designed to roll 4ft to a birthday candle and put it out. You can't leave anything behind on the floor, and you can't use sawdust, dirt, or water. How the flatulator works is, a mousetrap will power the wheels (required) and a balloon will be inserted into the upper carriage. As the balloon hits the flame, the candle will cause it to burst: and the flame will go out from the expanding molecules in the balloon. I have yet to test the theory: but it HAS been approved. Look to see more soon!
Christmas Shennanigans
Beauiful Douglass Fir that I actually got on my hands and knees to cut down with an old fashioned hack saw. We went to a local tree farm and bought the tree for about $30.00 USD, including a hayride back with the tree, and with the tree wrapped up in mesh to get it through the door. Good deal! Near perfect tree! It's been a tradtion for about 5 or 6 years now that I go out and pick the right tree. For the past three years I have cut down the tree myself (including this year). My first year was not fun, because I had to cut down a 15 foot Frasier Fir! This one in the picture is an 8.5 foot Douglass!
Both our cats really don't get along: well I should say the Calico does not get along with the other tabby. Calicos are known for "nasty" attitues and spur of the moment hissy fits. They have their moments though, sleeping together or near each other, or as I walk in the door, each day one cat will chase the other, and wrestle.
Various holiday decorations my mom has around the house. She is very big on Christmas and goes all out to make Christmas a perfect atmosphere. Well done mom!
Classic. They were both actually kissing each other willingly. What's funny is my sister looks like a chimpanzee. Dapper is known to get up in my seat as I am trying to sit down, and is quite vocal when he wants something. Great cat, he likes to play and sometimes when I wake up in the morning, I find it hard to breathe in a relaxed state because he is on my stomach and chest! Up... Down... Up... Down... Purr.
I got some nice stuff for Christmas! A new truck radio, an aswesome study Bible, some Penn State apparrel, a new Digital Camera (took pics with it, its not a bad camera) and some drafting supplies. All in all a good Christmas, and I look forward to next year; because its a big one.
December 25, 2006
Nintendo Wii and PS3 shortages to go into 2007
Post from Reuters, AP
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Shoppers are standing in lines to snap up Sony Corp's PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Co. Ltd.'s Wii video game consoles as they become available, and some analysts do not expect shortages to ease until March or later.
Shoppers are finding lots of PlayStation 2s and Microsoft Xbox'360s, expected to do well as substitutes for the newest machines that are in short supply. One employee at a Target store said the retailer issues a memo a couple of days in advance of Wii and PS3 shipments and passes the information on to shoppers, who sometimes stand in line to secure their booty.
As he spoke, shoppers snapped up PlayStation Portables and Apple Computer Inc iPods.
American Technology Research analyst Paul-Jon McNealy said that since Sony shipment numbers include units in transit or in warehouses, the company's target of 1 million could translate to 600,000 to 800,000 units at retail by year end. McNealy said investors and game makers tempered their forecasts for the PS3s since initial numbers fell short. He added that the PS3 will likely remain scarce through the June quarter. "They have to launch in Europe, and they're stretched," said McNealy. Wii shortages could ease in the March quarter, he said.
Workers at a dozen Southern California stores, including Best Buy, GameStop and Target outlets, said PS3 shipments were small and sporadic this shopping season, ranging from as few as 1 or 2 to 25, and that shoppers snapped up consoles as they arrived. "We get 1 or 2 every week to week and a half," said a weary Los Angeles GameStop employee. Nintendo's Wii was selling out fast but reaching stores in greater numbers than the PS3, store clerks said. The $250 Wii, known for its motion-sensitive controller that can be swung like a tennis racquet or a sword, and the high-end $600 PS3 both launched in the United States in mid-November and take on the year-old Microsoft Xbox 360 in the new generation video game console battle.
Sony's PS2, which has sold more than 106 million units globally, is expected to be a top seller this season. Toys "R" Us said its 587 U.S. stores expected more than 6,000 PS3s, thousands of Wiis and over 30,000 Microsoft Corp. Xbox 360s in the week leading up to Christmas.
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Shoppers are standing in lines to snap up Sony Corp's PlayStation 3 and Nintendo Co. Ltd.'s Wii video game consoles as they become available, and some analysts do not expect shortages to ease until March or later.
Shoppers are finding lots of PlayStation 2s and Microsoft Xbox'360s, expected to do well as substitutes for the newest machines that are in short supply. One employee at a Target store said the retailer issues a memo a couple of days in advance of Wii and PS3 shipments and passes the information on to shoppers, who sometimes stand in line to secure their booty.
As he spoke, shoppers snapped up PlayStation Portables and Apple Computer Inc iPods.
American Technology Research analyst Paul-Jon McNealy said that since Sony shipment numbers include units in transit or in warehouses, the company's target of 1 million could translate to 600,000 to 800,000 units at retail by year end. McNealy said investors and game makers tempered their forecasts for the PS3s since initial numbers fell short. He added that the PS3 will likely remain scarce through the June quarter. "They have to launch in Europe, and they're stretched," said McNealy. Wii shortages could ease in the March quarter, he said.
Workers at a dozen Southern California stores, including Best Buy, GameStop and Target outlets, said PS3 shipments were small and sporadic this shopping season, ranging from as few as 1 or 2 to 25, and that shoppers snapped up consoles as they arrived. "We get 1 or 2 every week to week and a half," said a weary Los Angeles GameStop employee. Nintendo's Wii was selling out fast but reaching stores in greater numbers than the PS3, store clerks said. The $250 Wii, known for its motion-sensitive controller that can be swung like a tennis racquet or a sword, and the high-end $600 PS3 both launched in the United States in mid-November and take on the year-old Microsoft Xbox 360 in the new generation video game console battle.
Sony's PS2, which has sold more than 106 million units globally, is expected to be a top seller this season. Toys "R" Us said its 587 U.S. stores expected more than 6,000 PS3s, thousands of Wiis and over 30,000 Microsoft Corp. Xbox 360s in the week leading up to Christmas.
December 23, 2006
Timeline: The Guy With Not Enough Time On His Hands 2006!!
I have gone back into the archives, and I would like to share with you the top posts of the year, and major highlights.
Top Posts of the Year:
1.) Zelda Tribute: http://jadedfalconblog.blogspot.com/2006/12/zelda-tribute.html
2.) Que for Nintendo Wii: http://jadedfalconblog.blogspot.com/2006/12/riveting-day-but-pays-off-in-end.html
3.) Engineering II Dragster Races: http://jadedfalconblog.blogspot.com/2006/11/engineering-ii-nazareth-area-high.html
Major Highlights:
May 5th, 2006- Firebird II completed its race and ranked 12th of 16th at a speed of 1.833 seconds.
May 7, 2006- Began working at a job for the first time (a labor one). Also took my first SAT this day.
May 9th, 2006- Official work on the base of the Freedom Tower begins. Freedom Tower is the new design that will hoverover where the World Trade Center towers of New York City, USA once stood.
May 12th 2006- Completed my Woodshop Table, the Cross patterned Coffee Table. I still have yet to actually finish it (no pun intended) by sanding it, putting a finish on, and using it.
June 14th 2006- Went on vacation to Ocean City, Md and saw my best buddy down there. He bought me my first set ofa Japanese Katana, Japanese Wakizashi, and Japanese Tanto. I had an interest in swords before, and he peaked my interestto what I like today as a hobby.
July 4th, 2006- As I was enjoying my 4th of July over at a neighbors house (we bought illegal fireworks, but used them safely!) North Korea test launched Nuclear missles out into the Sea of Japan. All three missiles failed in flight. The onethat went furthest had a trajectory path torwards Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (a United States naval base that was attacked byJapan in World War II). A few days later, Japanese scientists confirmed nuclear radiation in the soil off the coast of Japan. Analysis determined the nuclear material was new.
August 3rd, 2006- Israeliman are held hostage by Hamas from Lebanon. Israel prepares for war to fully invade Lebanonto stop Hamas. The justification was that "Hamas wishes to wipe Israel from the face of the Earth" as publicallyannounced by the terrorist organization.
August 25th, 2006- Began work on my Force Impulse Gundam (which is 95% done today). Experienced a very, very strongholy presence of Angels while I was at work. This wasn't hoo-hah and I could not see them; but they were there; and their presence was blatantly obvious.
September 9, 2006- Shuttle Atlantis launches successfully for a mission to the International Space Station.
September 18, 2006- My first 1045 Steel Katana from the Steel Crysanthamum specialist store arrived by mail. I wasextremely pleased with the craftsmanship put into the blade. The blade is made from a forge with about 2,600 yearsof master birthright experience (aka they can make swords.). The blade came in masahiro fittings, and I still have itto today. The scabbard suffered minor scraped and cuts, but the blade is still as good as ever. I rarely draw it for viewing. Will buy from seller again.
September 21, 2006- Nazareth Area High School plans a strike due to teacher budget issues compared with other districts.Six weeks later on November 2nd, the fact-finding committee has not solved the dispute.
October 12th, 2006- Introduction of a new cat into our family: Dapper.
October 13th, 2006- Construction begins on Firebird III. I finished the car early this year and had some real fun with it.
October 15h, 2006- Persecution- If ever light, begins on a global scale of Christians, especially in the Middle East area.Hamas is still at war with Israel, and the Lebanese people are the victims.
October 17th, 2006- I realized I spent nearly $1,000 USD on Japanime, Models, and Manga!!!
October 29th, 2006- Took my 2nd go at the SAT College Exams.
November 1st, 2006- Firebird III CRUSHES the competition in at 1.043 seconds, and lands second place among the Engineerng IIcars.
November 14th, 2006- Got my SAT scores back, and on what was a seemingly easier test- I scored much lower.
November 17th, 2006- Playstation 3 release in the United States. Mass riots ensued as people tried to jump over each otherto get to the counter. People were seriously injured, and in one case in the south, Police shot tear gas into a crowd to calmand disperse them.
November 19th, 2006- Nintendo Wii launch in United States. Lines were calm, but there was no Wii (sold out). I lookedeverywhere and could not find one (I was not accustomed to the process of queing).
Noveber 27th, 2006- Received in the mail my acceptance letter to the Pennsylvania State University. Was not excited. A weekor so later after my bout of week or so depression, I was exhilerated!!
November 29th 2006- Still no luck on a Nintendo Wii.
December 1st, 2006- Construction and Concepts begin on Firebird IV (Rage of Firebird) and Firebird V (Rise of Firebird).
December 6th, 2006- I woke up at 4am in the morning to head over to my local Wal*Mart to wait in line for my Wii. I waitedfor 4 or 5 hours to get my Wii, and I was 26th of 35 Wiis in line to get my Wii. When the 8:00 time rolled around, about 150people showed up, and we had rougly 275-300 people waiting in line for 35 Wiis which already had their spots. This Wal*Martmade about $8,400+ in 5 minutes. I was escorted off the premesis by Police (Coolio!!!)
