tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81801665522056354372024-03-13T21:28:24.834-07:00Catholic GamerGaming from a Catholic perspectiveModestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comBlogger69125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-27740293448859170502017-03-09T08:29:00.001-08:002017-03-09T08:29:13.911-08:00Game Thoughts: Never Forget MeRecently I found that a game I had played by WinterWolf Studios, received a sequel.<b> Always Remember Me</b> was a sweet stat building visual novel where the main character Amy and her bae get into a motorcycle accident. This should have ended in death but instead ends up with Amy having light injuries and the bf with amnesia. Yes...I know...but how it plays out you decided to either stay with your man in hopes he remembers or take advantage of this lapse in memory to start anew. (I make it sound terrible.)<br />
<br />
So I'm talking quite a bit on the original game, so what about this sequel thing? WELL...<br />
<br />
<b>Never Forget Me</b> is the epilogue in a way dealing with Amy's life with her chosen man AFTER the events of the first game. (The good endings). So it actually deals with married life.<br />
<br />
Yes...you read right. A VN about married life! Whaaaaa?<br />
<br />
In the beginning you choose which epilogue you want to play through and experience the various endings it could have.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Features</b><br />
The game is a stat building game, but the stat building is optional. (Required to get some endings).<br />
Similiar to the last game it gives you a series of 2 choices in a scene for you to play out.<br />
<br />
<b>Virtues</b><br />
Does not over romanticize relationships<br />
Deals with marriage AND KIDS<br />
Handles mature topics gracefully<br />
<br />
<b>Vices</b><br />
Uses the same character art from the first game but has way cool art for the title page.<br />
The stat building feels like fluff<br />
Doesn't make sense unless you've played the first game (Not a super negative but it's there)<br />
<br />
<b>Final Thoughts</b><br />
The game is mature in that it deals with infidelity, child abuse, abuse, divorce, and taxes. That is to say that it does go through story points that go through some of the lows of relationships. But many things are good. It may not mean as much to a player if they haven't played the first game.<br />
However, I can recommend it so long as you are aware of what you might be getting yourself into. (Honestly one of the storylines hits it a bit close to home for me and makes me uncomfortable.)<br />
<br />
The game is available on the <a href="http://www.winterwolves.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Winter Wolves website</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-6764067430581570682017-02-08T07:35:00.002-08:002017-02-08T07:35:46.730-08:00Game Thoughts: Ace Attorney: Spirit of Justice<br />
I love the Ace Attorney series. Even if its got so many flaws and <a href="http://www.awkwardzombie.com/index.php?page=0&comic=120913" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hilarity when it comes to localization</a>. Self-aware, pop-culture references, and delicious puns...it holds a dear part in my gamer heart.<br />
<br />
So recently the newest installment for the series has come through to the States: Spirit of Justice. With a round of familiar faces coming back and great new ones.<br />
<br />
Synopsis:<br />
This time 'round, we go through trials dealing with corrupt judicial systems, in foreign lands where defense lawyers are outlawed. The system instead relies on seances where the last moments of a victim are replayed for the court. We follow trials of Phoenix Wright taking a trip to Kurain to visit Maya Fey, Apollo Justice taking care of the office back in the "<a href="http://www.awkwardzombie.com/index.php?page=0&comic=120913" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">USA</a>", and Athena Sykes helping along.<br />
<br />
Virtues:<br />
Mixes a lot of the old gameplay from previous titles.<br />
Excellent characterization and engaging storyline<br />
Delicious puns<br />
<br />
Vices:<br />
They do show murder scenes so there is that.<br />
...contortionist dude Maya...*shudder*...<br />
Shows religious folks as pretentious or ignorant...or plain stubborn. Granted it is a hokey religion. <br />
<br />
Conclusion:<br />
I'm a bit biased toward these titles but for good reason. While the justice system is terribly flawed (and illegal) in the games, I'm ignorant enough of actual law to enjoy them. This one gets approval from me. Check it out if you so desire.Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-3547999242524132282016-08-29T14:57:00.005-07:002016-08-29T14:57:51.629-07:00Being a HeroAfter reading a lot of panicked news about the decline of our culture and wide-spread corruption, it feels like all one can do is stand by and watch. But we don't want to watch idly by. We want to DO, to ACT on something. And that got me thinking about Captain America...more accurately Steve Rogers.<br />
<br />
I'm only familiar with the recent movie so that is what I'll be referencing. One of the reasons this was one of my favorite movies is Steve's single-minded devotion. It was not enough to sit and watch along the sides or support the war efforts indirectly. He wanted to act, to participate, to DO something. However, he could not participate in the normal way.<br />
<br />
So many times, an issue will crop up that makes me feel like I want nothing more than to take up arms and march against the injustice. However, in our world there won't be just one thing, it'll be 20,000. I want to give myself to all these issues. I want to right all these injustices. But I'm not Captain America, I'm Steve Rogers, blocked at every point of entry.<br />
<br />
I've often reminded myself that there should be one main passion in my life and that is what my energy should be spent doing. It's just so hard to choose, especially with all the noise that surrounds us. Protest this! Petition against that! March with us! Write to your representatives! Fight the injustice! It's nearly impossible to think with all the shouts for attention.<br />
<br />
At the same time, the Church calls us to uphold Social Justice. The question is how do you answer the call? <br />
<br />
This is when I look to St. Terese of Lisieux's story. There is the physical world where we see a lot of injustice, evil, and destruction. There is also the unseen side of things where battle rages on. The Little Way to Christ is still a way. That is the most important thing.<br />
<br />
Stewardship is what it's known as in the Church. Our Time, Talent and Treasure are what we can give. I'm sure it has come up in a homily or two in your parish. It usually aligns with the ministry fairs where every ministry is recruiting for new members.<br />
<br />
This past weekend, I went to my parish's ministry fair. I officially joined the parish a few months ago although I've been attending masses there for a year. (It's close to my work and after night shift, I could catch the 7:30 a.m. mass on my way home.) It's been one of my "recovery steps" to get involved with a parish community again. AND luckily this parish has a ministry for those that struggle with life's difficulties.<br />
<br />
I don't want to bite off more than I can chew because I have a lot of hobbies I love to neglect. For now, I've signed up to join the choir, I've been part of the Prayer Warrior team (seriously an easy ministry. They email intentions and you pray for them. I love it. It also give me a good picture of how folks in the parish are doing in life. Looks like it's not all a walk in the park.). I also want to join the sewing ministry that makes prayer blankets. Because it fits with my hobby of sewing!<br />
<br />
For starters, Church ministries are a great place to start on your walk to hero-dom. (Which may lead to martyrdom.)<br />
<br />
In anycase, Thank Jesus for everything. He likes to work through us to help the least of his people.<br />
(Which is why I help kitties get adopted at the pet store on Mondays. <3 I know kitties aren't people! That's more of a make me happy volunteering. Although I still have to take time out to do it.)<br />
<br />Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-82026860770740601982016-07-18T09:30:00.000-07:002016-12-16T11:33:12.051-08:00Game Thoughts: Ozmafia!So I wasted my whole weekend going through all the endings for this game. I was turned around so many times.<br />
Heads up, this will not be a spoiler free review.<br />
<br />
So TL;DR: It's a mature game. Handle with care. Can't fully recommend. Bag of D*cks. <---Something I would say a LOT during my playthroughs.<br />
<br />
So Ozmafia was released way back in 2013 by Poni-Pachet Sy. It was only made available on Steam this year I guess which is where I found it.<br />
<br />
Synopsis:<br />
You play the role of the amnesiac "Fuka" (or whatever you name her) as she blunders through a town full of characters from classic (and not so classic) fairy tales. (Reminds me of Fables in that regard). Anyway, the town is run by several mafia families based on various fairy tales and literary figures. Fuka has to decide what to do with the life she has and figure out who the heck she is.<br />
<br />
Let me go right into the virtues and vices.<br />
<br />
Virtues:<br />
Some paths end in marriage. Yay.<br />
Going through life with a positive attitude<br />
Generosity?<br />
You can be a nun! :)<br />
Hilarious anime situations and dialog. This game made me laugh so much.<br />
End of Life ethics<br />
<br />
Vices...vices as far as the eye can see:<br />
Murder<br />
Organized crime<br />
prostitution<br />
pre-marital sex<br />
manipulation<br />
Corrupt clergy <--This made me so sad on many levels. Even though CLEARLY not Catholic. <br />
General cheapening of life<br />
Adultry/Infidelity<br />
<br />
Dang, right? What's good about this game?! Granted, taking a lot of these things out of context can seem unfair. Because you can definitely have ALL these things and an amazing, worthwhile story. (Like Crime and Punishment which also has most of these things I list in the vice list.)<br />
<br />
There are lots of things I like about the game too. Mostly it's art and the setting appeal to me. I'm a big fan of the Fables comic series which I see some similarities with. The music was charming but I really felt the art style (a soft watercolor) was a pretty stark contrast to the action in the game. Including straight up murdering folks and threats of gun violence. It's like a beatrix potter illustration gone dark.<br />
<br />
Anyway, now let's get to the spoilery bits. If you don't want spoilers stop reading here.<br />
<br />
<br />
The real premise of the game...<br />
Dorothy Gale at the end of her journey does not go home but becomes a "good witch" instead. This requires her (for some reason) to live alone and never use magic on herself. She grants the wishes of her former travel companions to become human and creates a town for them including characters from fairy tales. (...which includes Oscar Wilde's characters. WHAT WAS THIS LITTLE GIRL READING!???) However, she ends up actually making a wish for herself which splits her into 3 parts: the tower, her magic and her hopes and dreams to grow up and fall in love. (Because the witch doesn't age older than a little kid.)<br />
<br />
It took me days to get through all the endings to get to this reveal. One of my biggest frustrations was that "Fuka" NEVER gets her memories back or really tries to retrieve them in any of the romance paths. I tried every one. It gets mentioned but never resolved. It drove me CRAZY. So...good on you game making me replay ALL the things to see if they answered anything.<br />
<br />
