Xbox360 goes Portable!

You can thank, and secretly envy Benjamin Heckendorn, since you will never own one yourself. looks good for carrying to a friends house to play, would make LAN games easier to arrange if you can just plop it in a laptop bag. Wonder if it handles overheating well? Enjoy the pics!

Gadgets and things

I was hitting up Slashdot this morning and stumbled on an article for a new handheld device called Pandora. The concept behind it is to create a strong hand held gaming platform with open source development behind it. So far it carries some decent hardware, actually in terms of power it rivals the PSP, however it relies more on the home brew scene supporting it then actual commercial game developers making the latest and greatest Grand Theft Auto etc. While it can run some GTA versions since the main game library comes from its ability to run most emulators, the umpf is clearly lacking when everything your playing is from systems that are now collecting dust in your house.

Its not all hate, there are some pro's. The system can run Linux, sports a full keyboard and a decent amount of RAM, what you may end up with is a tiny handheld PC in the end, but for 330$, seems a bit steep. Ok, back to hating, whoever designed this thing really needed to stop and think of aerodynamics, cause this looks like it would start to hurt after 20 minutes of usage.

In other news, after scanning Murphys Facebook page I noticed Marc Ecko made a line of Star Wars inspired clothing including Boba Fett and Stormtrooper hoodies. Now in terms of design the Boba Fett one kinda looks cool, but the Stormtrooper one is just ugly, and not very practical since it closes in the front, just in time for Halloween I guess. In the line came a decent t-shirt of Princess Leia in the infamous bikini, not something I would wear but a little more fashionable.
In the last piece of news I will be starting my new addiction / time filler today or tomorrow. I am going to pick up Warhammer right after the check hits the bank account. I had a good time playing the beta and the game was really geared toward getting people to play together, thought the general environment didn't seem as talkative as in Warcraft where general chat was an amalgamation of the inane and the rare intelligent political conversation, one that would often end in ranting and a mixture of letters and numbers that you just knew it was being directed at you in a vulgar manner. We will see soon enough if Mythic sucks or not.

Paintball! Round 2

Round 2. I want to make something clear. I was upset when I got home from paintball. I felt like I had wasted alot of money but it was due I believe to bad planning and things being rushed for understandable purposes. No one is really to blame, it was quite an undertaking and hindsight always allows us to see things clearer. Of the 6 people I had asked to come, all had a good time and looking back I think I would have enjoyed it quite a bit more with slightly better equipment.

I have been reading reviews on different markers, mainly the one I always wanted the t9 elite. I wish there was a website that realistically compared markers. What I actually want to know that I can not find in video or written form, is a comparison from a single shooter of the accuracy at a set distance. I want to know if I can realistically hit a target at 75 feet within a 5 inch spread. I am also wondering what the spread at distance that cheap ass 98 custom obtains.

The first match I played I thrice felt I could have gotten a kill if the gun I was firing had been accurate. I think those three hits alone would have done alot to increase my enjoyment. As the day went on I got more agressive, the second match at Eclipse castle I played harder, I stormed ahead quickly and I believe got a kill on someone in the window, and put some good pressure on sniper perches, if only the accuracy was there they would have been kills.

So what would it really take? Tons? A 500$ marker with another 150$ worth of crap and god knows how expensive fog-less mask. The problem is ... what if after all that I still don't like to play? Do I really have 100$ to throw away on paintball once a month? 30$ admission, 40$ paint 20$ in rentals. Then again I guess if I had that marker my paint cost would be extremely low for the day, firing 8 round clips, how much paint could I possibly use, right?

All in all I am considering going again next time and paying for the better marker to rent, however it is still a rental and something tells me there isnt the same love put into maintaining them.

Paintball!

This weekend was Sean's big paintball match up at Skirmish in PA, a total of 46 or so people. The day started with a fun ride up to PA, me and Cynthia riding with Dennis. We met up with about 20 or so others in Manhattan at Murphys store. Not much in terms of introductions took place, a quick run to the local store and we were off. I believe we ended up with a nice 6 car caravan, blocking traffic at one point as we were lining up in the middle lane on 23rd and 6th avenue, yes not the best place at all to have 6 cars at a halt. Antoine led the caravan and all together it was a pretty smooth ride up, some music, laughs and funny pictures.

Eventually with everyone in position we got our camo's, belt packs and paint. We then met our refs, a big black dude and a short white guy, very pushy the both of them, and the big one was not very useful. So useless I basically stopped playing early in the day and had little desire to continue. The first game began and it seems 4 members of our team were not present, happened to be the 4 that had custom markers, the very thing teams were balanced on. The match was a massacre I guess, partly because it seems like we had no coordination, our captain wasn't present, not that he did any leading anytime after that anyway. However I noticed that every match in which I had been hit, put the gun over my head and walked off the field, I was always hit a second time, just wonderful.

What I do wonder is ... are all paintballs guns that inaccurate? The 98 custom fired like crap. Ignoring other variables, it was a mess to see someone, feel you had a clean shot and not be able to hit them for a few reasons. The first and most important reason for missing, you can't sight the gun because of the lack of a remote line, the tank forces you to shoot from the hip. The second is the gun is just inaccurate, three shots, slight pause in between each, and 3 different hit locations. The final reason, which may have just been my luck, the gun I had would jam, the offset of the hopper when shooting sideways from cover stopped the balls from loading and it became a mess. I was firing sometimes while the gun was on safety, and sometimes while it was not =/

Anyway lots of walking, frustration at the gun, the mask fogging, not knowing anyone on my team ... I just felt like I wasted too much money and all I got was some nice pics of me and Cynthia in our camo gear on a tank. Oddly I may just go next time and rent a better gun to see if I enjoy it.

Six Degrees of Separation

So isn't it funny how we are all connected? Not sure if everyone is familiar with Six Degrees of Separation an old flick starring Will Smith. I don't want to blow the flick and what happens with it, but the basic premise is that everyone on the planet can be connected to anyone else through six degrees of separation, basically through 6 other connections. For example, even though I did not meet Cynthia until recently, I was actually connected to her through Dennis (best friend) and his then girlfriend Courtney who is Cynthia's cousin. Also through Natalie who I went to MS 51's with and is good friends to her. Its not a full six degrees, in the longest case it is only 2, Dennis and Courtney, but the point is made.

You know ... my explanation killed the whole point, which was that Courtney and Cynthia are cousins and that I knew other people at times in my life who knew her.

I think fate, and yes I know I am sounding like an idealist again - for that I thank you, was waiting for the right time for me and Cynthia to meet. I don't things would have been just right if some how we met when D and Courtney were going out, I still had a lot of growing up to do. At the time I was at 51's would have been even worse, I was too much of knucklehead then. If there was a greater power I think it timed things just right, I have loved and lost and most importantly, learned. Those lessons are what makes the difference, and I hope to put them to good use in making her happy.

*Ugh* I suck

So I dropped the ball for what I can say is the very first time, at least as far as I know, and it hurts. Somewhere inside around where I swallow I got a pain after receiving her text, it slowed my breath, and every time I did breathe, I felt something missing, something hurting. It hurt even more to know I made her worry, if Dennis didn't have his phone, I could have made it a long worry filled night, all because of my absentmindedness. I could barely even make it back to the house yesterday, I was falling asleep in the car while D was talking to me, perhaps I needed another splash of could water. When I got home I must have just fell out, I don't even remember going to sleep and I need to find you a new ringtone. Something that will wake me when you call, not just provide a familiar and sweet lullaby.