December 13th, 2006- I beat the Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess for the Wii. Very rewarding game and I highly recommend.I also posted my famous timeline theory. I believe it to be 100% accurate for the "core" Zelda games.
December 19th, 2006- Console WARS!!! We pitted the Xbox360, Nintendo Wii, and Playstation 3 all together. The Nintendo Wii comes on top this year!
December 23rd, 2006- I am typing this message to you!
Top Posts of the Year:
1.) Zelda Tribute: http://jadedfalconblog.blogspot.com/2006/12/zelda-tribute.html
2.) Que for Nintendo Wii: http://jadedfalconblog.blogspot.com/2006/12/riveting-day-but-pays-off-in-end.html
3.) Engineering II Dragster Races: http://jadedfalconblog.blogspot.com/2006/11/engineering-ii-nazareth-area-high.html
Major Highlights:
May 5th, 2006- Firebird II completed its race and ranked 12th of 16th at a speed of 1.833 seconds.
May 7, 2006- Began working at a job for the first time (a labor one). Also took my first SAT this day.
May 9th, 2006- Official work on the base of the Freedom Tower begins. Freedom Tower is the new design that will hoverover where the World Trade Center towers of New York City, USA once stood.
May 12th 2006- Completed my Woodshop Table, the Cross patterned Coffee Table. I still have yet to actually finish it (no pun intended) by sanding it, putting a finish on, and using it.
June 14th 2006- Went on vacation to Ocean City, Md and saw my best buddy down there. He bought me my first set ofa Japanese Katana, Japanese Wakizashi, and Japanese Tanto. I had an interest in swords before, and he peaked my interestto what I like today as a hobby.
July 4th, 2006- As I was enjoying my 4th of July over at a neighbors house (we bought illegal fireworks, but used them safely!) North Korea test launched Nuclear missles out into the Sea of Japan. All three missiles failed in flight. The onethat went furthest had a trajectory path torwards Pearl Harbor, Hawaii (a United States naval base that was attacked byJapan in World War II). A few days later, Japanese scientists confirmed nuclear radiation in the soil off the coast of Japan. Analysis determined the nuclear material was new.
August 3rd, 2006- Israeliman are held hostage by Hamas from Lebanon. Israel prepares for war to fully invade Lebanonto stop Hamas. The justification was that "Hamas wishes to wipe Israel from the face of the Earth" as publicallyannounced by the terrorist organization.
August 25th, 2006- Began work on my Force Impulse Gundam (which is 95% done today). Experienced a very, very strongholy presence of Angels while I was at work. This wasn't hoo-hah and I could not see them; but they were there; and their presence was blatantly obvious.
September 9, 2006- Shuttle Atlantis launches successfully for a mission to the International Space Station.
September 18, 2006- My first 1045 Steel Katana from the Steel Crysanthamum specialist store arrived by mail. I wasextremely pleased with the craftsmanship put into the blade. The blade is made from a forge with about 2,600 yearsof master birthright experience (aka they can make swords.). The blade came in masahiro fittings, and I still have itto today. The scabbard suffered minor scraped and cuts, but the blade is still as good as ever. I rarely draw it for viewing. Will buy from seller again.
September 21, 2006- Nazareth Area High School plans a strike due to teacher budget issues compared with other districts.Six weeks later on November 2nd, the fact-finding committee has not solved the dispute.
October 12th, 2006- Introduction of a new cat into our family: Dapper.
October 13th, 2006- Construction begins on Firebird III. I finished the car early this year and had some real fun with it.
October 15h, 2006- Persecution- If ever light, begins on a global scale of Christians, especially in the Middle East area.Hamas is still at war with Israel, and the Lebanese people are the victims.
October 17th, 2006- I realized I spent nearly $1,000 USD on Japanime, Models, and Manga!!!
October 29th, 2006- Took my 2nd go at the SAT College Exams.
November 1st, 2006- Firebird III CRUSHES the competition in at 1.043 seconds, and lands second place among the Engineerng IIcars.
November 14th, 2006- Got my SAT scores back, and on what was a seemingly easier test- I scored much lower.
November 17th, 2006- Playstation 3 release in the United States. Mass riots ensued as people tried to jump over each otherto get to the counter. People were seriously injured, and in one case in the south, Police shot tear gas into a crowd to calmand disperse them.
November 19th, 2006- Nintendo Wii launch in United States. Lines were calm, but there was no Wii (sold out). I lookedeverywhere and could not find one (I was not accustomed to the process of queing).
Noveber 27th, 2006- Received in the mail my acceptance letter to the Pennsylvania State University. Was not excited. A weekor so later after my bout of week or so depression, I was exhilerated!!
November 29th 2006- Still no luck on a Nintendo Wii.
December 1st, 2006- Construction and Concepts begin on Firebird IV (Rage of Firebird) and Firebird V (Rise of Firebird).
December 6th, 2006- I woke up at 4am in the morning to head over to my local Wal*Mart to wait in line for my Wii. I waitedfor 4 or 5 hours to get my Wii, and I was 26th of 35 Wiis in line to get my Wii. When the 8:00 time rolled around, about 150people showed up, and we had rougly 275-300 people waiting in line for 35 Wiis which already had their spots. This Wal*Martmade about $8,400+ in 5 minutes. I was escorted off the premesis by Police (Coolio!!!)
December 13th, 2006- I beat the Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess for the Wii. Very rewarding game and I highly recommend.I also posted my famous timeline theory. I believe it to be 100% accurate for the "core" Zelda games.
December 19th, 2006- Console WARS!!! We pitted the Xbox360, Nintendo Wii, and Playstation 3 all together. The Nintendo Wii comes on top this year!
December 23rd, 2006- I am typing this message to you!
December 22, 2006
Wii Update: Internet Channel Launch
I woke up at 4am this morning because I thought I was being beamed up into the sky by aliens (finally! hehe just kidding). It wasn't aliens, but my Wii's disk drive mysteriously blinking on and off a bluish tint. I turned it on to check it out (I heard about this, and I may have gotten mail?) And it turned out, "You got mail". Nintendo had emailed us offering the trial to the Internet channel. I yelled somewhat quietly "oh snap" and tried it out. It's actually pretty dang cool.
Naturally, I tried my blog first, and noticed the banner was off! (Im puzzled as to why none of you told me why it was off?) So I spent an hour or two fixing that, with no help of course. Did a few other things, enlarged the font to make it a bit easier to read for Wii users, and we are golden!
I like how you can pan around the weboages via the B button. However I found a bug or two that can get annoying. If you try to scroll off the page by panning, the system will send you to another page (usually your previous page). You can't type in all text boxes, for example I tried to post from my Wii here through my Blogger dashboard, but I could not type anything because this is not a "standard" text box thing. You also cannot upload pictures or search for files, or download anything. While the Wii Internet channel is pretty cool, its not the same to a home computer- in fact less than one. I would use the Wii Internet Channel to look at things when I wake up early in the morning (when I don't feel like getting up out of bed!). The weather channel is helpful too (the actual Wii channel). If they keep the trial version open to all Wii users, Ill gladly use it. However, I really don't want to pay for less of what I already have in a home computer. Please understand Nintendo.
Naturally, I tried my blog first, and noticed the banner was off! (Im puzzled as to why none of you told me why it was off?) So I spent an hour or two fixing that, with no help of course. Did a few other things, enlarged the font to make it a bit easier to read for Wii users, and we are golden!
I like how you can pan around the weboages via the B button. However I found a bug or two that can get annoying. If you try to scroll off the page by panning, the system will send you to another page (usually your previous page). You can't type in all text boxes, for example I tried to post from my Wii here through my Blogger dashboard, but I could not type anything because this is not a "standard" text box thing. You also cannot upload pictures or search for files, or download anything. While the Wii Internet channel is pretty cool, its not the same to a home computer- in fact less than one. I would use the Wii Internet Channel to look at things when I wake up early in the morning (when I don't feel like getting up out of bed!). The weather channel is helpful too (the actual Wii channel). If they keep the trial version open to all Wii users, Ill gladly use it. However, I really don't want to pay for less of what I already have in a home computer. Please understand Nintendo.
December 20, 2006
Zelda: Ocarina of Time (Temple of Time Measurements)
Estimated Dimensions of the Temple of Time. These are estimated distances and I gurantee they are not extremely accurate. How did I get the measurements? I took the approximate length of Link's Foot, added it with the average shoe size in Japan converted to American, then take the amount of footsteps Link takes to reach one end to another, and approximate how long one step is at a walking pace. The results end something like this. Suprisingly, the Temple of Time in Twilight Princess has 8 stories. Even more shocking, the Temple of Time early on in Ocarina of Time is abot 76-80 feet in height, rougly 8 STORIES. The Dungeon was tacked onto the back of the Temple of Time after time elapsed in the chronology, for unknown reasons (maybe to add or house important items). In Engrish, Math has its uses!! More detailed measurements later on.
December 19, 2006
Wii Hunters Anonymous: More Tips
A lot of people are still "Wii-less" and have been either extremely unlucky, too lazy to do more work and research, or just "don't get" console launch processes. I am still offering to help here with some good advice and tips that I have learned.
Find out what stores are carying what and when.
I was out browsing for my Wii when my Walmart posted a sign in the games section that more Wii units were coming tomorrow morning. That was my "opportunity" to get my Wii unit. I arrived at 4am (8am sale) and already 2 dozen people were in line waiting for their Wii. Do Not even try EB Games or Gamestop, they screwed/boned themselves into awesome sales by only getting preorder units and no more to put as "sale".
Your Looking to target chain stores.
Stores like Sams Club and Costco (if you have membership there) Target, K-Mart, and especially, Wal-Mart. These guys buy in bulk and sell out FAST. The target up on Cedar Crest Blvd. in the Lehigh Valley PA area grabbed 550 Wii Units, and sold them in under an hour. 550 X $265 kids?? $145,750 USD in about 20 minutes. NUTS. The WalMart I went to made $8,400 USD in 5 minutes. Not too shabby! It's best to ask someone who is a "devout employee" or manager there to get the in on shipment dates. Managers tell their employees, but employees are told not to leak said information. Once this happened, information leaked everywhere on when and where Wiis and Playstation 3s were coming. Ask someone you may know who works at WalMart or Target, there is a good chance they know. That's your job to find that information out, though.
Act Civilized
Don't act like a goofball or try anything funny in line. While I waited in line, people tried to "skip" the lines to sign the list first, and as they tried regional police arrested them and threw them off the premesis. Be civil, be a person, and be patient with the folks in line. Bring a Nintendo DS!!