Part of the fun was trying to figure out each characters fairy tale counterpart. I was really bad when I first started and just started labeling people things. After playing the whole thing, my first guesses were WAY off. Also, my whole mistake of calling it OZMA-fia instead of Oz-Mafia. >_> Look, Ozma was a character in the books. I thought that was the play. Not being godfathered into mafia crime. -_- It took a long time for the lore to actually settle in. My first play through nothing was answered and I was floundering trying to make sense of anything except one character. Why don't they die when riddled with bullets? Why do the general population die? They BRAND everyone like cows? What even? I don't? Uggggggh!<br />
<br />
It also had a mechanic with the Oz Trio where once you started "dating" one of them officially, the character with the 2nd highest affection points would try to interfere. You could switch characters. >_> For some reason this usually means as soon as you jump ship to the other ship you sleep with them...in the biblical sense. (Glen...everything cool she just said...you ruined it!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvIn2CwDdSBH_yYHKvBKBCv9_0YqQuGUUQEopD5iruoVUPZAuRQDvO2puozjOuSGGJJBstjStHAXLtBjV_M2Y7NcvXmE0pAN2lFFrZ_bjN9nEDZXtaoOzF2j9ishDLrmliA5nP2qJtX8P/s1600/giphy+%252829%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfvIn2CwDdSBH_yYHKvBKBCv9_0YqQuGUUQEopD5iruoVUPZAuRQDvO2puozjOuSGGJJBstjStHAXLtBjV_M2Y7NcvXmE0pAN2lFFrZ_bjN9nEDZXtaoOzF2j9ishDLrmliA5nP2qJtX8P/s320/giphy+%252829%2529.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
First Play Through: Axel<br />
Took me far too long to realize he was the Tin Woodsman. ...I am an idiot.<br />
I really enjoyed this character as he was considerate, restrained, honest and an awkward turtle. Didn't get the "good" ending but reminded me of myself. What is sad? What is love? Can not compute.<br />
The most innocent character of the Oz three. Usually. (As I said if you jump ship from anyone you "break his factory seal" <---Dammit Kyrie! Why is this so hilarious to me?)<br />
<br />
Second Play through: Kyrie...the bag of D*cks.<br />
One...unfortunate name...really distracting when I go to Mass and think of this arse instead of Lord have Mercy, Kyrie Elison. This guy...I didn't like him...he was pretty tragic...and you end up marrying him in one ending. -_- I was so worried that this guy would be like Toma. He's manipulative and openly cruel. I couldn't trust him farther than I could throw. So not far. Oddly enough, his story is probably one of the more interesting ones. I personally liked the first ending I got where he loses his brains. ^_^ Seriously though...he's kind of a d*ckbag.<br />
<br />
Third play through: Caramia<br />
Again...unfortunate name...I kept thinking of Gomez and Morticia.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRiCdBQVUFShd3-jxlBwSthPREbkPy0EqK_c8dS1udOlrJGLH4yU3ZZn-erVhe90ClOvAqhCpyBF9wlgL5oUKUtLn39q5gwH7_t5u9BdzyF55wuKCLJmFDfvAPBG_JUCUIothLQqTBYu7/s1600/giphy+%252812%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidRiCdBQVUFShd3-jxlBwSthPREbkPy0EqK_c8dS1udOlrJGLH4yU3ZZn-erVhe90ClOvAqhCpyBF9wlgL5oUKUtLn39q5gwH7_t5u9BdzyF55wuKCLJmFDfvAPBG_JUCUIothLQqTBYu7/s320/giphy+%252812%2529.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
It's how it's said in my head EVERY TIME. Too sensual! His story was kind of vanilla if you ask me. It wasn't bad. I really enjoyed his storyline and character. He also treats the main character the best of all three in my opinion. But some endings are a bit on the eck...side. True ending ends in mawwige. So yay. He can cook too...always go for the guy who can cook! (Or will eat your crappy cooking. Either is good.)<br />
<br />
Everyone Else...<br />
Caesar: I was hoping this route would finally answer my burning questions about her past. NOPE. Disappointment. But hey...he stopped threatening to kill me? (Seriously, falling for your potential killer. What is wrong with this place?)<br />
<br />
Scarlet: Innocent and sweet, one of the better ones. Optimism wins...and he cooks. Love a guy that can cook.<br />
<br />
Pashet: Not a homosexual relationship like I originally assumed because ANIME. Fantastic storyline and I love her awkward relations with Axel. I ship them.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHPDacsI5g5Kov1xI37-JwgRo2zk9QDriNILVo9TQ_RjSuPNvvD4PnHnf6d4eJx-QfF_bUvBdfXlPBaFj-ijHfm75gqVyAMsMRZnH6UBuRGr64aFLiP4Jfa3EydFs4MmuROjIPgzd2U2W/s1600/ishipit.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHPDacsI5g5Kov1xI37-JwgRo2zk9QDriNILVo9TQ_RjSuPNvvD4PnHnf6d4eJx-QfF_bUvBdfXlPBaFj-ijHfm75gqVyAMsMRZnH6UBuRGr64aFLiP4Jfa3EydFs4MmuROjIPgzd2U2W/s1600/ishipit.gif" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Robin Hood: I felt so unclean. >_> Once you find out he's a freakin' married man! But mix in Dr. Freeze and Frankenstien and yeah...it gets weird. I was so uncomfortable with this route. It was so wrong on so many levels. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Brothel: One...the route is called BROTHEL ROUTE. You know nothing good can come of this. Guess what...NOTHING GOOD COMES OF THIS! This one made me feel the uncleanest. I didn't read most of it. I clicked through so much. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2yYL_BXjSDKG3kbRvY7yy0hqoW7GKp8BDFbp65x4FesiYGOXQ30fo9vnAt5AZOBuNnx_VfhQfcxReLRC4lH67-d3Ruyp7slpFfELxmwuNpEyvnFMb51x0J2N7lUqVP0MZrJwzAbqjUyU-/s1600/nope.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2yYL_BXjSDKG3kbRvY7yy0hqoW7GKp8BDFbp65x4FesiYGOXQ30fo9vnAt5AZOBuNnx_VfhQfcxReLRC4lH67-d3Ruyp7slpFfELxmwuNpEyvnFMb51x0J2N7lUqVP0MZrJwzAbqjUyU-/s320/nope.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Granted, the ending where you take over the brothel was weirdly satisfying. Probably because it throws Kyrie for a loop. Did I mention I don't like that guy? Yeah I REAAAALLY don't like Dorian Gray. Kyrie is cakewalk to that guy. He's the real bag of D*cks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Soh: Remember what I said about guys who cook. YES. Soh was another good one. Especially after the trauma that was the Brothel route. He's one of the few who tries to take you OUT of town away from madness. But his real identity isn't revealed until the Epilogue. Turns out...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He's the worst kind of. All this b.s. is his plan. It's terrible. Soh how could you play with my heart like that!?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hamlien: I almost forgot about the Pied Piper. This one you can become a nun because he's a schizophrenic criminal. (Spoiler: It's Soh's fault. ;__;) It wasn't a super interesting storyline. It comes up if you don't settle for someone else's route. Probably because he appears as the villain in every other route, it unfairly paints him into a corner. It's also a super short route so not a lot happens. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Ending...everyone starts killing each other. Even the young lady...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8Ff_jdBXENjtc9eSAN162KsUKi3mHXEVubDv1aP-PyxCsC1xlUyYytdb89IbwlPpLcLBItNEVMTHOOVtz6Y0pavn5tU2QgBxvwaUiJDELctddvopSMBQh4ERfLm6WsjWJJKyYnkssZJG/s1600/giphy+%252837%2529.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy8Ff_jdBXENjtc9eSAN162KsUKi3mHXEVubDv1aP-PyxCsC1xlUyYytdb89IbwlPpLcLBItNEVMTHOOVtz6Y0pavn5tU2QgBxvwaUiJDELctddvopSMBQh4ERfLm6WsjWJJKyYnkssZJG/s320/giphy+%252837%2529.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My feels after playing this game. It's good in that it played with my expectations, flipped all the tables and stuck with me. But also so much yuck happens. Not that stories should exclude this stuff but still...so much Yuck. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU DOROTHY GALE??!?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxL4FFtbj-r8OIq2PEBRBPB9rsx6iO_H5MPzTZrjQvQ0zMyrxrLgcMcORvOyLkGrBNl5r4W_cYMb2djWDf0wOCkAkrMn3q3sGmGLyWN6-rCvi_Aqzg9h33brqI2Tc3WJ-57nc2JCdj4FS/s1600/cantevensnow.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFxL4FFtbj-r8OIq2PEBRBPB9rsx6iO_H5MPzTZrjQvQ0zMyrxrLgcMcORvOyLkGrBNl5r4W_cYMb2djWDf0wOCkAkrMn3q3sGmGLyWN6-rCvi_Aqzg9h33brqI2Tc3WJ-57nc2JCdj4FS/s320/cantevensnow.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Final words, you have to be built of pretty solid stuff to get through this game on the moral front. It's not promoting a lot of good stuff. BUT it's entertaining as all get out. I weirdly enjoyed most of it. That said, can't say I would recommend it highly for the gif reasons above. However, mature audiences can enjoy it. It is a Will weakening one though. So maybe Pokemon Go...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYvuPce3ik9_RpS0n_kiKJxQV3sUKHV4xTDR9kZFXJV9dtL9unWftyGeiFbiLnZU4jSOd7nmpmHjLGCxC_uNrpXD4YHJtmRn1IDrdGV88ldwVbGCAyyjlzppuxJt7uBthftqjLDYyZTCs/s1600/bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIYvuPce3ik9_RpS0n_kiKJxQV3sUKHV4xTDR9kZFXJV9dtL9unWftyGeiFbiLnZU4jSOd7nmpmHjLGCxC_uNrpXD4YHJtmRn1IDrdGV88ldwVbGCAyyjlzppuxJt7uBthftqjLDYyZTCs/s320/bird.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-8655986231024490822016-07-15T09:00:00.000-07:002016-07-15T09:00:12.549-07:00Game Thoughts: Visual NovelsI haven't really been playing anything super new. I survived the Summer Steam Sale so far.<br />
<br />
I got Banner Saga 2...which ends on yet another cliffhanger! (You're killing me guys!)<br />
<br />
I've spent a lot of time playing Visual Novels I've found on Steam and places. I record my playthroughs with my atrocious voice acting. Not available publicly...they're pretty bad. I may start doing some visual novel reviews though. (I say these things but don't expect a follow through.)<br />
<br />
Most of these VNs have been out for a few years so there are guides and walk-throughs already. <br />
<br />
I've noticed lots of cultural differences between VNs made in Asian countries vs Western made games. And lots of disturbances between them too. Here are my top 5 disturbing differences:<br />
<br />
The games I'm factoring in are: Dandelion, Nameless, OzMafia!, Blood Code, Amnesia<br />
Western Games: Backstage Pass, RE:Alistair, Nicole, Remember Me, Seduce Me<br />
<br />
1. Abuse. So much physical and psychological abuse! And in many it gets quite disturbing. It can be as minor as an overly jealous boyfriend to a straight up psychopath. The worst part is that the main female character will end up with them in some kind of "good ending". NO! don't do it! It breaks my heart.<br />
<br />
2. Rape. While there are no explicit scenes drawn out the description is enough to trigger me. Look, if you don't have consent and the girl has NO idea what you're talking about, it's rape. This ties into the controlling nature of many characters I run across. But this one makes me so sad.<br />
<br />
3. Passive Women. In a majority of the games, the female character is a naive, passive, polite, and pure maiden. A perfect recipe for a victim. I know this stems from a cultural difference but it still frustrates me. I love it when the girl talks back with some sass or backbone for herself. Oh and add amnesia/lost memories. It works in a sense that it makes the character carte blanche for you to fill in. But she has a personality sort of.<br />
<br />
4. Cohabitation. It makes sense in a game design perspective, but it's SO dangerous. Usually there are about 5 men and they all live in the same place.<br />
<br />
5. Murdering Fangirls. I don't usually see this phenomenon in Western games where one of the male characters will have a literal fanclub. And they will straight up murder your sorry bum if you get too close to their bae. Also murder. So many of these somehow ended up with murder. <br />
<br />
So why do I still play? Usually the characters outside the main girl are interesting and take you on a fun little journey. And pretty art. I'm a visual artist and love looking at pretty things. And something that's usually a bit better in Asian games is the art and visual design. Currently I'm going through OzMafia and it's watercolor pallete is gorgeous although a weird mix for the setting where there's mafia violence. (And guns...very rare in a game like this. Makes me a bit happy being a resident of Texas.)<br />
<br />
However, I prefer the protagonists, stories and situations in Western Style games. Usually the main character has an active personality and sticks up for herself.<br />
<br />