I was going to write about some interesting developments and fate, but something are more important to say.

Be better tomorrow then you were today ... and I will be for you.

How it's suppose to be

"I wanna be the one that you believe is sent from heaven" - Keyshia Cole

I was walking home listening to the above mentioned song and started to think, isn't this how it should be? I have had relationships where I have cared, deeply at that, but is that really enough? I mean after so many years shouldn't the person make you feel as though only the heavens could have produced a person so perfect to your heart?

I look at Cynthia sometimes and just stare, amazed at the person she is, amazed at how she makes me feel. I feel something when I look at her, like something that draws my heart in, something that makes me want to be even closer to her. Perhaps a touch of divinity is the only way to explain the person she is, and the euphoric feeling she gives me.

Busy

I spent Friday with Cynthia and her godson Manny. The original plan was a movie and some sushi, but morphed into Italian and no flick. Timing wasn't on our side and so we couldn't make the last showing of Mirrors. We went to a place called Aunt Suzie's which is near La Villa. The place looked small so I was a bit skeptical, but figured, you know, let me try something new. When we got in, the wait service was very quick and very courteous, I ordered this massive stuffed pork chop, something out of the Flintstones *pats tummy* yummy. For appetizers we had stuffed mushrooms and fried mozzarella, also yummy and it came out very quick. It was a good night and I got to meet her godson who is moving, and hopefully he had a good time before leaving. That night I met Cynthia's mother, she was very nice, and has a beautiful apartment. I was expecting to get grilled, but it was nothing of the sort.

Saturday I met up with Cynthia again and went to her friend Natalie's daughters birthday party. I met Cynthia's sister Lizette, and bumped into some people I remembered from 51's such as Natalie and James. I thought it might be a little awkward but everyone was really cool and made me feel relaxed. Her sister was nice, I was nervous about meeting her too, but all in all, Saturday was a good day. I also met one of the cutest babies, little Jordan, just adorable. I was a bit nervous about holding him, but I think someone putting there child into your arms kinda sets you at ease after a while. That night we finally got to see Mirrors also, we have been trying to get there for a week or so. The movie was pretty good, I was actually surprised how good it was. It's been ages since I seen a movie that made me jump, even the slightest.

Sunday I spent cleaning, and on Monday I added a new recipe to my repertoire. I now cook french toast, and pretty decently I will say so. I also hung out with Lizette and baby Jordan again. We went to Ikea for a little, and hung out at my house where Dennis got to meet her before he retired to his game. He left pretty early, it seems because a certain person was txt'ing him. He needs to give that phone back and cut the cord already, can't spend all your days in limbo. All in all it was a busy weekend and I am tapped, sleepy and broke lol

Inhale ... close your eyes ... and get lost in it ...

Yesterday was a day like no other I have had, a treat for me above and beyond what I could have expected. A smile and a please got me to do something I normally wouldn't have. A can broke, one I never got to make use of in that manner before. A good meal was eaten, and a new way to make biscuits formed. The best part was it was all for me. Something so wonderful about that rings inside when I repeat it in my head, when I look back at it. I keep thinking, I deserve this now and then ... just enjoy it, get lost in it, and I did.

We learn from the things we did wrong in the past. I am a more open person. The things I held back I just let out, sometimes I have to remind myself to say what I am thinking. I kept just looking at her and smiling, then give myself a kick and just let out what was running through my mind. I want this to be different, I want it to be open, I want to know what runs through her mind when she smiles back at me, when she looks at me and her eyes dart back and forth between mine. And I did ... because she told me.

I feel like every ending thought of her elicits a sigh, an exhalation of euphoria.

What if I wasn't me?

I was on the stoop listening to the closing of a Flobots song, a nice violin solo kicks in. I love violins, the sound is just something I can get lost in, just listen to for hours. I guess violin like object is the best bet because I used to watch the channel 13 specials on Yo-Yo Ma and the sound garden. I figured I would share this tidbit of myself with someone special, and I proceeded to text away. I realized something however, I once wanted to be a chef ... I wanted to learn to play the violin ... where did these things go? I wonder if I had been given the opportunity and chose to pursue them, what kind of person would I be now? Would I have hung out with the same knuckleheads I did, would I have been the one being picked on? So many decisions and events go into crafting who a person is and what they become, we evolve into ourselves ... would I have evolved into this person?

I guess in the long run since I can look at where I am, the people around me, who I am with, and be happy, that maybe it doesn't matter. Chef's pay would have probably paid better, but there are moments along the path that would have been lost that I would not have traded for anything. What if in my new career I never bothered to sign up for Myspace? What if I ended up moving away and not hanging out with Dennis? How would that have affected how things turned out recently? I guess these things not only affect you, but those who's lives you have had an impact on as well.

Perhaps its not worth considering. I am where I am, happy, making my way day by day. Lost in something bigger then myself.

A Chapter Closed ... The Value of Truth

I know, its been a while. I got a new phone ... yes another phone, I know I just got one. I decided to finally get a plan and went with Verizon Wireless, no more prepaid. I picked up the LG Dare, originally 200$, offered to me at 150$, then discounted further to 100$ with an 8GB microSD card to top the deal. I even got a discount on my plan, like 20% or so. I spent most of the first day I had it just toying around trying to figure out the features, still figuring things out like how to make my own ringtone's etc. Not a built in feature, requires an external program called BitPim, which is just great. I mean I already have the music, why pay 2$ to have someone else email me a clip when I can cut it myself? I know royalties, blah, blah.

In other news I have to wait an extra day to see my beautiful. The waiting is killing me, anxiety, nervousness, anticipation. Its the beginning to a journey, I have my backpack on, I have been invited on the trip, I am just waiting at base camp to start, and a storm has rolled in ... err hurricane.

This weekend a chapter ended, a final finality if such a thing exists. I think I handled everything well, as well as I guess I could have been expected to. Dennis keeps telling me I could have been nicer, he is biased ... he knows it ... she knows why I am not.

There is a thin line that was drawn some time ago, it starts and ends with trust. I can take a lot, I have been stepped on, I have chased someone who didn't want me, I have put my heart on the line, I just ask for the truth in return. I don't lie, that includes by omission. I will tell you whats on my mind, as tactfully as possible, but always honestly. From everyone in my small circle, I just ask the same in response, the truth. It is probably why my circle is that small, its hard to find people who can offer that, its hard to let people in and give them that trust, it should have been even harder, near impossible, but for some reason it isn't with you ...

Shopping & Sleep

I was back in Park Slope yesterday, doing a little clothing shopping, just work items. I figured I would pick up some more dress pants, clean up the wardrobe a little. I think they cut them wrong though, that its suppose to be slightly higher for my taste, will have to see. I hung out with my mother for a bit, and some of the people from the block that practically raised me. It is nice getting back there, I used to almost dread it for some unknown reason. I guess most of my memories of Park Slope were tainted with all the years of drama; fighting, arguing, etc. I still look at the neighborhood, slightly depressed over what it has become, a shell of the cultural it once had. There are good people still living there, most of the ones I knew have just adapted to their new neighbors and neighborhood. What more can you really do in the end?

Yesterday I was in and out of sleep. I was listening to some music when D got to my house and within an hour I believe I was out cold sleeping. It finally all caught up to me. I even went to sleep early without helping him more with his new interest, blogging, well I guess this is more of a journal, then a blog and he plans his to be as well.