Prepare for a long stay (maybe overnight)
Prepare for a long stay/sit/stand/campout. Bring sleeping bags, thermases with soup, and maybe if your that hardcore (some people did this) a tent, a generator, and a playstation 2 with TV. Layers of clothes and a jacket are a must. Bring a sleeping bag and a pillot (if necessary). Bring a phone. Better yet, bring friends who can hold line positions for you or another buddy to use the bathroom or gethot drinks. The manager of the Wal-Mart I went to gave free coffee and hot chocolate to all of us waiting in line for free, which I stopped and thanked him for.
Get there early.
Get there early, hours early. If its a well known store, a day or two early. You have to do this to beat the other "nuts" like me out there =p
Stay Positive
Stay Positive, you will more than likely get your system if you prepared and did your research. PERSISTANCE PAYS OFF.
Have Fun!!!
Console Hunting and waitin in line is more than a hassle: it can be turned into a fun event with buddies or others in line. Bring a DS and see who you can see in the immediate area to play games or chat with! Share turns using the bathroom and talk with fellow gamers there. You would be suprised how many game fans are there and not just adults/parents.
Find out what stores are carying what and when.
I was out browsing for my Wii when my Walmart posted a sign in the games section that more Wii units were coming tomorrow morning. That was my "opportunity" to get my Wii unit. I arrived at 4am (8am sale) and already 2 dozen people were in line waiting for their Wii. Do Not even try EB Games or Gamestop, they screwed/boned themselves into awesome sales by only getting preorder units and no more to put as "sale".
Your Looking to target chain stores.
Stores like Sams Club and Costco (if you have membership there) Target, K-Mart, and especially, Wal-Mart. These guys buy in bulk and sell out FAST. The target up on Cedar Crest Blvd. in the Lehigh Valley PA area grabbed 550 Wii Units, and sold them in under an hour. 550 X $265 kids?? $145,750 USD in about 20 minutes. NUTS. The WalMart I went to made $8,400 USD in 5 minutes. Not too shabby! It's best to ask someone who is a "devout employee" or manager there to get the in on shipment dates. Managers tell their employees, but employees are told not to leak said information. Once this happened, information leaked everywhere on when and where Wiis and Playstation 3s were coming. Ask someone you may know who works at WalMart or Target, there is a good chance they know. That's your job to find that information out, though.
Act Civilized
Don't act like a goofball or try anything funny in line. While I waited in line, people tried to "skip" the lines to sign the list first, and as they tried regional police arrested them and threw them off the premesis. Be civil, be a person, and be patient with the folks in line. Bring a Nintendo DS!!
Prepare for a long stay (maybe overnight)
Prepare for a long stay/sit/stand/campout. Bring sleeping bags, thermases with soup, and maybe if your that hardcore (some people did this) a tent, a generator, and a playstation 2 with TV. Layers of clothes and a jacket are a must. Bring a sleeping bag and a pillot (if necessary). Bring a phone. Better yet, bring friends who can hold line positions for you or another buddy to use the bathroom or gethot drinks. The manager of the Wal-Mart I went to gave free coffee and hot chocolate to all of us waiting in line for free, which I stopped and thanked him for.
Get there early.
Get there early, hours early. If its a well known store, a day or two early. You have to do this to beat the other "nuts" like me out there =p
Stay Positive
Stay Positive, you will more than likely get your system if you prepared and did your research. PERSISTANCE PAYS OFF.
Have Fun!!!
Console Hunting and waitin in line is more than a hassle: it can be turned into a fun event with buddies or others in line. Bring a DS and see who you can see in the immediate area to play games or chat with! Share turns using the bathroom and talk with fellow gamers there. You would be suprised how many game fans are there and not just adults/parents.
Fight! Round One: Nintendo Wii vs. Xbox360 vs. Playstation 3
I've gotten a few emails in the past few days from my readers regarding my Nintendo Wii postings, especially the recent one. "Fanboys" alike have praised my article, while others have so bashed and pillaged my article, that in the email they go as low as to pick me apart as a person and include racial/vulgar slurs. (And Ill let you know right now, I won't post your comment if it is not constructive, that means constructive criticism allowed!). So I have decided to take a look at both systems, and see what avantages- and disadvantages each has. The more points wins, gentlemen.
Nintendo Wii
__________
The Nintendo Wii was seen mostly as a "last shot chance" for gaming giant Nintendo when they unveiled their new console about roughly a month ago. Sony has clearly underestimated their rival Nintendo, calling the Wii a "novelty" item. The Nintendo Wii sports a new, unique motion sensitive controller which you point at your screen to move around your character, cursor, or perform basic actions. The system has internal memory so memory cards are not needed unless you save a ton of data. The Wii also takes SD cards, which is a huge plus because Wii data can be stored onto PCs. I also saw two USB ports back there, and I am not yet aware of their use.
A player is fully immersed into the game: They can swing the tennis racket, swing the bat, the sword, the stick, whatever. There are many motions now and to be discovered using the Wii remote. The Nintendo Wii, much like Xbox360's online service, is free and offers classic games from the Nintendo Classic archives to download. In a recent Wii update, the weather channe was put online! Out of the three consoles, only the Nintendo Wii can give you local forcasts, and then with a globe image provided by NASA, spin around the world to see temperatues. A lot of potential lies with the Nintendo Wii for attachments, channels, games, and extras. If the Wii caused this much good fuss early on, we have a winner here.
Not to my suprise, most of the launch games are not that good (like the other 2 systems). Zelda Twilight Princess blew me away with graphics, and turned out to be an excellent game. Nintendo has proven that you don't need fancy pants graphics and smooth gameplay to have the best gaming experience. Nintendo's target this time around is everyone, especially people who refuse or have not really gotten into video games. The Nintendo Wii is very inviting, and VERY user friendly. It's something new we have not seen in the gaming world before, and its definetly something the general populous has not been exposed to. The Wii offers a lot of fun, a good time, great extras, and a user-friendly interface.
At $250 a console, Nintendo is running it cheap this generation. The Nintendo Wii, don't get me wrong is a tiny powerhouse that can output a lot of great stuff. I have yet to determine this, but I am going to take the volume of the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo Gamecube to see which is actually smaller. Wii also is a huge focuser in on parental controls. Parents can control and regulate which games children play; making the decision to buy the Wii that much less of a guily one. Reviews claim the Nintendo Wii offers as much or better gameplay as the Playstation 3, so the choice of $300 or $700 is a clear cut one.
Positives+
+ User friendly Interface
+ Updates Via Internet
+ Detects Wireless Router Network
+ Great Gameplay
+ Affordable Price
+ Numerous Customizeable Controls
+ Console specifics (Weather Channel, etc)
+ Classic Games Shopping
+ Easy to Use Controller
+ Immersion Factor Three Thumbs Up
+ Simple setup
+ SD Cards as memory cards
+ Internal memory
+ Backwards compatible: Gamecube memory and controller slots
Things we didn't like -
- Wii remote sucks up batteries, FAST. Leave your Wii off (batteries drain as the remote is connected) or have rechargeable batteries handy and in cycle. May not be a bad investment.
- Speaker sounds sound a bit outdated: but they do their purpose and do it well.
o We wont blame this on the Wii, but people play too hard with the Wii and the remote ends up flying hitting someone or going into the TV. Please folks give it a rest!
- Graphics are not top notch; but the Wii offers more into gameplay
- Large "pak" that plugs into the wall (the coord connected to it)
- Not backwards compatible with the Nintendo 64 as with the Wii
- No interaction via Gameboy Advance or Nintendo DS
o I don't know all of the facts, but I think you can't port games to another region Wii. For example, I can't play the Japanese Zelda on my American Wii.
- In some games, the Nunchuk analog stick sometimes would not be centered as we plugged it in beforehand.
Total Points: 10.75 points
Conclusion: The Wii is a good choice if you are looking to save money; and actually have a good time with it for you and your kids (or yourself!). Offers many "channel" features to be released, and can automatically detect wireless networks. Wii units may be hard to find, and accessories for the game consoles are becoming impossible to find. Games I have had no problem finding.
Playstation 3
__________
The Playstation 3 has also done some new things to cater to the generation of gaming already in place. (Herein PS3) The PS3 has absolouly incredible graphics, and the controller has been made motion sensitive modeled after the Wiiremote, but not quite like it. The controller can't be pointed at the screen; rather it can be tilted and twisted and turned on many axis, making gameplay somewhat more immersive. The PS3 will also have a live service launching soon (as far as I know I don't know all of the details). The system has a HUGE amount of internal memory: in fact I think its a hard drive.
The Playstation 3 features an entire slew of lineup games largely targeted at an older adult and young male audience, usually in the 20s up. Currently, the PS3 (as far as I know) has no new games currently for smaller children, save Cars (again AFAIK). Sony promises stellar gameplay with its double power-horse of a PS3 system and amazing graphics. Gameplay is realistic, physics are out of this world, and video games look a whole lot better these days thanks to next generation technology. The PS3 will play your DVDs and CDs and can be used as a multi-media center; but thats really all about it can do extra, and that kinda comes "staple" with them these days. The PS3 is somewhat easy to get into and control, however games can be frustrating and a pain.
Sony this time is selling the console for about $600-$700 USD, and they are actually selling at a loss. Production costs cost roughly $1200-$1300 USD per PS3 Unit. Sony hopes that the sales of games will make up for the near 50% loss in profits. Avid and hardcore gamers alike are not afraid to shell out the huge money for the next generation in ultimate graphics. With a limited number of games for a younger or much older audience, the Playstation 3 lacks in choices of games for minors and seniors alike, causing a potential buyer to become confused and to research what else is on the market. The PS3 is also virtually impossible to find, and is so popular that stores (like the Wii) sell out within 10-15 minutes of stock. A lot of potential exists in the future with the PS3, and its my hope in the next year and a half or so to finally secure one hopefully at a similar or lower price (used!).
Things We Like+
+ Easy to set up
+ Incredible Gameplay
+ Upcoming Online Service
+ Customer Savings (entire selling at a loss thing)
+ Internal Memory (harddrive)
+ Wireless controller
+ Good Gameplay
+ Good choices for starting lineups
+ Multimedia Functions
+ Future hardcore gamers dream machine!
Things We did not Like -
- Somewhat confusing to customize, set up, or play some games
- Not backwards compatible with some older games
- Not a big selection of games for a wide audience
- Lacking of Gameplay, but amazing graphics
- Big, heavy and somewhat clunky, but attractive
- Reported early diskread errors and early malfunctions
7.5 Points
Conclusion: If you are a casual gamer: stay away right now from the Playstation 3. It's expensive and doesnt offer a diverse amount of games for you to play. Wait until kinks are worked out of them (as usual) and wait for a larger slew of games to pop up on the market.
Xbox 360
________
The Xbox 360 was actually released last year early by Microsoft (no duh on that one) to get an edge on the competition. As a computer company, their decision to do this did not suprise me. The 360 features wireless controllers, internal memory, and an online package that lets you talk to friends via a headset, play them in a few games, and the 360 serves as a multimedia center (you can even download music and play it during games with the 360!) For about a little under or around $400 USD, this is the perfect time to snatch up the 360 and introduce it to your retro gaming machines.