Again, I fully realize it just MAY be the collection of games that I've played or watched Let's Plays for, but seriously. These cultural difference make for something quite disturbing.<br />
And I feel slightly guilty for enjoying them like trashy romance novels, but I'm usually just yelling at my screen "NOPE! Don't do it!"Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-10660588460729397272016-04-14T01:33:00.001-07:002016-12-16T11:33:36.911-08:00Game Thoughts: Fire Emblem: FatesSo for Easter I got myself the game bundle for Fire Emblem Fates so I could play both storylines - Birthright and Conquest. One was advertised as being more difficult and focused on strategy, so I figured I might get frustrated with that storyline, but no...if you play both in Casual mode it's no biggy.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Synopsis</h4>
<br />
The avatar (Corrin) is royalty captured from their home country at a young age and raised with "the enemy" with the conflict growing between the countries Hoshido (clearly Japanese influenced) and Nohr (medieval Europe inspired). Once you find out your true heritage you must decide who you will support: the land of your birth or the family who raised you? Then work for peace and all that nonsense.<br />
<h4>
<br />Features</h4>
The game decided to split the story into two games and you have to buy both to get the whole story, which is lame if you are more story-motivated to play the game. There's also a 3rd game that's supposed to clarify a few things "Revelation".<br />
<br />
There is DLC and amiibo stuff and nonesense.<br />
<br />
Weapons no longer have a limited number of uses.<br />
<br />
The partner, marriage, children system is back. They added bonding time with avatar's chosen spouse. Which just means more work for me...uggggh.<br />
<h4>
<br />Pros</h4>
Again the marriage with children thing I have to highlight that here.<br />
Lovely art and music<br />
Some returning characters for nostalgia.<br />
Easier gameplay compared to Awakening, a lot more accessible.<br />
Empowered female roles.<br />
A huge cast of interesting characters<br />
Lots of pro-family goodness.<br />
<h4>
<br />Cons</h4>
Very sexualized, revealing armor and body-types for female characters<br />
Includes a gay marriage (male in conquest, female in birthright)<br />
A somewhat convoluted timeline, really not sure who was the parent of who, but there is time travel which ruins everything.<br />
Almost an overload of characters.<br />
Ritual suicide (samurai story so...it's expected.)<br />
Personally the cutesie "bonding time" with your spouse is weird to me. Are we having sex? Is that what we're doing? I can't tell! I'm glad I can't tell, but seriously weird and oddly uncomfortable, but I'm uncomfortable with any affection from game characters anyway. I'll have to write about it later or something.<br />
Suggested Incest? I think you can "marry" your blood siblings. Unless there's a story point that means you're not related to EITHER family. (Looking through walkthrough: spoiler not blood related but still very very very weird.)<br />
<br />
<h4>
<br />Conclusion</h4>
I think this iteration can be passed over. The gameplay is similar to the last one but it's not super great. The fact you have to buy two games is rough. Personally, I like the Conquest storyline better. (Because personally, I'd feel more loyalty to the people I grew up with.) However, Awakening was a better experience for me.<br />
<br />
<br />Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-13301523875533645162016-03-31T23:18:00.000-07:002016-03-31T23:18:16.253-07:00Easter, Remakes, and New GamesHappy Easter! I'm back from my lovely vacation with my family. Had a great time meeting my nephew. I love him so.<br />
<br />
So I've dusted off my gamecube after 4 years of not turning it on. The HD remake of Twilight Princess got me feeling nostalgic. I don't have an HD tv...I don't really see much of a difference between SD and HD because of my vision issues. But I also got really nostalgic and part way through my twilight princess, I started up ocarina of time and played that.<br />
<br />
That game is real hard on me sometimes. I was swearing a LOT in frustration. (I'm bad about that. Mostly F-bombs. After falling off a ledge for like the millionth time.)<br />
In comparison, TP is so much easier. :) It was the game that got me back into gaming so it holds a special place in my memories. The beginning is always my favorite part.<br />
<br />
I want to play Majora's Mask again too. But I'm tempted play it on my 3ds, but I won't. I own the game already. I don't like to buy remakes if I have the console.<br />
<br />
I've also been playing Fire Emblem: Fates. It's...interesting so far. Not sure if I like it as much as Awakening, but I am glad weapons don't keep breaking. Currently playing the Conquest storyline. I'll make a game thoughts on it later.<br />
<br />
So that's what's been on my plate. Nostalgia, a good easter holiday...oh and a job promotion.Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-26912002352549710462016-03-20T04:58:00.001-07:002016-03-20T05:00:50.993-07:00Holy Week 2016!!We are nearing the end of Lent. I'm looking forward to ruining my diet again. LOL.<br />
Seriously, it's been a good season of fasting. Not perfect but good.<br />
<br />
So let me break down and get a little more personal than I usually do on blog. Because internet...there is no such thing as privacy.<br />
<br />
This year has been a year of great blessings for me. I have a job and just got a promotion in the company. No longer do I work the awesome night shift, but once again return to the world of 9 -5 and two day weekends. Still poor but making it work.<br />
<br />
This holy week I'll be blessed to see my parents physically for the first time in about 3 or 4 years. I may be 31, but I still need my mommy and daddy. I also get the pleasure of meeting my nephew for the first time before he turns 1. Still a baby and not a terrible toddler. :B For this little bumpkin, I learned how to sew stuffed animals...and then I became enthralled with the activity and started sewing for all my friends with children. (Even today Palm Sunday I'm going to a birthday party for a friend's child. I made a stuffed kitten. )<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6x_sTL8z9rjr0RnaRi77pmJ2F0xBJ3NFG9wW0yAeuq2xvFvM8ClCo4wsstLNmg2q2hAtCBdudXWQB8_5zuR2GF_C6Rg6pzjiBjzGWooMKG4-EdevX0GsfzED3u0-bEj8aibyl9G6Ka0/s1600/elphant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6x_sTL8z9rjr0RnaRi77pmJ2F0xBJ3NFG9wW0yAeuq2xvFvM8ClCo4wsstLNmg2q2hAtCBdudXWQB8_5zuR2GF_C6Rg6pzjiBjzGWooMKG4-EdevX0GsfzED3u0-bEj8aibyl9G6Ka0/s320/elphant.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
We also just had the feast of St. Joseph, one of the many Saints I should ask for more prayers. Seriously, I've been slacking on that front. I always had a group that I recited to before evening prayers.<br />
<br />
Kind of been going through a weird patch of spiritual dryness that Lent didn't ease very much.<br />
Still having trouble finishing books. Because when I'm home I'd rather be gaming or sewing. (Or sleeping after work wears me out.)<br />
<br />
I'm also in a semi-emotional place where I'm in the singles rut but don't feel called to religious life. And this week I'm going to be with my baby nephew, married brother, and married friends. (I hope I don't 3rd wheel things.) I blame hormones a bit for this one.<br />
<br />
I'm also considering starting a Catholic Gamer group for meet ups because I'm not going to meet like minded peeps on my own here. Also need to branch out beyond my clique here in Texas. It's be cool to have a convention group or something. :B<br />
<br />
Wishing you all a Happy Holy Week and blessed Easter Season.Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-73876970083690260782016-01-13T22:11:00.000-08:002016-01-14T03:15:38.468-08:002016 Year in Games ReviewSo I really haven't played as many games as I thought I would this year but here are a few of my stand out favorites.<br />
<br />
<br />
1. Undertale - yeah I think this is at the top of a lot of lists. I now have the soundtrack on my iPod and some fanart as my facebook banner. Because gooood.<br />
<br />
2. King's Quest - True return to form with enjoyable voice acting, beautiful art and storytelling...also fantastic puns. We got two chapters to this episodic game.<br />
<br />
3. Backstage Pass - Finally got some voice acting in. :) Really kind of a refreshing date sim where the protagonist isn't a vulnerable amnesiac who let's men lock her up in dog cages. I guess that's the difference for a u.s. based date sim. Or maybe I haven't found that route yet.<br />
<br />
4. Inquisition - It goes on the list...because it just does. Also yay for the DLC. Finally got through ONE playthrough of it. Nice set up for the next bit in the series. Bravo team...bravo.<br />
<br />
<br />
So what am I looking forward to?<br />
Ummm...I don't know really. I like to be surprised so I haven't been following any game news recently. :P Although I've wanted to play an older game Masamura Demon Blade...because I enjoy Vanillaware's art for the most part. And Odin Sphere is one of my top favorite games of all time.<br />
<br />
I think this year I should dust off my older consoles. I mean that literally. They're dusty. And play some of my old games or games I've bought for my WiiU that I need to get through like Resident Evil 4. I KNOW...I'm late to the game. But I liked 6...and I need to finish 5. Not as fun as 6 for me.<br />
<br />
Peace and Happy New Year.<br />
<br />
UPDATE: I just realize that there's a new Fire Emblem game coming out. Shut the front door.<br />
One same sex couple possibility but still...marriage and kids. :) Yay w00t. Putting it on my wishlist...oh wait...crumbs. There two story routues but two separate games? Well played Nintendo...well played. >:(Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-26394627908921754502015-12-19T00:32:00.001-08:002015-12-19T00:32:30.498-08:00What I've been Playing lately...Just a bit of a fluff post really.<br />
<br />
- Been working through <b>Dragon Age Inquisition</b> multi-character playthrough. I just have one more character to get through to the end before I can full enjoy playing through Trespasser DLC.<br />
The DLC had some issues load that took a lot of trouble shooting to figure out but finally got one character in there...and I'm still having some issues.<br />
<br />
- Playing a lot of VNs and making voice over commentaries. I might publish them but I don't know if I will. These games can be kind of triggery.<br />
Played: <b>Seduce Me</b> which I would definitely NOT recommend.<br />
<b>Amenisa: Memories</b> again. Somehow it was creepier the 2nd time around.<br />
Now I'm playing <b>Nameless</b>...again creepier than I remember.<br />
Finally <b>Backstage pass</b>...this was was made in the USA and I met the creators. I know it's legit and not super creepy.<br />
Also found a few VNs for my iPod which I'll eventually get around to.<br />
<br />
- Lots of iOS games. It's how I pass some of the time at work. Cooking Dash 2016, Dragon Age Heroes, and a few VNs.<br />
<br />
I also got the newest RPG Maker MV even though I've never finished an RPG maker game. This is what happens.<br />
<br />
And the new chapter for King's Quest is out. :) If my internet stops being a jerk maybe I can finish downloading it.<br />
<br />
Curse you Steam.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas Everyone. Happy Gaming!Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-14690715805182533372015-12-19T00:23:00.000-08:002015-12-19T00:23:56.650-08:00Life Changing GamesIn every gamer's life there are often a few games or series that are very special to us. They changed us or helped us grow. It is definitely a part of gaming that doesn't get enough focus, but games have powerful potential to change minds and lives.<br />
<br />
Here are mine.<br />
<br />
<b>A Bug's MUCK</b><br />
<br />