For those of you interested in rap music, social change, or even fans of Linkin Park, you may want to check out the Flobots. Murph put me onto them and their music is just amazing. The first song to check out is Handlebars, check the video its powerful, listen to the words, even if you don't like rap. I plan to pick up the CD soon, there haven't been many times when I felt I truly needed to back a band, to support what they are doing. There is something powerful about the message, it gives me pause when I really sit and listen.

Like Jay Said

"I'm high on life, fuck it I'm wasted" - Jay-Z (The Black Album, Allure)

I got a half hours sleep and I feel pretty good, still high off the conversation that kept me awake. I wouldn't even call it sleep, I guess I closed my eyes for a half at the most. Things are progressing, a cleansing of the things that held me down. I feel invigorated with possibility. I am no seer, but I see a near future that consumes me with happiness. For once I feel a true reciprocation, an equal exchange of smiles, happiness and affection. I was never a big believer in fate, instead taking the route that you work for what you have, and nothing is destined to leave or return. Timing however is everything, and for once it seems to be on point.

So far for just over a week, I have stuck to my lunch of a salad, some fruit, peaches, pears, and water and a yogurt in there somewhere. The interesting thing is that I enjoy it, I don't feel weighted down like I used to after eating a burger, I don't feel too tired to work afterward like I have to drag myself around. I feel like I am eating a good portion, I am satiated instead of stuffed at the end. It feels good, I guess that is the best way to summarize it all, everything just feels right about everything.

Today is probably going to be hectic at work, 3 last minute moves and a self assigned project to finish. I was able to score a vacation day that I badly wanted, it created a scheduling conflict but it was all worked out in the end. I am definitely looking forward to that day.

As no answer came, no divine response, he stopped staring, thinking ... in due time. Soon enough lines of text will turn to harmony, a sweet song where words, not cords compose the melody. Lost in the thought as if it was happening, his mind began dancing, in his day dream he was gliding across notes on music sheets, a song composed of 4 words, a song so sweet, that song began and ended with, "you make me happy"

Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger! v2

Things are underway in so many facets. A transition of self that was needed some time ago. I feel happier, healthier, and more confident. I realized this weekend there was a time where I shied away from a camera, I didn't really like taking pics, I always felt they came out bad, or maybe just wasn't confident in myself. I have a conceded streak when it comes to my work, I think I am good at what I do, but it didn't extended beyond that too far. A change of clothes, into something more grown up, something I have been wanting to do, just never leaped, a haircut, of which I believe no pictures exist of me with the longer hair, and it was the start of a reexamination.

Antoine helped me develop a routine I have been sticking with and I think it is paying off. I eat better, with the occasional cheating, but even then I only eat half, and I try to avoid soda at all costs. I noticed the other day I am fluctuating between the last buckle on my belt and the one before it I was normally at. I won't get into detail since that would give away my waist size *gasp* cant do that now. But I am on the move, out doors, walking around, taking pictures, and feeling better. Even to the point where I am kicking D out the crib and off of Warcraft to take a walk with me.

Its amazing how a single compliment can change your day for the better, put a smile on your face and instill something inside that every person needs. It's more amazing how sometimes in your life there can be someone who can do that without saying a word.

He walked for what felt like ages, the voice replaying, echoing, satiating a hunger inside. An emptiness filling as his foot steps plodded on, a hope twinkling before his eyes. A mirage, an illusion just out of arms reach. "I want to do more then just see" he said, staring at the sky.

Need sleep, more dreams.

I started some point of yesterday with multiple plans, and they came and went off and on. In the end I ended up hanging out with Tony +1, which lasted all of 15 minutes or so. I felt almost like my night was stolen. Make plans to hang out, I canceled my other plans, then stick around for not even the length of a sitcom TV show, pfft. I went to lay down in the AC shortly after T had left and after kicking D out.

It was there that I got a call that washed away the annoyance that I was dealing with, one that seemed like it could have been endless. I really don't know what I am doing at work, I should have called out right after I got off the phone, or called out and called back to keep talking. There is something so genuine behind their words. Here are the cards laid out, no games, no nonsense, no running around. It is refreshing to be able to talk, divulge, discuss without wondering or waiting for the angle. So ... In the end I made it to work, a little late, eyes are a little heavy, but I am here, a victory in and of itself. After doing the math, 5:00 - 3:45 = 1:15, I realize just how little sleep I did get. The good part about it ... I wouldn't trade it for anything. There is just something captivating about that laugh, that voice, she is just emotionally contagious.

In less serious news, I seen this video online that was just amazing. It was on Gizmodo, and it is of a lightning storm in slow motion. I don't know what equipment captured it or how long the event recorded actually was, but check out the video, its 30 seconds well spent.

Forgive me ...

I was thinking about someone, playing a convo in my head, a question was asked that I didn't know how to answer. Hot water came up and I started to question how I had been. This came up recently in a talk with D about M.S. And maybe its time I let it out.

10.12 God bless you. I will try to be better to you everyday from today.
M.S. I'm sorry, when you were getting over that, I was asking for the impossible, I was a kid, I know now the world does not revolve around me.
T.C. I missed what would have been your big day, what could have been a chance to reconnect, I don't know what to say, we are all constantly evolving and I am still growing up.
T.S. Whenever I think of you, my heart aches. I didn't really know you, but I feel the world lost you because I didn't save you.

A cynic turned idealist, "like a comet striking our big blue planet" he said. He barely managed to recover his wits, his world upside down, and some how that was alright. He walked in solitude in the clear night, an innocence of heart in the single voice playing in his mind. A tinge of inspiration sparking, lighting something long dimmed.

Breathe

Sometimes you just need to breathe ... exhale and just enjoy where you are in life, a moment of zen as Jon Stewart calls it. I took that time yesterday, canceling plans with Dennis and Murph. I needed to evaluate where I was, and where I was going, to plot a course, even if I wasn't going to follow it well.

I talked to my mother yesterday, I think I have talked more to her in the week she has been in Arizona then the 2 months before, anyway, she was going to talk to my cousin Ryan, so hopefully we can get together and hang out. I haven't seen him in years, I mean a long time, probably since the last time I went to Arizona, that I can recall at least. Oddly before she left for Arizona we were discussing my cousin Danny and how he vanished off the face of the earth.

I remember the annoyance at my other cousins on my fathers side, I agreed to move to Sunset just to be close to them, to hopefully hang out and get to know them again, they seem to drift in and out of my life at times. Long story short, moving to Sunset did nothing, they did there thing, two of them moved and I soon after left to Bay Ridge. Perhaps cousins are not meant to be that close, I rarely hear people talking about how they hung out with there cousin so and so and had a great time, well not these days, maybe more in Junior High / High School, perhaps that's when its feasible, but I guess I never had that at all.

So as time moves, new opportunities arise and present themselves, just have to follow the tide I guess, pick a direction and hope its the same way the current goes ... I seem to have a lot of cheezy analogies today. So what is on the agenda, Murphy wanted to hang out, probably early, so I may swing by his house and then back to mine around the time D comes around. I rather be out somewhere though, so maybe I will cancel again and get down to the park after all or hit B&N and get the last book in the series I am reading. Which reminds me of all the tidbits I had to write about ... I will get to that later and make a separate post. Coming up ... Watchmen, final thoughts, and the funniest machinima I have ever seen.