The 360 has been out for a year, so it has a HUGE range of games to choose from for a wide range of audiences. The games are fun and are easy to get into. Graphics are also top notch. I was deeply impressed when I played Call of Duty (or Soldier of Honor?) right when it was coming out last year. Parents: this is also a good alternative because the 360 offers top notch graphics from the PS3, but the good and wide variety of games from the Wii. The thing is a powerhouse, and can store game data, other data, etc directly into internal memory. As far as I know, you can hook up an 360 to your PC as well and move files.
Things we like+
____________
+ Great Online play and services
+ Great Gameplay
+ Huge selection of games for a bigger audience
+ friendly, easy user-interface
+ graphics nothing short of spectacular
+ best price to get it at is now
+ Internet Updates, Console updates self
+ Simple Setup
+ Some Free Online Arcade games in online package
Things we don't like
_______________
-Widespread and common system failures after a year or so. GET THAT EXTENDED WARRANTY ON ANY GAME SYSTEM FOLKS. Its only $20 USD more.
- DiskRead Errors.
- Large Clunky Controller
Points: 9.42 Points
Conclusion: A good system to pick up: Microsoft has made sure to have a good selection of games out and a good online system to play in. Casual gamers and hardcore fans alike will enjoy the system. For $400 USD, compared to $650USD a year ago, its time to make a good pick-up.
The Nintendo Wii has won our next Gen console war. The Wii features innovative gameplay and unique extras. The Wii however is lacking in graphics but well makes up for it in gameplay. Parental Controls are strong, and the Wii plans to bring people together to play. Will help to eliminate the stereotype put onto gamers.
Nintendo Wii
__________
The Nintendo Wii was seen mostly as a "last shot chance" for gaming giant Nintendo when they unveiled their new console about roughly a month ago. Sony has clearly underestimated their rival Nintendo, calling the Wii a "novelty" item. The Nintendo Wii sports a new, unique motion sensitive controller which you point at your screen to move around your character, cursor, or perform basic actions. The system has internal memory so memory cards are not needed unless you save a ton of data. The Wii also takes SD cards, which is a huge plus because Wii data can be stored onto PCs. I also saw two USB ports back there, and I am not yet aware of their use.
A player is fully immersed into the game: They can swing the tennis racket, swing the bat, the sword, the stick, whatever. There are many motions now and to be discovered using the Wii remote. The Nintendo Wii, much like Xbox360's online service, is free and offers classic games from the Nintendo Classic archives to download. In a recent Wii update, the weather channe was put online! Out of the three consoles, only the Nintendo Wii can give you local forcasts, and then with a globe image provided by NASA, spin around the world to see temperatues. A lot of potential lies with the Nintendo Wii for attachments, channels, games, and extras. If the Wii caused this much good fuss early on, we have a winner here.
Not to my suprise, most of the launch games are not that good (like the other 2 systems). Zelda Twilight Princess blew me away with graphics, and turned out to be an excellent game. Nintendo has proven that you don't need fancy pants graphics and smooth gameplay to have the best gaming experience. Nintendo's target this time around is everyone, especially people who refuse or have not really gotten into video games. The Nintendo Wii is very inviting, and VERY user friendly. It's something new we have not seen in the gaming world before, and its definetly something the general populous has not been exposed to. The Wii offers a lot of fun, a good time, great extras, and a user-friendly interface.
At $250 a console, Nintendo is running it cheap this generation. The Nintendo Wii, don't get me wrong is a tiny powerhouse that can output a lot of great stuff. I have yet to determine this, but I am going to take the volume of the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo Gamecube to see which is actually smaller. Wii also is a huge focuser in on parental controls. Parents can control and regulate which games children play; making the decision to buy the Wii that much less of a guily one. Reviews claim the Nintendo Wii offers as much or better gameplay as the Playstation 3, so the choice of $300 or $700 is a clear cut one.
Positives+
+ User friendly Interface
+ Updates Via Internet
+ Detects Wireless Router Network
+ Great Gameplay
+ Affordable Price
+ Numerous Customizeable Controls
+ Console specifics (Weather Channel, etc)
+ Classic Games Shopping
+ Easy to Use Controller
+ Immersion Factor Three Thumbs Up
+ Simple setup
+ SD Cards as memory cards
+ Internal memory
+ Backwards compatible: Gamecube memory and controller slots
Things we didn't like -
- Wii remote sucks up batteries, FAST. Leave your Wii off (batteries drain as the remote is connected) or have rechargeable batteries handy and in cycle. May not be a bad investment.
- Speaker sounds sound a bit outdated: but they do their purpose and do it well.
o We wont blame this on the Wii, but people play too hard with the Wii and the remote ends up flying hitting someone or going into the TV. Please folks give it a rest!
- Graphics are not top notch; but the Wii offers more into gameplay
- Large "pak" that plugs into the wall (the coord connected to it)
- Not backwards compatible with the Nintendo 64 as with the Wii
- No interaction via Gameboy Advance or Nintendo DS
o I don't know all of the facts, but I think you can't port games to another region Wii. For example, I can't play the Japanese Zelda on my American Wii.
- In some games, the Nunchuk analog stick sometimes would not be centered as we plugged it in beforehand.
Total Points: 10.75 points
Conclusion: The Wii is a good choice if you are looking to save money; and actually have a good time with it for you and your kids (or yourself!). Offers many "channel" features to be released, and can automatically detect wireless networks. Wii units may be hard to find, and accessories for the game consoles are becoming impossible to find. Games I have had no problem finding.
Playstation 3
__________
The Playstation 3 has also done some new things to cater to the generation of gaming already in place. (Herein PS3) The PS3 has absolouly incredible graphics, and the controller has been made motion sensitive modeled after the Wiiremote, but not quite like it. The controller can't be pointed at the screen; rather it can be tilted and twisted and turned on many axis, making gameplay somewhat more immersive. The PS3 will also have a live service launching soon (as far as I know I don't know all of the details). The system has a HUGE amount of internal memory: in fact I think its a hard drive.
The Playstation 3 features an entire slew of lineup games largely targeted at an older adult and young male audience, usually in the 20s up. Currently, the PS3 (as far as I know) has no new games currently for smaller children, save Cars (again AFAIK). Sony promises stellar gameplay with its double power-horse of a PS3 system and amazing graphics. Gameplay is realistic, physics are out of this world, and video games look a whole lot better these days thanks to next generation technology. The PS3 will play your DVDs and CDs and can be used as a multi-media center; but thats really all about it can do extra, and that kinda comes "staple" with them these days. The PS3 is somewhat easy to get into and control, however games can be frustrating and a pain.
Sony this time is selling the console for about $600-$700 USD, and they are actually selling at a loss. Production costs cost roughly $1200-$1300 USD per PS3 Unit. Sony hopes that the sales of games will make up for the near 50% loss in profits. Avid and hardcore gamers alike are not afraid to shell out the huge money for the next generation in ultimate graphics. With a limited number of games for a younger or much older audience, the Playstation 3 lacks in choices of games for minors and seniors alike, causing a potential buyer to become confused and to research what else is on the market. The PS3 is also virtually impossible to find, and is so popular that stores (like the Wii) sell out within 10-15 minutes of stock. A lot of potential exists in the future with the PS3, and its my hope in the next year and a half or so to finally secure one hopefully at a similar or lower price (used!).
Things We Like+
+ Easy to set up
+ Incredible Gameplay
+ Upcoming Online Service
+ Customer Savings (entire selling at a loss thing)
+ Internal Memory (harddrive)
+ Wireless controller
+ Good Gameplay
+ Good choices for starting lineups
+ Multimedia Functions
+ Future hardcore gamers dream machine!
Things We did not Like -
- Somewhat confusing to customize, set up, or play some games
- Not backwards compatible with some older games
- Not a big selection of games for a wide audience
- Lacking of Gameplay, but amazing graphics
- Big, heavy and somewhat clunky, but attractive
- Reported early diskread errors and early malfunctions
7.5 Points
Conclusion: If you are a casual gamer: stay away right now from the Playstation 3. It's expensive and doesnt offer a diverse amount of games for you to play. Wait until kinks are worked out of them (as usual) and wait for a larger slew of games to pop up on the market.
Xbox 360
________
The Xbox 360 was actually released last year early by Microsoft (no duh on that one) to get an edge on the competition. As a computer company, their decision to do this did not suprise me. The 360 features wireless controllers, internal memory, and an online package that lets you talk to friends via a headset, play them in a few games, and the 360 serves as a multimedia center (you can even download music and play it during games with the 360!) For about a little under or around $400 USD, this is the perfect time to snatch up the 360 and introduce it to your retro gaming machines.
The 360 has been out for a year, so it has a HUGE range of games to choose from for a wide range of audiences. The games are fun and are easy to get into. Graphics are also top notch. I was deeply impressed when I played Call of Duty (or Soldier of Honor?) right when it was coming out last year. Parents: this is also a good alternative because the 360 offers top notch graphics from the PS3, but the good and wide variety of games from the Wii. The thing is a powerhouse, and can store game data, other data, etc directly into internal memory. As far as I know, you can hook up an 360 to your PC as well and move files.
Things we like+
____________
+ Great Online play and services
+ Great Gameplay
+ Huge selection of games for a bigger audience
+ friendly, easy user-interface
+ graphics nothing short of spectacular
+ best price to get it at is now
+ Internet Updates, Console updates self
+ Simple Setup
+ Some Free Online Arcade games in online package
Things we don't like
_______________
-Widespread and common system failures after a year or so. GET THAT EXTENDED WARRANTY ON ANY GAME SYSTEM FOLKS. Its only $20 USD more.
- DiskRead Errors.
- Large Clunky Controller
Points: 9.42 Points
Conclusion: A good system to pick up: Microsoft has made sure to have a good selection of games out and a good online system to play in. Casual gamers and hardcore fans alike will enjoy the system. For $400 USD, compared to $650USD a year ago, its time to make a good pick-up.
The Nintendo Wii has won our next Gen console war. The Wii features innovative gameplay and unique extras. The Wii however is lacking in graphics but well makes up for it in gameplay. Parental Controls are strong, and the Wii plans to bring people together to play. Will help to eliminate the stereotype put onto gamers.
December 18, 2006
Burning Down Bridges
Unpleasant topic that has plagued me for a few months; I feel like I need to get this off my shoulder. As normal people, we have conflicts, and normally we get over them. We get over our daily quirks and sometimes we say things we don't exactly mean to say and apologize quickly. Unfortunatly I have had to make some decisions early in my life, and they havn't been good choices.