Now here's something I may need to explain a bit. Online MUDs and MUCKs were pre-cursors to online MMO gaming. These were text-based adventures with multi-player played over Telnet. The biggest differences were that MUDs usually had a game system with loot drops and enemies and stats like MMOs of today. MUCKs however, were more like improv classes where people would group up as characters in a story and act out a situation. It was a LOT of fun for me as a creative person.<br />
<br />
How does something like this change a life? Well, the benefits of improv apply a bit here but something more important was learned. I learned how my words both written and spoken could be misconstrued. What might be considered too extreme an action. It helped me adjust socially in a way that I couldn't in my current social situation. I could look and experience another person's point of view. Which is great in terms of empathy, viewing both sides of an argument and so on.<br />
<br />
There was also a hard lesson about romance that may or may not have colored the rest of my romantic life or lack thereof. (Trust became an issue, but also the realization that everything was my fault. I was the creepy one.)<br />
<br />
<b>Legend of Zelda</b><br />
<br />
Previously, I never considered myself a "gamer" although looking back on my childhood I was in many ways. However, particularly the title Twilight Princess officially brought me into gaming "seriously". I bought my first console for that game and it was the first game I ever preordered. It was the first game I actually got excited about and "fangirled" for.<br />
<br />
It also marks when I was first able to share in gaming with peers. Previously I had only gamed with younger kids or my siblings. I started quickly learning about other famous series like Final Fantasy, Halo, and DDR.<br />
At that point I was pretty much a Nintendo only fangirl.<br />
<br />
It brought me into a community and into analyzing game design. <br />
<br />
<b>Dragon Age Series</b><br />
<br />
Dragon Age came into my life long after I had established myself as a gamer, but my passions had cooled about games. Partly because I was working in the game's industry and poor. My co workers were also big into gaming and titles and introduced me to SO many good game titles.<br />
<br />
It was a game that reawakened my inner fangirl. I should be embarrassed how much of the extra stuff I have for the game. I have the Table Top RPG and the special dice even though I don't have anyone to play it with. It's also plagued/inspired my imagination in many ways.<br />
<br />
It is the game that got me into Cosplay and sewing. Granted this was very recent but the games and characters have stuck with me since 2009.<br />
<br />
This series ALSO improved my ability to work with computer hardware. I had to get a new video card and install things all by myself. *proud* For Inquisition, I had to straight up buy a new system which I got custom built. :3<br />
<br />
<b>Big Buck Hunter Pro</b><br />
<br />
There's one out of left field, right? I only say it changed my life because it was my life for a couple years. I worked on the mobile version of the game and the TV plug'n Play version. I have credit as level designer. :)Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-85265511512978710972015-11-26T02:29:00.002-08:002016-12-16T11:34:08.338-08:00Game Thoughts: King's QuestAlso after watching a playthrough I immediately got this installment of King's Quest. After decades since the last release, I was at first not interested. This is why I love let's play videos. I might have really missed out.<br />
<br />
Only the first "episode" is available so look forward to future installments!<br />
<h3>
<br />Synopsis:</h3>
<br />
Flashback to the 80's and the first graphical games were coming out. King's Quest was one of the first revolutionary titles in a text-based game world. Full of humor and impossible puzzles unless you had the number to the Sierra hotline. It's a fond memory for many.<br />
<br />
Today we have a release of the spiritual prequel. The adventures of King Graham before he became a knight of Daventry, before he went on his adventure for the crown. The old king Graham tells his spunky young granddaughter tales of his youth.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Virtues</h3>
All the puns...all of them. (Kind of the staple of the series.)<br />
Charming characters with fun designs<br />
Beautifual painted backgrounds<br />
Splendid voice work<br />
The puzzles do NOT require a walkthrough...yay<br />
Wonderful story<br />
Nostalgia as well as brimming with its own unique charm.<br />
No Swearing, No Nudity, No Sex...complete rated G<br />
<br />
<h3>
Vices</h3>
Very, very mild gore<br />
Puns? How could you hate them?<br />
Seriously guys this is the hardest list I've had to come up with. Finally a simple, charming game without the nuttiness of smut, swearing, or all that fun stuff that I usually play.<br />
It was a little sluggish on my laptop...but it was on my laptop.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Conclusion</h3>
King's Quest gets my support! It's enjoyable, funny, and a great successor to the King's Quest series, all modernized for today's audiences. Also, if you have a mind (and a walkthrough...trust me you'll need them) enjoy the original King's Quest series...also available on Steam. Good, clean fun. But you will pull your hair out at points. :)Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-55166139473994234882015-11-01T02:52:00.000-08:002016-12-16T11:34:24.226-08:00Dragon Age Inquisition Part 3Okay I did make it through some more of the story. A couple of themes came up:<br />
<br />
Religion and Faith ( a big theme)<br />
Homosexuality (another theme throughout the games)<br />
<br />
So spoilers a bit here, at one point you meet with an openly gay mage as a companion. In a side-quest you can trick him into meeting with his father whom he was estranged from for years. It mirrored a lot of common modern reactions to a child coming out. It was very humanizing and illustrated the struggle of parent trying to reconcile with an older child. Also both being stubborn about things. It definitely was better handled than in Dragon Age II. Clearly this was planned out better.<br />
<br />
In one of the random codex things you can find scattered throughout the game one was titled "Sexuality in Thedas". This one of the few codex entries I actually read read and I was saddened to see how well it reflects a common misconception: Sexuality is Separate from Procreation. One is just a taste, for fun or preference and the other a duty. ...See this is why you get plagues and blights Thedas. Seriously...sex...makes...babies. Fact of life. And it's not terrible. Also marriage not terrible. <br />
<br />
Sooo...now for religion stuff. There's a LOT of it in this one. This is one of the few games that lets you play as a religious character without it coming off as too pandering or negative. I've gotten to a point in the game where it was revealed how the Inquisitor got the "mark". Throughout the beginning of the game, lots of people seem to believe it was a gift from God (I hate that they call him the Maker. Blegh...so generic.) or the religious prominent prophet. But surprise, surprise, the Mark is from a happy accident. Well, not that happy. This throws some characters into a situation where they could think "Wow...I've been LYING to people saying I got this mark from Andraste."<br />
<br />
But they have SMART religious characters. If you have Faith you can believe that God works in the world and allowed it to happen. If you don't, nothing changes. Religion and Faith are themes I feel are handled well in this series. They do a good job humanizing characters even "religious" ones.<br />
<br />
The main "church" of the world isn't the only one on the chopping block either. My main play through is with an Elf character who comes from a background that has a completely different belief system. (Which was uncomfortable for her to be called chosen by the main religion's prophet.) But there was a big twist (which I won't reveal) about one of the Elven gods.<br />
<br />
Reforming the main Church was also a big thing. The player gets to "choose" or "influence the clerics" on who to choose for the next Divine. This particular Church comes off as a bit more political than spiritual but that would make the game less fun not to choose the next leader of the main faith of the world. (Although personally, I'd probably be part of the Black Chantry that's lead by a male Divine...just sayin'.)<br />
<br />
The role of this Chantry is also pretty well...earth centric. It has the common criticism of building elaborate cathedrals and dresses instead of feeding the poor. Huh...where have I heard this criticism before? Sounds so familiar! -__- <br />
<br />
Anyway, I'm very, very close to finishing my first play through of the game. :D Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-55735800178985491912015-11-01T01:38:00.000-07:002016-12-16T11:39:30.192-08:00Game Thoughts: UndertaleThere has been some buzz on the Let's Play channels I frequent about this game Undertale so I went and had to try it for myself. I was not disappointed. The simplistic art and unique game mechanics really mesh well to make an rich experience. Allow me to summarize...<br />
<br />
Summary<br />
Long ago Monsters and Humans fought in a war. The monsters lost so they retreated underground and sealed themselves via magic. But they long for a return to the surface. Meanwhile, you a human child fall into the deep and wake up in a temple. Your goal is to get to the surface.<br />
But how? Aren't you in enemy territory?<br />
<br />
Virtues<br />
<br />
Charming story, dialog and characters.<br />
Turns lots of stereotypes on their heads.<br />
Simplistic art.<br />
Smart game play mechanics.<br />
Non-violent route.<br />
No Swearing.<br />
<br />
Vices<br />
Controls are really challenging if using a keyboard. Just saying.<br />
There are some parts of the final boss that "crash" the game. This is just a mechanic I don't like. It's confusing. It works with the story but still.<br />
Same-sex relationships.<br />
<br />
Conclusion:<br />
I like how it turned the idea of fight the monsters in RPGs on its head. It's not always obvious (and because I was watching a Pacifist playthrough on the Let's Plays it was given away.)<br />
The game has enjoyable humor and even gets kind of metaphysical. Souls is a pretty big theme throughout the game. The thing about humans is that their souls persist after death. :) :) So immortal souls. That's Catholic-y sound.<br />
<br />
Definitely an enjoyable tale and worth a try. Just keep in mind that some characters are involved in a same-sex romantic relationship.Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-26577140164014733652015-09-11T23:51:00.000-07:002016-12-16T11:35:44.241-08:00Game Thoughts: Amnesia: MemoriesGreetings...excuse me while I dust off this blog. A lot has happened in the past year. The last time I wrote I was finishing up a contract job and spent a long time job searching and generally enjoying other hobbies. I got a new job back in April and it's been a fun challenge. Finally I feel settled in and I'm doing very well.<br />
<br />
I've been playing plenty of games as well.<br />
<br />
Today I'll write about the one that's freshest in my memory, <b><i>Amnesia: Memories.</i></b><br />
<br />
No...not the horror - survival game series Amnesia Dark Descent but a Visual Novel/Dating Sim...anime style. Although...it might fit with the Amnesia series in some ways. Allow me to introduce the game.<br />
<br />
<b>Summary</b><br />
<br />
You play as a young woman in her first year of college (university) whose memories were displaced by a clumsy, young spirit named Orion. He and the heroine (named by the player) are on a quest to recover her memories so the spirit can separate. They have about one month to do this.<br />
<br />
There are 4 "worlds" to enter which follow a different storyline/scenario. (Basically it picks which guy you were dating before losing the memories.) Characters are slightly different but the same in each world.<br />
<br />
<b>Virtues...</b><br />
<br />
Well...it's one of those more "innocent" dating sims where there's no sex or excess of mammaries.<br />
<br />