Pfft

My weekend was rather uneventful. I spoke to my father, which doesn't happen to often, he didn't mention the divorce which I found odd. We mainly talked about Warcraft, which oddly he seems to be leaning toward quitting, so I am not sure what talks with him will consist of soon. I gave it a shot and updated him on the personal world of Ivan, he gave some good advice, perhaps that is a road we can go down again in the future.

In other news, plans fell through, then the rain, so it kinda took the air out of anything I would have been doing this weekend. I mainly walked around the neighborhood and did a little window shopping. I broke with my slightly healthier living, kept the exercise but, had a chicken parm hero that I now feel sick for eating. I took out some cash in expectation for plans, which is something I prefer not to do since I am prone to then eating out, and this is my payment, too ill to even eat my morning Cherrios.

So whats on the agenda for today? More cat and mouse I am sure, some house cleaning, and a trip to Shore Road possibly, depends if Murph decides to hang out or not. You know I have been in Bay Ridge for maybe 3 years now, *counts on his fingers*, I think 3 years, anyway, in all that time I had no clue there was such a massive park that ran along the water. I put it top of my agenda to get down there and maybe take some pics or just relax, the walk to it doesn't hurt either.

Lets just hope I can make it through the day ... sleepy ... *starts snoring*

*Judah fight spoilers below*

Wait, almost forgot, the Judah fight! I am not a big fan of boxing that I know win percentages, nor care about arm length of a boxer. I do however have those fighters I enjoy watching and those I enjoy watching get smacked up. The problem is its usually the ones I hate that win, like Judah. He was boxing Clottey, who I never heard of before, yet is apparently a very good boxer, he smacked up Judah to prove that. In all the Zab fights I always hoped he would lose, he is a pretty dirty boxer by my estimates, low blows, etc. Finally however he was just out boxed. Clottey kept playing Judah close and assuming the counter puncher role, something jUdah normally is prided for. With a tight guard Judah really did not stand a chance, he tried fancy foot work, attempting to throw Clottey off balance, but by the 6th round you could tell it wasn't work and the heavy handed Clottey was taking his toll on Judah. By round 9, it was over. Clottey caught Judah with a blistering uppercut that tore a hole above Judah's eye, preventing him from being able to continue boxing.

It was ruled an accidental headbutt and they went to the cards. I personally think Judah was faking his inability to see, the doctor seemed to imply that as well, always saying "Judah stated he could not see out of that eye." Anyway it turns out the judges unanimously had Clottey beating Judah and replays showed no such headbutt occured, something Judah, even after being shown the reply, swears happened. Sore loser.

Little shopping and weekend troubleshooting.

Went shopping for some needed components. Got my Air Force Ones, all white of course. I desperatly needed some new kicks, the white and red ones were getting too beat up, even noticed the rubber worn on the bottom. The bad thing about new kicks, and all white ones at that, I don't want to wear them around people. I know the moment someone blesses my picks I am going to be fuming, but its bound to happen sooner or later. So I got my white kicks so I can look right when I throw on the jeans and button down, next step was a new phone.


Carrying the Blackberry for work, music and pics and having to carry my own phone for ... phone service, was becoming a pain for two reasons, no holster for the BB, and the phone I purchased over two years ago was a bit bulky. It had a full keyboard when the concept was new, AIM built in, etc. However 3 days after I got it the internal screen busted and left me without any of the great features and just a bulky phone. So I finally decided to replace the antiquated device and picked up the Arc, Virgins newest phone. Yes I used prepaid, its cheap, no obligations, no plans, no begging for new phones. Back to the phone. It is tons lighter then Switch Back I had, and quite a bit thinner, thank god. On top of that, since I find myself in increasing need of AIM, the new one can sign on and stay on all day.

Ugh, I was trying to pull some pics off the Blackberry today and was again halted by the annoying Roxio Media Manager software. So far I have had the following issues:

The device does not see the MicroSD card.
The device can see the card, but will not let me see anything on it.
The media manager swears the device is connected even though the RIM portion says its fine.
The device takes over 30 minutes to transfer and encrypt a 7MB song.

How did I fix it? I rolled back to before the Media Manager was turned over to Roxio. This means I can never upgrade the software or I will be cursed with having to deal with the bloatware again, 45MB as opposed to 230MB.

New kicks, new phone, BB working as intended, not a bad day.

The truth is ... boring

I was partially looking forward to the X-Files movie, I used to be a fan, I admit it. My fandom mainly dates back to before the Scully-Mulder sexual tension era, back when it was just cases and answers, no drawn out story line about abducted siblings and alien babies. I hoped the movie would be a throw back to those days, a case, a major one, with major implications. The movie was instead a big let down, no aliens, no great super natural force, it was almost too mundane to be a X-Files episode. The worst part, it was 2 hours of that ... boring, and barely bearable. I somehow managed to get to the end of it, but I mean, it just wasn't worth the time invested. I guess I can chalk that up to time I wish I could get back, however have no chance of. I almost feel like I am wasting more time just blogging about it, like its perpetually going to absorb whats left of my freetime and perhaps sanity. I heard a rumor the movie was about aliens, it was the finale to all X-Files movies, wrapped everything up and proved the existence of something out there ... I hated that idea, but even a bad idea would have been better. Why go through all that trouble when I could have easily swapped Gorm from Criminal Intent with Mulder and had an acceptable episode of that show?


In other news, its interesting how things change over time, people especially. One moment someone has you enamored, completely love struck, the next its evolved into something different, something, excuse the repetition, mundane. How does someone fall from the top of the list, undivided attention, to single word answers? Well I guess two years can do that. The friends you sacrifice for something you think will be much more, and the dissappointment afterwards when it all falls down, and those friends are still stranded, all for naught.

Go on girl

I met up with my mother yesterday after work for dinner, she is leaving for Arizona and wanted to see me before she heads off. We talked about everything that has been going on in the last few days, her and my father finally getting divorced, Adrienne and I breaking up, etc. I asked her if it was wrong that I wasn't heart broken, what it means that I am not in tears after such a long time. She told me sometimes it just feels right ... I guess that's what it comes down to, as much as I wanted it to be right, there was obviously hurdles that would have ever prevented it from being so. I pondered over that for a little in silence, staring the deep fried macaroni and cheese she wanted me to try. I am a weird believer and simultaneous non-believer in God at times. I guess I am still struggling personally with the question, yet something seem to be set in motion. I guess I can register it all as a series of random events coinciding to bring ... something ... or I can look at it as a greater being telling me its time to leave from there, and pointing down the road telling me, "its time to go there, you're ready".

When I got in the car to head home, Ne-Yo's, Go On Girl, came on the radio ... again, sure, I guess it could have been coincidence. But it seems the message resonated well enough, as if, if you are a believer that is, God was telling me it was okay not to be hurt. So my break ups have covered the, out of both of your hands type of situation (Melissa), the cheating situation (Leslie), and now, the just fell apart (Adrienne). I have spent collectively the last 12+ years of my life in relationships ... something uplifting about it being all about me.

Hancock, Curve, and blabering.

I got to see Hancock, again, this time on the big screen. It was a lot better the second time around, watching it in the proper manner, not that I would have chosen Hancock to re-watch ... It is a good movie, however I think if I was going to watch something on the big screen it should have been Wall-E, impressions however are everything. While Hancock ultimately being a love story bothered many, I really had no issue with it. After seeing Hulk, and knowing Dark Knight was coming soon, did we really need another super hero movie, especially one without any previous foundation or history to draw from? The link they shared, the explanation, it was not the best, but it fit well enough to give a suitable turn to the "Hulk Smash" and maniacle ravings of the Joker that most were going to be anticipating or watching.