By definition, Burning Down a Bridge is to basically sever ties and all relationships with a family member. My sister and I always fought over things, just like kids do when they are under 10, that kind of stuff is normal and I cant even REMEMBER what we argued over. As I got older, in my age now I have become much more mature and somewhat reasonable; but the alterego my sister is is a rebel, fighting, tongue twisting liar and I don't even know her anymore. My sister died a long time ago.
Let me say that burning down a bridge is the LAST THING that you want to do to settle a problem. Some things will never change. Some methods of resolving the problems won't work, and its especially tough when once side disagrees with you; and the other doesn't know who to believe. Rather than botch on my sister (which I don't want to do, I can give you a list) I think its time to start loosening the grip on the match. The digging into my old scars has got to stop. The racial comments have to stop. The language has to stop. The malice has to stop. It hasn't changed, and mediation has not helped. The Bridge needs to go; and I need to move on with my life.
I am a man now. I have my own opinions, and the decisions I make will be the consequences I will have to deal with later. When I am out of this house and free to be on my own, it will be time to say goodbye to my family. My sister doesn't need to come to me anymore for anything. She doesn't need to talk to me anymore or get advice. In fact, I am not needed from her; I am going to walk out on her in my life. The only regret I have of burning down this bridge is the pain it will cause; a pain that is long overdo and can't be healed by uncomfortable make/kiss-ups.
Please try and work it out with your family. I know people act like jerks and say things they don't mean, but try and be civilized people to each other. As for my sister and I, it's pretty much too late.
By definition, Burning Down a Bridge is to basically sever ties and all relationships with a family member. My sister and I always fought over things, just like kids do when they are under 10, that kind of stuff is normal and I cant even REMEMBER what we argued over. As I got older, in my age now I have become much more mature and somewhat reasonable; but the alterego my sister is is a rebel, fighting, tongue twisting liar and I don't even know her anymore. My sister died a long time ago.
Let me say that burning down a bridge is the LAST THING that you want to do to settle a problem. Some things will never change. Some methods of resolving the problems won't work, and its especially tough when once side disagrees with you; and the other doesn't know who to believe. Rather than botch on my sister (which I don't want to do, I can give you a list) I think its time to start loosening the grip on the match. The digging into my old scars has got to stop. The racial comments have to stop. The language has to stop. The malice has to stop. It hasn't changed, and mediation has not helped. The Bridge needs to go; and I need to move on with my life.
I am a man now. I have my own opinions, and the decisions I make will be the consequences I will have to deal with later. When I am out of this house and free to be on my own, it will be time to say goodbye to my family. My sister doesn't need to come to me anymore for anything. She doesn't need to talk to me anymore or get advice. In fact, I am not needed from her; I am going to walk out on her in my life. The only regret I have of burning down this bridge is the pain it will cause; a pain that is long overdo and can't be healed by uncomfortable make/kiss-ups.
Please try and work it out with your family. I know people act like jerks and say things they don't mean, but try and be civilized people to each other. As for my sister and I, it's pretty much too late.
As Requested: More Masahiro 1045 Katana Pics
The bare naked blade.
this is a great shot of the Bo of the sword along with the Tsuka in picture. Most people ask how to stand a sword up like this- the answer is you can't. I had my hand tilting the blade straight up, which is out of the picture. Otherwise great shot.
End of the blade, including the kissaki. As you will notice in this picture and the next one, I have kept the kissaki extremely sharp, and the smiths who built the blade did an excellent job compounding the metal to help it keep an edge: the kissaki is EXTREMELY well rounded and sharp.
Hamon shot. Sorry for the bluriness.
December 16, 2006
A Look Inside and Forward to: Penn State
A few months ago or so I took a look into Penn State as a College choice (of course now I got accepted). I got to go to Berks, and was sorely disappointed (because I did not get a full access tour- I only got very tiny tidbits). A few weeks after that, we went to University Park inside State College, PA. When we got there, especially in the middle of it, my jaw was near dropping. University Park is not only a campus, its an entire city among itself. I could honestly see myself here in the next few years walking to and from classes and living there, and it was totally where I wanted to be. Out of my reach due to SAT scores? Yup. All wasn't bitter sweet: My high caliber got me a very good chance to get in: but my SAT was extremely low which set off an alarm for a 3.8GPA student who got an 800 on their SAT (old scale score). No I don't cheat, lie, or copy, I am just not a test taker, and its my belief that the SAT is a crocked system for measuring POTENTIAL. Im veering off topic, so lets get back on course.
I got to revisit Berks and it actually is a pretty nice Campus. I used to live about an hour from there, so I know the area somewhat well. Across the street is a Barnes and Noble, an EB Games (YES THANKYOU LORD!!) a target, and a lot of other stores or restaurants that I didn't even expect: but look forward to (Chucky Cheese Pizza, Pizzeria Uno). I got my app in early, was accepted, and now I have a dorm room that I can live in with cable (not DSL so no more lag!!!). I am really looking forward to the experience of Penn State Berks, because it's a Penn State education, but a smaller size with more attention given to us by professors. They have a fresh bakery and deli, which is always a plus.
image courtesy of wikipedia.org. Thanks guys!Im really looking forward to Penn State: because it's a place to learn: but its not a place where I want to "not be" like in high school. In fact, College isn't a thing like it, or so I hear. Thats a good thing in my case, because I am more than ready to come out of this fox hole of mine I am living in to protect myself. People bustling around, busy, in my same exact situation and trying to fit in? Sounds like my campus! No cliques? my kind of campus! Wake up at 10am and have classes at 1pm? my kind of campus! Room with someone of similar interests? my kind of campus! I need a vacation from life, and this seems like the right place to do it for 4 years. PENN STATE!!
Nintendo is Looking at Sucess and More of It
The Playstation 3 and Nintendo Wii were released about a month ago to the day and have joined Microsoft's Xbox 360 in the next generation of video games. While gamers have a lot to choose from (or not, depending on your loyalty) There is a part of the market that "doesn't play video games". Those types of "video games" include ones with a steep learning curve, are "too involved" or require time and energy to earn an end reward.
Nintendo is looking success in the eyes by "reinventing the basics of square 1". The Nintendo Wii, formerly known as the Nintendo Revolution, sought to revolutionize gameplay and get people to play together. It has... among many things being impossible to find, brought people together to play games that are fun. While going back to simplicity and "choosing options with a remote", Nintendo has NOT forgotten their fans and loyal customers. Titles such as Zelda: Twilight Princess and the new Super Monkey Ball game have given fans a rich taste of what they want, and intruiging new players to play.
The presentation of the Wii is phenominal. Parental control enable parents to make a purchasing decision without feeling guilty of junior putting in the next Resident Evil game shooting up mad zombies. Controls are simple, and most games are easy to follow. The Wii does not feature a DVD Drive for playing DVDs or listening to CDs, but it does give back more than what it owes for amazing graphics for such a small console (example Zelda- Twilight Princess). The Wii sells for $250, something that is PERFECT for people who spend Christmas gifts on a budget, for children and family. The Wii isn't just gamer friendly; soon it will emerge to become people friendly. Gone are the requirements for state of the art graphics, bring back the good times Nintendo; make the games fun to play again. Immersion factor:: 10++
Nintendo is looking success in the eyes by "reinventing the basics of square 1". The Nintendo Wii, formerly known as the Nintendo Revolution, sought to revolutionize gameplay and get people to play together. It has... among many things being impossible to find, brought people together to play games that are fun. While going back to simplicity and "choosing options with a remote", Nintendo has NOT forgotten their fans and loyal customers. Titles such as Zelda: Twilight Princess and the new Super Monkey Ball game have given fans a rich taste of what they want, and intruiging new players to play.
The presentation of the Wii is phenominal. Parental control enable parents to make a purchasing decision without feeling guilty of junior putting in the next Resident Evil game shooting up mad zombies. Controls are simple, and most games are easy to follow. The Wii does not feature a DVD Drive for playing DVDs or listening to CDs, but it does give back more than what it owes for amazing graphics for such a small console (example Zelda- Twilight Princess). The Wii sells for $250, something that is PERFECT for people who spend Christmas gifts on a budget, for children and family. The Wii isn't just gamer friendly; soon it will emerge to become people friendly. Gone are the requirements for state of the art graphics, bring back the good times Nintendo; make the games fun to play again. Immersion factor:: 10++
December 13, 2006
The Hyrulian Chronology Theory: Jade's Spin
Among Zelda fans alike, we each have our own opinions as to how each Zelda game fits into a sort of "timeline". A timeline may not exist at all, or there may never be an official one due to so many impossible disputes and evidence that contradicts. Here is my version of the Hyrulian Chronology: I think it is the most accurate and best supported (with my evidence) timeline that there is out there right now. What is important about Zelda games is: The Games happen in a timeline YOU WANT, and I think that is how Miyamoto wanted it. Nonetheless, here we go.
Creation of Hyrule
_____________
We know the story. Din, Firore and Nayru descend and create the land. Where they depart is the sacred realm; at the exact point of departure; the Triforce is left behind.
1.)Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Link is a boy growing up in the Kokiri forest after his Hylian mother could not go on to live. The Great Deku tree saw to it to watch the boy (She dies of injuries from the great war). As he evolves as a hero, Link becomes the Hero of Time. With the Ocarina of Time, he sets to travel forward in time to clean up the world there, and to stop Ganon (there can only ever be One Zelda, Gannondorf, or Link in any one time or realm due to their powers of the Triforce) and his evil bidding. With the Help of Zelda and the other sages, Link deals the "final" blow to Ganon, and they seal him into the sacred realm. I debate even sealing him there (I would have not done it unless I had to) because Ganonndorf will find some way to break out, and/or pollute the realm. The Triforce was also sealed away with him, but I don't believe (and we have no evidence) that Gannon actually got a reach of it. More likely, the individual pieces resonated with their partners inside of them, locking the Triforce of Power away with Gannondorf. If one posesses a triforce piece, they cannot die (explaining Gannondorf living for hundreds of years). The Master Sword is returned to the Pedastal of Time, and Link back to his original time from 7 years ahead. Most fans agree that Ocarina of Time is the beginning of the theorized "Hyrulian Chronology Theory".
2.) Legend of Zelda: Majoras Mask
We have evidence from Nintendo that this happened direcctly AFTER Ocarina of Time. Link goes to search for his lost fairy friend, Navi when he is attacked by the Skull Kid. Turned into a Deku, Link has 3 days to stop the fall of the moon onto the land of Termina, a land due North or South of Hyrule (as far as I know, if I am wrong correct me). Link manages to call the four giants to stop the moon, and defeats the cuse known as Majora.
3.) Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons (Any order)
Both games take place in lands East and West of Hyrule. These games and their stories are debated, and I don't have much information on them as I have not played them. They are thus "filler", and can fit in nearly anywhere in the storyline.