Lots of focus on various relationship types and how memory affects them. Interesting in that way.<br />
Also Truth and Lies.<br />
<br />
Lovely anime style art. Very fancy. Although that chest piercing really got distracting.<br />
<br />
I suppose there's lots of good advice about trust and personal safety. It illustrates what NOT to do very well.<br />
<br />
It made me do math problems. Thank God it was multiple choice.<br />
<br />
Just lots of interesting themes if you care to read into them. (And after much after thought as I squeal "Notice Me Sempai" to my cat while playing.)<br />
<br />
<b>Vices</b><br />
MATH PROBLEMS WAAAH!?<br />
<br />
Promotion of co-habitation.<br />
<br />
Very passive protagonist prone to getting walked all over and taken advantage of. Well, there is the "amnesia".<br />
<br />
An amnesia plot. Meh.<br />
<br />
Rewarding abusive behavior. This always hurts me to see.<br />
<br />
Spoiler: There's always one serial killer type of character in these kinds of stories. (Or at least some of them that I've been playing.) This one has 3. ^^ So easy to die by murder. So easy.<br />
<br />
Lots and lots of sexual harassment. ...so painful to watch...<br />
<br />
<b>Other Thoughts:</b><br />
So many I want to go through right now I'll break it up into the various "chapters" I've played so far.<br />
Just so you know there will be <b><span style="color: red;">spoilers</span></b> to the story. I do think the game is enjoyable and worth a read if you are of appropriate age. If anything, the artwork is gorgeous.<br />
<br />
So let me give a rundown of my play-throughs and reactions. (There's a playing card theme.)<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #274e13;">Clover: Kent</span><br />
The first plunge I took was in clover world since I had heard about the game from a Let's Play video and didn't like the world she picked. Went into this with NO pre-conceived notions about the characters. So the man that you "date" is Kent. A graduate student. Go figure I'd pick the oldest and smartest. I was generally enjoying the storyline going with my instincts on choices. Ended up getting a "normal ending" (yay for branching path stories.). The story itself was one of those trying to humanize a super robot nerd. In this playthrough you were given 10 word problems to solve during the game. I remember thinking "THIS IS THE WORST" why would you make me do math in a romance novel? It's so cruel! I question my choices in life! I got most of them right.<br />
<br />
After you get to know Kent better there's a stalker/psychopath who is CLEARLY the murderer. Because...he threatens to do so. Despite that one factor, it was fairly light-hearted.<br />
<br />
I felt pretty good about the game after that playthrough. I decided to just work my way through Spade World like the let's play with the intent of breaking up with the character.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">Spade: Ikki</span><br />
In this world you date playboy idol Ikki. One of those narcissistic womanizer tropes that is god's gift to woman kind because he so pwetty! (Personally eye tattoos and barrettes aren't a big attraction factors for me.)<br />
Ikki is always followed around by a gaggle of girls that call themselves a fanclub. They threaten to kill you if you date Ikki for more than 3 months and your time is almost up. It did start getting a little dark in those scenes.<br />
<br />
In the end I did manage to break his heart as I had planned.<br />
<br />
Of course I went back to play for the other endings but next I went to Diamond World.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Diamond: Toma</span><br />
<br />
Wow...this one threw me for the biggest of loops. Toma is a childhood friend who is like an older brother (that you want to jump). He treats you like a little sister. The storyline is pretty drastic and scary in an uncomfortable way. There's harassment, online bullying, and threats to physical safety. It was tense. But the scariest of them all is Toma himself. Early on he seemed safe enough. LESSON LEARNED THOUGH. Holy balls...at one point he locks you in a large dog kennel for your safety. OH and mickeys your drink. In trying to keep you IN, he makes you want to LEAVE even more. I was like WTFballs is this nonsense. Some of the potential responses were even MORE disturbing. <br />
I was like POKE HIM IN THE EYES! FIGHT! You can win.<br />
<br />
I got two bad ends right way. One ended in physical death the other in mental/emotional death.<br />
<br />
Can't even. Had to calm down after that storyline. I tried replaying it over and over to attempt a different ending. Nope. The normal ending was best because Shin saves you and Toma leaves for good. Probably the best ending in that situation to be honest.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #e06666;">Heart: Shin</span><br />
<br />
The kid with the pec piercing? (Is that really a thing? I kept wanting to cover it up. Looked uncomfortable. What if it snagged on a shirt or someone gave you a titty-twister?) Anyway, Shin is another childhood friend, who is a bit cold, arrogant but super observant. Don't judge a book by its cover...I ended up really liking his tough love attitude. Ended up getting a "normal" ending which was nice.<br />
<br />
Also solving a mysterious crime that happened to you! Who pushed you off a cliff and nearly got you killed? (Oddly enough since I played this after Toma's line...ALWAYS SUSPECT HIM!) So a bit of investigation and logic. Also it was refreshing that he figures out about your memory loss pretty much immediately and helps you out.<br />
<br />
I immediately played it again to see the bad endings. Because I'm like that. Ended up dead...twice! Once by the creeper who shows up in every world. And once by guess who...our favorite villain...Toma! Double homicide. You'd never think it too. So scary. SO SCARY!<br />
<br />
The good ending was very sweet and satisfying. Not going to spoil that so enjoy.<br />
<br />
Side note: You're in a band apparently. awesome.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #bf9000;">Diamond Revisited: Toma...can you be gud?</span><br />
<br />
Followed a walkthrough to see the good ending. Not super good. End up dating him DESPITE THE DOG CAGE. Even if it was to protect you from harassment from Ikki's fanclub which was getting dangerous. Like seriously dangerous. It's terrible that they think you were dating Ikki thus the overboard harassment. Toma tries to hide it from you to the extreme. /sigh/ Not very happy with that one. It was weirdly satisfying in away but not.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #3d85c6;">So off to Spade again to try the "good" ending.</span><br />
I was a little harsh about Ikki before. He has a celebrity complex which is why I feel bad for celebrities. It's hard to tell who likes you for you and all that. Even though he acts sleazy...gets drunk...flirts a lot...you get through it and he's not that bad. But there is that co-habitation thing and suggestions of future sexy times. ...buuuuuugggghhhh....gross. Went back to play the ending where I was killed by fangirls. Yes...sweet death.<br />
Toma was not fudged up in this one though.<br />
<br />
HA HA kidding. One of the many bad endings he straight up kills you to protect you from the fanclub or something. Honestly I was skipping dialog just to see these endings in one night. Will actually read what he does but waaah...<br />
<br />
Other bad endings are mostly just death and break up.<br />
<br />
I liked the normal ending for this one though. Character moves back in with her parents and Ikki visits on the weekends. Appropriate.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #38761d;">Clover World: What could be bad about Kent?</span><br />
<br />
Wanted to save his good ending for very last so I went through the bad endings. Again, one ends in murder in a hospital...thrown from the roof by the creepy killer in every world. Then there was a break up version too where you're put in a hospital and just get worse.<br />
<br />
Finally the good ending. The best good ending IMO. Get to go to London and we get a proposal. A GUY WHO GETS IT?? WHAAAA? Squeeeeeee!<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #741b47;">Final World: Joker World??</span><br />
<br />
So this world opens up after you've seen all four good endings. It's one of those characters who screws up the timeline by traveling to all the worlds and turns out to be the reason why you've lost memories in the first place. Original boyfriend made a deal with a god (don't mess with spirits man.) in an effort to save girlfriend. Ends up that reality realizes he an anomaly in every world he goes to and kills him somehow unless he can kill you first. (SO this is why you can get murdered SO FAST in the other games.)<br />
All the death endings (there are 7) are absolutely brutal. Just brutal. I was just getting through the choices to see the screens at this point and didn't really read much. Didn't like his character design. (stupid cop hat just didn't look like it sat right on his head.) But dying over and over yet not dying is kinda the worst and probably would make anyone a rampaging, murdering psychopath.<br />
<br />
This is a long post so I'll wrap this up now.Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-34282646815712498672014-12-02T14:43:00.000-08:002016-12-16T11:37:23.513-08:00Dragon Age Iniquisition Part 2So I've moved a little bit further into the story, not by much but by enough to add a NEW PART.<br />
<br />
I haven't had a chance much to write about game soundtracks. Soundtracks are my favorite genre of music. I have the soundtracks or parts of them from all the Dragon age games. Orchestral swells that make things seem grander and more moving. This is the power of music. A good soundtrack can really make a game more endeared and memorable.<br />
<br />
Games with good music stick with me. Legend of Zelda has always been big into music, and Halo has that haunting chant that has become a staple of the series. Now at first, I didn't hear any repeating melody that I would consider memorable in DA:I. That is until one scene where characters break out into a song. It starts a Capella but then you hear the theme song swell in at the end. Then I started noticing the melody everywhere in the game. It did have a running them. And it was a pretty song too. I'm glad I got the soundtrack.<br />
Also...this is now Dragon Age the Musical. Ha ha! (And characters do comment on the scene. "Hey you made people start singing all together." "Yes...please don't break into song now." "...Fine...*pout*")<br />
<br />
Also, it finally happened I met the cameos I was HOPING to meet. King Alistair makes a brief appearance. But Hawke is a character. Unfortunately it kind of stops the game and makes you recreate Hawke or use the default. Pssh...of COURSE I remade Hawke to look like AJ from my stupid fan comics. Yes I may have scripted some out before I even knew what the game was about. But sadness, I lost the thumbdrive on which they were stored.<br />
<br />
It breaks up the gameplay and story flow to do a character creation but I kind of appreciate the effort too add the character in. So how much farther did I get? Not far at all. I keep going back to play other characters until they're at the same point. I don't know why I do this to myself.<br />
<br />
I lied I do know. I want to see how different the world is based on the world states I used for each saved game.<br />
<br />
Anyway, as I get further in I'll add more. Until next time.<br />
<br />Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-2505042524153933712014-11-24T13:38:00.000-08:002016-12-16T11:37:12.033-08:00Game Thoughts: Dragon Age Inquisition Part 1This will probably be a bit of a series as I try to get through the game. It's already ruining my life/sleep cycle. So there's that. I think I've put in a good 10 hours for each character I've made. For now I've narrowed down my game to one character to go through the game. I've designed maybe 6 characters with more on the way.<br />
<br />
Currently I have:<br />