I ended up getting home a bit late and I am beat tired this morning. The worst of it is I can not get any rest as I have to assist a user with some testing in about 20 minutes. Yesterday was hectic, hopefully today settles down and tomorrow I can collect my check in peace, then quickly spend it. I finally got my blackberry upgrade, about 10 minutes before leaving work, just in time. Now I have to search online for a spot to get a memory card for cheap and I can retire my over-sized mp3 player, the PSP. The only complaint I have is the track ball is no where near as responsive as the scroll wheel was on previous versions, aesthetically it is vastly superior in size, design and weight, if it only it came with a proper holster ...

So what is on the agenda today? I am supposed to see my mother after work, she wants to take me to this new place that opened in the Slope. I was thinking of sticking around there afterward and seeing if I bump into anyone, usually I just end up seeing all the people I used to fight with when I was younger, my block being the only exception, its almost a sanctuary. Last time I was on 12th I bumped into the little sister of an old friend, she is just like her big sister, looks and attitude, its uncanny. I didn't turn out anything like my sister, perhaps its just for siblings of the same sex.

Randomness

Murph put me on to a new DC comics MMO coming out, I just can't see myself playing another one, I can barely sit down and play Warcraft anymore. Just don't find it worth it to cancel my account, what does 16$ really buy a month anyway? It still operates as a good temporary time sink, not an enjoyable one, but a time sink for sure. D came through last night, he just wanted to chill and watch TV. I can barely stay up when that is all that is on the agenda. I usually leave him the spare key and tell him to just shoot it under the door when he leaves.

The Watchmen is getting better, I was reading it on the train this morning and was asked about it, guess the movie has some hype. It is odd, I have not read a graphic novel before, I did not expect such great writing, such in depth character development, how they think, how they make connections ... its like a ... novel with graphics ... The book is pretty dark, there are scenes interspersed with comic book scenes of a related fictional land to them, how does that translate in the big screen?

I noticed I have been eating a lot less, cutting back on the soda as well. Still have half the bottle from that Friday ... Not sure if the replacement lemonade is much better, then again I have been killing the water a lot faster, mixed with the sit-ups ... Oddly today I was leaving the rest room at work and looked up in the mirror and thought to myself *What am I trying to fix?* I like the way I look, perhaps more then I should at times. I guess it can all fall back to health right? I just hope I don't lose too much weight in between, I kinda like being a "big bear". It is the one description I think my last 3 serious girlfriends all have repeated.

Ok, he isn't yogi, or pooh, but he is my namesake for those who do not know, though it is not why I have that name. That just reminded me of a Pooh doll I once had ... Shawney stole it ... I don't remember if someone bought it for me, or if I bought it for them. Something deep inside tells me it was a gift to me, but from? I remember laying with it, cuddling up to it not because I needed to cuddle up with something, but because it reminded me of ... who? I would never even let it touch the ground I remember, and it pained me to lose it ... Maybe I don't remember because I can't deal with remembering ...

One Fourth or so

Oddly after such a long relationships conclusion, you would think I would be pained, but for some reason I am not. I have my home back, her stuff is still here, but it is mine once again. It will be quiet when I want it to be, I will not have to make the volume louder to over come a nearby computer blasting music, clean the drain to remove hair, or wash down leg shavings. The latter is for two reasons, I fixed the drains in both the tub and the bathroom sink. It turns out they twist off, lots of yuck later I can take a shower and not have the water amass below my feet, nope straight to the drain. I just hope the next girl, whomever she will be, will appreciate everything. That is something I always noticed with Leslie, though she was a cheating bitch, she always appreciated the smallest thing I purchased, the littlest point of affection. They did not get lost in some black hole of the last X years where things I did no longer exist, a Twilight Zone of a place.

In related news, my electric bill came and it was 130$, I know this will be dropping quickly, less usage on the air conditioning I am sure. I realized something powerful, I get my study, can move both computers into the extra room, yes I have a two bedroom, guess it would be a computer room more then a study then ... It is this weird sense of freedom. I can move anything where I want it to go, without asking or dealing with anything counter, I am the lord of my own domain, I have seized the land, the Moors have been driven out.

I went to Barnes and Noble the other day to pick up Watchmen, the graphic novel that spawned the upcoming movie, and could have easily picked up a shorty and one for Dennis too, but uh ... communication issues stopped me from going forward, we are all clear Dennis, next time its a go. So coincidentally I was talking to D yesterday and mistakenly called Adrienne, Melissa, the coincidence is that D bumped into her, Melissa, the same day, apparently she is around the Slope, perhaps she moved there? Who knows, who cares? I have thought about mailing her, if I can get her addy, to apologize for what I did, how I acted after we had broken up. I snubbed her pointlessly, a way for a kid to deal with his emotions, or to stop himself from dealing with them. The story goes that Melissa's mother passed away, she was given the option to live with me, but we were kids, she went to LI? SI? somewhere far, somewhere far for a teenager. When she did come down I ignored her, she would be in my living room talking to my mother and I wouldn't even turn around to talk to her, so undeserved. That led to my shit list method of dealing with ex's, right on the list you go, regardless of what the situation was, except for Tiffany, but that is a different story, a story for its own blog entry. It would probably start with "Dear diary, I almost got shot today, but my home boy showed up in his blue Jag with the cavalry and scared away the bad men." That is kinda the end of the story, but you start with the exciting part right?

Anyway, D bumping into Melissa led to this odd self examination, though I know Adrienne was flirting with some dork she liked in High School, pursuing a guy that won't give her the time of day because of her weight sadly, I thought perhaps a friendship could be salvaged. However I realize after a short conversation that there is nothing worth it there. I care not to be your acquaintance, I do not get junk mail, I do not need another person to CC: on such junk mail if I did. So, c'est la vie. I cared not to support you, and I care not to be your crutch when your friends are too busy to be there for you.

The book is good so far, up to chapter five, hero's who have flaws, who are real people, who are vengeful, who hate, who kill ... This is not your typical story of people with flawless morals, who are perfect in their minor details, they are human. For those who are hung up on awards and accolades, one of Time Magazine's 100 best novels, and winner of the Hugo Award, whatever either of those two really mean to anyone. Communist's, Nixon on his 5th term, capped crusaders outlawed, just great.

The Dark Knight

Truly epic, I could probably leave it all at that, but that would not be any fun. The truth? I didn't think Heath Ledger was that great of a Joker, certainly better then any other Joker, but what am I comparing him to? The reality is Joker has never gotten to be as "dark" and sinister as his character is suppose to be renown for being. This time around we had a joker with that freedom, but there was something I felt was lacking in closeness, it didn't feel dead on, the laugh was not as chilling as I had hoped. The dialogue isn't the actors job, and that is what was so great. The personality, the banter, the purpose of the character. I almost feel partly like the movie is just too great that the actors not being perfect doesn't pull away from the perfection of the movie. Christian Bale is not a perfect Batman, but the characters portrayal and spiral is perfect, its what is expected, it is almost breath taking, however again, the voice doesn't feel right, it seems forced, its not gritty enough, he is not square-jawed enough, he is however properly devoid of emotion, and completely filled with the greater good. Since the release of Equilibrium years ago, me and Dennis talked about how he would be a perfect Batman. If you have not seen Equilibrium, it is a must see, think Fareheit 451 meets Brave New World.