3.) Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages (Any order)
Both games take place in lands East and West of Hyrule. These games and their stories are debated, and I don't have much information on them as I have not played them. They are thus "filler", and can fit in nearly anywhere in the storyline.
4.) Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
The game takes place after Ocarina of Time due to the Temple of Time still standing, yet the Grove the Master Sword rests in is pre-A Link to the Past. This is our strongest evidence of the placement. Also, the Twilight Realm may be a prelude to problems with the "Dark World" and Gannondorf's involvement with the future of this issue. Many of the older temples (a prime example is the water temple under Lake Hylia) still exist from Ocarina of Time.
5.) Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
The game is set in Hyrule, and as far as we know Ganon is again sealed into the realm from another great war. Gannondorf, as far as we know, was sealed by the next generation of Sages. A wizard named Aganahim takes over Hyrule, boots out the King, and kidnaps Princess Zelda. Link retrieves the pendants needed for the Master Sword to be released, and releases it. We have strong evidence here, that the pedastal he pulls it out of its a late generation temple of time pedastal, so we can assume there is correlation between the Temple of Time being there and the current lost woods (See Temple of Time Article). Also, Ganon was "just" released from the realm as the sword was pulled. Link steps into a portal (much like from Twilight Princess) and enters the Dark World. Link rescues the decendants of the Sages, reforms the Triforce of Courage, and manages to seal Ganon (yet again) into the Sacred Realm (or "Dark World" after what Ganon did to it). It is presumed that Ganon has worked on the "Dark World" since being sealed in Ocarina of Time. The Master Sword is returned to the pedastal, sealing Ganon back in.
6.) Legend of Zelda: Four Swords
7.) Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures
8.) Legend of Zelda: Diminish Cap
9.) Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
Again these are side stories such as OOS, OOA and Majoras mask, so I have no further information as to where they go. I would guess to the best of my knowledge that Link's Awakening happens before The Wind Waker. They are thus "filler", and can fit in nearly anywhere in the storyline.
10.) Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
Hyrule is yet again in turmoil as Ganon breaks the seal out of the sacred realm. Over the generations, the Master Sword was either removed and moved, or Hyrule Castle was built into or on top of the Temple of Time ruins. Hyrule is flooded by the Gods, and all that remained of Hyrule was deep underwater. Survivers and newgoers established islands on the very mountain peaks that once stood tall in Hyrule. Link's sister has been kidnapped, and Link must once again defeat the evil and now get his sister back. Link retrieves the 3 lost pearls and enters the Tower of the Gods to prove himself. He well indeed proves himself, and is transported down with the King of Red Lions to the underwater castle that is Hyrule Castle. We believe that the castle was built either on the Temple of Time because time was frozen, or the weakened power of the Master Sword was causing a fuss. Either way, Link makes his way down into the familiar chambers, removes the Master Sword, and restores time to underwater Hyrule. Before the sword was pulled, we knew that Gannondorf was somehow active above water. As the Triforce is called down in the final battle, Gannondorf makes a wish to revive Hyrule and receive the title of King with it. Over about a millenia of fighting multiple Links, Zeldas, battles, and wars, he IRONICALLY FORGETS TO TOUCH THE TRIFORCE. One must touch the triforce to have his or her wish granted. The King of Red Lions (revealed as the king of hyrule) touches the sacred triangle and wishes for a prosperous future for the world above, and for the Hyrule of Old to be forgotten. Now that the Triforce had been called upon, it will split forever into the underwater world as designed (after a wish, they triangles split). Link, Zelda, and Gannondorf all battle it out to the end. In the end, Link ends up stabbing the very blade of evil's bane into the forhead of Ganon. The blade is so powerful and energized at this point from the last generation of sages, that the blade turns him to stone. It is my belief that since Ganon no longer had the Triforce of Power (he couldn't transform into a piggie!) that this killed him, sunk him underwater along with the Master Sword, all to be forgotten with Hyrule.
Most people disagree with Wind Waker being last, however it is a fitting story to be put at the end. How Hyrule can be unflooded and Gannondorf survivng after losing the triforce of power (let alone dying) is the most inconsitent and inaccurate arguement against other timelines. Not to say, mine has weaknesses as well but that is how it is for me.
Creation of Hyrule
_____________
We know the story. Din, Firore and Nayru descend and create the land. Where they depart is the sacred realm; at the exact point of departure; the Triforce is left behind.
1.)Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Link is a boy growing up in the Kokiri forest after his Hylian mother could not go on to live. The Great Deku tree saw to it to watch the boy (She dies of injuries from the great war). As he evolves as a hero, Link becomes the Hero of Time. With the Ocarina of Time, he sets to travel forward in time to clean up the world there, and to stop Ganon (there can only ever be One Zelda, Gannondorf, or Link in any one time or realm due to their powers of the Triforce) and his evil bidding. With the Help of Zelda and the other sages, Link deals the "final" blow to Ganon, and they seal him into the sacred realm. I debate even sealing him there (I would have not done it unless I had to) because Ganonndorf will find some way to break out, and/or pollute the realm. The Triforce was also sealed away with him, but I don't believe (and we have no evidence) that Gannon actually got a reach of it. More likely, the individual pieces resonated with their partners inside of them, locking the Triforce of Power away with Gannondorf. If one posesses a triforce piece, they cannot die (explaining Gannondorf living for hundreds of years). The Master Sword is returned to the Pedastal of Time, and Link back to his original time from 7 years ahead. Most fans agree that Ocarina of Time is the beginning of the theorized "Hyrulian Chronology Theory".
2.) Legend of Zelda: Majoras Mask
We have evidence from Nintendo that this happened direcctly AFTER Ocarina of Time. Link goes to search for his lost fairy friend, Navi when he is attacked by the Skull Kid. Turned into a Deku, Link has 3 days to stop the fall of the moon onto the land of Termina, a land due North or South of Hyrule (as far as I know, if I am wrong correct me). Link manages to call the four giants to stop the moon, and defeats the cuse known as Majora.
3.) Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons (Any order)
Both games take place in lands East and West of Hyrule. These games and their stories are debated, and I don't have much information on them as I have not played them. They are thus "filler", and can fit in nearly anywhere in the storyline.
3.) Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages (Any order)
Both games take place in lands East and West of Hyrule. These games and their stories are debated, and I don't have much information on them as I have not played them. They are thus "filler", and can fit in nearly anywhere in the storyline.
4.) Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
The game takes place after Ocarina of Time due to the Temple of Time still standing, yet the Grove the Master Sword rests in is pre-A Link to the Past. This is our strongest evidence of the placement. Also, the Twilight Realm may be a prelude to problems with the "Dark World" and Gannondorf's involvement with the future of this issue. Many of the older temples (a prime example is the water temple under Lake Hylia) still exist from Ocarina of Time.
5.) Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
The game is set in Hyrule, and as far as we know Ganon is again sealed into the realm from another great war. Gannondorf, as far as we know, was sealed by the next generation of Sages. A wizard named Aganahim takes over Hyrule, boots out the King, and kidnaps Princess Zelda. Link retrieves the pendants needed for the Master Sword to be released, and releases it. We have strong evidence here, that the pedastal he pulls it out of its a late generation temple of time pedastal, so we can assume there is correlation between the Temple of Time being there and the current lost woods (See Temple of Time Article). Also, Ganon was "just" released from the realm as the sword was pulled. Link steps into a portal (much like from Twilight Princess) and enters the Dark World. Link rescues the decendants of the Sages, reforms the Triforce of Courage, and manages to seal Ganon (yet again) into the Sacred Realm (or "Dark World" after what Ganon did to it). It is presumed that Ganon has worked on the "Dark World" since being sealed in Ocarina of Time. The Master Sword is returned to the pedastal, sealing Ganon back in.
6.) Legend of Zelda: Four Swords
7.) Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures
8.) Legend of Zelda: Diminish Cap
9.) Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
Again these are side stories such as OOS, OOA and Majoras mask, so I have no further information as to where they go. I would guess to the best of my knowledge that Link's Awakening happens before The Wind Waker. They are thus "filler", and can fit in nearly anywhere in the storyline.
10.) Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
Hyrule is yet again in turmoil as Ganon breaks the seal out of the sacred realm. Over the generations, the Master Sword was either removed and moved, or Hyrule Castle was built into or on top of the Temple of Time ruins. Hyrule is flooded by the Gods, and all that remained of Hyrule was deep underwater. Survivers and newgoers established islands on the very mountain peaks that once stood tall in Hyrule. Link's sister has been kidnapped, and Link must once again defeat the evil and now get his sister back. Link retrieves the 3 lost pearls and enters the Tower of the Gods to prove himself. He well indeed proves himself, and is transported down with the King of Red Lions to the underwater castle that is Hyrule Castle. We believe that the castle was built either on the Temple of Time because time was frozen, or the weakened power of the Master Sword was causing a fuss. Either way, Link makes his way down into the familiar chambers, removes the Master Sword, and restores time to underwater Hyrule. Before the sword was pulled, we knew that Gannondorf was somehow active above water. As the Triforce is called down in the final battle, Gannondorf makes a wish to revive Hyrule and receive the title of King with it. Over about a millenia of fighting multiple Links, Zeldas, battles, and wars, he IRONICALLY FORGETS TO TOUCH THE TRIFORCE. One must touch the triforce to have his or her wish granted. The King of Red Lions (revealed as the king of hyrule) touches the sacred triangle and wishes for a prosperous future for the world above, and for the Hyrule of Old to be forgotten. Now that the Triforce had been called upon, it will split forever into the underwater world as designed (after a wish, they triangles split). Link, Zelda, and Gannondorf all battle it out to the end. In the end, Link ends up stabbing the very blade of evil's bane into the forhead of Ganon. The blade is so powerful and energized at this point from the last generation of sages, that the blade turns him to stone. It is my belief that since Ganon no longer had the Triforce of Power (he couldn't transform into a piggie!) that this killed him, sunk him underwater along with the Master Sword, all to be forgotten with Hyrule.
Most people disagree with Wind Waker being last, however it is a fitting story to be put at the end. How Hyrule can be unflooded and Gannondorf survivng after losing the triforce of power (let alone dying) is the most inconsitent and inaccurate arguement against other timelines. Not to say, mine has weaknesses as well but that is how it is for me.
December 11, 2006
Preview and Review Pending: G Gundam
G Gundam is one of my more favorite Gundam series, which you will either instantly love or hate. This time around, the mecha are piloted by pilots standing inside the Gundam's torso wearing a suit, which if you move in certain ways, the robot will mimmick them also. The anime packs 50 episodes with little filler content, a good story, fantastic art in some of the episodes (Guiyana Highlands example) and a few great music scores. This anime was actually around in 1994 and made it's way over to America just a few years ago, sadly. Review is pending when I get some free time and I'm not stressed out.