- Self-Insert Elf version - similar to my first playthrough of Origins, I started with an elf. Although this one is a mage, not a warrior.<br />
<br />
- Fanfic Self Insert - based on my fancomic Tale of Mage Angelo and Warrior AJ...now we have Inquisitor Modesty...also a shameless self-insert.<br />
<br />
- Mage Angelo - he has a playthrough in every game and manages to make the world worse. :D It's his thing.<br />
<br />
- Willow Qunari Mage - because qunari are playable, I had to make one. <br />
<br />
- Malkia - My buck-toothed dwarf warrior. She was a happy accident of the character creation and I just like her.<br />
<br />
- Bigby - Male qunari warrior. ...I had to have someone be my ruthless playthrough. And I like the Fables Series.<br />
<br />
Anyway, on to some overall thoughts on various aspects: aesthetic look/Art Design, gameplay, graphics, story, and characters.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Art Design</h4>
By George, I think they've finally done it! They've taken the iconic look of Dragon Age 2 and added the fantasy flair of old. I am so very pleased with the new art direction...and yes I do follow one of the art director's art blogs. Now the world I feel is coming into its own with unique art for each culture. However, even the UI has seen some nice touches that make it feel like a fantasy game. The codex in particular uses this fascinating almost tarot card art style for the entries.<br />
<br />
The armor designs are also much better than Origins, finding a nice balance in visual interest, personality and so on for each main character. Let's just say, I'm loving my Vash The Stampede style mage coat that flutters in wind. And I can't wait to get that Carmen Sandiego style hat.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Graphics</h4>
Hand in hand with the art design the graphics have seen a major upgrade from the first two games in the series. It's a good mix of stylization and "fantasy realism". But if your computer settings aren't just right, it like you're in the future because everything here is shiny. Tip: Set Meshes to high to get rid of the extra glisten to hair. I'm hoping there's a fix or mod for this. Also the graphics are INTENSE, so it's no wonder the system requirements are so high. Also world map size. Good gravy.<br />
So that gets us into gameplay.<br />
<h4>
</h4>
<h4>
Gameplay</h4>
It feels like each game in the series has it's own unique gameplay style. Unlike Mass Effect which was always had a semblance of consistency with gameplay. Dragon Age Origins was yet another D&D style RPG game. You had a camp, companions, and a campaign. Dragon Age II was almost an episodic game with an MMO quality to it. Dragon Age Legends was a flash game where you did fight 2D RPG style but also managed a castle. I can't say I've played Dragon Age Heroes but I'm sure it's unique.<br />
<br />
What's this to say, Inquisition feels like a completely different take: It mixed a bit of open world like the Elder Scrolls games, some resource management and a bit of politics. It's weeeeird. But in a good way.<br />
<br />
PC control scheme is crap though. Completely unintuitive and hard to utilize. I switched to a game controller because that noise...still. The movement systems in the other games worked fine for PC gaming. /sigh/<br />
<h4>
Story</h4>
Seems a good point to segway into story. Now I'm still in the earliest portions of the game, I don't have a stronghold yet. BUT I am happy to see that one of my biggest beliefs about stories is illustrated so well: Time Travel Ruins EVERYTHING. No spoilers, you can read that elsewhere. To be honest I was wondering how things were going to go between DA2 and other titles. I'm still a bit confused as to how things progressed. The character is sort of thrust into the situation.<br />
<br />
I'm not so much of a lore nerd to notice the inconsistencies yet. I know they are there though. I can feel them. But I'm too distracted by throwbacks to characters from earlier games. (Just like in Mass Effect 3.)<br />
<br />
However, overall, I feel that so far the story has the epicness of the first game but now with more established lore to back it up.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Characters</h4>
So there are several "types" of characters: Advisers, Agents and Companions. <br />
Companions fight with your character, similar to other games. Agents are usually around to run specific crafting or game altering influence in the game. Advisers are like companions but don't fight directly in battle. Okay, so I'm not clear on how this all fits together yet but maybe it will make sense.<br />
<br />
I don't have all the companions yet and I purposely avoided all promotional stuff...or as much as possible. I went in only knowing their names and sexual preferences because that's how they market these things nowadays.<br />
<br />
Like Mass Effect 3 it's fun seeing old friends and see how they've changed. Meeting new characters which at first you're resistant about but then they grow on you. Like Fungus.<br />
My take on the characters I have so far...<br />
<br />
Cassandra: She's remained consistent throughout the media I've seen her in. I like her brash, opinionated personality but peppered with experience.<br />
<br />
Cullen: Hello familiar face I recall from the rest of the series. I know you're popular with the female fan-base...it's great to see how you've grown and changed over the years. Also, awesome feather pauldron things. It's soooo fluffy! Also super cute, this is obscuring my better judgement.<br />
<br />
Josaphine: Mole...mole...molely molely molely. I like her though. She's crafty and got a great accent.<br />
<br />
Lelianna: Poor girl. You were so innocent now...so dark. Mage Angelo would be SO SAD. He never should have left you. Shame on him this is all his fault. ...now this post is getting silly...ANYWAY, she's clearly dealing with hard struggles which I like to see, I hope she maintains some of her innocence. Probably not. Which is fine too I guess.<br />
<br />
Solas: He sounds like a proper, older gentleman. I do enjoy his conversations. Again just the sound of his voice is...comforting. Which is kind of awesome. Also, the straight man in a lot of jokes.<br />
<br />
Varric: His personality is unchanged from Dragon Age II, which is why he's a bit more endearing to me at least. It's something familiar to cling to in a world gone mad. But you CAN change his armor to be something with a closed shirt...this should not be allowed. ...Just kidding.<br />
<br />
Sera: ...she...confuses me. She's incoherent most of the time. She's also raunchy. I keep hoping for funny banter from her but I'm left wanting.<br />
<br />
Blackwall: I thought he'd be more stoic. But he's actually more like a mildly drunk lumberjack. He's actually kind of funny. It's oddly endearing. And that beard...is so attractive. *fans* Oh my...what was I talking about again.<br />
<br />
Iron Bull: See I was sure HE'D be the inappropriate macho man. So far, he's just macho and more serious than I thought. I will never understand the qunari. :P<br />
<br />
Vivienne: I...LOVE...Vivienne. I find her super attractive. Elegant, well-spoken, and a touch of sass. <br />
And proof that mages can indeed pull off the MOST silly of hats.<br />
<br />
That's who I have so far. I'm looking forward to running into Hawke . I've already run into some of my Hero of Ferelden legacy. (I'm using a world state based on my first playthroughs of previous titles. So...my warden is dead.) Also Alistair and Morrigan. I kinda wish Anders came back...but I can see how that would make things incredibly awkward with the party. <br />
<br />
Update: I just ran into one cameo of Alistair. I was pleased to see he's wearing the armor from the comics which means I have a much better reference for the cosplay. But what happened to the beeeeard. :( And since the hair style no longer include the Nathan Drake duck butt carved out of wood...he looks mildly dignified. Mildly. But he also looks a lot like Cullen. :/ I hope the hair mods come out soon. <br />
<h4>
Overall</h4>
I've been gushing a lot. But that's because I'm on the honeymoon period still. It's long. It takes a lot of time. And I had to buy a whole new computer JUST to run it. (Now I have 2 desktops to get rid of.) That's the part that makes me the maddest. The requirements are intense. Also the control scheme and the initial graphic-lighting issues I had were distracting. I had a rough start with the game but I am enjoying it now. As the plot thickens. But I'm also trying NOT to spend too much time on sidequests...but I'm failing horribly. Also the sound effects of some creatures are awfully ear wrenching...particularly the Red Hart. :P It squeals and screams so terribly.<br />
<br />
I am enjoying it...maybe too much. I must take time off to sew this upcoming long weekend.<br />
<br />
Tips: Set meshes to high to remove the hair glare.<br />
I used Pinnacle to create a profile for the game controller so I could keep the layout of the mouse/keyboard. However, it's seriously nearly impossible to play with the current mouse/keyboard set up. Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-10950041302655008352014-11-19T13:27:00.000-08:002014-11-19T13:27:02.432-08:00I Got a New Computer and a New ViewAnother personal experience that has oddly deepened my faith. All experiences can be ways God talks to us.<br />
<br />
So I've been anticipating the release of Dragon Age Inquisition for many months. I pre-ordered a digital copy, downloaded it early and the moment it was unlocked to play I started it up.<br />
<br />
Or I tried to. At first things were just slow so I figured it was just because of Origin. Then it just didn't load. After fiddling with settings and continually meeting the same black screen, I decided to google my issue. It took only a short time to realize that...yes...it was true. My machine was not powerful enough to run the game even on minimal requirements. <br />
<br />
Now, in the months past I tried to avoid media about the game. I did look into the min requirements and I went out to get a newish computer and new monitor for it for about $400. However, it didn't quite cut it.<br />
<br />
As you can imagine, I was very, very disappointed, but I hadn't given up hope yet. I found a website that would check my system specs against the game requirements to see what I was lacking. Alas, the RAM and Graphics card were not able to handle the game needs. And becasue of the computer model I got, I can't change out the graphics card.<br />
<br />
But I have other computers so I tried to see if any of them could cut it. My 10 year old dell desktop had the graphic card power but did not have the CPU or the RAM or the operating system. My laptop was close. It lacked the RAM and graphics card as well.<br />
<br />
So I went into a fury of research to solve my problem quickly.<br />
At first I thought, I could just upgrade the parts of my 10 year old dell. I ordered a new OS and decided to go to the electronics store for lunch at work. It was then during more of my research and help from friends who build machines that well...my desktop although customizable could not handle a new cpu without a new motherboard. And the case could not take retail motherboards. So I thought, I would have to buy a new computer again!? The price tags of gaming computers are much higher than others. I didn't want to drop 1000 dollars to play this game.<br />
<br />
Almost on a whim, but mostly salemanship, I decided to get a build. I customized my PC, got it assembled at the store and now I have a new custom PC...and it cost less than a gaming pc. :)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSaSoEYM-YFZnlDYrkF4DiQYb0JThMLGVuNLwfL6CbXeY0pa0sPUBNRENh2X3IkmM0eW1CZfPqTf5JA3YSrriLJ8Fbme8gefYkLnRAIFdqK2KG1zNhFhZ6zn821KG-m3dgSC18G_L23lE/s1600/10405503_10154871861290512_1919494323175266869_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSaSoEYM-YFZnlDYrkF4DiQYb0JThMLGVuNLwfL6CbXeY0pa0sPUBNRENh2X3IkmM0eW1CZfPqTf5JA3YSrriLJ8Fbme8gefYkLnRAIFdqK2KG1zNhFhZ6zn821KG-m3dgSC18G_L23lE/s1600/10405503_10154871861290512_1919494323175266869_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's pink! :) I call her "Eevee".</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Thinking about it now, I think this computer cost about the same as my current laptop so it was a good deal. However, I felt a weird guilt.<br />