So with a less then perfect Batman and Joker, what are we left with? Dialogue that just shines, the speeches, the back and forth, the relationships, this movie was truly written to be great. I think the biggest ovation should go to the writers and producers for pushing the detail, for making these characters personalities, into the ones we have always wanted since watching the first Batman movies.

So what does happen when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? Oddly this was not the first time I heard this, while I am sure it goes further back, I am sure the Warcraft fans are familiar with the mace and shield of similar names that prompted numerous Alterac Valley jokes, if you are not, it doesn't really matter, go see this movie!

For your viewing pleasure

I know, its been a while since I last posted, not much to write about until the other day. I was introduced to a new show, The Cleaner, which I had seen commercials for and had no clue what it was. William (Benjamin Bratt) is a reformed addict who, along with his team of reformed addicts, goes about helping others overcome their addictions. Without ruining too much, the first episode opens with a snatch and grab of a women addicted to gambling, with her families permission of course. The team works to isolate the women, Akani (Grace Park), flirts with her date, then the other two members cut off her car later after she exits the bar. She is eventually wisked away to rehab to hopefully get better. The story is not all big smiles however, William explains that most of the people they attempt to save revert back or end up dead, adding a very real twist to plot. So what motivates the man to run this team? Overcoming his own addictions, William promised to act as God's avenging angel if he saw him through it. After watching the episode it seems like Williams open dialogue is often answered by God, though not always in the positive. Anyway, so far I am pleased and it will find its way to my DVR.


Next up, The Middleman. I am still on the fence about this show, it is a complete opposite of The Cleaner. The Middleman (Matt Keeslar), a throwback like hero, complete with utility belt, and his sidekick, Wendy Watson (Natalie Morales), attempt to battle the forces of evil; aliens, zombies, killer fish, the works. The show focuses around Wendy and her attempts to balance both work, zombie slaughtering, with her friendships, her friends believing she works for a temp agency, the Jolly Fats Wehawking Temp agency to be exact. The more I talk about it, the less I can figure out why I watch it, yet I know I will be watching it again.

Its going to be a movie weekend, so I will have so review coming soon: Taken, Hellboy 2, Dark Knight, Meet Dave

Free =! Good

So I had someone offer me a movie today, Love Guru. They assured me the quality was DVD like, and I could not bring myself to actually accept. Mike Meyers? This is not the early 90's, has he even made a good movie? searches imdb.com Well I guess it depends on your taste, '92 if you did not like Austin Powers, '02 if you did. I guess we can count Shrek, but is just a voice really acting? Is a script he has no control over really "his movie"? I don't think so. His list of good movies reads: Waynes World, Austin Powers, Shrek. This movie doesn't even look good, and the critics seem to feel it sucks as well, total of 15% on RottenTomatoes.com. And what is with Jessica Alba, do all her roles have to suck? She went from being the hotty on Dark Angel, to these crappy roles in decent movies. Sin City, good movie, her role, forgettable, Honey? horrible, Fantastic Four? She didn't even fit the role, Bill? Awake? The Eye ...

Enough ranting, its quite clear that free =! good. Imagine had I accepted the movie and watched it, that would be almost two hours lost from my existence, not that much would have been accomplished in those two hours, but a bad movie could put you in a bad mood, which is worse then just being bored. I could have farmed 450g in Warcraft, finished the next 10 holes in Fairway Golf, completed a bunch of Soduku puzzles, watched the first 3-5 episodes of a new series, or stared blankly at the wall for a more enjoyable two hours.

Off from the subject, anyone trolling the streets for a bootleg of The Wanted, do not make the mistake, you must see this in the theatre. The first 10 minutes of the movie is completely over the top, watching it anything short of a big screen is to deny yourself some dark action packed pleasure. The action scenes are so over the top, it works perfectly, something plausible, but flawed would illicit picking and prodding of "that was stupid, it can't be done." When the action however is so over the top, that its already understood that there is no possibility for it to happen in real life, for any human being to commit those acts, then it doesn't matter how far past that boundary you go. Consider the boundary a black hole sucking in scenes that try to teeter on the plausible but fail to convince, the further from that black hole the less of pull, the more freedom to do as you please, and so they did.

If you knew how this scene ended you would understand just how far from that black hole they were.

If I was Russian ...

... I would get to watch the best Wanted bootleg out, since for some reason, they get a damn nice telesync and we get a shitty Chinese subbed cam, wtf. So here are two pics, English on top, Russian on bottom:


There is absolutely no comparison. Most bootlegs of good quality, dubbed R5's, are actually Russian, sometimes French, with English line audio attached. Telesyncs, for those who do not know, are camcorder recorded video with audio, often taken from a hearing impaired seat, synch'd to the video. So bootlegs can get pretty complex, oddly.

Speaking of flicks, I recently watched Wall-E, which almost had me ballin' tears at the end, yes like a true bitch. The movie from start to finish was just mind blowing, both in unintended message, visuals, and emotion. I have to say, and this is after moments of re-examination, this is a big claim after all, Wall-E is the best thing Pixar has dropped, since Pixar dropped. There was not a moment I thought the movie ran too long, felt the message wasn't on point, etc. For those that know me, know I am hyper critical after a movie finishes, even movies I liked. If you have not seen it yet, go watch Wall-E!



I also got to see Hulk recently, had a movie binge, and it was a lot better then expected. Not as mind blowing as Wall-E, but its an action movie. The fight scenes were great, Hulk rockin the shield was o so reminiscent of Warcraft orc's. How did it compare to the first? I keep getting asked that, but I had no interest in watching the first, it was not refined enough, graphically. Ed Norton is actually the only reason I bothered to watch this, because if anyone could pull it off, it was him, and he did. Good action scenes, nothing I was particularly against, however they hint at something that kind of disturbed me since it seemed as though they were going to massacre the history of a character in a future movie. Hopefully they do not, hopefully they do make that movie though.

That is your movie wrap up, cause I had nothing else to go on about.

The Wiki

I have been editing Wikipedia for some time, for those unaware, it is an encyclopedia "anyone can edit", though that is not always the case. My interest in Wikipedia started some time ago, I was just hopping around, and came across numerous arguments on the talk pages, each article has a talk page where people discuss the articles content. Needless to say, for those that know me, I love to argue, especially when I know I am right. So I jumped into Wikipedia finger typing mad, arguing, discussing, and warring. I use the term warring for two reasons. The first, on the wiki there exists a term, "revert warring", in which people revert back and forth between two different versions of the text, often fighting over the inclusion of just a single word. The other reason I use this term is because sides are often drawn based on ideology, discussions often take a civil, yet condescending tone, mastering the passive aggressive is an art form on Wikipedia. Anyway choosing a side is often what will determine your experience, do you want to be an underdog, squashed because of your views, an outsider, which often leaves no one liking you, or with the "in crowd."

I chose, well fell into, the underdog category. I wrote positively of socialism, a big no-no, added content to articles critical of the United States, and even defended people who do not believe global warming is a man driven issue. Oddly I did none of these because I believe them, not to say I do not. For instance, I am interested in socialism and communism, and wrote articles on many of the unsung heroes of that political persuasion, however do not believe that in socialism lies the key to good government. I believe global warming is man made, however defended poor Fred Singer who was being accused of believing in Martians because of a 60 year old letter to a magazine.