December 10, 2006
Blog Updates and Notes
Congradulations! We have sucessfully made 1 year of life on the TGWNETOHH Blog and logged 100+ posts! For 2007 I plan to go further and will attempt to add more content to the existing blog and additional content and flavor in new posts. We have upgraded to version 3.
New Color!
New Header!
- Fixed a graphics clipping issue temporarily
Easier Navigation!
- Listed Links, AND use search!
Simple Look!
- Great look, more simple, better site!
New Color!
New Header!
- Fixed a graphics clipping issue temporarily
Easier Navigation!
- Listed Links, AND use search!
Simple Look!
- Great look, more simple, better site!
Form Voltron!
I'm 17 and this makes me feel OLD. Voltron back in the day was awesome, and was when PRIME television was on. Cartoon Network back then was my life and it was great. Its basically a former shell of itself today with crappy cartoons. I say POWER to the old shows! Heading out to Best Buy tomorrow to look for the Voltron Collector's Edition released a week or two ago.
Rehacking into my ImageDump file found that...
I found a few lost image files!
Some of my older models I constructed when I knew Jack about Modeling. I smashed both of them into a few hundred pieces to use in future diaramas (which I want to do SOON.)
Some of my older models I constructed when I knew Jack about Modeling. I smashed both of them into a few hundred pieces to use in future diaramas (which I want to do SOON.)
There was an online MMORPG I played Called "Star Wars Galaxies: An Empire Divided". I chose to leave it initially out of my blog mainly due to the 4,000 screenshots and over 1,000 days of storyline to share from 3-4 years of online gaming there. This is an X-mas shot of one of the Christmas Trees I did for our City Hall. Trees wern't preformed; and you had to combine other simple items to make it.
Again: SWG. This was one of the worst bugs to ever hit the game globally: about 80% of the fanbase had this problem as you see above. It was eventually fixed. Bug came out right after Combat Upgrade release.
Ill be posting more about this. Fighters Anthology is the Mother of All Flight Sims developed jointly by Electronic Arts (now called EA) and Jane's Simulations (no longer exists). It features over 100+ aircraft and other stuff, and you can customize what happens in the game world. This is a rare screenshot of a bug in-game with colors being "off".
WAYYY back in the day I was the captain of numerous Water Warfare batallions. Water Warfare is the art of mock combat with basically... water weapons. Super Soakers, Sling Shots, (today's standards pneumatic water balloon launchers) water bombs, whatever could deliver water. The picture above was in the early 2003 season of our unfinished basement that was a HeadQuarters. Not seen behind that was a workstation that had everything we needed to repair our guns. We eventually added many more guns to the armory and had a semi-sucessful season.
I'll do a bit more digging on the family PC as well to see if I come up with anything.
December 9, 2006
Three Thumbs Up: Zelda Twilight Princess
Great game!!!
It's been a long time since I have played a brand new Zelda game, to boot on a next generation console (Generation 6 now) and one that rivals Ocarina of Time. I started playing the Zelda series around when I was maybe 5 or 6. My best friend who was also my neighbor had a Super Nintendo and we would play it a lot. He never really had the patience to get far in the game, but I was HOOKED. I saved up my allowance, bought Simcity and the Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and played a large amount of both. I could never beat A Link to the Past, and a few years later I found the console when I was 10 or 11 and I rehooked everything up. Started a new save file and beat the game. I can't remember a more special game than A Link to the Past was. I was fascinated by the lore and the story of the game more than the actual "thrill" of dungeons. At this point I new jack about anime or anything from Japan, except for Mario, Pokemon, then there was Zelda.
When the Nintendo 64 came out, I figured I would buy that as well and play it. I got it for my 10th or 11th birthday and then eventually picked up the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of time. Little did I know I was about to reenter that world of power and lore of the mystic Triforce. I played through the game and became absoloutly FASCINATED with it, and then a few years later, really got into the story of the Hero of Time from Hyrule. I finished the game kind of sad; that it was all over.
Back in 2000-2001 I heard that The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask was to be released. I preordered (one of the very few things I have ever preordered) the game and got the golden cartridge with the cool logo on front (not the sticker one). The game also exceeded my expectations and I had a lot of fun with this one. I never got that feeling I did with Ocarina of Time or A Link to the Past, but Majora's Mask was very enjoyable. Really tough dungeons. I finished the game and was overall pleased.
Back in 2003-2004 I heard The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was to be released, to much criticism by fans and critics. I got it for my 12th or 13th birthday from my best friend who I still talk with, despite the distance (actual land distance) between us. The game was actually pretty fun and I enjoyed the cell shaded graphics. With a Zelda game on a game disc, there was more to the game. The game was HUGE! There is so much to do and so much to collect. Some of the dungeons were SUPER TOUGH, but none of the bosses (save puppet ganon) were any problem.
Back in 2005, I heard Nintendo was working on a next gen console called the Wii. I was looking into the new Zelda game and was thrilled beyond belief that it would be a launch title. I studied a lot of the pictures and screenshots and I could not wait. Now that The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess is out, I immediatly began working on it a few days ago. I havn't even finished it yet, and I am somewhat back into that feeling of lore lost long ago. I thought Wind Waker was big. Oh no my bad, Twilight Princess is GARGANTUAN in proportions to game size. It literally takes a long time to travel across Hyrule Field, and there is so much to do and so many things to get. The story is great, but I am having trouble discerning where Twilight Pricess may come in through the timeline. Here is what I know.
SPOILIER WARNING
_________________________________________________________________
- Gannondorf is not involved. Zant is a new evil power that has arisen from the Realm of Twilight
(think of Zant as another evil being or incarnation such as Majora)
- The Temple of Time exists, giving evidence that this occured after Ocarina of Time and Majoras Mask. HOWEVER, the Master Sword rests in the Fauron Woods (Lost Woods) just as it did in A Link to the Past, giving more evidence that Twilight Princess is in the timeline after a Link to the Past and before Ocarina of Time. I'll release a post giving my evidence and theories as soon as I beat the game.
- The Forest Temple exists where it did in Ocarina of Time (In the Lost Woods, near the Sacred Grove, roughly in the same location)
- The Fire Temple (Goron Mines) exist in the heart of Death Mountain, roughly where they should be. The Goron city is also connected to the Temple (as in Ocarina of Time)
- The Water Temple exists exactly where it did in Ocarina of Time, under the bed of Lake Hylia.
- The Temple of Time does NOT exist where it did in Ocarina of Time. It does, however exist relativly close to the Pedastal of Time (Pedastal that holds the Master Sword)
- The Twilight Realm sounds and works awefully A LOT like the "Dark World". Victims get transfered to the twilight, and are either turned into spirits that are stuck within the twilight, or turn into monsters or some other creature according to their heart, just like in A Link to the Past. Without the Moon's Pearl in A Link to the Past, one could not retain shape going through worlds.
It's been a long time since I have played a brand new Zelda game, to boot on a next generation console (Generation 6 now) and one that rivals Ocarina of Time. I started playing the Zelda series around when I was maybe 5 or 6. My best friend who was also my neighbor had a Super Nintendo and we would play it a lot. He never really had the patience to get far in the game, but I was HOOKED. I saved up my allowance, bought Simcity and the Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, and played a large amount of both. I could never beat A Link to the Past, and a few years later I found the console when I was 10 or 11 and I rehooked everything up. Started a new save file and beat the game. I can't remember a more special game than A Link to the Past was. I was fascinated by the lore and the story of the game more than the actual "thrill" of dungeons. At this point I new jack about anime or anything from Japan, except for Mario, Pokemon, then there was Zelda.
When the Nintendo 64 came out, I figured I would buy that as well and play it. I got it for my 10th or 11th birthday and then eventually picked up the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of time. Little did I know I was about to reenter that world of power and lore of the mystic Triforce. I played through the game and became absoloutly FASCINATED with it, and then a few years later, really got into the story of the Hero of Time from Hyrule. I finished the game kind of sad; that it was all over.
Back in 2000-2001 I heard that The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask was to be released. I preordered (one of the very few things I have ever preordered) the game and got the golden cartridge with the cool logo on front (not the sticker one). The game also exceeded my expectations and I had a lot of fun with this one. I never got that feeling I did with Ocarina of Time or A Link to the Past, but Majora's Mask was very enjoyable. Really tough dungeons. I finished the game and was overall pleased.
Back in 2003-2004 I heard The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was to be released, to much criticism by fans and critics. I got it for my 12th or 13th birthday from my best friend who I still talk with, despite the distance (actual land distance) between us. The game was actually pretty fun and I enjoyed the cell shaded graphics. With a Zelda game on a game disc, there was more to the game. The game was HUGE! There is so much to do and so much to collect. Some of the dungeons were SUPER TOUGH, but none of the bosses (save puppet ganon) were any problem.
Back in 2005, I heard Nintendo was working on a next gen console called the Wii. I was looking into the new Zelda game and was thrilled beyond belief that it would be a launch title. I studied a lot of the pictures and screenshots and I could not wait. Now that The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess is out, I immediatly began working on it a few days ago. I havn't even finished it yet, and I am somewhat back into that feeling of lore lost long ago. I thought Wind Waker was big. Oh no my bad, Twilight Princess is GARGANTUAN in proportions to game size. It literally takes a long time to travel across Hyrule Field, and there is so much to do and so many things to get. The story is great, but I am having trouble discerning where Twilight Pricess may come in through the timeline. Here is what I know.
SPOILIER WARNING
_________________________________________________________________
- Gannondorf is not involved. Zant is a new evil power that has arisen from the Realm of Twilight
(think of Zant as another evil being or incarnation such as Majora)
- The Temple of Time exists, giving evidence that this occured after Ocarina of Time and Majoras Mask. HOWEVER, the Master Sword rests in the Fauron Woods (Lost Woods) just as it did in A Link to the Past, giving more evidence that Twilight Princess is in the timeline after a Link to the Past and before Ocarina of Time. I'll release a post giving my evidence and theories as soon as I beat the game.
- The Forest Temple exists where it did in Ocarina of Time (In the Lost Woods, near the Sacred Grove, roughly in the same location)
- The Fire Temple (Goron Mines) exist in the heart of Death Mountain, roughly where they should be. The Goron city is also connected to the Temple (as in Ocarina of Time)
- The Water Temple exists exactly where it did in Ocarina of Time, under the bed of Lake Hylia.
- The Temple of Time does NOT exist where it did in Ocarina of Time. It does, however exist relativly close to the Pedastal of Time (Pedastal that holds the Master Sword)
- The Twilight Realm sounds and works awefully A LOT like the "Dark World". Victims get transfered to the twilight, and are either turned into spirits that are stuck within the twilight, or turn into monsters or some other creature according to their heart, just like in A Link to the Past. Without the Moon's Pearl in A Link to the Past, one could not retain shape going through worlds.
February 16, 2007: I would like to correct a few things.