<br />
Over this game I was willing to drop a lot of money and make sacrifices to play. It felt a bit misdirected. Possibly because on Sunday we hear about the parable of the talents. The priest at the mass I went to also had a long (too long) homily on tithing. Oh yes, giving a percentage to God is what is demanded of us. But to someone working on an hourly wage, it takes a lot of faith. The priest had very good points that were hard to hear. So when I was so reluctant to give some of my wages for the Church, how could I turn around and give 90% of a paycheck to getting a computer.<br />
<br />
It was a bit of an awakening. I live alone and may have fallen into the trap of selfishness.<br />
But then I looked at it another way:<br />
1) I have passion again. Which is something I haven't had in a long while it feels.<br />
2) I reached out to friends and gave them an opportunity to offer their expertise.<br />
3) I learned a lot about computer hardware.<br />
4) I am impatient...and a bit impulsive. But I did do research first. <br />
5) I brought God into many aspects of this. (I did end up tithing a bit to my parish this week. Because Catholic guilt works that way.)<br />
6) I have two computers I want to give to someone else who may need it more than I. (Granted I can't donate them really after this big purchase.)<br />
<br />
So my struggle with that homily and this big purchase for a single game has actually deepened my faith and relationship with God. I prayed last night after plugging everything in that this wasn't a bad thing. I might suffer for it, but I felt it was worth it. If I could do that for a game, I could certainly direct towards other things as well.<br />
<br />
On the downside, I was brought to much frustration too. Working with technology is never easy. Nothing goes as planned. Another life lesson I guess/<br />
<br />Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-13758705844781186112014-10-31T10:19:00.004-07:002016-12-16T11:35:04.139-08:00Game Thoughts: Dreamfall ChaptersSo after 8 years, the sequel to Dreamfall: The Longest Journey has finally been released. It started as a Kickstarter campaign. Red Thread games is the new company developing the game made up of most of the original team. Instead of the full game, they are going for the episodic gaming route.<br />
So this will be a look at the first chapter which is the only one out at this time. <br />
<h4>
Synopsis</h4>
We return to Zoe Castillo who is still in a coma and living in a world between called Storytime. She wakes up and starts her new life after her coma. She's starting a new job, volunteering for a political campaign and got back together with her boyfriend Reza. Meanwhile, Kian is in prison awaiting his execution. He is assisted in an escape. The first chapter closes with another between world's location where you play as a baby named Saga.<br />
<h4>
Virtues</h4>
Choice system affects later events in the game. It's similar to some of the aspects in The Wolf Among Us, where choices selected will affect later chapters.<br />
<br />
Lovely graphics, beautiful scenery, and a great soundtrack. The atmosphere in every location is well crafted and detailed. The character models have improved, but we still have that familiar voice acting.<br />
<br />
Female lead, not overly sexualized. Lots of strong female characters. Good diversity in characters.<br />
<br />
Puzzles make sense so far.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Vices</h4>
There's lots of rough language, f-bombs, and a few instances of the Lord's name taken in vain. <br />
<br />
Co-habitation. Look I'm Catholic, I take issue with this although it's common. Granted the relationship is portrayed realistically. Sex is only discussed never shown.<br />
<br />
Performance issues. Maybe it's because I'm on a laptop...but hey, I was able to play Mass Effect 3 without lag. A patch did go in to help though. It worked for me. But the framrate would really chug and drop in a lot of places.<br />
<br />
Bugs here and there. People floating, characters getting lost/stuck in the geometry. No lip sync or improper lip sync. <br />
<br />
Having to wait for the next episode.<br />
<br />
Did Kian get whiter? I thought he was black. I'll blame the lighting.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Conclusion</h4>
I'm invested in the series, but personally it might be worth waiting for a couple episodes to be out. The stories flow better when they're done all at once. But that's okay too. I enjoyed it very much and I wonder what themes will come out of this one. It's also worth playing through a few times. <br />
<br />Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-79188340383424776082014-10-21T07:40:00.001-07:002016-12-16T11:34:50.558-08:00Game Thoughts: SoulCalibur GamesIt's been awhile since I could sink my teeth into something mildly worth writing about. Also, I started a new job, so thanks for the prayers on that. It's an awesome workplace.<br />
<br />
For the past couple of days I've been playing SoulCalibur IV and V. I like spending time to unlock all the unlockable content which seems to be the only reason to keep playing single player.<br />
<br />
I have 3 SoulCalibur games now: 2, 4, and now 5. And here are the primary reasons I bought each.<br />
<br />
2: I had a Gamecube, Link was a playable character.<br />
<br />
4: I just got my PS3, Darth Vader was a playable character, and I had a create my own character option. I will spend days making characters.<br />
<br />
5: More options for Creating Characters, Ezio is a playable character...I made Tali from Mass Effect. ^^<br />
<br />
Things that appeal to me about these games are the character driven nature, visual design and animations. I do care a bit about gameplay too. Quarter circles are the worst.<br />
So it's not so much the fact of winning a match (which does motivate me) but performing the button sequence correctly to see my favorite animations.<br />
<br />
In SC 4 and 5, Tira is one of my go-to characters. My favorite move of hers is a hula hoop move, it's not too hard to perform in 4 but in 5 they made it a little harder for me.<br />
<br />
Now onward to virtues and vices:<br />
<br />
Virtues for 5: ...<br />
I can make my own fighting characters. That's fun. <br />
<br />
The graphics are very pretty.<br />
<br />
The characters have interesting designs and personalities that actually shine through.<br />
<br />
Most of the characters have small breasts that don't jiggle oddly. <br />
<br />
No Blood or gore graphics<br />
<br />
Vices:<br />
I guess there's a story, but it's paper thin. 5 is going for a plot but it's not that gripping.<br />
<br />
Revealing outfits and jiggle graphics: Both Male and female characters are highly sexualized. Yes, males too. This is probably a good example of equal sexualization isn't really equal. Sexy, revealing contortionist Voldo is creepy and gross vs. sexy, buxom dominatrix Ivy who is appealing.<br />
<br />
Nothing but violence, which is standard of an arcade fighting game. It is part of the genre, so the whole genre is under this vice.<br />
<br />
Not a vice really but fighting games hurt my thumbs. :P<br />
<br />
I wouldn't recommend the SoulCalibur series even though I keep buying them especially around children. I'm a sucker for making my own custom characters. Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-34006752388286700482014-07-28T13:42:00.001-07:002014-07-28T13:42:44.342-07:00Yoga and FaithSo my younger sister in abroad in India right now on a sort of mission trip. She's been checking out Buddhist temples and such. It reminds me of Yoga for some reason and how that relates to faith.<br />
<br />
Yoga and I have not always gotten along. When I was in high school, I had a Yoga routine from a book that I practiced while listening to my Celtic Relaxation CD. I was getting pretty good. Also I was a teenager and probably a bit more flexible than I realized. Never could do the splits. It was a good way to relax after school and feel good.<br />
<br />
In college, I took a class in Yoga with a large group. I was expecting it to be sort of like my home practice. However, it was not so relaxing. I could see other people and what they were doing. I could see myself in the wall mirrors. I kept attempting to correct my pose, obey the instructions and push myself farther. I felt I needed to keep up with other students and the instructor. I had very little endurance and often spent much of class in the Child's Pose ...or Turtle Pose I forget. I felt bad every time I had to do it.<br />
<br />
I don't know how I did it but one day after yoga, my legs hurt so badly I couldn't walk. I took medication and skipped a yoga class before going back and telling the instructor what happened. You have to be careful in Yoga.<br />
<br />
Many years later still, I moved to Austin and a friend invited me to Hot Room Yoga. It was very difficult. Even if the heat was suppose to make things a little easier...it didn't. Again, I mostly sat in Child's Pose in a pool of my own bodily fluids.<br />
<br />
Now in many cases, a Yoga instructor also brings in some Eastern spirituality and tries to incorporate it into the class. Those who don't know better can fall into a kind of New Age philosophy. Myself on the other hand, never really listened to that part of the instruction. Yoga and other kinds of exercise was a form of prayer to me when I practiced alone. I could focus on what my body was doing, where I was and just sort of meditate. (Or in some cases, giving up suffering for souls in Purgatory or begging for strength from the Holy Spirit. :D)<br />
<br />
Yoga practice usually talks about emptying yourself, but I was more about filling myself with the Holy Spirit.<br />
<br />
One day in Yoga class, the instructor changed the music that we were listening to. The usual fare was Eastern Ohm chants, Native American Flute, or other Relaxation CD stuff. One day she played Gregorian Chant for our background music. I can't tell you how alive and easy Yoga was that day compared to all other classes. The chant was directing my thoughts towards holy contemplation and the humorous image of medieval friars in cobra position.<br />
<br />
Point of this post? I don't know. Perhaps there's something to be gleaned. Have fun. :)Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-67810666634524243932014-07-07T21:51:00.005-07:002014-07-07T21:51:47.563-07:00Upcoming Games I'm Looking Forward ToI honestly think that sometimes I'm the hardest audience to reach when it comes to advertising. I don't have cable or even basic. I have awesome ad blockers, I don't read newspapers, and I've been pretty lax watching YouTube videos on E3 and such. Word of mouth or Facebook are the only ways.<br />
<br />
OR in such cases I'm actually a fan of a series. So here's my list.<br />
<h4>
<br /></h4>
<h4>
Episode 5 of the Wolf Among Us: </h4>
This comes out this week. It will be the big finale for the series. And maybe the murder mystery will finally be solved and I can have some peace and closure. I've also officially become a Bigby Fangirl. I'm up to volume 9 in the comic collections. (The romance, the adventure and adorable babies. ^^)<br />
<br />
I got distracted. Sorry. Next game.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Dragon Age Inquisition</h4>
The third title in the series that has been firmly planted as my favorite Bioware series. Again, a big enough fan where I have lots of extra paraphernalia both official and unofficial. (Except the novels...I don't like reading. LOL. j/k)<br />
<br />
The graphics look amazing so far and I'm looking forward to an open world with Mounts and such. I actually have been trying my best to avoid too much media on the game. I don't like knowing too much before I play. Unfortunately, it's in my facebook feed all the time so I keep getting to see the companions. (I'm glad they got Freddie Prince Jr. to do a voice again. I liked him in Mass Effect 3.)<br />