Needless to say I contributed much to Wikipedia, over 40 articles to be exact:

Isidro Fabela, Valentín Campa, Sergio Mendez Arceo, Revolutionary Committee of Puerto Rico, COCEI, Rodolfo Fierro, Narciso Bassols, Movimiento de Liberation National, Genaro Vázquez Rojas, Elvia Carrillo Puerto, Demetrio Vallejo, Arturo Lona Reyes, Adolfo Christlieb Ibarrola, Andrés Molina Enríquez, Miguel Caro-Quintero, Sonora Cartel, Los Negros, Edgar Valdez Villarreal, Sinaloa Cartel, Agustín Casasola, Heraclio Bernal, Luis Amezcua Contreras, Jesus Amezcua Contreras, Adán Amezcua Contreras, Colima Cartel, Juan José Esparragoza Moreno, Ernesto Fonseca Carrillo, Javier Barba-Hernandez, Héctor Luis Palma Salazar, Mariana Grajales Coello, Ponciano Arriaga, Don Pedro Jaramillo, Salvador Nava Martínez, Jose Antonio Llama, Mario Montoya Uribe, Zapata Swamp, Zapata Wren, BINCI, Harold Bedoya Pizarro, Colombian presidential election, 1998, Zapata Sparrow, Luis Hernando Gómez Bustamante, Polaris (poker bot), Juan Carlos Ramirez-Abadia, Carlos Alberto Rentería Mantilla

I was however banned. My crime was to edit an article, State terrorism and the United States, and also live in New York City. Perhaps that was too simple, the other piece of evidence was that both myself and this other person that was deemed disruptive, also edited a 9/11 article, and edit between 9AM and 10PM. No amount of common sense could have persuaded the horde, who opposed my views, that the fact we both live in NYC would automatically give us similar editing times, similar as in day time. In total I have created tons of accounts, all with the goal of writing articles and contributing content; JessicaRamos, JessicaRamos2, Grimlight, SevenOfDiamonds, SixOfDiamonds, N4GMiraflores and I Write Stuff. So 45 articles later I was determined to be a net negative, no matter how detailed my articles were, no matter how many I wrote, or, even that the people opposing my combined had not written that many articles in their 10 year combined editing time.

So what have I been doing? I still write ... the usefulness of the project is much more important then the ego's within it. Much like the United States, the corrupt politics do not change the fact that the nation, its founding, and the people within it are great.

*twitch* *twitch*

Ugh, my addiction may be rousing again. I have come to realize the depths of it, many moons ago I was stagnant, trapped in a cave, bartering until my blood shot eyes could not stay open any longer. I slept dreaming of deals I passed on, wondering if I had purchased that magnificent cloak would I have been able to turn around a profit. I was the first, by my estimations, to be so young, yet in my bags have such a treasure, a Froglok Bonecaster Robe. I could not wear it, not seasoned enough, pfft, but my hard times earned me such esteem for owning it.

There were more similar moments, hiding near the smelting pits just outside Minoc, waiting for some unsuspecting fool to bring his hard earned goods too near, *click* * click*, his ore gone in a flash, my bag now too heavy to move with all the now stolen ingots weighing me down.

So last weekend as the thunder erupted in maddening roars, I sat, and sat, and hours later realized I had completed a binge much greater then any I had been on previously, 20 thousand honor later, no small feat I tell you, I had finally had a rogue dressed correctly. No more cackles and sneers in the background, surely at my red pants and black chestguard. Lucky I can hide in plain site, and I surely did, often.

My escape is just not much of one lately ... those long hours are just such a waste, a good time killing mechanism, like some magical jewel that just absorbs the time away, no recollection of what happened, a period of time devoid of existence. At least I have my books, and more drive around Manhattan with D. Work, sleep, game, TV, read ... I need an outlet, gaming is not a hobby, its a time sink ... Perhaps because everyone who made it more then a time sink has moved on, Jedi, Lucky and MBeast in Ultima; Dennis, my father and uncle in Warcraft ... *scratches head* I really have no clue now that I think about it on why I played EQ so long ... Where ever some of my long gone, but surely not forgotten fellow travelers have ended up, in the real or virtual, I hope you all are enjoying your days, and hopefully those past memories.

Ode to Patapon

Patapon ... my dear Patapon ... is it you, or is it me? Are you just not what you were suppose to be, or am I ... am I just tragically unable to follow a rhythm? I finally got my hands on Patapon, It truly is a great experience when you load a game, and you are for lack of better words, God. There is something that comes over a person in that role, in knowing whatever beings you will be leading, pushing around or mercilessly destroying, will still bow to you as God. These Patapon worship me, yet they are pretty picky about when they will. Do I look up at the sky and announce to God that I will only obey if he can hit XXOX in a decent rhythm? I do not. These Patapon however require something more then an uncoordinated Lord such as myself can offer.

While I enjoyed the art style, the theme, the Patapon little eye people, and the fact they would slaughter and hunt, I just could not get them to fight as well as needed. I got to about the second level, and while I was not bad at the game, I just felt like I would never get better. It was an odd feeling since I personally can't dance, it was an inner feeling for sure, something deep that said to me, you have no chance ofo ever leading these little eye balls like they need. It was an unusual moment coming to grips with the realization that, while I wanted to help them, I could not. Perhaps it is like watching your over weight friend hang off the ledge of a cliff reaching out for you, but you, knowing you never lifted over 20 pounds before, know you can not help him at all. Those poor little Patapon.

Perhaps it was not all me however. They decided to raid a fort while it was raining, and I just could not hear their chants over the torrential downfall. When they went into a frenzy, ready to lay waste to anything in their path, I could not time my mighty drum beats to start just right at the end of their war cries. Perhaps if things were quieter, perhaps if they did not yell, perhaps if it did not rain, but what would Patapon be without their cries and chants?

Patapon is one of the most fun titles I have ever sucked at.

Halo Laser Tag

A friend of mine dropped me a link to ThinkGeek featuring their Halo laser tag Covenant rifle, Covenant pistol, and each coming with a shield generator. Beyond the remarkable similarity to the actual in game graphics, the mechanics of the game operate in the same fashion. The shield generator allows you to take 6 shots before they are depleted fully and a hit registers. Just as in the remarkable FPS, the shields will slowly regenerate, allowing for a fast paced game of shoot'em up. The two guns even operate in the same fashion as their Halo counterparts. The plasma rifle, when used to fire to quickly, will simulate overheating and the sides will actually eject to cool the device, a great feature minus the third degree burns. The pistol has to be reloaded after a set number of shots and all guns feature the sounds and effects you remember from the game itself. The pistol comes in at $79.99 and the rifle at $129.99.

Xbox360 - The Return!!!

For those of you that know me, you know I had an Xbox 360 when they first came out. I payed quite a bit to get one a few days before the official release, and shortly after sold it. What was suppose to be my friends and myself purchasing 360's and proceeding to pwn the Xbox Live community, ended up being me by myself playing Call of Duty (the original one). With a little prodding however my friend Dennis has convinced me to possibly purchase another 360. I have been looking at some games, Call of Duty 4 (his idea), Frontlines: Fuel of War and Rainbow Six: Vegas 2 (again his).

Frontlines caught my attention the most since its more of a large scale combat, up to 50 players total on the Xbox 360. The game also features a unique system of play, whereby the "front line" of the battle is extended as you capture important points. There is also unique weapon aspects, drones, air bombs, etc. that seems like they will put a nice twist on the battles. The bad side is the game seems to be too fast paced, way to "run and gun", not enough tactical shooting.