-Zant is NOT Gannondorf.
-The Temple of Time exists where it has always been, and I propose that Hyrule Castle was moved, OR the sages constructed a new Temple of Time closer to the Forest Temple.
-Many of the Temples Return for a kick ( DISTURBINGLY the Forest Temple in TP is A LOAD OF A LOT SIMILAR to the one in OOT.) in their original locations.
-The Twilight Realm is indeed Hyrule B's mirror events to the Dark World in A Link to the Past. In the Twilight, one must have a curse uplifted (if you are a chosen one) or it is virtually impossible to exist in your original form in the Twilight. In a Link to the Past, one must have had the Moon's Pearl.
____________________________________________________________________
SPOILER END
Graphically, this is the best Zelda game I have played to date. Castle Town is BUSY with people, there are guards posted all around the place, and everything looks beautiful and spectacular. Epona looks like a real horse. HATS OFF TO THE DEVELOPERS AND ARTISTS. The soundtrack is the best I have ever heard in any Zelda Game, period end of story. The story thusfar is strong and pretty amazing, I can't wait to go on the rest of my adventure into the game. But first, I need to slow down and stop doing dungeons, go back, do mini games, collect pieces of heart, etc. More on this, and a review when I finish the game and can write up something for you guys.
December 6, 2006
Riveting Day: But Pays off in the End
It's 4am in the morning EST, and Im bundled up, dressed, and driving over to Wal*Mart. I heard a leak that Nintendo Wiis would be on sale to the public, so I hurried my carcass on over there for the 8:00am sale. There was a line outside, so I decided to wait with about 20 other folks, some who had camped out in the 12 degree chill since 9pm that last night.
As 8 rolled on closer, we had about 200-250 people in the line to try and secure a Wii unit. The store manager came out and ran a successful "Wii Event". Police were on guard and they would not hesitate to throw people off the premesis for screwing around. He eventually honored a list, and I was number 26 of 35 Wiis there. Nonetheless, my toes frozen in pain, my legs stiff and my heart held high, I entered to the Customer Service desk to pick up my Wii. I was escorted out of the building and told to go home. WOW.
At long last a little patience and perserverance paid off. Research led me to that line, a bit of luck helped me to my Wii, and of course a big ol' blessing from the Big Guy Upstairs. I had fun with my Wii for about 20 minutes when I got called to the dentist for a teeth cleaning, and we know how much fun that is. Being knocked off and yelled at for my brushing habbits and risks for diseases I made it safely out of the dentist office, and have played about 6 hours worth of Wii tonight (a lot of Zelda: Twilight Princess). Ill post pics as soon as I can get them up tomorrow.
As 8 rolled on closer, we had about 200-250 people in the line to try and secure a Wii unit. The store manager came out and ran a successful "Wii Event". Police were on guard and they would not hesitate to throw people off the premesis for screwing around. He eventually honored a list, and I was number 26 of 35 Wiis there. Nonetheless, my toes frozen in pain, my legs stiff and my heart held high, I entered to the Customer Service desk to pick up my Wii. I was escorted out of the building and told to go home. WOW.
At long last a little patience and perserverance paid off. Research led me to that line, a bit of luck helped me to my Wii, and of course a big ol' blessing from the Big Guy Upstairs. I had fun with my Wii for about 20 minutes when I got called to the dentist for a teeth cleaning, and we know how much fun that is. Being knocked off and yelled at for my brushing habbits and risks for diseases I made it safely out of the dentist office, and have played about 6 hours worth of Wii tonight (a lot of Zelda: Twilight Princess). Ill post pics as soon as I can get them up tomorrow.
December 4, 2006
Concept Drawing: Rage of Firebird and Omega Firebird
I was sitting in CADD class today bored (I finished ahead of schedule) so I decided to sketch up the drawings to Firebird IV. It will be a pronged design for the nose such as like Alpha Firebird, but have the sleek bullet train nose such as from Revenge of Firebird. Ill re-upload the pic as soon as I can to the schematic. I also have an idea for how I want Omega Firebird, my last car for a while.
Rage of Firebird
Length: N/A
Wood Type: Balsa Wood(Soft, Porous, Expensive!)
Weight (Body): N/A
Weight (Car): N/A
Wheel Type: N/A
Wheel Design: 4-Wheeled Car
Wheel Placement: Shell Wheels, Revealed
Body Interior: Hollow at Axel
Body Width: 42mm (estimated)
Nose Design: "Pronged" Freight Train design
Recorded Time: N/A
Actual Speed: N/A
Launch 1: N/A
Launch 2: N/A
Body Color: Platinum
Wheel Color: not painted
Axel Color: Alluminum
Pin Stripe Color: Navy Blue (body pinstripes)
December 2, 2006
Anime Review: Elfen Lied
Elfen Lied contains only 13 episodes, but nonetheless it was well crafted and orchestrated to the end. Before I get into specifics of the anime, let me warn you of the potentiality of what you may see.
I gurantee you that if you don't have the gut for any of this stuff, you will not make it through 5 minutes of episode 1, because I cannot even put the amount of gore on a scale. Body Dismemberment, Decapitation, Torture, Abuse, The worst of this stuff you are all going to see in the anime. Not for the faint of heart; not for those who think they don't have a faint heart. Onto the review.
There is a top secret project being investigated about a human genetic disorder where humans grow horns from their heads and then develop psychological powers at a very young age; only killing people without mercy. They are ruthless, cold blooded killers who are preparing the way to make the world theirs. Humanity is so sick, so twisted, and so untrustworthy, that they must be exterminated. That is the story of the Diclonius.
Lucy, one of the most guarded Diclonius in the secret laboratory, has managed to break free out of her inprisonment. In less than 10 minutes, she slays over 20 people by using projectiles as weapons (pens) or bullets fired at her (to be fired back) or anything she can get within 6 feet of. Lucy viciously tears the guards limb from limb, decapitating them, and throwing their bodies and limbs against the side of the wall (your gonna see A LOT of blood). She manages to escape, and is then shot by a sharpshooter at the back of the helmet, causing it to burst, and Lucy to fall crashing off a cliff into the ocean.
Lucy is then found by a boy named Kohta who was on the beach with his cousin, Yuka. Lucy was completely naked, but she did not seem herself. Apparantly, the sharpshooter's bullet caused damage to Lucy, or it is perceived that such a fall also changed her drastically (Later on in the anime, it is said that Lucy and many other Diclonius can stop ammunition, however the sharpshooter was shooting a 50 caliber anti-tank rifle round, too fast and large to be stopped). Her personality had changed; and she is now an innocent, naive girl who can only say "Nyu". Thus, Kohta and Yuka name her Nyu.
Diclonius are a sub-specis of humanity characterized by horns growing out of the sides of their head, like a cat's ears. Around the age of 3, Diclonius begin to develop vectors, invisible arms that stem from the back which cannot be seen by regular humans, but can be seen clearly from other diclonius. Anything can be picked up or manipulated with the vectors, and some vectors can even twist or slice objects, commonly seen in the anime. Diclonius have a larger pineal gland than humans, and as such, Diclonius can feel each other from a distance, and their thoughts or intentions. It is not clear whether Diclonius are homicidal in thought due to harsh treatment, or as a side effect to their developing vectors. I can't say much more or it would spoil a lot of the story.
This is the first anime I have seen opening with a Latin song, but it is very appropriate and very dark and gloomy. The art is done fantastically. Looking at when this was released in Japan (2004) this is a relativly new anime to the USA (I was quite lucky to find it and pick it up!). The voice acting is SUPERB and it fits the characters well (I ENJOYED the english dub). Japanese wise however, there is not much cultural background, but it does exist. In a personal opinion, I am gravely upset at how the Diclonius are mistreated, neglected, and attacked, however they are; dubbed appropriatly "The enemy to mankind". You'll get to form your own opinion as you watch. I highly recommend the series if you have the stomach for the unexpected times Lucy or other Diclonius will literally rip people in half. The ending leaves a lot to be desired, but it ends in a good way. Pick it up the next time you are at Suncoast.
Off to College!
I got the mail this afternoon that I was accepted to Penn State University. YES!
All of my hard work, integrity and honor has earned me something in the end. I have held through on my grades and sought to improve them. All of that time I took out of my life to make sure I understood something has paid off. I was also accepted right into the Engineering program for my last few years, so I won't have to do anything special except maintan a 2.0 GPA to stay in that spot, pretty amazing.
If you are not from the USA, Penn State is a College well known for its Nittany Lions college football team (American Football). They are also known for producing brilliant business majors, meteorologists and Engineers. I will be going for the Engineer program. Of course, what is life without my PC? I will definatly be updating throughout the course of the 4 years and continue to chime in on stuff.
What I look forward to most is making friends. I have always been alone in high school and I want to change that by meeting nice people. It's hard for me to do that; but I am sure someone at the campus is more than willing to be a good friend. They have an anime club so I am psyched about that as well. More to come on a later date. Some claim the Nittany Lion shrine is the geographical center of Pennsylvania....
C02 Cars: Phase 1 of Rage of Firebird (IV) Complete
I was sitting in CADD class today bored (I finished ahead of schedule) so I decided to sketch up the drawings to Firebird IV. It will be a pronged design for the nose such as like Alpha Firebird, but have the sleek bullet train nose such as from Revenge of Firebird. Ill re-upload the pic as soon as I can to the schematic. I also have an idea for how I want Omega Firebird, my last car for a while, to be.
Anime Preview: Elfen Lied
In search for my Nintendo Wii (have one secured to pick up soon as soon as I can wait in line for it =)) I found Elfen Lied, FINALLY on DVD. I must offer a disclaimer as I did with Higurashi No Naku Koro Ni.
Elfen Lied is the first anime series I am rating at an "A" for "Adult Only" rating, however it deserves a rating nonetheless because it is an amazing and somewhat deep anime. There is more blood gore and guts in Elfen Lied than in any anime I have ever seen. The amount of gore and language is BEYOND TV-MA. The OP is safe to watch for TV-MA, but the anime series should only be picked up if you enjoyed a preview of it, or more or less my review without giving away too many hints. Im almost through the DVDs, and it's a pity that the series is 13 episodes long.
A lot of people ask about the opening Song. As far as I know it is titled "Lilium" and is sung in latin.
Elfen Lied is the first anime series I am rating at an "A" for "Adult Only" rating, however it deserves a rating nonetheless because it is an amazing and somewhat deep anime. There is more blood gore and guts in Elfen Lied than in any anime I have ever seen. The amount of gore and language is BEYOND TV-MA. The OP is safe to watch for TV-MA, but the anime series should only be picked up if you enjoyed a preview of it, or more or less my review without giving away too many hints. Im almost through the DVDs, and it's a pity that the series is 13 episodes long.
A lot of people ask about the opening Song. As far as I know it is titled "Lilium" and is sung in latin.
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