<br />
I've already got it pre-ordered so I'll get the Bog Unicorn. >_> A unicorn in a game will ALWAYS entice me.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Hyrule Warriors</h4>
Mixing Dynasty Warriors gameplay with Characters from the Legend of Zelda series. I am thrilled to the bone to see this new twist and some of my favorite characters return. ...I also tend to buy fighting games with Link in them. I swear I don't always do it on purpose. I don't know too much else so it'll be fun to finally have another good game for my WiiU.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Zelda WiiU</h4>
Not coming out for awhile, but I've seen early screenshots of a potentially more "open world" (I see this term a lot in gaming recently. Oh trends.) Again, I'd love to see more games on my WiiU. Also, bring back the horse...I love the horse. :)<br />
<br />
<h4>
DreamFall Chapters</h4>
Almost 8 years after Dreamfall the Longest Journey the sequel is coming out this years. I have also really enjoyed getting into this series and it's characters. It'll be nice to finally have so many loose ends taken care of. Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-90734602091341346092014-06-23T07:29:00.000-07:002014-06-23T07:29:47.065-07:00Objectification and GamesRecently the infamous Anita Sarkeesian of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7Edgk9RxP7Fm7vjQ1d-cDA" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Feminist Frequency</a> came out with a new video in her series Tropes vs Women. This one focuses on female characters in the background of games specifically those that are "objects".<br />
<br />
The video itself does contain explicit examples that are Not Safe for Work or Children.<br />
A copy of the video's transcript can be found<a href="http://www.feministfrequency.com/2014/06/women-as-background-decoration-tropes-vs-women/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here</a>.<br />
<br />
I was particularly fond of Anita's look into the psychological effects of these visuals and gameplay have on players.<br />
<br />
One of the points I really liked in the video was this:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">
A toaster is still a toaster regardless of whether or not you choose to make toast with it. It’s still designed for the express purpose of toasting bread. And it still communicates that fact even while sitting unused on your kitchen counter.</div>
<div style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">
Likewise a sex object is still a sex object regardless of whether or not you personally choose to use and abuse her. And that fact, in and of itself, still communicates extremely regressive ideas about women.</div>
</blockquote>
This seems like a problem that won't go away, but that is the big lie. It can be stopped. <br />
We begin with prayer, one of the most powerful tools in the Catholic armaments in our fight against evil.<br />
Then support is given to better games.<br />
<br />
<br />Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-83018911655666254292014-04-30T00:00:00.000-07:002014-04-30T00:00:03.397-07:00God in Sci-Fi and FantasyAs I played through the Sci-Fi romp Mass Effect, I thought of other sci-fi titles in other media that I have experienced. Star Wars, Star Trek, Stargate, Battlestar Gallactica and pretty much anything that takes place OFF our planet seems to leave God back on Earth. Seems a bit odd seeing as he's the Creator of the Universe according to our Faith. Everything in the heavens and on Earth, visible and invisible.<br />
<h4>
Science, the New god </h4>
It was in a philosophy class IN a secular school that I re-encountered the notion of the "religion of science". Now this wasn't news to me, but the concept and reasoning was understandable. People are comfortable with the idea that Science will explain everything. Anything can be done through science. It has it's rules, laws and methods. The faith put into science is certainly greater than what a lot of people put in any one religion.<br />
<br />
Science can be wrong but, it makes sense and follows logic. The mistake can be corrected by approaching the problem differently. It has a following of defenders that will vouch for science with a passion equivalent to an evangelical. But Science is not the enemy of faith. <a href="http://www.penny-arcade.com/patv/episode/god-does-not-play-dice" target="_blank">This Extra Credits video</a> illustrates the point very well.<br />
<br />
In most future settings, the only true god is Science. But it can't answer all questions. Some questions must be dealt with in philosophy or theology. BOTH these fields use reason and logic similar to science, however, it goes into metaphysics. Things that may not be readily observable.<br />
<h4>
Deities, the Old gods</h4>
On the flip side of the coin, many fantasy worlds have some form of religion and deities. Generally, these are set in "simpler times". There is no democracy, no off world travel. If there's flight it is by "magic" or flying creature, not invention. In this quaint setting, there is also an old quaint belief system. Maybe there's some formality to the religion but it's there often to govern magic. Thus giving the impression that religion is an "old-fashion" thing, something for a simpler people and a somewhat oppressive system.<br />
<br />
I think the only "sci-fi" or space travel set story that uses any kind of supernatural force is Star Wars. (Ah...I said force.) That's why I often think of Star Wars as more of a "space fantasy" than a sci-fi movie.<br />
<br />
Not to let fantasy off the hook so easily because often a fantasy story can be about defying the gods and killing the gods. (Killing God must be a human thing. *shrug*)<br />
<h4>
Mythology</h4>
Our modern mythology just goes to show how far away we have fallen. Now I only remember the quote from the TV mini-series of "The Odyssey" where Poseidon's "big moral lesson" was "Man is Nothing without the gods." All the punishment suffered was due to hubris.<br />
Modern myth now glorifies man has the pinnacle, a creature that no longer needs the gods. C.S. Lewis describes us as being "men without chests" that is to say "no heart". We find our gods in our own intellect and heads.<br />
<br />
That is not to belittle man, because humans ARE great. God himself took on our form and became human. If you believe such things...which I assume a Catholic geek would.<br />
<h4>
A Godless World</h4>
There is something very unsatisfying for me about a world without God. It's empty or tragic or un-human. However, in our pluralistic culture, we don't want to exclude any one faith. Therefore, it's easier to just not include religion or make up a "safe" religion. In a strange way though, it makes a life-giving sacrifice almost more of a sacrifice. There is literally no promised reward. Just boom...dead, but everyone lives. You're the hero.<br />
<br />
I guess the redeeming quality there is that luckily these games and worlds are open to interpretation. For me at least, like in the real world, I see a glimmer of God's work within human art and story. To me it is very significant that in Mass Effect the big bad Enemy is defeated on Earth (where God walked) by a human (a form which God himself has taken.)...or it could be taken as American Imperialism if you want to feel so cynical. Star Wars, while relying heavily on Buddhist philosophy, has an afterlife in which those in the past still affect the physical world. I'm not familiar enough with other Sci-Fi series (besides the comedy series Red Dwarf) I can't point to more examples.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Conclusion</h4>
Dear writers and authors, if you are of the Christian or Catholic persuasion AND not just culturally following your religion, I encourage you to write more. I'm doing my best. But I would love, love, love to read/write a book about a Catholic priest sent on a missionary trip to another planet with another race. I've already got Out of the Silent Planet that does the opposite. Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8180166552205635437.post-76824458493202426272014-04-29T12:14:00.000-07:002016-12-16T11:34:37.143-08:00Game Thoughts: The Wolf Among UsLast weekend I started watching a play through of The Wolf Among Us (TWAU) on YouTube, but after the first episode I stopped. I HAD to play this game myself. So I did. This is my first time playing an Episodic game title. I'm getting positive vibes from this...but here are my game thoughts.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Synopsis</h4>
Based on the comic series "Fables", the game acts as a pre-cursor story to the "Fables" comic series. (If wikipedia is to be believed.) In a neighborhood of Manhattan fairytales live in the mundane world as mere shadows of their legendary selves. The game follows Sheriff Bigby Wolf (formerly the Big Bad Wolf) in a film noir style, murder mystery.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Virtues</h4>
<br />
I am rolling around squealing at the AMAZING art design. The lighting, the lines, the colors. It IS like a living comic book page.<br />
<br />
...personal preference...I like Bigby's visual design and voice...this may have colored my WHOLE view of this game. I'm sorry/not sorry. I go for Wolverine types.<br />
...<br />
Sorry...still thinking about him and the voice. /sigh/<br />
<br />
Okay I'm back.<br />
<br />
Lovely soundtrack and voice acting.<br />
<br />
Mostly consists of quick time events to progress the story and even make little changes depending on those choices.<br />
<br />
Very cinematic.<br />
<br />
Some very well developed female characters. Mostly modest...see vices for the exceptions.<br />
(Bloody Mary may be my favorite.)<br />
<br />
Themes of redemption.<br />
<br />
Replayability. I feel you have to play it many times through to get the whole story. I've gone through at least twice with a good wolf and a bad wolf. I will play many more times to see all options.<br />
<br />
<h4>
Vices</h4>
<br />
So, off the bat you'll find that the language is very, very crass. God's name taken in vain, lots of f-bombs...seriously...and overall foulness. It goes with the tone of a comic, noir...but can be very off putting.<br />
<br />
Also off the bat, violence is very prevalent and at times a bit gory. But, it is a murder mystery...so there is a body expected. And lots of fist-fights. Early on it's established that the Fables are near immortal. Surviving multiple gunshots, an axe to the head, a fall from the 2nd floor, etc. Still, it's very violent and on the gruesome side.<br />
<br />
Working Women are present and there's so far only one topless scene at the brothel? Topless bar? I don't know what to call it without resorting to foul language. For the most part the girls are actually wearing clothes like halter top dresses or even knee length pencil skirts with a corset top. Sex is suggested but never shown.<br />
<br />
No options to speed through cinematics which can be tedious on replay.<br />
<br />
Waiting for the next episode??? OH man, now I know what episodic games are like. Maaaaan...<br />
(This is not really a vice. But the problem with me and murder mysteries...I'm too dumb to figure it out I need to know!!!)<br />
<br />
<h4>
Conclusion</h4>
I don't know if this really reflects what NYC and the Bronx is really like OR if it's just adding to my long list of reasons why I'll never even visit the big apple. Violence, poverty, swearing, and sinful behavior are staples as is typical of this type of story. I think like most "gritty and real" stories, if you can get past the abrasive surface, there's a good story and good characters. ...And I may just be giving my interpretation of Bigby there. Lol...this is the problem with being a fan of a character I guess. It's making me biased. The warning signs are all over the game, but I found it worth playing.<br />
<br />
(Oh my wolverinnnnnnne!!!! Why am I so drawn to chain smoking, gruff, near immortal guys??)Modestyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06381549173910349102noreply@blogger.com