Call of Duty 4, as opposed to Frontlines, seemed like a pretty nice blend of game play. Perhaps Dennis was right, I am sure he will appreciate the acknowledgment. I think if anything that will be the title I pick up when I do get my 360, if I get my 360. After viewing vids of people playing on Youtube, my biggest enjoyment may come from the remote charges. Lots of vids of people planting them on cars, then creating massive explosions, taking out the car, and everyone nearby.

Time will tell what wins out, or if I even get the 360.

Back!

I know I was MIA for a bit, but I have returned thanks to so much going on and such great gadgets and toys floating around these days. I have been attempting to pursue a hobby, so I have been exposed to some of the better toys, games and gadgets around to find something to do in my spare time. We should have some good stuff coming soon for everyone.

ThePirateBay & Tele2

Tele2, the Swedish ISP previously ordered to cut off its subscribers access to ThePirateBay website, has decided to investigate if they should fight back. While it is obvious they should, it is interesting for them to come to these terms on their own. What people have begun to expect, or at least what I have come to expect, is the power of the IFPI, MPAA, RIAA, etc. brings all to their knees. There seems to be something horribly scary regarding a tons of lawyers supporting some of the richest folks in the world, record execs and artists. Tele2 has decided to meet with other telecommunication companies and discuss the concept of them being used as fences to stop peoples right to free speech.

Attacking ThePirateBay will do no good in the long run when it comes to stopping piracy, they are not the only site on the net hosting this information, which in itself is not pirated content. What compounds the issue, is the fact that attacking the head does not cut off the source, it simply disperses the clients onto the rest of the sites. Instead of having one location to deal with, possibly negotiate with, you are left with 10 sites each with a millions users. Did taking down Napster stop the flood of masses to P2P? Obviously not.

So how long can the lawyers for recording artists go on alienating their clients? As if the person you sue will ever purchase a CD ever again, as if each story of destroying a person financially doesn't drive away a once loyal customer. Everyone says it, so I hate to write it ... perhaps its time music got better, perhaps its time the music industry realized you cannot put an end to the sharing of music, and certainly not to piracy.

Dragging anchor destroys net!

Well maybe not that dramatic, however the story being pitched is a dragging anchor has managed to knock out most of the Middle East. Most recently another, possibly the same?, dragging anchor knocked most of Iran off the internet. This is now the 5th trans-Atlantic cable to be severed. Normally lines are cut through natural disasters, such as the major earthquakes like those that hit the Philippines. So what are the odds that what normally takes an earthquake has accidentally been accomplished by a dragging anchor, and most importantly, why are such important lines not better protected?

It later came to light the lines were not cut by a dragging anchor, so who, or what is knocking the lines out?

Previous Stories:
Third line cut (MarketWatch)
Fourth line severed (ArabianBusiness)
Fifth line down (KhaleejTimes)

O, my lonely PSP

Some time ago I managed to get my PSP modded with a wonderful trick involving Grand Theft Auto. The PSP later died, I dropped it quite a few times out of my jacket pocket, and new PSP was purchased, thanks to my Adrienne. The new PSP was later modded and looking back I realize something, I have only had 3 real games on the device: Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of The Lions, Yu-Gi-Oh: Tag Force 2, and my beloved Soduku. So where are the major titles if you are not a GTA fan? I recently helped a friend get his system modded as well, and since then he has been struggling to even find a title worth the time.

On the horizon, I want to give the new FF title, Crisis Core, a try. There is the strangely addictive Patapon which should be released later this month, and ... I guess that is it. So where are all the titles, with access to both Japanese and US games, I would have thought stumbling onto a worthwhile title would be easy. I tried Patapon, the Japanese release, and could not understand what was going on, not enough to enjoy the game at least, however plenty to make me realize I have to purchase it, if not to make sure they continue to make such crazy, addictive, whacked out titles.
What is Patapon? Well I don't really know. You play as a little thing that looks like an eye with legs, like all cute things, what makes them cool is they are violent, its a war title. The little eyes battle giant T-Rex's, storm fortresses and practice the Voodoo arts, now how cool is that? To make it more interesting you issue commands to your side scrolling minions by hitting one of the 4 buttons on the PSP, each representing a sound, Pata - Pon - Chaka - Don. The patterns, like war drums, tell the little eye monsters how to attack and what to do. O so very addictive; my marauding, Voodoo ritual casting, tribal warfare waging, tiny eyes will rule the lands!

So what is on my PSP right now anyway? Tom Clancy's Op Center: Balance of War. Yes a book! A great coder released an application called Bookr that allows you to read e-books on the PSP. Since I grabbed some Clancy titles, I haven't even loaded Yu-Gi-Oh, seems my thrill of deck building has dwindled while I wait for the next title and more cards.

Armageddon Empires

My monthly Games for Windows magazine arrives, squished as normal into the mailbox, I hate the post office! They had a an interesting few pages dedicated to a game, Armageddon Empires (AE), by the indie studio Cryptic Comet. I checked out the demo, about 64MB total download. The game was interesting, a mix of CCG elements in a turn based strategy war game. At this point I absolutely sucked at the title, lost my first two games, didn't read the manual, but I seen the potential if I could get the game mechanics down, more on that later.

My turn based strategy addiction goes back to Nobunaga's Ambition, a SNES title I would play for hours on end. I always felt there was something more competitive when you have more time to think and plan, like chess, given time, you will see more angles of attack. The CCG addiction comes from my early years in High School and the tons of money I dropped on Magic the Gathering cards, of which I dominated the local crew of players. They may say otherwise, but we all know the truth, right?

The problem so far for me has been cards, I am having trouble finding interesting combinations, which is typically what keeps me interested in CCG games. I have Yu-Gi-Oh titles for my DS, my PSP, and had them for my PC for sometime, MtG games for the desktop and a mountain of physical cards. In MtG I managed to win matches throwing my largest creatures at my opponent, turn a bunch of tiny elves into a behemoth and smash the front lines. AE unfortunately does not offer such creative options, or perhaps I am just not seeing them.

The other point I am a bit irked over is the apparent lack of multiplayer ... you pay for what you get right? I am just confused, I could have sworn, after reading the January edition of Games for Windows, that AE supported multiplayer? Was I mislead or did I just not read well enough. I have posted a screenshot of the first page of what I read through. Tom and Bruce, who are reviewing the game, pick separate teams, they report what happened during their turn, however the turns are never the same, so it seems to alternate as if they were playing each other. Only in the end are you given a glimpse they may not have been playing each other, and that is they both won, with different point scores ... Without fully knowing the game mechanics, should I have known it wasn't possible, perhaps they both mercilessly beat the AI? Perhaps they both accomplished a set goal, just at different points in time?

Truth? In all honesty, I do not have anyone I would have played multiplayer against, however the review that pulled me toward the game in the first place, now seems like it was a tad bit misleading. The section of the article is after all "Tom vs. Bruce: Two gamers enter, One gamer wins" If that does not sound like they are playing each other, I do not know what does.

All in all however the game is great and the company, who obviously didn't write the review should not be faulted for Tom and Bruce not being clear. I have even read on the web that a free expansion should be coming soon to those paid for the game. It is to include 10 new cards, not much there, however they focus on making the independent units in the field, more dangerous, currently they are a bit stagnant, waiting to be pounced on by my marauding Thrall hordes. Just as an extended sell point, the full title is only 70MB, making it very portable to bring to friends, play on laptops, etc.